bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Pore Scale Study on Heat Transfer Characteristics of Integrated Thermal Protection Structures with Phase Change Material
Authors: Huang Ziyuan , Zhang Hongming , Zhang Chao , Tang Wei , Xiao Guangming , Du Yanxia
Published: January 2024

Phase change material (PCM) are characterized by their high latent heat and low density. Combining PCM with building walls, aircraft fuselages, and other structures can significantly enhance the thermal sink capability of these structures. In order to address the issue of low heat storage efficiency resulting from the low thermal conductivity of PCM, a novel integrated thermal protection structure (ITPS) architecture with a supportive structure based on a porous lattice has been designed. Experimental and numerical methods were employed to investigate the thermal response characteristics of the ITPS with and without PCM, the melting behavior of PCM within the porous lattice, and the effects of lattice configuration and pore size on the PCM melting rate. The current ITPS study includes evaluation of two types of lattice configurations and three different pore sizes. The results indicate that the inclusion of PCM reduces the internal panel temperature of the ITPS by approximately 15%. The melting of PCM occurs primarily at the central region of the porous lattice and gradually spreads towards the periphery until complete melting is achieved. Specifically, the Gibson–Ashby lattice configuration enhances the PCM melting rate by 43.5%, while the tetradecahedron lattice configuration yields a 53.1% improvement. Furthermore, for PCM with different pore sizes, smaller pores exhibit faster melting rates during the early and intermediate stages, whereas larger pores exhibit faster melting rates in the later stages as the proportion of liquid PCM increases. The conclusions of this study provide valuable insights for the application of PCM in the field of thermal management.
Comprehensive Study of SDC Memristors for Resistive RAM Applications
Authors: Garda Bartłomiej , Bednarz Karol
Published: January 2024

Memristors have garnered considerable attention within the scientific community as devices for emerging construction of Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI) systems. Owing to their inherent properties, they appear to be promising candidates for pivotal components in computational architectures, offering alternatives to the conventional von Neumann architectures. This work has focused on exploring potential applications of Self-Directed Channel (SDC) memristors as novel RRAM memory cells. The introductory section of the study is dedicated to evaluating the repeatability of the tested memristors. Subsequently, a detailed account of the binary programming testing process for memristors is provided, along with illustrative characteristics depicting the impact of programming pulses on a memory cell constructed from a memristor. A comprehensive data analysis was then conducted, comparing memristors with varying types of doping. The results revealed that SDC memristors exhibit a high level of switching, certainty between the Low Resistance State (LRS) and High Resistance State (HRS), suggesting their capability to facilitate the storage of multiple bits within a single memory cell.
CO2–Water–Rock Interaction and Its Influence on the Physical Properties of Continental Shale Oil Reservoirs
Authors: Cao Sheng , Sang Qian , Zhao Guozhong , Lan Yubo , Dong Dapeng , Wang Qingzhen
Published: January 2024

Shale oil resources are abundant, but reservoirs exhibit strong heterogeneity with extremely low porosity and permeability, and their development is challenging. Carbon dioxide (CO2) injection technology is crucial for efficient shale oil development. When CO2 is dissolved in reservoir formation water, it undergoes a series of physical and chemical reactions with various rock minerals present in the reservoir. These reactions not only modify the reservoir environment but also lead to precipitation that impacts the development of the oil reservoir. In this paper, the effects of water–rock interaction on core porosity and permeability during CO2 displacement are investigated by combining static and dynamic tests. The results reveal that the injection of CO2 into the core leads to reactions between CO2 and rock minerals upon dissolution in formation water. These reactions result in the formation of new minerals and the obstruction of clastic particles, thereby reducing core permeability. However, the generation of fine fractures through carbonic acid corrosion yields an increase in core permeability. The CO2–water–rock reaction is significantly influenced by the PV number, pressure, and temperature. As the injected PV number increases, the degree of pore throat plugging gradually increases. As the pressure increases, the volume of larger pore spaces gradually decreases, resulting in an increase in the degree of pore blockage. However, when the pressure exceeds 20 MPa, the degree of carbonic acid dissolution will be enhanced, resulting in the formation of small cracks and an increase in the volume of small pores. As the temperature reaches the critical point, the degree of blockage of macropores gradually increases, and the blockage of small pores also occurs, which eventually leads to a decrease in core porosity.
Biopolymers-Based Macrogels with Applications in the Food Industry: Capsules with Berry Juice for Functional Food Products
Authors: Gheorghita Roxana Elena , Lupaescu Ancuta Veronica , Gâtlan Anca Mihaela , Dabija Dadiana , Lobiuc Andrei , Iatcu Oana Camelia , Buculei Amelia , Andriesi Alexandru , Dabija Adriana
Published: January 2024

The present study focused on the development of gel-based capsules from sodium alginate and the fresh juice from different berries: chokeberry, sea buckthorn, and blueberry. Obtained through the extrusion method, the macrocapsules were added into yogurt, a well-known and consumed dairy product. In order to establish the changes that can occur for the food product, the samples were tested over 7 and 15 days of storage in refrigeration conditions. According to the results, the antioxidant activity increased during storage and gels can represent a good option for bioactive substances’ encapsulation. Sensorial analysis performed indicated that consumers are open to consuming yogurt berry capsules and, according to the results observed in the scientific literature, they no longer rejected the product due to the bitterness and sourness of sea buckthorn or aronia. Sea buckthorn capsules were brighter (L*) than chokeberry and blueberry capsules due to carotene content and dark colors. Minimal diameter variations and small standard deviations (SD = 0.25/0.33) suggest that extrusion methods and the Caviar box are good for gel capsule development. Yogurt luminosity varied with capsules; control had the highest, followed by sea buckthorn yogurt. Samples with chokeberry and blueberry (dark) capsules had lower luminosity. Over 8 and 15 days, luminosity slightly decreased, while a* and b* (hue and saturation) increased. Post-storage, the sample with chokeberry capsules showed a light purple color, indicating color transfer from capsules, with increased antioxidant activity. Differences between the samples and control were less pronounced in the sample with sea buckthorn capsules. Values for color differences between yogurt samples during the storage period revealed the most significant difference during the first storage period (day 1–8), with blueberries showing the lowest difference, indicating the stability of the blueberry capsules’ wall during storage.
SARS-CoV-2 Accessory Protein Orf7b Induces Lung Injury via c-Myc Mediated Apoptosis and Ferroptosis
Authors: Deshpande Rushikesh , Li Wangyang , Li Tiao , Fanning Kristen V. , Clemens Zachary , Nyunoya Toru , Zhang Lianghui , Deslouches Berthony , Barchowsky Aaron , Wenzel Sally , McDyer John F. , Zou Chunbin
Published: January 2024

The pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been the foremost modern global public health challenge. The airway is the primary target in severe acute respiratory distress syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, with substantial cell death and lung injury being signature hallmarks of exposure. The viral factors that contribute to cell death and lung injury remain incompletely understood. Thus, this study investigated the role of open reading frame 7b (Orf7b), an accessory protein of the virus, in causing lung injury. In screening viral proteins, we identified Orf7b as one of the major viral factors that mediates lung epithelial cell death. Overexpression of Orf7b leads to apoptosis and ferroptosis in lung epithelial cells, and inhibitors of apoptosis and ferroptosis ablate Orf7b-induced cell death. Orf7b upregulates the transcription regulator, c-Myc, which is integral in the activation of lung cell death pathways. Depletion of c-Myc alleviates both apoptotic and ferroptotic cell deaths and lung injury in mouse models. Our study suggests a major role of Orf7b in the cell death and lung injury attributable to COVID-19 exposure, supporting it as a potential therapeutic target.
Genome-Wide Analysis of R2R3-MYB Genes and Functional Characterization of SmMYB75 in Eggplant Fruit Implications for Crop Improvement and Nutritional Enhancement
Authors: Shi Suli , Li Dalu , Li Shaohang , Zhao Na , Liao Jielei , Ge Haiyan , Liu Yang , Chen Huoying
Published: January 2024

R2R3-MYB represents a substantial gene family that plays diverse roles in plant development. In this study, 102 SmR2R3-MYB genes were identified from eggplant fruit and classified into 31 subfamilies. Analysis indicated that segmental duplication events played a pivotal role in the expansion of the SmR2R3-MYB gene family. Furthermore, the prediction of miRNAs targeting SmR2R3-MYB genes revealed that 60 SmR2R3-MYBs are targeted by 57 miRNAs, with specific miRNAs displaying varying numbers of target genes, providing valuable insights into the regulatory functions of miRNAs in plant growth, development, and responses to stress conditions. Through expression profile analysis under various treatment conditions, including low temperature (4 °C), plant hormone (ABA, Abscisic acid), and drought stress (PEG, Polyethylene glycol), diverse and complex regulatory mechanisms governing SmR2R3-MYB gene expression were elucidated. Notably, EGP21875.1 and EGP21874.1 exhibited upregulation in expression under all treatment conditions. Transcriptome and metabolome analyses demonstrated that, apart from anthocyanins (delphinidin-3-O-glucoside, cyanidin-3-O-(6-O-p-coumaroyl)-glucoside, and malvidin-3-O-(6-O-p-coumaroyl)-glucoside), overexpression of SmMYB75 could also elevate the content of various beneficial compounds, such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenes, in eggplant pulp. This comprehensive study enhances our understanding of SmR2R3-MYB gene functions and provides a strong basis for further research on their roles in regulating anthocyanin synthesis and improving eggplant fruit quality.
Pathophysiology and Treatment of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Fukumoto Yoshihiro
Published: January 2024

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is recognized as a pathophysiological disorder encompassing a wide spectrum of clinical conditions related to various cardiovascular and respiratory diseases [...]
Programmed Death-Ligand (PD-L1), Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), Relaxin, and Matrix Metalloproteinase-3 (MMP3): Potential Biomarkers of Malignancy in Canine Mammary Neoplasia
Authors: Galadima Makchit , Teles Mariana , Pastor Josep , Hernández-Losa Javier , Rodríguez-Gil Joan Enric , Rivera del Alamo Maria Montserrat
Published: January 2024

Gene expression has been suggested as a putative tool for prognosis and diagnosis in canine mammary neoplasia (CMNs). In the present study, 58 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) paraffined canine mammary neoplasias from 27 different bitches were included. Thirty-seven tumours were classified as benign, whereas thirty-one were classified as different types of canine carcinoma. In addition, mammary samples from three healthy bitches were also included. The gene expression for vascular endothelial growth factor-α (VEGFα), CD20, progesterone receptor (PGR), hyaluronidase-1 (HYAL-1), programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), epidermal growth factor (EGF), relaxin (RLN2), and matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP3) was assessed through RT-qPCR. All the assessed genes yielded a higher expression in neoplastic mammary tissue than in healthy tissue. All the evaluated genes were overexpressed in neoplastic mammary tissue, suggesting a role in the process of tumorigenesis. Moreover, PD-L1, EGF, relaxin, and MMP3 were significantly overexpressed in malignant CMNs compared to benign CMNs, suggesting they may be useful as malignancy biomarkers.
Protein Disorder in Plant Stress Adaptation: From Late Embryogenesis Abundant to Other Intrinsically Disordered Proteins
Authors: Hsiao An-Shan
Published: January 2024

Global climate change has caused severe abiotic and biotic stresses, affecting plant growth and food security. The mechanical understanding of plant stress responses is critical for achieving sustainable agriculture. Intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) are a group of proteins without unique three-dimensional structures. The environmental sensitivity and structural flexibility of IDPs contribute to the growth and developmental plasticity for sessile plants to deal with environmental challenges. This article discusses the roles of various disordered proteins in plant stress tolerance and resistance, describes the current mechanistic insights into unstructured proteins such as the disorder-to-order transition for adopting secondary structures to interact with specific partners (i.e., cellular membranes, membrane proteins, metal ions, and DNA), and elucidates the roles of liquid–liquid phase separation driven by protein disorder in stress responses. By comparing IDP studies in animal systems, this article provides conceptual principles of plant protein disorder in stress adaptation, reveals the current research gaps, and advises on the future research direction. The highlighting of relevant unanswered questions in plant protein disorder research aims to encourage more studies on these emerging topics to understand the mechanisms of action behind their stress resistance phenotypes.
Microbiota-Derived Extracellular Vesicles as a Postbiotic Strategy to Alleviate Diarrhea and Enhance Immunity in Rotavirus-Infected Neonatal Rats
Authors: Martínez-Ruiz Sergio , Olivo-Martínez Yenifer , Cordero Cecilia , Rodríguez-Lagunas María J. , Pérez-Cano Francisco J. , Badia Josefa , Baldoma Laura
Published: January 2024

Rotavirus (RV) infection is a major cause of acute gastroenteritis in children under 5 years old, resulting in elevated mortality rates in low-income countries. The efficacy of anti-RV vaccines is limited in underdeveloped countries, emphasizing the need for novel strategies to boost immunity and alleviate RV-induced diarrhea. This study explores the effectiveness of interventions involving extracellular vesicles (EVs) from probiotic and commensal E. coli in mitigating diarrhea and enhancing immunity in a preclinical model of RV infection in suckling rats. On days 8 and 16 of life, variables related to humoral and cellular immunity and intestinal function/architecture were assessed. Both interventions enhanced humoral (serum immunoglobulins) and cellular (splenic natural killer (NK), cytotoxic T (Tc) and positive T-cell receptor γδ (TCRγδ) cells) immunity against viral infections and downregulated the intestinal serotonin receptor-3 (HTR3). However, certain effects were strain-specific. EcoR12 EVs activated intestinal CD68, TLR2 and IL-12 expression, whereas EcN EVs improved intestinal maturation, barrier properties (goblet cell numbers/mucin 2 expression) and absorptive function (villus length). In conclusion, interventions involving probiotic/microbiota EVs may serve as a safe postbiotic strategy to improve clinical symptoms and immune responses during RV infection in the neonatal period. Furthermore, they could be used as adjuvants to enhance the immunogenicity and efficacy of anti-RV vaccines.
Gastrointestinal Comorbidities Associated with Atopic Dermatitis—A Narrative Review
Authors: Zysk Weronika , Mesjasz Alicja , Trzeciak Magdalena , Horvath Andrea , Plata-Nazar Katarzyna
Published: January 2024

The current understanding of atopic dermatitis (AD) seems to be extending beyond a skin-confined condition frequently associated with allergic comorbidities, as in a number of epidemiological studies, the prevalence rate of a range of illnesses has been determined to be greater in patients with AD, or inversely. In most cases, the reasons for this are vague. A subset of these conditions are gastrointestinal disorders, including food sensitization (FS) and food allergy (FA), eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) (it is of mixed background, both IgE-dependent and independent), food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES) (it exemplifies an IgE-independent food allergy), Crohn’s disease (CD), colitis ulcerosa (CU), celiac disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In this review, we performed a comprehensive search of the literature using the PubMed database. We addressed the epidemiology of the increased co-occurrence of these diseases with AD and discussed potential causes for this subject. Multiple gastroenterological comorbidities appear to be more common in patients with AD, according to our review. The mechanisms that underlie this phenomenon are largely unknown, highlighting the need for further study in this field.
Cancer Nano-Immunotherapy: The Novel and Promising Weapon to Fight Cancer
Authors: García-Domínguez Daniel J. , López-Enríquez Soledad , Alba Gonzalo , Garnacho Carmen , Jiménez-Cortegana Carlos , Flores-Campos Rocío , de la Cruz-Merino Luis , Hajji Nabil , Sánchez-Margalet Víctor , Hontecillas-Prieto Lourdes
Published: January 2024

Cancer is a complex disease that, despite advances in treatment and the greater understanding of the tumor biology until today, continues to be a prevalent and lethal disease. Chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery are the conventional treatments, which have increased the survival for cancer patients. However, the complexity of this disease together with the persistent problems due to tumor progression and recurrence, drug resistance, or side effects of therapy make it necessary to explore new strategies that address the challenges to obtain a positive response. One important point is that tumor cells can interact with the microenvironment, promoting proliferation, dissemination, and immune evasion. Therefore, immunotherapy has emerged as a novel therapy based on the modulation of the immune system for combating cancer, as reflected in the promising results both in preclinical studies and clinical trials obtained. In order to enhance the immune response, the combination of immunotherapy with nanoparticles has been conducted, improving the access of immune cells to the tumor, antigen presentation, as well as the induction of persistent immune responses. Therefore, nanomedicine holds an enormous potential to enhance the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy. Here, we review the most recent advances in specific molecular and cellular immunotherapy and in nano-immunotherapy against cancer in the light of the latest published preclinical studies and clinical trials.
Comparative Characterisation of Proliferation and Apoptosis of Colonic Epithelium after Electron Irradiation with 2 GY and 25 GY
Authors: Demyashkin Grigory , Karakaeva Elza , Saakian Susanna , Tarusova Natalia , Guseinova Amina , Vays Anita , Gotovtsev Konstantin , Atiakshin Dmitrii , Shegai Petr , Kaprin Andrey
Published: January 2024

Development of new techniques for multimodal treatment and diagnostics of various neoplasms and the improvement of current techniques can significantly increase the life expectancy of patients with carcinomas of the colon and abdominal-cavity organs, since prevention of various side effects of radiation therapy is one of the main problems of oncological care. Electron irradiation is one of the most promising types of radiation therapy. There are no data on proliferation and apoptosis of the colon epithelium after irradiation with electrons, especially in different modes (single and summary). Morphological evaluation of apoptosis and proliferation of colonic epithelium after local irradiation with electrons were conducted at doses of 2 Gy (Gray) and 25 Gy. Colon fragments from sexually mature Wistar rats (n = 50, body weight 200 ± 10 g) were divided into three groups: I—control (n = 10); II—experimental group (n = 20; local single electron irradiation at a dose of 2 Gy); III—experimental group (n = 30) with local fractional irradiation with electrons at a total dose of 25 Gy. They were studied using light microscopy using hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemical reactions with antibodies to Ki-67 and caspase-3 (Cas3). Morphological disorders were accompanied by increased expression of pro-apoptotic molecules (caspase-3), and the period of regeneration by proliferative marker (Ki-67). Colon electron irradiation led to disturbances in the histoarchitecture of varying severity, and an increase in cell apoptosis was observed (increased expression of caspase-3 and decrease in Ki-67). In addition, modulation of the PI3K/AKT and MAPK/ERK signalling pathways was detected. The most pronounced destructive changes were observed in the group of 25 Gy fractionated electron irradiation.
Characterization of Novel Trypanosoma cruzi-Specific Antigen with Potential Use in the Diagnosis of Chagas Disease
Authors: Ossowski Micaela S. , Gallardo Juan Pablo , Niborski Leticia L. , Rodríguez-Durán Jessica , Lapadula Walter J. , Juri Ayub Maximiliano , Chadi Raúl , Hernandez Yolanda , Fernandez Marisa L. , Potenza Mariana , Gómez Karina A.
Published: January 2024

Chagas disease is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. In humans, it evolves into a chronic disease, eventually resulting in cardiac, digestive, and/or neurological disorders. In the present study, we characterized a novel T. cruzi antigen named Tc323 (TcCLB.504087.20), recognized by a single-chain monoclonal antibody (scFv 6B6) isolated from the B cells of patients with cardiomyopathy related to chronic Chagas disease. Tc323, a ~323 kDa protein, is an uncharacterized protein showing putative quinoprotein alcohol dehydrogenase-like domains. A computational molecular docking study revealed that the scFv 6B6 binds to an internal domain of Tc323. Immunofluorescence microscopy and Western Blot showed that Tc323 is expressed in the main developmental forms of T. cruzi, localized intracellularly and exhibiting a membrane-associated pattern. According to phylogenetic analysis, Tc323 is highly conserved throughout evolution in all the lineages of T. cruzi so far identified, but it is absent in Leishmania spp. and Trypanosoma brucei. Most interestingly, only plasma samples from patients infected with T. cruzi and those with mixed infection with Leishmania spp. reacted against Tc323. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that Tc323 is a promising candidate for the differential serodiagnosis of chronic Chagas disease in areas where T. cruzi and Leishmania spp. infections coexist.
Implementing Intraday Model-Free Implied Volatility for Individual Equities to Analyze the Return–Volatility Relationship
Authors: Haas Martin G. , Peter Franziska J.
Published: January 2024

We implement the VIX methodology on intraday data of a large set of individual equity options. We thereby consider approaches based on monthly option contracts, weekly option contracts, and a cubic spline interpolation approach. Relying on 1 min, 10 min, and 60 min model-free implied volatility measures, we empirically examine the individual equity return–volatility relationship on the intraday level using quantile regressions. The results confirm a negative contemporaneous link between stock returns and volatility, which is more pronounced in the tails of the distributions. Our findings hint at behavioral biases causing the asymmetric return–volatility link rather than the leverage and volatility-feedback effects.
Lexical Knowledge in School-Aged Children with High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder: Associations with Other Linguistic Skills
Authors: Zarokanellou Vasiliki , Prentza Alexandra , Tafiadis Dionysios , Kolaitis Gerasimos , Papanikolaou Katerina
Published: January 2024

Background: This quasi-experimental comparative group study examined vocabulary knowledge and its associations with other language skills in Greek-speaking children with high-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder and mild language impairment (HF-ASDLI) and typically developing (TD) peers. Methods: 25 children aged 7–10 years old participated in each group. Groups were matched in age, gender, and non-verbal IQ. Naming and word definition tasks were used to evaluate vocabulary knowledge in both groups. Results: Groups did not differ in the naming task; however, children with HF-ASDLI scored lower in the definition task. Both vocabulary tasks positively correlated with morpho-syntactic and overall language ability in both groups, although a significant positive correlation was detected between vocabulary knowledge and informational competence exclusively in the group with HF-ASDLI. Conclusions: Being in the HF-ASDLI group and having narrative ability significantly predicted participants’ performance in the definitions task, indicating that language impairment better explains vocabulary difficulties. These results agree with findings from the English language.
Investigating the Corrosive Influence of Chloride Ions on Slag Recovery Machine Inner Guide Wheel in Power Plants
Authors: Hu Dalong , Ma Xiaohan , Bai Jintao , Fan Yongzhe , Yu Yaohong , Ma Ruina , Zhang Jiangtao , Du An , Xi Tianhao , Zhao Xue , Wang Shengxing
Published: January 2024

An important method that coal-fired power plants use to realise low-cost zero discharge of desulfurisation wastewater (FGD wastewater) is to utilise wet slag removal systems. However, the high Cl− content of FGD wastewater in wet slag removal systems causes environmental damage. In this study, the corrosion behaviour of the inner guide wheel material, 20CrMnTi, was studied using dynamic weight loss and electrochemical methods. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and energy spectroscopy were used to analyse the organisational and phase changes on the surfaces and cross sections of the samples at different Cl− concentrations. The corrosion rate increased with the Cl− concentration up to 20 g/L, but it decreased slightly when the Cl− concentration exceeded 20 g/L. In all the cases, the corrosion rate exceeded 0.8 mm/a. The corrosion product film density initially increased and then decreased as the Cl− concentration increased. The corrosion products comprised mainly α-FeOOH, γ-FeOOH, β-FeOOH, Fe3O4, and γ-Fe2O3.
Comparative Study of Corrosion Performance of LVOF-Sprayed Ni-Based Composite Coatings Produced Using Standard and Reducing Flame Spray Stoichiometry
Authors: Idir Abdelhek , Delloro Francesco , Younes Rassim , Bradai Mohand Amokrane , Sadeddine Abdelhamid , Marginean Gabriela
Published: January 2024

Coating efficiency and quality can be significantly improved by carefully optimizing the coating parameters. Particularly in the flame spray method, the oxygen/fuel ratio, which is classified as oxidizing flame stoichiometry (excess oxygen) and reduces flame stoichiometry (excess acetylene), and spray distance are the most critical factors, as they correlate significantly with coating porosity and corrosion performance. Hence, understanding the effects of these parameters is essential to further minimize the porosity, improving the corrosion performance of thermally sprayed coatings. In this work, a NiWCrBSi alloy coating was deposited via the oxyacetylene flame spray/Flexicord-wire (FS/FC) method. The effect of the flame oxygen/fuel ratio and spray distance on the microstructure properties and corrosion behavior of the coatings was investigated. Afterwards, the microstructure, phases’ compositions, spray distance, and corrosion performance were studied. The equivalent circuit model was proposed, and the corrosion mechanism was discussed. The obtained results highlight that the oxygen-to-fuel ratio is a promising solution for the further application of flame spray/Flexicord-wire (FS/FC) cermet coatings in hostile environments. Depending on the flame’s oxygen/fuel ratio, careful selection of the flame stoichiometry provides low porosity and high corrosion performance.
Divalent Metal Ion Depletion from Wastewater by RVC Cathodes: A Critical Review
Authors: Dell’Era Alessandro , Lupi Carla , Ciro Erwin , Scaramuzzo Francesca A. , Pasquali Mauro
Published: January 2024

In this paper, a critical review of results obtained using a reticulated vitreous carbon (RVC) three-dimensional cathode for the electrochemical depletion of various divalent ions, such as Cu+2, Cd+2, Pb+2, Zn+2, Ni+2, and Co+2, often present in wastewater, has been carried out. By analyzing the kinetics and fluid dynamics of the process found in literature, a general dimensionless equation, Sh = f(Re), has been determined, describing a general trend for all the analyzed systems regardless of the geometry, dimensions, and starting conditions. Thus, a map in the log(Sh) vs. log(Re) plane has been reported by characterizing the whole ion electrochemical depletion process and highlighting the existence of a good correlation among all the results. Moreover, because in recent years, the interest in using this three-dimensional cathode material seems to have slowed, the intent is to revive it as a useful tool for metal recovery, recycling processes, and water treatments.
Seasonal and Geographic Dynamics in Bioproperties and Phytochemical Profile of Limonium algarvense Erben
Authors: Pereira Catarina Guerreiro , Rodrigues Maria João , Nawrot-Hadzik Izabela , Matkowski Adam , Custódio Luísa
Published: January 2024

This study delved into the influence of ecological and seasonal dynamics on the synthesis of secondary metabolites in the medicinal halophyte Limonium algarvense Erben, commonly known as sea lavender, and examined their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Aerial parts of sea lavender were systematically collected across winter, spring, summer, and autumn seasons from distinct geographic locations in southern Portugal, specifically “Ria de Alvor” in Portimão and “Ria Formosa” in Tavira. The investigation involved determining the total polyphenolic profile through spectrophotometric methods, establishing the chemical profile via liquid chromatography electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS), and evaluating in vitro antioxidant properties using radical and metal-based methods, along with assessing anti-inflammatory capacity through a cell model. Results unveiled varying polyphenol levels and profiles across seasons, with spring and autumn samples exhibiting the highest content, accompanied by the most notable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities. Geographic location emerged as an influential factor, particularly distinguishing plants from “Ria de Alvor”. Seasonal fluctuations were associated with environmental factors, including temperature, which, when excessively high, can impair plant metabolism, but also with the presence of flowers and seeds in spring and autumn samples, which also seems to contribute to elevated polyphenol levels and enhanced bioproperties of these samples. Additionally, genetic factors may be related to differences observed between ecotypes (geographical location). This study underscores sea lavender’s potential as a natural source of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents, emphasizing the significance of considering both geographic location and seasonal dynamics in the assessment of phenolic composition and bioactive properties in medicinal plant species.
Indole-Containing Metal Complexes and Their Medicinal Applications
Authors: Kazemi Zahra , Rudbari Hadi Amiri , Moini Nakisa , Momenbeik Fariborz , Carnamucio Federica , Micale Nicola
Published: January 2024

Indole is an important element of many natural and synthetic molecules with significant biological activity. Nonetheless, the co-presence of transitional metals in organic scaffold may represent an important factor in the development of effective medicinal agents. This review covers some of the latest and most relevant achievements in the biological and pharmacological activity of important indole-containing metal complexes in the area of drug discovery.
Challenges and Advances in the Bioproduction of L-Cysteine
Authors: Caballero Cerbon Daniel Alejandro , Gebhard Leon , Dokuyucu Ruveyda , Ertl Theresa , Härtl Sophia , Mazhar Ayesha , Weuster-Botz Dirk
Published: January 2024

L-cysteine is a proteogenic amino acid with many applications in the pharmaceutical, food, animal feed, and cosmetic industries. Due to safety and environmental issues in extracting L-cysteine from animal hair and feathers, the fermentative production of L-cysteine offers an attractive alternative using renewable feedstocks. Strategies to improve microbial production hosts like Pantoea ananatis, Corynebacterium glutamicum, Pseudomonas sp., and Escherichia coli are summarized. Concerning the metabolic engineering strategies, the overexpression of feedback inhibition-insensitive L-serine O-acetyltransferase and weakening the degradation of L-cysteine through the removal of L-cysteine desulfhydrases are crucial adjustments. The overexpression of L-cysteine exporters is vital to overcome the toxicity caused by intracellular accumulating L-cysteine. In addition, we compiled the process engineering aspects for the bioproduction of L-cysteine. Utilizing the energy-efficient sulfur assimilation pathway via thiosulfate, fermenting cheap carbon sources, designing scalable, fed-batch processes with individual feedings of carbon and sulfur sources, and implementing efficient purification techniques are essential for the fermentative production of L-cysteine on an industrial scale.
Effect of Novel Processing Techniques on the Carotenoid Release during the Production of Red Guava Juice
Authors: Zheng Xiaoxue , Chen Ziting , Guo Ziming , Chen Mengting , Xie Bijun , Sun Zhida , Hu Kai
Published: January 2024

Red guava, distinguished by its elevated lycopene content, emerges as a promising natural source of carotenoids. This study systematically evaluates the impact of diverse processing techniques on the efficient release of carotenoids. The primary objective is to facilitate the transfer of carotenoids into the juice fraction, yielding carotenoid-enriched juice seamlessly integrable into aqueous-based food matrices. The untreated guava puree exhibited a modest release of carotenoids, with only 66.26% of β-carotene and 57.08% of lycopene reaching the juice. Contrastly, both high-pressure homogenization (HPH) at 25 MPa and enzyme (EM) treatment significantly enhanced carotenoid release efficiency (p < 0.05), while high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) at 400 MPa and pulsed electric field (PEF) of 4 kV/cm did not (p > 0.05). Notably, HPH demonstrated the most substantial release effect, with β-carotene and lycopene reaching 90.78% and 73.85%, respectively. However, the stability of EM-treated samples was relatively poor, evident in a zeta-potential value of −6.51 mV observed in the juice. Correlation analysis highlighted the interactions between pectin and carotenoids likely a key factor influencing the stable dissolution or dispersion of carotenoids in the aqueous phase. The findings underscore HPH as a potent tool for obtaining carotenoid-enriched guava juice, positioning it as a desirable ingredient for clean-label foods.
Role of Hydrogen Sulfide in Oncological and Non-Oncological Disorders and Its Regulation by Non-Coding RNAs: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Youness Rana A. , Habashy Danira Ashraf , Khater Nour , Elsayed Kareem , Dawoud Alyaa , Hakim Sousanna , Nafea Heba , Bourquin Carole , Abdel-Kader Reham M. , Gad Mohamed Z.
Published: January 2024

Recently, myriad studies have defined the versatile abilities of gasotransmitters and their synthesizing enzymes to play a “Maestro” role in orchestrating several oncological and non-oncological circuits and, thus, nominated them as possible therapeutic targets. Although a significant amount of work has been conducted on the role of nitric oxide (NO) and carbon monoxide (CO) and their inter-relationship in the field of oncology, research about hydrogen sulfide (H2S) remains in its infancy. Recently, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been reported to play a dominating role in the regulation of the endogenous machinery system of H2S in several pathological contexts. A growing list of microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are leading the way as upstream regulators for H2S biosynthesis in different mammalian cells during the development and progression of human diseases; therefore, their targeting can be of great therapeutic benefit. In the current review, the authors shed the light onto the biosynthetic pathways of H2S and their regulation by miRNAs and lncRNAs in various oncological and non-oncological disorders.
Sucrose-Enriched and Carbohydrate-Free High-Fat Diets Distinctly Affect Substrate Metabolism in Oxidative and Glycolytic Muscles of Rats
Authors: Da Eira Daniel , Jani Shailee , Stefanovic Mateja , Ceddia Rolando B.
Published: January 2024

Skeletal muscle substrate preference for fuel is largely influenced by dietary macronutrient availability. The abundance of dietary carbohydrates promotes the utilization of glucose as a substrate for energy production, whereas an abundant dietary fat supply elevates rates of fatty acid (FA) oxidation. The objective of this study was to determine whether an obesogenic, high-fat, sucrose-enriched (HFS) diet or a carbohydrate-free ketogenic diet (KD) exert distinct effects on fat, glucose, and ketone metabolism in oxidative and glycolytic skeletal muscles. Male Wistar rats were fed either a HFS diet or a KD for 16 weeks. Subsequently, the soleus (Sol), extensor digitorum longus (EDL), and epitrochlearis (Epit) muscles were extracted to measure palmitate oxidation, insulin-stimulated glucose metabolism, and markers of mitochondrial biogenesis, ketolytic capacity, and cataplerotic and anaplerotic machinery. Sol, EDL, and Epit muscles from KD-fed rats preserved their ability to elevate glycogen synthesis and lactate production in response to insulin, whereas all muscles from rats fed with the HFS diet displayed blunted responses to insulin. The maintenance of metabolic flexibility with the KD was accompanied by muscle-fiber-type-specific adaptive responses. This was characterized by the Sol muscle in KD-fed rats enhancing mitochondrial biogenesis and ketolytic capacity without elevating its rates of FA oxidation in comparison with that in HFS feeding. Conversely, in the Epit muscle, rates of FA oxidation were increased, whereas the ketolytic capacity was markedly reduced by the KD in comparison with that by HFS feeding. In the EDL muscle, the KD also increased rates of FA oxidation, although it did so without altering its ketolytic capacity when compared to HFS feeding. In conclusion, even though obesogenic and ketogenic diets have elevated contents of fat and alter whole-body substrate partitioning, these two dietary interventions are associated with opposite outcomes with respect to skeletal muscle metabolic flexibility.
Different Dimensions of the Home Food Environment May Be Associated with the Body Mass Index of Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Survey Conducted in Beijing, China
Authors: Zhang Man , Chi Ruixin , Li Zhenhui , Fang Yujie , Zhang Na , Wan Qiaoqin , Ma Guansheng
Published: January 2024

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the home food environment of the elderly in Beijing and analyze its association with the body mass index (BMI) of the elderly, as well as to provide recommendations for improving the home food environment for the elderly. Methods: This study was conducted in Beijing, China, in 2019. The participants were 1764 elderly individuals aged 65 to 80, recruited from 12 communities through a multistage stratified random sampling method. The study involved the use of questionnaire surveys to gather data on participants’ demographics, the availability of various foods in their households, and their living conditions. Socioeconomic status (SES) was evaluated based on their educational level, occupation, and income level. Height and weight measurements were taken to calculate BMI. We conducted both univariate analysis and multiple linear regression analysis to evaluate the relationship between the home food environment and BMI. Results: A total of 1800 questionnaires were distributed, of which 1775 were retrieved, resulting in a questionnaire recovery rate of 98.6%. Among these, 1764 questionnaires were deemed valid, corresponding to a questionnaire validity rate of 99.4%. The participants had a mean age of 69.7 ± 4.3 years old, over 40% of whom were overweight or obese. In terms of low-energy/high-nutrient-density foods, the most readily available items were fresh vegetables (95.6%), followed by coarse grains (94.1%), fresh fruits (90.4%), and dairy products (83.6%). Among high-energy/low-nutrient-density foods, preserved foods were the most available (51.9%), followed by salted snacks (40.6%), sugary beverages (28.2%), and fried foods (9.4%). Approximately 7.3% of participants lived alone. Elderly individuals with higher SES had a lower BMI compared to those with medium to low SES (25.9 vs. 26.5, 25.9 vs. 26.4, p < 0.05). Those living alone had a higher BMI than those who did not (27.2 vs. 26.2, p = 0.001). After controlling for potential confounding variables, older adults with high SES exhibited a BMI reduction of 0.356 kg/m2 (p = 0.001), whereas those living alone exhibited an increase in BMI of 1.155 kg/m2 (p < 0.001). The presence of preserved foods at home was linked to a BMI increase of 0.442 kg/m2 (p = 0.008). Conclusion: This study underscores the significant impact of family SES, living conditions, and the availability of preserved foods on the BMI of elderly individuals.
Nutrition and Exercise Interventions on Skeletal Muscle Physiology, Injury and Recovery: From Mechanisms to Therapy
Authors: Hirabara Sandro Massao , Marzuca-Nassr Gabriel Nasri , Cury-Boaventura Maria Fernanda
Published: January 2024

Interventional strategies involving nutrition and physical exercise have been widely proposed to positively modulate skeletal muscle function, in both physiological and pathological states, such as obesity, T2DM, inflammatory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, aging, and sarcopenia [...]
Improving the Effect of Ferulic Acid on Inflammation and Insulin Resistance by Regulating the JNK/ERK and NF-κB Pathways in TNF-α-Treated 3T3-L1 Adipocytes
Authors: Park Jae-Eun , Han Ji-Sook
Published: January 2024

In this study, ferulic acid was investigated for its potential in suppressing TNF-α-treated inflammation and insulin resistance in adipocytes. Ferulic acid suppressed TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and MCP-1. TNF-α increased p-JNK and ERK1/2, but treatment with ferulic acid (1, 10, and 50 μM) decreased p-JNK and ERK1/2. TNF-α induced the activation of IKK, IκBα, and NF-κB p65 compared to the control, but ferulic acid inhibited the activation of IKK, IκBα, and NF-κB p65. Following treatment with TNF-α, pIRS-1ser307 increased and pIRS-1tyr612 decreased compared to the control. Conversely, as a result of treatment with 1, 10, and 50 μM ferulic acid, pIRS-1ser307 was suppressed, and pIRS-1tyr612 was increased. Therefore, ferulic acid reduced inflammatory cytokine secretion by regulating JNK, ERK, and NF-κB and improved insulin resistance by suppressing pIRS-1ser. These findings indicate that ferulic acid can improve inflammation and insulin resistance in adipocytes.
Consumption of the Non-Nutritive Sweetener Stevia for 12 Weeks Does Not Alter the Composition of the Human Gut Microbiota
Authors: Singh Gurdeep , McBain Andrew J. , McLaughlin John T. , Stamataki Nikoleta S.
Published: January 2024

The use of non-nutritive sweeteners (NNSs) as an alternative to caloric sugars has increased in recent years. Stevia is an NNS that has demonstrated beneficial effects on appetite and energy intake. However, the impact on the gut microbiota is not well understood. Therefore, we investigated how regular consumption of stevia, for up to 12 weeks, impacts the human gut microbiota. Healthy subjects with a normal body mass index participated in our study; the stevia group (n = 14) was asked to consume five drops of stevia twice daily, compared to control participants (n = 13). Faecal samples collected before and after treatment were analysed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Stevia did not cause significant changes in the alpha or beta diversity when compared to the control groups. When the relative abundances of taxa were investigated, no clear differences were detected. Conversely, a random forest analysis correctly associated the gut microbiome with the control and stevia groups with an average of 75% accuracy, suggesting that there are intrinsic patterns that could discriminate between control and stevia use. However, large-scale changes in the gut microbiota were not apparent in this study, and, therefore, our data suggest that stevia does not significantly impact the gut microbiota.
Longitudinal Changes in the Body Composition of Non-Institutionalized Spanish Older Adults after 8 Years of Follow-Up: The Effects of Sex, Age, and Organized Physical Activity
Authors: Moradell Ana , Gomez-Cabello Alba , Mañas Asier , Gesteiro Eva , Pérez-Gómez Jorge , González-Gross Marcela , Casajús Jose Antonio , Ara Ignacio , Vicente-Rodríguez Germán
Published: January 2024

Aging leads to physiological changes affecting body composition, mediated by lifestyle. However, the effectiveness of organized physical activities (OPAs) in attenuating or delaying these age-related transformations remains an area of limited understanding. The primary objectives of this study were threefold: (I) to comprehensively assess the evolution of body composition in a cohort of Spanish older adults over an 8-year period; (II) to compare this evolution in the different age groups; and (III) to investigate the influence of active engagement in OPAs on these age-related changes. From a sample of 3136 Spanish older adults recruited in 2008, 651 agreed to participate in the 8-year follow-up. Anthropometric and bioelectrical impedance data were included for 507 females (70.3 ± 4.4 years) and 144 males (77.8 ± 4.5 years). Age groups were categorized as follows: youngest (65–69 years), mid (70–74 years), and oldest (≥75 years). The engagement in OPA was recorded before and after the follow-up. A repeated measures ANOVA was performed to evaluate the 8-year changes. Males increased in hip (98.1 ± 9.3 vs. 101.5 ± 10.2 cm) and waist circumferences (101.2 ± 6.6 vs. 103.2 ± 6.1 cm), specifically in the youngest group (p < 0.05). Females decreased in weight (67.6 ± 10.0 vs. 66.6 ± 10.5 kg) and fat mass percentage (39.3 ± 5 vs. 38.8 ± 5.4%) and increased in hip circumference (104.4 ± 9.0 vs. 106.5 ± 9.7 cm); these effects were the most remarkable in the oldest group (all p < 0.05). OPA engagement seemed to slow down fat-free mass loses in males, but not in females (grouped by time, p < 0.05). Body composition changes caused by aging seem to happen earlier in males than in females. Moreover, participating in OPAs does not prevent fat-free mass due to aging.
Brave Priestesses of Philippi: The Cultic Role of Euodia and Syntyche (Phil 4:2)
Authors: Blois Isaac D.
Published: January 2024

When Paul, in Phil 4:2, “pleads” with Euodia and Syntyche to “agree with one another in the Lord”, he is both commending them for their priestly role as gospel workers among his group of converts and at the same time calling them back to a single-minded focus on gospel mission. Throughout the letter, the apostle has forged a link between gospel mission and cultic imagery, depicting himself and his gospel co-workers as priestly agents accomplishing sacrificial service. Thus, when he comes to this climactic exhortation at the letter’s close, he deploys this imagery as a way both to commend and correct these female leaders within the Philippian community of Christ-believers.