bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reducibility of Al3+-Modified Co3O4: Influence of Aluminum Distribution
Authors: Cherepanova Svetlana V. , Koemets Egor G. , Gerasimov Evgeny Yu. , Simentsova Irina I. , Bulavchenko Olga A.
Published: September 2023

The reduction of Co-based oxides doped with Al3+ ions has been studied using in situ XRD and TPR techniques. Al3+-modified Co3O4 oxides with the Al mole fraction Al/(Co + Al) = 1/6; 1/7.5 were prepared via coprecipitation, with further calcination at 500 and 850 °C. Using XRD and HAADF-STEM combined with EDS element mapping, the Al3+ cations were dissolved in the Co3O4 lattice; however, the cation distribution differed and depended on the calcination temperature. Heating at 500 °C led to the formation of an inhomogeneous (Co,Al)3O4 solid solution; further treatment at 850 °C provoked the partial decomposition of mixed Co-Al oxides and the formation of particles with an Al-depleted interior and Al-enriched surface. It has been shown that the reduction of cobalt oxide by hydrogen occurs via the following transformations: (Co,Al)3O4 → (Co,Al)O → Co. Depending on the Al distribution, the course of reduction changes. In the case of the inhomogeneous (Co,Al)3O4 solid solution, Al stabilizes intermediate Co(II)-Al(III) oxides during reduction. When Al3+ ions are predominantly on the surface of the Co3O4 particles, the intermediate compound consists of Al-depleted and Al-enriched Co(II)-Al(III) oxides, which are reduced independently. Different distributions of elemental Co and Al in mixed oxides simulate different types of the interaction phase in Co3O4/γ-Al2O3-supported catalysts. These changes in the reduction properties can significantly affect the state of an active component of the Co-based catalysts.
Special Issue: Friction, Corrosion and Protection of Material Surfaces
Authors: Feng Cunao , Wang Zhenyu , Li Zhaolei , Li Xiaowei
Published: September 2023

The current Special Issue, entitled “Friction, Corrosion and Protection of Material Surfaces”, aims to discuss the state-of-the-art research progress regarding the friction and corrosion behaviors of new materials and advanced protective materials or technologies, with a special focus on the understanding of underlying friction and corrosion mechanisms and modification approaches of material surfaces against friction and corrosion in order to guide the design and preparation of materials with high performance for practical applications [...]
Efficient Complex Aggregate Queries with Accuracy Guarantee Based on Execution Cost Model over Knowledge Graphs
Authors: Ye Shuzhan , Xu Xiaoliang , Wang Yuxiang , Fu Tao
Published: September 2023

Knowledge graphs (KGs) have gained prominence for representing real-world facts, with queries of KGs being crucial for their application. Aggregate queries, as one of the most important parts of KG queries (e.g., “ What is the average price of cars produced in Germany?”), can provide users with valuable statistical insights. An efficient solution for KG aggregate queries is approximate aggregate queries with semantic-aware sampling (AQS). This balances the query time and result accuracy by estimating an approximate aggregate result based on random samples collected from a KG, ensuring that the relative error of the approximate aggregate result is bounded by a predefined error. However, AQS is tailored for simple aggregate queries and exhibits varying performance for complex aggregate queries. This is because a complex aggregate query usually consists of multiple simple aggregate queries, and each sub-query influences the overall processing time and result quality. Setting a large error bound for each sub-query yields quick results but with a lower quality, while aiming for high-quality results demands a smaller predefined error bound for each sub-query, leading to a longer processing time. Hence, devising efficient and effective methods for executing complex aggregate queries has emerged as a significant research challenge within contemporary KG querying. To tackle this challenge, we first introduced an execution cost model tailored for original AQS (i.e., supporting simple queries) and founded on Taylor’s theorem. This model aids in identifying the initial parameters that play a pivotal role in the efficiency and efficacy of AQS. Subsequently, we conducted an in-depth exploration of the intrinsic relationship of the error bounds between a complex aggregate query and its constituent simple queries (i.e., sub-queries), and then we formalized an execution cost model for complex aggregate queries, given the accuracy constraints on the error bounds of all sub-queries. Harnessing the multi-objective optimization genetic algorithm, we refined the error bounds of all sub-queries with moderate values, to achieve a balance of query time and result accuracy for the complex aggregate query. An extensive experimental study on real-world datasets demonstrated our solution’s superiority in effectiveness and efficiency.
Modal Reconstruction Based on Arbitrary High-Order Zernike Polynomials for Deflectometry
Authors: Nguyen Duy-Thai , Nguyen Kim Cuc Thi , Cao Binh X. , Tran Van-Thuc , Vu Tiendung , Bui Ngoc-Tam
Published: September 2023

Deflectometry is a non-destructive, full-field phase measuring method, which is usually used for inspecting optical specimens with special characteristics, such as highly reflective or specular surfaces, as well as free-form surfaces. One of the important steps in the Deflectometry method is to retrieve the surface from slope data of points on the sample map or surface reconstruction. This paper proposes a modal reconstruction method using an adjustable number of Zernike polynomials. In addition, the proposed method enables the analyses on practical surfaces that require an infinite number of Zernike terms to be represented. Experiments on simulated surfaces indicated that the algorithm is able to reveal the number of major-contributing Zernike terms, as well as reconstruct the surface with a micrometer-scale from slope data with a signal-to-noise ratio of 10.
Dynamic Regimes for Corporate Human Capital Development Used Reinforcement Learning Methods
Authors: Orlova Ekaterina
Published: September 2023

Corporate human capital is a critical driver of sustainable economic growth, which is becoming increasingly important in the changing nature of work. Due to the expansion of various areas of human activity, the employee’s profile becomes multifaceted. Therefore, the problem of human capital management based on the individual trajectories of professional development, aimed at increasing the labor efficiency and contributing to the growth of the corporate operational efficiency, is relevant, timely, socially, and economically significant. The paper proposes a methodology for the dynamic regimes for human capital development (DRHC) to design individual trajectories for the employee’s professional development, based on reinforcement learning methods. The DRHC develops an optimal management regime as a set of programs aimed at developing an employee in the professional field, taking into account their individual characteristics (health quality, major and interdisciplinary competencies, motivation, and social capital). The DRHC architecture consists of an environment—an employee model—as a Markov decision-making process and an agent—decision-making center of a company. The DRHC uses DDQN, SARSA, and PRO algorithms to maximize the agent’s utility function. The implementation of the proposed DRHC policy would improve the quality of corporate human capital, increase labor resource efficiency, and ensure the productivity growth of companies.
Securing an Authenticated Privacy Preserving Protocol in a Group Signature Scheme Based on a Group Ring
Authors: Amir Nur Afiqah Suzelan , Othman Wan Ainun Mior , Wong Kok Bin
Published: September 2023

Group signatures are a leading competing signature technique with a substantial amount of research. With group settings, group signatures provide user anonymity. Any group member with access to the group can generate a signature while remaining anonymous. The group manager, however, has the authority to expose and identify the signer if required. Since the privacy of the sender should be preserved, this is a conflict between privacy and accountability. Concerning high performance on security, we propose a novel, well-balanced security and privacy group signature scheme based on a general linear group over group ring. To the best of our knowledge, our work represents the first comprehensive framework for a group signature scheme that utilizes generic linear groups over group rings. We demonstrate that the competing security goals of message trustworthiness, privacy, and accountability are effectively resolved by our protocol. The results of the performance evaluation and simulation demonstrate that our protocol achieves strong security, system robustness, and high-performance efficiency, making it suitable for practical applications.
Study of the Antimicrobial Potential of the Arthrospira platensis, Planktothrix agardhii, Leptolyngbya cf. ectocarpi, Roholtiella mixta nov., Tetraselmis viridis, and Nanofrustulum shiloi against Gram-Positive, Gram-Negative Bacteria, and Mycobacteria
Authors: Lykov Alexander , Salmin Alexei , Gevorgiz Ruslan , Zheleznova Svetlana , Rachkovskaya Lyubov , Surovtseva Maria , Poveshchenko Olga
Published: September 2023

The incidence of diseases brought on by resistant strains of micro-organisms, including tuberculosis, is rising globally as a result of the rapid rise in pathogenic micro-organism resistance to antimicrobial treatments. Secondary metabolites with potential for antibacterial activity are produced by cyanobacteria and microalgae. In this study, gram-positive (S. aureus, E. faecalis) and gram-negative (K. pneumoniae, A. baumannii, P. aeruginosa) bacteria were isolated from pulmonary tuberculosis patients receiving long-term antituberculosis therapy. The antimicrobial potential of extracts from the cyanobacteria Leptolyngbya cf. ectocarpi, Planktothrix agardhii, Arthrospira platensis, Rohotiella mixta sp. nov., Nanofrustulum shiloi, and Tetraselmis (Platymonas) viridis Rouchijajnen was evaluated. On mouse splenocytes and peritoneal macrophages, extracts of cyanobacteria and microalgae had inhibitory effects. In vitro studies have shown that cyanobacteria and microalgae extracts suppress the growth of bacteria and mycobacteria. At the same time, it has been demonstrated that cyanobacterial and microalgal extracts can encourage bacterial growth in a test tube. Additionally, the enhanced fucoxanthin fraction significantly reduced the development of bacteria in vitro. In a mouse experiment to simulate tuberculosis, the mycobacterial load in internal organs was considerably decreased by fucoxanthin. According to the information gathered, cyanobacteria and microalgae are potential sources of antibacterial compounds that can be used in the manufacturing of pharmaceutical raw materials.
Insights into Microbiota in Sjögren’s Syndrome
Authors: Mieliauskaitė Diana , Kontenis Vilius
Published: September 2023

Primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) is a heterogeneous chronic autoimmune disorder with multiple clinical manifestations that can develop into non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue. The pathogenesis of Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) is not completely understood, but it is assumed that pathogenesis of SS is multifactorial. The microbiota plays a notable role in the development of autoimmune disorders, including Sjögren’s syndrome. Molecular mimicry, metabolite changes and epithelial tolerance breakdown are pathways that might help to clarify the potential contribution of the microbiota to SS pathogenesis. This review aims to provide an overview of recent studies describing microbiota changes and microbiota mechanisms associated with Sjögren’s syndrome. Data on the microbiota in SS from PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and the Cochrane Library databases are summarized. Overall, the microbiota makes a major contribution to the development of Sjögren’s syndrome and progression. Future microbiota studies should improve the management of this heterogeneous autoimmune disease.
Local Wound Infiltration for Thyroidectomized Patients in the Era of Multimodal Analgesia
Authors: Laskou Stiliani , Tsaousi Georgia , Pourzitaki Chryssa , Loukipoudi Labrini , Papazisis Georgios , Kesisoglou Isaak , Sapalidis Konstantinos
Published: September 2023

The first few hours following thyroidectomy are the most crucial for pain management. Adequate postoperative pain control, reduction in opioid abuse and the possibility of implementing one-day operations are the considered parameters when developing the postoperative analgesic strategy. A study of the available literature was conducted, exploring the efficacy of (open) thyroidectomy wound infiltration. Seventeen full-text RCTs were extracted. Local anesthetics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were infiltrated. Emphasis was given to postoperative pain scores and requirements for rescue analgesia with opioids. Most authors agree that local wound infiltration for thyroidectomized patients is effective in the management of postoperative pain parameters. In the era of multimodal analgesia, thyroidectomy wound infiltration could represent an essential adjunct contributing to lower VAS scores and reduced opioid requirements.
Application of Ni/SiCw Composite Material in MEMS Microspring
Authors: Lai Liyan , Yu Guanliang , Wang Guilian , Li Yigui , Ding Guifu , Yang Zhuoqing
Published: September 2023

The microspring is a typical type of device in MEMS devices, with a wide range of application scenarios and demands, among which a popular one is the microelectroformed nickel-based planar microspring prepared by the UV-LIGA technology based on the SU-8 adhesive. It is worth noting that the yield strength of the electrodeposited nickel microstructure is low, and the toughness of the structure is not high, which is unbeneficial for the enduring and stable operation of the spring. The paper mainly presents the methods of preparing high-aspect-ratio Ni/SiCw microstructures for MEMS devices based on UV-LIGA technology, developing Ni/SiCw-based microspring samples with a thickness of 300 μm, and applying a DMA tensile tester for mechanical property tests and characterization. In addition, the paper explores the influence of heat treatment at 300 °C and 600 °C on the tensile properties and microstructure of composite coatings. The results show that the W-form microspring prepared from Ni/SiCw composites not only has a wider linear range (about 1.2 times wider) than that of pure nickel material but also has a stronger resistance capacity to plastic deformation, which is competent for MEMS device applications in environments below 300 °C. The research provides a frame of reference and guidance for improving the stable cyclic operating life of such flat springs.
Endophytic Seed-Associated Bacteria as Plant Growth Promoters of Cuban Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Hernández Ionel , Taulé Cecilia , Pérez-Pérez Reneé , Battistoni Federico , Fabiano Elena , Villanueva-Guerrero Angela , Nápoles María Caridad , Herrera Héctor
Published: September 2023

Cuban rice cultivars INCA LP-5 and INCA LP-7 are widely distributed in Cuba and Caribbean countries. Although there are studies about rhizospheric bacteria associated with these cultivars, there are no reports about their seed-associated bacteria. This study aimed to isolate endophytic bacteria from rice seeds and select those with the greatest plant growth-promoting traits. A total of nineteen bacterial strains from the genera Pantoea, Bacillus, Paenibacillus, and Pseudomonas were isolated from the husk and endosperm of rice seeds. The strains Pantoea sp. S5-1, Pseudomonas sp. S5-38, and Pseudomonas sp. S7-1 were classified as the most promissory to increase rice growth as they demonstrated the presence of multiple plant growth-promoting traits such as the production of auxins, phosphate, and potassium solubilization, the production of siderophores, and the inhibition of the phytopathogen Pyricularia oryzae. The inoculation of strains of Pantoea sp. and Pseudomonas spp. in rice improves the height, root length, fresh weight, and dry weight of the shoot and root after 21 days post-inoculation in hydroponic assays. This study constitutes the first report on Cuban rice cultivars about the presence of endophytes in seeds and their potential to promote seedling growth. Pantoea sp. S5-1, Pseudomonas sp. S5-38, and Pseudomonas sp. S7-1 were selected as the more promising strains for the development of bio-stimulators or bio-inoculants for Cuban rice crops.
Cassava Foliage Effects on Antioxidant Capacity, Growth, Immunity, and Ruminal Microbial Metabolism in Hainan Black Goats
Authors: Li Mao , Zi Xuejuan , Lv Renlong , Zhang Lidong , Ou Wenjun , Chen Songbi , Hou Guanyu , Zhou Hanlin
Published: September 2023

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) foliage is a byproduct of cassava production characterized by high biomass and nutrient content. In this study, we investigated the effects of cassava foliage on antioxidant capacity, growth performance, and immunity status in goats, as well as rumen fermentation and microbial metabolism. Twenty-five Hainan black goats were randomly divided into five groups (n = 5 per group) and accepted five treatments: 0% (T1), 25% (T2), 50% (T3), 75% (T4), and 100% (T5) of the cassava foliage silage replaced king grass, respectively. The feeding experiment lasted for 70 d (including 10 d adaptation period and 60 d treatment period). Feeding a diet containing 50% cassava foliage resulted in beneficial effects for goat growth and health, as reflected by the higher average daily feed intake (ADFI), average daily gain (ADG) and better feed conversion rate (FCR), as well as by the reduced serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), creatinine (CRE), and triglycerides (TG). Meanwhile, cassava foliage improved antioxidant activity by increasing the level of glutathion peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) and lowering malondialdehyde (MDA). Moreover, feeding cassava foliage was also beneficial to immunity status by enhancing complement 3 (C3), complement 4 (C4), immunoglobulin A (IgA), immunoglobulin G (IgG), and immunoglobulin M (IgM). Furthermore, the addition of dietary cassava foliage also altered rumen fermentation, rumen bacterial community composition, and metabolism. The abundance of Butyrivibrio_2 and Prevotella_1 was elevated, as were the concentrations of beneficial metabolites such as butyric acid; there was a concomitant decline in metabolites that hindered nutrient metabolism and harmed host health. In summary, goats fed a diet containing 50% cassava foliage silage demonstrated a greater abundance of Butyrivibrio_2, which enhanced the production of butyric acid; these changes led to greater antioxidant capacity, growth performance, and immunity in the goats.
The Potential of Digested Sludge-Assimilating Microflora for Biogas Production from Food Processing Wastes
Authors: Hasaka Sato , Sakamoto Saki , Fujii Katsuhiko
Published: September 2023

Food processing wastes (FPWs) are residues generated in food manufacturing, and their composition varies depending on the type of food product being manufactured. Therefore, selecting and acclimatizing seed microflora during the initiation of biogas production is crucial for optimal outcomes. The present study examined the biogas production capabilities of digested sludge-assimilating and biogas-yielding soil (DABYS) and enteric (DABYE) microflorae when used as seed cultures for biogas production from FPWs. After subculturing and feeding these microbial seeds with various FPWs, we assessed their biogas-producing abilities. The subcultures produced biogas from many FPWs, except orange peel, suggesting that the heterogeneity of the bacterial members in the seed microflora facilitates quick adaptation to FPWs. Microflorae fed with animal-derived FPWs contained several methanogenic archaeal families and produced methane. In contrast, microflorae fed with vegetable-, fruit-, and crop-derived FPWs generated hydrogen, and methanogenic archaeal populations were diminished by repeated subculturing. The subcultured microflorae appear to hydrolyze carbohydrates and protein in FPWs using cellulase, pectinase, or protease. Despite needing enhancements in biogas yield for future industrial scale-up, the DABYS and DABYE microflorae demonstrate robust adaptability to various FPWs.
The Brucella Effector Protein BspF Regulates Apoptosis through the Crotonylation of p53
Authors: Lin Ruiqi , Li Ang , Li Yuzhuo , Shen Ruitong , Du Fangyuan , Zheng Min , Zhu Jinying , Chen Jingjing , Jiang Pengfei , Zhang Huan , Liu Jinling , Chen Xiaoyue , Chen Zeliang
Published: September 2023

The Brucella type IV secretion system (T4SS) can promote the intracellular survival and reproduction of Brucella. T4SS secretes effector proteins to act on cellular signaling pathways to inhibit the host’s innate immune response and cause a chronic, persistent Brucella infection. Brucella can survive in host cells for a long time by inhibiting macrophage apoptosis and avoiding immune recognition. The effector protein, BspF, secreted by T4SS, can regulate host secretory transport and accelerate the intracellular replication of Brucella. BspF has an acetyltransferase domain of the GNAT (GCN5-related N-acetyltransferases) family, and in our previous crotonylation proteomics data, we have found that BspF has crotonyl transferase activity and crotonylation regulation of host cell protein in the proteomics data. Here, we found that BspF attenuates the crotonylation modification of the interacting protein p53, which reduces the p53 expression through the GNAT domain. BspF can inhibit the transcription and protein expression of downstream apoptotic genes, thereby inhibiting host cell apoptosis. Additionally, the Brucella ΔbspF mutant stain promotes apoptosis and reduces the survival rate of Brucella in the cells. In conclusion, we identified that the T4SS effector protein BspF can regulate host cell apoptosis to assist Brucella in its long-term survival by attenuating crotonylation modification of p53 and decreasing p53 expression. Our findings reveal a unique mechanism of elucidating how Brucella regulates host cell apoptosis and promotes its proliferation through the secretion of effector proteins.
Halanaerobium polyolivorans sp. nov.—A Novel Halophilic Alkalitolerant Bacterium Capable of Polyol Degradation: Physiological Properties and Genomic Insights
Authors: Boltyanskaya Yulia , Zhilina Tatjana , Grouzdev Denis , Detkova Ekaterina , Pimenov Nikolay , Kevbrin Vadim
Published: September 2023

A search for the microorganisms responsible for the anaerobic degradation of osmoprotectants in soda lakes resulted in the isolation of a novel halophilic and alkalitolerant strain, designated Z-7514T. The cells were Gram-stain-negative and non-endospore-forming rods. Optimal growth occurs at 1.6–2.1 M Na+, pH 8.0–8.5, and 31–35 °C. The strain utilized mainly sugars, low molecular polyols, and ethanolamine as well. The G+C content of the genomic DNA of strain Z-7514T was 33.3 mol%. Phylogenetic and phylogenomic analyses revealed that strain Z-7514T belongs to the genus Halanaerobium. On the basis of phenotypic properties and the dDDH and ANI values with close validly published species, it was proposed to evolve strain Z-7514T within the genus Halanaerobium into novel species, for which the name Halanaerobium polyolivorans sp. nov. was proposed. The type strain was Z-7514T (=KCTC 25405T = VKM B-3577T). For species of the genus Halanaerobium, the utilization of ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, and ethanolamine were shown for the first time. The anaerobic degradation of glycols and ethanolamine by strain Z-7514T may represent a novel metabiotic pathway within the alkaliphilic microbial community. Based on a detailed genomic analysis, the main pathways of catabolism of most of the used substrates have been identified.
Cadmium Toxicity and Health Effects—A Brief Summary
Authors: Charkiewicz Angelika Edyta , Omeljaniuk Wioleta Justyna , Nowak Karolina , Garley Marzena , Nikliński Jacek
Published: September 2023

Cadmium (Cd) is a ductile metal in the form of a blueish or silvery-white powder. It is naturally found in soil (about 0.2 mg/kg), minerals, and water. Cd belongs to the group of toxic, carcinogenic, and stimulating elements. Its biological half-life in the human body ranges from 16 to even 30 years on average. Some lung diseases (such as emphysema, asthma, and bronchitis) and high blood pressure are thought to be related to slow poisoning. The symptoms of cadmium poisoning may vary depending on the time of exposure, the type of diet, and the age and health status of the exposed people. For non-smokers and non-occupational exposures, the only source of exposure is diet. The FAO/WHO recommends that the tolerable cadmium intake for an adult is approximately 0.4–0.5 mg/week (60–70 µg per day). Cadmium is primarily absorbed through the respiratory system (about 13–19% of Cd from the air), but it can also enter through the digestive system (about 10–44%), when dust is mixed and swallowed with saliva. The amount of accumulated Cd ranges from 0.14 to 3.2 ppm in muscles, 1.8 ppm in bones, and 0.0052 ppm in the blood. People who are most frequently exposed to heavy metals should be continuously monitored in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle, as well as to implement effective preventive measures and improve public health.
Hexamethyldisiloxane Removal from Biogas Using a Fe3O4–Urea-Modified Three-Dimensional Graphene Aerogel
Authors: Lv Siqi , Hou Xifeng , Zheng Yanhui , Ma Zichuan
Published: September 2023

Volatile methyl siloxanes (VMS), which are considered to be the most troublesome impurities in current biogas-cleaning technologies, need to be removed. In this study, we fabricated a series of Fe3O4–urea-modified reduced graphene-oxide aerogels (Fe3O4–urea–rGOAs) by using industrial-grade graphene oxide as the raw material. A fixed-bed dynamic adsorption setup was built, and the adsorption properties of the Fe3O4–urea–rGOAs for hexamethyldisiloxane (L2, as a VMS model pollutant) were studied. The properties of the as-prepared samples were investigated by employing various characterization techniques (SEM, TEM, FTIR, XRD, Raman spectroscopy, and N2 adsorption/desorption techniques). The results showed that the Fe3O4–urea–rGOA–0.4 had a high specific surface area (188 m2 g−1), large porous texture (0.77 cm3 g−1), and the theoretical maximum adsorption capacity for L2 (146.5 mg g−1). The adsorption capacity considerably increased with a decrease in the bed temperature of the adsorbents, as well as with an increase in the inlet concentration of L2. More importantly, the spent Fe3O4–urea–rGOA adsorbent could be readily regenerated and showed an excellent adsorption performance. Thus, the proposed Fe3O4–urea–rGOAs are promising adsorbents for removing the VMS in biogas.
Computational Analysis of Some More Rectangular Tessellations of Kekulenes and Their Molecular Characterizations
Authors: Prabhu S. , Arulperumjothi M. , Ghani Muhammad Usman , Imran Muhammad , Salu S. , Jose Bibin K.
Published: September 2023

Cycloarene molecules are benzene-ring-based polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons that have been fused in a circular manner and are surrounded by carbon–hydrogen bonds that point inward. Due to their magnetic, geometric, and electronic characteristics and superaromaticity, these polycyclic aromatics have received attention in a number of studies. The kekulene molecule is a cyclically organized benzene ring in the shape of a doughnut and is the very first example of such a conjugated macrocyclic compound. Due to its structural characteristics and molecular characterizations, it serves as a great model for theoretical research involving the investigation of π electron conjugation circuits. Therefore, in order to unravel their novel electrical and molecular characteristics and foresee potential applications, the characterization of such components is crucial. In our current research, we describe two unique series of enormous polycyclic molecules made from the extensively studied base kekulene molecule, utilizing the essential graph-theoretical tools to identify their structural characterization via topological quantities. Rectangular kekulene Type-I and rectangular kekulene Type-II structures were obtained from base kekulene molecules arranged in a rectangular fashion. We also employ two subcases for each Type and, for all of these, we derived ten topological indices. We can investigate the physiochemical characteristics of rectangular kekulenes using these topological indices.
Two Polarity-Sensitive Fluorescent Probes Based on Curcumin Analogs for Visualizing Polarity Changes in Lipid Droplets
Authors: Shan Lin , Li Xuewei , Zheng Xiuli , Wu Jiasheng , Ren Haohui , Liu Weimin , Wang Pengfei
Published: September 2023

As a class of highly dynamic organelles, lipid droplets (LDs) are involved in numerous physiological functions, and the changes in polarity of LDs are closely related to a variety of diseases. In this work, we developed two polarity-sensitive fluorescent probes (CC-CH and CC-Cl) based on curcumin analogs. CC-CH and CC-Cl with a donor–acceptor–donor (D–A–D) structure exhibited the property of intramolecular charge transfer (ICT); thus, their fluorescence emissions were significantly attenuated with increasing ambient polarity. Cell experiments indicated that CC-CH and CC-Cl showed excellent photostability, a low cytotoxicity, and a superior targeting ability regarding LDs. After treatment with oleic acid (OA) and methyl-β-cyclodextrin (M-β-CD), the polarity changes of LDs in living cells could be visualized by using CC-CH and CC-Cl. In addition, CC-CH and CC-Cl could monitor polarity changes of LDs in different pathological processes, including inflammatory responses, nutrient deprivation, and H2O2-induced oxidative stress. Therefore, CC-CH and CC-Cl are promising potential fluorescent probes for tracking intracellular LD polarity changes.
Single-Atom Platinum Catalyst for Efficient CO2 Conversion via Reverse Water Gas Shift Reaction
Authors: He Yulian , Huang Dahong
Published: September 2023

The need to tackle CO2 emissions arising from the continuously rising combustion of fossil fuels has sparked considerable interest in investigating the reverse water gas shift (RWGS) reaction. This reaction holds great promise as an alternative technique for the conversion and utilization of CO2. In this study, a scalable method was employed to synthesize a single-atom Pt catalyst, uniformly dispersed on SiC, where up to 6.4 wt% Pt1 was loaded onto a support based on ligand modification and UV photoreduction. This Pt1/SiC catalyst exhibited a high selectivity (100%) towards the RWGS reaction; 54% CO2 conversion was observed at 900 °C with a H2/CO2 feed-in ratio of 1:1, significantly higher than the conventional Pt nanoparticle counterparts. Moreover, Pt1/SiC displayed a robust stability during the long-term test. The activation energy with as-synthesized Pt1/SiC was further calculated to be 61.6 ± 6.4 kJ/mol, which is much lower than the 91.6 ± 15.9 kJ/mol of the Pt nanoparticle counterpart and other Pt-based catalysts reported so far. This work offers new insights into the utilization of diverse single-atom catalysts for the RWGS reaction and other crucial catalytic processes, paving the way for the further exploration and application of SACs in various industrial endeavors.
Hydraulic Retention Time as an Operational Tool for the Production of Short-Chain Carboxylates via Anaerobic Fermentation of Carbohydrate-Rich Waste
Authors: Aboudi Kaoutar , Greses Silvia , González-Fernández Cristina
Published: September 2023

The carboxylate platform is a sustainable and cost-effective way to valorize wastes into biochemicals that replace those of fossil origin. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are intermediates generated during anaerobic fermentation (AF) and are considered high-value-added biochemicals among carboxylates. This investigation aimed to produce SCFAs through the AF of sugar beet molasses at 25 °C and semi-continuous feeding mode in completely stirred tank reactors. A particular focus was devoted to the role of hydraulic retention time (HRT) variation in SCFAs production and distribution profile. The highest SCFAs concentration (44.1 ± 2.3 gCOD/L) was reached at the HRT of 30 days. Caproic acid accounted for 32.5–35.5% (COD-concentration basis) at the long HRTs of 20 and 30 days due to the carbon chain elongation of shorter carboxylic acids. The findings of this study proved that HRT could be used to steer the anaerobic process toward the targeted SCFAs for specific uses. Furthermore, the successful operation at low-temperature conditions (i.e., 25 °C) makes the process economically promising.
Semantic Interest Modeling and Content-Based Scientific Publication Recommendation Using Word Embeddings and Sentence Encoders
Authors: Guesmi Mouadh , Chatti Mohamed Amine , Kadhim Lamees , Joarder Shoeb , Ain Qurat Ul
Published: September 2023

The fast growth of data in the academic field has contributed to making recommendation systems for scientific papers more popular. Content-based filtering (CBF), a pivotal technique in recommender systems (RS), holds particular significance in the realm of scientific publication recommendations. In a content-based scientific publication RS, recommendations are composed by observing the features of users and papers. Content-based recommendation encompasses three primary steps, namely, item representation, user modeling, and recommendation generation. A crucial part of generating recommendations is the user modeling process. Nevertheless, this step is often neglected in existing content-based scientific publication RS. Moreover, most existing approaches do not capture the semantics of user models and papers. To address these limitations, in this paper we present a transparent Recommendation and Interest Modeling Application (RIMA), a content-based scientific publication RS that implicitly derives user interest models from their authored papers. To address the semantic issues, RIMA combines word embedding-based keyphrase extraction techniques with knowledge bases to generate semantically-enriched user interest models, and additionally leverages pretrained transformer sentence encoders to represent user models and papers and compute their similarities. The effectiveness of our approach was assessed through an offline evaluation by conducting extensive experiments on various datasets along with user study (N = 22), demonstrating that (a) combining SIFRank and SqueezeBERT as an embedding-based keyphrase extraction method with DBpedia as a knowledge base improved the quality of the user interest modeling step, and (b) using the msmarco-distilbert-base-tas-b sentence transformer model achieved better results in the recommendation generation step.
Dietary Habits and Metabolic Health
Authors: Li Bowen , Tang Xue , Le Guowei
Published: September 2023

Dietary habits refer to the long-term dietary patterns and habits that an individual forms and maintains in their daily life [...]
Implications of Dietary Guidance for Sport and Exercise
Authors: Calleja-González Julio
Published: September 2023

The importance of nutrition in maintaining health and improving sports performance is well known [...]
Latent TB Infection, Vitamin D Status and COVID-19 Severity in Mongolian Patients
Authors: Ganmaa Davaasambuu , Chinbayar Tserendorj , Khudaykov Polyna , Nasantogtoh Erdenebileg , Ariunbuyan Sukhbaatar , Enkhtsetseg Tserenkhuu , Sarangua Ganbold , Chan Andrew , Tserendagva Dalkh
Published: September 2023

We aimed to determine potential risk factors for COVID-19 severity including serum vitamin D levels and latent TB infection among Mongolian inpatients diagnosed with COVID-19, and to study the effects of disease complications and treatment outcomes. This study included patients admitted to the Mongolian National Center for Communicable Disease, a main referral center for infectious disease in Mongolia, with COVID-19 ascertained by a positive PCR test. Patients’ demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were analyzed. Of the 270 patients enrolled, 125 (46%) had mild-to-moderate illness, 86 (32%) had severe illness, and 59 (22%) had critical illness. Ten (91%) of the 11 patients who had active TB were hospitalized with severe or critical COVID-19, suggesting that they had a higher risk of falling into the severe category (OR = 10.6 [1.2; 92.0] 95% CI). Severe vitamin D deficiency (25(OH)D < 10 ng/mL) was present in 32% of the patients, but was not significantly associated with the severity of illness (p = 0.65). Older age, being male, having active TB and/or COPD were associated with greater COVID-19 severity, whereas a history of COVID-19 vaccination and the presence of a BCG vaccination scar were protective in terms of disease severity.
The Role of Teachers in Addressing Childhood Obesity: A School-Based Approach
Authors: Snelling Anastasia , Hawkins Melissa , McClave Robin , Irvine Belson Sarah
Published: September 2023

Childhood obesity is one of the most prevalent public health challenges in the United States, and although rates are declining overall, rates among children living in underserved neighborhoods are increasing. This five-year intervention project seeks to empower teachers (n = 92) to invest in their own health and then integrate nutrition concepts into core subjects’ lessons in elementary schools. The professional development sessions reflect the concepts in the Whole Child, Whole School, Whole Community model. Results indicate that teachers who attended professional development sessions were more likely to implement nutrition lessons in the classroom (r = 0.54, p < 0.01), and students demonstrated a significant increase in nutrition knowledge (p < 0.001, df = 2, F = 9.66). Investing in school-based programs that ensure teacher well-being and professional development can yield positive benefits for both teachers and students.
Lifestyle Can Exert a Significant Impact on the Development of Metabolic Complications and Quality Life in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: García-Mateo Sandra , Martínez-Domínguez Samuel J. , Gargallo-Puyuelo Carla Jerusalén , Arroyo Villarino María Teresa , Laredo De La Torre Viviana , Gallego Beatriz , Alfambra Erika , Gomollón Fernando
Published: September 2023

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are associated with an increased risk of metabolic comorbidities. There is a lack of data regarding the relationship between lifestyle and metabolic diseases in IBD patients. A cross-sectional study on consecutive IBD outpatients was conducted. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MD) was assessed using a 14-item questionnaire from the PREDIMED study, and physical activity was evaluated using the GODIN-Leisure score. Body composition was studied based on body mass index and waist–hip ratio (WHR), while quality of life was assessed using a nine-item short questionnaire. Among the 688 evaluated IBD patients, 66% were overweight or obese, 72.7% did not lead an active lifestyle and 70.1% did not adhere to the MD. Metabolic syndrome was associated with age (OR = 1.07, p = 0.019), overweight/obesity (OR = 12.987, p < 0.001) and the inflammatory behavior of Crohn’s disease (OR = 6.172, p = 0.001). Type 2 diabetes mellitus or prediabetes was associated with age (OR = 1.063 p = 0.016), overweight/obesity (OR = 3.861, p < 0.001) and the inflammatory behavior of Crohn’s disease (OR = 4.716, p = 0.001). Overweight /obesity (OR = 5.494, p < 0.001), a high WHR (OR = 2.564, p = 0.005) and a non-active lifestyle (OR = 2.202, p = 0.0003) were associated with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. Lifestyle, body composition and not solely systemic inflammation might exert a significant influence on the emergence of metabolic comorbidities such as MASLD, type 2 diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome in patients with IBD.
Protective Effect of Aquilaria crassna Leaf Extract against Benzo[a]pyrene-Induced Toxicity in Neuronal Cells and Caenorhabditis elegans: Possible Active Constituent Includes Clionasterol
Authors: Pattarachotanant Nattaporn , Rangsinth Panthakarn , Warayanon Watis , Leung George Pak-Heng , Chuchawankul Siriporn , Prasansuklab Anchalee , Tencomnao Tewin
Published: September 2023

Aquilaria crassna (AC) is a beneficial plant widely used to alleviate various health ailments. Nevertheless, the neuroprotection, antiaging, and xenobiotic detoxification against high benzo[a]pyrene induction have not been investigated. This study aimed to investigate the effects of ethanolic extract of AC leaves (ACEE) in vitro using SH-SY5Y cells and in vivo using Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). Neuroprotective activities and cell cycle progression were studied using SH-SY5Y cells. Additionally, C. elegans was used to determine longevity, health span, and transcriptional analysis. Furthermore, ACEE possible active compounds were analyzed by gas chromatograph–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis and the possible active compounds were evaluated using a molecular docking study. First, ACEE possessed neuroprotective effects by normalizing cell cycle progression via the regulation of AhR/CYP1A1/cyclin D1 pathway. Next, ACEE played a role in xenobiotic detoxification in high B[a]P-induced C. elegans by the amelioration of lifespan reduction, and body length and size decrease through the reduction in gene expression in hexokinase (hxk) and CYP35 pathway. Finally, phytochemicals of ACEE were identified and we uncovered that clionasterol was the possible active constituent in powerfully inhibiting both CYP1A1 and hexokinase II receptor. Essentially, ACEE was recognized as a potential alternative medicine to defend against high B[a]P effects on neurotoxicity and xenobiotic detoxification.
Meta-Analysis of European Clinical Trials Characterizing the Healthy-Adult Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D Response to Vitamin D Supplementation
Authors: Rupprecht Manuel , Wagenpfeil Stefan , Schöpe Jakob , Vieth Reinhold , Vogt Thomas , Reichrath Jörg
Published: September 2023

To obtain reliable data that allow health authorities to re-evaluate recommendations for oral vitamin D uptake, we conducted a meta-analysis to investigate the impact of supplementation on serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels in healthy adults in Europe. Of the publications identified (n = 4005) in our literature search (PUBMED, through 2 January 2022), 49 primary studies (7320 subjects, 73 study arms) were eligible for inclusion in our meta-analysis. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane RoB tool based on seven categories, according to which each study is rated using three grades, and overall was rated as rather low. The median duration of intervention was 136.78 days (range, 1088 days); the mean weighted baseline 25(OH)D concentration and mean age were 33.01 vs. 33.84 nmol/L and 46.8 vs. 44.8 years in the vitamin D and placebo groups, respectively. Using random-effects models, 25(OH)D levels were increased by 36.28 nmol/L (95% CI 31.97–40.59) in the vitamin D group compared to the placebo, with a relative serum increment of 1.77 nmol/L per 2.5 μg of vitamin D daily. Notably, the relative serum 25(OH)D increment was affected by various factors, including the dosage and baseline serum 25(OH)D concentration, decreasing with increasing vitamin D doses and with increasing baseline serum levels. We estimate that supplementation in all healthy adults in Europe with appr. 25 μg of vitamin D (1000 IU) daily would raise serum 25(OH)D levels in 95% of the population to ≥50 nmol/L. Our work provides health authorities with reliable data that can help to re-evaluate recommendations for oral vitamin D supplementation.
Alanyl-Glutamine Dipeptide Attenuates Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Induced by a High-Fat Diet in Mice by Improving Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis
Authors: Zheng Yigang , Ying Hanglu , Shi Jiayi , Li Long , Zhao Yufen
Published: September 2023

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) manifests as a persistent liver ailment marked by the excessive buildup of lipids within the hepatic organ accompanied by inflammatory responses and oxidative stress. Alanyl-glutamine (AG), a dipeptide comprising alanine and glutamine, is commonly employed as a nutritional supplement in clinical settings. This research aims to evaluate the impact of AG on NAFLD triggered by a high-fat diet (HFD), while concurrently delving into the potential mechanisms underlying its effects. The results presented herein demonstrate a notable reduction in the elevated body weight, liver mass, and liver index induced by a HFD upon AG administration. These alterations coincide with the amelioration of liver injury and the attenuation of hepatic histological advancement. Furthermore, AG treatment manifests a discernible diminution in oil-red-O-stained regions and triglyceride (TG) levels within the liver. Noteworthy alterations encompass lowered plasma total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC) concentrations, coupled with elevated high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLC) concentrations. The mitigation of hepatic lipid accumulation resultant from AG administration is aligned with the downregulation of ACC1, SCD1, PPAR-γ, and CD36 expression, in conjunction with the upregulation of FXR and SHP expression. Concomitantly, AG administration leads to a reduction in the accumulation of F4/80-positive macrophages within the liver, likely attributable to the downregulated expression of MCP-1. Furthermore, AG treatment yields a decline in hepatic MDA levels and a concurrent increase in the activities of SOD and GPX. A pivotal observation underscores the effect of AG in rectifying the imbalance of gut microbiota in HFD-fed mice. Consequently, this study sheds light on the protective attributes of AG against HFD-induced NAFLD through the modulation of gut microbiota composition.
Preventive Roles of Rice-koji Extracts and Ergothioneine on Anxiety- and Pain-like Responses under Psychophysical Stress Conditions in Male Mice
Authors: Piriyaprasath Kajita , Kakihara Yoshito , Kurahashi Atsushi , Taiyoji Mayumi , Kodaira Kazuya , Aihara Kotaro , Hasegawa Mana , Yamamura Kensuke , Okamoto Keiichiro
Published: September 2023

This study determined the effect of daily administration of Rice-koji on anxiety and nociception in mice subjected to repeated forced swim stress (FST). In a parallel experiment, it was determined whether ergothioneine (EGT) contained in Rice-koji displayed similar effects. Anxiety and nociception were assessed behaviorally using multiple procedures. c-Fos and FosB immunoreactivities were quantified to assess the effect of both treatments on neural responses in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN), nucleus raphe magnus (NRM), and lumbar spinal dorsal horn (DH). FST increased anxiety- and pain-like behaviors in the hindpaw. Rice-koji or EGT significantly prevented these behaviors after FST. In the absence of formalin, both treatments prevented decreased FosB expressions in the PVN after FST, while no effect was seen in the NRM and DH. In the presence of formalin, both treatments prevented changes in c-Fos and FosB expressions in all areas in FST mice. Further, in vitro experiments using SH-SY5Y cells were conducted. Rice-koji and EGT did not affect cell viability but changed the level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor. In conclusion, Rice-koji could reduce anxiety and pain associated with psychophysical stress, possibly mediated by the modulatory effects of EGT on neural functions in the brain.