bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Probiotics and Probiotic-like Agents against Chemotherapy-Induced Intestinal Mucositis: A Narrative Review
Authors: López-Gómez Laura , Alcorta Alexandra , Abalo Raquel
Published: October 2023

Cancer chemotherapy has allowed many patients to survive, but not without risks derived from its adverse effects. Drugs, such as 5-fluorouracil, irinotecan, oxaliplatin, methotrexate, and others, as well as different drug combinations trigger intestinal mucositis that may cause or contribute to anorexia, pain, diarrhea, weight loss, systemic infections, and even death. Dysbiosis is a hallmark of chemotherapy-induced intestinal mucositis and diarrhea, and, therefore, strategies aimed at modulating intestinal microbiota may be useful to counteract and prevent those dreadful effects. This narrative review offers an overview of the studies performed to test the efficacy of probiotics and probiotic-like agents against chemotherapy-induced intestinal mucositis and its consequences. Microbiota modulation through the oral administration of different probiotics (mainly strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium), probiotic mixtures, synbiotics, postbiotics, and paraprobiotics has been tested in different animal models and in some clinical trials. Regulation of dysbiosis, modulation of epithelial barrier permeability, anti-inflammatory effects, modulation of host immune response, reduction of oxidative stress, or prevention of apoptosis are the main mechanisms involved in their beneficial effects. However, the findings are limited by the great heterogeneity of the preclinical studies and the relative lack of studies in immunocompromised animals, as well as the scarce availability of results from clinical trials. Despite this, the results accumulated so far are promising. Hopefully, with the aid of these agents, intestinal mucositis will be less impactful to the cancer patient in the near future.
Consumer Acceptance of Fintech App Payment Services: A Systematic Literature Review and Future Research Agenda
Authors: Alkadi Rotana S. , Abed Salma S.
Published: October 2023

This research has undertaken a systematic literature review (SLR) of articles focusing on the acceptance of fintech payment services by identifying 84 peer-reviewed articles published in international scientific journals from 2015 to April 2023. This paper uses the Scientific Procedures and Rationales for Systematic Literature Reviews (SPAR-4-SLR) protocol to gather relevant articles and the theory, context, constructs, and methodology (TCCM) framework to analyse them. The conducted SLR has several findings. First, the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) is the main theory used to examine consumers’ acceptance of fintech payment services. Second, studies in this area have been conducted in 24 countries, with a focus on Indonesia, Malaysia, and China. The study themes identified include fintech payment apps, Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL), mobile payment, fintech services, e-wallet, and Islamic Fintech. Third, the perceived usefulness, trust, perceived ease of use, and attitude are the four main constructs found to have a significant association with behavioural intention. Finally, most studies (64) rely on quantitative methods, particularly questionnaires. Based on the findings, this study identifies research gaps and provides a future research agenda. The review also has practical implications for policymakers and corporations in developing strategies and policies promoting the acceptance of fintech payment services. Limitations include B2C focus, exclusion of B2B behavior, lack of targeting specific user demographics, and reliance on secondary data. These present opportunities for further research.
Climate Change Impacts on Grassland Vigour in Northern Portugal
Authors: Stolarski Oiliam , Santos João A. , Fonseca André , Yang Chenyao , Trindade Henrique , Fraga Helder
Published: October 2023

Grasslands are key elements of the global agricultural system, covering around two-thirds of all agricultural areas and playing an important role in biodiversity conservation, food security, and balancing the carbon cycle. Climate change is a growing challenge for the agricultural sector and may threaten grasslands. To address these challenges, it is vital to conduct in-depth climate studies to understand the vulnerability of grasslands. In this study, machine learning was used to build an advanced model able to evaluate the future impact of climate change on grassland vigour. The objective was to identify the most vulnerable grassland areas, analyse the interaction between climate and grassland performance, and outline management strategies against the detrimental implications of climate change. A Random Forest (RF) regression was used to model the Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) using the Standardised Precipitation-Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI). The model explained 76% of the NDVI variability. The foremost significant predictors of grassland vigour are the SPEI with temporal lags of 1, 4, and 12 months. These findings suggest that the vegetative status of grasslands exhibits high sensitivity to short-term drought while also being influenced by the memory of past climatic events over longer periods. Future projections indicate an overall reduction in grassland vigour, mostly in RCP8.5. The results indicate that negative effects will be more pronounced in mountainous regions, which currently host the most vigorous grasslands. Dry lowlands in the north should continue to have the lowest vigour in the future. A substantial reduction in vigour is expected in autumn, with an effect on grassland phenology. The development of grasslands in winter, favoured by increasing temperatures and precipitation, can advance the harvesting of grassland (cutting) and the grazing of livestock. To ensure that vigour is maintained in less favourable zones, adaptation measures will be needed, as well as more efficient management of highlands to provide an adequate level of production.
Temporary Mechanical Circulatory Support in Cardiogenic Shock Patients after Cardiac Procedures: Selection Algorithm and Weaning Strategies
Authors: Nersesian Gaik , Ott Sascha , Fardman Alexander , Lanmueller Pia , Lewin Daniel , Bernhardt Alexander , Emrich Fabian , Faerber Gloria , Szabó Gábor , Oezkur Mehmet , Panholzer Bernd , Rojas Sebastian , Saeed Diyar , Schmack Bastian , Warnecke Gregor , Zimpfer Daniel , Grubitzsch Herko , Falk Volkmar , Potapov Evgenij
Published: October 2023

Mechanical circulatory support has proven effective in managing postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock by stabilizing patients’ hemodynamics and ensuring adequate organ perfusion. Among the available device modalities, the combination of extracorporeal life support and a microaxial flow pump for left ventricular unloading has emerged as a valuable tool in the surgical armamentarium. In this publication, we provide recommendations for the application and weaning of temporary mechanical circulatory support in cardiogenic shock patients, derived from a consensus among leading cardiac centers in German-speaking countries.
Who, When, Why?—Traumatological Patients in the Emergency Department of a Maximum Care Provider
Authors: Hörauf Jason-Alexander , Schindler Cora Rebecca , Mühlenfeld Nils , Zabel Julian , Störmann Philipp , Marzi Ingo , Söhling Nicolas , Verboket René Danilo
Published: October 2023

Nationwide, there is an annual increase in the number of patients in German emergency departments resulting in a growing workload for the entire emergency department staff. Several studies have investigated the situation in emergency departments, most of which were interdisciplinary, but there are no data on a solely traumatological patient population. The present study therefore aims to investigate the situation in a university-based trauma surgery emergency department. A total of 8582 traumatological patients attending a university hospital from 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2019 were studied. Various variables, such as reason for presentation, time of accident, diagnosis, and diagnostic as well as therapeutic measures performed were analyzed from the admission records created. The mean age was 36.2 years, 60.1% were male, 63.3% presented on their own to the emergency department, and 41.2% presented during regular working hours between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The most common reason for presentation was outdoor falls at 17.4%, and 63.3% presented to the emergency department within the first 12 h after the sustained trauma. The most common diagnosis was bruise (27.6%), and 14.2% of patients were admitted as inpatients. Many of the emergency room patients suffered no relevant trauma sequelae. In order to reduce the number of patients in emergency rooms in the future, existing institutions in the outpatient emergency sector must be further expanded and effectively advertised to the public. In this way, the emergency medical resources of clinics, including staff, can be relieved to provide the best possible care for actual emergency patients.
Research on Wear of Micro-Textured Tools in Turning GH4169 during Spray Cooling
Authors: Hu Jingshu , Wei Jiaxuan , Feng Xinmin , Liu Zhiwei
Published: October 2023

In this study, the wear resistance of micro-textured tools was explored. Micro-textured tools with different morphologies were used in turning GH4169 during spray cooling. The tool wear on the rake face of the different micro-texture morphologies was investigated through simulation and experiments. Firstly, based on the existing research on bionics, micro-textures with five different morphologies were designed on the rake face of carbide tools. A simulation model of cutting GH4169 during spray cooling was established, and the tools with designed micro-textures were used in it. The influence of the different micro-texture morphologies on the tool wear was analyzed. Secondly, the designed micro-textured tools with five different morphologies were produced using a femtosecond laser. Cutting experiments were conducted using the micro-textured tools during spray cooling. The wear area of the rake face was measured based on the infinitesimal method, and the optimal morphology with the best anti-wear ability was obtained. This study provides technical support for the design and development of micro-textured tools with an improved cutting performance, and contribute to the promotion and application of micro-textured tools.
The Standard for Assessing Water Resistance Properties of Lubricating Grease Using Contact Angle Measurements
Authors: Lijesh Koottaparambil , Miller Roger A. , Shah Raj , Shirvani Khosro , Khonsari Michael M.
Published: October 2023

Many grease-lubricated machines operate in wet environments, and are vulnerable to contamination because of water exposure. Reports suggest that even the presence of 1% water in grease reduces the life of a bearing by 90%. Nevertheless, only a few qualitative tests and standards are available to characterize the water resistance properties of greases. In this paper, we propose a standard for evaluating the water resistance properties of greases by studying their hydrophobic and hydrophilic nature via a custom-designed apparatus for measuring the grease contact angle. In this approach, a water droplet is dispensed onto the surface of the grease and the contact angle of the droplet is studied. For this purpose, an apparatus was designed, built, and tested with twelve different greases. To validate the efficacy of the test method and setup, tests were performed at two different locations by independent operators. From the obtained contact angle values, the authors propose categorizing a grease’s water-resistance properties into five different grades that can be set as guidelines for the industrial user when selecting a grease for machinery operation in a wet environment. The classification of the water-repellent properties of greases, using the proposed standard is compared with existing ASTM standards used for evaluation of grease properties in the presence of water.
Measurement and Prediction of Sawing Characteristics Using Dental Reciprocating Saws: A Pilot Study on Fresh Bovine Scapula
Authors: Yu Dedong , Zou Fan , Zhang Wenran , An Qinglong , Nie Ping
Published: October 2023

Bone sawing is one of the most common operations during traditional dental and cranio-maxillofacial surgery and training systems based on virtual reality technology. It is necessary to predict and update conditions (including the sawing force, temperature and tool wear) in real time during VR surgical training and surgical simulation. All the specimens used in this study were fresh bovine scapula. The forces and temperatures were measured during the sawing process. Additionally, the thermal conductivity was measured via a laser flash instrument. Response surface methodology (RSM) was adopted to analyze and model the sawing force and sawing temperature. Meanwhile, tool wear was observed using a scanning electron microscope. The regression models of the sawing force and temperature rise under different experimental conditions were acquired. To obtain the minimum force within the recommended parameter ranges of commonly used medical reference parameters for bone sawing, a higher rotational speed combined with a lower feed rate were recommended. When considering the sawing force and temperature rise comprehensively, the rotational speed should not be extremely high (about 13,000 rpm is recommended). Meanwhile, abrasive wear is the main wear mode of saw blades. In order to avoid surgery failure, it is necessary to replace the saw blade in time. The experimental data were confirmed to be scientific and accurate for the predicted models of sawing conditions. To minimize the main cutting force, a feed rate of 40 mm/min combined with a rotational speed of 13,700 rpm is recommended. High cutting temperatures have the potential to cause irreversible tissue damage, so surgeons using dental reciprocating saws need to avoid excessively high-speed gears.
Exploring the Impact of the Turning of AISI 4340 Steel on Tool Wear, Surface Roughness, Sound Intensity, and Power Consumption under Dry, MQL, and Nano-MQL Conditions
Authors: Fedai Yusuf
Published: October 2023

Optimizing input parameters not only improves production efficiency and processing quality but also plays a crucial role in the development of green manufacturing engineering practices. The aim of the present study is to conduct a comparative evaluation of the cutting performance and machinability process during the turning of AISI 4340 steel under different cooling conditions. The study analyzes cutting operations during turning using dry, minimum quantity lubrication, and nano- minimum quantity lubrication. As control parameters in the experiments, three different cooling types, cutting speeds (100, 150, 200 m/min), and feed rate (0.1, 0.15, 0.20 mm/rev) levels were applied. The experimental results show that the optimal output values are found to be Vb = 0.15 mm, Ra = 0.81µm, 88.1 dB for sound intensity and I = 4.18 A for current. Moreover, variance analysis was performed to determine the effects of input parameters on response values. Under dry, minimum quantity lubrication, and nano-minimum quantity lubrication processing conditions, parameters affecting tool wear, surface roughness, current by the motor shaft, and sound level were examined in detail, along with the chip morphology. The responses obtained were optimized according to the Taguchi S/N method. As a result of optimization, it was concluded that the optimum values for cutting conditions were nano-minimum quantity lubrication cooling and V = 100 m/min, f = 0.1 mm/rev cutting. Finally, it was observed that there was a 13% improvement in tool wear, 7% in current, 9% in surface roughness, and 8% in sound intensity compared to the standard conditions. In conclusion, it was determined that nano-minimum quantity lubrication with the lowest level of cutting and feed rate values provided the optimum results.
Improvement in Corrosion Performance of ECAPed AZ80/91 Mg Alloys Using SS316 HVOF Coating
Authors: Naik Gajanan M. , Sharma Priyaranjan , Anne Gajanan , Pittala Raj Kumar , Kumar Rahul , Satapathi Gnane Swarnadh , Kumar Ch Sateesh , Fernandes Filipe
Published: October 2023

Mg AZ80/91 alloys are highly popular due to their lightweight, high strength-to-weight ratio, and good machinability. However, their moderate mechanical properties and corrosion resistance have limited their use in the automotive, aerospace, and defense sectors. This study primarily aims to enhance the mechanical performance and corrosion resistance of Mg AZ80/91 alloys, making them more suitable for applications in the aerospace and automotive industries. Firstly, equal-channel angular pressing (ECAP) of Mg AZ80/91 alloys has been attempted to improve their mechanical properties. Secondly, a high-velocity oxy-fuel (HVOF) coating of SS316 was applied over the Mg AZ80/91 substrate to enhance its corrosion resistance. In the second step, an HVOF coating of SS316 is applied over the Mg AZ80/91 substrate for better corrosion resistance. The experimental findings demonstrate that the application of an SS316 coating on the ECAP-4P AZ80/91 Mg alloy substrate results in a uniform and dense layer with an average thickness of approximately 80 ± 5 µm. The HVOF-based SS316 coating on 4P-ECAP leads to a noteworthy enhancement in microhardness and a reduction in the corrosion rate, especially in a NaCl solution (3.5 wt.%). This improvement holds great promise for producing reliable, long-lasting, and resilient automotive, aerospace, and defense components. The application of an HVOF-based SS316 coating onto the AZ80 Mg alloy, which had not undergone ECAP treatment, led to a substantial enhancement in corrosion resistance. This resulted in a notable decrease in the corrosion current density, reducing it from 0.297 mA/cm2 to 0.10 µA/cm2.
CO2 Physisorption over an Industrial Molecular Sieve Zeolite: An Experimental and Theoretical Approach
Authors: Tsiotsias Anastasios I. , Georgiadis Amvrosios G. , Charisiou Nikolaos D. , Goula Maria A.
Published: October 2023

The present work studies the adsorption of CO2 using a zeolitic industrial molecular sieve (IMS) with a high surface area. The effect of the CO2 feed concentration and the adsorption temperature in conjunction with multiple adsorption–desorption cycles was experimentally investigated. To assess the validity of the experimental results, theoretical calculations based on well-established equations were employed and the values of equilibrium, kinetic, and thermodynamic parameters are presented. Three additional column kinetic models were applied to the data obtained experimentally, in order to predict the breakthrough curves and thus facilitate process design. Results showed a negative correlation between temperature and adsorption capacity, indicating that physical adsorption takes place. Theoretical calculations revealed that the Langmuir isotherm, the Bangham kinetic model (i.e., pore diffusion is the rate-determining step), and the Thomas and Yoon–Nelson models were suitable to describe the CO2 adsorption process by the IMS. The IMS adsorbent material maintained its high CO2 adsorption capacity (>200 mg g−1) after multiple adsorption–desorption cycles, showing excellent regenerability and requiring only a mild desorption treatment (200 °C for 15 min) for regeneration.
The Dissolution Mechanism of Low-Molecular-Weight Organic Acids on the Sillimanite
Authors: Zhang Chenyang , Yu Yaling , Zhong Mingfeng , Zhuang Jieyi , Yang Huan , Lin Shaomin , Zhang Zhijie , Wu Yunying
Published: October 2023

The interaction between low-molecular-weight organic acids (LMWOAs) and minerals in nature has been widely studied; however, limited research has been conducted on the dissolution mechanism of sillimanite in the presence of different organic acids. In this study, the interaction between the sillimanite sample and LMWOAs (citric acid, oxalic acid, and citric/oxalic mixture) at the same pH was investigated. The dissolution rate of Si and Al was high during the initial reaction time, then slowed down in the presence of LMWOAs. The dissolution data for Si and Al from sillimanite in the LMWOAs fit well with the first-order equation (Ct = a(1 − exp(−kt))) (R2 > 0.991). The dissolution process of sillimanite in the organic acids was controlled by the surface chemical reaction step. The dissolution concentration of Si in aqueous citric acid was higher than that in oxalic acid. In contrast, the dissolution concentration of Al in oxalic acid was more than that in citric acid. The maximum concentrations of Si and Al in the presence of composite organic acids were 1754 μmol/L and 3904 μmol/L. The sillimanite before and after treatment with LMWOAs were studied using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scan electron microscopy (SEM). These results are explained by the characterization of the sillimanite. Under the single acid solution, the (210) crystal plane with a high areal density of Al in sillimanite was easily dissolved by the oxalic acid, while the (120) in sillimanite with a high areal density of Si was more easily dissolved by citric acid. In the composite organic acids, the Si-O bond and Al-O bond in sillimanite were attacked alternately, leading to the formation of some deeper corrosion pits on the surface of sillimanite. The results are of interest in the dissolution mechanisms of sillimanite in the low-molecular-weight organic acids and the environmentally friendly activation of sillimanite.
Phosphorus-Doped Hollow Tubular g-C3N4 for Enhanced Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Sun Manying , Zhu Chuanwei , Wei Su , Chen Liuyun , Ji Hongbing , Su Tongming , Qin Zuzeng
Published: October 2023

Photocatalytic CO2 reduction is a tactic for solving the environmental pollution caused by greenhouse gases. Herein, NH4H2PO4 was added as a phosphorus source in the process of the hydrothermal treatment of melamine for the first time, and phosphorus-doped hollow tubular g-C3N4 (x-P-HCN) was fabricated and used for photocatalytic CO2 reduction. Here, 1.0-P-HCN exhibited the largest CO production rate of 9.00 μmol·g−1·h−1, which was 10.22 times higher than that of bulk g-C3N4. After doping with phosphorus, the light absorption range, the CO2 adsorption capacity, and the specific surface area of the 1.0-P-HCN sample were greatly improved. In addition, the separation of photogenerated electron–hole pairs was enhanced. Furthermore, the phosphorus-doped g-C3N4 effectively activated the CO2 adsorbed on the surface of phosphorus-doped g-C3N4 photocatalysts, which greatly enhanced the CO production rate of photocatalytic CO2 reduction over that of g-C3N4.
Ce/Mn/Cr: (Re,Y)3Al5O12 Phosphor Ceramics (Re = Gd, Tb and Lu) for White LED Lighting with Significant Spectral Redshift and Improved Color-Rendering Index
Authors: Li Yukun , Hanson Svenja , Pang Cheng Heng , Lyu Peng , Jiang Jun
Published: October 2023

In order to attain phosphor ceramics with a high Color-Rendering Index (CRI), samples with the composition of Y0.997−xRexCe0.003)3(Al0.9748 Mn2+0.024Cr3+0.0012)5O12(Rex = 0, Gd0.333, Gd0.666, Gd0.997, Tb0.333, Tb0.666, Tb0.997 and Lu0.997 were prepared by solid-state reaction and vacuum sintering, and exhibited potential for high-quality, solid-state lighting. Doping with Cr3+ and Mn2+ effectively enhanced the red component of Ce3+ spectra through the intense energy transfer from Ce3+ ions to Mn2+/Cr3+ ions. The crystal field splitting of [GdO8] and [TbO8] was more extensive than that of [YO8], causing a massive redshift in the Ce3+ emission peaks from 542 to 561 and 595 nm, while [LuO8] had an opposite effect and caused a blueshift with a peak position at 512 nm. White LED devices incorporating Ce/Mn/Cr: (Gd0.333Y0.664)3Al5O12 phosphor ceramic exhibited a high CRI of 83.97, highlighting the potential for enhancing the red-light component of white LED lighting.
On c-Compactness in Topological and Bitopological Spaces
Authors: Alharbi Rehab , Oudetallah Jamal , Shatnawi Mutaz , Batiha Iqbal M.
Published: October 2023

The primary goal of this research is to initiate the pairwise c-compact concept in topological and bitopological spaces. This would make us to define the concept of c-compact space with some of its generalization, and present some necessary notions such as the H-closed, the quasi compact and extremely disconnected compact spaces in topological and bitopological spaces. As a consequence, we derive numerous theoretical results that demonstrate the relations between c-separation axioms and the c-compact spaces.
Proactive Coordination of Traffic Guidance and Signal Control for a Divergent Network
Authors: Guo Yaming , Zhang Ke , Chen Xiqun , Li Meng
Published: October 2023

In the realm of transportation system optimization, enhancing overall performance through the proactive coordination of traffic guidance and signal control in a divergent network can tackle the challenges posed by traffic congestion and inefficiency. Thus, we propose an innovative approach to first allow the information on variable message signs (VMS) that deviates from estimated travel times. This proactive approach guides drivers towards optimal routes from a system-wide perspective, such as minimizing vehicle hours traveled. The deviation is constrained both by the lower bound of drivers’ long-term compliance rate and the upper bound of the favored traffic signal operation. The proposed approach coordinates the traffic guidance system with the signal control system. The traffic signal control system sets the upper limit for information deviation in the traffic guidance system, while the traffic guidance system provides demand predictions for the traffic signal control system. Overall, the objective function of the approach is the network-level performance of all users. We gauge traveler satisfaction as a measure of system credibility, using both a route choice module and a satisfaction degree module established through stated preference surveys. Numerical results demonstrate that proactive-coordinated (PC) strategies outperform reactive-coordinated (RC), proactive-independent (PI), and reactive-independent (RI) strategies by improving the system performance, meanwhile keeping the system trustworthy. Under the normal traffic scenario, the PC strategy reduces total travel time by approximately 10%. Driver satisfaction with the PC strategy increases from a baseline of 76% to 95%. Moreover, in scenarios with sudden changes in either traffic demand or supply, e.g., accidents or large events, the proactive guidance strategy is more flexible and can potentially improve more from the system perspective.
Data-Driven GWO-BRNN-Based SOH Estimation of Lithium-Ion Batteries in EVs for Their Prognostics and Health Management
Authors: Waseem Muhammad , Huang Jingyuan , Wong Chak-Nam , Lee C. K. M.
Published: October 2023

Due to the complexity of the aging process, maintaining the state of health (SOH) of lithium-ion batteries is a significant challenge that must be overcome. This study presents a new SOH estimation approach based on hybrid Grey Wolf Optimization (GWO) with Bayesian Regularized Neural Networks (BRNN). The approach utilizes health features (HFs) extracted from the battery charging-discharging process. Selected external voltage and current characteristics from the charging-discharging process serve as HFs to explain the aging mechanism of the batteries. The Pearson correlation coefficient, the Kendall rank correlation coefficient, and the Spearman rank correlation coefficient are then employed to select HFs that have a high degree of association with battery capacity. In this paper, GWO is introduced as a method for optimizing and selecting appropriate hyper-p parameters for BRNN. GWO-BRNN updates the population through mutation, crossover, and screening operations to obtain the globally optimal solution and improve the ability to conduct global searches. The validity of the proposed technique was assessed by examining the NASA battery dataset. Based on the simulation results, the presented approach demonstrates a higher level of accuracy. The proposed GWO-BRNN-based SOH estimation achieves estimate assessment indicators of less than 1%, significantly lower than the estimated results obtained by existing approaches. The proposed framework helps develop electric vehicle battery prognostics and health management for the widespread use of eco-friendly and reliable electric transportation.
Extraction and Purification of Highly Active Astaxanthin from Corynebacterium glutamicum Fermentation Broth
Authors: Seeger Jan , Wendisch Volker F. , Henke Nadja A.
Published: October 2023

The marine carotenoid astaxanthin is one of the strongest natural antioxidants and therefore is used in a broad range of applications such as cosmetics or nutraceuticals. To meet the growing market demand, the natural carotenoid producer Corynebacterium glutamicum has been engineered to produce astaxanthin by heterologous expression of genes from the marine bacterium Fulvimarina pelagi. To exploit this promising source of fermentative and natural astaxanthin, an efficient extraction process using ethanol was established in this study. Appropriate parameters for ethanol extraction were identified by screening ethanol concentration (62.5–97.5% v/v), temperature (30–70 °C) and biomass-to-solvent ratio (3.8–19.0 mgCDW/mLsolvent). The results demonstrated that the optimal extraction conditions were: 90% ethanol, 60 °C, and a biomass-to-solvent ratio of 5.6 mgCDW/mLsolvent. In total, 94% of the cellular astaxanthin was recovered and the oleoresin obtained contained 9.4 mg/g astaxanthin. With respect to other carotenoids, further purification of the oleoresin by column chromatography resulted in pure astaxanthin (100%, HPLC). In addition, a 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay showed similar activities compared to esterified astaxanthin from microalgae and a nine-fold higher antioxidative activity than synthetic astaxanthin.
Fish Collagen Peptides Enhance Thymopoietic Gene Expression, Cell Proliferation, Thymocyte Adherence, and Cytoprotection in Thymic Epithelial Cells via Activation of the Nuclear Factor-κB Pathway, Leading to Thymus Regeneration after Cyclophosphamide-Induced Injury
Authors: Lee Do Young , Song Won Hoon , Lim Ye Seon , Lee Changyong , Rajbongshi Lata , Hwang Seon Yeong , Kim Byoung Soo , Lee Dongjun , Song Yong Jung , Kim Hwi-Gon , Yoon Sik
Published: October 2023

Prolonged thymic involution results in decreased thymopoiesis and thymic output, leading to peripheral T-cell deficiency. Since the thymic-dependent pathway is the only means of generating fully mature T cells, the identification of strategies to enhance thymic regeneration is crucial in developing therapeutic interventions to revert immune suppression in immunocompromised patients. The present study clearly shows that fish collagen peptides (FCPs) stimulate activities of thymic epithelial cells (TECs), including cell proliferation, thymocyte adhesion, and the gene expression of thymopoietic factors such as FGF-7, IGF-1, BMP-4, VEGF-A, IL-7, IL-21, RANKL, LTβ, IL-22R, RANK, LTβR, SDF-1, CCL21, CCL25, CXCL5, Dll1, Dll4, Wnt4, CD40, CD80, CD86, ICAM-1, VCAM-1, FoxN1, leptin, cathepsin L, CK5, and CK8 through the NF-κB signal transduction pathway. Furthermore, our study also revealed the cytoprotective effects of FCPs on TECs against cyclophosphamide-induced cellular injury through the NF-κB signaling pathway. Importantly, FCPs exhibited a significant capability to facilitate thymic regeneration in mice after cyclophosphamide-induced damage via the NF-κB pathway. Taken together, this study sheds light on the role of FCPs in TEC function, thymopoiesis, and thymic regeneration, providing greater insight into the development of novel therapeutic strategies for effective thymus repopulation for numerous clinical conditions in which immune reconstitution is required.
Suppression of Pro-Inflammatory M1 Polarization of LPS-Stimulated RAW 264.7 Macrophage Cells by Fucoxanthin-Rich Sargassum hemiphyllum
Authors: Jeong Seungjin , Kim Mi-Bo , Baek Suhyeon , Lee Joowon , Lee Hyeju , Cao Bei , Kim Yongeun , Cao Lei , Lee Sanggil
Published: October 2023

Macrophages play an important role in managing the onset and progression of chronic inflammatory diseases. The primary objective of this study is to explore the antioxidant potential and anti-inflammatory properties of Sargassum hemiphyllum ethanol extract (SHE) and its fraction. SHE and its five constituent fractions were assessed for overall antioxidant capabilities and inhibitory effects on LPS-induced inflammation by modulating macrophages polarization in both RAW 264.7 macrophages and bone-marrow-derived macrophages (BMDM). Among the organic solvent fractions of SHE, the ethyl acetate fraction displayed the highest total phenolic content and total antioxidant capacity. Notably, the n-hexane (Hex) fraction showed the most substantial suppression of LPS-induced tumor necrosis factor α secretion in BMDM among the five fractions of SHE. The SHE and Hex fraction significantly reduced the heightened expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and inflammation-inducible enzymes induced by LPS in RAW 264.7 macrophages. In particular, the SHE and Hex fraction inhibited M1 macrophage polarization by reducing the mRNA expression of M1 macrophage markers in macrophages that were polarized toward the M1 phenotype. Furthermore, the SHE and Hex fraction attenuated the induction in nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 and its target genes, which was accompanied by an alteration in antioxidant gene expression in M1-polarized BMDM. The findings suggest that both SHE and its Hex fraction exhibit inhibitory effects on LPS-triggered inflammation and oxidative stress by modulating the polarization of M1 macrophages within macrophage populations.
Effect of Magnet Alternate Stirring on the Internal Quality of Sn-Pb Alloy
Authors: Zhang Mengyun , Bao Yanping , Zhang Haibo
Published: October 2023

A permanent magnet stirrer was built to study the effect of different magnetic field stirring modes on the solidification quality of Sn-20 wt-% Pb alloy ingots. The internal quality of the ingot can be improved by adjusting both the stirring speed and the modes. When the continuous magnetic stirring mode was adopted, the higher the stirring speed, the higher the flutter height at the ingot edge. When the stirring speed was 200 rpm, the flutter height reached 4.12 mm. The rotating magnetic field can significantly refine the grain size of the ingot. When the stirring speed of the magnetic field was increased from 0 rpm to 200 rpm, the grain size of the ingot reduced from 301 μm to 241 μm. By fixing the magnetic field stirring speed to 200 rpm and adjusting the mode to the alternate stirring process, the flutter height at the ingot edge reduced to 1.86 mm, which stabilized the liquid level of the molten alloy in the crucible. In addition, the grain size of the ingot was shortened to 223 μm, and the elemental homogeneity within the ingot was optimized.
Experimental Investigation and Modeling: Considerations of Simultaneous Surface Steel Droplets’ Evaporation and Corrosion
Authors: Ilie Marius Ciprian , Chiş Timur Vasile , Maior Ioana , Răducanu Cristian Eugen , Deleanu Iuliana Mihaela , Dobre Tănase , Pârvulescu Oana Cristina
Published: October 2023

The present work focuses on the problem of steel surface corrosion as a kinetic expression when water droplets are repeatedly deposited and evaporated on/from its surface. This process, together with the rainwater film corrosion process, belongs to the theoretical foundations of the problem of atmospheric corrosion. It was considered that the formation of water droplets on surfaces is a random but repetitive process, as well as the fact that experimental and theoretical observations show that the droplet corrosion front of a metal surface is located in its zone circumference. We thus aimed to establish how the corrosion process evolves on a steel plate when many drops are deposited and removed repeatedly. An experimental setup and working procedure were used to obtain data characterizing the simultaneous process of steel surface corrosion and water droplet evaporation. For natural convection conditions with a variable relative humidity and temperature environment, an extensive data set consisting of the dynamics of individual droplet evaporation coupled simultaneously with the corrosion of the steel surface under the droplet was obtained. The mathematical models for evaporation and corrosion under the droplet have the same dynamic transfer surface for water evaporation and oxygen supply in the droplet. An approach for determining this surface depending on the momentary droplet mass was considered. Several simultaneous measurements of evaporation–corrosion dynamics were used to calibrate the coupled models, which were then used to show their compatibility with experimental data.
Influence of 0.5% Ag Addition on Low-Cycle Fatigue Behavior of Hot-Extruded Al-5Cu-0.8Mg-0.15Zr-0.2Sc Alloy Subjected to Peak-Aging Treatment
Authors: Wang Ying , Chen Lijia , Zhou Ge , Liu Ruochong , Zhang Siqian
Published: October 2023

The total strain amplitude controlled low-cycle fatigue tests were performed at room temperature and 200 °C to clarify the influence of 0.5% Ag addition on the low-cycle fatigue behavior of an Al-5Cu-0.8Mg-0.15Zr-0.2Sc (in wt.%) alloy subjected to the peak-aging treatment after hot extrusion and solid solution treatment. The experimental results demonstrate that during low-cycle fatigue deformation, peak-aged Al-5Cu-0.8Mg-0.15Zr-0.2Sc(-0.5Ag) alloys exhibit cyclic hardening, cyclic stability, or cyclic hardening followed by cyclic stability, depending on the Ag addition, imposed total strain amplitude, and testing temperature. The addition of 0.5% Ag greatly increases the low-cycle fatigue life of peak-aged Al-5Cu-0.8Mg-0.15Zr-0.2Sc alloy, where the maximum rising amplitude is about 126.7% at ambient temperature and approximately 90.1% at 200 °C. Furthermore, it has been discovered that the addition of 0.5% Ag has no effect on the beginning and spreading modes of low-cycle fatigue fractures. For the peak-aged Al-5Cu-0.8Mg-0.15Zr-0.2Sc(-0.5Ag) alloys subjected to low-cycle fatigue deformation at different total strain amplitudes and testing temperatures used in this investigation, fatigue cracks initiate trans granularly at the free surface of the fatigue specimen and propagate in a trans granular mode.
Urinary Metabolite Profiling to Non-Invasively Monitor the Omega-3 Index: An Exploratory Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Clinical Trial in Young Adults
Authors: MacIntyre Brittany C. , Shanmuganathan Meera , Klingel Shannon L. , Kroezen Zachary , Helmeczi Erick , Seoh Na-Yung , Martinez Vanessa , Chabowski Adrian , Feng Zeny , Britz-McKibbin Philip , Mutch David M.
Published: October 2023

The Omega-3 Index (O3I) reflects eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) content in erythrocytes. While the O3I is associated with numerous health outcomes, its widespread use is limited. We investigated whether urinary metabolites could be used to non-invasively monitor the O3I in an exploratory analysis of a previous placebo-controlled, parallel arm randomized clinical trial in males and females (n = 88) who consumed either ~3 g/d olive oil (OO; control), EPA, or DHA for 12 weeks. Fasted blood and first-void urine samples were collected at baseline and following supplementation, and they were analyzed via gas chromatography and multisegment injection–capillary electrophoresis–mass spectrometry (MSI-CE-MS), respectively. We tentatively identified S-carboxypropylcysteamine (CPCA) as a novel urinary biomarker reflecting O3I status, which increased following both EPA and DHA (p < 0.001), but not OO supplementation, and was positively correlated to the O3I (R = 0.30, p < 0.001). Additionally, an unknown dianion increased following DHA supplementation, but not EPA or OO. In ROC curve analyses, CPCA outperformed all other urinary metabolites in distinguishing both between OO and EPA or DHA supplementation groups (AUC > 80.0%), whereas the unknown dianion performed best in discriminating OO from DHA alone (AUC = 93.6%). Candidate urinary biomarkers of the O3I were identified that lay the foundation for a non-invasive assessment of omega-3 status.
The Impact of Tannic Acid Consumption on Bone Mineralization
Authors: Winiarska-Mieczan Anna , Muszyński Siemowit , Tomaszewska Ewa , Kwiecień Małgorzata , Donaldson Janine , Tomczyk-Warunek Agnieszka , Blicharski Tomasz
Published: October 2023

Tannic acid (TA) is an organic compound belonging to the tannin group. Like other tannins, it has an affinity for endogenous proteins, including digestive enzymes, which can result in the reduced digestibility and absorption of nutrients. It can also form complexes with mineral components, reducing their absorption. In some cases, this can be beneficial, such as in the case of toxic metals, but sometimes it may have a detrimental effect on the body when it involves essential mineral components like Ca, P, Mg, Na, K, or Fe. Therefore, the impact of TA on bone health should be considered from both perspectives. This relatively short review summarizes the available information and research findings on TA, with a particular focus on its potential impact on bone health. It is worth noting that future research and clinical studies may provide more detailed and precise information on this topic, allowing for a better understanding of the role of TA in maintaining the integrity of the musculoskeletal system. Despite its brevity, this paper represents a valuable contribution to the analysis of the potential benefits and challenges associated with TA in the context of bone health. We anticipate that future research will continue along this important research line, expanding our knowledge of the influence of this compound on the skeletal system and its potential therapeutic applications.
Evaluation of Antimicrobial Activity by Marine Nocardiopsis dassonvillei against Foodborne Listeria monocytogenes and Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli
Authors: Ngema Siyanda S. , Khumalo Solomuzi H. , Ojo Michael C. , Pooe Ofentse J. , Malilehe Tsolanku S. , Basson Albertus K. , Madoroba Evelyn
Published: October 2023

The emergence of multidrug-resistant pathogens creates public health challenges, prompting a continuous search for effective novel antimicrobials. This study aimed to isolate marine actinomycetes from South Africa, evaluate their in vitro antimicrobial activity against Listeria monocytogenes and Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli, and characterize their mechanisms of action. Marine actinomycetes were isolated and identified by 16S rRNA sequencing. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) was used to identify the chemical constituents of bioactive actinomycetes’ secondary metabolites. Antibacterial activity of the secondary metabolites was assessed by the broth microdilution method, and their mode of actions were predicted using computational docking. While five strains showed antibacterial activity during primary screening, only Nocardiopsis dassonvillei strain SOD(B)ST2SA2 exhibited activity during secondary screening for antibacterial activity. GC–MS identified five major bioactive compounds: 1-octadecene, diethyl phthalate, pentadecanoic acid, 6-octadecenoic acid, and trifluoroacetoxy hexadecane. SOD(B)ST2SA2′s extract demonstrated minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration, ranging from 0.78–25 mg/mL and 3.13 to > 25 mg/mL, respectively. Diethyl phthalate displayed the lowest bacterial protein-binding energies (kcal/mol): −7.2, dihydrofolate reductase; −6.0, DNA gyrase B; and −5.8, D-alanine:D-alanine ligase. Thus, marine N. dassonvillei SOD(B)ST2SA2 is a potentially good source of antibacterial compounds that can be used to control STEC and Listeria monocytogenes.
Synthesis of Silver Oxide Nanoparticles: A Novel Approach for Antimicrobial Properties and Biomedical Performance, Featuring Nodularia haraviana from the Cholistan Desert
Authors: Minhas Lubna Anjum , Kaleem Muhammad , Jabeen Amber , Ullah Nabi , Farooqi Hafiz Muhammad Umer , Kamal Asif , Inam Farooq , Alrefaei Abdulwahed Fahad , Almutairi Mikhlid H. , Mumtaz Abdul Samad
Published: October 2023

Nanoparticles have emerged as a prominent area of research in recent times, and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized via phyco-technology have gained significant attention due to their potential therapeutic applications. Nodularia haraviana, a unique and lesser-explored cyanobacterial strain, holds substantial promise as a novel candidate for synthesizing nanoparticles. This noticeable research gap underscores the novelty and untapped potential of Nodularia haraviana in applied nanotechnology. A range of analytical techniques, including UV-vis spectral analysis, dynamic light scattering spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray powder diffraction, were used to investigate and characterize the AgNPs. Successful synthesis of AgNPs was confirmed through UV-visible spectroscopy, which showed a surface plasmon resonance peak at 428 nm. The crystalline size of AgNPs was 24.1 nm. Dynamic light scattering analysis revealed that silver oxide nanoparticles had 179.3 nm diameters and a negative surface charge of −18 mV. Comprehensive in vitro pharmacogenetic properties revealed that AgNPs have significant therapeutic potential. The antimicrobial properties of AgNPs were evaluated by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration against various microbial strains. Dose-dependent cytotoxicity assays were performed on Leishmanial promastigotes (IC50: 18.71 μgmL−1), amastigotes (IC50: 38.6 μgmL−1), and brine shrimps (IC50: 134.1 μg mL−1) using various concentrations of AgNPs. The findings of this study revealed that AgNPs had significant antioxidant results (DPPH: 57.5%, TRP: 55.4%, TAC: 61%) and enzyme inhibition potential against protein kinase (ZOI: 17.11 mm) and alpha-amylase (25.3%). Furthermore, biocompatibility tests were performed against macrophages (IC50: >395 μg mL−1) and human RBCs (IC50: 2124 μg mL−1). This study showed that phyco-synthesized AgNPs were less toxic and could be used in multiple biological applications, including drug design and in the pharmaceutical and biomedical industries. This study offers valuable insights and paves the way for further advancements in AgNPs research.
The Reciprocal Interplay between Infections and Inherited Metabolic Disorders
Authors: Tummolo Albina , Melpignano Livio
Published: October 2023

Infections represent the main cause of acute metabolic derangements and/or the worsening of the clinical course of many inherited metabolic disorders (IMDs). The basic molecular mechanisms behind the role of infections in these conditions have not been completely clarified. This review points out the different mechanisms behind the relationship between IMDs and infections, providing an overview of this still-under-investigated area. Classically, infections have been considered as the consequence of a compromised immune system due to a biochemical defect of energy production. An adjunctive pathogenetic mechanism is related to a genetically altered protein-attached glycans composition, due to congenital glycosilation defects. In addition, a dietary regimen with a reduced intake of both micro- and macronutrients can potentially compromise the ability of the immune system to deal with an infection. There is recent pre-clinical evidence showing that during infections there may be a disruption of substrates of various metabolic pathways, leading to further cellular metabolic alteration. Therefore, infective agents may affect cellular metabolic pathways, by mediation or not of an altered immune system. The data reviewed here strongly suggest that the role of infections in many types of IMDs deserves greater attention for a better management of these disorders and a more focused therapeutic approach.