bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-Scale Characterization of Mycobacterium abscessus Complex Isolates from Portugal
Authors: Carneiro Sofia , Pinto Miguel , Silva Sónia , Santos Andrea , Rodrigues Irene , Santos Daniela , Duarte Sílvia , Vieira Luís , Gomes João Paulo , Macedo Rita
Published: October 2023

The Mycobacterium abscessus complex (MABC) is an emerging, difficult to treat, multidrug-resistant nontuberculous mycobacteria responsible for a wide spectrum of infections and associated with an increasing number of cases worldwide. Dominant circulating clones (DCCs) of MABC have been genetically identified as groups of strains associated with higher prevalence, higher levels of antimicrobial resistance, and worse clinical outcomes. To date, little is known about the genomic characteristics of MABC species circulating in Portugal. Here, we examined the genetic diversity and antimicrobial resistance profiles of 30 MABC strains isolated between 2014 and 2022 in Portugal. The genetic diversity of circulating MABC strains was assessed through a gene-by-gene approach (wgMLST), allowing their subspecies differentiation and the classification of isolates into DCCs. Antimicrobial resistance profiles were defined using phenotypic, molecular, and genomic approaches. The majority of isolates were resistant to at least two antimicrobials, although a poor correlation between phenotype and genotype data was observed. Portuguese genomes were highly diverse, and data suggest the existence of MABC lineages with potential international circulation or cross-border transmission. This study highlights the genetic diversity and antimicrobial resistance profile of circulating MABC isolates in Portugal while representing the first step towards the implementation of a genomic-based surveillance system for MABC at the Portuguese NIH.
Scytalidium cuboideum Inhibits Shiitake Mycelial Growth and Causes Pink Staining in Shiitake Billets (Quercus griffithii) in Bhutan
Authors: Diplock Naomi D. , Galea Victor J. , Dorji  , Norbu  , Watanabe Kazuo , Terashima Yoshie
Published: October 2023

Pink staining in shiitake (Lentinula edodes (Berk.) Pegler) billets (Quercus griffithii Hook.f. and Thomson ex Miq.) causing the inhibition of shiitake mycelium and a reduction in shiitake production was observed throughout Bhutan in 2017–2018. Completion of Koch’s postulates confirmed the causal agent to be Scytalidium cuboideum, a first record of this disease in shiitake billets in Bhutan. In failed billets, it was observed that there was no growth of shiitake mycelium from the spawn. Trials suggest that S. cuboideum is responsible for the occurrences of poor colonisation by shiitake spawn—even when pink staining is not evident. Warm temperatures favour S. cuboideum, with shiitake able to sometimes overcome low rates of infection when incubated at low temperatures.
Improving CS1 Programming Learning with Visual Execution Environments
Authors: Hijón-Neira Raquel , Pizarro Celeste , French John , Paredes-Barragán Pedro , Duignan Michael
Published: October 2023

Students in their first year of computer science (CS1) at universities typically struggle to grasp fundamental programming concepts. This paper discusses research carried out using a Java-based visual execution environment (VEE) to introduce fundamental programming concepts to CS1 students. The VEE guides beginner programmers through the fundamentals of programming, utilizing visual metaphors to explain and direct interactive tasks implemented in Java. The study’s goal was to determine if the use of the VEE in the instruction of a group of 63 CS1 students from four different groups enrolled in two academic institutions (based in Madrid, Spain and Galway, Ireland) results in an improvement in their grasp of fundamental programming concepts. The programming concepts covered included those typically found in an introductory programming course, e.g., input and output, conditionals, loops, functions, arrays, recursion, and files. A secondary goal of this research was to examine if the use of the VEE enhances students’ understanding of particular concepts more than others, i.e., whether there exists a topic-dependent benefit to the use of the VEE. The results of the study found that use of the VEE in the instruction of these students resulted in a significant improvement in their grasp of fundamental programming concepts compared with a control group who received instruction without the use of the VEE. The study also found a pronounced improvement in the students’ grasp of particular concepts (e.g., operators, conditionals, and loops), suggesting the presence of a topic-dependent benefit to the use of the VEE.
Challenges in Coagulation Management in Neurosurgical Diseases: A Scoping Review, Development, and Implementation of Coagulation Management Strategies
Authors: Germans Menno R. , Rohr Jonas , Globas Christoph , Schubert Tilman , Kaserer Alexander , Brandi Giovanna , Studt Jan-Dirk , Greutmann Matthias , Geiling Katharina , Verweij Lotte , Regli Luca
Published: October 2023

Bleeding and thromboembolic (TE) complications in neurosurgical diseases have a detrimental impact on clinical outcomes. The aim of this study is to provide a scoping review of the available literature and address challenges and knowledge gaps in the management of coagulation disorders in neurosurgical diseases. Additionally, we introduce a novel research project that seeks to reduce coagulation disorder-associated complications in neurosurgical patients. The risk of bleeding after elective craniotomy is about 3%, and higher (14–33%) in other indications, such as trauma and intracranial hemorrhage. In spinal surgery, the incidence of postoperative clinically relevant bleeding is approximately 0.5–1.4%. The risk for TE complications in intracranial pathologies ranges from 3 to 20%, whereas in spinal surgery it is around 7%. These findings highlight a relevant problem in neurosurgical diseases and current guidelines do not adequately address individual circumstances. The multidisciplinary COagulation MAnagement in Neurosurgical Diseases (COMAND) project has been developed to tackle this challenge by devising an individualized coagulation management strategy for patients with neurosurgical diseases. Importantly, this project is designed to ensure that these management strategies can be readily implemented into healthcare practices of different types and with sustainable integration.
The Influence of Laboratory Scanner versus Intra-Oral Scanner on Determining Axes and Distances between Three Implants in a Straight Line by Using Two Different Intraoral Scan Bodies: A Pilot In Vitro Study
Authors: Shely Asaf , Lugassy Diva , Rosner Ophir , Zanziper Eran , Nissan Joseph , Rachmiel Shir , Khoury Yara , Ben-Izhack Gil
Published: October 2023

Background: The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare the inter-implant distance, inter-implant axis, and intra-implant axis of three implants in a straight line by using a laboratory scanner (LBS) versus an intra-oral scanner (IOS) with two different intra-oral scan bodies (ISBs). Methods: A 3D model was printed with internal hex implant analogs of three implants in positions 15#, 16#, and 17#. Two standard intra-oral scan bodies (ISBs) were used: MIS ISB (two-piece titanium) and Zirkonzhan ISB (two-piece titanium). Both ISBs were scanned using 7 Series dental wings (LBS) and 30 times using Primescan (IOS). For each scan, a stereolithography (STL) file was created and a comparison between all the scans was performed through superimposition of the STL files by using 3D analysis software (PolyWorks® 2020; InnovMetric, Québec, QC, Canada). A Kolmogorov–Smirnov test was performed followed by a Mann–Whitney test (p < 0.05). Results: The change in inter-implant distance for the MIS ISB was significantly lower compared to the ZZ (p < 0.05). The change in intra-implant angle was significantly lower for the ZZ ISB compared to MIS (p < 0.05). The changes in inter-implant angle between the mesial and middle and between the middle and distal were significantly lower for MIS compared to ZZ in contrast to mesial to distal, which was significantly higher (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Both ISBs showed differences in all the parameters between the LBS and the IOS. The geometry of the scan abutment had an impact on the inter-implant distance as the changes in the inter-implant distance were significantly lower for the MIS ISB. The changes in the intra-implant angle were significantly lower for the ZZ ISB. There is a need for further research examining the influence of geometry, material, and scan abutment parts on the trueness.
Epidemiology of Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency in Arab Countries: Insights from a Systematic Review
Authors: Alangari Abdulaziz S. , El-Metwally Ashraf A. , Alanazi Abdullah , Al Khateeb Badr F. , Al Kadri Hanan M. , Alshdoukhi Ibtehaj F. , Aldubikhi Aljohrah I. , Alruwaili Muzun , Alshahrani Awad
Published: October 2023

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is a common metabolic disorder affecting more than 400 million individuals worldwide. Being an X-linked disorder, the disease is more common among males than females. Various Arab countries estimated the prevalence of G6PD deficiency; however, findings from different countries have not been synthesized collectively. Hence, a systematic review was undertaken to synthesize the findings on the epidemiology of G6PD deficiency in all Arab countries. We performed an electronic systematic literature search based on the eligibility criteria using databases, including MEDLINE, Embase, and CINHAL. The studies included in the review were primary and original research studies assessing the prevalence or incidence, risk factors, or determinants of G6PD deficiency, and published in the English language in a peer-reviewed scientific journal between 2000 and 2022. The systematic review was carried out with the help of an updated PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) checklist. After the screening, 23 full texts were finalized for data extraction. The prevalence of G6PD deficiency ranged from 2 to 31% with a greater burden among high-risk populations like neonates with sickle cell anemia. The determinants included males, family history, consanguineous marriages, and geographic regions, which were all risk factors, except for body weight, which was a protective factor. The prevalence of G6PD deficiency varies across Arab countries, with a higher prevalence in males than females. Different regions of Arab countries need to revisit their screening and diagnostic guidelines to detect G6PD deficiency promptly and prevent unnecessary morbidity and mortality among their communities.
Stratification of Patients with Coronary Artery Disease by Circulating Cytokines Profile: A Pilot Study
Authors: Iside Concetta , Affinito Ornella , Punzo Bruna , Salvatore Marco , Mirabelli Peppino , Cavaliere Carlo , Franzese Monica
Published: October 2023

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a long-term inflammatory process, with atherosclerosis as its underlying pathophysiological mechanism. Endothelial dysfunction is the first step towards atherosclerosis, where damaged endothelial cells release large amounts of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators, thus promoting vascular inflammation and disease progression. However, the correlation between serum cytokines and CAD severity remains to be defined. Serum samples from patients performing cardiac computed tomography for suspected CAD (n = 75) were analyzed with a multiplex bead-based immunoassay panel for simultaneous assessment of the concentration of 11 cytokines using flow cytometric technology. The analysis showed statistically significant increases in sRAGE, CCL2_MCP1, FLT1, and IL6 levels in CAD patients compared with healthy subjects and a gradual increase trend towards a more severe form of the disease for most cytokines (e.g., sCD40L, FLT1, sRAGE, CCL2-MCP1, TNFα). Lastly, we explored the performance of cytokines in predicting the diagnosis of CAD and found that an increase in IL6 levels will increase the odds of being non-obstructive CAD-positive. In contrast, an increase in CCL2-MCP1 or FLT1 levels will increase the probability of being obstructive CAD-positive. These results suggest that the combination of serum cytokines may contribute to the not-invasive stratification risk for patients with suspected CAD.
Rare Earth Elements in the Seagrass Zostera noltei and Sediments from the Black Sea Coast of Crimea
Authors: Ryabushko Vitaliy I. , Kapranov Sergey V. , Gureeva Elena V. , Bobko Nikolay I. , Barinova Sophia S.
Published: October 2023

In the present work, we assessed the contents of rare earth elements (REEs), including yttrium and scandium, in rhizomes and leaves of the widespread seagrass Zostera noltei Hornemann 1832 and in the nearby sediments from the Black Sea coast. The total REE content in the sediments was found to be much higher than in Z. noltei. The order of decrease in the major REE contents in the sediments and the seagrass rhizomes was identical, except for La and Y. La was the most abundant in the sediments, and Y in the rhizomes. The contents of all REEs in rhizomes of Z. noltei were 1.5–10 times higher than in the leaves. The highest difference in the REE contents was found for the minor elements (Sm–Lu). The translocation factors for Sc and the minor elements (excluding Tb) from the sediments to the rhizomes and from the rhizomes to the leaves turned out to be pairwise equal, which indicates the similarity of the REE translocation mechanisms. Comparing our results with the literature data, it is possible to conclude that the seagrass Z. noltei does not have an advantage in the REE accumulation over marine macroalgae. At the same time, large coastal deposits of this seagrass after storms allow us to consider it as a possible source of REEs in the future.
Insights into the Isolation, Identification, and Biological Characterization Analysis of and Novel Control Strategies for Diaporthe passiflorae in Postharvest Passion Fruit
Authors: Wang Huiling , Chen Hongbin , Lin Yu , Li Meiling , Liu Qingqing , Lin Yuzhao , Jiang Xuanjing , Chen Yihui
Published: October 2023

Postharvest diseases seriously restrict developments in the passion fruit industry. In this study, we aimed to identify the postharvest pathogen affecting passion fruit, investigate its pathogenicity, and explore relevant control methods. The pathogen was isolated from rotting passion fruit and identified using morphological characteristics, ITS sequences, and phylogenetic tree analyses. Additionally, preliminary studies were conducted to assess the biological characteristics of the pathogen and evaluate the efficacy of various treatments for disease control. The fungus on the passion fruit called B4 was identified as Diaporthe passiflorae. Optimal conditions for mycelial growth were observed at 25–30 °C and pH 5–6, with starch as the carbon source and peptone as the nitrogen source. Infection by D. passiflorae accelerated fruit decay, reduced the h° value of the peel, and increased the peel cell membrane permeability when compared to the control. Notably, treatments with appropriate concentrations of ɛ-poly-l-lysine, salicylic acid, and melatonin showed inhibitory effects on the pathogen’s growth in vitro and may thus be potential postharvest treatments for controlling brown rot caused by D. passiflorae in passion fruit. The results provide a scientific basis for the development of strategies to control postharvest decay and extend the storage period of passion fruit.
Fires in Raised Bog: Their Influence and Changes to Geochemical Elements in Peat Layers
Authors: Valskys Vaidotas , Kibirkštis Gintautas , Taminskas Julius , Ulevičius Alius , Ignatavičius Gytautas
Published: October 2023

Fires in forested raised bogs occur both as a result of natural processes and as a result of human activity. Although there is a generally accepted opinion that their impact on ecosystems is significant, there is still a lack of scientifically reliable research on how individual components of damaged ecosystems change and recover under the influence of fires. The purpose of our study was to assess whether and how these fires affect the chemical composition of the peat layers. This study is based on a geochemical analysis of surface peat layers in areas after a controlled fire and in adjacent areas which were untouched by the fire in a raised bog of Čepkeliai. This study showed a low concentration of potentially toxic elements in the peat layers. In this respect, it is clear that there is no risk of environmental contamination in this natural raised bog. Furthermore, the research revealed other important insights on the combination of potentially toxic elements that can be used as a tracer for the identification of fire events that occurred in the past. Multiple analyses on various combinations of potentially toxic elements revealed the optimal combination (Cu-Zr-Pb-Se-Fe) for distinguishing between the burnt and non-burnt areas. Based on the results of our research, it can be stated that the low-temperature, controlled burning of the peat layers of raised bog forests can be successfully carried out to achieve the environmental and ecological goals of forest management.
Genomic Insights into Syntrophic Lifestyle of ‘Candidatus Contubernalis alkaliaceticus’ Based on the Reversed Wood–Ljungdahl Pathway and Mechanism of Direct Electron Transfer
Authors: Frolov Evgenii N. , Gavrilov Sergey N. , Toshchakov Stepan V. , Zavarzina Daria G.
Published: October 2023

The anaerobic oxidation of fatty acids and alcohols occurs near the thermodynamic limit of life. This process is driven by syntrophic bacteria that oxidize fatty acids and/or alcohols, their syntrophic partners that consume the products of this oxidation, and the pathways for interspecies electron exchange via these products or direct interspecies electron transfer (DIET). Due to the interdependence of syntrophic microorganisms on each other’s metabolic activity, their isolation in pure cultures is almost impossible. Thus, little is known about their physiology, and the only available way to fill in the knowledge gap on these organisms is genomic and metabolic analysis of syntrophic cultures. Here we report the results of genome sequencing and analysis of an obligately syntrophic alkaliphilic bacterium ‘Candidatus Contubernalis alkaliaceticus’. The genomic data suggest that acetate oxidation is carried out by the Wood–Ljungdahl pathway, while a bimodular respiratory system involving an Rnf complex and a Na+-dependent ATP synthase is used for energy conservation. The predicted genomic ability of ‘Ca. C. alkaliaceticus’ to outperform interspecies electron transfer both indirectly, via H2 or formate, and directly, via pili-like appendages of its syntrophic partner or conductive mineral particles, was experimentally demonstrated. This is the first indication of DIET in the class Dethiobacteria.
Dysregulated microRNA Expression Relevant to TERT Promoter Mutations in Tonsil Cancer—A Pilot Study
Authors: Kwon Mi Jung , Park Ha Young , Lee Joong Seob , Kim Eun Soo , Kim Nan Young , Nam Eun Sook , Cho Seong Jin , Kang Ho Suk
Published: October 2023

Tonsillar squamous cell carcinomas (TSCCs) exhibit high rates of human papillomavirus (HPV) positivity. The expression profiles of microRNA (miRNA), which are small RNA molecules that play pivotal roles in biological processes, in TSCC in relation to the HPV status and cancer-related genetic mutations are not well investigated. Herein, we expanded our previous research, which was focused on established clinicopathological and genetic mutational data, to profile miRNA expression in TSCC, aiming to identify clinically relevant targets for early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention. The miRNA profiles were analyzed using the nCounter Nanostring miRNA Expression assay in 22 surgically resected TSCC tissues and their contralateral normal tonsil tissues. The TERT promoter (TERTp) gene was the only relevant candidate gene associated with differentially expressed miRNAs in TSCC. Hierarchical clustering analysis revealed high expression levels of hsa-miR-1285-5p, hsa-miR-1203, hsa-miR-663a, hsa-miR-1303, hsa-miR-33a-5p, and hsa-miR-3615 coupled with low expression levels of hsa-miR-3182, hsa-miR-219a-2-3p, and hsa-miR-767-3p, which were associated with HPV-positive TSCC (p = 0.009). Functional enrichment analysis revealed that these dysregulated miRNAs tended to be involved in protein binding (molecular function) and cellular components (biological processes). Therefore, hsa-miR-1285-5p and hsa-miR-663a may be associated with HPV-positive TERTp-mutated tumors and may serve as potential treatment targets and biomarkers for early detection.
An Intelligent Attention-Based Transfer Learning Model for Accurate Differentiation of Bone Marrow Stains to Diagnose Hematological Disorder
Authors: Alshahrani Hani , Sharma Gunjan , Anand Vatsala , Gupta Sheifali , Sulaiman Adel , Elmagzoub M. A. , Reshan Mana Saleh Al , Shaikh Asadullah , Azar Ahmad Taher
Published: October 2023

Bone marrow (BM) is an essential part of the hematopoietic system, which generates all of the body’s blood cells and maintains the body’s overall health and immune system. The classification of bone marrow cells is pivotal in both clinical and research settings because many hematological diseases, such as leukemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, and anemias, are diagnosed based on specific abnormalities in the number, type, or morphology of bone marrow cells. There is a requirement for developing a robust deep-learning algorithm to diagnose bone marrow cells to keep a close check on them. This study proposes a framework for categorizing bone marrow cells into seven classes. In the proposed framework, five transfer learning models—DenseNet121, EfficientNetB5, ResNet50, Xception, and MobileNetV2—are implemented into the bone marrow dataset to classify them into seven classes. The best-performing DenseNet121 model was fine-tuned by adding one batch-normalization layer, one dropout layer, and two dense layers. The proposed fine-tuned DenseNet121 model was optimized using several optimizers, such as AdaGrad, AdaDelta, Adamax, RMSprop, and SGD, along with different batch sizes of 16, 32, 64, and 128. The fine-tuned DenseNet121 model was integrated with an attention mechanism to improve its performance by allowing the model to focus on the most relevant features or regions of the image, which can be particularly beneficial in medical imaging, where certain regions might have critical diagnostic information. The proposed fine-tuned and integrated DenseNet121 achieved the highest accuracy, with a training success rate of 99.97% and a testing success rate of 97.01%. The key hyperparameters, such as batch size, number of epochs, and different optimizers, were all considered for optimizing these pre-trained models to select the best model. This study will help in medical research to effectively classify the BM cells to prevent diseases like leukemia.
BLogic: A Bayesian Model Combination Approach in Logic Regression
Authors: Wei Yu-Chung
Published: October 2023

With the increasing complexity and dimensionality of datasets in statistical research, traditional methods of identifying interactions are often more challenging to apply due to the limitations of model assumptions. Logic regression has emerged as an effective tool, leveraging Boolean combinations of binary explanatory variables. However, the prevalent simulated annealing approach in logic regression sometimes faces stability issues. This study introduces the BLogic algorithm, a novel approach that amalgamates multiple runs of simulated annealing on a dataset and synthesizes the results via the Bayesian model combination technique. This algorithm not only facilitates predicting response variables using binary explanatory ones but also offers a score computation for prime implicants, elucidating key variables and their interactions within the data. In simulations with identical parameters, conventional logic regression, when executed with a single instance of simulated annealing, exhibits reduced predictive and interpretative capabilities as soon as the ratio of explanatory variables to sample size surpasses 10. In contrast, the BLogic algorithm maintains its effectiveness until this ratio approaches 50. This underscores its heightened resilience against challenges in high-dimensional settings, especially the large p, small n problem. Moreover, employing real-world data from the UK10K Project, we also showcase the practical performance of the BLogic algorithm.
Simulation Cognitive Modeling Approach to the Regional Sustainable Complex System Development for Improving Quality of Life
Authors: Firsova Anna , Gorelova Galina , Makarova Elena L. , Makarova Elena A. , Chernyshova Galina
Published: October 2023

This article presents study results of the region’s sustainable development possibility, thus improving the population’s life quality using cognitive simulation methods of complex systems. The main theoretical provisions of cognitive modeling developed and tested earlier in various socioeconomic system modeling are briefly outlined. The cognitive modeling application’s mathematical apparatus and CMCS software No. 2018661506 system were developed using quantitative data from one of Russia’s southern regions (Rostov oblast). The task was to study the region, model, understand, explain, and develop possible situation development scenarios, and foresee this complex system’s possible future outcome. The main statistical socioeconomic indicators of the state region were studied and processed. Data analysis necessary for developing and researching a cognitive model is given. The regional economic mechanism cognitive model is a functional graph consisting of quantitative and qualitative concepts. Between them, relationships are given in the form of functions, which is the novelty of research. The results of several scenarios of impulse modeling are presented, making it possible to predict future desirable and undesirable processes in the system. Scenario analysis was carried out, making it possible to propose a number of recommendations for the region’s sustainable development. A direction for the region’s development of further cognitive research is proposed.
Chitosan Membranes for Direct Methanol Fuel Cell Applications
Authors: Modau Livhuwani , Sigwadi Rudzani , Mokrani Touhami , Nemavhola Fulufhelo
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study is to identify the steps involved in fabricating silica/chitosan composite membranes and their suitability for fuel cell applications. It also intends to identify the physical characteristics of chitosan composite membranes, including their degree of water absorption, proton conductivity, methanol permeability, and functional groups. In this investigation, composite membranes were fabricated using the solution casting method with a chitosan content of 5 g and silica dosage variations of 2% and 4% while stirring at a constant speed for 2 h. According to the findings, the analysis of composite membranes produced chitosan membranes that were successfully modified with silica. The optimum membrane was found to be 4% s-SiO2 from the Sol-gel method with the composite membrane’s optimal condition of 0.234 cm/s proton conductivity, water uptake of 56.21%, and reduced methanol permeability of 0.99 × 10−7 cm2/s in the first 30 min and 3.31 × 10−7 in the last 150 min. Maintaining lower water uptake capacity at higher silica content is still a challenge that needs to be addressed. In conclusion, the fabricated membranes showed exceptional results in terms of proton conductivity and methanol permeability.
The Use of Thin Films as Defect Sealants to Increase the Corrosion Resistance of Thermal Spray Coatings
Authors: Lanzutti Alex , Sordetti Francesco , Marin Elia , Andreatta Francesco , Carabillo Antonio , Querini Matteo , Porro Samuele , Rondinella Alfredo , Magnan Michele , Fedrizzi Lorenzo
Published: October 2023

Thermal spray-coated components are widely used as wear-resistant coatings in many applications. However, these coatings have high levels of discontinuities that affect the corrosion resistance of the coated system. To reduce this problem, these coatings are usually sealed with liquid sealants (metals, organic or inorganic). The aim of this work is to seal the surface discontinuities of thermal-sprayed coatings using PVD and/or ALD coatings. To this end, CrN (arc deposition PVD) and TiO2 (ALD) coatings were deposited on thermal-sprayed alumina coatings. The samples produced were then analysed in both cross-sectional and planar views to detect the possible permeation of the thin film coatings into the thermal spray defects. Rf-GDOES measurements were performed to detect the very thin ALD deposit on the surface. The corrosion resistance of the sealed coatings was verified with immersion tests, wherein the OCP was monitored for 24 h, and potentiodynamic tests were performed after 15 min and 24 h immersions. The results showed that the thin films were not able to block the permeation of corrosive media, but they could reduce the permeation of corrosive media with a beneficial behaviour on corrosion resistance.
Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) and Protein Aggregation in Age-Related Vision-Threatening Ocular Diseases
Authors: Greiner Jack V. , Glonek Thomas
Published: October 2023

Protein aggregation is the etiopathogenesis of the three most profound vision-threatening eye diseases: age-related cataract, presbyopia, and age-related macular degeneration. This perspective organizes known information on ATP and protein aggregation with a fundamental unrecognized function of ATP. With recognition that maintenance of protein solubility is related to the high intracellular concentration of ATP in cells, tissues, and organs, we hypothesize that (1) ATP serves a critical molecular function for organismal homeostasis of proteins and (2) the hydrotropic feature of ATP prevents pathological protein aggregation while assisting in the maintenance of protein solubility and cellular, tissue, and organismal function. As such, the metabolite ATP plays an extraordinarily important role in the prevention of protein aggregation in the leading causes of vision loss or blindness worldwide.
Alluvial Gold Mining Technologies from Ancient Times to the Present
Authors: Mathioudakis Spyridon , Xiroudakis George , Petrakis Evangelos , Manoutsoglou Emmanouil
Published: October 2023

This article provides a comprehensive and chronological account of the technological advancements in alluvial gold mining. Gold has been a highly prized commodity throughout history and has played a significant role in humanity’s economic and cultural progress. The primitive methods of extracting gold from riverbeds were carried out in Ancient Anatolia and Ancient Greece. The earliest references to the extraction of gold from riverbeds can be traced back to the Argonautic expedition and the myth of the “Golden Fleece”. In this myth, fine gold particles were believed to be trapped within the skin of the fleece, thus alluding to the early practices of gold recovery from rivers. Since then, gold extraction and processing technologies have evolved. During the Roman Empire period, Emperor Augustus made significant advancements in hydraulic gold mining. He developed the “ground sluicing” method, which used water to wash away the overlying soil and expose the bedrock where gold deposits were located. Subsequently, the revolutionary pumps described by Georgius Bauer (Agricola) gained significant popularity during the Renaissance. Additionally, Spanish colonialists in America enhanced their techniques by observing the efficient methods employed by the indigenous populations. Finally, the “gold rush” era was perhaps the most crucial period in alluvial gold mining and took place in the rivers of America during the 19th–20th centuries. Today, technologies have evolved significantly, and exploring the evolution of primitive methods to the present is considered essential.
Effect of Pore Size Distribution on Energy Storage of Nanoporous Carbon Materials in Neat and Dilute Ionic Liquid Electrolytes
Authors: Käärik Maike , Arulepp Mati , Perkson Anti , Leis Jaan
Published: October 2023

This study investigates three carbide-derived carbon (CDC) materials (TiC, NbC, and Mo2C) characterized by uni-, bi-, and tri-modal pore sizes, respectively, for energy storage in both neat and acetonitrile-diluted 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide. A distribution of micro- and mesopores was studied through low-temperature N2 and CO2 adsorption. To elucidate the relationships between porosity and the electrochemical properties of carbon materials, cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic cycling, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements were conducted using three-electrode test cells. The ultramicroporous TiC-derived carbon is characterized by a high packing density of 0.85 g cm−3, resulting in superior cathodic and anodic capacitances for both neat ionic liquid (IL) and a 1.9 M IL/acetonitrile electrolyte (93.6 and 75.8 F cm−3, respectively, in the dilute IL). However, the bi-modal pore-sized microporous NbC-derived carbon, with slightly lower cathodic and anodic capacitances (i.e., 85.0 and 73.7 F cm−3 in the dilute IL, respectively), has a lower pore resistance, making it more suitable for real-world applications. A symmetric two-electrode capacitor incorporating microporous CDC-NbC electrodes revealed an acceptable cycle life. After 10,000 cycles, the cell retained approximately 75% of its original capacitance, while the equivalent series resistance (ESR) only increased by 13%.
DDX20: A Multifunctional Complex Protein
Authors: He Lu , Yang Jinke , Hao Yu , Yang Xing , Shi Xijuan , Zhang Dajun , Zhao Dengshuai , Yan Wenqian , Bie Xintian , Chen Lingling , Chen Guohui , Zhao Siyue , Liu Xiangtao , Zheng Haixue , Zhang Keshan
Published: October 2023

DEAD-box decapping enzyme 20 (DDX20) is a putative RNA-decapping enzyme that can be identified by the conserved motif Asp–Glu–Ala–Asp (DEAD). Cellular processes involve numerous RNA secondary structure alterations, including translation initiation, nuclear and mitochondrial splicing, and assembly of ribosomes and spliceosomes. DDX20 reportedly plays an important role in cellular transcription and post-transcriptional modifications. On the one hand, DDX20 can interact with various transcription factors and repress the transcriptional process. On the other hand, DDX20 forms the survival motor neuron complex and participates in the assembly of snRNP, ultimately affecting the RNA splicing process. Finally, DDX20 can potentially rely on its RNA-unwinding enzyme function to participate in microRNA (miRNA) maturation and act as a component of the RNA-induced silencing complex. In addition, although DDX20 is not a key component in the innate immune system signaling pathway, it can affect the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and p53 signaling pathways. In particular, DDX20 plays different roles in tumorigenesis development through the NF-κB signaling pathway. This process is regulated by various factors such as miRNA. DDX20 can influence processes such as viral replication in cells by interacting with two proteins in Epstein–Barr virus and can regulate the replication process of several viruses through the innate immune system, indicating that DDX20 plays an important role in the innate immune system. Herein, we review the effects of DDX20 on the innate immune system and its role in transcriptional and post-transcriptional modification processes, based on which we provide an outlook on the future of DDX20 research in innate immunity and viral infections.
The Tunable Electronic and Optical Properties of Two-Dimensional Bismuth Oxyhalides
Authors: Zhou Yong , Cheng Beitong , Huang Shuai , Huang Xingyong , Jiang Ruomei , Wang Xule , Zhang Wei , Jia Baonan , Lu Pengfei , Song Hai-Zhi
Published: October 2023

Two-dimensional (2D) bismuth oxyhalides (BiOX) have attracted much attention as potential optoelectronic materials. To explore their application diversity, we herewith systematically investigate the tunable properties of 2D BiOX using first-principles calculations. Their electronic and optical properties can be modulated by changing the number of monolayers, applying strain, and/or varying the halogen composition. The band gap shrinks monotonically and approaches the bulk value, the optical absorption coefficient increases, and the absorption spectrum redshifts as the layer number of 2D BiOX increases. The carrier transport property can be improved by applying tensile strain, and the ability of photocatalytic hydrogen evolution can be obtained by applying compressive strain. General strain engineering will be effective in linearly tuning the band gap of BiOX in a wide strain range. Strain, together with halogen composition variation, can tune the optical absorption spectrum to be on demand in the range from visible to ultraviolet. This suggests that 2D BiOX materials can potentially serve as tunable novel photodetectors, can be used to improve clean energy techniques, and have potential in the field of flexible optoelectronics.
The Influence of CPAP Therapy on Basal Metabolic Rate and Physical Activity in Obese Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Siopi Dimitra , Steiropoulos Paschalis
Published: October 2023

Background: Energy balance in Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), a disease closely related to obesity, is disturbed, and physical activity levels are impaired. The role of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure treatment (CPAP) in alleviating the disruptions mentioned above is questioned. The objective of this study is to explore changes in energy expenditure (EE) and physical activity (PA) in obese patients with OSA after CPAP treatment. Methods: An assessment of Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) via indirect calorimetry (IC) was performed on 24 obese patients (male in the majority (87.5%), mean age of 52.4 ± 9.8 years), newly diagnosed with moderate–severe OSA by polysomnography, at 4-time points: at baseline, at CPAP titration, at the 1-month and the 3-month follow up. Physical activity levels were subjectively estimated using the International Questionnaire of Physical Activity (IPAQ) before and after 3 months of adherent CPAP application. Results: BMR significantly decreased after CPAP treatment (1926 ± 537.8 kcal/d at baseline, 1790 ± 493.7 kcal/d at CPAP initiation, 1680.3 ± 600.8 kcal/d at 1 month, and 1581.3 ± 478.9 kcal/d at 3 months follow up (p < 0.001)). No significant changes in IPAQ were observed over time: baseline median IPAQ: 3894 (1487.5–11,755.5) total MET·min·wk−1, 3-month median IPAQ: 3900 (1512–11,824.5) total MET·min·wk−1. Conclusions: CPAP has an appreciable time effect on the BMR of obese patients with moderate–severe OSA. However, this change is not accompanied by a significant increase in physical activity levels.
Maternal Urinary Iodine Concentration during Pregnancy and Its Impact on Child Growth and Neurodevelopment: An 11-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Lopes Carla A. , Duarte Marta , Prazeres Susana , Carvalho Ivone , Vilarinho Laura , Martinez-de-Oliveira José , Limbert Edward , Lemos Manuel C.
Published: October 2023

Mild-to-moderate iodine deficiency during pregnancy is prevalent worldwide, but its consequences for maternal and child health are not clear. We aimed to investigate the impact of maternal iodine intake during pregnancy on the child’s growth and neurodevelopment. This study involved a cohort of 11-year-old children (n = 70) whose mothers had participated in an iodine intake survey during pregnancy. Gestational, neonatal, anthropometric, intelligence quotient (IQ), and socioeconomic parameters were analyzed according to maternal urinary iodine concentration (UIC). There was a positive linear trend of current height Z-score, full-scale IQ, verbal IQ, family income, maternal education, and a negative trend of neonatal TSH levels with increasing maternal UIC levels. However, regression analysis indicated that maternal UIC was not an independent predictor of any gestational, neonatal, or childhood development parameter. Only maternal school education was positively associated with child height and IQ. In conclusion, we did not find any evidence of a direct effect of maternal iodine intake during pregnancy on the long-term growth and neurodevelopment of children. The results suggest that socioeconomic factors are important confounding factors that affect both maternal iodine intake and child development and must be considered when investigating the association between maternal iodine intake and child outcomes.
The Effects of a Multisector, Multilevel Intervention on Child Dietary Intake: California Childhood Obesity Research Demonstration Study
Authors: Lin Shih-Fan , Zive Michelle Murphy , Schmied Emily , Helm Jonathan , Ayala Guadalupe X.
Published: October 2023

Consuming too few fruits and vegetables and excess fat can increase the risk of childhood obesity. Interventions which target mediators such as caregivers’ dietary intake, parenting strategies, and the family meal context can improve children’s diets. A quasi-experimental, pre–post intervention with four conditions (healthcare (HC-only), public health (PH-only), HC + PH, and control) was implemented to assess the effects of the interventions and the effects of the mediators. HC (implemented with the Obesity Care Model) and PH interventions entailed capacity building; policy, system, and environment changes; and a small-scale media campaign to promote healthy eating. Linear mixed models were used to assess intervention effects and the mediation analysis was performed. Predominantly Hispanic/Latino children and caregivers from rural communities in Imperial County, California, were measured at baseline (N = 1186 children/848 caregivers) and 12 months post-baseline (N = 985/706, respectively). Children who were overweight/obese in the HC-only condition (M = 1.32) consumed more cups of fruits at the 12-month follow-up than those in the control condition (M = 1.09; p = 0.04). No significant mediation was observed. Children in the PH-only condition consumed a significantly higher percentage of energy from fat (M = 36.01) at the follow-up than those in the control condition (M = 34.94, p < 0.01). An obesity intervention delivered through healthcare settings slightly improved fruit intake among at-risk children, but the mechanisms of effect remain unclear.
Pr3+ Ion-Substituted Ni-Co Nano-Spinel Ferrites: Their Synthesis, Characterization, and Biocompatibility for Colorectal Cancer and Candidaemia
Authors: Rehman Suriya , Jermy Balasamy Rabindran , Rather Irfan A. , Sabir Jamal S. M. , Aljameel Suhailah S. , Almessiere Munirah A. , Slimani Yassine , Khan Firdos A. , Baykal Abdulhadi
Published: October 2023

Nanotherapeutics have attracted tremendous research interest in the modern pharmaceutical and biomedical industries due to their potential for drug development, targeted delivery, and therapeutic applications. Therefore, the current study underpins the synthesis of praseodymium ion (Pr3+)-substituted Ni0.5Co0.5Fe2O4 nano-spinel ferrites, (Co0.5Ni0.5PrxFe2−xO4 (0.0 ≤ x ≤ 0.10) NSFs, CoNiPr (x ≤ 0.10) NSFs) via the sonochemical route for its application as a nanotherapeutic treatment option. The synthesized nanomaterial was characterized using various analytical techniques, including scanning/transmission electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray powder diffractometry (XRD). After substitution with Pr (x = 0.08), the particle size, polydispersity index, and zeta potential analysis indicated an increase in hydrodynamic diameter, with an average zeta potential value of −10.2 mV. The investigation of CoNiPr (x ≤ 0.10) NSFs on colorectal cancer (HCT-116) cells demonstrated a significant effect on cancer cell viability. The inhibitory concentration (IC50) of CoNiPr (x ≤ 0.10) NSFs was between 46 ± 0.91 and 288 ± 8.21 for HCT-116 cells. The effect of CoNiPr (x ≤ 0.10) NSFs on normal human embryonic kidney (HEK-293) cells showed a reduction in the HEK-293 cell viability; however, the cell viability was better than HCT-116. The NSFs treatment also showed morphological changes in cancer cell nuclei, as revealed by DAPI (4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole), nuclear disintegration, and chromatic fragmentation, which are signs of apoptosis or programmed cell death. To examine the potential antifungal effects of CoNiPr NSFs on Candida albicans, known to cause candidemia among cancer patients, the viability of the cells was assessed post treatment with CoNiPr (x ≤ 0.10) NSFs. The increasing ratio of dopant had a moderate impact on the percentage of cell viability loss of 42, 44, and 43% with x = 0.06, 0.08, and 0.10, respectively. These results reinforce that increased dopant significantly impacts the antifungal properties of the synthesized nanomaterial. These findings support the idea that NSFs might be useful in pharmaceuticals.
Profiling Analysis of Tryptophan Metabolites in the Urine of Patients with Parkinson’s Disease Using LC–MS/MS
Authors: Chung So Hyeon , Yoo Dallah , Ahn Tae-Beom , Lee Wonwoong , Hong Jongki
Published: October 2023

Although Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a representative neurodegenerative disorder and shows characteristic motor impediments, the pathophysiological mechanisms and treatment targets for PD have not yet been clearly identified. Since several tryptophan metabolites produced by gut microbiota could pass the blood–brain barrier and, furthermore, might influence the central nervous system, tryptophan metabolites within the indole, kynurenine, and serotonin metabolic pathways might be the most potent targets for PD development. Furthermore, most metabolites are circulated via the blood, play roles in and/or are metabolized via the host organs, and finally are excreted into the urine. Therefore, profiling the overall tryptophan metabolic pathways in urine samples of patients with PD is important to understanding the pathological mechanisms, finding biomarkers, and discovering therapeutic targets for PD. However, the development of profiling analysis based on tryptophan metabolism pathways in human urine samples is still challenging due to the wide physiological ranges, the varied signal response, and the structural diversity of tryptophan metabolites in complicated urine matrices. In this study, an LC–MS/MS method was developed to profile 21 tryptophan metabolites within the indole, kynurenine, and serotonin metabolic pathways in human urine samples using ion-pairing chromatography and multiple reaction monitoring determination. The developed method was successfully applied to urine samples of PD patients (n = 41) and controls (n = 20). Further, we investigated aberrant metabolites to find biomarkers for PD development and therapeutic targets based on the quantitative results. Unfortunately, most tryptophan metabolites in the urine samples did not present significant differences between control and PD patients, except for indole-3-acetic acid. Nonetheless, indole-3-acetic acid was reported for the first time for its aberrant urinary levels in PD patients and tentatively selected as a potential biomarker for PD. This study provides accurate quantitative results for 21 tryptophan metabolites in biological samples and will be helpful in revealing the pathological mechanisms of PD development, discovering biomarkers for PD, and further providing therapeutic targets for various PD symptoms. In the near future, to further investigate the relationship between gut microbial metabolites and PD, we will employ studies on microbial metabolites using plasma and stool samples from control and PD patients.