bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sums Involving the Digamma Function Connected to the Incomplete Beta Function and the Bessel functions
Authors: González-Santander Juan Luis , Sánchez Lasheras Fernando
Published: April 2023

We calculate some infinite sums containing the digamma function in closed form. These sums are related either to the incomplete beta function or to the Bessel functions. The calculations yield interesting new results as by-products, such as parameter differentiation formulas for the beta incomplete function, reduction formulas of 3F2 hypergeometric functions, or a definite integral which does not seem to be tabulated in the most common literature. As an application of certain sums involving the digamma function, we calculated some reduction formulas for the parameter differentiation of the Mittag–Leffler function and the Wright function.
Harvesting Aurantiochytrium sp. SW1 via Flocculation Using Chitosan: Effects of Flocculation Parameters on Flocculation Efficiency and Zeta Potential
Authors: Zamri Nadzirul , Suleiman Nurul Nabila , Mohd Johar Norsyaqira , Mohd Noor Nur Syahidah , Ang Wei Lun , Mohd Yasin Nazlina Haiza , Nazir Yusuf , Abdul Hamid Aidil
Published: April 2023

The use of chitosan as a flocculant has become a topic of interest over the years due to its positively charged polymer and biodegradable and non-toxic properties. However, most studies only focus on microalgae and wastewater treatment. This study provides crucial insight into the potential of using chitosan as an organic flocculant to harvest lipids and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA-rich Aurantiochytrium sp. SW1 cells by examining the correlation of flocculation parameters (chitosan concentration, molecular weight, medium pH, culture age, and cell density) toward the flocculation efficiency and zeta potential of the cells. A strong correlation between the pH and harvesting efficiency was observed as the pH increased from 3, with the optimal flocculation efficiency of >95% achieved at a chitosan concentration of 0.5 g/L at pH 6 where the zeta potential was almost zero (3.26 mV). The culture age and chitosan molecular weight have no effect on the flocculation efficiency but increasing the cell density decreases the flocculation efficiency. This is the first study to reveal the potential of chitosan to be used as a harvesting alternative for thraustochytrid cells.
Efficacy and Safety of Electrohydraulic Lithotripsy Using Peroral Cholangioscopy under Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography Guidance in Older Adults: A Single-Center Retrospective Study
Authors: Takahashi Koji , Ohyama Hiroshi , Takiguchi Yuichi , Sekine Yu , Toyama Shodai , Yamada Nana , Sugihara Chihei , Kan Motoyasu , Ouchi Mayu , Nagashima Hiroki , Iino Yotaro , Kusakabe Yuko , Okitsu Kohichiroh , Ohno Izumi , Kato Naoya
Published: April 2023

Background and objectives: The safety of electrohydraulic lithotripsy (EHL) in older adults remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of EHL using peroral cholangioscopy (POCS) under endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) guidance in older adults aged ≥80 years. Materials and Methods: This retrospective clinical study was conducted at a single center. Fifty patients with common bile duct stones who underwent EHL using POCS under ERCP guidance at our institution, between April 2017 and September 2022, were enrolled in this study. The eligible patients were divided into an elderly group (n = 21, age ≥80 years) and a non-elderly group (n = 29, age ≤79 years), and were analyzed. Results: A total of 33 and 40 EHL procedures were performed in the elderly and non-elderly groups, respectively. After excluding cases in which stone removal was performed at other institutions, complete removal of common bile duct stones was confirmed in 93.8% and 100% of the elderly and non-elderly groups, respectively (p = 0.20). The mean number of ERCPs required for complete removal of bile duct stones was 2.9 and 4.3 in the elderly and non-elderly groups, respectively (p = 0.17). In the EHL session, the overall occurrence of adverse events was eight and seven in the elderly (24.2%) and non-elderly (17.5%) groups, respectively; however, the difference was insignificant (p = 0.48). Conclusions: EHL using POCS under ERCP guidance is effective in patients aged ≥80 years and there was no significant increase in adverse event rates compared to those aged ≤79 years.
Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis and Secondary Macrophage Activation Syndrome in Latvia from 2009 to 2020: A Nationwide Retrospective Study
Authors: Lukjanoviča Kristīne , Šlēziņa Ieva , Dāvidsone Zane , Šantere Ruta , Budarina Kristīna , Staņēviča Valda
Published: April 2023

Background and Objectives: Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA) is a distinctive JIA subtype with mostly nonspecific systemic clinical features, which can be a diagnostic challenge. This study aimed to analyze our experience with sJIA in Latvia for twelve years: assessing clinical and epidemiological characteristics, the efficacy of therapy, and disease outcomes, including the development of macrophage activation syndrome (MAS). Materials and methods: This is a descriptive study in which we conducted a retrospective case review of all patients with sJIA diagnosis admitted to the only pediatric tertiary centre in Latvia during the period 2009–2020. Results: sJIA was diagnosed in 35 patients with a mean annual incidence rate of 0.85 patients per 100,000 children. Major clinical signs at the first visit were: fever, rash, arthritis, and lymphadenopathy. Almost half of the patients, 48.5%, had a monocyclic disease course, and only 20% of patients had persistent disease. MAS developed in 28.6% of patients. Biological therapy was administered to 48.6% of patients, mostly by tocilizumab, which induced remission in 75% after one year, and in 81.2% after two years without any serious therapy-related complications. In our study, none of the patients had interstitial lung disease, drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS)-like syndrome, or fatal disease. Conclusions: The incidence and clinical characteristics of sJIA correlate with the literature findings, although MAS was more common than described in other studies. There is a tendency for the persistent disease to decrease with the use of biological therapy. Tocilizumab is an efficient choice of treatment with a good safety profile.
Differences in Technical Aspects of Primary Sleeve Gastrectomy Prior to Redo Bariatric Surgery—A Multicenter Cohort Study (PROSS Study)
Authors: Zarzycki Piotr , Rymarowicz Justyna , Małczak Piotr , Pisarska-Adamczyk Magdalena , Mulek Rafał , Binda Artur , Dowgiałło-Gornowicz Natalia , Major Piotr ,   PROSS Collaborative Study Group
Published: April 2023

Background and Objectives: Although the technical simplicity of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is relatively well understood, many parts of the procedure differ according to bariatric surgeons. These technical variations may impact postoperative weight loss or the treatment of comorbidities and lead to qualification for redo procedures. Materials and Methods: A multicenter, observational, retrospective study was conducted among patients undergoing revision procedures. Patients were divided into three groups based on the indications for revisional surgery (insufficient weight loss or obesity-related comorbidities treatment, weight regain and development of complications). Results: The median bougie size was 36 (32–40) with significant difference (p = 0.04). In 246 (51.57%) patients, the resection part of sleeve gastrectomy was started 4 cm from the pylorus without significant difference (p = 0.065). The number of stapler cartridges used during the SG procedure was six staplers in group C (p = 0.529). The number of procedures in which the staple line was reinforced was the highest in group A (29.63%) with a significant difference (0.002). Cruroplasty was performed in 13 patients (p = 0.549). Conclusions: There were no differences between indications to redo surgery in terms of primary surgery parameters such as the number of staplers used or the length from the pylorus to begin resection. The bougie size was smaller in the group of patients with weight regain. Patients who had revision for insufficient weight loss were significantly more likely to have had their staple line oversewn. A potential cause could be a difference in the size of the removed portion of the stomach, but it is difficult to draw unequivocal conclusions within the limitations of our study.
Assessing Critical Flicker Fusion Frequency: Which Confounders? A Narrative Review
Authors: Muth Thomas , Schipke Jochen D. , Brebeck Anne-Kathrin , Dreyer Sven
Published: April 2023

The critical flicker fusion frequency (cFFF) refers to the frequency at which a regularly recurring change of light stimuli is perceived as steady. The cFFF threshold is often assessed in clinics to evaluate the temporal characteristics of the visual system, making it a common test for eye diseases. Additionally, it serves as a helpful diagnostic tool for various neurological and internal diseases. In the field of diving/hyperbaric medicine, cFFF has been utilized to determine alertness and cognitive functions. Changes in the cFFF threshold have been linked to the influence of increased respiratory gas partial pressures, although there exist inconsistent results regarding this effect. Moreover, the use of flicker devices has produced mixed outcomes in previous studies. This narrative review aims to explore confounding factors that may affect the accuracy of cFFF threshold measurements, particularly in open-field studies. We identify five broad categories of such factors, including (1) participant characteristics, (2) optical factors, (3) smoking/drug use, (4) environmental aspects, and (5) breathing gases and partial pressures. We also discuss the application of cFFF measurements in the field of diving and hyperbaric medicine. In addition, we provide recommendations for interpreting changes in the cFFF threshold and how they are reported in research studies.
Addressing Chronic Gynecological Diseases in the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic
Authors: Țieranu Maria-Loredana , Dragoescu Nicoleta Alice , Zorilă George-Lucian , Istrate-Ofițeru Anca-Maria , Rămescu Cătălina , Berbecaru Elena-Iuliana-Anamaria , Drăguşin Roxana Cristina , Nagy Rodica Daniela , Căpitănescu Răzvan Grigoraș , Iliescu Dominic-Gabriel
Published: April 2023

Introduction: the COVID-19 pandemic has had a considerable impact on healthcare systems worldwide. Since the actual influence of the pandemic on gynecological care is still unclear, we aim to evaluate the effect of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on gynecological procedures compared to the pre-pandemic period in Romania. Materials and Methods: this is a single-center retrospective observational study, involving patients hospitalized in the year before the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic (PP), in the first year of the pandemic (P1), and in the second year of the pandemic until February 2022 (P2). The percentages of interventions were analyzed globally but also according to the type of surgery applied on the female genital organs. Results: during pandemic, the number of gynecological surgeries dropped considerably, by more than 50% in some cases, or even decreased by up to 100%, having a major impact on women’s health, especially in the first year of the pandemic (P1), before slightly increasing in the post-vaccination period (PV). Surgically treated cancer cases dropped by over 80% during the pandemic, and the consequences of this will be seen in the future. Conclusions: the COVID-19 pandemic played an important part in gynecological care management in the Romanian public health care system, and the effect will have to be investigated in the future.
Characterization of Solid-Solution and Aging Process in Mg-5 wt.%Sn Alloy
Authors: Liu Yongjun , Liu Hongmei
Published: April 2023

Firstly, the properties and the microstructure evolution of the solid-solution process of Mg-5 wt.%Sn were studied. From the motion analysis of resistivity and microhardness during solution treatment, the reasonable solution technology of Mg-5 wt.%Sn should be 12–16 h at 480 °C. After solution treatment at 480 °C for 16 h, the precipitating behavior in supersaturated solid solution. Mg-5 wt.%Sn alloy was investigated. In the aging process, it was observed that there were precipitated phases in the both grain and grain boundaries, and continuous inhomogeneous precipitation occurred along the grain boundaries, and continuous homogeneous precipitation happened in the grain. Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) analysis indicated the plate- and lath-shaped precipitates within the grains and only the plate-shaped precipitates along the grain boundary. High-Resolution Electron Microscopy (HRTEM) studies have shown that metastable precipitates may occur during aging, coherently or semi-coherent with the matrix. Energy Dispersive Analysis by X-ray (EDAX) analysis showed that the Mg/Sn ratio was not actually constant, and the Sn content of the metastable phase was lower than that of the Mg2Sn equilibrium phase. X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies confirm the existence of this metastable phase, which is supposed to be GP zone and metastable Mg3Sn phase.
Barotropic Instability during Eyewall Replacement
Authors: Slocum Christopher J. , Taft Richard K. , Kossin James P. , Schubert Wayne H.
Published: April 2023

Just before making landfall in Puerto Rico, Hurricane Maria (2017) underwent a concentric eyewall cycle in which the outer convective ring appeared robust while the inner ring first distorted into an ellipse and then disintegrated. The present work offers further support for the simple interpretation of this event in terms of the non-divergent barotropic model, which serves as the basis for a linear stability analysis and for non-linear numerical simulations. For the linear stability analysis the model’s axisymmetric basic state vorticity distribution is piece-wise uniform in five regions: the eye, the inner eyewall, the moat, the outer eyewall, and the far field. The stability of such structures is investigated by solving a simple eigenvalue/eigenvector problem and, in the case of instability, the non-linear evolution into a more stable structure is simulated using the non-linear barotropic model. Three types of instability and vorticity rearrangement are identified: (1) instability across the outer ring of enhanced vorticity; (2) instability across the low vorticity moat; and (3) instability across the inner ring of enhanced vorticity. The first and third types of instability occur when the rings of enhanced vorticity are sufficiently narrow, with non-linear mixing resulting in broader and weaker vorticity rings. The second type of instability, most relevant to Hurricane Maria, occurs when the radial extent of the moat is sufficiently narrow that unstable interactions occur between the outer edge of the primary eyewall and the inner edge of the secondary eyewall. The non-linear dynamics of this type of instability distort the inner eyewall into an ellipse that splits and later recombines, resulting in a vorticity tripole. This type of instability may occur near the end of a concentric eyewall cycle.
Parameter Study on Force Curves of Assembled Electronic Components on Foils during Injection Overmolding Using Simulation
Authors: Hubmann Martin , Bakr Mona , Groten Jonas , Pletz Martin , Vanfleteren Jan , Bossuyt Frederick , Madadnia Behnam , Stadlober Barbara
Published: April 2023

The integration of assembled foils in injection-molded parts is a challenging step. Such assembled foils typically comprise a plastic foil on which a circuit board is printed and electronic components are mounted. Those components can detach during overmolding when high pressures and shear stresses prevail due to the injected viscous thermoplastic melt. Hence, the molding settings significantly impact such parts’ successful, damage-free manufacturing. In this paper, a virtual parameter study was performed using injection molding software in which 1206-sized components were overmolded in a plate mold using polycarbonate (PC). In addition, experimental injection molding tests of that design and shear and peel tests were made. The simulated forces increased with decreasing mold thickness and melt temperature and increasing injection speed. The calculated tangential forces in the initial stage of overmolding ranged from 1.3 N to 7.3 N, depending on the setting used. However, the experimental at room temperature-obtained shear forces at break were at least 22 N. Yet, detached components were present in most of the experimentally overmolded foils. Hence, the shear tests performed at room temperature can only provide limited information. In addition, there might be a peel-like load case during overmolding where the flexible foil might bend during overmolding.
Finger-Actuated Micropump of Constant Flow Rate without Backflow
Authors: Ahmad NurFarrahain Nadia , Ghazali Nik Nazri Nik , Abdul Rani Ahmad Taufiq , Othman Mohammad Hafiz , Kee Chia Ching , Jiwanti Prastika Krisma , Rodríguez-Gómez Arturo , Wong Yew Hoong
Published: April 2023

This paper presents a finger-actuated micropump with a consistent flow rate and no backflow. The fluid dynamics in interstitial fluid (ISF) extraction microfluidics are studied through analytical, simulation, and experimental methods. Head losses, pressure drop, diodocity, hydrogel swelling, criteria for hydrogel absorption, and consistency flow rate are examined in order to access microfluidic performance. In terms of consistency, the experimental result revealed that after 20 s of duty cycles with full deformation on the flexible diaphragm, the output pressure became uniform and the flow rate remained at nearly constant levels of 2.2 μL/min. The flow rate discrepancy between the experimental and predicted flow rates is around 22%. In terms of diodicity, when the serpentine microchannel and hydrogel-assisted reservoir are added to the microfluidic system integration, the diodicity increases by 2% (Di = 1.48) and 34% (Di = 1.96), respectively, compared to when the Tesla integration (Di = 1.45) is used alone. A visual and experimentally weighted analysis finds no signs of backflow. These significant flow characteristics demonstrate their potential usage in many low-cost and portable microfluidic applications.
A Single-Event-Hardened Scheme for Ring Oscillator Applied to Radiation-Resistant PLL Microsystems
Authors: Xiang Qi , Liu Hongxia , Zhou Yulun
Published: April 2023

A voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) is one of the key modules of the phase-locked loop (PLL) microsystem, and it is easy to bombard using high-energy particles in a radiation environment, resulting in the single-event effect. In order to improve the anti-radiation ability of the PLL microsystems used in the aerospace environment, a new voltage-controlled oscillator hardened circuit is proposed in this work. The circuit consists of delay cells with an unbiased differential series voltage switch logic structure with a tail current transistor. By reducing sensitive nodes and using the positive feedback of the loop, the recovery process of the VCO circuit to the single-event transient (SET) is reduced and accelerated, so as to reduce the sensitivity of the circuit to the single-event effect. The simulation results based on the SMIC 130 nm complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) process show that the maximum phase shift difference of the PLL with the hardened VCO is reduced by 53.5%, which shows that the hardened VCO structure can reduce the sensitivity of the PLL to the SET and improve the reliability of the PLL in the radiation environment.
Endophytic Colonization by Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae in Maize Plants Affects the Fitness of Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Altaf Nimra , Ullah Muhammad Irfan , Afzal Muhammad , Arshad Muhammad , Ali Sajjad , Rizwan Muhammad , Al-Shuraym Laila A. , Alhelaify Seham Sater , Sayed Samy
Published: April 2023

The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Noctuidae; Lepidoptera), is a serious threat to food security as it has the potential to feed on over 353 plant species. To control this insect pest, endophytic colonization of entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) in plants is being considered as a safer and more effective alternative. This study evaluated the efficacy of two EPFs, Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae, for endophytic colonization using foliar spray and seed treatment methods on maize plants, and their impact on the survival, development, and fecundity of S. frugiperda. Both EPF effectively colonized the maize plants with foliar spray and seed treatment methods, resulting in 72–80% and 50–60% colonization rates, respectively, 14 days after inoculation. The EPF negatively impacted the development and fecundity of S. frugiperda. Larvae feeding on EPF-inoculated leaves had slower development (21.21 d for M. anisopliae and 20.64 d for B. bassiana) than the control treatment (20.27 d). The fecundity rate was also significantly reduced to 260.0–290.1 eggs/female with both EPF applications compared with the control treatment (435.6 eggs/female). Age-stage-specific parameters showed lower fecundity, life expectancy, and survival of S. frugiperda when they fed on both EPF-inoculated leaves compared with untreated leaves. Furthermore, both EPFs had a significant effect on population parameters such as intrinsic (r = 0.127 d−1 for B. bassiana, and r = 0.125 d−1 for M. anisopliae) and finite rate (λ = 1.135 d−1 for B. bassiana, and λ = 1.1333 d−1 for M. anisopliae) of S. frugiperda compared with the control (r = 0.133 d−1 and λ = 1.146 d−1). These findings suggest that EPF can be effectively used for the endophytic colonization of maize plants to control S. frugiperda. Therefore, these EPFs should be integrated into pest management programs for this pest.
Biogenic Synthesis of Multifunctional Silver Oxide Nanoparticles (Ag2ONPs) Using Parieteria alsinaefolia Delile Aqueous Extract and Assessment of Their Diverse Biological Applications
Authors: Ullah Zakir , Gul Farhat , Iqbal Javed , Abbasi Banzeer Ahsan , Kanwal Sobia , Chalgham Wadie , El-Sheikh Mohamed A. , Diltemiz Sibel Emir , Mahmood Tariq
Published: April 2023

Green nanotechnology has made the synthesis of nanoparticles a possible approach. Nanotechnology has a significant impact on several scientific domains and has diverse applications in different commercial areas. The current study aimed to develop a novel and green approach for the biosynthesis of silver oxide nanoparticles (Ag2ONPs) utilizing Parieteria alsinaefolia leaves extract as a reducing, stabilizing and capping agent. The change in color of the reaction mixture from light brown to reddish black determines the synthesis of Ag2ONPs. Further, different techniques were used to confirm the synthesis of Ag2ONPs, including UV-Visible spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), zeta potential and dynamic light scattering (DLS) analyses. The Scherrer equation determined a mean crystallite size of ~22.23 nm for Ag2ONPs. Additionally, different in vitro biological activities have been investigated and determined significant therapeutic potentials. Radical scavenging DPPH assay (79.4%), reducing power assay (62.68 ± 1.77%) and total antioxidant capacity (87.5 ± 4.8%) were evaluated to assess the antioxidative potential of Ag2ONPs. The disc diffusion method was adopted to evaluate the antibacterial and antifungal potentials of Ag2ONPs using different concentrations (125–1000 μg/mL). Moreover, the brine shrimp cytotoxicity assay was investigated and the LC50 value was calculated as 2.21 μg/mL. The biocompatibility assay using red blood cells (<200 μg/mL) confirmed the biosafe and biocompatible nature of Ag2ONPs. Alpha-amylase inhibition assay was performed and reported 66% inhibition. In conclusion, currently synthesized Ag2ONPs have exhibited strong biological potential and proved as an attractive eco-friendly candidate. In the future, this preliminary research work will be a helpful source and will open new avenues in diverse fields, including the pharmaceutical, biomedical and pharmacological sectors.
Addressing the Joint Impact of Temperature and pH on Vibrio harveyi Adaptation in the Time of Climate Change
Authors: Gundogdu Kaan , Orus Iturriza Ander , Orruño Maite , Montánchez Itxaso , Eguiraun Harkaitz , Martinez Iciar , Arana Inés , Kaberdin Vladimir R.
Published: April 2023

Global warming and acidification of the global ocean are two important manifestations of the ongoing climate change. To characterize their joint impact on Vibrio adaptation and fitness, we analyzed the temperature-dependent adaptation of Vibrio harveyi at different pHs (7.0, 7.5, 8.0, 8.3 and 8.5) that mimic the pH of the world ocean in the past, present and future. Comparison of V. harveyi growth at 20, 25 and 30 °C show that higher temperature per se facilitates the logarithmic growth of V. harveyi in nutrient-rich environments in a pH-dependent manner. Further survival tests carried out in artificial seawater for 35 days revealed that cell culturability declined significantly upon incubation at 25 °C and 30 °C but not at 20 °C. Moreover, although acidification displayed a negative impact on cell culturability at 25 °C, it appeared to play a minor role at 30 °C, suggesting that elevated temperature, rather than pH, was the key player in the observed reduction of cell culturability. In addition, analyses of the stressed cell morphology and size distribution by epifluorescent microscopy indicates that V. harveyi likely exploits different adaptation strategies (e.g., acquisition of coccoid-like morphology) whose roles might differ depending on the temperature–pH combination.
Synthesis and Properties of 1,3-Disubstituted Ureas Containing (Adamantan-1-yl)(phenyl)methyl Fragment Based on One-Pot Direct Adamantane Moiety Inclusion
Authors: D’yachenko Vladimir , Danilov Dmitry , Kuznetsov Yaroslav , Moiseev Semyon , Mokhov Vladimir , Burmistrov Vladimir , Butov Gennady
Published: April 2023

A one-stage method for the preparation of 1-[isocyanato(phenyl)methyl]adamantane containing a phenylmethylene fragment located between the adamantane fragment and the isocyanate group, and 1-[isocyanato(phenyl)methyl]-3,5-dimethyladamantane with additional methyl groups at the nodal positions of adamantane, with a yield of 95% and 89%, respectively, is described. The method includes the direct inclusion of an adamantane moiety through the reaction of phenylacetic acid ethyl ester with 1,3-dehydroadamantane or 3,5-dimethyl-1,3-dehydroadamantane followed by the hydrolysis of the obtained esters. The reaction of 1-[isocyanato(phenyl)methyl]adamantane with fluorine(chlorine)-containing anilines gave a series of 1,3-disubstituted ureas with 25–85% yield. 1-[Isocyanato(phenyl)methyl]-3,5-dimethyladamantane was involved in the reactions with fluorine(chlorine)-containing anilines and trans-4-amino-(cyclohexyloxy)benzoic acid to obtain another series of ureas with a yield of 29–74%. The resulting 1,3-disubstituted ureas are promising inhibitors of the human soluble epoxide hydrolase (hsEH).
Region Met225 to Ile412 of Bacillus cereus Hemolysin II Is Capable to Agglutinate Red Blood Cells
Authors: Nagel Alexey S. , Rudenko Natalia V. , Luchkina Polina N. , Karatovskaya Anna P. , Zamyatina Anna V. , Andreeva-Kovalevskaya Zhanna I. , Siunov Alexander V. , Brovko Fedor A. , Solonin Alexander S.
Published: April 2023

Hemolysin II (HlyII) is one of the virulence factors of the opportunistic bacterium Bacillus cereus belonging to the group of β-pore-forming toxins. This work created a genetic construct encoding a large C-terminal fragment of the toxin (HlyIILCTD, M225–I412 according to the numbering of amino acid residues in HlyII). A soluble form of HlyIILCTD was obtained using the SlyD chaperone protein. HlyIILCTD was first shown to be capable of agglutinating rabbit erythrocytes. Monoclonal antibodies against HlyIILCTD were obtained by hybridoma technology. We also proposed a mode of rabbit erythrocyte agglutination by HlyIILCTD and selected three anti-HlyIILCTD monoclonal antibodies that inhibited the agglutination.
Exploring the Effect of Different Storage Conditions on the Aroma Profile of Bread by Using Arrow-SPME GC-MS and Chemometrics
Authors: Pellacani Samuele , Cocchi Marina , Durante Caterina , Strani Lorenzo
Published: April 2023

In the present feasibility study, SPME Arrow-GC-MS method coupled with chemometric techniques, was used for investigating the impact of two different storage conditions, namely freezing and refrigeration, on volatile organic compounds (VOCs) of different commercial breads. The SPME Arrow technology was used as it is a novel extraction technique, able to address issues arising with traditional SPME fibers. Furthermore, the raw chromatographic signals were analysed by means of a PARAFAC2-based deconvolution and identification system (PARADISe approach). The use of PARADISe approach allowed for an efficient and rapid putative identification of 38 volatile organic compounds, including alcohols, esters, carboxylic acids, ketones, and aldehydes. Additionally, Principal Component Analysis, applied on the areas of the resolved compounds, was used to investigate the effects of storage conditions on the aroma profile of bread. The results revealed that the VOC profile of fresh bread is more similar to the one of bread stored in the fridge. Furthermore, there was a clear loss of aroma intensity in frozen samples, which could be explained by phenomena related to different starch retrogradation that occurs during freezing and refrigeration. However, considering the limited number of investigated samples, this study must be considered as a proof of concept; a more statistically representative sampling and further examinations of other properties, such as bread texture, need to be performed to better understand whether samples destined for eventual analysis should be frozen or refrigerated.
A Brief Review on the Electrohydrodynamic Techniques Used to Build Antioxidant Delivery Systems from Natural Sources
Authors: Coelho Sílvia Castro , Estevinho Berta Nogueiro
Published: April 2023

Extracts from plants have been one of the main sources of antioxidants, namely polyphenols. The associated drawbacks, such as instability against environmental factors, low bioavailability, and loss of activity, must be considered during microencapsulation for a better application. Electrohydrodynamic processes have been investigated as promising tools to fabricate crucial vectors to minimize these limitations. The developed microstructures present high potential to encapsulate active compounds and for controlling their release. The fabricated electrospun/electrosprayed structures present different benefits when compared with structures developed by other techniques; they present a high surface-area-to-volume ratio as well as porosity, great materials handling, and scalable production—among other advantages—which make them able to be widely applied in different fields, namely in the food industry. This review presents a summary of the electrohydrodynamic processes, main studies, and their application.
Gentamicin Sulfate Grafted Magnetic GO Nanohybrids with Excellent Antibacterial Properties and Recyclability
Authors: Wu Xing , Zhou Jingya , Liu Zeng , Shao Wei
Published: April 2023

In this study, magnetic graphene oxide (MGO) nanohybrids were first prepared by loading Fe3O4 NPs onto graphene oxide (GO). Then, GS-MGO nanohybrids were prepared by grafting gentamicin sulfate (GS) onto MGO directly using a simple amidation reaction. The prepared GS-MGO had the same magnetism as MGO. They exhibited excellent antibacterial ability against Gram-negative bacteria and Gram-positive bacteria. The GS-MGO had excellent antibacterial performance against Escherichia coli (E. coli), Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), and Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes). When the addition concentration of GS-MGO was 1.25 mg/mL, the calculated bacteriostatic ratios against E. coli and S. aureus achieved 89.8% and 100%, respectively. For L. monocytogenes, only 0.05 mg/mL of GS-MGO had an antibacterial ratio as high as 99%. In addition, the prepared GS-MGO nanohybrids also exhibited excellent non-leaching activity with good recycling antibacterial ability. After eight times antibacterial tests, GS-MGO nanohybrids still exhibited an excellent inhibition effect on E. coli, S. aureus, and L. monocytogenes. Therefore, as a non-leaching antibacterial agent, the fabricated GS-MGO nanohybrid had dramatic antibacterial properties and also showed great recycling ability. Thus, it displayed great potential in the design of novel recycling antibacterial agents with non-leaching activity.
Hole-Transport Material Engineering in Highly Durable Carbon-Based Perovskite Photovoltaic Devices
Authors: Rahighi Reza , Gholipour Somayeh , Amin Mohammed A. , Ansari Mohd Zahid
Published: April 2023

Despite the fast-developing momentum of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) toward flexible roll-to-roll solar energy harvesting panels, their long-term stability remains to be the challenging obstacle in terms of moisture, light sensitivity, and thermal stress. Compositional engineering including less usage of volatile methylammonium bromide (MABr) and incorporating more formamidinium iodide (FAI) promises more phase stability. In this work, an embedded carbon cloth in carbon paste is utilized as the back contact in PSCs (having optimized perovskite composition), resulting in a high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 15.4%, and the as-fabricated devices retain 60% of the initial PCE after more than 180 h (at the experiment temperature of 85 °C and under 40% relative humidity). These results are from devices without any encapsulation or light soaking pre-treatments, whereas Au-based PSCs retain 45% of the initial PCE at the same conditions with rapid degradation. In addition, the long-term device stability results reveal that poly[bis(4–phenyl) (2,4,6–trimethylphenyl) amine] (PTAA) is a more stable polymeric hole-transport material (HTM) at the 85 °C thermal stress than the copper thiocyanate (CuSCN) inorganic HTM for carbon-based devices. These results pave the way toward modifying additive-free and polymeric HTM for scalable carbon-based PSCs.
Sensory Motor Function Disturbances in Mice Prenatally Exposed to Low Dose of Ethanol: A Neurobehavioral Study in Postnatal and Adult Stages
Authors: Smimih Kamal , El-Mansoury Bilal , Saad Fatima Ez-Zahraa , Khanouchi Manal , El Amine Souad , Aimrane Abdelmohcine , Zouhairi Nadia , Ferssiwi Abdessalam , Bitar Abdelali , Merzouki Mohamed , El Hiba Omar
Published: April 2023

Prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) refers to fetal exposure to alcohol during pregnancy through placental barrier transfer from maternal blood. The postnatal outcomes of PAE differ among exposed individuals and range from overt (serious) alcohol-related behavioral and neurophysiological impairments to covert (silenced) symptoms. The aims of the present investigation were to assess the postnatal neurobehavioral disturbances, particularly, motor coordination and sensory-motor function in mice with PAE. Female mice with positive vaginal plugs were divided into three groups: group 1: Et + Pyr: received two i.p injections of ethanol (1 g/kg) followed by pyrazole (100 mg/kg). Group 2: Pyr: received an i.p injection of pyrazole (100 mg/kg). Group 3: C: of saline controls received, in equal volume, saline solution (NaCl 0.9%). After birth, mice pups were weighed and subjected to behavioral tests for motor function screening using the motor ambulation test, cliff aversion, surface righting, and negative geotaxis, while at the adult stage, mice were subjected to the open field, rotarod, parallel bars, and static rods tests. Our data show an obvious decrement of body weight from the first post-natal day (P1) and continues over the adult stage. This was accompanied by an obvious impaired sensory-motor function which was maintained even at the adult stage with alteration of the locomotor and coordination abilities. The current data demonstrate the powerful neurotoxic effect of prenatal ethanol exposure on the sensory-motor and coordination functions, leading to suppose possible structural and/or functional neuronal disturbances, particularly the locomotor network.
A Review of the Effects of Fucoxanthin on NAFLD
Authors: Sayuti Nor Hafiza , Muhammad Nawawi Khairul Najmi , Goon Jo Aan , Mokhtar Norfilza Mohd , Makpol Suzana , Tan Jen Kit
Published: April 2023

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most prevalent form of chronic liver disease. Fucoxanthin, a red-orange marine carotenoid, is found in natural marine seaweeds with high antioxidant activity and several other remarkable biological features. The aim of this review is to gather evidence of the positive benefits of fucoxanthin on NAFLD. Fucoxanthin provides an extensive list of physiological and biological properties, such as hepatoprotective, anti-obesity, anti-tumor, and anti-diabetes properties, in addition to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This review focuses on published research on the preventative effects of fucoxanthin on NAFLD from the perspective of human clinical trials, animal experiments in vivo, and in vitro cell investigations. Using a variety of experimental designs, including treatment dosage, experiment model, and experimental periods, the positive effects of fucoxanthin were demonstrated. Fucoxanthin’s biological activities were outlined, with an emphasis on its therapeutic efficacy in NAFLD. Fucoxanthin showed beneficial effects in modulating lipid metabolism, lipogenesis, fatty acid oxidation, adipogenesis, and oxidative stress on NAFLD. A deeper comprehension of NAFLD pathogenesis is essential for the development of novel and effective therapeutic strategies.
Sulfur Metabolism of the Gut Microbiome and Colorectal Cancer: The Threat to the Younger Generation
Authors: Moon Ji-Yeon , Kye Bong-Hyeon , Ko Seung-Hyun , Yoo Ri Na
Published: April 2023

Colorectal cancer diagnosed in individuals under 50 years old is called early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC), and its incidence has been rising worldwide. Simultaneously occurring with increasing obesity, this worrisome trend is partly explained by the strong influence of dietary elements, particularly fatty, meaty, and sugary food. An animal-based diet, the so-called Western diet, causes a shift in dominant microbiota and their metabolic activity, which may disrupt the homeostasis of hydrogen sulfide concentration. Bacterial sulfur metabolism is recognized as a critical mechanism of EOCRC pathogenesis. This review evaluates the pathophysiology of how a diet-associated shift in gut microbiota, so-called the microbial sulfur diet, provokes injuries and inflammation to the colonic mucosa and contributes to the development of CRC.
Neonatal Leptin Levels Predict the Early Childhood Developmental Assessment Scores of Preterm Infants
Authors: Roghair Robert D. , Colaizy Tarah T. , Steinbrekera Baiba , Vass Réka A. , Hsu Erica , Dagle Daniel , Chatmethakul Trassanee
Published: April 2023

Preterm infants have low circulating levels of leptin, a key trophic hormone that influences growth and development. While the clinical importance of prematurity-associated leptin deficiency is undefined, recent preclinical and clinical investigations have shown that targeted enteral leptin supplementation can normalize neonatal leptin levels. We tested the hypothesis that, independent of growth velocity, prematurity-related neonatal leptin deficiency predicts adverse cardiovascular and neurodevelopmental outcomes. In a planned 2-year longitudinal follow-up of 83 preterm infants born at 22 to 32 weeks’ gestation, we obtained blood pressures from 58 children and the Ages & Stages Questionnaire (ASQ-3) for 66 children. Based on univariate analysis, blood pressures correlated with gestational age at birth (R = 0.30, p < 0.05) and weight gain since discharge (R = 0.34, p < 0.01). ASQ-3 scores were significantly higher in female than male children. Utilizing best subset regression with Mallows’ Cp as the criterion for model selection, higher systolic blood pressure was predicted by rapid postnatal weight gain, later gestation at delivery and male sex (Cp = 3.0, R = 0.48). Lower ASQ-3 was predicted by lower leptin levels at 35 weeks postmenstrual age, earlier gestation at delivery and male sex (Cp = 2.9, R = 0.45). Children that had leptin levels above 1500 pg/mL at 35 weeks postmenstrual age had the highest ASQ-3 scores at 2 years. In conclusion, independent of growth velocity, higher leptin levels at 35 weeks’ gestation are associated with better developmental assessment scores in early childhood. While longer-term follow-up of a larger cohort is needed, these findings support investigations that have suggested that targeted neonatal leptin supplementation could improve the neurodevelopmental outcomes of preterm infants.
Cordyceps cicadae NTTU 868 Mycelia Fermented with Deep Ocean Water Minerals Prevents D-Galactose-Induced Memory Deficits by Inhibiting Oxidative Inflammatory Factors and Aging-Related Risk Factors
Authors: Chang Ching-Yu , Yang Pei-Xin , Yu Tsai-Luen , Lee Chun-Lin
Published: April 2023

Cordyceps cicadae, a medicinal fungus that is abundant in bioactive compounds such as N6-(2-hydroxyethyl)-adenosine (HEA) and polysaccharides, possesses remarkable anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and nerve damage recovery properties. Deep ocean water (DOW) contains minerals that can be absorbed and transformed into organic forms by fungi fermentation. Recent studies have shown that culturing C. cicadae in DOW can enhance its therapeutic benefits by increasing the levels of bioactive compounds and minerals’ bioavailibility. In this study, we investigated the effects of DOW-cultured C. cicadae (DCC) on brain damage and memory impairment induced by D-galactose in rats. Our results indicate that DCC and its metabolite HEA can improve memory ability and exhibit potent antioxidant activity and free radical scavenging in D-galactose-induced aging rats (p < 0.05). Additionally, DCC can mitigate the expression of inflammatory factors, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), thereby preventing brain aging. Furthermore, DCC showed a significant decrease in the expression of the aging-related proteins glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and presenilin 1 (PS1). By reducing brain oxidation and aging-related factors, DOW-cultured C. cicadae demonstrate enhanced anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects, making it a promising therapeutic agent for preventing and treating age-related brain damage and cognitive impairment.
Development of an Instrument to Evaluate the Intake of Liquids, Food and Supplements in Endurance Competitions: Nutritional Intake Questionnaire for Endurance Competitions—NIQEC
Authors: Jiménez-Alfageme Rubén , Campodónico Mª Emilia , Sospedra Isabel , Giménez-Monzo Daniel , García-Jaén Miguel , Juliá-Sanchís Rocío , Ausó Eva , Martínez-Sanz José Miguel
Published: April 2023

Background: In the last few years endurance sports have experienced a great increase in the number of competitions and participants. Dietary-nutritional planning is key for performing well during such competitions. To date, there is no questionnaire expressly developed to be able to analyze the consumption of liquids, foods, and supplements, as well as gastrointestinal problems in these events. This study describes the development of the Nutritional Intake Questionnaire for Endurance Competitions (NIQEC). Methods: The study was composed in the following phases: (1) Bibliographic search for the most important nutrients, (2) focus groups (17 dietitian-nutritionists and 15 experienced athletes) and generation of items, (3) Delphi surveys, and (4) cognitive interviews. Results: After an initial shaping of the questionnaire with the items that emerged in the focus groups, their relevance was evaluated by means of the Delphi survey, which showed more than 80% approval for most items. Finally, the cognitive interviews indicated that the questionnaire was simple and complete for its purpose. The final NIQEC (n = 50 items) was divided in 5 sections: Demographic data; sports data; consumption of liquids, food and supplements before, during, and after the competition; gastrointestinal complaints, and dietary-nutritional planning for the competition. Conclusions: The NICEQ is a useful tool that allows collecting information from participants on sociodemographic factors and gastrointestinal complaints, and estimating the intake of liquid, food, and supplements, for endurance competitions.
Effect of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei N1115 on Immunomodulatory and Gut Microbial Composition in Young Children: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: Li Pin , Ren Zhongxia , Zhou Junxiu , Zhao Ai , Wang Shijie , Xun Yiping , Jiang Hua , Wang Peiyu , Yuan Qingbin , Zhang Yumei
Published: April 2023

Lactobacillus paracasei N1115 (Lp N1115) was isolated from fermented milk products. The administration of Lp N1115 is safe and well tolerated in Chinese children, but its effectiveness among young Chinese children is still unclear. To investigate the efficacy of Lp N1115 as a probiotic to enhance gut development in Chinese infants and toddlers born by cesarean section, 109 healthy and cesarean-delivered infants aged 6–24 months were recruited for a 12-week randomized, placebo-controlled trial, with 101 finally completing the study. Saliva and stool samples were collected and detected at weeks 0, 4, 8, and 12 of the intervention. Statistical analyses were performed by using a per-protocol (PP) approach. After 12 weeks of intervention, the fecal pH in the control group increased (p = 0.003), while the fecal pH in the experimental group did not change. Salivary cortisol decreased from baseline in the experimental group (p = 0.023), while the control group showed little change. In addition, Lp N1115 increased the fecal sIgA content of infants aged 6–12 months (p = 0.044) but had no obvious effect on fecal calprotectin and saliva sIgA. At week 4, the increase in Lactobacillus relative to baseline was higher in the experimental group than in the control group (p = 0.019). Further analysis showed a trend toward a higher detection rate of Lactobacillus in the experimental group than in the control group (p = 0.039). In conclusion, Lp N1115 was able to enhance the content of Lactobacillus and maintain fecal pH levels. Its beneficial effects on gut development were more obvious in 6–12-month-old infants.
The Role of a Ketogenic Diet in the Treatment of Dementia in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Bai Lin , Zhou Yue , Zhang Jie , Ma Junpeng
Published: April 2023

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) shares a common molecular mechanism and underlying pathology with dementia, and studies indicate that dementia is widespread in people with T2DM. Currently, T2DM-induced cognitive impairment is characterized by altered insulin and cerebral glucose metabolism, leading to a shorter life span. Increasing evidence indicates that nutritional and metabolic treatments can possibly alleviate these issues, as there is a lack of efficient preventative and treatment methods. The ketogenic diet (KD) is a very high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that induces ketosis in the body by producing a fasting-like effect, and neurons in the aged brain are protected from damage by ketone bodies. Moreover, the creation of ketone bodies may improve brain neuronal function, decrease inflammatory expression and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and restore neuronal metabolism. As a result, the KD has drawn attention as a potential treatment for neurological diseases, such as T2DM-induced dementia. This review aims to examine the role of the KD in the prevention of dementia risk in T2DM patients and to outline specific aspects of the neuroprotective effects of the KD, providing a rationale for the implementation of dietary interventions as a therapeutic strategy for T2DM-induced dementia in the future.