bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Input/Output Variables Selection in Data Envelopment Analysis: A Shannon Entropy Approach
Authors: Peykani Pejman , Seyed Esmaeili Fatemeh Sadat , Mirmozaffari Mirpouya , Jabbarzadeh Armin , Khamechian Mohammad
Published: July 2022

The purpose of this study is to provide an efficient method for the selection of input–output indicators in the data envelopment analysis (DEA) approach, in order to improve the discriminatory power of the DEA method in the evaluation process and performance analysis of homogeneous decision-making units (DMUs) in the presence of negative values and data. For this purpose, the Shannon entropy technique is used as one of the most important methods for determining the weight of indicators. Moreover, due to the presence of negative data in some indicators, the range directional measure (RDM) model is used as the basic model of the research. Finally, to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed approach, the food and beverage industry has been selected from the Tehran stock exchange (TSE) as a case study, and data related to 15 stocks have been extracted from this industry. The numerical and experimental results indicate the efficacy of the hybrid data envelopment analysis–Shannon entropy (DEASE) approach to evaluate stocks under negative data. Furthermore, the discriminatory power of the proposed DEASE approach is greater than that of a classical DEA model.
Exponential Synchronization of Hyperbolic Complex Spatio-Temporal Networks with Multi-Weights
Authors: Ma Hongkun , Yang Chengdong
Published: July 2022

This paper deals with the leader-following synchronization of first-order, semi-linear, complex spatio-temporal networks. Firstly, two sorts of complex spatio-temporal networks based on hyperbolic partial differential equations (CSTNHPDEs) are built: one with a single weight and the other with multi-weights. Then, a new distributed controller is designed to address CSTNHPDE with a single weight. Sufficient conditions for the synchronization and exponential synchronization of CSTNHPDE are presented by showing the gain ranges. Thirdly, the proposed distributed controller addresses of CSTNHPDE with multi-weights, and gain ranges are obtained for synchronization and exponential synchronization, respectively. Finally, two examples show the effectiveness and good performance of the control methods.
Dynamics of Triple Diffusive Free Convective MHD Fluid Flow: Lie Group Transformation
Authors: Nagendramma Vellaboyina , Durgaprasad Putta , Sivakumar Narsu , Rao Battina Madhusudhana , Raju Chakravarthula Siva Krishnam , Shah Nehad Ali , Yook Se-Jin
Published: July 2022

This analysis is interested in the dynamic flow of incompressible triple diffusive fluid flowing through a linear stretched surface. The current study simulates when Boussinesq approximation and MHD are significant. As for originality, a comparative study of all the results for opposing and assisting flow cases is provided. Lie-group transformation is utilized to determine symmetry depletions of partial differential equations. The transformed system of ordinary differential equations is solved using the Runge-Kutta shooting technique. The impacts of magnetic parameter, buoyancy ratio parameter of temperature and concentration, and Lewis number on velocity, temperature, and concentration are depicted through graphs. We observed that the magnetic field parameter decelerates in velocity distribution for both fluid flow cases. Additionally, the same phenomenon was noticed with the buoyancy ratio parameters on both salt concentration distributions. Finally, the influence of heat and mass transfer rates decreases for both fluid flow cases with an increase in Lewis number.
Fourier Integral Operator Model of Market Liquidity: The Chinese Experience 2009–2010
Authors: Lerner Peter B.
Published: July 2022

This paper proposes and motivates a dynamical model of the Chinese stock market based on linear regression in a dual state-space connected to the original state-space of correlations between the volume-at-price buckets by a Fourier transform. We apply our model to the price migration of orders executed by Chinese brokerages in 2009–2010. We use our brokerage tapes to conduct a natural experiment assuming that tapes correspond to randomly assigned, informed, and uninformed traders. Our analysis demonstrates that customers’ orders were tightly correlated—in the highly nonlinear sense of prediction by the neural networks—with Chinese market sentiment, significantly correlated with the returns of the Chinese stock market, and exhibited no correlations with the yield of the bellwether bond of the Bank of China. We did not notice any spike of illiquidity transmitting from the US Flash Crash in May 2010 to trading in China.
Rational Discovery of Antimicrobial Peptides by Means of Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Ruiz Puentes Paola , Henao Maria C. , Cifuentes Javier , Muñoz-Camargo Carolina , Reyes Luis H. , Cruz Juan C. , Arbeláez Pablo
Published: July 2022

Antibiotic resistance is a worldwide public health problem due to the costs and mortality rates it generates. However, the large pharmaceutical industries have stopped searching for new antibiotics because of their low profitability, given the rapid replacement rates imposed by the increasingly observed resistance acquired by microorganisms. Alternatively, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have emerged as potent molecules with a much lower rate of resistance generation. The discovery of these peptides is carried out through extensive in vitro screenings of either rational or non-rational libraries. These processes are tedious and expensive and generate only a few AMP candidates, most of which fail to show the required activity and physicochemical properties for practical applications. This work proposes implementing an artificial intelligence algorithm to reduce the required experimentation and increase the efficiency of high-activity AMP discovery. Our deep learning (DL) model, called AMPs-Net, outperforms the state-of-the-art method by 8.8% in average precision. Furthermore, it is highly accurate to predict the antibacterial and antiviral capacity of a large number of AMPs. Our search led to identifying two unreported antimicrobial motifs and two novel antimicrobial peptides related to them. Moreover, by coupling DL with molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, we were able to find a multifunctional peptide with promising therapeutic effects. Our work validates our previously proposed pipeline for a more efficient rational discovery of novel AMPs.
Abrasion Power of Ti and Ni Diamond-Coated Coatings Deposited by Cold Spray
Authors: Sesana Raffaella , Lupoi Rocco , Pessolano Filos Irene , Yu Pengfei , Rizzo Sebastiano
Published: July 2022

In this work, the cold spray technique was used to deposit nickel and titanium coated diamond powder on cast iron and aluminum substrates. To analyze the deposition mechanism, the diamond powders were observed before and after the process using a microscope and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The adhesion response of the Ni and Ti coatings was investigated during the study. Pin-on-disk tests were then performed to identify the abrasion mechanism of the coated samples and the wear resistance of the Si3N4 ceramic balls. Experimental tests were adopted to determine the significant operating variables, i.e., the local linear speed and the applied load. The modification of the diamond particles in shape, distribution, and the residual debris of Si3N4 on disk were compared before and after the tribological test to analyze the abrasion and wear resistance of the ceramic balls.
Measurement of Interfacial Tension between Liquid Pb and a Molten LiCl-NaCl-KCl Mixture via a Floating Drop Method
Authors: Nakamoto Masashi , Tanaka Toshihiro , Yamamoto Takaiku
Published: July 2022

The floating drop method has the potential for high-accuracy measurement of liquid–liquid interfacial tension. It was applied here to measure the interfacial tension between liquid Pb and a molten mixture of 8.9% LiCl, 50% NaCl, and KCl (mass%). The heavier Pb droplet floated on the lighter molten salt and enabled the acquisition of data at 673 K, 723 K, and 773 K under vacuum. The results agreed with previous reports. The temperature (T) dependence of the interfacial tension s was given by s = 459–1.27 T mN/m.
A Comparison Study of Fatigue Behavior of S355J2+N, S690QL and X37CrMoV5-1 Steel
Authors: Milovanović Vladimir , Arsić Dušan , Milutinović Miroslav , Živković Miroslav , Topalović Marko
Published: July 2022

Steel of the mild-strength S355J2+N steel grade is the most often used steel for manufacturing carrying sections of constructions exposed to fatigue loads. The use of high-strength steels, such as S690QL, allows for the creation of structures that are light and simple to construct. However, increasing the yield strength of high-strength steels does not result in a corresponding increase in fatigue resistance. As a result, using high-strength steels for constructions subjected to fatigue loading can be a major design concern, raising the question of whether high-strength steels should be used at all. Most of the experimental investigations regarding the hot work tool steel X37CrMoV5-1 found in the literature are focused on its machining and wear resistance, with insufficient attention paid to the cyclic loads. This article evaluates the fatigue properties of mild-strength S355J2+N, high-strength S690QL, and X37CrMoV5-1 steel grades. A SHIMADZU servo-hydraulic testing machine is used to perform uniaxial tensile tests under uniaxial fatigue stress-controlled, fully reversed conditions (tensile–compression testing with R = −1 stress ratio) in accordance with EN ISO and ASTM standards. The aim of this paper is to highlight the fatigue characteristics of these three steels that are among the most used in their respective groups. Steel S355J2+N belongs to the group of hot-rolled normalized steels, S690QL belongs to the group of improved (quenched + tempered) steels with increased strength, and X37CrMoV5-1 belongs to the group of high-alloyed tool steels for hot work. This choice was made as the tested steels can be considered typical representatives of their groups. Based on the test results of these three steels, which are organized in S–N curves, the fatigue behavior of the entire mentioned groups of steels can be foreseen.
Simulation of the Effect of Keyhole Instability on Porosity during the Deep Penetration Laser Welding Process
Authors: Kang Yue , Zhao Yanqiu , Li Yue , Wang Jianfeng , Zhan Xiaohong
Published: July 2022

The quality of a laser deep penetration welding joint is closely related to porosity. However, the keyhole stability seriously affects the formation of porosity during the laser welding process. In this paper, a three-dimensional laser welding model with gas/liquid interface evolution characteristics is constructed based on the hydrodynamic interaction between the keyhole and molten pool during the laser welding process. The established model is used to simulate the flow and heat transfer process of molten. The Volume of Fluid (VOF) method is used to study the formation and collapse of the keyhole and the formation of bubbles. It is found that bubbles are easy to form when the keyhole depth abruptly changes. There are three main forms of bubbles formed by keyhole instability. The front wall of the keyhole collapses backward to form a bubble. The back wall of the keyhole inclines forward to form a bubble. The lower part of the keyhole produces a necking-down effect, and the lower part of the keyhole is isolated separately to form a bubble. In addition, when the keyhole does not penetrate the base metal, the stability of the keyhole is high and the percentage of porosity is low.
Biocompatibility Study of Curcumin-Loaded Pluronic F127 Nanoformulation (NanoCUR) against the Embryonic Development of Zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Abdullah Siti Nur Sharmila , Subramaniam Kalai Arasu , Muhamad Zamani Zahir Haizat , Sarchio Seri Narti Edayu , Md Yasin Faizah , Shamsi Suhaili
Published: July 2022

Curcumin (CUR) has been studied for its biomedical applications due to its active biological properties. However, CUR has limitations such as poor solubility, low bioavailability, and rapid degradation. Thus, CUR was nanoformulated with the application of polymeric micelle. Previous studies of CUR-loaded Pluronic F127 nanoformulation (NanoCUR) were generally prioritized toward cancer cells and its therapeutic values. There are reports that emphasize the toxicity of CUR, but reports on the toxicity of NanoCUR on embryonic developmental stages is still scarce. The present study aims to investigate the toxicity effects of NanoCUR on the embryonic development of zebrafish (Danio rerio). NanoCUR was synthesized via thin film hydration method and then characterized using DLS, UV-Vis, FTIR, FESEM, and XRD. The toxicity assessment of NanoCUR was conducted using zebrafish embryos, in comparison to native CUR, as well as Pluronic F127 (PF) as the controls, and ROS assay was further carried out. It was revealed that NanoCUR showed an improved toxicity profile compared to native CUR. NanoCUR displayed a delayed toxicity response and showed a concentration- and time-dependent toxicity response. NanoCUR was also observed to generate a significantly low reactive oxygen species (ROS) compared to native CUR in ROS assay. Overall, the results obtained highlight the potential of NanoCUR to be developed in clinical settings due to its improved toxicity profile compared to CUR.
Protein Attachment Mechanism for Improved Functionalization of Affinity Monolith Chromatography (AMC)
Authors: Nayak Nayan , Mazzei Rosalinda , Giorno Lidietta , Crespo João G. , Portugal Carla A. M. , Poerio Teresa
Published: July 2022

This work aims at understanding the attachment mechanisms and stability of proteins on a chromatography medium to develop more efficient functionalization methodologies, which can be exploited in affinity chromatography. In particular, the study was focused on the understanding of the attachment mechanisms of bovine serum albumin (BSA), used as a ligand model, and protein G on novel amine-modified alumina monoliths as a stationary phase. Protein G was used to develop a column for antibody purification. The results showed that, at lower protein concentrations (i.e., 0.5 to 1.0 mg·mL−1), protein attachment follows a 1st-order kinetics compatible with the presence of covalent binding between the monolith and the protein. At higher protein concentrations (i.e., up to 10 mg·mL−1), the data preferably fit a 2nd-order kinetics. Such a change reflects a different mechanism in the protein attachment which, at higher concentrations, seems to be governed by physical adsorption resulting in a multilayered protein formation, due to the presence of ligand aggregates. The threshold condition for the prevalence of physical adsorption of BSA was found at a concentration higher than 1.0 mg·mL−1. Based on this result, protein concentrations of 0.7 and 1.0 mg·mL−1 were used for the functionalization of monoliths with protein G, allowing a maximum attachment of 1.43 mg of protein G/g of monolith. This column was then used for IgG binding–elution experiments, which resulted in an antibody attachment of 73.5% and, subsequently, elution of 86%, in acidic conditions. This proved the potential of the amine-functionalized monoliths for application in affinity chromatography.
Vietnamese Dalbergia tonkinensis: A Promising Source of Mono- and Bifunctional Vasodilators
Authors: Cuong Nguyen Manh , Son Ninh The , Nhan Ngu Truong , Fukuyama Yoshiyasu , Ahmed Amer , Saponara Simona , Trezza Alfonso , Gianibbi Beatrice , Vigni Ginevra , Spiga Ottavia , Fusi Fabio
Published: July 2022

Hypertension is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, which are the main cause of morbidity and mortality in the world. In the search for new molecules capable of targeting KCa1.1 and CaV1.2 channels, the expression of which is altered in hypertension, the in vitro vascular effects of a series of flavonoids extracted from the heartwoods, roots, and leaves of Dalbergia tonkinensis Prain, widely used in traditional medicine, were assessed. Rat aorta rings, tail artery myocytes, and docking and molecular dynamics simulations were used to analyse their effect on these channels. Formononetin, orobol, pinocembrin, and biochanin A showed a marked myorelaxant activity, particularly in rings stimulated by moderate rather than high KCl concentrations. Ba2+ currents through CaV1.2 channels (IBa1.2) were blocked in a concentration-dependent manner by sativanone, 3′-O-methylviolanone, pinocembrin, and biochanin A, while it was stimulated by ambocin. Sativanone, dalsissooside, and eriodictyol inhibited, while tectorigenin 7-O-[β-D-apiofuranosyl-(1→6)-β-D-glucopyranoside], ambocin, butin, and biochanin A increased IKCa1.1. In silico analyses showed that biochanin A, sativanone, and pinocembrin bound with high affinity in target-sensing regions of both channels, providing insight into their potential mechanism of action. In conclusion, Dalbergia tonkinensis is a valuable source of mono- and bifunctional, vasoactive scaffolds for the development of novel antihypertensive drugs.
Green Synthesis and Characterization of Iron Nanoparticles Synthesized from Aqueous Leaf Extract of Vitex leucoxylon and Its Biomedical Applications
Authors: Nahari Mohammed H. , Al Ali Amer , Asiri Abdulaziz , Mahnashi Mater H. , Shaikh Ibrahim Ahmed , Shettar Arun K. , Hoskeri Joy
Published: July 2022

The cold extraction method was used to obtain the aqueous extract of Vitex leucoxylon leaves in a ratio of 1:10. Iron nanoparticles (FeNPs) were synthesized using aqueous leaf extract of V. leucoxylon as a reducing agent. The phytoreducing approach was used to make FeNPs by mixing 1 mL of plant extract with 1 mM of ferric sulfate. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy were used to examine the synthesized FeNPs. The reducing reaction was shown by a change in the color of the solution, and the formation of black color confirms that FeNPs have been formed. The greatest absorption peak (max) was found at 395 nm in UV-Vis spectral analysis. The FTIR spectra of V. leucoxylon aqueous leaf extract showed shifts in some peaks, namely 923.96 cm−1 and 1709.89 cm−1, with functional groups carboxylic acids, unsaturated aldehydes, and ketones, which were lacking in the FTIR spectra of FeNPs and are responsible for FeNPs formation. FeNPs with diameters between 45 and 100 nm were observed in SEM images. The creation of FeNPs was confirmed by EDX, which shows a strong signal in the metallic iron region at 6–8 Kev. XRD revealed a crystalline nature and an average diameter of 136.43 nm. Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, and wound healing in vitro tests reported significant activity of the FeNPs. The cumulative findings of the present study indicate that the green synthesis of FeNPs boosts its biological activity and may serve as a possible dermal wound-healing agent and cytotoxic agent against cancer. Future study is needed on the identification of mechanisms involved in the synthesis of FeNPs by V. leucoxylon and its biomedical applications.
Expired Cefalexin Loaded into Mesoporous Nanosilica for Self-Healing Epoxy Coating on 304 Stainless Steel
Authors: Yang Beibei , Dong Jiayu , Bian Haifeng , Lu Haimin , Bin Duan , Tang Shaochun , Song Yaqiong , Lu Hongbin
Published: July 2022

A self-healing epoxy coating is creatively prepared by employing expired cefalexin loaded into mesoporous silica nanomaterials (MSNs) for corrosion protection of 304 stainless steel (304SS). A series of physical characterizations, including transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer, and N2 adsorption–desorption isotherms, verified that the cefalexin successfully filled porous MSN. The corrosion resistance of the epoxy (EP) coating incorporated with the cefalexin@MSNs is investigated using a Tafel polarization curve and electrochemical impedance spectra (EIS) in a 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution. It is found that the EP-Cefalexin@MSNs coating has a higher self-corrosion voltage and a lower self-corrosion current density than EP coating. Moreover, the charge transfer resistance (Rct) value of Cefalexin@MSNs coating is twice that of EP coating after immersion for 24 h, indicating that the cefalexin@MSNs significantly enhance the corrosion resistance of the coating under long-duration immersion. The improved corrosion resistance is attributed to the densified adsorption of the cefalexin inhibiting the cathode corrosion reaction, providing a self-healing long-duration corrosion protection for 304SS.
Hydrocarbon Sorption in Flexible MOFs—Part I: Thermodynamic Analysis with the Dubinin-Based Universal Adsorption Theory (D-UAT)
Authors: Preißler-Kurzhöfer Hannes , Lange Marcus , Kolesnikov Andrei , Möllmer Jens , Erhart Oliver , Kobalz Merten , Krautscheid Harald , Gläser Roger
Published: July 2022

The analysis of empirical sorption equilibrium datasets is still vital to gain insights into material–property relationships as computational methods remain in development, especially for complex materials such as flexible MOFs. Therefore, the Dubinin-based universal adsorption theory (D-UAT) was revisited and evaluated as a simple visualization, analysis, and prediction tool for sorption equilibrium data. Within the theory, gas properties are normalized into corresponding states using the critical temperatures of the respective sorptives. The study shows theoretically and experimentally that the D-UAT is able to condense differences of sorption data visualized in reduced Dubinin plots to just three governing parameters: (a) the accessible pore volume, (b) the reduced enthalpy of sorption, and (c) the framework’s reduced free energy differences (in case of flexible behavior). This makes the theory a fast visualization and analysis tool, the use as a prediction tool depends on rough assumptions, and thus is not recommended.
The Relationships between Caregivers’ Concern about Child Weight and Their Non-Responsive Feeding Practices: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Jian , Wei Xiaoxue , Chang Yan-Shing , Hiyoshi Ayako , Winkley Kirsty , Cao Yang
Published: July 2022

Background: It is unclear whether caregivers’ concern about child weight impacts their non-responsive feeding practices. This systematic review aimed to examine their relationships. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, Web of Science core collection, CINAHL and grey literature was conducted from inception to March 2022, following PRISMA guidelines. Data synthesis was performed using a semi-quantitative approach and a meta-analysis. Results: A total of 35 studies with 22,933 respondents were included in the review for semi-quantitative analyses. Thirty-four studies examined 52 associations between concern about child weight and restriction with 40 statistically significant associations being observed. A total of 34 relationships between concern about child weight and pressure to eat were investigated, with 12 being statistically significant. The pooled regression coefficients (β) demonstrated that caregivers’ concern about child overweight was positively associated with restriction (β = 0.22; 95%CI: 0.12, 0.31), negatively associated with use of food as a reward (β = −0.06; 95%CI: −0.11, −0.01), and not statistically associated with pressure to eat (β = −0.05; 95%CI: −0.13, 0.04). The pooled odds ratios (ORs) indicated that caregivers who were concerned about child overweight were found to use restrictive feeding more often (OR = 2.34; 95%CI: 1.69, 3.23), while less frequently adopting pressure to eat (OR = 0.76; 95%CI: 0.59, 0.98) compared with those without concerns. The results also showed that caregivers who were concerned about child underweight were more likely to force their children to eat (OR = 1.83; 95%CI: 1.44, 2.33) than those without concerns. Conclusion: Caregivers’ concern about child weight may be an important risk factor for non-responsive feeding practices. Thus, interventions are needed to focus on managing and relieving caregivers’ excessive concern about child weight, especially overweight, which may optimize feeding practices and subsequently contribute to child health.
β-Sitosterol Attenuates Dexamethasone-Induced Muscle Atrophy via Regulating FoxO1-Dependent Signaling in C2C12 Cell and Mice Model
Authors: Hah Young-Sool , Lee Won Keong , Lee Sangyeob , Kim Eun Ji , Lee Jung Hyeon , Lee Seung-Jun , Ji Yeong Ho , Kim Sang Gon , Lee Hyeong-Hwan , Hong Seo Yeon , Yoo Jun-Il
Published: July 2022

Sarcopenia refers to a decline in muscle mass and strength with age, causing significant impairment in the ability to carry out normal daily functions and increased risk of falls and fractures, eventually leading to loss of independence. Maintaining protein homeostasis is an important factor in preventing muscle loss, and the decrease in muscle mass is caused by an imbalance between anabolism and catabolism of muscle proteins. Although β-sitosterol has various effects such as anti-inflammatory, protective effect against nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), antioxidant, and antidiabetic activity, the mechanism of β-sitosterol effect on the catabolic pathway was not well known. β-sitosterol was assessed in vitro and in vivo using a dexamethasone-induced muscle atrophy mice model and C2C12 myoblasts. β-sitosterol protected mice from dexamethasone-induced muscle mass loss. The thickness of gastrocnemius muscle myofibers was increased in dexamethasone with the β-sitosterol treatment group (DS). Grip strength and creatine kinase (CK) activity were also recovered when β-sitosterol was treated. The muscle loss inhibitory efficacy of β-sitosterol in dexamethasone-induced muscle atrophy in C2C12 myotube was also verified in C2C12 myoblast. β-sitosterol also recovered the width of myotubes. The protein expression of muscle atrophy F-box (MAFbx) was increased in dexamethasone-treated animal models and C2C12 myoblast, but it was reduced when β-sitosterol was treated. MuRF1 also showed similar results to MAFbx in the mRNA level of C2C12 myotubes. In addition, in the gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior muscles of mouse models, Forkhead Box O1 (FoxO1) protein was increased in the dexamethasone-treated group (Dexa) compared with the control group and reduced in the DS group. Therefore, β-sitosterol would be a potential treatment agent for aging sarcopenia.
Nutritional Biomarkers and Factors Correlated with Poor Sleep Status among Young Females: A Case-Control Study
Authors: AL-Musharaf Sara , AlAjllan Lama , Aljuraiban Ghadeer , AlSuhaibani Munirah , Alafif Noura , Hussain Syed Danish
Published: July 2022

Poor sleep status is associated with several health problems. Nutritional biomarkers and factors related to poor sleep are understudied. This study aimed to identify nutrition biomarkers and factors related to sleep status in healthy young Saudi females. The study included 92 normal-weight and obese Saudi females aged 19–25. Fasting blood glucose, insulin, and lipid profiles were measured. Insulin resistance was calculated on the basis of the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) method. Anthropometric, stress, physical activity, and dietary data were collected. Data on the polyphenol content in foods were retrieved from the Phenol-Explorer database. The sleep status was assessed using the Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI). Associations between variables were assessed using the multiple logistic regression model. Around 76% of the participants had poor sleep status (PSQI > 5). Multiple logistic regression reported high polyphenol intake as a protective factor against poor sleep (OR 0.24; 95% CI 0.07–0.83; p = 0.03) and HOMA-IR as an independent risk for poor sleep (OR 4.97; 95% CI 1.11–22.31; p = 0.04). Other nutritional biomarkers and factors, such as BMI, lipid profile, and vitamins, revealed a trend but were not significant. In conclusion, poor sleep status is associated with insulin resistance and low polyphenol intake among women of reproductive age.
Evolution of the Clinical Profile and Outcomes of Unvaccinated Patients Affected by Critical COVID-19 Pneumonia from the Pre-Vaccination to the Post-Vaccination Waves in Italy
Authors: Calabrese Cecilia , Annunziata Anna , Mariniello Domenica Francesca , Coppola Antonietta , Mirizzi Angela Irene , Simioli Francesca , Pelaia Corrado , Atripaldi Lidia , Pugliese Gaia , Guarino Salvatore , Fiorentino Giuseppe
Published: July 2022

The vaccination campaign and the new SARS-CoV-2 variants may have changed the clinical profile and outcomes of patients admitted to sub-intensive unit care. We conducted a retrospective study aimed to compare the clinical and radiological features of unvaccinated critical COVID-19 patients hospitalized during the last pandemic wave (December 2021–February 2022, No-Vax group) and before starting the vaccination campaign (March–December 2020, Pre-Vax group). The No-Vax group was also compared with vaccinated patients of the same pandemic wave (Vax group). With respect to the Pre-Vax group, the No-Vax group contained a higher percentage of smokers (p = 0.0007) and a lower prevalence of males (p = 0.0003). At admission, the No-Vax patients showed both a higher CT score of pneumonia and a worse severe respiratory failure (p < 0.0001). In the No-Vax group, a higher percentage of deaths occurred, though this was not significant. In comparison with the No-Vax group, the Vax patients were older (p = 0.0097), with a higher Charlson comorbidity index (p < 0.0001) and a significantly lower HRCT score (p = 0.0015). The percentage of deaths was not different between the two groups. The No-Vax patients showed a more severe disease in comparison with the Pre-Vax patients, and were younger and had fewer comorbidities than the Vax patients.
Characterization of Bordetella pertussis Strains Isolated from India
Authors: Alai Shweta , Gautam Manish , Palkar Sonali , Oswal Jitendra , Gairola Sunil , Dhotre Dhiraj P.
Published: July 2022

Despite high level vaccination and the availability of two different types of vaccines, whole cell (wP) and acellular vaccines (aP), the resurgence of pertussis has been reported in many countries. Antigenic variation within circulating and vaccine strains is the most documented reason reported for the resurgence of pertussis. Research on genetic divergence among circulating and vaccine strains has largely been reported in countries using aP vaccines. There are inadequate data available for antigenic variation in B. pertussis from wP-using countries. India has used wP for more than 40 years in their primary immunization program. The present study reports five clinical isolates of B. pertussis from samples of pediatric patients with pertussis symptoms observed in India. Genotypic and phenotypic characterization of clinical isolates were performed by serotyping, genotyping, whole genome analyses and comparative genomics. All clinical isolates showed serotype 1, 2 and 3 based on the presence of fimbriae 2 and 3. Genotyping showed genetic similarities in allele types for five aP genes within vaccine strains and clinical isolates reported from India. The presence of the ptxP3 genotype was observed in two out of five clinical isolates. Whole-genome sequencing was performed for clinical isolates using the hybrid strategy of combining Illumina (short reads) and oxford nanopore (long reads) sequencing strategies. Clinical isolates (n = 5) and vaccine strains (n = 7) genomes of B. pertussis from India were compared with 744 B. pertussis closed genomes available in the public databases. The phylogenomic comparison of B. pertussis genomes reported from India will be advantageous in better understanding pertussis resurgence reported globally with respect to pathogen adaptation.
Gut Microbes and Neuropathology: Is There a Causal Nexus?
Authors: Dinan Katherine , Dinan Timothy G.
Published: July 2022

The gut microbiota is a virtual organ which produces a myriad of molecules that the brain and other organs require. Humans and microbes are in a symbiotic relationship, we feed the microbes, and in turn, they provide us with essential molecules. Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes phyla account for around 80% of the total human gut microbiota, and approximately 1000 species of bacteria have been identified in the human gut. In adults, the main factors influencing microbiota structure are diet, exercise, stress, disease and medications. In this narrative review, we explore the involvement of the gut microbiota in Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis and autism, as these are such high-prevalence disorders. We focus on preclinical studies that increase the understanding of disease pathophysiology. We examine the potential for targeting the gut microbiota in the development of novel therapies and the limitations of the currently published clinical studies. We conclude that while the field shows enormous promise, further large-scale studies are required if a causal link between these disorders and gut microbes is to be definitively established.
Formulation and Characterization of O/W Nanoemulsions of Hemp Seed Oil for Protection from Steatohepatitis: Analysis of Hepatic Free Fatty Acids and Oxidation Markers
Authors: Qushawy Mona , Mortagi Yasmin , Alshaman Reem , Mokhtar Hatem I. , Hisham Fatma Azzahraa , Alattar Abdullah , Liang Dong , Enan Eman T. , Eltrawy Amira H. , Alamrani Zainab H. , Alshmrani Sara A. , Zaitone Sawsan A.
Published: July 2022

Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a common type of metabolic liver disease which is characterized by fatty changes associated with hepatocyte injury, lobular inflammation, and/or liver fibrosis. Nanoemulsions are kinetically stable colloidal systems characterized by small droplet size. Hemp seed oil is a natural oil derived from Cannabis sativa seeds. The current study was designed to formulate nanoemulsion preparations of hemp seed oil with promising enhanced biological activity against high fat (HF) diet induced NASH in rats. Four nanoemulsion formulas (NEFs) were formulated based on high-pressure homogenization technique and evaluated for droplet size, zeta potential (ZP), polydispersity index (PDI), electrical conductivity, pH, and viscosity, as well as the preparation stability. The best NEF was selected to perform an in vivo rat study; selection was based on the smallest droplet size and highest physical stability. Results showed that NEF#4 showed the best physiochemical characters among the other preparations. Twenty male rats were assigned to four groups as follows: normal, NASH control, NASH + hemp seed oil and NASH + hemp seed oil NEF4. The rats were tested for body weight (BWt) change, insulin resistance (IR) and hepatic pathology. The hemp seed NEF#4 protected against NASH progression in rats and decreased the % of BWt gain compared to the original Hemp seed oil. NEF#4 of Hemp seed oil showed greater protective activity against experimental NASH and IR in rats. Hence, we can consider the nanoemulsion preparations as a useful tool for enhancing the biological action of the hemp seed oil, and further studies are warranted for application of this technique for preparing natural oils aiming at enhancing their activities.
The Effect of Non-Uniform Irradiation on Laser Photovoltaics: Experiments and Simulations
Authors: Wang Hao , Wang Jun , Yang Huomu , Deng Guoliang , Yang Qingdong , Niu Ruijun , Gou Yudan
Published: July 2022

Laser wireless power transmission (LWPT) has various applications for mobile devices and specific equipment under extreme conditions. The light spot received by laser photovoltaics is usually non-uniform, resulting in system efficiency reduction. The output characteristics of 1 × 1 cm2 GaAs laser photovoltaics were measured under various illuminated areas. The experimental results showed that the efficiency decreased from 40.8% at the full irradiated area to 26.7% at 1/10 irradiated area. Furthermore, the drop in short-circuit current was the main factor for decreasing the efficiency. A three-dimensional (3D) finite element model was used to investigate this factor. The simulation results indicated that non-uniform irradiation could increase the total non-radiative recombination rate. The recombination rate of the absorption region increased from 6.0 × 1020 cm−3/s to 2.5 × 1021 cm−3/s, reducing the short-circuit current.
Salinity Stress Tolerance in Potato Cultivars: Evidence from Physiological and Biochemical Traits
Authors: Sanwal Satish Kumar , Kumar Parveen , Kesh Hari , Gupta Vijai Kishor , Kumar Arvind , Kumar Ashwani , Meena Babu Lal , Colla Giuseppe , Cardarelli Mariateresa , Kumar Pradeep
Published: July 2022

Salinity stress is a major constraint to sustainable crop production due to its adverse impact on crop growth, physiology, and productivity. As potato is the fourth most important staple food crop, enhancing its productivity is necessary to ensure food security for the ever-increasing population. Identification and cultivation of salt-tolerant potato genotypes are imperative mitigating strategies to cope with stress conditions. For this purpose, fifty-three varieties of potato were screened under control and salt stress conditions for growth and yield-related traits during 2020. Salt stress caused a mean reduction of 14.49%, 8.88%, and 38.75% in plant height, stem numbers, and tuber yield, respectively in comparison to control. Based on percent yield reduction, the genotypes were classified as salt-tolerant (seven genotypes), moderately tolerant (thirty-seven genotypes), and salt-sensitive genotypes (nine genotypes). Seven salt-tolerant and nine salt-sensitive genotypes were further evaluated to study their responses to salinity on targeted physiological, biochemical, and ionic traits during 2021. Salt stress significantly reduced the relative water content (RWC), membrane stability index (MSI), photosynthesis rate (Pn), transpiration rate (E), stomatal conductance, and K+/Na+ ratio in all the sixteen genotypes; however, this reduction was more pronounced in salt-sensitive genotypes compared to salt-tolerant ones. The better performance of salt-tolerant genotypes under salt stress was due to the strong antioxidant defense system as evidenced by greater activity of super oxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POX), catalase (CAT), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and better osmotic adjustment (accumulation of proline). The stepwise regression approach identified plant height, stem numbers, relative water content, proline content, H2O2, POX, tuber K+/Na+, and membrane stability index as predominant traits for tuber yield, suggesting their significant role in alleviating salt stress. The identified salt-tolerant genotypes could be used in hybridization programs for the development of new high-yielding and salt-tolerant breeding lines. Further, these genotypes can be used to understand the genetic and molecular mechanism of salt tolerance in potato.
Authentication of Hippophae rhamnoides ssp. sinensis and ssp. mongolica Based on Single Nucleotide Polymorphism at Ribosomal DNA and Their Vitamin Content Analysis
Authors: Piao Xiangmin , Mohanan Padmanaban , Anandhapadmanaban Gokulanathan , Ahn Jong Chan , Park Jin Kyu , Yang Deok Chun , Kwak Gi-young , Wang Yingping
Published: July 2022

Hippophae rhamnoides widely known as sea buckthorn berries (SB) are rich in vitamins and phytonutrients. The subspecies ssp. sinensis and ssp. mongolica are highly valued for their medicinal properties and vitamin contents, hence domesticated widely across Eurasia and Southeast Asia. Due to the frequent usage of these two subspecies, accurate identification is required to prevent economically motivated adulteration. In this study, we report the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) based molecular markers to easily distinguish these two subspecies at 45S nrDNA region. From the determined 45S rDNA region, we designed two primers (5′ sinensis and 5′ mongolica) and developed a multiplex PCR profile. The developed primers effectively distinguished the sea buckthorn subspecies in commercial products as well. Along with the development of subspecies specific primers, we have profiled vitamin contents from H. rhamnoides ssp. sinensis and ssp. mongolica and found ascorbic acid and riboflavin contents were high in both ssp. sinensis and spp. mongolica, yet the content of folic acid was high only in ssp. mongolica. Thus, we provide species specific primers and vitamin profile as an effective authentication of H. rhamnoides.
Comparative Analysis of Policosanols Related to Growth Times from the Seedlings of Various Korean Oat (Avena sativa L.) Cultivars and Screening for Adenosine 5′-Monophosphate-Activated Protein Kinase (AMPK) Activation
Authors: Lee Han-Gyeol , Woo So-Yeun , Ahn Hyung-Jae , Yang Ji-Yeong , Lee Mi-Ja , Kim Hyun-Young , Song Seung-Yeob , Lee Jin-Hwan , Seo Woo-Duck
Published: July 2022

The objectives of this research were to evaluate the policosanol profiles and adenosine-5′-monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) properties in the seedlings of Korean oat (Avena sativa L.) cultivars at different growth times. Nine policosanols in the silylated hexane extracts were detected using GC-MS and their contents showed considerable differences; specifically, hexacosanol (6) exhibited the highest composition, constituting 88–91% of the total average content. Moreover, the average hexacosanol (6) contents showed remarkable variations of 337.8 (5 days) → 416.8 (7 days) → 458.9 (9 days) → 490.0 (11 days) → 479.2 (13 days) → 427.0 mg/100 g (15 days). The seedlings collected at 11 days showed the highest average policosanol content (541.7 mg/100 g), with the lowest content being 383.4 mg/100 g after 5 days. Interestingly, policosanols from oat seedlings grown for 11 days induced the most prevalent phenotype of AMPK activation in HepG2 cells, indicating that policosanols are an excellent AMPK activator.
Improvement in the Cynaropicrin, Caffeoylquinic Acid and Flavonoid Content of Globe Artichokes with Gibberellic Acid Treatment
Authors: Lombardo Sara , Scavo Aurelio , Pandino Gaetano , Cantone Marco , Mauromicale Giovanni
Published: July 2022

Increasing interest has been shown in globe artichoke for pharmaceutical and food applications as a significant source of polyphenol compounds. With the aim to improve the polyphenol profile of globe artichoke, an open-field experiment is set up to study the effect of gibberellic acid (GA3) application on the cynaropicrin, caffeoylquinic acid and flavone levels of three genotypes (‘Apollo’, ‘Tema 2000’ and ‘Violet de Provence’), along with crop earliness, yield and bio-morphological plant response. The results indicate that GA3 treatment is more effective in terms of total polyphenol and caffeoylquinic acid accumulation in ‘Apollo’, regardless of the plant parts analyzed. In particular, the leaves of ‘Apollo’ were the richest source of luteolin derivatives of 5-O- and 1,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acids. On average across the genotypes, GA3 treatment favored the accumulation of apigenin derivatives in the floral stem, and caffeoylquinic acid and cynaropicrin in the leaves. From the perspective of yield, GA3 treatment allowed us to anticipate the first harvest in each genotype, while either maintaining (‘Apollo’, ‘Violet de Provence’) or enhancing (‘Tema 2000’) the fresh weight yield. In conclusion, this study could be interesting for promoting GA3 usage to ameliorate the globe artichoke nutraceutical profile and to anticipate the first harvest for fresh marketing without significant yield losses.
Co-Inoculation with Azospirillum brasilense and Bradyrhizobium sp. Enhances Nitrogen Uptake and Yield in Field-Grown Cowpea and Did Not Change N-Fertilizer Recovery
Authors: Galindo Fernando Shintate , Pagliari Paulo Humberto , da Silva Edson Cabral , Silva Vinicius Martins , Fernandes Guilherme Carlos , Rodrigues Willian Lima , Céu Elaine Garcia Oliveira , de Lima Bruno Horschut , Jalal Arshad , Muraoka Takashi , Buzetti Salatiér , Lavres José , Teixeira Filho Marcelo Carvalho Minhoto
Published: July 2022

This study was designed to investigate the effects of Azospirillum brasilense and Bradyrhizobium sp. co-inoculation coupled with N application on soil N levels and N in plants (total N, nitrate N-NO3− and ammonium N-NH4+), photosynthetic pigments, cowpea plant biomass and grain yield. An isotopic technique was employed to evaluate 15N fertilizer recovery and derivation. Field trials involved two inoculations—(i) single Bradyrhizobium sp. and (ii) Bradyrhizobium sp. + A. brasilense co-inoculation—and four N fertilizer rates (0, 20, 40 and 80 kg ha−1). The co-inoculation of Bradyrhizobium sp. + A. brasilense increased cowpea N uptake (an increase from 10 to 14%) and grain yield (an average increase of 8%) compared to the standard inoculation with Bradyrhizobium sp. specifically derived from soil and other sources without affecting 15N fertilizer recovery. There is no need for the supplementation of N via mineral fertilizers when A. brasilense co-inoculation is performed in a cowpea crop. However, even in the case of an NPK basal fertilization, applied N rates should remain below 20 kg N ha−1 when co-inoculation with Bradyrhizobium sp. and A. brasilense is performed.
Euphorbia characias Extract: Inhibition of Skin Aging-Related Enzymes and Nanoformulation
Authors: Pintus Francesca , Floris Sonia , Fais Antonella , Era Benedetta , Porcedda Clara , Tuberoso Carlo Ignazio Giovanni , Caddeo Carla
Published: July 2022

Plant extracts have long served as important sources of bioactive compounds, and they are currently the focus of extensive research in the development of novel preventive and therapeutic strategies. However, their health benefits are often limited by low bioavailability. Nanoparticle delivery systems can represent a solution to such limitations. Euphorbia characias is a Mediterranean shrub known to have biological activities, such as inhibiting tyrosinase and showing a potential role as a skin-whitening agent. In this study, an ethanolic extract from E. characias leaves was tested for its inhibitory activity on skin-related enzymes, such as elastase, collagenase, and hyaluronidase, and for sun protection factors. Moreover, the extract was formulated in phospholipid vesicles to improve its local bioavailability and applicability. The vesicles were characterized by size, surface charge, storage stability, and entrapment efficiency. The nanoformulation was also evaluated for antioxidant activity and assayed for cytocompatibility and anti-tyrosinase activity in melanoma cells. Our findings demonstrated that the extract has a photo-protective effect and enzyme-inhibitory properties. E. characias nanoformulation was also cytocompatible and improved the extract’s activity in the cells, suggesting a potential skin application for antimelanogenic treatments and confirming the key role of nanotechnological approaches to maximize plant extract’s potentialities.