bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Geometry of Feature Space in Deep Learning Models: A Holistic Perspective and Comprehensive Review
Authors: Lee Minhyeok
Published: May 2023

As the field of deep learning experiences a meteoric rise, the urgency to decipher the complex geometric properties of feature spaces, which underlie the effectiveness of diverse learning algorithms and optimization techniques, has become paramount. In this scholarly review, a comprehensive, holistic outlook on the geometry of feature spaces in deep learning models is provided in order to thoroughly probe the interconnections between feature spaces and a multitude of influential factors such as activation functions, normalization methods, and model architectures. The exploration commences with an all-encompassing examination of deep learning models, followed by a rigorous dissection of feature space geometry, delving into manifold structures, curvature, wide neural networks and Gaussian processes, critical points and loss landscapes, singular value spectra, and adversarial robustness, among other notable topics. Moreover, transfer learning and disentangled representations in feature space are illuminated, accentuating the progress and challenges in these areas. In conclusion, the challenges and future research directions in the domain of feature space geometry are outlined, emphasizing the significance of comprehending overparameterized models, unsupervised and semi-supervised learning, interpretable feature space geometry, topological analysis, and multimodal and multi-task learning. Embracing a holistic perspective, this review aspires to serve as an exhaustive guide for researchers and practitioners alike, clarifying the intricacies of the geometry of feature spaces in deep learning models and mapping the trajectory for future advancements in this enigmatic and enthralling domain.
HAP-Assisted RSMA-Enabled Vehicular Edge Computing: A DRL-Based Optimization Framework
Authors: Nguyen Tri-Hai , Park Laihyuk
Published: May 2023

In recent years, the demand for vehicular edge computing (VEC) has grown rapidly due to the increasing need for low-latency and high-throughput applications such as autonomous driving and smart transportation systems. Nevertheless, offering VEC services in rural locations remains a difficulty owing to a lack of network facilities. We tackle this issue by taking advantage of high-altitude platforms (HAPs) and rate-splitting multiple access (RSMA) techniques to propose an HAP-assisted RSMA-enabled VEC system, which can enhance connectivity and provide computational capacity in rural locations. We also introduce a deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG)-based framework that optimizes the allocation of resources and task offloading by jointly considering the offloading rate, splitting rate, transmission power, and decoding order parameters. Via results from extensive simulations, the proposed framework shows superior performance in comparison with conventional schemes regarding task success rate and energy consumption.
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and Comorbidities: Linked by Vascular Pathomechanisms and Vasoactive Mediators?
Authors: Wirth Klaus J. , Löhn Matthias
Published: May 2023

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is often associated with various other syndromes or conditions including mast cell activation (MCA), dysmenorrhea and endometriosis, postural tachycardia (POTS) and small fiber neuropathy (SFN). The causes of these syndromes and the reason for their frequent association are not yet fully understood. We previously published a comprehensive hypothesis of the ME/CFS pathophysiology that explains the majority of symptoms, findings and chronicity of the disease. We wondered whether some of the identified key pathomechanisms in ME/CFS are also operative in MCA, endometriosis and dysmenorrhea, POTS, decreased cerebral blood flow and SFN, and possibly may provide clues on their causes and frequent co-occurrence. Our analysis indeed provides strong arguments in favor of this assumption, and we conclude that the main pathomechanisms responsible for this association are excessive generation and spillover into the systemic circulation of inflammatory and vasoactive tissue mediators, dysfunctional β2AdR, and the mutual triggering of symptomatology and disease initiation. Overall, vascular dysfunction appears to be a strong common denominator in these linkages.
Combined Treatment of Persistent Diabetic Macular Edema with Aflibercept and Triamcinolone Acetonide in Pseudophakic Eyes
Authors: Petrovic Nenad , Todorovic Dusan , Sarenac Vulovic Tatjana , Sreckovic Suncica , Zivic Fatima , Risimic Dijana
Published: May 2023

Background and Objectives: The main cause of the vision loss in diabetics is the development of diabetic macular edema, regardless of the stage of diabetic retinopathy. The paper aimed to examine whether the additional intravitreal application of triamcinolone acetonide to continuous anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy could improve therapeutic outcomes for pseudophakic eyes with persistent diabetic macular edema. Materials and Methods: twenty-four pseudophakic eyes with refractory diabetic macular edema, that had appeared despite three previously administered intravitreal injections of aflibercept, were divided into two groups (twelve eyes in each group). The first group continued to have aflibercept administered according to a fixed dosing regimen (once in two months). Triamcinolone acetonide 10 mg/0.1 mL (administered once per four months) was included for the second group, i.e., their treatment continued with a combination of aflibercept + triamcinolone acetonide. Results: The reduction in central macular thickness was higher in the eyes treated with combined therapy (aflibercept + triamcinolone acetonide) compared with the use of aflibercept alone during the entire 12-month follow-up period (3rd month p = 0.019; 6th month p = 0.023; 9th month p = 0.027; 12th month p = 0.031). As was evident from the p-values, the differences were statistically significant. No statistically significant difference was recorded for visual acuity: 3rd month p = 0.423; 6th month p = 0.392; 9th month p = 0.413; 12th month p = 0.418. Conclusions: Combined anti-vascular endothelial growth factor and steroid therapy leads to a better anatomical outcome of persistent diabetic macular edema in pseudophakic eyes, but does not lead to a more significant improvement in visual acuity than continuous anti-VEGF therapy alone.
Alleviation of Hepatic Steatosis by Alpha-Defensin Is Associated with Enhanced Lipolysis
Authors: Maraga Emad , Safadi Rifaat , Amer Johnny , Higazi Abd Al-roof , Fanne Rami Abu
Published: May 2023

Background and Objectives: The neutrophilic peptide, alpha-defensin, is considered an evolving risk factor intimately linked with lipid mobilization. It was previously linked to augmented liver fibrosis. Here, we assess a potential association between alpha-defensin and fatty liver. Materials and Methods: A cohort of transgenic C57BL/6JDef+/+ male mice that overexpress the human neutrophil-derived alpha-defensin in their polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) were assessed for liver steatosis and fibrosis development. Wild type (C57BL/6JDef.Wt) and transgenic (C57BL/6JDef+/+) mice were maintained on a standard rodent chow diet for 8.5 months. At the termination of the experiment, systemic metabolic indices and hepatic immunological cell profiling were assessed. Results: The Def+/+ transgenic mice exhibited lower body and liver weights, lower serum fasting glucose and cholesterol, and significantly lower liver fat content. These results were associated with impaired liver lymphocytes count and function (lower CD8, NK cells, and killing marker CD107a). The metabolic cage demonstrated dominant fat utilization with a comparable food intake in the Def+/+ mice. Conclusions: Chronic physiological expression of alpha-defensin induces favorable blood metabolic profile, increased systemic lipolysis, and decreased hepatic fat accumulation. Further studies are needed to characterize the defensin net liver effect.
Remission of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) after Sleeve Gastrectomy (SG), One-Anastomosis Gastric Bypass (OAGB), and Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB): A Systematic Review
Authors: Balasubaramaniam Vignesh , Pouwels Sjaak
Published: May 2023

Background and Objectives: The three most widely performed bariatric surgeries are Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), sleeve gastrectomy (SG), and one-anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB). Aside from the benefits of weight loss, current findings suggest that these procedures can also induce remission of T2DM (type 2 diabetes mellitus). There are limited data that directly compare these three procedures. This study aims to compare the short-term and long-term remission of T2DM after RYGB, SG, and OAGB. Materials and Methods: Three databases (Embase, PubMed, and Cochrane) were searched for randomised controlled trials, prospective studies, and retrospective studies that compared the effects of RYGB, SG, and OAGB on T2DM remission. Studies published between 2001 and 2022 were analysed. Only patients with T2DM and who had primary bariatric surgery were included. Results: After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, seven articles were included in the review. It was found that all three procedures had comparable T2DM remission. RYGB was noted to have the highest complication rate when compared to SG and OAGB. Importantly, it was noted that other predictive factors such as age, duration of diabetes, baseline HbA1c, BMI, and use of antidiabetic medication play a crucial role in T2DM remission. Conclusions: This systematic literature review confirms the existing data that all three bariatric surgeries induce remission of T2DM. Increasing in popularity, OAGB had comparable outcomes to RYGB and SG in inducing T2DM remission. In addition to the choice of bariatric surgery, there are other independent predictive factors that have an impact on T2DM remission. Further studies with larger sample sizes, longer follow-up periods, and studies that control confounding factors are required in this field.
Metaplastic Carcinoma of the Breast: Case Series of a Single Institute and Review of the Literature
Authors: Papatheodoridi Alkistis , Papamattheou Eleni , Marinopoulos Spyridon , Ntanasis-Stathopoulos Ioannis , Dimitrakakis Constantine , Giannos Aris , Kaparelou Maria , Liontos Michalis , Dimopoulos Meletios-Athanasios , Zagouri Flora
Published: May 2023

Metaplastic carcinoma of the breast (MpBC) is a very rare and aggressive type of breast cancer. Data focusing on MpBC are limited. The aim of this study was to describe the clinicopathological features of MpBC and evaluate the prognosis of patients with MpBC. Eligible articles about MpBC were identified by searching CASES SERIES gov and the MEDLINE bibliographic database for the period of 1 January 2010 to 1 June 2021 with the keywords metaplastic breast cancer, mammary gland cancer, neoplasm, tumor, and metaplastic carcinoma. In this study, we also report 46 cases of MpBC stemming from our hospital. Survival rates, clinical behavior, and pathological characteristics were analyzed. Data from 205 patients were included for analysis. The mean age at diagnosis was 55 (14.7) years. The TNM stage at diagnosis was mostly stage II (58.5%) and most tumors were triple negative. The median overall survival was 66 (12–118) months, and the median disease-free survival was 56.8 (11–102) months. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that surgical treatment was associated with decreased risk of death (hazard ratio 0.11, 95% confidence interval 0.02–0.54, p = 0.01) while advanced TNM stage was associated with increased risk of death (hazard ratio 1.5, 95% confidence interval 1.04–2.28, p = 0.03). Our results revealed that surgical treatment and TNM stage were the only independent risk factors related to patients’ overall survival.
Decoration of β-Cyclodextrin and Tuning Active Layer Chemistry Leading to Nanofiltration Membranes for Desalination and Wastewater Decontamination
Authors: Baig Umair , Jillani Shehzada , Waheed Abdul
Published: May 2023

Given the huge potential of thin film composite (TFC) nanofiltration (NF) membranes for desalination and micro-pollutant removal, two different sets of six NF membranes were synthesized. The molecular structure of the polyamide active layer was tuned by using two different cross-linkers, terephthaloyl chloride (TPC) and trimesoyl chloride (TMC), reacted with tetra-amine solution containing β-Cyclodextrin (BCD). To further tune the structure of the active layers, the time duration of interfacial polymerization (IP) was varied from 1 to 3 min. The membranes were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), water contact angle (WCA), attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infra-red (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy, elemental mapping and energy dispersive (EDX) analysis. The six fabricated membranes were tested for their ability to reject divalent and monovalent ions followed by rejection of micro-pollutants (pharmaceuticals). Consequently, terephthaloyl chloride turned out to be the most effective crosslinker for the fabrication of membrane active layer with tetra-amine in the presence of β-Cyclodextrin using interfacial polymerization reaction for 1 min. The membrane fabricated using TPC crosslinker (BCD-TA-TPC@PSf) showed higher % rejection for divalent ions (Na2SO4 = 93%; MgSO4 = 92%; MgCl2 = 91%; CaCl2 = 84%) and micro-pollutants (Caffeine = 88%; Sulfamethoxazole = 90%; Amitriptyline HCl = 92%; Loperamide HCl = 94%) compared to the membrane fabricated using TMC crosslinker (BCD-TA-TMC@PSf). For the BCD-TA-TPC@PSf membrane, the flux was increased from 8 LMH (L/m2.h) to 36 LMH as the transmembrane pressure was increased from 5 bar to 25 bar.
Recording Sodium Self-Inhibition of Epithelial Sodium Channels Using Automated Electrophysiology in Xenopus Oocytes
Authors: Lawong Rene Y. , May Fabian , Etang Etang C. , Vorrat Philipp , George Jonas , Weder Julia , Kockler Dagmar , Preller Matthias , Althaus Mike
Published: May 2023

The epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) is a key regulator of sodium homeostasis that contributes to blood pressure control. ENaC open probability is adjusted by extracellular sodium ions, a mechanism referred to as sodium self-inhibition (SSI). With a growing number of identified ENaC gene variants associated with hypertension, there is an increasing demand for medium- to high-throughput assays allowing the detection of alterations in ENaC activity and SSI. We evaluated a commercially available automated two-electrode voltage-clamp (TEVC) system that records transmembrane currents of ENaC-expressing Xenopus oocytes in 96-well microtiter plates. We employed guinea pig, human and Xenopus laevis ENaC orthologs that display specific magnitudes of SSI. While demonstrating some limitations over traditional TEVC systems with customized perfusion chambers, the automated TEVC system was able to detect the established SSI characteristics of the employed ENaC orthologs. We were able to confirm a reduced SSI in a gene variant, leading to C479R substitution in the human α-ENaC subunit that has been reported in Liddle syndrome. In conclusion, automated TEVC in Xenopus oocytes can detect SSI of ENaC orthologs and variants associated with hypertension. For precise mechanistic and kinetic analyses of SSI, optimization for faster solution exchange rates is recommended.
Recent Advances in Cast Irons
Authors: Fortini Annalisa , Soffritti Chiara
Published: May 2023

Cast irons are widely used in industry due to their excellent castability, allowing for the production of near-net shape components with complex geometries without the need for additional forging or machining processes [...]
Radiation Impacts Microbiota Compositions That Activate Transforming Growth Factor-Beta Expression in the Small Intestine
Authors: Maier Irene
Published: May 2023

The composition of the gut microbiota represents an early indicator of chronic post-radiation outcomes in elderly bone and gastrointestinal homeostasis. Fecal microbiota analyses revealed that the relative abundances of Bacteroides massiliensis, Muribaculum sp., or Prevotella denticola were different between conventional microbiota (CM) and anti-inflammatory restricted microbiota (RM). The murine RM was found conditional on mucosa-associated dysbiosis under both, disturbances of interleukin (IL)-17 signaling and exposure to radiation alone. This review discusses the hypothesis that intestinal microbiota induced alterations in DNA repair and expressed transforming growth factor (TGF)-β in the small intestine, thereby impacting bone microstructure and osteoblast dysfunction in silicon ion (1.5 Gy 28Si ions of 850 MeV/u) irradiated mice. Bacterial microbiota compositions influenced therapeutic approaches, correlated with clinical outcomes in radiotherapy and were associated with alterations of the immune response to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV)-2 infections during the last global pandemics. In the absence of TGF-β, functional metagenomics, cytokine profiles, bacterial community analyses in human and murine mucosa cells, and inflammatory markers in rat intestines were analyzed. This research finally showed radiation-induced osteolytic damage to correlated with specific features of intestinal bacterial composition, and these relationships were expatiated together with radiation effects on normal tissue cell proliferation.
Probiotics and Commensal Bacteria Metabolites Trigger Epigenetic Changes in the Gut and Influence Beneficial Mood Dispositions
Authors: Vitetta Luis , Bambling Matthew , Strodl Esben
Published: May 2023

The effect of the intestinal microbiome on the gut–brain axis has received considerable attention, strengthening the evidence that intestinal bacteria influence emotions and behavior. The colonic microbiome is important to health and the pattern of composition and concentration varies extensively in complexity from birth to adulthood. That is, host genetics and environmental factors are complicit in shaping the development of the intestinal microbiome to achieve immunological tolerance and metabolic homeostasis from birth. Given that the intestinal microbiome perseveres to maintain gut homeostasis throughout the life cycle, epigenetic actions may determine the effect on the gut–brain axis and the beneficial outcomes on mood. Probiotics are postulated to exhibit a range of positive health benefits including immunomodulating capabilities. Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are genera of bacteria found in the intestines and so far, the benefits afforded by ingesting bacteria such as these as probiotics to people with mood disorders have varied in efficacy. Most likely, the efficacy of probiotic bacteria at improving mood has a multifactorial dependency, relying namely on several factors that include the agents used, the dose, the pattern of dosing, the pharmacotherapy used, the characteristics of the host and the underlying luminal microbial environment (e.g., gut dysbiosis). Clarifying the pathways linking probiotics with improvements in mood may help identify the factors that efficacy is dependent upon. Adjunctive therapies with probiotics for mood disorders could, through DNA methylation molecular mechanisms, augment the intestinal microbial active cohort and endow its mammalian host with important and critical co-evolutionary redox signaling metabolic interactions, that are embedded in bacterial genomes, and that in turn can enhance beneficial mood dispositions.
Inside Current Winemaking Challenges: Exploiting the Potential of Conventional and Unconventional Yeasts
Authors: Fazio Nunzio A. , Russo Nunziatina , Foti Paola , Pino Alessandra , Caggia Cinzia , Randazzo Cinzia L.
Published: May 2023

Wine represents a complex matrix in which microbial interactions can strongly impact the quality of the final product. Numerous studies have focused on optimizing microbial approaches for addressing new challenges to enhance quality, typicity, and food safety. However, few studies have investigated yeasts of different genera as resources for obtaining wines with new, specific traits. Currently, based on the continuous changes in consumer demand, yeast selection within conventional Saccharomyces cerevisiae and unconventional non-Saccharomyces yeasts represents a suitable opportunity. Wine fermentation driven by indigenous yeasts, in the various stages, has achieved promising results in producing wines with desired characteristics, such as a reduced content of ethanol, SO2, and toxins, as well as an increased aromatic complexity. Therefore, the increasing interest in organic, biodynamic, natural, or clean wine represents a new challenge for the wine sector. This review aims at exploring the main features of different oenological yeasts to obtain wines reflecting the needs of current consumers in a sustainability context, providing an overview, and pointing out the role of microorganisms as valuable sources and biological approaches to explore potential and future research opportunities.
Favipiravir Suppresses Zika Virus (ZIKV) through Activity as a Mutagen
Authors: Franco Evelyn J. , Cella Eleonora , Tao Xun , Hanrahan Kaley C. , Azarian Taj , Brown Ashley N.
Published: May 2023

In a companion paper, we demonstrated that the nucleoside analogue favipiravir (FAV) suppressed Zika virus (ZIKV) replication in three human-derived cell lines—HeLa, SK-N-MC, and HUH-7. Our results revealed that FAV’s effect was most pronounced in HeLa cells. In this work, we aimed to explain variation in FAV activity, investigating its mechanism of action and characterizing host cell factors relevant to tissue-specific differences in drug effect. Using viral genome sequencing, we show that FAV therapy was associated with an increase in the number of mutations and promoted the production of defective viral particles in all three cell lines. Our findings demonstrate that defective viral particles made up a larger portion of the viral population released from HeLa cells both at increasing FAV concentrations and at increasing exposure times. Taken together, our companion papers show that FAV acts via lethal mutagenesis against ZIKV and highlight the host cell’s influence on the activation and antiviral activity of nucleoside analogues. Furthermore, the information gleaned from these companion papers can be applied to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the activity of nucleoside analogues and the impact of host cell factors against other viral infections for which we currently have no approved antiviral therapies.
Study of Antimicrobial Resistance, Biofilm Formation, and Motility of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Derived from Urine Samples
Authors: de Sousa Telma , Hébraud Michel , Alves Olimpia , Costa Eliana , Maltez Luís , Pereira José Eduardo , Martins Ângela , Igrejas Gilberto , Poeta Patricia
Published: May 2023

Pseudomonas aeruginosa causes urinary tract infections associated with catheters by forming biofilms on the surface of indwelling catheters. Therefore, controlling the spread of the bacteria is crucial to preventing its transmission in hospitals and the environment. Thus, our objective was to determine the antibiotic susceptibility profiles of twenty-five P. aeruginosa isolates from UTIs at the Medical Center of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (CHTMAD). Biofilm formation and motility are also virulence factors studied in this work. Out of the twenty-five P. aeruginosa isolates, 16% exhibited multidrug resistance, being resistant to at least three classes of antibiotics. However, the isolates showed a high prevalence of susceptibility to amikacin and tobramycin. Resistance to carbapenem antibiotics, essential for treating infections when other antibiotics fail, was low in this study, Notably, 92% of the isolates demonstrated intermediate sensitivity to ciprofloxacin, raising concerns about its efficacy in controlling the disease. Genotypic analysis revealed the presence of various β-lactamase genes, with class B metallo-β-lactamases (MBLs) being the most common. The blaNDM, blaSPM, and blaVIM-VIM2 genes were detected in 16%, 60%, and 12% of the strains, respectively. The presence of these genes highlights the emerging threat of MBL-mediated resistance. Additionally, virulence gene analysis showed varying prevalence rates among the strains. The exoU gene, associated with cytotoxicity, was found in only one isolate, while other genes such as exoS, exoA, exoY, and exoT had a high prevalence. The toxA and lasB genes were present in all isolates, whereas the lasA gene was absent. The presence of various virulence genes suggests the potential of these strains to cause severe infections. This pathogen demonstrated proficiency in producing biofilms, as 92% of the isolates were found to be capable of doing so. Currently, antibiotic resistance is one of the most serious public health problems, as options become inadequate with the continued emergence and spread of multidrug-resistant strains, combined with the high rate of biofilm production and the ease of dissemination. In conclusion, this study provides insights into the antibiotic resistance and virulence profiles of P. aeruginosa strains isolated from human urine infections, highlighting the need for continued surveillance and appropriate therapeutic approaches.
Fully Room Temperature Reprogrammable, Recyclable, and Photomobile Soft Actuators from Physically Cross-Linked Main-Chain Azobenzene Liquid Crystalline Polymers
Authors: Ma Shengkui , Wang Lei , Zhou Yan , Zhang Huiqi
Published: May 2023

Fully room temperature three-dimensional (3D) shape-reprogrammable, recyclable, and photomobile azobenzene (azo) polymer actuators hold much promise in many photoactuating applications, but their development is challenging. Herein, we report on the efficient synthesis of a series of main-chain azo liquid crystalline polymers (LCPs) with such performances via Michael addition polymerization. They have both ester groups and two kinds of hydrogen bond-forming groups (i.e., amide and secondary amino groups) and different flexible spacer length in the backbones. Such poly(ester-amide-secondary amine)s (PEAsAs) show low glass transition temperatures (Tg ≤ 18.4 °C), highly ordered smectic liquid crystalline phases, and reversible photoresponsivity. Their uniaxially oriented fibers fabricated via the melt spinning method exhibit good mechanical strength and photoinduced reversible bending/unbending and large stress at room temperature, which are largely influenced by the flexible spacer length of the polymers. Importantly, all these fibers can be easily reprogrammed under strain at 25 °C into stable fiber springs capable of showing a totally different photomobile mode (i.e., unwinding/winding), mainly owing to the presence of low Tg and both dynamic hydrogen bonding and stable crystalline domains (induced by the uniaxial drawing during the fiber formation). They can also be recycled from a solution at 25 °C. This work not only presents the first azo LCPs with 3D shape reprogrammability, recyclability, and photomobility at room temperature, but also provides some important knowledge of their structure–property relationship, which is useful for designing more advanced photodeformable azo polymers.
Sustainable Phenylalanine-Derived SAILs for Solubilization of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons
Authors: Kapitanov Illia V. , Sudheer Surya M. , Yadav Toshikee , Ghosh Kallol K. , Gathergood Nicholas , Gupta Vijai K. , Karpichev Yevgen
Published: May 2023

The solubilization capacity of a series of sustainable phenylalanine-derived surface-active ionic liquids (SAILs) was evaluated towards polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons—naphthalene, anthracene and pyrene. The key physico-chemical parameters of the studied systems (critical micelle concentration, spectral properties, solubilization parameters) were determined, analyzed and compared with conventional cationic surfactant, CTABr. For all studied PAH solubilization capacity increases with extension of alkyl chain length of PyPheOCn SAILs reaching the values comparable to CTABr for SAILs with n = 10–12. A remarkable advantage of the phenylalanine-derived SAILs PyPheOCn and PyPheNHCn is a possibility to cleave enzymatically ester and/or amide bonds under mild conditions, to separate polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in situ. A series of immobilized enzymes was tested to determine the most suitable candidates for tunable decomposition of SAILs. The decomposition pathway could be adjusted depending on the choice of the enzyme system, reaction conditions, and selection of SAILs type. The evaluated systems can provide selective cleavage of the ester and amide bond and help to choose the optimal decomposition method of SAILs for enzymatic recycling of SAILs transformation products or as a pretreatment towards biological mineralization. The concept of a possible practical application of studied systems for PAHs solubilization/separation was also discussed focusing on sustainability and a green chemistry approach.
Phytochemical and Biological Investigation of an Indigenous Plant of Bangladesh, Gynura procumbens (Lour.) Merr.: Drug Discovery from Nature
Authors: Jobaer Md. Abu , Ashrafi Sania , Ahsan Monira , Hasan Choudhury Mahmood , Rashid Mohammad Abdur , Islam Sheikh Nazrul , Masud Mohammad Mehedi
Published: May 2023

Gynura procumbens (Lour.) Merr. (Family: Asteraceae) is a tropical Asian medicinal plant found in Thailand, China, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam. It has long been utilized to treat a variety of health concerns in numerous countries around the world, such as renal discomfort, constipation, diabetes mellitus, rheumatism, and hypertension. The chemical investigation resulted in the isolation and characterization of six compounds from the methanol (MeOH) extract of the leaves of Gynura procumbens, which were identified as phytol (1), lupeol (2), stigmasterol (3), friedelanol acetate (4), β-amyrin (5), and a mixture of stigmasterol and β-sitosterol (6). In-depth investigations of the high-resolution 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectroscopic data from the isolated compounds, along with comparisons to previously published data, were used to clarify their structures. Among these, the occurrence of Compounds 1 and 4 in this plant are reported for the first time. The crude methanolic extract (CME) and its different partitionates, i.e., petroleum ether (PESF), chloroform (CSF), ethyl acetate (EASF), and aqueous (AQSF) soluble fractions, were subjected to antioxidant, cytotoxic, thrombolytic, and anti-diabetic activities. In a DPPH free radical scavenging assay, EASF showed the maximum activity, with an IC50 value of 10.78 µg/mL. On the other hand, CSF displayed the highest cytotoxic effect with an LC50 value of 1.94 µg/mL compared to 0.464 µg/mL for vincristine sulphate. In a thrombolytic assay, the crude methanolic extract exhibited the highest activity (63.77%) compared to standard streptokinase (70.78%). During the assay for anti-diabetic activity, the PESF showed 70.37% of glucose-lowering activity, where standard glibenclamide showed 63.24% of glucose-reducing activity.
Levocetirizine-Loaded Electrospun Fibers from Water-Soluble Polymers: Encapsulation and Drug Release
Authors: Yi Lan , Cui Lu , Cheng Linrui , Móczó János , Pukánszky Béla
Published: May 2023

Electrospun fibers containing levocetirizine, a BCS III drug, were prepared from three water-soluble polymers, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). Fiber-spinning technology was optimized for each polymer separately. The polymers contained 10 wt% of the active component. An amorphous drug was homogeneously distributed within the fibers. The solubility of the drug in the polymers used was limited, with a maximum of 2.0 wt%, but it was very large in most of the solvents used for fiber spinning and in the dissolution media. The thickness of the fibers was uniform and the presence of the drug basically did not influence it at all. The fiber diameters were in the same range, although somewhat thinner fibers could be prepared from PVA than from the other two polymers. The results showed that the drug was amorphous in the fibers. Most of the drug was located within the fibers, probably as a separate phase; the encapsulation efficiency proved to be 80–90%. The kinetics of the drug release were evaluated quantitatively by the Noyes–Whitney model. The released drug was approximately the same for all the polymers under all conditions (pH), and it changed somewhere between 80 and 100%. The release rate depended both on the type of polymer and pH and varied between 0.1 and 0.9 min−1. Consequently, the selection of the carrier polymer allowed for the adjustment of the release rate according to the requirements, thus justifying the use of electrospun fibers as carrier materials for levocetirizine.
Nanocomposites Based on Spin-Crossover Nanoparticles and Silica-Coated Gold Nanorods: A Nonlinear Optical Study
Authors: Zygouri Eleni , Stathis Aristeidis , Couris Stelios , Tangoulis Vassilis
Published: May 2023

A nanocomposite based on silica-coated AuNRs with the aminated silica-covered spin-crossover nanoparticles (SCO NPs) of the 1D iron(II) coordination polymer with the formula [Fe(Htrz)2(trz)](BF4) is presented. For the synthesis of the SCO NPs, the reverse micelle method was used, while the gold nanorods (AuNRs) were prepared with the aspect ratio AR = 6.0 using the seeded-growth method and a binary surfactant mixture composed of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and sodium oleate (NaOL). The final nanocomposite was prepared using the heteroaggregation method of combining different amounts of SCO NPs with the AuNRs. The nonlinear optical (NLO) properties of the hybrid AuNRs coated with different amounts of SCO NPs were studied in detail by means of the Z-scan technique, revealing that the third-order NLO properties of the AuNRs@SCO are dependent on the amount of SCO NPs grafted onto them. However, due to the resonant nature of the excitation, SCO-induced NLO switching was not observed.
Impacts of Nanobubbles in Pore Water on Heavy Metal Pollutant Release from Contaminated Soil Columns
Authors: Zhang Yihan , Song Zimu , Sugita Kosuke , Xue Shan , Zhang Wen
Published: May 2023

This study investigated the release of heavy metals from polluted soil under the pore water flow containing nanobubbles (NBs) to simulate natural ebullition. Three types of NBs (CH4, H2, and CO2) were generated in water and characterized, including bubble size, zeta potential, liquid density, and tension. The flow rate used in column tests was optimized to achieve proper soil fluidization and metal desorption or release. The leachate chemistries were monitored to assess the effect of NBs on conductivity, pH, oxidation–reduction potential (ORP), and dissolved oxygen (DO). The results showed that NBs in the pore water flow were significantly more effective in releasing Pb compared to DI water, with CO2 NB water being the most effective and H2 NB water being the least effective. CO2 NB water was also used to rinse column soil contaminated with four different metals (Pb, Cu, Zn, and Cr), which exhibited different leaching kinetics. Moreover, a convective–dispersion–deposition equation (CDDE) model accurately simulated the leaching kinetics and explained the effects of NBs on the key parameters, such as the deposition rate coefficient (Kd), that affect the released metal transport. The findings could provide new insights into soil pollutant release under ebullition and soil remediation using water wash containing NBs.
Promotion Effects of Ultrafine Bubbles/Nanobubbles on Seed Germination
Authors: Oshita Seiichi , Boerzhijin Surina , Kameya Hiromi , Yoshimura Masatoshi , Sotome Itaru
Published: May 2023

The number concentrations of air UFBs were controlled, approximately, by adjusting the generation time. UFB waters, ranging from 1.4 × 108 mL−1 to 1.0 × 109 mL−1, were prepared. Barley seeds were submerged in beakers filled with distilled water and UFB water in a ratio of 10 mL of water per seed. The experimental observations of seed germination clarified the role of UFB number concentrations; that is, a higher number concentration induced earlier seed germination. In addition, excessively high UFB number concentrations caused suppression of seed germination. A possible reason for the positive or negative effects of UFBs on seed germination could be ROS generation (hydroxyl radicals and ∙OH, OH radicals) in UFB water. This was supported by the detection of ESR spectra of the CYPMPO-OH adduct in O2 UFB water. However, the question still remains: how can OH radicals be generated in O2 UFB water?
Tuning the Luminescence Response of an Air-Hole Photonic Crystal Slab Using Etching Depth Variation
Authors: Peretokin Artem V. , Yurasov Dmitry V. , Stepikhova Margarita V. , Shaleev Mikhail V. , Yablonskiy Artem N. , Shengurov Dmitry V. , Dyakov Sergey A. , Rodyakina Ekaterina E. , Smagina Zhanna V. , Novikov Alexey V.
Published: May 2023

Detailed studies of the luminescent properties of the Si-based 2D photonic crystal (PhC) slabs with air holes of various depths are reported. Ge self-assembled quantum dots served as an internal light source. It was obtained that changing the air hole depth is a powerful tool which allows tuning of the optical properties of the PhC. It was shown that increasing the depth of the holes in the PhC has complex influences on its overall photoluminescence (PL) response due to the simultaneous influences of counteracting factors. As a result, the maximal increase in the PL signal of more than two orders of magnitude was obtained for some intermediate, but not full, depth of the PhC’s air holes. It was demonstrated that it is possible to engineer the PhC band structure in such a way as to construct specific states, namely bound states in continuum (BIC), with specially designed dispersion curves being relatively flat. In this case, such states manifest themselves as sharp peaks in the PL spectra, and have high Q-factors which are larger than those of radiative modes and other BIC modes without such a flat dispersion characteristic.
High-Performance Graphene Nanowalls/Si Self-Powered Photodetectors with HfO2 as an Interfacial Layer
Authors: Shen Yuheng , Li Yulin , Chen Wencheng , Jiang Sijie , Li Cheng , Cheng Qijin
Published: May 2023

Graphene/silicon (Si) heterojunction photodetectors are widely studied in detecting of optical signals from near-infrared to visible light. However, the performance of graphene/Si photodetectors is limited by defects created in the growth process and surface recombination at the interface. Herein, a remote plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition is introduced to directly grow graphene nanowalls (GNWs) at a low power of 300 W, which can effectively improve the growth rate and reduce defects. Moreover, hafnium oxide (HfO2) with thicknesses ranging from 1 to 5 nm grown by atomic layer deposition has been employed as an interfacial layer for the GNWs/Si heterojunction photodetector. It is shown that the high-k dielectric layer of HfO2 acts as an electron-blocking and hole transport layer, which minimizes the recombination and reduces the dark current. At an optimized thickness of 3 nm HfO2, a low dark current of 3.85 × 10−10, with a responsivity of 0.19 AW−1, a specific detectivity of 1.38 × 1012 as well as an external quantum efficiency of 47.1% at zero bias, can be obtained for the fabricated GNWs/HfO2/Si photodetector. This work demonstrates a universal strategy to fabricate high-performance graphene/Si photodetectors.
Materials and Processing of Lithium-Ion Battery Cathodes
Authors: Fu Wenbin , Wang Yice , Kong Kanglin , Kim Doyoub , Wang Fujia , Yushin Gleb
Published: May 2023

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) dominate the market of rechargeable power sources. To meet the increasing market demands, technology updates focus on advanced battery materials, especially cathodes, the most important component in LIBs. In this review, we provide an overview of the development of materials and processing technologies for cathodes from both academic and industrial perspectives. We briefly compared the fundamentals of cathode materials based on intercalation and conversion chemistries. We then discussed the processing of cathodes, with specific focuses on the mechanisms of a drying process and the role of the binders. Several key parameters for the development of thick electrodes were critically assessed, which may offer insights into the design of next-generation batteries.
The ALINFA Intervention Improves Diet Quality and Nutritional Status in Children 6 to 12 Years Old
Authors: Andueza Naroa , Martin-Calvo Nerea , Navas-Carretero Santiago , Cuervo Marta
Published: May 2023

The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a new nutritional intervention, focused on improving the quality of the diet in children aged 6 to 12 years. A 2-month parallel, controlled randomized trial was conducted in the Spanish child population. The children were randomized to ALINFA nutritional intervention, which consisted of a normocaloric diet that incorporates products, ready-to-eat meals and healthy recipes specifically designed for the study, or a control group, which received the usual advice on healthy eating. The change in diet quality was assessed through the Kidmed index. The secondary outcomes were anthropometry, glucose and lipid profiles, inflammation markers, dietary intake and lifestyle. The participants in the intervention group showed an increase in the mean score of the Kidmed index (p < 0.001). Alongside that, these children decreased their intake of calories (p = 0.046), and total and saturated fat (p = 0.016//p = 0.011), and increased fiber intake (p < 0.001). Likewise, the children in the ALINFA group increased the intake of white fish (p = 0.001), pulses (p = 0.004), whole grains (p < 0.001) and nuts (p < 0.001), and decreased fatty meat (p = 0.014), refined grain (p = 0.008), pastry (p < 0.001), fast food (p < 0.001) and sugar (p = 0.001) intake. Moreover, these children had a significantly decreased BMI (p < 0.001), BMI z-score (p < 0.001), waist circumference (p = 0.016) and fat mass (p = 0.011), as well as leptin (p = 0.004). Participants in the control group did not report significant changes in diet quality. In conclusion, ALINFA nutritional intervention is possibly a useful strategy to increase the diet quality in children, which is associated to improvements in the nutritional status. These results highlight the importance of developing well-designed nutritional interventions.
Gender and Liver Steatosis Discriminate Different Physiological Patterns in Obese Patients Undergoing Bariatric Surgery: Obesity Center Cohort
Authors: Donghia Rossella , Schiano Di Cola Rita , Cesaro Filomena , Vitale Andrea , Lippolis Giuseppe , Lisco Teresa , Isernia Roberta , De Pergola Giovanni , De Nucci Sara , Rinaldi Roberta , Liso Marina , Giardiello Cristiano
Published: May 2023

Background: Obesity is a major public health problem worldwide. Bariatric surgery can reduce body weight, and it is one of the better ways to improve metabolic disease and lifestyle. The aim of this study was to explore a new cohort of patients with obesity and evaluate the gender differences and the steatosis status within the gender group. Methods: A cohort of 250 adult obese patients with BMI ≥ 30 and age >18 years, eligible for gastric bariatric surgery at Pineta Grande Hospital, Castel Volturno (Italy) was studied. Results: The prevalence in women was higher (72.40%) than men (27.60%). Overall, results indicated many statistically significant gender differences in hematological and clinical parameters. Analysis of the subcohorts based on the severity of steatosis revealed differences of this condition between the genders. Steatosis was more prevalent in the male subcohort, but female patients revealed greater within-group differences. Conclusions: Many differences were found not only in the total cohort but also between the gender subcohorts, both in the presence and absence of steatosis. We can conclude that the pathophysiological, genetic, and hormonal patterns affecting these patients delineate different individual profiles.
Mechanisms of Innate Immune Sensing of HTLV-1 and Viral Immune Evasion
Authors: Mohanty Suchitra , Harhaj Edward W.
Published: May 2023

Human T lymphotropic virus-1 (HTLV-1) was the first identified oncoretrovirus, which infects and establishes a persistent infection in approximately 10–20 million people worldwide. Although only ~5% of infected individuals develop pathologies such as adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) or a neuroinflammatory disorder termed HTLV-1-asssociated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP), asymptomatic carriers are more susceptible to opportunistic infections. Furthermore, ATLL patients are severely immunosuppressed and prone to other malignancies and other infections. The HTLV-1 replication cycle provides ligands, mainly nucleic acids (RNA, RNA/DNA intermediates, ssDNA intermediates, and dsDNA), that are sensed by different pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) to trigger immune responses. However, the mechanisms of innate immune detection and immune responses to HTLV-1 infection are not well understood. In this review, we highlight the functional roles of different immune sensors in recognizing HTLV-1 infection in multiple cell types and the antiviral roles of host restriction factors in limiting persistent infection of HTLV-1. We also provide a comprehensive overview of intricate strategies employed by HTLV-1 to subvert the host innate immune response that may contribute to the development of HTLV-1-associated diseases. A more detailed understanding of HTLV-1-host pathogen interactions may inform novel strategies for HTLV-1 antivirals, vaccines, and treatments for ATLL or HAM/TSP.
Effect of Temperature, Water Activity and Incubation Time on Trichothecene Production by Fusarium cerealis Isolated from Durum Wheat Grains
Authors: Erazo Jessica G. , Palacios Sofía A. , Veliz Nuria A. , Del Canto Agostina , Plem Silvana , Ramirez María L. , Torres Adriana M.
Published: May 2023

Fusarium cerealis is a causal agent of Fusarium Head Blight in wheat, and it produces both deoxynivalenol (DON) and nivalenol (NIV). Nevertheless, the effect of environmental factors on the growth and mycotoxin production of this species has not been studied so far. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of environmental factors on the growth and mycotoxin production of F. cerealis strains. All strains were able to grow in a wide range of water activity (aW) and temperatures, but their mycotoxin production was influenced by strain and environmental factors. NIV was produced at high aW and temperatures, while optimal conditions for DON production were observed at low aW. Interestingly, some strains were able to simultaneously produce both toxins, which could pose a more significant risk for grain contamination.