bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficient Biosynthesis of Ectoine in Recombinant Escherichia coli by Biobrick Method
Authors: Naeem Muhammad , Yuan Huiling , Luo Suya , Zhang Simei , Wei Xinyue , He Guangzheng , Zhao Baohua , Ju Jiansong
Published: August 2024

Ectoine is a compatible solute naturally produced in some halophilic bacteria as a protective agent for survival in salty environments. It has gained special interest as a therapeutic agent in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors for the treatment of different diseases. Ectoine mainly produced by bacterial milking, chemical, and fed-batch fermentation methods under a high-salt medium. Unfortunately, the ectoine yield through these methods is still too low to meet high industrial demand, causing salinity issues. The biobrick method was potentially utilized for efficient ectoine biosynthesis under a low-salt medium with different conditions in E. coli BL21(DE3) harboring the pET-22bNS-EctA-EctB-EctC plasmid. Firstly, three genes, L-2,4-diamino-butyric acid acetyltransferase (ectA), L-2,4-diaminobutyric acid transaminase (ectB), and ectoine synthase (ectC) from Bacillus pseudofirmus OF4, were precisely assembled and expressed into E. coli BL21(DE3). After optimizing the reaction conditions in a whole-cell catalytic reaction [50 mM of the sodium phosphate buffer (pH~7.5) containing 300 mM L-aspartic acid, 100 mM glycerol, 1/20 g/mL cell pellets], the amount of ectoine in the plasmid pET-22bNS-ALacBTacCTac reached the maximum level of 167.2 mg/mL/d (6.97 mg/mL/h). Moreover, Western blot analysis revealed that high expression levels of EctA and EctC had a significant effect on ectoine biosynthesis, indicating that both proteins might be the key enzymes in ectoine production. We conclude that a high amount of ectoine achieved through the biobrick method and efficiently used for different industrial applications.
Correction: Bartkiene et al. Challenges Associated with Byproducts Valorization—Comparison Study of Safety Parameters of Ultrasonicated and Fermented Plant-Based Byproducts. Foods 2020, 9, 614
Authors: Bartkiene Elena , Bartkevics Vadims , Pugajeva Iveta , Borisova Anastasija , Zokaityte Egle , Lele Vita , Sakiene Vytaute , Zavistanaviciute Paulina , Klupsaite Dovile , Zadeike Daiva , Özogul Fatih , Juodeikiene Grazina
Published: August 2024

In the original publication [...]
A Review of the Pharmacological Effects of Solanum muricatum Fruit (Pepino Melon)
Authors: Chan Hei-Tung Lydia , Chan Ka-Man , Abhreet-Kaur  , Sam Sze-Wing , Chan Shun-Wan
Published: August 2024

Solanaceae, commonly known as nightshade, is a diverse family of flowering plants comprising around 90 genera and an estimated 3000–4000 species. Solanaceae spp. and its various fruits, including pepino (Solanum muricatum), commonly known as pepino melon, are widely recognized by the public for their nutritional value and pharmacological effects. Pepino melon, in particular, is often enjoyed as a fresh dessert or salad due to its juicy flesh. Given its beneficial properties, the potential of pepino melon to be developed as a functional food has been extensively studied. This review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of the reported pharmacological effects of the active compounds found in pepino plant and melon. Among these compounds, polyphenols, notably quercetin, and vitamin C have demonstrated notable antioxidant properties such as scavenging free radicals, effectively protecting against free-radical damage. Moreover, these active ingredients provide pepino with anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and enzymes, thereby reducing nitric oxide production. Additionally, they have shown promise in selectively targeting cancer cells, exhibiting anti-cancer properties. Furthermore, the active compounds such as quercetin in pepino have been associated with anti-diabetic effects, improving insulin sensitivity and inhibiting insulin resistance. Overall, this review highlights the diverse and significant pharmacological effects of the active compounds found in pepino melon, emphasizing its potential as a valuable functional food.
Arsenic Bioaccessibility in Rice and Its Application to Derive Health-Based Limits in China
Authors: Zhao Di
Published: August 2024

Arsenic (As) contamination in rice is a global public health concern, particularly in Asian countries where rice is the staple food. Current health-based limits for As in rice are typically derived from total As concentrations, resulting in overly stringent values. This study aimed to determine As bioaccessibility in rice, estimate dietary intakes of inorganic As (iAs) at different consumption rates, evaluate the cancer and non-cancer risks associated with iAs exposure through rice consumption, and assess the feasibility of deriving more accurate health-based limits for As in rice after incorporating rice As bioaccessibility. Bioaccessibility of As ranged from 60.7% to 104.5% in rice samples. Estimated iAs intake varied from 0.04 to 1.40 μg/kg BW/day at rice consumption rates of 100–300 g/day. Incorporating rice As bioaccessibility resulted in lower iAs intake estimates of 0.03–1.18 μg/kg BW/day. The non-cancer and cancer risks associated with iAs exposure are concerning for populations with higher rice consumption rates and elevated rice iAs concentrations. Health-based limits for iAs in rice for different regions across China are discussed after incorporating rice As bioaccessibility. This study contributes to the development of regional or national safety limits for As in rice, based on As bioaccessibility in rice.
Structural Analysis and Antioxidant Activity of Alkaline-Extracted Glucans from Hericium erinaceus
Authors: Qiao Zhonghui , Jia Xiushi , Wang Yuanning , Wang Yuan , Zhou Yifa , Li Fan , Qu Yunhe , Cheng Hairong
Published: August 2024

An alkali-soluble β-glucan (AHEP-A-b, 20 kDa) purified from Hericium erinaceus fruiting bodies, was structurally characterized and examined for antioxidant activity. Methylation analysis and NMR spectroscopy show that the backbone of AHEP-A-b is composed of (1→6)-linked-D-β-glucopyran residues, branched at O-3 of glucopyranose (Glcp) residues with [→3)-β-D-Glcp-(1→] oligosaccharides or single unit of β-Glcp. Periodate oxidation analysis and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) indicate that the degree of polymerization (DP) of [→3)-β-D-Glcp-(1→] side chains is 2 to 8. Functionally, AHEP-A-b is a relatively strong antioxidant as demonstrated by using 2, 2′-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) free radical (ABTS·+), 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals, and hydroxyl radicals scavenging assays. The present study lays the foundation for further studies into structure-activity relationships of polysaccharides from H. erinaceus.
Influence of Thermal Treatment and Granulometry on Physicochemical, Techno-Functional and Nutritional Properties of Lentil Flours
Authors: Carboni Angela Daniela , Martins Gonçalo Nuno , Castilho Paula Cristina , Puppo María Cecilia , Ferrero Cristina
Published: August 2024

Legume flours are an increasingly popular food ingredient. Thermal treatments applied prior to milling legumes and granulometry can modify flour properties, altering sensory, digestibility and functional attributes. Raw and treated (soaked and cooked) lentil flours of different granulometry were produced. The applied treatment resulted in an increase in fiber content (25.4 vs. 27.6% for raw and treated lentil flour, respectively) and water absorption capacity. It also led to a decrease in ash content (3.3 vs. 1.8% for raw and treated, respectively) and a darker flour. Treated lentil flour was mainly composed of fractions of high granulometry, which could be beneficial for products where a lower glycemic index is sought, as they demonstrated higher fiber and lower carbohydrate content than the finer fractions. Treated flour may be used as an ingredient in the development of raw products, including beverages and desserts, due to its reduced anti-nutritional compounds’ content and enhanced organoleptic aspects. The obtained results allow an in-depth characterization of raw and treated lentils flour with different particle sizes to consider a formal and complete standardization of these flours and for understanding their utility and specific food applications.
Berry Pomace Extracts as a Natural Washing Aid to Mitigate Enterohaemorrhagic E. coli in Fresh Produce
Authors: Thapa Kanchan , Julianingsih Dita , Tung Chuan-Wei , Phan Anna , Hashmi Muhammad Abrar , Bleich Kayla , Biswas Debabrata
Published: August 2024

Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) outbreaks have been frequently linked to the consumption of produce. Furthermore, produce grown on organic farms possess a higher risk, as the farmers avoid antibiotics and chemicals. This study sets out to evaluate the effectiveness of advanced postharvest disinfection processes using berry pomace extracts (BPEs) in reducing EHEC load in two common leafy greens, spinach and lettuce. Spinach and lettuce were inoculated with ~5 log CFU/leaf EHEC EDL-933 and then treated with three different concentrations of BPE (1, 1.5, and 2 gallic acid equivalent, GAE mg/mL) for increasing periods of time. After the wash, the bacteria were quantified. Changes in the relative expression of virulence genes and the genes involved in cell division and replication and response against stress/antibiotics were studied. We observed a significant reduction in EHEC EDL933, ranging from 0.5 to 1.6 log CFU/spinach leaf (p < 0.05) washed with BPE water. A similar trend of reduction, ranging from 0.3 to 1.3 log CFU/mL, was observed in pre-inoculated lettuce washed with BPE water. We also quantified the remaining bacterial population in the residual treatment solutions and found the survived bacterial cells (~3 log CFU/mL) were low despite repeated washing with the same solution. In addition, we evaluated the phenolic concentration in leftover BPE, which did not change significantly, even after multiple uses. Alterations in gene expression levels were observed, with downregulation ranging from 1 to 3 log folds in the genes responsible for the adhesion and virulence of EHEC EDL933 and significant upregulation of genes responsible for survival against stress. All other genes were upregulated, ranging from 2 to 7 log folds, with a dose-dependent decrease in expression. This finding shows the potential of BPE to be used for sanitation of fresh produce as a natural and sustainable approach.
Storage Stability and Sensory Properties of Raha Sweet Colored with Crude and Purified Red Grape Anthocyanins and Synthetic Food Colorant
Authors: Amr Ayed , Jaradat Sarah , Al-Khamaiseh Ashraf , Alqaraleh Salameh , Tarawneh Haneen , AlBataineh Samah , Hamadneh Imad , AlKhatib Hatim , Shahein Mohammad
Published: August 2024

Anthocyanins (ANCs) are water-soluble pigments that are useful as nutraceuticals due to their health benefits. This study was performed to evaluate the storage stability of purified and crude red grape ANCs in Raha Sweet (RS) during storage and to evaluate its sensory properties. ANCs were extracted from red grape pomace and purified with a macroporous resin. RS was prepared and colored with a synthetic food dye, Carmoisine (control), and ANCs (crude and purified). Pigments were extracted from RS weekly for a period of seven weeks and the absorbance was read spectrophotometrically. RS colored with ANCs was evaluated for its color and other sensory properties against another RS colored with the control. Results showed that the degradation of ANCs in RS followed the first-order reaction model, unlike the control, which showed no degradation during storage. The half-life of crude ANCs was three times higher than that of the purified ones, and RS colored with ANCs received a significantly (p < 0.05) lower score for color than that of RS colored with the control. ANCs could provide the food industry with a natural alternative to synthetic dyes to color foods with high sugar content that are stored for a short period of time.
A Comprehensive Review on the Isolation, Bioactivities, and Structure–Activity Relationship of Hawthorn Pectin and Its Derived Oligosaccharides
Authors: Li Tao , Ji Wenhua , Dong Hongjing , Wu Yingqun , Guo Lanping , Chen Lei , Wang Xiao
Published: August 2024

Hawthorn (Crataegus pinnatifida Bunge) has been highlighted as an excellent source of a variety of bioactive polymers, which has attracted increasing research interest. Pectin, as a kind of soluble dietary fiber in hawthorn, is mainly extracted by hot water extraction and ultrasonic or enzymatic hydrolysis and is then extensively used in food, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical industries. Numerous studies have shown that hawthorn pectin and its derived oligosaccharides exhibit a wide range of biological activities, such as antioxidant activity, hypolipidemic and cholesterol-reducing effects, antimicrobial activity, and intestinal function modulatory activity. As discovered, the bioactivities of hawthorn pectin and its derived oligosaccharides were mainly contributed by structural features and chemical compositions and were highly associated with the extraction methods. Additionally, hawthorn pectin is a potential resource for the development of emulsifiers and gelling agents, food packaging films, novel foods, and traditional medicines. This review provides a comprehensive summary of current research for readers on the extraction techniques, functional characteristics, structure–activity relationship, and applications in order to provide ideas and references for the investigation and utilization of hawthorn pectin and its derived oligosaccharides. Further research and development efforts are imperative to fully explore and harness the potential of hawthorn pectin-derived oligosaccharides in the food and medicine fields.
Preliminary Evaluation of the Effect of Domestication on the Marketable and Nutritional Quality of B. aegyptiaca (L.) Delile Oil from Algeria
Authors: Slimani Wafaa Amira , Albergamo Ambrogina , Rando Rossana , Nava Vincenzo , Safi Mohamed Ould , Bensenane Sidi Mohammed Bachir , Lo Turco Vincenzo , Benmahioul Benamar , Di Bella Giuseppa
Published: August 2024

Balanites aegyptiaca is a multipurpose fruit tree that grows wild in many arid and semi-arid African areas; however, recent domestication efforts have been undertaken to protect the species from the threat of urbanization and climate change. Within this context, the impact of the domestication of Algerian B. aegyptiaca was evaluated on its seed oil, which is already valued as food. Hence, oils from wild and domesticated trees were comparatively investigated for their physicochemical and compositional quality. Both oil types had a good oxidative stability and met the requirements for human consumption in terms of the saponification index, the free acidity, and the peroxide value. Moreover, they showed a comparable FA composition, with high levels of oleic and linoleic acids, which are beneficial for the consumer’s health. Domestication led to a statistically significant decrease in the tocopherols and polyphenols in the oil. The phytosterols and squalene were slightly lower in the domesticated oil than in the wild relative, although no statistically significant differences were observed. A comparable mineral profile was revealed and the minimal variations in the trace elements between the oils could be related to the natural variability in the seeds. Hopefully, this study will encourage the domestication of B. aegyptiaca as a sustainable strategy for enhancing its socioeconomic value in Algerian rural areas.
Non-Covalent Interaction of Folic Acid and 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate with Caseinates Improves the Folates Stability Studied by Multi-Spectroscopic Analysis and Molecular Docking
Authors: He Linlin , Yan Yuqian , Zhang Gang , Zhao Yanna , Zhao Fa , Ding Zhuang , Wang Zhengping
Published: August 2024

Folates, a crucial B-group vitamin, serve as a significant functional food supplement. Nevertheless, considerable obstacles persist in improving folates stability in liquid products. In this study, folic acid (FA) and 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (MTFA), two approved sources of folates, were encapsulated with sodium caseinate (NaCas) to enhance their stability. The protective effect of NaCas on folate molecules was investigated using experimental and computational methods. Meanwhile, the influence of divalent calcium ion (Ca2+) on the properties of the NaCas-MTFA complex was examined to evaluate the potential application of calcium 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (CaMTFA). Fluorescence tests showed both folates had static quenching behavior and bound to NaCas with a binding constant of 104–105 M−1. Hydrophobic interactions were crucial in NaCas-FA complex formation, while hydrogen bonding drove NaCas-MTFA binding. The encapsulation of caseinate notably slowed down the degradation of folates under both light and dark conditions. Moreover, the addition of a low concentration of Ca2+ did not adversely impact the binding mechanism of the NaCas-MTFA complex or the degradation curve of MTFA. The results of this study could serve as a valuable resource for the utilization of caseinates in incorporating folates, specifically MTFA, in the creation of natural liquid dietary supplements.
Effect of Fermented Soy Beverage on Equol Production by Fecal Microbiota
Authors: Ruiz de la Bastida Ana , Langa Susana , Curiel José Antonio , Peirotén Ángela , Landete José María
Published: August 2024

Soy consumption is associated with health benefits, mainly linked to the ability of the intestinal microbiota to metabolize the glycosylated isoflavones into more bioactive compounds, such as equol. Because Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum INIA P815 is able to efficiently deglycosylate daidzin into daidzein, the aim of this work was to confirm the influence of soy beverages fermented by B. pseudocatenulatum INIA P815 for enhancing equol production by fecal microbiota. Firstly, fecal samples from 17 participants were characterized in vitro, and we observed that 35.3% of them were able to produce equol from daidzein. In addition, the kinetics of equol production and degradation by fecal microbiota were evaluated, determining that 30–85% of equol is degraded after 24 h of incubation. Finally, the influence of fermented soy beverage on improving the production of equol by selected equol-producing fecal samples and by the equol-producing strain Slackia isoflavoniconvertens was analyzed through a colonic model. Fermented soy beverage enhanced the equol production from S. isoflavoniconvertens as well as the fecal samples whose microbiota showed high rates of equol degradation. The results obtained confirm that the fermentation of soy beverages with selected bacterial strains improves the functional properties of these beverages in terms of isoflavone metabolism and equol production.
Effects of Mayonnaise and Salad Dressing Marinades on Chicken Breast Meat Quality
Authors: Liang Jiale , Sarudate Nana , Otsuki Hazuki , Yanagisawa Takuya , Okuda Yusuke , Ishikawa Shin-ichi
Published: August 2024

Mayonnaise has a long history as a representative of emulsified sauces. As people become more health-conscious, salad dressings (emulsified and non-emulsified) with lower fat content gradually appear in people’s lives. Both sauces are widely used in everyday life for meat marinades because they contain seasonings such as spices, salt, and vinegar. Although there are many studies on how condiments such as spices, salt, and vinegar affect meat, the effects of semi-solid/liquid emulsions and non-emulsified marinades on meat have yet to be further discussed and analyzed. Therefore, studying the physical and chemical effects of mayonnaise (semi-solid emulsified emulsion) and salad dressing (liquid emulsion and non-emulsified sauce) on meat is essential for improving food quality and safety. Thus, this paper examines the impacts of mayonnaise, emulsified salad dressing, and non-emulsified salad dressing on the physicochemical properties and sensory evaluations of meat. The results showed that the three sauces effectively reduced cooking losses when used as marinades for chicken breasts. In the juiciness and firmness tests, both mayonnaise and non-emulsified salad dressings positively affected the meat. This study also found that lower pH values were not always effective at reducing meat hardness and that emulsification may play a key role in reducing meat hardness.
Smart Hydrogel Based on Derivatives of Natural α-Amino Acids for Efficient Removal of Metal Ions from Wastewater
Authors: Adamowska Monika , Kaniewska Klaudia , Muszyńska Magdalena , Romański Jan , Hyk Wojciech , Karbarz Marcin
Published: August 2024

A novel class of hydrogels, rich in a variety of functional groups capable of interacting/complexing with metal ions was successfully synthesized. This was achieved by using acryloyl derivatives of natural α-amino acids, specifically ornithine and cystine. The δ-amino group of ornithine was modified with an acryloyl group to facilitate its attachment to the polymer chain. Additionally, N,N’-bisacryloylcystine, derived from cystine, was employed as the cross-linker. The hydrogel was obtained through a process of free radical polymerization. This hydrogel, composed only from derivatives of natural amino acids, has proven to be a competitive sorbent and has been effectively used to remove heavy metal pollutants, mainly lead, copper, and silver ions, from aqueous media. The maximum sorption capacities were ca. 155 mg·g−1, 90 mg·g−1, and 215 mg·g−1, respectively for Pb(II), Cu(II), and Ag(I). The material was characterized by effective regeneration, maintaining the sorption capacity at around 80%, 85%, and 90% for Cu(II), Ag(I), and Pb(II), respectively, even after five cycles. The properties of sorption materials, such as sorption kinetics and the effect of pH on sorption, as well as the influence of the concentration of the examined metal ions on the swelling ratio and morphology of the gel, were investigated. The EDS technique was employed to investigate the composition and element distribution in the dry gel samples. Additionally, IR spectroscopy was used to identify the functional groups responsible for binding the studied metal ions, providing insights into their specific interactions with the hydrogel.
Robotics in Physical Rehabilitation: Systematic Review
Authors: Banyai Adriana Daniela , Brișan Cornel
Published: August 2024

As the global prevalence of motor disabilities continues to rise, there is a pressing need for advanced solutions in physical rehabilitation. This systematic review examines the progress and challenges of implementing robotic technologies in the motor rehabilitation of patients with physical disabilities. The integration of robotic technologies such as exoskeletons, assistive training devices, and brain–computer interface systems holds significant promise for enhancing functional recovery and patient autonomy. The review synthesizes findings from the most important studies, focusing on the clinical effectiveness of robotic interventions in comparison to traditional rehabilitation methods. The analysis reveals that robotic therapies can significantly improve motor function, strength, co-ordination, and dexterity. Robotic systems also support neuroplasticity, enabling patients to relearn lost motor skills through precise, controlled, and repetitive exercises. However, the adoption of these technologies is hindered by high costs, the need for specialized training, and limited accessibility. Key insights from the review highlight the necessity of personalizing robotic therapies to meet individual patient needs, alongside addressing technical, economic, social, and cultural barriers. The review also underscores the importance of continued research to optimize these technologies and develop effective implementation strategies. By overcoming these challenges, robotic technologies can revolutionize motor rehabilitation, improving quality of life and social integration for individuals with motor disabilities.
Barriers and Facilitators to Medication Adherence among the Vulnerable Elderly: A Focus Group Study
Authors: Horvat Martina , Eržen Ivan , Vrbnjak Dominika
Published: August 2024

Poor medication adherence is a significant public health issue, especially among the vulnerable elderly, leading to increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. This study aimed to explore, identify, and understand the barriers and facilitators to medication adherence among vulnerable elderly individuals. We conducted a qualitative study using focus group interviews with 31 participants, including community nurses, social care services, volunteers from non-governmental organizations, patient association members, and informal caregivers, using semi-structured questions and inductive content analysis to gather and analyze qualitative data. Two main categories, “Perceived barriers” and “Facilitative interventions” were developed. The findings revealed multiple barriers, including medication-related barriers, patient-related barriers and barriers related to the healthcare system and healthcare personnel. Participants also highlighted the importance of facilitating interventions like medication management, health education, supportive social networks, and ensuring continuity of care. The study underscores the need for targeted strategies to improve medication adherence among the vulnerable elderly.
Seasonality’s Effects on the Chemical Composition and Antiradical Capacity of the Floral Essential Oil of Acmella oleracea (L.) R.K. Jansen Cultivated in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Jerônimo Lucas Botelho , de Araújo José Augusto C. , da Silva Joyce Kelly R. , Mourão Rosa Helena V. , Setzer William N. , Figueiredo Pablo Luis B.
Published: August 2024

For the first time, this work reports the seasonal influence on the chemical composition and antiradical capacity of Acmella oleracea floral essential oil, produced from a perennial herb of great nutritional and pharmacological importance in the Amazon region. The species was cultivated and the plantation was monitored from May to September 2022 between the rainy and dry seasons. The essential oils were obtained by hydrodistillation, analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with a mass spectrometer, and subjected to the free radical inhibition assay using the DPPH method. The highest oil yield (1.61%) occurred in May (rainy season), and the lowest (0.68%) occurred in September (dry season). Despite the difference in the oil yield between the rainy and dry seasons, no significant correlation with weather conditions (p > 0.05) occurred. During the collection period, the class of sesquiterpene hydrocarbons was predominant (16.35–46.01%). The main constituents of A. oleracea were E-caryophyllene (13.57–25.74%), caryophyllene oxide (0.88–31.72%), 1-pentadecene (5.42–16.58%), germacrene D (0.14–15.17%), and myrcene (1.08–11.99%), and a low concentration of its main bioactive spilanthol (0.66–5.2%) was also observed. The antiradical capacity was considered low, with inhibition of 7.96 to 7.53% of free radicals and a Trolox equivalence of 68.4 to 64.7 mg·ET/g. Although there were some changes in the levels of chemical components in A. oleracea essential oils, the species can be considered an alternative source of pharmacologically active compounds such as E-caryophyllene and caryophyllene oxide, in addition to presenting amounts of other bioactive molecules.
Retrospective Analysis of Municipal Geoportal Usability in the Context of the Evolution of Online Data Presentation Techniques
Authors: Król Karol
Published: August 2024

This article aims to assess the usability of selected map portals with a checklist. The methods employed allowed the author to conduct user experience tests from a longer temporal perspective against a retrospective analysis of the evolution of design techniques for presenting spatial data online. The author performed user experience tests on three versions of Tomice Municipality’s geoportal available on the Internet. The desktop and mobile laboratory tests were performed by fourteen experts following a test scenario. The study employs the exploratory approach, inspection method, and System Usability Scale (SUS). The author calculated the Geoportal Overall Quality (GOQ) index to better illustrate the relationships among the subjective perceptions of the usability quality of the three geoportals. The usability results were juxtaposed with performance measurements. Normalised and aggregated results of user experience demonstrated that the expert assessments of the usability of geoportals G1 and G3 on mobile devices were similar despite significant development differences. The overall results under the employed research design have confirmed that geoportal G2 offers the lowest usability in both mobile and desktop modes. The study has demonstrated that some websites can retain usability even considering the dynamic advances in hardware and software despite their design, which is perceived as outdated today. Users still expect well-performing and quick map applications, even if this means limited functionality and usability. Moreover, the results indirectly show that the past resolution of the ‘large raster problem’ led to the aggravation of the issue of ‘large scripts’.
CSMNER: A Toponym Entity Recognition Model for Chinese Social Media
Authors: Qi Yuyang , Zhai Renjian , Wu Fang , Yin Jichong , Gong Xianyong , Zhu Li , Yu Haikun
Published: August 2024

In the era of information explosion, Chinese social media has become a repository for massive geographic information; however, its unique unstructured nature and diverse expressions are challenging to toponym entity recognition. To address this problem, we propose a Chinese social media named entity recognition (CSMNER) model to improve the accuracy and robustness of toponym recognition in Chinese social media texts. By combining the BERT (Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers) pre-trained model with an improved IDCNN-BiLSTM-CRF (Iterated Dilated Convolutional Neural Network- Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory- Conditional Random Field) architecture, this study innovatively incorporates a boundary extension module to effectively extract the local boundary features and contextual semantic features of the toponym, successfully addressing the recognition challenges posed by noise interference and language expression variability. To verify the effectiveness of the model, experiments were carried out on three datasets: WeiboNER, MSRA, and the Chinese social named entity recognition (CSNER) dataset, a self-built named entity recognition dataset. Compared with the existing models, CSMNER achieves significant performance improvement in toponym recognition tasks.
The Influence of Annealing Temperature on the Microstructure and Electrical Properties of Sputtered ZnO Thin Films
Authors: Alshoaibi Adil
Published: August 2024

Thin films are the backbone of the electronics industry, and their widespread application in heat sensors, solar cells, and thin-film transistors has attracted the attention of researchers. The current study involves the deposition of a hetero-structured (ZnO/Zn/ZnO) thin film on a well-cleaned glass substrate using the DC magnetron sputtering technique. The samples were then annealed at 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 °C. The structural, morphological, and electrical characteristics of the annealed samples as well as one as-deposited sample were then examined using atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and a Hall effect measuring apparatus. XRD analysis showed a hexagonal ZnO crystal structure for the samples annealed at 300 and 400 °C, whereas the samples annealed at 100 and 200 °C showed metallic zinc and hexagonal ZnO, and the crystallinity decreased for the sample annealed at 500 °C with pure hexagonal crystal symmetry. According to the AFM study, as the annealing temperature increases, the average roughness (Ra) decreases. Temperature has an inverse relationship with particle size. The optimal annealing temperature was determined to be 400 °C. Over this temperature range, the average roughness and particle size increased. Similarly, when Ra decreased, the conductivity increased and the resistance decreased. A fundamental difficulty is that the heating of the heterostructure to 400 °C melts the Zn-based intermediate layer, which alters the Zn phase and disrupts the sample homogeneity.
Tunable Electronic and Magnetic Properties of 3d Transition Metal Atom-Intercalated Transition Metal Dichalcogenides: A Density Functional Theory Study
Authors: Liu Yujie , Yang Guang , He Zhiwen , Wang Yanbiao , Niu Xianghong , Wang Sake , Liu Yongjun , Zhang Xiuyun
Published: August 2024

Currently, intercalation has become an effective way to modify the fundamental properties of two-dimensional (2D) van der Waals (vdW) materials. Using density functional theory, we systematically investigated the structures and electronic and magnetic properties of bilayer transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) intercalated with 3d TM atoms (TM = Sc–Ni), TM@BL_MS2 (M = Mo, V). Our results demonstrate that all the studied TM@BL_MS2s are of high stability, with large binding energies and high diffusion barriers of TM atoms. Interestingly, most TM@BL_MoS2s and TM@BL_VS2s are found to be stable ferromagnets. Among them, TM@BL_MoS2s (TM = Sc, Ti, Fe, Co) are ferromagnetic metals, TM@BL_MoS2 (TM = V, Cr) and TM@BL_VS2 (TM = Sc, V) are ferromagnetic half-metals, and the remaining systems are found to be ferromagnetic semiconductors. Exceptions are found for Ni@BL_MoS2 and Cr@BL_VS2, which are nonmagnetic semiconductors and ferrimagnetic half-metals, respectively. Further investigations reveal that the electromagnetic properties of TM@BL_MoS2 are significantly influenced by the concentration of intercalated TM atoms. Our study demonstrates that TM atom intercalation is an effective approach for manipulating the electromagnetic properties of two-dimensional materials, facilitating their potential applications in spintronic devices.
Developmental Changes in the Excitation–Contraction Mechanisms of the Ventricular Myocardium and Their Sympathetic Regulation in Small Experimental Animals
Authors: Hamaguchi Shogo , Agata Naoki , Seki Maika , Namekata Iyuki , Tanaka Hikaru
Published: August 2024

The developmental changes in the excitation–contraction mechanisms of the ventricular myocardium of small animals (guinea pig, rat, mouse) and their sympathetic regulation will be summarized. The action potential duration monotonically decreases during pre- and postnatal development in the rat and mouse, while in the guinea pig it decreases during the fetal stage but turns into an increase just before birth. Such changes can be attributed to changes in the repolarizing potassium currents. The T-tubule and the sarcoplasmic reticulum are scarcely present in the fetal cardiomyocyte, but increase during postnatal development. This causes a developmental shift in the Ca2+ handling from a sarcolemma-dependent mechanism to a sarcoplasmic reticulum-dependent mechanism. The sensitivity for beta-adrenoceptor-mediated positive inotropy decreases during early postnatal development, which parallels the increase in sympathetic nerve innervation. The alpha-adrenoceptor-mediated inotropy in the mouse changes from positive in the neonate to negative in the adult. This can be explained by the change in the excitation–contraction mechanism mentioned above. The shortening of the action potential duration enhances trans-sarcolemmal Ca2+ extrusion by the Na+-Ca2+ exchanger. The sarcoplasmic reticulum-dependent mechanism of contraction in the adult allows Na+-Ca2+ exchanger activity to cause negative inotropy, a mechanism not observed in neonatal myocardium. Such developmental studies would provide clues towards a more comprehensive understanding of cardiac function.
Use of Eltrombopag to Improve Thrombocytopenia and Tranfusion Requirement in Anti-CD19 CAR-T Cell-Treated Patients
Authors: Mingot-Castellano Maria-Eva , Reguera-Ortega Juan Luis , Zafra Torres Denis , Hernani Rafael , Lopez-Godino Oriana , Guerreiro Manuel , Herrero Blanca , López-Corral Lucia , Luna Alejandro , Gonzalez-Pinedo Lesli , Chinea-Rodriguez Anabelle , Africa-Martín Ana , Bailen Rebeca , Martinez-Cibrian Nuria , Balsalobre Pascual , Filaferro Silvia , Alonso-Saladrigues Anna , Barba Pere , Perez-Martinez Antonio , Calbacho María , Perez-Simón Jose Antonio , Sánchez-Pina Jose Maria ,   on behalf of the Spanish Group of Hematopoietic Transplant and Cell Therapy (GETH-TC)
Published: August 2024

Background/Objectives: Immune effector cell-associated hematotoxicity (ICAHT) is a frequent adverse event after chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy. Grade ≥ 3 thrombocytopenia occurs in around one-third of patients, and many of them become platelet transfusion-dependent. Eltrombopag is a thrombopoietin receptor agonist (TPO-RA) able to accelerate megakaryopoiesis, which has been used successfully in patients with bone marrow failure and immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). Its role in managing thrombocytopenia and other cytopenias in CAR-T cell-treated patients has been scarcely addressed. Our aim was to report the safety and efficacy of this approach in patients included in the Spanish Group for Hematopoietic Transplantation and Cellular Therapy (GETH-TC) registry. Methods: This is a retrospective, multicenter, observational study. Patients who developed platelet transfusion dependence subsequently to CAR-T cells and received eltrombopag to improve platelet counts were recruited in 10 Spanish hospitals. Results: Thirty-eight patients were enrolled and followed up for a median (interquartile range [IQR]) of 175 (99, 489) days since CAR-T cell infusion. At the moment eltrombopag was indicated, 18 patients had thrombocytopenia and another severe cytopenia, while 8 patients had severe pancytopenia. After 32 (14, 38) days on eltrombopag, 29 (76.3%) patients recovered platelet transfusion independence. The number of platelet units transfused correlated with the time needed to restore platelet counts higher than 20 × 109/L (Rho = 0.639, p < 0.001). Non-responders to eltrombopag required more platelet units (58 [29, 69] vs. 12 [6, 26] in responders, p = 0.002). Nineteen out of twenty-three (82.6%) patients recovered from severe neutropenia after 22 (11, 31) days on eltrombopag. Twenty-nine out of thirty-five (82.9%) patients recovered red blood cell (RBC) transfusion independence after 29 (17, 44) days. Seven patients recovered all cell lineages while on treatment. No thromboembolic events were reported. Only two transient toxicities (cholestasis, hyperbilirubinemia) were reported during eltrombopag treatment, none of which compelled permanent drug withdrawal. Conclusions: Eltrombopag could be safely used to manage thrombocytopenia and accelerate transfusion independence in CAR-T cell-treated patients.
Lateral Alveolar Ridge Augmentation with Autogenous Tooth Roots and Staged Implant Placement—5-Year Follow-Up Case Series
Authors: Bjelica Roko , Smojver Igor , Vuletić Marko , Gerbl Dražena , Marković Luka , Gabrić Dragana
Published: August 2024

Background/Objectives: Alveolar bone augmentation before implant placement is a safe and effective treatment option for the reconstruction of a deficient alveolar ridge. According to recent research, permanent teeth have been used as bone graft materials, with studies confirming their clinical and histological results. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of alveolar ridge augmentation with autogenous tooth roots and staged implant placement, and peri-implant tissue stability in augmented sites. Methods: A total of 20 augmentations with autogenous tooth roots on mandibular alveolar ridges in 15 patients were performed. After 6 months, the ridge width (RWa) and ridge width gain (RWg) were measured. Titanium dental implants were placed in grafted sites and loaded 10 weeks after placement. Clinical parameters (bleeding on probing—BOP; probing depth—PD; mucosal recession—MR; and clinical attachment level—CAL) were assessed 2 months (T1), 3 years (T2), and 5 years (T3) after implant loading. Results: The mean RWa was 6.71 ± 0.74 mm, and the RWg was 3.15 ± 0.54 mm, respectively. No statistically significant differences were observed for clinical parameters (BOP, PD, MR, and CAL) among different time points (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Autogenous tooth roots represent a viable solution for alveolar ridge augmentation and implant placement, providing a stable environment for peri implant tissues.
Gaming Disorders: Navigating the Fine Line between Entertainment and Addiction—Gaming History, Health Risks, Social Consequences, and Pathways to Prevention
Authors: Imataka George , Izumi Shu , Miyamoto Yuji , Maehashi Akira
Published: August 2024

The number of people immersed in excessive gaming has increased in this age of rapid digitalization. The World Health Organization and American Psychiatric Association Organization recognize a gaming disorder as a condition that results in significant problems in daily life as a result of excessive gaming. Both organizations emphasize the similarities to behavioral addictions such as gambling. We examined the appropriate usage of video games from the perspectives of health and management in this study. For the general population, video games provide positive impacts such as stress alleviation and memory improvement. Game playing leads to a loss of time and money for the individual. It also has a negative impact on the individual’s family and social life, evolving into a social problem. Gaming addiction is often accompanied by psychological disorders and other addictions, and long-term medical treatment, including approaches to the individual’s psychological background and cognitive-behavioral therapy, is necessary. Therefore, the prevention of gaming disorder is essential. From a societal standpoint, action is required in three contexts: the government, game developers, and within the household as a whole. Simultaneously, the public needs to understand the positive potential of gaming, such as e-sports.
Topography and Lateralization of Nodal Metastases in Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer Using Super-Extended Pelvic Lymph Node Dissection with the Sentinel Lymph Node Technique
Authors: Gurwin Adam , Karwacki Jakub , Dorochowicz Mateusz , Kowalczyk Kamil , Nowak Łukasz , Jędrzejuk Diana , Krajewski Wojciech , Hałoń Agnieszka , Bolanowski Marek , Szydełko Tomasz , Małkiewicz Bartosz
Published: August 2024

Background: This study assessed the topography and lateralization of lymph node (LN) metastases in muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) patients using super-extended pelvic lymph node dissection (sePLND) with sentinel lymph node dissection (SLND). Methods: We analyzed 54 MIBC patients who underwent cystectomy with sePLND and SLND. Tumor location was classified using cystoscopy. Nanocolloid-Tc-99m was injected peritumorally. Preoperative SPECT/CT lymphoscintigraphy and an intraoperative gamma probe were used for SLN detection. Results: A total of 1414 LNs, including 192 SLNs, were resected from 54 patients. Metastases were found in 72 LNs from 22 patients (41%). The obturator fossa was the primary site for LN metastases (37.5%). SLNs were most common in the external iliac region (34.4%). In 36% of the patients with positive LNs, metastases were identified only through sePLND. In 9% of the patients, metastases were found solely in the pararectal region, identified through SLND. Tumor lateralization correlated with ipsilateral positive LNs, but 20% of the patients had contralateral metastases. Conclusions: The pararectal region may be the exclusive site for positive LNs in MIBC. The obturator fossa is the most prevalent region for LN metastases. Unilateral PLND should be avoided due to the risk of contralateral metastases. Combining sePLND with SLND improves staging.
Circulating M-MDSC Levels as an Assessment Marker for Post-Treatment Tumor Progression in Recurrent HNC Patients Following Radiation Therapy: A Case Series
Authors: Chang Chun-Hsiang , Chen Fang-Hsin , Wang Ling-Wei , Chiang Chi-Shiun
Published: August 2024

Background: In advanced head and neck cancer (HNC) patients, 50–60% experience loco-regional relapse and distant metastasis. Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) has shown remarkable therapeutic response in recurrent HNC, but there is still a 70% chance of local recurrence. This study aimed to identify a suitable liquid biomarker to assess patient response following BNCT. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are immune-suppressive cells that inhibit cytotoxic T cells. Circulating MDSC levels have been linked to the clinical stage and prognosis in HNSCC. Methods: Five patients with recurrent head and neck cancer underwent a treatment regimen that commenced with BNCT, followed by fractionated image-guided intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IG-IMRT). Liquid biopsy analysis via flow cytometry and tumor volume analysis by clinical imaging were conducted at three stages: before BNCT, before the first fraction of IG-IMRT, and one month after the last fraction of IG-IMRT. Results: Compared to other MDSC subtypes, monocytic MDSCs (M-MDSCs) exhibited a notable correlation with tumor volume. This strong correlation was observed at all testing time points except one month after BNCT treatment. Conclusions: This case series highlights a strong link between tumor size and circulating M-MDSC levels before BNCT and one month after the last IG-IMRT treatment in recurrent head and neck cancer patients. These results suggest that the level of circulating M-MDSCs could be a marker for monitoring tumor progression in recurrent HNC patients following radiation therapy, including BNCT.
Does Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Impact Outcome after Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting? A Population-Based Retrospective Study in Germany
Authors: Hochhausen Nadine , Sales Marjolijn C. , Ramnath Natasja W. M. , Billig Sebastian , Kork Felix , Moza Ajay
Published: August 2024

Background: The interaction between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is discussed controversial. Methods: In this population-based retrospective analysis including non-emergency CABG in Germany between 2015 and 2021, the aim was to compare in-hospital mortality, hospital length of stay (HLOS), and perioperative ventilation time (VT) in patients affected by COPD and not affected by COPD. In addition, we compared outcomes after off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB) and on-pump coronary artery bypass (ONCAB) surgery and outcomes after CABG with a minimally invasive technique with and without cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) in COPD patients. Results: Of the 274,792 analyzed cases undergoing non-emergency CABG, 7.7% suffered from COPD. COPD patients showed a higher in-hospital mortality (6.0% vs. 4.2%; p < 0.001), a longer HLOS (13 days (10–19) vs. 12 days (9–16); p < 0.001), and a longer VT (33 h (11–124) vs. 28 h (9–94); p < 0.001). In subgroup analyses, COPD patients undergoing OPCAB surgery showed a lower in-hospital mortality (3.5% vs. 6.4%; p < 0.001), a shorter HLOS (12 days (9–16) vs. 13 days (10–19); p < 0.001) and a shorter VT (20 h (10–69) vs. 36 h (11–135); p < 0.001) compared to ONCAB surgery. Regression analyses confirmed that using cardiopulmonary bypass in COPD patients is associated with a higher risk of in-hospital mortality (OR, 1.86; 95% CI: 1.51–2.29, p < 0.001), a longer HLOS (1.44 days; 95% CI: 0.91–1.97, p < 0.001), and a longer VT (33.67 h; 95% CI: 18.67–48.66, p < 0.001). In further subgroup analyses, COPD patients undergoing CABG with a minimally invasive technique without CPB showed a lower in-hospital mortality (3.5% vs. 16.5%; p < 0.001) and a shorter VT (20 h (10–69) vs. 65 h (29–210); p < 0.001) compared to CABG with a minimally invasive technique and CPB. Regression analyses confirmed that using CPB in COPD patients undergoing CABG with a minimally invasive technique is associated with a higher risk of in-hospital mortality (OR, 4.80; 95% CI: 2.42–9.51, p < 0.001). Conclusions: COPD negatively impacts outcomes after non-emergency CABG. According to our results, OPCAB surgery and CABG with a minimally invasive technique without CPB seem to be beneficial for COPD patients. Further studies should be performed to confirm this.