bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From Waste to Resource: Exploring Green Approaches for Phenolics Recovery from Olive Leaves
Authors: Tapia-Quirós Paulina , Mir-Cerdà Aina , Granados Mercè , Sentellas Sonia , Saurina Javier
Published: January 2025

Waste management presents a significant challenge for agri-food industries, but also an opportunity to recover valuable bioactive compounds, particularly phenolics, aligning with circular economy principles. This study compares the efficacy of conventional solvents and natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) in extracting polyphenols from olive leaves using the scalable techniques of solid–liquid extraction (SLE) with mechanical stirring and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE). Key factors affecting extraction yield, including solvent composition, time, and temperature were investigated. Extraction efficiency was evaluated by measuring total polyphenol content (TPC) by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), antioxidant capacity (FRAP assay), and individual phenolic compounds, also quantified using HPLC. Additionally, differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) was employed to evaluate the antioxidant quality of the extracts. NADES demonstrated superior extraction performance compared to conventional solvents, with the choline–glycerol system showing the highest efficiency. The combination of MAE and NADES emerged as a green and sustainable alternative to traditional methods, offering improved yield and speed. In contrast, SLE with water or ethanol/water mixtures required extended times or higher temperatures for comparable results but offered easier scalability for industrial applications.
Recent Advances, Challenges, and Functional Applications of Natural Phenolic Compounds in the Meat Products Industry
Authors: Bai Ting , Wang Xiulian , Du Wenqing , Cheng Jie , Zhang Jiamin , Zhang Yin , Klinjapo Roungdao , Asavasanti Suvaluk , Yasurin Patchanee
Published: January 2025

Natural phenolic compounds (NPCs) have been proven to effectively extend the storage time of meat products in recent years. To promote the discovery of more NPCs and their applications, this review examines recent progress in the classification, antioxidant, and antibacterial mechanisms of NPCs used in meat products. These compounds are found in both edible and inedible parts of plants, including fruits, vegetables, and trees. The recycling of agricultural by-products aligns with green agricultural trends and serves as a guideline for developing new sources of natural additives. Studies on the application of NPCs in various livestock and poultry products, either directly mixed into the matrix or indirectly contacted by preparation into bioactive films and packaging materials, has highlighted the great potential of NPCs. The pro-oxidative effects of NPCs on proteins and their interactions with biological macromolecules, such as proteins, provide new ideas for in-depth research on antioxidant and antibacterial mechanisms.
Coenzyme M: An Archaeal Antioxidant as an Agricultural Biostimulant
Authors: Brown Jeremy H. , Vijayan Jithesh , Rodrigues de Queiroz Aline , Figueroa Ramos Natalia , Bickford Nate , Wuellner Melissa , Buan Nicole R. , Stone Julie M. , Glowacka Katarzyna , Roston Rebecca L.
Published: January 2025

Rising global food demand necessitates improved crop yields. Biostimulants offer a potential solution to meet these demands. Among them, antioxidants have shown potential to improve yield, nutritional quality, and resilience to climate change. However, large-scale production of many antioxidants is challenging. Here, we investigate Coenzyme M (CoM), a small, achiral antioxidant from archaea, as a potential biostimulant, investigating its effects on growth and physiology. CoM significantly increased shoot mass and root length of the model plant, Arabidopsis thaliana, in a concentration-dependent manner. Sulfur-containing CoM supplementation restored growth under sulfur-limited conditions in Arabidopsis, whereas similar recovery was not observed for other macronutrient deficiencies, consistent with it being metabolized. In tobacco, CoM increased photosynthetic light capture capacity, consistent with observed growth improvements. Interestingly, this effect was independent of carbon capture rates. Furthermore, CoM promoted early-stage shoot growth in various crops species, including tobacco, basil, cannabis, and soybean. Our results suggest CoM is a promising, scalable biostimulant with potential to modify photosynthesis and enhance crop productivity.
YOLOv8-WD: Deep Learning-Based Detection of Defects in Automotive Brake Joint Laser Welds
Authors: Ren Jiajun , Zhang Haifeng , Yue Min
Published: January 2025

The rapid advancement of industrial automation in the automotive manufacturing sector has heightened demand for welding quality, particularly in critical component welding, where traditional manual inspection methods are inefficient and prone to human error, leading to low defect recognition rates that fail to meet modern manufacturing standards. To address these challenges, an enhanced YOLOv8-based algorithm for steel defect detection, termed YOLOv8-WD (weld detection), was developed to improve accuracy and efficiency in identifying defects in steel. We implemented a novel data augmentation strategy with various image transformation techniques to enhance the model’s generalization across different welding scenarios. The Efficient Vision Transformer (EfficientViT) architecture was adopted to optimize feature representation and contextual understanding, improving detection accuracy. Additionally, we integrated the Convolution and Attention Fusion Module (CAFM) to effectively combine local and global features, enhancing the model’s ability to capture diverse feature scales. Dynamic convolution (DyConv) techniques were also employed to generate convolutional kernels based on input images, increasing model flexibility and efficiency. Through comprehensive optimization and tuning, our research achieved a mean average precision (map) at IoU 0.5 of 90.5% across multiple datasets, contributing to improved weld defect detection and offering a reliable automated inspection solution for the industry.
Dynamic Characteristics and Periodic Stability Analysis of Rotor System with Squeeze Film Damper Under Base Motions
Authors: Zhang Bo , Chen Xi , Xiang Fengguang , Ren Guangming , Gan Xiaohua
Published: January 2025

Inertial loads induced by base motion excitation introduce significant complexities in equilibrium point determination and linearization of systems incorporating squeeze film dampers (SFDs). The coupled effects of base motion excitation and SFD characteristics on periodic stability have received limited attention in previous investigations. This study investigates the dynamic characteristics and periodic stability of a rotor system with SFD subjected to base motion excitation. A finite element model of the rotor-SFD-support system under non-inertial motion is established. The periodic responses are solved using the harmonic balance method with alternating frequency/time technique (HB-AFT) and the arc-length continuation algorithm incorporating the predictor–corrector method, while system stability is analyzed using Floquet theory and the Newmark method. A systematic parametric study is conducted to investigate the effects of base motion parameters, mass unbalance, and SFD parameters on the system’s periodic response. Results demonstrate that base pitching motion enhances system stability, suppresses bistable responses and jump phenomena, and reduces unstable vibration regions. However, under specific parameter combinations, pitching motion can trigger secondary Hopf bifurcations, leading to quasi-periodic and chaotic motions, among other complex nonlinear behaviors. This research provides theoretical foundations for stability-oriented design optimization of rotor systems with SFDs under base motion excitation.
Using Low-Cost Technology Devices for Monitoring Sleep and Environmental Factors Affecting It: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Dashkevych Oleg , Portnov Boris A.
Published: January 2025

Low-cost technology devices, such as smartphones (SPs) and smart watches (SWs), are widely used today to monitor various health effects and environmental risk factors associated with them. However, the efficacy of using these devices as monitoring tools is largely unknown. The present study attempts to narrow this knowledge gap by reviewing recent studies in which low-cost technological tools were used to monitor sleep and associated environmental risk factors. The study focuses on peer-refereed articles that appear in three major scientific databases, Web of Science, Scopus, and ScienceDirect, and were published between 2002 and 2022. Of the 15,000+ records retrieved from these databases by the systematic literature review (PRISMA) search, 15 studies were identified as the most relevant and consequently analyzed. The analysis shows that nighttime light pollution and noise are environmental factors that are most commonly monitored by low-cost technology tools (eight studies), followed by temperature monitoring (seven studies), humidity monitoring (seven studies), and CO2 monitoring (four studies). In eight studies, tandems of SPs and SWs were used to monitor sleep, while in six studies, data obtained from SPs and SWs were compared with records obtained from conventional monitoring devices. In general, SP and SW measurements were found to be fairly accurate for monitoring sleep and light pollution and less accurate for monitoring noise. At the same time, no studies conducted to date and analyzed in this review demonstrated the effectiveness of SPs and SWs in monitoring ambient temperature, humidity, and air pressure. Our general conclusion is that although SPs and SWs often lack the precision of professional instruments, they can nevertheless be used for large-scale field research and citizen science initiatives, while their feasibility and effectiveness for monitoring several environmental attributes have yet to be determined.
Indoor Walking Trajectory Estimation Using Mobile Device Sensors for Hand-Held and Hand-Swinging Modes
Authors: Izutsu Yuta , Komuro Nobuyoshi
Published: January 2025

We propose an indoor location estimation method using sensors of mobile devices. First, we perform attitude estimation using each sensor. This estimation is used to estimate the attitude of the mobile device with respect to the earth. Based on the acceleration and other information obtained from the attitude estimation, we then estimate the step detection, step length, and direction of the step. Finally, the location is calculated using all the estimation results. To eliminate the need to hold the mobile device in place during the estimation process, the method is configured so that estimates may be performed while walking, while looking at the screen, and while walking and holding the device in one hand. As the proposed method does not use indoor location fingerprinting or machine learning, real-time estimation can be performed. Although the accuracy could be higher, our experimental results show that the proposed method is able to effectively estimate the location and walking trajectory.
Micro-Nanobubble Technology in Surface Cleaning and Defouling
Authors: Singh Baljinder , Park Gunwoo , Ryu Ja-Hyoung , Park Myoung-Hwan
Published: January 2025

The physicochemical characteristics of micro- and nanobubbles (MNBs) have attracted considerable interest owing to their potential use in various industries, such as water treatment, agriculture, healthcare, and environmental remediation. This review focuses on the functions of MBs and, mainly, NBs in cleaning and defouling applications by thoroughly examining the mechanics of their stability, generation, and interaction with surfaces. Wastewater treatment, biofilm removal, and membrane fouling avoidance are cutting-edge techniques that use MNBs to improve cleaning effectiveness. Notably, this review highlights that microbubbles and nanobubbles can be used together synergistically or applied separately based on specific application needs. This review emphasizes how MNB technology can be integrated with other systems, such as bioremediation and sophisticated oxidation processes, to address challenging cleaning issues. The capacity of MNBs to lower operating costs; their impact on the environment; and their synergistic effects with chemical, biological, and physical agents are highlighted. To maximize the use of MNBs in environmentally friendly cleaning technologies, this review offers insights into the new horizons of MB and NB applications by synthesizing recent discoveries and suggesting directions for further studies and industrial-scale deployment.
An Investigation of the Effect of the Fault Degree on the Dynamic Characteristics and Crack Propagation of Rolling Bearings
Authors: Zhang Long , Xiang Zhibin , Zhang Hao , Liu Wenze , Huang Cong , Qian Tongshuai , Wang Chaobing , Liu Jiayang
Published: January 2025

The incipient faults of rolling bearings are dynamically propagating in the service status. However, the bearing material and the size of the fault will affect its expansion trend and direction. Furthermore, bearings manufactured from different materials behave differently when they fail. Therefore, the influence of the fault degree on the dynamic characteristics and crack propagation of rolling bearings is investigated in this paper. First, a dynamic model of the bearing, both under fault-free conditions and with varying fault sizes on the outer ring, is established by considering the actual working conditions of rolling bearings. Then, the reliability of the dynamic model is verified theoretically and experimentally. Finally, the study examined the slip behavior of rolling elements, the variation trends in the maximum shear stress and principal stresses on the outer ring, and the direction of crack propagation under different fault severities. The results indicate that (1) the severity of roller slip becomes more pronounced with the expansion of the fault size; (2) material differences will affect the timing of macro-slip during faults; (3) crack propagation tends to initiate at the edge of the fault exit, with the propagation rate increasing as fault severity escalates; and (4) tensile stress was observed in the first principal stress, which accelerates crack bifurcation at the faulted edge, while both the second principal stress and third principal stress exhibit compressive stress, playing a suppressive role in crack bifurcation at the faulted edge. These findings provide a theoretical basis for further research on the evolution of faults in rolling bearings.
Analysis of Mechanisms of Mandible Fractures by Lateral Impact: A Biomechanical Approach Using Finite Element Models
Authors: Tomioka Takahiro , Ito Daisuke , Murai Takato , Takeda Arisa , Nakamura Mami , Koshinuma Shinya , Takaoka Kazuki , Hitosugi Masahito
Published: January 2025

Background/Aim: The purpose of this study was to reproduce a lateral fall using a computer simulation model and to clarify the circumstances of mandible fracture caused by a lateral impact. Material and methods: Fall scenarios were reconstructed using a computer simulation with finite element models. The fall condition was set as a fall from the head direction, which would cause facial injuries. In each simulation, the effective plastic strain of the mandible and its site were determined. Analysis of variance was performed to determine which factors had a significant effect on the maximum effective plastic strain of the mandible. Results: Significant differences with p-values less than 0.001 were found for the following factors: pitch angle, lateral bending angle, impact object, combination of pitch angle and lateral bending angle, and combination of pitch angle and impact object. In most cases with higher values of effective plastic strain, which can cause mandibular fractures, the site was found at the condylar process or mandibular angle of the attacked side. Conclusion: If the patient falls laterally and their face makes contact with a protruding object, medical professionals can predict fractures of the upper part of the mandibular angle and the condyle of the affected side.
A Systematic Review on Reinforcement Learning for Industrial Combinatorial Optimization Problems
Authors: Martins Miguel S. E. , Sousa João M. C. , Vieira Susana
Published: January 2025

This paper presents a systematic review on reinforcement learning approaches for combinatorial optimization problems based on real-world industrial applications. While this topic is increasing in popularity, explicit implementation details are not always available in the literature. The main objective of this paper is characterizing the agent–environment interactions, namely, the state space representation, action space mapping and reward design. Also, the main limitations for practical implementation and the needed future developments are identified. The literature selected covers a wide range of industrial combinatorial optimization problems, found in the IEEE Xplore, Scopus and Web of Science databases. A total of 715 unique papers were extracted from the query. Then, out-of-scope applications, reviews, surveys and papers with insufficient implementation details were removed. This resulted in a total of 298 papers that align with the focus of the review with sufficient implementation details. The state space representation shows the most variety, while the reward design is based on combinations of different modules. The presented studies use a large variety of features and strategies. However, one of the main limitations is that even with state-of-the-art complex models the scalability issues of increasing problem complexity cannot be fully solved. No methods were used to assess risk of biases or automatically synthesize the results.
A Comparative Study of the Availability of Electric Buses in the Public Transport System
Authors: Niewczas Andrzej , Mórawski Łukasz , Dębicka Ewa , Rymarz Joanna , Kasperek Dariusz , Hołyszko Piotr
Published: January 2025

This study deals with the assessment of the progress of the electromobility programme with regard to the technical availability of public transport buses. The aim of this study was to conduct a comparative assessment of the availability of electric buses in relation to diesel buses (of analogous capacity). The study was carried out in real operating conditions using the example of Lublin city. Over a period of 33 months, the availability of electric buses and diesel buses was tested in a sample of 18 vehicles for each type of bus. Availability indices were compared using the method of variance analysis. It was found that electric buses had a higher level of availability and no trend during the study period. The applied research method can be used in operational practice to monitor the risks associated with vehicle failure rates and the continuity of fleet operations.
Assignment of a Reference Value Independent from the Participants and Its Implications Regarding Performance Evaluation in Proficiency Testing on the Determination of Raw Milk Freezing Point
Authors: Poo Susan , Palma Miguel , Muñoz Ociel
Published: January 2025

Milk adulteration may cause losses or quality problems in the dairy industry, with implications regarding consumers’ health. The addition of water is one of the most common adulterations, which can be detected by determining the freezing point of milk. A proficiency testing (PT) program is in place in Chile concerning the determination of the freezing point of raw milk. A limited number of laboratories participate regularly to assure the validity of their measurements. The reference values were obtained independently through a calibration test, as recommended by ISO 13528:2022 in those cases where a small number of participants are evaluated. The uncertainty of the reference values assigned to nine PT rounds that included three PT items was investigated. A modification has been proposed for their calculations, which consists of the incorporation of the CRM uncertainty. This involves assessing the participants’ performance using the z’-score across all laboratories utilizing the thermistor method, which presents a slightly higher likelihood of inaccurate evaluation (2.9% of total participations). The assigned values demonstrated compatibility with the participants’ results. It is recommended that the same standard deviation for proficiency assessment be utilized for evaluating the performance of participants.
Healthier Indoor Environments for Vulnerable Occupants: Analysis of Light, Air Quality, and Airborne Disease Risk
Authors: García-Martín Guillermo , Romero-Lara Fátima , Campano Miguel Ángel , Acosta Ignacio , Bustamante Pedro
Published: January 2025

This study evaluates indoor environmental quality (IEQ) in childcare facilities, focusing on air quality and lighting—key factors affecting children’s health and development. The analysis examines a nursery in Seville, Spain, where continuous monitoring revealed challenges in maintaining suitable indoor conditions. Carbon dioxide (CO2) levels often surpassed Spanish standards (770 ppm) and stricter thresholds (550 ppm) for sensitive groups, peaking at nearly 1900 ppm. These concentrations are linked to possible cognitive impairments and increased airborne pathogen risks, with Attack Rates (ARs) exceeding 70%. Passive ventilation strategies, such as window openings, proved insufficient, emphasizing the need for Controlled Mechanical Ventilation (CMV) systems to ensure consistent air renewal while maintaining thermal comfort. Lighting assessments identified insufficient circadian stimulus during key periods. Excessive lighting during nap times disrupted rest, while morning daylight levels failed to provide adequate circadian stimulation. These findings stress the importance of integrating solar protection and dynamic daylight and electric lighting systems to align with children’s biological rhythms. This research highlights the urgent need for comprehensive IEQ strategies in childcare settings, combining advanced ventilation, hygrothermal management, and circadian-friendly lighting to create safer and healthier environments for young children.
Methodological Development for Studying the Chemical Composition of Exhaust Particle Emissions: Application to a Passenger Vessel Operating on Marine Gas Oil
Authors: Mahi Ridha , Joubert Aurélie , Villot Audrey , Sagot Benoit , Le Coq Laurence
Published: January 2025

On-board emission measurements were conducted at the exhaust of a passenger ship operating under real-world conditions. The chemical composition of exhaust particulate emissions from a turbocharged four-stroke marine diesel engine, operated on Marine Gas Oil was studied. A variety of organic compounds, including alkanes, alkenes, alcohols, cycloalkanes, cycloalkenes, esters, ketones, carboxylic acids, etc., were analyzed. Alkanes were the most abundant organic compounds, followed by alkenes, esters, and alcohols. Emission factors for these compounds were determined under two operating conditions: low engine load (at berth at 400 rpm/4% load, and during port maneuvers at 800 rpm/14% load) and high engine load (during cruising at 1000 rpm, 68% load). A clear increase in organic-compound emission factors was observed at lower loads. The total particulate matter emission factors were between 0.02 and 0.03 g/kWh at high-load points and exhibited significant variability under low-load conditions, from 0.02 to 2.83 g/kWh. The effect of a marine fuel additive was evaluated in this study. Using this fuel additive resulted in a significant decrease in both particulate matter and organic-compound emission factors, especially at low engine loads. Furthermore, the marine fuel additive decreased the total emission factors (EFTOCs) by a factor of 56 under low-load conditions. For high loads, the additive had no effect on the EFTOCs.
A Speech-Based Mobile Screening Tool for Mild Cognitive Impairment: Technical Performance and User Engagement Evaluation
Authors: Ruzi Rukiye , Pan Yue , Ng Menwa Lawrence , Su Rongfeng , Wang Lan , Dang Jianwu , Liu Liwei , Yan Nan
Published: January 2025

Traditional screening methods for Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) face limitations in accessibility and scalability. To address this, we developed and validated a speech-based automatic screening app implementing three speech–language tasks with user-centered design and server–client architecture. The app integrates automated speech processing and SVM classifiers for MCI detection. Functionality validation included comparison with manual assessment and testing in real-world settings (n = 12), with user engagement evaluated separately (n = 22). The app showed comparable performance with manual assessment (F1 = 0.93 vs. 0.95) and maintained reliability in real-world settings (F1 = 0.86). Task engagement significantly influenced speech patterns: users rating tasks as “most interesting” produced more speech content (p < 0.05), though behavioral observations showed consistent cognitive processing across perception groups. User engagement analysis revealed high technology acceptance (86%) across educational backgrounds, with daily cognitive exercise habits significantly predicting task benefit perception (H = 9.385, p < 0.01). Notably, perceived task difficulty showed no significant correlation with cognitive performance (p = 0.119), suggesting the system’s accessibility to users of varying abilities. While preliminary, the mobile app demonstrated both robust assessment capabilities and sustained user engagement, suggesting the potential viability of widespread cognitive screening in the geriatric population.
Probiotics as Renal Guardians: Modulating Gut Microbiota to Combat Diabetes-Induced Kidney Damage
Authors: Al-Ghamdi Saleh Bakheet
Published: January 2025

Gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in various health challenges, particularly in mitigating diabetes-induced renal damage. Numerous studies have highlighted that modifying gut microbiota is a promising therapeutic strategy for preserving kidney function and mitigating diabetes-related complications. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC 4356 supplementations on kidney health in a rat model of diabetes-induced renal damage. Four groups were studied: control, probiotic supplementation, diabetic, and diabetic with probiotic supplementation. Diabetes was induced using a single streptozotocin (STZ) injection after a 12 h fast, and probiotic supplementation (1 × 10⁹ CFU/kg daily) was administered two weeks prior to diabetes induction and continued throughout the experimental period. Weekly assessments included fasting blood glucose, insulin, glycation markers, and kidney function tests. Glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity were analyzed through oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and insulin sensitivity test (IST). The microbiome was analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing to evaluate changes in diversity and composition. Probiotic supplementation significantly enhanced microbial diversity and composition. Alpha diversity indices such as Shannon and Chao1 demonstrated higher values in the probiotic-treated diabetic group compared to untreated diabetic rats. The Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio, a key indicator of gut health, was also restored in the probiotic-treated diabetic group. Results: Probiotic supplementation significantly improved glycemic control, reduced fasting blood glucose levels, and enhanced insulin sensitivity in diabetic rats. Antioxidant enzyme levels, depleted in untreated diabetic rats, were restored, reflecting reduced oxidative stress. Histological analysis showed better kidney structure, reduced inflammation, and decreased fibrosis. Furthermore, the Comet assay results confirmed a reduction in DNA damage in probiotic-treated diabetic rats. Conclusion: Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC 4356 supplementation demonstrated significant protective effects against diabetes-induced renal damage by restoring gut microbiota diversity, improving glycemic control, and reducing oxidative stress. These findings highlight the potential of targeting the gut microbiota and its systemic effects on kidney health as a therapeutic approach for managing diabetes-related complications. Further research is needed to optimize probiotic treatments and assess their long-term benefits in diabetes management and kidney health.
Characterization and Proteomic Profiling of Hepatocyte-like Cells Derived from Human Wharton’s Jelly Mesenchymal Stromal Cells: De Novo Expression of Liver-Specific Enzymes
Authors: Lo Iacono Melania , Corrao Simona , Alberti Giusi , Amico Giandomenico , Timoneri Francesca , Russo Eleonora , Cucina Annamaria , Indelicato Sergio , Rappa Francesca , Corsello Tiziana , Saieva Salvatore , Di Stefano Antonino , Di Gaudio Francesca , Conaldi Pier Giulio , La Rocca Giampiero
Published: January 2025

End-stage liver disease (ESLD), affecting millions worldwide, represents a challenging issue for clinical research and global public health. Liver transplantation is the gold standard therapeutic approach but shows some drawbacks. Hepatocyte transplantation could be a reliable alternative for patient treatment. Mesenchymal stromal cells derived from Wharton’s jelly of the umbilical cord (WJ-MSCs) can differentiate into hepatocyte-like cells (HLCs) and show immunomodulatory functions. Due to the increasing demand for fully characterized cell therapy vehicles warranting both the safety and efficacy of treatments, in this work, we extensively characterized WJ-MSCs before and after the application of a hepatocyte-directed differentiation protocol. HLCs exhibited a morphology resembling that of hepatocytes, expressed early and late hepatic markers (α-fetoprotein, albumin, CK18, HNF4-α), and acquired hepatic functions (glycogen synthesis, xenobiotics detoxification), as also revealed by the shotgun proteomics approach. HLCs maintained the same pattern of immunomodulatory molecule expression and mesenchymal markers, other than displaying specific enzymes, suggesting these cells as promising candidates for cellular therapy of ESLD. Our work shed new light on the basic biology of HLCs, suggesting new therapeutic approaches to treat ESLD.
XPO1/Exportin-1 in Acute Myelogenous Leukemia; Biology and Therapeutic Targeting
Authors: Bruserud Øystein , Selheim Frode , Hernandez-Valladares Maria , Reikvam Håkon
Published: January 2025

Exportin 1 is responsible for the export of hundreds of proteins, several RNA species and ribosomal components from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. Several transported proteins are important for regulation of cell proliferation and survival both in normal and malignant cells. We review the biological importance and the possibility of therapeutic targeting of Exportin 1 in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Exportin 1 levels can be increased in human primary AML cells, and even exportin inhibition as monotherapy seems to have an antileukemic effect. The results from Phase I/II studies also suggest that exportin inhibition can be combined with conventional chemotherapy, including intensive induction and consolidation therapy possibly followed by allogeneic stem cell transplantation as well as AML-stabilizing therapy in elderly/unfit patients with hypomethylating agents. However, the risk of severe toxicity needs to be further evaluated; hematological toxicity is common together with constitutional side effects, electrolyte disturbances, and gastrointestinal toxicity. A recent randomized study of intensive chemotherapy with and without the Exportin inhibitor selinexor in elderly patients showed reduced survival in the selinexor arm; this was due to a high frequency of relapse and severe infections during neutropenia. Experimental studies suggest that Exportin 1 inhibition can be combined with other forms of targeted therapy. Thus, Exportin 1 inhibition should still be regarded as a promising strategy for AML treatment, but future studies should focus on the risk of toxicity when combined with conventional chemotherapy, especially in elderly/unfit patients, combinations with targeted therapies, identification of patient subsets (AML is a heterogeneous disease) with high susceptibility, and the possible use of less toxic next-generation Exportin 1 inhibitors.
β-Catenin Regulates Glycolytic and Mitochondrial Function in T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Zhang Ling , Zhao Yu , Wang Shuoting , Zhang Jian , Li Xiaohui , Wang Shuangyin , Huang Taosheng , Wang Jinxing , Liu Jiajun
Published: January 2025

Background: T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is an aggressive hematological malignancy characterized by a poor prognosis. β-catenin is implicated in the progression of T-ALL, yet the precise mechanisms of β-catenin involvement in the pathogenesis of T-ALL, particularly concerning metabolic processes, remain inadequately elucidated. Methods: A β-catenin knockout cell line was generated in the human leukemic cell line Jurkat using the CRISPR-Cas9 technique. Subsequently, assays were performed to evaluate cell proliferation, apoptosis, and metabolic activity. Comparative transcriptomic analysis was conducted between control cells and β-catenin knockout cells. Finally, a mouse xenograft model was employed to assess whether β-catenin knockout attenuates tumor growth and infiltration in vivo. Results: The deletion of β-catenin significantly inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis. Additionally, the silencing of β-catenin led to the inhibition of glycolysis and a reduction in both mitochondrial mass and membrane potential. These results indicate that β-catenin may play a crucial role in regulating cell proliferation and apoptosis through the modulation of glycolytic activity and mitochondrial function in T-ALL. Conclusions: In summary, our findings uncover a novel mechanism by which β-catenin influences glycolysis and mitochondrial function in the progression of T-ALL, thereby identifying a potential therapeutic target for patients with relapsed T-ALL.
Salivary IL-6 as a Biomarker for Early Childhood and Rampant Caries: Insights from a Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Padmanabhan Vivek , Islam Md Sofiqul , Baroudi Kusai , Chaitanya Nallan C. S. K. , Tawfig Hashim Nada , Goud Manjunatha , Rahman Muhammed Mustahsen , Sharma Dileep , Haridas Sheela , Baki Mohamed Ahmed Abdel , Almasri Rajaa Mhd Ghaleb
Published: January 2025

Objectives: This study aimed to explore the levels of salivary interleukin-6 (IL-6) in children diagnosed with Early Childhood Caries (ECC) and Rampant Caries (RC). Additionally, it sought to determine whether salivary IL-6 levels vary with the increased activity or number of carious lesions in children with ECC and RC. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at RAK College of Dental Sciences (RAKCODS), Ras Al Khaimah, UAE. Ethical approval was obtained, and 100 children aged 4 to 12 years were selected. Participants were divided into ECC and RC groups, each containing study and control subgroups of 25 children each. The study groups were children who had active carious lesions and the control groups were those children who had no active carious lesions. All of these children were screened and included as a part of the community engagement of the clinics. Saliva samples were collected and analyzed for IL-6 levels using an ELISA kit. Dental examinations and data collection adhered to standardized procedures, including specific clinical criteria for diagnosing ECC and RC and calibrated examiners to ensure consistent clinical assessments. Statistical analyses were conducted to compare salivary IL-6 levels between the study and control groups of each RC and ECC group and a test was also performed to assess the relationship between salivary IL-6 levels and the severity of dental caries. Results: This study found significantly higher mean salivary IL-6 levels in children with ECC (19.023 pg/mL) and RC (21.45 pg/mL) compared to their respective control groups (ECC: 6.42 pg/mL, RC: 11.43 pg/mL), with p-values < 0.0001. Strong positive correlations were observed between IL-6 levels and increased caries activity or severity, with Pearson’s correlation coefficients of 0.961 for ECC and 0.954 for RC. Conclusions: This study concludes that significantly elevated salivary IL-6 levels are observed in children with ECC and RC. Furthermore, salivary IL-6 levels were found to rise in correlation with the increase in number of carious lesions. These findings support the potential of salivary IL-6 as a biomarker for assessing caries severity and highlight the need for future research to explore diverse populations and additional clinical parameters.
Harnessing Gut Microbiota for Biomimetic Innovations in Health and Biotechnology
Authors: Beltrán-Velasco Ana Isabel , Clemente-Suárez Vicente Javier
Published: January 2025

The gut microbiota is a complex and dynamic ecosystem that plays a fundamental role in human health by regulating immunity, metabolism, and the gut–brain axis. Beyond its critical physiological functions, it has emerged as a rich source of inspiration for biomimetic innovations in healthcare and biotechnology. This review explores the transformative potential of microbiota-based biomimetics, focusing on key biological mechanisms such as resilience, self-regulation, and quorum sensing. These mechanisms have inspired the development of innovative applications, including personalized probiotics, synbiotics, artificial microbiomes, bioinspired biosensors, and bioremediation systems. Such technologies aim to emulate and optimize the intricate functions of microbial ecosystems, addressing challenges in healthcare and environmental sustainability. The integration of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence, bioengineering, and multi-omics approaches, has further accelerated the potential of microbiota biomimetics. These tools enable the development of precision therapies tailored to individual microbiota profiles, enhance the efficacy of diagnostic systems, and facilitate the design of environmentally sustainable solutions, such as waste-to-energy systems and bioremediation platforms. Emerging areas of innovation, including gut-on-chip models and synthetic biology, offer unprecedented opportunities for studying and applying microbiota principles in controlled environments. Despite these advancements, challenges remain. The replication of microbial complexity in artificial environments, ethical concerns regarding genetically engineered microorganisms, and equitable access to advanced therapies are critical hurdles that must be addressed. This review underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and public awareness in overcoming these barriers and ensuring the responsible development of microbiota-based solutions. By leveraging the principles of microbial ecosystems, microbiota biomimetics represents a promising frontier in healthcare and sustainability. This approach has the potential to revolutionize therapeutic strategies, redefine diagnostic tools, and address global challenges, paving the way for a more personalized, efficient, and sustainable future in medicine and biotechnology.
A Scoping Review of Corticosterone-Induced Changes in Ionotropic Glutamate Receptor Levels and Localization in the Rodent Brain: Implications for the Auditory System
Authors: Edlund Elsa , Domarecka Ewa , Olze Heidi , Szczepek Agnieszka
Published: January 2025

Background: The ionotropic glutamate receptor AMPA (AMPAR) mediates fast excitatory synaptic transmission and regulates synaptic strength in various parts of the CNS. Emotional challenges can affect these processes by influencing AMPAR levels and localization via stress hormones, resulting, e.g., in behavioral changes. AMPARs are essential for auditory processing, but their response to stress hormones in the central or peripheral auditory system remains poorly understood. Therefore, this scoping review examines the effects of corticosterone (CORT), a primary stress hormone in rodents, on AMPA receptor levels and localization in the rodent nervous system and considers potential implications for the auditory system. Methods: We systematically searched PubMed, Web of Science, and OVID EMBASE using MeSH terms related to AMPA receptors and corticosterone. Studies were screened based on predefined inclusion criteria, including original research published in English that focused on AMPA receptor subunits (e.g., GluR1-4, GluA1-4, Gria1-4). Of 288 articles screened, 17 met the criteria for final analysis. Results: No reports were found regarding CORT action in the auditory system. Three main experimental models used in the included research were identified: neuronal cultures, isolated tissue cultures, and animal models. Generally, short-term CORT exposure increases AMPAR surface localization and mobility in neuronal cultures, especially in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. However, results from animal models were inconsistent due to variations in experimental design and other factors. The isolated tissue study did not provide sufficient data for clear conclusions. Conclusions: Variability in experimental models limits our ability to draw definitive conclusions about the effects of CORT on AMPARs across different regions of the nervous system. The differences in live animal studies highlight the need for standardized methods and reporting. Since AMPARs play a crucial role in auditory processing, CORT-induced changes in neuronal cultures may occur in the auditory system. Further research is needed to explore the specific responses of AMPAR subunits and how stress hormones may influence auditory disorders, which could help identify potential treatment strategies.
Non-Pharmacological Interventions for Caregivers of People with Motor Neurone Disease: A Scoping Review of Psychosocial Outcomes
Authors: Okoh Chidera , Mayall Leighanne , Makin Selina M. , Chen Cliff , Zarotti Nicolò
Published: January 2025

Objective: Caregivers of individuals with motor neurone disease (MND) face a wide range of psychosocial difficulties. To address these, non-pharmacological interventions have been trialled, showing promising results. However, no clear characterisation of the breadth of psychosocial constructs examined by the interventions is currently available, resulting in the lack of a core outcome set (COS). The present review explored the types of psychosocial outcomes investigated in studies that adopted non-pharmacological interventions with caregivers of people with MND. Methods: A scoping review was conducted across four major databases (Academic Search Ultimate, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and MEDLINE) from inception to the 1 March 2024. Results: From an initial return of 4802 citations, 10 were considered eligible for inclusion. A total of 10 main psychosocial outcomes were identified: anxiety and depression, psychological distress, resilience, caregiver burden, caregiver preparedness, self-efficacy, quality of life, spiritual wellbeing, and mindfulness. Conclusions: Caregiver burden and symptoms of anxiety and depression represent pivotal outcomes, but caution is advised with regard to caregiver burden’s potential multidimensional structure. Psychological distress and quality of life are also commonly investigated, but clearer consensus is needed on their conceptualisation. There is a paucity of studies characterising important psychosocial outcomes such as resilience, problem-solving, self-efficacy, and mindfulness, while no investigations are available for relevant outcomes such as coping, isolation, and loneliness. Further research is warranted to address these gaps to improve our insight into non-pharmacological support for MND caregivers and ultimately lead to the development of a core psychosocial outcome set in this population.
Cognitive Mechanisms Underlying Memory Advantages in Bridge Experts: Based on Suit Categorization and Honor Card Rules
Authors: Liu Yanzhe , Liu Yan , Zhao Bingjie , Zhang Qihan
Published: January 2025

To explore the memory advantage and the underlying mechanisms of bridge experts, this study conducted two experiments. Experiment 1 investigated the effects of the suit categorization rule and the rank ordering rule on the memory performance of bridge experts when memorizing hands. The findings revealed that the suit categorization rule significantly influenced the memory advantage of bridge experts, regardless of whether the task involved recognition or free recall. Conversely, the rank ordering rule had no discernible effect on their memory performance, though the honor card information within this rule notably impacted their memory. Building on the first experiment, Experiment 2 further examined the roles of visual familiarity induced by the suit categorization and honor card rules, alongside the abstract knowledge embedded in these rules, on the memory performance of bridge experts. The results demonstrated that visual familiarity influenced recognition among bridge experts, while both visual familiarity and abstract knowledge jointly contributed to recall performance. These research findings concurrently support both chunking/template theory and SEEK theory.
Bi-Level Design Optimization for Demand-Side Interval Temperature Control in District Heating Systems
Authors: Wang Ruixin , Li Pengcheng , Han Zhitao , Zhou Zhigang , Cao Junliang , Wang Xuemei
Published: January 2025

With China’s socio-economic growth, the demand for enhanced residential comfort in northern urban areas has surged. Traditional district heating systems often fail to meet modern users’ diverse needs, leading to inefficiencies and significant heat loss. This paper investigates optimization and transformation methods for demand-side-oriented heating systems. We propose key design parameters that facilitate a shift from source-end to demand-end dominance and develop a bi-level planning model for operational scheduling. The model integrates building thermal storage and adjustable user temperature ranges to optimize multi-thermal source systems. Key contributions include identifying critical renovation parameters and establishing the relationship between temperature control range and system capacity. Results demonstrate that the optimized system provides interval temperature control for 96.02% of the heating season and increases the full-load duration ratio of heat source equipment by 29.54% compared to traditional systems. These improvements enhance operational efficiency, reduce heat loss, and better align heating provision with users’ dynamic thermal demands. This research offers a robust theoretical foundation and practical guidelines for transitioning to demand-end dominated district heating systems, contributing to more sustainable and responsive heating solutions.