bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ageing in Saudi Arabia: new dimensions and intervention strategies
Authors: Salam Asharaf Abdul
Published: March 2023

Ageing process of population passing through demographic dividend in many of the Arab countries, including Saudi Arabia, where the demographic transition process entered a progressive stage. This process has been accelerated with rapid reductions in fertility caused by various changes in the socio-economic and life style dimensions. Researches on population ageing in the country are rare and thus this analytic research aims at exploring population ageing trends at the backdrop of demographic transition to help build up demanded strategies and policies. This analysis explains a rapid native population ageing especially on absolute size: an increase in line with theoretical demographic transition process. Consequently, structural changes in age distribution accompanied a change in age pyramid from an expansive shape of the late 1990s to a constrictive shape in 2010 and further shrinking by 2016. Obviously, various age related indices—age dependency, index of ageing, and median age—exemplify this trend. Still, the old aged population remain static in terms of percentages or indices, exemplifying that the movement of age cohorts continue in the early ages shall reach old age, soon, in this decade: hence, characterizes retirement boom and multiple pathologies compressed to last years of life. Thus, this is an ideal time to prepare for challenges of ageing, learning from the experiences of nations confronted with similar demographic trends. Old aged population deserves care, concern and compassion to ‘add life to years’ with dignity and independence. Informal care mechanisms, especially families, play a vital role on this behalf, and so, deserve to be strengthened and empowered through welfare measures, rather than turning to improving formal care system.
Euryhaline fish larvae ingest more microplastic particles in seawater than in freshwater
Authors: Pratiwi Hilda Mardiana , Takagi Toshiyuki , Rusni Suhaila , Inoue Koji
Published: March 2023

Microplastic (MP) pollution is a major concern in aquatic environments. Many studies have detected MPs in fishes; however, little is known about differences of microplastic uptake by fish in freshwater (FW) and those in seawater (SW), although physiological conditions of fish differ significantly in the two media. In this study, we exposed larvae (21 days post-hatching) ofOryzias javanicus(euryhaline SW) andOryzias latipes(euryhaline FW), to 1-µm polystyrene microspheres in SW and FW for 1, 3, or 7 days, after which, microscopic observation was conducted. MPs were detected in the gastrointestinal tracts in both FW and SW groups, and MP numbers were higher in the SW group in both species. Vertical distribution of MPs in the water, and body sizes of both species exhibited no significant difference between SW and FW. Detection of water containing a fluorescent dye revealed thatO. javanicuslarvae swallowed more water in SW than in FW, as has also been reported forO. latipes. Therefore, MPs are thought to be ingested with water for osmoregulation. These results imply that SW fish ingest more MPs than FW fish when exposed to the same concentration of MPs.
Predicting the eyebrow from the orbit using three-dimensional CT imaging in the application of forensic facial reconstruction and identification
Authors: Kim Yi-Suk , Lee Won-Joon , Yun Ji-Su , Kim Dong-Ho , Lozanoff Scott , Lee U-Young
Published: March 2023

Eyebrows are the most important facial feature in facial recognition with its shape rated to be more helpful than color or density for facial reconstruction or approximation. However, little extant research has estimated the position and morphological territory of the eyebrow from the orbit. Three-dimensional craniofacial models, produced from CT scans of 180 Koreans autopsied at the National Forensic Service Seoul Institute, were used to conduct metric analyses of subjects (125 males and 55 females) between 19 and 49 (mean 35.1) years. We employed 18 craniofacial landmarks to examine the morphometry of the eyebrow and orbit with 35 pairs of distances per subject measured between landmark and reference planes. Additionally, we used linear regression analyses to predict eyebrow shape from the orbit for every possible combination of variables. The morphology of the orbit has more influence on the position of the superior margin of the eyebrow. In addition, the middle part of the eyebrow was more predictable. The highest point of the eyebrow in female was located more medially than the male. Based on our findings, the equations for estimating the position of the eyebrow from the shape of the orbit is useful information for face reconstruction or approximation.
Voxel-S-Value based 3D treatment planning methods for Y-90 microspheres radioembolization based on Tc-99m-macroaggregated albumin SPECT/CT
Authors: Chen Gefei , Lu Zhonglin , Jiang Han , Lin Ko-Han , Mok Greta S. P.
Published: March 2023

Partition model (PM) for Y-90 microsphere radioembolization is limited in providing 3D dosimetrics. Voxel-S-Values (VSV) method has good agreement with Monte Carlo (MC) simulations for 3D absorbed dose conversion. We propose a new VSV method and compare its performance along with PM, MC and other VSV methods for Y-90 RE treatment planning based on Tc-99m MAA SPECT/CT. Twenty Tc-99m-MAA SPECT/CT patient data are retrospectively analyzed. Seven VSV methods are implemented: (1) local energy deposition; (2) liver kernel; (3) liver kernel and lung kernel; (4) liver kernel with density correction (LiKD); (5) liver kernel with center voxel scaling (LiCK); (6) liver kernel and lung kernel with density correction (LiLuKD); (7) proposed liver kernel with center voxel scaling and lung kernel with density correction (LiCKLuKD). Mean absorbed dose and maximum injected activity (MIA) obtained by PM and VSV are evaluated against MC results, and 3D dosimetrics generated by VSV are compared with MC. LiKD, LiCK, LiLuKD and LiCKLuKD have the smallest deviation in normal liver and tumors. LiLuKD and LiCKLuKD have the best performance in lungs. MIAs are similar by all methods. LiCKLuKD could provide MIA consistent with PM, and precise 3D dosimetrics for Y-90 RE treatment planning.
Impact of high altitude on composition and functional profiling of oral microbiome in Indian male population
Authors: Kumari Manisha , Bhushan Brij , Eslavath Malleswara Rao , Srivastava Ashish Kumar , Meena Ramesh Chand , Varshney Rajeev , Ganju Lilly
Published: March 2023

The oral cavity of human contains bacteria that are critical for maintaining the homeostasis of the body. External stressors such as high altitude (HA) and low oxygen affect the human gut, skin and oral microbiome. However, compared to the human gut and skin microbiome, studies demonstrating the impact of altitude on human oral microbiota are currently scarce. Alterations in the oral microbiome have been reported to be associated with various periodontal diseases. In light of the increased occurrence of HA oral health related problems, the effect of HA on the oral salivary microbiome was investigated. We conducted a pilot study in 16 male subjects at two different heights i.e., H1 (210 m) and H2 (4420 m). Total of 31 saliva samples,16 at H1 and 15 at H2 were analyzed by utilizing the 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing, to explore the relationship between the HA environment and salivary microbiota. The preliminary results suggesting that, the most abundant microbiome at the phylum level are: Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria, and Actinobacteria. Interestingly, 11 genera were identified at the both heights with different relative abundances. In addition, the salivary microbiome was more diverse at H1 compared to H2 as demonstrated by decreased alpha diversity. Further, predicted functional results indicate that microbial metabolic profiles significantly decreased at H2 as compared to H1, including two major metabolic pathways involving carbohydrates, and amino acids. Our findings show that HA induces shifts in the composition and structure of human oral microbiota which can affect host health homeostasis.
Highly reconfigurable oscillator-based Ising Machine through quasiperiodic modulation of coupling strength
Authors: Albertsson Dagur I. , Rusu Ana
Published: March 2023

Ising Machines (IMs) have the potential to outperform conventional Von-Neuman architectures in notoriously difficult optimization problems. Various IM implementations have been proposed based on quantum, optical, digital and analog CMOS, as well as emerging technologies. Networks of coupled electronic oscillators have recently been shown to exhibit characteristics required for implementing IMs. However, for this approach to successfully solve complex optimization problems, a highly reconfigurable implementation is needed. In this work, the possibility of implementing highly reconfigurable oscillator-based IMs is explored. An implementation based on quasiperiodically modulated coupling strength through a common medium is proposed and its potential is demonstrated through numerical simulations. Moreover, a proof-of-concept implementation based on CMOS coupled ring oscillators is proposed and its functionality is demonstrated. Simulation results show that our proposed architecture can consistently find the Max-Cut solution and demonstrate the potential to greatly simplify the physical implementation of highly reconfigurable oscillator-based IMs.
A diagnostic model of autoimmune hepatitis in unknown liver injury based on noninvasive clinical data
Authors: Yang Haiyan , Huang Lingying , Xie Ying , Bai Mei , Lu Huili , Zhao Shiju , Gao Yueqiu , Hu Jianjun
Published: March 2023

All the diagnostic criteria of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) include histopathology. However, some patients may delay getting this examination due to concerns about the risks of liver biopsy. Therefore, we aimed to develop a predictive model of AIH diagnostic that does not require a liver biopsy. We collected demographic, blood, and liver histological data of unknown liver injury patients. First, we conducted a retrospective cohort study in two independent adult cohorts. In the training cohort (n = 127), we used logistic regression to develop a nomogram according to the Akaike information criterion. Second, we validated the model in a separate cohort (n = 125) using the receiver operating characteristic curve, decision curve analysis, and calibration plot to externally evaluate the performance of this model. We calculated the optimal cutoff value of diagnosis using Youden’s index and presented the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy to evaluate the model in the validation cohort compared with the 2008 International Autoimmune Hepatitis Group simplified scoring system. In the training cohort, we developed a model to predict the risk of AIH using four risk factors—The percentage of gamma globulin, fibrinogen, age, and AIH-related autoantibodies. In the validation cohort, the areas under the curve for the validation cohort were 0.796. The calibration plot suggested that the model had an acceptable accuracy (p > 0.05). The decision curve analysis suggested that the model had great clinical utility if the value of probability was 0.45. Based on the cutoff value, the model had a sensitivity of 68.75%, a specificity of 76.62%, and an accuracy of 73.60% in the validation cohort. While we diagnosed the validated population by using the 2008 diagnostic criteria, the sensitivity of prediction results was 77.77%, the specificity was 89.61% and the accuracy was 83.20%. Our new model can predict AIH without a liver biopsy. It is an objective, simple and reliable method that can effectively be applied in the clinic.
Fluorouracil exacerbates alpha-crystallin B chain—mediated cell migration in triple-negative breast cancer cell lines
Authors: Yang Lili , Haga Yuya , Nishimura Akihide , Tsujii Yuki , Tanahashi Suzuno , Tsujino Hirofumi , Higashisaka Kazuma , Tsutsumi Yasuo
Published: March 2023

Among triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) subtypes, the basal-like 2 (BL2) subtype shows the lowest survival rate and the highest risk of metastasis after treatment with chemotherapy. Research has shown that αB-crystallin (CRYAB) is more highly expressed in the basal-like subtypes than in the other subtypes and is associated with brain metastasis in TNBC patients. We therefore hypothesized that αB-crystallin is associated with increased cell motility in the BL2 subtype after treatment with chemotherapy. Here, we evaluated the effect of fluorouracil (5-FU), a typical chemotherapy for the treatment of TNBC, on cell motility by utilizing a cell line with high αB-crystallin expression (HCC1806). A wound healing assay revealed that 5-FU significantly increased cell motility in HCC1806 cells, but not in MDA-MB-231 cells, which have low αB-crystallin expression. Also, cell motility was not increased by 5-FU treatment in HCC1806 cells harboring stealth siRNA targeting CRYAB. In addition, the cell motility of MDA-MB-231 cells overexpressing αB-crystallin was significantly higher than that of MDA-MB-231 cells harboring a control vector. Thus, 5-FU increased cell motility in cell lines with high, but not low, αB-crystallin expression. These results suggest that 5-FU–induced cell migration is mediated by αB-crystallin in the BL2 subtype of TNBC.
Digital therapeutics from bench to bedside
Authors: Wang Changwon , Lee Chungkeun , Shin Hangsik
Published: March 2023

As a new therapeutic technique based on digital technology, the commercialization and clinical application of digital therapeutics (DTx) are increasing, and the demand for expansion to new clinical fields is remarkably high. However, the use of DTx as a general medical component is still ambiguous, and this ambiguity may be owing to a lack of consensus on a definition, in addition to insufficiencies in research and development, clinical trials, standardization of regulatory frameworks, and technological maturity. In this study, we conduct an in-depth investigation and analysis of definitions, clinical trials, commercial products, and the regulatory status related to DTx using published literature, ClinicalTrials.gov, and web pages of regulatory and private organizations in several countries. Subsequently, we suggest the necessity and considerations for international agreements on the definition and characteristics of DTx, focusing on the commercialization characteristics. In addition, we discuss the status and considerations of clinical research, key technology factors, and the direction of regulatory developments. In conclusion, for the successful settlement of DTx, real-world evidence-based validation should be strengthened by establishing a cooperative system between researchers, manufacturers, and governments, and there should be effective technologies and regulatory systems for overcoming engagement barriers of DTx.
Hybrid nanoparticles with cell membrane and dexamethasone-conjugated polymer for gene delivery into the lungs as therapy for acute lung injury
Authors: Zhuang Chuanyu , Piao Chunxian , Kang Minji , Oh Jihun , Lee Minhyung
Published: March 2023

Hybrid nanoparticles with cell membrane and amphiphilic peptide was developed for gene delivery into the lungs of acute lung injury animal models.
Assessing the efficiency of water-soluble organic compound biodegradation in clouds under various environmental conditions
Authors: Pailler Lucas , Wirgot Nolwenn , Joly Muriel , Renard Pascal , Mouchel-Vallon Camille , Bianco Angelica , Leriche Maud , Sancelme Martine , Job Aurélie , Patryl Luc , Armand Patrick , Delort Anne-Marie , Chaumerliac Nadine , Deguillaume Laurent
Published: March 2023

Biodegradation is competitive with photochemistry, especially in summer and at night. Formic acid is the most impacted compound.
Real-time high-resolution CO2 geological storage prediction using nested Fourier neural operators
Authors: Wen Gege , Li Zongyi , Long Qirui , Azizzadenesheli Kamyar , Anandkumar Anima , Benson Sally M.
Published: March 2023

Nested FNO is a machine learning framework that offers a general-purpose numerical simulator alternative to provide high-resolution CO2 storage predictions in real time.
Quinoidal-type ThBF-based perovskite/HTL interface materials for efficient and stable perovskite solar cells
Authors: Feng Ye , Gu Ningxia , Jiang Hua , Song Lixin
Published: March 2023

Two quinoidal-type ThBF derivatives incorporating triphenylamine moieties, namely ThBF-TPA and ThBF-OMeTPA, were designed as perovskite/hole transport layer (HTL) interface engineering materials for perovskite solar cells (PSCs).
Extraction of interaction parameters from specular neutron reflectivity in thin films of diblock copolymers: an “inverse problem”
Authors: Eby Dustin , Jakowski Mikolaj , Lauter Valeria , Doucet Mathieu , Ganesh Panchapakesan , Fuentes-Cabrera Miguel , Kumar Rajeev
Published: March 2023

Artificial neural networks are used to extract three Flory-Huggins chi parameters from neutron scattering length density profiles, which paves a way towards automated analysis of neutron reflectivity data.
Cosolvent effects on the structure and thermoresponse of a polymer brush: PNIPAM in DMSO–water mixtures
Authors: Robertson Hayden , Nelson Andrew R. J. , Prescott Stuart W. , Webber Grant B. , Wanless Erica J.
Published: March 2023

Structural characterisation of thermoresponsive polymer brushes in binary DMSO–water mixtures reveals both LCST and UCST behaviour.
Recent advances in the discovery, biosynthesis, and therapeutic potential of isocoumarins derived from fungi: a comprehensive update
Authors: Tammam Mohamed A. , Gamal El-Din Mariam I. , Abood Amira , El-Demerdash Amr
Published: March 2023

This review article provides an intensive state-of-the-art over the period 2000–2022 centred around the discovery, classifications, biosynthetic pathways and therapeutic potentialities of 351 structurally diverse fungal containing-isocoumarins.
Strain and magnetic field effects on the electronic and transport properties of γ-graphyne
Authors: Rezania H. , Nourian E. , Abdi M. , Astinchap B.
Published: March 2023

In this paper, we apply a tightly binding Hamiltonian model in the presence of a magnetic field to investigate the electronic and transport properties of γ-graphyne layers.
Quantum chemical data generation as fill-in for reliability enhancement of machine-learning reaction and retrosynthesis planning
Authors: Toniato Alessandra , Unsleber Jan P. , Vaucher Alain C. , Weymuth Thomas , Probst Daniel , Laino Teodoro , Reiher Markus
Published: March 2023

We demonstrate and discuss the feasibility of autonomous first-principles mechanistic explorations for providing quantum chemical data to enhance the confidence of data-driven retrosynthetic and synthesis design based on molecular transformers.
Synthesis and anticancer mechanisms of zinc(ii)-8-hydroxyquinoline complexes with 1,10-phenanthroline ancillary ligands
Authors: Du Ling-Qi , Zhang Tian-Yu , Huang Xiao-Mei , Xu Yue , Tan Ming-Xiong , Huang Yan , Chen Yuan , Qin Qi-Pin
Published: March 2023

DQ1–DQ20 exhibit selective cytotoxicity to SK-OV-3/DDP. They inhibit cell growth via mitophagy pathways. Importantly, DQ6 displays high in vivo antitumor activity.
Correction: Long-term Pu-erh tea consumption improves blue light-induced depression-like behaviors
Authors: Zhao Sibo , Hu Shanshan , Sun Kang , Luo Liyong , Zeng Liang
Published: March 2023

Correction for ‘Long-term Pu-erh tea consumption improves blue light-induced depression-like behaviors’ by Sibo Zhao et al., Food Funct., 2023, https://doi.org/10.1039/d2fo02780a.
Distilling universal activity descriptors for perovskite catalysts from multiple data sourcesviamulti-task symbolic regression
Authors: Song Zhilong , Wang Xiao , Liu Fangting , Zhou Qionghua , Yin Wan-Jian , Wu Hao , Deng Weiqiao , Wang Jinlan
Published: March 2023

This work utilizes the multi-task symbolic regression method to distill a universal descriptor for evaluating OER activity of perovskites from various experimental publications, resulting in two new nickel-based perovskites with good performance.
SARS-CoV-2 suppression depending on the pH of graphene oxide nanosheets
Authors: Islam Md. Saidul , Fukuda Masahiro , Hossain Md. Jakir , Rabin Nurun Nahar , Tagawa Ryuta , Nagashima Mami , Sadamasu Kenji , Yoshimura Kazuhisa , Sekine Yoshihiro , Ikeda Terumasa , Hayami Shinya
Published: March 2023

Suppression of SARS-COV-2 based on the pH of a GO dispersion is reported. At higher pH of GO, the overall surface charge of the GO dispersion is more negative and with a large number of OH functional groups shows better SARS-CoV-2 inactivation.
Synthetic strategies and diversification of dibenzo[1,5]diazocines
Authors: Ramle Abdul Qaiyum , Tiekink Edward R. T.
Published: March 2023

Recent synthetic approaches and functionalisation of dibenzo[1,5]diazocines, epiminodibenzo[1,5]diazocines and epoxydibenzo[1,5]diazocines are reviewed.
Carboxylic acid-assisted sterically demanding reductive cross-coupling between cycloalkenyl and alkyl bromides
Authors: An Jinglin , Zhou Xue , Zhang Yifan , Ye Zhenfei , Guo Qianyou , Song Hao , Song Zhenlei , Liu Xiao-Yu , Qin Yong
Published: March 2023

Carboxylic acid-assisted sterically demanding reductive cross-coupling between cycloalkenyl and alkyl bromides affords all-carbon tetrasubstituted cycloalkenes under mild reaction conditions in good yields.
Stereoselective synthesis of [2.2]triphenylenophanesviaintramolecular double [2 + 2 + 2] cycloadditions
Authors: Kawai Yuya , Nogami Juntaro , Nagashima Yuki , Tanaka Ken
Published: March 2023

Base-mediated intermolecular macrocyclization and Rh- or Ni-catalyzed intramolecular double [2 + 2 + 2] cycloadditions allow enantio- and diastereoselective synthesis of planar chiral [2.2]triphenylenophanes.
High-resolution He I 10 830 Å narrowband imaging for precursors of chromospheric jets and their quasi-periodic properties
Authors: Wang Ya , Zhang Qingmin , Hong Zhenxiang , Shen Jinhua , Ji Haisheng , Cao Wenda
Published: March 2023

Solar jets are well-collimated plasma ejections in the solar atmosphere. They are prevalent in active regions, the quiet Sun, and even coronal holes. They display a range of temperatures, yet the nature of the cool components has not been fully investigated. In this paper, we show the existence of the precursors and quasi-periodic properties for two chromospheric jets, mainly utilizing the He I 10 830 Å narrowband filtergrams taken by the Goode Solar Telescope (GST). The extreme ultraviolet (EUV) counterparts present during the eruption correspond to a blowout jet (jet 1) and a standard jet (jet 2), as observed by the Atmospheric Imaging Assembly (AIA) on board the Solar Dynamic Observatory (SDO). The high-resolution He I 10 830 Å observation captures a long-lasting precursor for jet 1, signified by a series of cool ejections. They are recurrent jet-like features with a quasi-period of about five minutes. On the other hand, the cool components of jet 2, recurrently accompanied by EUV emissions, present a quasi-periodic behavior with a period of about five minutes. Both the EUV brightening and He I 10 830 Å absorption show that there was a precursor for jet 2 that occurred about five minutes before its onset. We propose that the precursor of jet 1 may be the consequence of chromospheric shock waves, since the five-minute oscillation from the photosphere can leak into the chromosphere and develop into shocks. Then, we find that the quasi-periodic behavior of the cool components of jet 2 may be related to magnetic reconnections modulated by the oscillation in the photosphere.
Non-parametric galaxy morphology from stellar and nebular emission with the CALIFA sample
Authors: Nersesian Angelos , Zibetti Stefano , D’Eugenio Francesco , Baes Maarten
Published: March 2023

Aims. We present a non-parametric morphology analysis of the stellar continuum and nebular emission lines for a sample of local galaxies. We explore the dependence of the various morphological parameters on wavelength and morphological type. Our goal is to quantify the difference in morphology between the stellar and nebular components.

Methods. We derived the non-parametric morphological indicators of 364 galaxies from the Calar Alto Legacy Integral Field Area (CALIFA) Survey. To calculate those indicators, we applied the StatMorph package on the high-quality integral field spectroscopic data cubes, as well as to the most prominent nebular emission-line maps, namely [O III]λ5007, Hα, and [N II]λ6583.

Results. We show that the physical size of galaxies, M20 index, and concentration have a strong gradient from blue to red optical wavelengths. We find that the light distribution of the nebular emission is less concentrated than the stellar continuum. A comparison between the non-parametric indicators and the galaxy physical properties revealed a very strong correlation of the concentration with the specific star formation rate and morphological type. Furthermore, we explore how the galaxy inclination affects our results. We find that edge-on galaxies show a more rapid change in physical size and concentration with increasing wavelength due to the increase in the optical free path.

Conclusions. We conclude that the apparent morphology of galaxies originates from the pure stellar distribution, but the morphology of the interstellar medium presents differences with respect to the morphology of the stellar component. Our analysis also highlights the importance of dust attenuation and galaxy inclination in the measurement of non-parametric morphological indicators, especially in the wavelength range 4000−5000 Å.
Extending the extinction law in 30 Doradus to the infrared with JWST
Authors: Fahrion Katja , De Marchi Guido
Published: March 2023

We measured the extinction law in the 30 Dor star formation region in the Large Magellanic Cloud using Early Release Observations (EROs) taken with Near-Infrared Camera (NIRCam) on board the JWST, thereby extending previous studies carried out with the Hubble Space Telescope to the infrared. We used red clump stars to derive the direction of the reddening vector in twelve bands and we present the extinction law in this massive star forming region from 0.3 to 4.7 μm. At wavelengths longer than 1 μm, we find a ratio of total and selective extinction twice as high as in the diffuse Milky Way interstellar medium and a change in the relative slope from the optical to the infrared domain. Additionally, we derive an infrared extinction map and find that extinction closely follows the structure of the highly embedded regions of 30 Dor.
Viability of lactic acid bacteria in polyphenol-enriched fermented milks
Authors: Ivanov Galin , Dimitrova-Dicheva Milena , Mihalev Kiril , Ivanova Ivelina
Published: March 2023

The enrichment of probiotic dairy products with polyphenol extracts from different plant origins is a good approach to enhance the beneficial health effects of functional foods. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of rose(Rosa damascenaMill.) petals polyphenol extract (RPPE) fortification on the lactic acid production and the viability ofLactobacillus delbrueckiisubsp.bulgaricusS19 (Lb. bulgaricus),Lactobacillus rhamnosusYW (Lb.rhamnosus) andStreptococcus thermophilusS13 (S.thermophilus) in fermented milk samples during refrigerated storage. The fermented milk samples with RPPE (samples R1 and R2) and without RPPE (samples K1 and K2) were stored at 4 ± 2°C for 15 d. The results for physicochemical parameters showed a constant decrease in the pH values from 4.35 ± 0.04 to 3.99 ± 0.03 and an increase in the lactic acid concentration from 8.68 ± 0.17 g/L to 11.45 ± 0.26 g/L, respectively. The residual lactose concentration in the controls (K1 and K2) and supplemented samples (R1 and R2) at the end of the refrigerated storage was about 32.0 ± 0.24 g/L. Good survival of probiotic strains of lactic acid bacteria was observed. The results show that on the 15th day of refrigerated storage, the total count of lactic acid bacteria remains high - about 2.8 × 108CFU/ml. Thus, RPPE could be used as a functional ingredient in fermented milk production.
Influence of salt concentration on microbial growth in Kashkaval cheese
Authors: Balabanov Alexander , Ivanov Galin , Goranov Bogdan , Ivanova Mihaela , Balabanova Tatyana
Published: March 2023

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the influence of NaCl concentration on the microflora in Kashkaval cheese produced from cow’s milk. Three cheese samples were obtained - with low (0.7%), medium (1.5%), and standard (3.1%) content of NaCl. Microbiological analyses were performed on the 1st, 15th, 30th, and 45th d of cheese ripening. It was established that the NaCl content has a significant (p < 0.05) influence on the growth and activity of the microflora in studied samples. It has been observed that the total Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) increased up to 30 d during ripening, after which their concentration decreased. A higher LABs count of samples with 0.7% NaCl and 1.5% NaCl in comparison with those containing 3.1% NaCl was found. At the same time, the variations in the salt content do not have a significant (p > 0.05) impact on the growth of Psychrotrophic bacteria, while in samples with a low salt content, the growth of Yeast and Molds was more intense. The data obtained in the present study showed that the concentration of NaCl is important for the regulation of activity of microbiological processes during the ripening of the Kashkaval cheese samples.
Lipolytic and oxidative changes in acoustically assisted frozen fattened duck liver
Authors: Vlahova-Vangelova Desislava , Balev Dessislav , Kolev Nikolay , Dragoev Stefan
Published: March 2023

The delicate structure of the fattened duck liver requires rapid freezing as quickly as possible. Acoustically assisted freezing meets both the requirement for quick freezing and energy efficiency. For the purpose of the experiment, a fattened duck liver “foie gras” was used. The degree of lipolysis (acid value) and primary (peroxide value) and secondary (2-thiobarbituric acid value) products of lipid oxidization were examined at 2 h post mortem. The oxidative changes were evaluated after conventional (CF) and acoustically assisted freezing (AAF) and at the 6-th and 12-th month of storage at -18°C. Both time storage and type of freezing affect the degree of lipolysis. The duck liver after AAF had higher degree of lipolysis at the 12-th month of storage at -18°C. The peroxide value increased almost 2 times in both fattened duck livers (CF and AAF) during the 6 months of storage at -18°C and stabilizes until the 12-th month. A conclusion was made that the acoustically assisted freezing of the fattened duck liver did not promote higher lipid oxidation compared to the conventional type of freezing.
Investigation of edible coatings on the physical, chemical and microbiological characteristics of processed melons during storage
Authors: Zhelyazkov Stoil , Zsivanovits Gabor , Marudova-Zsivanovits Maria
Published: March 2023

The possible use of chitosan coating on fresh-cut melons (Cucumis melo var. Cantalupensis) was investigated in this research topic. Manually sliced melons were treated with solutions of 10 g/kg chitosan and 10 g/kg chitosan with calcium lactate and then stored at 4°C for 8 days. Physical, physicochemical, microbiological and sensory properties of the samples were monitored during the storage period. It was found that chitosan coatings inhibited the growth of microorganisms and affected significantly and positively the storage time of the products. Changes in the sensory qualities of taste were evaluated. A chitosan coating retarded water loss and the drop in sensory quality, increasing the soluble solid content and titratable acidity. The data revealed that applying a chitosan coating preserved effectively the quality and extended the shelf life of fresh-cut melons.
Comparison between the volatile substances in spirits beverages distilled by two different initial materials of Prunus domestica “Stanley” in an industrial environment
Authors: Galabova Mariana , Stoyanov Nikolay , Mitev Panko
Published: March 2023

Analysis of the chemical composition of volatile substances in two distillates from Prunus domestica “Stanley” cultivated in the village of Rumyantsevo, Lovech, Bulgaria. Production is in an industrial environment, fermentation and distillation are carried out under equal conditions, but on different starting materials. One batch PDS-1 distilled from fermented mash and second batch PDS-2 distilled from fermented juice. The distillation apparatus is equipped with a rectifying column with 4 trays, as well as a water reflux condenser. Determination of congeners in both samples was done by gas chromatography principle OIV-MA-BS-14:2009. Methodology used for measuring alcohol content, cyanide derivatives, furfural and total acidity is according to the requirements of the OIV. In PDS-1 methanol (1094.7 g/hL a.a.) is almost 8% higher than in PDS-2 (1015.8 g/hL a.a.), it was found insignificant increase of furfural content in distillates of PDS-1 than in PDS-2. Concerning esters, aldehydes and higher alcohols the amount in PDS- 1 is significantly higher than in PDS-2, respectively 203.06 g/hL, 14.2 g/hL and 484.6 g/hL in batch fermented with hard particles, and 14.2 g/hL, 8.6 g/hL, 267.9 g/hL in batch produced from fermented juice.
Phenolic compounds extractability from Melnik 55 grape solid parts during fruit maturity
Authors: Stoyanov Nikolay , Mitev Panko , Galabova Mariana , Tagareva Silvia
Published: March 2023

Samples from Melnik 55 grape variety (Vitis vinifera) were collected from different stage of grape maturity. Grape seeds and skins from each sample were separated and extracted with model wine solutions with increasing alcohol content simulated alcohol accumulation during wine fermentation. Total phenolic compounds, anthocyanins, skin pigments and tannins in each sample were determined. During grape ripening not only total phenols content of grape skins and seeds are changed but also their extractability. Ethanol released during wine fermentation is strong phenol extragents but its role is getting smaller as riper is the grape. This tendency is more pronounced in seeds phenolics extractability than in skins.
Influence of vegetation on the composition of essential oil from(Melissa officinalisL.)
Authors: Iliev Ivan , Nedelchev Velko , Gandova Vanya , Stoyanova Albena
Published: March 2023

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalisL.) is a perennial plant of the family Lamiaceae, which is used in folk medicine and the food industry, as well as being processed to obtain essential oil. The aim of the special work is to monitor the influence of vegetation on the composition of the essential oil. The chemical composition of essential oils, obtained by steam distillation from lemon balm cultivated in North-eastern Bulgaria, has been determined. The plants were harvested in two periods of vegetation - the first at the end of June and second - at the end of August 2020. The main components in the oil from the first cut are geranial (26.41%), neral (19.55%), (E)-β-caryophyllene (17.46%), germacrene D (7.86%) andβ-citronellal (3.24%). In the oil from the second cut, the main components are geranial (37.26%), neral (28.46%), (E)-β- caryophyllene (6.65%), geraniol (4.72%), andβ-citronellal (3.04%). The oil from the second harvest has a high content of the main components of geranial, neral and geraniol and a lower content of (E)-β- caryophyllene and germacrene D. Variations in the amounts are also present in other compounds.
Resinoid from cape gooseberry fruit (Physalis peruviana L.) - volatile composition and application as an active ingredient in a cosmetic formulation
Authors: Mazova Nadezhda , Simitchiev Apostol , Merdzhanov Pavel , Ivanova Tanya , Lazarov Lazar , Popova Venelina
Published: March 2023

Cape gooseberry (Physalis peruviana L.), an exotic fruit gaining popularity in Bulgaria, has been recognized as a highly functional food, but has also the potential to be a resource for the fragrance and cosmetic industries. The main objective of this study was to assess the potential of the resinoid (a type of traditional aromatic products) obtained from locally-produced fruit (variety “Plovdiv”) for use in cosmetics, by revealing its volatile composition and characterizing the properties of an author-developed resinoid- enriched cosmetic cream. The resinoid (yield 58.78% DW) was a dark-orange viscous mass, with fruity, caramel notes and smoke accords odor. The GC-MS analysis identified 44 volatiles (98.69%), representing carbohydrates, alcohols, acids, along with minor miscellaneous compounds. A cosmetic cream (O/W emulsion) was developed, incorporating fruit resinoid (1.00%) as an active ingredient, compared to a control sample. Resinoid inclusion affected positively the sensory and physico-chemical properties of the cosmetic cream (color, odor, pH, stability). The studied emulsions had the rheological behavior of pseudoplastic non-Newtonian fluids, and resinoid presence reduced cream viscosity. It could be concluded that Cape gooseberry fruit resinoid had the potential to be a reasonable ingredient in cosmetic preparations; of course, further research is needed to assess its complex effects.
Assessment of heavy metal levels in roll-your-own cigarette and water pipe tobacco blends
Authors: Peeva Silvia , Nikolova Violeta , Nikolov Nikolay , Popova Venelina
Published: March 2023

The increased consumption of roll-your-own (RYO) cigarettes and water pipe (hookah), both globally and in Bulgaria, necessitated the current investigation aimed at the assessment of heavy metal levels in the tobacco blends used in those products. The concentrations of Mn, Zn, Cu, Cd, Pb, and Ni were determined by AAS in five brands of RYO tobacco (R1-R5) and seven brands of water pipe tobacco (W1- W7), all distributed on Bulgarian market. The average heavy metal contents (mg/kg) in the two types of tobacco blends, RYO and water pipe, respectively, were as follows: Mn - 214.20 and 37.89; Zn - 31.90 and 134.87; Cu - 12.06 and 10.07; Cd - 0.80 and 1.33; Pb - 1.60 and 3.57; Ni - 1.36 and 0.80. RYO cigarette tobaccos contained higher concentration of Mn, Cu and Ni, while water pipe tobaccos - Zn, Cd and Pb. Strong correlations were found between Cu and Zn (r=0.81), Cu and Cd (r=0.90) in RYO tobacco blends, and between Cu and Zn (r=0.86) - in water pipe blends, respectively. The results from the study give reason to recommend that this information be provided to the consumers, who consider the regarded tobacco products as a safer alternative to conventional cigarettes.
Cheese quality assessment by use of near-infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Atanassova Stefka , Yorgov Dimitar , Veleva Petya , Stoyanchev Todor , Zlatev Zlatin
Published: March 2023

Dairy products are worldwide spread and have great commercial importance. Rapid and reliable analysis of cheese would be highly desirable both for the manufacturers and consumers. The results of experiments, related to the application of near-infrared spectroscopy for cheese quality estimation will be presented. Several kinds of Bulgarian white brine cheese - natural from cow milk, imitation products with vegetable oil, and cheese with different water content were investigated. Fatty acids composition of samples was determined by using gas chromatography and moisture content by the oven-dry method. Spectra of all tested samples were obtained with a scanning NIRQuest 512 (Ocean Optics, Inc.) instrument in the range of 900-1700 nm using a reflection fiber-optics probe. PLS models were developed for quantitative determination and SIMCA for classification. The misclassification rate of the SIMCA model for discrimination of natural cheese and imitation products with vegetable oil was 2.9%. Quantitative determination of water content based on NIR spectra showed high accuracy, Models for classification of cheese samples into 3 groups according to water content achieved 5.64% misclassification rate for the independent test set. Results showed the potential of near-infrared spectroscopy as a non-destructive and rapid screening tool for assessing cheese quality and detecting adulteration.
Equilibrium isotherms of red beetroots
Authors: Kiryakov Ivan , Georgieva Mariya , Tashev Atanas , Tashev Ivan
Published: March 2023

The equilibrium moisture content of red beetroot has been studied and the corresponding sorption- desorption curves have been obtained at temperature 20°C. The strain measurement method has been used to establish the sorption curves. Analytical dependence describing the sorption and desorption curves have also been derived. Values of equilibrium moisture contents for temperatures higher than 20°C have been obtained by the Pass and Slepchenko’s method. The results are presented in graphical and table form.
Laboratory convective dryer combined with microwaves
Authors: Georgieva Mariya , Atanasov Dimitar , Kiryakov Ivan , Tashev Atanas , Nikolova Milena
Published: March 2023

A laboratory equipment for combinations of convective and microwave drying is presented. It was applied for drying of parsnips. Lower energy consumption at microwave heating of the product at intermitted drying is confirmed in comparison to continuous convective drying with hot air. In addition, the influence of the drying process on the phenols and flavonoids contents in at continuous convective drying were investigated. The results give useful information for the organisation and the operating of the drying modes of vegetables.
Web-based tool for fast qualitative analysis of the sterilization process for foods with an extended expiry date
Authors: Madhzarova Stoyanka , Hristozov Daniel , Mecheva Elena
Published: March 2023

A digital calculator algorithm for F-effect calculation in an online environment is presented. The tool gives a value that analyzes the nature of the sterilization process in thermally processed foods. The obtained result is a reference to “F Soft” software for modelling the process with increasing or decreasing the retention time at reaching the required F-effect, ensuring microbiological stability and nutritional value, while preserving the taste qualities of the canned product in real time mode or when reading external data, creating an appropriate mode. The implementation of the web tool is done with PHP programming language and it provides a quick guideline for the quality of the production cycle of the product to be sterilized.
Recommendations of the AGG (Working Group for Obstetrics, Department of Maternal Diseases) on How to Treat Thyroid Function Disorders in Pregnancy
Authors: Hamza Amr , Schlembach Dietmar , Schild Ralf Lothar , Groten Tanja , Wölfle Joachim , Battefeld Wilgard , Kehl Sven , Schneider Michael O.
Published: March 2023

Objective These recommendations from the AGG (Committee for Obstetrics, Department of Maternal Diseases) on how to treat thyroid function disorder during pregnancy aim to improve the
diagnosis and management of thyroid anomalies during pregnancy.

Methods Based on the current literature, the task force members have developed the following recommendations and statements. These recommendations were adopted after a consensus by
the members of the working group.

Recommendations The following manuscript gives an insight into physiological and pathophysiological thyroid changes during pregnancy, recommendations for clinical and subclinical
hypo- and hyperthyroidism, as well as fetal and neonatal diagnostic and management strategies.
Das „Kataster für württembergische
Psychiatriepatienten“ und der Beginn der systematischen
Patientenerfassung in der Psychiatrie
Authors: Hofmann Christian , Reichelt Bernd , Müller Thomas
Published: March 2023

Der Beitrag beschreibt die Bedeutung eines „Katasters“
für Psychiatriepatient:innen und den Beitrag seines Urhebers, des
jüdisch-protestantischen Arztes Wilhelm Weinberg in der psychiatrischen
Forschung des frühen 20. Jahrhunderts. Weinbergs Forschungen und dieses
Kataster gewannen vor dem Hintergrund der steigenden Relevanz der Humangenetik
in der Psychiatrie an Bedeutung. Der Beitrag zeigt, wie sehr der Psychiater und
Rassenhygieniker Ernst Rüdin durch Weinbergs statistische Methodik
profitieren konnte. In Württemberg wurde Weinberg zum Begründer
eines zentralen Patientenregisters. In der Zeit des Nationalsozialismus diente
dieses Register allerdings weniger der Forschung als vielmehr der sogenannten
erbbiologischen Bestandsaufnahme.
Das Pankreas – der „innere Alchemist“ in
Bedrängnis
Authors: Kracke Anita
Published: March 2023

Das vielseitige Organ Pankreas wird durch die neuzeitlichen
Veränderungen der Lebens- und Haltungsbedingungen sowie
Umweltbelastungen überfordert. Da die Bauchspeicheldrüse
zwei unterschiedliche Funktionseinheiten in einem Organ
zusammenschließt, haben toxische Einflüsse, virale
Belastungen und Versorgungsmängel oft schwerwiegende Folgen.
Menschen und Tiere zeigen daher typische Zivilisationskrankheiten wie
Diabetes mellitus und schmerzhafte Entzündungen. Regulative
Therapien können das empfindliche Geschehen wieder normalisieren,
wobei eine artgerechte schonende Fütterung und Entgiftung neben der
Anwendung von Myco-Präparaten zu einer besonders tiefgreifenden
Entlastung führen. Ein Praxisfall demonstriert das.
Heilung mit Unkraut: Eichhornia crassipes bei exokriner
Pankreasinsuffizienz
Authors: Hentschel Brigitte
Published: March 2023

Die dickstielige Wasserhyazinthe, Eichhornia crassipes, wird bei exokriner
Pankreasinsuffizienz eingesetzt, um die Bauchspeicheldrüse im Sinne einer
organotropen homöopathischen Therapie zu unterstützen. Das
„kleine“ homöopathische Mittel bewirkt eine Steigerung der
Sekretion von Verdauungssäften und Pankreasenzymen und hat eine dem Sekretin
und dem Cholecystokinin ähnliche Wirkung. Bei Pankreatitis ist die Anwendung
kontraindiziert.
The Value of Visfatin in the Prediction of Metabolic Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jiang Yingling , Zhou Lihua
Published: March 2023

Various studies have shown that visfatin may be connected to metabolic syndrome (MS). However, epidemiological studies yielded conflicting outcomes. The purpose of this article was to highlight the relationship between the plasma visfatin level and MS risk by conducting a meta-analysis of available literature. A comprehensive literature search of eligible studies was done up to January 2023. Data were presented as standard mean difference (SMD). Observational methodological meta-analysis was conducted to assess the relationships between visfatin levels and MS. The visfatin levels between patients with MS or not were calculated by SMD and 95% confidence interval (CI) using the random-effects model. Funnel plot (visually inspect publication bias), Egger’s linear regression test and Begger’s linear regression test were applied to describe the risk of publication bias. A sensitivity analysis was performed via sequentially omitting each of the study one by one. In total, 16 eligible studies comprising 1016 cases and 1414 healthy controls finally enrolled in the current meta-analysis for pooling meta-analysis. Overall, the meta-analysis results revealed that visfatin levels in MS patients were significantly greater than that of controls group (SMD: 0.60, 95% CI=0.18–1.03, I2=95%, p<0.001). The results of the subgroup analysis showed that gender did not affect the results of meta-analysis. This meta-analysis shed light on the fact that circulating visfatin levels were significantly higher in patients with MS than in the controls group. Visfatin may a chance to predict the occurrence of MS.