bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Usability and Feasibility Testing of an Atrial Fibrillation Educational Website with Patients Referred to an Atrial Fibrillation Specialty Clinic
Authors: Rush Kathy L. , Burton Lindsay , Seaton Cherisse L. , Loewen Peter , O’Connor Brian P. , Corman Kendra , Phillips Robyn , Moroz Lana , Andrade Jason G.
Published: September 2023

Background: The purpose of this study was to design, usability test, and explore the feasibility of a web-based educational platform/intervention for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) as part of their virtual AF care. Methods: Participants were patients attending a specialized AF clinic. The multiple mixed-methods design included website design, think-aloud usability test, 1-month unstructured pre-testing analysis using Google Analytics, follow-up interviews, and a non-randomized one-group feasibility test using pre/post online surveys and Google Analytics. Results: Usability testing participants (n = 2) guided adjustments for improving navigation. Pre-testing participants’ (n = 9) website activity averaged four sessions (SD = 2.6) at 10 (SD 8) minutes per session during a 1-month study period. In the feasibility test, 30 patients referred to AF specialty clinic care completed the baseline survey, and 20 of these completed the 6-month follow-up survey. A total of 19 patients accessed the website over the 6 months, and all 30 participants were sent email prompts containing information from the website. Health-related quality of life, treatment satisfaction, household activity, and AF knowledge scores were higher at follow-up than baseline. There was an overall downward trend in self-reported healthcare utilization at follow-up. Conclusions: Access to a credible education website for patients with AF has great potential to complement virtual and hybrid models of care.
A Single Center Observational Study on Clinical Manifestations and Associated Factors of Pediatric Long COVID
Authors: Mancino Enrica , Nenna Raffaella , Matera Luigi , La Regina Domenico Paolo , Petrarca Laura , Iovine Elio , Di Mattia Greta , Frassanito Antonella , Conti Maria Giulia , Bonci Enea , Spatuzzo Mattia , Ialongo Sara , Zicari Anna Maria , Spalice Alberto , Midulla Fabio ,   on behalf of the Long COVID Research Group
Published: September 2023

Children with SARS-CoV-2 are mostly mild symptomatic, but they may develop conditions, such as persisting symptoms, that may put them at greater risk of complications. Our aim was to evaluate the frequency and the presence of risk factors for persisting COVID-19 symptoms in children. We carried out a prospective observational study of the clinical manifestation of Long COVID at the Department of Maternal Infantile Science of a tertiary University hospital in Rome. We included 697 children (0–18 years), with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection. Children and parents were asked questions regarding persistent symptoms of COVID-19. Children with symptoms 30 days after initial diagnosis were 185/697 (26.4%). Moreover, 81/697 (11.6%) patients presented symptoms 90 days after the diagnosis. Thirty-day-persisting symptoms were mostly present in children with anosmia, atopy, asthenia, and cough in the acute phase compared with the asymptomatic children 30 days after infection. After 90 days, symptoms described were mainly neurological (47/697 children, 6.7%), and headache (19/697; 2.7%) was the most frequent manifestation. In conclusion, a relatively large proportion of the patients reported persisting symptoms that seem to be related to the symptom burden and to the atopy. Ninety days after the infection, most of the children had recovered, showing that long-term effects are not frequent. Limitations of the study include the single-center design and the lack of a control group.
Enhancing Driving Ability in Older Adults through Health Exercises and Physical Activity: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Katayama Akihiko , Hase Ayako , Miyatake Nobuyuki
Published: September 2023

The global rise in the aging driving population has heightened concerns about traffic incidents involving this demographic. Beyond transportation, automobiles represent a vital lifeline for older adults, fostering social activities and influencing their health-related quality of life. This study explores improving and sustaining driving ability among older adults with anticipated declines through health-conscious exercises. Sixty-eight participants were randomly allocated into two groups. The exercise-oriented group (E-group) engaged in twelve 90 min health and exercise sessions over twelve weeks, while the control group (C-group) maintained their regular daily routines and did not receive any specific interventions during this period. The focal point of assessment was driving ability, as evaluated by a person using a real car on public roads without using a simulator. Driving ability and physical fitness were assessed before the intervention in both groups. Post-intervention measurements occurred twelve weeks after the initial gauging, encompassing both cohorts. Comparative analysis of pre- and post-intervention changes was executed between the two groups. The E-group demonstrated improved overall driving ability compared to the C-group. The results suggest that healthy exercise and physical activity may maintain and enhance driving ability for older adults.
Disabled People or Their Support Persons’ Perceptions of a Community Based Multi-Sensory Environment (MSE): A Mixed-Method Study
Authors: Wilkinson Amanda , Calder Allyson , Elliott Beth , Rodger Ryan , Mulligan Hilda , Hale Leigh , Perry Meredith
Published: September 2023

Multi-sensory environments (MSEs) are specialised spaces purposely designed to stimulate the senses, whilst providing a calming and relaxing environment for leisure and enjoyment, predominantly intended for disabled people. Most MSEs are in institutions, hospitals, or educational settings, with a few in community-based settings. We explored disabled users’ experiences of a community based MSE in a large metropolitan area in New Zealand, with a view to expanding access to MSE-type environments within the area. We used a convergent mixed method design with a web-based electronic survey (e-survey; n = 105), as well as semi-structured interviews (n = 14) with disabled MSE users (adults and children), who were supported, where necessary, by their support person/s. We collected the MSE users’ demographics, frequency of use with respect to age, disability, and ethnicity, and experiences of the room, equipment, and accessibility. The participants and their support persons’ perspectives about their experiences of using the MSE were represented by four themes: (i) Self-determination; (ii) Enhancing wellbeing opportunities; (iii) the MSE itself; (iv) Accessibility. While the MSE was considered positively, the MSE experience could be enhanced by addressing access challenges and broadening the scope of equipment to improve the usability and make it a more inclusive environment for all.
The Effect of Plant-Derived Low-Ratio Linoleic Acid/α-Linolenic Acid on Markers of Glucose Controls: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Qiong , Wang Xingguo
Published: September 2023

The objective of this meta-analysis was to examine the impact of a low-ratio linoleic acid/α-linolenic acid (LA/ALA) diet on the glycemic profile of adults. A comprehensive search was performed across four databases (Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, and PubMed) to evaluate the influence of the low-ratio LA/ALA. Relevant references were screened up until February 2023. Intervention effects were analyzed by calculating change values as weighted mean differences (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) using fixed-effects models. Additionally, subgroup analysis and meta-regression were employed to investigate potential sources of heterogeneity. Twenty-one randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included, and the low-ratio LA/ALA diet had no significant effect on fasting blood sugar (FBS, WMD: 0.00 mmol/L, 95% CI: −0.06, 0.06, p = 0.989, I2 = 0.0%), insulin levels (WMD: 0.20 μIU/mL, 95% CI: −0.23, 0.63, p = 0.360, I2 = 3.2%), homeostatic model assessment insulin resistance (HOMA-IR, WMD: 0.09, 95% CI: −0.06, 0.23, p = 0.243, I2 = 0.0%), and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c, WMD: −0.01%, 95% CI: −0.07, 0.06, p = 0.836, I2 = 0.0%). Based on subgroup analyses, it was observed that the impact of a low-ratio LA/ALA diet on elevated plasma insulin (WMD: 1.31 μIU/mL, 95% CI: 0.08, 2.54, p = 0.037, I2 = 32.0%) and HOMA-IR (WMD: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.10, 0.84, p = 0.012, I2 = 0.0%) levels exhibited greater prominence in North America compared to Asian and European countries. Publication bias was not detected for FBS, insulin, HOMA-IR, and HbA1c levels according to the Begg and Egger tests. Furthermore, the conducted sensitivity analyses indicated stability, as the effects of the low-ratio LA/ALA diet on various glycemic and related metrics remained unchanged even after removing individual studies. Overall, based on the available studies, it can be concluded that the low-ratio LA/ALA diet has limited impact on blood glucose-related biomarker levels.
Optimization of Production Methods for Black Soldier Fly Larvae (Hermetia illucens L.) in Burkina Faso
Authors: Sankara Florence , Sankara Fernand , Pousga Salimata , Coulibaly Kalifa , Nacoulma Jacques Philippe , Ilboudo Zakaria , Ouédraogo Issoufou , Somda Irénée , Kenis Marc
Published: September 2023

Larvae of Hermetia illucens are a valuable source of protein for animal feed that can be produced by exposing animal and agro-industrial wastes to naturally occurring flies. The objective of this study was to improve techniques for obtaining H. illucens larvae to feed livestock in Burkina Faso. An experiment was conducted to determine the most favourable substrates and seasons for larval production. The substrates used were poultry manure, local beer waste, local beer waste mixed with poultry manure, cottonseed cake, and industrial brewery waste mixed with poultry manure. The production of larvae was carried out in four different seasons. The effect of the container’s oviposition area (0.07 m2, 0.09 m2, and 0.11 m2) and the type of container (terracotta, plastic, and iron) on larval production was also assessed. The produced larval biomass was high during, or just after, the rainy season but very low during the cool dry and hot dry seasons. Yields were higher with local beer waste mixed with poultry manure followed by local beer waste and cottonseed cake. The average mass of H. illucens larvae increased slightly with the oviposition area for the same amount of substrate. Iron and terracotta containers provided better results than plastic containers. The suitability of this production method for H. illucens larvae production is discussed.
Comparing Different Sticky Traps to Monitor the Occurrence of Philaenus spumarius and Neophilaenus campestris, Vectors of Xylella fastidiosa, in Different Crops
Authors: Dongiovanni Crescenza , Di Carolo Michele , Fumarola Giulio , Tauro Daniele , Tedone Biagio , Ancona Simona , Palmisano Valentina , Carrieri Mauro , Cavalieri Vincenzo
Published: September 2023

Following the detection of the quarantine bacterium Xylella fastidiosa (Wells et al.) in the Apulia region (southern Italy) and the identification of spittlebugs as the main vector species that contributes to its epidemic spread, monitoring activities have been intensified in an attempt to implement vector control strategies. To date, sweep nets have been the most widely used sampling method to monitor adult spittlebug populations. Field experiments were carried out, during 2018 and 2019, to evaluate the effectiveness of sticky traps in capturing spittlebugs in different woody crops. The attractiveness of different traps was compared: four colored sticky traps (white, red, blue, and yellow), with the yellow sticky traps having three different background patterns (plain yellow, yellow with a black circle pattern, and yellow with a black line pattern). In addition, the efficiency of the yellow sticky traps was evaluated by placing the traps on the ground or hanging them from the canopies in orchards with different spittlebug population densities. Trap catches of Philaenus spumarius (Linnaeus) and Neophilaenus campestris (Fallén) (Hemiptera: Aphrophoridae) were compared with those collected using sweep nets. The two spittlebug species showed a similar response to the colored traps and were mainly attracted to the yellow sticky traps. Captures throughout the adult season indicated that an accurate estimation of the presence and abundance of spittlebugs can be obtained by integrating the two sampling methods. Moreover, sweep nets appeared to be more efficient in collecting adults soon after their emergence, while the use of sticky traps was more efficient in the rest of the adult season when the use of traps can significantly expedite vector monitoring programs.
Diversified Rice Farms with Vegetable Plots and Flower Strips Are Associated with Fewer Pesticide Applications in the Philippines
Authors: Horgan Finbarr G. , Mundaca Enrique A. , Hadi Buyung A. R. , Crisol-Martínez Eduardo
Published: September 2023

Ecological engineering is defined as the design of sustainable ecosystems for the benefit of both human society and the environment. In Southeast Asia, researchers have applied ecological engineering by diversifying farms using flower strips to restore regulatory services to rice ecosystems and thereby reduce herbivore-related yield losses and overall pesticide use. We conducted a survey of 302 rice farmers across four regions of the Philippines to assess their farm diversification practices and determine possible associations with pesticide use. Rice was the main product on all farms; however, the farmers also produced fruits and vegetables, either rotated with rice (47% of the farmers) or in small plots in adjacent farmland. In addition, 64% of the farmers produced flowers, herbs, and/or vegetables on rice bunds. Vegetables were cultivated mainly to supplement household food or incomes, but 30% of the farmers also believed that the vegetables reduced pest and weed damage to their rice. We found that 16% of the farmers grew flowers on their bunds to reduce pest damage to rice and vegetables, and many farmers applied botanical extracts, growth stimulants, and insect traps to reduce damage to the vegetables. Some farmers avoided insecticides on rice by using Trichogramma cards. Planting flowers on rice bunds, rearing ducks in the rice fields, and farmers’ recognition of beneficial rice arthropods were statistically significantly associated with lower pesticide (particularly, insecticide) applications to rice. Our results indicate that farm diversification to produce supplementary foods for rural households and access to alternative pest management options can reduce pesticide use on rice farms in tropical Asia.
Influence of Different Porosities of Titanium Meshes on Bone Neoformation: Pre-Clinical Animal Study with Microtomographic and Histomorphometric Evaluation
Authors: Mantovani Rafael , Fernandes Ytalo , Meza-Mauricio Jonathan , Reino Danilo , Gonçalves Laura Sanches , Sousa Luiz Gustavo , Almeida Adriana Luisa , Faveri Marcelo , Scombatti de Souza Sergio
Published: September 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of different types of porosity of titanium meshes on the bone neoformation process in critical defects surgically created in rat calvaria, by means of microtomographic and histomorphometric analyses. Defects of 5 mm in diameter were created in the calvaria of 36 rats, and the animals were randomly treated and divided into the following groups (6 animals per group): NCOG (negative control, only blood clot), TEMG (Polytetrafluoroethylene—PTFE—membrane), SPTMG (small pore titanium mesh), SPMMG (small pore mesh + PTFE), LPTMG (large pore titanium mesh), and LPMMG (large pore mesh + PTFE). After 60 days, the animals were sacrificed, and the bone tissue formed was evaluated with micro-CT and histomorphometry. The data were compared using an ANOVA followed by the Tukey post-test (p ≤ 0.05). The microtomographic results showed that the SPTMG group presented the highest numerical value for bone volume/total volume (22.24 ± 8.97), with statistically significant differences for all the other groups except LPTMG. Considering the histomorphometric evaluation, groups with only porous titanium meshes showed higher values compared to the groups that used the PTFE membrane and the negative control. The SPTMG group presented higher values in the parameters of area (0.44 mm2 ± 0.06), extension (1.19 mm2 ± 0.12), and percentage (7.56 ± 1.45%) of neoformed bone. It was concluded that titanium mesh with smaller pores showed better results and that the association of PTFE membranes with titanium meshes did not improve the outcomes, suggesting a correlation between mesh porosity and underlying bone repair.
In Vitro Biofilm Formation on Zirconia Implant Surfaces Treated with Femtosecond and Nanosecond Lasers
Authors: Bihn Soo Kyum , Son Keunbada , Son Young-Tak , Dahal Ram Hari , Kim Shukho , Kim Jungmin , Hwang Jun Ho , Kwon Sung-Min , Lee Jong Hoon , Kim Hyun Deok , Lee Jae-Mok , Jin Myoung-Uk , Lee Kyu-Bok
Published: September 2023

(1) Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate how a zirconia implant surface treated with laser technology affects the degree of biofilm formation. (2) Methods: Experimental titanium (Ti) disks were produced that were sandblasted with large grit and acid-etched (T), and they were compared with zirconia (ZrO2) discs with a machined (M) surface topography; a hydrophilic surface topography with a femtosecond laser (HF); and a hydrophobic surface topography with a nanosecond laser (HN) (N = 12 per surface group). An in vitro three-species biofilm sample (Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa), Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), Prevotella intermedia (Pi)) was applied to each disc type, and bacterial adhesion was assessed after 48 and 72 h of incubation using an anaerobic flow chamber model. Statistical significance was determined using the Kruskal–Wallis H test, with Bonferroni correction used for the post-hoc test (α = 0.05). (3) Results: Compared to the T group, the M group exhibited more than twice as many viable bacterial counts in the three-species biofilm samples (p < 0.05). In comparison to the T group, the HF group had significantly higher viable bacterial counts in certain biofilm samples at 48 h (Aa and Pi) and 72 h (Pi) (p < 0.05). The HN group had higher viable bacterial counts in Pi at 48 h (5400 CFU/mL, p < 0.05) than the T group (4500 CFU/mL), while showing significantly lower viable bacterial counts in Pg at both 48 (3010 CFU/mL) and 72 h (3190 CFU/mL) (p < 0.05). (4) Conclusions: The surface treatment method for zirconia discs greatly influences biofilm formation. Notably, hydrophobic surface treatment using a nanosecond laser was particularly effective at inhibiting Pg growth.
Mood, Behavioral Impairment, and Sleep Breathing Disorders in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome Patients Treated with Maxillomandibular Advancement: Reflection on a Case Series and Review of Literature
Authors: Stilo Giovanna , Lo Faro Carmelo , Pollicina Isabella , Falcone Loredana , Campagna Paola , Felis Silvia , Crimi Salvatore , La Mantia Ignazio , Leonardi Rosalia , Bianchi Alberto
Published: September 2023

The correlation between depressive and cognitive symptoms and OSAS (obstructive sleep apnea syndrome) is between 5 and 63%. We reported the case of two patients with severe OSAS and its associated depressive symptoms that were intolerant to continuous positive airway pressure (C-PAP) and underwent maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) surgery. The severity of cognitive and depressive symptoms was assessed using validated questionnaires (Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, and quality of life), medical observation, and patient-reported symptoms. We performed pre- and post-treatment polysomnography. Six months after treatment, the value of the apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) had returned to the normal range and, together with it, the depressive component was considerably reduced and the patients’ overall quality of life (BDI, BAI, ESS, and qol) improved. Conclusion: We described significant improvement in all the analyzed parameters, such as physical and mental functioning, and depression and anxiety rates.
A Study of the Abnormal Dividend Decisions of New Zealand Firms during COVID-19
Authors: Qiu Mei , Li Xiao-Ming
Published: September 2023

We investigated the stock return risk associated with the various types of dividend decisions announced by New Zealand firms during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The sample includes a group of firms that initially announced cash dividends but a number of days later made announcements cancelling their payments. Using multinomial logistic regression analysis, we found that higher pre-pandemic payout policy significantly increased the likelihood of a cancellation, an omission or an increase decision. Higher growth and higher profitability reduced the probability of an omission and a reduction decision, respectively. Moreover, higher stock return volatility increased the likelihood of an omission, a reduction or an increase decision. Further event study analysis revealed that investors reacted more feverishly to the announcements of cancellation decisions than any other types of dividend decisions. Moreover, we report strong evidence of negative abnormal returns around the cancellation announcements followed by positive post-announcement price reversals, a pattern that is not observed for the omission announcements. This paper contributes to the literature by studying a cancellation sample and reveals, for the first time, significant shareholder risk associated with cancellation decisions, which was not observed for omission decisions. We alert managers to carefully weigh the costs and benefits of breaking a promise of dividend payout.
Reusable, Stable, Efficient and Multifunctional Superhydrophobic and Oleophilic Polyurethane Sponge for Oil–Water Separation Prepared Using Discarded Composite Insulator
Authors: Zhao Meiyun , Shang Yuanyuan , Xiong Yufan , Zhang Xiaolong
Published: September 2023

Oil spills and chemical leakages are a serious source of pollution in oceans and rivers, and have attracted worldwide attention. Many scientists are currently engaged in the development of oil–water separation technology. In this study, the umbrella skirt of a discarded silicone rubber insulator was utilized as feedstock, and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) was employed to immobilize the prepared powder (FXBW) onto a polyurethane (PU) sponge skeleton. Without any modifications using chemical reagents, a novel oil–water separation material, FXBW-PU, was developed, with a water contact angle of 155.3°. The FXBW-PU sponge exhibited an absorption capacity ranging from 11.79 to 26.59 g/g for various oils and organic solvents, while maintaining an excellent selective adsorption performance, even after undergoing ten compression cycles, due to its exceptional chemical and mechanical stability. With the assistance of a vacuum pump, the FXBW-PU sponge was utilized in a continuous separation apparatus, resulting in a separation efficiency exceeding 98.6% for various oils and organic solvents. The separation efficiency of n-hexane remains as high as 99.2% even after 10 consecutive separation cycles. Notably, the FXBW-PU sponge also separated the dichloromethane-in-water emulsions, which achieved the effect of purifying water. In summary, FXBW-PU sponge has great potential in the field of cleaning up oil/organic solvent contamination due to its low preparation cost, environmental friendliness and excellent performance.
The “White Layer Approach”: A Graftless Gingival Augmentation Technique following Vertical GBR with Occlusive Titanium Barriers
Authors: Perret Fabio , D’Aprile Erik , De Stavola Luca
Published: September 2023

Guided bone regeneration surgery always leads to a deformation of the soft tissues consequent to passivation of the flap. In this article, a graftless technique for the restoration of the vestibular depth and for the augmentation of adherent soft tissue, called the “white layer approach”, is proposed after a vertical GBR procedure in posterior areas. Six patients (five males and one female) with vertical bone atrophy were enrolled in the study and underwent three-dimensional bone augmentation with titanium barriers. After 6 months, during the second-stage surgery, a 0.5 mm thick layer of white pseudo-periosteum was observed underneath the titanium barrier and over the newly formed bone. The buccal portion of the pseudo-periosteum was left intentionally exposed, in order to promote the spontaneous formation of new adherent gingiva and the restoration of the original depth of the fornix. The implant insertion was then planned 3 months after the WLA in a conventional procedure. The buccal adherent soft tissue height was measured from the crestal point to the most apical point, using a periodontal probe, before the barrier removal at 3 months after the white layer approach (WLA). In all patients, a gain in adherent soft tissue varying from 5 to 8 mm was observed; the average adherent soft tissue gain (ASTG) was 6.75 mm. The vertical bone height was measured by CT scans at baseline and before the implant placement, and showed an average vertical bone gain (AVBG) of 4.08 mm. Within the limitations of this study, vertical GBR with titanium occlusive barriers (OTB) associated with the white layer approach (WLA) may represent a simplified technique for hard and soft tissue augmentation in posterior areas, even without a free gingival graft.
A Low-Profile Dielectric Resonator Filter with Wide Stopband for High Integration on PCB
Authors: Lin Shixian , Wang Mengdan , Xu Kai , Zhang Lingyan
Published: September 2023

A low-profile dielectric resonator (DR) filter is proposed to achieve the feature of high integration and wide stopband. The high integration is due to the structure of printed circuit board (PCB) substrate instead of metal cavity, which can be easily integrated with other planar circuits. Thus, the proposed design can improve the integration level and reduce installation errors. Moreover, the out-of-band harmonics can be well suppressed by the structure combined with introducing rectangular hollowing in the center of the dielectric block, coupling the feed and loading 1/4λ wavelength branch. For demonstration, it is fabricated and measured. The simulated and experimental results with good agreement are presented, the insertion loss is as low as 1.1 dB, the profile height is only 0.77λg, and the stopband reaches 2.61f0.
Design and Analysis of XY Large Travel Micro Stage Based on Secondary Symmetric Lever Amplification
Authors: Zhang Tao , Xiong Liuguang , Pan Zequan , Zhang Chunhua , Qu Wen , Wang Yuhang , Yang Chunmei
Published: September 2023

This study presents a newly developed piezoelectric drive mechanism for the purpose of designing, analyzing, and testing a micro-positioning platform driven by piezoelectric actuators. The platform incorporates a piezoelectric ceramic actuator and a flexible hinge drive and features a symmetrical two-stage lever (STSL) amplification mechanism and a parallelogram output structure. The implementation of this design has led to notable enhancements in the dynamic properties of the platform, thereby eliminating the undesired parasitic displacement of the mechanism. An analytical model describing the fully elastic deformation of the platform is established, which is further verified by finite element simulation. Finally, the static and dynamic performances of the platform are comprehensively evaluated through experiments. A closed-loop control strategy is adopted to eliminate the nonlinear hysteresis phenomenon of the piezoceramic actuator (PEA). The experimental results show that the piezoelectric micro-actuator platform has a motion range of 97.84 μm × 98.03 μm; the output coupling displacement error is less than 1%; the resolutions of the two axes are 8.1 nm and 8 nm, respectively; and the x-axis and y-axis trajectory tracking errors are both 0.6%. The piezoelectric micromotion platform has good dynamic properties, precision, and stability. The design has a wide application potential in the field of micro-positioning.
Nano Ag/PPy Biocomposites Based on Graphene Oxide Modified Bacterial Cellulose from the Juice of Xinhui Citrus and Its Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Yang Yihong , Zhou Rong , Yuan Miaoshan , He Huaiwen
Published: September 2023

Bacterial cellulose (BC) is a green, natural biopolymer with excellent biocompatibility and a film-forming ability. However, its lack of inherent antibacterial activity restricts its application in medical materials and food preservation. In this study, BC derived from the juice of discarded Xinhui citrus was obtained through fermentation and further modified in situ with graphene oxide (GO) to obtain BC(GO). Subsequently, BC(GO) was loaded with cell-compatible polypyrrole (PPy) and antibacterial agent silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) to prepare Ag-PPy/BC(GO) composite films. Composite films were characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) to evaluate their chemical structure and morphology. The results demonstrate effective adsorption of PPy and AgNPs onto the surface of BC nanofibers modified with GO. Antibacterial experiments reveal synergistic antibacterial effects of PPy and AgNPs. The Ag-PPy/BC(GO) membranes exhibit strong antibacterial activity against both Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), with 48-h growth inhibition rates of 75–84% and 82–84%, respectively.
A Novel and Efficient Phthalate Hydrolase from Acinetobacter sp. LUNF3: Molecular Cloning, Characterization and Catalytic Mechanism
Authors: Fan Shuanghu , Guo Jingjing , Han Shaoyan , Du Haina , Wang Zimeng , Fu Yajuan , Han Hui , Hou Xiaoqiang , Wang Weixuan
Published: September 2023

Phthalic acid esters (PAEs), which are widespread environmental contaminants, can be efficiently biodegraded, mediated by enzymes such as hydrolases. Despite great advances in the characterization of PAE hydrolases, which are the most important enzymes in the process of PAE degradation, their molecular catalytic mechanism has rarely been systematically investigated. Acinetobacter sp. LUNF3, which was isolated from contaminated soil in this study, demonstrated excellent PAE degradation at 30 °C and pH 5.0–11.0. After sequencing and annotating the complete genome, the gene dphAN1, encoding a novel putative PAE hydrolase, was identified with the conserved motifs catalytic triad (Ser201-Asp295-His325) and oxyanion hole (H127GGG130). DphAN1 can hydrolyze DEP (diethyl phthalate), DBP (dibutyl phthalate) and BBP (benzyl butyl phthalate). The high activity of DphAN1 was observed under a wide range of temperature (10–40 °C) and pH (6.0–9.0). Moreover, the metal ions (Fe2+, Mn2+, Cr2+ and Fe3+) and surfactant TritonX-100 significantly activated DphAN1, indicating a high adaptability and tolerance of DphAN1 to these chemicals. Molecular docking revealed the catalytic triad, oxyanion hole and other residues involved in binding DBP. The mutation of these residues reduced the activity of DphAN1, confirming their interaction with DBP. These results shed light on the catalytic mechanism of DphAN1 and may contribute to protein structural modification to improve catalytic efficiency in environment remediation.
Preparation of Herbal Extracts for Intestinal Immune Modulation Activity Based on In Vitro Screening and In Vivo Evaluation of Zingiber officinale Rosc. Extracts
Authors: Min Su Ji , Kim Sung Jin , Park Jun Yeon , Seo Chang-Seob , Choi You-Kyong
Published: September 2023

Ten traditional herbal extracts effective against diarrhea, infectious diseases, and bacterial activity were selected and analyzed for Peyer’s patch cell-mediated intestinal immunomodulatory activity in vitro and in vivo. Among the 10 herbal extracts, Zingiber officinale Rosc. (ZO) extract induced the highest secretion of immunoglobulin A (IgA) and granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) in the cells of Peyer’s patches. Furthermore, animal experiments showed that IA production was enhanced with the oral administration of ZO extract (100 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg) for 10 days. In addition, 6-, 8-, 10-gingerol, and 6-, 8-, 10-shogaol, the six major index compounds of ZO extract, were analyzed using HPLC. Our study findings confirm the intestinal immunomodulatory activity of ZO extract and lay a strong foundation for future analytical studies aimed at determining the active components of ZO extracts.
Advances in Biosynthesis of Non-Canonical Amino Acids (ncAAs) and the Methods of ncAAs Incorporation into Proteins
Authors: Chen Liang , Xin Xiulan , Zhang Yuning , Li Shunyao , Zhao Xiaoman , Li Song , Xu Zhaochu
Published: September 2023

The functional pool of canonical amino acids (cAAs) has been enriched through the emergence of non-canonical amino acids (ncAAs). NcAAs play a crucial role in the production of various pharmaceuticals. The biosynthesis of ncAAs has emerged as an alternative to traditional chemical synthesis due to its environmental friendliness and high efficiency. The breakthrough genetic code expansion (GCE) technique developed in recent years has allowed the incorporation of ncAAs into target proteins, giving them special functions and biological activities. The biosynthesis of ncAAs and their incorporation into target proteins within a single microbe has become an enticing application of such molecules. Based on that, in this study, we first review the biosynthesis methods for ncAAs and analyze the difficulties related to biosynthesis. We then summarize the GCE methods and analyze their advantages and disadvantages. Further, we review the application progress of ncAAs and anticipate the challenges and future development directions of ncAAs.
Bio-Inspired Hydrogel–Elastomer Actuator with Bidirectional Bending and Dynamic Structural Color
Authors: Xia Yongqing , Meng Yaru , Yu Ronghua , Teng Ziqi , Zhou Jie , Wang Shengjie
Published: September 2023

In nature, some creatures can change their body shapes and surface colors simultaneously to respond to the external environments, which greatly inspired researchers in the development of color-tunable soft actuators. In this work, we present a facile method to prepare a smart hydrogel actuator that can bend bidirectionally and change color simultaneously, just like an octopus. The actuator is fabricated by elastomer/hydrogel bilayer and the hydrogel layer was decorated with thermoresponsive microgels as the photonic crystal blocks. Compared with the previously reported poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) hydrogel-based bilayer hydrogel actuators, which are generally limited to one-directional deformation, the elastomer/hydrogel bilayer actuator prepared in our work exhibits unique bidirectional bending behavior in accordance with the change of structural color. The bending degrees can be changed from −360° to 270° in response to solution temperatures ranging from 20 °C to 60 °C. At the same time, the surface color changes from red to green, and then to blue, covering the full visible light spectrum. The bending direction and degree of the hydrogel actuator can easily be adjusted by tuning the layer thickness ratio of the elastomer/hydrogel or the composition of the hydrogel. The color-tunable hydrogel-elastomer actuator reported in this work can achieve both programmable deformations and color-changing highly resembling the natural actuating behaviors of creatures.
Residue of Chlormequat and Regulatory Effects on the Specialized Metabolites of Astragali Radix
Authors: Qin Honghan , Xie Lei , Zang Yimei , Han Jia , Yu Jing , Luo Zuliang , Ma Xiaojun
Published: September 2023

Presently, the utilization of chlormequat in Astragalus mongholicus Bunge (Leguminosae) cultivation is prevalent for augmenting rhizome (Astragali Radix) yield. However, indiscriminate and excessive chlormequat employment can detrimentally influence Astragali Radix quality and safety. This research aimed to comprehensively comprehend chlormequat risks and its influence on Astragali Radix metabolites. Diverse chlormequat concentrations were employed in Astragalus mongholicus cultivation, with subsequent analysis of residual chlormequat levels in Astragali Radix across treatment groups. Astragali Radix metabolic profiling was conducted through UPLC-QTOF-MS, and thirteen principal active components were quantified via UFLC-MS/MS. Findings revealed a direct correlation between chlormequat residue levels in Astragali Radix and application concentration, with high-dose residue surpassing 5.0 mg/kg. Metabolomics analysis identified twenty-six distinct saponin and flavonoid metabolites. Notably, the application of chlormequat led to the upregulation of seven saponins (e.g., astragaloside I and II) and downregulation of six flavonoids (e.g., methylnissolin-3-O-glucoside and astraisoflavan-7-O-β-d-glucoside). Quantitative analysis demonstrated variable contents of active ingredients due to differing chlormequat concentrations, leading to astragaloside I increase (14.59–62.55%) and isoastragaloside II increase (4.8–55.63%), while methylnissolin-3-O-glucoside decreased (22.18–41.69%), as did astraisoflavan-7-O-β-d-glucoside (21.09–47.78%). In conclusion, chlormequat application influenced multiple active components in Astragali Radix, causing constituent proportion variations. Elevated chlormequat concentrations led to increased active components alongside heightened chlormequat residues in Astragali Radix. Consequently, prudent chlormequat application during Astragali Radix production is imperative to avert potential detriments to its quality and safety.
Risk Profile of Patients with Brushite Stone Disease and the Impact of Diet
Authors: Siener Roswitha , Pitzer Maria Sofie , Speller Jan , Hesse Albrecht
Published: September 2023

This study examined the profile of patients and the impact of diet on the risk of brushite stone formation under controlled, standardized conditions. Sixty-five patients with brushite nephrolithiasis were enrolled in the study. Metabolic, dietary, and 24 h urinary parameters were collected under the habitual, self-selected diet of the patients and the balanced mixed, standardized diet. The [13C2]oxalate absorption, ammonium chloride, and calcium loading tests were conducted. All patients had at least one abnormality on the usual diet, with hypercalciuria (84.6%), increased urine pH (61.5%), and hyperphosphaturia (43.1%) being the most common. Absorptive hypercalciuria was present in 32.1% and hyperabsorption of oxalate in 41.2%, while distal renal tubular acidosis (dRTA) was noted in 50% of brushite stone formers. The relative supersaturation of brushite did not differ between patients with and without dRTA. Among all recent brushite-containing calculi, 61.5% were mixed with calcium oxalate and/or carbonate apatite. The relative supersaturation of brushite, apatite, and calcium oxalate decreased significantly under the balanced diet, mainly due to the significant decline in urinary calcium, phosphate, and oxalate excretion. Dietary intervention was shown to be effective and should be an integral part of the treatment of brushite stone disease. Further research on the role of dRTA in brushite stone formation is needed.
Development and Calibration of a Vertical High-Speed Mueller Matrix Ellipsometer
Authors: Liu Jiamin , Zhang Song , Deng Bowen , Li Lei , Gu Honggang , Zhu Jinlong , Jiang Hao , Liu Shiyuan
Published: September 2023

In order to meet the requirements of dynamic monitoring from a bird’s eye view for typical rapidly changing processes such as mechanical rotation and photoresist exposure reaction, we propose a vertical high-speed Mueller matrix ellipsometer that consists of a polarization state generator (PSG) based on the time-domain polarization modulation and a polarization state analyzer (PSA) based on division-of-amplitude polarization demodulation. The PSG is realized using two cascaded photoelastic modulators, while the PSA is realized using a six-channel Stokes polarimeter. On this basis, the polarization effect introduced by switching the optical-path layout of the instrument from the horizontal transmission to the vertical transmission is fully considered, which is caused by changing the incidence plane. An in situ calibration method based on the correct definition of the polarization modulation and demodulation reference plane has been proposed, enabling the precise calibration of the instrument by combining it with a time-domain light intensity fitting algorithm. The measurement experiments of SiO2 films and an air medium prove the accuracy and feasibility of the proposed calibration method. After the precise calibration, the instrument can exhibit excellent measurement performance in the range of incident angles from 45° to 90°, in which the measurement time resolution is maintained at the order of 10 μs, the measurement accuracy of Mueller matrix elements is better than 0.007, and the measurement precision is better than 0.005.
Evanescent Wave Sensitivity of Silica-Titania Rib Waveguides in the Single-Mode Propagation Regime
Authors: Tyszkiewicz Cuma , Kielan Paweł
Published: September 2023

The analysis reported in this paper shows that the homogeneous sensitivity of both fundamental rib waveguide modes, HE00 and EH00, can slightly exceed the sensitivity of the optimized parent slab waveguide. The most crucial difference in the behavior of these two polarizations is that the sensitivity of the HE00 mode is the maximum for strip waveguides. In contrast, the sensitivity of the EH00 mode can either decrease monotonically or not-monotonically with increasing rib height or behave like a homogeneous sensitivity characteristic of the slab waveguide’s EH0 mode. The second important conclusion comes from comparing the sensitivity characteristics with the distributions of the fundamental mode’s optical power. Namely, the homogeneous sensitivity of the rib waveguide is at the maximum if, due to a slight variance in the cover refractive index, a variation in the weighted optical power carried by the mode is the maximum.
Stretchable Gold Nanomembrane Electrode with Ionic Hydrogel Skin-Adhesive Properties
Authors: Lee Hyelim , Jang Jaepyo , Lee Jaebeom , Shin Mikyung , Lee Jung Seung , Son Donghee
Published: September 2023

Skin has a dynamic surface and offers essential information through biological signals originating from internal organs, blood vessels, and muscles. Soft and stretchable bioelectronics can be used in wearable machines for long-term stability and to continuously obtain distinct bio-signals in conjunction with repeated expansion and contraction with physical activities. While monitoring bio-signals, the electrode and skin must be firmly attached for high signal quality. Furthermore, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) should be high enough, and accordingly, the ionic conductivity of an adhesive hydrogel needs to be improved. Here, we used a chitosan-alginate-chitosan (CAC) triple hydrogel layer as an interface between the electrodes and the skin to enhance ionic conductivity and skin adhesiveness and to minimize the mechanical mismatch. For development, thermoplastic elastomer Styrene-Ethylene-Butylene-Styrene (SEBS) dissolved in toluene was used as a substrate, and gold nanomembranes were thermally evaporated on SEBS. Subsequently, CAC triple layers were drop-casted onto the gold surface one by one and dried successively. Lastly, to demonstrate the performance of our electrodes, a human electrocardiogram signal was monitored. The electrodes coupled with our CAC triple hydrogel layer showed high SNR with clear PQRST peaks.
Synthesis, Optical Properties and Cellular Toxicity of Water-Soluble near Infrared-II Fluorescent Assemblies Based on Pillar[5]arene
Authors: Wu Qiuxia , Sun Xinran , Yang Zhenming , Shi Pengfei , Zhang Huacheng , Han Jie
Published: September 2023

The main challenges in second near-infrared region molecular fluorophores are poor water solubility and unknown long-term toxicity at present. Herein, new NIR-II molecular fluorophores have been designed and employed to integrate biocompatible pillar[5]arene with 10 outer triethylene oxide groups for the synthesis of rotaxane IRCR. In addition, PEGylated pillar[5]arenes have been combined for the self-assembly of two supramolecular vesicular systems, i.e., PP5-IR1 and PP5-IR2, affording aqueous solubility and lowered cellular toxicity. In aqueous solution, all these fluorophores displayed room-temperature emission with λmax at 986–1013 nm and quantum yields of 0.54–1.45%. They also exhibited good chemical stability and reasonable self-assembled sizes, which may find potential applications in NIR-II imaging. In addition, PP5-IR1 can be used as a fluorescent chemosensor for selective recognition of glutathione through the cleavage of dinitrophenyl ether and release the fluorescent dye.
Foxes in Retrospect—Unraveling Human-Fox Relationships through Fox Tooth Ornaments in the Swabian Jura
Authors: Venditti Flavia , McCartin Madison J. , Ostermann Melanie-Larisa , Conard Nicholas J. , Wolf Sibylle
Published: September 2023

Personal ornaments play an important role in our understanding of human cultural and behavioral change during the Upper Paleolithic, providing insights into intangible aspects of human cultural behavior. Some ornament forms are better studied than others, and fox tooth ornaments, despite their frequent occurrence and broad spatiotemporal span, are relatively under-addressed. Here we present the first comprehensive study of 40 perforated fox teeth recovered from four cave sites in southwestern Germany. This region’s rich record of symbolic representations, as well as evidence of long-standing human–fox relationships, make the Swabian Jura an ideal case study for investigations of fox tooth ornaments. By applying a holistic approach, including geometric morphometrics and traceology coupled with experimental archaeology, we show that fox teeth were mostly perforated by bifacial scraping and grooving and were worn as ornaments. We discuss the role of foxes within human socio-symbolic and paleoenvironmental systems during the Upper Paleolithic of the Swabian Jura, and we contextualize our results within the broader context of sites across Europe during the Upper Paleolithic. The data we provide are in line with general trends observed across the continent and offer insight into the role of foxes during the Upper Paleolithic, especially regarding human subsistence, cultural expression, and ornament production.
Co-Hydroprocessing of Fossil Middle Distillate and Bio-Derived Durene-Rich Heavy Ends under Hydrotreating Conditions
Authors: Graf David , Waßmuth Johannes , Rauch Reinhard
Published: September 2023

Methanol-to-gasoline (MTG) and dimethyl ether-to-gasoline (DTG), as industrially approved processes for producing greenhouse gas-neutral gasoline, yield byproducts rich in heavy mono-ring aromatics such as 1,2,4,5-tetramethylbenzene (durene). Due to its tendency to crystallize and the overall poor fuel performance, the heavy fuel fraction is usually further processed using after-treatment units designed for this purpose. This research article discusses the co-hydroprocessing (HP) of bio-derived heavy gasoline (HG) with fossil middle distillate (MD), drawing on available refinery hydrotreaters. Co-HP experiments were conducted in a laboratory-scale fixed bed reactor using an industrial CoMo/γ-Al2O3 catalyst, varying the space-time between 0.7 and 4.0 cmCat3 h cmFeed−3 and the reaction temperature between 340 and 390 °C. In addition to the durene conversion, special attention was paid to the octane and cetane numbers (CN) of gasoline and MD, respectively. A six-lump model with ten parameters was developed to predict relevant fuel yields dependent on the process conditions. Under stable catalyst conditions, C10 aromatic conversions of more than 60% were obtained, while the CN remained close to that of pure MD. Harsh process conditions increased the gasoline yield up to 20% at the cost of MD, while the kerosene yield remained almost constant. With an optimized lumping model, fuel yields could be predicted with an R2 of 0.998. In this study, co-HP heavy aromatic-rich MTG/DTG fuels with fossil MD were proven to be a promising process strategy compared to a stand-alone after-treatment.