bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MR Imaging of Hemosiderin Deposition in the Ankle Joints of Patients with Haemophilia: The Contribution of a Multi-Echo Gradient-Echo Sequence—Correlation with Osteochondral Changes and the Number and Chronicity of Joint Bleeds
Authors: Papakonstantinou Olympia , Karavasilis Efstratios , Martzoukos Epaminondas , Velonakis Georgios , Kelekis Nikolaos , Pergantou Helen
Published: September 2024

We aim (a) to introduce an easy-to-perform multi-echo gradient-echo sequence (mGRE) for the detection of hemosiderin deposition in the ankle joints of boys with haemophilia (b) to explore the associations between the presence and severity of hemosiderin deposition and the other components of haemophilic arthropathy, the clinical score, and the number and chronicity of joint bleeds. An MRI of 41 ankle joints of 21 haemophilic boys was performed on a 3 T MRI system using an mGRE sequence in addition to the conventional protocol. Conventional MRI and mGRE were separately and independently assessed by three readers, namely, two musculoskeletal radiologists and a general radiologist for joint hemosiderin. We set as a reference the consensus reading of the two musculoskeletal radiologists, who also evaluated the presence of synovial thickening, effusion, and osteochondral changes. Excellent inter-reader agreement was obtained using the mGRE sequence compared to the conventional protocol (ICC: 0.95–0.97 versus 0.48–0.89), with superior sensitivity (90–95% versus 50–85%), specificity (95.2–100% versus 76.2–95.2%), and positive (95–100% versus 71–94.4%) and negative predictive value (91.3–95.5% versus 87–63%). Hemosiderin deposition was associated with osteochondral changes, synovial thickening, clinical score, and the total number of ankle bleeds, while it was inversely related with the time elapsed between the last joint bleed and MRI. (p < 0.05). The application of an mGRE sequence significantly improved hemosiderin detection, even when performed by the less experienced reader. Joint hemosiderin deposition was associated with the other components of haemophilic arthropathy and was mostly apparent in recent joint bleeds.
Optimizing Femoral Access in Emergency EVAR with a Decision-Making Algorithm
Authors: Mirabella Domenico , Bruno Salvatore , La Marca Manfredi Agostino , Dinoto Ettore , Rodriquenz Edoardo , Miccichè Andrea , Pecoraro Felice
Published: September 2024

Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) has become the preferred approach over open repair for abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) due to its minimally invasive nature. The common femoral artery (CFA) is the main access vessel for EVAR, with both surgical exposure and percutaneous access being utilized. However, in emergent cases, percutaneous access can be challenging and may result in complications such as bleeding or dissection thrombosis, leading to the need for surgical conversion. This study aimed to share experiences in implementing a decision-making algorithm to reduce surgical conversions due to percutaneous access failures. A total of 74 aortic patients treated with EVAR in emergency settings were included in this retrospective study. This study focused on various outcomes such as perioperative mortality, morbidity, procedure time, surgical exposure time, and surgical conversion rate. After the implementation of the decision-making algorithm, decreases in surgical conversions and operating time were observed. Percutaneous access was found to be more challenging in cases with specific anatomical characteristics of the CFA, such as severe atherosclerosis or smaller vessel diameter. This study highlighted the importance of carefully assessing patient anatomical features and utilizing a decision-making algorithm to optimize outcomes in EVAR procedures. Further research is needed to continue improving practices for managing aortic aneurysms and reducing complications in femoral artery access approaches.
Running-In of DLC–Third Body or Transfer Film Formation
Authors: Faller Joachim , Scherge Matthias
Published: September 2024

Amorphous carbon coatings are widely used due to their beneficial friction and wear characteristics. A detailed understanding of their behavior during running-in, apart from model tribosystems, has yet to be obtained. Multiple analytical methods were used to detect the physical and chemical changes in a ta-C coating and its thermally sprayed, metallic counterpart after a running-in procedure with pin-on-disk experiments. Both coatings exhibited changes in their surface and near-surface chemistry. The mechanisms in and on the metallic coating were identified to be a mixture of the third-body type, with the formation of gradients in the microstructure and chemistry and an additional carbon-rich tribofilm formation on top. The ta-C coating’s changes in chemistry with sp2 enrichment and lubricant element inclusions proved to be too complex to allocate them to tribofilm or third-body formation.
Antibacterial Dental Adhesive Containing Cetylpyridinium Chloride Montmorillonite
Authors: Okazaki Yohei , Nakamori Kiichi , Yao Chenmin , Ahmed Mohammed H. , Mercelis Benjamin , Nagaoka Noriyuki , Maruo Yukinori , Yoshida Yasuhiro , Abe Yasuhiko , Van Meerbeek Bart , Yoshihara Kumiko
Published: September 2024

Oral bacteria cause tooth caries and periodontal disease. Much research is being conducted to prevent both major oral diseases by rendering dental materials’ antimicrobial potential. However, such antimicrobial materials are regarded as ‘combination’ products and face high hurdles for regulatory approval. We loaded inorganic montmorillonite with the antimicrobial agent cetylpyridinium chloride, referred to below as ‘CPC-Mont’. CPC-Mont particles in a 1, 3 and 5 wt% concentration were added to the considered gold-standard self-etch adhesive Clearfil SE Bond 2 (‘CSE2’; Kuraray Noritake) to render its antibacterial potential (CSE2 without CPC-Mont served as control). Besides measuring (immediate) bonding effectiveness and (aged) bond durability to dentin, the antibacterial activity against S. mutans and the polymerization-conversion rate was assessed. Immediate and aged bond strength was not affected by 1 and 3 wt% CPC-Mont addition, while 5 wt% CPC-Mont significantly lowered bond strength and bond durability. The higher the concentration of the antimicrobial material added, the stronger the antimicrobial activity. Polymerization conversion was not affected by the CPC-Mont addition in any of the three concentrations. Hence, adding 3 wt% CPC-Mont to the two-step self-etch adhesive rendered additional antimicrobial potential on top of its primary bonding function.
Severe Microbial Corrosion of L245 Transportation Pipeline Triggered by Wild Sulfate Reducing Bacteria in Shale Gas Produced Water
Authors: Sun Ming , Wang Xinhua , Cui Wei , Liu Hongfang
Published: September 2024

The development of pitting corrosion on L245 carbon steel in a culture medium solution containing sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) was investigated. The results showed that the occurrence of corrosion in L245 carbon steel is closely linked to the evolution of biofilm and product film. As the test duration extended, overall corrosion was inhibited. Simultaneously, bacteria beneath the film layer promoted the generation and development of pitting corrosion, and the aggregation of bacteria (colonies) led to the aggregation of pitting corrosion.
Improved Bayes-Based Reliability Prediction of Small-Sample Hall Current Sensors
Authors: Chen Ting , Liu Zhengyu , Ju Ling , Lu Yongling , Wei Shike
Published: September 2024

As a type of magnetic sensor known for its high reliability and long lifespan, the reliability issues of Hall current sensors have attracted attention in fields such as electromagnetic compatibility. However, there is still a lack of sufficient failure data for reliability prediction. Therefore, a small-sample reliability prediction method based on the improved Bayes method is proposed. Firstly, the pseudo-failure lifespan data are acquired through the accelerated degradation testing of Hall current sensors subjected to temperature and humidity stressors, and the life is examined by the Weibull distribution; then, the data expanded using the BP neural network model are used as the a priori information, and the parameter estimation of the Weibull distribution is obtained by the Bootstrap method and Gibbs sampling; finally, the Peck accelerated model is implemented to achieve the normal temperature-humidity reliability prediction of Hall current sensors under stress, and the utility of the enhanced Bayes technique is confirmed through the application of the Wiener stochastic process model.
Ostrowski-Type Inequalities for Functions of Two Variables in Banach Spaces
Authors: Latif Muhammad Amer , Almutairi Ohud Bulayhan
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we offer Ostrowski-type inequalities that extend the findings that have been proven for functions of one variable with values in Banach spaces, conducted in a remarkable study by Dragomir, to functions of two variables containing values in the product Banach spaces. Our findings are also an extension of several previous findings that have been established for functions of two variable functions. Prior studies on Ostrowski-type inequalities incriminated functions that have values in Banach spaces or Hilbert spaces. This study is unique and significant in the field of mathematical inequalities, and specifically in the study of Ostrowski-type inequalities, because they have been established for functions having values in a product of two Banach spaces.
Stress-Induced Production of Bioactive Oxylipins in Marine Microalgae
Authors: Linares-Maurizi Amandyne , Awad Rana , Durbec Anaelle , Reversat Guillaume , Gros Valérie , Galano Jean-Marie , Bertrand-Michel Justine , Durand Thierry , Pradelles Rémi , Oger Camille , Vigor Claire
Published: September 2024

Microalgae, stemming from a complex evolutionary lineage, possess a metabolic composition influenced by their evolutionary journey. They have the capacity to generate diverse polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), akin to those found in terrestrial plants and oily fish. Also, because of their numerous double bonds, these metabolic compounds are prone to oxidation processes, leading to the creation of valuable bioactive molecules called oxylipins. Moreover, owing to their adaptability across various environments, microalgae offer an intriguing avenue for biosynthesizing these compounds. Thus, modifying the culture conditions could potentially impact the profiles of oxylipins. Indeed, the accumulation of oxylipins in microalgae is subject to the influence of growth conditions, nutrient availability, and stressors, and adjusting these factors can enhance their production in microalgae culture. Consequently, the present study scrutinized the LC-MS/MS profiles of oxylipins from three marine microalgae species (two Haptagophytes and one Chlorophyte) cultivated in 1 L of photobioreactors under varying stress-inducing conditions, such as the introduction of H2O2, EtOAc, and NaCl, during their exponential growth phase. Approximately 50 oxylipins were identified, exhibiting different concentrations depending on the species and growth circumstances. This research suggests that microalgae metabolisms can be steered toward the production of bioactive oxylipins through modifications in the culture conditions. In this instance, the application of a low dose of hydrogen peroxide to Mi 124 appears to stimulate the production of nonenzymatic oxylipins. For Mi136, it is the application of salt stress that seems to increase the overall production of oxylipins. In the case of Mi 168, either a low concentration of H2O2 or a high concentration of AcOEt appears to have this effect.
Detection of Bacteria with Potential to Cause Hospital-Associated Infections in a Small-Species Veterinary Hospital in Mexico
Authors: Hernández-Silva Diego Josimar , Rivera-González Ana Isabel , Avilés-Benitez Laura Karina , Becerra-Reyes Mayra M. , Rivera-Ballesteros Carlos , Morales-García Rodrigo , García-Ramírez Larisa , Chávez-Moreno Orlando Federico , Aguilar-Tipacamu Gabriela , Gómez-Soto José Guadalupe , Mosqueda Juan
Published: September 2024

Hospital-Associated Infections (HAIs) are caused by microorganisms that are not present before patients are admitted to healthcare facilities, and usually have multidrug resistance profiles. There is ample information and active research in human medicine to create preventive and control measures, but there have been fewer efforts in animal medicine, and studies in only a few countries have been examining how this problem presents in veterinary hospitals. In Mexico, there have been no studies on the presence of multidrug-resistant bacteria associated with HAIs in veterinary medicine. Therefore, the surfaces of inanimate objects and equipment in a university veterinary hospital for small species were sampled to search for bacteria with the potential to cause HAIs. After isolation, molecular identification and multidrug resistance tests were carried out. One bacterial strain was found to be resistant to carbapenems, third-generation cephalosporines, and penicillin/β-lactamase inhibitors. Additionally, other susceptible bacterial genera were identified as potential nosocomial pathogens in humans and animals. The presence of multidrug-resistant bacteria was confirmed. Further studies should be conducted to determine the isolate’s origin and its relationship with reported human clinical genotypes. This type of study highlights the importance of epidemiological surveillance and the need to not underestimate the potential risk posed by multidrug-resistant microorganisms.
Mastitis Pathogens Mannheimia haemolytica, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus uberis Selectively Alter TLR Gene Transcription in Sheep Mammary Epithelial Cells
Authors: Tassi Riccardo , Todd Helen , Ballingall Keith T.
Published: September 2024

Despite the impact of mastitis on sheep production worldwide, the pathogenesis and host response to bacterial infection of the ovine mammary gland are poorly characterized. Studies in cattle highlight the significance of the mammary epithelium in pathogen recognition and the subsequent host response. The objective of this study was to assess bacterial adherence, invasion, and Toll like receptor (TLR) gene expression in primary sheep mammary epithelial cells (pMEC) following co-culture with the three principal mastitis pathogens of sheep, Mannheimia haemolytica, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus uberis. S. aureus was 140-fold more adherent than S. uberis and 850-fold more adherent than M. haemolytica. However, only S. aureus was internalized after 3 h of co-culture. TLR1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 9 were shown to be constitutively transcribed by pMEC. M. haemolytica induced upregulation of transcription of TLR1, 2, 3, and 4. By contrast, S. uberis and S. aureus induced concentration-dependent transcription of TLR2 and TLR4 with a higher level of transcription in cells stimulated with the bacteria at a multiplicity of infection (MOI) of 200 compared to cells stimulated with a MOI of 20. These experiments define the range of TLR genes constitutively transcribed in sheep pMEC and show that bacterial infection has the capacity to regulate transcription in a species-specific and concentration-dependent manner.
Water Management-Mediated Changes in the Rhizosphere and Bulk Soil Microbial Communities Alter Their Utilization of Urea-Derived Carbon
Authors: Chen Peng , Li Yawei , Lv Yuping , Xu Junzeng , Zhang Zhongxue , Liu Xiaoyin , Luan Yajun , Wei Qi , Zheng Ennan , Wang Kechun
Published: September 2024

As one of the most important fertilizers in agriculture, the fate of urea-derived nitrogen (urea-N) in agricultural ecosystems has been well documented. However, little is known about the function of urea-derived carbon (urea-C) in soil ecosystems, especially which soil microorganisms benefit most from the supply of urea-C and whether the utilization of urea-C by the rhizosphere and bulk soil microorganisms is affected by irrigation regimes. To address this, a soil pot experiment was conducted using 13C-labeled urea to investigate changes in the composition of the rhizosphere and bulk soil microbial communities and differences in the incorporation of urea-derived C into the rhizosphere and bulk soil phospholipid fatty acids (PLFA) pool under flooded irrigation (FI) and water-saving irrigation (CI). Our results suggest that the size and structure of the rhizosphere and bulk soil microbial communities were strongly influenced by the irrigation regime. The CI treatment significantly increased the total amount of PLFA in both the rhizosphere and bulk soil compared to the FI treatment, but it only significantly affected the abundance of Gram-positive bacteria (G+) in the bulk soil. In contrast, shifts in the microbial community structure induced by irrigation regimes were more pronounced in the rhizosphere soil than in the bulk soil. Compared to the FI treatment, the CI treatment significantly increased the relative abundances of the G+ and Actinobacteria in the rhizosphere soil (p < 0.05). According to the PLFA-SIP, most of the labeled urea-derived C was incorporated into 16:1ω7c, 16:0 and 18:1ω7c under both treatments. Despite these general trends, the pattern of 13C incorporation into the PLFA pool differed between the treatments. The factor loadings of individual PLFAs suggested that 18:1ω7c, 16:1ω7c and 16:1ω5c were relatively enriched in urea-C in the bulk soil, while 17:1ω8c, i16:0 and 16:0 were relatively enriched in urea-C in the rhizosphere soil under different irrigation regimes. The loadings also confirmed that 10-me16:0, cy17:0 and cy19:0 were relatively enriched in urea-C under the CI treatment, whereas 14:0, a15:0 and 15:0 were relatively enriched in urea-C under the FI treatment. These results are helpful not only in revealing the interception mechanism of urea-C in soil but also in understanding the functions of key microbes in element cycles.
Decoding the Gut Microbiome in Companion Animals: Impacts and Innovations
Authors: Shah Harsh , Trivedi Mithil , Gurjar Tejas , Sahoo Dipak Kumar , Jergens Albert E. , Yadav Virendra Kumar , Patel Ashish , Pandya Parth
Published: September 2024

The changing notion of “companion animals” and their increasing global status as family members underscores the dynamic interaction between gut microbiota and host health. This review provides a comprehensive understanding of the intricate microbial ecology within companion animals required to maintain overall health and prevent disease. Exploration of specific diseases and syndromes linked to gut microbiome alterations (dysbiosis), such as inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, and neurological conditions like epilepsy, are highlighted. In addition, this review provides an analysis of the various factors that impact the abundance of the gut microbiome like age, breed, habitual diet, and microbe-targeted interventions, such as probiotics. Detection methods including PCR-based algorithms, fluorescence in situ hybridisation, and 16S rRNA gene sequencing are reviewed, along with their limitations and the need for future advancements. Prospects for longitudinal investigations, functional dynamics exploration, and accurate identification of microbial signatures associated with specific health problems offer promising directions for future research. In summary, it is an attempt to provide a deeper insight into the orchestration of multiple microbial species shaping the health of companion animals and possible species-specific differences.
Physicochemical, Sensory, and Microbiological Analysis of Fermented Drinks Made from White Kidney Bean Extract and Cow’s Milk Blends during Refrigerated Storage
Authors: Kurbanova Ibaratkan , Lauciene Lina , Kondrotiene Kristina , Zakariene Gintare , Radenkovs Vitalijs , Kiselioviene Sandra , Salaseviciene Alvija , Vasiliauskaite Agne , Malakauskas Mindaugas , Musulmanova Mukarama , Serniene Loreta
Published: September 2024

Due to its low dietary impact and bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols and flavonoids, white kidney bean extract is an attractive raw material for fermented drinks. It can be utilized either on its own or blended with cow’s milk, offering a promising solution to help meet dairy product demand during mid-season shortages. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the physicochemical characteristics, sensory properties, and microbiological profile of fermented milk-like drinks made from white kidney bean extract, cow’s milk and their blends during 28 days of storage at 4 °C. Three blends of fermented milk-like drinks (FMLDs) were prepared from different ratios of cow’s milk (CM) and kidney bean extract (BE): FMLD1 (CM 30%:BE 70%); FMLD2 (CM 50%:BE 50%), FMLD3 (CM 70%:BE 30%), along with plain fermented kidney been extract (FBE; CM 0%:BE 100%), and plain fermented cow’s milk (FCM; CM 100%:BE 0%). The mixtures were pasteurized at 92 °C for 25 min and fermented with a probiotic-type starter culture (S. thermophilus, B. bifidum, L. acidophilus) at 43 °C. FBE exhibited the lowest levels of carbohydrates (2.14%), fat (0.11%), and protein (1.45%) compared to fermented cow’s milk and blends. The FBE and the fermented blends with a higher ratio of bean extract had lower viscosity and lactic acid contents, greener hue, more pronounced aftertaste and off-flavors, and received lower overall acceptability scores. Although the FCM had higher counts of S. thermophilus and L. acidophilus, the FBE displayed significantly higher counts of B. bifidum. This study demonstrated the potential of using white kidney bean extract and its blends with cow’s milk to create unique fermented products with a lower dietary impact, highlighting the importance of further optimizing the formulations to enhance sensory qualities and reduce the beany off-flavors in the products with added kidney bean extract.
Investigation of the Flotation of an Ore Containing Bastnaesite and Monazite: Kinetic Study and Process Flowsheet Simulation
Authors: Bazin Claude , Boulanger Jean-François
Published: September 2024

Laboratory flotation tests carried out using an ore sample containing Rare Earth Elements (REEs) present as monazite and bastnaesite show that the flotation of monazite is slower and yielded lower recovery than that of bastnaesite. Results show that when studying the performances of a concentration process for an REE ore, it is essential to not look only at the behavior of the individual REEs but to convert elemental assays into mineral assays to obtain the mineral’s actual response to the concentration process. The results of the laboratory flotation tests are used to calibrate a flotation simulator applied to study different circuit configurations for the concentration of the REE minerals. Indeed, it is shown that for the studied ore, two cleaning stages of a rougher concentrate are sufficient to produce a concentrate with a Total Rare Earth Oxide (TREO) grade above 40%, which is acceptable for the subsequent hydrometallurgical process. The simulation also shows that it may be feasible, if required for the hydrometallurgy step, to separate bastnaesite and monazite by taking advantage of the different flotation kinetics of the two minerals.
Controllable Synthesis of Manganese Organic Phosphate with Different Morphologies and Their Derivatives for Supercapacitors
Authors: Zhao Jingwen , Jing Qingling , Zhou Ting , Zhang Xinhuan , Li Wenting , Pang Huan
Published: September 2024

Morphological control of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) at the micro/nanoscopic scale is critical for optimizing the electrochemical properties of them and their derivatives. In this study, manganese organic phosphate (Mn-MOP) with three distinct two-dimensional (2D) morphologies was synthesized by varying the molar ratio of Mn2+ to phenyl phosphonic acid, and one of the morphologies is a unique palm leaf shape. In addition, a series of 2D Mn-MOP derivatives were obtained by calcination in air at different temperatures. Electrochemical studies showed that 2D Mn-MOP derivative calcined at 550 °C and exhibited a superior specific capacitance of 230.9 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 in 3 M KOH electrolyte. The aqueous asymmetric supercapacitor and the constructed flexible solid-state device demonstrated excellent rate performance. This performance reveals the promising application of 2D Mn-MOP materials for energy storage.
Optimization of Methodologies to Study Freeze/Thaw Processes in Drug Substance Bottles
Authors: Peláez Sarah , Mahler Hanns-Christian , Huwyler Jörg , Allmendinger Andrea
Published: September 2024

Biological drug substance (DS) is often frozen to enhance storage stability, prolong shelf life, and increase flexibility during manufacturing. However, the freezing and thawing (F/T) of bulk DS at the manufacturing scale can impact product quality as a result of various critical conditions, including cryo-concentration during freezing, which are influenced, among other things, by product-independent process parameters (e.g., container type, fill level, F/T equipment, and protocols). In this article, we report the optimization of two major methodologies to study product-independent process parameters in DS bottles at the manufacturing scale, namely the recording of temperature profiles and liquid sampling after thawing to quantify the concentration gradients in the solution. We report experimentally justified measuring positions for temperature recordings, especially for the selection of the last point to freeze position, and highlight the implementation of camera-assisted inspection to determine the last point to thaw and the actual thawing time. In particular, we provide, for the first time, a detailed description of the technical implementation of these two measuring set-ups. Based on the reported case studies, we recommend choosing relevant measuring positions as a result of initial equipment characterization, resulting in a resource-conscious study set-up.
Can Generative AI Contribute to Health Literacy? A Study in the Field of Ophthalmology
Authors: Ruiz-Núñez Carlos , Gismero Rodríguez Javier , Garcia Ruiz Antonio J. , Gismero Moreno Saturnino Manuel , Cañizal Santos María Sonia , Herrera-Peco Iván
Published: September 2024

ChatGPT, a generative artificial intelligence model, can provide useful and reliable responses in the field of ophthalmology, comparable to those of medical professionals. Twelve frequently asked questions from ophthalmology patients were selected, and responses were generated both in the role of an expert user and a non-expert user. The responses were evaluated by ophthalmologists using three scales: Global Quality Score (GQS), Reliability Score (RS), and Usefulness Score (US), and analyzed statistically through descriptive study, association, and comparison. The results indicate that there are no significant differences between the responses of expert and non-expert users, although the responses from the expert user tend to be slightly better rated. ChatGPT’s responses proved to be reliable and useful, suggesting its potential as a complementary tool to enhance health literacy and alleviate the informational burden on healthcare professionals.
Formulating InVO4/α-Fe2O3 Heterojunction Composites for Photocatalytic Tetracycline Hydrochloride Degradation
Authors: Chang Haoxu , Wang Yayang , Qiao Panzhe , Sun Bo , Wang Zhengbang , Song Fei
Published: September 2024

This study reports the synthesis of InVO4/α-Fe2O3 heterojunction photocatalysts with different stoichiometric ratios via a two-step hydrothermal synthesis reaction. The prepared photocatalysts were characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM, XPS, and other methods. The prepared composites exhibited good photocatalysis of tetracycline hydrochloride. Among the InVO4/α-Fe2O3 heterojunction photocatalysts with different ratios, the InVO4/0.25α-Fe2O3 photocatalyst showed the highest degradation rate for 20 mg L−1 tetracycline hydrochloride. After three photocatalytic runs, it still exhibited excellent stability and reusability. Meanwhile, this study also found that superoxide radical anion (-O2−), electron (e−), hydroxyl radical (·OH), and photogenerated hole (h+) are the basic active substances in the photocatalytic process.
Nanoarchitectonics of Fe-Doped Ni3S2 Arrays on Ni Foam from MOF Precursors for Promoted Oxygen Evolution Reaction Activity
Authors: Zhang Jingchao , Bu Yingping , Li Zhuoyan , Yang Ting , Zhao Naihui , Wu Guanghui , Zhao Fujing , Zhang Renchun , Zhang Daojun
Published: September 2024

Oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is a critical half-reaction in electrochemical overall water splitting and metal–air battery fields; however, the exploitation of the high activity of non-noble metal electrocatalysts to promote the intrinsic slow kinetics of OER is a vital and urgent research topic. Herein, Fe-doped Ni3S2 arrays were derived from MOF precursors and directly grown on nickel foam via the traditional solvothermal way. The arrays integrated into nickel foam can be used as self-supported electrodes directly without any adhesive. Due to the synergistic effect of Fe and Ni elements in the Ni3S2 structure, the optimized Fe2.3%-Ni3S2/NF electrode delivers excellent OER activity in an alkaline medium. The optimized electrode only requires a small overpotential of 233 mV to reach the current density of 10 mA cm−2, and the catalytic activity of the electrode can surpass several related electrodes reported in the literature. In addition, the long-term stability of the Fe2.3%-Ni3S2/NF electrode showed no significant attenuation after 12 h of testing at a current density of 50 mA cm−2. The introduction of Fe ions could modulate the electrical conductivity and morphology of the Ni3S2 structure and thus provide a high electrochemically active area, fast reaction sites, and charge transfer rate for OER activity.
Quantifying the Transition from Unconscious to Conscious Detection of Temporal Patterns in Vigilance Tasks: A Unique Adaptation of Mackworth’s Clock Test
Authors: Morais Guaraci Lima de , Pinho Tatiana Okubo Rocha , Crespim Leonardo , Pinto Neto Osmar
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the cognitive mechanisms underlying vigilance and pattern recognition using a novel adaptation of Mackworth’s Clock Test. We aimed to quantify the time it takes for temporal patterns detected unconsciously through implicit learning to surface in the conscious mind within a dynamic vigilance task environment. Forty-eight participants detected random and non-disclosed rhythmic anomalous clock hand movements in this setting. Our results indicate significant variability in detection accuracy, reaction times, and the ability to recognize the hidden pattern among participants. Notably, 23% of all participants and 56% of those who consciously reported the pattern exhibited statistically lower reaction times indicative of knowledge of the pattern 40 s before conscious identification. These findings provide valuable insights into the transition from unconscious to conscious detection, highlighting the complexity of sustained attention and pattern recognition. The study’s implications extend to designing training programs and tasks for high-stakes professions requiring prolonged vigilance. Future research should further explore the cognitive and neural correlates of these processes and the impact of task complexity on performance.
Efficacy of Food Supplement Based on Monacolins, γ-Oryzanol, and γ-Aminobutyric Acid in Mild Dyslipidemia: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Parallel-Armed, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: De Lellis Lorenza Francesca , Morone Maria Vittoria , Buccato Daniele Giuseppe , Cordara Marcello , Larsen Danaè S. , Ullah Hammad , Piccinocchi Roberto , Piccinocchi Gaetano , Balaji Paulraj , Baldi Alessandra , Di Minno Alessandro , El-Seedi Hesham R. , Sacchi Roberto , Daglia Maria
Published: September 2024

The risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) is approximately doubled in subjects with hypercholesterolemia compared to those with normal blood cholesterol levels. Monacolin K (MK), the main active substance in rice fermented by the Monascus purpureus, acts on cholesterol metabolism. Rice also contains other bioactive compounds such as γ-oryzanol (OZ) and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA). In a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial, the efficacy and tolerability of a food supplement (FS) based on an ingredient standardized to contain monacolins (4.5%), OZ, and GABA were evaluated in subjects with mild dyslipidemia. For the duration of the trial, enrolled subjects (n = 44, each group) received the FS or placebo and were instructed to use an isocaloric diet. Compared to the placebo group, after a 3 months of the FS, the mean low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and mean TC values were reduced by 19.3 and 8.3%, respectively, while the mean high-density lipoprotein cholesterol value increased by 29.3%. On average, the subjects shifted from very high to moderate CVD risk. Glucose metabolism and hepatic and renal parameters did not change after the treatment and no adverse events were reported. Guidelines to handle hypercholesterolemia with food supplements in specific clinical settings are needed to better manage mild dyslipidemia.
Correction: Torné-Ruiz et al. Evolution of Scientific Production on Phlebitis Secondary to Vascular Access: A 71-Year Bibliometric Analysis. Nurs. Rep. 2023, 13, 1635–1647
Authors: Torné-Ruiz Alba , García-Expósito Judith , Bonet Aida , Masot Olga , Roca Judith , Selva-Pareja Laia
Published: September 2024

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Evaluation of the Psychometric Properties of the 18-Items Dysfunctional Attitudes Scale (Form B) in a Portuguese Sample of People Aged 60 and Over
Authors: Silva Celso , Ferreira Rogério , Morgado Bruno , Schneider Brooke C. , João Ana , Sampaio Francisco , Pinho Lara G. , Fonseca César
Published: September 2024

The aim of the study is to assess the psychometric properties of the Portuguese version of the 18-items Dysfunctional Attitudes Scale (Form B) in a Portuguese sample of people aged 60 and over. Background: The 18-item Dysfunctional Attitudes Scale (Form B) is an instrument for assessing dysfunctional attitudes and can be useful as a predictor of depression for both initial episodes and relapses Methods: This was a one-stage cross-sectional survey of Portuguese-speaking people aged 60 years and over, able to read and write, functionally autonomous, and living in the community in their usual residences. The instrument was evaluated for its psychometric properties. Convergent validity with the Beck Depression Inventory-II was assessed. Results: The Portuguese version of the 18-item Dysfunctional Attitudes Scale (Form B) was structured into three factors, which explained a total of 58.95% of the total variance of the instrument. The exploratory factor analysis resulted in a modified model in which three factors were obtained with an eigenvalue greater than one (Kaiser’s criterion). Three factors were obtained instead of two as in the original study. It showed an internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.770) and an interclass correlation coefficient ranging from 0.166 to 0.449, and the overall convergent validity with the Beck Depression Inventory-II was considered good; Conclusions: The Portuguese version of the Dysfunctional Attitudes Scale (DAS-18B) of people aged 60 and over demonstrated good psychometric properties.
Recent Advances and Future Perspectives in Vascular Organoids and Vessel-on-Chip
Authors: Cheruku Gowtham Reddy , Wilson Chloe Veronica , Raviendran Suriya , Xiao Qingzhong
Published: September 2024

Recent advancements in vascular organoid (VO) and vessel-on-chip (VoC) technologies have revolutionized our approach to studying human diseases, offering unprecedented insights through more physiologically relevant models. VOs generated from human pluripotent stem cells exhibit remarkable self-organization capabilities, forming complex three-dimensional structures that closely mimic human blood vessel architecture and function, while VoCs are engineered with microfluidic systems that meticulously recreate the physical and functional attributes of blood vessels. These innovative constructs serve as powerful tools for investigating vascular development, disease progression, and therapeutic efficacy. By enabling the creation of patient-specific VOs and VoCs, they pave the way for personalized medicine approaches, allowing researchers to delve into genetic variations, intricate cellular interactions, and dynamic processes with exceptional resolution. The synergy between VOs and VoCs with newly developed cutting-edge technologies has further amplified their potential, unveiling novel mechanisms underlying human pathologies and identifying promising therapeutic targets. Herein, we summarize different types of VOs and VoCs and present an extensive overview on the generation and applications of VOs and VoCs. We will also highlight clinical and translational challenges and future perspectives around VOs and VoCs.
A New Variant of Avian Encephalomyelitis Virus Associated with Neurologic Signs in Turkey Poults
Authors: Temeeyasen Gun , Sharafeldin Tamer , Gharaibeh Saad , Sobhy Nader M. , Porter Robert E. , Mor Sunil K.
Published: September 2024

Avian encephalomyelitis (AE) is a disease caused by the avian encephalomyelitis virus (AEV) of the genus Tremovirus in the family Picornaviridae. Recently, cases of turkey poults showing neurological signs were submitted to the veterinary diagnostic laboratories at South Dakota State University and the University of Minnesota. The affected birds were showing nervous neurological signs such as tremors, inability to stand, torticollis, and wing drop. Clinical signs were observed by 3 weeks of age. Necropsy of birds revealed no significant gross lesions in the internal organs, including the brain. There was no significant bacterial growth in the brains. Microscopic examination of various sections of the brain revealed multifocal lymphocplasmacytic perivascular cuffs in the cerebellum and cerebral cortex. The brain samples were processed for detection and whole genome sequencing by next-generation sequencing. Three full-length polyprotein sequences (6405 nt) of AEV were assembled. All three sequences shared 99.9–100% nucleotide and 100% amino acid identities with each other. Only 77.7–78.5% of nucleotide and 90.3–92.5% of amino acid identities with AEV field strains and vaccine sequences were available in GenBank. This indicates that a new divergent variant of AEV is circulating in the field and causing AE outbreaks in the Midwest region.
Assessment of High-Resolution Melting Curve Analysis for Leishmania spp. Detection in Different Clinical Manifestations of Leishmaniasis in India
Authors: Azam Mudsser , Singh Saurabh , Gupta Ratan , Mayank Mayank , Kathuria Sushruta , Sharma Shruti , Ramesh V. , Singh Ruchi
Published: September 2024

The accurate diagnosis and identification of Leishmania species are crucial for the therapeutic selection and effective treatment of leishmaniasis. This study aims to develop and evaluate the use of high-resolution melting curve analysis (HRM)-PCR for Leishmania species identification causing visceral leishmaniasis (VL), post-kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis (PKDL) and cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in the Indian subcontinent. Two multi-copy targets (ITS-1 and 7SL-RNA genes) were selected, and an HRM-PCR assay was established using L. donovani, L. major, and L. tropica standard strain DNA. The assay was applied on 93 clinical samples with confirmed Leishmania infection, including VL (n = 30), PKDL (n = 50), and CL (n = 13) cases. The ITS-1 HRM-PCR assay detected as little as 0.01 pg of template DNA for L. major and up to 0.1 pg for L. donovani and L. tropica. The detection limit for the 7SL-RNA HRM-PCR was 1 pg for L. major and 10 pg for L. donovani and L. tropica. The ITS-1 HRM-PCR identified 68 out of 93 (73.11%) leishmaniasis cases, whereas 7SL-RNA HRM-PCR could only detect 18 out of 93 (19.35%) cases. A significant correlation was observed between the kDNA-based low Ct values and ITS-1 HRM-PCR positivity in the VL (p = 0.007), PKDL (p = 0.0002), and CL (p = 0.03) samples. The ITS-1 HRM-PCR assay could identify Leishmania spp. causing different clinical forms of leishmaniasis in the Indian subcontinent, providing rapid and accurate results that can guide clinical management and treatment decisions.
Photodynamic Therapy as a Novel Therapeutic Modality Applying Quinizarin-Loaded Nanocapsules and 3D Bioprinting Skin Permeation for Inflammation Treatment
Authors: do Amaral Stéphanie R. , Amantino Camila F. , Atanasov Aleksandar , Sousa Stefanie Oliveira , Moakes Richard , Oliani Sonia Maria , Grover Liam M. , Primo Fernando L.
Published: September 2024

Skin inflammation associated with chronic diseases involves a direct role of keratinocytes in its immunopathogenesis, triggering a cascade of immune responses. Despite this, highly targeted treatments remain elusive, highlighting the need for more specific therapeutic strategies. In this study, nanocapsules containing quinizarin (QZ/NC) were developed and evaluated in an in vitro model of keratinocyte-mediated inflammation, incorporating the action of photodynamic therapy (PDT) and analyzing permeation in a 3D skin model. Comprehensive physicochemical, stability, cytotoxicity, and permeation analyses of the nanomaterials were conducted. The nanocapsules demonstrated desirable physicochemical properties, remained stable throughout the analysis period, and exhibited no spectroscopic alterations. Cytotoxicity tests revealed no toxicity at the lowest concentrations of QZ/NC. Permeation and cellular uptake studies confirmed QZ/NC permeation in 3D skin models, along with intracellular incorporation and internalization of the drug, thereby enhancing its efficacy in drug delivery. The developed model for inducing the inflammatory process in vitro yielded promising results, particularly when the synthesized nanomaterial was combined with PDT, showing a reduction in cytokine levels. These findings suggest a potential new therapeutic approach for treating inflammatory skin diseases.
Study on the Therapeutic Effects and Mechanisms of Gintonin in Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Its Relationship with TRPV1, TRPV4, and NaV1.5
Authors: Choi Na-Ri , Ko Seok-Jae , Nam Joo-Hyun , Choi Woo-Gyun , Lee Jong-Hwan , Nah Seung-Yeol , Park Jae-Woo , Kim Byung-Joo
Published: September 2024

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a gastrointestinal (GI) disease accompanied by changes in bowel habits without any specific cause. Gintonin is a newly isolated glycoprotein from ginseng that is a lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptor ligand. To investigate the efficacy and mechanisms of action of gintonin in IBS, we developed a zymosan-induced IBS murine model. In addition, electrophysiological experiments were conducted to confirm the relevance of various ion channels. In mice, gintonin restored colon length and weight to normal and decreased stool scores, whilst food intake remained constant. Colon mucosal thickness and inflammation-related tumor necrosis factor-α levels were decreased by gintonin, along with a reduction in pain-related behaviors. In addition, the fecal microbiota from gintonin-treated mice had relatively more Lactobacillaceae and Lachnospiraceae and less Bacteroidaceae than microbiota from the control mice. Moreover, gintonin inhibited transient receptor potential vanilloid (TRPV) 1 and TRPV4 associated with visceral hypersensitivity and voltage-gated Na+ 1.5 channels associated with GI function. These results suggest that gintonin may be one of the effective components in the treatment of IBS.
Contrasting Retromer with a Newly Described Retriever in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Lewis Connor D. , Tierney Mary L.
Published: September 2024

The tight regulation of protein composition within the plasma membranes of plant cells is crucial for the proper development of plants and for their ability to respond to a changing environment. Upon being endocytosed, integral membrane proteins can be secreted, sorted into multivesicular bodies/late endosomes, and degraded in the lytic vacuole, or recycled back to the plasma membrane to continue functioning. The evolutionarily conserved retromer complex has attracted the interest of plant cell biologists for over a decade as it has emerged as a key regulator of the trafficking of endocytosed integral plasma membrane proteins. Recently, a related recycling complex that shares a subunit with retromer was described in metazoan species. Named “retriever”, homologs to the proteins that comprise this new recycling complex and its accessory proteins are found within plant lineages. Initial experiments indicate that there is conservation of function between metazoan and plant retriever proteins, suggesting that it is prudent to re-evaluate the available plant retromer data with the added potential of a plant retriever complex.
Altitudinal Effects on Soil Microbial Diversity and Composition in Moso Bamboo Forests of Wuyi Mountain
Authors: Sun Yiming , Chen Xunlong , Cai Jianwei , Li Yangzhuo , Zhou Yuhan , Zhang Houxi , Zheng Kehui
Published: September 2024

Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) forest is a key ecosystem and its soil microbial community plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem’s functions, but it is very vulnerable to climate change. An altitude gradient can positively simulate environmental conditions caused by climate change, and hence, it provides an efficient means of investigating the response of soil microorganisms to such climatic changes. However, while previous research has largely concentrated on plant–soil–microorganism interactions across broad altitudinal ranges encompassing multiple vegetation types, studies examining these interactions within a single ecosystem across small altitudinal gradients remain scarce. This study took Moso bamboo forests at different altitudes in Wuyi Mountain, China, as the research object and used high-throughput sequencing technology to analyze the soil microbial community structure, aiming to elucidate the changes in soil microbial communities along the altitude gradient under the same vegetation type and its main environmental driving factors. This study found that the structure of bacterial community was notably different in Moso bamboo forests’ soil at varying altitudes, unlike the fungal community structure, which showed relatively less variance. Bacteria from Alphaproteobacteria phylum were the most dominant (14.71–22.91%), while Agaricomycetes was the most dominating fungus across all altitudinal gradients (18.29–30.80%). Fungal diversity was higher at 530 m and 850 m, while bacterial diversity was mainly concentrated at 850 m and 1100 m. Redundancy analysis showed that soil texture (sand and clay content) and available potassium content were the main environmental factors affecting fungal community structure, while clay content, pH, and available potassium content were the main drivers of bacterial community structure. This study demonstrates that the altitude gradient significantly affects the soil microbial community structure of Moso bamboo forest, and there are differences in the responses of different microbial groups to the altitude gradient. Soil properties are important environmental factors that shape microbial communities. The results of this study contribute to a deeper understanding of the impact of altitude gradient on the soil microbial community structure of Moso bamboo forests, thus providing support for sustainable management of Moso bamboo forests under climate change scenarios.