bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation and Biochemical Activity of Copper-Coated Cellulose Nonwoven Fabric via Magnetron Sputtering and Alginate-Calcium Ion Complexation
Authors: Świerczyńska Małgorzata , Mrozińska Zdzisława , Juszczak Michał , Woźniak Katarzyna , Kudzin Marcin H.
Published: September 2024

Alginate-based materials have gained significant recognition in the medical industry due to their favorable biochemical properties. As a continuation of our previous studies, we have introduced a new composite consisting of cellulose nonwoven fabric charged with a metallic copper core (CNW-Cu0) covered with a calcium alginate (ALG−Ca2+) layer. The preparation process for these materials involved three main steps: coating the cellulose nonwoven fabric with copper via magnetron sputtering (CNW → CNW-Cu0), subsequent deposition with sodium alginate (CNW-Cu0 → CNW-Cu0/ALG−Na+), followed by cross-linking the alginate chains with calcium ions (CNW-Cu0/ALG−Na+ → CNW-Cu0/ALG−Ca2+). The primary objective of the work was to supply these composites with such biological attributes as antibacterial and hemostatic activity. Namely, equipping the antibacterial materials (copper action on representative Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and fungal strains) with induction of blood plasma clotting processes (activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and prothrombin time (PT)). We determined the effect of CNW-Cu0/ALG−Ca2+ materials on the viability of Peripheral blood mononuclear (PBM) cells. Moreover, we studied the interactions of CNW-Cu0/ALG−Ca2+ materials with DNA using the relaxation plasmid assay. However, results showed CNW-Cu0/ALG−Ca2+’s cytotoxic properties against PBM cells in a time-dependent manner. Furthermore, the CNW-Cu0/ALG−Ca2+ composite exhibited the potential to interact directly with DNA. The results demonstrated that the CNW-Cu0/ALG−Ca2+ composites synthesized show promising potential for wound dressing applications.
Brevianamide F Exerts Antithrombotic Effects by Modulating the MAPK Signaling Pathway and Coagulation Cascade
Authors: Zhang Huiwen , Sun Chen , Xia Qing , Li Peihai , Liu Kechun , Zhang Yun
Published: September 2024

Existing antithrombotic drugs have side effects such as bleeding, and there is an urgent need to discover antithrombotic drugs with better efficacy and fewer side effects. In this study, a zebrafish thrombosis model was used to evaluate the antithrombotic activity and mechanism of Brevianamide F, a deep-sea natural product, with transcriptome sequencing analysis, RT-qPCR analysis, and molecular docking. The results revealed that Brevianamide F significantly attenuated the degree of platelet aggregation in the thrombus model zebrafish, leading to an increase in the number of circulating platelets, an augmentation in the return of blood to the heart, an elevated heart rate, and a significant restoration of caudal blood flow velocity. Transcriptome sequencing and RT-qPCR validation revealed that Brevianamide F may exert antithrombotic effects through the modulation of the MAPK signaling pathway and the coagulation cascade reaction. Molecular docking analysis further confirmed this result. This study provides a reference for the development of therapeutic drugs for thrombosis.
Does the Type of Knee Arthroplasty Affect the Patient’s Postural Stability?
Authors: Sorysz Tomasz , Adamik Aleksandra , Ogrodzka-Ciechanowicz Katarzyna
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess postural stability in patients after total and unicompartmental knee arthroplasties. Materials and Methods: The study included 40 women who had undergone knee arthroplasties—20 women who had undergone total knee arthroplasty (TKA) (mean age 63.47 ± 2.17) and 20 women who had undergone unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) (mean age 64.65 ± 1.93). The comparison group consisted of 20 healthy women aged 60–69 years (mean age 64.45 ± 3.12). The average time from surgery to stabilometry was 14.4 months. Each patient underwent stabilography using a single-plate stabilography platform, which included both Romberg’s test and a dynamic test. Additionally, the WOMAC scale was administered, where patients assessed their condition both before surgery and at the present time. Results: The averaged Romberg’s test results show a slight displacement in the center of mass (COM) toward the forefoot and towards the right limb in both the TKA and UKA groups. The WOMAC scale results showed significant improvement and satisfactory functional outcomes in both groups. Conclusions: The study indicated that one year after surgery, patients in both groups required a larger base of support to maintain postural control. However, the results for the UKA group were more similar to those of healthy individuals.
Soil Sample Analysis of Bacillus anthracis Contaminated Animal Burial Sites
Authors: Sahin Mitat , Laws Thomas R. , Dyson Hugh , Celebi Ozgur , Doganay Mehmet , Buyuk Fatih , Baillie Les
Published: September 2024

Environmental contamination with Bacillus anthracis spores poses clear threats to livestock that play key roles in the economies of pastoral communities. Regular monitoring of contaminated sites is particularly important in anthrax-endemic parts of the world, such as Kars province in eastern Türkiye, where the Veterinary Microbiology Department of Kafkas University has conducted an anthrax surveillance programme for over 30 years. We reviewed the microbiological results of 232 soil samples collected during 2009–2023, from sites known to be contaminated with B. anthracis spores following burial or butchering of infected animal carcasses. Twenty-five contaminated sites in 16 villages were studied. Samples were taken from a total of 61 different positions within these sites and viable spores were detected in 136 (58.6%) of the samples examined. Of the 96 samples from which spores were not recovered, subsequent samples from the same positions proved positive on 21 occasions. Using a standardised sampling plan, it was discovered that samples taken 1–2 m on a downward slope from the centre-point of contamination had higher (p < 0.001) spore concentrations than those taken from other positions. Although spore concentrations at some sampling positions varied over time, the overall values remained stable. This finding contrasts with observations in other parts of the world where spore concentrations tend to decline with time and may reflect regional differences in soil composition that permit more prolonged spore persistence. Concentrations of >100 spores/g soil were found in 10 (66.7%) of the 15 samples taken 10–13 years following a contamination event. These results demonstrate the longevity of viable anthrax spores in the soil of agricultural environments following decomposition of infected animal carcasses, and therefore the need for prolonged bacteriological monitoring of contaminated sites. Furthermore, they underline the importance of appropriate decontamination, as burial on its own does not eliminate all spores.
Isolation of Virulent Leptospira Serogroup Australis Field Strains from Symptomatic Dogs for Canine Leptospiral Vaccine Development
Authors: Bergamo Pierre , Le Guyader Marine , Hugonnard Marine , Bourhy Pascale , Simon-Dufay Nathalie , Bouvet Jérôme , Thibault Jean-Christophe , Cupillard Lionel
Published: September 2024

Leptospirosis is a widespread zoonosis caused by spirochaetes belonging to the pathogenic species of Leptospira, which are classified into more than 25 serogroups and 250 serovars. Vaccination can prevent the disease in dogs but offers incomplete efficacy because of a lack of cross-protection between serogroups. The aim of this study was to validate a robust recruitment and sampling process, with the objectives of isolating and typing circulating Leptospira pathogenic strains and then selecting those of proven virulence and pathogenicity for vaccine development. Blood and urine samples from dogs with clinical syndromes compatible with acute leptospirosis were sterilely collected and transported to a reference laboratory for a micro-agglutination test (MAT), PCR, and bacterial isolation. Isolated strains underwent molecular typing using RNA16S, variable-number tandem repeat (VNTR), and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Subtyping was performed using core genome multilocus sequence typing (CgMLST). Among 64 included dogs, 41 had MAT and/or PCR results compatible with Leptospira infection, and 14 Leptospira strains were isolated. Based on molecular typing, 11 isolates were classified as L. interrogans serogroup Australis, serovar Bratislava, and 3 as serogroup Icterohaemorrhagiae, serovar Icterohaemorrhagiae. CgMLST subtyping revealed a diversity of clonal groups (CGs) distributed in several regional clusters. Besides validating a robust recruitment and sampling process, this study outlines the value of combining PCR and serological testing when suspecting leptospirosis and the usefulness of implementing molecular typing methods to identify circulating field strains. It also confirms the epidemiological importance of the Australis serogroup and allows for the collection of different highly pathogenic strains for vaccine development.
The Cultivation of Halophilic Microalgae Shapes the Structure of Their Prokaryotic Assemblages
Authors: Selivanova Elena A. , Yakimov Michail M. , Kataev Vladimir Y. , Khlopko Yuri A. , Balkin Alexander S. , Plotnikov Andrey O.
Published: September 2024

The influence of microalgae on the formation of associated prokaryotic assemblages in halophilic microbial communities is currently underestimated. The aim of this study was to characterize shifts in prokaryotic assemblages of halophilic microalgae upon their transition to laboratory cultivation. Monoalgal cultures belonging to the classes Chlorodendrophyceae, Bacillariophyceae, Trebouxiophyceae, and Chlorophyceae were isolated from habitats with intermediate salinity, about 100 g/L, nearby Elton Lake (Russia). Significant changes were revealed in the structure of algae-associated prokaryotic assemblages, indicating that microalgae supported sufficiently diverse and even communities of prokaryotes. Despite some similarities in their prokaryotic assemblages, taxon-specific complexes of dominant genera were identified for each microalga species. These complexes were most different among Alphaproteobacteria, likely due to their close association with microalgae. Other taxon-specific bacteria included members of phylum Verrucomicrobiota (Coraliomargarita in assemblages of Navicula sp.) and class Gammaproteobacteria (Salinispirillum in microbiomes of A. gracilis). After numerous washings of algal cells, only alphaproteobacteria Marivibrio remained in all assemblages of T. indica, likely due to a firm attachment to the microalgae cells. Our results may be useful for further efforts to develop technologies applied for industrial cultivation of halophilic microalgae and for developing approaches to obtain new prokaryotes with a microalgae-associated lifestyle.
Application of Calcium Hypochlorite for Sanitizing 3/16-Inch Tubing Used in Maple Sap Collection
Authors: Jung Yangjin , McHugh Olivia , Ayilaran Elijah
Published: September 2024

Despite the widespread empirical adoption of calcium hypochlorite (Ca(ClO)2) for sanitizing 3/16-inch tubing after the maple sap collection season, there remains a dearth of scientific data on its best practice and effectiveness. To address this gap, we cultivated microbial mass in tubing through continuous maple sap flow at 7 °C for 5 weeks in the lab. The tubing was sanitized with 200, 400, or 600 ppm Ca(ClO)2 and retained Ca(ClO)2 for either 10 min, 1 h, 7 days, or 6 weeks. Half of the tubing segments underwent microbial analysis, while the other half were stored for 6 weeks post-flushing of the Ca(ClO)2 to determine microbial survival/growth. The level and presence of the microbial load were determined, and the inner tubing surfaces were visualized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The initial microbial load in the tubing was approximately 4–5 log CFU/cm2. A 10-min and 1 h contact time with 200 ppm Ca(ClO)2, and a 10-min exposure to 400 ppm Ca(ClO)2, achieved reductions of 2.4–2.8 log for Pseudomonas spp., 1.6–2.5 log for mold and yeast, and 2.3–3.3 log for psychrotrophic microorganisms. Microorganisms were recovered from the enrichment process after retaining 200 ppm Ca(ClO)2 for 6 weeks, indicating insufficient inactivation. Consequently, the data suggests the use of at least 400 ppm Ca(ClO)2 for 1 day. The SEM images supported the microbial count results, offering valuable insights for educating maple syrup producers on optimal tubing sanitation practices.
The Epidemiology of PCR-Confirmed Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Israel: A Nationwide Study
Authors: Avni Dror , Solomon Michal , Strauss Merav , Sagi Orli , Temper Violeta , Michael-Gayego Ayelet , Meningher Tal , Avitan-Hersh Emily , Szwarcwort-Cohen Moran , Moran-Gilad Jacob , Ollech Ayelet , Schwartz Eli
Published: September 2024

Background: Leishmaniasis, mainly cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL), is endemic in Israel. In recent years, the diagnosis of leishmaniasis has transitioned to a molecular diagnosis. Objective: To summarize all cases of leishmaniasis and the identified species seen in Israel based on molecular diagnosis. Methods: A retrospective study was performed of patients diagnosed with leishmaniasis between January 2017 and December 2022. All five medical centers in Israel in which Leishmania diagnosis is performed were included: Soroka, HaEmek, Hadassah, Rambam, and Sheba, all utilized molecular diagnostic methods. Data on the annual number of cases, species, age, and gender were retrieved. Results: During the years 2017–2022, a total of 4168 cases of leishmaniasis were diagnosed, which corresponds with ~7/100,000 inhabitants. L. (L.) major and L. (L.) tropica accounted for 84% and 14%, respectively. During the years 2020–2021, L. (L.) infantum emerged as a new form of cutaneous disease [2.7% of cases during this period]. Visceral L. (L.) infantum was found in five cases. Imported New World leishmaniasis accounted for 1% of the cases. L. (L.) major affected more males (67%) while L. (L.) tropica commonly affected more children and caused more facial lesions. Conclusions: The mean annual number of cases during these years is ~700. The dominant species is L. (L.) major. Since 2020, cutaneous L. (L.) infantum is an emerging infection in Israel.
Structural Characterization, and Antioxidant, Hypoglycemic and Immunomodulatory Activity of Exopolysaccharide from Sanghuangporus sanghuang JM-1
Authors: Luo Yanglan , Cao Naixin , Huang Liling , Tang Lanlan , Liu Xuzhou , Zhang Wenlong , Huang Shilv , Xie Xiuchao , Yan Yong
Published: September 2024

Sanghuang as a medicinal fungus in China has a history of more than 2000 years, and is known as the “forest gold”. Most notably, the polysaccharides of Sanghuangporus sp. have attracted widespread attention due to their significant bioactivity in recent years. At present, extensive studies are being carried out on the extraction methods, structural characterization, and activity evaluation of polysaccharides. Here, we aimed to evaluate the structure and bioactivity of LEPS-1, an exopolysaccharide derived from the S. sanghuang JM-1 strain. The structure was elucidated by chromatography/spectral methods and hydrolyzation, and the solubility, the antioxidant activity, hypoglycemic activity and immunomodulatory activity were investigated. Results showed that LEPS-1 contained a →2)-α-Manp(1→6)-α-Galp(1→[2)-α-Manp(1→]n→2,6)-α-Manp(1→6,2)-α-Manp(1→3)-α-Manp(1→ backbone substituted at the O-6 and O-2 positions with side chains. These two branching fragments were β-Manp(1→. The molecular weight of LEPS-1 is 36.131 kDa. The results of biological activity analysis suggested that LEPS-1 was easily soluble in water, with reducing capability and DPPH radical scavenging capability. Furthermore, the IC50 values of LEPS-1 against α-amylase and α-glucosidase were 0.96 mg/mL and 1.92 mg/mL. LEPS-1 stimulated RAW264.7 cells to release NO, TNF-α and IL-6 with no cytotoxicity, showing potent potential for immunomodulatory activity. These findings describe a potential natural exopolysaccharide with medicinal value and a basis for the development of S. sanghuang exopolysaccharides.
Novel Determination of Functional Groups in Partially Acrylated Epoxidized Soybean Oil
Authors: Gómez-de-Miranda-Jiménez-de-Aberasturi Olga , Calvo Javier , Svensson Ingemar , Blanco Noelia , Lorenzo Leire , Rodriguez Raquel
Published: September 2024

The acrylation degree of vegetable oils plays a relevant role in determining the mechanical properties of the resulting polymers. Both epoxide and acrylate functionalities participate in polymerization reactions, producing various types of chemical bonds in the polymer network, which contribute to specific properties such as molecular size distribution, crosslinking degree, and glass transition temperature (Tg). The accurate identification of epoxide and acrylated groups in triglyceride molecules helps to predict their behavior during the polymerization process. A methodology based on analytical spectrometric techniques, such as direct infusion, mass spectrometry with electrospray ionization, and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography, is used in combination with FTIR and 1H NMR to characterize the epoxy and acrylic functionalities in the fatty chains with different numbers of carbon atoms of partially acrylated triglycerides obtained by a non-catalytic reaction.
Early Radiation-Induced Changes in Lung Tissue and Intercellular Junctions: Implications for Tissue Repair and Fibrosis
Authors: Karetnikova Ekaterina S. , Livanova Alexandra A. , Fedorova Arina A. , Markov Alexander G.
Published: September 2024

Early changes in lung tissue following ionizing radiation (IR) initiate processes that may lead to either regeneration or fibrosis. Intercellular junction proteins play a crucial role in the organization and function of epithelial tissues, both under normal conditions and after injuries. Alterations in the expression and localization of these proteins can influence the fate of epithelial cells. This study aims to investigate the effects of IR on lung tissue structure, as well as on the levels and distribution of intercellular junction proteins. Wistar rats were subjected to total X-ray irradiation at doses of 2 and 10 Gy. Lung tissue samples were collected for Western blot and histological analysis 72 h post-IR. IR at doses of 2 and 10 Gy led to structural changes in lung tissue and elevated levels of E-cadherin. The 10 Gy IR resulted in increased claudin-4 and occludin in lung parenchyma, decreased claudin-8 and claudin-12 in bronchial epithelium and endothelium, and suppression of apoptosis. Data evaluation indicated that alterations in the protein composition of intercellular junctions are essential processes in lung tissue at early stages after IR, and at least some of these alterations are associated with adaptation.
Future Healthcare Workers and Ecopharmacovigilance: Where Do We Stand?
Authors: Durdov Toni , Perišin Ana Šešelja , Škaro Nikolina , Bukić Josipa , Leskur Dario , Modun Darko , Božić Joško , Grgas Marjeta , Rušić Doris
Published: September 2024

With the rapid development of the pharmaceutical industry and constant growth of drug usage, ecopharmacovigilance (EPV) has emerged as a way of coping with and minimizing the effects that drugs have on the environment. EPV concerns and describes unwanted effects that the use of a specific drug could have on the environment. The US, EU and Cananda are the improving position of EPV, both in legislation and practice. EPV requires further development as previous studies have shown that neither the general population nor healthcare professionals have enough knowledge about the subject. Improving awareness and knowledge about this topic is a key task for the future of EPV. The main objective was to determine students’ level of knowledge about ecopharmacovigilance and to examine ways of storing and disposing of unused and expired drugs. Students’ knowledge and habits were examined by a previously published survey. The survey contains twenty questions divided into three parts and the possibility of writing an additional note. There was no difference in the level of knowledge between the students of different studies. Also, students who had a family member working as healthcare professional did not show a higher level of knowledge compared to the others. Pharmacy students had a greater intention to educate their environment about EPV when compared to students of the other studies. This is in the line with a previous study which showed that the general public expects that pharmacists and physicians educate them about EPV. Medicine and dental medicine students will become prescribers after finishing their studies, and as such, they should be informed about eco-directed sustainable prescribing (EDSP) as part of an EPV strategy. More than half of the participants reported good adherence to prescribers’ instruction, which decreased the amount of unused drugs. Most of the students found that the drug expiration date was legible, but they did not check it often. In comparison with similar studies, Croatian students had more knowledge and better practices concerning EPV and drug disposal. Structured learning strategies and curriculum implementation for EPV are much needed for further raising awareness about the subject among healthcare professionals and the public.
The Application of Digital Holographic Speckle Pattern Interferometry to the Structural Condition Study of a Plaster Sample
Authors: Kosma Kyriaki , Tornari Vivi
Published: September 2024

We use non-destructive Digital Holographic Speckle Pattern Interferometry (DHSPI), post-processing image analysis and one-dimensional exponential analysis to visualize, map and describe the structural condition of a plaster-based material. The body is heated by infrared radiation for two different time windows and the cooling process that follows is monitored in time by the so-called interferograms that are developed and are the result of the superposition of the holographic recordings of the sample prior to the thermal load and at variable time intervals during the cooling process. The fringe patterns in the interferometric images reveal features and characteristics of the interior of the material, with the experimental method and the post-process analysis adopted in this work offering accuracy, sensitivity and full-field diagnosis, in a completely non-destructive manner, without the need of sampling.
Secrecy Performance Analysis of Hybrid RF/FSO System under Different Eavesdropping Strategies
Authors: Song Xinkang , Wang Xiang , Li Xin , Zhao Shanghong , Tian Qin
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we analyze the confidentiality of a hybrid radio frequency (RF)/free-space optical (FSO) system with regard to physical layer security (PLS). In this system, signals are transmitted between the source and destination using RF and FSO links, with the destination employing the maximal-ratio combining (MRC) scheme. A non-cooperative target (NCT) is assumed to have eavesdropping capabilities for RF and FSO signals in both collusion and non-collusion strategies. The Nakagami-m distribution models fading RF links, while FSO links are characterized by the Málaga (M) distribution. Exact closed-form expressions for the system’s secrecy outage probability (SOP) and effective secrecy throughput (EST) are derived based on the generalized Meijer G-function with two variables. Asymptotic expressions for the SOP are also obtained under high-signal-to-noise-ratio (SNR) regimes. These conclusions are validated through Monte Carlo simulations. The superiority of the hybrid RF/FSO system in improving the communication security of a single link is confirmed in its comparison with conventional means of RF communication.
Tilted Wire Metamaterials Enabling Ultra-Broadband Absorption from Middle to Very Long Infrared Regimes
Authors: Wang Pan , Xiao Chengyu , Chen Shaowen , Zhang Mengqi , Sun Ya , Wang Haoyu , Zhang Jin , Zhou Han
Published: September 2024

Infrared metamaterial absorbers underpin many entrenched scientific and technical applications, including radiative cooling, energy harvesting, infrared detectors, and microbolometers. However, achieving both perfect and ultra-broadband absorption remains an unmet scientific challenge because the traditional metamaterial absorber strategy suffers from complex multi-sized resonators and multiple meta-element patterns. We demonstrate a simple ultra-broadband infrared metamaterial absorber consisting of tilted graphite wires and an Al reflector. The proposed tilted wires-based metamaterial (TWM) absorber exhibits absorption of above 0.95 across the middle to very long-wavelength infrared spectrum (3–30 µm). By increasing the aspect ratio, the bandwidth can be expanded and achieve near-perfect absorption in the 3–50 μm spectral range. The excellent infrared absorptance performance primarily originates from the ohmic loss induced by the electromagnetic coupling between neighboring tilted wires. Furthermore, we propose a typical three-layer equivalent model featuring a resonator/insulator/reflector configuration that requires more than 84 resonant cavities to obtain comparable infrared absorptance. Our high-performance TWM absorber could accelerate the development of next-generation infrared thermal emitters and devices and other technologies that require infrared absorption.
Optical Angular Momentum Beam Generation Using Coherent Beam Combination
Authors: Gontar Przemyslaw , Gorajek Lukasz , Zendzian Waldemar , Jabczyński Jan
Published: September 2024

(1) Background: The significant progress observed over the last two decades in coherent beam combining (CBC) technology has mainly focused on its applications in high-energy physics and laser weapons. This work provides insight into the basic principles of CBC and the search for an alternative, namely optical angular momentum (OAM) generation using CBC. (2) Methods: A semi-analytical model based on the paraxial wave equation was explored, generating OAM-CBC beams by manipulating the tilts and phases of the CBC (T&P-CBC) of hexagonal architecture. (3) Results: The specially arranged T&P-CBC shows typical properties of OAM, such as annular profiles for the zero diffraction order and 1st-order replicas in the far field and correlation coefficients of 1% between different OAM-CBC fields. (4) Conclusions: The differences between classical OAM beams and OAM-CBC are substantial due to hexagonal lattice properties. Moreover, applications in free space optical communications are feasible as T&P CBC fulfills the main conditions and requirements for OAM generation.
Dedicated Path Protection with Flexible Switching Selection in Passive Optical 5G Xhaul Access Networks
Authors: Klinkowski Mirosław
Published: September 2024

This work addresses the optimized planning of survivable optical 5G Xhaul access networks employing passive Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) technologies. Specifically, it focuses on the reliability of optical transmission paths connecting remote radio sites to a central hub ensured by using a novel, cost-effective, flexible, and dedicated path protection (DPP-F) scheme, protecting against single-link failures. The proposed DPP-F network protection approach allows for switching of individual wavelengths or the complete multiplexed WDM signal, flexibly applying the best switching option according to given traffic demands. Concurrently, it enables traffic aggregation on the transmission paths from the end and intermediate nodes to minimize the overall network deployment cost. The problem of selecting primary (working) and backup (protection) paths, together with the selection of the best switching and traffic aggregation options, is modeled and solved as a mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) optimization problem. To evaluate the cost savings achieved with DPP-F, we compare it with two reference DPP schemes based on switching the entire multiplexed WDM signal (DPP-M) and individual wavelengths (DPP-W). Numerical experiments conducted across a wide range of network scenarios reveal, among other things, that DPP-F’s performance is at least as good as that of the reference methods, bringing significant cost savings (from several to tens of percent) in most of the analyzed network scenarios.
The Ectopic Expression of the MpDIR1(t) Gene Enhances the Response of Plants from Arabidopsis thaliana to Biotic Stress by Regulating the Defense Genes and Antioxidant Flavonoids
Authors: Duan Mingzheng , Bao Liuyuan , Eman Momina , Han Duo , Zhang Yongzhi , Zheng Bingsong , Yang Shunqiang , Rao Muhammad Junaid
Published: September 2024

The Defective in Induced Resistance 1 (DIR1) gene, a member of the lipid transferase proteins (LTPs), plays a crucial role in plant defense against pathogens. While previous transcriptomic studies have highlighted the significant expression of citrus LTPs during biotic stress, functional annotations of LTPs in the Citrus genera remain limited. In this study, we cloned the Murraya paniculata DIR1 (MpDIR1(t)) gene and overexpressed it in Arabidopsis thaliana to evaluate its stress response mechanisms against biotic stress. The transgenic Arabidopsis lines showed fewer disease symptoms in response to Pseudomonas syringae (Pst DC3000) compared to wild-type Arabidopsis. Defense and pathogenesis-responsive genes such as PR1, PR4, PR5, and WRKY12 were significantly induced, showing a 2- to 12-fold increase in all transgenic lines compared to the wild type. In addition, the Pst DC3000-infected transgenic Arabidopsis lines demonstrated elevated levels of flavonoids and salicylic acid (SA), along with higher expression of SA-related genes, compared to the wild type. Moreover, all transgenic lines possessed lower reactive oxygen species levels and higher activity of antioxidant defense enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase under Pst DC3000 stress compared to the wild type. The up-regulation of defense genes, activation of the SA pathway, accumulation of flavonoids, and reinforcement of antioxidant defense mechanisms in transgenic Arabidopsis lines in response to Pst DC3000 underscore the critical role of MpDIR1(t) in fortifying plant immunity. Thus, MpDIR1(t) constitutes a promising candidate gene for improving bacterial disease resistance in commercial citrus cultivars.
Altitude-Dependent Morphophysiological, Anatomical, and Metabolomic Adaptations in Rhodiola linearifolia Boriss.
Authors: Terletskaya Nina V. , Erbay Malika , Mamirova Aigerim , Ashimuly Kazhybek , Korbozova Nazym K. , Zorbekova Aigerim N. , Kudrina Nataliya O. , Hoffmann Matthias H.
Published: September 2024

Rhodiola linearifolia Boriss., a perennial alpine plant from the Crassulaceae family, is renowned for its unique medicinal properties. However, existing research on this species is limited, particularly regarding the impact of altitude on its physiological and medicinal compounds. The current study employed morphophysiological and anatomical methods to explore the adaptive mechanisms of R. linearifolia across different altitudinal gradients, while also examining photosynthetic pigments and metabolomic changes. Our results indicate that despite the simultaneous effects of various mountain abiotic factors, significant correlations can be identified between altitude and trait variation. An optimal growth altitude of 2687 m above sea level was identified, which is pivotal for sustainable ecosystem management and potential species introduction strategies. It is noted that increasing altitude stress enhances the synthesis of secondary antioxidant metabolites in R. linearifolia, enhancing its pharmaceutical potential.
Structural and Thermal Characterization of Some Thermoplastic Starch Mixtures
Authors: Stelescu Maria Daniela , Oprea Ovidiu-Cristian , Sonmez Maria , Ficai Anton , Motelica Ludmila , Ficai Denisa , Georgescu Mihai , Gurau Dana Florentina
Published: September 2024

The paper presents the production of thermoplastic starch (TPS) mixtures using potato starch and two types of plasticizers: glycerol and sorbitol. The effects of plasticizers, citric acid, organically modified montmorillonite clay nanofiller (OMMT) and an additive based on ultrahigh molecular weight siloxane polymer on the structure and physical–mechanical and thermal properties of TPS samples were analysed. Starch mixtures plasticized with glycerol were obtained, where the starch/glycerol mass ratio was 70:30, as well as starch mixtures plasticized with glycerol and sorbitol, with a starch/glycerol/sorbitol mass ratio of 60:20:20. The starch gelatinization process to obtain TPS was carried out in a Brabender Plasti-Corder internal mixer at 120 °C, with a mixing speed of 30–80 rpm, for 10 min. The obtained results indicate that by adding 2% (weight percentage) of citric acid to the TPS mixtures, there is an improvement in the physical–mechanical properties, as well as structural changes that can indicate both cross-linking reactions by esterification in stages and depolymerisation reactions. The sample of TPS plasticized with glycerol, which contains OMMT, shows an increase in tensile strength by 34.4%, compared to the control sample.
Mathematical Modeling of Drying Kinetics and Technological and Chemical Properties of Pereskia sp. Leaf Powders
Authors: de Alcântara Charlene Maria , Moreira Inacia dos Santos , Cavalcanti Mônica Tejo , Lima Renato Pereira , Moura Henrique Valentim , da Silva Neves Romildo , Cassimiro Carlos Alberto Lins , Martins Jorge Jacó Alves , da Costa Batista Fabiane Rabelo , Pereira Emmanuel Moreira
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to assess the effects of convective drying at different temperatures (50, 60, and 70 °C) on the technological and chemical properties of Pereskia sp. leaf powders and to identify the most accurate mathematical model for describing their drying kinetics. Drying kinetics were modeled using four mathematical models: Henderson and Pabis, Lewis, Logarithmic, and Page. The Page and Logarithmic models provided the best fit for the drying kinetics of both species, with high coefficients of determination (R2 > 0.98) and low MSE and χ2 values, indicating their suitability for describing the drying behavior of Pereskia leaves. Enthalpy and entropy decreased with increasing temperature, while Gibbs free energy increased, and effective diffusivity was not affected by temperature. These changes directly affected the powders’ color, density, compressibility, wettability, water activity, chlorophyll, and bioactive components, including carotenoids, proteins, and phenolics. Notably, P. grandifolia powders retained higher levels of ash, protein, and lipids, indicating greater nutritional value, while P. aculeata powders exhibited higher solubility and lower water activity, suggesting superior technological properties for industrial applications. The findings highlight the potential of Pereskia species as functional ingredients in food products, with implications for optimizing drying processes to enhance both nutritional and industrial value.
Bioactivities of Waste Cork and Phloem Fractions of Quercus cerris Bark
Authors: Șen Ali Umut , Almeida Daiana , da Silveira Tayse F. F. , Pires Tânia S. P. , Añibarro-Ortega Mikel , Mandim Filipa , Barros Lillian , Ferreira Isabel C. F. R. , Pereira Helena , Fernandes Ângela
Published: September 2024

Recently, more and more researchers have begun to consider using waste bark fractions to produce value-added biochemicals and materials, as well as for energy production. Extraction is often the first operation in biomass biorefineries. Here we obtained hydroethanolic extracts from waste cork and phloem fractions of Quercus cerris bark and analyzed them to determine their antioxidant, antimicrobial, and nitric oxide (NO) production inhibition properties and their hepatotoxicity. The antioxidant properties were investigated by ex vivo TBARSs as well as OxHLIA antioxidant assays, the antibacterial properties against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria isolated from food and clinical sources, and antifungal properties against Aspergillus brasiliensis and A. fumigatus. The NO production inhibition activity was assessed in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated murine macrophage (RAW 264.7) cell line, and antiproliferative activities were determined against five different cell lines, including lung (NCI-H460), gastric (AGS), breast (MCF7), and colon (CaCo2) tumor cell lines, as well as a non-tumor cell line (PLP2). The hydroethanolic maceration of waste cork and phloem yielded 4.4% and 2.4% extracts, respectively. Gallic acid glucosides, phenolic acids, and ellagic acid were identified in both extracts. The waste cork and phloem extracts showed antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiproliferative properties but also showed hepatotoxicity in the case of waste cork. Both bark fractions varied in terms of their bioactivity, with waste cork extracts showing, in general, higher bioactivity than phloem extracts
Selection of Enhanced Oil Recovery Method on the Basis of Clustering Wells
Authors: Marinina Oksana , Malikov Anton , Lyubek Yulia , Pasternak Svetlana , Reshneva Ekaterina , Stolbovskaya Natalia
Published: September 2024

The relevance of the technical and economic evaluation of the application of enhanced oil recovery methods at oil fields at the final stage of development is related to the need to recover the remaining reserves, including hard-to-recover (HTR) reserves, the share of which is growing annually. Currently, there are many effective enhanced oil recovery (EOR) methods for different process conditions, but their application has different effects based on the combination of methods, techniques and production conditions. The aim of this study was to approach the scaling of the effect of the application of modern EOR using the methodology of the clustering of wells with similar technological characteristics. This paper proposes a methodology for the selection of candidate wells to form clusters based on a set of indicators that determine the choice of enhanced oil recovery technology in oil fields at the final stage. The technological efficiency of sidetracking and multistage hydraulic fracturing application was evaluated based on the analytical method of well flow rate estimation. By applying cluster analysis to selected wells, three clusters were formed, each including three wells, united by the geological properties of their reservoir rocks and the filtration–capacitive properties of the oil. After this, the optimal technologies were selected for two clusters—hydraulic fracturing and sidetracking. The accumulated oil production, recovered due to the application of the technologies, from six wells for the first 7 years after the operation was estimated at 306.92 thousand tons of oil. Due to the achieved technological effect, the economic efficiency of the development of the studied oil field will increase due to the proceeds from the sales of the extracted additional oil. The results of this study can be used in the calculation of technical and economic efficiency at oil fields with similar conditions.
Tight Oil Well Productivity Prediction Model Based on Neural Network
Authors: Jin Yuhang , Guo Kangliang , Gao Xinchen , Li Qiangyu
Published: September 2024

Productivity prediction has always been an important part of reservoir development, and tight reservoirs need accurate and efficient productivity prediction models. Due to the complexity of the tight oil reservoir, the data obtained by the detection instrument need to extract data features at a deeper level. Using the Pearson correlation coefficient and partial correlation coefficient to analyze the main control of productivity factors, eight characteristic parameters of volume coefficient, water saturation, density, effective thickness, skin factor, shale content, porosity, and effective permeability were obtained, and the specific oil production index was used as the target parameter. Two sample structures of pure static parameters and dynamic and static parameters (shale content, effective permeability, porosity, water saturation, and density as dynamic parameters, volume coefficient, skin factor, and effective thickness as static parameters) were created, and corresponding model structures (BP (Backpropagation), neural network model, and LSTM-BP (Long Short-Term Memory Backpropagation) neural network model) were designed to compare the prediction effects of models under different sample structures. The mean absolute error, root mean square error, mean relative percentage error, and coefficient of determination were used to evaluate the model results. The LSTM-BP neural network was used to predict the production capacity of the test set. The results showed that the average absolute error was 0.07, the root mean square error was 0.10, the average absolute percentage error was 21%, and the coefficient of determination was 0.97. Using wells in the WZ area for testing, the LSTM-BP model’s predictions are evenly distributed on both sides of the 45° line, separating the predicted values from actual values, with errors from the line being relatively small. In contrast, the BP model and analytical method are unable to achieve such an even distribution around the line. Experiments show that the LSTM-BP neural network model can effectively extract dynamic parameter features and has a stronger generalization ability.
Use of Extended Finite Element Method to Characterize Stress Interference Caused by Nonuniform Stress Distribution during Hydraulic Fracturing
Authors: Zhu Yinghui , Wang Pengxiang , Liao Yi , Liao Ruiquan , Zheng Heng
Published: September 2024

Stress interference is the main factor affecting hydraulic fracture propagation during multi-well hydraulic fracturing; stress interference is influenced by fracture bending, fracture hits, and asymmetric fracture propagation. To investigate the role of stress interferences among hydraulic fractures with nonuniform stress distribution in an inhomogeneous formation, a hydromechanical coupling extended finite element method was adopted to investigate the fracturing paths that occurred during the first fracturing–fracturing fluid flowback–repeat fracturing process; the asymmetric fracturing that occurred at different child well locations was also studied. The results showed that the area affected by fracturing-induced stress formed a “butterfly type” area. For child wells located within the zone, stress interference resulted in asymmetric fracture propagation; meanwhile, for child wells located outside this zone, stress interference resulted in symmetric fracture geometry. The effect of stress interference on the asymmetry of child well fracture wings was found to be negatively correlated with the distance between the parent well and the child well.
A Contrast-Tree-Based Approach to Two-Population Models
Authors: Lizzi Matteo
Published: September 2024

Building small-population mortality tables has great practical importance in actuarial applications. In recent years, several works in the literature have explored different methodologies to quantify and assess longevity and mortality risk, especially within the context of small populations, and many models dealing with this problem usually use a two-population approach, modeling a mortality spread between a larger reference population and the population of interest, via likelihood-based techniques. To broaden the tools at actuaries’ disposal to build small-population mortality tables, a general structure for a two-step two-population model is proposed, its main element of novelty residing in a machine-learning-based approach to mortality spread estimation. In order to obtain this, Contrast Trees and the related Estimation Contrast Boosting techniques have been applied. A quite general machine-learning-based model has then been adapted in order to generalize Italian actuarial practice in company tables estimation and implemented using data from the Human Mortality Database. Finally, results from the ML-based model have been compared to those obtained from the traditional model.
Key Synchronization Method Based on Negative Databases and Physical Channel State Characteristics of Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Pu Haoyang , Chen Wen , Wang Hongchao , Bao Shenghong
Published: September 2024

Due to their inherent openness, wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are vulnerable to eavesdropping attacks. Addressing the issue of secure Internet Key Exchange (IKE) in the absence of reliable third parties like CA/PKI (Certificate Authority/Public Key Infrastructure) in WSNs, a novel key synchronization method named NDPCS-KS is proposed in the paper. Firstly, through an initial negotiation process, both ends of the main channels generate the same initial key seeds using the Channel State Information (CSI). Subsequently, negotiation keys and a negative database (NDB) are synchronously generated at the two ends based on the initial key seeds. Then, in a second-negotiation process, the NDB is employed to filter the negotiation keys to obtain the keys for encryption. NDPCS-KS reduced the risk of information leakage, since the keys are not directly transmitted over the network, and the eavesdroppers cannot acquire the initial key seeds because of the physical isolation of their eavesdropping channels and the main channels. Furthermore, due to the NP-hard problem of reversing the NDB, even if an attacker obtains the NDB, deducing the initial key seeds is computationally infeasible. Therefore, it becomes exceedingly difficult for attackers to generate legitimate encryption keys without the NDB or initial key seeds. Moreover, a lightweight anti-replay and identity verification mechanism is designed to deal with replay attacks or forgery attacks. Experimental results show that NDPCS-KS has less time overhead and stronger randomness in key generation compared with other methods, and it can effectively counter replay, forgery, and tampering attacks.
Editorial for the Special Issue on Sensors and Wearable Technologies in Sports Biomechanics
Authors: Jan Yih-Kuen , Lung Chi-Wen , Liau Ben-Yi , Hernandez Manuel E.
Published: September 2024

Sport biomechanics is a subfield of biomechanics that studies mechanics to improve performance and reduce injury during exercise and sports competitions in abled-bodied people and people with disabilities [...]
Analysis of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems for Safe and Comfortable Driving of Motor Vehicles
Authors: Neumann Tomasz
Published: September 2024

This paper aims to thoroughly examine and compare advanced driver-assistance systems (ADASs) in the context of their impact on safety and driving comfort. It also sought to determine the level of acceptance and trust drivers have in these systems. The first chapter of this document describes the sensory detectors used in ADASs, including radars, cameras, LiDAR, and ultrasonics. The subsequent chapter presents the most popular driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control (ACC), blind spot detection (BSD), lane keeping systems (LDW/LKS), intelligent headlamp control (IHC), and emergency brake assist (EBA). A key element of this work is the evaluation of the effectiveness of these systems in terms of safety and driving comfort, employing a survey conducted among drivers. Data analysis illustrates how these systems are perceived and identified areas requiring improvements. Overall, the paper shows drivers’ positive reception of ADASs, with most respondents confirming that these technologies increase their sense of safety and driving comfort. These systems prove to be particularly helpful in avoiding accidents and hazardous situations. However, there is a need for their further development, especially in terms of increasing their precision, reducing false alarms, and improving the user interface. ADASs significantly contribute to enhancing safety and driving comfort. Yet, they are still in development and require continuous optimization and driver education to fully harness their potential. Technological advancements are expected to make these systems even more effective and user-friendly.