bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulation-Assisted Augmentation of Missing Wedge and Region-of-Interest Computed Tomography Data
Authors: Alekseychuk Vladimir O. , Kupsch Andreas , Plotzki David , Bellon Carsten , Bruno Giovanni
Published: December 2023

This study reports a strategy to use sophisticated, realistic X-ray Computed Tomography (CT) simulations to reduce Missing Wedge (MW) and Region-of-Interest (RoI) artifacts in FBP (Filtered Back-Projection) reconstructions. A 3D model of the object is used to simulate the projections that include the missing information inside the MW and outside the RoI. Such information augments the experimental projections, thereby drastically improving the reconstruction results. An X-ray CT dataset of a selected object is modified to mimic various degrees of RoI and MW problems. The results are evaluated in comparison to a standard FBP reconstruction of the complete dataset. In all cases, the reconstruction quality is significantly improved. Small inclusions present in the scanned object are better localized and quantified. The proposed method has the potential to improve the results of any CT reconstruction algorithm.
Dietary Tartaric Acid Improves Growth Performance, Gut Microbiota, Digestive Enzyme Activities, Hemolymph Immunity, Antioxidant Markers, and Disease Resistance against Vibrio parahaemolyticus in Pacific White Shrimp
Authors: Yousefi Morteza , Naderi Farsani Mehdi , Afzali-Kordmahalleh Alireza , Ahani Sara
Published: December 2023

Tartaric acid (TA) is an organic acid whose properties in aquaculture have not yet been comprehensively studied. In the current research, the effect of dietary TA on growth indices, gut microbiota, the level of digestive enzymes, antioxidant and immunological markers, and survival rate following immersion challenge with Vibrio parahaemolyticus (14 days) in Litopenaeus vannamei were investigated. To achieve this, 600 shrimp (3.26 ± 0.05 g) were tested with pellets supplemented with five distinct concentrations of TA including 0 (TA0), 2.5 (TA2.5), 5 (TA5), 7.5 (TA7.5), and 10 g/kg (TA10) for 56 days. The results showed that the growth performance, feed utilization, gut lactic acid bacteria (LAB) count, and activity of digestive enzymes were markedly elevated in the groups receiving diets incorporated with 5 and 7.5 g/kg of TA. The highest total hemocyte count (THC), hyaline cell (HC), and semi-granular cell (SGC) counts were detected in shrimp fed with the TA7.5 diet. Hemolymph immune responses including LYZ (lysozyme), alkaline phosphatase (AKP), acid phosphatase (ACP), and phenol oxidase (PO) activities were significantly enhanced in all TA-treated groups. Dietary TA7.5 significantly boosted all antioxidant enzymes. In addition, malondialdehyde (MDA) content illustrated a significant decrease in shrimp fed with diets supplemented with 2.5–10 g/kg TA when compared with specimens fed with TA0. The survival rate following the immersion challenge with Vibrio parahaemolyticus markedly increased in all shrimp treated with 2.5–10 g/kg TA compared to TA0, irrespective of the dosage. However, the dietary inclusion of TA7.5 resulted in the highest survival rate. Based on the outcomes, dietary TA, especially at the concentration of 7.5 g/kg, is proposed to promote the growth performance and immunological indicators of L. vannamei.
Identification and Characterization of a Predominant Hydrophobin in the Edible Mushroom Grifola frondosa
Authors: Song Bo , Wang Wenjun , Jia Chunhui , Han Zhiqiang , Yang Jiyuan , Yang Jiuxia , Wu Zhenzhou , Xu Haijin , Qiao Mingqiang
Published: December 2023

Hydrophobins (HFBs) are a group of small, secreted amphipathic proteins of fungi with multiple physiological functions and potential commercial applications. In this study, HFB genes of the edible mushroom, Grifola frondosa, were systematically identified and characterized, and their transcriptional profiles during fungal development were determined. In total, 19 typical class I HFB genes were discovered and bioinformatically analyzed. Gene expression profile examination showed that Gf.hyd9954 was particularly highly upregulated during primordia formation, suggesting its major role as the predominant HFB in the lifecycle of G. frondosa. The wettability alteration profile and the surface modification ability of recombinant rGf.hyd9954 were greater than for the Grifola HFB HGFII-his. rGf.hyd9954 was also demonstrated to form the typical class I HFB characteristic-rodlet bundles. In addition, rGf.hyd9954 was shown to possess nanoparticle characteristics and emulsification activities. This research sheds light on the regulation of fungal development and its association with the expression of HFB genes.
Frequency of Detection of Candida auris Colonization Outside a Highly Endemic Setting: What Is the Optimal Strategy for Screening of Carriage?
Authors: Magnasco Laura , Mikulska Malgorzata , Sepulcri Chiara , Ullah Nadir , Giacobbe Daniele Roberto , Vena Antonio , Di Pilato Vincenzo , Willison Edward , Orsi Andrea , Icardi Giancarlo , Marchese Anna , Bassetti Matteo
Published: December 2023

Candida auris outbreaks are increasingly frequent worldwide. In our 1000-bed hospital, an endemic transmission of C. auris was established in two of five intensive care units (ICUs). Aims of our study were to describe the occurrence of new cases of C. auris colonization and infection outside the endemic ICUs, in order to add evidence for future policies on screening in patients discharged as negative from an endemic setting, as well as to propose a new algorithm for screening of such high-risk patients. From 26 March 2021 to 26 January 2023, among 392 patients who were diagnosed as colonized or infected with C. auris in our hospital, 84 (21.4%) received the first diagnosis of colonization or infection outside the endemic ICUs. A total of 68 patients out of 84 (81.0%) had a history of prior admission to the endemic ICUs. All were screened and tested negative during their ICU stay with a median time from last screening to discharge of 3 days. In 57/68 (83.8%) of patients, C. auris was detected through screening performed after ICU discharge, and 90% had C. auris colonization detected within 9 days from ICU discharge. In 13 cases (13/57 screened, 22.8%), the first post-ICU discharge screening was negative. In those not screened, candidemia was the most frequent event of the first C. auris detection (6/11 patients not screened). In settings where the transmission of C. auris is limited to certain wards, we suggest screening both at discharge from the endemic ward(s) even in case of a recent negative result, and at least twice after admission to nonendemic settings.
The Tunable Rhenium Effect on the Creep Properties of a Nickel-Based Superalloy
Authors: Tang Xiao-Zhi , Guo Ya-Fang
Published: December 2023

Atomistic simulations on the creep of a nickel-based single-crystal superalloy are performed for examining whether the so-called rhenium effect can be tuned by changing the spatial distribution of rhenium in the nickel matrix phase. Results show that Rhenium dopants at {100} phase interfaces facilitate mobile partial dislocations, which intensify the creep, leading to a larger creep strain than that of a pure Ni/Ni3Al system containing no alloying dopants. If all the Re dopants in the matrix phase are far away from phase interfaces, a conventional retarding effect of Re can be observed. The current study implies a tunable Re effect on creep via dislocation triggering at the phase interfaces.
Research on Compressive Strength of Manufactured Sand Concrete Based on Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Gao Kang , Sun Zhenjiao , Ma Hui , Ma Guanguo
Published: December 2023

Due to the impact of economic and social development on the environment, there is an increasing demand for manufactured sand to replace natural sand as fine aggregate for concrete. At the same time, the effect of admixtures on the rheological properties and compressive strength of concrete is crucial in civil engineering applications. In this study, with the Box–Behnken test model, we analyzed and investigated the impact of a composite admixture of stone powder (SP), pulverized fuel ash (PFA), and silicon fume (SF) on the compressive strength of siliceous manufactured sand concrete using response surface methodology (RSM). At the same time, the rheological properties of the siliceous artificial sand and river sand concrete were analyzed. The prediction of the compressive strength of siliceous artificial sand concrete was developed using multiple regression analysis, the factors of which were SP, PFA, and SF content, and the response value was compressive strength. Furthermore, response surface and contour lines were used to analyze the impact of composite admixtures. It is shown that the compounding of SP, PFA, and SF improve the rheological properties of manufactured sand concrete. For the single factor, SP has the greatest effect on the compressive strength of mechanism sand concrete and SF has the least effect. For compounding, SP and PFA have the most significant effect on the compressive strength of artificial sand shotcrete, and the compounding of PFA and SF have the least effect.
Correction: Li et al. Dry Friction Performances of MoNx Coatings Deposited by High–Power Pulsed Magnetron Sputtering. Magnetochemistry 2023, 9, 60
Authors: Li Fuqiang , Dai Wei , Wang Qimin , Li Haiqing , Wu Zhengtao
Published: December 2023

In the original publication [...]
A Hybrid Chebyshev Pseudo-Spectral Finite-Difference Time-Domain Method for Numerical Simulation of 2D Acoustic Wave Propagation
Authors: Tong Xiaozhong , Sun Ya
Published: December 2023

In this study, a hybrid Chebyshev pseudo-spectral finite-difference time-domain (CPS-FDTD) algorithm is proposed for simulating 2D acoustic wave propagation in heterogeneous media, which is different from the other traditional numerical schemes such as finite element and finite difference. This proposed hybrid method integrates the efficiency of the FDTD approach in the time domain and the high accuracy of the CPS technique in the spatial domain. We present the calculation formulas of this novel approach and conduct simulation experiments to test it. The biconjugate gradient is solved by combining the large symmetric sparse systems stabilized algorithm with an incomplete LU factorization. Three numerical experiments are further presented to illustrate the accuracy, efficiency, and flexibility of the hybrid CPS-FDTD algorithm.
Accelerating Convergence of Langevin Dynamics via Adaptive Irreversible Perturbations
Authors: Wu Zhenqing , Huang Zhejun , Wu Sijin , Yu Ziying , Zhu Liuxin , Yang Lili
Published: December 2023

Irreversible perturbations in Langevin dynamics have been widely recognized for their role in accelerating convergence in simulations of multi-modal distributions π(θ). A commonly used and easily computed standard irreversible perturbation is J∇logπ(θ), where J is a skew-symmetric matrix. However, Langevin dynamics employing a fixed-scale standard irreversible perturbation encounter a trade-off between local exploitation and global exploration, associated with small and large scales of standard irreversible perturbation, respectively. To address this trade-off, we introduce the adaptive irreversible perturbations Langevin dynamics, where the scale of the standard irreversible perturbation changes adaptively. Through numerical examples, we demonstrate that adaptive irreversible perturbations in Langevin dynamics can enhance performance compared to fixed-scale irreversible perturbations.
Nutritional Supplements for Skin Health—A Review of What Should Be Chosen and Why
Authors: Januszewski Jacek , Forma Alicja , Zembala Julita , Flieger Michał , Tyczyńska Magdalena , Dring James Curtis , Dudek Iga , Świątek Kamila , Baj Jacek
Published: December 2023

Supplementation of micronutrients is considered to be crucial in the reinforcement of the skin’s barrier. In this paper, 14 nutritional compounds commonly used in food or pharmaceutic industries were analyzed in terms of influencing skin conditions. The major objective of this paper was to provide a narrative review of the available literature regarding several chosen compounds that are currently widely recommended as supplements that aim to maintain proper and healthy skin conditions. We conducted a review of the literature from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science until September 2023 without any other restrictions regarding the year of the publication. Ultimately, we reviewed 238 articles, including them in this review. Each of the reviewed compounds, including vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, curcumin, chlorella, Omega-3, biotin,Ppolypodium leucotomos, Simmondsia chinesis, gamma oryzanol, olive leaf extract, spirulina, and astaxanthin, was observed to present some possible effects with promising benefits for a skin condition, i.e., photoprotective radiation. Adding them to the diet or daily routine might have a positive influence on some skin inflammatory diseases such as atopic dermatitis or psoriasis. Further, UV radiation protection facilitated by some supplements and their impact on human cells might be helpful during chemotherapy or in preventing melanoma development. Further research is needed because of the lack of clear consensus regarding the doses of the described compounds that could provide desirable effects on the skin.
Cardiac Masses and Pseudomasses: An Overview about Diagnostic Imaging and Clinical Background
Authors: Tagliati Corrado , Fogante Marco , Palmisano Anna , Catapano Federica , Lisi Costanza , Monti Lorenzo , Lanni Giuseppe , Cerimele Federico , Bernardini Antonio , Procaccini Luca , Argalia Giulio , Esposto Pirani Paolo , Marcucci Matteo , Rebonato Alberto , Cerimele Cecilia , Luciano Alessandra , Cesarotto Matteo , Belgrano Manuel , Pagnan Lorenzo , Sarno Alessandro , Cova Maria Assunta , Ventura Fiammetta , Regnicolo Luana , Polonara Gabriele , Uguccioni Lucia , Quaranta Alessia , Balardi Liliana , Barbarossa Alessandro , Stronati Giulia , Guerra Federico , Chiocchi Marcello , Francone Marco , Esposito Antonio , Schicchi Nicolò
Published: December 2023

A cardiac lesion detected at ultrasonography might turn out to be a normal structure, a benign tumor or rarely a malignancy, and lesion characterization is very important to appropriately manage the lesion itself. The exact relationship of the mass with coronary arteries and the knowledge of possible concomitant coronary artery disease are necessary preoperative information. Moreover, the increasingly performed coronary CT angiography to evaluate non-invasively coronary artery disease leads to a rising number of incidental findings. Therefore, CT and MRI are frequently performed imaging modalities when echocardiography is deemed insufficient to evaluate a lesion. A brief comprehensive overview about diagnostic radiological imaging and the clinical background of cardiac masses and pseudomasses is reported.
Highly Accurate Pneumatically Tunable Optofluidic Distributed Feedback Dye Lasers
Authors: Feng Hongtao , Zhang Jiaxin , Shu Weiliang , Bai Xiaosong , Song Liang , Chen Yan
Published: December 2023

Optofluidic dye lasers integrated into microfluidic chips are promising miniature coherent light sources for biosensing. However, achieving the accurate and efficient tuning of lasers remains challenging. This study introduces a novel pneumatically tunable optofluidic distributed feedback (DFB) dye laser in a multilayer microfluidic chip. The dye laser device integrates microfluidic channels, grating structures, and vacuum chambers. A second-order DFB grating configuration is utilized to ensure single-mode lasing. The application of vacuum pressure to the chambers stretches the soft grating layer, enabling the sensitive tuning of the lasing wavelength at a high resolution of 0.25 nm within a 7.84 nm range. The precise control of pressure and laser tuning is achieved through an electronic regulator. Additionally, the integrated microfluidic channels and optimized waveguide structure facilitate efficient dye excitation, resulting in a low pump threshold of 164 nJ/pulse. This pneumatically tunable optofluidic DFB laser, with its high-resolution wavelength tuning range, offers new possibilities for the development of integrated portable devices for biosensing and spectroscopy.
Healthcare Wearable Sensors Adhesion to Human Fingernails and Toenails
Authors: Sakuma Katsuyuki , Pancoast Leanna , Yao Yiping , Knickerbocker John
Published: December 2023

A novel adhesion method of a sensor to a fingernail is described. Wearable sensors can provide health insights to humans for a wide variety of benefits, such as continuous wellness monitoring and disease monitoring throughout a patient’s daily life. While there are many locations to place these wearable sensors on the body, we will focus on the fingertip, one significant way that people interact with the world. Like artificial fingernails used for aesthetics, wearable healthcare sensors can be attached to the fingernail for short or long time periods with minimal irritation and disruption to daily life. In this study the structure and methods of healthcare sensors’ attachment and removal have been explored to support (1) the sensor functional requirements, (2) biological and environmentally compatible solutions and (3) ease of attachment and removal for short- and long-term user applications. Initial fingernail sensors were attached using a thin adhesive layer of commonly available cosmetic nail glue. While this approach allowed for easy application and strong adhesion to the nail, the removal could expose the fingernail and finger to a commercially available cosmetic nail removal (acetone-based chemical) for extended times measured in minutes. Therefore, a novel structure and method were developed for rapid healthcare sensor attachment and removal in seconds, which supported both the sensor functional objectives and the biologically and environmentally safe use objectives.
Stepped-Tube Backside Cavity Piezoelectric Ultrasound Transducer Based on Sc0.2AI0.8N Thin Films
Authors: Li Xiaobao , Lyu Haochen , Safari Ahmad , Zhang Songsong
Published: December 2023

This paper presents a novel piezoelectric micromachined ultrasonic transducer (PMUT) with theoretical simulation, fabrication, and testing. Conventional methods using a PCB or an external horn to adjust the PMUT acoustic field angle are limited by the need for transducer size. To address this limitation, the stepped-tube (expanded tube) backside cavity PMUT has been proposed. The stepped-tube PMUT and the tube PMUT devices have the same membrane structure, and the acoustic impedance matching of the PMUT is optimized by modifying the boundary conditions of the back cavity structure. The acoustic comparison experiments show that the average output sound pressure of the stepped-tube backside cavity PMUT has increased by 17%, the half-power-beam-width (θ-3db) has been reduced from 55° to 30° with a reduction of 45%, and the side lobe level signal is reduced from 147 mV to 66 mV. In addition, this work is fabricated on an eight-inch wafer. The process is compatible with standard complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS), conditions are stable, and the cost is controllable, plus it facilitates the batch process. These conclusions suggest that the stepped-tube backside cavity PMUT will bring new, effective, and reliable solutions to ranging applications.
A High-Precision Bandgap Reference with Chopper Stabilization and V-Curve Compensation Technique
Authors: Chen Enming , Wu Thomas , Yu Jianhai , Yin Liang
Published: December 2023

The MEMS sensor converts the physical signal of nature into an electrical signal. The output signal of the MEMS sensor is so weak and basically in the low-frequency band that the MEMS sensor interface circuit has a rigorous requirement for the noise/offset and temperature coefficient, especially in the bandgap reference block. However, the traditional amplifier has low-frequency noise and offset voltage, which will decrease the precision of the bandgap reference. In order to satisfy the need of the MEMS sensor interface circuit, a high-precision and low-noise bandgap reference is proposed in this paper. A novel operational amplifier with a chopper-stabilization technique is adopted to reduce offset and low-frequency noise. At the same time, the V-curve compensation circuit is used to realize the second-order curvature compensation. The circuit is implemented under the 0.18 μm standard of the CMOS process. The test result shows that the temperature coefficient of the bandgap is 2.31 ppm/°C in the range of −40–140 °C, while the output voltage noise is only 616 nV/sqrt(Hz)@1 Hz and the power-supply rejection ratio is 73 dB@10 kHz. The linear adjustment rate is 0.33 mV/V for supply voltages of 1.2–1.8 V at room temperature, the power consumption is only 107 μW at 1.8 V power supply voltage, and the chip active area is 0.21 × 0.28 mm2.
Low-Power Consumption IGZO Memristor-Based Gas Sensor Embedded in an Internet of Things Monitoring System for Isopropanol Alcohol Gas
Authors: Chae Myoungsu , Lee Doowon , Kim Hee-Dong
Published: December 2023

Low-power-consumption gas sensors are crucial for diverse applications, including environmental monitoring and portable Internet of Things (IoT) systems. However, the desorption and adsorption characteristics of conventional metal oxide-based gas sensors require supplementary equipment, such as heaters, which is not optimal for low-power IoT monitoring systems. Memristor-based sensors (gasistors) have been investigated as innovative gas sensors owing to their advantages, including high response, low power consumption, and room-temperature (RT) operation. Based on IGZO, the proposed isopropanol alcohol (IPA) gas sensor demonstrates a detection speed of 105 s and a high response of 55.15 for 50 ppm of IPA gas at RT. Moreover, rapid recovery to the initial state was achievable in 50 μs using pulsed voltage and without gas purging. Finally, a low-power circuit module was integrated for wireless signal transmission and processing to ensure IoT compatibility. The stability of sensing results from gasistors based on IGZO has been demonstrated, even when integrated into IoT systems. This enables energy-efficient gas analysis and real-time monitoring at ~0.34 mW, supporting recovery via pulse bias. This research offers practical insights into IoT gas detection, presenting a wireless sensing system for sensitive, low-powered sensors.
Genomics of Re-Emergent Aeromonas salmonicida in Atlantic Salmon Outbreaks
Authors: Godoy Marcos , Montes de Oca Marco , Suarez Rudy , Martinez Alexis , Pontigo Juan Pablo , Caro Diego , Kusch Karina , Coca Yoandy , Bohle Harry , Bayliss Sion , Kibenge Molly , Kibenge Frederick
Published: December 2023

Furunculosis, caused by Aeromonas salmonicida, poses a significant threat to both salmonid and non-salmonid fish in diverse aquatic environments. This study explores the genomic intricacies of re-emergent A. salmonicida outbreaks in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). Previous clinical cases have exhibited pathological characteristics, such as periorbital hemorrhages and gastrointestinal abnormalities. Genomic sequencing of three Chilean isolates (ASA04, ASA05, and CIBA_5017) and 25 previously described genomes determined the pan-genome, phylogenomics, insertion sequences, and restriction-modification systems. Unique gene families have contributed to an improved understanding of the psychrophilic and mesophilic clades, while phylogenomic analysis has been used to identify mesophilic and psychrophilic strains, thereby further differentiating between typical and atypical psychrophilic isolates. Diverse insertion sequences and restriction-modification patterns have highlighted genomic structural differences, and virulence factor predictions can emphasize exotoxin disparities, especially between psychrophilic and mesophilic strains. Thus, a novel plasmid was characterized which emphasized the role of plasmids in virulence and antibiotic resistance. The analysis of antibiotic resistance factors revealed resistance against various drug classes in Chilean strains. Overall, this study elucidates the genomic dynamics of re-emergent A. salmonicida and provides novel insights into their virulence, antibiotic resistance, and population structure.
BKPyV DNAemia in Kidney Transplant Recipients Undergoing Regular Screening: A Single-Centre Cohort Study
Authors: Rasmussen Daniel B. , Møller Dina L. , Hamm Sebastian R. , Borges Álvaro H. , Nielsen Alex C. Y. , Kirkby Nikolai S. , Sørensen Søren S. , Nielsen Susanne D.
Published: December 2023

Infection with BK polyomavirus (BKPyV) is a common opportunistic infection after kidney transplantation (KT) and may affect graft function. We aimed to determine the incidence, risk factors, and clinical outcomes of BKPyV DNAemia in a prospective cohort of 601 KT recipients transplanted from 2012 to 2020. BKPyV PCR on plasma was performed at days 60, 90, 180, 270, and 360 post-KT. Any BKPyV DNAemia was defined as a single BKPyV DNA of ≥1000 copies/mL. Severe BKPyV DNAemia was defined as two consecutive BKPyV DNA of ≥10,000 copies/mL. Cumulative incidences were investigated using the Aalen–Johansen estimator, and the risk factors were investigated in Cox proportional hazard models. The incidence of any BKPyV DNAemia and severe BKPyV DNAemia was 21% (18–25) and 13% (10–16) at one year post-KT, respectively. Recipient age > 50 years (aHR, 1.72; 95% CI 1.00–2.94; p = 0.049), male sex (aHR, 1.96; 95% CI 1.17–3.29; p = 0.011), living donors (aHR, 1.65; 95% CI 1.03–2.74; p = 0.045), and >3 HLA-ABDR mismatches (aHR, 1.72; 95% CI 1.01–2.94; p = 0.046) increased the risk of severe BKPyV DNAemia. Any BKPyV DNAemia was associated with an increased risk of graft function decline (aHR, 2.26; 95% CI 1.00–5.12; p = 0.049), and severe BKPyV DNAemia was associated with an increased risk of graft loss (aHR, 3.18; 95% CI 1.06–9.58; p = 0.039). These findings highlight the importance of BKPyV monitoring post-KT.
Utilizing X-ray Computed Tomography for Lithium Slag: A Guide to Analyzing Microstructure and Its Potential Influence on Liberation
Authors: Võ Thu Trang , Leißner Thomas , Peuker Urs A.
Published: December 2023

Slag containing lithium aluminate is analyzed for its microstructure. This refers to the mineralogical composition, shape and size of the target and matrix phase, orientation of the target phase, and porosity. To investigate the microstructure of the target phase, a representative sample is taken from the block and measured using the XCT. With the help of the two- and three-dimensional analysis, an insight into the complex structure can be gained. The target phase, in this case, lithium aluminate, has a dendritic structure with different orientations and thus also influences the microstructure of the matrix phase. This is composed of a mix of several minerals and amorphous components. Fine pores with a radius of 10–100 µm are found throughout the sample volume. The fracture behavior of the slag is estimated on the basis of the influencing factors that can initiate fracture in brittle materials or divert the path of the fracture. Since the mineralogical and thus also mechanical properties of the slag can be influenced by its production process, suggestions are given as to how slags should be structured in order to ensure a non-random fracture, which is required for the efficient liberation of the target phase in mechanical processing.
Anti-Trypanosomal Bufadienolides from the Oocytes of the Toad Rhinella alata (Anura, Bufonidae)
Authors: Rodriguez Candelario , Ibáñez Roberto , Olmedo Dionisio A. , Ng Michelle , Spadafora Carmenza , Durant-Archibold Armando A. , Gutiérrez Marcelino
Published: December 2023

Amphibians are widely known as a prolific source of bioactive metabolites. In this work, we isolated and characterized compounds with antiparasitic activity from the oocytes of the toad Rhinella alata collected in Panama. Bio-guided isolation and structural elucidation were carried out using chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques, respectively. The organic extract was subjected to solid phase extraction followed by HPLC purification of the fraction with in vitro activity against Trypanosoma cruzi trypomastigotes. Seven steroids (1–7) of the bufadienolide family were isolated, and their structures were determined using NMR and MS analyses; of these 19-formyl-dyscinobufotalin, (3) is reported as a new natural product. Compounds 1 and 3–7 resulted in a good anti-trypanosomal activity profile. Among these, 16β-hydroxyl-hellebrigenin (1) and bufalin (7) showed significant selectivity values of >5 and 2.69, respectively, while the positive control benznidazole showed a selectivity of 18.81. Furthermore, molecular docking analysis showed compounds 1, 3 and 7 interact through H-bonds with the amino acid residues GLN-19, ASP-158, HIS-159 and TRP-177 from cruzipain at the catalytic site. Given the lack of therapeutic options to treat American trypanosomiasis, this work can serve as the basis for further studies that aim for the development of bufadienolides or their derivatives as drugs against Chagas disease.
Bio-Guided Assay of Ephedra foeminea Forssk Extracts and Anticancer Activities: In Vivo, In Vitro, and In Silico Evaluations
Authors: Nazeam Jilan A. , Boshra Sylvia A. , Mohammed Esraa Z. , El Gizawy Heba A.
Published: December 2023

Ephedra is one of the oldest known medicinal plants and the largest genera of the Ephedraceae family. In vivo antitumor evaluation of Ephedra foeminea revealed that ethyl acetate (EtOAc) was the most bioactive fraction. Bio-guided fractionation of EtOAc fraction afforded nine compounds isolated for the first time from the plant species. Macrocyclic spermine alkaloids (1,9), proanthocyanidins (2,4,5), quinoline alkaloids (7,8), phenolic (3), and nucleoside (6) were identified and elucidated by spectroscopic analyses including 1D and 2D NMR, ESI-MS-MS spectrometry. The tested compounds exhibited moderate anticancer activity, except for the kynurenic acid derivative (6-mKYNA) which showed significant cytotoxicity and remarkable inhibition of CA-19.9 and CA-125 tumor biomarkers. In-silico study was conducted to determine the anti-proliferative mechanism of 6-mKYNA by using the CK2 enzyme active site. Moreover, the ADME computational study suggested that 6-mKYNA is an effective candidate with a promising pharmacokinetic profile and therapeutic potential against various types of cancer.
Analysis of Sports Supplement Consumption in 1688 Federated Road Cyclists
Authors: García-Durán Jesús , González-Jurado José Antonio , Sánchez-Oliver Antonio Jesús
Published: December 2023

The widespread use of sports supplements (SS) to enhance athletic performance extends to cyclists, although little research has been conducted on this subject within this sport. This descriptive and cross-sectional study involved 1688 federated road cyclists, aiming to analyse the pattern of SS consumption concerning the degree of scientific evidence and different categories. This study categorised SS based on the groups and subgroups established by the Australian Sport Institute (AIS, 2023) based on the level of evidence. Our results showed that 62.5% of the sample cyclists used SS, with an average of 12.2 ± 8.6 supplements consumed per participant. Health status (78.2%), pharmacies (62.5%), and medical doctors (45.7%) were the main reasons, purchase sites, and sources of information for SS consumption, respectively. The most prevalent SS consumed were Sports Gels (94%), Sports Bars (89.3%), and Sports Drinks (73.8%). Notably, 80% of the top ten most consumed SS belonged to the group with the highest level of evidence according to the AIS, with an average of 6.9 ± 3.2 supplements per participant. However, 23.3% of the total SS consumers used prohibited substances. In conclusion, while the prevalence of SS consumption among road cyclists is considerable and the primary sources for purchasing SS and obtaining advice are reliable, there is a notable prevalence of prohibited substance use within the sample.
Safety Assessment and Probiotic Potential Comparison of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis BLI-02, Lactobacillus plantarum LPL28, Lactobacillus acidophilus TYCA06, and Lactobacillus paracasei ET-66
Authors: Chen Jui-Fen , Hsia Ko-Chiang , Kuo Yi-Wei , Chen Shu-Hui , Huang Yen-Yu , Li Ching-Min , Hsu Yu-Chieh , Tsai Shin-Yu , Ho Hsieh-Hsun
Published: December 2023

Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis BLI-02, Lactobacillus paracasei ET-66, Lactobacillus plantarum LPL28, and Lactobacillus acidophilus TYCA06, isolated from healthy breast milk, miso, and the healthy human gut, were assessed for safety in this study. BLI-02, LPL28, TYCA06, and ET-66 exhibited no antibiotic resistance and mutagenic activity in the Ames test at the highest dosage (5000 μg/plate). No genotoxicity was observed in micronucleus and chromosomal aberration assays in rodent spermatogonia at the maximum dosage of 10 g/kg body weight (BW). No acute and sub-chronic toxicity occurred in mice and rats at the maximum tested dosage of 10 g/kg BW and 1.5 g/kg BW, respectively. The lyophilized powder of these strains survived a low pH and high bile salt environment, adhering strongly to Caco-2 cells. Unique antimicrobial activities were noted in these strains, with BLI-02 demonstrating the best growth inhibition against Vibrio parahaemolyticus, LPL28 exhibiting the best growth inhibition against Helicobacter pylori, and ET-66 showing the best growth inhibition against Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. Based on the present study, the lyophilized powder of these four strains appears to be a safe probiotic supplement at tested dosages. It should be applicable for clinical or healthcare applications.
Longitudinal Associations of Dietary Fructose, Sodium, and Potassium and Psychological Stress with Vascular Aging Index and Incident Cardiovascular Disease in the CARDIA Cohort
Authors: Osborne Meaghan , Bernard Alexa , Falkowski Emily , Peterson Deni , Vavilikolanu Anusha , Komnenov Dragana
Published: December 2023

We explored how dietary behaviors (sucrose, fructose, sodium, and potassium consumption) and endured psychological stress in young adult males and females impact the vascular aging index (VAI) and CVD risk by mid-life. Data were obtained from the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults Study, an ongoing longitudinal study. The included participants (n = 2656) had undergone carotid artery ultrasound at year 20 allowing VAIs to be calculated. Demographics, dietary data, and depression scores were obtained at baseline and year 20 of follow-up. Regression analyses were used to assess the predictors of VAI. Cox regression analyses were conducted to assess the risk of CVD, stroke, and all-cause mortality. Predictors of vascular aging were found to be sex-specific. In females, depression scores at baseline were positively associated with VAI (B-weight = 0.063, p = 0.015). In males, sodium intake at year 20 positively predicted VAI (B-weight = 0.145, p = 0.003) and potassium intake inversely predicted VAI (B-weight = −0.160, p < 0.001). BMI significantly predicted CVD, stroke, and death. Fructose consumption at year 20 was a significant predictor of CVD risk while having high blood pressure at baseline was significantly associated with stroke risk. Our findings support the promotion of nutrient-specific behavior changes to prevent vascular aging in early adulthood and CVD risk in mid-life.
Special Issue “Drug Treatments for Inflammatory Bowel Diseases”
Authors: Luiz-Ferreira Anderson , Stolfi Carmine
Published: December 2023

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), are chronic idiopathic, relapsing and remitting inflammatory diseases that affect the gastrointestinal tract, causing significant morbidity and loss of quality of life in affected individuals [...]
In Silico Screening of Multi-Domain Targeted Inhibitors for PTK6: A Strategy Integrating Drug Repurposing and Consensus Docking
Authors: Zhou Yujing , Wong Ming Wah
Published: December 2023

Protein tyrosine kinase 6 (PTK6), also known as breast tumor kinase (BRK), serves as a non-receptor intracellular tyrosine kinase within the Src kinases family. Structurally resembling other Src kinases, PTK6 possesses an Src homology 3 (SH3) domain, an Src homology 2 (SH2) domain, and a tyrosine kinase domain (SH1). While considerable efforts have been dedicated to designing PTK6 inhibitors targeting the SH1 domain, which is responsible for kinase activity in various pathways, it has been observed that solely inhibiting the SH1 domain does not effectively suppress PTK6 activity. Subsequent investigations have revealed the involvement of SH2 and SH3 domains in intramolecular and substrate binding interactions, which are crucial for PTK6 function. Consequently, the identification of PTK6 inhibitors targeting not only the SH1 domain but also the SH2 and SH3 domains becomes imperative. Through an in silico structural-based virtual screening approach, incorporating drug repurposing and a consensus docking approach, we have successfully identified four potential ligands capable of concurrently inhibiting the tyrosine kinase domain and SH2/SH3 domains of PT6K simultaneously. This finding suggests potential pathways for therapeutic interventions in PTK6 inhibition.
Standard Single-Mode Fiber with High Modal Bandwidth as Two-Mode Fiber around 1060 nm for High Data Rate Transmission
Authors: Chen Xin , Hurley Jason E. , Mishra Snigdharaj K. , Stone Jeffery S. , Li Ming-Jun
Published: December 2023

A step-index standard single-mode fiber as a two-mode fiber at 1060 nm can have a high modal bandwidth. In the current work, we conducted a detailed study and found that the LP11 mode of such a fiber is bending-sensitive and that the light excited to LP11 mode can be stripped out due to bending. The transmission experiments were conducted using offset launch with both LP01 and LP11 modes excited and center launch with only LP01 mode excited to show transmission performance in different conditions. We demonstrated the feasibility of 25 Gb/s NRZ transmission over 1 km of the fiber when both LP01 and LP11 modes were excited. We further explored the feasibility of a trench-assisted bending-insensitive step-index standard single-mode fiber with good bending properties for both LP01 and LP11 modes for two-mode transmission at 1060 nm. We found a fiber that has high modal bandwidth at 1060 nm and can sustain bending down to at least a 20 mm diameter. The high-bandwidth two-mode fiber can be potentially useful for future 1060 nm-based VCSEL transmission.
Synthesizing a Water-Soluble Polymeric Nitrification Inhibitor with Novel Soil-Loosening Ability
Authors: Liu Yu , Gao Hui , Liu Shanshan , Li Jinrong , Kong Fangong
Published: December 2023

Nitrification inhibitor is essential for increasing the nitrogen utilization efficiency of agricultural plants, thus reducing environmental pollution and increasing crop yield. However, the easy volatilization and limited functional property is still the bottleneck of nitrification inhibitors. Herein, a novel water-soluble polymeric nitrification inhibitor was synthesized through the copolymerization of acrylamide and bio-based acrylic acid, which was synthesized from biomass-derived furfural, and the complexation of carboxyl groups and 3,4-dimethylpyrazole. The results showed that the nitrification inhibitor was an amorphous polymer product with a glass transition temperature of 146 °C and a thermal decomposition temperature of 176 °C, and the content of 3,4-dimethylpyrazole reached 2.81 wt%, which was 115% higher than our earlier product (1.31 wt%). The polymeric nitrification inhibitor can inhibit the activity of ammonia-oxidizing bacteria effectively, thus inhibiting the conversion of ammonium nitrogen to nitrate nitrogen and converting the insoluble phosphate into soluble and absorbable phosphate. By introducing a copolymer structure with a strong flocculation capacity, the polymeric nitrification inhibitor is further endowed with a soil-loosening function, which can increase the porosity of soil to improve the soil environment. Therefore, the nitrification inhibitor can be used in water-soluble and liquid fertilizers, as well as in high tower melting granulated compound fertilizers.
Lightweight ZnO/Carbonated Cotton Fiber Nanocomposites for Electromagnetic Interference Applications: Preparation and Properties
Authors: Waseem Muhammad , Xie Yuxiang , Yu Kesong , Zhou Xiling , Cai Yingchun , Zhang Xiaoli , Liu Baochen , Chen Jingbo
Published: December 2023

Electromagnetic wave pollution has become a significant harm posed to human health and precision instruments. To shelter such instruments from electromagnetic radiation, high-frequency electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials are extremely desirable. The focus of this research is lightweight, high-absorption EMI shielding composites. Simple aqueous dispersion and drying procedures were used to prepare cotton fiber (CF)-based sheets combined with various zinc oxide (ZnO) contents. These composites were carbonated in a high-temperature furnace at 800 °C for two hours. The obtained CF/ZnO samples have densities of 1.02–1.08 g/cm3. The EMI shielding effectiveness of CF-30% ZnO, CF-50% ZnO, and CF-70% ZnO reached 32.06, 38.08, and 34.69 dB, respectively, to which more than 80% of absorption is attributed. The synergetic effects of carbon networks and surface structures are responsible for the high EMI shielding performance; various reflections inside the interconnected networks may also help in improving their EMI shielding performance.
New Physico-Chemical Analysis of Magnesium-Doped Hydroxyapatite in Dextran Matrix Nanocomposites
Authors: Predoi Daniela , Ciobanu Steluta Carmen , Iconaru Simona Liliana , Ţălu Ştefan , Ghegoiu Liliana , Matos Robert Saraiva , da Fonseca Filho Henrique Duarte , Trusca Roxana
Published: December 2023

The new magnesium-doped hydroxyapatite in dextran matrix (10MgHApD) nanocomposites were synthesized using coprecipitation technique. A spherical morphology was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The X-ray diffraction (XRD) characterization results show hydroxyapatite hexagonal phase formation. The element map scanning during the EDS analysis revealed homogenous distribution of constituent elements of calcium, phosphor, oxygen and magnesium. The presence of dextran in the sample was revealed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The antimicrobial activity of the 10MgHAPD nanocomposites was assessed by in vitro assays using Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, Streptococcus mutans ATCC 25175, Porphyromonas gingivalis ATCC 33277 and Candida albicans ATCC 10231 microbial strains. The results of the antimicrobial assays highlighted that the 10MgHApD nanocomposites presented excellent antimicrobial activity against all the tested microorganisms and for all the tested time intervals. Furthermore, the biocompatibility assays determined that the 10MgHApD nanocomposites did not exhibit any toxicity towards Human gingival fibroblast (HGF-1) cells.
Semi-Permanent Mass Production of Ac-225 for Cancer Therapy by the (3n,x) Reaction in Pressurized Water Reactor
Authors: Iwahashi Daiki , Sasaki Yuto , Shinohara Tomoatsu , Takaki Naoyuki
Published: December 2023

Alpha particle-emitting radiopharmaceuticals are in high demand for use in targeted alpha therapy. Ac-225 is currently produced using Th-229, but its annual production remains low, approximately 63 GBq. Previously, we produced a large amount of Ac-225 via the (n,2n) reaction in fast reactors; however, it required repetitive irradiation. In this work, we investigated a method to produce Th-229 via the (3n,x) reaction through long-term irradiation using neutrons from Pressurized Water Reactors. As target nuclides, Ra-226, which is commonly used for Ac-225 production, and Th-230, which is not widely used but is abundant, were selected. The evaluation was conducted under mixed conditions of Th-230 and Th-232. Ra-226 and Th-230 produce Th-229 (T1/2 = 7920 years) after long-term neutron irradiation. Th-229, which has a long half-life, the α-decays to produce Ra-225, and the β-decays of Ra-225 to produce Ac-225. These processes are semi-permanent owing to the long half-life of Th-229. Further, an irradiation method that does not require major changes in the upper part of the PWR fuel assembly geometry was employed by replacing the plugging device attached to the control rod guide tube with a target pin. The PWR loaded with abundant natural thorium target and irradiated with thermal neutrons for as long as approximately 5 years can produce more than twice the current world supply of Ac-225 annually and permanently.
Alkaline Hydrothermal Treatment of Chabazite to Enhance Its Ammonium Removal and Recovery Capabilities through Recrystallization
Authors: Das Dipshika , Sengupta Sukalyan
Published: December 2023

The treatment of chabazite (CHA), a natural zeolite, with the alkaline hydrothermal method to improve its ion-exchange capacity is a widely adopted route by environmental scientists for the purpose of better ammonium (NH4+) removal from wastewater. This work addresses a noteworthy trend in environmental science, where researchers, impressed by the increased ion-exchange capacity achieved through alkaline hydrothermal treatment, often bypass the thorough material characterization of treated CHA. The prevalent misconception attributes the improved features solely to the parent zeolitic framework, neglecting the fact that corrosive treatments like this can induce significant alterations in the framework and those must be identified with correct nomenclature. In this work, alkaline-mediated hydrothermally treated CHA has been characterized through X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), solid-state magic-angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (MAS-NMR), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and it is concluded that the treated samples have been transformed into a desilicated, aluminum (Al)-dense framework of analcime (ANA) with a low silica–alumina ratio and with a strikingly different crystal shape than that of parent CHA. This treated sample is further examined for its NH4+ removal capacity from synthetic wastewater in a fixed-bed column arrangement. It achieved a maximum NH4+ removal efficiency of 4.19 meq/g (75.6 mg/g of NH4+), twice that of the parent CHA. Moreover, the regeneration of the exhausted column yielded a regenerant solution, with 94% reclaimed NH4+ in it, which could be used independently as a nitrogenous fertilizer. In this work, the meticulous compositional study of zeolitic materials, a well-established practice in the field of material science, is advocated for adoption by environmental chemists. By embracing this approach, environmental scientists can enhance their comprehension of the intricate changes induced by corrosive treatments, thereby contributing to a more nuanced understanding of zeolitic behavior in environmental contexts.