bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paramedic Willingness to Report Violence Following the Introduction of a Novel, Point-of-Event Reporting Process in a Single Canadian Paramedic Service
Authors: Mausz Justin , Braaksma Michael-Jon , Johnston Mandy , Batt Alan M. , Donnelly Elizabeth A.
Published: March 2024

Violence against paramedics is increasingly recognized as an important occupational health problem, but pervasive and institutionalized underreporting hinders efforts at risk mitigation. Earlier research has shown that the organizational culture within paramedicine may contribute to underreporting, and researchers have recommended involving paramedics in the development of violence prevention policies, including reporting systems. Eighteen months after the launch of a new violence reporting system in Peel Region, Ontario, Canada, we surveyed paramedics about their experiences reporting violent encounters. Our objectives were to assess their willingness to report violence and explore factors that influence their decisions to file a report. Between September and December 2022, a total of 204 (33% of eligible) paramedics chose to participate, of whom 67% (N = 137) had experienced violence since the launch of the new reporting process, with 83% (N = 114) reporting the incidents at least some of the time. After thematically analyzing free-text survey responses, we found that the participants cited the accessibility of the new reporting process and the desire to promote accountability among perpetrators while contributing to a safer workplace as motivating factors. Their decisions to file a report, however, could be influenced by the perceived ‘volitionality’ and severity of the violent encounters, particularly in the context of (un)supportive co-workers and supervisors. Ultimately, the participants’ belief that the report would lead to meaningful change within the service was a key driver of reporting behavior.
Natural Autoantibodies in Biologic-Treated Rheumatoid Arthritis and Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients: Associations with Vascular Pathophysiology
Authors: Simon Diána , Kacsándi Dorottya , Pusztai Anita , Soós Boglárka , Végh Edit , Kerekes György , Bodoki Monika , Szamosi Szilvia , Szűcs Gabriella , Prohászka Zoltán , Németh Péter , Berki Tímea , Szekanecz Zoltán
Published: March 2024

Cardiovascular (CV) morbidity and mortality have been associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Natural autoantibodies (nAAb) are involved in innate immunity, as well as autoimmunity, inflammation, and atherosclerosis. There have not been any studies assessing the effects of biologics on nAAbs in RA and AS, also in relation to vascular pathophysiology. Fifty-three anti-TNF-treated RA and AS patients were included in a 12-month follow-up study. Anti-citrate synthase (CS) and anti-topoisomerase I fragment 4 (TOPO-F4) IgM and IgG levels were determined by ELISA. Ultrasonography was performed to assess brachial artery flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD), common carotid intima-media thickness (ccIMT), and arterial pulse-wave velocity (PWV). Other variables were also evaluated at baseline and 6 and 12 months after treatment initiation. Anti-TNF therapy improved FMD in RA and PWV in AS and stabilized ccIMT. TNF inhibition increased anti-CS IgM and IgG, and possibly also anti-TOPO-F4 IgG levels. Various correlation analyses revealed that nAAbs might be independently involved in autoimmunity as well as changes in inflammation and vascular pathology over time in biologic-treated patients (p < 0.05). We also found associations between anti-TOPO-F4 IgG and anti-Hsp60 IgG (p < 0.05). Baseline nAAb levels or nAAb level changes might determine changes in CRP, disease activity, FMD, PWV, and ccIMT over time (p < 0.05). The interplay between arthritis and inflammatory atherosclerosis, as well as the effects of anti-TNF biologics on these pathologies, might independently involve nAAbs.
Current Methods for Analysing Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Kolenc Ana , Maličev Elvira
Published: March 2024

The use of extracellular vesicles (EVs) generated by mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) holds great promise as a novel therapeutic approach. Although their immunomodulatory and regeneration potential has been reported to be similar to that of MSCs, the use of MSC-derived EVs in clinical settings will require several problems to be resolved. It is necessary to develop a standardised and widely accepted isolation technology and to improve methods such as the quantification and characterisation of MSC-derived EVs. In this way, EV studies can be compared, the acquired knowledge can be safely transferred to clinical platforms and the clinical results can be evaluated appropriately. There are many procedures for the collection and analysis of vesicles derived from different cells; however, this review provides an overview of methods for the determination of the total protein amount, specific proteins, particle number, non-protein markers like lipids and RNA, microscopy and other methods focusing on MSC-derived EVs.
Robust Fluorometric Aptamer Assay for Direct and Rapid Detection of Clinical Isolates of Candida spec.
Authors: Zhang Yiting , Xing Hu , Bolotnikov Grigory , Krämer Markus , Bozdogan Anil , Kissmann Ann-Kathrin , Weil Tanja , Spellerberg Barbara , Stenger Steffen , Rosenau Frank
Published: March 2024

Infections caused by yeasts of the genus Candida are likely to occur not only in immunocompromised patients but also in healthy individuals, leading to infections of the gastrointestinal tract, urinary tract, and respiratory tract. Due to the rapid increase in the frequency of reported Candidiasis cases in recent years, diagnostic research has become the subject of many studies, and therefore, we developed a polyclonal aptamer library-based fluorometric assay with high specificity and affinity towards Candida spec. to quantify the pathogens in clinical samples with high sensitivity. We recently obtained the specific aptamer library R10, which explicitly recognized Candida and evolved it by mimicking an early skin infection model caused by Candida using the FluCell-SELEX system. In the follow-up study presented here, we demonstrate that the aptamer library R10-based bioassay specifically recognizes invasive clinical Candida isolates, including not only C. albicans but also strains like C. tropcialis, C. krusei, or C. glabrata. The next-generation fluorometric bioassay presented here can reliably and easily detect an early Candida infection and could be used for further clinical research or could even be developed into a full in vitro diagnostic tool.
Review of Recent Computational Research on the Adsorption of PFASs with a Variety of Substrates
Authors: Minervino Alfonso , Belfield Kevin D.
Published: March 2024

The widespread use and impervious nature of per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFASs) is leading to potentially harmful exposure in numerous environments. One avenue to explore remediation of PFAS-contaminated environments involves investigating how well PFASs adsorb onto various substrates. In the current review, we focus on summarizing recent computational research, largely involving density functional theory (DFT) and molecular dynamics (MD), into the adsorption and interaction of PFASs with a variety of substrates with an aim to provide insight and inspire further research that may lead to solutions to this critical problem that impacts the environment and human health.
Immunoregulatory Effects of Elemental Diet and Its Ingredient, Tryptophan, via Activation of the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor in Mice
Authors: Kubota Atsuhito , Imai Shungo , Aoyagi Ryoichi , Murase Wataru , Terasaki Masaru , Sugawara Mitsuru , Takekuma Yoh , Kojima Hiroyuki
Published: March 2024

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by chronic intestinal inflammation and its treatment varies widely; however, when inflammation is high, a complete nutrient containing pre-digested elemental diet (ED) is used to preserve the intestinal tract. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms underlying the effectiveness of EDs for IBD using mice. C57BL/6 mice were orally treated with the ED (5 mL/day) and its ingredient L-tryptophan (Trp) (1–100 mg/kg), respectively. Flow cytometry analysis revealed that treatment with the ED and Trp (10 and 100 mg/kg) significantly increased the percentage of splenic CD4+-/CD25+-/Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs). In the 2% DSS-induced colitis-mouse model, Trp administration (100 mg/kg) led to a significant decrease in TNF-α and increase in IL-10 in the serum as well as a significant decrease in the inflammation score. Furthermore, the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) agonistic activity, which is a key function of Treg induction, of Trp and 15 Trp metabolites was characterized using a highly sensitive DR-EcoScreen cell assay. Five Trp metabolites, including L-kynurenine, acted as AhR agonists, while Trp did not. Taken together, these results suggest that the ED treatment has a Trp-dependent immunoregulatory effect, and several Trp metabolites that activate the AhR might contribute to induction of remission in patients with IBD.
Optical Intracranial Self-Stimulation (oICSS): A New Behavioral Model for Studying Drug Reward and Aversion in Rodents
Authors: Song Rui , Soler-Cedeño Omar , Xi Zheng-Xiong
Published: March 2024

Brain-stimulation reward, also known as intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS), is a commonly used procedure for studying brain reward function and drug reward. In electrical ICSS (eICSS), an electrode is surgically implanted into the medial forebrain bundle (MFB) in the lateral hypothalamus or the ventral tegmental area (VTA) in the midbrain. Operant lever responding leads to the delivery of electrical pulse stimulation. The alteration in the stimulation frequency-lever response curve is used to evaluate the impact of pharmacological agents on brain reward function. If a test drug induces a leftward or upward shift in the eICSS response curve, it implies a reward-enhancing or abuse-like effect. Conversely, if a drug causes a rightward or downward shift in the functional response curve, it suggests a reward-attenuating or aversive effect. A significant drawback of eICSS is the lack of cellular selectivity in understanding the neural substrates underlying this behavior. Excitingly, recent advancements in optical ICSS (oICSS) have facilitated the development of at least three cell type-specific oICSS models—dopamine-, glutamate-, and GABA-dependent oICSS. In these new models, a comparable stimulation frequency-lever response curve has been established and employed to study the substrate-specific mechanisms underlying brain reward function and a drug’s rewarding versus aversive effects. In this review article, we summarize recent progress in this exciting research area. The findings in oICSS have not only increased our understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying drug reward and addiction but have also introduced a novel behavioral model in preclinical medication development for treating substance use disorders.
Deciphering the Mechanism of Action of the Antimicrobial Peptide BP100
Authors: Riesco-Llach Gerard , Llanet-Ferrer Sergi , Planas Marta , Feliu Lidia
Published: March 2024

The linear undecapeptide KKLFKKILKYL-NH2 (BP100) highlights for its antibacterial activity against Gram-negative bacteria and its low toxicity. These excellent biological properties prompted the investigation of its mechanism of action, which were undertaken using spectroscopic techniques, biophysical analysis, microscopy, and molecular dynamic simulations. Studies were conducted in different membrane environments, such as anionic, zwitterionic, and mixed membranes, as well as in vesicles (LUVs and GUVs) and bacteria. The findings suggest that BP100 exhibits a preference for anionic membranes, and its mechanism of action involves charge neutralization and membrane permeabilization. In these membranes, BP100 transitions from an unstructured state in water to an α-helix with the axis parallel to the surface. MD simulations suggest that after electrostatic interaction with the membrane, BP100 flips, facilitating the insertion of its hydrophobic face into the membrane bilayer. Thus, BP100 adopts an almost vertical transmembrane orientation with lysine side chains snorkelling on both sides of the membrane. As a result of the rotation, BP100 induces membrane thinning and slow lipid diffusion and promotes water penetration, particularly in anionic lipid membranes. These investigations pointed towards a carpet-like mechanism and are aligned with the biological activity profile described for BP100. This review covers all the studies carried out on the mechanism of action of BP100 published between 2009 and 2023.
Neurogenic Effects of Inorganic Arsenic and Cdk5 Knockdown in Zebrafish Embryos: A Perspective on Modeling Autism
Authors: Gu Qiang , Kanungo Jyotshna
Published: March 2024

The exact mechanisms of the development of autism, a multifactorial neurological disorder, are not clear. The pathophysiology of autism is complex, and investigations at the cellular and molecular levels are ongoing to provide clarity. Mutations in specific genes have been identified as risk factors for autism. The role of heavy metals in the pathogenesis of autism is subject to many studies and remains debatable. Although no exact neuronal phenotypes have been identified linked to autistic symptoms, overproduction and reduction of specific neurons have been implicated. A growing literature on generating genetic and non-genetic models of autism aims to help with understanding mechanistic studies that can explain the complexity of the disorder. Both genetic and non-genetic methods of zebrafish have been used to model autism. For several human autism risk genes, validated zebrafish mutant models have been generated. There is growing evidence indicating a potential link between autism and inorganic arsenic exposure. We have previously shown that inorganic arsenic induces supernumerary spinal motor neurons via Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathway, and Cdk5 knockdown causes an overproduction of cranial and spinal motor neurons in zebrafish. Here, in this review, we provide a perspective on what these findings of neurogenic phenotypes mean in terms of dysregulated pathways of motor neuron development and their applicability to understanding cellular and molecular underpinnings of autism.
The Moderating Role of Anxiety and Depressive Symptoms in Protective Effects of Health Behaviors among Clients Using Mental Health Services
Authors: Zhai Yusen , Almaawali Mahmood , Du Xue
Published: March 2024

College-student clients using mental health services contend with increased anxiety and depressive symptoms, and their vulnerability to infectious respiratory diseases and severe clinical outcomes rises. To mitigate severe outcomes, health behaviors serve as essential protective tools to reduce the risk of infectious diseases, including COVID-19. Considering the escalating prevalence of anxiety and depression among college-student clients, little is known about how anxiety and depressive symptoms could potentially attenuate the protective effects of COVID-19 health behaviors (i.e., masking, social distancing, and hygiene practice). This study aims to examine the interactive effects of anxiety/depression and health behaviors in predicting COVID-19 infection. Methods: We analyzed data from the 2020–2021 Healthy Mind Study including a random sample of 9884 college-student clients in mental health services across 140 higher education institutions in the United States. We performed multivariable logistic regression to assess whether and to what extent the associations between COVID-19 health behaviors and infection depended on severity of anxiety or depressive symptoms. Results: Anxiety symptom severity negatively moderated the protective effects of social distancing against infection after adjusting for demographic characteristics and pre-existing chronic health conditions. Depressive symptom severity negatively moderated the protective effects of masking, social distancing, or hygiene practices against infection. Conclusion: The associations between certain COVID-19 health behaviors and infection were conditional on anxiety and depressive symptom severity. Findings suggest a potential public health benefit of mental health clinicians’ efforts in assessing and treating clients’ anxiety and depressive symptoms, namely reducing their vulnerability to COVID-19 infection and perhaps other infectious respiratory diseases.
On the Multidisciplinary Design of a Hybrid Rocket Launcher with a Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessel
Authors: Souza Alain , Gonçalves Paulo Teixeira , Afonso Frederico , Lau Fernando , Rocha Nuno , Suleman Afzal
Published: March 2024

A multidisciplinary design optimisation (MDO) study of a hybrid rocket launcher is presented, with a focus on quantifying the impact of using composite overwrapped pressure vessels (COPVs) as the oxidiser tank. The rocket hybrid propulsion system (RHPS) consists of a combination of solid fuel (paraffin) and liquid oxidiser (NOx). The oxidiser is conventionally stored in metallic vessels. Alternative design concepts involving composite-based pressure vessels are explored that could lead to significant improvements in the overall performance of the rocket. This design choice may potentially affect parameters such as total weight, thrust curve, and maximum altitude achieved. With this eventual impact in mind, structural considerations such as wall thickness for the COPV are integrated into an in-house MDO framework to conceptually optimise a hybrid rocket launcher.
Social Media Managers’ Performance: The Impact of the Work Environment
Authors: Camoiras-Rodríguez Zaira , Varela-Neira Concepción
Published: March 2024

The continuous growth of social media is causing significant modifications in the business strategies developed by organizations. Using a structural equation modeling approach, this research analyzes how the work environment affects the social media managers thriving at work and task performance. The proposed model is tested using a sample of 190 social media managers and 190 supervisors from 190 companies in the tourism sector. The results highlight the importance of proper design and implementation of social media marketing planning and top management support to enhance both thriving at work and the performance of social media managers. This research contributes to the literature on social media by examining how and when the work environment influences the attitudes and performance of social media managers, whose role is crucial in organizational performance. Simultaneously, it expands the literature on thriving, as knowledge about the impact of contextual factors on thriving is still limited. The results also demonstrate that managers can compensate for the lack of certain contextual or personal resources with other resources, providing insights into when the work environment is more beneficial in shaping positive attitudes and behaviors in employees.
Influence of V on the Microstructure and Precipitation Behavior of High-Carbon Hardline Steel during Continuous Cooling
Authors: Zhang Junxiang , Gu Shangjun , Wang Jie , Wei Fulong , Li Zhiying , Zeng Zeyun , Shen Bin , Li Changrong
Published: March 2024

High-carbon hardline steels are primarily used for the manufacture of tire beads for both automobiles and aircraft, and vanadium (V) microalloying is an important means of adjusting the microstructure of high-carbon hardline steels. Using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), the microstructure and precipitation phases of continuous cooled high-carbon steels were characterized, and the vanadium content, carbon diffusion coefficient, and critical precipitation temperature were calculated. The results showed that as the V content increased to 0.06 wt.%, the interlamellar spacing (ILS) of the pearlite in the experimental steel decreased to 0.110 μm, and the carbon diffusion coefficient in the experimental steel decreased to 0.98 × 10−3 cm2·s−1. The pearlite content in the experimental steel with 0.02 wt.% V reached its maximum at a cooling rate of 5 °C·s−1, and a small amount of bainite was observed in the experimental steel at a cooling rate of 10 °C·s−1. The precipitated phase was VC with a diameter of ~24.73 nm, and the misfit between ferrite and VC was 5.02%, forming a semi-coherent interface between the two. Atoms gradually adjust their positions to allow the growth of VC along the ferrite direction. As the V content increased to 0.06 wt.%, the precipitation-temperature-time curve (PTT) shifted to the left, and the critical nucleation temperature for homogeneous nucleation, grain boundary nucleation, and dislocation line nucleation increased from 570.6, 676.9, and 692.4 °C to 634.6, 748.5, and 755.5 °C, respectively.
Numerical Investigation on Precipitation Hardening of Mg-Gd Alloys
Authors: Ge Yulong , Yang Chunyan , Ma Yuwei , Chen Yang , Gupta Manoj
Published: March 2024

The second-phase particles in magnesium alloys could affect the mechanical properties of the material significantly. In this work, 3D finite element models with explicit incorporation of second-phase particles are established. The simulations are calibrated with the experimental results of the Mg-1Gd alloy. The influences of factors, such as the particle distribution, size, and orientation of cylindrical particles, on precipitation hardening are investigated in detail. Three interface conditions between particles and the matrix—perfect bonding and high- and low-strength bonding—are studied at the same time. The interface conditions are shown to exert a stronger influence on precipitation hardening compared to the factors of particle distribution and size. In contrast, the influence of the orientation of cylindrical particles at grain boundaries outweighs the effect of interface property. When second-phase particles are relatively large and all located at grain boundaries, the hardening effect can be improved, and the magnesium alloy shows relatively high flow stress. However, the high hardening effect from the second-phase particles could result in high local stress concentration and possible early failure or low ductility of Mg alloys.
Exposure to Stress and Burnout Syndrome in Healthcare Workers, Expert Workers, Professional Associates, and Associates in Social Service Institutions
Authors: Marković Snežana , Kostić Olivera , Terzić-Supic Zorica , Tomic Mihajlovic Sanja , Milovanović Jasmina , Radovanovic Snezana , Zdravković Nebojša , Stojić Vladislava , Jovčić Ljiljana , Jocić-Pivač Biljana , Tomić Lučić Aleksandra , Kostić Marina , Šorak Marija
Published: March 2024

Background and Objectives: Workplace burnout syndrome is often as sociated with particular aspects of certain job positions, especially those that entail working with people with special needs. The burnout syndrome in healthcare jobs is a serious problem that has grown into an epidemic among healthcare workers and associates. The aim of this research is to assess the presence of stress and burnout syndrome at work with healthcare workers, expert workers, professional associates, and associates in social service institutions in Belgrade. Materials and Methods: This research was conducted in the form of a cross-sectional study of a representative sample in social institutions in Belgrade. It was conducted from March to the end of June of 2023. The sample of the study had 491 participants. The questionnaires used were a structured instrument with social–demographic and social–economic characteristics, workplace characteristics, lifestyle characteristics, and the following questionnaires: DASS-21, Copenhagen, Brief Resilience Scale, and Brief Resilient Coping Scale. Results: The end results indicate the following to be significant risk factors for the occurrence of workplace burnout syndrome: overtime (OR = 2.62; CI = 1.50–4.56), BRS average score (OR = 0.28; CI = 0.17–0.44), DASS21 D heightened depression (OR = 2.09; CI = 1.1–4.04), DASS21 A heightened anxiety (OR = 2.38; CI = 1.34–4.21), and DASS21 S heightened stress (OR = 2.08; CI = 1.11–3.89). The only protective risk factor that stood out was the self-assessment of health levels (OR = 0.60; CI = 0.42–0.85). Conclusion: Overtime is a significant factor associated with workplace burnout. Apart from it, other significant factors associated with workplace burnout were heightened depression, anxiety, and stress levels.
Fully Characterized Effective Bacteriophages Specific against Antibiotic-Resistant Enterococcus faecalis, the Causative Agent of Dental Abscess
Authors: Ramadan Asmaa , Abdel-Monem Mohamed O. , El-Dougdoug Noha K. , Mekky Alsayed E. , Elaskary Shymaa A. , Al-Askar Abdulaziz A. , Metwally Shimaa A , El-Sayed Ahmed F. , AbdElgayed Gehad , Saied Ebrahim , Khedr Mohamed
Published: March 2024

Background and Objectives: Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) is a primary pathogen responsible for dental abscesses, which cause inflammation and pain when trapped between the crown and soft tissues of an erupted tooth. Therefore, this study aims to use specific phages as an alternative method instead of classical treatments based on antibiotics to destroy multidrug-resistant E. faecalis bacteria for treating dental issues. Materials and Methods: In the current study, twenty-five bacterial isolates were obtained from infected dental specimens; only five had the ability to grow on bile esculin agar, and among these five, only two were described to be extensive multidrug-resistant isolates. Results: Two bacterial isolates, Enterococcus faecalis A.R.A.01 [ON797462.1] and Enterococcus faecalis A.R.A.02, were identified biochemically and through 16S rDNA, which were used as hosts for isolating specific phages. Two isolated phages were characterized through TEM imaging, which indicated that E. faecalis_phage-01 had a long and flexible tail, belonging to the family Siphoviridae, while E. faecalis_phage-02 had a contractile tail, belonging to the family Myoviridae. Genetically, two phages were identified through the PCR amplification and sequencing of the RNA ligase of Enterococcus phage vB_EfaS_HEf13, through which our phages shared 97.2% similarity with Enterococcus phage vB-EfaS-HEf13 based on BLAST analysis. Furthermore, through in silico analysis and annotations of the two phages’ genomes, it was determined that a total of 69 open reading frames (ORFs) were found to be involved in various functions related to integration excision, replication recombination, repair, stability, and defense. In phage optimization, the two isolated phages exhibited a high specific host range with Enterococcus faecalis among six different bacterial hosts, where E. faecalis_phage-01 had a latent period of 30 min with 115.76 PFU/mL, while E. faecalis_phage-02 had a latent period of 25 min with 80.6 PFU/mL. They were also characterized with stability at wide ranges of pH (4–11) and temperature (10–60 °C), with a low cytotoxic effect on the oral epithelial cell line at different concentrations (1000–31.25 PFU/mL). Conclusions: The findings highlight the promise of phage therapy in dental medicine, offering a novel approach to combating antibiotic resistance and enhancing patient outcomes. Further research and clinical trials will be essential to fully understand the therapeutic potential and safety profile of these bacteriophages in human populations.
Modeling and Simulation of Graphene-Based Transducers in NEMS Accelerometers
Authors: He Chang , Ding Jie , Fan Xuge
Published: March 2024

The mechanical characteristics of graphene ribbons with an attached proof mass that can be used as NEMS transducers have been minimally studied, which hinders the development of graphene-based NEMS devices. Here, we simulated the mechanical characteristics of graphene ribbons with an attached proof mass using the finite element method. We studied the impact of force, residual stress, and geometrical size on displacement, strain, resonant frequency, and fracture strength of graphene ribbons with an attached proof mass. The results show that the increase of width and thickness of graphene ribbons would result in a decrease of the displacement and strain but also an increase of resonant frequency. The increase of the length of graphene ribbons has an insignificant impact on the strain, but it could increase the displacement and decrease the resonant frequency. The increase of residual stress in the graphene ribbons decreases its strain and displacement. The estimated fracture strength of graphene shows limited dependence on its thickness, with an estimated value of around 148 GPa. These findings contribute to the understanding of the mechanical characteristics of graphene ribbons with an attached proof mass and lay the solid foundation for the design and manufacture of high-performance graphene-based NEMS devices such as accelerometers.
Utilizing Deep Eutectic Solvents in the Recycle, Recovery, Purification and Miscellaneous Uses of Rare Earth Elements
Authors: Alguacil Francisco Jose
Published: March 2024

The boosted interest in using rare earth elements (REEs) in modern technologies has also increased the necessity of their recovery from various sources, including raw materials and wastes. Though hydrometallurgy plays a key role in these recovery processes, some drawbacks (apparent or not) of these processes (including the use of aggressive mineral acids, harmful extractants, and diluents, etc.) have led to the development of an environmental friendship subclass named solvometallurgy, in which non-aqueous solvents substituted to the aqueous media of the hydrometallurgical processing. Together with ionic liquids (ILs), the non-aqueous solvents chosen for these usages are the chemicals known as deep eutectic solvents (DEEs). The utilization of DEEs included the leaching of REEs from the different sources containing them and also in the separation-purification steps necessary for yielding these elements, normally oxides or salts, in the most purified form. This work reviewed the most recent literature (2023 year) about using deep eutectic solvents to recover REEs from various sources and coupling these two (DESs and REEs) to derive compounds to be used in other fields.
Gallium Trichloride Fluid: Dimer Dissociation Mechanism, Local Structure, and Atomic Dynamics
Authors: Khomenko Maxim , Sokolov Anton , Tverjanovich Andrey , Bokova Maria , Kassem Mohammad , Usuki Takeshi , Bychkov Eugene
Published: March 2024

Molten gallium trichloride emerges as a promising solvent for oxidative metal recycling. The use of supercritical fluid enhances the performance and kinetics of metal dissolution due to significantly lower viscosity in the reaction media. Additionally, the dual molecular nature of gallium trichloride, existing as edge-sharing ES-Ga2Cl6 dimers at low temperatures and high pressure, or flat trigonal GaCl3 monomers in the vicinity of the critical point and low pressures, creates the possibility to tailor the chemical geometry to a particular metallic species. Nevertheless, the mechanism of dimer dissociation, local structure, and atomic dynamics in supercritical gallium trichloride fluids are not known. Using first-principles molecular dynamics, validated by comparison with our high-energy X-ray diffraction results, we illustrate the elementary steps in dimer dissociation. These include the formation of intermediate corner-sharing CS-Ga2Cl6 dimers, the partial disproportionation of GaCl3 monomers at high temperatures and low pressures, changes in the local environment of molecular entities, and unusual atomic dynamics in supercritical fluids.
Polyanion Condensation in Inorganic and Hybrid Fluoridometallates (IV) of Octahedrally Coordinated Ti, Zr, Hf, V, Cr, W, Mn, Ge, Sn, and Pb
Authors: Mazej Zoran
Published: March 2024

In fluorides, the M4+ cations of M = Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Ge, Sn, and Pb favour the octahedral coordination of six F ligands. Some examples of M4+ with larger cations (M = Zr, Hf, W) in octahedral coordination are also known. If not enough F ligands are available to have isolated MIVF6 octahedra, they must share their F ligands. The crystal structures of such fluoride metalates (IV) show the variety of possible structural motifs of the zero-dimensional oligomeric anions [M2F11]3− (M = Ti, Cr), [M3F15]3− (M = Zr, Hf), [M3F16]4− (M = Ge), [M4F18]2− (M = Ti, W), [M4F19]3− (M = Ti), [M4F20]4− (M = Ti), [M5F23]3− (M = Ti), [M6F27]3− (M = Ti), [M6F28]4− (M = Ti), [M8F36]4− (M = Ti, Mn), [M10F45]5− (M = Ti) to one-dimensional chains ([MF5]−)∞ (M = V, Ti, Cr, Ge, Sn, Pb), double chains ([M2F9]−)∞ (M = Ti, Mn), columns ([M3F13]−)∞ (M = Ti), ([M4F19]3−)∞ (M = Ti), ([M7F30]2−)∞ (M = Ti), ([M9F38]2−)∞) (M = Ti), two-dimensional layers ([M2F9]−)∞ (M = Cr), ([M8F33]−)∞ (M = Ti), and three-dimensional ([M6F27]3−)∞ (M = Ti) architectures. A discrete monomeric [M2F9]− anion with two MIVF6 octahedra sharing a common face has not yet been experimentally demonstrated, while two examples containing discrete dimeric [M2F10]2− anions (M = Ti) with two MIVF6 octahedra sharing an edge are still in question.
Drug Repositioning via Graph Neural Networks: Identifying Novel JAK2 Inhibitors from FDA-Approved Drugs through Molecular Docking and Biological Validation
Authors: Yasir Muhammad , Park Jinyoung , Han Eun-Taek , Park Won Sun , Han Jin-Hee , Chun Wanjoo
Published: March 2024

The increasing utilization of artificial intelligence algorithms in drug development has proven to be highly efficient and effective. One area where deep learning-based approaches have made significant contributions is in drug repositioning, enabling the identification of new therapeutic applications for existing drugs. In the present study, a trained deep-learning model was employed to screen a library of FDA-approved drugs to discover novel inhibitors targeting JAK2. To accomplish this, reference datasets containing active and decoy compounds specific to JAK2 were obtained from the DUD-E database. RDKit, a cheminformatic toolkit, was utilized to extract molecular features from the compounds. The DeepChem framework’s GraphConvMol, based on graph convolutional network models, was applied to build a predictive model using the DUD-E datasets. Subsequently, the trained deep-learning model was used to predict the JAK2 inhibitory potential of FDA-approved drugs. Based on these predictions, ribociclib, topiroxostat, amodiaquine, and gefitinib were identified as potential JAK2 inhibitors. Notably, several known JAK2 inhibitors demonstrated high potential according to the prediction results, validating the reliability of our prediction model. To further validate these findings and confirm their JAK2 inhibitory activity, molecular docking experiments were conducted using tofacitinib—an FDA-approved drug for JAK2 inhibition. Experimental validation successfully confirmed our computational analysis results by demonstrating that these novel drugs exhibited comparable inhibitory activity against JAK2 compared to tofacitinib. In conclusion, our study highlights how deep learning models can significantly enhance virtual screening efforts in drug discovery by efficiently identifying potential candidates for specific targets such as JAK2. These newly discovered drugs hold promises as novel JAK2 inhibitors deserving further exploration and investigation.
Study on the Properties of FEVE Modified with Ag2O/OH-MWCNTS Nanocomposites for Use as Adhesives for Wooden Heritage Objects
Authors: Teri Gele , Cheng Cong , Han Kezhu , Huang Dan , Li Jing , Luo Yujia , Fu Peng , Li Yuhu
Published: March 2024

The durability of wooden heritage objects and sites can be affected by external environmental factors, leading to decay, cracking, and other forms of deterioration, which might ultimately result in significant and irreversible loss. In this study, a FEVE resin was modified with Ag2O/OH-MWCNTS (MA), denoted as MAF, where three concentrations were prepared using in situ precipitation, and the resulting composite adhesive was characterized by a high viscosity and effective bacteriostatic properties, demonstrating a better viscosity and thermal stability, as well as antibacterial properties, than pure FEVE resin. The results show that MAF adhesives present good thermal stability, as evidenced by a lower mass loss rate following treatment at 800 °C compared to the pure FEVE resin. At a consistent shear rate, the viscosity of MAF demonstrates a notable increase with the proportion of MA, which is better than that of FEVE. This suggests that the nano-Ag2O particles in MA act as physical crosslinking agents in FEVE, improving the viscosity of the composite adhesive MAF. The adhesion strength between MAF and wood exhibits a similar trend, with wooden samples showing higher shear strengths as the proportion of MA increases in comparison to FEVE. Simultaneously, the antibacterial effects of the MAF adhesive exceeded 1 mm for Trichoderma, Aspergillus niger, and white rot fungi. The antibacterial activity of the MAF adhesive exhibited a direct correlation with the concentration of Ag2O/OH-MWCNTS, with the most pronounced inhibitory effect observed on Trichoderma. The MAF adhesive demonstrates promising prospects as an adhesive for wooden heritage artifacts, offering a novel approach for the rapid, environmentally friendly, and efficient development of composite adhesives with superior adhesive properties.
Effect of Probiotic Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus LB1.5 on Anxiety-like Behavior, Neuroprotection and Neuroinflammation Markers of Male Mice Fed a High-Fat Diet
Authors: Schmidt Natália Perin , Molz Patrícia , Fraga Brenda Santos , Bondarczuk Nicole Hiller , Silveira Priscila Dutra , Ferri Milena Henrique , Crestani Thais Busatto , Breyer Gabriela Merker , Guimarães Giuliano Rizzoto , Motta Amanda de Souza da , Guedes Renata Padilha , Giovenardi Márcia
Published: March 2024

Probiotic supplementation has been identified as a potential target to reduce inflammatory mediators associated with obesity. Therefore, this study assessed the effect of probiotic Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus LB1.5 on anxiety-like behavior, gene expression in the prefrontal cortex, and neuroinflammation in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus of male mice fed a high-fat diet. Mice aged 21 days were divided into four groups: control (CONT), control plus probiotic (CONT + PROB), high-fat diet (HFD), and high-fat diet plus probiotic (HFD + PROB), and fed for 13 weeks. The probiotic Lact. rhamnosus 1.5 (3.1 × 108 CFU/mL, derived from raw buffalo milk) was administered by gavage three times a week. Probiotic supplementation provided an anxiolytic effect in CONT and HFD. The IL-6 showed lower levels after probiotic supplementation in the HFD. Regarding immunoreactivity for GFAP in the cerebral cortex, we demonstrated that animals HFD-fed had a reduction in cells number compared to CONT. In the hippocampus, we found an interaction between diet and supplementation, as well as an effect of probiotic supplementation. A higher number of Th positive cells was observed in the cerebral cortex in mice fed HFD. Lact. rhamnosus LB1.5 supplementation decreased serum IL-6 levels in HFD-fed mice and promoted a reduction in anxiety-like behavior.
Lower Multiple Sclerosis Severity Score Is Associated with Higher Adherence to Mediterranean Diet in Subjects with Multiple Sclerosis from Northwestern Italy
Authors: Bronzini Matteo , Maglione Alessandro , Rosso Rachele , Masuzzo Federica , Matta Manuela , Meroni Raffaella , Rolla Simona , Clerico Marinella
Published: March 2024

The Mediterranean Diet (MD) is described in the literature as a beneficial dietary pattern for neurodegenerative diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The objective of this study was to evaluate the dietary habits in people with MS (pwMS) and to test whether adherence to the MD could have an impact on the severity of the disease measured as the MS severity score (MSSS). Adherence to the MD was assessed in 31 PwMS using the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS), the Pyramid-based Mediterranean Diet Score (PyrMDS) index, and the Italian Mediterranean Index (IMI), and their eating habits were recorded in a food diary for a one-year follow-up. When data obtained from dietary analysis were compared to the MSSS, results showed that pwMS with lower MSSS adhere more to the MD than the other pwMS groups according to the MEDAS index. Furthermore, a high consumption of fiber in the MS mild severity class was observed. Further studies are needed to clarify which of the nutritional components of the MD may impact the course of MS and if the sensitization of pwMS to MD adherence can be a strategy for mitigating the disease.
Biobran/MGN-3, an Arabinoxylan Rice Bran, Exerts Anti-COVID-19 Effects and Boosts Immunity in Human Subjects
Authors: Agrawal Sudhanshu , Agrawal Anshu , Ghoneum Mamdooh
Published: March 2024

Corona Virus Disease 19 (COVID-19) has been a major pandemic impacting a huge population worldwide, and it continues to present serious health threats, necessitating the development of novel protective nutraceuticals. Biobran/MGN-3, an arabinoxylan rice bran, is a potent immunomodulator for both humans and animals that has recently been demonstrated to protect against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in vitro. We here investigate Biobran/MGN-3′s potential to enhance an antiviral immune response in humans. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) derived from eight subjects taking Biobran/MGN-3 (age 55–65 years) and eight age-matched control subjects were stimulated with irradiated SARS-CoV-2 virus and then subjected to immuno-phenotyping and multiplex cytokine/chemokine assays. Results showed that PBMCs from subjects supplemented with Biobran/MGN-3 had significantly increased activation of plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) coupled with increased IFN-α secretion. We also observed higher baseline expression of HLA-DR (human leukocyte antigen-DR isotype) on dendritic cells (DCs) and increased secretion of chemokines and cytokines, as well as a substantial increase in cytotoxic T cell generation for subjects taking Biobran/MGN-3. Our results suggest that Biobran/MGN-3 primes immunity and therefore may be used for boosting immune responses against SARS-CoV-2 infections and other diseases, particularly in high-risk populations such as the elderly.
Effects of Mindful Eating in Patients with Obesity and Binge Eating Disorder
Authors: Minari Tatiana Palotta , Araújo-Filho Gerardo Maria de , Tácito Lúcia Helena Bonalume , Yugar Louise Buonalumi Tácito , Rubio Tatiane de Azevedo , Pires Antônio Carlos , Vilela-Martin José Fernando , Cosenso-Martin Luciana Neves , Fattori André , Yugar-Toledo Juan Carlos , Moreno Heitor
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Binge eating disorder (BED) is a psychiatric illness related to a high frequency of episodes of binge eating, loss of control, body image dissatisfaction, and suffering caused by overeating. It is estimated that 30% of patients with BED are affected by obesity. “Mindful eating” (ME) is a promising new eating technique that can improve self-control and good food choices, helping to increase awareness about the triggers of binge eating episodes and intuitive eating training. Objectives: To analyze the impact of ME on episodes of binge eating, body image dissatisfaction, quality of life, eating habits, and anthropometric data [weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), and waist circumference] in patients with obesity and BED. Method: This quantitative, prospective, longitudinal, and experimental study recruited 82 patients diagnosed with obesity and BED. The intervention was divided into eight individual weekly meetings, guided by ME sessions, nutritional educational dynamics, cooking workshops, food sensory analyses, and applications of questionnaires [Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ); Binge Eating Scale (BES); Quality of Life Scale (WHOQOL-BREF)]. There was no dietary prescription for calories, carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and fiber. Patients were only encouraged to consume fewer ultra-processed foods and more natural and minimally processed foods. The meetings occurred from October to November 2023. Statistical analysis: To carry out inferential statistics, the Shapiro–Wilk test was used to verify the normality of variable distribution. All variables were identified as non-normal distribution and were compared between the first and the eighth week using a two-tailed Wilcoxon test. Non-Gaussian data were represented by median ± interquartile range (IQR). Additionally, α < 0.05 and p < 0.05 were adopted. Results: Significant reductions were found from the first to the eighth week for weight, BMI, waist circumference, episodes of binge eating, BSQ scale score, BES score, and total energy value (all p < 0.0001). In contrast, there was a significant increase in the WHOQOL-BREF score and daily water intake (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: ME improved anthropometric data, episodes of binge eating, body image dissatisfaction, eating habits, and quality of life in participants with obesity and BED in the short-term. However, an extension of the project will be necessary to analyze the impact of the intervention in the long-term.
Nutritional and Morphofunctional Assessment of Post-ICU Patients with COVID-19 at Hospital Discharge: NutriEcoMuscle Study
Authors: Joaquín Clara , Bretón Irene , Ocón Bretón María Julia , Burgos Rosa , Bellido Diego , Matía-Martín Pilar , Martínez Olmos Miguel Ángel , Zugasti Ana , Riestra María , Botella Francisco , García Almeida José M.
Published: March 2024

This paper presents baseline results from the NutriEcoMuscle study, a multicenter observational study conducted in Spain which focused on changes in nutritional status, body composition, and functionality in post-intensive care unit (ICU) COVID-19 patients following a nutritional intervention. Assessments at hospital discharge included Subjective Global Assessment (SGA), Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) criteria, the Barthel index, handgrip strength (HGS) and the Timed Up-and-Go test, bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), and nutritional ultrasound (US). The study involved 96 patients (71.9% male, mean age 58.8 years, mean BMI 28.8 kg/m2, 36.5% obese). All patients were malnourished at discharge according to GLIM and SGA. Functional status declined from admission up to hospital discharge. A total of 33.3% of patients had a low fat-free mass index (FFMI) and 29.5% had a low phase angle (PhA). Myosteatosis was observed in 83.7% of the population. There was a positive correlation between rectus femoris cross-sectional area, PhA, FFMI, and HGS. In conclusion, post-critically ill COVID-19 patients commonly suffer from malnutrition and reduced muscle mass, causing a loss of independence at hospital discharge. BIA and US could be valuable tools for assessing body composition in these patients. The NutriEcoMuscle study highlights the need for a thorough nutritional and morphofunctional status assessment of post-ICU patients.