bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Characteristics of Imaging Biomarkers for Quantifying Anterior Cingulate Cortex Changes: A Twin Study of Middle- to Advanced-Aged Populations in East Asia
Authors: Takahashi Hiroto , Watanabe Yoshiyuki , Hirakawa Tomoki , Tanaka Hisashi , Tomiyama Noriyuki , Koto Yuta , Sakai Norio ,   Osaka Twin Research Group
Published: December 2022

Background and Objectives: Our aim was to assess genetic and environmental effects on surface morphological parameters for quantifying anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) changes in middle- to advanced-age East Asians using twin analysis. Materials and Methods: Normal twins over 39 years old comprising 37 monozygotic pairs and 17 dizygotic pairs underwent 3-dimensional (3D) T1-weighted imaging of the brain at 3T. Freesurfer-derived ACC parameters including thickness, standard deviation of thickness (STDthickness), volume, surface area, and sulcal morphological parameters (folding, mean, and Gaussian curvatures) were calculated from 3D T1-weighted volume images. Twin analysis with a model involving phenotype variance components of additive genetic effects (A), common environmental effects (C), and unique environmental effects (E) was performed to assess the magnitude of each genetic and environmental influence on parameters. Results: Most parameters fit best with an AE model. Both thickness (A: left 0.73/right 0.71) and surface area (A: left 0.63/right 0.71) were highly heritable. STDthickness was low to moderately heritable (A: left 0.48/right 0.29). Volume was moderately heritable (A: left 0.37). Folding was low to moderately heritable (A: left 0.44/right 0.28). Mean curvature (A: left 0.37/right 0.65) and Gaussian curvature (A: right 0.79) were moderately to highly heritable. Right volume and left Gaussian curvature fit best with a CE model, indicating a relatively weak contribution of genetic factors to these parameters. Conclusions: When assessing ACC changes in middle- to advanced-age East Asians, one must keep in mind that thickness and surface area appear to be strongly affected by genetic factors, whereas sulcal morphological parameters tend to involve environmental factors.
A Review on Membrane Biofouling: Prediction, Characterization, and Mitigation
Authors: AlSawaftah Nour , Abuwatfa Waad , Darwish Naif , Husseini Ghaleb A.
Published: December 2022

Water scarcity is an increasing problem on every continent, which instigated the search for novel ways to provide clean water suitable for human use; one such way is desalination. Desalination refers to the process of purifying salts and contaminants to produce water suitable for domestic and industrial applications. Due to the high costs and energy consumption associated with some desalination techniques, membrane-based technologies have emerged as a promising alternative water treatment, due to their high energy efficiency, operational simplicity, and lower cost. However, membrane fouling is a major challenge to membrane-based separation as it has detrimental effects on the membrane’s performance and integrity. Based on the type of accumulated foulants, fouling can be classified into particulate, organic, inorganic, and biofouling. Biofouling is considered the most problematic among the four fouling categories. Therefore, proper characterization and prediction of biofouling are essential for creating efficient control and mitigation strategies to minimize the damage associated with biofouling. Moreover, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in predicting membrane fouling has garnered a great deal of attention due to its adaptive capability and prediction accuracy. This paper presents an overview of the membrane biofouling mechanisms, characterization techniques, and predictive methods with a focus on AI-based techniques, and mitigation strategies.
Modification of Carbon Nanomaterials by Association with Poly(3-octylthiophene-2,5-diyl) as a Method of Improving the Solid-Contact Layer in Ion-Selective Electrodes
Authors: Niemiec Barbara , Piech Robert , Paczosa-Bator Beata
Published: December 2022

A new group of carbon nanomaterials modified with poly(3-octylthiophene-2,5-diyl) for solid-contact layers in ion-selective electrodes was obtained. The materials were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and measurement of the contact angle. The modification greatly improved the hydrophobicity of the materials, and the highest contact angle (175°) was obtained for a polymer-modified carbon nanofibers/nanotube nanocomposite. The electrical parameters of the electrodes were determined using the methods of chronopotentiometry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The highest electrical charge capacity was obtained for polymer-modified carbon nanofibers (7.87 mF/cm2). For this material, the lowest detection limit (10−6.2 M) and the best potential reversibility (SD = 0.2 mV) were also obtained in potentiometric measurements.
A 3D Polycrystalline Plasticity Model for Isotropic Linear Evolution of Intragranular Misorientation with Mesoscopic Plastic Strain in Stretched or Cyclically Deformed Metals
Authors: Rui Shao-Shi , Su Yue , Zhao Jia-Min , Shang Zhi-Hao , Shi Hui-Ji
Published: December 2022

Two-dimensional electron back-scattered diffraction (2D-EBSD) mapping has been widely used for indicating the polycrystalline plasticity through intragranular misorientation parameters KAM and GROD, based on the empirically linear relationship between their average values and the mesoscopic plastic strain, in both stretched and cyclically deformed metals. However, whether the intragranular misorientation measured on the 2D-EBSD observational plane objectively reflects the 3D polycrystalline plasticity or not is a rarely reported issue. In this research, we firstly compared the KAM and GROD values measured on 2D-EBSD observational planes with different angles to loading axis of a specimen in both undeformed clamp sections and deformed gauge section, to verify whether their average values increase isotropically or not with mesoscopic plastic strain. Then, we proposed six fundamental assumptions and developed a modified 3D polycrystalline plasticity model based on the 2D polycrystalline plasticity model in our previous work. This 3D polycrystalline plasticity model can explain the isotropic linear evolution of intragranular misorientation in deformed low alloy steel with uniform equiaxial grains.
Electronic Structure and Hardness of Mn3N2 Synthesized under High Temperature and High Pressure
Authors: Zhang Shoufeng , Zhou Chao , Sun Guiqian , Wang Xin , Bao Kuo , Zhu Pinwen , Zhu Jinming , Wang Zhaoqing , Zhao Xingbin , Tao Qiang , Ge Yufei , Cui Tian
Published: December 2022

The hardness of materials is a complicated physical quantity, and the hardness models that are widely used do not function well for transition metal light element (TMLE) compounds. The overestimation of actual hardness is a common phenomenon in hardness models. In this work, high-quality Mn3N2 bulk samples were synthesized under high temperature and high pressure (HTHP) to investigate this issue. The hardness of Mn3N2 was found to be 9.9 GPa, which was higher than the hardness predicted using Guo’s model of 7.01 GPa. Through the combination of the first-principle simulations and experimental analysis, it was found that the metal bonds, which are generally considered helpless to the hardness of crystals, are of importance when evaluating the hardness of TMLE compounds. Metal bonds were found to improve the hardness in TMLEs without strong covalent bonds. This work provides new considerations for the design and synthesis of high-hardness TMLE materials, which can be used to form wear-resistant coatings over the surfaces of typical alloy materials such as stainless steels. Moreover, our findings provide a basis for establishing a more comprehensive theoretical model of hardness in TMLEs, which will provide further insight to improve the hardness values of various alloys.
Glycerol Monolaurate Alleviates Oxidative Stress and Intestinal Flora Imbalance Caused by Salinity Changes for Juvenile Grouper
Authors: Li Xuehe , Zhu Dongwenjun , Mao Minling , Wu Jianwei , Yang Qihui , Tan Beiping , Chi Shuyan
Published: December 2022

Groupers with an initial body weight of 9.10 ± 0.03 g were selected to investigate whether dietary addition of 0 (G0) and 1800 mg/kg glycerol monolaurate (GML, G1800) could alleviate the oxidative stress response and intestinal flora imbalance after 0, 6, 12, and 24 h of salinity change in grouper. Experimental results show that the dietary addition of GML significantly reduced the liver MDA content and increased the SOD activity of grouper. The gene expression of CAT and SOD increased and then decreased with time after adding 1800 mg/kg GML, and the highest values were significantly higher than those of the control group. Salinity change had a slight effect on the top four intestinal flora composition of grouper at 0, 12, and 24 h, with changes occurring only at 6 h when Cyanobacteria replaced Actinobacteria. The addition of dietary GML slowed down the intestinal flora disorder, inhibited the colonization of harmful bacterium Vibrio, and promoted the abundance of beneficial bacterium Bacillus. In conclusion, dietary GML significantly reduced the oxidative damage caused by sudden changes in salinity, improved the antioxidant capacity, and alleviated the intestinal flora imbalance in juvenile grouper.
Effect of Binding Linkers on the Efficiency and Metabolite Profile of Biomimetic Reactions Catalyzed by Immobilized Metalloporphyrin
Authors: Balogh György T. , Decsi Balázs , Krammer Réka , Kenéz Balázs , Ender Ferenc , Hergert Tamás , Balogh-Weiser Diána
Published: December 2022

The investigation of liver-related metabolic stability of a drug candidate is a widely used key strategy in early-stage drug discovery. Metalloporphyrin-based biomimetic catalysts are good and well-described models of the function of CyP450 in hepatocytes. In this research, the immobilization of an iron porphyrin was performed on nanoporous silica particles via ionic interactions. The effect of the metalloporphyrin binding linkers was investigated on the catalytic efficiency and the metabolic profile of chloroquine as a model drug. The length of the amino-substituted linkers affects the chloroquine conversion as well as the ratio of human major and minor metabolites. While testing the immobilized catalysts in the continuous-flow reactor, results showed that the presented biomimetic system could be a promising alternative for the early-stage investigation of drug metabolites regarding analytical or synthetic goals as well.
Time-Modulated Antenna Arrays for Ultra-Wideband 5G Applications
Authors: Maldonado Gonzalo , Maldonado Alberto Reyna , Balderas Luz I. , Panduro Marco A.
Published: December 2022

This research presents the design of time-modulated antenna arrays with UWB performance. The antenna arrays consider a linear topology with eight UWB disk-notch patch antennas. The technological problem is to find out the optimum antenna positions and/or time sequences to reduce the side lobes and the sidebands in all of the UWB frequency ranges. The design process is formulated as a bacterial foraging optimization. The results show that the uniform array generates a better SLL performance whereas the non-uniform array obtains a wider bandwidth. The uniform array obtains an SLL < −20 dB from 3.37 GHz to 4.8 GHz and the non-uniform array generates an SLL < −7 dB from 2.97 GHz to 5.26 GHz. The sideband levels are very similar for both cases with a value of around −17 dB.
Ophthalmic Features and Implications of Poxviruses: Lessons from Clinical and Basic Research
Authors: Fashina Tolulope , Huang Ye , Thomas Joanne , Conrady Christopher D. , Yeh Steven
Published: December 2022

Amidst the ongoing monkeypox outbreak, global awareness has been directed towards the prevention of viral transmission and case management, with the World Health Organization declaring the outbreak a public health emergency of international concern. Monkeypox virus is one of several species in the Orthopoxvirus genus, with other species of the genus including the variola, cowpox, mousepox, camelpox, raccoonpox, skunkpox, and volepox viruses. Although the nomenclature of these species is based on the animal host from which they were originally isolated, transmission from animals to humans has been reported with several species. The progression of disease, following an incubation period, typically consists of a prodromal phase with systemic flu-like symptoms. Various organ systems may be affected in addition to the formation of pathognomonic skin lesions. As monkeypox poses a continued public health concern, the ophthalmic sequelae of monkeypox virus, especially those leading to vision loss, warrant consideration as well. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the ophthalmic implications of poxviruses in clinical and laboratory settings reported in the literature, as well as areas of unmet need and future research.
Current Data on Rickettsia felis Occurrence in Vectors, Human and Animal Hosts in Europe: A Scoping Review
Authors: Tsokana Constantina N. , Kapna Ioanna , Valiakos George
Published: December 2022

Rickettsia felis is an emerging pathogen with increasing reports of human cases and detection in arthropod and animal host species worldwide. In this scoping review we record the newest data reported for R. felis in Europe: the vector and host species found to be infected, and the geographical distribution and prevalence of R. felis infection in vectors and hosts. A total of 15 European countries reported the occurrence of R. felis in hosts and vectors during 2017–2022. The vectors found to be infected by R. felis were flea, tick and mite species; Ctenocephalides felis and Ixodes ricinus were the dominant ones. The hosts found to be infected and/or exposed to R. felis were humans, cats and small mammals. Physicians should be aware of the epidemiology and include illness caused by R. felis in the differential diagnosis of febrile disease. Veterinarians should keep training pet owners on the need for effective year-round arthropod control on their pets, especially for fleas.
Cross-Feeding and Enzymatic Catabolism for Mannan-Oligosaccharide Utilization by the Butyrate-Producing Gut Bacterium Roseburia hominis A2-183
Authors: Bhattacharya Abhishek , Majtorp Lovisa , Birgersson Simon , Wiemann Mathias , Sreenivas Krishnan , Verbrugghe Phebe , Van Aken Olivier , Van Niel Ed , Stålbrand Henrik
Published: December 2022

β-Mannan is abundant in the human diet and in hemicellulose derived from softwood. Linear or galactose-substituted β-mannan-oligosaccharides (MOS/GMOSs) derived from β-mannan are considered emerging prebiotics that could stimulate health-associated gut microbiota. However, the underlying mechanisms are not yet resolved. Therefore, this study investigated the cross-feeding and metabolic interactions between Bifidobacterium adolescentis ATCC 15703, an acetate producer, and Roseburia hominis A2-183 DSMZ 16839, a butyrate producer, during utilization of MOS/GMOSs. Cocultivation studies suggest that both strains coexist due to differential MOS/GMOS utilization, along with the cross-feeding of acetate from B. adolescentis E194a to R. hominis A2-183. The data suggest that R. hominis A2-183 efficiently utilizes MOS/GMOS in mono- and cocultivation. Notably, we observed the transcriptional upregulation of certain genes within a dedicated MOS/GMOS utilization locus (RhMosUL), and an exo-oligomannosidase (RhMan113A) gene located distally in the R. hominis A2-183 genome. Significantly, biochemical analysis of β-1,4 mannan-oligosaccharide phosphorylase (RhMOP130A), α-galactosidase (RhGal36A), and exo-oligomannosidase (RhMan113A) suggested their potential synergistic role in the initial utilization of MOS/GMOSs. Thus, our results enhance the understanding of MOS/GMOS utilization by potential health-promoting human gut microbiota and highlight the role of cross-feeding and metabolic interactions between two secondary mannan degraders inhabiting the same ecological niche in the gut.
In Situ Raman Spectroscopy and DFT Studies of the Phase Transition from Zircon to Reidite at High P–T Conditions
Authors: Gao Yue , Zheng Zhi , Zhao Xia , Liu Yuegao , Chen Jiangzhi , Li Yan , Xiong Mengjun , Zu Xiaotao , Mei Shenghua
Published: December 2022

Zircon (ZrSiO4) provides a good pressure-holding environment for ultra-high-pressure metamorphic minerals during crust exhumation due to its high incompressibility and chemical stability. At high pressure, the zircon can transform to reidite. Previous studies show much higher phase-transition pressures at room temperature than those at high temperature (>1000 K) due to kinetic hindrance. To further investigate the kinetics of the zircon–reidite phase transition at relatively low temperatures, the phase boundary at 298–800 K was determined using a diamond anvil cell combined with in situ Raman spectra. The results show that reidite becomes thermodynamically more stable compared with zircon at 8 GPa at room temperature, and the slope of the phase boundary at 298–800 K abruptly differs from that of previous studies at 1100–1900 K. Compared with the equilibrium phase boundary calculated by the density functional theory, it indicates that the kinetic effect of the zircon–reidite phase transition is obvious, and there exists a sufficiently large energy driving force provided by an overpressure to overcome the activation energy barrier below a critical temperature of approximately 880 K. The temperature dependence of overpressure is about 0.023 GPa/K.
Strengthening Gold Extraction from Carbonaceous Gold Ore Based on Decarburization by Two-Stage Fluidized Oxidation Roasting
Authors: Xiao Hanxin , Jin Jianping , He Fayu , Han Yuexin , Sun Yongsheng
Published: December 2022

Oxidation roasting is one of the most effective methods to remove carbonaceous matter from carbonaceous gold ore. However, the consolidation of calcine is a common problem caused by a large amount of heat release during the oxidation roasting of gold ore with high carbon and sulfur content. In this study, a two-stage fluidized oxidation roasting method was developed to strengthen gold extraction. Pre-roasting was performed in a low oxygen environment for the mild combustion of carbonaceous matter, and then the pre-roasted product was subjected to secondary roasting followed by leaching. The results show that reducing the carbon content in the ore by pre-roasting can effectively lower the peak temperature inside the material. After the second-stage roasting, many cracks and pores were formed in silicates and carbonates, thus increasing the distribution of exposed gold from 28.95% to 88.01%. Finally, the extraction of gold increased from 4.55% to 86.10%. Overall, this study provides references for an efficient strategy for gold recovery from carbonaceous gold ores.
A Joint Approach of Morphological and UHPLC-HRMS Analyses to Throw Light on the Autochthonous ‘Verdole’ Chestnut for Nutraceutical Innovation of Its Waste
Authors: Ferrara Elvira , Pecoraro Maria Tommasina , Cice Danilo , Piccolella Simona , Formato Marialuisa , Esposito Assunta , Petriccione Milena , Pacifico Severina
Published: December 2022

Nowadays, chestnut by-products are gaining a lot of interest as a low-cost raw material, exploitable for developing added-value products. This is in line with suitable chestnut by-products’ management, aimed at reducing the environmental impact, thus improving the chestnut industry’s competitiveness and economic sustainability. In this context, with the aim of valorizing local cultivars of European chestnuts (Castanea sativa Mill.), our attention focused on the Verdole cultivar, which has been characterized by using the UPOV guidelines for its distinctness, homogeneity, and stability. After harvesting, Verdole chestnuts were properly dissected to collect the outer and inner shells, and episperm. Each chestnut part, previously crushed, shredded, and passed through diverse sieves, underwent ultrasound-assisted extraction. The extracts obtained were evaluated for their total phenolic, flavonoid, and tannin content. The antiradical capacity by DPPH and ABTS assays, and the Fe(III) reducing power, were also evaluated. Although all the samples showed dose-dependent antioxidant efficacy, plant matrix size strongly impacted on extraction efficiency. LC-HRMS-based metabolic profiling highlighted the occurrence of different polyphenol subclasses, whose quantitative ratio varied among the chestnut parts investigated. The outer shell was more chemically rich than inner shell and episperm, according to its pronounced antioxidant activity. The polyphenol diversity of Verdole by-products is a resource not intended for disposal, appliable in the nutraceutical sector, thus realizing a new scenario in processing chestnut waste.
The Development of Pharmacophore Models for the Search of New Natural Inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 Spike RBD–ACE2 Binding Interface
Authors: Semenov Valentin A. , Krivdin Leonid B.
Published: December 2022

To date, some succeeding variants of SARS-CoV-2 have become more contagious. This virus is known to enter human cells by binding the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of spike protein with the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), the latter being a membrane protein that regulates the renin–angiotensin system. Since the host cell receptor plays a critical role in viral entry, inhibition of the RBD–ACE2 complex is a promising strategy for preventing COVID-19 infection. In the present communication, we propose and utilize an approach based on the generation of a complex of pharmacophore models and subsequent Induced Fit Docking (IFD) to identify potential inhibitors of the main binding sites of the Omicron SARS-CoV-2 RBD(S1)–ACE2 complex (PDB ID: 7T9L) among a number of natural products of various types and origins. Several natural compounds have been found to provide a high affinity for the receptor of interest. It is expected that the present results will stimulate further research aimed at the development of specialized drugs against this virus.
Controlling of Mycobacterium by Natural Degradant-Combination Models for Sequestering Mycolic Acids in Karish Cheese
Authors: Hamad Gamal , Saad Marwa A. , Talat Dalia , Hassan Sabria , Shalabi Ola M. A. K. , Salama Abeer M. , Abou-Alella Sarah , Esatbeyoglu Tuba , Mehany Taha
Published: December 2022

Degradation of the mycobacterial complex containing mycolic acids (MAs) by natural bioactive compounds is essential for producing safe and value-added foods with therapeutic activities. This study aimed to determine the degradation efficiency of natural organic acid extracts (i.e., citric, malic, tartaric, and lactic), quadri-mix extract from fruits and probiotics (i.e., lemon, apple, grape, and cell-free supernatant of Lactobacillus acidophilus), and synthetic pure organic acids (i.e., citric, malic, tartaric, and lactic), against MA in vitro in phosphate buffer solution (PBS) and Karish cheese models. The degradation effect was evaluated both individually and in combinations at different concentrations of degradants (1, 1.5, and 2%) and at various time intervals (0, 6, 12, 24, and 48 h). The results show that MA degradation percentage recorded its highest value at 2% of mixed fruit extract quadri-mix with L. acidophilus and reached 99.2% after 48 h both in PBS and Karish cheese, unlike other treatments (i.e., citric + malic + tartaric + lactic), individual acids, and sole extracts at all concentrations. Conversely, organic acid quadri-mix revealed the greatest MA degradation% of 95.9, 96.8, and 97.3% at 1, 1.5, and 2%, respectively, after 48 h. Citric acid was more effective in MA degradation than other acids. The fruit extract quadri-mix combined with L. acidophilus-fortified Karish cheese showed the highest sensorial characteristics; hence, it can be considered a novel food-grade degradant for MA and could be a promising biocontrol candidate against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) in food matrices.
Recent Advances in Gold(I)-Catalyzed Approaches to Three-Type Small-Molecule Scaffolds via Arylalkyne Activation
Authors: Yang Lu , Su Hongwei , Sun Yue , Zhang Sen , Cheng Maosheng , Liu Yongxiang
Published: December 2022

Gold catalysts possess the advantages of water and oxygen resistance, with the possibility of catalyzing many novel chemical transformations, especially in the syntheses of small-molecule skeletons, in addition to achieving the rapid construction of multiple chemical bonds and ring systems in one step. In this feature paper, we summarize recent advances in the construction of small-molecule scaffolds, such as benzene, cyclopentene, furan, and pyran, based on gold-catalyzed cyclization of arylalkyne derivatives within the last decade. We hope that this review will serve as a useful reference for chemists to apply gold-catalyzed strategies to the syntheses of related natural products and active molecules, hopefully providing useful guidance for the exploration of additional novel gold-catalyzed approaches.
Study on the Influence of Metal Ions on the Dispersion of Fine Calcium Gangue Minerals
Authors: Liu Zhongyi , Liu Jie , Liao Yinfei , Ma Zilong , Jin Chenxi
Published: December 2022

In this study, the calcium gangue material calcite (−10 μm) was used to investigate the effects of different kinds of metal ions and dosages on the dispersion behavior of calcite. The test results showed that the dispersion behavior of calcite was poor under strongly alkaline conditions without the addition of metal ions, and the reason for that was calcite dissolved ions. The degree of influence of different metal ions on calcite dispersion behavior was Fe3+ > Mg2+ > Na+. The three metal ion dosage tests showed that the dispersion behavior of calcite became poorer with the increase of metal ion dosage. This mainly showed that with the increase of Na+ dosage, the trend of the dispersion behavior of calcite was not obvious, but with the increase of Fe3+ and Mg2+ dosage, the trend of calcite dispersion behavior changed more. The dispersion behavior of calcite was devastated by 5 × 10−4 mol/L Fe3+ at pH = 4–12. The different mechanisms of the three metal ions were identified by zeta potential, solution chemistry, and XPS analysis. Na+ only changed the zeta potential value of the calcite surface, which acted as a compressed electric double layer. However, the formation of metal hydroxide species or metal hydroxide surface precipitation due to the adsorption of Fe3+ and Mg2+ on the mineral surface resulted in the change of the dispersion behavior of calcite.
Modeling the Additive Effects of Nanoparticles and Polymers on Hydrogel Mechanical Properties Using Multifactor Analysis
Authors: Barrett-Catton Emma , Pedersen Kyle , Mobed-Miremadi Maryam , Asuri Prashanth
Published: December 2022

Interpenetrating networks (IPN)s have been conceived as a biomimetic tool to tune hydrogel mechanical properties to the desired target formulations. In this study, the rheological behavior of acrylamide (AAm) [2.5–10%] hydrogels crosslinked with N,N′-methylenebis(acrylamide) (Bis) [0.0625–0.25%] was characterized in terms of the saturation modulus affected by the interaction of silica nanoparticle (SiNP) nanofillers [0–5%] and dextran [0–2%] at a frequency of 1 Hz and strain rate of 1% after a gelation period of 90 min. For single-network hydrogels, a prominent transition was observed at 0.125% Bis for 2.5% AAm and 0.25% Bis for 5% AAm across the SiNP concentrations and was validated by retrospective 3-level factorial design models, as characterized by deviation from linearity in the saturation region (R2 = 0.86). IPN hydrogels resulting from the addition of dextran to the single network in the pre-saturation region, as outlined by the strong goodness of fit (R2= 0.99), exhibited a correlated increase in the elastic (G’) and viscous moduli (G”). While increasing the dextran concentrations [0–2%] and MW [100 kDa and 500 kDa] regulated the increase in G’, saturation in G” or the loss tangent (tan(δ)) was not recorded within the observed operating windows. Results of multifactor analysis conducted on Han plots in terms of the elastic gains indicate that amongst the factors modulating the viscoelasticity of the IPN hydrogels, dextran concentration is the most important (RDex = 35.3 dB), followed by nanoparticle concentration (RSiNP = 7.7 dB) and dextran molecular weight (RMW = 2.9 dB). The results demonstrate how the Han plot may be systematically used to quantify the main effects of intensive thermodynamic properties on rheological phase transition in interpenetrating networks where traditional multifactor analyses cannot resolve statistical significance.
High-Performance Ppb Level NO2 Gas Sensor Based on Colloidal SnO2 Quantum Wires/Ti3C2Tx MXene Composite
Authors: Zhang Baohui , Li Chong , Li Min , Fu Chen , Tao Ran , Li Honglang , Luo Jingting
Published: December 2022

Nitrogen dioxide is one origin of air pollution from fossil fuels with the potential to cause great harm to human health in low concentrations. Therefore, low-cost, low-power-consumption sensors for low-concentration NO2 detection are essential. Herein, heterojunction by SnO2 quantum wires, a traditional metal oxide NO2 sensing material, and Ti3C2Tx MXene, a novel type of 2D layered material, was synthesized using a simple solvothermal method for enhancing gas-sensing performance and reducing operating temperature. The operating temperature was reduced to 80 °C, with a best performance of 27.8 and a fast response and recovery time (11 s and 23 s, respectively). The SnO2 and Ti3C2Tx MXene composite exhibits high speed and low detection limit due to the construction of the heterojunction with high conductive Ti3C2Tx MXene. The selectivity and stability of gas sensors are carried out. This could enable the realization of fast response, high-sensitivity, and selective NO2 sensing under low operating temperatures.
EEG in Neurorehabilitation: A Bibliometric Analysis and Content Review
Authors: Tsiamalou Athanasia , Dardiotis Efthimios , Paterakis Konstantinos , Fotakopoulos George , Liampas Ioannis , Sgantzos Markos , Siokas Vasileios , Brotis Alexandros G.
Published: December 2022

Background: There is increasing interest in the role of EEG in neurorehabilitation. We primarily aimed to identify the knowledge base through highly influential studies. Our secondary aims were to imprint the relevant thematic hotspots, research trends, and social networks within the scientific community. Methods: We performed an electronic search in Scopus, looking for studies reporting on rehabilitation in patients with neurological disabilities. We used the most influential papers to outline the knowledge base and carried out a word co-occurrence analysis to identify the research hotspots. We also used depicted collaboration networks between universities, authors, and countries after analyzing the cocitations. The results were presented in summary tables, plots, and maps. Finally, a content review based on the top-20 most cited articles completed our study. Results: Our current bibliometric study was based on 874 records from 420 sources. There was vivid research interest in EEG use for neurorehabilitation, with an annual growth rate as high as 14.3%. The most influential paper was the study titled “Brain-computer interfaces, a review” by L.F. Nicolas-Alfonso and J. Gomez-Gill, with 997 citations, followed by “Brain-computer interfaces in neurological rehabilitation” by J. Daly and J.R. Wolpaw (708 citations). The US, Italy, and Germany were among the most productive countries. The research hotspots shifted with time from the use of functional magnetic imaging to EEG-based brain–machine interface, motor imagery, and deep learning. Conclusions: EEG constitutes the most significant input in brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) and can be successfully used in the neurorehabilitation of patients with stroke symptoms, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and traumatic brain and spinal injuries. EEG-based BCI facilitates the training, communication, and control of wheelchair and exoskeletons. However, research is limited to specific scientific groups from developed countries. Evidence is expected to change with the broader availability of BCI and improvement in EEG-filtering algorithms.
Evaluation of Alkaline Hydrolyzable Organic Nitrogen as an Index of Nitrogen Mineralization Potential of Some Coastal Savannah Soils of Ghana
Authors: Dodor Daniel E. , Kamara Mohamed S. , Asamoah-Bediako Abena , Adiku Samuel G. K. , MacCarthy Dilys S. , Kumahor Samuel K. , Neina Dora
Published: December 2022

Numerous biological and chemical methods have been proposed over the years for estimating the nitrogen (N) mineralization capacity of soils; however, none of them has found general use in soil fertility testing. The efficacy of a recently proposed alkaline hydrolysis method for assessing N availability in soils compared with the standard long-term incubation technique for determining potentially available N was evaluated. The nitrogen mineralization of 12 surface soils incubated under aerobic conditions at 25 °C for 26 weeks was determined. Field-moist soils were direct-steam distilled with 1 M KOH or 1 M NaOH; the NH3 released was trapped in boric acid, and its concentration was determined successively every 5 min for 40 min. The cumulative N mineralized or hydrolyzed was fitted to the first-order exponential equation to determine the potentially mineralizable N (No) and an analogous “potentially hydrolyzable N (Nmax)” for the soils. The flush of CO2 (fCO2) following the rewetting and incubation of air-dried soils under aerobic conditions for 3 days was also determined. The results showed that the Nmax values differed considerably among the soils, indicating differences in the chemical nature and reactivity of the organic N content of the soils, and were significantly correlated with No and fCO2 values. The estimated Nmax and No values ranged from 105 to 371 mg N kg−1 and 121 to 292 mg kg−1, respectively. Based on the simple and inexpensive nature of the alkaline hydrolysis procedure, the reduction in the incubation time required to obtain No (months to minutes), and the strong association between Nmax and No, we concluded that Nmax is a good predictor of the biologically discrete and quantifiable labile pool of mineralizable soil organic N (ON), and the use of the alkaline hydrolyzable ON as a predictor of No merits consideration for routine use in soil testing laboratories for estimating the N-supplying capacity of soils.
Nutrition Coverage in Medical Licensing Examinations in Germany: An Analysis of Six Nationwide Exams
Authors: Storz Maximilian Andreas , Oksche Alexander , Schlasius-Ratter Ute , Schillings Volker , Beckschulte Kai , Huber Roman
Published: December 2022

The state of nutrition education in medicine is inadequate, with nutrition-related topics being poorly integrated into lectures. Most medical students receive only a few contact hours of nutrition instruction during their entire time at medical school. Identifying potential barriers that may explain the paucity of nutritional knowledge in medical students is thus of paramount importance. The extent of nutrition coverage in the second part of Germany’s nationwide medical licensing exam is currently unknown. We addressed this issue and assessed nutrition content, as well as students’ scores, in this pivotal test prior to their graduation. We performed a post hoc analysis of six nationwide medical licensing examinations (2018–2020) undertaken by 29,849 medical students and screened 1920 multiple-choice questions for nutrition-related content. Nutrition-related questions accounted for a minority of the questions (2.1%, n = 40/1920). A considerable number of the questions (n = 19) included only a single nutrition-related answer option that was frequently incorrect and served as a distractor. About 0.5% of questions were entirely nutrition related. Despite undeniable barriers, the inclusion of additional nutrition-related examination questions could serve as an incentive to engage students and medical schools in enhancing medical nutrition education. The recently published competence-oriented learning objective catalog in Germany could play a pivotal role in this context, leading to better recognition of nutrition-related topics in medical education.
Can Mild-to-Moderate Iodine Deficiency during Pregnancy Alter Thyroid Function? Lessons from a Mother–Newborn Cohort
Authors: Shenhav Simon , Benbassat Carlos , Gefel Dov , Zangen Shmuel , Rosen Shani R. , Avrahami-Benyounes Yael , Almashanu Shlomo , Groisman Ludmila , Rorman Efrat , Fytlovich Shlomo , Anteby Eyal Y. , Ovadia Yaniv S.
Published: December 2022

Severe iodine deficiency during pregnancy has substantial hormonal consequences, such as fetal brain damage. Data on the potential effects of mild-to-moderate iodine deficiency on the thyroid function of pregnant women and their newborns are scarce and divergent. We investigated the association between iodine intake in pregnancy and maternal and neonatal thyroid function in a region with mild-to-moderate iodine deficiency. Pregnant women’s iodine status was evaluated using an iodine food frequency questionnaire, serum thyroglobulin (Tg), and urinary iodine concentration (UIC). Neonatal thyrotropin (nTSH) values were measured after birth. Obstetrics and anthropometric data were also collected. Among the 178 women (median age 31 years) included in the study, median (interquartile range) estimated dietary iodine intake, Tg and UIC were 179 (94–268) μg/day, 18 (11–33) μg/L, and 60 (41–95) μg/L, respectively. There was a significant inverse association of iodine intake with Tg values among the study population (β = −0.2, F = 7.5, p < 0.01). Women with high free triiodothyronine (FT3) values were more likely to exhibit an estimated iodine intake below the estimated average requirement (160 μg/day, odds ratio [OR] = 2.6; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1–6.4; p = 0.04) and less likely to consume iodine-containing supplements (OR = 0.3, 95% CI, 0.1–0.8; p = 0.01). It is possible that thyroid function may be affected by iodine insufficiency during pregnancy in regions with mild-to-moderate iodine deficiency. The relatively small sample size of the studied population warrants further investigation.
Impact of Dietary Arachidonic Acid on Gut Microbiota Composition and Gut–Brain Axis in Male BALB/C Mice
Authors: Pinchaud Katleen , Hafeez Zeeshan , Auger Sandrine , Chatel Jean-Marc , Chadi Sead , Langella Philippe , Paoli Justine , Dary-Mourot Annie , Maguin-Gaté Katy , Olivier Jean Luc
Published: December 2022

Although arachidonic acid (ARA) is the precursor of the majority of eicosanoids, its influence as a food component on health is not well known. Therefore, we investigated its impact on the gut microbiota and gut–brain axis. Groups of male BALB/c mice were fed either a standard diet containing 5% lipids (Std-ARA) or 15%-lipid diets without ARA (HL-ARA) or with 1% ARA (HL + ARA) for 9 weeks. Fatty acid profiles of all three diets were the same. The HL-ARA diet favored the growth of Bifidobacterium pseudolongum contrary to the HL + ARA diet that favored the pro-inflammatory Escherichia–Shigella genus in fecal microbiota. Dietary ARA intake induced 4- and 15-fold colic overexpression of the pro-inflammatory markers IL-1β and CD40, respectively, without affecting those of TNFα and adiponectin. In the brain, dietary ARA intake led to moderate overexpression of GFAP in the hippocampus and cortex. Both the hyperlipidic diets reduced IL-6 and IL-12 in the brain. For the first time, it was shown that dietary ARA altered the gut microbiota, led to low-grade colic inflammation, and induced astrogliosis in the brain. Further work is necessary to determine the involved mechanisms.
Factors Determining the Willingness of Nigerian Clinicians to Recommend Protected Oral Sex: An Online Exploratory Study
Authors: Kanmodi Kehinde Kazeem , Nwafor Jacob Njideka , Eze Ugochukwu Anthony , Amoo Babatunde Abiodun , Salami Afeez Abolarinwa , Almu Bello , Ogbeide Mike Eghosa , Obute Precious Ehi , Aladelusi Timothy , Adebayo Oladimeji , Nnyanzi Lawrence Achilles
Published: December 2022

Oral sex, a risky sexual behaviour, is now a common sexual behaviour in Nigeria. Nigerian clinicians play crucial roles in the promotion of healthy sexual behaviours among the lay public. This study seeks to identify those factors that determine the willingness of Nigerian clinicians to recommend protected oral sex to patients with history of oral sex practice. This study surveyed 330 clinicians in Nigeria, using an e-questionnaire circulated via WhatsApp and Telegram. The collected data were analysed using SPSS version 21 software. The majority (89.1%) of the respondents were willing to recommend protected oral sex for patients engaging in oral sex. Amidst all of the factors (sociodemographic factors, sexual history, etc.) investigated, only one factor (which was the uncertainty about the risk level of oral sex) was found to predict the willingness to recommend protective measures to patients on oral sex (OR = 3.06, p = 0.036). In conclusion, only few factors were found to influence Nigerian clinicians in engaging in patient education on safer oral sex practices.
Enhanced Serum IgG Detection Potential Using 38KD-MPT32-MPT64, CFP10-Mtb81-EspC Fusion Protein and Lipoarabinomannan (LAM) for Human Tuberculosis
Authors: Yan Zhuohong , Wang Xiaojue , Yi Ling , Yang Bin , Wei Panjian , Ruan Hongyun , Wang Jinghui , Yang Xinting , Zhang Hongtao
Published: December 2022

For the rapid, reliable, and cost-effective methods of tuberculosis (TB) auxiliary diagnosis, antibody (Ab) detection to multiple antigens of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) has great potential; however, this methodology requires optimization. We constructed 38KD-MPT32-MPT64, CFP10-Mtb81-EspC, and Ag85B-HBHA fusion proteins and evaluated the serum Ab response to these fusion proteins and to lipoarabinomannan (LAM) by ELISA in 50 TB patients and 17 non-TB subjects. IgG responses to the three fusion proteins and to LAM were significantly higher in TB patients, especially in Xpert Mtb-positive TB patients (TB-Xpert+), than in non-TB subjects. Only the anti-38KD-MPT32-MPT64 Ab showed higher levels in the Xpert Mtb-negative TB patients (TB-Xpert−) than in the non-TB, and only the anti-LAM Ab showed higher levels in the TB-Xpert+ group than in the TB-Xpert− group. Anti-Ag85B-HBHA Ab-positive samples could be accurately identified using 38KD-MPT32-MPT64. The combination of 38KD-MPT32-MPT64, CFP10-Mtb81-EspC, and LAM conferred definite complementarity for the serum IgG detection of TB, with relatively high sensitivity (74.0%) and specificity (88.2%). These data suggest that the combination of 38KD-MPT32-MPT64, CFP10-Mtb81-EspC, and LAM antigens provided a basis for IgG detection and for evaluation of the humoral immune response in patients with TB.
Syphilis as Re-Emerging Disease, Antibiotic Resistance, and Vulnerable Population: Global Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Orbe-Orihuela Yaneth Citlalli , Sánchez-Alemán Miguel Ángel , Hernández-Pliego Adriana , Medina-García Claudia Victoria , Vergara-Ortega Dayana Nicté
Published: December 2022

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease that has become a public health problem, especially in vulnerable populations. A systematic review and time-free meta-analysis of the publications on the molecular detection of syphilis and mutations associated with antibiotic resistance, CORE group, and syphilis genotypes in PubMed databases, Scielo, and Cochrane was performed, and the last search was conducted in June 2022. Proportions were calculated, and standard errors and confidence intervals were reported for all results of interest. We included 41 articles for quantitative extraction and data synthesis. An increase was observed in the proportion of subjects diagnosed with syphilis and the presence of the A2058G mutation during the 2018–2021 period compared to 2006 (70% 95%CI 50–87 vs. 58% 95%CI 12–78), and we observed that the greater the proportion of the population participating in men who have sex with men (MSM) (<50% and >50%) syphilis increased (78% 95%CI 65–90 vs. 33% 95%CI 19–49). In conclusion, we suggest that there are a set of characteristics that are contributing to the resurgence of syphilis and the selective pressure of bacteria. The MSM population could be a vulnerable factor for this scenario and the global presence of A2058G and A2059G mutations that confer resistance to macrolides.
The Double Game Played by Th17 Cells in Infection: Host Defense and Immunopathology
Authors: Paroli Marino , Caccavale Rosalba , Fiorillo Maria Teresa , Spadea Luca , Gumina Stefano , Candela Vittorio , Paroli Maria Pia
Published: December 2022

T-helper 17 (Th17) cells represent a subpopulation of CD4+ T lymphocytes that play an essential role in defense against pathogens. Th17 cells are distinguished from Th1 and Th2 cells by their ability to produce members of the interleukin-17 (IL-17) family, namely IL-17A and IL-17F. IL-17 in turn induces several target cells to synthesize and release cytokines, chemokines, and metalloproteinases, thereby amplifying the inflammatory cascade. Th17 cells reside predominantly in the lamina propria of the mucosa. Their main physiological function is to maintain the integrity of the mucosal barrier against the aggression of infectious agents. However, in an appropriate inflammatory microenvironment, Th17 cells can transform into immunopathogenic cells, giving rise to inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. This review aims to analyze the complex mechanisms through which the interaction between Th17 and pathogens can be on the one hand favorable to the host by protecting it from infectious agents, and on the other hand harmful, potentially generating autoimmune reactions and tissue damage.
Component Characterization, In Vitro Activities and Molecular Mechanism of Cydonia oblonga Mill. against Diabetic
Authors: Chi Bingqing , Liang Xilong , Wang Lihua , Bian Yifei , Zhang Meng , Tang Zhixin , Wang Danyang , Tian Zhenhua
Published: December 2022

Cydonia Oblonga Mill. is widely distributed in Turkey, Uzbekistan and China and commonly used by the food industry to produce jam, jelly and candies. The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro antidiabetic activity and anti-diabetic mechanism of Cydonia Oblonga Mill. fruit (COMF). The chemical compositions were further characterized in COMF by UPLC-Q-Orbitrap/MS and 65 components including 22 flavonoids, 16 organic acids, 11 polyphenols, 5 amino acids, 3 pentacyclic triterpenoids and 8 other compounds were identified. The antioxidant activity by DPPH scavenging method and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity were tested. Furthermore, we detected the effects of COMF extract on the proliferation activity of HUVECs, cell viability of HUVECs under H2O2-induced oxidative stress, and NO production. Then, molecular docking activity and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity of seven key flavonoid components selected by bioinformatics analysis and literature in the COMF were studied. Among them, quercetin showed potent inhibitory activity, kaempferol, isorhamnetin, luteolin and apigenin demonstrated moderate inhibitory activity, while rutin and epicatechin exhibited poor inhibitory activity. Subsequently, the effects of quercetin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin, leteolin and apigenin on the gene expression levels of AKT1, IL-6 and VEGFA were verified by real-time fluorescence quantification (RT-qPCR). Molecular biology result showed that different active ingredients can significantly recover the levels of AKT1, IL-6 and VEGFA in HUVECs injured by high glucose.