bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Immune System Response to Porphyromonas gingivalis in Neurological Diseases
Authors: Franciotti Raffaella , Pignatelli Pamela , D’Antonio Domenica Lucia , Mancinelli Rosa , Fulle Stefania , De Rosa Matteo Alessandro , Puca Valentina , Piattelli Adriano , Thomas Astrid Maria , Onofrj Marco , Sensi Stefano Luca , Curia Maria Cristina
Published: October 2023

Previous studies have reported an association between oral microbial dysbiosis and the development and progression of pathologies in the central nervous system. Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), the keystone pathogen of the oral cavity, can induce a systemic antibody response measured in patients’ sera using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. The present case–control study quantified the immune system’s response to Pg abundance in the oral cavities of patients affected by different central nervous system pathologies. The study cohort included 87 participants: 23 healthy controls (HC), 17 patients with an acute neurological condition (N-AC), 19 patients with a chronic neurological condition (N-CH), and 28 patients with neurodegenerative disease (N-DEG). The results showed that the Pg abundance in the oral cavity was higher in the N-DEG patients than in the HC (p = 0.0001) and N-AC patients (p = 0.01). In addition, the Pg abundance was higher in the N-CH patients than the HCs (p = 0.005). Only the N-CH patients had more serum anti-Pg antibodies than the HC (p = 0.012). The inadequate response of the immune system of the N-DEG group in producing anti-Pg antibodies was also clearly indicated by an analysis of the ratio between the anti-Pg antibodies quantity and the Pg abundance. Indeed, this ratio was significantly lower between the N-DEG group than all other groups (p = 0.0001, p = 0.002, and p = 0.03 for HC, N-AC, and N-CH, respectively). The immune system’s response to Pg abundance in the oral cavity showed a stepwise model: the response diminished progressively from the patients affected with an acute condition to the patients suffering from chronic nervous system disorders and finally to the patients affected by neurodegenerative diseases.
The Effects of Honeysuckle (Lonicera caerulea L.) Berry Iridoid-Anthocyanin Extract on the Intestinal and Muscle Histopathology in Mice during Experimental Trichinellosis
Authors: Piekarska Jolanta , Madej Jan P. , Gorczykowski Michał , Szczypka Marianna
Published: October 2023

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of iridoid-anthocyanin extract from honeysuckle (Lonicera caerulea L.) (LC) berries on histopathological changes in the intestines and muscles during experimental trichinellosis in mice. The LC extract was administered to uninfected mice (LC group) and Trichinella-spiralis-infected mice (T+LC) orally at a dose of 2 g/kg bw, six times at 24 h intervals, from day 3 prior to infection to day 3 post-infection (dpi). Jejunum samples were collected on 5, 7, 14, and 21 dpi, and their histological assessment involved the villus height to crypt depth ratio (VH/CD), goblet cell (GC) number, and morphological changes. In the T. spiralis-infected muscles, the extent of inflammatory infiltration on the 14th and 21st dpi was assessed. LC in the infected mice restored the VH/CD ratio to control values on 14 dpi. A beneficial effect of the LC extract on the villus height was also observed 14 dpi in the LC and T+LC groups. No differences in the extent of inflammatory infiltration in the muscles between the T+LC and T groups were observed. In conclusion, the iridoid-anthocyanin extract from honeysuckle berry contributed to alleviating the symptoms of the intestinal phase of T. spiralis infection.
Antispasmodic Effect of Alstonia boonei De Wild. and Its Constituents: Ex Vivo and In Silico Approaches
Authors: Akinmurele Opeyemi Josephine , Sonibare Mubo Adeola , Elujoba Anthony A. , Ogunlakin Akingbolabo Daniel , Yeye Oloruntoba Emmanuel , Gyebi Gideon Ampoma , Ojo Oluwafemi Adeleke , Alanzi Abdullah R.
Published: October 2023

Background: Alstonia boonei, belonging to the family Apocynaceae, is one of the best-known medicinal plants in Africa and Asia. Stem back preparations are traditionally used as muscle relaxants. This study investigated the antispasmodic properties of Alstonia boonei Stem back and its constituents. Method: The freeze-dried aqueous Stem back extract of A. boonei, as well as dichloromethane (DCM), ethyl acetate, and aqueous fractions, were evaluated for their antispasmodic effect via the ex vivo method. Two compounds were isolated from the DCM fraction using chromatographic techniques, and their antispasmodic activity was evaluated. An in silico study was conducted by evaluating the interaction of isolated compounds with human PPARgamma-LBD and human carbonic anhydrase isozyme. Results: The Stem back crude extract, DCM, ethyl acetate, and aqueous fractions showed antispasmodic activity on high-potassium-induced (K+ 80 mM) contractions on isolated rat ileum with IC50 values of 0.03 ± 0.20, 0.02 ± 0.05, 0.03 ± 0.14, and 0.90 ± 0.06 mg/mL, respectively. The isolated compounds from the DCM fraction were β-amyrin and boonein, with only boonein exhibiting antispasmodic activity on both high-potassium-induced (IC50 = 0.09 ± 0.01 µg/mL) and spontaneous (0.29 ± 0.05 µg/mL) contractions. However, β-amyrin had a stronger interaction with the two proteins during the simulation. Conclusion: The isolated compounds boonein and β-amyrin could serve as starting materials for the development of antispasmodic drugs.
Chlorahololide D, a Lindenane-Type Sesquiterpenoid Dimer from Chloranthus holostegius Suppressing Breast Cancer Progression
Authors: Li Ying , Liu Wenhui , Xu Jing , Guo Yuanqiang
Published: October 2023

Aimed at discovering small molecules as anticancer drugs or lead compounds from plants, a lindenane-type sesquiterpene dimer, chlorahololide D, was isolated from Chloranthus holostegius. The literature review showed that there were few reports on the antitumor effects and mechanisms of chlorahololide D. Our biological assay suggested that chlorahololide D blocked the growth and triggered apoptosis of MCF-7 cells by stimulating the reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and arresting the cell cycle at the G2 stage. Further mechanism exploration suggested that chlorahololide D regulated apoptosis-related proteins Bcl-2 and Bax. Moreover, chlorahololide D inhibited cell migration by regulating the FAK signaling pathway. In the zebrafish xenograft model, chlorahololide D was observed to suppress tumor proliferation and migration significantly. Considering the crucial function of angiogenesis in tumor development, the anti-angiogenesis of chlorahololide D was also investigated. All of the research preliminarily revealed that chlorahololide D could become an anti-breast cancer drug.
Lysozyme Inhibitors as Tools for Lysozyme Profiling: Identification and Antibacterial Function of Lysozymes in the Hemolymph of the Blue Mussel
Authors: Vanderkelen Lise , Van Herreweghe Joris M. , Michiels Chris W.
Published: October 2023

Lysozymes are universal components of the innate immune system of animals that kill bacteria by hydrolyzing their main cell wall polymer, peptidoglycan. Three main families of lysozyme have been identified, designated as chicken (c)-, goose (g)- and invertebrate (i)-type. In response, bacteria have evolved specific protein inhibitors against each of the three lysozyme families. In this study, we developed a serial array of three affinity matrices functionalized with a c-, g-, and i-type inhibitors for lysozyme typing, i.e., to detect and differentiate lysozymes in fluids or extracts from animals. The tool was validated on the blue mussel (Mytilus edulis), whose genome carries multiple putative i-, g-, and c-type lysozyme genes. Hemolymph plasma of the animals was found to contain both i- and g-type, but not c-type lysozyme. Furthermore, hemolymph survival of Aeromonas hydrophila and E. coli strains lacking or overproducing the i- type or g-type lysozyme inhibitor, respectively, was analyzed to study the role of the two lysozymes in innate immunity. The results demonstrated an active role for the g-type lysozyme in the innate immunity of the blue mussel, but failed to show a contribution by the i-type lysozyme. Lysozyme profiling using inhibitor-based affinity chromatography will be a useful novel tool for studying animal innate immunity.
The Signaling of Neuregulin-Epidermal Growth Factor Receptors and Its Impact on the Nervous System
Authors: Tagliaferro Marzia , Ponti Donatella
Published: October 2023

The activation of members of the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) family (including ErbB) triggers pathways that have significant effects on cellular processes and have profound consequences both in physiological and pathological conditions. Within the nervous system, the neuregulin (NRG)/ErbB3 signaling plays a crucial role in promoting the formation and maturation of excitatory synapses. Noteworthy is ErbB3, which is actively involved in the process of cerebellar lamination and myelination. All members of the ErbB-family, in particular ErbB3, have been observed within the nuclei of various cell types, including both full-length receptors and alternative variants. One of these variants was detected in Schwann cells and in glioblastoma primary cells where it showed a neuregulin-dependent expression. It binds to promoters’ chromatin associated with genes, like ezrin, involved in the formation of Ranvier’s node. Its nucleolar localization suggests that it may play a role in ribosome biogenesis and in cell proliferation. The regulation of ErbB3 expression is a complex and dynamic process that can be influenced by different factors, including miRNAs. This mechanism appears to play a significant role in glioblastoma and is often associated with a poor prognosis. Altogether, the targeting of ErbB3 has emerged as an active area of research in glioblastoma treatment. These findings highlight the underappreciated role of ErbB3 as a significant receptor that can potentially play a pivotal role in diverse pathologies, implying the existence of a shared and intricate mechanism that warrants further investigation.
Effectiveness of Technology-Enabled, Low Carbohydrate Dietary Interventions, in the Prevention or Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Adults: A Systematic Literature Review of Randomised Controlled and Non-Randomised Trials
Authors: Jooste Bernice Rozemai , Kolivas Despina , Brukner Peter , Moschonis George
Published: October 2023

Evidence suggests that low carbohydrate dietary (LCD) approaches can improve glycaemic control and may result in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remission. This systematic literature review (SLR) aimed to assess the effectiveness of technology-enabled LCD interventions in the management of people with prediabetes or T2DM. Data sources included Medline, Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science. Randomised (RCTs) or non-randomised (non-RCTs) controlled trials investigating the effect of technology-enabled LCDs (<130 g/day) or very low carbohydrate diets (VLCDs < 50 g/day) on glycosylated haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) for at least three months and published in English between 2009 and 2023 were included. Risk of bias assessment, data extraction, and synthesis were conducted using standard tools and procedures. Six studies (two RCTs and four non-RCTs, total sample, n = 1519) were identified and included in the SLR. Two studies examining LCDs reported significant reductions in mean HbA1c (0.4% and −1.2%) and weight loss (−3.8 kg and −7.5 kg) at one year. Three studies examining VLCDs reported significant reductions in mean HbA1c (−0.8% to −1.3%) and weight loss (−12 kg to −14 kg) up to two years. Technology-enabled LCD or VLCD interventions can be a novel approach in helping people with prediabetes or T2DM self-manage their condition and possibly achieve remission. However, further research is required to determine the sustainability, effectiveness, and safety of this approach.
The Association between the Police, Ambulance, Clinician Early Response (PACER) Model and Involuntary Detentions of People Living with Mental Illness: A Protocol for a Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Heffernan Julia , Pennay Amy , Hughes Elizabeth , Gray Richard
Published: October 2023

Emergency services are frequently called to attend mental health incidents and are looking for innovative ways to improve their responses and reduce the burden on services. Involuntary detention of people living with mental illness is considered more frequent than necessary, leading to increased pressure on emergency departments, and is often a traumatic experience for patients. The Police, Ambulance, Clinician Early Response (PACER) model was developed in 2019 in Canberra, Australia, and seeks to reduce involuntary detentions by embedding a mental health clinician into emergency services as a mobile mental health crisis response intervention. This protocol details a retrospective cohort study that will examine the association between PACER and involuntary detentions using medical and police records and compare the results to standard ambulance and police responses. We will use relative risk and odds ratio calculations to determine the probability of being involuntarily detained or diverted from hospital; and we will describe the patient characteristics and outcomes in the PACER cohort. Results will be reported using the STROBE checklist for reporting cohort studies. This study was not registered on a publicly accessible registry.
Development of a Combined Horizontal and Vertical Correcting Magnet for Siam Photon Source II
Authors: Prawanta Supachai , Sunwong Prapaiwan , Singthong Pariwat , Leetha Thongchai , Numanoy Pajeeraphorn , Tangyotkhajorn Warissara , Kwankasem Apichai , Sooksrimuang Visitchai , Kongtawong Sukho , Klinkiew Supat
Published: October 2023

A prototype of a combined horizontal and vertical correcting magnet was designed and fabricated for the 3 GeV storage ring of Siam Photon Source II, which will be the second synchrotron light source in Thailand. The magnet will be employed for fast-orbit feedback correction, with a required magnetic field integral of approximately 8 Tesla.mm. The magnet pole and yoke were manufactured using laminated silicon steel to minimize hysteresis and eddy current losses during operation. Magnet modeling and magnetic field calculations were performed using Opera-3D. The size of the gap between the magnet poles is limited by the size of the vacuum chamber over which the magnet will be installed; in this case, it was designed to be 65 mm. Mechanical analysis of the structure of the magnet was performed using SOLIDWORKS and ANSYS. Magnetic field measurements were obtained using the Hall probe technique. The entire prototype, from its design to manufacturing and measurement, was completed in-house. This design will be appropriate for application at the Siam Photon Source II storage ring.
Characterization of mRNA Signature in Milk Small Extracellular Vesicles from Cattle Infected with Bovine Leukemia Virus
Authors: Rahman Md. Matiur , Ishikawa Hinata , Yamauchi Marika , Takashima Shigeo , Kamatari Yuji O. , Shimizu Kaori , Okada Ayaka , Inoshima Yasuo
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to characterize the mRNA signature of milk small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) from BLV-infected cattle. A total of 23 mRNAs, which showed greater abundance in milk sEVs from BLV-infected cattle compared to those from BLV-uninfected (control) cattle, were identified through microarray analyses conducted in our previous study. To assess the significance of these differences in mRNA abundance, milk was collected from six control cattle and twenty-six cattle infected with BLV. The infected cattle were categorized into two distinct groups based on their proviral loads: a group of eight cattle with low proviral loads (LPVL), characterized by <10,000 copies per 105 white blood cells (WBC), and a group of eighteen cattle with high proviral loads (HPVL), marked by ≥10,000 copies per 105 WBC. The qPCR analysis quantified 7 out of 23 mRNAs, including BoLA, CALB1, IL33, ITGB2, MYOF, TGFBR1, and TMEM156, in the milk sEVs from control cattle, LPVL cattle, and HPVL cattle. Significantly, the average relative expression of CALB1 mRNA in milk sEVs was higher in LPVL cattle compared to HPVL cattle and control cattle (p < 0.05), while it was relatively lower in HPVL cattle compared to LPVL cattle and control cattle (p > 0.05). Likewise, the average relative expression of TMEM156 mRNA in milk sEVs was significantly higher in LPVL cattle compared to HPVL cattle (p < 0.05), and relatively lower in HPVL cattle compared to LPVL cattle and control cattle (p > 0.05). The results indicate distinct patterns of CALB1 and TMEM156 mRNA levels in milk sEVs, with higher levels observed in LPVL cattle and lower levels in HPVL cattle. The current study could provide essential information to comprehend the complexities during the progression of BLV infection and direct the exploration of mRNA biomarkers for monitoring the clinical stage of BLV infection.
Small Molecule Cocktails Promote Fibroblast-to-Leydig-like Cell Conversion for Hypogonadism Therapy
Authors: Yuan Fei , Bai Kaiping , Hou Yanping , Zou Xiangyu , Sun Jie
Published: October 2023

Male hypogonadism arises from the inadequate production of testosterone (T) by the testes, primarily due to Leydig cell (LC) dysfunction. Small molecules possess several advantages, including high cell permeability, ease of synthesis, standardization, and low effective concentration. Recent investigations have illuminated the potential of small molecule combinations to facilitate direct lineage reprogramming, removing the need for transgenes by modulating cellular signaling pathways and epigenetic modifications. In this study, we have identified a specific cocktail of small molecules, comprising forskolin, DAPT, purmorphamine, 8-Br-cAMP, 20α-hydroxycholesterol, and SAG, capable of promoting the conversion of fibroblasts into Leydig-like cells (LLCs). These LLCs expressed key genes involved in testosterone synthesis, such as Star, Cyp11a1, and Hsd3b1, and exhibited the ability to secrete testosterone in vitro. Furthermore, they successfully restored serum testosterone levels in testosterone-castrated mice in vivo. The small molecule cocktails also induced alterations in the epigenetic marks, specifically H3K4me3, and enhanced chromosomal accessibility on core steroidogenesis genes. This study presents a reliable methodology for generating Leydig-like seed cells that holds promise as a novel therapeutic approach for hypogonadism.
Nanoparticle-Mediated Strategies for Enhanced Drug Penetration and Retention in the Airway Mucosa
Authors: Yan Xin , Sha Xianyi
Published: October 2023

Airway mucus is a complex viscoelastic gel composed mainly of water, glycoproteins, lipids, enzymes, minerals, etc. Among them, glycoproteins are the main factors determining mucus’s gel-like rheology. Airway mucus forms a protective barrier by secreting mucin, which represents a barrier for absorption, especially for more lipophilic drugs. It rapidly removes drugs from the airway through the physiological mucus clearance mechanism so drugs cannot remain in the lungs or reach the airway epithelial tissue for a long time. Significant progress has been made in enhancing drug lung deposition recently, but strategies are still needed to help drugs break through the lung mucosal barrier. Based on the physiopathological mechanisms of airway mucus, this paper reviews and summarizes strategies to enhance drug penetration and retention in the airway mucosa mediated by nano-delivery systems, including mucosal permeation systems, mucosal adhesion systems, and enzyme-modified delivery systems. On this basis, the potential and challenges of nano-delivery systems for improving airway mucus clearance are revealed. New ideas and approaches are provided for designing novel nano-delivery systems that effectively improve drug retention and penetration in the airway mucus layer.
Topoisomerase Inhibitors Increase Episomal DNA Expression by Inducing the Integration of Episomal DNA in Hepatic Cells
Authors: Gómez-Moreno Andoni , San Sebastian Enara , Moya Jennifer , Gomollón-Zueco Pilar , Isola Sergio , Vales África , González-Aseguinolaza Gloria , Unzu Carmen , Garaigorta Urtzi
Published: October 2023

Gene therapy is a promising strategy to treat and cure most inherited metabolic liver disorders. Viral vectors such as those based on adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) and lentiviruses (LVs) are used as vehicles to deliver functional genes to affected hepatocytes. Adverse events associated with the use of high vector doses have motivated the use of small molecules as adjuvants to reduce the dose. In this study, we showed that a one-hour treatment with topoisomerase inhibitors (camptothecin and etoposide) prior to viral transduction is enough to increase AAV and LV reporter expression in non-dividing hepatic cells in culture. Topoisomerase inhibitors increased both integration-competent (ICLV) and integration-deficient (IDLV) LV-derived expression, with a much stronger increase in the IDLV transduction system. In agreement with that, topoisomerase inhibitors increased viral genome integration in both strains, with a greater impact on the IDLV strain, supporting the idea that topoisomerase inhibitors increased episomal DNA integration, especially when viral integrase activity is abolished. These effects correlated with an increase in the DNA damage response produced by the treatments. Our study highlights the need to monitor DNA damage and undesired integration of viral episomal DNAs into the host genome when studying chemical compounds that increase viral transduction.
Exogenous Application of 24-Epibrassinolide Confers Saline Stress and Improves Photosynthetic Capacity, Antioxidant Defense, Mineral Uptake, and Yield in Maize
Authors: Seleiman Mahmoud F. , Ahmad Awais , Tola ElKamil , Alhammad Bushra Ahmed , Almutairi Khalid F. , Madugundu Rangaswamy , Al-Gaadi Khalid A.
Published: October 2023

Salinity is one of the major environmental stresses threatening crop production, the natural ecosystem, global food security, and the socioeconomic health of humans. Thus, the development of eco-friendly strategies to mitigate saline stress and/or enhance crop tolerance is an important issue worldwide. Therefore, this study was conducted during the summer of 2022 to investigate the potential of 24-Epibrassinolide (EBL) for mitigating saline stress and improving photosynthetic capacity, antioxidant defense systems, mineral uptake, and yield in maize (Zea mays L.) grown under a controlled hydroponic system. Three saline stress levels—S1 (control/no added NaCl), S2 (60 mM NaCl), and S3 (120 mM NaCl)—were continuously applied with nutrient solution, whereas exogenous EBL (i.e., control, 0.1 µM and 0.2 µM) was applied as exogenous application three times (i.e., 40, 55, 70 days after sowing). The experiment was designed as a split-plot in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) in which saline stress was the main factor and EBL treatment was the sub-factor. Results showed that saline stress significantly affected plant growth, physiological performance, biochemistry, antioxidant activity, and yield attributes. However, the exogenous application of EBL at 0.2 µM significantly mitigated the salt stress and thus improved plant performance even under 120 mM NaCl saline stress. For instance, as compared to untreated plants (control), 0.2 µM EBL application improved plant height (+18%), biomass (+19%), SPAD (+32%), Fv/Fm (+28%), rate of photosynthesis (+11%), carboxylation efficiency (+6%), superoxide dismutase (SOD +14%), catalase (CAT +18%), ascorbate peroxidase (APX +20%), K+ (+24%), 100-grain weight (+11%), and grain yield (+47%) of maize grown under salt stress. Additionally, it resulted in a 23% reduction in Na+ accumulation in leaves and a 25% reduction in for Na+/K+ ratio under saline stress as compared to control. Furthermore, the Pearson’s correlation and principal component analysis (PCA) highlighted the significance of exogenous EBL as saline stress mitigator in maize. Overall, our results indicated the protective effects of EBL application to the alleviation of saline stress in crop plants. However, further exploration of its mechanism of action and crop-specific response is suggested prior to commercial use in agriculture.
Impacts of Climate Changes on Geographic Distribution of Primula filchnerae, an Endangered Herb in China
Authors: Jiang Xin , Liu Wan-Jing , Zhu Yan-Zhao , Cao Yu-Ting , Yang Xiu-Min , Geng Yao , Zhang Fu-Jiao , Sun Rui-Qi , Jia Rui-Wen , Yan Chun-Li , Zhang Yang-Yan , Li Zhong-Hu
Published: October 2023

Primula filchnerae, an endangered plant endemic to China, has drawn people’s attention in recent years due to its ornamental value in flower. It was rarely recorded since being described in 1902, but it was rediscovered in 2009 and is now known from a limited number of sites located in Hubei and Shaanxi Provinces. Since the species is still poorly known, a number of unanswered questions arise related to it: How has P. filchnerae responded to past climate change and how might it respond in the future? Why was P. filchmerae so rarely collected during the past century? We assembled geographic coordinates for P. filchnerae through the field surveys and website searches, and then used a maximum entropy model (MaxEnt) to simulate its potential suitable distribution in six periods with varied carbon emission levels by combining bioclimatic and environmental factors. MaxEnt showed that Min Temperature of the Coldest Month (bio6) and Precipitation of the Coldest Quarter (bio19) affected P. filchnerae’s distribution most, with an aggregate contribution >60% and suitable ranges above −5 °C and below 40 mm, respectively. We also analyzed potential habitat distribution in various periods with differing impacts of climate change compared to today’s suitable habitats, and in most cases, Shaanxi and Sichuan remained the most stable areas and with possible expansion to the north under various carbon emission scenarios, but the 2050s SSP5-8.5 scenario may be an exception. Moreover, we used MaxEnt to evaluate population shifts, with various scenarios indicating that geometric center would be concentrated in Sichuan Province in China. Finally, conservation strategies are suggested, including the creation of protected areas, long-term monitoring, raising public awareness of plant conservation, situ conservation measures, assisted migration, and species introduction. This study demonstrates how P. filchnerae may have adapted to changes in different periods and provides a scientific basis for germplasm conservation and management.
Determination of Phenolic Acids Using Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Coupled with Triple Quadrupole (UHPLC-QqQ) in Fruiting Bodies of Sanghuangporus baumii (Pilát) L.W. Zhou and Y.C. Dai
Authors: Zhou Zhongjing , Liang Shuang , Zou Xiaowei , Teng Yi , Wang Weike , Fu Lizhong
Published: October 2023

Sanghuangporus, a medicinal mushroom, has gained significant attention due to its beneficial properties. Phenolic acids are among the major bioactive compounds in Sanghuangporus, known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. To precisely quantify the phenolic acid content, we developed a method utilizing ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with triple quadrupole (UHPLC-QqQ). This study optimized the UHPLC-QqQ conditions to simultaneously separate and detect eight phenolic acids in Sanghuangporus baumii (Pilát) L.W. Zhou and Y.C. Dai, including chlorogenic acid, p-coumaric acid, caffeic acid, cryptochlorogenic acid, protocatechuic acid, ferulic acid, sinapic acid, and syringic acid. The separation process utilized a ZORBAX Eclipse Plus C18 column using 0.01% formic acid and 2 mmol/L ammonium formate in water as the aqueous phase and methanol containing 0.01% formic acid and 2 mmol/L ammonium formate as the organic phase. Calibration curves were constructed using standard solutions to quantitatively determine the phenolic acid content. The results showed significant variation in phenolic acid content among S. baumii fruiting bodies, with Protocatechuic acid, p-coumaric acid, and caffeic acid being the most abundant. This method is valuable for quantifying phenolic acid compounds under different cultivation conditions. It provides excellent sensitivity, selectivity, and reproducibility for the quantification of phenolic acids in Sanghuangporus, contributing to a better understanding of its chemical composition and potential health benefits. This approach represents a novel technical means for the simultaneous analysis of compound phenolic acids in Sanghuangporus fruiting bodies.
Evaporation Driven Hydrovoltaic Generator Based on Nano-Alumina-Coated Polyethylene Terephthalate Film
Authors: Jiao Shipu , Zhang Yihao , Li Yang , Maryam Bushra , Xu Shuo , Liu Wanxin , Liu Miao , Li Jiaxuan , Zhang Xu , Liu Xianhua
Published: October 2023

Collecting energy from the ambient environment through green and sustainable methods is highly expected to alleviate pollution and energy problems worldwide. Here, we report a facile and flexible hydrovoltaic generator capable of utilizing natural water evaporation for sustainable electricity production. The generator was fabricated by coating nano-Al2O3 on a twistable polyethylene terephthalate film. An open circuit voltage of 1.7 V was obtained on a piece of centimeter-sized hydrovoltaic generator under ambient conditions. The supercapacitor charged by the hydrovoltaic device can power a mini-motor efficiently. Moreover, by expanding the size or connecting it in series/parallel, the energy output of the generator can be further improved. Finally, the influence factors and the mechanism for power generation were primarily investigated. Electrical energy is produced by the migration of water through charged capillary channels. The environmental conditions, the properties of the solution and the morphology of the film have important effects on the electrical performance. This study is anticipated to offer enlightenment into designing novel hydrovoltaic devices, providing diverse energy sources for various self-powered devices and systems.
Intelligent and Small Samples Gear Fault Detection Based on Wavelet Analysis and Improved CNN
Authors: Hu Pan , Zhao Cunsheng , Huang Jicheng , Song Tingxin
Published: October 2023

Traditional methods for identifying gear faults typically require a substantial number of faulty samples, which in reality are challenging to obtain. To tackle this challenge, this paper introduces a sophisticated approach for intelligent gear fault identification, utilizing discrete wavelet decomposition and an enhanced convolutional neural network (CNN) optimized for scenarios with limited sample data. Initially, the features of the sample signal are extracted and enhanced using discrete wavelet decomposition. Subsequently, the refined signal is transformed into a two-dimensional image through a Markov transition field, preparing it for improved two-dimensional CNN training. Finally, the refined network model is applied to assess the gear fault dataset, achieving a training accuracy of 97% and a classification accuracy of 88.33%. This demonstrates the method’s feasibility and effectiveness in identifying gear faults with limited sample data.
Numerical Study on the Flow and Structural Characteristics of a Large High Head Prototype Pump-Turbine under Different Operating Conditions
Authors: Ru Songnan , Zhang Shaozheng , Zhou Kaitao , Huang Xingxing , Huang Wenlong , Wang Zhengwei
Published: October 2023

During the operation of pumped storage power stations, complex operating conditions can lead to different internal flow characteristics, which can cause different vibration characteristics or even damage to the structural components of the pump-turbine units. The time–frequency characteristics of the structural components’ response are of great significance for the safe operation of the unit. In this study, a three-dimensional flow field and structural field model of a large high head prototype pump-turbine is built in order to study the flow and the flow-induced dynamic response characteristics in different turbine operating conditions. The analyzed results show that the maximum deformation occurs at the inner head cover, and the maximum value of stress is located at the fillets on the outlet side of the stay vanes. Under the 50% load condition, the vortices in the runner caused by changes in the opening of the guide vanes result in the main response frequency of 4 fn of the stationary components. The research results can provide references for the structural optimization design of other pump-turbine units.
Two Models of Political Secularism and Religious Freedom in Italy and Croatia: Findings from a Survey among Youth
Authors: Leofreddi Asia
Published: October 2023

Interest in political secularism is growing, due to its proven relevant role in affecting people’s political behaviours and attitudes toward human rights. However, until now, only a few studies have analysed its influence on religious freedom and those which exist do so mostly from a governmental-policy perspective. Drawing upon the sociology of religious freedom, this article seeks to address this gap. Comparing two Catholic EU countries, Italy and Croatia, and adopting an empirical perspective, it aims to understand whether the endorsement of political secularism enhances or limits support for religious freedom. More specifically, the study draws a key distinction between two models of secularism, ‘institutional’ and ‘ideological’, whose impacts on different aspects of religious freedom are assessed. In doing so, this research presents the results of a cross-national survey on Social Perception of Religious Freedom (SPRF) that was carried out among university students in Italy (=714) and Croatia (=603). The results show the strong positive influence of moderate forms of political secularism in shaping a positive culture of religious freedom. At the same time, they validate the hypothesis that it is necessary to consider political secularism’s multiple facets to fully understand its influence on support for religious freedom in different countries.
Trailing Equatorial Plasma Bubble Occurrences at a Low-Latitude Location through Multi-GNSS Slant TEC Depletions during the Strong Geomagnetic Storms in the Ascending Phase of the 25th Solar Cycle
Authors: Vankadara Ram Kumar , Jamjareegulgarn Punyawi , Seemala Gopi Krishna , Siddiqui Md Irfanul Haque , Panda Sampad Kumar
Published: October 2023

The equatorial plasma bubbles (EPBs) are depleted plasma density regions in the ionosphere occurring during the post-sunset hours, associated with the signal fading and scintillation signatures in the trans-ionospheric radio signals. Severe scintillations may critically affect the performance of dynamic systems relying on global navigation satellite system (GNSS)-based services. Furthermore, the occurrence of scintillations in the equatorial and low latitudes can be triggered or inhibited during space weather events. In the present study, the possible presence of the EPBs during the geomagnetic storm periods under the 25th solar cycle is investigated using the GNSS-derived total electron content (TEC) depletion characteristics at a low-latitude equatorial ionization anomaly location, i.e., KL University, Guntur (Geographic 16°26′N, 80°37′E and dip 22°32′) in India. The detrended TEC with a specific window size is used to capture the characteristic depletion signatures, indicating the possible presence of the EPBs. Moreover, the TEC depletions, amplitude (S4) and phase scintillation (σφ) indices from multi-constellation GNSS signals are probed to verify the vulnerability of the signals towards the scintillation effects over the region. Observations confirm that all GNSS constellations witness TEC depletions between 15:00 UT and 18:00 UT, which is in good agreement with the recorded scintillation indices. We report characteristic depletion depths (22 to 45 TECU) and depletion times (28 to 48 min) across different constellations confirming the triggering of EPBs during the geomagnetic storm event on 23 April 2023. Unlikely, but the other storm events evidently inhibited TEC depletion, confirming suppressed EPBs. The results suggest that TEC depletions from the traditional geodetic GNSS stations could be used to substantiate the EPB characteristics for developing regional as well as global scintillation mitigation strategies.
Mapping Soil Organic Matter Using Different Modeling Techniques in the Dryland Agroecosystem of Huang-Huai-Hai Plain, Eastern China
Authors: Jin Hua , Xie Xuefeng , Pu Lijie , Jia Zhenyi , Xu Fei
Published: October 2023

Accurately mapping the spatial distribution and variation of soil organic matter (SOM) is of great significance for guiding regional soil management. However, the applicability and prediction performance of machine learning techniques in dryland agroecosystems still needs to be further studied. In this study, we collected a total of 733 topsoil samples from the farmland in Xiao County, Anhui Province, which is a typical dryland agroecosystem in the Huang-Huai-Hai Plain. Then, the environmental covariates were selected, and the ordinary kriging (OK), multiple linear stepwise regression (MLR), regression kriging (RK), radial basis function neural network (RBFNN), and random forest (RF) models were conducted to map the SOM content, and the optimal model was ascertained. The results demonstrated that the alkali-hydrolyzable nitrogen (26.11%), available potassium (17.73%), mean annual precipitation (13.26%), and pH (11.80%) were the main controlling factors affecting the spatial distribution of SOM in the study area. Meanwhile, the introduction of environmental covariates can effectively improve the SOM prediction accuracy, and the RF model (R2 = 0.48, MAE = 2.38 g kg−1, MRE = 12.99%, RMSE = 3.14 g kg−1) has a better performance than the RFBNN, MLR, RK, and OK methods. Although there are local differences in the spatial distribution of SOM predicted by the five methods, the overall spatial distribution of SOM was characterized by the low concentration area (13.44–20.00 g kg−1) distributed in the central and northwest of study area, and the high concentration area (24.00–28.95 g kg−1) distributed in the southeast. Overall, our study demonstrated that machine learning-based models could accurately predict the SOM content in dryland agroecosystem, and the produced maps function as baseline maps for sustainable agricultural management.
Automated Detection and Analysis of Massive Mining Waste Deposits Using Sentinel-2 Satellite Imagery and Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Silva Manuel , Hermosilla Gabriel , Villavicencio Gabriel , Breul Pierre
Published: October 2023

This article presents a method to detect and segment mine waste deposits, specifically waste rock dumps and leaching wasted dumps, in Sentinel-2 satellite imagery using artificial intelligence. This challenging task has important implications for mining companies and regulators like the National Geology and Mining Service in Chile. Challenges include limited knowledge of mine waste deposit numbers, as well as logistical and technical difficulties in conducting inspections and surveying physical stability parameters. The proposed method combines YOLOv7 object detection with a vision transformer classifier to locate mine waste deposits, as well as a deep generative model for data augmentation to enhance detection and segmentation accuracy. The ViT classifier achieved 98% accuracy in differentiating five satellite imagery scene types, while the YOLOv7 model achieved an average precision of 81% for detection and 79% for segmentation of mine waste deposits. Finally, the model was used to calculate mine waste deposit areas, with an absolute error of 6.6% compared to Google Earth API results.
Reliable Feature Matching for Spherical Images via Local Geometric Rectification and Learned Descriptor
Authors: Jiang San , Liu Junhuan , Li Yaxin , Weng Duojie , Chen Wu
Published: October 2023

Spherical images have the advantage of recording full scenes using only one camera exposure and have been becoming an important data source for 3D reconstruction. However, geometric distortions inevitably exist due to the spherical camera imaging model. Thus, this study proposes a reliable feature matching algorithm for spherical images via the combination of local geometric rectification and CNN (convolutional neural network) learned descriptor. First, image patches around keypoints are reprojected to their corresponding tangent planes based on a spherical camera imaging model, which uses scale and orientation data from the keypoints to achieve both rotation and scale invariance. Second, feature descriptors are then calculated from the rectified image patches by using a pre-trained separate detector and descriptor learning network, which improves the discriminability by exploiting the high representation learning ability of the CNN. Finally, after classical feature matching with the ratio test and cross check, refined matches are obtained based on an essential matrix-based epipolar geometry constraint for outlier removal. By using three real spherical images and an incremental structure from motion (SfM) engine, the proposed algorithm is verified and compared in terms of feature matching and image orientation. The experiment results demonstrate that the geometric distortions can be efficiently reduced from rectified image patches, and the increased ratio of the match numbers ranges from 26.8% to 73.9%. For SfM-based spherical image orientation, the proposed algorithm provides reliable feature matches to achieve complete reconstruction with comparative accuracy.
Integrated Sensor-Optics Communication System Using Bidirectional Fiber and FSO Channels and Hybrid Deep Learning Techniques
Authors: Dehnaw Amare Mulatie , Manie Yibeltal Chanie , Du Li-Yuan , Yao Cheng-Kai , Jiang Jun-Wei , Liu Bing-Xian , Peng Peng-Chun
Published: October 2023

This paper introduces a new bidirectional integration approach that combines fiber sensor/free space optics (FSO) communication using an intensity and wavelength division multiplexer (IWDM) techniques-based long-distance fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensor strain-sensing system. By implementing coarse wavelength division multiplexing (CWDM), the system achieves the simultaneous transmission of optical communication and fiber optical sensor (FOS) sensing signals, resulting in a highly capable, flexible, and cost-effective solution. The proposed FSO transmission technique addresses complex fiber cable installation concerns with topographical limitations. This bidirectional structure ensures the reliability and stability of the long-distance FBG sensor system, supported by extensive research and experimentation. A hybrid stacked gated recurrent units and long short-term memory (SGRU-LSTM) model is proposed to enhance strain measurement accuracy by predicting and measuring the central wavelength of overlapped strain-sensing FBG sensor signals. The results demonstrate the superiority of the proposed model in peak wavelength detection accuracy. The primary benefit of integrating communication and sensing is the significant reduction in construction costs by eliminating the requirement for two individual fiber optic systems, as the integration allows for a single system to fulfill both functions, resulting in more efficient and cost-effective implementation. Overall, this paper contributes to advancing long-distance FBG sensor systems by integrating fiber sensor/FSO communication and deep learning techniques, improving transmission distance, multiplexing capacity, measurement accuracy, system survivability, and cost-effectiveness.
Deep Neural Network-Based Visual Feedback System for Nasopharyngeal Swab Sampling
Authors: Jung Suhun , Moon Yonghwan , Kim Jeongryul , Kim Keri
Published: October 2023

During the 2019 coronavirus disease pandemic, robotic-based systems for swab sampling were developed to reduce burdens on healthcare workers and their risk of infection. Teleoperated sampling systems are especially appreciated as they fundamentally prevent contact with suspected COVID-19 patients. However, the limited field of view of the installed cameras prevents the operator from recognizing the position and deformation of the swab inserted into the nasal cavity, which highly decreases the operating performance. To overcome this limitation, this study proposes a visual feedback system that monitors and reconstructs the shape of an NP swab using augmented reality (AR). The sampling device contained three load cells and measured the interaction force applied to the swab, while the shape information was captured using a motion-tracking program. These datasets were used to train a one-dimensional convolution neural network (1DCNN) model, which estimated the coordinates of three feature points of the swab in 2D X–Y plane. Based on these points, the virtual shape of the swab, reflecting the curvature of the actual one, was reconstructed and overlaid on the visual display. The accuracy of the 1DCNN model was evaluated on a 2D plane under ten different bending conditions. The results demonstrate that the x-values of the predicted points show errors of under 0.590 mm from P0, while those of P1 and P2 show a biased error of about −1.5 mm with constant standard deviations. For the y-values, the error of all feature points under positive bending is uniformly estimated with under 1 mm of difference, when the error under negative bending increases depending on the amount of deformation. Finally, experiments using a collaborative robot validate its ability to visualize the actual swab’s position and deformation on the camera image of 2D and 3D phantoms.
Response Surface Modeling of the Steady-State Impedance Responses of Gas Sensor Arrays Comprising Functionalized Carbon Nanotubes to Detect Ozone and Nitrogen Dioxide
Authors: Naishadham Krishna , Naishadham Gautam , Cabrera Nelson , Bekyarova Elena
Published: October 2023

Carbon nanotube (CNT) sensors provide a versatile chemical platform for ambient monitoring of ozone (O3) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), two important airborne pollutants known to cause acute respiratory and cardiovascular health problems. CNTs have shown great potential for use as sensing layers due to their unique properties, including high surface to volume ratio, numerous active sites and crystal facets with high surface reactivity, and high thermal and electrical conductivity. With operational advantages such as compactness, low-power operation, and easy integration with electronics devices, nanotechnology is expected to have a significant impact on portable low-cost environmental sensors. Enhanced sensitivity is feasible by functionalizing the CNTs with polymers, metals, and metal oxides. This paper focuses on the design and performance of a two-element array of O3 and NO2 sensors comprising single-walled CNTs functionalized by covalent modification with organic functional groups. Unlike the conventional chemiresistor in which the change in DC resistance across the sensor terminals is measured, we characterize the sensor array response by measuring both the magnitude and phase of the AC impedance. Multivariate response provides higher degrees of freedom in sensor array data processing. The complex impedance of each sensor is measured at 5 kHz in a controlled gas-flow chamber using gas mixtures with O3 in the 60–120 ppb range and NO2 between 20 and 80 ppb. The measured data reveal response change in the 26–36% range for the O3 sensor and 5–31% for the NO2 sensor. Multivariate optimization is used to fit the laboratory measurements to a response surface mathematical model, from which sensitivity and selectivity are calculated. The ozone sensor exhibits high sensitivity (e.g., 5 to 6 MΩ/ppb for the impedance magnitude) and high selectivity (0.8 to 0.9) for interferent (NO2) levels below 30 ppb. However, the NO2 sensor is not selective.