bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Vitro Evaluation of Azoxystrobin, Boscalid, Fentin-Hydroxide, Propiconazole, Pyraclostrobin Fungicides against Alternaria alternata Pathogen Isolated from Carya illinoinensis in South Africa
Authors: Achilonu Conrad Chibunna , Gryzenhout Marieka , Ghosh Soumya , Marais Gert Johannes
Published: June 2023

Black spot disease or Alternaria black spot (ABS) of pecan (Carya illinoinensis) in South Africa is caused by Alternaria alternata. This fungal pathogen impedes the development of pecan trees and leads to low yield in pecan nut production. The present study investigated the in vitro effect of six fungicides against the mycelial growth of A. alternata isolates from ABS symptoms. Fungicides tested include Tilt (propiconazole), Ortiva (azoxystrobin), AgTin (fentin hydroxide), and Bellis (boscalid + pyraclostrobin). All fungicides were applied in 3 concentrations (0.2, 1, and 5 μg mL−1). Tilt and Bumper 250 EC containing propiconazole active ingredient (demethylation Inhibitors) were the most effective and inhibited all mycelial growth from up to 6 days post-incubation. The other active ingredients (succinate dehydrogenase inhibitors, organotin compounds, and quinone outside inhibitors) showed 75–85% mycelial growth inhibition. The effective concentration to inhibit mycelial growth by 50% (EC50) was estimated for each isolate and fungicide. The overall mean EC50 values for each fungicide on the six isolates were 1.90 μg mL−1 (Tilt), 1.86 μg mL−1 (Ortiva), 1.53 μg mL−1 (AgTin), and 1.57 μg mL−1 for (Bellis). This initial screening suggested that propiconazole fungicide was the most effective for future field trials test and how these fungicides could be used in controlling ABS disease.
Improved MALDI-TOF MS Identification of Mycobacterium tuberculosis by Use of an Enhanced Cell Disruption Protocol
Authors: Bacanelli Gisele , Araujo Flabio Ribeiro , Verbisck Newton Valerio
Published: June 2023

Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the microorganism that causes tuberculosis, a disease affecting millions of people worldwide. Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) is a fast, reliable, and cost-effective method for microorganism identification which has been used for the identification of Mycobacterium spp. isolates. However, the mycobacteria cell wall is rich in lipids, which makes it difficult to obtain proteins for MALDI-TOF MS analysis. In this study, two cell preparation protocols were compared: the MycoEx, recommended by MALDI-TOF instrument manufacturer Bruker Daltonics, and the MycoLyser protocol described herein, which used the MagNA Lyser instrument to enhance cell disruption with ethanol. Cell disruption and protein extraction steps with the two protocols were performed using the Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv strain, and the MALDI-TOF MS results were compared. The MycoLyser protocol allowed for improved Biotyper identification of M. tuberculosis since the log(score) values obtained with this protocol were mostly ≥ 1.800 and significantly higher than that underwent MycoEx processing. The identification reliability was increased as well, considering the Bruker criteria. In view of these results, it is concluded that the MycoLyser protocol for mycobacterial cell disruption and protein extraction improves the MALDI-TOF MS method’s efficacy for M. tuberculosis identification.
Legionellosis-Associated Hospitalization in Spain from 2002 to 2021
Authors: Gea-Izquierdo Enrique , Gil-Prieto Ruth , Hernández-Barrera Valentín , Rodríguez-Caravaca Gil , Gil-de-Miguel Ángel
Published: June 2023

Legionellosis is a respiratory disease of bacterial and environmental origin that usually presents two distinct clinical entities, “Legionnaires’ disease” (LD) and “Pontiac fever”. LD is an important cause of hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP). The objective of this study is to describe the epidemiology of legionellosis-associated hospitalization (L-AH) in Spain from 2002 to 2021 and the burden of hospitalization due to legionellosis. Discharge reports from the Minimum Basic Data Set (MBDS) were used to retrospectively analyze hospital discharge data with a diagnosis of legionellosis, based on the ICD-9-CM and ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes, from 2002 to 2021. 21,300 L-AH occurred throughout the year during 2002–2021. The incidence of hospitalization associated per 100,000 inhabitants by month showed a similar trend for the 2002–2011, 2012–2021, and 2002–2021 periods. In Spain, during 2002–2021, the hospitalization rate (HR) in the autonomous communities ranged from 4.57 (2002–2011) to 0.24 (2012–2021) cases per 100,000 inhabitants. The HR of legionellosis in Spain has substantially increased across the 2002–2021 period, and the estimate is consistent with available European data. It is considered that in-depth epidemiological surveillance studies of legionellosis and improvements in the prevention and control of the disease are required in Spain.
Management of Complex Infections in Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis in Adults
Authors: Zhang Yi , Cheng Zhipeng , Hu Yu , Tang Liang V.
Published: June 2023

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a syndrome of excessive immune system activation and inflammatory response due to a variety of primary and secondary factors that can cause a range of clinical symptoms and, in severe cases, life-threatening conditions. Patients with HLH are at increased risk of infection due to their abnormal immune function as well as chemotherapy and immunosuppressive therapy at the time of treatment. At the same time, the lack of specific clinical features makes complex infections in HLH challenging to diagnose and treat. The management of complex infections in HLH requires a multidisciplinary and integrated approach including the early identification of pathogens, the development of anti-infection protocols and regimens, and the elimination of potential infection factors. Especially in HLH patients with septic shock, empirical combination therapy against the most likely pathogens should be initiated, and appropriate anti-infective regimens should be determined based on immune status, site of infection, pathogens, and their drug resistance, with timely antibiotic adjustment by monitoring procalcitonin. In addition, anti-infection prophylaxis for HLH patients is needed to reduce the risk of infection such as prophylactic antibiotics and vaccinations. In conclusion, complex infection in HLH is a serious and challenging disease that requires vigilance, early identification, and timely anti-infective therapy.
Multitarget Intelligent Recognition of Petrographic Thin Section Images Based on Faster RCNN
Authors: Wang Hanyu , Cao Wei , Zhou Yongzhang , Yu Pengpeng , Yang Wei
Published: June 2023

The optical features of mineral composition and texture in petrographic thin sections are an important basis for rock identification and rock evolution analysis. However, the efficiency and accuracy of human visual interpretation of petrographic thin section images have depended on the experience of experts for a long time. The application of image-based computer vision and deep-learning algorithms to the intelligent analysis of the optical properties of mineral composition and texture in petrographic thin section images (in plane polarizing light) has the potential to significantly improve the efficiency and accuracy of rock identification and classification. This study completed the transition from simple petrographic thin image classification to multitarget detection, to address more complex research tasks and more refined research scales that contain more abundant information, such as spatial, quantitative and category target information. Oolitic texture is an important paleoenvironmental indicator that widely exists in sedimentary records and is related to shallow water hydraulic conditions. We used transfer learning and image data augmentation in this paper to identify the oolitic texture of petrographic thin section images based on the faster region-based convolutional neural network (Faster RCNN) method. In this study, we evaluated the performance of Faster RCNN, a two-stage object detection algorithm, using VGG16 and ResNet50 as backbones for image feature extraction. Our findings indicate that ResNet50 outperformed VGG16 in this regard. Specifically, the Faster RCNN model with ResNet50 as the backbone achieved an average precision (AP) of 92.25% for the ooids test set, demonstrating the accuracy and reliability of this approach for detecting ooids. The experimental results also showed that the uneven distribution of training sample images and the complexity of images both significantly affect detection performance; however, the uneven distribution of training sample images has a greater impact. Our work is preliminary for intelligent recognition of multiple mineral texture targets in petrographic thin section images. We hope that it will inspire further research in this field.
Investigation of New Psychoactive Substances (NPS), Other Illicit Drugs, and Drug-Related Compounds in a Taiwanese Wastewater Sample Using High-Resolution Mass-Spectrometry-Based Targeted and Suspect Screening
Authors: Chen Yuan-Chih , Hsu Jen-Yi , Chang Chih-Wei , Chen Pin-Yu , Lin Yung-Chieh , Hsu I-Lin , Chu Chiau-Jun , Lin Yen-Ping , Liao Pao-Chi
Published: June 2023

The proliferation of new psychoactive substances (NPSs) in recent years has posed a significant challenge to public health. Traditional monitoring methods have proven insufficient in tracking these constantly evolving substances, leading to the development of alternative approaches such as wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE). The present study aims to utilize high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS)-based targeted and suspect screening to profile NPS, other illicit drugs, and drug-related compounds in a Taiwanese wastewater sample. For the targeted analysis, 8 out 18 standards of illicit drugs have been identified. The suspect screening approach based on approximately 3600 substances in the SWGDRUG library can further identify 92 compounds, including opiate analgesics, synthetic cathinones, phenylalkylamines derivatives, phenethylamine derivatives, tryptamine derivatives, steroids, and ephedrine-related compounds. Additionally, the presence of 5-methoxy-2-aminoindane (MEAI) in the wastewater indicates that drug dealers have recently sold this potential NPS to evade drug regulations. This study firstly reports the HRMS-based comprehensive profile of NPS, other illicit drugs, and drug-related compounds in Taiwan, which could be applied as biomarkers for estimating the consumption of drugs.
Rhodiola rosea L. Extract, a Known Adaptogen, Evaluated in Experimental Arthritis
Authors: Drafi Frantisek , Bauerova Katarina , Chrastina Martin , Taghdisiesfejír Mohsen , Rocha João , Direito Rosa , Figueira Maria Eduardo , Sepodes Bruno , Ponist Silvester
Published: June 2023

Rhodiola rosea L. extract (RSE) is mostly known for its adaptogen properties, but not for its antiarthritic activities, therefore monotherapy and combination with low-dose methotrexate (MTX) was studied. The collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) model was used to measure the functional score, and the change in hind paw volume (HPV). Both parameters had significant antiarthritic effects. Based on these preliminary results, an adjuvant arthritis (AA) model was further applied to assess another parameters. The experiment included these animal groups: healthy controls, untreated AA, AA administered with RSE (150 mg/kg b.w. daily, p.o.), AA administered by MTX (0.3 mg/kg b.w. twice a week, p.o.), and AA treated with the combination of RSE+MTX. The combination of RSE+MTX significantly reduced the HPV and increased the body weight. The combination significantly decreased HPV when compared to MTX monotherapy. The plasmatic levels of inflammatory markers (IL-6, IL-17A, MMP-9 and CRP) were significantly decreased by MTX+RSE treatment. The RSE monotherapy didn’t influence any of the inflammatory parameters studied. In CIA, the RSE monotherapy significantly decreased the arthritic parameters studied. In summary, the combination of RSE and sub-therapeutic MTX was significantly effective in AA by improving inflammatory and arthritic parameters.
Nonaqueous Capillary Electrophoretic Separation of Analogs of (24R)-1,24-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 Derivative as Predicted by Quantum Chemical Calculations
Authors: Grodner Błażej , Żołek Teresa , Kutner Andrzej
Published: June 2023

Nonaqueous capillary electrophoretic (NACE) separation was obtained of analogs of (24R)-1,24-dihydroxyvitamin D3 derivative (calcipotriol) as predicted by quantum chemical calculations supported by the density functional theory (DFT). Among the key electronic properties investigated, absolute values of the dipole polarizability and energy gap between HOMO and LUMO molecular orbitals of the analog molecules differ significantly for particular analogs, and there is a direct relationship with their electrophoretic migration time. These differences and relationships suggest that the structurally related analogs should be separable in the electrostatic field. Indeed, the robust, sensitive, and rapid NACE method was first developed for the identification and determination of the anticancer analog of calcipotriol (coded PRI-2205) and its process-related impurities (coded PRI-2201, PRI-2203, and PRI-2204) in organic and aqueous biological solutions. The direct relation between the calculated electronic properties of the analogs and the experimental electrophoretic migration time could be a promising prospect for theoretically predicting the electrophoretic separations.
Comparison of Chemical Compositions and Antioxidant Activities for the Immature Fruits of Citrus changshan-huyou Y.B. Chang and Citrus aurantium L.
Authors: Zhang Qixin , Song Wenying , Tao Guanqi , Li Qin , Wang Lixia , Huang Wenkang , Gao Lijuan , Yin Lai , Ye Yiping
Published: June 2023

Quzhou Aurantii Fructus (QAF), the dried immature fruit of Citrus changshan-huyou Y.B. Chang, is similar to Aurantii Fructus (AF), the dried immature fruit of Citrus aurantium L. or its cultivars, in terms of composition, pharmacological action, and appearance. However, potential chemical markers to distinguish QAF from AF remain unknown owing to the lack of a comprehensive systematic chemical comparison aligned with discriminant analysis. To achieve a better understanding of the differences in their composition, this study aimed to identify the basic chemical compounds in QAF (n = 42) and AF (n = 8) using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with electron spray ionization and quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC−QTOF/MS) and gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC−MS). Principal component analysis (PCA), orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis (OPLS−DA), and hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA) were used to further analyze, screen, and verify potential chemical markers; the antioxidant capacity was assayed in vitro. A total of 108 compounds were found in QAF and AF, including 25 flavonoids, 8 limonoids, 2 coumarins, and 73 volatile components. The chemometric analysis indicated that the main components in QAF and AF were very similar. Trace differential components, including 9 flavonoids, 2 coumarins, 5 limonoids, and 26 volatile compounds, were screened as potential chemical markers to distinguish between QAF and AF. Additionally, the antioxidant capacity of QAF was found to be greater than that of AF. This research provides insights into the quality control and clinical application of QAF.
Foegraecumoside O and P, a Pair of Triterpenoid Saponins with a 4/5/6 Fused Tricyclic Oleanane Carbon Skeleton from Lysimachia foenum-graecum Hance
Authors: Dai Lumei , He Shuang , Zhang Bin , Wang Hengshan , Wang Yan , Liang Dong
Published: June 2023

Lysimachia foenum-graecum Hance (Primulaceae) is a medicinal plant used for cold, pain, ascariasis, etc., in China. Triterpenoid saponins have been found to be the main components of this genus. In this work, a pair of oleanane-type triterpenoid saponins with an unprecedented 4/5/6 fused tricyclic skeleton, foegraecumoside O (1) and foegraecumoside P (2) were isolated from the butanol fraction of the aerial parts of L. foenum-graecum. Their structures were determined using chemical methods and extensive spectroscopic analyses, along with quantum chemical calculations. Compound 2 displayed moderate cytotoxicity against HepG2, MGC-803, T24, NCI-H460, A549, and A549/CDDP (drug-resistant lung-cancer cell line) with IC50 at 12.4–19.2 μM in an MTT assay, comparing with the positive control doxorubicin, which had IC50 at 0.53–4.92 μM, but was inactive for A549/CDDP. Furthermore, a possible biosynthetic pathway for forming compounds 1 and 2 was proposed.
Anti-Cancer Potential of Phytochemicals: The Regulation of the Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Liu Shuangyu , Li Lingyu , Ren Dongmei
Published: June 2023

A biological process called epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) allows epithelial cells to change into mesenchymal cells and acquire some cancer stem cell properties. EMT contributes significantly to the metastasis, invasion, and development of treatment resistance in cancer cells. Current research has demonstrated that phytochemicals are emerging as a potential source of safe and efficient anti-cancer medications. Phytochemicals could disrupt signaling pathways related to malignant cell metastasis and drug resistance by suppressing or reversing the EMT process. In this review, we briefly describe the pathophysiological properties and the molecular mechanisms of EMT in the progression of cancers, then summarize phytochemicals with diverse structures that could block the EMT process in different types of cancer. Hopefully, these will provide some guidance for future research on phytochemicals targeting EMT.
Identification of Anti-Inflammatory Compounds from Peucedanum praeruptorum Roots by Using Nitric Oxide-Producing Rat Hepatocytes Stimulated by Interleukin 1β
Authors: Ozaki Hiromu , Nishidono Yuto , Fujii Airi , Okuyama Tetsuya , Nakamura Kaito , Maesako Takanori , Shirako Saki , Nakatake Richi , Tanaka Ken , Ikeya Yukinobu , Nishizawa Mikio
Published: June 2023

The roots of Peucedanum praeruptorum Dunn and Angelica decursiva Franchet et Savatier are designated Zenko, which is a crude drug defined by the Japanese Pharmacopoeia. This crude drug is used as an antitussive and an expectorant and is included in the Kampo formula Jinsoin, which improves cough, fever, and headache. Although the anti-inflammatory effects of this crude drug have been determined, the constituents responsible for this effect remain unknown. To investigate biologically active compounds, rat hepatocytes were used, which produce proinflammatory mediator nitric oxide (NO) in response to proinflammatory cytokine interleukin 1β (IL-1β). A methanol extract of P. praeruptorum roots, which suppressed IL-1β-induced NO production, was fractionated into three crude fractions (ethyl acetate (EtOAc)-soluble, n-butanol-soluble, and water-soluble fractions) based on hydrophobicity. The EtOAc-soluble fraction markedly inhibited NO production. After this fraction was purified, three biologically active compounds were identified as praeruptorins A, B, and E, the contents of which were high. A comparison of their activities indicated that praeruptorin B exhibited the highest potency to inhibit NO production by decreasing inducible NO synthase expression and suppressed the expression of mRNAs encoding proinflammatory cytokines. Collectively, the three praeruptorins may primarily contribute to the anti-inflammatory effects of P. praeruptorum roots.
Synthesis of Daidzein and Thiophene Containing Benzoxazine Resin and Its Thermoset and Carbon Material
Authors: Yao Zhenhao , Lu Yin , Song Jianan , Zhang Kan
Published: June 2023

In this work, a novel bio-based high-performance bisbenzoxazine resin was synthesized from daidzein, 2-thiophenemethylamine and paraformaldehyde. The chemical structure was confirmed using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The polymerization process was systematically studied using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and in situ FT-IR spectra. It can be polymerized through multiple polymerization behaviors under the synergistic reaction of thiophene rings with benzopyrone rather than a single polymerization mechanism of traditional benzoxazines, as reported. In addition, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and a microscale combustion calorimeter (MCC) were used to study the thermal stability and flame retardancy of the resulting polybenzoxazine. The thermosetting material showed a high carbon residue rate of 62.8% and a low heat release capacity (HRC) value of 33 J/gK without adding any flame retardants. Based on its outstanding capability of carbon formation, this newly obtained benzoxazine resin was carbonized and activated to obtain a porous carbon material doped with both sulfur and nitrogen. The CO2 absorption of the carbon material at 0 °C and 25 °C at 1 bar was 3.64 mmol/g and 3.26 mmol/g, respectively. The above excellent comprehensive properties prove its potential applications in many advanced fields.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of Bismuth Ferrite Hollow Spheres with Enhanced Visible-Light Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Cadenbach Thomas , Sanchez Valeria , Chiquito Ríos Daniela , Debut Alexis , Vizuete Karla , Benitez Maria J.
Published: June 2023

In recent years, semiconductor hollow spheres have gained much attention due to their unique combination of morphological, chemical, and physico-chemical properties. In this work, we report for the first time the synthesis of BiFeO3 hollow spheres by a facile hydrothermal treatment method. The mechanism of formation of pure phase BiFeO3 hollow spheres is investigated systematically by variation of synthetic parameters such as temperature and time, ratio and amount of precursors, pressure, and calcination procedures. The samples were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. We observe that the purity and morphology of the synthesized materials are very sensitive to synthesis parameters. In general, the chemically and morphologically very robust hollow spheres have diameters in the range of 200 nm to 2 μm and a wall thickness of 50–200 nm. The synthesized BiFeO3 hollow spheres were applied as catalysts in the photodegradation of the model pollutant Rhodamine B under visible-light irradiation. Notably, the photocatalyst demonstrated exceptionally high removal efficiencies leading to complete degradation of the dye in less than 150 min at neutral pH. The superior efficiencies of the synthesized material are attributed to the unique features of hollow spheres. The active species in the photocatalytic process have been identified by trapping experiments.
Exploring the Potential of Broadband Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor Micro-Coil Nuclear Magnetic Resonance for Environmental Research
Authors: Lysak Daniel H. , Grisi Marco , Marable Kathryn , Conley Gaurasundar M. , Michal Carl A. , Moxley-Paquette Vincent , Wolff William W. , Downey Katelyn , Kock Flavio V. C. , Costa Peter M. , Ronda Kiera , Moraes Tiago B. , Steiner Katrina , Colnago Luiz A. , Simpson Andre J.
Published: June 2023

With sensitivity being the Achilles’ heel of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), the superior mass sensitivity offered by micro-coils can be an excellent choice for tiny, mass limited samples such as eggs and small organisms. Recently, complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS)-based micro-coil transceivers have been reported and demonstrate excellent mass sensitivity. However, the ability of broadband CMOS micro-coils to study heteronuclei has yet to be investigated, and here their potential is explored within the lens of environmental research. Eleven nuclei including 7Li, 19F, 31P and, 205Tl were studied and detection limits in the low to mid picomole range were found for an extended experiment. Further, two environmentally relevant samples (a sprouting broccoli seed and a D. magna egg) were successfully studied using the CMOS micro-coil system. 13C NMR was used to help resolve broad signals in the 1H spectrum of the 13C enriched broccoli seed, and steady state free precession was used to improve the signal-to-noise ratio by a factor of six. 19F NMR was used to track fluorinated contaminants in a single D. magna egg, showing potential for studying egg–pollutant interactions. Overall, CMOS micro-coil NMR demonstrates significant promise in environmental research, especially when the future potential to scale to multiple coil arrays (greatly improving throughput) is considered.
Proposed Protocol for Field Testing of Endurance Fitness of Young Labrador Retrievers
Authors: Söderlund Ella-Erika , Kyröläinen Heikki , Laitinen-Vapaavuori Outi M. , Hyytiäinen Heli K.
Published: June 2023

The number of dogs and, with it, dog sports are growing in popularity, and the training of dogs begins at an early age. Although fitness testing is an imperative part of purposeful training and sports, to our knowledge, no objective field tests are available for measuring young dogs’ endurance fitness. The aim of this study is to describe a simple, easy-to-repeat, and inexpensive way to test training intervention effects on endurance fitness in young Labrador Retrievers. Healthy client-owned 16-week-old Labrador Retrievers will be recruited and divided into test and control groups. The test group will have an eight-week training program followed by a four-week detraining period, while the control group will live a normal puppy life. All dogs will be tested for endurance fitness four times at four-week intervals: at baseline, one month later, two months later at the end of the training period, and one month after ending the training program. Each of the four testing sessions will be identical and will consist of four measurements of heart rate (HR) and blood lactate (BL): at baseline, after trotting 1000 m, after sprinting 200 m, and at recovery 5–8 min after the sprint. The training-induced changes in endurance fitness are evaluated by changes in HR and heart rate recovery times (HRR), BL, and running times.
Tunable Magnetic Properties of Interconnected Permalloy Nanowire Networks
Authors: Pereira Alejandro , Sáez Guidobeth , Saavedra Eduardo , Escrig Juan
Published: June 2023

In this study, we investigate the magnetic properties of interconnected permalloy nanowire networks using micromagnetic simulations. The effects of interconnectivity on the hysteresis curves, coercivity, and remanence of the nanowire networks are analyzed. Our results reveal intriguing characteristics of the hysteresis curves, including nonmonotonic behaviors of coercivity as a function of the position of horizontal nanowires relative to vertical nanowires. By introducing horizontal nanowires at specific positions, the coercivity of the nanowire networks can be enhanced without altering the material composition. The normalized remanence remains relatively constant regardless of the position of the horizontal wires, although it is lower in the interconnected nanowire arrays compared to nonconnected arrays. These findings provide valuable insights into the design and optimization of nanowire networks for applications requiring tailored magnetic properties.
Impacts of MicroRNA-483 on Human Diseases
Authors: Matson Katy , Macleod Aaron , Mehta Nirali , Sempek Ellie , Tang Xiaoqing
Published: June 2023

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non-coding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression by targeting specific messenger RNAs (mRNAs) in distinct cell types. This review provides a com-prehensive overview of the current understanding regarding the involvement of miR-483-5p and miR-483-3p in various physiological and pathological processes. Downregulation of miR-483-5p has been linked to numerous diseases, including type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease, diabetic nephropathy, and neurological injury. Accumulating evidence indicates that miR-483-5p plays a crucial protective role in preserving cell function and viability by targeting specific transcripts. Notably, elevated levels of miR-483-5p in the bloodstream strongly correlate with metabolic risk factors and serve as promising diagnostic markers. Consequently, miR-483-5p represents an appealing biomarker for predicting the risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular diseases and holds potential as a therapeutic target for intervention strategies. Conversely, miR-483-3p exhibits significant upregulation in diabetes and cardiovascular diseases and has been shown to induce cellular apoptosis and lipotoxicity across various cell types. However, some discrepancies regarding its precise function have been reported, underscoring the need for further investigation in this area.
Consecutive Four-Component Coupling-Addition Aza-Anellation Pictet–Spengler Synthesis of Tetrahydro-β-Carbolines: An Optimized Michael Addition and Computational Study on the Aza-Anellation Step
Authors: Ries Kai , Aouane Françoise A. , Müller Thomas J. J.
Published: June 2023

Starting from acid chlorides, alkynes, tryptamines, and acryloyl chloride, 21 densely substituted tetrahydro-β-carbolines were prepared in a four-component, one-pot reaction. In this study, the aza-Michael addition step to generate intermediate enaminones was optimized in the presence of ytterbium triflate. Moreover, apart from acryloyl chloride, all reactants could be deployed in almost equimolar ratios, which increases the atom economy of the sequence. For mechanistic rationalization, the concluding aza-anellation was investigated by DFT calculations on potential intermediates and corresponding activation energies, revealing that the aza-anellation proceeds via ene reaction rather than via electrocyclization.
Molecular Characterization and Expression Analysis of IL-10 and IL-6 in Channel Catfish (Ictalurus punctatus)
Authors: Zhu Xia , Liu Yongtao , Xu Ning , Ai Xiaohui , Yang Yibin
Published: June 2023

IL-10 and IL-6 play important roles in protecting against inflammation and clearing pathogens from the body. In this study, homologous compounds of IL-10 and IL-6 were identified in channel catfish, and their immune responses were analyzed. The CDS sequences of IL-10 and IL-6 were 549 bp and 642 bp, respectively, and showed the highest homology with Ameiurus melas. In addition, the expression of the IL-10 and IL-6 genes was ubiquitous in 10 tissues examined. IL-10 is highly expressed in the liver and slightly expressed in the gill. The high expression of the IL-6 gene was observed in the spleen, heart, and gonad, with the lowest levels in the liver. LPS, Poly(I:C), PHA, and PMA showed a highly significant increase in IL-10 and IL-6 expression 48 h after CCK stimulation (p < 0.01). Otherwise, Yersinia ruckeri, Streptococcus iniae, channel catfish virus, and deltamethrin induced IL-10 and IL-6 expression, varying in intensity between different organs. Our results suggest that IL-10 and IL-6 are involved in the immune response of the host against the pathogen.
Evaluation of Renal Ischemia–Reperfusion Injury Using Optical Coherence Tomography Based on Fractal Dimension
Authors: Fang Yuhong , Gong Wei , Huang Zheng , Zhang Yongtao , Zhang Limin , Xie Shusen
Published: June 2023

Renal ischemia–reperfusion (IR) is inevitable in partial nephrectomy and kidney transplantation. Acute tubular necrosis (ATN) induced by renal IR causes the loss of functional units in the kidney, pathologically presenting as the nonhomogeneous distribution of normal uriniferous tubules and usually used to characterize kidney activity. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has been proven to have the ability to image the kidney microstructure in vivo and in real time. However, a fast image analysis method is needed for clinical application purpose. In this work, a new method for assessing renal IR injury was developed using a fractal-dimension-based texture of the OCT kidney image. Thirty-five Wistar rats were divided into seven groups for renal ischemia–reperfusion: control and various ischemia-time groups. A time series of 3D OCT kidney images was obtained. We calculated the fractal dimension (FD) of OCT en face images and found that the value increased gradually and finally became stable after 90 min of reperfusion. The stable value in the long-ischemia-time group was smaller than that in the short-ischemia-time group. The FD value of the OCT kidney image was highly responsive to renal IR injury. The proposed method is promising for a fast diagnostic application.
Design and Numerical Analysis of Ultra-Broadband Absorber with Chimney Type Structure
Authors: Wu Yongchang , Liu Yue , Ma Wenzhuang , Chen Yushan , Cheng Yuyao , Li Degui , Liu Jing , Gu Yu
Published: June 2023

In this study, a novel ultra-broadband absorber is suggested and numerically analyzed to demonstrate that the suggested absorber can achieve an average absorbance of 98.6% in the visible to near-infrared wavelength range (496–2100 nm). The structure of the proposed new ultra-wideband absorber consists of four thin films of silicon dioxide (SiO2), iron (Fe), magnesium fluoride (MgF2), and chromium (Cr). We have examined the structure’s electromagnetic field intensity distribution at numerous selected optical wavelengths and the influence of various structural parameters on the absorption performance of the absorber to offer a physical mechanism underlying the ultra-broadband absorption effect. Furthermore, in the presence of high-performance absorption, the structure has the effect of stabilizing absorption at large angles of incidence and is polarization-independent at vertical angles of incidence. The study also assesses the solar absorption capability of this structure, indicating that the structure has potential applications in solar absorption, such as solar energy collection and conversion, solar power generation, and thermal emitters.
Inverse Energy Flux in Tight Focusing of Vector Vortex Beam
Authors: Chen Ruixiang , Song Tiegen , Luo Yuee , Li Hehe , Li Xinzhong
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we focus on the study of the negative energy flow in the tight focusing of a radially polarized vortex beam. We know that, because of the coupling of the polarization state and the vortex charge, the on-axis energy flow in the focal region can be well modulated by changing the polarization order and the vortex charge of the incident vector beam. This shows that when the polarization order and the vortex charge satisfy the specific relation, the on-axis negative energy flow can be obtained in the focal region. Moreover, the initial phases of two polarization unit vectors also affect the evolution of the on-axis negative energy flow in the tight focusing of the radially polarized beam. The phase difference modulation of the two polarization unit vectors indicates two different modulations of the polarization state. Our work provides a more flexible modulation method for focal shaping and optical modulation.
Performance Analysis of the Four-Wave Mixing Effect with Various Tapered Fiber Waist Diameters
Authors: Ahmad Harith , Salleh Muhammad Firdaus , Zaini Muhammad Khairol Annuar , Samion Muhamad Zharif , Ismail Muhammad Faizal , Reduan Siti Aisyah
Published: June 2023

In this work, we report the use of different waist diameters of tapered fiber to generate a four-wave mixing (FWM) effect. The FWM conversion efficiencies obtained from the tapered fiber with 10 µm, 20 µm, and 30 µm waist diameters were −37.81 dB, −38.50 dB, and −39.01 dB, respectively, at 1.584 W pump power. The FWM-based outputs were stable over a 60 min measurement at a 1.5 µm wavelength operation, with a small fluctuation range of 0.21 to 0.45 dB. Furthermore, the setup could generate the FWM effect with a maximum tuning range of 9.5 nm (10 µm and 20 µm) and 9.0 nm (30 µm). The numerical simulation results showed a high nonlinearity at the air-cladding region when the tapered waist diameter was reduced. These characteristics of the tapered fiber can be used as an excellent medium for studying nonlinear phenomena, which could result in the development of new photonic devices for high-power optical communication.
A Current-Mode Optoelectronic Receiver IC for Short-Range LiDAR Sensors in 180 nm CMOS
Authors: Hu Yu , Joo Ji-Eun , Zhang Xinyue , Chon Yeojin , Choi Shinhae , Lee Myung-Jae , Park Sung-Min
Published: June 2023

This paper presents three different types of on-chip avalanche photodiodes (APDs) realized in a TSMC 180 nm 1P6M RF CMOS process, i.e., a P+/N-well (NW) APD for its high responsivity and large bandwidth by excluding slow diffusion currents; a P+/Deep N-well (DNW) APD for its improved near-infrared (NIR) sensitivity; and a P+/NW/DNW APD for its capability to prevent premature edge breakdown and improve NIR sensitivity. Thereafter, a conventional voltage-mode optoelectronic receiver (V-OER) was realized to confirm the feasibility of the three on-chip APDs. However, the measured results of the V-OER demonstrate a very narrow dynamic range. Therefore, we propose a current-mode optoelectronic receiver (C-OER) realized in the same CMOS process for the applications of short-range LiDAR sensors, where current-conveyor input buffers are exploited to deliver the photocurrents with no significant signal loss to the following inverter cascode transimpedance amplifier, hence resulting in an extended dynamic range. The optically measured results of the C-OER with an 850 nm laser source demonstrate large output pulses. The C-OER chip consumes 47.8 mW from a 1.8 V supply and the core occupies 0.087 mm2.
High Efficient Random Laser with Cavity Based on the Erbium-Doped Germanophosphosilicate Artificial Rayleigh Fiber
Authors: Popov Sergei , Rybaltovsky Andrey , Bazakutsa Alexei , Smirnov Alexander , Ryakhovskiy Dmitry , Voloshin Viktor , Kolosovskii Alexander , Vorob’ev Igor , Isaev Viktor , Chamorovskiy Yuriy , Lipatov Denis , Butov Oleg
Published: June 2023

The Erbium “random” laser, based on the artificial Rayleigh fiber, has been comparatively studied in detail under two different pump conditions: 974.5 and 1485 nm pumping wavelengths. The artificial Rayleigh 7-m-long fiber was used as a laser cavity, it was formed by the ultraviolet (UV) inscription of the uniform array of the weakly reflective fiber Bragg grating (FBG) during the fiber drawing process. The UV photosensitivity of the Erbium-doped fiber originated from the specially developed (germanophosphosilicate) core glass composition. The emission spectrum of the fabricated “random” fiber laser had a single narrow peak at the 1548 nm wavelength. It was clearly revealed that the extension of the laser cavity by the separate wavelength-matched 90%-reflective FBG resulted in a significant laser efficiency growth. The highest laser slope efficiency of 33% and the laser output power of 80 mW were reached in the FBG-modified cavity at the 974.5-nm-wavelength pumping. The continuous-wave operation mode of this laser has been confirmed. The laser linewidth value measured by the delayed self-heterodyne technique was about 550 Hz.
The Role of Home Gardens in Promoting Biodiversity and Food Security
Authors: Korpelainen Helena
Published: June 2023

Plant genetic resources provide the basis for sustainable agricultural production, adaptation to climate change, and economic development. Many present crop plants are endangered due to extreme environmental conditions induced by climate change or due to the use of a limited selection of plant materials. Changing environmental conditions are a challenge for plant production and food security, emphasizing the urgent need for access to a wider range of plant genetic resources than what are utilized today, for breeding novel crop varieties capable of resilience and adaptation to climate change and other environmental challenges. Besides large-scale agricultural production, it is important to recognize that home gardens have been an integral component of family farming and local food systems for centuries. It is remarkable how home gardens have allowed the adaptation and domestication of plants to extreme or specific ecological conditions, thus contributing to the diversification of cultivated plants. Home gardens can help in reducing hunger and malnutrition and improve food security. In addition, they provide opportunities to broaden the base of cultivated plant materials by harboring underutilized crop plants and crop wild relative species. Crop wild relatives contain a wide range of genetic diversity not available in cultivated crops. Although the importance of home gardens in conserving plant genetic resources is well recognized, there is a risk that local genetic diversity will be lost if traditional plant materials are replaced by high-yielding modern cultivars. This paper provides an overview of home gardens and their present role and future potential in conserving and utilizing plant genetic resources and enhancing food and nutritional security under global challenges.
Drug Formulation of Securigera securidaca Seed Extracts
Authors: Abdelbagi Mohamed E. M. , Al-Mazaideh Ghassab M. , Ahmed Adil Elhag , Al-Rimawi Fuad , Ayyal Salman Haya , Almutairi Abdulrahman , Abuilaiwi Faraj Ahmad , Wedian Fadel
Published: June 2023

S. securidaca seeds are reported to treat a variety of diseases; they contain multiple antidiabetic constituents and are widely used as anti-hyperglycemic, antibacterial, as well as anti-hyperlipidemic agents. The present work aimed to propose tablet formulations containing extracts of S. securidaca seeds in an attempt to obtain antibacterial and anti-hyperglycemic formulations with a more efficient oral hypoglycemic impact, limited side effects, and higher patient compliance for the first time, resulting in multiple benefits. Tablet formulations were created by encapsulating granules from S. securidaca seed extracts with varying concentrations of sodium starch glycolate as a super-disintegrant (0–3%). The final formulations were examined for weight variation, solubility, hardness, water content, disintegration time, friability, drug content (trigonelline and diosgenin), and in vitro drug release. The S. securidaca tablet formulations completed the weight test because the percentage deviation in the personal tablet weight and mechanical resistance from the mean were identified to be within the average range. In accordance with the results, formulations containing diosgenin as well as trigonelline as a super-disintegrant were identified as the ideal formulations. The amount of the active substance released from the tablet (S. securidaca seed extract formulation) was consistent throughout the results with the standard methods recommended by the FDA (94.05%) for diosgenin and 87.25% for trigonelline after 45 min. The acceptable limit, according to the FDA, is not more than (N.L.T.) 80% after 45 min for phase #1. The present study aimed to obtain an optimized formula for S. securidaca extract tablets that met the requirements of a good pharmaceutical preparation according to the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) and National Formulary (NF). This has important implications for the development of novel, effective treatments and significantly advances the development of natural medicine. Our findings are expected to be of interest to researchers, clinicians, and other experts in this field of study. Based on these findings, it can be inferred that the formulation of S. securidaca seed extracts with appropriate and compatible herbal dosage forms has fewer side effects and is more effective than traditional treatments.
Research on Hydraulic Thruster-Enhanced Permeability Technology of Soft Coal Drilling through Strata Based on Packer Sealing Method
Authors: Yao Zhuangzhuang , Zhang Zhigang , Dai Linchao
Published: June 2023

According to the characteristics of “Three Soft” outburst coal seams in the Henan area with large gas content, poor air permeability, and extremely difficult extraction, the hydraulic fracturing and punching technology of soft coal with packer tool string sealing method was studied. Xinzheng Coal Electric Power Company is a coal and gas outburst mine, and the second coal seam is a typical soft outburst coal seam. In 14201, upper bottom drainage roadway, which has a broken top plate, a test of penetration hydraulic pressure thrust-enhanced permeability technology based on packer sealing mode was carried out. The average concentration in the press-punching area was 4.8 times that in the non-press-punching area (to be tested), and the average pure volume of 100 holes in the test area was 42 times that in the untested area. During hydraulic pressure punching in the test area, affected by fracturing disturbance, the concentration and purity of the test area and the adjacent test area significantly increased. The test verifies that the large range of fracturing communication cracks at the same time through the interception hole punching plays a synergic permeability and pressure relief effect, providing a new idea and technical support for the hydraulic permeability increase technology in this area.
Low-Carbon and Energy-Saving Path Optimization Scheduling of Material Distribution in Machining Shop Based on Business Compass Model
Authors: Xiao Yongmao , Zhang Hao , Wang Ruping
Published: June 2023

In order to reduce carbon emission and energy consumption in the process of raw material distribution, the workshop material distribution management model was established based on the business compass model; it can help guide enterprises to manage workshop production. Based on the raw material distribution equipment, a path calculation model considering the carbon emission and energy consumption in the process of raw material distribution was established. The dung beetle optimizer was selected for the optimization calculation. The dung beetle optimizer has the characteristics of fast convergence and high solution accuracy. The material distribution of an engine assembly workshop was taken as an example; the results showed that the optimized scheduling model could effectively optimize the material distribution route and reduce energy consumption and carbon emission in the distribution process on the basis of meeting the distribution demand.
Development of a Lux Meter for the Identification of Liquids in Post-Consumer Polyethylene Terephthalate Bottles for Collection Centers in Mexico
Authors: Ángeles-Hurtado L. A. , Rodríguez-Reséndiz Juvenal , Romero Zepeda Hilda , Torres-Salinas Hugo , García-Martínez José R. , Salas-Aguilar Silvia Patricia
Published: June 2023

This article aims to enhance technological advancements in the classification of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle plastic, positively impacting sustainable development and providing effective solutions for collection centers (CC) in Mexico. Three experimental designs and machine learning tools for data processing were developed. The experiments considered three factors: bottle size, liquid volume, and bottle labels. The first experiment focused on determining the sensor distance from post-consumer PET bottles. The second experiment aimed to evaluate the sensor’s detection ability with varying liquid levels, while the third experiment assessed its detection capability for bottle labels. A digital lux meter integrated with a microcontroller was developed to monitor illuminance in post-consumer PET bottles containing liquid as they moved through a conveyor belt at an average rate of three bottles per second. The implemented methodology successfully detected liquids inside transparent PET bottles when they contained beverages ranging from 25% to 100% of their capacity. This study highlights the feasibility of implementing an affordable design for identifying bottles with liquids at CC.