bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Anti-COVID-19 Vaccination and Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis with Tixagevimab-Cilgavimab in Kidney and Liver Transplant Recipients
Authors: Angelico Roberta , Romano Francesca , Coppola Luigi , Materazzo Marco , Pedini Domiziana , Santicchia Maria Sara , Cacciola Roberto , Toti Luca , Sarmati Loredana , Tisone Giuseppe
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives: Underpowered immune response to vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 was observed in solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients. A novel combination of monoclonal antibodies tixagevimab-cilgavimab (TGM/CGM) received authorization as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in those with reduced response to vaccine. We aimed to evaluate the response rate to COVID-19 vaccination in kidney transplant (KT), compared to liver transplant (LT) recipients, and the efficacy and safety of PrEP with TGM/CGM. Material and Methods: Between March and November 2022, adult KT and LT recipients who had completed the vaccination schedule (3 doses) were tested for anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies titer. SOT recipients with anti-SARS-CoV-2 titer ≥ 100 IU/mL were considered protected against infection, while those with titer < 100 UI/mL were defined non-protected. Patients with inadequate response were invited to PrEP. Results: In total, 306 patients were enrolled [KT:197 (64.4%), LT:109 (35.6%)]. After the complete scheme of vaccination, 246 (80.3%) patients developed a protective titer, while 60 (19.6%) did not have a protective titer. KT recipients had a lower rate of protective anti-COVID-19 titer compared to LT patients [149 (75.6%) vs. 97 (89.0%), p = 0.004]. Recipients with non-protective anti-COVID-19 titer received mainly tacrolimus-based regimen associated with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) (70%) e steroids (46.7%) as maintenance immunosuppression, while those treated with everolimus were associated with higher protective titer. Of 35 (58.3%) patients who received PrEP, within 12 months, 6 (17.1%) (all KT) developed pauci-symptomatic COVID-19 disease, while 15/25 (60%) of non-responders, who did not receive the prophylaxis, developed COVID-19 disease. After PrEP, hospitalization rate was lower (2.8% vs. 16%), and no adverse events, neither graft loss nor rejection, were observed. Conclusions: Despite complete COVID-19 vaccination, SOT recipients might be not protected from the SARS-CoV-2 infection, especially after KT. In non-protected SOT patients, the subsequent pre-exposure prophylaxis with combination of monoclonal antibodies (TGM/CGM) might be an efficacy and safe strategy to prevent COVID-19 severe disease and hospitalization.
Postural Analysis Using Rasterstereography and Inertial Measurement Units in Volleyball Players: Different Roles as Indicators of Injury Predisposition
Authors: Agostini Francesco , de Sire Alessandro , Furcas Luca , Finamore Nikolaos , Farì Giacomo , Giuliani Sara , Sveva Valerio , Bernetti Andrea , Paoloni Marco , Mangone Massimiliano
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives: Acute and chronic injuries are frequent in volleyball. Biomechanics of sport-specific tasks can influence the risk of injury, which is also related to specific court positions. We investigated posture at raster-stereography, balance, and dynamic tasks using inertial motion units to find differences between roles, which can be predictive of a higher risk of injury. Materials and Methods: We cross-sectionally evaluated amateur volleyball athletes. Participants were divided into roles as outside hitters, setters, middle blockers, and opposite hitters. We excluded the “libero” position from our analysis. Results: Sixteen players were included in the analysis. A statistically significant difference was found in left lower limb stiffness among the outside hitter and setter groups. Conclusions: Differences in stiffness might be related to the different training and the different abilities among the two groups. Raster-stereography is extending its indications and should be implemented for non-invasive postural analysis. The use of inertial motion units provides objective measurements of variables that could go unrecognized within a clinical evaluation; its use should be considered in injury preventive programs.
Investigation of Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of the Repaired Precipitation-Strengthened Ni-Based Superalloy via Laser Melting Deposition
Authors: Yan Wengao , Xue Beirao , Li Jinjun , Zhao Minghuang , Bian Xiangde
Published: November 2023

In this study, a typical γ′ phase precipitation-strengthened Ni-based superalloy DZ411 was repaired using an LMD-based repairing technique with an IN738LC superalloy, and crack-free samples were acquired. The mechanical properties and microstructure of different areas inside the repair sample were investigated, including the IN738LC deposit, the DZ411 substrate, and the interface between these two parts. The differences in mechanical properties between different areas were explained via analyzing fractography and KAM maps. It was found that the coarse carbides of the DZ411 substrate might lead to rapid cracking of grain boundaries, resulting in the worst mechanical properties of the DZ411 substrate. The IN738LC deposit demonstrated significantly superior mechanical properties in comparison to the DZ411 substrate. Its tensile strength exceeded that of the substrate by over 250 MPa, while its relative elongation after fracture was twice as great as that of the substrate. The excellent mechanical properties of the IN738LC deposit could be attributed to its fine microstructure, which resisted rapid cracking and generated a large number of GNDs during the plastic deformation process. For the interface between the deposit and substrate, although its hardness before the tensile test was low, it could also generate many GNDs during the plastic deformation process, hence exhibiting commendable mechanical properties. The research results show that using an LMD-based repairing technique with IN738LC superalloy to repair γ′ phase precipitation-strengthened Ni-based superalloy DZ411 is a feasible solution.
Performance Improvement of an STS304-Based Dispensing Needle via Electrochemical Etching
Authors: Kwon Yong-Taek , Jeon Sanghyun , Lee Jun , Kim Juheon , Lee Sangmin , Kim Hyungmo
Published: November 2023

In this study, we explored the formation of micro-/nanosized porous structures on the surface of a needle composed of STS304 and examined the effect of conventional needles and needles capable of liquid ejection. Aqua regia, composed of HCl and HNO3, was electrochemically etched to form appropriately sized micro-/nanoporous structures. We observed that when dispensing liquids with low surface tension, they do not immediately fall downward but instead spread over the exterior surface of the needle before falling. We found that the extent of spreading on the surface is influenced by an etched porous structure. Furthermore, to analyze the effect of surface tension differences, we dispensed liquids with varying surface tensions using etched needles. Through the analysis, it was confirmed that, despite the low surface tension, the ejected droplet volume and speed could be stably maintained on the etched needle. This indicates that the spreading phenomenon of the liquid on the needle surface just before ejection can be controlled by the micro/nanoporous structure. We anticipate that these characteristics of etched needles could be utilized in industries where precision dispensing of low-surface-tension liquids is essential.
Study on Electrically Modulated Quasi-Continuous Wave Fe: ZnSe Solid-State Laser with Hundred-Hertz
Authors: Wan Yingchao , Shen Yanlong , Wang Ke , Chai Tongxing , Wang Yousheng , Chen Zhengge , Zhu Feng
Published: November 2023

Iron-doped binary chalcogenide crystals are very promising for tunable solid-state lasers operating over the 3~5 μm spectral range. Fe: ZnSe is one of the most important gain crystals with the obvious advantages of material characteristics and conversion efficiency. By adjusting the output mode of the pump source, an Fe: ZnSe laser can operate in two modes at liquid nitrogen temperatures: continuous wave (CW) and pulse output. In terms of CW output, the Fe: ZnSe laser obtained a maximum 2.63 W continuous power output which was confined to the power of the pump source. An optical-to-optical efficiency of 47.05% was acquired. Direct electrical modulation was applied to the pump source. The highest average power of the quasi-CW laser, whose central wavelength is 4.02 μm, has a value of 253 mW with an optical-to-optical efficiency of 42.88% and a full width at half maximum (FWHM) of 23 nm when the pulse frequency is 100 Hz of 10% duty factor. The output waveform is consistent with the modulation waveform applied to the pump source. We report to the first of our knowledge an electrically modulated quasi-CW Fe: ZnSe laser in the pulse regime, equipped with features of compactness in structure, ignoring additional modulators, convenience in control, high efficiency, and sustainable operation, of great interest for solving numerous scientific and applied problems.
Editorial for the Special Issue on 3D Printing of MEMS Technology
Authors: Ehrmann Andrea
Published: November 2023

Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) combine electrical and mechanical functions and are nowadays broadly applied in many technology fields, often as sensors or actors [...]
Research Status and Challenges of High-Purity Quartz Processing Technology from a Mineralogical Perspective in China
Authors: Zhang Ruiyang , Tang Chunhua , Ni Wen , Yuan Jing , Zhou Yu , Liu Xiaolong
Published: November 2023

Quartz deposits are widely dispersed in nature, but the presence of ore bodies capable of yielding high-purity quartz is exceedingly rare. As a result, the effective purification and processing of high-purity quartz from natural siliceous materials has emerged as a prominent area of research within the non-metallic mineral processing field. This article offers an overview of the current state of research and its limitations in quartz purification and processing technology in China, including the characteristics of quartz mineral resources, the geological origins of ore deposits, impurity forms in ores, and purification techniques. Drawing from examples of five distinct types of quartz ores—vein quartz, powder quartz, quartzite, granitic pegmatite, and pegmatitic granite—we delve into the inherent properties of quartz deposits, ores, and minerals from a mineralogical perspective, establishing their link to purification and processing methodologies. A fundamental challenge restraining the advancement of the high-purity quartz industry is the absence of criteria for evaluating and selecting high-purity quartz raw materials. Existing purification technologies grapple with issues such as intricate single mineral liberation, substantial acid consumption, high energy requirements, and protracted processing procedures. The lack of mineralogically based deep purification techniques presents a hurdle to the development of the high-purity quartz industry. Given the diversity of ore types, the pursuit of knowledge-driven design and the development of economically efficient, environmentally friendly, and streamlined new technologies for tackling the complexities of the purification process may constitute the future direction of our endeavors.
NMR Structural Study of Syndecan-4 Transmembrane Domain with Cytoplasmic Region
Authors: Kim Minseon , Kim Yongae
Published: November 2023

Syndecan-4 (SDC4) consists of transmembrane heparan sulfate proteoglycan (HSPG) belonging to the syndecan family. It is present in most cell types of Mammalia. Its structure contains a heparan-sulfate-modified extracellular domain, a single transmembrane domain, and a short C-terminal cytoplasmic domain. Regarding the overall cellular function of SDC4, other cells or ligands can bind to its ecto-domain. In addition, 4,5-bisphosphate phosphatidylinositol (PIP2) or protein kinase Cα can bind to its cyto-domain to activate downstream signaling pathways. To understand the signal transduction mechanism of syndecan, it is important to know the interactions between their actual structure and function in vivo. Therefore, it is important to identify the structure of SDC4 to understand the ligand binding behavior of SDC4. In this study, expression and purification were performed to reveal structures of the short ecto-domain, the transmembrane domain, and the cytoplasmic domain of Syd4-eTC (SDC4). Solution-state NMR spectroscopy and solid-state NMR spectroscopy were used to study the structure of Syd4-eTC in membrane environments and to demonstrate the interaction between Syd4-eTC and PIP2.
Comparative Study of Essential Oils from Different Organs of Syzygium cumini (Pamposia) Based on GC/MS Chemical Profiling and In Vitro Antiaging Activity
Authors: Ashmawy Naglaa S. , Gad Haidy A. , El-Nashar Heba A. S.
Published: November 2023

Syzygium cumini L. is an evergreen tree belonging to family Myrtaceae, employed for different traditional uses like diabetes, inflammation, and fever. The current study aimed to compare the chemical compositions of the essential oils (EOs) isolated from different organs of Syzygium cumini (leaves (Scl), fruits (Scf), seeds (Scs), and bark (Scb)) using a GC/MS analysis. Also, a chemometric analysis was applied to explore the main similarities and differences among different organs using a Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and a hierarchal cluster analysis (HCA). Furthermore, in vitro antiaging activities were investigated via anti-collagenase, anti-elastase, and anti-hyaluronidase assays. The GC-MS analysis revealed 82 compounds representing 92.13%, 99.42%, 100%, and 92.97% in Scl, Scf, Scs, and Scb, respectively. The predominant components were α-pinene, β-pinene, (E)-β-caryophyllene, α-caryophyllene, caryophyllene oxide, and α-humulene epoxide II with variable percentages. All EOs were positioned on positive PC1, except for Scs, which was positioned on the negative side in a separate quadrant. The HCA dendrogram displayed the closeness of Scl and Scb, which was not clearly recognized in the PCA score plot. Moreover, the Scs oils were totally discriminated from other parts. The Scl and Scs oils showed superior anti-collagenase, anti-elastase, and anti-hyaluronidase activities. Thus, S. cumini oils should be considered for cosmetic preparations to retard skin aging manifestations.
C–O Coupling of Hydrazones with Diacetyliminoxyl Radical Leading to Azo Oxime Ethers—Novel Antifungal Agents
Authors: Budnikov Alexander S. , Krylov Igor B. , Shevchenko Mikhail I. , Segida Oleg O. , Lastovko Andrey V. , Alekseenko Anna L. , Ilovaisky Alexey I. , Nikishin Gennady I. , Terent’ev Alexander O.
Published: November 2023

Selective oxidative C–O coupling of hydrazones with diacetyliminoxyl is demonstrated, in which diacetyliminoxyl plays a dual role. It is an oxidant (hydrogen atom acceptor) and an O-partner for the oxidative coupling. The reaction is completed within 15–30 min at room temperature, is compatible with a broad scope of hydrazones, provides high yields in most cases, and requires no additives, which makes it robust and practical. The proposed reaction leads to the novel structural family of azo compounds, azo oxime ethers, which were discovered to be highly potent fungicides against a broad spectrum of phytopathogenic fungi (Venturia inaequalis, Rhizoctonia solani, Fusarium oxysporum, Fusarium moniliforme, Bipolaris sorokiniana, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum).
Non-Destructive Identification of Dyes on Fabric Using Near-Infrared Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Peterson Mackenzi , Kurouski Dmitry
Published: November 2023

Fabric is a commonly found piece of physical evidence at most crime scenes. Forensic analysis of fabric is typically performed via microscopic examination. This subjective approach is primarily based on pattern recognition and, therefore, is often inconclusive. Most of the fabric material found at crime scenes is colored. One may expect that a confirmatory identification of dyes can be used to enhance the reliability of the forensic analysis of fabric. In this study, we investigated the potential of near-infrared Raman spectroscopy (NIRS) in the confirmatory, non-invasive, and non-destructive identification of 15 different dyes on cotton. We found that NIRS was able to resolve the vibrational fingerprints of all 15 colorants. Using partial-squared discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), we showed that NIRS enabled ~100% accurate identification of dyes based on their vibrational signatures. These findings open a new avenue for the robust and reliable forensic analysis of dyes on fabric directly at crime scenes. Main conclusion: a hand-held Raman spectrometer and partial least square discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) approaches enable highly accurate identification of dyes on fabric.
The Fabrication of a Probe-Integrated Electrochemiluminescence Aptasensor Based on Double-Layered Nanochannel Array with Opposite Charges for the Sensitive Determination of C-Reactive Protein
Authors: Li Feng , Han Qianqian , Xi Fengna
Published: November 2023

The effective and sensitive detection of the important biomarker, C-reactive protein (CRP), is of great significance in clinical diagnosis. The development of a convenient and highly sensitive electrochemiluminescence (ECL) aptasensor with an immobilized emitter probe is highly desirable. In this work, a probe-integrated ECL aptamer sensor was constructed based on a bipolar silica nanochannel film (bp-SNF) modified electrode for the highly sensitive ECL detection of CRP. The bp-SNF, modified on an ITO electrode, consisted of a dual-layered SNF film, including the negatively charged inner SNF (n-SNF) and the outer SNF with a positive charge and amino groups (p-SNF). The ECL emitter, tris(bipyridine) ruthenium (II) (Ru(bpy)32+), was stably immobilized in a nanochannel of bp-SNF using the dual electrostatic interactions with n-SNF attracting and p-SNF repelling. The amino groups on the outer surface of bp-SNF were aldehyde derivatized, allowing for the covalent immobilization of recognitive aptamers (5′-NH2-CGAAGGGGATTCGAGGGGTGATTGCGTGCTCCATTTGGTG-3′), leading to the recognition interface. When CRP bound to the aptamer on the recognition interface, the formed complex increased the interface resistance and reduced the diffusion of the co-reactant tripropylamine (TPA) into the nanochannels, leading to a decrease in the ECL signal. Based on this mechanism, the constructed aptamer sensor could achieve a sensitive ECL detection of CRP ranging from 0.01 to 1000 ng/mL, with a detection limit (DL) of 8.5 pg/mL. The method for constructing this probe-integrated ECL aptamer sensor is simple, and it offers a high probe stability, good selectivity, and high sensitivity.
Photoinduced Synthesis of Sulfonyl-Containing Phosphorothioates via a Three-Component Reaction
Authors: Wu Xianda , Chen Minghong , Zheng Shuiyun , Wu Jie , Liu Gang , He Fu-Sheng
Published: November 2023

Both sulfonyl and phosphorothioate are important privileged structural motifs which are widely presented in pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Herein, we describe an efficient approach to synthesizing sulfonyl-containing phosphorothioates by merging photoredox and copper catalysis at room temperature. This protocol is compatible with a wide range of substrates and can be applied to the late-stage modification of complex molecules. Control experiments are conducted to demonstrate the generation of the sulfonyl radical in the transformation.
“Nitric Oxide Donors for Biomedical Applications: A Themed Issue Dedicated to Professor Alberto Gasco”: Special Issue Editorial Overview
Authors: Sodano Federica , Gazzano Elena , Fruttero Roberta
Published: November 2023

The Guest Editors Federica Sodano, Elena Gazzano, and Roberta Fruttero are pleased to present this editorial overview of the Special Issue entitled “Nitric Oxide Donors for Biomedical Applications: A Themed Issue Dedicated to Professor Alberto Gasco” [...]
Constructing In2S3/CdS/N-rGO Hybrid Nanosheets via One-Pot Pyrolysis for Boosting and Stabilizing Visible Light-Driven Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Zhang Minghao , Wu Xiaoqun , Liu Xiaoyuan , Li Huixin , Wang Ying , Wang Debao
Published: November 2023

The construction of hybrid junctions remains challenging for the rational design of visible light-driven photocatalysts. Herein, In2S3/CdS/N-rGO hybrid nanosheets were successfully prepared via a one-step pyrolysis method using deep eutectic solvents as precursors. Benefiting from the surfactant-free pyrolysis method, the obtained ultrathin hybrid nanosheets assemble into stable three-dimensional self-standing superstructures. The tremella-like structure of hybrid In2S3/N-rGO exhibits excellent photocatalytic hydrogen production performance. The hydrogen evolution rate is 10.9 mmol·g−1·h−1, which is greatly superior to CdS/N-rGO (3.7 mmol·g−1·h−1) and In2S3/N-rGO (2.6 mmol·g−1·h−1). This work provides more opportunities for the rational design and fabrication of hybrid ultrathin nanosheets for broad catalytic applications in sustainable energy and the environment.
Visible-Light-Driven Semiconductor–Metal Transition in Electron Gas at the (100) Surface of KTaO3
Authors: Tian Xiaochen , Li Bocheng , Sun Hu , Jiang Yucheng , Zhao Run , Zhao Meng , Gao Ju , Xing Jie , Qiu Jie , Liu Guozhen
Published: November 2023

Two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) at the (100) KTaO3(KTO) surface and interfaces has attracted extensive interest because of its abundant physical properties. Here, light illumination-induced semiconductor–metal transition in the 2DEG at the KTO surface was investigated. 2DEG was formed at the surface of KTO by argon ion bombardment. The 2DEG prepared with a shorter bombardment time (300 s) exhibits semiconducting behavior in the range of 20~300 K in the dark. However, it shows a different resistance behavior, namely, a metallic state above ~55 K and a semiconducting state below ~55 K when exposed to visible light (405 nm) with a giant conductivity increase of about eight orders of magnitude at 20 K. The suppression of the semiconducting behavior is found to be more pronounced with increasing light power. After removing the illumination, the resistance cannot recover quickly, exhibiting persistent photoconductivity. More interestingly, the photoresponse of the 2DEG below 50 K was almost independent of the laser wavelength, although the photon energy is lower than the band gap of KTO. The present results provide experimental support for tuning oxide 2DEG by photoexcitation, suggesting promising applications of KTO-based 2DEG in future electronic and optoelectronic devices.
Impact of Sapphire Step Height on the Growth of Monolayer Molybdenum Disulfide
Authors: Lu Jie , Zheng Miaomiao , Liu Jinxin , Zhang Yufeng , Zhang Xueao , Cai Weiwei
Published: November 2023

Although the synthesis of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) on sapphire has made a lot of progress, how the substrate surface affects the growth still needs to be further studied. Herein, the impact of the sapphire step height on the growth of monolayer MoS2 through chemical vapor deposition (CVD) is studied. The results show that MoS2 exhibits a highly oriented triangular grain on a low-step (0.44–1.54 nm) substrate but nanoribbons with a consistent orientation on a high-step (1.98–3.30 nm) substrate. Triangular grains exhibit cross-step growth, with one edge parallel to the step edge, while nanoribbons do not cross steps and possess the same orientation as the step. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) reveals that nanoribbons are formed by splicing multiple grains, and the consistency of the orientation of these grains is demonstrated with a transmission electron microscope (TEM) and second-harmonic generation (SHG). Furthermore, our CP2K calculations, conducted using the generalized gradient approximation and the Perdew–Burke–Ernzerhof (PBE) functional with D3 (BJ) correction, show that MoS2 domains prefer to nucleate at higher steps, while climbing across a higher step is more difficult. This work not only sheds light on the growth mechanism of monolayer MoS2 but also promotes its applications in electrical, optical, and energy-related devices.
Nanoscale Insights into the Mechanical Behavior of Interfacial Composite Structures between Calcium Silicate Hydrate/Calcium Hydroxide and Silica
Authors: Zhao Jiuye , Zhang Yuanhang , Xue Dapeng , Cui Chunyi , Li Wenzheng , Liu Fang
Published: November 2023

The failure of the interfacial transition zone has been identified as the primary cause of damage and deterioration in cement-based materials. To further understand the interfacial failure mechanism, interfacial composite structures between the main hydration products of ordinary Portland cement (OPC), calcium silicate hydrate (CSH) and calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2), and silica (SiO2) were constructed while considering their anisotropy. Afterwards, uniaxial tensile tests were conducted using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Our results showed that the interfacial zones (IZs) of interfacial composite structures tended to have relatively lower densities than those of the bulk, and the anisotropy of the hydration products had almost no effect on the IZ being a low-density zone. Interfacial composite structures with different configurations exhibited diverse nanomechanical behaviors in terms of their ultimate strength, stress–strain relationship and fracture evaluation. A higher strain rate contributed to a higher ultimate strength and a more prolonged decline in the residual strength. In the interfacial composite structures, both CSH and Ca(OH)2 exhibited ruptures of the Ca-O bond as the primary atomic pair during the tensile process. The plastic damage characteristics of the interfacial composite structures during the tensile process were assessed by analyzing the normalized number of broken Ca-O bonds, which also aligned with the atomic chain break characteristics evident in the per-atom stress map.
Adoption of a Short-Term (4-Week) Vegan Diet as Part of ‘Veganuary’ Significantly Reduces Saturated Fatty Acid (SFA), Cholesterol, B12, and Iodine Intake in Omnivorous Individuals—An Observational Study
Authors: Eveleigh Elizabeth , Coneyworth Lisa , Craigon Jim , Welham Simon
Published: November 2023

Global veganism campaigns like ‘Veganuary’ have gained popularity. We conducted an observational study to assess the impact of a 4-week vegan diet during ‘Veganuary’ on nutrient intake, status, knowledge, and motivations for veganism. Data were collected before and after ‘Veganuary’, using Food Frequency Questionnaires (FFQs) to estimate dietary intake. Micronutrient knowledge and motivation were assessed through questionnaires. A total of 154 UK adults aged 18–60 years (2019: n81; 2020: n73) participated. Groups were vegetarians and omnivores committed to a 4-week vegan diet during ‘Veganuary’. Control groups were vegans and omnivores who did not transition. Short-term vegan diets significantly decreased intake of iodine, B12, cholesterol, and saturated fatty acids (SFAs) in omnivores. Micronutrient knowledge was low, and motivation for veganism varied. Short-term vegan diets reduce macro- and micronutrient intake in omnivores. Veganuary participants could benefit from nutritional guidance or supplementation. Attention is required for UK micronutrient intake and knowledge. Motivations for vegan pledges may influence diets, warranting further research.
Effect of a Diet-Induced Obesity on the Progeny Response in a Murine Model
Authors: Gallardo Paffetti Maria , Cárcamo Juan G. , Azócar-Aedo Lucía , Parra Angel
Published: November 2023

Diet-induced obesity could have detrimental effects on adults and their progeny. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a high-energy diet on both F1 mice body weight and tissue/organ weight and F2 offspring growth. A simple murine model for obesity was developed using a high-energy diet and mice reared in litters of five or ten, from 30 dams receiving a cafeteria diet of either commercial chow (low energy), or a mixture of commercial chow, chocolate (50% cacao), and salty peanuts (high energy). This diet continued from mating until weaning, when the pups were allocated according to sex into eight groups based on maternal diet, litter size, and post-weaning diet. On day 74, the males were slaughtered, and the females were bred then slaughtered after lactation. As a result, the high-energy maternal diet increased the F1 offspring growth during lactation, while the high-energy post-weaning diet increased the F1 adult body weight and tissue/organ weight. The high-energy maternal diet could negatively affect the onset of the F1 but not the maintenance of breastfeeding of F1 and F2 offspring. For F2 offspring growth, the high energy overlapped the low-energy post-weaning diet, due to problems of gaining weight during lactation.
The Therapeutic Monoclonal Antibody Bamlanivimab Does Not Enhance SARS-CoV-2 Infection by FcR-Mediated Mechanisms
Authors: Cross Robert W. , Wiethoff Christopher M. , Brown-Augsburger Patricia , Berens Shawn , Blackbourne Jamie , Liu Ling , Wu Xiaohua , Tetreault Jonathan , Dodd Carter , Sina Ramtin , Witcher Derrick R. , Newcomb Deanna , Frost Denzil , Wilcox Angela , Borisevich Viktoriya , Agans Krystle N. , Woolsey Courtney , Prasad Abhishek N. , Deer Daniel J. , Geisbert Joan B. , Dobias Natalie S. , Fenton Karla A. , Strifler Beth , Ebert Philip , Higgs Richard , Beall Anne , Chanda Sumit , Riva Laura , Yin Xin , Geisbert Thomas W.
Published: November 2023

As part of the non-clinical safety package characterizing bamlanivimab (SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing monoclonal antibody), the risk profile for antibody-dependent enhancement of infection (ADE) was evaluated in vitro and in an African green monkey (AGM) model of COVID-19. In vitro ADE assays in primary human macrophage, Raji, or THP-1 cells were used to evaluate enhancement of viral infection. Bamlanivimab binding to C1q, FcR, and cell-based effector activity was also assessed. In AGMs, the impact of bamlanivimab pretreatment on viral loads and clinical and histological pathology was assessed to evaluate enhanced SARS-CoV-2 replication or pathology. Bamlanivimab did not increase viral replication in vitro, despite a demonstrated effector function. In vivo, no significant differences were found among the AGM groups for weight, temperature, or food intake. Treatment with bamlanivimab reduced viral loads in nasal and oral swabs and BAL fluid relative to control groups. Viral antigen was not detected in lung tissue from animals treated with the highest dose of bamlanivimab. Bamlanivimab did not induce ADE of SARS-CoV-2 infection in vitro or in an AGM model of infection at any dose evaluated. The findings suggest that high-affinity monoclonal antibodies pose a low risk of mediating ADE in patients and support their safety profile as a treatment of COVID-19 disease.
In Vitro Screening of Antimicrobial and Anti-Coagulant Activities, ADME Profiling, and Molecular Docking Study of Citrus limon L. and Citrus paradisi L. Cold-Pressed Volatile Oils
Authors: Hamdi Assia , Horchani Mabrouk , Jannet Hichem Ben , Snoussi Mejdi , Noumi Emira , Bouali Nouha , Kadri Adel , Polito Flavio , De Feo Vincenzo , Edziri Hayet
Published: November 2023

Citrus, which belongs to the Rutaceae family, is a very widespread genus in the Mediterranean Basin. In Tunisia, various parts of these spontaneous or cultivated plants are used in common dishes or in traditional medicine. The purpose of this work was to investigate C. limon and C. paradisi essential oil (EO). The samples were studied for their chemical composition using SPME/MS, as well as their antibacterial and antifungal activities. Prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) methods were used to evaluate the anticoagulant potentialities. The obtained results show that both essential oils are rich in monoterpenes hydrocarbons, whereby limonene is the main compound in C. paradisi EO (86.8%) and C. limon EO (60.6%). Moreover, C. paradisi EO contains β-pinene (13.3%), sabinene (2.2%) and α-pinene (2.1%). The antibacterial assay of the essential oils showed important bactericidal and fungicidal effects against all strains tested. In fact, the MICs values of C. limon EO ranged from 0.625 to 2.5 mg/mL against all Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, and from 6.25 to 12.5 mg/mL for Candida spp. strains, while C. paradisi EO was more active against all bacteria with low MICs values ranging from 0.192 to 0.786 mg/mL, and about 1.5 mg/mL against Candida species. Both tested Citrus EOs exhibited interesting anticoagulant activities as compared to heparin. The molecular docking approach was used to study the binding affinity and molecular interactions of all identified compounds with active sites of cytidine deaminase from Klebsiella pneumoniae (PDB: 6K63) and the C (30) carotenoid dehydrosqualene synthase from Staphylococcus aureus (PDB: 2ZCQ). The obtained results show that limonene had the highest binding score of −4.6 kcal.mol−1 with 6K63 enzyme, and −6.7 kcal.mol−1 with 2ZCQ receptor. The ADME profiling of the major constituents confirmed their important pharmacokinetic and drug-like properties. Hence, the obtained results highlight the potential use of both C. limon and C. paradisi essential oils as sources of bioactive compounds with antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-coagulant activities.
Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modelling of Cabotegravir Microarray Patches in Rats and Humans
Authors: Kinvig Hannah , Rajoli Rajith K. R. , Pertinez Henry , Vora Lalitkumar K. , Volpe-Zanutto Fabiana , Donnelly Ryan F. , Rannard Steve , Flexner Charles , Siccardi Marco , Owen Andrew
Published: November 2023

Microarray patches (MAPs) are currently under investigation as a self-administered, pain-free alternative used to achieve long-acting (LA) drug delivery. Cabotegravir is a potent antiretroviral that has demonstrated superior results over current pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) regimens. This study aimed to apply physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modelling to describe the pharmacokinetics of the dissolving bilayer MAP platform and predict the optimal dosing strategies for a once-weekly cabotegravir MAP. A mathematical description of a MAP was implemented into a PBPK model, and empirical models were utilised for parameter estimation. The intradermal PBPK model was verified against previously published in vivo rat data for intramuscular (IM) and MAP administration, and in vivo human data for the IM administration of LA cabotegravir. The verified model was utilised for the prediction of 300 mg, 150 mg and 75 mg once-weekly MAP administration in humans. Cabotegravir plasma concentrations >4 × protein-adjusted 90% inhibitory concentration (PA-IC90) (0.664 µg/mL) and >8 × PA-IC90 (1.33 µg/mL) were set as targets. The 75 mg, 150 mg and 300 mg once-weekly cabotegravir MAP regimens were predicted to sustain plasma concentrations >4 × PA-IC90, while the 300 mg and 150 mg regimens achieved plasma concentrations >8 × PA-IC90. These data demonstrate the potential for a once-weekly cabotegravir MAP using practical patch sizes for humans and inform the further development of cabotegravir MAPs for HIV PrEP.
Response to Waterlogging Stress in Wild and Domesticated Accessions of Timothy (Phleum pratense) and Its Relatives P. alpinum and P. nodosum
Authors: Moreno Silvana , Bedada Girma , Rahimi Yousef , Ingvarsson Pär K. , Westerbergh Anna , Lundquist Per-Olof
Published: November 2023

Timothy (Phleum pratense) is a cool-season perennial forage grass widely grown for silage and hay production in northern regions. Climate change scenarios predict an increase in extreme weather events with fluctuating periods of high rainfall, requiring new varieties adapted to waterlogging (WL). Wild accessions could serve as germplasm for breeding, and we evaluated the responses of 11 wild and 8 domesticated accessions of timothy, P. nodosum and P. alpinum from different locations in northern Europe. Young plants at tillering stage were exposed to WL for 21 days in a greenhouse, and responses in growth allocation and root anatomy were studied. All accessions produced adventitious roots and changed allocation of growth between shoot and root as a response to WL, but the magnitude of these responses varied among species and among accessions. P. pratense responded less in these traits in response to WL than the other two species. The ability to form aerenchyma in the root cortex in response to WL was found for all species and also varied among species and among accessions, with the highest induction in P. pratense. Interestingly, some accessions were able to maintain and even increase root growth, producing more leaves and tillers, while others showed a reduction in the root system. Shoot dry weight (SDW) was not significantly affected by WL, but some accessions showed different and significant responses in the rate of production of leaves and tillers. Overall correlations between SDW and aerenchyma and between SDW and adventitious root formation were found. This study identified two wild timothy accessions and one wild P. nodosum accession based on shoot and root system growth, aerenchyma formation and having a root anatomy considered to be favorable for WL tolerance. These accessions are interesting genetic resources and candidates for development of climate-resilient timothy varieties.
Vegetation Indices for Early Grey Mould Detection in Lettuce Grown under Different Lighting Conditions
Authors: Kupčinskienė Asta , Brazaitytė Aušra , Rasiukevičiūtė Neringa , Valiuškaitė Alma , Morkeliūnė Armina , Vaštakaitė-Kairienė Viktorija
Published: November 2023

Early detection of pathogenic fungi in controlled environment areas can prevent major food production losses. Grey mould caused by Botrytis cinerea is often detected as an infection on lettuce. This paper explores the use of vegetation indices for early detection and monitoring of grey mould on lettuce under different lighting conditions in controlled environment chambers. The aim was focused on the potential of using vegetation indices for the early detection of grey mould and on evaluating their changes during disease development in lettuce grown under different lighting conditions. The experiment took place in controlled environment chambers, where day/night temperatures were 21 ± 2/17 ± 2 °C, a 16 h photoperiod was established, and relative humidity was 70 ± 10% under different lighting conditions: high-pressure sodium (HPS) and light-emitting diode (LED) lamps. Lettuces were inoculated by 7-day-old fungus Botrytis cinerea isolate at the BBCH 21. As a control, non-inoculated lettuces were grown under HPS and LEDs (non-inoculated). Then, the following were evaluated: Anthocyanin Reflectance Index 2 (ARI2); Carotenoid Reflectance Index 2 (CRI2); Structure Intensive Pigment Index (SIPI); Flavanol Reflectance Index (FRI); Greenness (G); Greenness 2 (G2); Redness (R); Blue (B); Blue Green Index 2 (BGI2); Browning Index 2 (BRI2); Lichtenthaler Index 1 (LIC1); Pigment Specific Simple Ratio (PSSRa and PSSRb); Gitelson and Merzlyak (GM1 and GM2); Zarco Tejada–Miller Index (ZMI); Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI); Simple Ratio (SR); Red-Eye Vegetation Stress Index (RVSI); Photochemical Reflectance Index (PRI); Photochemical Reflectance Index 515 (PRI515); Water Band Index (WBI); specific disease index for individual study (fD); Healthy Index (HI); Plant Senescence Reflectance (PSRI); Vogelmann Red Edge Index (VREI1); Red Edge Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (RENDVI); and Modified Red Edge Simple Ratio (MRESRI). Our results showed that the PSRI and fD vegetation indices significantly detected grey mould on lettuce grown under both lighting systems (HPS and LEDs) the day after inoculation. The results conclusively affirmed that NDVI, PSRI, HI, fD, WBI, RVSI, PRI, PRI515, CRI2, SIPI, chlorophyll index PSSRb, and coloration index B were identified as the best indicators for Botrytis cinerea infection on green-leaf lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. cv Little Gem) at the early stage of inoculated lettuce’s antioxidative response against grey mould with a significant increase in chlorophyll indices.
Upscaling of Electrospinning Technology and the Application of Functionalized PVDF-HFP@TiO2 Electrospun Nanofibers for the Rapid Photocatalytic Deactivation of Bacteria on Advanced Face Masks
Authors: Cimini Adriano , Borgioni Alessia , Passarini Elena , Mancini Chiara , Proietti Anacleto , Buccini Luca , Stornelli Eleonora , Schifano Emily , Dinarelli Simone , Mura Francesco , Sergi Claudia , Bavasso Irene , Cortese Barbara , Passeri Daniele , Imperi Enrico , Rinaldi Teresa , Picano Alfredo , Rossi Marco
Published: November 2023

In recent years, Electrospinning (ES) has been revealed to be a straightforward and innovative approach to manufacture functionalized nanofiber-based membranes with high filtering performance against fine Particulate Matter (PM) and proper bioactive properties. These qualities are useful for tackling current issues from bacterial contamination on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) surfaces to the reusability of both disposable single-use face masks and respirator filters. Despite the fact that the conventional ES process can be upscaled to promote a high-rate nanofiber production, the number of research works on the design of hybrid materials embedded in electrospun membranes for face mask application is still low and has mainly been carried out at the laboratory scale. In this work, a multi-needle ES was employed in a continuous processing for the manufacturing of both pristine Poly (Vinylidene Fluoride-co-Hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-HFP) nanofibers and functionalized membrane ones embedded with TiO2 Nanoparticles (NPs) (PVDF-HFP@TiO2). The nanofibers were collected on Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) nonwoven spunbond fabric and characterized by using Scanning Electron Microscopy and Energy Dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX), Raman spectroscopy, and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) analysis. The photocatalytic study performed on the electrospun membranes proved that the PVDF-HFP@TiO2 nanofibers provide a significant antibacterial activity for both Staphylococcus aureus (~94%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (~85%), after only 5 min of exposure to a UV-A light source. In addition, the PVDF-HFP@TiO2 nanofibers exhibit high filtration efficiency against submicron particles (~99%) and a low pressure drop (~3 mbar), in accordance with the standard required for Filtering Face Piece masks (FFPs). Therefore, these results aim to provide a real perspective on producing electrospun polymer-based nanotextiles with self-sterilizing properties for the implementation of advanced face masks on a large scale.
Synthesis of Thermo-Responsive Monofunctionalized Diblock Copolymer Worms
Authors: Xue Xuan , Wang Feifei , Shi Minhao , Khan Faez Iqbal
Published: November 2023

Poly(glycerol monomethacrylate)-block-poly(2-hydroxypropyl methacrylate) (PGMA-PHPMA) with worm-like morphology is a typical example of reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) dispersion polymerized thermo-responsive copolymer via polymerization-induced self-assembly (PISA) in aqueous solution. Chain transfer agents (CTAs) are the key component in controlling RAFT, the structures of which determine the end functional groups of the polymer chain. It is therefore of interest to monofunctionalize the polymers via CTA moiety, for bioactive functionality conjugation and in the meantime maintain the precisely controlled morphology of the copolymers and the related property. In this work, a newly designed CTA 5-(2-(tert-butoxycarbonylamino) ethylamino)-2-cyano-5-oxopentan-2-yl benzodithioate (t-Boc CPDB) was synthesized and used for the RAFT polymerization of PGMA45-PHPMA120. Subsequently, PGMA45-PHPMA120 copolymers with primary amine, maleimide, and reduced L-glutathione (a tripeptide) monofunctionalized terminals were synthesized via deprotection and conjugation reactions. These monofunctionalized copolymers maintain worm-like morphology and thermo-responsive property in aqueous solution (10% w/v), as confirmed by the transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images, and the observation of the phase transition behavior in between 4 °C and room temperature (~20 °C), respectively. Summarily, a range of thermo-responsive monofunctionalized PGMA45-PHPMA120 diblock copolymer worms were successfully synthesized, which are expected to offer potential biomedical applications, such as in polymer therapeutics, drug delivery, and diagnostics.
Control–Value Appraisals and Achievement Emotions: A Moderation Analysis
Authors: Abuzant Maysa , Daher Wajeeh , Mahamid Fayez
Published: November 2023

Emotions in second language acquisition have started to gain attention in the past few years. One of the main theories that has been used to investigate students’ achievement emotions is Pekrun’s control–value theory of achievement emotions. This research aims to use the control–value theory to investigate the relationship between control and value appraisals, their interaction, and the effect they have on anxiety, boredom, and enjoyment in the context of SLA. Data were collected from 515 university students enrolled in an English language course whose first language was Arabic. The results of analyzing the data indicated that students’ perceived intrinsic, attainment, and utility value interacted differently with students’ perceived control to affect anxiety, boredom, and enjoyment. The results highlight the role played by intrinsic value in the relationship between control and anxiety and control and enjoyment.
Economics as Religion and Christianity as oikonomia: Giorgio Agamben and the Homo Sacer
Authors: Giraud Gaël
Published: November 2023

Among the contemporary thinkers who try to think of economics not just as having a non-empty intersection with religion but as being intrinsically religious, Giorgio Agamben occupies a singular place. Indeed, one of the main theses of his major work, Homo Sacer, is that the modern rupture between “sovereignty” and “government”—which lies at the heart of his political diagnosis of our contemporary situation—can be traced back to classical Trinitarian theology. Since this rupture is allegedly responsible for today’s Western understanding of economics, this implies that, according to the Italian philosopher, our current crisis has Christian theological roots. In this paper, I first discuss the argument put forward by Agamben to assert that, at least since the Trinitarian controversies of the second century, Christianity has become intrinsically oikonomia, that is, it understands history as the unfolding of a providential dynamic which, he claims, anticipates today’s celebrated “invisible hand” of decentralized markets. Next, I offer critical reflections upon this argument by questioning whether contemporary mainstream economics can be reduced to the “market fundamentalism” with which it is often confused. The article concludes by questioning, in turn, whether all Christian traditions boil down to the historical trend that Agamben characterizes as leading to today’s problematic mainstream economics.