bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural Diversity and Biological Activity of Cyanopeptolins Produced by Nostoc edaphicum CCNP1411
Authors: Konkel Robert , Cegłowska Marta , Szubert Karolina , Wieczerzak Ewa , Iliakopoulou Sofia , Kaloudis Triantafyllos , Mazur-Marzec Hanna
Published: September 2023

Cyanopeptolins (CPs) are one of the most commonly occurring class of cyanobacterial nonribosomal peptides. For the majority of these compounds, protease inhibition has been reported. In the current work, the structural diversity of cyanopeptolins produced by Nostoc edaphicum CCNP1411 was explored. As a result, 93 CPs, including 79 new variants, were detected and structurally characterized based on their mass fragmentation spectra. CPs isolated in higher amounts were additionally characterized by NMR. To the best of our knowledge, this is the highest number of cyanopeptides found in one strain. The biological assays performed with the 34 isolated CPs confirmed the significance of the amino acid located between Thr and the unique 3-amino-6-hydroxy-2-piperidone (Ahp) on the activity of the compounds against serine protease and HeLa cancer cells.
Xinghamide A, a New Cyclic Nonapeptide Found in Streptomyces xinghaiensis
Authors: Um Soohyun , Lee Jaeyoun , Kim Sung Jin , Cho Kyung A , Kang Ki Sung , Kim Seung Hyun
Published: September 2023

Xinghamide A (1), a new nonapeptide, was discovered in Streptomyces xinghaiensis isolated from a halophyte, Suaeda maritima (L.) Dumort. Based on high-resolution mass and NMR spectroscopic data, the planar structure of 1 was established, and, in particular, the sequence of nine amino acids was determined with ROESY and HMBC NMR spectra. The absolute configurations of the α-carbon of each amino acid residue were determined with 1-fluoro-2,4-dinitrophenyl-l-and -d-leucine amide (Marfey’s reagents) and 2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-β-d-glucopyranosyl isothiocyanate, followed by LC-MS analysis. The anti-inflammatory activity of xinghamide A (1) was evaluated by inhibitory abilities against the nitric oxide (NO) secretion and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells.
Endothelial Dysfunction and Metabolic Disorders in Patients with Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Authors: Cavallaro Giada , Pantaleo Alessandra , Pontillo Vito , Barbara Francesco , Murri Alessandra , Quaranta Nicola
Published: September 2023

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is defined as a sensorineural hearing loss of 30 dB or greater on at least three contiguous audiometric frequencies occurring within a 72 h period. Although SSNHL is commonly encountered in clinical audiology and otolaryngology practice, its etiopathogenesis continues to be poorly understood. Scientific investigations have highlighted the vulnerability of cochlear microcirculation to blood flow alterations. Even mild hypoperfusion can lead to immediate dysfunction in the organ of Corti, given the heightened susceptibility of cochlear hair cells to hypoxia and ischemic damage. The purpose of this review paper is to present evidence of endothelial and vascular involvement in SSNHL and the risk factors, such as metabolic syndrome, that may negatively impact the inner ear’s vascular supply, influencing the onset pattern, incidence, and prognosis of SSNHL. By addressing these variables, we can deepen our comprehension of the mechanisms underlying SSNHL and potentially uncover strategies for prevention.
Mixed Reality as a Teaching Tool for Medical Students in Neurosurgery
Authors: Silvero Isidre Arturo , Friederichs Hendrik , Müther Michael , Gallus Marco , Stummer Walter , Holling Markus
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives: Simulation-based learning within neurosurgery provides valuable and realistic educational experiences in a safe environment, enhancing the current teaching model. Mixed reality (MR) simulation can deliver a highly immersive experience through head-mounted displays and has become one of the most promising teaching tools in medical education. We aimed to identify whether an MR neurosurgical simulation module within the setting of an undergraduate neurosurgical hands-on course could improve the satisfaction of medical students. Materials and Methods: The quasi-experimental study with 223 medical students [120 in the conventional group (CG) and 103 in the MR-group (MRG)] was conducted at the University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany. An MR simulation module was presented to the intervention group during an undergraduate neurosurgical hands-on course. Images of a skull fracture were reconstructed into 3D formats compatible with the MR-Viewer (Brainlab, Munich, Germany). Participants could interact virtually with the model and plan a surgical strategy using Magic Leap goggles. The experience was assessed by rating the course on a visual analog scale ranging from 1 (very poor) to 100 (very good) and an additional Likert-scale questionnaire. Results: The satisfaction score for CG and MRG were 89.3 ± 13.3 and 94.2 ± 7.5, respectively. The Wilcoxon rank-sum test showed that MR users (Mdn = 97.0, IQR = 4, n = 103) were significantly more satisfied than CG users (Mdn = 93.0, IQR = 10, n = 120; ln(W) = 8.99, p < 0.001) with moderate effect size (r^biserial = 0.30, CI95 [0.15, 0.43]), thus indicating that the utilization of MR-simulation is associated with greater satisfaction. Conclusions: This study reports a positive response from medical students towards MR as an educational tool. Feedback from the medical students encourages the adoption of disruptive technologies into medical school curricula.
Determination of the Feasibility of Using Eco-Friendly Walnut Shell Abrasive Particles for Pocket Milling of Titanium Workpieces by Abrasive Waterjet Technology
Authors: Karkalos Nikolaos E. , Karmiris-Obratański Panagiotis
Published: September 2023

Abrasive waterjet technology is nowadays a well established non-conventional method with significant capabilities for material removal with high productivity and minimum environmental impact compared to other processes. However, in order to be in line with the green transition directives, further steps are required to ensure the sustainability of manufacturing processes and reduce the risk of material depletion by employing recyclable materials. For this purpose, an eco-friendly abrasive material such as walnut shell is employed for pocket machining of a titanium alloy workpiece. Due to the relatively low hardness of this material, compared to common abrasive materials such as garnet or alumina, it is required to determine the appropriate range of process parameters in order to obtain high-quality pockets with high productivity. Thus, in this work, a comprehensive experimental study is conducted in order to determine the effect of various process parameters on pocket depth, pocket width, material removal rate, flatness and parallelism error of produced pockets. The results prove the feasibility of using walnut shell as abrasive material for pocket milling, although MRR is almost an order of magnitude lower than the values commonly obtained for usual abrasives. Moreover, it is not recommended to use jet pressure values over 250 MPa so dimensional accuracy, flatness and parallelism error are maintained in acceptable values.
Porous Fabrication of White Metal Using Ultrasonically Generated Microbubbles
Authors: Saito Yuta , Nozawa Hitoshi , Xing Wenjing , Makuta Toshinori
Published: September 2023

Conventional methods for producing porous metals involve the use of chemicals such as thickeners and foaming agents under high temperatures and pressures. However, these methods are costly and pose a risk of dust explosion. Thus, the objective of this research is to achieve the cost-effective and safe production of porous metals by introducing microbubbles generated by ultrasonic oscillation into the molten metal. One end of an ultrasonic horn was inserted into three different molten metals—white metal, Pb-free solder, and zinc—and microbubbles were generated at the horn end by the strong ultrasonic oscillation in the molten metals. The microbubbles that contained molten metal changed phase to porous metal through solidification, and the diameter, porosity, and stress–strain curve of the generated porous metals were measured. The results indicate that the porosity of white metal, Pb-free solder, and zinc foams reached 54%, 76%, and 48%, respectively, and these porous metals had many micropores less than 1 mm in diameter. It was also observed that the higher the melting point, the larger the pore diameter and the lower the porosity. Furthermore, in the case of white metal, a plateau region of large deformation at constant stress was observed in the stress–strain curve.
Recent Analytical Advances for Decoding Metabolic Reprogramming in Lung Cancer
Authors: Almalki Atiah H.
Published: September 2023

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Metabolic reprogramming is a fundamental trait associated with lung cancer development that fuels tumor proliferation and survival. Monitoring such metabolic pathways and their intermediate metabolites can provide new avenues concerning treatment strategies, and the identification of prognostic biomarkers that could be utilized to monitor drug responses in clinical practice. In this review, recent trends in the analytical techniques used for metabolome mapping of lung cancer are capitalized. These techniques include nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS), and imaging mass spectrometry (MSI). The advantages and limitations of the application of each technique for monitoring the metabolite class or type are also highlighted. Moreover, their potential applications in the analysis of many biological samples will be evaluated.
Supporting Clinical Decisions with Rapid Molecular Diagnostic Pneumonia Panel in Pediatric Intensive Care Unit: Single Center Experience in Turkiye
Authors: Bozan Gurkan , Kara Yalcin , Kiral Eylem , Kizil Mahmut Can , Kacmaz Ebru , Us Tercan , Durmaz Gul , Kilic Omer , Dinleyici Ener Cagri
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Lower respiratory tract infections are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children worldwide. It is crucial to promptly conduct diagnostic investigations in order to determine the microbiological cause of pneumonia, since this is necessary to ensure the appropriate delivery of antibiotic therapy to each individual patient. We evaluated the results of a rapid molecular diagnostic pneumonia panel in children with LRTI in a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). Patients and Methods: Rapid molecular diagnostic pneumonia panel (BioFire®, FilmArray Pneumonia Panel plus; FA-PP) findings (71 results from 46 children) in a tertiary care PICU between 2019 and 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. Results: At least one bacterial pathogen was detected in 57 cases. A total of 77% of children had underlying conditions. A total of 70.4% of children needed invasive mechanical ventilation and 54.4% had ventilator-associated pneumonia. Pseudomonas aeruginosa (50.8%), Acinetobacter calcoaceticus baumannii complex (42%), and Klebsiella pneumoniae (38.6%) were the most common pathogens detected with the FA-PP. Of the 33 cases diagnosed with VAP, more than one pathogen was identified in 65.9% of cases, with the most commonly identified bacteria being K. pneumoniae (43.1%), P. aeruginosa (38.6%), and Acinetobacter calcoaceticus baumannii complex (31.8%). According to the FA-PP results, the same antibiotic therapy was continued in 39.4% of cases, escalated in 54.5%, and de-escalated in 6.1%. Conclusions: The utilization of the FA-PP has some beneficial effects, including more prompt delivery of findings compared to conventional approaches. Additionally, this approach enables the identification of resistance profiles in children diagnosed with pneumonia in the PICU. Consequently, these test results facilitate the organization of antibiotic treatment strategies, including escalation and de-escalation approaches. The detection of resistance patterns was exclusively determined via the implementation of molecular testing, prompting a reevaluation of the isolation technique in accordance with the obtained data.
Editorial: Special Issue: “Legionella pneumophila: A Microorganism with a Thousand Faces”
Authors: Fasciana Teresa , Palermo Mario , Arrigo Ignazio , Tricoli Maria Rita , Diquattro Orazia , Giammanco Anna
Published: September 2023

Legionella pneumophila is a microorganism that is able to contaminate the freshwater environment and, consequently, human-made water systems [...]
Natural Product Aloesin Significantly Inhibits Spore Germination and Appressorium Formation in Magnaporthe oryzae
Authors: Zhang Guohui , Li Rongyu , Wu Xiaomao , Li Ming
Published: September 2023

This study aims to determine the effects of the natural product aloesin against Magnaporthe oryzae. The results exposed that aloesin had a high inhibitory effect on appressorium formation (the EC50 value was 175.26 μg/mL). Microscopic examination revealed that 92.30 ± 4.26% of M. oryzae spores could be broken down by 625.00 μg/mL of aloesin, and the formation rate of appressoria was 4.74 ± 1.00% after 12 h. M. oryzae mycelial growth was weaker than that on the control. The enzyme activity analysis results indicated that aloesin inhibited the activities of polyketolase (PKS), laccase (LAC), and chain-shortening catalytic enzyme (Aayg1), which are key enzymes in melanin synthesis. The inhibition rate by aloesin of PKS, LAC, and Aayg1 activity was 32.51%, 33.04%, and 43.38%, respectively. The proteomic analysis showed that actin expression was downregulated at 175.62 μg/mL of aloesin, which could reduce actin bundle formation and prevent the polar growth of hyphae in M. oryzae. This is the first report showing that aloesin effectively inhibits conidia morphology and appressorium formation in M. oryzae.
Provenance, Depositional Environment, and Paleoclimatic Conditions of a Near-Source Fan Delta: A Case Study of the Permian Jiamuhe Formation in the Shawan Sag, Junggar Basin
Authors: Yao Zongquan , Yu Haitao , Yang Fan , Jianatayi Deleqiati , Zhang Boxuan , Li Tianming , Jia Chunming , Pan Tuo , Zhang Zhaohui , Aibibuli Naibi , Zhao Wenshuo
Published: September 2023

The science of the provenance, sedimentary system, and distribution of sand bodies is unclear, limiting oil and gas exploration. Here, we combined heavy mineral, rare earth element, petrographic, and outcrop data to shed new light on the provenance, depositional environment, and paleoclimatic conditions of the Permian Jiamuhe Formation. The provenance is characterized by “a main provenance system, and four provenance zones,” and this result could be interpreted from analyses of its seismic reflection, clastic composition, REES, and heavy minerals. A detailed sedimentological study performed in the excellent outcrops, a comprehensive analysis of logging, and the legalistic cores of this formation allowed for the identification of ten lithofacies and three lithofacies associations. Four distributary/underwater channels were observed. Furthermore, the redox and paleoclimatic conditions based on trace elements (Th/U, V/(V + Ni), V/Cr, Cu/Zn, Sr/Ba, and Sr/Cu) suggested a weak reduction in the environment, as well as semi-humid and semi-dry conditions of the Jiamuhe Formation. These conditions are also supported by the mudstone color and plant fossils. The tectonic setting belongs to the acid island arc area based on the trace element discrimination diagram of La-Th-SC and the values of the La, Ce, ΣREE, L/H, La/Yb, and (La/Yb)N criteria. The research results further confirm that there are differences in the mineral compositions in the same provenance area, and they provide a geological basis for the fine sedimentary facies characterization and a favorable zone prediction in this area.
The REE-Zr-U-Th Minerals of the Maronia Monzodiorite, N. Greece: Implications on the Saturation and Segregation Mechanisms of Critical Metals in Intermediate–Mafic Compositions
Authors: Vasilatos Charalampos , Papoutsa Angeliki
Published: September 2023

This work delves into the presence of REE-Ti-Zr-U-Th minerals, in the mafic–intermediate rocks of the Maronia pluton, Greece, an Oligocene intrusion formed through arc-magmatism during subduction. In Maronia monzodiorite, critical metals are contained in three principal mineral groups, namely, the REE-Ti-Zr, REE-Ca-P, and U-Th assemblages. The REE-Ti-Zr group includes REE-ilmenite, chevkinite-like phases, zirconolite, and baddeleyite. The REE-Ca-P assemblage is represented by allanite-(Ce), monazite-(Ce), and huttonitic monazite-(Ce). The U-Th assemblage comprises thorite–coffinite and uraninite–thorianite solid solutions. The paragenetic sequencing of these minerals offers insights into their formation conditions and correlation with the pluton’s magmatic evolution. In the REE-Ti-Zr group, mineral formation progresses from REE-ilmenite to baddeleyite through chevkinite-like phases and zirconolite under oxidizing conditions. The REE-Ca-P sequence involves allanite-(Ce), followed by monazite-(Ce), late allanite-(Ce), and huttonitic monazite-(Ce). In the U-Th group, earlier thorite–coffinite phases are succeeded by uraninite–thorianite solid solutions, indicating Si-undersaturation at late magmatic stages. Fluctuations in Ca-activity induce alternating formations of allanite-(Ce) and monazite-(Ce). These mineral variations are attributed to early-stage interactions between high-K calc-alkaline and shoshonitic gabbroic melts, influencing critical metal enrichment and mineral speciation. The study’s insights into paragenesis and geological processes offer implications for mineral exploration in analogous geological settings.
Prediction of Protein Ion–Ligand Binding Sites with ELECTRA
Authors: Essien Clement , Jiang Lei , Wang Duolin , Xu Dong
Published: September 2023

Interactions between proteins and ions are essential for various biological functions like structural stability, metabolism, and signal transport. Given that more than half of all proteins bind to ions, it is becoming crucial to identify ion-binding sites. The accurate identification of protein–ion binding sites helps us to understand proteins’ biological functions and plays a significant role in drug discovery. While several computational approaches have been proposed, this remains a challenging problem due to the small size and high versatility of metals and acid radicals. In this study, we propose IonPred, a sequence-based approach that employs ELECTRA (Efficiently Learning an Encoder that Classifies Token Replacements Accurately) to predict ion-binding sites using only raw protein sequences. We successfully fine-tuned our pretrained model to predict the binding sites for nine metal ions (Zn2+, Cu2+, Fe2+, Fe3+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Mn2+, Na+, and K+) and four acid radical ion ligands (CO32−, SO42−, PO43−, NO2−). IonPred surpassed six current state-of-the-art tools by over 44.65% and 28.46%, respectively, in the F1 score and MCC when compared on an independent test dataset. Our method is more computationally efficient than existing tools, producing prediction results for a hundred sequences for a specific ion in under ten minutes.
Development of a Pure Certified Reference Material of D-Mannitol
Authors: Chen Weizhu , Zhang Yiping , Chen Hui , Jin Wenhui , Chen Xiaoying , Huang Xiaoyan , Xie Yanrou , Fang Hua , Hong Zhuan
Published: September 2023

A new certified reference material (CRM) of D-mannitol (GBW(E) 100681) has been developed in this study. We describe the preparation, structure determination, characterization, homogeneity study, stability study, as well as uncertainty estimation. The main component was 99.91% ± 0.01%. The moisture content of the candidate CRM was 0.036% ± 0.002%, as measured by Karl Fischer titration. The nonvolatile and volatile impurities in the candidate CRM were all much less than 0.01%, which was determined by the ICP–MS and headspace GC–FID methods, respectively. The purity of the D-mannitol CRM was 99.9% ± 1.1% (k = 2), as measured by the two independent approaches involving the mass balance method (MB) and quantitative nuclear magnetic resonance technique (qNMR). The D-mannitol CRM was stable during the monitoring period for each temperature. It is stable for up to 48 months at room temperature and 28 days at 50 °C. The uncertainty was evaluated by combining the contributions from characterization, homogeneity, and stability. The developed D-mannitol CRM would effectively support method validation and proficiency testing, as well as effectively guarantee the accuracy, reliability, and comparability of results.
Low-Temperature Predicted Structures of Ag2S (Silver Sulfide)
Authors: Sadovnikov Stanislav I. , Kostenko Maksim G. , Gusev Aleksandr I. , Lukoyanov Aleksey V.
Published: September 2023

Silver sulfide phases, such as body-centered cubic argentite and monoclinic acanthite, are widely known. Traditionally, acanthite is regarded as the only low-temperature phase of silver sulfide. However, the possible existence of other low-temperature phases of silver sulfide cannot be ruled out. Until now, there have been only a few suggestions about low-temperature Ag2S phases that differ from monoclinic acanthite. The lack of a uniform approach has hampered the prediction of such phases. In this work, the use of such an effective tool as an evolutionary algorithm for the first time made it possible to perform a broad search for the model Ag2S phases of silver sulfide, which are low-temperature with respect to cubic argentite. The possibility of forming Ag2S phases with cubic, tetragonal, orthorhombic, trigonal, monoclinic, and triclinic symmetry is considered. The calculation of the cohesion energy and the formation enthalpy show, for the first time, that the formation of low-symmetry Ag2S phases is energetically most favorable. The elastic stiffness constants cij of all predicted Ag2S phases are computed, and their mechanical stability is determined. The densities of the electronic states of the predicted Ag2S phases are calculated. The prediction of low-temperature Ag2S structures indicates the possibility of synthesizing new silver sulfide phases with improved properties.
Superhydrophobic Flexible Strain Sensors Constructed Using Nanomaterials: Their Fabrications and Sustainable Applications
Authors: Zhou Xiaodong , Zang Hongxin , Guan Yong , Li Shuangjian , Liu Mingming
Published: September 2023

Superhydrophobic flexible strain sensors, which combine superhydrophobic coatings with highly sensitive flexible sensors, significantly enhance sensor performance and expand applications in human motion monitoring. Superhydrophobic coatings provide water repellency, surface self-cleaning, anti-corrosion, and anti-fouling properties for the sensors. Additionally, they enhance equipment durability. At present, many studies on superhydrophobic flexible sensors are still in the early research stage; the wear resistance and stability of sensors are far from reaching the level of industrial application. This paper discusses fundamental theories such as the wetting mechanism, tunneling effect, and percolation theory of superhydrophobic flexible sensors. Additionally, it reviews commonly used construction materials and principles of these sensors. This paper discusses the common preparation methods for superhydrophobic flexible sensors and summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of each method to identify the most suitable approach. Additionally, this paper summarizes the wide-ranging applications of the superhydrophobic flexible sensor in medical health, human motion monitoring, anti-electromagnetic interference, and de-icing/anti-icing, offering insights into these fields.
Magnetoelastic and Magnetoelectric Coupling in Two-Dimensional Nitride MXenes: A Density Functional Theory Study
Authors: Teh Sukhito , Jeng Horng-Tay
Published: September 2023

Two-dimensional multiferroic (2D) materials have garnered significant attention due to their potential in high-density, low-power multistate storage and spintronics applications. MXenes, a class of 2D transition metal carbides and nitrides, were first discovered in 2011, and have become the focus of research in various disciplines. Our study, utilizing first-principles calculations, examines the lattice structures, and electronic and magnetic properties of nitride MXenes with intrinsic band gaps, including V2NF2, V2NO2, Cr2NF2, Mo2NO2, Mo2NF2, and Mn2NO2. These nitride MXenes exhibit orbital ordering, and in some cases the orbital ordering induces magnetoelastic coupling or magnetoelectric coupling. Most notably, Cr2NF2 is a ferroelastic material with a spiral magnetic ordered phase, and the spiral magnetization propagation vector is coupled with the direction of ferroelastic strain. The ferroelectric phase can exist as an excited state in V2NO2, Cr2NF2, and Mo2NF2, with their magnetic order being coupled with polar displacements through orbital ordering. Our results also suggest that similar magnetoelectric coupling effects persist in the Janus MXenes V8N4O7F, Cr8N4F7O, and Mo8N4F7O. Remarkably, different phases of Mo8N4F7O, characterized by orbital ordering rearrangements, can be switched by applying external strain or an external electric field. Overall, our theoretical findings suggest that nitride MXenes hold promise as 2D multiferroic materials.
The Intergenic Type LncRNA (LINC RNA) Faces in Cancer with In Silico Scope and a Directed Lens to LINC00511: A Step toward ncRNA Precision
Authors: Eldash Shorouk , Sanad Eman F. , Nada Dina , Hamdy Nadia M.
Published: September 2023

Background: Long intergenic non-coding RNA, is one type of lncRNA, exerting various cellular activities, as does ncRNA, including the regulation of gene expression and chromatin remodeling. The abnormal expression of lincRNAs can induce or suppress carcinogenesis. Main body: LincRNAs can regulate cancer progression through different mechanisms and are considered as potential drug targets. Genetic variations such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in lincRNAs may affect gene expression and messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) stability. SNPs in lincRNAs have been found to be associated with different types of cancer, as well. Specifically, LINC00511 has been known to promote the progression of multiple malignancies such as breast cancer, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, and others, making it a promising cancer prognostic molecular marker. Conclusion: LincRNAs have been proved to be associated with different cancer types through various pathways. Herein, we performed a comprehensive literature and in silico databases search listing lncRNAs, lincRNAs including LINC00511, lncRNAs’ SNPs, as well as LINC00511 SNPs in different cancer types, focusing on their role in various cancer types and mechanism(s) of action.
Measles Resurgence in Europe: An Open Breakthrough in the Field of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases
Authors: De Francesco Maria Antonia
Published: September 2023

Measles is a highly transmissible respiratory infection due to an enveloped, negative single-stranded RNA virus, belonging to the genus Morbillivirus, the family Paramyxoviridae and the subfamily Orthoparamyxovirinae [...]
Multifunctional Properties of BMAP-18 and Its Aliphatic Analog against Drug-Resistant Bacteria
Authors: Jahan Ishrat , Kumar Sukumar Dinesh , Shin Song Yub , Lee Chul Won , Shin Sung-Heui , Yang Sungtae
Published: September 2023

BMAP-18, derived from the N-terminal region of bovine myeloid antimicrobial peptide BMAP-27, demonstrates potent antimicrobial activity without cytotoxicity. This study aimed to compare the antibacterial, antibiofilm, and anti-inflammatory properties of BMAP-18, rich in aromatic phenylalanine residues, with its aliphatic analog, BMAP-18-FL. Both aromatic BMAP-18 and aliphatic BMAP-18-FL exhibited equally potent antimicrobial activities against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, particularly methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MDRPA). Mechanistic investigations employing SYTOX green uptake, DNA binding, and FACScan analysis revealed that both peptides acted by inducing membrane permeabilization and subsequent intracellular targeting. Moreover, both BMAP-18 and BMAP-18-FL effectively prevented biofilm formation and eradicated existing biofilms of MRSA and MDRPA. Notably, BMAP-18-FL displayed a superior anti-inflammatory activity compared to BMAP-18, significantly reducing the expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages. This study emphasizes the similarities and differences in the antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and anti-inflammatory properties between aromatic BMAP-18 and aliphatic BMAP-18-FL, providing valuable insights for the development of multifunctional antimicrobial peptides against drug-resistant bacteria.
Five-Step Phase-Shift-Based Multiwavelength Averaging for Extrinsic Fabry–Perot Interferometric Sensors
Authors: Liu Zheng , Yao Qiong , Xia Ji , Liu Gang , Xiong Shuidong , Hou Qingkai
Published: September 2023

In order to address issues such as low demodulation accuracy, large demodulation errors, small dynamic range, and complex algorithms for the extrinsic Fabry–Perot interferometric (EFPI) sensor, a five-step phase-shift algorithm based on a multiwavelength (MW)-averaging method is proposed to improve demodulation speed, noise stability, dynamic range, and noise suppression. The proposed demodulation method utilizes white-light interferometry (WLI) technology to acquire the reflection spectra and extract the five-step phase-shift signals at Ns consecutive operating points. The demodulation results of Ns sets of five-step phase-shift signals are averaged to obtain the average demodulated phase and cavity length variation. Theoretical analysis demonstrates the significant effects of the MW demodulation method on demodulation parameter errors and noise suppression. Particularly, when the demodulation parameter θ = π/2 rad, the method exhibits excellent stability against demodulation parameter error-induced instability. Moreover, it greatly improves noise suppression and reduces noise fluctuations. Numerical simulations are conducted to validate the performance of the proposed demodulation method. Compared with the traditional single-wavelength (SW) five-step phase-shifting demodulation method, the MW demodulation method exhibits stronger noise- and harmonic-suppression capabilities as the number of averaging wavelengths Ns increases. The harmonic distortion of the MW demodulation method with Ns = 128 is 20 dB lower than that of the SW demodulation method, and the noise is 15 dB lower. Furthermore, the proposed method effectively suppresses the influence of demodulation parameter errors on signal demodulation. This proposed demodulation method has the potential for fast real-time dynamic demodulation. It has great significance and application in the field of weak signal detection in fiber-optic sensors with interferometer structures and has enormous advantages in noise-suppression in complex environments.
Ethnobotanical Insights: Qualitative Analysis of Medicinal Plants in Colón Putumayo for Traditional Knowledge Preservation
Authors: Bastidas-Bacca Maira Alejandra , Dayve-Bacca-Descance Dayana , Guerra-Acosta Adriana del Socorro , Perea-Morera Erika , Díaz-Ariza Lucia Ana , López-Álvarez Diana , Osorio-García Ana Milena
Published: September 2023

The ancestral knowledge of the community of Colón Putumayo unfolds in several dimensions that allow us to recognise the ethnomedicinal properties of plants. The research focused on systematising ethnobotanical and ethnomedicinal knowledge on the use of plants as alternatives for treating illnesses. A cross-sectional study was carried out through semi-structured questionnaires to 100 inhabitants of the community of Colón. We found 38 plant species catalogued in 18 botanical families where 10 species of medicinal plants were prioritised by the community for the treatment of illnesses. The use value (UV) evaluation showed that Chamaemelum nobile equals 0.18 compared to Cymbopogon citratus and Lippia alba with 0.04. The Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) for the cited medicinal use categories equivalent to 1.00 are for the treatment of six types of ailments, however, the plants can treat 16 types of ailments. The Fidelity Level (LF) found identified that four plants are used for the treatment of one type of ailment while three are used to alleviate several ailments. The local knowledge of the community of Colón Putumayo is linked to the ancestry of the territory, culture, and family farming practices.
Permeability Evolution of Intact and Fractured Coal during Progressive Deformation Subjected to True Triaxial Stresses
Authors: Liu Yubing , Zhao Dong , Li Yiteng , Zhang Li
Published: September 2023

Coal mining is gradually moving towards a deep area of more than 1000 m. At this depth, coal seams are under extremely high stress, leading to the formation of macroscopic fractures. The effects of cleats and macroscopic fractures on permeability evolution and comparative analysis based on established permeability models between intact and fractured coal are still limited. In this study, the permeability of intact and fractured coal specimens was tested by a multi-functional test system. The permeability data were fitted and analyzed based on the established permeability models. Our results show that the permeability curve of fractured coal has an L-shaped trend different from the S-shaped trend of intact coal permeability. The macroscopic fractures increased the permeability of coal samples by 1–3 orders of magnitude. The exponential model had a better fit for the permeability of intact and fractured coal specimens than the cubic model. The mean fitting degrees based on Chen’s and Yu’s models were 0.973 and 0.948, respectively. The slip of the fracture surface resulted in permeability fluctuations during the progressive deformation of fractured coal. The macroscopic fractures increased the slope of permeability in the post-peak stage and reduced coal compressibility and strength.
Modification of the Malting Process of Barley Grains of Different Varieties by Vacuum Impregnation and Its Effect on Selected Wort Parameters
Authors: Rydzak Leszek , Vasiukov Kostiantyn , Kobus Zbigniew , Natoniewski Marcin
Published: September 2023

This study used the process of vacuum impregnation of seeds at the soaking stage. The barley varieties used were Kangoo and Xanadu. The raw material was used for the production of light malt. The effect of vacuum impregnation on the rate of water uptake by the seeds at different temperature conditions, i.e., 12, 14 and 16 °C, was also analyzed. Grain destined for malt was soaked in a water–air system. The germination (malting) stage lasted 8 days at temperatures of 12, 14 and 16 °C. Each sample was then dried using the traditional convection method. After a 3-month resting period, congress wort was produced from the malt. The wort parameters studied were the viscosity index and the wort extract content. The malt extract difference was also defined. Based on the results, it was concluded that the vacuum impregnation process significantly increases the absorption of water by the grain and thus shortens the soaking and germination stage of the seeds. Grain variety has a strong influence on extract content and wort viscosity. Malting temperature only affects the viscosity index. The most important correlations of the parameters studied were noted for the number of days the grains were malted.
A Glance at a Sustainable Solution Using Vertical Constructed Wetland Based on Dewatered Drinking-Water Waste Augmented Nanoparticle Composite Substrate for Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Nabwey Hossam A. , Tony Maha A.
Published: September 2023

The current investigation introduces and demonstrates a credible, economically sound system to remove agrochemical runoff using a vertical flow constructed wetland (VFCW). DuPont 1179 carbamate insecticide was applied as a simulating greenhouse crop production controller, which resulted in runoff loaded with DuPont 1179. A novel composite of constructed wetland from an alum sludge conjugate magnetite nanoparticle substrate was applied and supported with gravel as a filtration/adsorption bed in a vertical flow constructed wetland (VFCW) system. X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) augmented with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were employed to characterize the suggested composite substrate. The experimental data showed VFCW to be significant in eliminating DuPont 1179. The isotherm time was explored at 300 min, which corresponded to complete insecticide removal (100%). The operational parameters were located at the natural pH (6.9) of the solution and room temperature (25 °C). The VFCW column was also investigated at various substrate concentrations ranging from 100% to 40% of the composite material supported by a gravel medium, and the existence of composite at a 75% concentration showed the highest yield. The experimental data verified that the adsorption followed the pseudo second-order adsorption kinetic model. Furthermore, according to the isotherm model results, the scheme followed the Langmuir isotherm model. Thus, the presented study is a promising indicator of the possibility of using alum sludge conjugate nanoparticles for the elimination of agrochemicals from wastewater.
Digital Analysis of a Novel Impression Method Named the Biological-Oriented Digital Impression Technique: A Clinical Audit
Authors: Tallarico Marco , Cuccu Manuel , Meloni Silvio Mario , Lumbau Aurea Immacolata , Baldoni Edoardo , Pisano Milena , Fiorillo Luca , Cervino Gabriele
Published: September 2023

This report aims to clinically evaluate the feasibility of a novel biological-oriented digital impression method for teeth prepared with a vertical preparation technique. Something that makes this case unique is that the definitive impression is taken without cord displacement, reducing the invasiveness for the patient. In addition, dental technicians can reproduce the exact emergence profile of the temporary restoration used to reshape the soft tissue contours and define the accurate finish line at the established prosthetic junction, potentially avoiding the aesthetic and biological issues of the double-cord technique. The finish line and emergence profile are transferred using the temporary restoration through a simple CAD procedure performed using the same software used to take the impression. This makes the proposed biological-oriented digital impression technique (BODIT) easy to perform, avoiding adjunctive time and costs for clinicians and patients. Conclusions: Finally, patients' satisfaction could be significantly improved.
Determining the Characteristics of Papers That Garner the Most Significant Impact: A Deep Dive into Mexican Engineering Publications
Authors: Gonzalez Brambila Claudia N. , Ponce José I. , Gonzalez Brambila Silvia B. , Milia Matias F.
Published: September 2023

Engineers make things, make things work, and make things work better and easier. This kind of knowledge is crucial for innovation, and much of the explicit knowledge developed by engineers is embodied in scientific publications. In this paper, we analyze the evolution of publications and citations in engineering in a middle-income country such as Mexico. Using a database of all Mexican publications in Web of Science from 2004 to 2017, we explore the characteristics of publications that tend to have the greatest impact; this is the highest number of citations. Among the variables studied are the type of collaboration (no collaboration, domestic, bilateral, or multilateral), the number of coauthors and countries, controlling for a coauthor from the USA, and the affiliation institution of the Mexican author(s). Our results emphasize the overall importance of joint international efforts and suggest that publications with the highest number of citations are those with multinational collaboration (coauthors from three or more countries) and when one of the coauthors is from the USA. Another interesting result is that single-authored papers have had a higher impact than those written through domestic collaboration.
Combining Multispectral Imaging and XRF Analysis to Examine San Patroba predica ai fedeli di Pozzuoli by Massimo Stanzione
Authors: Brocchieri Jessica , Scialla Elvira , Merolle Marianna , Recchia Palma Maria , della Rocca Roberto , Sabbarese Carlo
Published: September 2023

A diagnostic analysis of the painting depicting San Patroba che predica ai fedeli di Pozzuoli by Massimo Stanzione was carried out. The painting was completed in 1635–1637 to decorate the choir of the Cathedral of Saint Procolo in Pozzuoli (Naples, Italy). The technique of X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and multispectral imaging were applied on site to learn about the executive technique, the palette of the painting, and the restoration works, as well as understand the influence of the other painters active in Naples in that period. The results of the research are presented and discussed to draw general aspects and peculiarities of the pigments and the pictorial technique used by this important painter, as well as the restorations.
The Natural Power of Music
Authors: Campesato Claudio
Published: September 2023

Among the early medieval authors, Amalarius of Metz (8th–9th century) is one of those who discussed the impact of religious music and song on the body and soul. In his main work: the Liber Officialis, listening and singing liturgical music are depicted as having a corporeal effect that generates sensations of an intense sensory and emotional character. In Amalarius, living the musical religious phenomenon not only coincides with the idea that music can evoke emotions but there is something that goes further. What Amalarius emphasizes is a particular emotion: a “spiritual state” of the nakedness of the heart, almost a weakness of those who are capable of tears and sensitive to God’s voice. During the patristic era, especially in the East, “penthos” (compunction) was used to describe the experience of tears in prayer or meditation; however, Fathers of the Church described liturgical music as an obstacle to compunction. For this reason, an evolution of that compunctory doctrine emerges from the exposition of Amalarius. In this context, it is not a question of crying for one’s sins but of exploiting a natural power (vis) of music. By simply listening to music, a person would seem capable of being moved and reaching a particularly “receptive state” to welcome the Word of God and make it bear fruit. What Amalarius describes in religious music seems to be the natural experience that one feels when, just listening to a melody, a tear spontaneously falls. This physical reaction is connected to a spiritual transformation that seems to pass through the flesh (carnalia) of our humanity. The result of this singular experience, strongly connected to musical ethics, is the conversion to good action and the possibility to dispose human beings to attentive, deep, and fruitful listening.
Method for Determining Coastline Course Based on Low-Altitude Images Taken by a UAV
Authors: Marchel Łukasz , Specht Mariusz
Published: September 2023

In recent years, the most popular methods for determining coastline course are geodetic, satellite, and tacheometric techniques. None of the above-mentioned measurement methods allows marking out the shoreline both in an accurate way and with high coverage of the terrain with surveys. For this reason, intensive works are currently underway to find alternative solutions that could accurately, extensively, and quickly determine coastline course. Based on a review of the literature regarding shoreline measurements, it can be concluded that the photogrammetric method, based on low-altitude images taken by an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), has the greatest potential. The aim of this publication is to present and validate a method for determining coastline course based on low-altitude photos taken by a drone. Shoreline measurements were carried out using the DJI Matrice 300 RTK UAV in the coastal zone at the public beach in Gdynia (Poland) in 2023. In addition, the coastline course was marked out using high-resolution satellite imagery (0.3–0.5 m). In order to calculate the accuracy of determining the shoreline by photogrammetric and satellite methods, it was decided to relate them to the coastline marked out using a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) Real Time Kinematic (RTK) receiver with an accuracy of 2.4 cm Distance Root Mean Square (DRMS). Studies have shown that accuracies of determining coastline course using a UAV are 0.47 m (p = 0.95) for the orthophotomosaic method and 0.70 m (p = 0.95) for the Digital Surface Model (DSM), and are much more accurate than the satellite method, which amounted to 6.37 m (p = 0.95) for the Pléiades Neo satellite and 9.24 m (p = 0.95) for the Hexagon Europe satellite. Based on the obtained test results, it can be stated that the photogrammetric method using a UAV meets the accuracy requirements laid down for the most stringent International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) order, i.e., Exclusive Order (Total Horizontal Uncertainty (THU) of 5 m with a confidence level of 95%), which they relate to coastline measurements.
Vegetation Greenness Sensitivity to Precipitation and Its Oceanic and Terrestrial Component in Selected Biomes and Ecoregions of the World
Authors: Stojanovic Milica , Sorí Rogert , Guerova Guergana , Vázquez Marta , Nieto Raquel , Gimeno Luis
Published: September 2023

In this study, we conducted a global assessment of the sensitivity of vegetation greenness (VGS) to precipitation and to the estimated Lagrangian precipitation time series of oceanic (PLO) and terrestrial (PLT) origin. The study was carried out for terrestrial ecosystems consisting of 9 biomes and 139 ecoregions during the period of 2001–2018. This analysis aimed to diagnose the vegetative response of vegetation to the dominant component of precipitation, which is of particular interest considering the hydroclimatic characteristics of each ecoregion, climate variability, and changes in the origin of precipitation that may occur in the context of climate change. The enhanced vegetation index (EVI) was used as an indicator of vegetation greenness. Without consideration of semi-arid and arid regions and removing the role of temperature and radiation, the results show the maximum VGS to precipitation in boreal high-latitude ecoregions that belong to boreal forest/taiga: temperate grasslands, savannas, and shrublands. Few ecoregions, mainly in the Amazon basin, show a negative sensitivity. We also found that vegetation greenness is generally more sensitive to the component that contributes the least to precipitation and is less stable throughout the year. Therefore, most vegetation greenness in Europe is sensitive to changes in PLT and less to PLO. In contrast, the boreal forest/taiga in northeast Asia and North America is more sensitive to changes in PLO. Finally, in most South American and African ecoregions, where PLT is crucial, the vegetation is more sensitive to PLO, whereas the contrast occurs in the northern and eastern ecoregions of Australia.