bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Doppler Ultrasound Assessment of Blood Flow Indices in Childbearing Age Women Across the Menstrual Cycle
Authors: Khowailed Iman Akef , Volland Lena , Moustafa Ibrahim , Peters-Brinkerhoff Cheryl , Alsubiheen Abdulrahman M. , Lee Haneul
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: This study investigates the effects of hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle and oral contraceptive (OCP) cycles on peripheral vascular circulation in the lower limbs of healthy childbearing-age women across different phases of the menstrual cycle. Materials and Methods: Fourteen eumenorrheic non-oral contraceptive (non-OCP) users (mean age 28.9 ± 3.5 years; height 165.0 ± 5.8 cm; weight 66.8 ± 11.2 kg) were evaluated during the follicular and ovulatory phases. Fifteen monophasic oral contraceptive (OCP) users (mean age 26.4 ± 2.67 years; height 162.3 ± 8.1 cm; weight 62.0 ± 9.8 kg) were assessed during their placebo and active pill phases. Doppler recordings of the femoral and popliteal arteries were obtained, and standard Doppler indices (systolic/diastolic ratio, pulsatility index, and resistance index) were analyzed across the menstrual and OCP cycles. Results: There were no significant interactions in the standard Doppler indices for the popliteal and femoral arteries between the menstrual phases and user groups (p > 0.05). Additionally, no significant group effects were observed between non-OCP users and OCP users, nor were there significant phase effects in any of the Doppler index variables (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Peripheral vascular function remained stable across menstrual and OCP phases, suggesting minimal impact of hormonal fluctuations on blood flow characteristics in young, healthy females.
Impact of Preoperative Biliary Stenting on Intestinal Dysfunction and Perioperative Complications After Pylorus-Preserving Pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Breaza Gelu Mihai , Hut Florin Emil , Cretu Octavian , Abu-Awwad Simona-Alina , Abu-Awwad Ahmed , Sima Laurentiu , Dan Radu Gheorghe , Dan Cristina Ana-Maria , Closca Raluca Maria , Zara Flavia
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: Preoperative biliary stenting (PBS) is commonly used to manage obstructive jaundice in patients undergoing pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy (PPPD). However, the impact of PBS on intestinal barrier function and perioperative complications remains controversial. This study aims to evaluate the effect of PBS on intestinal dysfunction and surgical outcomes, focusing on the influence of the stent duration. Materials and Methods: In this prospective cohort study, 235 patients undergoing PPPD for resectable pancreatic neoplasms at Timișoara Municipal Emergency Clinical Hospital (2016–2024) were analyzed. Patients were divided into two groups: those with PBS (n = 98) and without PBS (n = 137). Intestinal barrier function was assessed pre- and postoperatively using biomarkers such as zonulin, fecal calprotectin, and serum lipopolysaccharides (LPS). Perioperative outcomes, including pancreatic fistula, delayed gastric emptying (DGE), infections, and hospital stay, were compared. Additionally, outcomes were stratified based on stent duration (2–3 weeks vs. 3–4 weeks). Results: PBS was associated with significantly higher levels of zonulin, fecal calprotectin, and serum LPS postoperatively, indicating compromised intestinal barrier function. The stented group had a higher incidence of pancreatic fistulas (Grade B/C: 27.5% vs. 13.1%, p < 0.01), DGE (25.5% vs. 13.1%, p = 0.008), postoperative infections (34.7% vs. 17.5%, p = 0.002), and prolonged hospital stay (16.9 ± 4.2 days vs. 14.5 ± 3.7 days, p = 0.019). Prolonged stenting (3–4 weeks) was associated with worse outcomes compared to shorter stenting durations (2–3 weeks), including increased rates of infections, sepsis, and ICU stay (p < 0.05 for all comparisons). Conclusions: Preoperative biliary stenting is associated with increased intestinal barrier dysfunction, systemic inflammation, and higher rates of perioperative complications following PPPD. Prolonged stenting durations (>3 weeks) further exacerbate these risks. Limiting the PBS duration to 2–3 weeks, alongside optimized perioperative management, may help reduce postoperative morbidity and improve surgical outcomes.
Effect of Ti and TiNb Microalloying on Microstructures and Mechanical Properties of 2200 MPa Low-Alloy Ultra-High-Strength Steels
Authors: Yu Wenchao , Jin Ruizhe , Han Lei , Xie Dirong , Sun Ting , Wang Maoqiu , Shi Jie
Published: February 2025

The 2200 MPa low-alloy ultra-high-strength steels microalloyed with Ti (Ti-steel) and Ti and Nb (TiNb-steel) were quenched at 860 °C and tempered at 180 °C, and the mechanical properties, microstructure, and precipitated phase were studied by SEM, TEM, and physicochemical phase analysis. The results of mechanical properties showed that the TiNb-steel had higher strength than the Ti-steel, with a yield strength of 1746 MPa and 1802 MPa and a tensile strength of 2198 MPa and 2232 MPa, respectively. The TiNb-steel had a finer structure than the Ti-steel, with the effective grain sizes being 0.86 μm and 1 μm, respectively. The TiNb-steel had more MC-type carbides than the Ti-steel, and the MC-type carbide contents were 0.24 wt.% and 0.19 wt.%, respectively. The reason for the higher yield strength of the TiNb-steel is that it has higher strengthening effects due to finer grains, a higher density of dislocation, and more precipitation. The reason for the higher tensile strength of the TiNb-steel is that it has a higher coefficient of variable hardening K and a higher strain hardening index n.
Enhancing Bandwidth and Efficiency with Slotted Ground Planes Embedding Antenna Boosters
Authors: Arús Sabrina , Navarro Joan , Pijoan Joan L. , Andújar Aurora , Anguera Jaume
Published: February 2025

The deployment of wireless devices has increased exponentially in recent years, not only for mobile applications but also for IoT. Typically, these IoT devices exchange data with other devices by means of wireless connections, where battery consumption depends on the antenna system’s efficiency. In applications where long battery life and reliable transmission are essential, improving the efficiency of the antenna is crucial. This study aims to investigate how shaping the ground plane of a wireless device can enhance bandwidth and antenna efficiency, specifically in low-frequency bands of 824–960 MHz, a common frequency band used in IoT where transmitting a small amount of data provides long battery life. Specifically, this work shows that by adding a slot in the ground plane, the current distribution is enlarged, which enables the excitation of its fundamental mode and, consequently, enhances the bandwidth and antenna efficiency by 2 dB. This approach is assessed using three different printed circuit boards (PCBs) that aim to characterise different form factors of IoT devices. A physical prototype is built to validate the results obtained in simulations.
Genome-Wide Survey of Donor Chromosomal Genes Involved in Trans-Kingdom Conjugation via the RP4-T4SS Machinery
Authors: Moriguchi Kazuki , Nakamura Kazuyuki , Takahashi Yudai , Higo-Moriguchi Kyoko , Kiyokawa Kazuya , Suzuki Katsunori
Published: February 2025

Trans-kingdom conjugation (TKC)/inter-domain conjugation is a horizontal gene transfer phenomenon that transfers DNA from eubacteria to eukaryotes and archaebacteria via a type IV secretion system encoded in IncP1-type broad-host-range plasmids. Although TKC is considered a potential gene introduction tool, donor chromosomal genes that influence TKC efficiency have rarely been analyzed, hindering targeted donor breeding. To identify potential TKC-related genes on a donor chromosome, a genome-wide screening of TKC-deficient mutants was performed using a comprehensive collection of Escherichia coli gene knockout mutants (Keio collection) as donors and a Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain as a recipient. Out of 3884 mutants, two mutants (∆aceE, ∆priA) showed a severe decrease in TKC efficiency by more than two orders of magnitude but not in bacterial conjugation. The effect on TKC efficiency by the two mutants was partly recovered by a preculture with a fresh culture medium before the TKC reaction, regardless of the presence of antibiotics. These results suggest that no single chromosomal target gene is solely responsible for universally blocking IncP1-type conjugation by impeding its function. The results also suggest the existence of an unidentified recognition or transfer mechanism distinct from bacterial conjugation, highlighting the novel roles of aceE and priA.
Soil Fungal Diversity and Community Structure of Russula griseocarnosa from Different Sites
Authors: Li Zhen , Liang Ruoxi , Yu Fei
Published: February 2025

Russula griseocarnosa is an important ectomycorrhizal edible fungus whose economic and nutritional value are both high. To better understand which abiotic and biotic factors affect the growth of R. griseocarnosa, this study examined the mycosphere soil of R. griseocarnosa growing in five sites. The soil fungal communities of R. griseocarnosa from five sites of Fujian, Guangxi, and Yunnan Provinces were sequenced by Illumina MiSeq technology, and their community structure comprehensively analyzed in combination with a suite of soil physicochemical properties. The results revealed significantly greater levels of available potassium (AK), available nitrogen (AN), and available phosphorus (AP) in mycosphere soil than bulk soil, and that R. griseocarnosa prefers acidic soil, with Penicillium, Trichoderma, Talaromyces, Mortierella, Tolypocladium, Chloridium, Oidiodendron, and Umbelopsis being the main dominant fungal taxa. Different geographical sites had different indicator fungal genera, and the similarity of fungal communities in the mycosphere decreased with increasing geographical distance among them. Soil pH was the major abiotic factor influencing the structure of the mycosphere fungal communities. Management strategies such as nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus mixed fertilizer, and fungal fertilizer can promote the conservation and sustainable utilization of R. griseocarnosa.
Leveraging Biomineralization in Repurposed Stirred Reactors for Mn/Zn Removal from Mine Water: Insights from a Laboratory-Scale Study
Authors: Kurogi Fumiya , Liu Peiyu , Okibe Naoko
Published: February 2025

This study developed a semi-passive treatment system for manganese (Mn)- and zinc (Zn)-containing mine water by repurposing a neutralization tank into a biologically active stirred reactor. Laboratory-scale experiments demonstrated efficient removal of Mn2+ (>97%) and Zn2+ (>80%) with hydraulic retention times (HRTs) as short as 6 h—significantly faster than traditional passive systems. XRD and XANES analyses identified the predominant formation of birnessite, a layered Mn oxide, during Mn2+ oxidation, with Zn co-treatment promoting the precipitation of Zn-containing carbonates. Despite decreasing crystallinity of birnessite over time, microbial activity, dominated by Mn-oxidizing genera, such as Sphingomonas, Pseudonocardia, Sphingopyxis, Nitrospira, and Rhodobacter, persisted in the presence of Zn2+, ensuring system stability. Importantly, the low leachability of Mn and Zn from the resulting sludge in TCLP tests confirmed its environmental safety and potential for reuse. By leveraging existing infrastructure and microbial biomineralization, this system bridges the gap between passive and active treatments, significantly reducing treatment footprints and operational costs. These findings highlight the potential of repurposing mine water treatment tanks as a scalable, cost-effective solution for sustainable mine water remediation.
Melting Curve of Potassium Carbonate K2CO3 at High Pressures
Authors: Lu Jiaqi , He Siyuan , Lange Rebecca , Li Jie
Published: February 2025

Melting of carbonated rocks in the mantle influences the Earth’s deep carbon cycle and the long-term evolution of the atmosphere. Previous studies of the high-pressure melting curve of K2CO3 have yielded inconsistent results, with discrepancies of nearly 200 °C at 3 GPa and more than 400 °C at 12 GPa. Here, we report constraints on the melting curve of K2CO3 at pressures up to 20 GPa from in situ ionic conduction experiments and Pt sphere experiments. To help resolve the large discrepancies, we tested the ionic conduction method against the well-established differential thermal analysis (DTA) method and conventional Pt sphere method at the ambient pressure of 1 bar. Furthermore, ionic conduction experiments were conducted on sodium chloride (NaCl) to reduce uncertainties in pressure calibration of the multi-anvil press. We also modified the configuration of the in situ ionic conduction experiments to minimize the influence of thermal gradient on melting point determination. Finally, we inspected the effect of water by varying the initial sample state and container wall thickness in the Pt sphere experiments and applied X-ray radiography as a reliable and efficient method to examine the products. Compared with the results from the ionic conduction experiments, the melting point of K2CO3 from the Pt sphere experiments was found to be 200~400 °C lower, likely due to a small amount of water trapped by hygroscopic K2CO3 in closed platinum (Pt) capsules. We find that anhydrous K2CO3 remains more refractory than Na2CO3 at elevated pressures.
CO2 Reforming of Biomass Gasification Tar over Ni-Fe-Based Catalysts in a DBD Plasma Reactor
Authors: Gao Bianbian , Cao Guoqiang , Feng Yutong , Jiao Yuting , Li Chunyu , Zhao Jiantao , Fang Yitian
Published: February 2025

The removal of tar and CO2 represents a critical challenge in the production of biomass gasification syngas, necessitating the development of advanced catalytic systems. In this study, plasma-enhanced catalytic CO2 reforming was employed to remove biomass tar, with toluene selected as a model compound for biomass tar. Supported Nix-Fey/Al2O3 catalysts, with varying Ni/Fe molar ratios (3:1, 2:1, 1:1, 1:2, and 1:3), were synthesized for the CO2 reforming of toluene in dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) non-thermal plasma reactors. The experiments were conducted at 250 °C and ambient pressure. The effects of various Ni/Fe molar ratios, discharge powers, and CO2 concentrations on DBD plasma-catalytic CO2 reforming of toluene to synthesis gas were analyzed. The results indicate that CO and H2 are the primary gaseous products of toluene decomposition, with the selectivity for these gaseous products increasing with the discharge power. Increasing discharge power leads to a higher selectivity for CO and H2 production. A CO2/C7H8 ratio of 1.5 was found to effectively enhance the catalytic performance of the system, leading to the highest toluene conversion and syngas selectivity. The selectivity of the Nix-Fey/Al2O3 catalysts for H2 and CO follows the following order: Ni3-Fe1/Al2O3 > Ni2-Fe1/Al2O3 > Ni1-Fe1/Al2O3 > Ni1-Fe2/Al2O3 > Ni1-Fe3/Al2O3. Notably, the Ni3-Fe1/Al2O3 catalyst exhibits a high CO2 adsorption capacity due to its strong basicity, demonstrating significant potential for both tar conversion and carbon resistance.
Enhanced FGF21 Delivery via Neutrophil-Membrane-Coated Nanoparticles Improves Therapeutic Efficacy for Myocardial Ischemia–Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Rao Zhiheng , Tang Yuli , Zhu Jiamei , Lu Zhenzhen , Chen Zhichao , Wang Jiaojiao , Bao Yuxuan , Mukondiwa Alan Vengai , Wang Cong , Wang Xiaojie , Luo Yongde , Li Xiaokun
Published: February 2025

Acute myocardial infarction, a leading cause of death globally, is often associated with cardiometabolic disorders such as atherosclerosis and metabolic syndrome. Metabolic treatment of these disorders can improve cardiac outcomes, as exemplified by the GLP-1 agonist semaglutide. Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), a novel metabolic regulator, plays pivotal roles in lipid mobilization and energy conversion, reducing lipotoxicity, inflammation, mitochondrial health, and subsequent tissue damage in organs such as the liver, pancreas, and heart. Here, we test the therapeutic efficacy of FGF21 in mice with ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury, a model of acute myocardial infarction. We employed the strategic method of coating the FGF21-encapsulating liposomal nanoparticles with a neutrophil membrane designed to camouflage FGF21 from macrophage-mediated efferocytotic clearance and promote its targeted accumulation at I/R foci due to the inherent neutrophilic attraction to the inflammatory site. Our findings revealed that the coated FGF21 nanoparticles markedly accumulated within the lesions with a prolonged half-life, in additional to the liver, leading to substantial improvements in cardiac performance by enhancing mitochondrial energetic function and reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and cell death. Therefore, our research highlights a viable strategy for the enhanced delivery of therapeutical FGF21 analogs to lesions beyond the liver following myocardial infarction.
Pet Attachment and Influence as Moderators of the Relationships of Psychological Factors to Physical Function in Community-Residing Older Adults
Authors: Koodaly Lincy , Friedmann Erika , Gee Nancy R. , Simonsick Eleanor M. , Resnick Barbara , Nahm Eun-Shim , Galik Elizabeth , Holmes Sarah
Published: February 2025

Background: The growth of the older adult population calls for innovative and cost-effective ways of promoting their physical, psychological, and cognitive health. Human–animal interaction, including pet ownership, is related to positive and negative aspects of human health. Not all pet owners respond in the same way. The levels of pet attachment and pets’ influence on their owners’ lives could moderate the relationship between psychological status and health outcomes. Purpose: We examined the moderating role of pet attachment in the relationships of psychological status (mental wellbeing, happiness, anxiety, depression) to physical function (physical wellbeing, usual- and rapid-gait speeds, physical performance battery) in community-residing older adult pet owners. Methods: A cross-sectional, secondary analysis of pet-owning older adult participants in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (n = 178). Results: In regression analyses, controlling for age, gender, and comorbidities, pet attachment and pet influence moderated the relationships of physical wellbeing to mental wellbeing and anxiety (p < 0.05). Pet influence also moderated the relationship between anxiety and usual gait speed (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Greater attachment and influence buffer the relationship of perceptions of poor mental function with perceptions of poor physical wellbeing suggesting one mechanism for health benefits of human-animal interaction.
α-Cyperone Alleviates LPS-Induced Pyroptosis in Rat Aortic Endothelial Cells via the PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway
Authors: Liu Shuanghui , Zhang Yankun , Liang Xiaoxia , Yin Lizi , He Changliang
Published: February 2025

Objective: To investigate the effect and underlying mechanism of α-cyperone in inhibiting pyroptosis in rat aortic endothelial cells (RAECs). Methods: Molecular docking technology was used to predict the potential binding affinity of α-cyperone to pyroptosis-related proteins. A pyroptosis model was established in RAECs using rat serum containing 10% LPS, with α-cyperone administered as a preventive treatment for 9 h. Cell viability and membrane integrity were assessed using propidium iodide (PI) staining and the CCK-8 assay. The release of IL-1β and IL-18 was quantified by ELISA. Western blot and RT-qPCR were performed to evaluate the expression levels of NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1 p20, and N-GSDMD. Additionally, RNA sequencing analysis was conducted to identify differentially expressed genes related to pyroptosis in LPS-induced RAECs following α-cyperone treatment, and key differential genes were validated by Western blot. Results: Molecular docking analysis reveals that α-cyperone exhibits a strong binding affinity to pyroptosis-related targets. α-Cyperone significantly improves LPS-induced cell viability (p < 0.001), reduces IL-1β and IL-18 release (p < 0.001), and downregulates the mRNA and protein expression of NLRP3, ASC, caspase-1, and GSDMD (p < 0.001). RNA sequencing indicates that α-cyperone primarily modulates pyroptosis-related gene expression in RAECs through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Western blot validation further confirmed that α-cyperone effectively inhibited the protein expression of phosphorylated and total PI3K and AKT in RAECs (p < 0.001). Conclusions: α-Cyperone significantly alleviates morphological damage in the RAEC pyroptosis model, suppresses the release of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-18, and potentially inhibits NLRP3/caspase-1/GSDMD activation through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, thereby attenuating LPS-induced pyroptosis in RAECs.
Transarterial Chemoembolization with BioPearls for the Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Preliminary Experience
Authors: Iezzi Roberto , Posa Alessandro , Bargellini Irene , Spreafico Carlo
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is a widely accepted and minimally invasive treatment for primary and metastatic liver cancer. Performing TACE with drug-eluting beads helps obtain a greater drug concentration in the target lesion, significantly reducing systemic drug leakage, liver toxicity, and adverse events. The aim of this study is to describe the safety and feasibility of TACE performed with BioPearlTM, the first biodegradable drug-eluting microspheres. Methods: This was a retrospective observational study on 13 consecutive patients affected by hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treated with doxorubicin-loaded-BioPearlTM-TACE. Data on safety, feasibility, and tumor response were collected. Results: One intra-procedural catheter blockage was registered, as well as two post-treatment bilomas that required additional treatment. No severe general drug-related side effects were detected at the follow-up. The 1-month overall disease control was 90.9%, with six complete responses. Conclusions: Data suggest that chemoembolization with BioPearlTM is feasible and safe for the treatment of HCC as indicated by good tolerability.
Cyclodextrins: Enhancing Drug Delivery, Solubility and Bioavailability for Modern Therapeutics
Authors: Nicolaescu Oana Elena , Belu Ionela , Mocanu Andreea Gabriela , Manda Valentin Costel , Rău Gabriela , Pîrvu Andreea Silvia , Ionescu Cătălina , Ciulu-Costinescu Felicia , Popescu Mariana , Ciocîlteu Maria Viorica
Published: February 2025

Cyclodextrins (CDs) have revolutionized the pharmaceutical industry with their ability to enhance the stability, solubility, and bioavailability of a wide range of active substances. These cyclic oligosaccharides, with a unique hydrophilic exterior and hydrophobic cavity, form inclusion complexes with poorly soluble drugs, improving their pharmacokinetic profiles and therapeutic efficacy. This review explores the multifaceted roles of cyclodextrins in pharmaceutical formulations, ranging from oral, ophthalmic, parenteral, and topical applications to their emerging use in targeted therapies, gene delivery, and treatment of neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, and infectious diseases. Cyclodextrins not only improve drug solubility and controlled release but also reduce toxicity and side effects, leading to safer and more effective treatments. Recent advancements, such as cyclodextrin-based nanoparticles, offer promising pathways for cancer therapy, chronic disease management, and personalized medicine. As research continues, cyclodextrins remain at the forefront of innovation in drug delivery systems, ensuring better patient outcomes and expanding the possibilities of modern therapeutics.
Unveiling Pharmacological Mechanisms of Bombyx mori (Abresham), a Traditional Arabic Unani Medicine for Ischemic Heart Disease: An Integrative Molecular Simulation Study
Authors: Dermawan Doni , Alotaiq Nasser
Published: February 2025

Background: Ischemic heart disease (IHD), a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, continues to challenge modern medicine. Bombyx mori (Abresham), a traditional ingredient in Unani medicine, has shown promise in cardiovascular health, but its molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. Methods: To explore the therapeutic potential of Bombyx mori for IHD, an integrative molecular simulation approach was applied. Network pharmacology was employed to identify the most favorable target receptor for the disease. Molecular docking simulations evaluated the binding affinities of chemical and protein-based compounds from Bombyx mori to the selected receptor. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations confirmed the stability of these interactions under physiological conditions. Pharmacophore modeling identified key structural features critical for bioactivity, while in silico toxicity assessments evaluated the safety profiles of the compounds. Results: Key bioactive compounds from Bombyx mori, including Menaquinone-7, Quercetin, and Behenic acid, showed strong interactions with the target receptor, ACE2. The MD-based MM/PBSA calculations revealed the binding free energy values of Menaquinone-7 (−35.12 kcal/mol), Quercetin (−29.38 kcal/mol), and Behenic acid (−27.76 kcal/mol), confirming their strong binding affinity. Protein-based compounds, such as Chorion class high-cysteine HCB protein 13 (−212.43 kcal/mol), Bombyxin A-5 (−209.36 kcal/mol), and FMRFamide-related peptides (−198.93 kcal/mol), also displayed promising binding affinities. In silico toxicity assessments revealed favorable safety profiles for most compounds. Conclusions: This study positions Bombyx mori as a promising source of therapeutic agents for IHD. Future work should focus on experimental validation of these computational findings through in vitro and in vivo studies.
Silver Dimolybdate Nanorods: In Vitro Anticancer Activity Against Breast and Prostate Tumors and In Vivo Pharmacological Insights
Authors: Moura João Victor Barbosa , Gomes-da-Silva Natália Cristina , Rebêlo Alencar Luciana Magalhães , Ferreira Wellington Castro , da Luz Lima Cleânio , Santos-Oliveira Ralph
Published: February 2025

Background: The development of nanostructured materials for cancer therapy has garnered significant interest due to their unique physicochemical properties, including enhanced surface area and tunable electronic structures, which can facilitate targeted drug delivery and oxidative stress modulation. This study investigates the anticancer potential of monoclinic silver dimolybdate nanorods (m-Ag₂Mo₂O₇) against aggressive breast (MDA-MB-231) and prostate (PC-3) cancer cells and explores their in vivo pharmacokinetic behavior. Methods: m-Ag₂Mo₂O₇ nanorods were synthesized via a hydrothermal method and characterized using XRD, SEM, Raman, and FTIR spectroscopy. In vitro cytotoxicity was evaluated using MTT assays on MDA-MB-231 and PC-3 cell lines across concentrations ranging from 1.56 to 100 µg/mL. In vivo biodistribution and radiopharmacokinetics were assessed using technetium-99m-labeled nanorods in male Swiss rats, with gamma counting employed for tissue uptake analysis and pharmacokinetic parameter determination. Results: m-Ag₂Mo₂O₇ nanorods exhibited a modest cytotoxic effect on MDA-MB-231 cells, with 50 µg/mL reducing cell viability by 23.5% (p < 0.05), while no significant cytotoxicity was observed in PC-3 cells. In vivo studies revealed predominant accumulation in the stomach, liver, spleen, and bladder, indicating reticuloendothelial system uptake and renal clearance. Pharmacokinetic analysis showed a rapid systemic clearance (half-life ~6.76 h) and a low volume of distribution (0.0786 L), suggesting primary retention in circulation with minimal off-target diffusion. Conclusions: While m-Ag₂Mo₂O₇ nanorods display limited standalone cytotoxicity, their ability to induce oxidative stress and favorable pharmacokinetic profile support their potential as adjuvant agents in cancer therapy, particularly for chemoresistant breast cancers. Further studies are warranted to elucidate their molecular mechanisms, optimize combinatorial treatment strategies, and assess long-term safety in preclinical models.
Influence of Exogenous Melatonin on the Physiological Traits of Camellia hainanica Seedlings Under Polyethylene Glycol-Induced Drought Stress
Authors: Ge Liyan , Zeeshan Ul Haq Muhammad , Yao Yanqiang , Yang Dongmei , Liu Ya , Yang Huageng , Wu Yougen
Published: February 2025

This study investigated the effects of exogenous melatonin (MT) on the physiological responses of Camellia hainanica seedlings under drought stress, using the drought-tolerant variety “Hai Da 1” and the drought-sensitive variety “Wan Hai 1” as test materials. Seedlings were treated with MT at concentrations of 0, 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 μmol/L through irrigation, followed by drought stress induced by polyethylene glycol (PEG-6000). The results revealed that MT alleviated growth damage caused by PEG-simulated drought stress, with leaf relative conductivity and malondialdehyde (MDA) content showing an initial decrease followed by an increase as MT concentration rose. In contrast, relative water content, chlorophyll content, antioxidant enzyme activity, secondary metabolite levels, and carbohydrate content initially increased and then declined with increasing MT concentration. Treatment with 200 μmol/L MT notably reduced MDA content by 40–50%, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity by 20–30%, and increased secondary metabolite levels by 11–42% in the drought-sensitive variety. These findings identified 200 μmol/L MT as the optimal concentration for mitigating drought stress in C. hainanica seedlings, providing a foundation for its practical application in C. hainanica production and further research into the drought resistance mechanisms mediated by MT.
MaxEnt Modeling and Effects of Climate Change on Shifts in Habitat Suitability for Sorbus alnifolia in China
Authors: Luo Yan , Yang Jingshi , Liu Luping , Zhang Keliang
Published: February 2025

Anthropogenic climate change stands out as one of the primary forces expected to reshape Earth’s ecosystems and global biodiversity in the coming decades. Sorbus alnifolia, which occurs in deciduous forests, is valued for its ornamental appeal and practical uses but is reported to be declining in the wild. Nevertheless, the distribution of this species’ suitable range, along with the key ecological and environmental drivers that shape its habitat suitability, remains largely unknown. By analyzing 198 occurrence records and 54 environmental factors, we employed MaxEnt to project S. alnifolia’s current and future habitat suitability. Our results showed that annual precipitation (37.4%), normalized difference vegetation index (30.0%), August water vapor pressure (20.8%), and temperature annual range (3.4%) were the most significant variables explaining S. alnifolia’s environmental requirements. The suitable habitats were primarily scattered across eastern and central China. Under projected future climatic conditions, the total expanse of potential habitat is expected to increase. However, most of this expansion involves low-suitability habitats, whereas moderately and highly suitable habitats are likely to shrink, especially in southern and lower-altitude regions of China. Based on these findings, we propose several conservation strategies to support the long-term sustainability of S. alnifolia.
A Meta-Analysis of Response Strategies and Interfering Factors of Kin Recognition in Plants
Authors: Xia Xin-Xin , Yan Shaobin , Wang Peng , Kong Chui-Hua
Published: February 2025

Conspecific plants exhibit morphological and biochemical plasticity in response to genetic relatedness in varying environments. However, the response strategies and factors influencing kin recognition in plants remain unclear. Meta-analysis is an approach to synthesize the effect size of plant–plant and plant–environment interactions. Here, we present the first case of a meta-analysis for response strategies and interfering factors in relatedness-mediated plant–plant interactions. We synthesized the effect of kin recognition on plant performance and environmental factors, based on 104 studies with 4045 cases. As a result, we found that kin recognition reduces root biomass, root length, root–shoot ratio, and lateral root number, lowering belowground competition. Furthermore, kin cooperation enhances aboveground light acquisition by increasing leaf area and boosts reproductive success by increasing seed biomass. The kinship effects are significantly influenced by both biotic (e.g., root interactions, kinship coefficient r, sex systems, recognition level) and abiotic factors (e.g., nutrient levels, experiment types, stress type, planting spacing and duration). Our meta-analysis highlights the response strategies and interfering factors of kin recognition in plant performance and environment dynamics, laying the foundation for further research on its ecological evolution and agricultural applications.
Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Insights into Key Genes Involved in Kinsenoside Biosynthesis in Anoectochilus roxburghii
Authors: Wang Peiyu , Yan Peipei , Li Zunwen , Jiang Jinlan , Lin Yuling , Ye Wei
Published: February 2025

As the main active ingredient in Anoectochilus roxburghii, kinsenoside has important health and medical effects including hepatoprotective, anti-oxidant, and bacteriostasis, among others. In recent years, with the limited application of high-throughput technology to A. roxburghii, there has been no research on the key regulatory genes involved in the synthesis of kinsenoside. Therefore, we examined three species of A. roxburghii that are widely planted in mainland China and Taiwan Province, A. roxburghii cultivar ‘Jian ye’, Anoectochilus formosanus, and Anoectochilus burmannicus, determining the content of kinsenoside, performing transcriptomic and metabolomic sequencing, identifying UDP glycosyltransferases, and screening for UDP glycosyltransferases that may be involved in kinsenoside synthesis. The results showed that among the three species of A. roxburghii, the content of kinsenoside in A. roxburghii cv. ‘Jian ye’ was the highest. Transcriptome and metabolome data showed that A. roxburghii cv. ‘Jian ye’ and the two other species of A. roxburghii have 3702 and 5369 differentially expressed genes and 69 and 120 differentially accumulated metabolites, respectively. Meanwhile, differentially expressed genes and differentially accumulated metabolites are enriched in the glucose metabolism and hormone pathways. We also treated the A. roxburghii samples with exogenous auxin and characterized the related genes. In A. roxburghii, we identified 73 members of the UDP glycosyltransferase family. Through phylogenetic tree, transcriptome data expression profile, and qPCR analyses, we screened for members that may be involved in the synthesis of kinsenoside. In summary, the results of this study provide insights for breeding high-kinsenoside-content and high-intron varieties of A. roxburghii.
The Rare Earth Element Lanthanum (La) Accumulates in Brassica rapa L. and Affects the Plant Metabolism and Mineral Nutrition
Authors: van Doan Cong , Maghrebi Moez , Gatti Noemi , Mannino Giuseppe , Vigani Gianpiero , Maffei Massimo E.
Published: February 2025

Lanthanum (La) is often used in industry and agriculture, leading to its accumulation in natural environments and potential ecological risks. The objective of this study was to examine the effects on the growth, metabolism, and nutrient composition of Brassica rapa exposed to at low (1 µM), medium (1 mM), and high (10 mM) La concentrations. We used chemical analytical, molecular, and metabolomic methods and found that high La exposure induced a hormetic effect, triggering both stimulatory and inhibitory responses. La reduced aluminum (Al), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), and chromium (Cr) levels at all concentrations, while medium and high doses also decreased phosphorus (P) and iron (Fe). La accumulation in B. rapa increased with La levels, affecting metabolic processes by modulating reactive oxygen species (ROS), increasing proline, and reducing total polyphenol content. Flavonoid levels were altered, chlorophyll and carotenoids declined, and non-photochemical quenching increased. Gene expressions related to flavonoid, carotenoid, and chlorophyll metabolism, as well as ion transport, exhibited a dose-dependent modulation. On the contrary, fatty acid composition remained unaffected. Our results indicate that La accumulates in in B. rapa and disrupts the plant metabolism. Despite an evident effect on plant productivity, our results also raise concerns about the potential health risks of consuming La-enriched B. rapa plants.
Paleovegetation Community and Paleoclimate Succession in Middle Jurassic Coal Seams in Eastern Coalfields in Dzungaria Basin, China
Authors: Wang Xingli , Feng Shuo , Wang Wenfeng , Zhang Qin , Tian Jijun , Han Changcheng , Wang Meng
Published: February 2025

The Dzungaria Basin is located north of Xinjiang and is one of the largest inland basins in China. The eastern coalfields in the Dzungaria Basin contain a large amount of coal resources, and the thickness of the coal seams is significant. Therefore, the aim of this study was to classify the paleovegetation types and develop paleoclimate succession models of the extra-thick coal seams. We conducted the sampling, separation, and extraction of spores and pollen and carried out microscopic observations in the Wucaiwan mining area of the eastern coalfields in the Dzungaria Basin. The vertical vegetation succession in the thick seam (Aalenian Stage) in the study area was divided into three zones using the CONISS clustering method. The results show that the types of spore and pollen fossils belong to twenty families and forty-five genera, including twenty-three fern, twenty gymnosperm, and two bryophyte genera. The types of paleovegetation in the study area were mainly Lycopodiaceae and Selaginellaceae herb plants, Cyatheaceae, Osmundaceae, and Polypodiaceae shrub plants, and Cycadaceae and Pinaceae coniferous broad-leaved trees. The paleoclimate changed from warm–humid to humid–semi-humid and, finally, to the semi-humid–semi-dry type, all within a tropical–subtropical climate zone. The study area was divided into four paleovegetation communities: the nearshore wetland paleovegetation community, lowland cycad and Filicinae plant community, slope broad-leaved and coniferous plant mixed community, and highland coniferous tree community. This indicates that there was a climate warming event during the Middle Jurassic, which led to a large-scale lake transgression and regression in the basin. This resulted in the transfer of the coal-accumulating center from the west and southwest to the central part of the eastern coalfields in the Dzungaria Basin.
Advances Towards Ex Situ Conservation of Critically Endangered Rhodomyrtus psidioides (Myrtaceae)
Authors: Hardstaff Lyndle K. , Funnekotter Bryn , Sommerville Karen D. , Offord Catherine A. , Mancera Ricardo L.
Published: February 2025

Rhodomyrtus psidioides (G.Don) Benth. (Myrtaceae) is a critically endangered rainforest species from the east coast of Australia, where populations have severely and rapidly declined due to the effects of repeated myrtle rust infection. With very limited material available in the wild and freezing-sensitive seeds that have prevented storage in a seed bank, ex situ conservation of this exceptional species has proven difficult. Material from a seed orchard grown at the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan was successfully used to initiate three new accessions into tissue culture from cuttings, and to undertake cryopreservation experiments using a droplet-vitrification (DV) protocol for both seeds and cultured shoot tips. Use of seedling material for tissue culture initiation was very effective, with a 94–100% success rate for semi-hardwood explants and a 50–62% success rate for softwood explants. Although no survival of seeds after cryopreservation was observed, seeds of R. psidioides showed some tolerance of desiccation and exposure to cryoprotective agents. Regeneration after cryopreservation using a DV protocol was demonstrated in only one shoot tip precultured on basal medium containing 0.4 M sucrose and incubated in PVS2 for 20 min prior to immersion in liquid nitrogen. These results demonstrate the value of living collections in botanic gardens for conservation research, highlight the importance of germplasm choice for tissue culture initiation, and demonstrate the potential of cryobiotechnologies for the ex situ conservation of exceptional plant species.
The Influence of Mixed Powder Ageing on the Structural, Chemical, and Crystalline Morphological Properties of the PA12 Used to Manufacture Laser Sintering
Authors: García Rodríguez Alejandro , Espejo Mora Edgar , Velasco Peña Marco Antonio , Narváez Tovar Carlos Alberto
Published: February 2025

This study investigated the effects of multiple laser sintering (LS) cycles on a polyamide 12 powder mixture of 70% recycled material and 30% virgin polymer. This research aimed to understand how repeated LS processing influences this specific powder mixture’s thermal and structural properties, which is crucial for optimising its performance in additive manufacturing applications. A thermal analysis revealed significant changes in the thermal behaviour of the powder over successive build cycles. Specifically, there was an observed increase in both the melting temperature and the crystallinity of the powder, alongside a notable decrease in the crystallisation temperature. These alterations suggest that the repeated LS cycles affect the thermal profiles and potentially enhance the material’s stability and usability in additive manufacturing processes. Additionally, a particle size distribution analysis indicated statistically significant differences between the initial and post-sintering states of the powder. These differences are significant as they can influence factors such as flowability and packing density, which are critical for the efficiency of additive manufacturing applications. Microscopic observations further revealed a strong correlation between the crystal morphologies and particle shapes, indicating that the structural changes occurring during processing are inter-related. The relationship underscores the importance of understanding microstructural evolution and the mechanical properties of the final printed products. These findings provide crucial insights into the microstructural evolution and thermal behaviour of recycled PA12 powder during multiple LS processing cycles. This study aids in developing practical strategies for sustainable and efficient powder recycling within the realm of additive manufacturing. By examining the intricate dynamics at play, the research opens avenues for enhancing the performance and environmental sustainability of 3D printing technologies, making them more accessible for various industrial applications.
ZnO-Embedded Carboxymethyl Cellulose Bioplastic Film Synthesized from Sugarcane Bagasse for Packaging Applications
Authors: Vyas Anand , Ng Sun-pui , Fu Tao , Anum Ifrah
Published: February 2025

This research explores the synthesis of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) for the development of a cost-effective bioplastic film that can serve as a sustainable alternative to synthetic plastic. Replacing plastic packaging with CMC-based films offers a solution for mitigating environmental pollution, although the inherent hydrophilicity and low mechanical strength of CMC present significant challenges. To address these limitations, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) were employed as a biocompatible and non-toxic reinforcement filler to improve CMC’s properties. A solution casting method which incorporated varying concentrations of ZnO NPs (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25%) into the CMC matrix allowed for the preparation of composite bioplastic films, the physicochemical properties of which were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. The results revealed that the ZnO NPs were well-integrated into the CMC matrix, thereby improving the film’s crystallinity, with a significant shift from amorphousness to the crystalline phase. The uniform dispersion of ZnO NPs and the development of hydrogen bonding between ZnO and the CMC matrix resulted in enhanced mechanical properties, with the film CZ20 exhibiting the greatest tensile strength—15.12 ± 1.28 MPa. This film (CZ20) was primarily discussed and compared with the control film in additional comparison graphs. Thermal stability, assessed via thermogravimetric analysis, improved with an increasing percentage of ZnO Nps, while a substantial decrease in water vapor permeability and oil permeability coefficients was observed. In addition, such water-related properties as water contact angle, moisture content, and moisture absorption were also markedly improved. Furthermore, biodegradability studies demonstrated that the films decomposed by 71.43% to 100% within 7 days under ambient conditions when buried in soil. Thus, CMC-based eco-friendly composite films have the clear potential to become viable replacements for conventional plastics in the packaging industry.
An Investigation of the Mechanical Properties of Ti Films Reinforced with Wood Composites by Growing Ti Particles on a Wood Substrate
Authors: Bao Wenhui , Tan Yini , Ying Ziyi , Xue Rui , Xu Xiaojiang , Duan Shuangping , Lin Haizhuan , Chen Hui
Published: February 2025

Table tennis racquet blades (TTRBs) are specialized wood materials known for their excellent mechanical properties. As one of the widely used physical vapor deposition technologies, magnetron sputtering has become the most effective method for preparing various thin film materials. In this study, the surface of the TTRB is coated with a Ti film with different thicknesses by magnetron sputtering to improve the performance of the TTRB. The surface roughness, crystal structure, viscoelasticity of the TTRB were analyzed by means of non-contact surface profilometry, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). In order to effectively test TTRB properties, three types of testing devices were designed, including free-fall rebound, laser vibration measurement, and the dynamic rebound test. The results reveal that the deposition of a Ti film on the surface of the TTRB improves the rigidity and rebound efficiency of the TTRB. Under optimized conditions, the initial amplitude, vertical rebound distance, and rebound rate can reach 2.1 μm, 23.7 cm, 13.7%, respectively, when the deposition thickness is 5 μm. It is anticipated that the modification and the corresponding detection methods developed in this study can foster innovative product development, standardize the TTRB industry, and contribute to the advancement of table tennis.
Enhancing the Ductility and Properties of Non-Vulcanized Polylactic Acid-Based Thermoplastic Natural Rubber Using Acetyl Tributyl Citrate
Authors: Koedthip Donlaporn , Kalkornsurapranee Ekwipoo , Sengloyluan Karnda , Songtipya Ponusa , Songtipya Ladawan
Published: February 2025

This study examines the effects of mastication time and the addition of a plasticizer (acetyl tributyl citrate (ATBC)) on the properties of non-vulcanized polylactic acid/natural rubber (PLA/NR) blends using a factorial design, along with the impact of changing the weight ratio of the blends. The results reveal the formation of plasticized PLA (P-PLA)-based thermoplastics with enhanced ductility. ATBC functions as both a PLA plasticizer and a compatibilizer in the binary PLA/NR system. However, improving compatibility requires the exclusive use of masticated NR with an appropriate mastication time (60 min) before blending. Optimal properties are achieved at a P-PLA/NR weight ratio of 90/10, maximizing the impact strength (~35.40 J/m) and toughness (~7.21 × 106 MJ/m3). However, higher NR contents lead to reduced mechanical performance due to poor interfacial bonding. Thermal analysis reveals superior miscibility and dispersion in blends with a lower NR content (10 wt%), while the addition of plasticizers and NR leads to a decrease in the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the blends. The results suggest potential applications for developing biodegradable products with enhanced flexibility and improved low-temperature performance. The incorporation of ATBC can enhance material properties without relying on conventional synthetic compatibilizers.