bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells: A New Frontier in the Management of Patients with Diabetes and No-Option Critical Limb Ischaemia
Authors: Meloni Marco , Giurato Laura , Andreadi Aikaterini , Bellizzi Ermanno , Bellia Alfonso , Lauro Davide , Uccioli Luigi
Published: September 2023

The current study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PB-MNC) therapy as adjuvant treatment for patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) and no-option critical limb ischaemia (NO-CLI). The study is a prospective, noncontrolled, observational study including patients with neuro-ischaemic DFUs and NO-CLI who had unsuccessful revascularization below the ankle (BTA) and persistence of foot ischaemia defined by TcPO2 values less than 30 mmHg. All patients received three cycles of PB-MNC therapy administered through a “below-the-ankle approach” in the affected foot along the wound-related artery according to the angiosome theory. The primary outcome measures were healing, major amputation, and survival after 1 year of follow-up. The secondary outcome measures were the evaluation of tissue perfusion by TcPO2 and foot pain defined by the numerical rating scale (NRS). Fifty-five patients were included. They were aged >70 years old and the majority were male and affected by type 2 diabetes with a long diabetes duration (>20 years); the majority of DFUs were infected and nearly 90% were assessed as gangrene. Overall, 69.1% of patients healed and survived, 3.6% healed and deceased, 10.9% did not heal and deceased, and 16.4% had a major amputation. At baseline and after PB-MNC therapy, the TcPO2 values were 17 ± 11 and 41 ± 12 mmHg, respectively (p < 0.0001), while the pain values (NRS) were 6.8 ± 1.7 vs. 2.8 ± 1.7, respectively (p < 0.0001). Any adverse event was recorded during the PB-MNC therapy. Adjuvant PB-MNC therapy seems to promote good outcomes in patients with NO-CLI and neuro-ischaemic DFUs.
The Clinical Application of Established and Emerging Biomarkers for Chronic Respiratory Diseases
Authors: Ambrosino Pasquale , Marcuccio Giuseppina , Manzo Fabio , Mancusi Costantino , Merola Claudia , Maniscalco Mauro
Published: September 2023

Biomarkers are indicators of a pathological or physiological state, and they are essential for facilitating the diagnosis of a subclinical condition, understanding the origin or progression of a disease, stratifying the risk, and assessing the response to a specific therapeutic approach [...]
The Evolution of Zoos as Conservation Institutions: A Summary of the Transition from Menageries to Zoological Gardens and Parallel Improvement of Mammalian Welfare Management
Authors: Beer Haley N. , Shrader Trenton C. , Schmidt Ty B. , Yates Dustin T.
Published: September 2023

Zoological institutions, which were once exclusively for entertainment, are now leaders of wildlife conservation. This centuries-long transition was punctuated by key milestones that reformed wild animal exploitation into a mission of protection. Modern zoos perform ex situ activities to preserve natural resources, which are enabled by the housing of wild species. Zoo-managed animals facilitate new scientific knowledge, public education, and strategic breeding to maintain genetic diversity. Prioritizing animal welfare management is a key advancement for modern zoos, as it lessens stress and improves quality of life. Environments enriched with sensory stimuli promote naturalistic behaviors and provide opportunities for instinctual activities like foraging and hunting. This increases resiliency by reducing stress and boredom. However, such approaches only benefit welfare when appropriately matched to the animal. Behavioral responses to environmental cues reflect how animals experience their environment, and properly documenting them informs management decisions. Other modern advancements include enclosure designs, research initiatives, public education programs, species-specific staff training, and collaborative population management among zoos. This review chronicles the milestones that shaped the role of modern zoological institutions in species and habitat preservation. It also discusses opportunities for the continued evolution of welfare management practices, which is fundamental information for zoo employees and stakeholders.
A Study on the Contact Characteristics of Tires–Roads Based on Pressure-Sensitive Film Technology
Authors: Chen Bo , Ding Pengbo , Wei Guojie , Xiong Chunlong , Wang Fangli , Yu Jinfeng , Yu Huayang , Zou Yuxun
Published: September 2023

Tire–road characteristics are a critical focus of research in the automotive and transportation industries. On the one hand, the research can help optimize tires’ structural design; on the other hand, it can analyze the mechanical response of the pavement structure under the vehicle load. In addition, the non-uniformity distribution of the tire ground stress will also have a direct impact on the skid resistance, which determines the driving safety. Due to the limitation of testing technology, the measurement of tire ground pressure was mainly carried out on a flat test platform, ignoring the roughness of the actual pavement surface texture. The tire–road contact characteristics research on the macro-texture and micro-texture of asphalt pavement needs to be broken through. A high-precision pressure-sensitive film measurement system is utilized to examine the actual contact characteristics between two types of automobile tires and three types of asphalt pavement in this paper. The influence law of pavement texture and patterned tires on the contact area and stress was explored, and the concentration effect of tire–road contact stress was evaluated. The results indicate that the contact area of grounding tires exhibits a nearly linear relationship with tire inflation pressure and load. Notably, the change in load has a more significant influence on the contact area than tire inflation pressure. On asphalt pavement, the contact reduction rate decreases by approximately 5–10% for block pattern tires and 10–15% for longitudinal pattern tires. Furthermore, as the texture depth of the pavement increases, the contact area between tires and the pavement texture decreases. The actual tire–road interface experiences significant stress concentration due to the embedding and meshing effects between the tire and road surface. Even on a flat steel surface, the peak stress at the edge of the tread block exceeds the 0.7 MPa design load, which is about 2.5–3 times higher than the design uniform load. The peak stress between the tire and asphalt pavement reaches 4–10 times the design uniform load, with a rising trend as the pavement texture depth increases. This study can provide relevant experimental technical support for tire design and functional design of asphalt pavement.
The Low-Cycle Fatigue Behavior, Microstructure Evolution, and Life Prediction of SS304: Influence of Temperature
Authors: Mei Ting , Wang Quanyi , Liu Meng , Jiang Yunqing , Zou Tongfei , Cai Yifan
Published: September 2023

To study the fatigue failure and microstructure evolution behavior of SS304, low-cycle fatigue tests are conducted at room temperature (RT), 300 °C, and 650 °C. The results indicate that, because of the influence of the dislocation walls, carbon-containing precipitates, and deformation twins, the cyclic hardening behavior is presented at RT. However, different from the cyclic hardening behavior at RT, the cyclic softening behavior of SS304 can be observed due to the dynamic recovery and recrystallization containing dislocation rearrangement and annihilation at 300 °C and 650 °C. In addition, two fatigue crack initiation modes are observed. At RT, the single fatigue crack initiation mode is observed. At high temperatures, multiple crack initiation modes are presented, resulting from the degradation of material properties. Furthermore, a new fatigue life prediction model considering the temperature is conducted as a reference for industrial applications.
Analysis and Optimization of Contact Material Ablation under the Cumulative Effect of the Number of Breakings of OLTC
Authors: Zhang Mingyu , Tan Yaxiong , Yang Chi , Deng Jun , Xie Zhicheng
Published: September 2023

Vacuum on-load tap-changers (OLTC) for converter transformers have a much higher number of breakings than conventional circuit breakers. Contact ablation after several breakings will affect the stability and life of the device. This paper establishes the electromagnetic thermal multi-physical field coupling model of the vacuum interrupter for OLTC based on the finite element analysis method. The thermal field distribution of normal and ablative contact materials during the breaking process was analyzed. The key parameters affecting the contact temperature under the cumulative number of breakings are analyzed and the optimized design is completed. The simulation results show that the contact surface reaches a maximum temperature of 1390 K at 8 ms. There is a significant increase in the area of the high-temperature area on the contact surface. The possibility of re-ignition of the interrupter is increased. Based on the judgment matrix method, the key influencing parameters of the contact temperature rise are analyzed. The final parameters are selected as follows: contact material—CuCr8 alloy, contact seat thickness—2 mm, contact thickness—10 mm, and contact diameter—40 mm.
Experimental Study on Bio-Reinforcement of Calcareous Sand through Hydrochloric Acid Solution Precipitation into Cementing Solution
Authors: Jiang Zhao , Wei Renjie , Dai Di , Li Liangliang , Shang Zhiyang , Tang Jiahui , Peng Jie , Li Ping
Published: September 2023

Microbially induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) technology holds great potential in enhancing soil properties. MICP can be employed to enhance the stability and strength of diverse sandy soil, but it has the shortcoming of low curing efficiency. In response to the identified problem, this study aims to investigate an optimized treatment protocol that involves formulating a cementing solution in a hydrochloric acid (HCl) solution to enhance the solidification rate in the MICP reaction and evaluate its effectiveness. The results indicate that when preparing a 1 M cementing solution in a 0.2 M HCl solution, it promotes the rapid bonding of calcareous sand particles, resulting in an unconfined compressive strength (UCS) of 1312.6 kPa in the sand column after five treatments. Compared to the conventional test group, the experimental group containing HCl exhibited an approximately 1357% increase in UCS. The analysis unveiled the pivotal role of metal ions dissolved from calcareous sand by HCl in enhancing the UCS of MICP-treated calcareous sand. The proposed experimental methodology serves as a valuable tool for designing treatment strategies for MICP-cemented calcareous sand in practical engineering applications.
Experimental Study and Numerical Analysis of Chloride Ion Diffusion in Hydrotalcite Concrete in Chloride Salt Environment
Authors: Zhou Lina , Cai Ying , Ma Cailong
Published: September 2023

Hydrotalcite, known as layered double hydroxides (LDHs), is a new type of admixture used to delay the corrosion of reinforcement. The aim of this study was to investigate the chloride ion diffusion behavior of C30 concrete with varying amounts of calcined hydrotalcite (0%, 2%, 4% and 6%) in a chloride salt environment. The NT-Build 443 test was adopted to characterize the one-dimensional accelerated chloride ion penetration of concrete. The distribution of chloride ion concentration in hydrotalcite concrete with different mix proportions immersed in sodium chloride solution for 30 days and 60 days was determined, and the chloride ion diffusion coefficient and surface chloride ion concentration were fitted based on Fick’s second law to establish the chloride ion diffusion model considering the influence of multiple factors. This model was validated using COMSOL Multiphysics finite element software. The results show that concrete mixed with LDHs can meet its compressive strength requirements and that the resistance of concrete with 2% calcined hydrotalcite to chloride ion penetration is the best with a 19.6% increase in the 30-day chloride ion penetration coefficient. The chloride ion diffusion process under chloride salt immersion conditions is in accordance with Fick’s second law. The chloride ion concentrations calculated with COMSOL software and the test results are in good agreement, which verifies the reliability of the chloride ion diffusion model.
Reliability Assessment for a Spacecraft Landing Buffer Mechanism Based on Small Sample Data
Authors: Li Ziang , Fu Huimin , Wu Qiong
Published: September 2023

The landing buffer mechanism (LBM) is a crucial component of aerospace landing explorations, determining the success of the entire mission. Reliability demonstration tests (RDTs) are required to ensure the LBM’s performance meets the design index. However, the RDTs of the LBM often encounter limited samples and zero-failure data, making traditional binominal test programs and reliability assessment methods based on the maximum likelihood theory unsuitable. This paper introduces a novel small-sample test verification method for the LBM, which transforms traditional binominal tests into more informative metrological tests by measuring the buffer strokes of the LBM’s subsystems. Furthermore, a confidence limit theory for the product of subsystem reliability is developed in conjunction with the reliability series model of the LBM. This theory can use the measurement data of subsystems to assess the confidence limit of the LBM’s reliability. An actual engineering application demonstrates that the proposed method can effectively handle zero-failure data and verifies that the LBM’s reliability exceeds 0.9999 with a confidence of 0.9.
Density-Based Clustering to Deal with Highly Imbalanced Data in Multi-Class Problems
Authors: Munguía Mondragón Julio Cesar , Rendón Lara Eréndira , Alejo Eleuterio Roberto , Granda Gutirrez Everardo Efrén , Del Razo López Federico
Published: September 2023

In machine learning and data mining applications, an imbalanced distribution of classes in the training dataset can drastically affect the performance of learning models. The class imbalance problem is frequently observed during classification tasks in real-world scenarios when the available instances of one class are much fewer than the amount of data available in other classes. Machine learning algorithms that do not consider the class imbalance could introduce a strong bias towards the majority class, while the minority class is usually despised. Thus, sampling techniques have been extensively used in various studies to overcome class imbalances, mainly based on random undersampling and oversampling methods. However, there is still no final solution, especially in the domain of multi-class problems. A strategy that combines density-based clustering algorithms with random undersampling and oversampling techniques is studied in this work. To analyze the performance of the studied method, an experimental validation was achieved on a collection of hyperspectral remote sensing images, and a deep learning neural network was utilized as the classifier. This data bank contains six datasets with different imbalance ratios, from slight to severe. The experimental results outperform the classification measured by the geometric mean of the precision compared with other state-of-the-art methods, mainly for highly imbalanced datasets.
Residual Strength Modeling and Reliability Analysis of Wind Turbine Gear under Different Random Loadings
Authors: Gao Jianxiong , Liu Yuanyuan , Yuan Yiping , Heng Fei
Published: September 2023

A novel method is proposed to investigate the pattern of variation in the residual strength and reliability of wind turbine gear. First, the interaction between loads and the effect of the loading sequence is considered based on the fatigue damage accumulation theory, and a residual strength degradation model with few parameters is established. Experimental data from two materials are used to verify the predictive performance of the proposed model. Secondly, the modeling and simulation of the wind turbine gear is conducted to analyze the types of fatigue failures and obtain their fatigue life curves. Due to the randomness of the load on the gear, the rain flow counting method and the Goodman method are employed. Thirdly, considering the seasonal variation of load, the decreasing trend of gear fatigue strength under multistage random load is calculated. Finally, the dynamic failure rate and reliability of gear fatigue failure under multistage random loads are analyzed. The results demonstrate that the randomness of residual strength increases with increasing service time. The seasonality of load causes fluctuations in the reliability of gear, providing a new idea for evaluating the reliability of the wind turbine gear.
Some Results on Third-Order Differential Subordination and Differential Superordination for Analytic Functions Using a Fractional Differential Operator
Authors: Abdulnabi Faten Fakher , Al-Janaby Hiba F. , Ghanim Firas , Alb Lupaș Alina
Published: September 2023

In this study, we explore the implications of a third-order differential subordination in the context of analytic functions associated with fractional differential operators. Our investigation involves the consideration of specific admissible classes of third-order differential functions. We also extend this exploration to establish a dual principle, resulting in a sandwich-type outcome. We introduce these admissible function classes by employing the fractional derivative operator DzαSN,Sϑz  and derive conditions on the normalized analytic function f that lead to sandwich-type subordination in combination with an appropriate fractional differential operator.
An Exponential Autoregressive Time Series Model for Complex Data
Authors: Hesamian Gholamreza , Torkian Faezeh , Johannssen Arne , Chukhrova Nataliya
Published: September 2023

In this paper, an exponential autoregressive model for complex time series data is presented. As for estimating the parameters of this nonlinear model, a three-step procedure based on quantile methods is proposed. This quantile-based estimation technique has the benefit of being more robust compared to least/absolute squares. The performance of the introduced exponential autoregressive model is evaluated by means of four established goodness-of-fit criteria. The practical utility of the novel time series model is showcased through a comparative analysis involving simulation studies and real-world data illustrations.
Tandocyclinones A and B, Ether Bridged C-Glycosyl Benz[a]anthracenes from an Intertidal Zone Streptomyces sp.
Authors: Huynh Thanh-Hau , Bae Eun Seo , Heo Bo Eun , Lee Jayho , An Joon Soo , Kwon Yun , Nam Sang-Jip , Oh Ki-Bong , Jang Jichan , Lee Sang Kook , Oh Dong-Chan
Published: September 2023

Two new proton-deficient metabolites, tandocyclinones A and B (1 and 2), were discovered via the chemical profiling of the Streptomyces sp. strain TDH03, which was isolated from a marine sediment sample collected from the intertidal mudflat in Tando Port, the Republic of Korea. The structures of 1 and 2 were elucidated as new ether-bridged C-glycosyl benz[a]anthracenes by using a combination of spectroscopic analyses of ultraviolet (UV) and mass spectrometry (MS) data, along with nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra, which were acquired in tetrahydrofuran (THF)-d8 selected after an extensive search for a solvent, resulting in mostly observable exchangeable protons in the 1H NMR spectrum. Their configurations were successfully assigned by applying a J-based configuration analysis, rotating-frame Overhauser enhancement spectroscopy (ROESY) NMR correlations, chemical derivatization methods based on NMR (a modified version of Mosher’s method) and circular dichroism (CD) (Snatzke’s method using Mo2(OAc)4-induced CD), as well as quantum-mechanics-based computational methods, to calculate the electronic circular dichroism (ECD). Tandocyclinones A and B (1 and 2) were found to have weak antifungal activity against Trichophyton mentagrophytes IFM40996 with an MIC value of 128 μg/mL (244 and 265 μM for 1 and 2, respectively). A further biological evaluation revealed that tandocyclinone A (1) displayed inhibitory activity against Mycobacterium avium (MIC50 = 40.8 μM) and antiproliferative activity against SNU638 and HCT116 cancer cells, with IC50 values of 31.9 µM and 49.4 µM, respectively.
Study of the Removal Efficiency of Chromium Ions Using a Membrane by Electro-Kinetic Technique from Sludge
Authors: Hadi Nabaa S. , Awadh Huda H.
Published: September 2023

Recently, electro-kinetic (EK) remediation has become more popular as a novel method for removing chromium contamination from soil. This approach, however, is ineffective since it uses both cationic and anionic forms of chromium. In this study, a membrane-based technique was employed to increase the efficiency of the electro-kinetic removal of chromium. Chromium removal from polluted sludge was studied using four bench-scale experiments. Two of these experiments employed distilled water (EK−1 and EK−2 and membrane), whereas the other used acetic acid as the catholyte (EK−3 and EK−4 and membrane). The pH, total chromium, and fractionation of chromium in the sludge were measured after remediation. In the EK−1, EK−2 and membrane, and EK−3 and EK−4 and membrane trials, the average removal efficiencies of total chromium were 47.6%, 58.6%, and 74.4%, 79.6%, respectively. In contrast to the electro-kinetic remediation strategy, which left approximately 80% of the sludge neutral or alkaline after treatment, the membrane created acidic soil conditions throughout the sludge. For example, the high field intensity used in the membrane tests may have helped to facilitate chromium desorption, dissolution, and separation from the sludge and enhanced chromium mobility. The findings show that the membrane can improve the effectiveness of chromium removal from sludge when utilized in the EK remediation process.
Electrolytic Characteristics of Microhole Array Manufacturing Using Polyacrylamide Electrolyte in 304 Stainless Steel
Authors: He Junfeng , Wang Zan , Zhou Wenjie , Jian Yue , Zhou Li
Published: September 2023

Because of the ease with which oxide films form on its surfaces, stainless steel has strong corrosion resistance and excellent processing performance. Electrochemical machining (ECM) is a flexible process that can create microstructures on stainless steel (SS304); however, with traditional masked ECM, the efficiency and accuracy of microstructure machining are low. Proposed here is the use of a non-Newtonian fluid [polyacrylamide (PAM)] as the electrolyte. To date, there have been few papers on the electrochemical dissolution behavior of stainless-steel micromachining with a non-Newtonian fluid as the electrolyte. The aims of the study reported here were to investigate the electrochemical properties of SS304 with PAM and PAM–NaOH as electrolytes, and to explain their electrochemical corrosion mechanisms. The effects of different electrolytes were compared, and the polarization curves of SS304 in PAM and PAM–NaOH electrolyte solutions with different components were analyzed and compared with that in NaNO3 electrolyte. Then, the effects of the main processing parameters (pulse voltage, frequency, and duty ratio) on the machining performance were investigated in detail. A microhole array was obtained with a good quality comprising an average diameter of 330.11 µm, an average depth of 16.13 µm, and a depth-to-diameter ratio of 0.048. Using PAM to process microstructures on stainless-steel surfaces was shown to be feasible, and experiments indicated that the mixed electrolyte (PAM–NaOH) had not only the physical characteristics of a non-Newtonian fluid but also the advantages of a traditional electrolyte to dissolve processing products, and it effectively improved the processing accuracy of masked ECM for SS304.
The Prevalence of Metallo-Beta-Lactamese-(MβL)-Producing Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolates in Brazil: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Dos Santos Pabllo Antonny Silva , Silva Marcos Jessé Abrahão , Gouveia Maria Isabel Montoril , Lima Luana Nepomuceno Gondim Costa , Quaresma Ana Judith Pires Garcia , De Lima Patrícia Danielle Lima , Brasiliense Danielle Murici , Lima Karla Valéria Batista , Rodrigues Yan Corrêa
Published: September 2023

The purpose of the current study is to describe the prevalence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA)-producing MβL among Brazilian isolates and the frequency of blaSPM-1 in MβL-PA-producing isolates. From January 2009 to August 2023, we carried out an investigation on this subject in the internet databases SciELO, PubMed, Science Direct, and LILACS. A total of 20 papers that met the eligibility requirements were chosen by comprehensive meta-analysis software v2.2 for data retrieval and analysis by one meta-analysis using a fixed-effects model for the two investigations. The prevalence of MβL-producing P. aeruginosa was 35.8% or 0.358 (95% CI = 0.324–0.393). The studies’ differences were significantly different from one another (x2 = 243.15; p < 0.001; I2 = 92.18%), so they were divided into subgroups based on Brazilian regions. There was indication of asymmetry in the meta-analyses’ publishing bias funnel plot; so, a meta-regression was conducted by the study’s publication year. According to the findings of Begg’s test, no discernible publishing bias was found. blaSPM-1 prevalence was estimated at 66.9% or 0.669 in MβL-PA isolates (95% CI = 0.593–0.738). The analysis of this one showed an average heterogeneity (x2 = 90.93; p < 0.001; I2 = 80.20%). According to the results of Begg’s test and a funnel plot, no discernible publishing bias was found. The research showed that MβL-P. aeruginosa and SPM-1 isolates were relatively common among individuals in Brazil. P. aeruginosa and other opportunistic bacteria are spreading quickly and causing severe infections, so efforts are needed to pinpoint risk factors, reservoirs, transmission pathways, and the origin of infection.
Loss in the Antibacterial Ability of a PyrR Gene Regulating Pyrimidine Biosynthesis after Using CRISPR/Cas9-Mediated Knockout for Metabolic Engineering in Lactobacillus casei
Authors: Chen Shaojun , He Xinmiao , Qin Ziliang , Li Gang , Wang Wentao , Nai Zida , Tian Yaguang , Liu Di , Jiang Xinpeng
Published: September 2023

Lactobacillus casei (L. casei) has four possible mechanisms: antimicrobial antagonism, competitional adhesion, immunoregulation, and the inhibition of bacterial toxins. To delineate the metabolic reactions of nucleotides from L. casei that are associated with mechanisms of inhibiting pathogens and immunoregulation, we report that a PyrR-deficient L. casei strain was constructed using the CRISPR-Cas9D10A tool. Furthermore, there were some changes in its basic biological characterization, such as its growth curve, auxotroph, and morphological damage. The metabolic profiles of the supernatant between the PyrR-deficient and wild strains revealed the regulation of the synthesis of genetic material and of certain targeting pathways and metabolites. In addition, the characteristics of the PyrR-deficient strain were significantly altered as it lost the ability to inhibit the growth of pathogens. Moreover, we identified PyrR-regulating pyrimidine biosynthesis, which further improved its internalization and colocalization with macrophages. Evidence shows that the PyrR gene is a key active component in L. casei supernatants for the regulation of pyrimidine biosynthesis against a wide range of pathogens.
Antiviral Approach to Cytomegalovirus Infection: An Overview of Conventional and Novel Strategies
Authors: Bottino Paolo , Pastrone Lisa , Curtoni Antonio , Bondi Alessandro , Sidoti Francesca , Zanotto Elisa , Cavallo Rossana , Solidoro Paolo , Costa Cristina
Published: September 2023

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a herpesvirus capable of establishing a lifelong persistence in the host through a chronic state of infection and remains an essential global concern due to its distinct life cycle, mutations, and latency. It represents a life-threatening pathogen for immunocompromised patients, such as solid organ transplanted patients, HIV-positive individuals, and hematopoietic stem cell recipients. Multiple antiviral approaches are currently available and administered in order to prevent or manage viral infections in the early stages. However, limitations due to side effects and the onset of antidrug resistance are a hurdle to their efficacy, especially for long-term therapies. Novel antiviral molecules, together with innovative approaches (e.g., genetic editing and RNA interference) are currently in study, with promising results performed in vitro and in vivo. Since HCMV is a virus able to establish latent infection, with a consequential risk of reactivation, infection management could benefit from preventive treatment for critical patients, such as immunocompromised individuals and seronegative pregnant women. This review will provide an overview of conventional antiviral clinical approaches and their mechanisms of action. Additionally, an overview of proposed and developing new molecules is provided, including nucleic-acid-based therapies and immune-mediated approaches.
Coexisting High-Al and High-Cr Chromitites in the Dingqing Ophiolite (SE Tibet): Inferences to Compositional Heterogeneity in the Tethyan Upper Mantle
Authors: Zhang Boyang , Zoheir Basem , Zhang Chenjie , Mu Xiaoping , Xu Xiangzhen , Qiu Tian , Xiong Fahui
Published: September 2023

The Dingqing ophiolite represents a significant allochthonous ophiolite nappe in the eastern segment of the Bangong–Nujiang suture zone in southeastern Tibet. The microanalytical data of associated podiform chromitites classify them into two distinct varieties: high-Al and high-Cr. The coexistence of both high-Cr and high-Al chromitites in the Dingqing ophiolite suggests a complex or multistage evolutionary history of the host rocks. New petrological and geochemical analyses are used herein to unravel the interrelationships between the chromitite ores and host rocks and assess the mechanism of formation. The Dingqing ophiolitic nappe is made up mainly of harzburgite, dunite, and less abundant pyroxenite and gabbro. Several small lens-shaped bodies of chromitite ore are mostly confined to the harzburgite rocks, with ore textures varying from massive to sparsely disseminated chromite. In addition to magnesiochromite, the orebodies contain minor amounts of olivine, amphibole, and serpentine. The textural relationships provide compelling evidence of plastic deformation and partial melting of the associated peridotites. Detailed examination of the Cr-spinel grains reveals a wide range of composition, spanning from high-Al (Cr# = 3.18–59.5) to high-Cr (Cr# 60.3–87.32). The abundances of the platinum-group element (PGE) in chromitites are significantly variable (93 to 274 ppb). Formation of the Dingqing peridotites most likely took place in a mid-ocean ridge (MOR) setting, and subsequent modifications by supra-subduction zone (SSZ) melts resulted in heterogenous or mixed geochemical characteristics of these rocks. Chemistry of the spinel–olivine–clinopyroxene assemblage demonstrates multiple stages of partial melting of the source mantle rocks, including an early phase of restricted partial melting (~20%–30%) and a later phase of extensive partial melting (>40%). The formation of the high-Al chromitite type was associated with the early phase (constrained melting), whereas extensive partial melting in the late stages likely led to the accumulation of high-Cr podiform chromitite bodies.
Synergistic Effect of Frequently Found Ions in the Flotation of Pb-Zn Sulfide Ores on Air/Water Interface
Authors: Gungoren Can , Muse Saleban Mohamed , Terzi Mert , Eskibalci Mehmet Faruk , Kursun Unver Ilgin , Ozdemir Orhan
Published: September 2023

The aqueous ions influence the properties of air bubbles and, therefore, the recovery of flotation. This study aims to reveal the synergistic effect of frequently found ions in the flotation of Pb-Zn sulfide ores. In this context, dynamic surface tension measurements, bubble coalescence time, Sauter mean diameter (SMD), bubble size distribution (BSD), and dynamic foam stability (DFS) measurements were carried out using artificial process waters (APWs). APW with the minimum ion concentration is expressed as “APW1” with the ionic strength (I) of 0.03 mol/dm3. The concentration of the ions in APW1 was increased by 3, 5, and 10 times, and thus APW3 (I = 0.08 mol/dm3), APW5 (I = 0.13 mol/dm3), and APW10 (I = 0.26 mol/dm3) were prepared, respectively. The results of this study indicated that the surface tension increased slightly in the presence of APW related to the ion concentration. Potassium ethyl xanthate (KEX) at high concentrations was effective in the reduction of surface tension. As the APW concentration increased, finer bubbles were obtained with a narrower size range. The stability of the foam increased with butyl glycol (BG) and APW concentration. There was no need to use a frother (BG) for the flotation experiments in the presence of APW1 or APWs with higher ionic strength.
Antioxidant and Hypolipidemic Activities of Cinnamic Acid Derivatives
Authors: Nouni Christina , Theodosis-Nobelos Panagiotis , Rekka Eleni A.
Published: September 2023

Oxidative stress and hyperlipidemia are important factors for the initiation and progression of various cell degenerative pathological conditions, including cardiovascular and neurological diseases. A series of cinnamic acid-derived acids, such as ferulic acid, sinapic acid, 3,4-dimethoxycinnamic acid, p-coumaric acid, and (E)-3-(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)acrylic acid, were esterified or amidated with various moieties, bearing different biological activities, and evaluated. The antioxidant and radical scavenging abilities of the compounds via inhibition of rat hepatic microsomal membrane lipid peroxidation, as well as their interaction with the stable radical 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), were assessed. Further, their hypolipidemic activity in vivo was tested. The majority of the obtained compounds demonstrated considerable radical scavenging and antioxidant action, with a parallel decrease in Triton-induced hyperlipidemia in rats. The (E)-3-(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)acrylic acid derivative with morpholine and 4-methylpiperidine (compounds 4 and 13, respectively) significantly decreased triglycerides and total cholesterol in the plasma of hyperlipidemic rats, with an antioxidant capacity similar to that of the antioxidant Trolox. The compounds were designed to exhibit antioxidant and hypolipidemic pharmacological actions, and this succeeded for the majority of them. Thus, such agents may be of interest in conditions and diseases implicating oxidative stress and dyslipidemia.
(Fe-Co-Ni-Zn)-Based Metal–Organic Framework-Derived Electrocatalyst for Zinc–Air Batteries
Authors: Adhikari Anup , Chhetri Kisan , Rai Rajan , Acharya Debendra , Kunwar Jyotendra , Bhattarai Roshan Mangal , Jha Rupesh Kumar , Kandel Dasharath , Kim Hak Yong , Kandel Mani Ram
Published: September 2023

Zinc–air batteries (ZABs) have garnered significant interest as a viable substitute for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), primarily due to their impressive energy density and low cost. However, the efficacy of zinc–air batteries is heavily dependent on electrocatalysts, which play a vital role in enhancing reaction efficiency and stability. This scholarly review article highlights the crucial significance of electrocatalysts in zinc–air batteries and explores the rationale behind employing Fe-Co-Ni-Zn-based metal–organic framework (MOF)-derived hybrid materials as potential electrocatalysts. These MOF-derived electrocatalysts offer advantages such as abundancy, high catalytic activity, tunability, and structural stability. Various synthesis methods and characterization techniques are employed to optimize the properties of MOF-derived electrocatalysts. Such electrocatalysts exhibit excellent catalytic activity, stability, and selectivity, making them suitable for applications in ZABs. Furthermore, they demonstrate notable capabilities in the realm of ZABs, encompassing elevated energy density, efficacy, and prolonged longevity. It is imperative to continue extensively researching and developing this area to propel the advancement of ZAB technology forward and pave the way for its practical implementation across diverse fields.
Investigating the Combined Effects of Mechanical Stress and Nutrition on Muscle Hypertrophic Signals Using Contractile 3D-Engineered Muscle (3D-EM)
Authors: Yi Dong , Sugimoto Takeshi , Matsumura Teppei , Yokoyama Sho , Fujisato Toshia , Nakamura Tomohiro , Hashimoto Takeshi
Published: September 2023

Since 3D-EM closely resembles in vivo muscles, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of exercise (electrical pulse stimulation (EPS)) and nutrition (maca), which contains triterpenes, on muscle hypertrophy by using 3D-EM for the first time. The 3D-EM was composed of C2C12 cells and type 1 collagen gel, was differentiated for 14 days, and was divided into four groups: control, maca, EPS, and maca + EPS. The medium was replaced every two days before each EPS intervention, and the concentration of maca in the culture solution was 1 mg/mL. The intervention conditions of the EPS were 30 V, 1 Hz, and 2 ms (24 h on, 24 h off, for one week). The expression levels of proteins were examined by Western blotting. The intervention of maca and EPS upregulated the expression of MHC-fast/slow (both p < 0.05) compared with the control group, and the addition of maca had no effect on the phosphorylation of mTOR (p = 0.287) but increased the AMPK phosphorylation (p = 0.001). These findings suggest that intervention with maca and EPS has a positive effect on muscle hypertrophy, which has a positive impact on sarcopenia. However, the underlying mechanisms remain to be further explored.
Changes in Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Body Weight among Lithuanian Students during and after the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Kriaučionienė Vilma , Grincaitė Monika , Raskilienė Asta , Petkevičienė Janina
Published: September 2023

The long-term effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on lifestyle changes remains understudied. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess changes in nutrition, physical activity, and body weight among Lithuanian students during the pandemic and their post-pandemic persistence. Data were collected from 1430 first-year students (325 males, 1105 females) through an online self-administered questionnaire. The students indicated an increase in the consumption of snacks, fast food, home-made confectionery, and sweets. A decrease in physical activity during the pandemic was reported by 34.9% of males and 33.2% of females. Lifestyle changes during the pandemic were associated with post-pandemic habits. A higher proportion of females (38.7%) than males (31.1%) indicated an increase in BMI, which was more pronounced among students with overweight. A multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that reduced physical activity; the increased consumption of red meat, snacks, fast food, and home-made confectionery during the pandemic; and post-pandemic BMI were linked with weight gain. After the pandemic, weight gain persisted in 40.9% of students who continued to follow unhealthy nutrition habits and had reduced physical activity. The study emphasizes that the promotion of a healthy diet and regular physical activity among university students is essential for developing lifelong habits that contribute to a healthy body weight and overall well-being.
Epidemiology and Transmission of Theileria orientalis in Australasia
Authors: Lakew Biniam T. , Eastwood Steve , Walkden-Brown Stephen W.
Published: September 2023

Oriental theileriosis, a disease primarily impacting cattle is caused by an apicomplexan hemoprotozoan parasite, Theileria orientalis. It has now become established in the Australasia region. The organism was long considered a benign cause of persistent infections; however, an increase in clinical outbreaks since 2006 in the eastern Australian states and New Zealand was associated with the identification of the pathogenic Ikeda (Type 2) and Chitose (Type 1) genotypes. Unlike the pathogenic T. parva and T. annulate, which target leucocytes, clinical manifestation with T. orientalis is due to its effects on erythrocytes, with the infection sometimes designated as Theileria associated bovine anemia (TABA). In Australia and New Zealand, the tick Haemaphysalis longicornis is the principal vector, though other Haemaphysalis species are also likely vectors. The endemic status of infection with pathogenic genotypes in areas with low or absent tick populations is an apparent paradox that may be attributable to alternative modes of transmission, such as mechanical transmission by hematophagous insects (lice, mosquitoes, and biting flies), vertical transmission, and transmission via iatrogenic means. This review addresses the evidence for the different modes of transmission of T. orientalis with particular focus on the reported and potential vectors in Australasia.
Prechemotherapy Transperitoneal Robotic-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy (RAPN) for a Wilms Tumor: Surgical and Oncological Outcomes in a Four-Year-Old Patient
Authors: Della Corte Marcello , Cerchia Elisa , Oderda Marco , Quarello Paola , Fagioli Franca , Gontero Paolo , Gerocarni Nappo Simona
Published: September 2023

Background: Wilms tumor (WT) is the most frequent renal tumor in children. The SIOP-UMBRELLA Guidelines allow for nephron-sparing surgery (NSS) in syndromic patients, as well as in cases of small (<300 mL) non-syndromic unilateral WTs, without lymph node involvement, and with a substantial expected remnant renal function, following neoadjuvant chemotherapy. We present a case of prechemotherapy transperitoneal robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) for a unilateral, non-syndromic Wilms tumor. Methods: A four-year-old child presented with a solid mass measuring 3.6 cm in diameter involving the upper right renal pole, incidentally detected during an abdominal echotomography. CT scan and abdominal MRI revealed no local infiltration or lymph node involvement, suggesting that the exophytic mass could be easily resected via an NSS robotic approach. Preoperative imaging did not strongly suggest WT. A virtual 3D reconstruction of the tumor was performed. Results: After the oncologic board approval, a robot-assisted partial nephrectomy with an intraperitoneal approach was performed. Histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of WT. The patient subsequently received 10 doses of vincristine as adjuvant chemotherapy. A 28-month follow-up showed no tumor recurrence. Conclusions: Intraperitoneal RAPN may be an option for selected WT and warrants consideration as a challenging but advantageous approach.
Chitosan in Oral Drug Delivery Formulations: A Review
Authors: Sangnim Tanikan , Dheer Divya , Jangra Nitin , Huanbutta Kampanart , Puri Vivek , Sharma Ameya
Published: September 2023

Nanoformulations have become increasingly useful as drug delivery technologies in recent decades. As therapeutics, oral administration is the most common delivery method, although it is not always the most effective route because of challenges with swallowing, gastrointestinal discomfort, low solubility, and poor absorption. One of the most significant barriers that medications must overcome to exert a therapeutic effect is the impact of the first hepatic transit. Studies have shown that controlled-release systems using nanoparticles composed of biodegradable natural polymers significantly improve oral administration, which is why these materials have attracted significant attention. Chitosan possesses a wide variety of properties and functions in the pharmaceutical as well as healthcare industries. Drug encapsulation and transport within the body are two of its most important features. Moreover, chitosan can enhance drug efficacy by facilitating drug interaction with target cells. Based on its physicochemical properties, chitosan can potentially be synthesized into nanoparticles, and this review summarizes recent advances and applications of orally delivered chitosan nanoparticle interventions.
Exosome Cargos as Biomarkers for Diagnosis and Prognosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Zeng Yulai , Hu Shuyu , Luo Yi , He Kang
Published: September 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide. Due to the insidiousness of HCC onset and the lack of specific early-stage markers, the early diagnosis and treatment of HCC are still unsatisfactory, leading to a poor prognosis. Exosomes are a type of extracellular vesicle containing various components, which play an essential part in the development, progression, and metastasis of HCC. A large number of studies have demonstrated that exosomes could serve as novel biomarkers for the diagnosis of HCC. These diagnostic components mainly include proteins, microRNAs, long noncoding RNAs, and circular RNAs. The exosome biomarkers showed high sensitivity and high specificity in distinguishing HCC from health controls and other liver diseases, such as chronic HBV and liver cirrhosis. The expression of these biomarkers also exhibits correlations with various clinical factors such as tumor size, TMN stage, overall survival, and recurrence rate. In this review, we summarize the function of exosomes in the development of HCC and highlight their application as HCC biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis prediction.
TiN/Ti3C2 Heterojunction Microfiber-Enhanced Four-Wave Mixing-Based All-Optical Wavelength Converter
Authors: Wang Ke , Liu Qi-Dong , Song Yu-Feng , Zhang Bin , Zeng Qing-Dong , Zhang Yuan-Yuan , Wang Zhen-Hong
Published: September 2023

As a novel nanomaterial, the TiN/Ti3C2 heterojunction has been demonstrated to possess exceptional optoelectronic properties, offering significant potential for applications in fields such as communication, optical sensors, and image processing. The rapid evolution of the internet demands higher communication capacity and information processing speed. In this context, all-optical wavelength conversion, a pivotal technique in all-optical signal processing, holds paramount importance in overcoming electronic bottlenecks, enhancing wavelength utilization, resolving wavelength competition, and mitigating network congestion. Utilizing the idle light generated through the four-wave mixing (FWM) process accurately mimics the bit patterns of signal channels. This process is inherently rapid and theoretically capable of surpassing electronic bottlenecks with ease. By placing an optical filter at the fiber output end to allow idle light passage while blocking pump and signal light, the output becomes a wavelength-converted replica of the original bitstream. It has been verified that TiN/Ti3C2 heterojunction-coated microfiber (THM) exhibits outstanding third-order nonlinear coefficients. Building upon this, we achieved a THM-enhanced FWM all-optical wavelength converter, resulting in a ~4.48 dB improvement in conversion efficiency. Compared to conventional high-nonlinear fibers, this compact device significantly reduces fiber length and can be easily integrated into current high-speed optical communication networks. It demonstrates broad prospects in the realms of all-optical signal processing, robotic applications, ultra-high-speed communication, and beyond.
On Phase and Amplitude Extraction in Bichromatic Ionization: A Proposal
Authors: Popova Maria M. , Grum-Grzhimailo Alexei N. , Gryzlova Elena V.
Published: September 2023

In the paper we propose a method for characterizing VUV pulse(s) in a bichromatic ionization setup. The scheme is based on s-shell ionization by joint action of circularly polarized fundamental harmonic and linearly polarized second one. The advantage of the proposed approach is the existence of kinematic (geometrical) zeros of partial amplitudes which positions can be extracted with minimal number of theoretical (spectroscopic) assumptions and therefore they may serve as natural reference points in measuring the relative phase and amplitude of the harmonics. In the paper, we investigate a general possible geometry setup with more detailed consideration of the edge cases and present calculation and numerical stimulation for helium ionization as an illustrative example.