bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of V2O5 Blocks Decorated with Garlic Peel Biochar Nanoparticles: A Sustainable Catalyst for the Degradation of Methyl Orange and Its Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Sarojini Perumal , Leeladevi Karuppasamy , Kavitha Thavuduraj , Gurushankar Krishnamoorthy , Sriram Ganesan , Oh Tae Hwan , Kannan Karthik
Published: August 2023

In this study, novel V2O5-decorated garlic peel biochar (VO/GPB) nanocomposites are prepared via the facile hydrothermal technique. As-synthesized VO/GPB is characterized by various spectroscopic and analytical techniques. The surface morphology of the as-prepared samples was predicted by SEM analysis, which shows that the block-like V2O5 was uniformly decorated on the stone-like GPB surface. The elemental mapping analysis confirms the VO/GPB composite is composed of the following elements: C, O, Na, Mg, Si, P, K, and V, without any other impurities. The photocatalytic activity of the VO/GPB nanocomposite was examined by the degradation of methyl orange (MO) under the irradiation of visible light; 84% degradation efficiency was achieved within 30 min. The reactive oxidative species (ROS) study reveals that hydroxyl and superoxide radicals play an essential role in MO degradation. Moreover, the antioxidant action of the VO/GPB nanocomposite was also investigated. From the results, the VO/GPB composite has higher antioxidant activity compared to ascorbic acid; the scavenging effect increased with increasing concentrations of VO/GPB composite until it reached 40 mg/L, where the scavenging effect was the highest at 93.86%. This study will afford innovative insights into other photocatalytic nanomaterials with effective applications in the field of photocatalytic studies with environmental compensation.
Loss of Oxygen Atoms on Well-Oxidized Cobalt by Heterogeneous Surface Recombination
Authors: Paul Domen , Mozetič Miran , Zaplotnik Rok , Ekar Jernej , Vesel Alenka , Primc Gregor , Đonlagić Denis
Published: August 2023

Calorimetry is a commonly used method in plasma characterization, but the accuracy of the method is tied to the accuracy of the recombination coefficient, which in turn depends on a number of surface effects. Surface effects also govern the kinetics in advanced methods such as atomic layer oxidation of inorganic materials and functionalization of organic materials. The flux of the reactive oxygen atoms for the controlled oxidation of such materials depends on the recombination coefficient of materials placed into the reaction chamber, which in turn depends on the surface morphology, temperature, and pressure in the processing chamber. The recombination coefficient of a well-oxidized cobalt surface was studied systematically in a range of temperatures from 300 to 800 K and pressures from 40 to 200 Pa. The coefficient increased monotonously with decreasing pressure and increasing temperature. The lowest value was about 0.05, and the highest was about 0.30. These values were measured for cobalt foils previously oxidized with oxygen plasma at the temperature of 1300 K. The oxidation caused a rich morphology with an average roughness as deduced from atomic force images of 0.9 µm. The results were compared with literature data, and the discrepancy between results reported by different authors was explained by taking into account the peculiarities of their experimental conditions.
In Vivo Safety of New Coating for Biodegradable Magnesium Implants
Authors: Dryhval Bohdan , Husak Yevheniia , Sulaieva Oksana , Deineka Volodymyr , Pernakov Mykola , Lyndin Mykola , Romaniuk Anatolii , Simka Wojciech , Pogorielov Maksym
Published: August 2023

Biodegradable Magnesium (Mg) implants are promising alternatives to permanent metallic prosthesis. To improve the biocompatibility and with the aim of degradation control, we provided Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation (PEO) of pure Mg implant in silicate-based solution with NaOH (S1 250 V) and Ca(OH)2 (S2 300 V). Despite the well-structured surface, S1 250 V implants induced enormous innate immunity reaction with the prevalence of neutrophils (MPO+) and M1-macrophages (CD68+), causing secondary alteration and massive necrosis in the peri-implant area in a week. This reaction was also accompanied by systemic changes in visceral organs affecting animals’ survival after seven days of the experiment. In contrast, S2 300 V implantation was associated with focal lymphohistiocytic infiltration and granulation tissue formation, defining a more favorable outcome. This reaction was associated with the prevalence of M2-macrophages (CD163+) and high density of αSMA+ myofibroblasts, implying a resolution of inflammation and effective tissue repair at the site of the implantation. At 30 days, no remnants of S2 300 V implants were found, suggesting complete resorption with minor histological changes in peri-implant tissues. In conclusion, Ca(OH)2-contained silicate-based solution allows generating biocompatible coating reducing toxicity and immunogenicity with appropriate degradation properties that make it a promising candidate for medical applications.
Viscous Effects on Nonlinear Double Tearing Mode and Plasmoid Formation in Adjacent Harris Sheets
Authors: Ahmad Nisar , Zhu Ping , Shen Chao , Ali Ahmad , Zeng Shiyong
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we study the effects of viscosity on the evolution of the double tearing mode (DTM) in a pair of adjacent Harris sheets based on the resistive MHD model in the NIMROD code. Similar to the tearing mode in the conventional single Harris sheet, a transition is observed in the generation of both normal and monster plasmoids at Prandtl number Pr=1. In the Pr<1 regime of the DTM, normal plasmoids (small plasmoids) are generated along with monster plasmoid, whereas in the single tearing mode (STM) cases, such a generation is not observed. When Pr is above the critical value, the generation of monster plasmoid is halted. Correspondingly, in the Pr<1 regime, a quadrupolar flow advects along the poloidal direction, but in the Pr>1 regime this flow advection is inhibited.
Kinetic Behavior and Optimal Control of a Fractional-Order Hepatitis B Model
Authors: Xue Tingting , Fan Xiaolin , Xu Yan
Published: August 2023

The fractional-order calculus model is suitable for describing real-world problems that contain non-local effects and have memory genetic effects. Based on the definition of the Caputo derivative, the article proposes a class of fractional hepatitis B epidemic model with a general incidence rate. Firstly, the existence, uniqueness, positivity and boundedness of model solutions, basic reproduction number, equilibrium points, and local stability of equilibrium points are studied employing fractional differential equation theory, stability theory, and infectious disease dynamics theory. Secondly, the fractional necessary optimality conditions for fractional optimal control problems are derived by applying the Pontryagin maximum principle. Finally, the optimization simulation results of fractional optimal control problem are discussed. To control the spread of the hepatitis B virus, three control variables (isolation, treatment, and vaccination) are applied, and the optimal control theory is used to formulate the optimal control strategy. Specifically, by isolating infected and non-infected people, treating patients, and vaccinating susceptible people at the same time, the number of hepatitis B patients can be minimized, the number of recovered people can be increased, and the purpose of ultimately eliminating the transmission of hepatitis B virus can be achieved.
Pareto Efficiency Criteria and Duality for Multiobjective Fractional Programming Problems with Equilibrium Constraints on Hadamard Manifolds
Authors: Ghosh Arnav , Upadhyay Balendu Bhooshan , Stancu-Minasian I. M.
Published: August 2023

This article deals with multiobjective fractional programming problems with equilibrium constraints in the setting of Hadamard manifolds (abbreviated as MFPPEC). The generalized Guignard constraint qualification (abbreviated as GGCQ) for MFPPEC is presented. Furthermore, the Karush–Kuhn–Tucker (abbreviated as KKT) type necessary criteria of Pareto efficiency for MFPPEC are derived using GGCQ. Sufficient criteria of Pareto efficiency for MFPPEC are deduced under some geodesic convexity hypotheses. Subsequently, Mond–Weir and Wolfe type dual models related to MFPPEC are formulated. The weak, strong, and strict converse duality results are derived relating MFPPEC and the respective dual models. Suitable nontrivial examples have been furnished to demonstrate the significance of the results established in this article. The results derived in the article extend and generalize several notable results previously existing in the literature. To the best of our knowledge, optimality conditions and duality for MFPPEC have not yet been studied in the framework of manifolds.
Reinforcement Procedure for Randomized Machine Learning
Authors: Popkov Yuri S. , Dubnov Yuri A. , Popkov Alexey Yu.
Published: August 2023

This paper is devoted to problem-oriented reinforcement methods for the numerical implementation of Randomized Machine Learning. We have developed a scheme of the reinforcement procedure based on the agent approach and Bellman’s optimality principle. This procedure ensures strictly monotonic properties of a sequence of local records in the iterative computational procedure of the learning process. The dependences of the dimensions of the neighborhood of the global minimum and the probability of its achievement on the parameters of the algorithm are determined. The convergence of the algorithm with the indicated probability to the neighborhood of the global minimum is proved.
Classification of Epileptic Seizure Types Using Multiscale Convolutional Neural Network and Long Short-Term Memory
Authors: Alshaya Hend , Hussain Muhammad
Published: August 2023

The accurate classification of seizure types using electroencephalography (EEG) signals plays a vital role in determining a precise treatment plan and therapy for epilepsy patients. Among the available deep network models, Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) are the most widely adopted models for learning and representing EEG signals. However, typical CNNs have high computational complexity, leading to overfitting problems. This paper proposes the design of two effective, lightweight deep network models; the 1D multiscale neural network (1D-MSCNet) model and the Long Short-term Memory (LSTM)-based compact CNN (EEG-LSTMNet) model. The 1D-MSCNet model comprises three modules: a spectral–temporal convolution module, a spatial convolution module, and a classification module. It extracts features from input EEG trials at multiple frequency/time ranges, identifying relationships between the spatial distribution of their channels. The EEG-LSTMNet model includes three convolutional layers, namely temporal, depthwise, and separable layers, a single LSTM layer, and two fully connected classification layers to extract discriminative EEG feature representations. Both models have been applied to the same EEG trials collected from the Temple University Hospital (TUH) database. Results revealed F1-score values of 96.9% and 98.4% for the 1D-MSCNet and EEG-LSTMNet, respectively. Based on the demonstrated outcomes, both models outperform related state-of-the-art methods due to their architectures’ adoption of 1D modules and layers that reduce the computational effort needed, solve the overfitting problem, and enhance classification efficiency. Hence, both models could be valuable additions for neurologists to help them decide upon precise treatments and drugs for patients depending on their type of seizure.
Minimization of Active Power Loss Using Enhanced Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Adegoke Samson Ademola , Sun Yanxia , Wang Zenghui
Published: August 2023

Identifying the weak buses in power system networks is crucial for planning and operation since most generators operate close to their operating limits, resulting in generator failures. This work aims to identify the critical/weak node and reduce the system’s power loss. The line stability index (Lmn) and fast voltage stability index (FVSI) were used to identify the critical node and lines close to instability in the power system networks. Enhanced particle swarm optimization (EPSO) was chosen because of its ability to communicate with better individuals, making it more efficient to obtain a prominent solution. EPSO and other PSO variants minimized the system’s actual/real losses. Nodes 8 and 14 were identified as the critical nodes of the IEEE 9 and 14 bus systems, respectively. The power loss of the IEEE 9 bus system was reduced from 9.842 MW to 7.543 MW, and for the IEEE 14 bus system, the loss was reduced from 13.775 MW of the base case to 12.253 MW for EPSO. EPSO gives a better active power loss reduction and improves the node’s voltage profile than other PSO variants and algorithms in the literature. This suggests the feasibility and suitability of EPSO to improve the grid voltage quality.
On the Mechanical Properties of Microfibre-Based 3D Chitinous Scaffolds from Selected Verongiida Sponges
Authors: Duminis Tomas , Heljak Marcin , Święszkowski Wojciech , Ereskovsky Alexander , Dziedzic Izabela , Nowicki Marek , Pajewska-Szmyt Martyna , Voronkina Alona , Bornstein Stefan R. , Ehrlich Hermann
Published: August 2023

Skeletal constructs of diverse marine sponges remain to be a sustainable source of biocompatible porous biopolymer-based 3D scaffolds for tissue engineering and technology, especially structures isolated from cultivated demosponges, which belong to the Verongiida order, due to the renewability of their chitinous, fibre-containing architecture focused attention. These chitinous scaffolds have already shown excellent and promising results in biomimetics and tissue engineering with respect to their broad diversity of cells. However, the mechanical features of these constructs have been poorly studied before. For the first time, the elastic moduli characterising the chitinous samples have been determined. Moreover, nanoindentation of the selected bromotyrosine-containing as well as pigment-free chitinous scaffolds isolated from selected verongiids was used in the study for comparative purposes. It was shown that the removal of bromotyrosines from chitin scaffolds results in a reduced elastic modulus; however, their hardness was relatively unaffected.
A Novel Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Based Radiomics and Clinical Predictive Model for the Regrowth of Postoperative Residual Tumor in Non-Functioning Pituitary Neuroendocrine Tumor
Authors: Shen Chaodong , Liu Xiaoyan , Jin Jinghao , Han Cheng , Wu Lihao , Wu Zerui , Su Zhipeng , Chen Xiaofang
Published: August 2023

Background and Objectives: To develop a novel magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based radiomics–clinical risk stratification model to predict the regrowth of postoperative residual tumors in patients with non-functioning pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (NF-PitNETs). Materials and Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 114 patients diagnosed as NF-PitNET with postoperative residual tumors after the first operation, and the diameter of the tumors was greater than 10 mm. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to identify independent clinical risk factors. We identified the optimal sequence to generate an appropriate radiomic score (Rscore) that combined pre- and postoperative radiomic features. Three models were established by logistic regression analysis that combined clinical risk factors and radiomic features (Model 1), single clinical risk factors (Model 2) and single radiomic features (Model 3). The models’ predictive performances were evaluated using receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and area under curve (AUC) values. A nomogram was developed and evaluated using decision curve analysis. Results: Knosp classification and preoperative tumor volume doubling time (TVDT) were high-risk factors (p < 0.05) with odds ratios (ORs) of 2.255 and 0.173. T1WI&T1CE had a higher AUC value (0.954) and generated an Rscore. Ultimately, the AUC of Model 1 {0.929 [95% Confidence interval (CI), 0.865–0.993]} was superior to Model 2 [0.811 (95% CI, 0.704–0.918)] and Model 3 [0.844 (95% CI, 0.748–0.941)] in the training set, which were 0.882 (95% CI, 0.735–1.000), 0.834 (95% CI, 0.676–0.992) and 0.763 (95% CI, 0.569–0.958) in the test set, respectively. Conclusions: We trained a novel radiomics–clinical predictive model for identifying patients with NF-PitNETs at increased risk of postoperative residual tumor regrowth. This model may help optimize individualized and stratified clinical treatment decisions.
PNU-74654 Induces Cell Cycle Arrest and Inhibits EMT Progression in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Chien Tai-Long , Wu Yao-Cheng , Lee Hsiang-Lin , Sung Wen-Wei , Yu Chia-Ying , Chang Ya-Chuan , Lin Chun-Che , Wang Chi-Chih , Tsai Ming-Chang
Published: August 2023

Background and Objectives: PNU-74654, a Wnt/β-catenin pathway inhibitor, has an antiproliferative effect on many cancer types; however, its therapeutic role in pancreatic cancer (PC) has not yet been demonstrated. Here, the effects of PNU-74654 on proliferation and cell cycle phase distribution were studied in PC cell lines. Materials and Methods: The cancer-related molecular pathways regulated by PNU-74654 were determined by a proteome profiling oncology array and confirmed by western blotting. Results: The cell viability and proliferative ability of PC cells were decreased by PNU-74654 treatment. G1 arrest was observed, as indicated by the downregulation of cyclin E and cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) and the upregulation of p27. PNU-74654 inhibited the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), as determined by an increase in E-cadherin and decreases in N-cadherin, ZEB1, and hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α). PNU-74654 also suppressed cytoplasmic and nuclear β-catenin and impaired the NF-κB pathway. Conclusions: These results demonstrate that PNU-74654 modulates G1/S regulatory proteins and inhibits the EMT, thereby suppressing PC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. The synergistic effect of PNU-74654 and chemotherapy or the exclusive use of PNU-74654 may be therapeutic options for PC and require further investigation.
Efficacy of Continuous Suctioning in Adenoidectomy Haemostasis—Clinical Study
Authors: Epure Veronica , Hainarosie Razvan , Gheorghe Dan Cristian
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Adenoidectomy is often the first major surgical challenge for the child’s haemostatic system, and controlling intraoperative bleeding can be a challenge for the surgeon. Different methods have been used intraoperatively by surgeons in order to enhance haemostasis. The cold air effect (continuous suctioning) has been used by some surgeons during adenoidectomy; however, no documentation of its haemostatic effect has been made. Objectives: Our prospective randomised controlled study enrolled a sample of 140 children undergoing adenoidectomy, and we studied the effect of continuous suctioning on the duration of haemostasis in paediatric adenoidectomy. Materials and Methods: We evaluated the effect of using continuous suctioning during haemostasis at the end of adenoidectomy procedures, comparing variables such as total surgery time, total haemostasis time, and intraoperative blood loss, between two groups: 70 adenoidectomy procedures where no continuous suctioning was used to enhance haemostasis versus the other 70 patients where continuous suctioning was the haemostatic method employed. RESULTS: After statistical analysis of the recorded data, we found that the total duration of adenoidectomy, the duration of haemostasis in adenoidectomy, and the intraoperative blood loss were significantly lower in patients in whom cold air was used for haemostasis. Intraoperative haemostasis failure (and consequent use of electrocautery for haemostasis) was more frequent in patients in whom no suctioning was used; as for the rates of postoperative primary bleeding after adenoidectomy, they were similar in both groups of patients, regardless of the technique used for haemostasis. Conclusions: The use of continuous suctioning during adenoidectomy haemostasis significantly shortens total surgical and haemostasis time, reduces intraoperative blood loss, and reduces the incidence of haemostasis failure (with the consequent need for bipolar electrocautery haemostasis).
Anomalous Diffusion of Helium and Neon in Low-Density Silica Glass
Authors: Kukhtetskiy Sergey V. , Fomenko Elena V. , Anshits Alexander G.
Published: August 2023

The diffusion properties of low-density non-porous silica glasses (expanded silica glasses) were researched with the aim of searching for the molecular structure of membrane materials intended for the effective separation of helium–neon gas mixtures. It has been shown on a large number (84) of computer models of such glasses that there are molecular structures of silica in which various helium and neon diffusion mechanisms are simultaneously implemented: superdiffusion for helium and subdiffusion for neon. This makes it possible to significantly (by 3–5 orders of magnitude) increase the helium permeability of such glasses at room temperature and maintain a high selectivity for the separation of helium and neon (at the level of 104–105) at the same time.
Research and Application of Metal–Organic Framework in Surface Modification of Biomaterials—A Review
Authors: Zhang Zhong-Na , Yin Si-Han , Li Xue , Wang Yu-Yao , Zhang Kun , Li Jing-An
Published: August 2023

Surface modification is one of the core technologies in the field of biomedical materials. The fundamental purpose is to enable the surface of biomass materials to have better biocompatibility to better meet clinical needs. A metal–organic framework (MOF) is composed of organic links and metal nodes. It is a type of new crystal porous material with important application potential. In recent years, it has been explored in the field of biomass materials. This review introduces the structure and synthesis of MOF and systematically combs, summarizes and evaluates the research and application of MOF in cardiovascular therapy, tumor therapy, bone tissue engineering and other scenarios, in order to provide reference and inspiration for subsequent researchers.
A Review on Hardfacing, Process Variables, Challenges, and Future Works
Authors: Tandon Durga , Li Huijun , Pan Zengxi , Yu Dake , Pang Willy
Published: August 2023

Hardfacing is an efficient and economical surfacing technique widely used by heavy industries to remediate worn components in service or to enhance the component’s wear characteristics components prior to use. Efficient hardfacing for any targeted application requires precise consideration and understanding of the deposition process, consumables, and substrates. It is also essential to understand the process variables and issues that can occur during the deposition processes, such as dilution and defects in the deposit, including residual stress-induced cracking. Significant research has been published over many years on several aspects of hardfacing, primarily focusing on abrasive wear, corrosion, and impact characterisation using different welding methods and alloy compositions. This paper primarily focuses on reviewing the prior hardfacing literature to systematically summarise the considerations and selection criteria for hardfacing processes and materials. It also presents a discussion on key process variables, such as welding parameters and number of surfacing layers, highlighting their influences during the hardfacing deposition procedure. This paper further discusses issues and challenges in hardfacing practices, such as dilution and cracking. One significant issue investigated is the thermal damage to high-strength steel substrates, with the measurement and characterisation of the damage being key elements. The focus of this investigation is to discuss the optimisation of hardfacing high-strength steel substrates and to communicate potential research areas and prospective applications in the hardfacing industry.
A Preliminary Study of New Experimental Low-Cost Fe–P-Based and Mn–Fe–P-Based Brazing Filler Metals for Brazing of Non-Alloy and Low-Alloy Steels
Authors: Zorc Matija , Zorc Borut , Medved Jožef , Nagode Aleš
Published: August 2023

Seventeen new experimental filler metals from eight different alloy systems based on Fe–P–X and Mn–Fe–P–X (X = B, C, Si in various combinations) were created and experimented with. DSC analyses were performed to determine the solidus and liquidus temperatures and the melting ranges. Hardness measurements of the alloys were performed in the as-cast state. The alloys contain primary and eutectic intermetallic compounds that make them very hard with average hardness values ranging from 590 HV10 to 876 HV10. The wettability was determined at 1000 °C, 1040 °C and 1080 °C on C22 non-alloy steel and 15CrNiS6 low-alloy steel in Ar 4.6 and 78 vol% H2-22 vol% N2 atmospheres. The results show good wettability at T = 1080 °C in both atmospheres, as the contact angles were mostly ≤30°. Thirteen alloys exhibit very good wettability with average contact angles of ≤15.5°. Nine alloys exhibit excellent wettability with their average contact angles being ≤10°. Wettability improves at higher temperatures. The liquid alloys are reactive to solid steels and form a diffusion joint. Diffusion of P, B, C, and Si from the filler metal into the base material dealloys the composition of the melt near the joint interface. For the same reason, a continuous layer of solid solution forms on the joint interface. When brazing with filler metals rich in carbon, strong carburisation of steels can be observed near the joint.
Microstructural Evolution and Mechanical Behavior of TA15 Titanium Alloy Fabricated by Selective Laser Melting: Influence of Solution Treatment and Aging
Authors: Wang Qing , Jin Binquan , Zhao Lizhong , Liu Xiaolian , Pan Anjian , Ding Xuefeng , Gao Wei , Song Yufeng , Zhang Xuefeng
Published: August 2023

In this study, TA15 titanium alloys were successfully prepared using selective laser melting (SLM). The results show that the microstructure of each TA15 specimen is composed of a large number of acicular α’ martensite crystals accompanied by a lot of dislocations and twin structures in the martensite due to non-equilibrium heating and cooling via SLM. After solution treatment and aging treatment, the martensite structure is successfully transformed into a typical duplex structure and an equiaxial structure. When there is an increase in the solution temperature, the size of the equiaxed primary α phase and the elongation of the specimen gradually increases, while the thickness of the layered secondary α phase and the tensile strength of the specimen decreases accordingly. After solution treatment at 1000 °C, the specimens show the best comprehensive mechanical properties, i.e., a high-temperature tensile strength of 715 MPa and a corresponding elongation of 24.5%. Subsequently, an appropriate solution–aging treatment is proposed to improve the high-temperature mechanical properties of SLMed TA15 titanium alloys in aerospace.
Genome-Wide and 16S rRNA Sequencing-Based Analysis on the Health Effects of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei XLK401 on Chicks
Authors: Kang Xin , Li Xin-Dong , Zhou Huan-Yu , Wang Feng , Lin Lian-Bing
Published: August 2023

Lacticaseibacillus paracasei, serves as a growth promoter used in the poultry industry, contributeing to broiler development. However, practical studies are needed to determine the probiotic potential and growth-promoting effects of specific L. paracasei strains. This study aims to determine whether L. paracasei XLK401 influences broiler chicken growth and the mechanisms involved. Notably, we identified several bile salt and acid tolerance-related genes (Asp23, atpD, atpA, atpH, and atpF) in L. paracasei XLK401. This bacterium demonstrates robust probiotic properties under acidic conditions (pH 2.0) and 0.3% bile salt conditions. It also contains a variety of antioxidant-related genes (trxA, trxB, and tpx), carbohydrate-related genes, gene-encoding glycosidases (e.g., GH and GT), and three clusters of genes associated with antimicrobial compounds. Supplementation with L. paracasei XLK401 significantly increased the body weight of the chicks. In addition, it significantly increased hepatic antioxidant enzyme activities (GSH-Px, SOD, and T-AOC) while significantly decreasing the levels of oxidative damage factors and inflammatory factors (MDA and IL-6), resulting in improved chick health. Improvements in body weight and health status were associated with significant increases in α-amylase activity and the remodeling of the host gut microbiota by L. paracasei XLK401. Among them, actinobacteria abundance in chicken intestines after feeding them L. paracasei XLK401 was significantly decreased, Bifidobacterium sp. abundance was also significantly decreased, and Subdoligranulum sp. abundance was significantly increased. This suggests that L. paracasei XLK401 can regulate the abundance of certain bacteria without changing the overall microbial structure. In addition, in the correlation analysis, Subdoligranulums sp. were positively correlated with SOD and negatively correlated with IL-1β and MDA. Overall, our study demonstrates that L. paracasei XLK401 effectively promotes healthy chick growth. This is made possible by the modulation of gut microbe abundance and the underlying probiotic effect of L. paracasei XLK401. Based on these findings, we postulate L. paracasei XLK401 as a potential efficient growth promoter in broiler farming.
Pathogen Profiles in Outpatients with Non-COVID-19 during the 7th Prevalent Period of COVID-19 in Gunma, Japan
Authors: Kimura Hirokazu , Hayashi Yuriko , Kitagawa Masanari , Yoshizaki Miwa , Saito Kensuke , Harada Kazuhiko , Okayama Kaori , Miura Yusuke , Kimura Ryusuke , Shirai Tatsuya , Fujita Kiyotaka , Machida Suguru , Ito Kazuto , Kurosawa Isao
Published: August 2023

The identification of pathogens associated with respiratory symptoms other than the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can be challenging. However, the diagnosis of pathogens is crucial for assessing the clinical outcome of patients. We comprehensively profiled pathogens causing non-COVID-19 respiratory symptoms during the 7th prevalent period in Gunma, Japan, using deep sequencing combined with a next-generation sequencer (NGS) and advanced bioinformatics technologies. The study included nasopharyngeal swabs from 40 patients who tested negative for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) using immuno-chromatography and/or quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) methods. Comprehensive pathogen sequencing was conducted through deep sequencing using NGS. Additionally, short reads obtained from NGS were analyzed for comprehensive pathogen estimation using MePIC (Metagenomic Pathogen Identification Pipeline for Clinical Specimens) and/or VirusTap. The results revealed the presence of various pathogens, including respiratory viruses and bacteria, in the present subjects. Notably, human adenovirus (HAdV) was the most frequently detected virus in 16 of the 40 cases (40.0%), followed by coryneforms, which were the most frequently detected bacteria in 21 of the 40 cases (52.5%). Seasonal human coronaviruses (NL63 type, 229E type, HKU1 type, and OC43 type), human bocaviruses, and human herpesviruses (human herpesvirus types 1–7) were not detected. Moreover, multiple pathogens were detected in 50% of the subjects. These results suggest that various respiratory pathogens may be associated with non-COVID-19 patients during the 7th prevalent period in Gunma Prefecture, Japan. Consequently, for an accurate diagnosis of pathogens causing respiratory infections, detailed pathogen analyses may be necessary. Furthermore, it is possible that various pathogens, excluding SARS-CoV-2, may be linked to fever and/or respiratory infections even during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Core Microbiome and Microbial Community Structure in Coralloid Roots of Cycas in Ex Situ Collection of Kunming Botanical Garden in China
Authors: Wang Zhaochun , Liu Jian , Xu Haiyan , Liu Jiating , Zhao Zhiwei , Gong Xun
Published: August 2023

Endophytes are essential in plant succession and evolution, and essential for stress resistance. Coralloid root is a unique root structure found in cycads that has played a role in resisting adverse environments, yet the core taxa and microbial community of different Cycas species have not been thoroughly investigated. Using amplicon sequencing, we successfully elucidated the microbiomes present in coralloid roots of 10 Cycas species, representing all four sections of Cycas in China. We found that the endophytic bacteria in coralloid roots, i.e., Cyanobacteria, were mainly composed of Desmonostoc_PCC-7422, Nostoc_PCC-73102 and unclassified_f__Nostocaceae. Additionally, the Ascomycota fungi of Exophiala, Paraboeremia, Leptobacillium, Fusarium, Alternaria, and Diaporthe were identified as the core fungi taxa. The Ascomycota fungi of Nectriaceae, Herpotrichiellaceae, Cordycipitaceae, Helotiaceae, Diaporthaceae, Didymellaceae, Clavicipitaceae and Pleosporaceae were identified as the core family taxa in coralloid roots of four sections. High abundance but low diversity of bacterial community was detected in the coralloid roots, but no significant difference among species. The fungal community exhibited much higher complexity compared to bacteria, and diversity was noted among different species or sections. These core taxa, which were a subset of the microbiome that frequently occurred in all, or most, individuals of Cycas species, represent targets for the development of Cycas conservation.
Disseminated Mycobacterium genavense Infection Mimicking Sarcoidosis: A Case Report and Review of Literature on Japanese Patients
Authors: Ogata Ryo , Kido Takashi , Takeda Kazuaki , Nemoto Kazuki , Heima Riko , Takao Mami , Miyashita Ritsuko , Ozasa Mutsumi , Tokito Takatomo , Okuno Daisuke , Ito Yuya , Yura Hirokazu , Koga Tomohiro , Hashimoto Kunio , Takemoto Shinnosuke , Takazono Takahiro , Ishimoto Hiroshi , Sakamoto Noriho , Fukuda Kazumasa , Sasaki Yuka , Obase Yasushi , Ishimatsu Yuji , Yatera Kazuhiro , Izumikawa Koichi , Mukae Hiroshi
Published: August 2023

Sarcoidosis is a systemic inflammatory disease characterized by noncaseating epithelioid cell granulomas. However, certain infections can exhibit similar histological findings. We present a case of a 69-year-old man who was initially diagnosed with sarcoidosis and later was confirmed, through 16S rRNA sequencing, to have disseminated Mycobacterium genavense infection. Acid-fast bacteria were detected in the bone marrow biopsy using Ziehl–Neelsen staining, but routine clinical tests did not provide a definitive diagnosis. The patient tested negative for HIV, anti-interferon-gamma antibodies, and genetic immunodeficiency disorders. He was treated with multiple drugs, including aminoglycosides and macrolides, but showed no improvement in fever and pancytopenia. However, these clinical signs responded favorably to steroid therapy. We reviewed 17 Japanese cases of M. genavense infection. All cases were in males; 7/17 (41%) were HIV-negative; and 12/17 (71%) had a decreased CD4 count. Genetic analysis confirmed M. genavense isolation, and macrolides were used universally. Mycobacterium genavense infection is challenging to identify and mimics other systemic inflammatory diseases such as sarcoidosis. There are no standard treatment protocols. Our case report and Japanese case review contribute to understanding this rare disease.
16S rDNA Sequencing-Based Insights into the Bacterial Community Structure and Function in Co-Existing Soil and Coal Gangue
Authors: Ruan Mengying , Hu Zhenqi , Zhu Qi , Li Yuanyuan , Nie Xinran
Published: August 2023

Coal gangue is a solid waste emitted during coal production. Coal gangue is deployed adjacent to mining land and has characteristics similar to those of the soils of these areas. Coal gangue–soil ecosystems provide habitats for a rich and active bacterial community. However, co-existence networks and the functionality of soil and coal gangue bacterial communities have not been studied. Here, we performed Illumina MiSeq high-throughput sequencing, symbiotic network and statistical analyses, and microbial phenotype prediction to study the microbial community in coal gangue and soil samples from Shanxi Province, China. In general, the structural difference between the bacterial communities in coal gangue and soil was large, indicating that interactions between soil and coal gangue are limited but not absent. The bacterial community exhibited a significant symbiosis network in soil and coal gangue. The co-occurrence network was primarily formed by Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Actinobacteria. In addition, BugBase microbiome phenotype predictions and PICRUSt bacterial functional potential predictions showed that transcription regulators represented the highest functional category of symbiotic bacteria in soil and coal gangue. Proteobacteria played an important role in various processes such as mobile element pathogenicity, oxidative stress tolerance, and biofilm formation. In general, this work provides a theoretical basis and data support for the in situ remediation of acidified coal gangue hills based on microbiological methods.
Synthesis of Tricyclic Pterolobirin H Analogue: Evaluation of Anticancer and Anti-Inflammatory Activities and Molecular Docking Investigations
Authors: Zentar Houda , Jannus Fatin , Medina-O’Donnell Marta , El Mansouri Az-eddine , Fernández Antonio , Justicia José , Alvarez-Manzaneda Enrique , Reyes-Zurita Fernando J. , Chahboun Rachid
Published: August 2023

Pterolobirin H (3), a cassane diterpene isolated from the roots of Pterolobium macropterum, exhibits important anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. However, its relatively complex tetracyclic structure makes it difficult to obtain by chemical synthesis, thus limiting the studies of its biological activities. Therefore, we present here a short route to obtain a rational simplification of pterolobirin H (3) and some intermediates. The anti-inflammatory activity of these compounds was assayed in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. All compounds showed potent inhibition of NO production, with percentages between 54 to 100% at sub-cytotoxic concentrations. The highest anti-inflammatory effect was shown for compounds 15 and 16. The simplified analog 16 revealed potential NO inhibition properties, being 2.34 higher than that of natural cassane pterolobirin H (3). On the other hand, hydroxyphenol 15 was also demonstrated to be the strongest NO inhibitor in RAW 264.7 macrophages (IC50 NO = 0.62 ± 0.21 μg/mL), with an IC50NO value 28.3 times lower than that of pterolobirin H (3). Moreover, the anticancer potential of these compounds was evaluated in three cancer cell lines: HT29 colon cancer cells, Hep-G2 hepatoma cells, and B16-F10 murine melanoma cells. Intermediate 15 was the most active against all the selected tumor cell lines. Compound 15 revealed the highest cytotoxic effect with the lowest IC50 value (IC50 = 2.45 ± 0.29 μg/mL in HT29 cells) and displayed an important apoptotic effect through an extrinsic pathway, as evidenced in the flow cytometry analysis. Furthermore, the Hoechst staining assay showed that analog 15 triggered morphological changes, including nuclear fragmentation and chromatin condensation, in treated HT29 cells. Finally, the in silico studies demonstrated that cassane analogs exhibit promising binding affinities and docking performance with iNOS and caspase 8, which confirms the obtained experimental results.
Laccase Engineering: Redox Potential Is Not the Only Activity-Determining Feature in the Metalloproteins
Authors: Ali Misha , Bhardwaj Priyanka , Ishqi Hassan Mubarak , Shahid Mohammad , Islam Asimul
Published: August 2023

Laccase, one of the metalloproteins, belongs to the multicopper oxidase family. It oxidizes a wide range of substrates and generates water as a sole by-product. The engineering of laccase is important to broaden their industrial and environmental applications. The general assumption is that the low redox potential of laccases is the principal obstacle, as evidenced by their low activity towards certain substrates. Therefore, the primary goal of engineering laccases is to improve their oxidation capability, thereby increasing their redox potential. Even though some of the determinants of laccase are known, it is still not entirely clear how to enhance its redox potential. However, the laccase active site has additional characteristics that regulate the enzymes’ activity and specificity. These include the electrostatic and hydrophobic environment of the substrate binding pocket, the steric effect at the substrate binding site, and the orientation of the binding substrate with respect to the T1 site of the laccase. In this review, these features of the substrate binding site will be discussed to highlight their importance as a target for future laccase engineering.
Access to Enantiomerically Pure P-Chiral 1-Phosphanorbornane Silyl Ethers
Authors: Ramazanova Kyzgaldak , Chakrabortty Soumyadeep , Kallmeier Fabian , Kretzschmar Nadja , Tin Sergey , Lönnecke Peter , de Vries Johannes G. , Hey-Hawkins Evamarie
Published: August 2023

Sulfur-protected enantiopure P-chiral 1-phosphanorbornane silyl ethers 5a,b are obtained in high yields via the reaction of the hydroxy group of P-chiral 1-phosphanorbornane alcohol 4 with tert-butyldimethylsilyl chloride (TBDMSCl) and triphenylsilyl chloride (TPSCl). The corresponding optically pure silyl ethers 5a,b are purified via crystallization and fully structurally characterized. Desulfurization with excess Raney nickel gives access to bulky monodentate enantiopure phosphorus(III) 1-phosphanorbornane silyl ethers 6a,b which are subsequently applied as ligands in iridium-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of a prochiral ketone and enamide. Better activity and selectivity were observed in the latter case.
A Carboxyl Group-Functionalized Ionic Liquid Hybrid Adsorbent for Solid-Phase Extraction and Determination of Trace Diclofenac Sodium in Milk Samples
Authors: Yang Hongrui , Wang Chen , Zhu Wenjuan , Jin Pingning , Li Fei , Fan Jing
Published: August 2023

A simple and efficient sample pretreatment technology is very important for the accurate determination of trace drug residues in foods to ensure food safety. Herein, we report a new carboxyl group-functionalized ionic liquid hybrid solid- phase adsorbent (PS-IL-COOH) for the highly efficient extraction and quantitative determination of diclofenac sodium (DS) residue in milk samples. It was found that the adsorption efficiency of PS-IL-COOH for the ppb level of DS was greater than 93.0%, the adsorption capacity was 934.1 mg/g, and the enrichment factor was 620.0, which surpass most of the previously reported values for DS adsorbents. The high concentration of salts did not interfere with the adsorption of DS. Importantly, the recovery of DS was above 90% after 16 adsorption–-regeneration cycles. The synergistic effect of the multiple interactions was found to be the main factor for the high efficiency of DS adsorption. The proposed method was applied to the extraction and detection of DS in milk samples, with the relative recovery ranging from 88.2 to 103.0%.
Effect of Fermented Matrix on the Color and Stability of Strawberry and Blueberry Anthocyanins during the Storage of Fruit Yogurts and Soy-Based and Bean-Based Fruit Yogurt Alternatives
Authors: Ścibisz Iwona , Ziarno Małgorzata
Published: August 2023

The effect of the fermented matrix on the color and the stability of anthocyanins contained in strawberry (Fragaria ananassa D.) and highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) preparations for fruit yogurts, as well as soy-based (Glycine max L. Merr.) and bean-based (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) yogurt alternatives, stored for 8 weeks, was evaluated. To produce the fermented bean matrix, germinated seeds of white and black beans were used. The obtained fermented matrices had similar pH levels, while the soy-based and black bean-based yogurt alternatives were characterized by their high content of isoflavone aglycones and phenolic acids. The degradation of anthocyanins in strawberry and blueberry fermented products during storage followed first-order reaction kinetics. Significant differences were found depending on the fermented plant-based matrix. The fermented soy-based matrix demonstrated the highest T1/2 values for total anthocyanins (26.3 and 88.8 weeks for strawberry and blueberry products, respectively), whereas the yogurts exhibited the lowest values (13.3 and 49.3 weeks for strawberry and blueberry products, respectively). In the comparison of anthocyanin degradation during the storage of bean-based products, the pigments in the matrix obtained from fermented black beans showed better stability. During storage, the loss of anthocyanins was higher in strawberry products than in blueberry products, particularly with respect to malvidin and petunidin derivatives and acylated anthocyanins, which exhibited high stability. The total color difference (ΔE*) of blueberry plant-based products after an 8 week storage period ranged from 1.1 to 1.5. This data suggests that the addition of a coloring ingredient for industrial production may not be required.
A High−Performance Anti−Corrosive Epoxy Coating Based on Ultra−Thin Hydroxyapatite Nanosheets with pH−Responsive Functions
Authors: Feng Chun , Zhu Lijuan , Chen Legang , Hui Xuezhi , Liu Jinling , He Lei , Bai Xiaofeng , Yu Zongxue
Published: August 2023

The changes in the working environment have necessitated greater requirements in terms of the long−term anti−corrosion ability of metal anti−corrosion coatings, and the emergence of intelligent coatings has met this demand. A nanocontainer with a hydrophobic inner cavity and hydrophilic outer cavity called β−cyclodextrin (β−CD) was grafted onto the surface of hydroxyapatite (HAp) with a silane coupling agent, encapsulating benzotriazole (BTA) and embedded in epoxy resin to improve the coating anticorrosion performance. The excellent corrosion resistance of the coating in immersion and scratch experiments was derived from the inert protective layer formed by the reaction of the rapidly released corrosion inhibitor with the corrosion products on the metal surface. After 30 days of immersion experiment, the coating could still maintain the low−frequency impedance value of 6.28 × 107 Ω cm2. In this work, the enhancement of the physical barrier function of HAp nanoparticle and the pH−response function conferred by β−cyclodextrin provided the coating with good passive and active acting abilities in corrosive environments, respectively.
Synthesis and Self-Assembling Properties of Carbohydrate- and Diarylethene-Based Photoswitchable Molecular Gelators
Authors: Aryal Pramod , Morris Joedian , Adhikari Surya B. , Bietsch Jonathan , Wang Guijun
Published: August 2023

Carbohydrate-based low-molecular-weight gelators are interesting new materials with many potential applications. These compounds can be designed to include multiple stimuli-responsive functional groups. In this study, we designed and synthesized several chemically responsive bola-glycolipids and dimeric carbohydrate- and diarylethene-based photoswitchable derivatives. The dimeric glycolipids formed stable gels in a variety of solvent systems. The best performing gelators in this series contained decanedioic and dithienylethene (DTE) spacers, which formed gels in eight and nine of the tested solvents, respectively. The two new DTE-containing esters possessed interesting photoswitching properties and DTE derivative 7 was found to have versatile gelation properties in many solvents, including DMSO solutions at low concentrations. The gels formed by these compounds were stable under acidic conditions and tended to hydrolyze under basic conditions. Several gels were used to absorb rhodamine B and Toluidine blue from aqueous solutions. In this study, we demonstrated the rational design of molecular gelators which incorporated photoresponsive and pH responsive functions, leading to the discovery of multiple effective stimuli-responsive gelators.