bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Awareness, Attitudes, and Willingness: A Cross-Sectional Study of Organ Donation in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alhasan Khalid , Aljamaan Fadi , Ajlan Aziza , Aleid Hassan , Al Ghoufi Talal , Alabbad Saleh I. , AlDhaferi Rezqah F. , Almaiman Weiam , Ali Tariq , Hakami Alaa Abdullah , Hakami Rafeef Abdullah , Alqarni Baraah S. , Alrashed Alhanouf S. , Alsharidi Tarfa R. , Almousa Hamad A. , Altamimi Ibraheem , Alhaboob Ali , Jamal Amr , Shalaby Mohamed A. , Kari Jameela A. , Raina Rupesh , Broering Dieter C. , Temsah Mohamad-Hani
Published: December 2023

Background: Organ transplantation is inherently dependent on the availability of organ donors. There is a noticeable paucity of literature addressing the rates of organ donation registration and the awareness of Islamic regulations (Fatwa) regarding organ donation within Saudi Arabia. Our study aimed to evaluate the level of organ donation registration, awareness of Islamic regulations, and knowledge of the Saudi Center for Organ Transplantation (SCOT) within the Saudi society. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey from 30 March to 9 April 2023. This survey aimed to assess the awareness of Islamic (Fatwa) guidance on organ donation, the role of SCOT, and the rate of organ donation registration facilitated through the Tawakkalna app, the official health passport application in Saudi Arabia. Results: Out of 2329 respondents, 21% had registered as potential deceased organ donors, despite 87% acknowledging the importance of organ donation. Awareness of the Islamic Fatwa regarding organ donation was reported by 54.7% of respondents, and 37% recognized the Fatwa’s acceptance of brain death criteria. The likelihood of registration as organ donors was higher among Saudi citizens under 45 years of age, females, healthcare workers (HCWs), individuals with higher education, relatives of patients awaiting organ donations, those informed about the Islamic Fatwas, and those willing to donate organs to friends. Conversely, being over the age of 25, Saudi nationality, employment as an HCW, awareness of SCOT, and prior organ donation registration were predictive of a heightened awareness of Islamic Fatwas. However, perceiving the importance of organ donation correlated with a lower awareness of the Fatwas. Significant positive correlations were found between awareness of SCOT, awareness of Fatwas, and registration for organ donation. Conclusions: While the Saudi population exhibits a high regard for the importance of organ donation, this recognition is not adequately translated into registration rates. The discrepancy may be attributable to limited awareness of SCOT and the relevant Islamic Fatwas. It is imperative to initiate organ donation awareness campaigns that focus on religious authorization to boost organ donation rates and rectify prevalent misconceptions.
Rhamnogalacturonan I with β-(1,4)-Galactan Side Chains as an Ever-Present Component of Tertiary Cell Wall of Plant Fibers
Authors: Chernova Tatyana , Mikshina Polina , Petrova Anna , Ibragimova Nadezhda , Ageeva Marina , Gorshkova Tatyana
Published: December 2023

The cellulose-enriched tertiary cell walls present in many plant fibers have specific composition, architecture, machinery of formation, and function. To better understand the mechanisms underlying their mode of action and to reveal the peculiarities of fibers from different plant species, it is necessary to more deeply characterize the major components. Next to overwhelming cellulose, rhamnogalacturonan I (RG-I) is considered to be the key polymer of the tertiary cell wall; however, it has been isolated and biochemically characterized in very few plant species. Here, we add RG-I to the list from the phloem fibers of the Phaseolus vulgaris stem that was isolated and analyzed by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), dynamic light scattering, and immunolabeling, both within tissue and as an isolated polymer. Additionally, fibers with tertiary cell walls from nine species of dicotyledonous plants from the orders Malphigiales, Fabales, and Rosales were labeled with RG-I-related antibodies to check the presence of the polymer and compare the in situ presentation of its backbone and side chains. The obtained results confirm that RG-I is an obligatory polymer of the tertiary cell wall. However, there are differences in the structure of this polymer from various plant sources, and these peculiarities may be taxonomically related.
Chemical Insect Attractants Produced by Flowers of Impatiens spp. (Balsaminaceae) and List of Floral Visitors
Authors: Jakubska-Busse Anna , Czeluśniak Izabela , Hojniak Marek , Myśliwy Monika , Najberek Kamil
Published: December 2023

The study of the semiochemicals produced by the flowers of Impatiens spp. is an important topic that may explain the reason for the rapid expansion of some species in this genus. Impatiens L. belongs to the Balsaminaceae family, which includes several species considered to be invasive plants in Europe. This study aimed to characterize the phytochemistry of four naturally occurring plant species in Poland, including three invasive alien taxa (Impatiens parviflora, I. glandulifera, and I. capensis) and one native species (I. noli-tangere). Gas chromatographic techniques were used to assess phytochemical profiles of chemical attractant cues in their pollination biology. We detected differences in the scent profiles of the investigated species. All the examined Impatiens species produce various alcohols, i.e., heptacosanol, octacosanol, aldehydes (e.g., octadecanal, eicosanal, etc.), and fatty acids, as well as long-chain hydrocarbons such as dodecane, tricosane, petacosane, hexacosane, and farnesene. Impatiens parviflora, I. glandulifera, and I. capensis produce geraniol and linalool, which attract members of the Apidae family, including bumblebees and honeybees. Impatiens parviflora also produces linalool-derived monoterpenes (linalool oxide and 8-hydroxylinalool), which are a strong attractant for Diptera; this may clarify why the species is mainly visited and pollinated by syrphid flies. A list of insect visitors to the Impatiens species under study can be found in the article.
Determining the Mouth-to-Microphone Distance in Rigid Laryngoscopy: A Simple Solution Based on the Newly Measured Values of the Depth of Endoscope Insertion into the Mouth
Authors: Valášková Dominika , Vydrová Jitka , Švec Jan G.
Published: December 2023

Mouth-to-microphone (MTM) distance is important when measuring the sound of voice. However, determining the MTM distance for laryngoscope-mounted microphones during laryngoscopic examinations is cumbersome. We introduce a novel solution for such cases, using the depth of insertion of the laryngoscope into the mouth DI as a reference distance. We measured the average insertion depth, DI, in 60 adult women and 60 adult men for rigid laryngoscopes with 70° and 90° view. We found the DI for the 70°/90° laryngoscope to be 9.7 ± 0.9/9.4 ± 0.6 cm in men, 8.9 ± 0.9/8.7 ± 0.7 cm in women, and 9.3 ± 0.9/9.0 ± 0.7 cm in all adults. Using these values, we show that, for microphones fixed at 15–40 cm from the tip of the laryngoscope, the final MTM distances are between 5 and 35 cm from the lips, and the standard uncertainties of these distances are between 16% and 2.5%. Our solution allows laryngologists and laryngoscope manufacturers to set and estimate the MTM distance for any rigid laryngeal endoscope with a microphone attached with reasonable accuracy, avoiding the need to measure this distance in vivo in routine practice.
Hepatitis Flares or Hepatic Decompensation after Discontinuation of Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate and Entecavir in Non-Cirrhotic Hepatitis B e Antigen-Negative Patients
Authors: Huang Yi-Jie , Li Tsai-Chung , Chen Cheng-Hsu , Chang Chung-Hsin , Liao Szu-Chia , Lee Shou-Wu , Peng Yen-Chun , Lee Teng-Yu , Wang Jun-Sing
Published: December 2023

Hepatic events can occur after discontinuing antiviral therapy. We investigated factors associated with hepatitis flares and hepatic decompensation after discontinuing tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) and entecavir (ETV). Hepatitis flares within 6 months and hepatic decompensation were compared between non-cirrhotic hepatitis B e antigen-negative patients after discontinuing TDF or ETV by using the Cox proportional hazard model. The cumulative rates of hepatitis flare at 6 months after discontinuing ETV and TDF were 2% and 19%, respectively (p < 0.001). The respective rates of hepatic decompensation at 6 months were 0% and 7% (p = 0.009). Higher alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (AASLD criteria) at the end of treatment (EOT) (HR = 4.93; p = 0.001), an off-therapy dynamic change in HBV DNA (rapid rebound of HBV DNA from the nadir, ≥1 log10 IU/mL per month) (HR = 10.7; p < 0.001), and the discontinuation of TDF (HR = 6.44; p = 0.006) were independently associated with hepatitis flares within 6 months. Older age (HR = 1.06; p < 0.001) and an off-therapy dynamic change in HBV DNA (HR = 3.26; p = 0.028) were independently associated with hepatic decompensation after the discontinuation of antiviral therapy. In summary, we demonstrated several factors associated with hepatitis flares and hepatic decompensation after discontinuing antiviral therapy in non-cirrhotic hepatitis B e antigen-negative patients.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Smoking Increase the Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: Smoking Cessation Pharmacotherapy
Authors: Pataka Athanasia , Kotoulas Serafeim-Chrysovalantis , Karkala Aliki , Tzinas Asterios , Kalamaras George , Kasnaki Nectaria , Sourla Evdokia , Stefanidou Emiliza
Published: December 2023

Tobacco smoking has been a recognized risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Smoking is a chronic relapsing disease and pharmacotherapy is a main component of smoking cessation. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and smoking both increase the risk of CVD and are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. There are few existing data examining how pharmacological treatment, such as nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), bupropion, and varenicline, affect smokers suffering with OSA and especially their cardiovascular effects. The aim of this review was to evaluate the effects of smoking cessation pharmacotherapy on OSA with a special emphasis on the cardiovascular system. Results: Only small studies have assessed the effect of NRTs on OSA. Nicotine gum administration showed an improvement in respiratory events but with no permanent results. No specific studies were found on the effect of bupropion on OSA, and a limited number evaluated varenicline’s effects on sleep and specifically OSA. Varenicline administration in smokers suffering from OSA reduced the obstructive respiratory events, especially during REM. Studies on second-line medication (nortriptyline, clonidine, cytisine) are even more limited. There are still no studies evaluating the cardiovascular effects of smoking cessation medications on OSA patients. Conclusions: Sleep disturbances are common withdrawal effects during smoking cessation but could be also attributed to pharmacotherapy. Smokers should receive personalized treatment during their quitting attempts according to their individual needs and problems, including OSA. Future studies are needed in order to evaluate the efficacy and safety of smoking cessation medications in OSA patients.
The Impact of Regional Nerve Blocks on Postoperative Delirium or Cognitive Dysfunction following Thoracic Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kim Su Yeon , Lee Jiyoun , Na Hyo-Seok , Koo Bon-Wook , Lee Keum O , Shin Hyun-Jung
Published: December 2023

Regional nerve blocks (NBs) mitigate the occurrence of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) and postoperative delirium (POD) in adult patients undergoing thoracic surgery. This study aimed to determine the exact effect of NBs on POCD and POD. Electronic databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science, were searched for studies. The primary outcome was the incidence of POD or POCD. The secondary outcome was pain scores assessed 24 and 48 h postoperatively. We calculated the log odds ratio (LOR) and standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The LOR was converted to an odds ratio (OR). In the analysis of 1010 patients from seven randomized controlled trials, POD and POCD rates were 14.1% and 16.7%, respectively, in the NB group, and higher, at 27.3% and 35.2%, in the control group. NBs reduced the incidence of POD (OR, 0.44; 95%CI 0.30 to 0.64; p < 0.001; I2 = 0.00%) and POCD (OR, 0.43; 95%CI 0.24 to 0.76; p < 0.001; I2 = 0.00%). NBs reduced pain scores at 24 h (SMD, −2.60; 95%CI −3.90 to −1.30, p < 0.001; I2 = 97.68%) and 48 h (SMD, −1.80; 95%CI −3.18 to −0.41, p = 0.01; I2 = 98.14%) postoperatively. NBs mitigated the occurrence of POD and POCD in adult patients after thoracic surgery.
To Shed Light on the UV Curable Coating Technology: Current State of the Art and Perspectives
Authors: Patil Renuka Subhash , Thomas Jomin , Patil Mahesh , John Jacob
Published: December 2023

The industrial application of UV curable coatings is being widely commercialized at a rapid pace with very diversified product markets. UV curing has existed for many years now, but the new commercial opportunities emerging for sustainable, and climate friendly technologies have driven demand for photo-curable coating systems. It is primarily attributed to its environmentally friendly solvent-free and energy-efficient method. Precedented UV light curable coatings are being commercialized and numerous lamp sources are being extensively studied. In such an era of predominant research evolving the UV curing technology horizon, we attempt to outline the state of the art, opportunities, and challenges. This contribution attempts to highlight, in a comprehensive way, sustainable UV coating on the basis of recent research advancements, existing challenges and prospective scope in this field. With a set of prerequisite foundational knowledge into UV curable coatings and mechanisms, the review has meticulously looked at the recent research advancements. This review contribution attempts to focus on three aspects: the known science behind UV curing coatings, coupled with the recent advancements, and future opportunities.
Characterization and In Vitro Fungicide Sensitivity of Two Fusarium spp. Associated with Stem Rot of Dragon Fruit in Guizhou, China
Authors: Zhao Jin , Huang Miao
Published: December 2023

Dragon fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus) constitutes an important economic industry in Guizhou Province, China, and the occurrence of stem rot has become increasingly severe. In this study, we aimed to determine the causative pathogens of stem rot in this region and analyze their sensitivity to fungicides. Twenty-four fungal isolates were obtained from diseased tissues, from which H-4 and H-5 were confirmed as pathogens based on Koch’s postulates. Based on the morphological characteristics of macroconidia, microconidia, and colony morphology, the polygenic phylogenetic tree constructed using internal transcribed spacer, elongation factor 1-alpha, and retinol-binding protein-2 gene fragments, and carbon source metabolism analysis using FF microplates, the two pathogens were identified as F. oxysporum and a newly discovered pathogen, F. concentricum. In addition, the in vitro toxicity of eight fungicides against both pathogens was measured based on the mycelial growth rate. The results showed that trifloxystrobin 25%·tebuconazole 50% (75 WG) exhibited the strongest inhibitory effect against both isolates, with EC50 values of 0.13 µg/mL and 0.14 µg/mL, respectively. These findings hold significant potential for guiding the effective treatment of stem rot in dragon fruit in Guizhou, China.
Adherence to Quality Indicators for Breast Cancer Management in a Multidisciplinary Training Program
Authors: Baù Maria Grazia , Borella Fulvio , Mano Maria Piera , Giordano Livia , Carosso Marco , Surace Alessandra , Mondino Aurelia , Gallio Niccolò , Benedetto Chiara
Published: December 2023

Background: The management of early breast cancer (BC) needs supervision and skill maintenance, and should be performed by specialists working as a team in multidisciplinary breast units. This approach aims to improve the long-term survival and quality of life of patients with BC. Methods: This was a prospective observational study including patients newly diagnosed with operable BC. The study encompassed the pre-surgical phase, throughout the diagnostic and surgical workout, and included post-therapeutic master multidisciplinary team meetings (MTMs) sessions, between 2019 and 2022. Results: We enrolled 280 patients with BC from eight breast units. The Senonetwork indicators regarding diagnosis, waiting time, loco-regional treatment, and adjuvant therapy were collected for each patient discussed. Conclusions: Overall, the majority of quality indicators were respected among breast units. The most critical issue referred to timing indicators: more than 30 days from MTM to surgery, more than 42 days from diagnosis to surgery, and more than 60 days from the first screening mammogram to surgery for many patients. Some aspects of the histopathological diagnosis of intraductal BC also need to be improved. Furthermore, other critical issues in our study regarded some aesthetical indicators, demonstrating low interest in these essential quality indicators.
Are Cryptocurrency Forks Wealth Creating?
Authors: Hu Bill , Miller Jonathan
Published: December 2023

We find that planned cryptocurrency forks, like voluntary corporate spin-offs, are wealth-creating. Involuntary forks that are forced due to hacks and other problems with the blockchain are not. We find diminishing returns for second-generation forks, alleviating the concern of forking solely for wealth creation.
Method of Extracting the Instantaneous Phases and Frequencies of Respiration from the Signal of a Photoplethysmogram
Authors: Borovkova Ekaterina I. , Ponomarenko Vladimir I. , Karavaev Anatoly S. , Dubinkina Elizaveta S. , Prokhorov Mikhail D.
Published: December 2023

We propose for the first time a method for extracting the instantaneous phases of respiration from the signal of a photoplethysmogram (PPG). In addition to the instantaneous phases of respiration, this method allows for more accurately extracting the instantaneous frequencies of respiration from a PPG than other methods. The proposed method is based on a calculation of the element-wise product of the wavelet spectrum of a PPG and the sequence of intervals between the heartbeats extracted from a PPG, and a calculation of the skeleton of the resulting spectrum in the respiratory frequency range. It is shown that such an element-wise product makes it possible to extract the instantaneous phases and instantaneous frequencies of respiration more accurately than using the wavelet transform of a PPG signal or the sequence of the heartbeat intervals. The proposed method was verified by analyzing the signals from healthy subjects recorded during stress-inducing cognitive tasks. This method can be used in wearable devices for signal processing.
Coupled Propagation Dynamics of Information and Infectious Disease on Two-Layer Complex Networks with Simplices
Authors: Hong Zhiyong , Zhou Huiyu , Wang Zhishuang , Yin Qian , Liu Jingang
Published: December 2023

The mutual influence between information and infectious diseases during the spreading process is becoming increasingly prominent. To elucidate the impact of factors such as higher-order interactions, interpersonal distances, and asymptomatic carriers on the coupled propagation of information and infectious diseases, a novel coupled spreading model is constructed based on a two-layer complex network, where one layer is a higher-order network and another layer is a weighted network. The higher-order interactions in information propagation are characterized using a 2-simplex, and a sUARU (simplicial unaware-aware-removed-unaware) model is employed to articulate information propagation. The inter-individual social distances in disease propagation are represented by the weights of a weighted network, and an SEIS (susceptible-exposed-infected-susceptible) model is utilized to describe disease propagation. The dynamic equations of coupled spreading are formulated utilizing the microscopic Markov chain approach. An analytical expression for the epidemic threshold is obtained by deriving it from the steady-state form of the dynamic equations. Comprehensive simulations are conducted to scrutinize the dynamic characteristics of the coupled spreading model. The findings indicate that enhancing the effects of higher-order interactions in information propagation and increasing inter-individual social distances both lead to higher outbreak thresholds and greater spreading of diseases. Additionally, a stronger infectivity among asymptomatic carriers and an extended incubation period are favorable for the outbreak and spread of an epidemic. These findings can provide meaningful guidance for the prevention and control of real-world epidemics.
Structural Characterization and Anticoagulant Activities of a Keratan Sulfate-like Polysaccharide from the Sea Cucumber Holothuria fuscopunctata
Authors: Chen Ru , Wang Weili , Yin Ronghua , Pan Ying , Xu Chen , Gao Na , Luo Xiaodong , Zhao Jinhua
Published: December 2023

A sulfated polysaccharide (AG) was extracted and isolated from the sea cucumber H. fuscopunctata, consisting of GlcNAc, GalNAc, Gal, Fuc and lacking any uronic acid residues. Importantly, several chemical depolymerization methods were used to elucidate the structure of the AG through a bottom-up strategy. A highly sulfated galactose (oAG-1) and two disaccharides labeled with 2,5-anhydro-D-mannose (oAG-2, oAG-3) were obtained from the deaminative depolymerized product along with the structures of the disaccharide derivatives (oAG-4~oAG-6) identified from the free radical depolymerized product, suggesting that the repeating building blocks in a natural AG should comprise the disaccharide β-D-GalS-1,4-D-GlcNAc6S. The possible disaccharide side chains (bAG-1) were obtained with mild acid hydrolysis. Thus, a natural AG may consist of a keratan sulfate-like (KS-like) glycosaminoglycan with diverse modifications, including the sulfation types of the Gal residue and the possible disaccharide branches α-D-GalNAc4S6S-1,2-α/β-L-Fuc3S linked to the KS-like chain. Additionally, the anticoagulant activities of the AG and its depolymerized products (dAG1-9) were evaluated in vitro using normal human plasma. The AG could prolong activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) in a dose-dependent manner, and the activity potency was positively related to the chain length. The AG and dAG1-dAG3 could prolong thrombin time (TT), while they had little effect on prothrombin time (PT). The results indicate that the AG could inhibit the intrinsic and common coagulation pathways.
Evaluation of Forged TiAl Alloy Usefulness Based on Their Impact Resistance
Authors: Tetsui Toshimitsu
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this study is to determine if forged TiAl alloys are worth using for small parts such as jet engine turbine blades. As part of this goal, this study investigated ways to improve the impact resistance of forged TiAl alloys and compared them to cast TiAl alloys. The effects of additive elements and microstructure on the impact resistance of forged ternary TiAl alloys of 43.5 at. % Al were evaluated using the Charpy impact test on specimens heated to 500 °C prior to testing. The impact resistance of the forged alloys improved with the addition of Cr, V, and Mn and deteriorated with the addition of Nb. The impact resistance of the microstructure containing a β-phase, a common microstructure in forged TiAl alloys, was significantly lower. The fully lamellar structure obtained at the expense of forgeability showed much higher impact resistance than this. However, even the best impact resistance of the forged alloys was significantly inferior to that of cast ternary alloys of 46.5 at. % Al prepared with the same additive content. Combined with the high cost and low high-temperature strength of the forged TiAl alloys, it is concluded that it is pointless to use forged TiAl alloys for small parts that can be made via casting.
The Primary Mode of Action of Lippia graveolens Essential Oil on Salmonella enterica subsp. Enterica Serovar Typhimurium
Authors: Rubio Ortega Annie , Guinoiseau Elodie , Poli Jean-Pierre , Quilichini Yann , de Rocca Serra Dominique , del Carmen Travieso Novelles Maria , Espinosa Castaño Ivette , Pino Pérez Oriela , Berti Liliane , Lorenzi Vannina
Published: December 2023

Essential oils are known to exhibit diverse antimicrobial properties, showing their value as a natural resource. Our work aimed to investigate the primary mode of action of Cuban Lippia graveolens (Kunth) essential oil (EO) against Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Typhimurium (S. enterica ser. Typhimurium). We assessed cell integrity through various assays, including time-kill bacteriolysis, loss of cell material with absorption at 260 and 280 nm, total protein leakage, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The impact of L. graveolens EO on membrane depolarization was monitored and levels of intracellular and extracellular ATP were measured by fluorescence intensity. The minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations (MIC and MBC) of L. graveolens EO were 0.4 and 0.8 mg/mL, respectively. This EO exhibited notable bactericidal effects on treated cells within 15 min without lysis or leakage of cellular material. TEM showed distinct alterations in cellular ultrastructure, including membrane shrinkage and cytoplasmic content redistribution. We also observed disruption of the membrane potential along with reduced intracellular and extracellular ATP concentrations. These findings show that L. graveolens EO induces the death of S. enterica ser. Typhimurium, important information that can be used to combat this foodborne disease-causing agent.
Synthesis of Calamitic Fluorinated Mesogens with Complex Crystallization Behavior
Authors: Anokhin Denis , Maryasevskaya Alina , Abukaev Ainur , Ozkose Umut Ugur , Buglakov Alexander , Ivanov Dimitri A. , Améduri Bruno
Published: December 2023

This work presents the synthesis and self-organization of the calamitic fluorinated mesogen, 1,1,2,2–tetrafluoro–2–(1,1,2,2–tetrafluoro–4–iodobutoxy)ethanesulfonic acid, a potential model for perfluorosulfonic acid membranes (PFSA). The compound is derived in three steps from 1,1,2,2–tetrafluoro–2–(1,1,2,2–tetrafluoro–2–iodoethoxy)ethanesulfonyl fluoride, achieving a 78% overall yield. The resulting compound exhibits intricate thermal behavior. At 150 °C, a crystal-to-crystal transition is observed due to the partial disordering of calamitic molecules, which is followed by isotropization at 218 °C. Upon cooling, sample ordering occurs through the formation of large smectic liquid crystalline phase domains. This thermotropic state transforms into a layered crystal phase at lower temperatures, characterized by alternating hydrophilic and hydrophobic layers. Using X-ray diffraction, crystalline unit cell models at both room temperature and 170 °C were proposed. Computer simulations of the molecule across varying temperatures support the idea that thermal transitions correlate with a loss of molecular orientation. Importantly, the study underscores the pivotal role of precursor self-organization in aligning channels during membrane fabrication, ensuring controlled and oriented positioning.
A Small Change in Structure, a Big Change in Flexibility
Authors: Vassilev Nikolay G. , Ivanov Ivo C.
Published: December 2023

Studies of the rotational barrier energy of the amide bond using quantum computing and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) are focused mainly on its use as a model of the peptide bond. The results of these studies are valuable not only in terms of the fundamental conformational properties of amide bonds, but also in the design of molecular machines, which have recently attracted interest. We investigate the fluxionality of the amide and enamide bonds of compound 3-[(E)-(dimethylamino)methylidene]-1,1-dimethylurea using advanced dynamic NMR experiments and a theoretical evaluation of the density functional theory (DFT) calculation. The dynamic NMR study shows restricted rotation around the amide group (16.4 kcal/mol) and a very high barrier around the enamine group (18.6 kcal/mol). In a structurally similar compound, (E)-3-(dimethylamino)-N,N-dimethylacrylamide (N atom is replaced by CH), the amide barrier is 12.4 kcal/mol and the enamine barrier is 11.7 kcal/mol. The DFT studies of both compounds reveal the electronic origin of this phenomenon. Theoretical calculations reveal the origin of the higher enamine barrier. The better delocalization of the lone pair of electrons on the end nitrogen atom into the antibonding orbital of the neighboring C–N double bond leads to the better stabilization of the ground state, and this leads to a greater increase in the enamine barrier.
Shock-Induced Degradation of Guanosine and Uridine Promoted by Nickel and Carbonate: Potential Applications
Authors: Maia Gustavo P. , da Silva José Armando Luísa , André Vânia , Galvão Adelino M.
Published: December 2023

Experimental studies of the degradation of two ribonucleosides (guanosine and uridine) were carried out by making use of mechanochemistry. Mechanochemical experiments reveal the decomposition of guanosine and uridine, promoted by nickel(II) and carbonate ions, into guanine and uracil, respectively. These nucleobases were identified by HPLC and 1H NMR spectroscopy (this applied only to uracil). Additionally, density-functional theory (DFT) methodologies were used to probe the energetic viability of several degradation pathways, including in the presence of the abovementioned ions. Three mechanisms were analysed via ribose ring-opening: dry, single-molecule water-assisted, and metal-assisted, wherein the last two mechanisms confirmed the mechanochemical degradation of both ribonucleosides into respective nucleobase moieties. These results can contribute to an astrobiological interpretation of the extraterrestrial sample’s contents.
The Development, Validation, and Application of a UHPLC-HESI-MS Method for the Determination of 17 Cannabinoids in Cannabis sativa L. var. sativa Plant Material
Authors: Kanabus Joanna , Bryła Marcin , Roszko Marek
Published: December 2023

Cannabinoids are an important group of secondary metabolites found in the plant Cannabis sativa L. The growing interest in the use of hemp in food production (e.g., hemp teas, hemp cookies) makes it necessary to develop a method for determining these compounds in the plant, both fresh and dried. The selection of a suitable extraction liquid for the extraction of cannabinoids and the development of a method for the determination of 17 cannabinoids is a prelude to the development of an effective method for the extraction of these compounds. In the present study, a novel, simple, and efficient method was developed and validated for the determination of up to 17 cannabinoids in fresh plant parts (inflorescences and leaves) of Cannabis sativa L. and in dried material, including hemp teas. Analyses were performed using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-Q-Exactive Orbitrap mass spectrometry setup operating with a heated electrospray interface (UHPLC-HESI-MS). Based on the comparison, methanol was selected as the best for the extraction of cannabinoids from fresh and dried material. The efficiency and validity of the method were assessed using certified reference material (dried Cannabis) and confirmed by z-score from participation in an international proficiency test conducted by ASTM International for dried hemp.
Antitumor and Phytochemical Properties of Ferula assa-foetida L. Oleo-Gum–Resin against HT-29 Colorectal Cancer Cells In Vitro and in a Xenograft Mouse Model
Authors: Elarabany Naglaa , Hamad Abeer , Alzamel Nurah M.
Published: December 2023

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most frequently occurring tumors. Ferula assa-foetida oleo-gum–resin (OGR) extract is a traditional cooking spice known for its broad spectrum of biological activities such as antifungal, antiparasitic, and anti-inflammatory activities. This study evaluated the antitumor effect of OGR extract against HT-29 colorectal cancer cells. The OGR chemical composition was analyzed using LC–ESI–MS/MS; MTT, clonogenic assays, and a xenograft model were used to measure cytotoxicity, while apoptotic proteins were detected using Western blotting. Phytochemical analysis revealed that the extract was a rich source of isoflavones, xanthones, and other derivatives. In a dose-dependent manner, the OGR extract significantly inhibited colony formation ability and HT-29 cell growth (IC50 was 3.60 ± 0.02 and 10.5 ± 0.1 mg/mL, respectively). On the other hand, the OGR extract significantly induced apoptosis and increased the expression of some pro-death proteins involved in cellular apoptosis including PUMA, BIM, BIK, and BAK. Moreover, in a subcutaneous HT-29 xenograft model, the tumor volume and burden decreased after treatment with the OGR extract (550 ± 32 mm3 and 16.3 ± 3.6, respectively) This study demonstrated that Ferula assa-foetida OGR ethanolic extract has potential antitumor effects against HT-29 CRC cell lines by reducing cell viability and the function of apoptosis. More studies are needed to reveal the underlying mechanisms related to cytotoxicity and apoptosis induction.
Synergistic Spatial Confining Effect and O Vacancy in WO3 Hollow Sphere for Enhanced N2 Reduction
Authors: Xia Yuzhou , Xia Xinghe , Zhu Shuying , Liang Ruowen , Yan Guiyang , Chen Feng , Wang Xuxu
Published: December 2023

Visible-light-driven N2 reduction into NH3 in pure H2O provides an energy-saving alternative to the Haber–Bosch process for ammonia synthesizing. However, the thermodynamic stability of N≡N and low water solubility of N2 remain the key bottlenecks. Here, we propose a solution by developing a WO3−x hollow sphere with oxygen vacancies. Experimental analysis reveals that the hollow sphere structure greatly promotes the enrichment of N2 molecules in the inner cavity and facilitates the chemisorption of N2 onto WO3−x-HS. The outer layer’s thin shell facilitates the photogenerated charge transfer and the full exposure of O vacancies as active sites. O vacancies exposed on the surface accelerate the activation of N≡N triple bonds. As such, the optimized catalyst shows a NH3 generation rate of 140.08 μmol g−1 h−1, which is 7.94 times higher than the counterpart WO3-bulk.
Engineering a New IFN-ApoA-I Fusion Protein with Low Toxicity and Prolonged Action
Authors: Miroshnichenko Svetlana , Pykhtina Mariya , Kotliarova Anastasiia , Chepurnov Alexander , Beklemishev Anatoly
Published: December 2023

Recombinant human interferon alpha-2b (rIFN) is widely used in antiviral and anticancer immunotherapy. However, the high efficiency of interferon therapy is accompanied by a number of side effects; this problem requires the design of a new class of interferon molecules with reduced cytotoxicity. In this work, IFN was modified via genetic engineering methods by merging it with the blood plasma protein apolipoprotein A-I in order to reduce acute toxicity and improve the pharmacokinetics of IFN. The chimeric protein was obtained via biosynthesis in the yeast P. pastoris. The yield of ryIFN-ApoA-I protein when cultivated on a shaker in flasks was 30 mg/L; protein purification was carried out using reverse-phase chromatography to a purity of 95–97%. The chimeric protein demonstrated complete preservation of the biological activity of IFN in the model of vesicular stomatitis virus and SARS-CoV-2. In addition, the chimeric form had reduced cytotoxicity towards Vero cells and increased cell viability under viral load conditions compared with commercial IFN-a2b preparations. Analysis of the pharmacokinetic profile of ryIFN-ApoA-I after a single subcutaneous injection in mice showed a 1.8-fold increased half-life of the chimeric protein compared with ryIFN.
Prior Evaluation of Nutritional Status and Mortality in Patients with Sepsis in South Korea
Authors: Oh Tak Kyu , Song In-Ae
Published: December 2023

Our objective was to determine whether nutritional status correlates with mortality in sepsis patients. Data from a nationwide registration database were utilized for this population-based cohort study. The study subjects comprised adults who received standard health examinations before being admitted to the hospital for sepsis and were diagnosed with sepsis between 2018 and 2020. Nutrition scores were evaluated using the Nutritional Lifestyle Assessment Tool in South Korea. Overall, 2482 patients with sepsis were included in this study. The 90-day and 1-year mortality rates in patients with sepsis were 26.8% (664/2482) and 34.2% (848/2482), respectively. In the covariate-adjusted multivariable logistic regression model, a 1-point increase in nutrition score was associated with a decrease in 90-day mortality in patients with sepsis (odds ratio [OR]: 0.98, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.97, 0.98; p = 0.025). In the covariate-adjusted multivariable Cox regression model, a 1-point increase in nutrition score was associated with a decrease in 1-year mortality in patients with sepsis (hazard ratio [H.R.]: 0.99, 95% CI: 0.98, 0.99; p = 0.035). Our results suggest that adequate dietary intake and healthy eating habits might protect against mortality among sepsis patients.
Spin-Hall Effect of Cylindrical Vector Vortex Beams
Authors: Zhang Xuyao , Wang Shuo , Liu Jinhong , Wu Jinze , Li Jinhong
Published: December 2023

Spin-Hall effect (SHE) of light is one of the main manifestations of the spin-orbit interaction of photons, and has been extensively studied for optical beams with homogeneous polarization. Here, we present a theoretical study of the SHE of cylindrical vector vortex beams (CVVBs) possessing inhomogeneous polarization. We derive the analytical expressions of the SHE of CVVBs reflected and refracted at a dielectric interface with radial and azimuthal polarization of incidence. The spin-dependent shifts of the SHE of light linearly depend on the topological charge of the CVVBs. In contrast to the conventional SHE of horizontally or vertically polarized beams, the SHE shifts of the CVVBs are asymmetrical when the topological charge is nonzero. This asymmetry results in the transverse Imbert–Fedorov (IF) shifts that are proportional to the topological charge. Furthermore, based on weak measurement, we propose an experimental scheme to enhance the SHE and related IF shifts with proper pre- and post-selection polarization states. Our results advance the study of the SHE of structured light and may find applications in SHE-based techniques such as precision measurement.
Controlled-Release Nitrogen Mixed with Common Nitrogen Fertilizer Can Maintain High Yield of Rapeseed and Improve Nitrogen Utilization Efficiency
Authors: Hu Yue , Zhang Fangfang , Hassan Javed Hafiz , Peng Xiao , Chen Honglin , Tang Weiqun , Lai Ying , Wu Yongcheng
Published: December 2023

Field experiments were conducted to study the effects of different proportions of controlled-release nitrogen fertilizer mixed with quick-acting nitrogen fertilizer on the yield and nitrogen utilization efficiency of direct-seeding rapeseed. Using a conventional nitrogen application rate of 180 kg ha−1 as a control, a total of 5 types of available nitrogen fertilizers and different proportions of controlled-release nitrogen fertilizers were mixed for fertilizer treatment. The proportion of available nitrogen fertilizer used was 135 kg ha−1, and the addition ratios of the five types of controlled-release nitrogen fertilizers were 0%, 30%, 50%, 70%, and 100%, respectively (i.e., the proportion of controlled-release nitrogen to the total nitrogen application amount). These ratios were represented as N135R0, N135R1, N135R2, N135R3, and N135R4, respectively. The results showed that there was no significant difference in the number of pods per plant, the number of seeds per pod, or the grain yield under the treatment of controlled-release nitrogen fertilizer mixed with quick-acting nitrogen fertilizer for proportions of 30–50% (N135R1~R3) when compared with the control, and a stable yield was achieved. Mixing controlled-release nitrogen fertilizer under reduced nitrogen application can significantly improve the apparent utilization rate of rapeseed nitrogen fertilizer, but it first increases and then decreases with the increase of the controlled-release nitrogen mixing ratio, reaching its highest under the N135R2 treatment. The agronomic utilization efficiency and partial productivity of nitrogen fertilizer first increased and then decreased with the increased proportion of controlled-release nitrogen, and both reached their highest utilization with the N135R2 treatment. The mixed treatment of controlled-release nitrogen did not affect soil urease activity, but significantly increased soil sucrase activity. The mixed treatment of controlled-release nitrogen also increased soil microbial biomass nitrogen and carbon content. Especially in the flowering stage, the soil microbial biomass nitrogen and carbon content was significantly higher under a controlled-release nitrogen mixing ratio of 30–50%. At the same time, it had a similar effect on soil inorganic nitrogen content. Therefore, a controlled-release nitrogen mixing treatment provided sufficient nitrogen for the key growth period of rapeseed. Under the condition of reducing the amount of nitrogen fertilizer by 25% based on the amount of nitrogen fertilizer applied to conventional rapeseed, the application of controlled-release urea mixed with common nitrogen fertilizer mixed at a ratio of 30–50% can be an effective way to maintain grain yield levels and improve nitrogen utilization efficiency.
Electrostatic Spray Deposition of Al-Doped ZnO Thin Films for Acetone Gas Detection
Authors: Lee Geonhui , Sim Jae-Ho , Oh Gyeongseok , Won Mijin , Mantry Snigdha Paramita , Kim Dong-Soo
Published: December 2023

In this study, pure ZnO and Al-doped ZnO(AZO) thin films were coated onto a SiO2 wafer using the electrostatic spray deposition (ESD) process for acetone gas detection under laboratory conditions. Voltage levels were varied to determine the optimal conditions for producing thin films with the highest uniformity. The results indicate that the optimal coating voltage for achieving the highest uniformity of the coated films is 2.9 kV for ZnO and 2.6 kV for AZO. The thin films were produced under these optimal ESD conditions by adjusting the coating time, and gas sensors were fabricated by printing electrodes using a reverse offset process on top of the thin films. Analysis of the sensing response revealed that the AZO-coated gas sensor with a 200 s deposition exhibited the best acetone-sensing ability at 300 °C, with a maximum response of 13.41 at 10 ppm. Furthermore, the fabricated gas sensors effectively detected acetone gas even at a low concentration of 2 ppm, demonstrating high selectivity in comparison to other gases.
Enhancing Response Surface Methodology through Coefficient Clipping Based on Prior Knowledge
Authors: Kim Jiyun , Kim Do-Gun , Ryu Kyung Hwan
Published: December 2023

Response surface methodology (RSM) is one of the most effective design of experiments (DoE) methods for analyzing and optimizing experiments with limited data. However, the performance of RSM is highly dependent on the quality of the experimental data (e.g., measurement error and bias). In this work, we introduce a coefficient clipping technique based on prior knowledge to address this problem in RSM. To maintain the simplicity of RSM, the representative prior knowledge of monotonically increasing/decreasing and convex/concave relationships is considered as constraints. The proposed method uses the same experimental data as typical RSM, but can more accurately analyze the relationship between the independent variable and the output response. The performance of the proposed method is verified via various case studies, including the experiment of antibiotic adsorption in wastewater.
The Imagination of Alchemy: A Chinese Response to Catholicism in Late Ming and Early Qing
Authors: Wang Xiliang
Published: December 2023

As a common cultural phenomenon in China and the West, alchemy not only embodies the scientific spirit of people before modern times, but also contains certain religious beliefs, and even creates unrealistic secular imaginations. When Catholicism entered China during the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Chinese also projected this imagination of alchemy onto the missionaries. Behind this imagination actually lays the strong interest of Chinese people in the financial resources of the missionaries. On the one hand, there is the historical influence of traditional Chinese alchemy, and on the other hand, there is the curiosity caused by the lifestyle of missionaries in China. The imagination of alchemy not only reflects a historical aspect of the encounter between China and the West during the Ming and Qing dynasties, but also reflects a complex social psychology of mixed curiosity, panic, suspicion, and vigilance in pre-modern China.
A Fault Detection Approach Based on One-Sided Domain Adaptation and Generative Adversarial Networks for Railway Door Systems
Authors: Shimizu Minoru , Zhao Yifan , Avdelidis Nicolas P.
Published: December 2023

Fault detection using the domain adaptation technique is one of the more promising methods of solving the domain shift problem, and has therefore been intensively investigated in recent years. However, the domain adaptation method still has elements of impracticality: firstly, domain-specific decision boundaries are not taken into consideration, which often results in poor performance near the class boundary; and secondly, information on the source domain needs to be exploited with priority over information on the target domain, as the source domain can provide a rich dataset. Thus, the real-world implementations of this approach are still scarce. In order to address these issues, a novel fault detection approach based on one-sided domain adaptation for real-world railway door systems is proposed. An anomaly detector created using label-rich source domain data is used to generate distinctive source latent features, and the target domain features are then aligned toward the source latent features in a one-sided way. The performance and sensitivity analyses show that the proposed method is more accurate than alternative methods, with an F1 score of 97.9%, and is the most robust against variation in the input features. The proposed method also bridges the gap between theoretical domain adaptation research and tangible industrial applications. Furthermore, the proposed approach can be applied to conventional railway components and various electro-mechanical actuators. This is because the motor current signals used in this study are primarily obtained from the controller or motor drive, which eliminates the need for extra sensors.