bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling of the Particle Abrasion Process and a Discrete Element Method Study of Its Shape Effect
Authors: Hu Zhengbo , Zhang Junhui , Tan Xin , Yang Hao
Published: August 2024

This study introduces a novel method for particle abrasion derived from fundamental natural phenomena and mechanical principles, allowing precise control over the degree of abrasion and more accurately mimicking natural processes. The method’s validity is confirmed using a specific shape index. Through conventional triaxial tests, the mechanical behavior of granular aggregates with varying degrees of abrasion was analyzed. The findings indicate that increased particle abrasion leads to a decrease in the average coordination number and sliding amount, while the rotation amount increases. This suggests an inverse relationship between the degree of abrasion and the structural stability and interlocking of the particle aggregate. The fabric anisotropy of the system is mainly attributed to the anisotropy of the contact normal force, which decreases as particle abrasion increases. The partial stress ratio of the particle system is influenced by fabric anisotropy and remains independent of particle shape. Additionally, the internal friction angle may be overestimated in conventional triaxial tests.
Polyketide Derivatives from the Mangrove-Derived Fungus Penicillium sp. HDN15-312
Authors: Liu Fuhao , Wang Wenxue , Wang Feifei , Zhou Luning , Luo Guangyuan , Zhang Guojian , Zhu Tianjiao , Che Qian , Li Dehai
Published: August 2024

Four new polyketides, namely furantides A–B (1–2), talamin E (3) and arugosinacid A (4), and two known polyketides were obtained from the mangrove-derived fungus Penicillium sp. HDN15-312 using the One Strain Many Compounds (OSMAC) strategy. Their chemical structures, including configurations, were elucidated by detailed analysis of extensive NMR spectra, HRESIMS and ECD. The DPPH radicals scavenging activity of 3, with an IC50 value of 6.79 µM, was better than vitamin C.
Automated Fibrosis-4 Index: Simplifying Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease for Diabetologists
Authors: Ismail Mona H. , Al Argan Reem , Elamin Yasir , Makki Murtaga , Alsheekh Lameya , Alelyani Jaber , Hadhiah Zahra , Aljidhr Zahrah , Alkhatam Nazih , Alfaddagh Hind , Alanazi Alanoud , Alqahtani Shaya
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives: Patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) have a high prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) (55%) and are at increased risk for developing non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, a severe form of NAFLD. Early detection of advanced fibrosis in patients with T2D and NAFLD is crucial and can prevent progression to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. However, screening for liver disease and risk-stratification pathways are not established in patients with T2D. We evaluated the efficacy of using the automated fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index in routine clinical settings to identify patients requiring further specialist evaluation. Materials and Methods: In this prospective cohort study, individuals diagnosed with T2D were recruited from diabetes clinics at a tertiary university hospital. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were comprehensively collected. The FIB-4 index was automatically calculated and integrated into the hospital’s electronic medical records (EMRs), which were then stratified by age. Patients with advanced fibrosis (FIB-4 index ≥ 1.3) were referred to a specialist. Student’s t-test or the Mann–Whitney U test was used to analyze variables associated with advanced fibrosis. Logistic regression was used to identify predictors of advanced fibrosis. Results: Among the 318 patients with T2D, 9.7% had advanced fibrosis. The majority were females (54.7%) and Saudi nationals (89.6%). Several factors, including age, platelet count, total bilirubin, serum albumin, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, transaminases, and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), showed significant associations with advanced fibrosis (all p < 0.05). Older age, elevated total bilirubin and GGT levels, and prolonged international normalized ratio emerged as independent predictors of advanced fibrosis. Conclusions: Integrating the FIB-4 index into the EMR during the routine care of patients with T2D proved to be a valuable tool in effectively identifying individuals at risk of advanced fibrosis. Our findings emphasize the need for further research to refine screening strategies in this high-risk population.
Development of a Plate Linear Ultrasonic Motor Using the Power Flow Method
Authors: Jian Yue , Liu Zhen , He Junfeng , Zhou Wenjie , Liang Huazhuo
Published: August 2024

Linear ultrasonic motors can output large thrust stably in a narrow space. In this paper, a plate linear ultrasonic motor is studied. Firstly, the configuration and operating principle of the Π-type linear ultrasonic motor is illustrated. Then, two slotting schemes are put forward for the stator to enlarge the amplitude of the driving foot and improve the output performance of motor. After that, a novel optimization method based on the power flow method is suggested to describe the energy flow of stator, so as to estimate the slotting schemes. Finally, the prototypes are manufactured and tested. The experimental results show that the output performance of both new motors are excellent. The maximum output thrust of the arc slotted motor is 76 N/94 N, and the corresponding maximum no-load speed is 283 mm/s/213 mm/s, while the maximum output thrust of V-slotted motor reaches 90 N/120 N, and the maximum no-load speed reaches 223 mm/s/368 mm/s.
A Large-Scan-Range Electrothermal Micromirror Integrated with Thermal Convection-Based Position Sensors
Authors: Ren Anrun , Ding Yingtao , Yang Hengzhang , Pan Teng , Zhang Ziyue , Xie Huikai
Published: August 2024

This paper presents the design, simulation, fabrication, and characterization of a novel large-scan-range electrothermal micromirror integrated with a pair of position sensors. Note that the micromirror and the sensors can be manufactured within a single MEMS process flow. Thanks to the precise control of the fabrication of the grid-based large-size Al/SiO2 bimorph actuators, the maximum piston displacement and optical scan angle of the micromirror reach 370 μm and 36° at only 6 Vdc, respectively. Furthermore, the working principle of the sensors is deeply investigated, where the motion of the micromirror is reflected by monitoring the temperature variation-induced resistance change of the thermistors on the substrate during the synchronous movement of the mirror plate and the heaters. The results show that the full-range motion of the micromirror can be recognized by the sensors with sensitivities of 0.3 mV/μm in the piston displacement sensing and 2.1 mV/° in the tip-tilt sensing, respectively. The demonstrated large-scan-range micromirror that can be monitored by position sensors has a promising prospect for the MEMS Fourier transform spectrometers (FTS) systems.
An Alternative Method of Obtaining the Particle Size Distribution of Soils by Electrical Conductivity
Authors: Hasan Md Farhad , Abuel-Naga Hossam
Published: August 2024

This study proposes a new method to determine the particle size distribution (PSD) of soils by considering the electrical conductivity (EC) technique. A new EC probe was designed with a transparent thermoplastic, commonly known as acrylic, and brass electrodes. At first, the EC of a soil–water homogeneous suspension was calculated at different densities to obtain a calibration curve of each tested soil sample. During the PSD analysis, as the particles started to settle down in the basement due to gravity, the EC was measured at different time intervals, and the corresponding EC values were then matched with the calibrated EC values at different densities. The proposed method considered the conventional Stokes’ law to determine the diameter of soil particles and the general percentage of passing mathematical expression to obtain the final PSD curve of each soil. The PSD analysis by the EC approach was later validated with that of hydrometer and laser diffraction methods, and in general, good agreements were obtained for identical soil samples at different classifications of soil particles such as clay, silt, and sand. Finally, reproducibility tests were also conducted and the new EC probe overperformed the hydrometer method in terms of both accuracy and precision. The finding from this study aimed to propose an alternative to determine the PSD of soils by using the EC technique with a high level of accuracy and efficiency.
Changes in Phenolic Composition and Bioactivities of Ayocote Beans under Boiling (Phaseolus coccineus L.)
Authors: Baeza-Jiménez Ramiro , López-Martínez Leticia X.
Published: August 2024

Ayocote beans (Phaseolus coccineus L.) are a rich source of some bioactive molecules, such as phenolic compounds that exhibit antioxidant capacity that promote health benefits. Ayocote is mainly consumed after cooking, which can impact the antioxidant characteristics of the phenolic compounds responsible for some of its health benefits. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of boiling on the phenolic composition and bioactivities of ayocote beans before and after boiling. Boiling decreased the total phenolic content (70.2, 60.3, and 58.2%), total anthocyanin (74.3, 80.6, and 85.7%), and antioxidant activity (DPPH: 41.2, 46.9, and 59.1%; ORAC: 48.23, 53.6 and 65.7%) of brown, black, and purple ayocote beans, respectively. All the extracts also inhibited the activity of α-glucosidase with efficacy values from 29.7 to 87.6% and α-amylase from 25.31 to 56.2%, with moderate antiglycation potential (15.2 to 73.2%). Phenolic acids, anthocyanins, and flavonoid decreases were detected in boiled samples by HPLC-MS analysis. Although boiling reduced the phenolic compounds, bioactive compounds remained in a considerable content in boiled ayocote.
Engineering In-Co3O4/H-SSZ-39(OA) Catalyst for CH4-SCR of NOx: Mild Oxalic Acid (OA) Leaching and Co3O4 Modification
Authors: Chen Guanyu , Zhang Weixin , Zhu Rongshu , Chen Yanpeng , Zhao Minghu , Hong Mei
Published: August 2024

Zeolite-based catalysts efficiently catalyze the selective catalytic reduction of NOx with methane (CH4-SCR) for the environmentally friendly removal of nitrogen oxides, but suffer severe deactivation in high-temperature SO2- and H2O-containing flue gas. In this work, SSZ-39 zeolite (AEI topology) with high hydrothermal stability is reported for preparing CH4-SCR catalysts. Mild acid leaching with oxalic acid (OA) not only modulates the Si/Al ratio of commercial SSZ-39 to a suitable value, but also removes some extra-framework Al atoms, introducing a small number of mesopores into the zeolite that alleviate diffusion limitation. Additional Co3O4 modification during indium exchange further enhances the catalytic activity of the resulting In-Co3O4/H-SSZ-39(OA). The optimized sample exhibits remarkable performance in CH4-SCR under a gas hourly space velocity (GHSV) of 24,000 h−1 and in the presence of 5 vol% H2O. Even under harsh SO2- and H2O-containing high-temperature conditions, it shows satisfactory stability. Catalysts containing Co3O4 components demonstrate much higher CH4 conversion. The strong mutual interaction between Co3O4 and Brønsted acid sites, confirmed by the temperature-programmed desorption of NO (NO-TPD), enables more stable NxOy species to be retained in In-Co3O4/H-SSZ-39(OA) to supply further reactions at high temperatures.
Interfacial Rheological Investigation of Modified Silica Nanoparticles with Different Alkyl Chain Lengths at the n-Octane/Water Interface
Authors: Xu Long , Wen Shijie , Xie Qiuyu , Fan Fangning , Wang Qiang , Zhang Xuehao , Lv Kaihe , Jia Han , Sun Hai
Published: August 2024

The interfacial dilational rheology of silica nanoparticles (NPs) directly reflects the relationship between surface structure and interfacial behaviors in NPs, which has attracted significant attention in various industrial fields. In this work, modified silica nanoparticles (MNPs) with various alkyl chain lengths were synthesized and systematically characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectra, Zeta potential, and water contact angle measurements. It was found that the MNPs were successfully fabricated with similar degrees of modification. Subsequently, the interfacial behaviors of the MNPs in an n-octane/water system were investigated through interfacial dilational rheological experiments. The length of the modified alkyl chain dominated the hydrophilic–lipophile balance and the interfacial activity of the MNPs, evaluated by the equilibrium interfacial tension (IFT) variation and dilational elasticity modulus. In the large amplitude compression experiment, the balance between the electrostatic repulsion and interfacial activity in the MNPs was responsible for their ordered interfacial arrangement. The MNPs with the hexyl alkyl chain (M6C) presented the optimal amphipathy and could partly overcome the repulsion, causing a dramatic change in surface pressure. This was further confirmed by the variations in IFT and dilational elasticity during the compression path. The study provides novel insights into the interfacial rheology and interactions of functionally modified NPs.
Anisotropic SmFe10V2 Bulk Magnets with Enhanced Coercivity via Ball Milling Process
Authors: Zhou Tian Hong , Zhang Baochao , Zheng Xing , Song Youngwoon , Si Pingzhan , Choi Chul-Jin , Cho Young-Rae , Park Jihoon
Published: August 2024

Anisotropic bulk magnets of ThMn12-type SmFe10V2 with a high coercivity (Hc) were successfully fabricated. Powders with varying particle sizes were prepared using the ball milling process, where the particle size was controlled with milling time. A decrease in Hc occurred in the heat-treated bulk pressed from large-sized powders, while heavy oxidation excessively occurred in small powders, leading to the decomposition of the SmFe10V2 (1–12) phase. The highest Hc of 8.9 kOe was achieved with powders ball-milled for 5 h due to the formation of the grain boundary phase. To improve the maximum energy product ((BH)max), which is only 2.15 MGOe in the isotropic bulk, anisotropic bulks were prepared using the same powders. The easy alignment direction, confirmed by XRD and EBSD measurements, was <002>. Significant enhancements were observed, with saturation magnetization (Ms) increasing from 59 to 79 emu/g and a remanence ratio (Mr/Ms) of 83.7%. (BH)max reaching 7.85 MGOe. For further improvement of magnetic properties, controlling oxidation is essential to form a uniform grain boundary phase and achieve perfect alignment with small grain size.
A Novel Fabrication of Hematite Nanoparticles via Recycling of Titanium Slag by Pyrite Reduction Technology
Authors: Ren Genkuan , Deng Yinwen , Yang Xiushan
Published: August 2024

An enormous quantity of titanium slag has caused not merely serious environment pollution, but also a huge waste of iron and sulfur resources. Hence, recycling iron and sulfur resources from titanium slag has recently been an urgent problem. Herein, hematite nanoparticles were fabricated through a pyrite reduction approach using as-received titanium slag as the iron source and pyrite as the reducing agent in an nitrogen atmosphere. The physicochemical properties of the hematite nanoparticles were analyzed using multiple techniques such as X-ray diffraction pattern, ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometry, and scanning electron microscopy. The best synthesis conditions for hematite nanoparticles were found at 550 °C for 30 min with the mass ratio of 14:1 for titanium slag and pyrite. The results demonstrated that hematite nanoparticles with an average particle diameter of 45 nm were nearly spherical in shape. The specific surface area, pore volume, and pore size estimated according to the BET method were 19.6 m2/g, 0.117 cm3/g, and 0.89 nm, respectively. Meanwhile, the fabricated hematite nanoparticles possessed weak ferromagnetic behavior and good absorbance in the wavelength range of 200 nm-600 nm, applied as a visible light responsive catalyst. Consequently, these results show that hematite nanoparticles formed by the pyrite reduction technique have a promising application prospect for magnetic material and photocatalysis.
Plant-Derived Extracellular Vesicles as a Novel Frontier in Cancer Therapeutics
Authors: Cui Lishan , Perini Giordano , Palmieri Valentina , De Spirito Marco , Papi Massimiliano
Published: August 2024

Recent advancements in nanomedicine and biotechnology have unveiled the remarkable potential of plant-derived extracellular vesicles (PDEVs) as a novel and promising approach for cancer treatment. These naturally occurring nanoscale particles exhibit exceptional biocompatibility, targeted delivery capabilities, and the capacity to load therapeutic agents, positioning them at the forefront of innovative cancer therapy strategies. PDEVs are distinguished by their unique properties that facilitate tumor targeting and penetration, thereby enhancing the efficacy of drug delivery systems. Their intrinsic biological composition allows for the evasion of the immune response, enabling the efficient transport of loaded therapeutic molecules directly to tumor sites. Moreover, PDEVs possess inherent anti-cancer properties, including the ability to induce cell cycle arrest and promote apoptotic pathways within tumor cells. These vesicles have also demonstrated antimetastatic effects, inhibiting the spread and growth of cancer cells. The multifunctional nature of PDEVs allows for the simultaneous delivery of multiple therapeutic agents, further enhancing their therapeutic potential. Engineering and modification techniques, such as encapsulation, and the loading of therapeutic agents via electroporation, sonication, and incubation, have enabled the customization of PDEVs to improve their targeting efficiency and therapeutic load capacity. This includes surface modifications to increase affinity for specific tumor markers and the encapsulation of various types of therapeutic agents, such as small molecule drugs, nucleic acids, and proteins. Their plant-derived origin offers an abundant and renewable source to produce therapeutic vesicles, reducing costs and facilitating scalability for clinical applications. This review provides an in-depth analysis of the latest research on PDEVs as emerging anti-cancer agents in cancer therapy.
Lactoferrin Supplementation during Pregnancy and Lactation Protects Adult Male Rat Offspring from Hypertension Induced by Maternal Adenine Diet
Authors: Tain You-Lin , Hou Chih-Yao , Chen Wei-Ling , Liao Wei-Ting , Hsu Chien-Ning
Published: August 2024

Lactoferrin, a glycoprotein derived from breastmilk, is recognized for its health benefits in infants and children; however, its protective effects when administered during gestation and lactation against offspring hypertension remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether maternal lactoferrin supplementation could prevent hypertension in offspring born to mothers with chronic kidney disease (CKD), with a focus on nitric oxide (NO), renin–angiotensin system (RAS) regulation, and alterations in gut microbiota and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Prior to pregnancy, female rats were subjected to a 0.5% adenine diet for 3 weeks to induce CKD. During pregnancy and lactation, pregnant rats received one of four diets: normal chow, 0.5% adenine diet, 10% lactoferrin diet, or adenine diet supplemented with lactoferrin. Male offspring were euthanized at 12 weeks of age (n = 8 per group). Supplementation with lactoferrin during gestation and lactation prevented hypertension in adult offspring induced by a maternal adenine diet. The maternal adenine diet caused a decrease in the index of NO availability, which was restored by 67% with maternal LF supplementation. Additionally, LF was related to the regulation of the RAS, as evidenced by a reduced renal expression of renin and the angiotensin II type 1 receptor. Combined maternal adenine and LF diets altered beta diversity, shifted the offspring’s gut microbiota, decreased propionate levels, and reduced the renal expression of SCFA receptors. The beneficial effects of lactoferrin are likely mediated through enhanced NO availability, rebalancing the RAS, and alterations in gut microbiota composition and SCFAs. Our findings suggest that maternal lactoferrin supplementation improves hypertension in offspring in a model of adenine-induced CKD, bringing us closer to potentially translating lactoferrin supplementation clinically for children born to mothers with CKD.
Red and Processed Meat Intake, Polygenic Risk and the Prevalence of Colorectal Neoplasms: Results from a Screening Colonoscopy Population
Authors: Fu Ruojin , Chen Xuechen , Seum Teresa , Hoffmeister Michael , Brenner Hermann
Published: August 2024

High red and processed meat intake and genetic predisposition are risk factors of colorectal cancer (CRC). However, evidence of their independent and joint associations on the risk of colorectal neoplasms is limited. We assessed these associations among 4774 men and women undergoing screening colonoscopy. Polygenic risk scores (PRSs) were calculated based on 140 loci related to CRC. We used multiple logistic regression models to evaluate the associations of red and processed meat intake and PRS with the risk of colorectal neoplasms. Adjusted odds ratios (aORs) were translated to genetic risk equivalents (GREs) to compare the strength of the associations with colorectal neoplasm risk of both factors. Compared to ≤1 time/week, processed meat intake >1 time/week was associated with a significantly increased risk of colorectal neoplasm [aOR (95% CI): 1.28 (1.12–1.46)]. This risk increase was equivalent to the risk increase associated with a 19 percentile higher PRS. The association of red meat intake with colorectal neoplasm was weaker and did not reach statistical significance. High processed meat intake and PRS contribute to colorectal neoplasm risk independently. Limiting processed meat intake may offset a substantial proportion of the genetically increased risk of colorectal neoplasms.
Adaptation of Brown Adipose Tissue in Response to Chronic Exposure to the Environmental Pollutant 1,1-Dichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl) Ethylene (DDE) and/or a High-Fat Diet in Male Wistar Rats
Authors: Migliaccio Vincenzo , Di Gregorio Ilaria , Penna Serena , Panico Giuliana , Lombardi Assunta , Lionetti Lillà
Published: August 2024

Brown adipose tissue (BAT) participates in thermogenesis and energy homeostasis. Studies on factors capable of influencing BAT function, such as a high-fat diet (HFD) or exposure to environmental pollutants, could be useful for finding metabolic targets for maintaining energy homeostasis. We evaluated the effect of chronic exposure to dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE), the major metabolite of dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), and/or a HFD on BAT morphology, mitochondrial mass, dynamics, and oxidative stress in rats. To this end, male Wistar rats were treated for 4 weeks with a standard diet, or a HFD alone, or together with DDE. An increase in paucilocular adipocytes and the lipid droplet size were observed in HFD-treated rats, which was associated with a reduction in mitochondrial mass and in mitochondrial fragmentation, as well as with increased oxidative stress and upregulation of the superoxide dismutase-2. DDE administration mimics most of the effects induced by a HFD on BAT, and it aggravates the increase in the lipid droplet size when administered together with a HFD. Considering the known role of oxidative stress in altering BAT functionality, it could underlie the ability of both DDE and a HFD to induce similar metabolic adaptations in BAT, leading to reduced tissue thermogenesis, which can result in a predisposition to the onset of energy homeostasis disorders.
The Wide Spectrum of Presentations of Cytomegalovirus Infection in Immunocompetent Hosts: An Exhaustive Narrative Review
Authors: Schattner Ami
Published: August 2024

CMV is a ubiquitous DNA virus that establishes infection and results in 40–100% seropositivity. Viral replication occurs following an acquired primary infection (or reinfection) or by the reactivation of life-long latency. In immunocompetent patients, CMV infection is mostly asymptomatic or mild and self-limited. However, an extensive review of the literature published up to April 2024 reveals that despite immunocompetence, CMV can cause a very large variety of clinical syndromes in any part of the gastrointestinal tract (the most common pattern), the central or peripheral nervous system, and the eyes, as well as hematological, pulmonary, cardiac, and cutaneous disease. Not uncommonly, more than one system is involved, and though the disease is often self-limited, treatment with intravenous ganciclovir or oral valganciclovir may be required, and in isolated cases, fatalities may occur. Thus, a potential CMV infection should be considered in the differential of myriad syndromes in non-immunocompromised patients. Associated systemic symptoms (fever, sweats, and weight loss), lymphocytosis, and hepatitis are not uncommon and can be a useful clue. Some populations, such as critically ill patients in intensive care, pregnant women, elderly patients, and those with inflammatory bowel disease, may be more susceptible. Moreover, the potential of past, latent CMV infection (i.e., CMV seropositivity) to be associated with significant cardiovascular morbidity and all-cause mortality years later is intriguing and requires further study. All these data indicate the outstanding importance of developing a vaccine against CMV, which hopefully will become available in the foreseeable future. Meanwhile, a solid diagnosis of active CMV infection can be quickly established (or ruled out) by widely available serology tests and PCR amplification, and clinicians in all disciplines need to be more aware of the diverse guises of CMV infection and remember to consider it in any host, including an immunocompetent one.
Real-World Application of a Quantitative Systems Pharmacology (QSP) Model to Predict Potassium Concentrations from Electronic Health Records: A Pilot Case towards Prescribing Monitoring of Spironolactone
Authors: Meid Andreas D. , Scherkl Camilo , Metzner Michael , Czock David , Seidling Hanna M.
Published: August 2024

Quantitative systems pharmacology (QSP) models are rarely applied prospectively for decision-making in clinical practice. We therefore aimed to operationalize a QSP model for potas-sium homeostasis to predict potassium trajectories based on spironolactone administrations. For this purpose, we proposed a general workflow that was applied to electronic health records (EHR) from patients treated in a German tertiary care hospital. The workflow steps included model exploration, local and global sensitivity analyses (SA), identifiability analysis (IA) of model parameters, and specification of their inter-individual variability (IIV). Patient covariates, selected parameters, and IIV then defined prior information for the Bayesian a posteriori prediction of individual potassium trajectories of the following day. Following these steps, the successfully operationalized QSP model was interactively explored via a Shiny app. SA and IA yielded five influential and estimable parameters (extracellular fluid volume, hyperaldosteronism, mineral corticoid receptor abundance, potassium intake, sodium intake) for Bayesian prediction. The operationalized model was validated in nine pilot patients and showed satisfactory performance based on the (absolute) average fold error. This provides proof-of-principle for a Prescribing Monitoring of potassium concentrations in a hospital system, which could suggest preemptive clinical measures and therefore potentially avoid dangerous hyperkalemia or hypokalemia.
Central Nervous System Involvement in Systemic Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases—Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Juncker Aline Santana , Appenzeller Simone , de Souza Jean Marcos
Published: August 2024

Central nervous system (CNS) involvement in autoimmune rheumatic diseases represents a significant challenge for clinicians across all specialties. While most reviews on the subject focus on neurological manifestations within a specific rheumatic disease, few descriptions shift from neurological clinical syndromes to achieve rheumatological diagnoses. This narrative review aims to synthesize current knowledge on the diagnosis and management of CNS manifestations occurring in the most prevalent rheumatic conditions in adults. We searched the MEDLINE database using the terms “central nervous system”, “rheumatic diseases”, “systemic lupus erythematosus”, “rheumatoid arthritis”, “Sjögren syndrome”, and “vasculitis”. The search strategy included review articles from 2019 to 2024, published in English, Spanish, or Portuguese. We explored the pathophysiological mechanisms linking autoimmunity to CNS pathology, emphasizing the role of syndromic reasoning, autoantibody profiles, and imaging modalities as tools for diagnosis and determination of inflammatory activity. The review also discusses differential diagnoses through a stepwise approach to neurological syndromes, summarized in diagnostic flowcharts, and presents updated treatment options. Although our approach is primarily semiology-based, the complexity of the subject invites future endeavors involving new technologies, such as functional MRI, MR spectroscopy, and nuclear medicine.
Artemisia vulgaris Extract as a Novel Therapeutic Approach for Reversing Diabetic Cardiomyopathy in a Rat Model
Authors: Liza  , Hussain Ghulam , Malik Abdul , Akhtar Suhail , Anwar Haseeb
Published: August 2024

Diabetic cardiomyopathy, a severe diabetic complication, impairs heart function, leading to heart failure. Treatment that effectively addresses this condition without causing side effects is urgently needed. Current anti-hyperglycemic therapies are expensive, has side effects and do not effectively prevent cardiac remodeling. Therefore, it is important to explore natural products that may have the potential to reverse cardiac remodeling. That is why the aim of the current study was to determine the left ventricular remodeling potential of the methanolic extract of Artemisia vulgaris in a diabetic cardiomyopathy rat model. Following the initial comprehensive phytochemical evaluation of plant phenolic and flavonoid content, which showed strong anti-hyperglycemic and antioxidant activities, an extract of Artemisia vulgaris was administered in an in vivo experiment. Diabetic cardiomyopathy was induced in Wistar albino rats according to previously described protocols in the literature, and the effect of treatment was checked by serum and histopathological analysis after 45 days. Artemisia vulgaris treatment significantly (p ≤ 0.05) reduced fasting blood glucose (108.5 ± 1.75 mg/dL), glycated hemoglobin (4.03 ± 0.12 %), serum glucose (116.66 ± 3.28 mg/dL), insulin (15.66 ± 0.66 ng/mL), total oxidant status (54.66 ± 3.22 µmol H2O2Equiv.L−1), Malondialdehyde (0.20 ± 0.01 mmol/L), total cholesterol (91.16 ± 3.35 mg/dL), triglycerides (130.66 ± 3.15 mg/dL), low-density lipids (36.57 ± 1.02 mg/dL), sodium (140 ± 3.21 mmol/L), calcium (10.44 ± 0.24 mmol/L), creatine kinase MB (1227.5 ± 17.89 IU/L), lactate dehydrogenase (1300 ± 34.64 IU/L), C-reactive protein (30 ± 0.57 pg/mL), tumor necrosis factor-α (58.66 ± 1.76 pg/mL), atrial natriuretic peptide (2.53 ± 0.04 pg/mL), B-type natriuretic peptide (10.66 ± 0.44 pg/mL), aspartate aminotransferase (86.5 ± 4.99 U/L), Alanine Transaminase (55.33 ± 2.90 U/L), urea (25.33 ± 1.15 mg/dL) and creatinine (0.64 ± 0.02 mg/dL) but significantly increased (p ≤ 0.05) total antioxidant capacity (1.73 ± 0.07 mmol Trolox Equil./L), high-density lipids (40 ± 1.59 mg/dL) and potassium (3.82 ± 0.04 mmol/L) levels. ECG and histopathology confirmed the significant improvement in remodeling and the reversal of structural changes in the heart and pancreas. In conclusion, Artemisia vulgaris possesses significant left ventricular remodeling potential in course of diabetes-induced cardiomyopathy.
Guidance on Selecting Optimal Steady-State Tacrolimus Concentrations for Continuous IV Perfusion: Insights from Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modeling
Authors: Martischang Romain , Nikolaou Argyro , Daali Youssef , Samer Caroline Flora , Terrier Jean
Published: August 2024

Introduction: The dose–response relationships of tacrolimus have been primarily assessed through trough concentrations during intermittent administrations. In scenarios where oral administration (PO) is unfeasible, continuous intravenous (IV) administration is advised. Under these circumstances, only steady-state (Css) plasma or blood concentrations are measured, with the absence of distinct trough levels (Cmin). Consequently, the measured concentrations are frequently misinterpreted as trough concentrations, potentially resulting in sub-therapeutic true tacrolimus blood levels. This study employs physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling (PBPK) to establish the Css/Cmin ratio for tacrolimus across various clinical scenarios. Method: Using a validated PBPK model, the tacrolimus dose (both PO and IV) and the Css/Cmin ratios corresponding to matching area under the blood concentration–time curve during a dosage interval (AUCτ) values were estimated under different conditions, including healthy subjects and individuals exhibiting cytochrome P450 3A (CYP3A) interactions or CYP3A5 polymorphisms, along with a demonstration of a real-life clinical application. Result: In healthy volunteers, the oral/intravenous (PO/IV) dose ratio was found to be 4.25, and the Css/Cmin ratio was 1.40. A specific clinical case substantiated the practical applicability of the Css/Cmin ratio as simulated by PBPK, demonstrating no immediate clinical complications related to the transplant. When considering liver donors versus recipients expressing CYP3A5, the tacrolimus AUCτ was notably affected, yielding a PO/IV dose ratio of 4.00 and a Css/Cmin ratio of 1.75. Furthermore, the concomitant administration of the CYP3A inhibitor itraconazole given PO resulted in a PO/IV ratio of 1.75 with and a Css/Cmin ratio of 1.28. Notably, the inhibitory effect of itraconazole was diminished when administered IV. Conclusions: Through the application of PBPK methodologies, this study estimates the PO/IV dose ratios and Css/Cmin ratios that can enhance dose adjustment and therapeutic drug monitoring during the switch between IV and PO administration of tacrolimus in transplant patients, ultimately guiding clinicians in real-time decision-making. Further validation with in vivo data is recommended to support these findings.
Influence of the Extraction Method on the Biological Potential of Solidago virgaurea L. Essential Oil and Hydrolates
Authors: Malićanin Marko , Karabegović Ivana , Đorđević Natalija , Mančić Stojan , Stojanović Sandra Stamenković , Brković Duško , Danilović Bojana
Published: August 2024

Solidago virgaurea L., or European goldenrod, has a long tradition in folk medicine due to the wide range of its biological activity. This paper aimed to investigate the antimicrobial and antioxidative potential of S. virgaurea essential oil and hydrolates obtained by traditional and novel extraction techniques. For that purpose, hydrodistillation, microwave-assisted hydrodistillation and solvent-free extraction were performed. Analysis of the composition of essential oils indicated the presence of 59 different compounds with cyclocolorenone, germacrene D and spathulenol being the dominant in all essential oil samples. Antimicrobial activity was detected in all the analyzed samples, with higher effect on Gram-positive microorganisms compared to Gram-negative. Regarding the type of performed extraction process, the introduction of microwaves induced higher antimicrobial and antioxidative potential in both essential oils and hydrolates. Hydrolates obtained in microwave-assisted processes had pronounced antioxidative activity, which creates a good basis for further investigation of this side product’s potential use in the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.
Anti-Skin Aging Potential, Antibacterial Activity, Inhibition of Single-Stranded DNA-Binding Protein, and Cytotoxic Effects of Acetone-Extracted Passiflora edulis (Tainung No. 1) Rind Extract on Oral Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Huang Yen-Hua , Huang Cheng-Yang
Published: August 2024

The passion fruit, Passiflora edulis, recognized for its rich nutritional properties, has long been used for its varied ethnobotanical applications. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of P. edulis var. Tainung No. 1 rind extracts by examining their polyphenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), anti-skin aging activities against key enzymes such as elastase, tyrosinase, and hyaluronidase, and their ability to inhibit bacterial growth, single-stranded DNA-binding protein (SSB), and their cytotoxic effects on oral carcinoma cells. The acetone extract from the rind exhibited the highest levels of TPC, TFC, anti-SSB, and antibacterial activities. The antibacterial effectiveness of the acetone-extracted rind was ranked as follows: Escherichia coli > Pseudomonas aeruginosa > Staphylococcus aureus. A titration curve for SSB inhibition showed an IC50 value of 313.2 μg/mL, indicating the potency of the acetone extract in inhibiting SSB. It also significantly reduced the activity of enzymes associated with skin aging, particularly tyrosinase, with a 54.5% inhibition at a concentration of 100 μg/mL. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis tentatively identified several major bioactive compounds in the acetone extract, including stigmast-5-en-3-ol, vitamin E, palmitic acid, stigmasterol, linoleic acid, campesterol, and octadecanoic acid. Molecular docking studies suggested some of these compounds as potential inhibitors of tyrosinase and SSB. Furthermore, the extract demonstrated anticancer potential against Ca9-22 oral carcinoma cells by inhibiting cell survival, migration, and proliferation and inducing apoptosis. These results underscore the potential of P. edulis (Tainung No. 1) rind as a promising candidate for anti-skin aging, antibacterial, and anticancer applications, meriting further therapeutic investigation.
A Study of Hydroxyl-Terminated Block Copolyether-Based Binder Curing Kinetics
Authors: Yang Wu , Ding Zhengmao , Zhu Cong , Li Tianqi , Liu Wenhao , Luo Yunjun
Published: August 2024

In order to determine the curing reaction model and corresponding parameters of hydroxyl-terminated block copolyether (HTPE) and provide a theoretical reference for its practical application, the non-isothermal differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) method was used to analyze the curing processes of three curing systems with HTPE and N-100 (an aliphatic polyisocyanate curing agent), isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), and a mixture of N-100 and IPDI as curing agents. The results show that the curing activation energy of N-100 and HTPE was about 69.37 kJ/mol, slightly lower than the curing activation energy of IPDI and HTPE (75.60 kJ/mol), and the curing activation energy of the mixed curing agent and HTPE was 69.79 kJ/mol. The curing process of HTPE conformed to the autocatalytic reaction model. The non-catalytic reaction order (n) of N-100 and HTPE was about 1.2, and the autocatalytic order (m) was about 0.3, both lower than those of IPDI and HTPE. The reaction kinetics parameters of the N-100 and IPDI mixed curing agent with HTPE were close to those of N-100 and HTPE. The verification results indicate a high degree of overlap between the experimental data and the calculated data.
Edible, Active and Intelligent Food Packaging Polymeric Materials
Authors: Vrabič-Brodnjak Urška
Published: August 2024

With a focus on sustainability and functionality, this Special Issue looks at various topics, including novel food-packaging solutions, bio-based adhesives, and the integration of nanotechnology to improve performance. It emphasizes the importance of understanding limitations and overcoming them through innovation, highlighting the crucial role of bio-based materials in ensuring food safety and quality, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Future research areas emphasize the need for holistic approaches that prioritize circularity and sustainability throughout the packaging lifecycle. By fostering collaboration and innovation, this Special Issue aims to make progress towards a more sustainable and resilient future for food packaging.
Experimental and Numerical Simulation Study on Enhancing Gas Recovery with Impure CO2 in Gas Reservoirs
Authors: Zhao Zihan , Wen Shaomu , Wang Mengyu , Zhang Lianjin , Cao Cheng , Yang Changcheng , Li Longxin
Published: August 2024

To achieve carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals, using CO2 to enhance natural gas recovery has broad application prospects. However, the potential for CO2 to increase recovery rates remains unclear, the mechanisms are not fully understood, and the cost of purifying CO2 is high. Therefore, studying the effects of impure CO2 on natural gas extraction is of significant importance. This study investigated the effects of injection timing and gas composition on natural gas recovery through high-temperature, high-pressure, long-core displacement experiments. Based on the experimental results, numerical simulations of CO2-enhanced gas recovery and sequestration were conducted, examining the impact of impurity gas concentration, injection timing, injection speed, and water saturation on recovery efficiency. The results indicate that higher impurity levels in CO2 increase gas diffusion, reducing the effectiveness of natural gas recovery and decreasing CO2 sequestration. Earlier injection timing improves recovery efficiency but results in a lower ultimate recovery rate. Higher injection speeds and water saturation levels both effectively enhance recovery rates.
Severe Bushmaster Snakebite Envenoming: Case Report and Overview
Authors: Garcês-Filho Allan Quadros , Santos Humberto H. M. , Aguiar Thays K. P. P. , Ramos Dafnin L. S. , Galan Luis E. B. , Dantas Domingos S. M. , Cerni Felipe A. , Carbonell Roberto C. , Pucca Manuela B.
Published: August 2024

Unlike the well-documented bothropic and crotalid snakebites in Brazil, lachetic envenomings (i.e., triggered by the bushmaster snake) are rare and present significant diagnostic challenges. This case describes a severe envenoming induced by a Lachesis muta snake in a 26-year-old Brazilian man who was bitten near a forest in November 2022. Characteristic symptoms such as sweating and bradycardia pointed towards lachetic envenoming, but initial misdiagnosis as a bothropic bite resulted in a delay in appropriate antivenom therapy. Despite later receiving the correct treatment, the severity of the envenoming necessitated the amputation of a finger and triggered a severe infection. This report highlights the challenges of diagnosing and treating Lachesis spp. bites due to their rarity. Moreover, an overview of lachetic-induced signs and symptoms was explored. This study emphasizes that further reports are warranted to improve understanding of Lachesis muta envenoming and to optimize treatment strategies.
Enhancing Remote Sensing Object Detection with K-CBST YOLO: Integrating CBAM and Swin-Transformer
Authors: Cheng Aonan , Xiao Jincheng , Li Yingcheng , Sun Yiming , Ren Yafeng , Liu Jianli
Published: August 2024

Object detection via remote sensing encounters significant challenges due to factors such as small target sizes, uneven target distribution, and complex backgrounds. This paper introduces the K-CBST YOLO algorithm, which is designed to address these challenges. It features a novel architecture that integrates the Convolutional Block Attention Module (CBAM) and Swin-Transformer to enhance global semantic understanding of feature maps and maximize the utilization of contextual information. Such integration significantly improves the accuracy with which small targets are detected against complex backgrounds. Additionally, we propose an improved detection network that combines the improved K-Means algorithm with a smooth Non-Maximum Suppression (NMS) algorithm. This network employs an adaptive dynamic K-Means clustering algorithm to pinpoint target areas of concentration in remote sensing images that feature varied distributions and uses a smooth NMS algorithm to suppress the confidence of overlapping candidate boxes, thereby minimizing their interference with subsequent detection results. The enhanced algorithm substantially bolsters the model’s robustness in handling multi-scale target distributions, preserves more potentially valid information, and diminishes the likelihood of missed detections. This study involved experiments performed on the publicly available DIOR remote sensing image dataset and the DOTA aerial image dataset. Our experimental results demonstrate that, compared with other advanced detection algorithms, K-CBST YOLO outperforms all its counterparts in handling both datasets. It achieved a 68.3% mean Average Precision (mAP) on the DIOR dataset and a 78.4% mAP on the DOTA dataset.
Rational-Function-Model-Based Rigorous Bundle Adjustment for Improving the Relative Geometric Positioning Accuracy of Multiple Korea Multi-Purpose Satellite-3A Images
Authors: Ban Seunghwan , Kim Taejung
Published: August 2024

Recent advancements in satellite technology have significantly increased the availability of high-resolution imagery for Earth observation, enabling nearly all regions to be captured frequently throughout the year. These images have become a vast source of big data and hold immense potential for various applications, including environmental monitoring, urban planning, and disaster management. However, obtaining ground control points (GCPs) and performing geometric correction is a time-consuming and costly process, often limiting the efficient use of these images. To address this challenge, this study introduces a Rational Function Model (RFM)-based rigorous bundle adjustment method to enhance the relative geometric positioning accuracy of multiple KOMPSAT-3A images without the need for GCPs. The proposed method was tested using KOMPSAT-3A images. The results showed a significant improvement in geometric accuracy, with mean positional errors reduced from 30.02 pixels to 2.21 pixels. This enhancement ensured that the corrected images derived from the proposed method were reliable and accurate, making it highly valuable for various geospatial applications.
Assessing Future Ecological Sustainability Shaped by Shared Socioeconomic Pathways: Insights from an Arid Farming–Pastoral Zone of China
Authors: Ji Jiachen , Zhang Sunxun , Zhou Tingting , Zhang Fan , Zhao Tianqi , Wu Xinying , Zhuo Yanan , Zhang Yue , Lu Naijing
Published: August 2024

Ecological sustainability quantifies the capacity of an ecological system to sustain its health while fulfilling human survival needs and supporting future development. An accurate projection of ecological dynamics for sustainability is crucial for decision-makers to comprehend potential risks. However, the intricate interplay between climate change and human activity has hindered comprehensive assessments of future ecological sustainability, leaving it inadequately investigated thus far. This study aimed to assess future ecological sustainability shaped by the Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs) using remote sensing data from a typical arid farming–pastoral zone located at the northern foot of Yinshan Mountain (NFYM), Inner Mongolia, China. Five machine learning models were employed to evaluate the relationship between ecological sustainability and its driving factors. The results indicate that (1) overall ecological sustainability initially decreased and then increased during 2003–2022; (2) the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory Earth System Model version 4 (GFDL-ESM4) mode and random forest model demonstrated the best performance in climate and ecological sustainability simulations; and (3) the annual change rates of ecological sustainability from 2023 to 2099 are projected to be +0.45%, −0.05%, and −0.46% per year under the SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, and SSP5-8.5 scenarios, respectively, suggesting that stringent environmental policies can effectively enhance ecological sustainability. The proposed framework can assist decision-makers in understanding ecological changes under different SSPs and calls for strategies to enhance ecosystem resilience in the NFYM and similar regions.