bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ADAMTS13, von Willebrand Factor, Platelet Microparticles, Factor VIII, and Impact of Somatic Mutations in the Pathogenesis of Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis Associated with BCR-ABL-Negative Myeloproliferative Neoplasms
Authors: Castelli Roberto , Berzuini Alessandra , Manetti Roberto , Delitala Alessandro Palmerio , Castro Dante , Sanna Giuseppe , Sircana Marta Chiara , Profili Nicia Isabella , Bartoli Arianna , La Cava Leyla , Lambertenghi Deliliers Giorgio , Donadoni Mattia , Gidaro Antonio
Published: April 2024

Background: Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are often associated with splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT). Not all the factors involved in the thrombotic tendency are currently known. Objectives: This study aims to evaluate a possible association between ADAMTS13, von Willebrand factor (VWF), platelet microvesicles (MV), and factor VIII activity (FVIII:C) with thrombotic events in MPN patients. Materials and methods: In total, 36 consecutive MPN patients with SVT were enrolled. The MPNs were diagnosed based on clinical characteristics and one or more gene mutations among JAK-2, CALR, and MPL. As controls, 50 randomly selected patients with MPN without thrombosis, 50 patients with deep vein thrombosis without MPNs, and 50 healthy blood donors were evaluated. Complete blood count, ADAMTS13, VWF, MV, and FVIII:C in plasma were measured in all the subjects. Results: The JAK-2 mutation was found in 94% of the patients with SVT, but none were triple-negative for genetic mutations (JAK2 V617F, CALR, MPL, and exon 12). Compared to the normal subjects, in all the MPN patients (with or without SVT), the levels of ADAMTS13 were found to be significantly lower (p < 0.001) and the MV concentrations were significantly higher (p < 0.001). Among the MPN patients, the VWF and FVIII:C levels were significantly higher in the patients with SVT than those without thrombosis (p = 0.007 and p = 0.04, respectively). Splenomegaly was present in 78% of MPN patients with SVT and in 30% of those without SVT (p < 0.001). The ADAMTS13/VWF ratio was reduced in all the patients, but not in the healthy blood donors (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The significant increase in circulating MV, VWF, and FVIII:C in the MPN patients and in the patients with thrombosis supports the role of endothelium damage in promoting thrombotic events. In particular, a significant increase in VWF and FVIII:C levels was found in the MPN patients with SVT.
The End Justifies the Means: Chagas Disease from a Perspective of the Host–Trypanosoma cruzi Interaction
Authors: Rossi Izadora Volpato , de Souza Denise Andréa Silva , Ramirez Marcel Ivan
Published: April 2024

The neglected Chagas disease (CD) is caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. Despite CD dispersion throughout the world, it prevails in tropical areas affecting mainly poor communities, causing devastating health, social and economic consequences. Clinically, CD is marked by a mildly symptomatic acute phase, and a chronic phase characterized by cardiac and/or digestive complications. Current treatment for CD relies on medications with strong side effects and reduced effectiveness. The complex interaction between the parasite and the host outlines the etiology and progression of CD. The unique characteristics and high adaptability of T. cruzi, its mechanisms of persistence, and evasion of the immune system seem to influence the course of the disease. Despite the efforts to uncover the pathology of CD, there are many gaps in understanding how it is established and reaches chronicity. Also, the lack of effective treatments and protective vaccines constitute challenges for public health. Here, we explain the background in which CD is established, from the peculiarities of T. cruzi molecular biology to the development of the host’s immune response leading to the pathophysiology of CD. We also discuss the state of the art of treatments for CD and current challenges in basic and applied science.
Solvent Replacement Strategies for Processing Pharmaceuticals and Bio-Related Compounds—A Review
Authors: Lee Jia Lin , Chong Gun Hean , Ota Masaki , Guo Haixin , Smith Richard Lee
Published: April 2024

An overview of solvent replacement strategies shows that there is great progress in green chemistry for replacing hazardous di-polar aprotic solvents, such as N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF), 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone (NMP), and 1,4-dioxane (DI), used in processing active industrial ingredients (APIs). In synthetic chemistry, alcohols, carbonates, ethers, eucalyptol, glycols, furans, ketones, cycloalkanones, lactones, pyrrolidinone or solvent mixtures, 2-methyl tetrahydrofuran in methanol, HCl in cyclopentyl methyl ether, or trifluoroacetic acid in propylene carbonate or surfactant water (no organic solvents) are suggested replacement solvents. For the replacement of dichloromethane (DCM) used in chromatography, ethyl acetate ethanol or 2-propanol in heptanes, with or without acetic acid or ammonium hydroxide additives, are suggested, along with methanol acetic acid in ethyl acetate or methyl tert-butyl ether, ethyl acetate in ethanol in cyclohexane, CO2-ethyl acetate, CO2-methanol, CO2-acetone, and CO2-isopropanol. Supercritical CO2 (scCO2) can be used to replace many organic solvents used in processing materials from natural sources. Vegetable, drupe, legume, and seed oils used as co-extractants (mixed with substrate before extraction) can be used to replace the typical organic co-solvents (ethanol, acetone) used in scCO2 extraction. Mixed solvents consisting of a hydrogen bond donor (HBD) solvent and a hydrogen bond acceptor (HBA) are not addressed in GSK or CHEM21 solvent replacement guides. Published data for 100 water-soluble and water-insoluble APIs in mono-solvents show polarity ranges appropriate for the processing of APIs with mixed solvents. When water is used, possible HBA candidate solvents are acetone, acetic acid, acetonitrile, ethanol, methanol, 2-methyl tetrahydrofuran, 2,2,5,5-tetramethyloxolane, dimethylisosorbide, Cyrene, Cygnet 0.0, or diformylxylose. When alcohol is used, possible HBA candidates are cyclopentanone, esters, lactone, eucalytol, MeSesamol, or diformylxylose. HBA—HBA mixed solvents, such as Cyrene—Cygnet 0.0, could provide interesting new combinations. Solubility parameters, Reichardt polarity, Kamlet—Taft parameters, and linear solvation energy relationships provide practical ways for identifying mixed solvents applicable to API systems.
Logistics Hub and Route Optimization in the Physical Internet Paradigm
Authors: Naganawa Hisatoshi , Hirata Enna , Firdausiyah Nailah , Thompson Russell G.
Published: April 2024

Background: The global logistics industry is facing looming challenges related to labor shortages and low-efficiency problems due to the lack of logistics facilities and resources, resulting in increased logistics delays. The Physical Internet is seen as a way to take logistics into the next generation of transformation. This research proposes a Physical Internet-enabled system that allows multiple companies to efficiently share warehouses and trucks to achieve operational efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions. Methods: We propose a novel demography-weighted combinatorial optimization model utilizing a genetic algorithm and the Lin–Kernighan heuristic. The model is tested with real data simulations to evaluate its performance. Results: The results show that compared to the existing model presented in a previous study, our proposed model improves location optimality and distributive routing efficiency and reduces CO2 emissions by 54%. Conclusions: By providing a well-founded novel model, this research makes an important contribution to the implementation of the Physical Internet by computing optimal logistics hubs and routes as well as providing a solution to cut CO2 emissions by half.
Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy Using Encapsulated Protoporphyrin IX for the Treatment of Bacterial Pathogens
Authors: Izquierdo Natalia , Gamez Enrique , Alejo Teresa , Mendoza Gracia , Arruebo Manuel
Published: April 2024

Herein, we report on the antimicrobial photodynamic effect of polymeric nanoparticles containing the endogenous photosensitizer protoporphyrin IX. Compared to equivalent doses of the free photosensitizer, we demonstrated that the photodynamic antimicrobial efficacy of PLGA (polylactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles containing protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) against pathogenic Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is preserved after encapsulation, while photobleaching is reduced. In addition, compared to equivalent doses of the free porphyrin, we show that a reduction in the cytotoxicity in mammalian cell cultures is observed when encapsulated. Therefore, the encapsulation of protoporphyrin IX reduces its photodegradation, while the released photosensitizer maintains its ability to generate reactive oxygen species upon light irradiation. The polymeric nanoencapsulation promotes aqueous solubility for the hydrophobic PpIX, improves its photostability and reduces the cytotoxicity, while providing an extended release of this endogenous photosensitizer.
Polarization Characterization of Porous Particles Based on DDA Simulation and Multi-Angle Polarization Measurements
Authors: Yao Shuan , Zhang Heng , Zeng Nan , Ma Hui , He Honghui , Jiang Yuelu
Published: April 2024

Porous suspended particles are hazardous to human health due to their strong absorption capacity for toxic substances. A fast, accurate, in situ and high-throughput method to characterize the microporous structure of porous particles has extensive application value. The polarization changes during the light scattering of aerosol particles are highly sensitive to their microstructural properties, such as pore size and porosity. In this study, we propose an overlapping sphere model based on the discrete dipole approximation (DDA) to calculate the polarization scattering characteristics of porous particles. By combining scattering calculations with multi-dimensional polarization indexes measured by a multi-angle polarized scattering vector detection system, we achieve the identification and classification of pore-type components in suspended particles. The maximum deviation based on multiple indexes is less than 0.16% for the proportion analysis of mixed particles. Simultaneously, we develop a quantitative inversion algorithm on pore size and porosity. The inversion results of the three porous polymer particles support the validity and feasibility of our method, where the inversion error of partial particles is less than 4% for pore size and less than 6% for porosity. The study demonstrates the potential of polarization measurements and index systems applied in characterizing the micropore structure of suspended particles.
A Novel Hole System Dimension Analysis Tool Based on the Combination of the Process Path and Design Path
Authors: Ma Xingyu , Yang Jiong , Xue Shuncong , Wang Zhichao
Published: April 2024

In the calculation of process dimensions in the machining of porous parts, the traditional method is complicated in the establishment of the dimensional chain, it is easy to make mistakes in the judgment of increasing and decreasing loops, and there is difficulty in the calculation process; thus, this paper puts forward a method that combines the process path with the design path to analyze the hole system dimensions in response to these problems. First of all, the combination of the process path and design path is used to establish a system of vector equations and, according to the system of vector equations, to establish a matrix model to calculate the process dimensions based on the system of vector equations to construct the process dimensional chain and the dimensional chain function; then, the principle of differentiation is used to carry out a tolerance analysis of the process dimensions, which avoids the drawing of dimensional chain diagrams and the judgement of the incremental/decremental loops. Finally, the development of a process dimension analysis tool for hole system dimensions is completed based on CATIA CAA. In order to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method, the analysis tool was used to solve the three labeling methods of the hole system dimensions of porous parts and compared with the results calculated using the traditional method, and it was found that some of the tolerance results obtained by the proposed method were enlarged by about 50%, which is more in line with the actual production situation. Finally, in order to verify the accuracy of the tool’s calculation results, three porous parts were machined according to the process dimensions and tolerances calculated by the tool, and the center distance of each hole was measured by a coordinate meter. These measurements were compared and analyzed with the design dimensions specified in the engineering drawings, and it was found that the center distances of the holes were in full compliance with the design requirements.
Effect of Floating Support Parameters on the Load-Sharing Performance of EDPGS Based on Mathematical Statistical Methods
Authors: Che Xiaoyu , Zhu Rupeng
Published: April 2024

The encased differential planetary gear system (EDPGS) allows power to be distributed among multiple output paths, enhancing efficiency and reducing weight. Uniform load distribution ensures stable system operation and prolongs service life. However, stochastic manufacturing errors leading to uneven load distribution pose challenges in engineering practice. To investigate the impact of floating support parameters on the load-sharing performance within an acceptable tolerance band, a dynamic model of the EDPGS considering time-varying meshing stiffness and random errors is established using the Monte Carlo method. This study employs the orthogonal experimental design method to analyze the effects of floating support stiffness and clearance on the load-sharing characteristics. The findings indicate that a larger sample size leads to a probability distribution of load-sharing coefficients closer to the Gaussian distribution, with minimal influence on the expectation and variance. Furthermore, this study highlights the significant influence of floating structure parameters on load-sharing characteristics in the encased stage systems compared to the differential stage. Decreasing floating support stiffness or increasing floating clearance proves beneficial in enhancing the load-sharing performance of the system.
Efficient Fourth-Order Weights in Kernel-Type Methods without Increasing the Stencil Size with an Application in a Time-Dependent Fractional PDE Problem
Authors: Liu Tao , Shateyi Stanford
Published: April 2024

An effective strategy to enhance the convergence order of nodal approximations in interpolation or PDE problems is to increase the size of the stencil, albeit at the cost of increased computational burden. In this study, our goal is to improve the convergence orders for approximating the first and second derivatives of sufficiently differentiable functions using the radial basis function-generated Hermite finite-difference (RBF-HFD) scheme. By utilizing only three equally spaced points in 1D, we are able to boost the convergence rate to four. Extensive tests have been conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed theoretical weighting coefficients in solving interpolation and PDE problems.
Personalized Dynamic Pricing Based on Improved Thompson Sampling
Authors: Bi Wenjie , Wang Bing , Liu Haiying
Published: April 2024

This study investigates personalized pricing with demand learning. We first encode consumer-personalized feature information into high-dimensional vectors, then establish the relationship between this feature vector and product demand using a logit model, and finally learn demand parameters through historical transaction data. To address the balance between learning and revenue, we introduce the Thompson Sampling algorithm. Considering the difficulty of Bayesian inference in Thompson Sampling owing to high-dimensional feature vectors, we improve the basic Thompson Sampling by approximating the likelihood function of the logit model with the Pólya-Gamma (PG) distribution and by proposing a Thompson Sampling algorithm based on the PG distribution. To validate the proposed algorithm’s effectiveness, we conduct experiments using both simulated data and real loan data provided by the Columbia University Revenue Management Center. The study results demonstrate that the Thompson Sampling algorithm based on the PG distribution proposed outperforms traditional Laplace approximation methods regarding convergence speed and regret value in both real and simulated data experiments. The real-time personalized pricing algorithm developed here not only enriches the theoretical research of personalized dynamic pricing, but also provides a theoretical basis and guidance for enterprises to implement personalized pricing.
Community Detection in Multiplex Networks Using Orthogonal Non-Negative Matrix Tri-Factorization Based on Graph Regularization and Diversity
Authors: Yang Yuqi , Yu Shanshan , Pan Baicheng , Li Chenglu , Leung Man-Fai
Published: April 2024

In recent years, community detection has received increasing interest. In network analysis, community detection refers to the identification of tightly connected subsets of nodes, which are called “communities” or “groups”, in the network. Non-negative matrix factorization models are often used to solve the problem. Orthogonal non-negative matrix tri-factorization (ONMTF) exhibits significant potential as an approach for community detection within multiplex networks. This paper explores the application of ONMTF in multiplex networks, aiming to detect both shared and exclusive communities simultaneously. The model decomposes each layer within the multiplex network into two low-rank matrices. One matrix corresponds to shared communities across all layers, and the other to unique communities within each layer. Additionally, graph regularization and the diversity of private communities are taken into account in the algorithm. The Hilbert Schmidt Independence Criterion (HSIC) is used to constrain the independence of private communities. The results prove that ONMTF effectively addresses community detection in multiplex networks. It also offers strong interpretability and feature extraction capabilities. Therefore, it is an advanced method for community detection in multiplex networks.
Ideals and Homomorphism Theorems of Fuzzy Associative Algebras
Authors: Yang Xiaoman , Zhou Xin
Published: April 2024

Based on the definitions of fuzzy associative algebras and fuzzy ideals, it is proven that the intersections of fuzzy subalgebras are fuzzy subalgebras, and the intersections of fuzzy ideals are fuzzy ideals. Moreover, we prove that the kernels of fuzzy homomorphisms are fuzzy ideals. Using fuzzy ideals, the quotient structures of fuzzy associative algebras are constructed, their corresponding properties are discussed, and their homomorphism theorems are proven.
Design of an Automatic Classification System for Educational Reform Documents Based on Naive Bayes Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Peng , Ma Zifan , Ren Zeyuan , Wang Hongxiang , Zhang Chuankai , Wan Qing , Sun Dongxue
Published: April 2024

With the continuous deepening of educational reform, a large number of educational policies, programs, and research reports have emerged, bringing a heavy burden of information processing and management to educators. Traditional manual classification and archiving methods are inefficient and susceptible to subjective factors. Therefore, an automated method is needed to quickly and accurately classify and archive documents into their respective categories. Based on this, this paper proposes a design of an automatic document classification system for educational reform based on the Naive Bayes algorithm to address the challenges of document management in the education field. Firstly, the relevant literature and document data in the field of educational reform are collected and organized to establish an annotated dataset for model detection. Secondly, the raw data are preprocessed by cleaning and transforming the original text data to make them more suitable for input into machine learning algorithms. Thirdly, various algorithms are trained and selected to determine the best algorithm for classifying educational reform documents. Finally, based on the determined algorithm, a corresponding classification software is designed to automatically classify and archive educational reform documents for analysis. Through experimental evaluation and result analysis, this research demonstrates the effectiveness and accuracy of the education reform document automatic classification system based on the Naive Bayes algorithm. This method can efficiently classify a large number of documents into their respective categories quickly and accurately, thereby improving the efficiency of educators and their information management capabilities. In the future, further exploration of feature extraction methods and machine learning algorithms can be conducted to optimize the classification performance and apply this method to practical management and decision-making in the education field.
Double Fuzzy Ideal Multifunctions
Authors: Abu_Shugair M. N. , Abdallah A. A. , Abbas S. E. , El-Sanowsy E. , Ibedou Ismail
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we introduce the notion of p,q-fuzzy local function and DF-ideal topological space. Also, we introduce the concepts DFU-ð-continuous and DFL-ð-continuous, almost ð-continuous, weakly ð-continuous and almost weakly ð-continuous multifunctions. Several properties and characterizations of the introduced multifunctions and types of continuity are established. Some examples are given to explain the correct implications between these notions.
(X,Y)-Gorenstein Categories, Associated (Global) Homological Dimensions and Applications to Relative Foxby Classes
Authors: Duarte Enrique , García Rozas Juan Ramón , Ouberka Hanane , Oyonarte Luis
Published: April 2024

Recently, Gorenstein dimensions relative to a semidualizing module have been the subject of numerous studies with interesting extensions of the classical homological dimensions. Although all these studies share the same direction, a common basis, and similar final goals, there is no common framework encompassing them as parts of a whole, progressing, on different fronts, towards the same end. We provide this general and global framework in the context of abelian categories, standardizing terminology and notation: we establish a general context by defining Gorenstein categories relative to two classes of objects ((X,Y)-Gorenstein categories, denoted G(X,Y)), and carry out a study of the homological dimensions associated with them. We prove, under some mild standard conditions, the corresponding version of the Comparison Lemma that ensures the consistency of a homological-dimension theory. We show that Ext functors can be used as tools to compute these G(X,Y)-dimensions, and we compare the dimensions obtained using the classes G(X) with those computed using G(X,Y). We also initiate a research of the global dimensions obtained with these classes G(X,Y) and find conditions for them to be finite. Finally, we show that these classes of Gorenstein objects are closely and interestingly related to the Foxby classes induced by a pair of functors. Namely, we prove that the Auslander and Bass classes are indeed G(X,Y) categories for some specific classes X and Y.
Combined Use of Acoustic Measurement Techniques with X-ray Imaging for Real-Time Observation of Laser-Based Manufacturing
Authors: Samimi Mahdieh , Saadabadi Mehran , Hosseinlaghab Hassan
Published: April 2024

Ensuring high-quality control in laser additive manufacturing and laser welding relies on the implementation of reliable and cost-effective real-time observation techniques. Real-time monitoring techniques play an important role in understanding critical physical phenomena, namely, melt pool dynamics and defect formation, during the manufacturing of components. This review aims to explore the integration of acoustic measurement techniques with X-ray imaging for studying these physical phenomena in laser manufacturing. A key aspect emphasized in this work is the importance of time synchronization for real-time observation using multiple sensors. X-ray imaging has proven to be a powerful tool for observing the dynamics of the melt pools and the formation of defects in real time. However, X-ray imaging has limitations in terms of accessibility which can be overcome through combination with other more-accessible measurement methods, such as acoustic emission spectroscopy. Furthermore, this combination simplifies the interpretation of acoustic data, which can be complex in its own right. This combined approach, which has evolved in recent years, presents a promising strategy for understanding acoustic emission signals during laser processing. This work provides a comprehensive review of existing research efforts in this area.
Transcription Factors Mcm1 and Sfp1 May Affect [PSI+] Prion Phenotype by Altering the Expression of the SUP35 Gene
Authors: Matveenko Andrew G. , Mikhailichenko Anastasiia S. , Drozdova Polina B. , Zhouravleva Galina A.
Published: April 2024

Mcm1 is an essential Q/N-rich transcription factor. Q/N-rich proteins interact with each other, and many affect the [PSI+] prion formed by the translation termination factor Sup35 (eRF3). We found that transient MCM1 overexpression increased nonsense suppression in [PSI+] strains and SUP35 transcription. As we had discovered similar effects of another Q/N-rich transcription factor, Sfp1, here we focus on the roles of Mcm1 and Sfp1 in SUP35 expression, as well as on the effects of Sfp1 on the expression of the gene encoding another release factor, Sup45 (eRF1). Mutations in the SUP35 promoter showed that none of the potential Mcm1 binding sites affected the Sup35 protein level or nonsense suppression, even during MCM1 overexpression. Mcm1 itself neither formed aggregates in vivo nor affected Sup35 aggregation. In contrast, a mutation in the Sfp1-binding site decreased Sup35 production and [PSI+] toxicity of excess Sfp1. Mutation of the Sfp1 binding site in the SUP45 promoter lowered SUP45 expression and increased nonsense suppression even more drastically. Our data indicate that the mechanisms of Mcm1 and Sfp1 action differ. While Mcm1 seems unlikely to directly regulate SUP35 expression, Sfp1 appears to act through its binding sites and to directly activate SUP35 expression, which in turn may influence the [PSI+] prion phenotype and toxicity.
Polysaccharides and Lectins: A Natural Complementary Approach against the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic
Authors: Lefter Radu , Balyan Prairna , Balmus Ioana-Miruna , Ech-Chahad Abdellah , Ali Ahmad , Ciobica Alin , Petroaie Antoneta Dacia , Halitchi Gabriela , Novac Bogdan , Ionescu Catalina , Kamal Fatima Zahra
Published: April 2024

Infection with the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, the cause of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), has emerged as a global pandemic, with a high toll on casualties, economic impact, and human lifestyle. Despite the recent approval of various vaccines against the virus, challenges remain, including the limited availability of these vaccines, the prevalent rejection of vaccination by a large proportion of the population, and the recurrent appearance of new variants of the virus due to mutations. This context raises the alarm for scientists and clinicians to seek alternative and complementary therapies. In this context, natural products and their derivatives serve as reservoirs for potential therapeutic compounds that can be exploited in the research and production of antiviral drugs against COVID-19. Among these substances, lectin and polysaccharides isolated from fauna and flora emerge as complementary strategies for treating coronavirus infection. The review objective is to cover and analyze the specific role of polysaccharides and lectins and their synergy in the fight against this deadly SARS-CoV-2 virus. For this purpose, a primary literature search was conducted on Google Scholar, PubMed, and Web of Sciences using relevant keywords like “SARS-CoV-2 Variants”; “Antiviral Strategies”; “Antiviral Polysaccharides”; “Antiviral Lectins”; and “Synergistic effect”. The results demonstrate that lectins and polysaccharides exhibit antiviral activities against SARS-CoV-2 via mechanisms related to binding and steric blocking, the binding of glycan-based decoys, chemical reactions, virus particle disruption strategies, and steric blocking for competitive inhibition to block SARS-CoV-2 and its variants’ entry. In addition, this review analyzes the rationale behind combining polysaccharides and lectins, emphasizing complementary mechanisms of action. By simultaneously targeting multiple stages of the viral life cycle, this dual strategy aims to comprehensively inhibit viral propagation and enhance the durability of antiviral strategies over time.
Diversity Analysis of Intestinal Bifidobacteria in the Hohhot Population
Authors: Yang Shuying , Wu Su , Zhao Feiyan , Zhao Zhixin , Shen Xin , Yu Xia , Zhang Meng , Wen Fang , Sun Zhihong , Menghe Bilige
Published: April 2024

(1) Background: Bifidobacterium plays a pivotal role within the gut microbiota, significantly affecting host health through its abundance and composition in the intestine. Factors such as age, gender, and living environment exert considerable influence on the gut microbiota, yet scant attention has been directed towards understanding the specific effects of these factors on the Bifidobacterium population. Therefore, this study focused on 98 adult fecal samples to conduct absolute and relative quantitative analyses of bifidobacteria. (2) Methods: Using droplet digital PCR and the PacBio Sequel II sequencing platform, this study sought to determine the influence of various factors, including living environment, age, and BMI, on the absolute content and biodiversity of intestinal bifidobacteria. (3) Results: Quantitative results indicated that the bifidobacteria content in the intestinal tract ranged from 106 to 109 CFU/g. Notably, the number of bifidobacteria in the intestinal tract of the school population surpassed that of the off-campus population significantly (p = 0.003). Additionally, the group of young people exhibited a significantly higher count of bifidobacteria than the middle-aged and elderly groups (p = 0.041). The normal-weight group displayed a significantly higher bifidobacteria count than the obese group (p = 0.027). Further analysis of the relative abundance of bifidobacteria under different influencing factors revealed that the living environment emerged as the primary factor affecting the intestinal bifidobacteria structure (p = 0.046, R2 = 2.411). Moreover, the diversity of bifidobacteria in the intestinal tract of college students surpassed that in the out-of-school population (p = 0.034). This was characterized by a notable increase in 11 strains, including B. longum, B. bifidum, and B. pseudolongum, in the intestinal tract of college students, forming a more intricate intestinal bifidobacteria interaction network. (4) Conclusions: In summary, this study elucidated the principal factors affecting intestinal bifidobacteria and delineated their characteristics of intestinal bifidobacteria in diverse populations. By enriching the theory surrounding gut microbiota and health, this study provides essential data support for further investigations into the intricate dynamics of the gut microbiota.
Metagenomic Analyses Reveal Gut Microbial Profiles of Cnaphalocrocis medinalis Driven by the Infection of Baculovirus CnmeGV
Authors: Li Chuanming , Han Guangjie , Huang Lixin , Lu Yurong , Xia Yang , Zhang Nan , Liu Qin , Xu Jian
Published: April 2024

The composition of microbiota in the digestive tract gut is essential for insect physiology, homeostasis, and pathogen infection. Little is known about the interactions between microbiota load and oral infection with baculoviruses. CnmeGV is an obligative baculovirus to Cnaphalocrocis medinalis. We investigated the impact of CnmeGV infection on the structure of intestinal microbes of C. medinalis during the initial infection stage. The results revealed that the gut microbiota profiles were dynamically driven by pathogen infection of CnmeGV. The numbers of all the OTU counts were relatively higher at the early and later stages, while the microbial diversity significantly increased early but dropped sharply following the infection. The compositional abundance of domain bacteria Firmicutes developed substantially higher. The significantly enriched and depleted species can be divided into four groups at the species level. Fifteen of these species were ultimately predicted as the biomarkers of CnmeGV infection. CnmeGV infection induces significant enrichment of alterations in functional genes related to metabolism and the immune system, encompassing processes such as carbohydrate, amino acid, cofactor, and vitamin metabolism. Finally, the study may provide an in-depth analysis of the relationship between host microbiota, baculovirus infection, and pest control of C. medinalis.
Forecasting Future Research Trends in the Construction Engineering and Management Domain Using Machine Learning and Social Network Analysis
Authors: Ali Gasser G. , El-adaway Islam H. , Ahmed Muaz O. , Eissa Radwa , Nabi Mohamad Abdul , Elbashbishy Tamima , Khalef Ramy
Published: April 2024

Construction Engineering and Management (CEM) is a broad domain with publications covering interrelated subdisciplines and considered a key source of knowledge sharing. Previous studies used scientometric methods to assess the current impact of CEM publications; however, there is a need to predict future citations of CEM publications to identify the expected high-impact trends in the future and guide new research efforts. To tackle this gap in the literature, the authors conducted a study using Machine Learning (ML) algorithms and Social Network Analysis (SNA) to predict CEM-related citation metrics. Using a dataset of 93,868 publications, the authors trained and tested two machine learning classification algorithms: Random Forest and XGBoost. Validation of the RF and XGBoost resulted in a balanced accuracy of 79.1% and 79.5%, respectively. Accordingly, XGBoost was selected. Testing of the XGBoost model revealed a balanced accuracy of 80.71%. Using SNA, it was found that while the top CEM subdisciplines in terms of the number of predicted impactful papers are “Project planning and design”, “Organizational issues”, and “Information technologies, robotics, and automation”; the lowest was “Legal and contractual issues”. This paper contributes to the body of knowledge by studying the citation level, strength, and interconnectivity between CEM subdisciplines as well as identifying areas more likely to result in highly cited publications.
Enhancement of Astaxanthin Bioaccessibility by Encapsulation in Liposomes: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Pan Li , Meng Haojie , Li Jiaqi , Liu Zongjie , Zhang Dongsheng , Liu Zhengyang , Zhao Qian , Xu Fei
Published: April 2024

Astaxanthin was encapsulated in liposomes by a thin layer dispersion and ultrasound method using soybean phospholipid. The digestion properties of liposomes for encapsulating astaxanthin were investigated in light of particle size, size distribution, zeta potential, and microstructure during in vitro digestion as a function of time. These results exhibited that the average particle size increased gradually with liposomal vesicles retained round shapes and a fairly uniform distribution after passage through the simulated gastric fluid digestion. The result revealed that astaxanthin-loaded liposomes were stable in low pH conditions. It was also found that the mixed micelles formed in a simulated intestinal fluid. The zeta potential of astaxanthin-loaded liposomes had a decrease in negativity after digestion. In comparison with free astaxanthin, there was an appreciable increase in the bioaccessibility of astaxanthin after encapsulation in liposomes. This enhancement can be attributed to more soluble astaxanthin in the mixed micelles for astaxanthin-loaded liposomes. It indicated that the barrier of the liposomal bilayer could inhibit astaxanthin fading and leaking after encapsulation in liposomes. These results provide useful information for designing more stable delivery systems in the gastrointestinal tract and improving the bioaccessibility of lipophilic nutraceuticals.
Investigation of Structures, Stabilities, and Electronic and Magnetic Properties of Niobium Carbon Clusters Nb7Cn (n = 1–7)
Authors: Li Hui-Fang , Wang Huai-Qian , Zhang Jia-Ming , Qin Lan-Xin , Zheng Hao , Zhang Yong-Hang
Published: April 2024

The geometrical structures, relative stabilities, and electronic and magnetic properties of niobium carbon clusters, Nb7Cn (n = 1–7), are investigated in this study. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations, coupled with the Saunders Kick global search, are conducted to explore the structural properties of Nb7Cn (n = 1–7). The results regarding the average binding energy, second-order difference energy, dissociation energy, HOMO-LUMO gap, and chemical hardness highlight the robust stability of Nb7C3. Analysis of the density of states suggests that the molecular orbitals of Nb7Cn primarily consist of orbitals from the transition metal Nb, with minimal involvement of C atoms. Spin density and natural population analysis reveal that the total magnetic moment of Nb7Cn predominantly resides on the Nb atoms. The contribution of Nb atoms to the total magnetic moment stems mainly from the 4d orbital, followed by the 5p, 5s, and 6s orbitals.
The Composition of Volatiles and the Role of Non-Traditional LOX on Target Metabolites in Virgin Olive Oil from Autochthonous Dalmatian Cultivars
Authors: Soldo Barbara , Jukić Špika Maja , Pasković Igor , Vuko Elma , Polić Pasković Marija , Ljubenkov Ivica
Published: April 2024

The lipoxygenase pathway has a significant influence on the composition of the volatile components of virgin olive oil (VOO). In this work, the influence of the maturity index (MI) on the activity of the lipoxygenase enzyme (LOX) in the fruits of the autochthonous Dalmatian olive cultivars Oblica, Levantinka and Lastovka was studied. The analysis of the primary oxidation products of linoleic acid in the studied cultivars showed that LOX synthesises a mixture of 9- and 13-hydroperoxides of octadecenoic acid in a ratio of about 1:2, which makes it a non-traditional plant LOX. By processing the fruits of MI~3, we obtained VOOs with the highest concentration of desirable C6 volatile compounds among the cultivars studied. We confirmed a positive correlation between MI, the enzyme activity LOX and the concentration of hexyl acetate and hexanol in cultivars Oblica and Lastovka, while no positive correlation with hexanol was observed in the cultivar Levantinka. A significant negative correlation was found between total phenolic compounds in VOO and LOX enzyme activity, followed by an increase in the MI of fruits. This article contributes to the selection of the optimal harvest time for the production of VOOs with the desired aromatic properties and to the knowledge of the varietal characteristics of VOOs.
On the Diffusion of Ionic Liquids in ILs@ZIF-8 Composite Materials: A Density Functional Theory Study
Authors: Liu Longlong , Jiang Kun , Chen Qingjun , Liu Lei
Published: April 2024

Recently, composite materials consisting of ionic liquids (ILs) and metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have attracted a great deal of attention due to their fantastic properties. Many theoretical studies have been performed on their special structures and gas separation applications. Yet, the mechanism for the diffusion of ILs inside MOF channels still remains unclear. Here, the DFT calculations (e.g., rigid and relaxed potential energy surface, PES, scan) together with frontier orbital analysis, natural charge analysis, and energy decomposition analysis were performed to investigate the diffusion behavior of a typical IL, [C4mim][PF6], into the ZIF-8 SOD cage. The PES profiles indicate that it is quite difficult for the cation [C4min]+ to diffuse into the cage of ZIF-8 through the pristine pores because of the large imidazole steric hindrance, which results in a large energy barrier of ca. 40 kcal·mol−1 at the least. Interestingly, the PES reveals that a successful diffusion could be obtained by thermal contributions, which enlarge the pore size through swing effects at higher temperatures. For example, both [C4mim]+ and [PF6]− could easily diffuse through the channel of the ZIF-8 SOD cage when the pore size was increased to 6.9 Å. Subsequently, electronic structure analyses reveal that the main interactions between [PF6]− or [C4mim]+ and ZIF-8 are the steric repulsion interactions. Finally, the effects of the amounts of [C4mim][PF6] on the ZIF-8 structures were investigated, and the results show that two pairs of [C4mim][PF6] per SOD cage are the most stable in terms of the interaction between energies and structural changes. With these findings, we propose that the high-temperature technique could be employed during the synthesis of IL@MOF membranes, to enrich their family members and their industrial applications.
Syntheses, Structures, and Electrochemical Properties of Metallacyclic Oxidovanadium(V) Complexes with Asymmetric Multidentate Linking Ligands
Authors: Hasegawa Kyoko , Muto Masahiro , Hamada Masanobu , Yamada Yasunori , Tokii Tadashi , Koikawa Masayuki
Published: April 2024

Trinuclear metallacyclic oxidovanadium(V) complexes, [{VO(L3+2R)}3] (1–3) with asymmetric multidentate linking ligands (H3L3+2R: R = H, Me, Br), were synthesized. The molecular structure of 1 is characterized as a tripod structure, with each V(V) ion coordinated by ONO-atoms from a tridentate Schiff base site and ON-atoms from a bidentate benzoxazole site of two respective H3L3+2H ligands. The intramolecular V⋯V distances range from 8.0683 to 8.1791 Å. Complex 4 is a mononuclear dioxidovanadium(V) complex, (Et3NH)[VO2(HL3+2H)]. Cyclic voltammograms of 1−3 in DMF revealed redox couples attributed to three single-electron transfer processes.
Enhancing the Green Synthesis of Glycerol Carbonate: Carboxylation of Glycerol with CO2 Catalyzed by Metal Nanoparticles Encapsulated in Cerium Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: Lukato Simon , Wójcik Michał , Krogul-Sobczak Agnieszka , Litwinienko Grzegorz
Published: April 2024

The reaction of glycerol with CO2 to produce glycerol carbonate was performed successfully in the presence of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) supported by a metal–organic framework (MOF) constructed from mixed carboxylate (terephthalic acid and 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylic acid). The most efficient were two AuNPs@MOF catalysts prepared from pre-synthesized MOF impregnated with Au3+ salt and subsequently reduced to AuNPs using H2 (catalyst 4%Au(H2)@MOF1) or reduced with NaBH4 (catalyst 4%Au@PEI-MOF1). Compared to existing catalysts, AuNPs@MOFs require simple preparation and operate under mild and sustainable conditions, i.e., a much lower temperature and the lowest CO2 overpressure ever reported, with MgCO3 having been found to be the optimal dehydrating agent. Although the yield of the process is still not competitive with previously developed systems, the most promising advantage is the highest TOF (78 h−1) ever reported for this reaction. The optimal parameters observed for AuNPs were also tested on AgNPs and CuNPs with promising results, suggesting their great potential for industrial application. The catalysts were characterized by XRD, TEM, SEM-EDS, ICP-MS, XPS, and porosity measurements, confirming that AuNPs are present in low concentration, uniformly distributed, and confined to the cavities of the MOF.
Hexylammonium Acetate-Regulated Buried Interface for Efficient and Stable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Hu Ruiyuan , Wang Taomiao , Wang Fei , Li Yongjun , Sun Yonggui , Liang Xiao , Zhou Xianfang , Yang Guo , Li Qiannan , Zhang Fan , Zhu Quanyao , Li Xing’ao , Hu Hanlin
Published: April 2024

Due to current issues of energy-level mismatch and low transport efficiency in commonly used electron transport layers (ETLs), such as TiO2 and SnO2, finding a more effective method to passivate the ETL and perovskite interface has become an urgent matter. In this work, we integrated a new material, the ionic liquid (IL) hexylammonium acetate (HAAc), into the SnO2/perovskite interface to improve performance via the improvement of perovskite quality formed by the two-step method. The IL anions fill oxygen vacancy defects in SnO2, while the IL cations interact chemically with Pb2+ within the perovskite structure, reducing defects and optimizing the morphology of the perovskite film such that the energy levels of the ETL and perovskite become better matched. Consequently, the decrease in non-radiative recombination promotes enhanced electron transport efficiency. Utilizing HAAc, we successfully regulated the morphology and defect states of the perovskite layer, resulting in devices surpassing 24% efficiency. This research breakthrough not only introduces a novel material but also propels the utilization of ILs in enhancing the performance of perovskite photovoltaic systems using two-step synthesis.
FuncPEP v2.0: An Updated Database of Functional Short Peptides Translated from Non-Coding RNAs
Authors: Mohapatra Swati , Banerjee Anik , Rausseo Paola , Dragomir Mihnea P. , Manyam Ganiraju C. , Broom Bradley M. , Calin George A.
Published: April 2024

Over the past decade, there have been reports of short novel functional peptides (less than 100 aa in length) translated from so-called non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) that have been characterized using mass spectrometry (MS) and large-scale proteomics studies. Therefore, understanding the bivalent functions of some ncRNAs as transcripts that encode both functional RNAs and short peptides, which we named ncPEPs, will deepen our understanding of biology and disease. In 2020, we published the first database of functional peptides translated from non-coding RNAs—FuncPEP. Herein, we have performed an update including the newly published ncPEPs from the last 3 years along with the categorization of host ncRNAs. FuncPEP v2.0 contains 152 functional ncPEPs, out of which 40 are novel entries. A PubMed search from August 2020 to July 2023 incorporating specific keywords was performed and screened for publications reporting validated functional peptides derived from ncRNAs. We did not observe a significant increase in newly discovered functional ncPEPs, but a steady increase. The novel identified ncPEPs included in the database were characterized by a wide array of molecular and physiological parameters (i.e., types of host ncRNA, species distribution, chromosomal density, distribution of ncRNA length, identification methods, molecular weight, and functional distribution across humans and other species). We consider that, despite the fact that MS can now easily identify ncPEPs, there still are important limitations in proving their functionality.