bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Process for the Synthesis of Budesonide 21-Phosphate and Evaluation in a Murine Model of Inflammation
Authors: Corvino Angela , Granato Elisabetta , Scognamiglio Antonia , Fiorino Ferdinando , Frecentese Francesco , Magli Elisa , Perissutti Elisa , Santagada Vincenzo , Cirino Giuseppe , Cerqua Ida , Pavese Rocco , Petti Antonio , Pavese Francesca , Petti Francesco , Roviezzo Fiorentina , Severino Beatrice , Caliendo Giuseppe
Published: September 2024

In this study, a new and straightforward process for the preparation of budesonide 21-phosphate (Bud-21P) and its disodium salt (Bud-21P-Na2) is described. The method results in a yield comparable to those obtained by diphosphoryl chloride, but it is more manageable, less expensive, and safer. The new compounds are characterized by better water solubility compared to the parent compound. Moreover, they have been evaluated for their anti-inflammatory activity and the obtained results clearly evidence that Bud-21P and Bud-21P-Na2 retained anti-inflammatory activity like the parent compound budesonide (Bud) in mice with cutaneous induced edema.
Broadband Solar Absorber and Thermal Emitter Based on Single-Layer Molybdenum Disulfide
Authors: Liu Wanhai , Wu Fuyan , Yi Zao , Tang Yongjian , Yi Yougen , Wu Pinghui , Zeng Qingdong
Published: September 2024

In recent years, solar energy has become popular because of its clean and renewable properties. Meanwhile, two-dimensional materials have become a new favorite in scientific research due to their unique physicochemical properties. Among them, monolayer molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), as an outstanding representative of transition metal sulfides, is a hot research topic after graphene. Therefore, we have conducted an in-depth theoretical study and design simulation using the finite-difference method in time domain (FDTD) for a solar absorber based on the two-dimensional material MoS2. In this paper, a broadband solar absorber and thermal emitter based on a single layer of molybdenum disulfide is designed. It is shown that the broadband absorption of the absorber is mainly due to the propagating plasma resonance on the metal surface of the patterned layer and the localized surface plasma resonance excited in the adjacent patterned air cavity. The research results show that the designed structure boasts an exceptional broadband performance, achieving an ultra-wide spectral range spanning 2040 nm, with an overall absorption efficiency exceeding 90%. Notably, it maintains an average absorption rate of 94.61% across its spectrum, and in a narrow bandwidth centered at 303 nm, it demonstrates a near-unity absorption rate, surpassing 99%, underscoring its remarkable absorptive capabilities. The weighted average absorption rate of the whole wavelength range (280 nm–2500 nm) at AM1.5 is above 95.03%, and even at the extreme temperature of up to 1500 K, its heat radiation efficiency is high. Furthermore, the solar absorber in question exhibits polarization insensitivity, ensuring its performance is not influenced by the orientation of incident light. These advantages can enable our absorber to be widely used in solar thermal photovoltaics and other fields and provide new ideas for broadband absorbers based on two-dimensional materials.
Eco-Friendly Carbon Nanotubes Reinforced with Sodium Alginate/Polyacrylic Acid for Enhanced Adsorption of Copper Ions: Kinetics, Isotherm, and Mechanism Adsorption Studies
Authors: Chang Pengbo , Zhou Shuyang , Wang Tongchao , Hua Dangling , Liu Shiliang , Okoro Oseweuba Valentine , Shavandi Armin , Nie Lei
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the removal efficiency of Cu2+ from wastewater using a composite hydrogel made of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), sodium alginate (SA), and polyacrylic acid (PAA) prepared by free radical polymerization. The CNTs@SA/PAA hydrogel’s structure and properties were characterized using SEM, TEM, FTIR, XRD, rheology, DSC, EDS, elemental mapping analysis, and swelling. The adsorption performance for Cu2+ was tested in batch adsorption experiments, considering the pH, dosage, initial concentration, and contact time. The optimal conditions for Cu2+ removal were pH 5.0, an adsorbent dosage of 500 mg/L, and a contact time of 360 min. The adsorption followed pseudo-second order kinetics. Isotherm analyses (Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, Dubinin–Radushkevich, Sips, Toth, and Khan) revealed that the Freundlich isotherm best described the adsorption, with a maximum capacity of 358.52 mg/g. A thermodynamic analysis indicated that physical adsorption was the main interaction, with the spontaneity of the process also demonstrated. This study highlights the high efficiency and environmental friendliness of CNT@SA/PAA composites for Cu2+ removal from wastewater, offering a promising approach for water treatment.
Influence of Heat Treatment and Lactic Acid Fermentation on the Physical and Chemical Properties of Pumpkin Juice
Authors: Janiszewska-Turak Emilia , Rybak Katarzyna , Witrowa-Rajchert Dorota , Pobiega Katarzyna , Wierzbicka Anna , Ossowski Szymon , Sękul Joanna , Kufel Aniela , Wiśniewska Aneta , Trych Urszula , Szczepańska-Stolarczyk Justyna , Krzykowski Andrzej , Gramza-Michałowska Anna
Published: September 2024

Pumpkin is a highly nutritious plant, rich in valuable nutrients that benefit human health. Due to the high perishability of this fruit, the production of pumpkin juice is a practical way to use it effectively. Recently, fermented vegetable juices have been used as a dairy alternative due to their nutritional and potential probiotic properties. This study investigated the fermentation of pumpkin juice using different strains of lactic acid bacteria (LAB), with and without heat treatment. The effects of fermentation on microbial growth, pH, acidity, extract, sugars, carotenoids, polyphenols, and antioxidant properties were analyzed. The heat-treatment process did not greatly impact the dry matter content, pH, acidity, extract, or sugar content. However, it led to a reduction in carotenoid and polyphenol levels. During fermentation, there was a consistent decrease in pH and an increase in total acidity, with no noticeable differences between bacterial strains regarding their influence on these parameters. The study revealed that there were no distinctions between LAB strains in their effects on pH, acidity, and carotenoid content in fermented pumpkin juice. Nonetheless, both L. sakei and L. plantarum proved to be effective in the fermentation process, with L. sakei demonstrating greater adaptability. The expected pH, acidity, and sugar content changes were consistently observed throughout the fermentation process. Overall, results confirm the efficacy of the used Lactobacillus strains in fermenting pumpkin juice and highlight the potential impact of heat treatment on the nutritional composition of the juice. The purpose of thermal processing of pumpkin juice, which is conducted with lactic acid fermentation, is crucial for the food industry. It extends the product’s shelf life, improves its nutritional and taste profiles, and guarantees its microbiological safety.
The Influence of Activated Sludge Augmentation on Its Ability to Degrade Paracetamol
Authors: Dzionek Anna , Wojcieszyńska Danuta , Menashe Ofir , Szada Daria , Potocka Izabela , Jesionowski Teofil , Guzik Urszula
Published: September 2024

Paracetamol is one of the most commonly used painkillers. Its significant production and consumption result in its presence in the environment. For that reason, paracetamol has a negative impact on the organisms living in ecosystems. Therefore, it is necessary to develop effective methods to remove paracetamol from sewage. One of the methods is the bioaugmentation of activated sludge with organisms with increased degradation potential in relation to paracetamol. This study determined the effectiveness of paracetamol degradation by activated sludge augmented with a free or immobilised Pseudomonas moorei KB4. To immobilise the strain, innovative capsules made of cellulose acetate were used, the structure of which provides an optimal environment for the development of bacteria. Augmentation with both a free and immobilised strain significantly improves the efficiency of paracetamol biodegradation by activated sludge. Over a period of 30 days, examined systems allowed ten doses of paracetamol decomposition, while the unaugmented system degraded only four. At the same time, using the immobilised strain does not significantly affect the functioning of the activated sludge, which was reflected in the stability of processes such as nitrification. Due to the high stability of the preparation, it can become a valuable tool in wastewater treatment processes.
Study of the Optical and Acoustic Parameters and Surface Tensions of 3,4,4′-Trichlorodiphenylurea in Binary Mixtures with Different Organic Solvents between (293.15 and 323.15) K
Authors: Sirbu Florinela , Ion Alina Catrinel , Ion Ion
Published: September 2024

In the present investigations, the density, refractive index and speed of sound for pure organic solvents and binary liquid mixtures of 3,4,4′-Trichlorodiphenylurea between (293.15 and 323.15) K temperatures have been measured up to the solubility limit. From these experimental results, the acoustic impedance, the isentropic compressibility coefficient, the space-filling factor, the specific refraction, the relaxation strength, the intermolecular free length, the surface tension, the solubility and the solvation number of triclocarban in six organic solvents, namely ethyl alcohol, n-Propyl alcohol, n-Butyl alcohol, Tetrahydrofuran, N,N-Dimethylformamide and N,N-Dimethylacetamide have been computed. The studied acoustic and optical parameters and surface tension behavior versus temperature in pure solvents and binary mixtures were useful in understanding the nature and the extent of interaction between the solute and solvent molecules. The results also show the presence of higher degree of interaction between triclocarban and nitrogen-containing solvents in comparison with other solvents. The distribution of triclocarban in water/organic solvent mixtures is frequently encountered in wastewater treatment plants.
Targeting CBP and p300: Emerging Anticancer Agents
Authors: Masci Domiziana , Puxeddu Michela , Silvestri Romano , La Regina Giuseppe
Published: September 2024

CBP and p300 are versatile transcriptional co-activators that play essential roles in regulating a wide range of signaling pathways, including Wnt/β-catenin, p53, and HIF-1α. These co-activators influence various cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and response to hypoxia, making them pivotal in normal physiology and disease progression. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, in particular, is crucial for cellular proliferation, differentiation, tissue homeostasis, and embryogenesis. Aberrant activation of this pathway is often associated with several types of cancer, such as colorectal tumor, prostate cancer, pancreatic and hepatocellular carcinomas. In recent years, significant efforts have been directed toward identifying and developing small molecules as novel anticancer agents capable of specifically inhibiting the interaction between β-catenin and the transcriptional co-activators CBP and p300, which are required for Wnt target gene expression and are consequently involved in the regulation of tumor cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. This review summarizes the most significant and original research articles published from 2010 to date, found by means of a PubMed search, highlighting recent advancements in developing both specific and non-specific inhibitors of CBP/β-catenin and p300/β-catenin interactions. For a more comprehensive view, we have also explored the therapeutic potential of CBP/p300 bromodomain and histone acetyltransferase inhibitors in disrupting the transcriptional activation of genes involved in various signaling pathways related to cancer progression. By focusing on these therapeutic strategies, this review aims to offer a detailed overview of recent approaches in cancer treatment that selectively target CBP and p300, with particular emphasis on their roles in Wnt/β-catenin-driven oncogenesis.
Eco-Friendly Cellulose-Supported Nickel Complex as an Efficient and Recyclable Heterogeneous Catalyst for Suzuki Cross-Coupling Reaction
Authors: Li Zhanyu , Zhou Guohao , Sun Yu , Mao Yingning , Zeng Fanxiang , Wang Zhihui , Zhang Yuanyuan , Li Bin
Published: September 2024

In this work, we applied commercially available 2-pyridinecarboxylic acid to modify cellulose by simple manipulations, and then anchored low-toxicity metal nickel onto the modified cellulose to prepare the heterogeneous catalyst (CL-AcPy-Ni). The obtained catalyst was characterized by FT-IR, TG-DSC, BET, XRD, SEM-EDS, ICP-OES, XPS, and GPC. The catalytic performance of CL-AcPy-Ni in the Suzuki cross-coupling reaction was investigated using 4-methyl iodobenzene and phenylboronic acid as the model substrates reacting in THF under 120 °C for 24 h. The catalytic ability of CL-AcPy-Ni for various halobenzenes and phenylboronic acid derivatives was also further investigated under optimal conditions and demonstrated good catalytic activity, and a series of diaryls were successfully synthesized. Finally, this green nickel-based catalyst could be reused for five successive cycles by simple centrifugation.
Microencapsulation of Extracts of Strawberry (Fragaria vesca) By-Products by Spray-Drying Using Individual and Binary/Ternary Blends of Biopolymers
Authors: Bastos Yara , Rocha Fernando , Estevinho Berta Nogueiro
Published: September 2024

Valorization of agricultural and food by-products (agri-food waste) and maximum utilization of this raw material constitute a highly relevant topic worldwide. Agri-food waste contains different types of phytochemical compounds such as polyphenols, that display a set of biological properties, including anti-inflammatory, chemo-preventive, and immune-stimulating effects. In this work, the microencapsulation of strawberry (Fragaria vesca) plant extract was made by spray-drying using individual biopolymers, as well as binary and ternary blends of pectin, alginate, and carrageenan. The microparticle morphologies depended on the formulation used, and they had an average size between 0.01 μm and 16.3 μm considering a volume size distribution. The encapsulation efficiency ranged between 81 and 100%. The kinetic models of Korsmeyer–Peppas (R2: 0.35–0.94) and Baker–Lonsdale (R2: 0.73–1.0) were fitted to the experimental release profiles. In general, the releases followed a “Fickian Diffusion” mechanism, with total release times varying between 100 and 350 (ternary blends) seconds. The microparticles containing only quercetin (one of the main polyphenols in the plant) showed higher antioxidant power compared to the extract and empty particles. Finally, the addition of the different types of microparticles to the gelatine (2.7 mPa.s) and to the aloe vera gel (640 mPa.s) provoked small changes in the viscosity of the final gelatine (2.3 and 3.3 mPa.s) and of the aloe vera gel (621–653 mPa.s). At a visual level, it is possible to conclude that in the gelatine matrix, there was a slight variation in color, while in the aloe vera gel, no changes were registered. In conclusion, these microparticles present promising characteristics for food, nutraceutical, and cosmetic applications.
An Overview of Naphthylimide as Specific Scaffold for New Drug Discovery
Authors: Ruan Wei , Xie Zhouling , Wang Ying , Xia Lulu , Guo Yuping , Qiao Dan
Published: September 2024

Naphthylimides play a pivotal role as aromatic heterocyclic compounds, serving as the foundational structures for numerous pharmacologically significant drugs. These drugs encompass antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer, antimalarial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antithrombotic, and antiprotozoal agents. The planar and heteroaromatic characteristics of naphthylimides grant them a strong ability to intercalate into DNA. This intercalation property renders naphthylimide derivatives highly valuable for various biological activities. The advantageous pharmacological activity and ease of synthesis associated with naphthylimides and their derivatives provide significant benefits in the design and development of new compounds within this class. Currently, only a few such molecules are undergoing preclinical and clinical evaluations. In this paper, we have compiled the literature on naphthylimides reported by researchers from 2006 to 2024. Our focus lies on exploring the pharmacological activities of their analogues from a drug development and discovery perspective, while examining their structure–activity relationship and mechanisms of action.
Coumarins: Quorum Sensing and Biofilm Formation Inhibition
Authors: El-Sawy Eslam R. , Abdel-Aziz Mohamed S. , Abdelmegeed Heba , Kirsch Gilbert
Published: September 2024

Quorum sensing (QS) is a bacterial cell-to-cell communication mechanism that plays an essential role in bacterial pathogenesis. QS governs bacterial behavior and controls biofilm formation, which in turn contributes to antibiotic resistance. Therefore, identifying and synthesizing novel compounds to overcome QS and inhibit biofilm formation are essential. Coumarins are important plant-derived natural products with wide-ranging bioactivities and extensive applications, including antibacterial, antifungal, anticoagulant, antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, coumarins are capable of QS rewiring and biofilm formation inhibition, leading to higher susceptibility to antimicrobial agents and less antibiotic resistance. Therefore, in this review, we aim to provide an overview of QS and biofilm formation. This review also discusses the role of natural and synthesized coumarins in controlling QS, inhibiting biofilm formation, and inducing synergy in antibiotic–coumarin combinations. Hence, this review emphasizes the potential of coumarin compounds to act as antibacterial agents and demonstrates their ability to alleviate antibiotic resistance.
Unveiling the Photodegradation Mechanism of Monochlorinated Naphthalenes under UV-C Irradiation: Affecting Factors Analysis, the Roles of Hydroxyl Radicals, and DFT Calculation
Authors: Yu Yingtan , Liu Mengdi , Wang Shimeng , Zhang Chaoxing , Zhang Xue , Liu Li , Xue Shuang
Published: September 2024

Polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs) are a new type of persistent organic pollutant (POP) characterized by persistence, bioaccumulation, dioxin-like toxicity, and long-range atmospheric transport. Focusing on one type of PCN, monochlorinated naphthalenes (CN-1, CN-2), this study aimed to examine their photodegradation in the environment. In this work, CN-1 and CN-2 were employed as the model pollutants to investigate their photodegradation process under UV-C irradiation. Factors like the pH, initial concentrations of CN-1, and inorganic anions were investigated. Next, the roles of hydroxyl radicals (•OH), superoxide anion radicals (O2•−), and singlet oxygen (1O2) in the photodegradation process were discussed and proposed via theory computation. The results show that the photodegradation of CN-1 and CN-2 follows pseudo-first-order kinetics. Acidic conditions promote the photodegradation of CN-1, while the effects of pH on the photodegradation of CN-2 are not remarkable. Cl−, NO3−, and SO32− accelerate the photodegradation of CN-1, whereas the effect of SO42− and CO32− is not significant. Additionally, the contributions of •OH and O2•− to the photodegradation of CN-1 are 20.47% and 38.80%, while, for CN-2, the contribution is 16.40% and 16.80%, respectively. Moreover, the contribution of 1O2 is 15.7%. Based on DFT calculations, C4 and C6 of the CN-1 benzene ring are prioritized attack sites for •OH, while C2 and C9 of CN-2 are prioritized attack sites.
Graphene Monolayer Nanomesh Structures and Their Applications in Electromagnetic Energy Harvesting for Solving the Matching Conundrum of Rectennas
Authors: Dragoman Mircea , Dinescu Adrian , Aldrigo Martino , Dragoman Daniela , Mohebbi Elaheh , Pavoni Eleonora , Laudadio Emiliano
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we investigate various graphene monolayer nanomesh structures (diodes) formed only by nanoholes, with a diameter of just 20 nm and etched from the graphene layer in different shapes (such as rhombus, bow tie, rectangle, trapezoid, and triangle), and their electrical properties targeting electromagnetic energy harvesting applications. In this respect, the main parameters characterizing any nonlinear device for energy harvesting are extracted from tens of measurements performed on a single chip containing the fabricated diodes. The best nano-perforated graphene structure is the triangle nanomesh structure, which exhibits remarkable performance in terms of its characteristic parameters, e.g., a 420 Ω differential resistance for optimal impedance matching to an antenna, a high responsivity greater than 103 V/W, and a low noise equivalent power of 847 pW/√Hz at 0 V.
Cerebrovascular Burden and Its Association with Ménière’s Disease: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Sousa Francisco Alves de , Tarrio João , Moreira Bruno , Nóbrega Pinto Ana , Meireles Luís , Reis Rego Ângela
Published: September 2024

Background: Ménière’s disease (MD) lacks a universally accepted pathogenesis model. Recent research has revisited the vascular hypothesis. This study aims to compare the cerebrovascular burden in patients with MD and age-matched controls, investigating the potential role of cerebrovascular dysfunction in MD. Methods: A total of 145 patients (70 MD, 75 controls) underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) assessment for small-vessel disease (SVD) markers (including Fazekas and EPVS scores), cortical strokes, and baseline comorbidities. Statistical analyses were performed to compare the cerebrovascular burden between the groups, adjusting for potential confounders. Results: The MD group exhibited significantly higher mean SVD scores across various measures compared to controls (p < 0.05). This association persisted even after adjusting for age, sex, and comorbidities (ORs ranging from 1.746 to 2.495, p < 0.05). Neither the presence of cortical strokes nor comorbidities significantly differed between groups. Conclusions: This study is the first to compare cerebrovascular burden between MD patients and controls. The findings suggest that cerebrovascular dysfunction may contribute to MD incidence. Further research is needed to elucidate the relationship between cerebrovascular disease and MD, potentially leading to novel therapeutic avenues.
Clinical Outcomes and Virulence Factors of Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli (STEC) from Southern Alberta, Canada, from 2020 to 2022
Authors: Glassman Heather , Suttorp Vivien , White Theron , Ziebell Kim , Kearney Ashley , Bessonov Kyrylo , Li Vincent , Chui Linda
Published: September 2024

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) can cause severe clinical disease in humans, particularly in young children. Recent advances have led to greater availability of sequencing technologies. We sought to use whole genome sequencing data to identify the presence or absence of known virulence factors in all clinical isolates submitted to our laboratory from Southern Alberta dated 2020–2022 and correlate these virulence factors with clinical outcomes obtained through chart review. Overall, the majority of HUS and hospitalizations were seen in patients with O157:H7 serotypes, and HUS cases were primarily in young children. The frequency of virulence factors differed between O157:H7 and non-O157 serotypes. Within the O157:H7 cases, certain virulence factors, including espP, espX1, and katP, were more frequent in HUS cases. The number of samples was too low to determine statistical significance.
A Review of Studies on HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis in Community Pharmacies in States with Restrictive Pharmacist Prescription Authority in the United States
Authors: Wang Hongmei , Guinn Dominique , Ramisetty Xavier Roshitha , Giordano Thomas P. , Poon Ivy O.
Published: September 2024

Community pharmacies have unparalleled potential to increase access to pre-exposure prophylaxis medications (PrEP) for HIV prevention; however, only 17 out of 50 states in the United States have statewide authority for pharmacists to provide PrEP at community pharmacies. Few studies have reported on how pharmacists overcome the legislative barrier and provide PrEP services in restrictive pharmacy prescription states. The objective of this article is to identify the existing primary literature describing pharmacist PrEP services in the community in states with restrictive prescription authority. Methods: A systemic literature review was conducted to identify the primary literature that involved community pharmacy service and PrEP conducted in states that do not have expanded pharmacist prescriptive authority between 2000 to 2024. Results: Ten publications were identified, describing nine studies, including four interview and survey studies, three intervention reports, and two ongoing clinical trials. None of these studies have a control group. Most pharmacists provide PrEP services in the community through a collaborative practice agreement with a primary care provider. Conclusions: Future clinical studies with randomized controlled designs are required to test novel strategies in the education and implementation of pharmacy-led PrEP services in a community pharmacy setting to increase PrEP access.
Transcription Factor and Protein Regulatory Network of PmACRE1 in Pinus massoniana Response to Pine Wilt Nematode Infection
Authors: Xie Wanfeng , Lai Xiaolin , Wu Yuxiao , Li Zheyu , Zhu Jingwen , Huang Yu , Zhang Feiping
Published: September 2024

Pine wilt disease, caused by Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, is a highly destructive and contagious forest affliction. Often termed the “cancer” of pine trees, it severely impacts the growth of Masson pine (Pinus massoniana). Previous studies have demonstrated that ectopic expression of the PmACRE1 gene from P. massoniana in Arabidopsis thaliana notably enhances resistance to pine wilt nematode infection. To further elucidate the transcriptional regulation and protein interactions of the PmACRE1 in P. massoniana in response to pine wilt nematode infection, we cloned a 1984 bp promoter fragment of the PmACRE1 gene, a transient expression vector was constructed by fusing this promoter with the reporter GFP gene, which successfully activated the GFP expression. DNA pull-down assays identified PmMYB8 as a trans-acting factor regulating PmACRE1 gene expression. Subsequently, we found that the PmACRE1 protein interacts with several proteins, including the ATP synthase CF1 α subunit, ATP synthase CF1 β subunit, extracellular calcium-sensing receptor (PmCAS), caffeoyl-CoA 3-O-methyltransferase (PmCCoAOMT), glutathione peroxidase, NAD+-dependent glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, phosphoglycerate kinase 1, cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase, auxin response factor 16, and dehydrin 1 protein. Bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) assays confirmed the interactions between PmACRE1 and PmCCoAOMT, as well as PmCAS proteins in vitro. These findings provide preliminary insights into the regulatory role of PmACRE1 in P. massoniana’s defense against pine wilt nematode infection.
Hops across Continents: Exploring How Terroir Transforms the Aromatic Profiles of Five Hop (Humulus lupulus) Varieties Grown in Their Countries of Origin and in Brazil
Authors: Herkenhoff Marcos Edgar , Brödel Oliver , Frohme Marcus
Published: September 2024

Humulus lupulus, or hops, is a vital ingredient in brewing, contributing bitterness, flavor, and aroma. The female plants produce strobiles rich in essential oils and acids, along with bioactive compounds like polyphenols, humulene, and myrcene, which offer health benefits. This study examined the aromatic profiles of five hop varieties grown in Brazil versus their countries of origin. Fifty grams of pelletized hops from each strain were collected and analyzed using HS-SPME/GC-MS to identify volatile compounds, followed by statistical analysis with PLS-DA and ANOVA. The study identified 330 volatile compounds and found significant aromatic differences among hops from different regions. For instance, H. Mittelfrüher grown in Brazil has a fruity and herbaceous profile, while the German-grown variety is more herbal and spicy. Similar variations were noted in the Magnum, Nugget, Saaz, and Sorachi Ace varieties. The findings underscore the impact of terroir on hop aromatic profiles, with Brazilian-grown hops displaying distinct profiles compared to their counterparts from their countries of origin, including variations in aromatic notes and α-acid content.
Modern Plant Breeding Techniques in Crop Improvement and Genetic Diversity: From Molecular Markers and Gene Editing to Artificial Intelligence—A Critical Review
Authors: Sun Lixia , Lai Mingyu , Ghouri Fozia , Nawaz Muhammad Amjad , Ali Fawad , Baloch Faheem Shehzad , Nadeem Muhammad Azhar , Aasim Muhammad , Shahid Muhammad Qasim
Published: September 2024

With the development of new technologies in recent years, researchers have made significant progress in crop breeding. Modern breeding differs from traditional breeding because of great changes in technical means and breeding concepts. Whereas traditional breeding initially focused on high yields, modern breeding focuses on breeding orientations based on different crops’ audiences or by-products. The process of modern breeding starts from the creation of material populations, which can be constructed by natural mutagenesis, chemical mutagenesis, physical mutagenesis transfer DNA (T-DNA), Tos17 (endogenous retrotransposon), etc. Then, gene function can be mined through QTL mapping, Bulked-segregant analysis (BSA), Genome-wide association studies (GWASs), RNA interference (RNAi), and gene editing. Then, at the transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and translational levels, the functions of genes are described in terms of post-translational aspects. This article mainly discusses the application of the above modern scientific and technological methods of breeding and the advantages and limitations of crop breeding and diversity. In particular, the development of gene editing technology has contributed to modern breeding research.
Physical Cell Disruption Technologies for Intracellular Compound Extraction from Microorganisms
Authors: Zhao Fujunzhu , Wang Zhiwu , Huang Haibo
Published: September 2024

This review focuses on the physical disruption techniques in extracting intracellular compounds, a critical step that significantly impacts yield and purity. Traditional chemical extraction methods, though long-established, face challenges related to cost and environmental sustainability. In response to these limitations, this paper highlights the growing shift towards physical disruption methods—high-pressure homogenization, ultrasonication, milling, and pulsed electric fields—as promising alternatives. These methods are applicable across various cell types, including bacteria, yeast, and algae. Physical disruption techniques achieve relatively high yields without degrading the bioactivity of the compounds. These techniques, utilizing physical forces to break cell membranes, offer promising extraction efficiency, with reduced environmental impacts, making them attractive options for sustainable and effective intracellular compound extraction. High-pressure homogenization is particularly effective for large-scale extracting of bioactive compounds from cultivated microbial cells. Ultrasonication is well-suited for small to medium-scale applications, especially for extracting heat-sensitive compounds. Milling is advantageous for tough-walled cells, while pulsed electric field offers gentle, non-thermal, and highly selective extraction. This review compares the advantages and limitations of each method, emphasizing its potential for recovering various intracellular compounds. Additionally, it identifies key research challenges that need to be addressed to advance the field of physical extractions.
The Influence of the Use of Carrot and Apple Pomace on Changes in the Physical Characteristics and Nutritional Quality of Oat Cookies
Authors: Andrejko Dariusz , Blicharz-Kania Agata , Krajewska Marta , Sagan Agnieszka , Pastusiak Magda , Ociesa Mikołaj
Published: September 2024

The aim of the present study was to determine the characteristics of oat cookies with the addition of apple (“A”: 5, 10%) and carrot pomace (“C”: 5, 10%). Modifying the recipe and fortifying the oat cookies with such byproducts decreased the hardness and increased the elasticity and chewiness. A colour change in the products containing fruit pomace was also observed. The use of carrot and apple residues resulted in a decrease in the value of the L* parameter, i.e., colour brightness. Moreover, for cookies containing carrot pomace, a significant increase in colour chromaticity towards red and yellow was observed. Fortified oatmeal cookies contained more polyphenols (0.67 mg/g–“CP”, control probe; 0.92 mg/g–“C10”) and fat (21.85%–“CP”; 22.55%–“A10”) but less protein (10.78%–“CP”; 10.25%–“C10”). A higher content of some minerals, i.e., P (0.334%–“CP”; 0.468%–“A10”), K (0.325%–“CP”; 0.387%–“C10”), and Ca (0.057%–“CP”; 0.073%–“C10”), was recorded in the cookies fortified with pomace. The obtained results indicate the significant impact of the addition of apple and carrot residues on the textural properties, colour parameters, and chemical composition of oat cookies. Pomace can be used to increase the content of antioxidants and microelements in this type of product.
The Late Early–Middle Pleistocene Mammal Fauna from the Megalopolis Basin (Peloponnese, Greece) and Its Importance for Biostratigraphy and Paleoenvironment
Authors: Konidaris George E. , Athanassiou Athanassios , Tourloukis Vangelis , Chitoglou Krystalia , van Kolfschoten Thijs , Giusti Domenico , Thompson Nicholas , Tsartsidou Georgia , Roditi Effrosyni , Panagopoulou Eleni , Karkanas Panagiotis , Harvati Katerina
Published: September 2024

Recent investigations in the upper Lower–Middle Pleistocene deposits of the Megalopolis Basin (Greece) led to the discovery of several sites/findspots with abundant faunal material. Here, we provide an updated overview including new results on the micro- and macro-mammal fauna. Important new discoveries comprise partial hippopotamus skeletons from Marathousa 1 and the new Lower Pleistocene site Choremi 6, as well as a second partial elephant skeleton from Marathousa 1, including a complete tusk and the rarely found stylohyoideum. Based on the first results from the newly collected micromammals, we discuss age constraints of the sites, and we provide biostratigraphic/biochronologic remarks on key mammal taxa for the Middle Pleistocene of Greece and southeastern Europe. The presence of mammals highly dependent on freshwater for their survival, together with temperate-adapted ones in several stratigraphic layers of the basin, including those correlated with glacial stages, when conditions were colder and/or drier, indicate the capacity of the basin to retain perennial freshwater bodies under milder climatic conditions, even during the harsher glacial periods of the European Middle Pleistocene, and further support its refugial status. Yet, the smaller dimensions of the Megalopolis hippopotamuses may represent a response to the changing environmental conditions of the epoch, not optimal for hippopotamuses. Overall, the Megalopolis Basin comprises a unique fossil record for southeastern Europe and provides valuable insights into the Middle Pleistocene terrestrial ecosystems of Europe, and hominin adaptations in particular.
The Enigma of Leibniz’s “Catholic” Writings of 1685
Authors: Strickland Lloyd
Published: September 2024

The focus of this paper is a suite of Latin papers from 1685, some of which are still unpublished, in which Leibniz writes in the guise of a Catholic in order to defend Catholicism and counter Protestant objections, and this despite him being a lifelong Lutheran. After providing an overview of these writings (which I refer to as Leibniz’s “Catholic” writings) and the grounds for dating them to May–June 1685, I consider their purpose, arguing against the claim that they were intended to support Church reunion and suggesting instead that they were apologetic in nature, intended as a reactivation or reimagining of Leibniz’s earlier “Catholic Demonstrations” project. I identify the patron Leibniz had in mind for these writings as Landgrave Ernst von Hessen-Rheinfels and support this by a detailed comparison of the “Catholic” writings with the Leibniz-Landgrave correspondence and the Landgrave’s still-unpublished essays. This reveals that the Protestant arguments Leibniz uses in the “Catholic” writings are the very ones that he himself used when writing to the Landgrave, and that the responses Leibniz gives to these arguments are the very ones that the Landgrave used. I also consider the context of the writings, suggesting they were crafted during a period of personal uncertainty for Leibniz and possibly aimed at securing a position under the Landgrave.
Permutations and Oblong Numbers in the Theravāda-vinaya: A New Intersection of Buddhism and Indian Mathematics
Authors: Li Wei , Chen Yingjin
Published: September 2024

Within the context of Indian religions, Jainism has long been recognized for its extensive use of permutations and combinations. However, the application of these principles within Buddhist scriptures has received relatively little scholarly attention. This paper introduces a new example of the specific application of permutations and combinations in Buddhist scriptures. In this paper, we focus on the first saṅghādisesa rule in the Theravāda-vinaya, which lists a series of element sets and arranges these elements according to a certain pattern known as “ten-roots” (mūla), and we discover that these arrangements form a regular numerical sequence, called “oblong numbers”. Moreover, similar patterns with different quantities are also found in the fourth Pārājika and the fifth saṅghādisesa rules. This indicates that the compilers of the Theravāda-vinaya did not use this mathematical knowledge without basis. Interestingly, we also found the use of this sequence in the Bakhshālī manuscript. Therefore, in this article, after summarizing and verifying the arrangement rules of the Theravāda-vinaya, we discuss whether the oblong numbers were influenced by Greek mathematics.
Enhanced Particle Swarm Optimisation for Multi-Robot Path Planning with Bezier Curve Smoothing
Authors: Poy Yi-Ler , Loke Zhi-Yu , Darmaraju Shalini , Goh Choon-Hian , Kwan Ban-Hoe , Liu Haipeng , Ng Danny Wee Kiat
Published: September 2024

This paper presents an Enhanced Particle Swarm Optimisation (EPSO) algorithm to improve multi-robot path planning by integrating a new path planning scheme with a cubic Bezier curve trajectory smoothing algorithm. Traditional PSO algorithms often result in suboptimal paths with numerous turns, necessitating frequent stops and higher energy consumption. The proposed EPSO algorithm addresses these issues by generating smoother paths that reduce the number of turns and enhance the efficiency of multi-robot systems. The proposed algorithm was evaluated through simulations in two scenarios, and its performance was compared against the basic PSO algorithm. The results demonstrated that EPSO consistently produced shorter, smoother paths with fewer directional changes, albeit with slightly longer execution times. This improvement translates to more efficient navigation, reduced energy consumption, and enhanced overall performance of multi-robot systems. The findings underscore the potential of EPSO in applications requiring precise and efficient path planning, highlighting its contribution to advancing the field of robotics.
The Potential of Deep Learning in Underwater Wireless Sensor Networks and Noise Canceling for the Effective Monitoring of Aquatic Life
Authors: Elsayed Walaa M. , Alsabaan Maazen , Ibrahem Mohamed I. , El-Shafeiy Engy
Published: September 2024

This paper describes a revolutionary design paradigm for monitoring aquatic life. This unique methodology addresses issues such as limited memory, insufficient bandwidth, and excessive noise levels by combining two approaches to create a comprehensive predictive filtration system, as well as multiple-transfer route analysis. This work focuses on proposing a novel filtration learning approach for underwater sensor nodes. This model was created by merging two adaptive filters, the finite impulse response (FIR) and the adaptive line enhancer (ALE). The FIR integrated filter eliminates unwanted noise from the signal by obtaining a linear response phase and passes the signal without distortion. The goal of the ALE filter is to properly separate the noise signal from the measured signal, resulting in the signal of interest. The cluster head level filters are the adaptive cuckoo filter (ACF) and the Kalman filter. The ACF assesses whether an emitter node is part of a set or not. The Kalman filter improves the estimation of state values for a dynamic underwater sensor networking system. It uses distributed learning long short-term memory (LSTM-CNN) technology to ensure that the anticipated value of the square of the gap between the prediction and the correct state is the smallest possible. Compared to prior methods, our suggested deep filtering–learning model achieved 98.5% of the sensory filtration method in the majority of the obtained data and close to 99.1% of an adaptive prediction method, while also consuming little energy during lengthy monitoring.
Enhancing EEG-Based MI-BCIs with Class-Specific and Subject-Specific Features Detected by Neural Manifold Analysis
Authors: Frosolone Mirco , Prevete Roberto , Ognibeni Lorenzo , Giugliano Salvatore , Apicella Andrea , Pezzulo Giovanni , Donnarumma Francesco
Published: September 2024

This paper presents an innovative approach leveraging Neuronal Manifold Analysis of EEG data to identify specific time intervals for feature extraction, effectively capturing both class-specific and subject-specific characteristics. Different pipelines were constructed and employed to extract distinctive features within these intervals, specifically for motor imagery (MI) tasks. The methodology was validated using the Graz Competition IV datasets 2A (four-class) and 2B (two-class) motor imagery classification, demonstrating an improvement in classification accuracy that surpasses state-of-the-art algorithms designed for MI tasks. A multi-dimensional feature space, constructed using NMA, was built to detect intervals that capture these critical characteristics, which led to significantly enhanced classification accuracy, especially for individuals with initially poor classification performance. These findings highlight the robustness of this method and its potential to improve classification performance in EEG-based MI-BCI systems.
Lightweight Sewer Pipe Crack Detection Method Based on Amphibious Robot and Improved YOLOv8n
Authors: Lv Zhenming , Dong Shaojiang , He Jingyao , Hu Bo , Liu Qingyi , Wang Honghang
Published: September 2024

Aiming at the problem of difficult crack detection in underground urban sewage pipelines, a lightweight sewage pipeline crack detection method based on sewage pipeline robots and improved YOLOv8n is proposed. The method uses pipeline robots as the equipment carrier to move rapidly and collect high-definition data of apparent diseases in sewage pipelines with both water and sludge media. The lightweight RGCSPELAN module is introduced to reduce the number of parameters while ensuring the detection performance. First, we replaced the lightweight detection head Detect_LADH to reduce the number of parameters and improve the feature extraction of modeled cracks. Finally, we added the LSKA module to the SPPF module to improve the robustness of YOLOv8n. Compared with YOLOv5n, YOLOv6n, YOLOv8n, RT-DETRr18, YOLOv9t, and YOLOv10n, the improved YOLOv8n has a smaller number of parameters of only 1.6 M. The FPS index reaches 261, which is good for real-time detection, and at the same time, the model also has a good detection accuracy. The validation of sewage pipe crack detection through real scenarios proves the feasibility of the proposed method, which has good results in targeting both small and long cracks. It shows potential in improving the safety maintenance, detection efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of urban sewage pipes.
Application of the Semi-Supervised Learning Approach for Pavement Defect Detection
Authors: Cui Peng , Bidzikrillah Nurjihan Ala , Xu Jiancong , Qin Yazhou
Published: September 2024

Road surface quality is essential for driver comfort and safety, making it crucial to monitor pavement conditions and detect defects in real time. However, the diversity of defects and the complexity of ambient conditions make it challenging to develop an effective and robust classification and detection algorithm. In this study, we adopted a semi-supervised learning approach to train ResNet-18 for image feature retrieval and then classification and detection of pavement defects. The resulting feature embedding vectors from image patches were retrieved, concatenated, and randomly sampled to model a multivariate normal distribution based on the only one-class training pavement image dataset. The calibration pavement image dataset was used to determine the defect score threshold based on the receiver operating characteristic curve, with the Mahalanobis distance employed as a metric to evaluate differences between normal and defect pavement images. Finally, a heatmap derived from the defect score map for the testing dataset was overlaid on the original pavement images to provide insight into the network’s decisions and guide measures to improve its performance. The results demonstrate that the model’s classification accuracy improved from 0.868 to 0.887 using the expanded and augmented pavement image data based on the analysis of heatmaps.
High-Precision Bi-Directional Beam-Pointing Measurement Method Based on Space Solar Power Station System
Authors: Hou Xinyue , Li Xue , Zhao Shun , Zhang Yinsen , Wang Lulu
Published: September 2024

In the process of wireless energy transmission from a Space Solar Power Station (SSPS) to a satellite, the efficiency of energy transmission is closely related to the accuracy of beam control. The existing methods commonly ignore the impact of array position, structural deviation of the transmitting antenna, and modulation errors, which leads to the deviation error in actual energy transmission beams and the reduction of energy transmission efficiency. This paper innovatively proposes a high-precision bi-directional beam-pointing measurement method, which provides a technical basis for advancing the beam-pointing control accuracy from the perspective of improving the beam-pointing measurement accuracy. The method consists of (1) the interferometer goniometry method to realize high-precision guiding beam pointing measurement; and (2) the power field reconstruction method to realize offset angle measurement of the energy-transmitting beam. Simulation results demonstrate that under dynamic conditions, the guiding beam-pointing measurement accuracy of this method reaches 0.05°, which is better than the traditional 0.1° measurement accuracy based on the guiding beam. The measurement accuracy of the offset distance of the energy center is better than 0.11 m, and the measurement accuracy of the offset angle is better than 0.012°.