bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Spectrum of Visual Illusions and Other Minor Hallucinations in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease in Lithuania
Authors: Jucevičiūtė Neringa , Balnytė Renata , Laucius Ovidijus
Published: April 2024

Background and Objectives: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is associated with various non-motor symptoms, including minor hallucinations, comprising visual illusions and presence and passage hallucinations. Despite their occurrence, even in newly diagnosed PD patients, data regarding the prevalence and characteristics of minor hallucinations, visual illusions in particular, remain limited. The aim of this study was to address this knowledge gap by assessing the prevalence of minor hallucinations in PD patients, with a focus on visual illusions. Materials and Methods: In this prospective pilot study, we enrolled 35 PD patients without dementia and 35 age- and gender-matched PD-unaffected individuals. Cognitive function was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, clinical data were collected, and all subjects were assessed via questionnaires regarding 20 types of visual illusions and other minor hallucinations. Results: The prevalence of minor hallucinations was significantly higher among PD patients compared to controls (45.7% vs. 11.4%, p = 0.003). PD patients reported visual illusions and presence hallucinations more frequently than the controls (37.1% vs. 8.6% and 22.9% vs. 2.9%, p = 0.009 and p = 0.028, respectively), with no significant difference in passage hallucinations (20% vs. 8.6%, p = 0.306). In the PD group, the most frequently observed visual illusions were complex visual illusions, kinetopsia, and pelopsia; the latter was also the most common visual illusion in the control group. PD patients experiencing visual illusions were more likely to report presence hallucinations compared to patients without visual illusions (53.8% vs. 4.5%, p = 0.002); no significant differences in other clinical characteristics were found. Conclusions: Minor hallucinations are a common phenomenon among PD patients without dementia, with a higher prevalence than among healthy controls. Visual illusions are the most prevalent type of minor hallucinations, affecting more than a third of PD patients, with complex visual illusions, kinetopsia, and pelopsia being the most frequently reported types.
Nutritional and Lifestyle Features in a Mediterranean Cohort: An Epidemiological Instrument for Categorizing Metabotypes Based on a Computational Algorithm
Authors: García-Perea Aquilino , Fernández-Cruz Edwin , de la O-Pascual Victor , Gonzalez-Zorzano Eduardo , Moreno-Aliaga María J. , Tur Josep A. , Martinez J. Alfredo
Published: April 2024

Background and Objectives: Modern classification and categorization of individuals’ health requires personalized variables such as nutrition, physical activity, lifestyle, and medical data through advanced analysis and clustering methods involving machine learning tools. The objective of this project was to categorize Mediterranean dwellers’ health factors and design metabotypes to provide personalized well-being in order to develop professional implementation tools in addition to characterizing nutritional and lifestyle features in such populations. Materials and Methods: A two-phase observational study was conducted by the Pharmacists Council to identify Spanish nutritional and lifestyle characteristics. Adults over 18 years of age completed questionnaires on general lifestyle habits, dietary patterns (FFQ, MEDAS-17 p), physical activity (IPAQ), quality of life (SF-12), and validated well-being indices (LS7, MEDLIFE, HHS, MHL). Subsequently, exploratory factor, clustering, and random forest analysis methods were conducted to objectively define the metabotypes considering population determinants. Results: A total of 46.4% of the sample (n = 5496) had moderate-to-high adherence to the Mediterranean diet (>8 points), while 71% of the participants declared that they had moderate physical activity. Almost half of the volunteers had a good self-perception of health (49.9%). Regarding lifestyle index, population LS7 showed a fair cardiovascular health status (7.9 ± 1.7), as well as moderate quality of life by MEDLIFE (9.3 ± 2.6) and MHL scores (2.4 ± 0.8). In addition, five metabotype models were developed based on 26 variables: Westernized Millennial (28.6%), healthy (25.1%), active Mediterranean (16.5%), dysmetabolic/pre-morbid (11.5%), and metabolically vulnerable/pro-morbid (18.3%). Conclusions: The support of tools related to precision nutrition and lifestyle integrates well-being characteristics and contributes to reducing the impact of unhealthy lifestyle habits with practical implications for primary care. Combining lifestyle, metabolic, and quality of life traits will facilitate personalized precision interventions and the implementation of targeted public health policies.
A Comparative Study of the Life Cycle Inventory of Thermally Sprayed WC-12Co Coatings
Authors: Rúa Ramirez Edwin , Silvello Alessio , Torres Diaz Edwin , Vaz Rodolpho Fernando , Cano Irene Garcia
Published: April 2024

In this research, a life cycle inventory (LCI) is developed for tungsten carbide–cobalt (WC-Co) coatings deposited via atmospheric plasma spray (APS), high-velocity oxy-fuel (HVOF), and cold gas spray (CGS) techniques. For the APS process, a mixture of Ar/H2 was used, while the HVOF process was fueled by H2. The carrier gas for CGS was N2. This study aims to determine and quantify the inputs (consumption of inputs and materials) and outputs (emissions to air, soil, water, and waste generation) that could be used in the life cycle analysis (LCA) of these processes. The dataset produced will allow users to estimate the environmental impacts of these processes using WC-Co feedstock powder. To obtain a complete and detailed LCI, measurements of electrical energy, gas, WC-CO powder, and alumina powder consumption were performed (the use of alumina was for sandblasting). Furthermore, emissions like carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and noise were also measured. This practice allowed us to determine the input/output process quantities. For the first time, it was possible to obtain LCI data for the APS, HVOF, and CGS deposition processes using WC-12Co as a feedstock powder, allowing access to the LCI data to a broader audience. Comparisons were made between APS, HVOF, and CGS processes in terms of consumption and emissions. It was determined that the APS process consumes more electrical energy and that its deposition efficiency is higher than the other processes, while the HVOF process consumes a large amount of H2, which makes the process costlier. CGS has comparatively low electricity consumption, high N2 consumption, and low deposition efficiency. The APS, HVOF, and CGS processes analyzed in this study do not emit CO, and CO2 emissions are negligible.
Sensitivity Analysis of the Square Cup Forming Process Using PAWN and Sobol Indices
Authors: Parreira Tomás G. , Rodrigues Diogo C. , Oliveira Marta C. , Sakharova Nataliya A. , Prates Pedro A. , Pereira André F. G.
Published: April 2024

This study investigates the sensitivity of the square cup forming process. It analyses how the uncertainties in the material properties, friction and process conditions affect the results of the square cup, such as equivalent plastic strain, geometry change, thickness reduction, punch force and springback. The cup flange and the die curvature region are identified as highly affected areas, while the cup bottom is least affected by the uncertainties. Two sensitivity analysis techniques, PAWN and Sobol indices, are compared. In particular, the study shows that PAWN indices require a significantly smaller number of simulations than Sobol indices, making them a more efficient choice for sensitivity analysis. While both PAWN and Sobol indices generally give comparable results, discrepancies arise in the analysis of springback, where PAWN indices show superior accuracy, particularly when dealing with multimodal distributions. This observation highlights the importance of selecting the appropriate sensitivity analysis method based on the nature of the data being analysed. These results provide insights for optimizing stamping processes to reduce production time and costs.
Poisson’s Ratio of Selected Metallic Materials in the Elastic–Plastic Region
Authors: Chmelko Vladimír , Koščo Tomáš , Šulko Miroslav , Margetin Matúš , Škriniarová Jaroslava
Published: April 2024

Poisson’s ratio is one of the fundamental characteristics in the material models that are used. In engineering practice, its values are assumed to be constant in the elastic and in the plastic region. In this paper, the conventionally used values of this number for steel materials and aluminum alloys are confronted with experimental results. By using non-contact strain measurements with the DIC (digital image correlation) method, the evolution of the Poisson ratio value in the regions of transition from the elastic to the plastic region as well as in the regions of large plastic deformations was documented. The obtained experimental results are graphically compared using the proposed strain scaling. The gradient of the Poisson ratio changes in the vicinity of the yield stress is significant, indicating the need for a refinement of the material models in this region. Deviations from the conventionally used value of this number were found in the large plastic deformation region. In conclusion, a possible approach for improving the accuracy of simulations in FEM softwares was formulated.
Solid-State Synthesis of SiC Particle-Reinforced AZ91D Composites: Microstructure and Reinforcement Mechanisms
Authors: Shi Qian , Cui Pengxing , Hu Maoliang , Wang Fei , Xu Hongyu , Zhou Xiaobing
Published: April 2024

Safe and efficient recycling of industrially generated machined chips is a high-priority technological issue. In this study, the effect of SiC particles (SiCp) on the microstructure and mechanical properties of SiCp/AZ91D composites is systematically analyzed, and the reinforcement mechanism of SiCp on composites is investigated. Different contents of SiCp/AZ91D composites are fabricated by solid-state synthesis. The results show that the incorporation of SiCp refined the grains of SiCp/AZ91D composites, which is related to the uniform distribution of SiCp at the grain boundaries. The strong bonding of SiCp with the AZ91D matrix inhibited the generation and extension of cracks, which led to the simultaneous increase in the yield strength (YS) and elongation (EL) of the SiCp/AZ91D composites. The mechanical properties of the 3 wt.% SiCp/AZ91D composites are the most superior, with an average grain size, Vickers hardness, ultimate tensile strength (UTS), YS, and EL of 6.69 ± 4.48 μm, 89.5 ± 2.5 HV, 341 ± 11 MPa, 172 ± 8 MPa, and 4.43 ± 0.18%, respectively. The reinforcement mechanisms of SiCp/AZ91D composites are mainly grain refinement and dislocation strengthening. Solid-state synthesis is an effective method for recycling magnesium alloy chips.
Numerical Simulation of Sand Casting of Stainless Steel Pump Impeller
Authors: Jurković Karlo , Schauperl Zdravko , Šolić Sanja , Bauer Branko
Published: April 2024

This paper investigates the casting defects of a stainless steel pump impeller manufactured through the sand casting process. The material characterization of austenitic steel AISI 316L was initially carried out, which examined the chemical composition of the casting and its microstructure. The next step was to determine the cause of the casting defects using numerical simulations. The numerical simulations were performed using ProCAST software (Version 18.0). Initial results of the filling and solidification simulations were conducted using the parameters employed in the actual casting process, revealing casting defects in corresponding locations. The casting process was subsequently modified to achieve improved results. This involved reconstructing the gating system, redesigning the riser, and incorporating a cylindrical chiller. The results show that the modified casting process significantly reduces the occurrence of defects in the final product. The study provides useful insights into the analysis and modification of the casting process for stainless steel pump impellers produced through sand casting. The results can help improve the quality of such products and reduce production costs associated with casting defects.
Pancreatic Beta Cell Function in Infants Varies by Maternal Weight
Authors: Staimez Lisa R. , Dutta Anubrati , Beyh Yara S. , Gupta Ruby , Noule Hari Krishna , Sapna Vyakaranam , Deepa Kothapally , Stein Aryeh D. , Narayan K.M. Venkat , Prabhakaran Dorairaj , Kalpana Basany , Prabhakaran Poornima
Published: April 2024

The Asian Indian Beta Cell function (ABCs) in Infants Study examined the associations of maternal weight on infant pancreatic beta cell function across 7 months postpartum. Pregnant women aged 18–35 years were recruited in Hyderabad, India. Women were classified by first trimester weight as underweight (UW), BMI < 18.5 kg/m2; normal weight (NW), BMI 18.5–22.9 kg/m2; or overweight (OW), BMI 23.0 through <28.5 kg/m2. At age > 7 months, infants had an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT, 1.75 g glucose/kg bodyweight) following a 3 h fast. Infant blood samples were assayed for C-peptide and glucose. Infant beta cell function (HOMA2-B; disposition index, DI) and insulin resistance (HOMA2-IR) were compared across maternal weight groups. Mothers (UW n = 63; NW n = 43; OW n = 29) had similar age at delivery and second trimester 50 g glucose challenge test results. Cord HOMA2-B values were 51% greater for IUW (83.5, SD 55.2) and 44% greater for IOW (79.9, SD 60.8) vs. INW (55.4, SD 51.5), forming a U-shaped relationship between maternal weight and HOMA2-B. No qualitative differences in HOMA2-IR were found at birth. However, at 7 months postpartum, HOMA2-IR changed most within IUW (−64% median reduction) and changed the least in IOW (−7% median reduction). At seven months postpartum, DI was higher in IUW vs. the other groups (geometric mean IUW 1.9 SD 2.5; INW 1.3 SD 2.6 or vs. IOW mean 1.2 SD 3.7), reflecting a +49% difference in DI. Evidence from this study illustrates adaptations in the pancreatic functional response of infants associated with the maternal nutritional environment.
Accumulation of Non-Pathological Liver Fat Is Associated with the Loss of Glyoxalase I Activity in Humans
Authors: Peter Andreas , Schleicher Erwin , Kliemank Elisabeth , Szendroedi Julia , Königsrainer Alfred , Häring Hans-Ulrich , Nawroth Peter P. , Fleming Thomas
Published: April 2024

The underlying molecular mechanisms for the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) and its progression to advanced liver diseases remain elusive. Glyoxalase 1 (Glo1) loss, leading to elevated methylglyoxal (MG) and dicarbonyl stress, has been implicated in various diseases, including obesity-related conditions. This study aimed to investigate changes in the glyoxalase system in individuals with non-pathological liver fat. Liver biopsies were obtained from 30 individuals with a narrow range of BMI (24.6–29.8 kg/m2). Whole-body insulin sensitivity was assessed using HOMA-IR. Liver biopsies were analyzed for total triglyceride content, Glo1 and Glo2 mRNA, protein expression, and activity. Liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry determined liver dicarbonyl content and oxidation and glycation biomarkers. Liver Glo1 activity showed an inverse correlation with HOMA-IR and liver triglyceride content, but not BMI. Despite reduced Glo1 activity, no associations were found with elevated liver dicarbonyls or glycation markers. A sex dimorphism was observed in Glo1, with females exhibiting significantly lower liver Glo1 protein expression and activity, and higher liver MG-H1 content compared to males. This study demonstrates that increasing liver fat, even within a non-pathological range, is associated with reduced Glo1 activity.
Review of Biosensors Based on Plasmonic-Enhanced Processes in the Metallic and Meta-Material-Supported Nanostructures
Authors: Verma Sneha , Pathak Akhilesh Kumar , Rahman B. M. Azizur
Published: April 2024

Surface plasmons, continuous and cumulative electron vibrations confined to metal-dielectric interfaces, play a pivotal role in aggregating optical fields and energies on nanostructures. This confinement exploits the intrinsic subwavelength nature of their spatial profile, significantly enhancing light–matter interactions. Metals, semiconductors, and 2D materials exhibit plasmonic resonances at diverse wavelengths, spanning from ultraviolet (UV) to far infrared, dictated by their unique properties and structures. Surface plasmons offer a platform for various light–matter interaction mechanisms, capitalizing on the orders-of-magnitude enhancement of the electromagnetic field within plasmonic structures. This enhancement has been substantiated through theoretical, computational, and experimental studies. In this comprehensive review, we delve into the plasmon-enhanced processes on metallic and metamaterial-based sensors, considering factors such as geometrical influences, resonating wavelengths, chemical properties, and computational methods. Our exploration extends to practical applications, encompassing localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR)-based planar waveguides, polymer-based biochip sensors, and LSPR-based fiber sensors. Ultimately, we aim to provide insights and guidelines for the development of next-generation, high-performance plasmonic technological devices.
Simultaneous Measurement of Local Pulse Wave Velocities in Radial Arteries Using a Soft Sensor Based on the Fiber Bragg Grating Technique
Authors: Wang Jing , Wang Zhukun , Zhang Zijun , Li Peiyun , Pan Han , Ren Yong , Hou Tuo , Wang Chengbo , Kwong Chiew-Foong , Zhang Bei , Yang Sen , Bie Jing
Published: April 2024

Arterial stiffness has been proved to be an important parameter in the evaluation of cardiovascular diseases, and Pulse Wave Velocity (PWV) is a strong indicator of arterial stiffness. Compared to regional PWV (PWV among different arteries), local PWV (PWV within a single artery) outstands in providing higher precision in indicating arterial properties, as regional PWVs are highly affected by multiple parameters, e.g., variations in blood vessel lengths due to individual differences, and multiple reflection effects on the pulse waveform. However, local PWV is less-developed due to its high dependency on the temporal resolution in synchronized signals with usually low signal-to-noise ratios. This paper presents a method for the noninvasive simultaneous measurement of two local PWVs in both left and right radial arteries based on the Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) technique via correlation analysis of the pulse pairs at the fossa cubitalis and at the wrist. Based on the measurements of five male volunteers at the ages of 19 to 21 years old, the average left radial PWV ranged from 9.44 m/s to 12.35 m/s and the average right radial PWV ranged from 11.50 m/s to 14.83 m/s. What is worth mentioning is that a stable difference between the left and right radial PWVs was observed for each volunteer, ranging from 2.27 m/s to 3.04 m/s. This method enables the dynamic analysis of local PWVs and analysis of their features among different arteries, which will benefit the diagnosis of early-stage arterial stiffening and may bring more insights into the diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases.
Evaluation of a Reverse Transcription-Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR)-Based Microneutralization Assay for Assessing Clinical Human Cytomegalovirus-Neutralizing Antibody Activity
Authors: Yu Jiaao , Hasing Maria E. , Preiksaitis Jutta K. , Pang Xiaoli
Published: April 2024

Development of a vaccine for human cytomegalovirus (hCMV) is critical because of the severe consequences of infection in congenitally infected newborns and immunocompromised patients. The assessment of hCMV-neutralizing antibody activity is crucial for vaccine development. This study evaluated a RT-qPCR assay targeting the immediate-early gene transcript of hCMV for determining microneutralizing antibody activity. The assay was evaluated for sensitivity, specificity, and precision using endotheliotropic clinical isolate VR1814 that infects fibroblasts, epithelial, and endothelial cells. The RT-qPCR-based neutralization assay was compared with an immunostaining-based neutralization assay using virions present in hCMV-positive urine, saliva, and breast-milk samples. Our results showed that hCMV replication was detectable at 20 h post-infection with a limit of detection of 1 infectious units (IU)/reaction. The RT-qPCR assay had a dynamic range of 1 to 1.0 × 104 IU/reaction, with coefficients of variation ranging from 0.94% to 15.08%. The RT-qPCR results were in high agreement with the immunostaining assay for hCMV-antibody neutralization assessment. Overall, the RT-qPCR neutralization assay is a reliable, rapid, efficient, and sensitive alternative method for evaluating hCMV-neutralizing activity in vitro.
Detection of SARS-CoV-2 in Wastewater Associated with Scientific Stations in Antarctica and Possible Risk for Wildlife
Authors: González-Aravena Marcelo , Galbán-Malagón Cristóbal , Castro-Nallar Eduardo , Barriga Gonzalo P. , Neira Víctor , Krüger Lucas , Adell Aiko D. , Olivares-Pacheco Jorge
Published: April 2024

Before December 2020, Antarctica had remained free of COVID-19 cases. The main concern during the pandemic was the limited health facilities available at Antarctic stations to deal with the disease as well as the potential impact of SARS-CoV-2 on Antarctic wildlife through reverse zoonosis. In December 2020, 60 cases emerged in Chilean Antarctic stations, disrupting the summer campaign with ongoing isolation needs. The SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in the wastewater of several scientific stations. In Antarctica, treated wastewater is discharged directly into the seawater. No studies currently address the recovery of infectious virus particles from treated wastewater, but their presence raises the risk of infecting wildlife and initiating new replication cycles. This study highlights the initial virus detection in wastewater from Antarctic stations, identifying viral RNA via RT-qPCR targeting various genomic regions. The virus’s RNA was found in effluent from two wastewater plants at Maxwell Bay and O’Higgins Station on King George Island and the Antarctic Peninsula, respectively. This study explores the potential for the reverse zoonotic transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from humans to Antarctic wildlife due to the direct release of viral particles into seawater. The implications of such transmission underscore the need for continued vigilance and research.
Analysis of Leaf and Soil Nutrients, Microorganisms and Metabolome in the Growth Period of Idesia polycarpa Maxim
Authors: Zhang Tao , Wang Shasha , Rana Sohel , Wang Yanmei , Liu Zhen , Cai Qifei , Geng Xiaodong , Yuan Qiupeng , Yang Yi , Miao Chao , Xue Xiaoyan , Dai Li , Li Zhi
Published: April 2024

Idesia polycarpa Maxim is an emerging oil plant species. Understanding its microecological characteristics and internal mechanisms can serve as a basis for field management and the screening and application of growth-promoting bacteria during the growth phase of young trees. This study used three-year-old young I. polycarpa to analyze the tree’s root morphology, soil, and leaf nutrient status variations from May to October. In addition, differences in the rhizosphere soil, leaf metabolites, and microorganisms were observed. The results showed that, from May to October, the total nitrogen (TN) in the soil significantly decreased, whereas the TN, total potassium (TK), and total phosphorus (TP) in the leaves differed (p < 0.05). The leaf-dominant bacteria changed from Pseudomonadota to Firmicutes phylum. In addition, the relative abundance of soil and leaf-dominant bacteria decreased. The study found that the soil and leaf differential metabolites were mainly sugars and phenolic acids. The soil bacterial community showed a significant correlation with soil pH, available potassium (AK), available phosphorus (AP), and TN (p < 0.05). Further, the soil fungal community was significantly correlated with pH and AK (p < 0.001). TP, pH, and TK were the main factors influencing the leaf bacterial community, while the leaf fungal community was significantly correlated with five factors, including pH, TC, and TN. The root morphology was also mainly affected by pH, Pedomicrobium sp., Talaromyces sp., Penicillium sp., and D-Mannitol 2.
Pathological Responses in Asian House Shrews (Suncus murinus) to the Naturally Acquired Orientia tsutsugamushi Infection
Authors: Balasubramanian Tharani , Sambath Uma , Radja Ranjana Devi , Thangaraj Gowdham , Devaraju Panneer , Srinivasan Lakshmy , Srinivasan Pushpa , Nair Madhavan Gopalakrishnan , Raja Kumar , Lakkawar Avinash Warundeo , Soong Lynn
Published: April 2024

Scrub typhus is a re-emerging disease caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi, transmitted by mites belonging to the family Trombiculidae. Humans and rodents acquire the infection by the bite of larval mites/chiggers. Suncus murinus, the Asian house shrew, has been reported to harbor the vector mites and has been naturally infected with O. tsutsugamushi. The present study aimed to localize and record O. tsutsugamushi in the tissues and the host response in shrews naturally infected with O. tsutsugamushi. Sheehan’s modified May–Grunwald Giemsa staining was carried out in 365 tissues from 87 animals, and rickettsiae were documented in 87 tissues from 20 animals. Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining, using polyclonal antibodies raised against selected epitopes of the 56-kDa antigen, was carried out, and 81/87 tissue sections were tested positive for O. tsutsugamushi. By IHC, in addition to the endothelium, the pathogen was also demonstrated by IHC in cardiomyocytes, the bronchiolar epithelium, stroma of the lungs, hepatocytes, the bile duct epithelium, the epithelium and goblet cells of intestine, the tubular epithelium of the kidney, and splenic macrophages. Furthermore, the pathogen was confirmed by real-time PCR using blood (n = 20) and tissues (n = 81) of the IHC-positive animals. None of the blood samples and only 22 out of 81 IHC-positive tissues were tested positive by PCR. By nucleotide sequencing of the 56-kDa gene, Gilliam and Karp strains were found circulating among these animals. Although these bacterial strains are highly virulent and cause a wide range of pathological alterations, hence exploring their adaptive mechanisms of survival in shrews will be of significance. Given that the pathogen localizes in various organs following a transient bacteremia, we recommend the inclusion of tissues from the heart, lung, intestine, and kidney of reservoir animals, in addition to blood samples, for future molecular surveillance of scrub typhus.
Resistome Analysis of Klebsiella pneumoniae Complex from Residential Aged Care Facilities Demonstrates Intra-facility Clonal Spread of Multidrug-Resistant Isolates
Authors: Blaikie Jack M. , Sapula Sylvia A. , Siderius Naomi L. , Hart Bradley J. , Amsalu Anteneh , Leong Lex E.X. , Warner Morgyn S. , Venter Henrietta
Published: April 2024

Antimicrobial-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae is one of the predominant pathogens in healthcare settings. However, the prevalence and resistome of this organism within residential aged care facilities (RACFs), which are potential hotspots for antimicrobial resistance, remain unexplored. Here, we provide a phenotypic and molecular characterization of antimicrobial-resistant K. pneumoniae isolated from RACFs. K. pneumoniae was isolated from urine, faecal and wastewater samples and facility swabs. The antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of all the isolates were determined and the genomic basis for resistance was explored with whole-genome sequencing on a subset of isolates. A total of 147 K. pneumoniae were isolated, displaying resistance against multiple antimicrobials. Genotypic analysis revealed the presence of beta-lactamases and the ciprofloxacin-resistance determinant QnrB4 but failed to confirm the basis for the observed cephalosporin resistance. Clonal spread of the multidrug-resistant, widely disseminated sequence types 323 and 661 was observed. This study was the first to examine the resistome of K. pneumoniae isolates from RACFs and demonstrated a complexity between genotypic and phenotypic antimicrobial resistance. The intra-facility dissemination and persistence of multidrug-resistant clones is concerning, given that residents are particularly vulnerable to antimicrobial resistant infections, and it highlights the need for continued surveillance and interventions to reduce the risk of outbreaks.
Proteogenomic Characterization of Pseudomonas veronii SM-20 Growing on Phenanthrene as Only Carbon and Energy Source
Authors: Zavala-Meneses Sofía G. , Firrincieli Andrea , Chalova Petra , Pajer Petr , Checcucci Alice , Skultety Ludovit , Cappelletti Martina
Published: April 2024

In this study, we conducted an extensive investigation of the biodegradation capabilities and stress response of the newly isolated strain Pseudomonas veronii SM-20 in order, to assess its potential for bioremediation of sites contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Initially, phenotype microarray technology demonstrated the strain’s proficiency in utilizing various carbon sources and its resistance to certain stressors. Genomic analysis has identified numerous genes involved in aromatic hydrocarbon metabolism. Biodegradation assay analyzed the depletion of phenanthrene (PHE) when it was added as a sole carbon and energy source. We found that P. veronii strain SM-20 degraded approximately 25% of PHE over a 30-day period, starting with an initial concentration of 600 µg/mL, while being utilized for growth. The degradation process involved PHE oxidation to an unstable arene oxide and 9,10-phenanthrenequinone, followed by ring-cleavage. Comparative proteomics provided a comprehensive understanding of how the entire proteome responded to PHE exposure, revealing the strain’s adaptation in terms of aromatic metabolism, surface properties, and defense mechanism. In conclusion, our findings shed light on the promising attributes of P. veronii SM-20 and offer valuable insights for the use of P. veronii species in environmental restoration efforts targeting PAH-impacted sites.
Trace Element and Sulfur Isotope Signatures of Volcanogenic Massive Sulfide (VMS) Mineralization: A Case Study from the Sunnhordland Area in SW Norway
Authors: Strmic Palinkas Sabina , Fjellet Trond , Stubseid Håvard Hallås , Liu Xuan , Spangenberg Jorge Enrique , Čobić Andrea , Pedersen Rolf Birger
Published: April 2024

The Sunnhordland area in SW Norway hosts more than 100 known mineral occurrences, mostly of volcanogenic massive sulfide (VMS) and orogeny Au types. The VMS mineralization is hosted by plutonic, volcanic and sedimentary lithologies of the Lower Ordovician ophiolitic complexes. This study presents new trace element and δ34S data from VMS deposits hosted by gabbro and basalt of the Lykling Ophiolite Complex and organic-rich sediments of the Langevåg Group. The Alsvågen gabbro-hosted VMS mineralization exhibits a significant Cu content (1.2 to >10 wt.%), with chalcopyrite and cubanite being the main Cu-bearing minerals. The enrichment of pyrite in Co, Se, and Te and the high Se/As and Se/Tl ratios indicate elevated formation temperatures, while the high Se/S ratio indicates a contribution of magmatic volatiles. The δ34S values of the sulfide phases also support a substantial influx of magmatic sulfur. Chalcopyrite from the Alsvågen VMS mineralization shows significant enrichment in Se, Ag, Zn, Cd and In, while pyrrhotite concentrates Ni and Co. The Lindøya basalt-hosted VMS mineralization consists mainly of pyrite and pyrrhotite. Pyrite is enriched in As, Mn, Pb, Sb, V, and Tl. The δ34S values of sulfides and the Se/S ratio in pyrite suggest that sulfur was predominantly sourced from the host basalt. The Litlabø sediment-hosted VMS mineralization is also dominated by pyrite and pyrrhotite. Pyrite is enriched in As, Mn, Pb, Sb, V and Tl. The δ34S values, which range from −19.7 to −15.7 ‰ VCDT, point to the bacterial reduction of marine sulfate as the main source of sulfur. Trace element characteristics of pyrite, especially the Tl, Sb, Se, As, Co and Ni concentrations, together with their mutual ratios, provide a solid basis for distinguishing gabbro-hosted VMS mineralization from basalt- and sediment-hosted types of VMS mineralization in the study area. The distinctive trace element features of pyrite, in conjunction with its sulfur isotope signature, have been identified as a robust tool for the discrimination of gabbro-, basalt- and sediment-hosted VMS mineralization.
A Review on the Design of Carbon-Based Nanomaterials as MRI Contrast Agents
Authors: Garifo Sarah , Vangijzegem Thomas , Stanicki Dimitri , Laurent Sophie
Published: April 2024

The administration of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents (CAs) has been conducted since 1988 by clinicians to enhance the clarity and interpretability of MR images. CAs based on gadolinium chelates are the clinical standard used worldwide for the diagnosis of various pathologies, such as the detection of brain lesions, the visualization of blood vessels, and the assessment of soft tissue disorders. However, due to ongoing concerns associated with the safety of gadolinium-based contrast agents, considerable efforts have been directed towards developing contrast agents with better relaxivities, reduced toxicity, and eventually combined therapeutic modalities. In this context, grafting (or encapsulating) paramagnetic metals or chelates onto (within) carbon-based nanoparticles is a straightforward approach enabling the production of contrast agents with high relaxivities while providing extensive tuneability regarding the functionalization of the nanoparticles. Here, we provide an overview of the parameters defining the efficacy of lanthanide-based contrast agents and the subsequent developments in the field of nanoparticular-based contrast agents incorporating paramagnetic species.
Phytochemical Constituent Analysis of Phyllanthus emblica L. Fruit Nanoherbals by LC-HRMS and Their Antimutagenic Activity and Teratogenic Effects
Authors: Masfria  , Dalimunthe Aminah , Suci Nurul , Syahputra Hafid
Published: April 2024

Pregnant women must be wary of using traditional medicines due to the possibility of their having oxytoxic effects. Indonesia is rich in plants containing antioxidants. One of these plants is Phyllanthus emblica L. This study aims to determine the phytochemical constituents of Phyllanthus emblica L. fruit nanoherbals by LC-HRMS analysis and their antimutagenic activity and teratogenic effects. The study commenced by producing nanoherbal extracts from P. emblica fruit. The phytochemical composition of these extracts was then analyzed using LC-HRMS. The nanoherbal extracts were also tested for their ability to prevent mutations, as indicated by a reduction in micronuclei observed in mouse femur bone marrow smear preparations. The teratogenicity test involved administering the P. emblica fruit nanoherbal at 100, 500, and 1000 mg/kg BW doses. The data were analyzed using SPSS. The phytochemical constituents of the P. emblica fruit nanoherbal include flavonoids, phenols, vitamins, and alkaloids. The P. emblica fruit nanoherbal exhibits antimutagenic activity, as evidenced by a statistical analysis that indicated a significant decrease in the quantity of micronuclei per 200 PCE compared to the negative control (p < 0.05). The administration of the P. emblica fruit nanoherbal at a dosage of 1000 mg/kg BW resulted in a teratogenic impact during the organogenesis stage, as shown by hemorrhage and anomalies in the sternum.
Recent Advances in Grayanane Diterpenes: Isolation, Structural Diversity, and Bioactivities from Ericaceae Family (2018–2024)
Authors: Liu Sheng , Sun Lili , Zhang Peng , Niu Changshan
Published: April 2024

Diterpenes represent one of the most diverse and structurally complex families of natural products. Among the myriad of diterpenoids, grayanane diterpenes are particularly notable. These terpenes are characterized by their unique 5/7/6/5 tetracyclic system and are exclusive to the Ericaceae family of plants. Renowned for their complex structures and broad spectrum of bioactivities, grayanane diterpenes have become a primary focus in extensive phytochemical and pharmacological research. Recent studies, spanning from 2018 to January 2024, have reported a series of new grayanane diterpenes with unprecedented carbon skeletons. These compounds exhibit various biological properties, including analgesic, antifeedant, anti-inflammatory, and inhibition of protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B). This paper delves into the discovery of 193 newly identified grayanoids, representing 15 distinct carbon skeletons within the Ericaceae family. The study of grayanane diterpenes is not only a deep dive into the complexities of natural product chemistry but also an investigation into potential therapeutic applications. Their unique structures and diverse biological actions make them promising candidates for drug discovery and medicinal applications. The review encompasses their occurrence, distribution, structural features, and biological activities, providing invaluable insights for future pharmacological explorations and research.
Cu(II)-Loaded Polydopamine-Coated Urchin-like Titanate Microspheres as a High-Performance IMAC Adsorbent for Hemoglobin Separation
Authors: Zhang Qian , Hu Linlin , Yang Jianyu , Guo Pengfei , Wang Jinhong , Zhang Weifen
Published: April 2024

Immobilized metal ion affinity chromatography (IMAC) adsorbents generally have excellent affinity for histidine-rich proteins. However, the leaching of metal ions from the adsorbent usually affects its adsorption performance, which greatly affects the reusable performance of the adsorbent, resulting in many limitations in practical applications. Herein, a novel IMAC adsorbent, i.e., Cu(II)-loaded polydopamine-coated urchin-like titanate microspheres (Cu-PDA-UTMS), was prepared via metal coordination to make Cu ions uniformly decorate polydopamine-coated titanate microspheres. The as-synthesized microspheres exhibit an urchin-like structure, providing more binding sites for hemoglobin. Cu-PDA-UTMS exhibit favorable selectivity for hemoglobin adsorption and have a desirable adsorption capacity towards hemoglobin up to 2704.6 mg g−1. Using 0.1% CTAB as eluent, the adsorbed hemoglobin was easily eluted with a recovery rate of 86.8%. In addition, Cu-PDA-UTMS shows good reusability up to six cycles. In the end, the adsorption properties by Cu-PDA-UTMS towards hemoglobin from human blood samples were analyzed by SDS-PAGE. The results showed that Cu-PDA-UTMS are a high-performance IMAC adsorbent for hemoglobin separation, which provides a new method for the effective separation and purification of hemoglobin from complex biological samples.
Use of Residual Malt from an Artisanal Beer Brewing Process in the Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Mediated by Nucleating and Structure-Directing Agents
Authors: Dueñas-Bolaños César A. , Cid-Hernández Margarita , Velázquez-Juárez Gilberto , García-Casillas Luis A. , González-Ortiz Luis J. , Sánchez-Peña María Judith , Herrera-González Azucena , Zúñiga-González Oscar Guillermo , López-Naranjo Edgar J.
Published: April 2024

Biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are widely used in varied applications, which are morphology dependent. Consequently, a morphology-controlled synthesis is mandatory. Although there are several studies focused on the plant extract-based biosynthesis of metallic nanoparticles, the use of extracts obtained from agro-wastes is scant. Furthermore, information regarding morphology modification through the use of additional agents is even more scarce. Thus, in this study, AgNPs were synthesized using a malt extract (ME) obtained from an artisanal beer brewing process residue. Additionally, sodium chloride (NaCl), gum arabic (GA), and talc (T) were used in an attempt to modify the morphology of AgNPs. XRD, DLS, SEM, and TEM results demonstrate that stable AgNPs of different sizes and shapes were synthesized. FTIR, HPLC analysis, and the quantification of total proteins, free amino acids, reducing sugars, and total polyphenols before and after AgNPs synthesis showed that ME biomolecules allowed them to act as a source of reducing and stabilizing agents. Therefore, this study provides evidence that ME can be successfully used to biosynthesize AgNPs. Additionally, the antibacterial activity of AgNPs against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria was evaluated. Results indicate that AgNPs show a higher antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria.
Metabolic Characteristics and Discriminative Diagnosis of Growth Hormone Deficiency and Idiopathic Short Stature in Preadolescents and Adolescents
Authors: Chang Yajie , Chen Jing , Zhu Hongwei , Huang Rong , Wu Jinxia , Lin Yanyan , Li Quanquan , Shen Guiping , Feng Jianghua
Published: April 2024

Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) and idiopathic short stature (ISS) are the most common types of short stature (SS), but little is known about their pathogenesis, and even less is known about the study of adolescent SS. In this study, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabolomic analysis combined with least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) were performed to identify the biomarkers of different types of SS (including 94 preadolescent GHD (PAG), 61 preadolescent ISS (PAI), 43 adolescent GHD (ADG), and 19 adolescent ISS (ADI)), and the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was further used to evaluate the predictive power of potential biomarkers. The results showed that fourteen, eleven, nine, and fifteen metabolites were identified as the potential biomarkers of PAG, PAI, ADG, and ADI compared with their corresponding controls, respectively. The disturbed metabolic pathways in preadolescent SS were mainly carbohydrate metabolism and lipid metabolism, while disorders of amino acid metabolism played an important role in adolescent SS. The combination of aspartate, ethanolamine, phosphocholine, and trimethylamine was screened out to identify PAI from PAG, and alanine, histidine, isobutyrate, methanol, and phosphocholine gave a high classification accuracy for ADI and ADC. The differences in metabolic characteristics between GHD and ISS in preadolescents and adolescents will contribute to the development of individualized clinical treatments in short stature.
Characteristics of Dialdehyde Cellulose Nanofibrils Derived from Cotton Linter Fibers and Wood Fibers
Authors: Tu Qiyuan , Gao Wenhua , Zhou Junjie , Wu Jinglin , Zeng Jinsong , Wang Bin , Xu Jun
Published: April 2024

Two types of cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) were isolated from cotton linter fibers and hardwood fibers through mechanical fibrillation methods. The dialdehyde cellulose nanofibrils (DACNFs) were prepared through the periodate oxidation method, and their morphological and structural properties were investigated. The characteristics of the DACNFs during the concentration process were also explored. The AFM analysis results showed that the mean diameters of wood fiber-based CNFs and cotton fiber-based CNFs were about 52.03 nm and 69.51 nm, respectively. However, the periodate oxidation treatment process obviously reduced the nanofibril size and destroyed the crystalline region of the nanofibrils. Due to the high crystallinity of cotton fibers, the cotton fiber-based DACNFs exhibited a lower aldehyde content and suspension stability compared to the wood fiber-based DACNFs. For the concentration process of the DACNF suspension, the bound water content of the concentrated cotton fiber-based DACNFs was lowered to 0.41 g/g, which indicated that the cotton fiber-based DACNFs could have good redispersibility. Both the wood fiber-based and cotton fiber-based DACNF films showed relatively good transmittance and mechanical strength. In addition, to the cotton fiber-based DACNF films had a very low swelling ratio, and the barrier water vapor and oxygen properties of the redispersed cotton fiber-based DACNF films decreased by very little. In sum, this study has demonstrated that cotton fibers could serve as an effective alternative to wood fibers for preparing CNFs, and that cotton fiber-based DACNFs have huge application prospects in the field of packaging film materials due to their stable properties during the concentration process.
Thermodynamically Stable Functionalization of Microporous Aromatic Frameworks with Sulfonic Acid Groups by Inserting Methylene Spacers
Authors: Winterstein Simon F. , Bettermann Michael , Timm Jana , Marschall Roland , Senker Jürgen
Published: April 2024

Porous aromatic frameworks (PAFs) are an auspicious class of materials that allow for the introduction of sulfonic acid groups at the aromatic core units by post-synthetic modification. This makes PAFs promising for proton-exchange materials. However, the limited thermal stability of sulfonic acid groups attached to aromatic cores prevents high-temperature applications. Here, we present a framework based on PAF-303 where the acid groups were added as methylene sulfonic acid side chains in a two-step post-synthetic route (SMPAF-303) via the intermediate chloromethylene PAF (ClMPAF-303). Elemental analysis, NMR spectroscopy, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to characterize both frameworks and corroborate the successful attachment of the side chains. The resulting framework SMPAF-303 features high thermal stability and an ion-exchange capacity of about 1.7 mequiv g−1. The proton conductivity depends strongly on the adsorbed water level. It reaches from about 10−7 S cm−1 for 33% RH to about 10−1 S cm−1 for 100% RH. We attribute the strong change to a locally alternating polarity of the inner surfaces. The latter introduces bottleneck effects for the water molecule and oxonium ion diffusion at lower relative humidities, due to electrolyte clustering. When the pores are completely filled with water, these bottlenecks vanish, leading to an unhindered electrolyte diffusion through the framework, explaining the conductivity rise.
The Effect of Essential Oils from Asteraceae Plants on Behavior and Selected Physiological Parameters of the Bird Cherry-Oat Aphid
Authors: Czerniewicz Paweł , Sytykiewicz Hubert , Chrzanowski Grzegorz
Published: April 2024

Essential oils (EOs), including those from the Asteraceae plants, have been shown to have promising insecticidal activity against a wide range of insect pests. Understanding the mechanism of action of EOs is one of the studied aspects. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of essential oils from Achillea millefolium, Santolina chamaecyparissus, Tagetes patula and Tanacetum vulgare on the settling and probing behavior of the bird cherry-oat aphid (Rhopalosiphum padi L.). In addition, the effect of the oils on the activity of such enzymes as trypsin, pepsin and α- and β-glucosidase involved in the metabolism of proteins and sugars of the insects was examined. The leaf-choice bioassays demonstrated that the studied EOs limited aphid settling for at least 24 h after the treatment. The application of EOs also inferred with aphid probing behavior by reducing the total probing time and total duration of phloem sap ingestion. Aphids spent more time in the search phase due to an increase in the number and total duration of pathway phases. Moreover, the activity of the studied proteases and glucosidases significantly decreased in R. padi females exposed to the EOs. The enzyme inhibition varied depending on the applied oil and exposure time. Generally, the EOs with stronger deterrent activity also showed higher inhibitory effects. The results suggest that the tested EOs disrupt key digestive processes in R. padi which may be an important factor determining their aphicidal activity.