bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Chemical Pollution Load in Surface Waters of the Turkestan Region and Its Indirect Impact on Landscapes: A Comprehensive Study
Authors: Akhmetova Dana , Ozgeldinova Zhanar , Ramazanova Nurgul , Sadvakassova Saltanat , Inkarova Zhansulu , Kenzhebay Rabiga , Shingisbayeva Zhadra , Abildaeva Roza , Kozhabekova Zakhida , Alagujayeva Manira , Sikhynbayeva Zhamila
Published: February 2025

This study is aimed at a comprehensive assessment of the chemical composition of surface waters in the Turkestan region and their impact on regional landscapes. The primary objective of the research is to systematically evaluate the level of chemical pollution in the region’s water resources and determine its indirect effects on landscape-ecological stability. In August 2024, water samples from eight sampling points (S1–S8) were analyzed for 24 physicochemical parameters, including total hardness (mg*eq/L), pH, dry residue (mg/L), electrical conductivity (µS/cm), total salinity (mg/L), Al, As, B, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Ti, Fe, Pb, Cu, Mg, K, Mn, Na, Ni, Zn, SO42−, and C6H5OH. To determine the degree of pollution, variational-statistical analysis, principal component analysis (PCA), as well as the calculation of the OIP, NPI, and HPI indices were performed. For land use and land cover change (LULC) analysis, LULC classification was carried out based on Landsat data from 2000 to 2020, forming the basis for land resource management and planning. The research results showed a deterioration in the ecological condition of water resources and an increasing anthropogenic impact. Specifically, at point S8, the concentration of Al was found to be 56 times higher than the maximum allowable limit, while the concentration of Fe was 42 times higher. High levels of pollution were also recorded at points S1, S4, S5, and S6, where the increase in Al and Na concentrations caused a sharp rise in the OIP value. The main factors influencing water pollution include industrial effluents, agricultural waste, and irrigation drainage waters. The pollution’s negative impact on regional landscapes has led to issues related to the distribution of vegetation, soil fertility, and landscape stability. To improve the current ecological situation and restore natural balance, the phytoremediation method is proposed. The research results will serve as the foundation for developing water resource management strategies for the Turkestan region and making informed decisions aimed at ensuring ecological sustainability.
Role of Individual, Social and Health Factors as Determinants of COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy: Results from the Second Phase of the Italian EPICOVID19 Web-Based Survey
Authors: Adorni Fulvio , Cavigli Chiara , Jesuthasan Nithiya , Cori Liliana , Sojic Aleksandra , Bianchi Fabrizio , Curzio Olivia , Prinelli Federica
Published: February 2025

Background: Despite scientific breakthroughs in vaccine development, some people remain reluctant to accept the anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. This study evaluates attitudes and behaviours towards the vaccine and factors associated with refusal/hesitancy at the start of Italy’s vaccination campaign. Methods: EPICOVID19 is a two-phase observational web-based study where adult volunteers completed questionnaires in April–June 2020 and January–February 2021. Refusal/hesitancy towards the vaccine was assessed among those not yet vaccinated. We analysed factors associated with refusal/hesitancy by applying multivariate multinomial logistic regression models. Results: Among 36,820 survey participants (mean age of 51 years, 59.7% women, 63.6% highly educated), 2449 (6.7%) were against or hesitant, 4468 (12.1%) were inclined but unsure, and 29,903 (81.2%) were willing to be vaccinated. Factors positively associated with refusal/hesitancy included female sex, middle age, at-risk occupations, medium and low education, deprived status, being underweight, previous SARS-CoV-2 positivity, poor perceived health, no fear of contracting SARS-CoV-2, the fear of contaminated food and natural disasters, and low trust in science, media, government, or institutions. Low hesitancy was associated with student and retired status, overweight and obesity, moderate and high alcohol consumption, no concern about economic and working conditions, and sensitivity to climate change/environmental pollution and epidemics. Conclusions: This survey showed that, during the first month of Italy’s vaccination campaign, some individuals were reluctant to receive the anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. This study highlights potential target groups for tailored communication and prevention campaigns.
Food Security in Brazil: Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Community Restaurants in the North and Northeast Regions
Authors: Santana Sousa Mateus , de Cássia Akutsu Rita , de Souza Silva Calliandra Maria , Silveira Silva Teixeira Camila , Rodrigues da Silva Izabel Cristina
Published: February 2025

Community Restaurants (CRs), part of the Brazilian government’s Popular Restaurant Program (PRP), provide free and/or affordable nutritionally balanced meals as an essential strategy to meet the most vulnerable population’s basic needs and rights. This cross-sectional study evaluated the effectiveness of these CRs’ proposed objectives in cities with ≥100,000 inhabitants in Brazil’s northern and northeastern regions—Brazil’s most vulnerable and historically unequal regions. Effectiveness was assessed using a CR evaluation matrix-based indicator system to classify CRs as “not very effective”, “effective”, or “very effective”. Among the 94 CRs assessed (north: n = 23, 24.5%; northeast: n = 71, 75.5%), most were classified as “effective” or “very effective”, except for the northern states of Amapá and Tocantins, whose only CR was rated as “not very effective” and the northeastern state of Sergipe, which had a PR considered “not very effective”. State-operated CRs predominated (north: 82.6%; northeast: 76.1%) and primarily operated Monday to Friday (north: 87.0%; northeast: 59.2%), with 35.2% of the northeast CRs operating daily, serving lunch as the main meal (100%). Average daily meal counts were 486.5 (north) and 926.9 (northeast), and the average meal offering time was from 10:55 am to 1:21 pm in the north and from 10:35 am to 2:00 pm in the northeast region, with costs averaging USD 0.27 and USD 0.20, respectively. All CRs employed a nutritionist as a technical manager responsible for menu planning and demonstrated compliance with essential infrastructure criteria, including regular waste collection, water supply, and proximity to public transport. Most were in areas with sanitary sewage coverage (north: 91.3%; northeast: 98.6%) and had monitoring mechanisms (91.3% north; 94.4% northeast) and prioritization systems for vulnerable populations (north: 73.9%; northeast: 80.0%). These findings indicate that CRs in these regions effectively strive to address food security goals, demonstrating tangible outcomes that benefit society.
Bioinformatics Analysis of the Anti-Inflammatory Mechanism and Potential Therapeutic Efficacy of Kezimuke granules in Treating Urinary Tract Infections by Inhibiting NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation
Authors: Baishan Alhar , Aikebaier Alifeiye , Dilimulati Dilihuma , Nueraihemaiti Nuerbiye , Paerhati Yipaerguli , Hailati Sendaer , Maihemuti Nulibiya , Zhou Wenting
Published: February 2025

Kezimuke granules (KZMK), derived from traditional Kazakh folk medicine, exhibit a variety of pharmacological properties. Long-term clinical studies have demonstrated their efficacy in clearing heat, detoxifying, promoting qi circulation, and alleviating gonorrhea. However, their specific pharmacological effects on urinary tract infections remain unclear. This study employed UHPLC-MS/MS technology to identify the blood components of KZMK and integrated network pharmacology with bioinformatics analysis for molecular docking validation. The anti-inflammatory activity of KZMK was further evaluated using a rat model of LPS-induced cystitis. A total of 17 components in KZMK were identified as capable of entering the bloodstream. Predictive analysis revealed that its primary targets include Caspase-1, NLRP3, STAT1, TLR4, and TNF, with the NLRP3 inflammasome signaling pathway emerging as the key mechanism. In vivo studies showed that KZMK effectively reduced the white blood cell (WBC) count and bladder index in urine sediments of rats with cystitis. Additionally, KZMK alleviated bladder congestion, edema, and histopathological changes in the animals. Treatment with KZMK led to decreased levels of IL-18 and IL-1β cytokines. KZMK significantly inhibited the expression of NLRP3, GSDMD, and Caspase-1 in LPS-induced cystitis, further confirming its anti-inflammatory effects. These findings indicate that KZMK provides protection against LPS-induced cystitis, primarily by inhibiting the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Collectively, the results suggest that KZMK holds promise as a potential therapeutic option for urinary tract infections.
ADRB2 Polymorphisms (rs1042713 and rs1042714) and Blood Pressure Response to the Cold Pressor Test in Combat Athletes and Non-Athletes
Authors: Sawczuk Marek , Gąsiorowska Agata , Maciejewska-Skrendo Agnieszka , Chudecka Monika , Kotarska Katarzyna , Proia Patrizia , Marszałek Jolanta , Małkowska Paulina , Leźnicka Katarzyna
Published: February 2025

Adrenergic receptors (AR) play a vital role in cardiovascular system regulation. The ADRB2 gene, encoding the β2-AR receptor, has genetic variability potentially impacting blood pressure (BP) regulation. Evidence for such associations has been inconsistent. This study investigates the relationship between two ADRB2 polymorphisms (rs1042713, Gly16Arg, and rs1042714, Glu27Gln) and BP changes during the cold pressor test (CPT) in young, healthy men, including combat athletes. The study included two groups: combat athletes and non-athlete students. BP (systolic, SBP; diastolic, DBP) was measured at rest and at pain tolerance during CPT. Genetic analysis was conducted for rs1042713 and rs1042714 polymorphisms. Athletes had higher SBP and DBP than students, with both values increasing during pain tolerance compared to rest. Differences in BP responses during CPT were genotype-dependent. Students with the Gly16Gly16 genotype had significantly higher SBP than Arg16 allele carriers, while this variation was not observed in athletes. Athletes with the Glu27 allele exhibited higher SBP than 27Gln homozygotes, unlike students. Gly16 and Glu27 alleles are linked to elevated stress-induced BP responses in young Polish men. However, BP regulation involves multiple genetic and environmental factors not explored in this study.
Unveiling the Mechanisms of Pain in Endometriosis: Comprehensive Analysis of Inflammatory Sensitization and Therapeutic Potential
Authors: Chen Yixiao , Li Tian
Published: February 2025

Endometriosis is a complicated, estrogen-dependent gynecological condition with a high morbidity rate. Pain, as the most common clinical symptom of endometriosis, severely affects women’s physical and mental health and exacerbates socioeconomic burden. However, the specific mechanisms behind the occurrence of endometriosis-related pain remain unclear. It is currently believed that the occurrence of endometriosis pain is related to various factors, such as immune abnormalities, endocrine disorders, the brain–gut axis, angiogenesis, and mechanical stimulation. These factors induce systemic chronic inflammation, which stimulates the nerves and subsequently alters neural plasticity, leading to nociceptive sensitization and thereby causing chronic pain. In this paper, we compile and review the articles published on the study of nociceptive sensitization and endometriosis pain mechanisms. Starting from the factors influencing the chronic pain associated with endometriosis, we explain the relationship between these factors and chronic inflammation and further elaborate on the potential mechanisms by which chronic inflammation induces nociceptive sensitization. We aim to reveal the possible mechanisms of endometriosis pain, as well as nociceptive sensitization, and offer potential new targets for the treatment of endometriosis pain.
Mining the Candidate Transcription Factors Modulating Tanshinones’ and Phenolic Acids’ Biosynthesis Under Low Nitrogen Stress in Salvia miltiorrhiza
Authors: Cheng Yating , Gui Siqi , Hao Siyu , Li Xiujuan , Zhuang Chao , Shi Yifei , Zhou Wei , Kai Guoyin
Published: February 2025

Mining valuable genes is helpful to breed high-quality Salvia miltiorrhiza exhibiting efficient nitrogen fertilizer utilization efficiency. In the present study, transcriptome sequencing was introduced to select the candidate transcription factors (TFs) involved in tanshinones’ (TAs) and phenolic acids’ (PHAs) biosynthesis as well as low nitrogen (LN) stress. In totally, 97.71 Gb clean data was obtained from fifteen sequencing samples and 30,975 unigenes were assembled. Among of them, 27,843 unigenes were successfully annotated. Overall, 8663 differential expression genes (DEGs) were identified, among of which 5034 unigenes were up-regulated, and 3629 unigenes were down-regulated. By enrichment of DEGs together with gene co-expression network construction, 10 candidate TFs including HSFB2b, LBD12, ERF1A, ERF98, LBD25, HSF24, RAM1, HSFA4B, TCP8, and WRKY24 were finally retrieved, which are predicted to participate in modulating TA and PHA biosynthesis under LN stress. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) detection was introduced to further detect the expression profile of candidate TFs under LN stress. These findings offer a valuable resource for in-depth study of TAs ‘and PHAs’ biosynthesis under LN stress in S. miltiorrhiza.
Short Synthesis of Structurally Diverse N-Acylhomoserine Lactone Analogs and Discovery of Novel Quorum Quenchers Against Gram-Negative Pathogens
Authors: Porras Marina , Hernández Dácil , Boto Alicia
Published: February 2025

Quorum quenchers are emerging as an alternative to conventional antimicrobials, since they hinder the development of virulence or resistance mechanisms but without killing the microorganisms, thus, reducing the risk of antimicrobial resistance. Many quorum quenchers are analogs of the natural quorum-sensing signaling molecules or autoinducers. Thus, different analogs of natural N-acylhomoserine lactones (AHLs) have been reported for controlling virulence or reducing the production of biofilms in Gram-negative pathogens. Herein we report the preparation of AHL analogs with a variety of N-substituents in just two steps from readily available N-substituted hydroxyproline esters. The substrates underwent an oxidative radical scission of the pyrrolidine ring. The resulting N-substituted β-aminoaldehyde underwent reduction and in situ cyclization to give a variety of homoserine lactones, with N- and N,N-substituted amino derivatives and with high optical purity. The libraries were screened for the inhibition of violacein production in Chromobacterium violaceum, a Gram-negative pathogen. For the first time, N,N-disubstituted AHL analogs were studied. Several N-sulfonyl derivatives, one carbamoyl, and one N-alkyl-N-sulfonyl homoserine lactone displayed a promising inhibitory activity. Moreover, they did not display microbicide action against S. aureus, C. jejuni, S. enterica, P. aeruginosa, and C. albicans, confirming a pure QQ activity. The determination of structure–activity relationships and in silico ADME studies are also reported, which are valuable for the design of next generations QQ agents.
Targeting Heat Shock Transcription Factor 4 Enhances the Efficacy of Cabozantinib and Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Saito Saeki , Yoshino Hirofumi , Yokoyama Seiya , Tominaga Mitsuhiko , Li Gang , Arima Junya , Kawahara Ichiro , Fukuda Ikumi , Mitsuke Akihiko , Sakaguchi Takashi , Inoguchi Satoru , Matsushita Ryosuke , Yamada Yasutoshi , Tatarano Shuichi , Tanimoto Akihide , Enokida Hideki
Published: February 2025

Recently, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and cabozantinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), have been used to treat renal cell carcinoma (RCC); the combination of these agents has become a standard treatment for RCC. TKIs generally target vascular endothelial growth factor. However, cabozantinib is characterized by its targeting of MET. Therefore, cabozantinib can be used as a late-line therapy for TKI-resistant RCC. According to data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), heat shock transcription factor 4 (HSF4) expression is higher in RCC tissues than in normal renal tissues. HSF4 binds to the MET promoter in colorectal carcinoma to enhance MET expression and promote tumor progression. However, the functional role of HSF4 in RCC is unclear. We performed loss-of-function assays of HSF4, and our results showed that HSF4 knockdown in RCC cells significantly decreased cell functions. Moreover, MET expression was decreased in HSF4-knockdown cells but elevated in sunitinib-resistant RCC cells. The combination of cabozantinib and HSF4 knockdown reduced cell proliferation in sunitinib-resistant cells more than each monotherapy alone. Furthermore, HSF4 knockdown combined with an ICI showed synergistic suppression of tumor growth in vivo. Overall, our strategy involving HSF4 knockdown may enhance the efficacy of existing therapies, such as cabozantinib and ICIs.
Current Therapeutic Landscape for Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis
Authors: Devasia Arun George , Ramasamy Adaikalavan , Leo Chen Huei
Published: February 2025

In recent years, “metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease” (MASLD) has been proposed to better connect liver disease to metabolic dysfunction, which is the most common chronic liver disease worldwide. MASLD affects more than 30% of individuals globally, and it is diagnosed by the combination of hepatic steatosis and obesity, type 2 diabetes, or two metabolic risk factors. MASLD begins with the buildup of extra fat, often greater than 5%, within the liver, causing liver hepatocytes to become stressed. This can proceed to a more severe form, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), in 20–30% of people, where inflammation in the liver causes tissue fibrosis, which limits blood flow over time. As fibrosis worsens, MASH may lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, or even liver cancer. While the pathophysiology of MASLD is not fully known, the current “multiple-hits” concept proposes that dietary and lifestyle factors, metabolic factors, and genetic or epigenetic factors contribute to elevated oxidative stress and inflammation, causing liver fibrosis. This review article provides an overview of the pathogenesis of MASLD and evaluates existing therapies as well as pharmacological drugs that are currently being studied in clinical trials for MASLD or MASH.
CNN-Based Optimization for Fish Species Classification: Tackling Environmental Variability, Class Imbalance, and Real-Time Constraints
Authors: Mohammadisabet Amirhosein , Hasan Raza , Dattana Vishal , Mahmood Salman , Hussain Saqib
Published: February 2025

Automated fish species classification is essential for marine biodiversity monitoring, fisheries management, and ecological research. However, challenges such as environmental variability, class imbalance, and computational demands hinder the development of robust classification models. This study investigates the effectiveness of convolutional neural network (CNN)-based models and hybrid approaches to address these challenges. Eight CNN architectures, including DenseNet121, MobileNetV2, and Xception, were compared alongside traditional classifiers like support vector machines (SVMs) and random forest. DenseNet121 achieved the highest accuracy (90.2%), leveraging its superior feature extraction and generalization capabilities, while MobileNetV2 balanced accuracy (83.57%) with computational efficiency, processing images in 0.07 s, making it ideal for real-time deployment. Advanced preprocessing techniques, such as data augmentation, turbidity simulation, and transfer learning, were employed to enhance dataset robustness and address class imbalance. Hybrid models combining CNNs with traditional classifiers achieved intermediate accuracy with improved interpretability. Optimization techniques, including pruning and quantization, reduced model size by 73.7%, enabling real-time deployment on resource-constrained devices. Grad-CAM visualizations further enhanced interpretability by identifying key image regions influencing predictions. This study highlights the potential of CNN-based models for scalable, interpretable fish species classification, offering actionable insights for sustainable fisheries management and biodiversity conservation.
Max-Min Secrecy Rate for UAV-Assisted Energy Harvesting IoT Networks
Authors: Zheng Mingrui , Feng Tianrui , He Tengjiao
Published: February 2025

The future Internet of Things (IoT) will consist of energy harvesting devices and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to support applications in remote areas. However, as UAVs communicate with IoT devices using broadcast channels, information leakage emerges as a critical security threat. This paper considers the problem of maximizing the minimum secrecy rate in an energy harvesting IoT network supported by two UAVs, where one acts as a server to collect data from devices, and the other is an eavesdropper to intercept data transmission. It presents a novel Mixed-Integer Nonlinear Program (MINLP), which we then linearize into a Mixed-Integer Linear Program (MILP) problem. It also proposes a heuristic solution called Fly Nearest Location (FNL). Both solutions determine (i) the UAV server’s flight routing, flight time, and computation time, as well as (ii) the energy usage and operation mode of IoT devices. Our results show that FNL achieves on average 78.15% of MILP’s performance.
Lateralization and Distalization Shoulder Angles in Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty: Are They Still Reliable and Accurate in All Patients and for All Prosthetic Designs?
Authors: Şahin Koray , Kaya Hakan Batuhan , Koukos Christos , Kapıcıoğlu Mehmet , Bilsel Kerem
Published: February 2025

Background: Recently, the lateralization shoulder angle (LSA) and distalization shoulder angle (DSA) have been proposed to assess lateralization and distalization in reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA). However, there is insufficient evidence about the influence of patient anatomy and prosthesis design on these measurements. This study aims to investigate the impact of patient anatomy and implant design on LSA and DSA measurements and to assess the validity of the previously reported “optimal” ranges for these parameters. Methods: Patients who underwent the RSA procedure using four different prosthetic designs between April 2014 and June 2023 were retrospectively evaluated. Postoperative LSA and DSA measurements were compared according to implant design, preoperative glenoid morphology (Favard classification), and the Hamada grade. The correlation of LSA and DSA with preoperative shoulder anatomy (critical shoulder angle, CSA, and acromial index, AI) was also assessed. Results: In total, 135 shoulders were included in the study, with a mean age of 71.7 ± 7.9 years. The mean LSA was 88.4 ± 11.8° and mean DSA was 40.6 ± 12.5°. According to prosthetic design, both mean LSA and DSA values differed significantly (p < 0.05). Lateralized designs (Groups I and IV) had significantly higher mean LSA values. The Favard classification and Hamada grade of shoulders did not show a significant influence on LSA and DSA measurements (p > 0.05). DSA was observed to be significantly correlated with CSA and AI (p < 0.05; r = −0.27 and −0.189, respectively). Conclusions: Prosthetic design and preoperative shoulder anatomy had a significant influence on LSA and DSA measurements in RSA. Optimal LSA and DSA values may lack validity and reliability and should not be applied to all patients.
Effect of ABCB1 Expression on Measurable Residual Disease in Adult Patients with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Ramos Peñafiel Christian Omar , Martínez Tovar Adolfo , Pérez Sámano Daniela , Cerón Maldonado Rafael , Gallardo Rodríguez Adán Germán , Martínez Murillo Carlos , Olarte Carrillo Irma
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: The prognosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia has significantly improved with the incorporation of innovative therapies such as immunotherapy, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and CAR-T cell-based treatments. Drug resistance, mediated by genes such as ABCB1, has been associated with reduced treatment efficacy in various clinical scenarios. Although measurable residual disease (MRD) is the most reliable tool for monitoring treatment response in acute lymphoblastic leukemia, the relationship between ABCB1 expression and MRD remains unclear. Aims: To evaluate the expression of the ABCB1 resistance gene and explore its potential relationship with measurable residual disease. Methods: Prospective cohort where 57 patients with de novo diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia were admitted to the Hospital General de México “Dr. Eduardo Liceaga” between 2022 and 2024. Results: A total of 57 patients undergoing chemotherapy-based treatment were included, with a majority being male (n = 30, 52.6%) and a mean age of 32 years (range 18–71 years). Analysis of ABCB1 gene expression revealed that 35.1% (n = 20) had low expression, 40.4% (n = 23) had overexpression, and 24.6% (n = 14) showed absent expression. No statistically significant association was identified between MRD positivity and the presence of the Philadelphia chromosome (p = 0.171, 95% CI) or the ABCB1 high-risk group (high or absent expression) (p = 0.538, 95% CI). Conclusions: Although ABCB1 expression remains a valuable tool for understanding drug resistance in acute lymphoblastic leukemia, this study did not identify a significant relationship with MRD. MRD continues to be the most reliable prognostic factor in chemotherapy-based treatments for acute lymphoblastic leukemia, underscoring its importance in personalized medicine.
Thermodynamic Modeling and Experimental Validation for Thermal Beneficiation of Tungsten-Bearing Materials
Authors: Kanari Ndue , Diot Frederic , Korbel Chloe , Fosu Allen Yushark , Allain Eric , Diliberto Sebastien , Serris Eric , Favergeon Loïc , Foucaud Yann
Published: February 2025

Tungsten (W), a rare metal, is categorized as a Critical and Strategic Raw Material (CRM) by the European Union (EU), with the highest economic importance of all selected CRMs since 2014. Tungsten and its derivatives are extracted from their commercial raw materials, mainly wolframite [(Fe,Mn)WO4] and scheelite (CaWO4) ores. Subsequently to mining and mineral processing, the W ore is submitted to thermal treatment and hydrometallurgy under aggressive conditions (high pressure and temperature), which are usually applied for the extraction of tungsten compounds. This paper aims to investigate a thermal route for scheelite processing using various selected chemical agents, resulting in a W-bearing material that is capable of being leached under softer conditions. In this context, a thermodynamic study of the interaction between FeWO4, MnWO4 and CaWO4 and various chemical reagents is described. The thermochemical calculations and data modeling show that, among other considerations, the reaction of CaWO4 with magnesium chloride (MgCl2) can lead to the formation of magnesium tungsten oxide (MgWO4), which appears to be more easily leachable than CaWO4. Experimental tests of the reaction of scheelite with MgCl2 appear to validate the thermodynamic predictions with satisfactory process kinetics at temperatures from 725 to 775 °C.
Assessment of Physicochemical Properties of Dust from Crushing High-Carbon Ferrochrome: Methods for Agglomeration
Authors: Sariyev Otegen , Abdirashit Assylbek , Almagambetov Maral , Nurgali Nurzhan , Kelamanov Bauyrzhan , Yessengaliyev Dauren , Mukhambetkaliyev Azamat
Published: February 2025

Fine classes of metal dust generated during the production of ferroalloys increase the likelihood of irretrievable losses, creating the prerequisites for the development of rational methods for processing this material. One of the known technologies for recycling dispersed raw materials in metallurgical processing is their direct remelting. Although this technology is easily feasible, it has several significant drawbacks, among which the main problem remains the high dust carryover of fine material by ascending gas-thermal flows. A potential solution could be the preliminary preparation of raw materials through agglomeration. Domestic enterprises producing various types of ferroalloys have the necessary infrastructure and equipment for agglomerating dispersed ore materials, but the lack of experience and resource-saving technologies for processing metal dust prevents their full integration into metallurgical processing. In this regard, there is significant interest and demand from ferroalloy enterprises for the development of new methods to involve dispersed metal production waste in secondary recycling, adapted to existing agglomeration equipment. Numerous studies have shown that the cheapest method of agglomeration is briquetting. Given the advancement of briquetting technologies, as well as the use of the latest equipment and binding materials in this process, it can be assumed that this will allow for more complete integration of aspiration dust from ferrochrome crushing into metallurgical processing. To test this assumption, studies were conducted on the physicochemical properties of aspiration dust from ferrochrome crushing, assessing the possibility of obtaining an agglomerated product with the required strength parameters. The results of these studies demonstrated the fundamental possibility of producing high-carbon ferrochrome from briquetted material made from aspiration dust of ferrochrome crushing.
Formation Mechanism and Motion Characteristics of Multiple Jets in Spherical Section Free Surface Electrospinning
Authors: Yin Jing , Xu Lan
Published: February 2025

In this study, during the efficient preparation of nanofibers using a spherical section free surface electrospinning (SSFSE) device with different sphere radii, the formation mechanism and motion characteristics of multiple jets were thoroughly investigated through the numerical simulation method. The mechanical model of multiple jets was established, and the key role of electric field intensity in the formation and motion of jets was defined; in addition, the relationship between the jet initial velocity and the electric field intensity distribution on the solution surface was established. On this basis, a magnetohydrodynamic model was introduced, and a turbulence model as well as a volume of fluid model were combined to numerically simulate the jet motion during the SSFSE process. The results showed that as the sphere radius increased, the maximum velocity of the jets gradually decreased. However, the area of multiple jets generated increased, and the interaction force between the jets increased, resulting in a more obvious outward expansion of the jet trajectory. Therefore, the optimal SSFSE device with a sphere radius of 75 mm was determined. Finally, the results of numerical simulation were verified by experiments using a polymeric solution with low conductivity. This study can play a guiding role in effectively increasing the number of jets per unit area of solution surface in actual production, thus achieving continuous, uniform, and efficient preparation of micro-/nanofibers.
Living Coral Displays, Research Laboratories, and Biobanks as Important Reservoirs of Chemodiversity with Potential for Biodiscovery
Authors: Calado Ricardo , Leal Miguel C. , Silva Ruben X. G. , Borba Mara , Ferro António , Almeida Mariana , Madeira Diana , Vieira Helena
Published: February 2025

Over the last decades, bioprospecting of tropical corals has revealed numerous bioactive compounds with potential for biotechnological applications. However, this search involves sampling in natural reefs, and this is currently hampered by multiple ethical and technological constraints. Living coral displays, research laboratories, and biobanks currently offer an opportunity to continue to unravel coral chemodiversity, acting as “Noah’s Arks” that may continue to support the bioprospecting of molecules of interest. This issue is even more relevant if one considers that tropical coral reefs currently face unprecedent threats and irreversible losses that may impair the biodiscovery of molecules with potential for new products, processes, and services. Living coral displays provide controlled environments for studying corals and producing both known and new metabolites under varied conditions, and they are not prone to common bottlenecks associated with bioprospecting in natural coral reefs, such as loss of the source and replicability. Research laboratories may focus on a particular coral species or bioactive compound using corals that were cultured ex situ, although they may differ from wild conspecifics in metabolite production both in quantitative and qualitative terms. Biobanks collect and preserve coral specimens, tissues, cells, and/or information (e.g., genes, associated microorganisms), which offers a plethora of data to support the study of bioactive compounds’ mode of action without having to cope with issues related to access, standardization, and regulatory compliance. Bioprospecting in these settings faces several challenges and opportunities. On one hand, it is difficult to ensure the complexity of highly biodiverse ecosystems that shape the production and chemodiversity of corals. On the other hand, it is possible to maximize biomass production and fine tune the synthesis of metabolites of interest under highly controlled environments. Collaborative efforts are needed to overcome barriers and foster opportunities to fully harness the chemodiversity of tropical corals before in-depth knowledge of this pool of metabolites is irreversibly lost due to tropical coral reefs’ degradation.
Enzymatic Preparation of Carrageenan Oligosaccharides and Evaluation of the Effects on Growth Performance, Serum Biochemical Parameters and Non-Specific Immunity of Crucian carp
Authors: Ning Limin , Guo Zilong , Zhu Benwei
Published: February 2025

Carrageenan oligosaccharides (COSs) possess versatile activities and have drawn increasing attention in recent years. Due to their unique structures, COSs have been considered to be potential antibacterial agents and immune stimulators. Herein, we aimed to efficiently prepare the COSs by using a novel carrageenase CgkA from Zobellia uliginosa with high activity and further investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with COSs on the growth performance, serum biochemical parameters and non-specific immunity in Carassius auratus gibelio. The results indicated that the CgkA could effectively degrade the carrageenan into oligosaccharides with DPs of 2–6 and the oligosaccharides exhibited promoting effects on growth performance, serum biochemical index and non-specific immune parameters. After a 6-month feeding trial, the SR (Survival Ratio) was significantly higher in fish fed 0.1% (Diet 1), 0.2% (Diet 2), 0.5% (Diet 3) and 1% (Diet 4) COSs diets than that in the control group (p < 0.05). In addition, the supplementation of COSs decreased the malondialdehyde (MDA) content in the serum and increased the activity of lysozyme (LZM), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT). In conclusion, COSs as a dietary supplement enhance the growth performance and non-specific immunity of crucian carp and their resistance to diseases.
Membrane Technologies for Sustainable Wastewater Treatment: Advances, Challenges, and Applications in Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) and Minimal Liquid Discharge (MLD) Systems
Authors: Panagopoulos Argyris , Michailidis Panagiotis
Published: February 2025

As the demand for sustainable water and wastewater management continues to rise in both desalination and industrial sectors, there is been notable progress in developing Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) and Minimal Liquid Discharge (MLD) systems. Membrane technologies have become a key component of these systems, providing effective solutions for removing contaminants and enabling the recovery of both water and valuable resources. This article explores recent advancements in the design and operation of ZLD and MLD systems, discussing their benefits, challenges, and how they fit into larger treatment processes. Emphasis is given to membrane-based processes, such as reverse osmosis (RO), membrane distillation (MD), and forward osmosis (FO), as well as hybrid configurations, and innovative membrane materials. These advancements are designed to address critical challenges like fouling, scaling, high energy demands, and high brine production. The article also explores exciting research directions aimed at enhancing the efficiency and durability of membrane technologies in ZLD and MLD systems, paving the way for new innovations in sustainable water management across various industries.
Characterization and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Akkermansia muciniphila-Derived Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Zhao Sasa , Xiang Jie , Abedin Minhazul , Wang Jingyi , Zhang Zhiwen , Zhang Zhongwei , Wu Hua , Xiao Junsong
Published: February 2025

Bacterial extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a pivotal role in host–microbe communication. Akkermansia muciniphila, a symbiotic bacterium essential for intestinal health, is hypothesized to exert its effects via EVs. Here, we successfully isolated and characterized EVs derived from A. muciniphila (Am-EVs) using ultracentrifugation. Am-EVs exhibited a double-membrane structure, with an average diameter of 92.48 ± 0.28 nm and a proteomic profile comprising 850 proteins. In an in vitro model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in human colorectal adenocarcinoma cells (Caco-2), treatment with both 25 and 50 μg/mL Am-EVs significantly reduced oxidative stress markers, including reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO), and malondialdehyde (MDA), while restoring catalase activity (CAT). Am-EVs also suppressed the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Subsequent transcriptomic sequencing and Western blot experiments revealed that Am-EVs attenuate the MAPK signaling pathway by downregulating TRIF, MyD88, p38 MAPK, and FOS while upregulating TGFBR2. These findings suggest that Am-EVs mediate anti-inflammatory effects through modulation of MAPK signaling, highlighting their potential as therapeutic agents in intestinal inflammation.
Deciphering Planktonic Bacterial Community Assembly in the Storage Reservoir of the Long-Distance Water Diversion Project
Authors: Yang Yingying , Chen Liguo , Wan Nianxin , Xu Ailing , Ding Ning , Song Zhiwen
Published: February 2025

Storage reservoirs are crucial components of long-distance water diversion projects, where water diversion may lead to changes in microbial diversity and community structure. Seasonal variations also drive alterations in microbial communities. However, the way that microbes assemble under the combined effects of water diversion and seasonal variations in the storage reservoir has not been extensively studied. Jihongtan Reservoir is the terminal storage reservoir of the Yellow River to Qingdao Water Diversion Project (YQWD), which had an average annual water diversion period exceeding 290 days in recent years. In this study, 16S rDNA amplicon sequencing was used to investigate the seasonal dynamics and assembly of planktonic bacterial communities during the water diversion period in Jihongtan Reservoir. The results indicate that planktonic bacteria were able to maintain stable diversity across all four seasons, while the community structure underwent significant seasonal succession. Water temperature (WT) was found to be the primary driving environmental factor influencing the seasonal dynamic of planktonic bacterial communities. Co-occurrence network patterns of planktonic bacterial communities varied across different seasons, particularly in spring and winter. The spring network displayed the most complexity, showcasing the highest connectivity and greater stability. In contrast, the winter network was simpler, exhibiting lower local connectivity but higher global connectivity and lower stability. The analysis of the neutral community model and null model revealed that the relative importance of deterministic and stochastic processes in governing planktonic bacterial community assembly varies seasonally. Stochastic processes (dispersal limitation) are more prominent in spring, summer, and autumn, while deterministic processes (heterogeneous selection) play a greater role in winter. This study is essential for gaining a comprehensive understanding of the effects of water diversion projects and offers valuable references for the assessment of other similar projects.
Study on the Mechanism by Which Fe3+ Promotes Toluene Degradation by Rhodococcus sp. TG-1
Authors: Qiao Yue , Ma Jiajun , Huang Lei , Gao Guohui , Zhao Yihe , Antunes Agostinho , Li Meitong
Published: February 2025

Volatile organic compound pollution caused by toluene has become a global issue. In order to solve this problem, biodegradation of toluene has been applied all over the world. This study investigated the effects of Fe3+ on toluene degradation by the Rhodococcus sp. TG-1. The results show that 1 mg L−1 Fe3+ increased the degradation rate of 600 mg L−1 toluene from 61.9% to 87.2% at 16 h. The acceleration mechanism of Fe3+ was explicated using transmission electron microscope (TEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analyses, coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy, an enzyme activity assay, and transcriptome analysis. Four genes were detected to be significantly up-regulated under Fe3+ induction, suggesting that Fe3+ might be implicated in toluene degradation. Meanwhile, Fe3+ was a component of the active center of catechol 1,2-dioxygenase (C12O) and significantly improved the enzyme activity of C12O. The mechanism by which Fe3+ accelerates toluene degradation was proposed based on the transcription levels of degradation genes and the enzyme activity of C12O. This study provided an improved method for enhancing the degradation effect of toluene and furthered our comprehension of the mechanism of toluene degradation.
Cytochalasins from the Ash Endophytic Fungus Nemania diffusa DSM 116299
Authors: Demir Özge , Schmidt Katharina , Schulz Barbara , Stradal Theresia E. B. , Surup Frank
Published: February 2025

The secondary metabolome of Nemania diffusa, isolated as an ash endophytic fungus, was analyzed in detail. From its cultures, a previously undescribed cytochalasin 1 was isolated using preparative HPLC, together with six known congeners: 18-dehydroxy-cytochalasin E (2), cytochalasins Z7 (3), Z8 (4), and E (5), 18-dehydroxy-17-didehydro-cytochalasin E (6), and K Steyn (7). The structures of these compounds were determined using data from high-resolution mass spectrometry (HR-MS), in combination with 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Metabolites 1–4 share a characteristic 12-membered lactone moiety, placing them within a rarely examined cytochalasin subclass. Thus, the compounds were incorporated into our ongoing screening campaign to study the structure–activity relationship of this metabolite family. We initially determined their cytotoxicity in eukaryotic mouse fibroblast L929 cells using an MTT-based colorimetric assay, and further investigated their effect on the cellular actin dynamics of the human osteosarcoma cell line U-2OS in detail. Unexpectedly, we discovered a high number of irreversible compounds (1, 2, and 4). Additionally, we highlighted specific structural features within the 12-membered cytochalasin subclass that may play a role in directing the reversibility of these compounds.
Anticancer Activity of Ether Derivatives of Chrysin
Authors: Sokal Arkadiusz , Mruczek Patryk , Niedoba Mateusz , Dewalska Agnieszka , Stocerz Klaudia , Kadela-Tomanek Monika
Published: February 2025

Chrysin, a naturally occurring flavonoid, exhibits a broad spectrum of biological activities, including showing anticancer properties. However, its clinical application is limited by poor bioavailability and low solubility. The introduction of an amine, amide, ester, or alkoxy group to a flavone skeleton influences the biological activity. This review also discusses hybrid compounds, such as the chrysin–porphyrin hybrid, which are characterized by higher biological activity and better bioavailability properties than single molecules. This review concentrates on the anticancer activity of chrysin and its derivatives against the most popular cancers, such as breast, lung, prostate, and gastrointestinal tumors.
Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Polysaccharides from Lyophyllum decastes: Structural Analysis and Bioactivity Assessment
Authors: Wu Qiong , Liang Bin , Wang Jiaming , Dai Yonggang
Published: February 2025

This study employed ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) to isolate polysaccharides from Lyophyllum decastes, which were subsequently fractionated into two components, LDP-A1 and LDP-B1, using DEAE cellulose-52 and Sephacryl S-500. The structural characteristics of the polysaccharides were preliminarily analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Congo red staining. The results indicate significant differences between LDP-A1 and LDP-B1 in terms of molecular weight, monosaccharide composition, and structural features. LDP-A1 (2.27 × 106 Da) exhibits a significantly higher molecular weight compared to LDP-B1 (9.80 × 105 Da), with distinct differences in monosaccharide types and content. Both polysaccharides contain β-glycosidic bonds. LDP-B1 adopts a sheet-like structure with an amorphous internal arrangement and a triple-helix configuration, whereas LDP-A1 is rod-shaped, with a crystalline internal structure, and lacks the triple-helix configuration. In terms of biological activity, both polysaccharides exhibit certain activities, but LDP-B1 shows significantly stronger activity in antioxidant, hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. In summary, LDPs exhibit significant biological activity, especially outstanding performance in antioxidant, hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects, proving their potential for development in functional foods and pharmaceuticals. Their unique structural characteristics and diverse biological activities provide a solid theoretical foundation for further exploration of LDPs in health promotion and disease prevention, opening up new research directions and application prospects.
Supercritical Fluid Extraction of Lipids from Rowanberry Pomace with Pure CO2 and Its Mixtures with Ethanol Followed by the On-Line Separation of Fractions
Authors: Sarv Viive , Bhat Rajeev , Jūrienė Laura , Baranauskienė Renata , Urbonavičienė Dalia , Viškelis Pranas , Venskutonis Petras Rimantas
Published: February 2025

Fruit processing by-products contain various classes of bioactive constituents, which may find applications as ingredients for foods, nutraceuticals or cosmeceuticals. This study explored the fractionation of lipophilic rowanberry pomace extracts isolated with pure supercritical CO2 and its mixtures with a co-solvent ethanol by their on-line separation at subcritical conditions. Rowanberry pomace lipids were extracted with supercritical CO2 (42.4 MPa, 53 °C) using 0–7% of ethanol, and then fractionated by reducing the first separator’s (S1) pressure to 7 MPa and cooling it to 0, −10 and −20 °C to precipitate the ‘heavier’ fraction (HF). The second separator (S2) was depressurized at ambient temperatures to collect the ‘lighter’ fraction (LF). The yield of the LF increased by decreasing the S1 temperature and increasing the amount of the co-solvent. The concentration of β-carotene was increased in the LF by decreasing the S1 temperature and increasing the co-solvent concentration; at −20 °C it was 66.7% higher than in the non-fractionated extract. The concentrations of tocopherols and phytosterols were also remarkably higher in the LF. In total, 62 compounds were identified in the headspace volatile fraction of the LF, benzaldehyde and benzyl alcohol being the most abundant constituents. In conclusion, fractionation enabled us to obtain fractions with higher concentrations of the selected classes of lipophilic rowanberry constituents.