bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MSA-GCN: Multistage Spatio-Temporal Aggregation Graph Convolutional Networks for Traffic Flow Prediction
Authors: Feng Ji , Huang Jiashuang , Guo Chang , Shi Zhenquan
Published: October 2024

Timely and accurate traffic flow prediction is crucial for stabilizing road conditions, reducing environmental pollution, and mitigating economic losses. While current graph convolution methods have achieved certain results, they do not fully leverage the true advantages of graph convolution. There is still room for improvement in simultaneously addressing multi-graph convolution, optimizing graphs, and simulating road conditions. Based on this, this paper proposes MSA-GCN: Multistage Spatio-Temporal Aggregation Graph Convolutional Networks for Traffic Flow Prediction. This method overcomes the aforementioned issues by dividing the process into different stages and achieves promising prediction results. In the first stage, we construct a latent similarity adjacency matrix and address the randomness interference features in similarity features through two optimizations using the proposed ConvGRU Attention Layer (CGAL module) and the Causal Similarity Capture Module (CSC module), which includes Granger causality tests. In the second stage, we mine the potential correlation between roads using the Correlation Completion Module (CC module) to create a global correlation adjacency matrix as a complement for potential correlations. In the third stage, we utilize the proposed Auto-LRU autoencoder to pre-train various weather features, encoding them into the model’s prediction process to enhance its ability to simulate the real world and improve interpretability. Finally, in the fourth stage, we fuse these features and use a Bidirectional Gated Recurrent Unit (BiGRU) to model time dependencies, outputting the prediction results through a linear layer. Our model demonstrates a performance improvement of 29.33%, 27.03%, and 23.07% on three real-world datasets (PEMSD8, LOSLOOP, and SZAREA) compared to advanced baseline methods, and various ablation experiments validate the effectiveness of each stage and module.
Semi-Active Suspension Control Strategy Based on Negative Stiffness Characteristics
Authors: Chen Yanlin , Shen Shaoping , Li Zhijie , Hu Zikun , Li Zhibin
Published: October 2024

This paper investigates the potential of negative stiffness suspensions for enhanced vehicle vibration isolation. By analyzing and improving traditional control algorithms, we propose and experimentally validate novel skyhook, groundhook, and hybrid control strategies for suspensions with negative stiffness characteristics. We establish pavement models, incorporate negative stiffness into suspension modeling, and develop a performance evaluation index. Our research identifies shortcomings of classical semi-active control algorithms and introduces a new band selector to combine improved control methods. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed semi-active suspension control strategy based on negative stiffness effectively reduces body vibration and enhances vehicle ride performance.
Distributed Optimization Control for the System with Second-Order Dynamic
Authors: Wang Yueqing , Zhang Hao , Li Zhi
Published: October 2024

No matter whether with constraint or without constraint, most of the research about distributed optimization is studied for the kind of quadratic performance criteria that does not have an integrator; these optimization problems only concern the state value at the time of the final state, not the whole process of the system change. For this problem, this paper discusses second-order multi-agent systems with a discrete-time dynamic and a continuous-time dynamic, respectively, for distributed optimization control problems, and proposes sufficient conditions to ensure the quadratic performance criteria with an integrator is positive. Specifically, under sufficient conditions, we describe the multi-agent systems that are considered in this paper to be connected topology; all the agents can obtain the information from their neighbors. In addition, the structure of our controller only relies on the Laplace matrix of the system’s topology, and the reaction coefficients in the controller are the parameters in the performance criteria. Finally, the analysis of convergence is given and verified by numerical examples and simulations.
Improved Real-Time Detection Transformer-Based Rail Fastener Defect Detection Algorithm
Authors: Song Wei , Liao Bin , Ning Keqing , Yan Xiaoyu
Published: October 2024

To address the issues of the Real-Time DEtection TRansformer (RT-DETR) object detection model, including poor defect feature extraction in the task of rail fastener defect detection, inefficient use of computational resources, and suboptimal channel attention in the self-attention mechanism, the following improvements were made. Firstly, a Super-Resolution Convolutional Module (SRConv) was designed as a separate component and integrated into the Backbone network, which enhances the image details and clarity while preserving the original image structure and semantic content. This integration improves the model’s ability to extract defect features. Secondly, a channel attention mechanism was integrated into the self-attention module of RT-DETR to enhance the focus on feature map channels, addressing the problem of sparse attention maps caused by the lack of channel attention while saving computational resources. Finally, the experimental results show that compared to the original model, the improved RT-DETR-based rail fastener defect detection algorithm, with an additional 0.4 MB of parameters, achieved a higher accuracy, with a 2.8 percentage point increase in the Mean Average Precision (mAP) across IoU thresholds from 0.5 to 0.9 and a 1.7 percentage point increase in the Average Recall (AR) across the same thresholds.
OUCH: Oversampling and Undersampling Cannot Help Improve Accuracy in Our Bayesian Classifiers That Predict Preeclampsia
Authors: Parrales-Bravo Franklin , Caicedo-Quiroz Rosangela , Tolozano-Benitez Elena , Gómez-Rodríguez Víctor , Cevallos-Torres Lorenzo , Charco-Aguirre Jorge , Vasquez-Cevallos Leonel
Published: October 2024

Unbalanced data can have an impact on the machine learning (ML) algorithms that build predictive models. This manuscript studies the influence of oversampling and undersampling strategies on the learning of the Bayesian classification models that predict the risk of suffering preeclampsia. Given the properties of our dataset, only the oversampling and undersampling methods that operate with numerical and categorical attributes will be taken into consideration. In particular, synthetic minority oversampling techniques for nominal and continuous data (SMOTE-NC), SMOTE—Encoded Nominal and Continuous (SMOTE-ENC), random oversampling examples (ROSE), random undersampling examples (UNDER), and random oversampling techniques (OVER) are considered. According to the results, when balancing the class in the training dataset, the accuracy percentages do not improve. However, in the test dataset, both positive and negative cases of preeclampsia were accurately classified by the models, which were built on a balanced training dataset. In contrast, models built on the imbalanced training dataset were not good at detecting positive cases of preeclampsia. We can conclude that while imbalanced training datasets can be addressed by using oversampling and undersampling techniques before building prediction models, an improvement in model accuracy is not always guaranteed. Despite this, the sensitivity and specificity percentages improve in binary classification problems in most cases, such as the one we are dealing with in this manuscript.
Hyperparameter Tuning of Load-Forecasting Models Using Metaheuristic Optimization Algorithms—A Systematic Review
Authors: Mumtahina Umme , Alahakoon Sanath , Wolfs Peter
Published: October 2024

Load forecasting is an integral part of the power industries. Load-forecasting techniques should minimize the percentage error while prediction future demand. This will inherently help utilities have an uninterrupted power supply. In addition to that, accurate load forecasting can result in saving large amounts of money. This article provides a systematic review based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework. This article presents a complete framework for short-term load forecasting using metaheuristic algorithms. This framework consists of three sub-layers: the data-decomposition layer, the forecasting layer, and the optimization layer. The data-decomposition layer decomposes the input data series to extract important features. The forecasting layer is used to predict the result, which involves different statistical and machine-learning models. The optimization layer optimizes the parameters of forecasting methods to improve the accuracy and stability of the forecasting model using different metaheuristic algorithms. Single models from the forecasting layer can predict the results. However, they come with their limitations, such as low accuracy, high computational burden, stuck to local minima, etc. To improve the prediction accuracy, the hyperparameters of these models need to be tuned properly. Metaheuristic algorithms cab be used to tune these hyperparameters considering their interdependencies. Hybrid models combining the three-layer methods can perform better by overcoming the issues of premature convergence and trapping into a local minimum solution. A quantitative analysis of different metaheuristic algorithms and deep-learning forecasting methods is presented. Some of the most common evaluation indices that are used to evaluate the performance of the forecasting models are discussed. Furthermore, a taxonomy of different state-of-the-art articles is provided, discussing their advantages, limitations, contributions, and evaluation indices. A future direction is provided for researchers to deal with hyperparameter tuning.
Corrosion of Steels in Liquid Bismuth–Lithium Alloy
Authors: Abramov Aleksander V. , Alimgulov Ruslan R. , Trubcheninova Anastasia I. , Volkovich Vladimir A. , Polovov Ilya B.
Published: October 2024

The corrosion resistance of several types of steel (AISI 410, 321, 316L, 904L) was determined in a liquid Bi-Li (5 mol.%) alloy (BLA) medium at 650 °C combining gravimetric analysis of steel samples and chemical analysis of corrosion products’ content accumulating in the BLA phase. Energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray fluorescence and inductively coupled plasma–atomic emission spectrometry analysis were employed for characterizing steel structure and alloy composition. AISI 321, 316L and 904L nickel-containing corrosion-resistant steels underwent severe corrosion in BLA, and their corrosion rates depended on the nickel content in the material. AISI 410 steel exhibited the lowest corrosion rate of all the materials investigated, and this type of steel can be considered as a reasonable structural material for work in BLA environments. The corrosion rates of AISI 410, 321, 316L and 904L steels in BLA at 650 °C were 77, 244, 252 and 280 µm/year, respectively. It was also found that chromium was etched more intensively than iron from the surface of steel samples.
Immunohistochemical Localization of Fibroblast Activation Protein in Coronary Arteries with Different Forms of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Mohmand-Borkowski Adam , Rozmyslowicz Tomasz
Published: October 2024

Background: Fibroblast activation protein (FAP) is a cell surface glycoprotein expressed by myofibroblasts in areas of active tissue remodeling. It plays a potentially important role in cardiac remodeling, atherosclerotic plaque formation, and plaque rupture. Given the distinct pathophysiology and morphology of different forms of atherosclerosis, we analyzed FAP expression in human coronary vessels with no coronary artery disease, atherosclerotic plaques at different levels of progression, and other distinct forms of coronary disease in post bypass vein grafting and cardiac allograft vasculopathy after a heart transplant. Methods: Immunohistochemical staining with monoclonal F19 mouse anti-human FAP antibody was performed to identify FAP in human atherosclerotic plaques, coronary bypass atherosclerosis, and post-transplant arteriosclerosis. The presence and distribution of FAP in different types and stages of human atherosclerosis were compared. Results: There was no FAP staining in patients with no significant coronary disease. All different types of human atherosclerotic lesioning lesions showed the presence of FAP expression, with different staining patterns in advanced atherosclerotic plaque, vein graft atherosclerosis lesions, and arteriosclerosis after a heart transplant. Conclusions: These data suggest that FAP may be a potential diagnostic marker and target for interventions, not only in coronary atherosclerotic plaque, but also in other forms of coronary disease, which have distinct pathophysiologies and currently limited treatment options.
A Normal Displacement Model and Compensation Method of Polishing Tool for Precision CNC Polishing of Aspheric Surface
Authors: Shi Yongjie , Su Min , Cao Qianqian , Zheng Di
Published: October 2024

The position accuracy of the polishing tool affects the surface quality of the polished aspheric surface. The contact deformation among the polishing tool, abrasives, and aspheric part can cause a displacement, which, in turn, will cause a position error of the polishing tool, which will lead to a significant change in the polishing force. In order to resolve this error, this paper proposed a method of normal displacement compensation for a computer numerical controlled (CNC) polishing system by controlling the polishing force. Firstly, the coupling principle between the polishing force and the position of the polishing tool is expounded, and the relationship between normal displacement and deformation is analyzed. Based on Hertz’s theory, a model of normal displacement is established. Then, on the basis of the decoupled polishing system developed, a normal displacement compensation method was proposed. Finally, a group of comparative experiments was carried out to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. Compared with no displacement compensation, when the part was polished with the normal displacement compensation method, the value of roughness decreased from 0.4 µm to 0.21 µm, and the unevenness coefficient of surface roughness decreased from 112.5% to 19%. The experimental results show that the polishing quality is improved greatly, and the aspheric surfaces can be polished more uniformly with the method proposed in this paper.
A Highly Sensitive Strain Sensor with Self-Assembled MXene/Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube Sliding Networks for Gesture Recognition
Authors: Wang Fei , Yu Hongchen , Ma Xingyu , Lv Xue , Liu Yijian , Wang Hanning , Wang Zhicheng , Chen Da
Published: October 2024

Flexible electronics is pursuing a new generation of electronic skin and human–computer interaction. However, effectively detecting large dynamic ranges and highly sensitive human movements remains a challenge. In this study, flexible strain sensors with a self-assembled PDMS/MXene/MWCNT structure are fabricated, in which MXene particles are wrapped and bridged by dense MWCNTs, forming complex sliding conductive networks. Therefore, the strain sensor possesses an impressive sensitivity (gauge factor = 646) and 40% response range. Moreover, a fast response time of 280 ms and detection limit of 0.05% are achieved. The high performance enables good prospects in human detection, like human movement and pulse signals for healthcare. It is also applied to wearable smart data gloves, in which the CNN algorithm is utilized to identify 15 gestures, and the final recognition rate is up to 95%. This comprehensive performance strain sensor is designed for a wide array of human body detection applications and wearable intelligent systems.
Endophytic Bacteria Improve Bio- and Phytoremediation of Heavy Metals
Authors: Liu Ling , Quan Shujing , Li Liangliang , Lei Gao , Li Shanshan , Gong Tao , Zhang Zhilong , Hu Yiliang , Yang Wenling
Published: October 2024

Currently, the problem of heavy metal pollution in China is becoming increasingly serious, which poses grave threats to the environment and human health. Owing to the non-biodegradability and toxicity of heavy metals, a more sustainable and ecological approach to remediate heavy metal pollution has always been a focus of attention for environmental researchers. In recent years, many scientists have found that phytoremediation aided by endophytes has high potential to remediate heavy metals owing to its low cost, effectiveness, environmental friendliness, and sustainability compared with physical and chemical methods. Indeed, the mechanism of interaction between endophytes, plants, and heavy metals in the soil is pivotal for plants to tolerate metal toxicity and thrive. In this review, we focus on the mechanism of how endophytic bacteria resist heavy metals, and the direct and indirect mechanisms employed by endophytic bacteria to promote the growth of plants and enhance phytoextraction and phytostabilization. Moreover, we also discuss the application of combinations of endophytic bacteria and plants that have been used to remediate heavy metal pollution. Finally, it is pointed out that although there have been many studies on phytoremediation systems that have been assisted by endophytes, large-scale field trials are important to deliver “real” results to evaluate and improve phytoremediation assisted with microorganisms in polluted natural environments.
Candida albicans Induces Oral Microbial Dysbiosis and Promotes Oral Diseases
Authors: Kashyap Bina , Padala Sridhar Reddy , Kaur Gaganjot , Kullaa Arja
Published: October 2024

Candida albicans are ubiquitous fungal organisms that colonize the oral cavity of healthy individuals without causing disease. C. albicans is an opportunistic microorganism with several virulent factors that influence the inflammatory process and allow it to invade tissues, evade host defense mechanisms, and release toxins, facilitating proliferation and degradation. At present, increasing emphasis is placed on polymicrobial interactions between C. albicans and various bacterial pathogens. Such interaction is mutually beneficial for both parties: it is competitive and antagonistic. Their complex interaction and colonization in the oral cavity serve as the basis for several oral diseases. The dispersion of C. albicans in saliva and the systemic circulation is noted in association with other bacterial populations, suggesting their virulence in causing disease. Hence, it is necessary to understand fungal–bacterial interactions for early detection and the development of novel therapeutic strategies to treat oral diseases. In this paper, we review the mutualistic interaction of C. albicans in oral biofilm formation and polymicrobial interactions in oral diseases. In addition, C. albicans virulence in causing biofilm-related oral diseases and its presence in saliva are discussed.
Antimycobacterial Activity of Solid Lipid Microparticles Loaded with Ursolic Acid and Oleanolic Acid: In Vitro, In Vivo, and Toxicity Assessments
Authors: Saini Vinay , Mata Espinosa Dulce , Pandey Alok , Dighe Vikas , Barrios Payán Jorge , Prasad Myneedu Vithal , Valdez Zarate Ivan , Rajani Dhanji P. , Anande Lalit D. , Hernandez Pando Rogelio , Srivastava Rohit
Published: October 2024

Ursolic acid (UA) and oleanolic acid (OA) are hydrophobic triterpenoid isomers with demonstrated anti-mycobacterial (Mtb) and immune-regulatory properties, although their poor solubility limits clinical use. We report the development of solid lipid microparticles (SLMs) as delivery vehicles for UA and OA and evaluate their anti-Mtb efficacy in vitro and in vivo, as well as their acute toxicity. SLMs measured 0.7–0.89 µM in size, with complete in vitro release of OA and UA at 40 and 32 h, respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of SLMs loaded with OA and UA was 40 µg/mL SLMs + 20 µg/mL OA + 20 µg/mL UA for drug-sensitive Mtb and 80 µg/mL SLMs + 40 µg/mL OA + 40 µg/mL UA for multidrug-resistant (MDR) Mtb. These SLMs showed an efficient reduction in Mtb burden in infected alveolar macrophages. In a murine model of late-stage progressive MDR-TB, aerosolized delivery of SLMs containing OA and UA via a metered-dose inhaler significantly reduced pulmonary bacterial loads and extended survival. In vivo, acute toxicity studies revealed no mortality or signs of toxicity. These findings demonstrate that SLMs are an optimal delivery system for terpenoids, providing potent in vitro and in vivo anti-TB activity with an excellent safety profile.
Differential Host Gene Expression in Response to Infection by Different Mycobacterium tuberculosis Strains—A Pilot Study
Authors: Megawati Dewi , Armitige Lisa Y. , Tazi Loubna
Published: October 2024

Tuberculosis (TB) represents a global public health threat and is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Effective control of TB is complicated with the emergence of multidrug resistance. Yet, there is a fundamental gap in understanding the complex and dynamic interactions between different Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains and the host. In this pilot study, we investigated the host immune response to different M. tuberculosis strains, including drug-sensitive avirulent or virulent, and rifampin-resistant or isoniazid-resistant virulent strains in human THP-1 cells. We identified major differences in the gene expression profiles in response to infection with these strains. The expression of IDO1 and IL-1β in the infected cells was stronger in all virulent M. tuberculosis strains. The most striking result was the overexpression of many interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) in cells infected with the isoniazid-resistant strain, compared to the rifampin-resistant and the drug-sensitive strains. Our data indicate that infection with the isoniazid-resistant M. tuberculosis strain preferentially resulted in cGAS-STING/STAT1 activation, which induced a characteristic host immune response. These findings reveal complex gene signatures and a dynamic variation in the immune response to infection by different M. tuberculosis strains.
Study on Reaction Behavior and Phase Transformation Regularity of Montmorillonite in High-Calcium Sodium Aluminate Solution System
Authors: Tu Zhenchen , Chen Yang , Li Yibing , Zhang Weiguang , Cao Xuejiao
Published: October 2024

The diaspore is a typical representative of bauxite resources in China, which is the primary raw material for the Bayer process in alumina production, particularly in regions such as Shanxi, Guangxi, Guizhou, and Henan. Clarifying the phase transformations and reaction mechanisms of the silicon-containing minerals during the Bayer leaching process of diaspore is essential for improving the efficiency of alumina production. This article focuses on montmorillonite, which is one of the silicon-containing minerals of diaspore-type bauxite, investigating the reaction mechanisms and phase changes of montmorillonite under the high-calcium sodium aluminate solution system by using X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Magic Angle Spinning Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (MAS–NMR) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The results show that montmorillonite dissolved and transformed into Na6(AlSiO4)6 (hydrated sodium aluminosilicate) under the high-calcium sodium aluminate solution system, and calcium oxide and sodium aluminate in the solution reacted to form (CaO)3Al2O3(H2O)6 (hydrated calcium aluminate). With the increase of reaction temperature, caustic alkali concentration (Nk), and reaction time, hydrated calcium aluminate and hydrated sodium aluminosilicate react and transform into Ca3Al2SiO4(OH)8 (hydrogarnet). Under the optimal reaction conditions of a 120 min reaction time, a temperature of 240 °C, an Nk of 240 g/L, and a CaO–to–SiO2 mass ratio (C/S) of 3.5:1, the montmorillonite reaction degree can reach a maximum of 93.71%.
Synthesis of Perfluoroalkylated Pyrazoles from α-Perfluoroalkenylated Aldehydes
Authors: Bunnemann Lennart , Wulkesch Christian , Voigt Victoria Carina , Czekelius Constantin
Published: October 2024

Within this study, we report a simple two-step process for the synthesis of perfluoroalkylated pyrazoles from aliphatic aldehydes. In the photocatalytic first step, the aldehydes are transformed into the corresponding perfluoroalkylated enals, which then undergo nucleophilic attack by hydrazine and subsequent ring closure, providing the fluorinated 3,4-substituted pyrazole products in a 64–84% yield. Using triphenylphosphine and imidazolidinone as organocatalysts, the method is operationally simple and omits heavy metal-containing waste.
Investigation of the Frying Fume Composition During Deep Frying of Tempeh Using GC-MS and PTR-MS
Authors: Fathimah Rohmah Nur , Majchrzak Tomasz
Published: October 2024

This study employed proton transfer reaction mass spectrometry (PTR-MS) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to identify and monitor volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in frying fumes generated during the deep frying of tempeh. The research aimed to assess the impact of frying conditions, including frying temperature, oil type, and repeated use cycles, on the formation of thermal decomposition products. A total of 78 VOCs were identified, with 42 common to both rapeseed and palm oil. An algorithm based on cosine similarity was proposed to group variables, resulting in six distinct emission clusters. The findings highlighted the prominence of saturated and unsaturated aldehydes, underscoring the role of fatty acid oxidation in shaping the frying fume composition. This study not only corroborates previous research but also provides new insights into VOC emissions during deep frying, particularly regarding the specific emission profiles of certain compound groups and the influence of frying conditions on these profiles.
Does Encapsulation Improve the Bioavailability of Polyphenols in Humans? A Concise Review Based on In Vivo Human Studies
Authors: Ali Redha Ali , Kodikara Chamali , Cozzolino Daniel
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Polyphenols offer an array of health benefits that can contribute to well-being. Nevertheless, their bioactivity can be compromised due to their low bioavailability. Encapsulation has been explored as a strategy to enhance the stability and bioavailability of polyphenols. During encapsulation, polyphenols are protected from degradation by a wall material that acts as a protective coating. This coating shields the polyphenols from the harsh physiological conditions of digestion, ensuring their delivery to the intestine. However, the majority of evidence, particularly regarding bioavailability after digestion, is derived from in vitro studies. While these studies provide valuable preliminary insights, they cannot definitively confirm the effects in vivo due to their inability to accurately replicate physiological conditions and the complex gut microbial ecosystem. Consequently, this review seeks to evaluate the current evidence from in vivo human studies to elucidate the efficacy of encapsulation in improving polyphenols’ bioavailability. Results and conclusions: Current clinical evidence on the impact of encapsulation on polyphenol bioavailability is primarily focused on polyphenols derived from grape pomace, cocoa, and bilberries, as well as individual polyphenols such as fisetin, hesperidin, and curcumin. Encapsulation has been an effective technique in improving the bioavailability of individual polyphenols like hesperidin, fisetin, and curcumin. However, this approach has not yielded consistent results when applied to groups of polyphenols, such as bilberry anthocyanins or cocoa phenolic acids. Encapsulation by micellization has shown promising results in improving the bioavailability of curcumin in a nutraceutical context. Further studies are needed to explore the bioavailability of encapsulated polyphenols, especially in the functional food context.
Immunostimulation Signaling via Toll-like Receptor 2 Activation: A Molecular Mechanism of Lactococcus lactis OTG1204 In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Song Hyeon-A , Jang Seo-Yun , Park Min-Ji , Kim Seung Wook , Kang Choon Gil , Lee Joo Hyun , Kim Hye-Jin , Kim Jiheon , Lee Jong Kil , Chung Kyung-Sook , Lee Kyung-Tae
Published: October 2024

Introduction: The immune system’s defense against pathogens involves innate and adaptive responses, crucial in maintaining overall health. Immunosuppressed states render individuals more susceptible to potential diseases, indicating the need for effective strategies to bolster immune functions. Objectives: Although the immunostimulatory effects of various probiotics have been studied, the specific effects and molecular mechanisms of Lactococcus lactis OTG1204 (OTG1204) remain unknown. In this study, the aim was to investigate the molecular mechanisms of OTG1204 in RAW 264.7 macrophages, the key effector cells of the innate immune system involved in host defense and inflammatory responses. Additionally, in this study, the effects of OTG1204 on cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced immunosuppression states were investigated, thereby demonstrating its potential as an immune stimulant. Methods: To assess the macrophage activation ability and underlying mechanisms of OTG1204, RAW 264.7 cells were utilized with transfection, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and quantitative real-time PCR analyses. Furthermore, to evaluate the immunostimulatory effects under immunosuppressed conditions, CTX-induced immunosuppression mice model was employed, and analyses were performed using hematoxylin and eosin staining, flow cytometry, and microbiota examination. Results: OTG1204 activated RAW 264.7 macrophages, leading to increased production of nitric oxide, prostaglandin E2, and cytokines. This immune activation was mediated through the upregulation of toll-like receptor 2, which subsequently activated the nuclear factor-κB (NF-kB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/activator protein 1 (AP-1) pathways, thereby stimulating the immune response. In CTX-treated mice, OTG1204 recovered body weight, spleen, and mesenteric lymph node indices, and natural killer cell activity. It re-established populations of innate and adaptive immune cells and activated T cells to secrete cytokines. We also examined the gut barrier integrity and microbiota composition to assess OTG1204’s impact on intestinal health, as these factors play a significant role in immune enhancement. OTG1204 enhanced gut barrier integrity by upregulating mucin 2 and tight junction proteins and modulated the gut microbiota by restoring the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes balance and reducing the abundance of Actinobacteria and Tenericutes. Conclusion: These results suggest that OTG1204 may serve as an effective probiotic for immune enhancement and gut health management by targeting the NF-κB and MAPK/AP-1 pathways, with minimal side effects.
Inflammation: The Beauty or the Beast? Vitamins, Nutritional Supplements, Antioxidant Therapy, and Modulators of Inflammation as Therapeutic Interventions
Authors: Caporossi Daniela , Lancha Antonio Herbert , Coletti Dario
Published: October 2024

The importance of inflammation in disease development is now well known not only for acute states but also for chronic pathologies [...]
Phytochemical Compounds as Promising Therapeutics for Intestinal Fibrosis in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Critical Review
Authors: Touny Aya A. , Venkataraman Balaji , Ojha Shreesh , Pessia Mauro , Subramanian Veedamali S. , Hariharagowdru Shamanth Neralagundi , Subramanya Sandeep B.
Published: October 2024

Background/Objective: Intestinal fibrosis, a prominent consequence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), presents considerable difficulty owing to the absence of licensed antifibrotic therapies. This review assesses the therapeutic potential of phytochemicals as alternate methods for controlling intestinal fibrosis. Phytochemicals, bioactive molecules originating from plants, exhibit potential antifibrotic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities, targeting pathways associated with inflammation and fibrosis. Compounds such as Asperuloside, Berberine, and olive phenols have demonstrated potential in preclinical models by regulating critical signaling pathways, including TGF-β/Smad and NFκB, which are integral to advancing fibrosis. Results: The main findings suggest that these phytochemicals significantly reduce fibrotic markers, collagen deposition, and inflammation in various experimental models of IBD. These phytochemicals may function as supplementary medicines to standard treatments, perhaps enhancing patient outcomes while mitigating the adverse effects of prolonged immunosuppressive usage. Nonetheless, additional clinical trials are necessary to validate their safety, effectiveness, and bioavailability in human subjects. Conclusions: Therefore, investigating phytochemicals may lead to crucial advances in the formulation of innovative treatment approaches for fibrosis associated with IBD, offering a promising avenue for future therapeutic development.
The Influence of Crossbreeding on the Composition of Protein and Fat Fractions in Milk: A Comparison Between Purebred Polish Holstein Friesian and Polish Holstein Friesian × Swedish Red Cows
Authors: Solarczyk Paweł , Slósarz Jan , Gołębiewski Marcin , Natalello Antonio , Musati Martino , Luciano Giuseppe , Priolo Alessandro , Puppel Kamila
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: In this study, the differences in protein and fat bioactive components between the milk from purebred Polish Holstein Friesian (PHF) cows and PHF cows crossbred with Swedish Red (SRB) were investigated. The objective was to assess the impact of genetic variation on the nutritional quality of their milk. Methods: This study was conducted at the Warsaw University of Life Sciences’ (WULS) experimental dairy farm in Warsaw, Poland, and involved 60 primiparous cows divided into two groups: 30 PHF×SRB crossbred cows and 30 purebred PHF cows. All cows were housed in a free-stall system with an average lactation yield exceeding 10,000 kg/lactation. The milk composition analyses included total protein, casein, whey protein, fatty acid profiles, and vitamin content. Results: Milk from the PHF×SRB hybrids showed a significantly greater total protein content (3.53%) compared to that from the purebred PHF cows (3.28%). The casein content was higher in the hybrids’ milk (2.90%) than the purebreds’ milk (2.78%), while the whey protein levels were lower in the purebred milk (0.50%) than in the hybrid milk (0.63%). The hybrids exhibited higher concentrations of certain saturated fatty acids in their milk, while the purebreds’ milk contained greater amounts of beneficial unsaturated fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins—E, D, and K. Conclusions: These results indicate that genetic selection through crossbreeding can enhance the nutritional quality of milk. The differences observed in protein, fatty-acid, and vitamin content underscore the role of the genotype in milk composition, suggesting that breeding strategies can optimize dairy products’ health benefits.
Efficacy and Safety of Rivaroxaban, Apixaban, and Edoxaban for Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation Based on Blood Coagulation Activity and Drug Plasma Concentration: SETtsu and North Osaka Multicenter Direct Oral AntiCoagulant (SET DOAC) Registry
Authors: Suwa Michihiro , Morii Isao , Kino Masaya , Matsui Yumie , Yoshinaga Masahiro , Takahashi Hiroki , Takagi Masahiko , Yoshida Akira , Ichikawa Minoru , Nakajima Osamu , Tanimura Mitsuhiro , Shimoyama Hisashi , Saitoh Hiroyuki , Sasaki Isao , Suzuki Takeshi , Uemae Satoshi
Published: October 2024

Background: The therapeutic effects of oral anticoagulant drugs for nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) suggest that the three factor Xa (FXa) inhibitors may have distinct safety profiles, though this is not yet fully conclusive. This study investigated the current dosing of rivaroxaban, apixaban, and edoxaban by monitoring drug plasma concentration (PC) and coagulation activity from the viewpoint of the safety. Methods and results: This multicenter clinical study monitored the drug PC and two coagulation biomarkers (fibrinogen and fibrin monomer complex [FMC]) at peak and trough timing in 268 outpatients taking rivaroxaban (n = 72), apixaban (n = 71), and edoxaban (n = 125) for NVAF. Doses were adjusted based on the dose-adjustment criteria of each drug. Referencing our previous study, peak drug PC remained below the cut-off level for predicting bleeding events except in eight patients (rivaroxaban, n = 3; apixaban, n = 2; edoxaban, n = 3) in whom bleeding events occurred. Among them, two (one each on rivaroxaban and edoxaban) had a peak drug PC below the cut-off level. Drug PCs widely varied from peak to trough, whereas FMC levels, reflecting thrombin activity, remained within the normal range (<6.1 µg/mL) regardless of PC variations. These results indicated that the anticoagulant effects of these drugs persisted throughout the day regardless of the drug PC levels, dosage, and dosing frequency. Regarding the change over time in peak PC, the elevation over time developed more in rivaroxaban (29/57; 50.9%, p < 0.05) than in edoxaban (32/101; 31.7%), and rivaroxaban tended to accumulate more than edoxaban. Conclusions: Although drug PC levels of once-daily FXa inhibitors widely varied from peak to trough, FMC levels were maintained within the normal range without daily variations. Rivaroxaban also tended to accumulate over time. The results indicate the low risk of thrombotic events with once-daily FXa inhibitors and its correspondence to the twice-daily regimen.
Preparation of Ibuprofen-Loaded Inhalable γCD-MOFs by Freeze-Drying Using the QbD Approach
Authors: Motzwickler-Németh Anett , Party Petra , Simon Péter , Sorrenti Milena , Ambrus Rita , Csóka Ildikó
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Research on cyclodextrin-based metal-organic frameworks (CD-MOFs) is still in its infancy, but their potential for use in drug delivery—expressly in the lung—seems promising. We aimed to use the freeze-drying method to create a novel approach for preparing CD-MOFs. MOFs consisting of γ-cyclodextrin (γCD) and potassium cations (K+) were employed to encapsulate the poorly water-soluble model drug Ibuprofen (IBU) for the treatment of cystic fibrosis (CF). Methods: Using the LeanQbD® software (v2022), we designed the experiments based on the Quality by Design (QbD) concept. According to QbD, we identified the three most critical factors, which were the molar ratio of the IBU to the γCD, incubation time, and the percentage of the organic solvent. light-, scanning electron microscope (SEM) and laser diffraction were utilized to observe the morphology and particle size of the samples. In addition, the products were characterized by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), X-ray Powder Diffraction (XRPD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR). Results: Based on characterizations, we concluded that a γCD-MOF/IBU complex was also formed using the freeze-drying method. Using formulations with optimal aerodynamic properties, we achieved 38.10 ± 5.06 and 47.18 ± 4.18 Fine Particle Fraction% (FPF%) based on the Andersen Cascade Impactor measurement. With these formulations, we achieved a fast dissolution profile and increased IBU solubility. Conclusions: This research successfully demonstrates the innovative use of freeze-drying to produce γCD-MOFs for inhalable IBU delivery. The method enabled to modify the particle size, which was crucial for successful pulmonary intake, emphasizing the need for further investigation of these formulations as effective delivery systems.
Advanced Nanotechnology-Based Nucleic Acid Medicines
Authors: Miyamoto Noriko , Sakuragi Mina , Kitade Yukio
Published: October 2024

Nucleic acid medicines are a highly attractive modality that act in a sequence-specific manner on target molecules. To date, 21 such products have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. However, the development of nucleic acid medicines continues to face various challenges, including tissue and cell targeting as well as intracellular delivery. Numerous research groups are addressing these issues by advancing the development of nucleic acid medicines through nanotechnology. In countries other than Japan (including Europe and the USA), >40 nanotechnology-based nucleic acid medicines have been tested in clinical trials, and 15 clinical trials are ongoing. In Japan, three phase I trials are ongoing, and future results are awaited. The review summarizes the latest research in the nanotechnology of nucleic acid medicines and statuses of clinical trials in Japan, with expectations of further evolutions.
Reconfigurable EIT Metasurface with Low Excited Conductivity of VO2
Authors: Li Ruijie , Feng Qiang , Lei Gaomou , Li Qifan , Liu Haixia , Xu Peng , Han Jiaqi , Shi Yan , Li Long
Published: October 2024

The active materials-loaded reconfigurable metasurface is a potential platform for terahertz (THz) communication systems. However, the requirements of the modulation performance and the modulation rate put forward the opposite requirements on the excited conductivity of active materials. In this paper, we proposed a concept for a metal-doped active material switch that can produce an equivalent high excited conductivity while reducing the required threshold of the active material conductivity, thus balancing the conflict between the two mutual requirements. Based on it, we designed a reconfigurable electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) metasurface driven by a low excited conductivity of vanadium dioxide VO2, which can achieve the amplitude modulation and amplitude coding under the control of light and electric. Simulation results validate the role of the metal-doped VO2 switch on the metasurface. This work provides a new scheme to mediate the contradiction between the modulation performance and the modulation rate in the requirement of active material’s excited conductivity, which facilitates the development of new terahertz modulators based on reconfigurable metasurfaces. In addition, the concept of a metal-doped active material switch will also provide a solution to the limitations of active material from the design layer.
Distribution Patterns of Urban Spontaneous Vegetation Diversity and Their Response to Habitat Heterogeneity: A Case Study of Five Cities in Heilongjiang Province, China
Authors: Zhu Haiyan , Zhao Congcong , Li Feinuo , Shen Peixin , Liu Lisa , Hu Yuandong
Published: October 2024

Spontaneous vegetation is an important component of urban biodiversity and an excellent agent for exploring the mutual feedback mechanism between urbanization and urban ecosystems. Rapid urbanization has had a significant impact on the composition, structure, and distribution patterns of urban spontaneous vegetation diversity. Studying the diversity distribution patterns and causes of urban plant communities is beneficial for understanding the formation and maintenance mechanisms of plant diversity in specific urban habitats. This study selected five cities in different climate subregions of Heilongjiang Province as research targets and conducted field research using uniform sampling and typical sampling methods. The composition, distribution pattern, and driving factors of spontaneous vegetation were analyzed. The results showed the following: (1) A total of 633 examples of spontaneous vegetation were recorded, belonging to 93 families and 341 genera, mainly consisting of herbaceous plants and native plants. (2) The diversity index and similarity index of spontaneous vegetation in gravel-type abandoned land habitats are higher than those in other habitat types, while the diversity index of spontaneous vegetation in trees and shrubs is lower, and there is no significant difference in regards to different habitats. (3) Urban population density is a key factor affecting the diversity of native plants, while woody plant coverage, patch area, and landscape trait index are key factors affecting non-native plants. (4) The results of canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) showed that the total explanatory power of environmental characteristic factors in regards to the distribution pattern of spontaneous vegetation was 7.5%. The closest distance between adjacent patches, the coverage of woody plants in patches, the distance from the city edge, the patch area, and the surface impermeability of the buffer zones were key factors affecting the distribution of dominant species in spontaneous vegetation communities. The research results will provide an important reference for the conservation of urban biodiversity and the construction of low-maintenance urban green space plant landscapes in Heilongjiang Province.
Morphology Control of Polymer–Inorganic Hybrid Nanomaterials Prepared in Miniemulsion: From Solid Particles to Capsules
Authors: Álvarez-Bermúdez Olaia , Adam-Cervera Inés , Landfester Katharina , Muñoz-Espí Rafael
Published: October 2024

The preparation of so-called hybrid nanomaterials has been widely developed in terms of functional and morphological complexity. However, the specific control of the arrangement of organic and inorganic species, which determines the properties of the final material, still remains a challenge. This article offers a review of the strategies that have been used for the preparation of polymer–inorganic hybrid nanoparticles and nanocapsules via processes involving miniemulsions. Different polymer–inorganic nanostructures are classified into four main groups according to the sequential order followed between the synthesis of the polymer and the inorganic species, and the presence or not of their counterpart precursors. The minimization of the energy of the system governs the self-assembly of the different material components and can be addressed by the miniemulsion formulation to reduce the interfacial tensions between the phases involved. The state of the art in the preparation of hybrid nanoparticles is reviewed, offering insight into the structural possibilities allowed by miniemulsion as a versatile synthetic technique.
The Effect of Drive Signals on Output Performance of Piezoelectric Pumps
Authors: Jie Meng , Qi Zhenxiang , Yu Wenxin , Ma Tengfei , Cai Lutong , Zhao Yejing , Gao Yali
Published: October 2024

The output performance of piezoelectric pumps is not only affected by the structural design but is also related to the drive signal. To study the effect of different drive signals on the output performance of piezoelectric pumps, this paper takes dual-chamber serial piezoelectric pumps as the investigation object, theoretically deduces the effective value of the drive signal and the output performance of the piezoelectric pump, and tests the displacement of piezoelectric vibrator center, the output performance of the piezoelectric pump, and the operating noise within the range of 0–500 Hz, respectively, driven by square waves, sine waves, and triangular waves (the peak-to-peak values of which are all 300 V). The results show that at low frequencies, the piezoelectric vibrator’s center displacement curve matches the drive signal, which is sinusoidal and decreases with frequency. Under the square drive, the piezoelectric pump has the best performance, with a flow of 147.199 mL/min and pressure of 14.42 kPa, but the noise is also the highest. The output performance of the sine wave is better than that of the triangular wave, and the flow rate of the three signals shows a trend of first increasing and then decreasing.