bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Determination of Ergot Alkaloids: Comparison of extraction efficiencies in several cereal production chains by UPLC-MS/MS
Authors: Rollo Eleonora , Catellani Dante , Dall’Asta Chiara , Dreolin Nicola , Suman Michele 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

To date, there are more than 80 ergot alkaloids identified, their distribution depends on different factors (e.g. geographic regions, host plants etc.) and, dependent on the frequency and concentration ingested and the frequency of ingestion, they can cause acute and chronic toxic effect on human health. These toxins commonly infect cereal crops such as triticale and rye, and also wheat, barley and oats. In this regard, considering the growing consumption of plant-based foods compared to food of animal origin, the European Food Safety Authority, has highlighted the need to develop risk assessment strategies. For this reason, the emphasis has been placed on the optimization of extraction efficiency, to quantify the main ergot alkaloids and their epimers, that are now available on the market (ergosine, ergocristine, ergocriptine, ergocornine, ergosinine, ergocristinine, ergocriptinine and ergocorninine). The effectiveness of three different extraction conditions (acidic, alkaline and neutral) followed by a rapid clean-up using dispersive solid-phase extraction with C18 sorbent was evaluated by ultra performance liquid chromatography tandem quadrupole mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS), resulting in a short chromatographic run (16 min). The method was developed and validated in five different cereal production chains (rye, oat, wheat, wheat gluten and baby food). The efficiency and efficacy of extraction methods were evaluated and compared as well as obtained recoveries. The verified linear range was 0.5–500 µg kg− 1 for all the tested compounds, according to the legal limits. The limits of quantification were dependent on the analyte but almost independent from the matrices. Recovery values for the 8 ergot alkaloids spiked at levels of 2, 20 and 100 µg kg− 1 were calculated for each matrix extracted with its best extraction protocol and were completely satisfactory. The applicability and the trueness of the method were examined by analysing a set of 54 samples, including also other cereals like spelt, tritordeum and triticale, and evaluating some reference materials.
First investigation on the behavioural contexts of underwater sound production in juvenile green turtles, Chelonia mydas
Authors: Maucourt Léo , Charrier Isabelle , Huetz Chloé , Aubert Nathalie , Bourgeois Ouvéa , Jeantet Lorène , Lecerf Nicolas , Lefebvre Fabien , Lelong Pierre , Lepori Muriel , Martin Jordan , Régis Sidney , Chevallier Damien 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Although sea turtles have long been considered deaf and silent, recent studies have confirmed their ability to hear and produce sounds. A study revealed that juvenile green sea turtles Chelonia mydas, can produce ten distinct types of sounds, with some of them potentially involved in social communication. To investigate the potential biological function of these sounds, we used video recordings associated with acoustic recordings of 23 free-ranging juvenile green turtles and we examined the co-occurrences of sounds with behaviours or external events. Our study revealed that most of the sounds were produced when the sea turtles were resting or swimming. However, four sound types were produced in more specific contexts. Long sequences of rumbles were recorded after sunset and mainly during resting. All these rumbles appear to have been produced by several individuals recorded simultaneously, suggesting that rumbles may be used for social interactions. The frequency modulated sound was highly associated with scratching behaviour and thus may express a positive emotion. Finally, the long squeak was produced by individuals in the presence of human beings, and the grunt was occasionally heard when green turtles were vigilant or approaching a conspecific. These two sounds may be the first evidence of an alarm or warning signal for intra-specific communication in green turtles. Our results mark a significant milestone in advancing the understanding of sound production in the behavioural ecology of sea turtles. Further investigations are now required to test the hypotheses suggested by our findings, which could significantly contribute to their conservation.
The Anisotropic Self-Assembly Effect of Silica Hairy Nanoparticles: toward Sustainable Rubber Nanocomposites for Tyre Application
Authors: Credico Barbara Di , Tripaldi Laura , Tadiello Luciano , Conzatti Lucia , Giannini Luca , D’Arienzo Massimiliano , Causa Andrea , Mostoni Silvia , Stagnaro Paola , Scotti Roberto 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

With the aim to identify possible strategies to reduce the environmental impact of tyre, we propose the use of advanced rubber materials based on silica hairy nanoparticles (HNPs), which consist of a core of silica surrounded by end-grafted rubber chains. The rational has been to impart unique surface reactivity to the silica NPs, usually used as reinforcing fillers, for coupling with the non-crosslinked host elastomer as well as the subsequent ability to employ coupling agents other than the conventional sulfur-bridged bis-alkoxy silanes. SiO2 HNPs, having polybutadiene (PB) chains as polymeric brushes, were prepared with different degrees of PB grafting density and embedded in elastomer to produce rubber nanocomposites (NCs), following the standard tyre formulation but without using silane coupling agents. A deep investigation on the relation between the mechanical properties of the NCs materials and HNPs self-assembling behavior was performed, showing a high degree of structural order and a significant percolative HNPs network. In fact, silica HNPs can build anisotropic energy-dissipation structures which act as additional cross-linking junctions reducing the chain relaxation and consequently enhancing the chain deformation. The presence of self-assembled fillers domains induces a reduction in the mobility of the filler and consequently in the energy consumption due to the deformation of the microstructure of the rubber composite, with its breakage and subsequent recovery, not completely reversible. For this, the present study supports the use of HNPs as reinforcing filler for producing more sustainable rubber materials.
Expression analysis of PPARα in skeletal muscle of mice at different developmental stages
Authors: Qi Jiahui , Zheng Minxing , Xing Hao , Wang Xuanjing , Wu Haiyang , Lu Jiayin , Luo Xiaomao , Yu Xiuju , Wang Haidong , Yan Yi 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) belonging to the nuclear receptor family function as transcription factors. PPARα, an initial subtype of PPARs, is predominantly involved in lipid oxidation. The existing research on PPARα mostly focuses on its regulation on metabolism and inflammation in skeletal muscle. However, whether PPARα participates in skeletal muscle development remains largely unknown. Therefore, this study aims to explore the effect of PPARα on mouse skeletal muscle development by investigating the expression of PPARα in skeletal muscle of mice at different ages.
Results
The results of Western blot assay, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and immunofluorescence assay indicated the differences in the expression levels of PPARα in gastrocnemius muscle among different ages of mice. Specifically, young mice exhibited the highest expression of PPARα in their gastrocnemius muscle, whereas aged mice displayed its lowest expression. Furthermore, the immunofluorescence results showed that PPARα was expressed in both the nucleus and the cytoplasm.
Conclusions
Overall, PPARα was expressed in skeletal muscle of mice at different developmental stages, but the expression levels varied. Our findings lay a foundation for the further functional study of PPARα in skeletal muscle development.
The running state identification of induction motor with infrared thermal imaging based on ATBHE-CNN
Authors: Liu Tao , Ma Jiaqing , Chen Changsheng , He Zhiqin , Wu Qinmu , Liu Hongjv , Li Yongjie 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In order to improve the accuracy of induction motor state detection, aiming at the problems of low resolution, poor contrast, and insufficient detail in infrared thermal image recognition, an Adaptive Texture Bi-histogram Equalization (ATBHE) is proposed. ATBHE's image enhancement method improves images' visual effects and highlights detailed information. Firstly, the histogram is preprocessed by the moving average filtering method, and suitable minimum points are found as segmentation points to ensure correct pixel distribution. Then, an adaptive threshold platform is constructed according to the mean value of the sub-histogram, and the clipping threshold is constructed according to the Canny edge detection operator of the image and the related texture characteristics of GLCM. Finally, the sub-histograms are combined into enhanced images after histogram equalization to solve the problem of over-enhancement and under-enhancement. Through experiments and objective evaluation such as SSIM, PSNR, information entropy, and average gradient, the enhanced image quality and visual effect of the proposed method are better. At the same time, the infrared thermal imaging induction motor image enhanced by this method is applied to the recognition of convolutional neural networks, and the induction motor state detection can be realized well.
Non-carious Cervical Lesions, an Approach of the Associated Factors in a Teaching Service Clinic.
Authors: Gutierrez Bruno , Goyes Harold , Perez Johana , Arango Maria 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Considering the reported prevalence and risk factors of non-carious cervical lesions (NCCLs), the present study aims to evaluate the prevalence and the factors associated with NCCLs in a Colombian higher-level institution.
Materials and Methods: An observational, analytical, cross-sectional study was done, the sample consisted of 105 patients, over 40 years of age, of both sexes. A survey was carried out with sociodemographic characteristics and factors associated with NCCL, followed by a clinical examination to record NCCLs, type of lesions and occlusal factors such as: malocclusions, coincidence of midlines and dental crowding. The statistical analysis included continuous variables, accompanied by measures of central tendency and categorical variables with absolute and relative frequencies in percentage, a multimethod regression analysis was done.
Results: NCCLs were diagnosed in 53.3% of the total respondents, with abfraction being the most prevalent type of lesion found in 39.1% of the participants. NCCL were significantly associated with tooth brushing habits, frequency of consumption of carbonated beverages and citrus fruits, and parafunctional habits. Statistical significance was found in the diagnosis of tooth sensitivity, malocclusion, bruxism, xerostomia, use of removable prosthesis, open bite, crossbite, midline coincidence and crowding. In the Multiple regression analysis, the Aggressive technique of brushing whit an OR of 9.9 (P<0.05) and tooth sensitivity OR 3.4 (P<0.05) were related whit NCCLs
Conclusions: This study showed a relatively high frequency of NCCL in subjects in the age range of 40 to 80 years.
Investigation on the Interaction Law between Laser and Powder and Multi-Field Coupling Mechanism during Laser Cladding under Different Elevation Angles
Authors: Sun Han , Li Chang , Han Xing , Wang Xuan , Wang Cong 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

During laser cladding under different elevation angles, there is an interaction between the waist beam and the laser energy. The interaction law is complicated, involving many physical and chemical processes such as laser energy absorption, powder melting, evaporation and solidification. It is a bottleneck problem in the industry to quantitatively reveal the interaction law between laser and powder during cladding, which is significant to improve the cladding quality. In this paper, a continuous-discrete phase gas/solid coupling model of laser and powder interaction during laser cladding under different elevation angles was established. In the modeling, the random distribution of 316L powder with different particle sizes was realized through Rosin-Rammler-Sperling curve fitting, and a custom UDF cone heat source program was written to calculate and reveal the temperature, concentration and flow velocity of powder with random particle size distribution during cladding under different elevation angles. The effects of different elevation angles of laser head on powder convergence and laser powder interaction were quantified. On this basis, the multi-field coupling numerical model of laser cladding process under different elevation angles was established, and its transient evolution was revealed. The calculation shows that the powder temperature, concentration, flow velocity and cladding layer height of 15° elevation angle are more in line with the process requirements, and the convergence of powder reaching the substrate is better. Finally, the temperature of the cladding process was collected by infrared thermal imaging camera, and the cladding profile was compared and analyzed to verify the effectiveness of the model.
Diagnostic yield of Induced sputum and Bronchoalveolar Lavage in Suspected Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Authors: Musso Maria , Gualano Gina , Mencarini Paola , Mastrobattista Annelisa , Licata Maria Angela , Pareo Carlo , Cerva Carlotta , Mosti Silvia , Bari Virginia Di , Libertone Raffaella , Nisii Carla , Cannas Angela , Navarra Assunta , Goletti Delia , Palmieri Fabrizio 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Aim of this study was to compare the diagnostic yield of induced sputum (IS) and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) in patients with suspected pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) and negative sputum smears. We enrolled 215 patients who underwent both IS and BAL after two negative spontaneous sputum samples. PTB was confirmed by culture or molecular test in 26 patients (12.1%). IS detected 10 cases (38.5%) of all PTB, while BAL detected 22 cases (84.6%) of all PTB. IS had a sensitivity of 38.46% and a specificity of 100%, while BAL had a sensitivity of 84.62% and a specificity of 100%. BAL had a higher diagnostic yield than IS and was useful for ruling out alternative diagnoses. According to our experience FBS execution is mandatory in case of strong TB suspicion and sputum smear negative patients, especially in a low TB prevalence country. Moreover, it consents testing microorganism sensitivity and assessing possible alternative diagnosis with similar clinical presentation. The choice of the best diagnostic method may depend on the clinical context and the availability of resources.
Anti-Hypertensive Effect of Ethanol Extracts of Persea Americana (Avocado Pear) Leaf and Seed on Wistar Rats
Authors: Akrofi Shadrach Asare 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
The present study was designed to determine the antihypertensive activity of 70% and 100% ethanolic extracts of the leaves and seeds of Persea americana on salt-induced hypertensive male Wistar Rats.
Methods
During the experimental period, 2% sodium chloride solution was given to the rats as drinking water for three weeks to elevate the systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure were measured every week. The rats were then treated with the 70% and 100% ethanolic extracts of Persea americana seed and leaf.
Results
A significant decrease in the blood pressure was recorded. It could be seen that 70% ethanol pear leaf extract had the highest yield and hence could have extracted more phytochemicals, due to its high polarity. This could have caused a high blood pressure reduction since it contains phytochemicals such as saponins, phenolic compounds and phytosterols.
Conclusions
The study thus, concludes the anti-hypertensive activity of Persea americana seed and leaf on salt induced hypertensive wistar rats in a dose of 400mg/kg b.wt.
Defining Region and Duration-Specific Substantial Clinical Benefit Values for the Simplified Chinese Lower Extremity Functional Scale
Authors: Zhang Yongni , Gao Yuan , Ai Dongmei , Li Weimin , Zhang Xin , Xu Xiongwei , Zhang NanNan , Yi Yixiong , Hu Haoyu , Yang Songbin , Martin RobRoy L , Lian Xiaowen 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
A single substantial clinical benefit (SCB) value for the Simplified Chinese Lower Extremity Functional Scale (SC-LEFS) that can be applied to those with lower extremity musculoskeletal injuries is available. However, unique SCB values defined by specific body region and symptom duration may enhance the precision of the SC-LEFS in clinical assessments.
Methods
This study aim to determine unique SCB values for the SC-LEFS based on symptom duration and body region. Patients 18–50 years of age referred to physical therapy with a non-arthritic musculoskeletal injury to the knee or ankle/foot completed the SC-LEFS at initial assessment and 4-weeks follow-up. Demographic information, including duration of symptoms was also obtained. Patients were classified into “improved” and “not improved” groups based on self-report after 4-weeks of physical therapy. SCB values were determined to best distinguish between the two groups. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analysis defined the sensitivity and specificity for these SCB values.
Results
Three hundred and thirteen patients with a mean age of 33.7 (SD 9.3) years were included in the knee region analysis and 354 patients with a mean age of 32.9 (SD 9.4) years in the ankle/foot region analysis. For those with knee injuries, SCB values of 9.5 and 5.5 were found for patients with symptom duration ≤ 3 months and symptom duration > 3 months, respectively. For those with ankle/foot injuries, SCB values 12.5 and 8.5 were found for patients with symptom duration ≤ 3 months and symptom duration > 3 months, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity for these SCB values ranged from 0.67 to 0.72 and from 0.66 to 0.68, respectively, with area under the cures (AUC) being between 0.67 to 0.72. All 95% confidence intervals for AUC were greater than 0.50, indicating adequate accuracy.
Conclusion
This study determined specific SCB values for the SC-LEFS after four weeks of physical therapy based on region of injury and symptom duration. These unique values may better allow clinicians to distinguish those “improved” from “not improved” in Chinese-speaking patients with non-arthritic musculoskeletal knee, ankle, or foot injuries.
Trial registration:
This project was registered with the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2100052104) on 2021-10-17.
Issues and Challenges of Integrating Religion and Spirituality into Counselling: An exploration of Counsellors' Experience
Authors: Shahim Mohd Radhi Abu , Sumari Melati , A.Razak Norsafatul , S Kamarul Md , Dagang Mazidah Mohd 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

This qualitative study explores the issues and challenges counsellors experience when considering religious and spiritual elements. Twelve counsellors were interviewed using a semi-structured interview and focus group discussion. Thematic analysis was performed and identified five main themes: 1) Knowledge and readiness to integrate religion and spirituality, 2) Being a role model, 3) Client's religious knowledge, 4) Awareness to refer to experts, and 5) Lack of understanding of the client's religious diversity.
Addiction and Attachment in Romantic Relationships: A Study on Young People
Authors: Üstündağ Alev , Uzun Aynur , Akpınar Ayşe 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background The main aim of this study is to examine the relationship between addiction in romantic relationships and attachment styles of young people. In addition, another aim of this study is to reveal whether dependency in romantic relationships and attachment styles differ according to the sociodemographic characteristics of young people.Methods A total of 456 university students participated in this descriptive, cross-sectional and correlational study. Demographic Information Form, Addiction in Romantic Relationships Scale and Three Dimensional Attachment Style Scale were used as data collection tools.Results As a result of the study, the mean dependency in romantic relationships of young people was determined as x̄=2.03. The mean of self-commitment in romantic relationships was found to be low (x̄=1.79) and the mean of obsession was found to be high (x̄=2.29). In addition, the findings show that the majority of young people have a secure attachment style. In terms of gender, women had higher levels of anxious-ambivalent attachment. Young people in romantic relationships had higher levels of dependency, self-commitment, deprivation and obsessive-compulsive attachment in romantic relationships. It was also found that young people in romantic relationships had a secure attachment style, while young people without romantic relationships had an anxious-ambivalent attachment style.
Bi-specific antibody engagers for cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Liu* Xin , Gall* Camille Le , Alexander* Ryan K. , Borgman Ella , Balligand Thomas , Ploegh Hidde L. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Bispecific antibody engagers are fusion proteins composed of a nanobody that recognizes immunoglobulin kappa light chains (VHHkappa) and a nanobody that recognizes either CTLA-4 or PD-L1. These fusions show strong antitumor activity in mice through recruitment of polyclonal immunoglobulins independently of specificity or isotype. In the MC38 mouse model of colorectal carcinoma, the anti-CTLA-4 VHH-VHHkappa conjugate eradicates tumors and reduces the number of intratumoral regulatory T cells. The anti-PD-L1 VHH-VHHkappa conjugate is less effective in the MC38 model, whilst still outperforming an antibody of similar specificity. The potency of the anti-PD-L1 VHH-VHHkappa conjugate was strongly enhanced by installation of the cytotoxic drug maytansine or a STING agonist. The ability of such fusions to engage the Fc-mediated functions of all immunoglobulin isotypes is an appealing strategy to further improve on the efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade, commonly delivered as a monoclonal immunoglobulin of a single defined isotype.

*Xin Liu, Camille Le Gall, and Ryan K. Alexander contributed equally.
Комментарий к статье Д.Л. Фетлама и соавт. «Эритроцитарный индекс RDW как маркер прогноза течения и исхода эмпиемы плевры, развившейся после пневмонии: проспективное когортное исследование»
Authors: Орлов Юрий Петрович 
Published: August 2024

Comment on the article of D.L. Fetlam et al. “Red cell Distribution Width index as prognostic marker of the course and outcome of pleural empyema developing after pneumonia: a prospective cohort study”