bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Literature Review on Digital Creativity in Higher Education—Toward a Conceptual Model
Authors: Cojocariu Venera-Mihaela , Boghian Ioana
Published: October 2024

The present study relies on the assumption that in today’s knowledge society and the use of online knowledge, learning, and communication mechanisms, pre-university and university teachers, students of all ages, those preparing for teaching careers or other careers, parents, managers, and administrators have become increasingly interested in acquiring proficiency, capitalization, and stimulation of digital creativity. As such, research must provide, primarily for teachers and those preparing for this career, systematic results on digital creativity. This study aims to identify the current state-of-the-art in scientific knowledge on the comprehensive topic of digital creativity: conceptual frameworks and theoretical highlights, elaborating a model of digital creativity, and identifying and formulating future research opportunities. The investigation relies on the key concept of digital creativity and aims to cover two aspects: 1. basic meanings of the concept of digital creativity, specifying its applicability in the educational process at pre-university and university levels, and 2. identifying a set of concepts that are complementary to digital creativity. The research is a conceptual literature review, implying the use of literature review and bibliographic analysis methods. The study relies on a comprehensive literature review of papers selected from the three international databases WEB of SCIENCE, Science Direct, and Scopus from 2020 to 2024. The literature search enabled us to identify an initial sample of 1848 studies in the three databases and finally select 31 relevant articles. The analysis of the relevant papers allowed us to formulate conclusions related to the two investigated aspects: 1. The concept of digital creativity has two types of definitions—explicit and implicit; 2. The concept of digital creativity is correlated with other complementary concepts: digital competence, mobile networking creativity, multi-team digital creativity, the use of artificial intelligence, and digital innovation. Our findings support us in proposing ways to effectively use and stimulate digital creativity in the educational process and build 21st-century skills and competences for students of all ages and at all levels of education.
A Genetic Optimized Federated Learning Approach for Joint Consideration of End-to-End Delay and Data Privacy in Vehicular Networks
Authors: Erel-Özçevik Müge , Özçift Akın , Özçevik Yusuf , Yücalar Fatih
Published: October 2024

In 5G vehicular networks, two key challenges have become apparent, including end-to-end delay minimization and data privacy. Learning-based approaches have been used to alleviate these, either by predicting delay or protecting privacy. Traditional approaches train machine learning models on local devices or cloud servers, each with their own trade-offs. While pure-federated learning protects privacy, it sacrifices delay prediction performance. In contrast, centralized training improves delay prediction but violates privacy. Existing studies in the literature overlook the effect of training location on delay prediction and data privacy. To address both issues, we propose a novel genetic algorithm optimized federated learning (GAoFL) approach in which end-to-end delay prediction and data privacy are jointly considered to obtain an optimal solution. For this purpose, we analytically define a novel end-to-end delay formula and data privacy metrics. Accordingly, a novel fitness function is formulated to optimize both the location of training model and data privacy. In conclusion, according to the evaluation results, it can be advocated that the outcomes of the study highlight that training location significantly affects privacy and performance. Moreover, it can be claimed that the proposed GAoFL improves data privacy compared to centralized learning while achieving better delay prediction than other federated methods, offering a valuable solution for 5G vehicular computing.
Cracking the Core: Hardware Vulnerabilities in Android Devices Unveiled
Authors: Muñoz Antonio
Published: October 2024

As Android devices become more prevalent, their security risks extend beyond software vulnerabilities to include critical hardware weaknesses. This paper provides a comprehensive and systematic review of hardware-related vulnerabilities in Android systems, which can bypass even the most sophisticated software defenses. We compile and analyze an extensive range of reported vulnerabilities, introducing a novel categorization framework to facilitate a deeper understanding of these risks, classified by affected hardware components, vulnerability type, and the potential impact on system security. The paper addresses key areas such as memory management flaws, side-channel attacks, insecure system-on-chip (SoC) resource allocation, and cryptographic vulnerabilities. In addition, it examines feasible countermeasures, including hardware-backed encryption, secure boot mechanisms, and trusted execution environments (TEEs), to mitigate the risks posed by these hardware threats. By contextualizing hardware vulnerabilities within the broader security architecture of Android devices, this review emphasizes the importance of hardware security in ensuring system integrity and resilience. The findings serve as a valuable resource for both researchers and security professionals, offering insights into the development of more robust defenses against the emerging hardware-based threats faced by Android devices.
A Novel Fast Contact Operating Mechanism of the Medium and Low Voltage Hybrid DC Current Limiting Circuit Breaker
Authors: Lv Zhiyong , Wang Xiangjun , Zhuang Jinwu , Jiang Zhuangxian , Yuan Zhifang , Liu Luhui , Wu Jin
Published: October 2024

In order to solve the problem of the slow initial speed caused by the large mass of the bistable permanent magnetic actuator (PMA) in the traditional bistable permanent magnetic–electromagnetic repulsion mechanism (PM-ERM), a novel fast contact operating mechanism is proposed by using the flexible spring system (SS) between the PMA and the ERM. The novel structure can separate the mass of the PMA and the ERM at the initial phase of the interrupting process, improve the initial speed of the contact and increase the initial opening distance of the contact. Firstly, the paper conducts an extensive investigation and analysis of the principle of the existing fast operating mechanism and points out the advantages and disadvantages of the existing mechanism. In order to meet the requirement of fast interrupting and improve the service life of the mechanism, a novel mechanism is proposed. And then, the working principle of the novel mechanism is introduced. The cooperative relationship between the ERM and the PMA and the working principle and performance parameter requirements of the ERM, SS and PMA are analyzed and designed. Finally, the feasibility of the novel mechanism is verified by the experiment. The results show that the opening distance of the novel operating mechanism can reach 2.25 mm in 1 ms. Compared with 1.24 mm of the traditional operating mechanism, it improves the initial opening distance of the contact by 81.5% and is conducive to the rapid interruption of the Hybrid DC current-limiting circuit breaker (HDCCLCB).
Inertial Measurement Unit Self-Calibration by Quantization-Aware and Memory-Parsimonious Neural Networks
Authors: Cardoni Matteo , Pau Danilo Pietro , Rezaei Kiarash , Mura Camilla
Published: October 2024

This paper introduces a methodology to compensate inertial Micro-Electro-Mechanical System (IMU-MEMS) time-varying calibration loss, induced by stress and aging. The approach relies on a periodic assessment of the sensor through specific stimuli, producing outputs which are compared with the response of a high-precision sensor, used as ground truth. At any re-calibration iteration, differences with respect to the ground truth are approximated by quantization-aware trained tiny neural networks, allowing calibration-loss compensations. Due to the unavailability of aging IMU-MEMS datasets, a synthetic dataset has been produced, taking into account aging effects with both linear and nonlinear calibration loss. Also, field-collected data in conditions of thermal stress have been used. A model relying on Dense and 1D Convolution layers was devised and compensated for an average of 1.97 g and a variance of 1.07 g2, with only 903 represented with 16 bit parameters. The proposed model can be executed on an intelligent signal processing inertial sensor in 126.4 ms. This work represents a step forward toward in-sensor machine learning computing through integrating the computing capabilities into the sensor package that hosts the accelerometer and gyroscope sensing elements.
Joint Wideband Spectrum Sensing and Carrier Frequency Estimation in the Multi-Path Propagation Environment Based on Sub-Nyquist Sampling
Authors: Wang Yingshu , Zhang Juanjuan , Yuan Shu , Ren Weizhi , Wang Jilin , Wang Hongwei
Published: October 2024

We consider the wideband spectrum sensing within a multi-path propagation environment, where a multi-antenna base station (BS) is tasked with identifying the frequency positions of multiple narrowband transmissions distributed across a broad range of frequencies. To tackle this, we propose a sub-Nyquist sampling structure that incorporates a phased array system. Specifically, each antenna is connected to two separate sampling channels, i.e., one for direct sampling and another for delayed sampling, with the latter incorporating a specified time delay factor. The cross-correlation matrices associated with the samples, which are characterized by different time lags, are calculated. These matrices are represented in tensor form, and the factor matrices are extracted through CANDECOMP/PARAFAC (CP) decomposition. By these factor matrices, the carrier frequencies and the power spectra of the far-field signals of interest are estimated. Numerical simulations are conducted to evaluate the performance of the proposed method, and the results reveal the feasibility and effectiveness of the approach, demonstrating its potential for accurate and efficient wideband spectrum sensing in complex multi-path propagation environments.
Ro2En: Robust Neural Environment Encoder for Domain Generalization of Fast Motion Planning
Authors: Chen Lijuan , Yu Mingchu , Kou Guozhao , Luo Jinnan
Published: October 2024

This paper discusses a new issue named domain generalization of fast motion planning in 3D environments, which benefits agility-required robot applications such as autonomous driving and uncrewed aerial vehicle obstacle avoidance flight. The existing work shows that conventional spatial search-based planning algorithms cannot meet the real-time requirement due to high time costs. The end-to-end neural network-based methods achieve an excellent balance between performance and planning speed in the seen environments, but are hard to transfer to new scenarios. To overcome this limitation, we propose a novel Robust Environment Encoder (Ro2En) approach to domain generalization of fast motion planning. Specifically, by demonstrating the reconstructed environment, we find that the previous environment encoder cannot encode the volume information properly, i.e., a volume collapse ensues, which leads to noisy environment modeling. Inspired by this observation, a dual-task auto-encoder is developed. It can not only reconstruct the point cloud of the obstacles, but also align their geometric centers. Experiment results showed that in the new scenarios, Ro2En outperformed previous state-of-the-art conventional and neural alternatives with a much smaller performance variation.
Screening for Psychosocial Distress: A Brief Review with Implications for Oncology Nursing
Authors: Fitch Margaret I. , Nicoll Irene , Burlein-Hall Stephanie
Published: October 2024

Purpose: Psychosocial care is an integral component of caring for individuals living with cancer. The identification of psychosocial distress has been acknowledged as a hallmark of quality cancer care, and screening for distress standards has been established in several countries. The purpose of this brief review is to highlight recent developments in screening for distress in oncology populations; to provide insight into significant trends in research and implementation; and to explore implications for oncology nursing practice. Methods: This paper reports a brief review of the literature from March 2021 to July 2024 on the topic of screening for distress in oncology. The literature was accessed through PubMed and reviewed by two authors. Trends in the topics presented were identified independently and then discussed to achieve consensus. Results: The search within the designated period produced 47 publications by authors in North America, Australasia, and Europe. Topic trends included the design and adaptation of tools for special populations, the use of technology, descriptions of programs, identification of benefits, challenges, and overcoming barriers to screening for distress. Conclusions: Screening for distress is endorsed as part of the provision of quality oncology care. Nurses have an important role in screening individuals at risk for developing psychosocial problems and acting to reduce the associated morbidity. By continuing to be informed and educated about the emerging developments in screening for distress, nurses can understand and overcome barriers to implementation.
Spatio-Temporal Variation in Pluvial Flash Flood Risk in the Lhasa River Basin, 1991–2020
Authors: Fu Xiaoran , Wang Zhonggen , Sun Hongquan , Wang Dong , Tian Jiayu , Sun Pingping , Su Xin , Liang Liaofeng
Published: October 2024

The analysis of temporal and spatial variability in risk has garnered significant research attention, particularly regarding flash flood disasters in the context of warming and wetting conditions on the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau. Focusing on the Lhasa River basin, this study develops a framework that integrates geographic information systems and a combined subjective–objective weighting approach to comprehensively assess flash flood risk despite limited observations. This paper investigates the distribution patterns of hazard, vulnerability, and the integrated risk of pluvial flash floods; demonstrates the reliability of the assessment results; and provides mitigation recommendations for disaster risk management at the county level. The results showed a trend in increasing flash flood risk in recent decades compared to the 1990s. Moreover, very-high- and high-risk areas were concentrated in downstream regions with frequent precipitation extremes and anthropogenic activity. From 1991 to 2020, the high to very high-risk areas gradually expanded from central Lhasa to neighbouring counties. This study contributes valuable insights into flash flood risk assessment cand mapping, which are crucial in terms of the protection of life and property in the plateau basin.
Review of Recent Offshore Floating Photovoltaic Systems
Authors: Liu Gang , Guo Jiamin , Peng Huanghua , Ping Huan , Ma Qiang
Published: October 2024

Photovoltaic (PV) power generation is a form of clean, renewable, and distributed energy that has become a hot topic in the global energy field. Compared to terrestrial solar PV systems, floating photovoltaic (FPV) systems have gained great interest due to their advantages in conserving land resources, optimizing light utilization, and slowing water evaporation. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in the research and application of FPV systems. First, the main components of FPV systems and their advantages as well as disadvantages are analyzed in detail. Furthermore, the research and practical applications of offshore FPV systems, including rigid floating structures and flexible floating structures, are discussed. Finally, the challenges of offshore FPV systems are analyzed in terms of their stability and economic performance. By summarizing current research on FPV systems, this overview aims to serve as a valuable resource for the development of offshore FPV systems.
Leaching Efficiency During Autumn Irrigation in China’s Arid Hetao Plain as Influenced by the Depth of Shallow Saline Groundwater and Irrigation Depth, Using Data from Static Water-Table Lysimeters and the Hydrus-1D and SIMDualKc Models
Authors: Ramos Tiago B. , Liu Meihan , Shi Haibin , Paredes Paula , Pereira Luis S.
Published: October 2024

The need for controlling salinity in arid zones is essential for sustainable agricultural production and irrigation water use. A case study performed for two years in Hetao, Inner Mongolia, China, is used herein to rethink the contradictory issues of arid lands represented by water saving and controlling soil and water salinity. Two sets of static lysimeters, where water table depths (WTDs) were fixed at 1.25, 150, 2.00, and 2.25 m, were continuously monitored, and soil water and solute data were used to calibrate and validate two models: the soil water balance model SIMDualKc and the deterministic soil water and salt dynamics model HYDRUS-1D. Once accurately calibrated, the models were used to simulate maize water use, percolation, and capillary rise, along with the observed variables for the actual WTD and the autumn irrigation applied. Simulation scenarios also considered agricultural system degradation and dynamic water table behavior. Results have shown that large leaching efficiencies (Lefs) were obtained for large irrigation depths in cases of shallow water tables, but higher Lefs corresponded to high application depths when the water table was deeper. Agricultural system degradation, particularly increased groundwater salinity, lowered Lef, regardless of WTD. Conversely, water savings were minimal and only achievable when considering the dynamic nature of groundwater. These results indicate that there is a need to define different WTDs based on soil characteristics that influence fluxes and root zone storage, as well as the impacts of newly installed drainage systems aimed at salt extraction.
Gut Microbiota Composition Positively Correlates with Sports Performance in Competitive Non-Professional Female and Male Runners
Authors: Shalmon Guy , Ibrahim Rawan , Israel-Elgali Ifat , Grad Meitar , Shlayem Rani , Shapira Guy , Shomron Noam , Youngster Ilan , Scheinowitz Mickey
Published: October 2024

There is still a pressing need for further investigation to bridge the gap in understanding the differences in gut microbiota composition between female runners and their male counterparts. We aimed to determine the gut microbiota composition in competitive non-professional female and male runners and to correlate the gut bacteria to performance. Our study included 40 subjects, of which 22 were runners (13 males and 9 females) and 18 control subjects (9 males and 9 females, representing the general population who perform light physical activity with a weekly running volume of ≤5 km per week). Fecal specimens were collected and analyzed for taxonomic profiling to compare species’ relative abundances between males and females based on the results of 16SrRNA analysis. Bacterial alpha and beta diversity were assessed to determine the differences in microbial composition between runners and controls, and between sexes. Each participant underwent a maximal oxygen consumption test and a time-to-exhaustion test at 85% of the measured VO2max. Blood lactate was collected every 5 min during the tests. Bacterial alpha diversity showed a significant difference (p = 0.04) between runners and controls. Taxonomic analysis of gut microbiota composition showed a lower Enterobacteriaceae abundance and a higher Methanosphaera abundance in runners compared with the control group. Ten different bacteria (Methanosphaera, Mitsuokella, Prevotellaceae, Megamonas, Rothia, Oscillospira, Bacteroides, Odoribacter, Blautia massiliensis, Butyricicoccus_pullicaecorum) were positively correlated with exercise (VO2max, lactate blood levels, time to exhaustion, and weekly training volume). We found no significant differences in the gut microbiota composition between male and female runners. Gut microbiota composition positively correlates with sports performance in competitive non-professional female and male runners, and female runners show similar gut microbiome diversity to male runners.
The Impact of Diet on Lipoprotein(a) Levels
Authors: Stojko Michał , Spychał Aleksandra , Nikel Kamil , Kołodziej Rafał , Zalejska-Fiolka Jolanta
Published: October 2024

Background: Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is recognized as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases; however, the impact of fat-based diets on its levels remains unclear. Objective: This study aims to assess and analyze current evidence on the impact of various types of fat-based diets on Lp(a) levels. Material and Methods: A comprehensive search of the PubMed database was conducted on 9 July 2024, focusing on clinical and randomized trials published since 2000. Out of 697 identified studies, 33 met the inclusion criteria and were selected for analysis. Results: The findings suggest that modifications in fat-based diets, particularly concerning the type and amount of consumed fats and fatty acids, can significantly influence plasma Lp(a) levels. Diets rich in unsaturated fats, including polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, were associated with more favorable effects in lowering Lp(a) levels. In contrast, diets high in saturated fats were linked to elevated Lp(a) levels. However, these conclusions were not consistent across all studies considered. Conclusions: This work highlights the importance of a personalized dietary approach, considering both genetic predispositions and dietary habits. While diet alone may not drastically alter Lp(a) levels due to their strong genetic determination, a comprehensive strategy involving a healthy diet rich in unsaturated fats, regular physical activity, and effective weight management is recommended to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Further research is needed to clarify the mechanisms through which different fats affect Lp(a) and to develop targeted dietary recommendations.
The Effect of Process Parameters on the Pore Structure of Lotus-Type Porous Copper Fabricated via Continuous Casting
Authors: Shin Byung-Sue , Hyun Soong-Keun
Published: October 2024

The pores in lotus-type porous copper are formed due to the difference in hydrogen solubility between the liquid and solid phases of copper. In a pressurized hydrogen atmosphere, hydrogen gas is released at the gas release and crystallization temperature, which is the melting point of copper. This study systematically analyzes the effects of process parameters, including hydrogen ratio, total pressure, and continuous casting speed, on the pore structure of lotus-type porous copper, with the aim of identifying the most critical process parameters for controlling pore diameter and density. Within the hydrogen ratio up to 50%, it was observed that as the hydrogen ratio increases, the pores tend to increase in porosity, and the pore diameter increases. As the hydrogen ratio increased from 25% to 50%, the pore diameter increased from 300 μm to 400 μm, while the pore density decreased from 3.3 N·mm−2 to 2.8 N·mm−2. As the total pressure increased, the pore diameter tended to decrease, and the pore density increased. Specifically, when the total pressure increased from 0.2 MPa to 0.4 MPa, the pore diameter decreased from 1100 μm to 400 μm, while the pore density increased significantly from 0.5 N·mm−2 to 2.8 N·mm−2. In addition, as the continuous casting speed increased, 30 to 90 mm·min−1, the pore diameter decreased from 850 μm to 400 μm, and the pore density increased from 0.7 N·mm−2 to 2.8. N·mm−2. Specifically, the increase in total pressure led to a decrease in Gibbs free energy and a reduction in the critical pore nucleation radius, which promoted pore formation and resulted in the creation of more, smaller pores. These results suggest that total pressure is the primary factor influencing both pore diameter and density in lotus-type porous copper.
Design and Investigation of a High-Performance Quartz-Based SAW Temperature Sensor
Authors: Jiang Jianfei
Published: October 2024

In this work, a surface acoustic wave (SAW) temperature sensor based on a quartz substrate was designed and investigated. Employing the Coupling-of-Modes (COM) model, a detailed analysis was conducted on the effects of the number of interdigital transducers (IDTs), the number of reflectors, and their spacing on the performance of the SAW device. The impact of the transversal mode of quartz SAWs on the device was subsequently examined using the finite element method (FEM). The simulation results indicate that optimizing these structural parameters significantly enhances the sensor’s sensitivity and frequency stability. SAW devices with optimal structural parameters were fabricated, and their resonant frequencies were tested across a temperature range of 25–150 °C. Experimental results demonstrate that the SAW temperature sensor maintains high performance stability and data reliability throughout the entire temperature range, achieving a Bode-Q of 7700. Furthermore, the sensor exhibits excellent linearity and repeatability. An analysis of the sensor’s response under varying temperature conditions reveals a significant temperature dependency on its Temperature Coefficient of Frequency (TCF). This feature suggests that the sensor possesses potential advantages for applications in industrial process control and environmental monitoring.
Atomic-Level Insights into the Adsorption of Methyl-Substituted Quinoxalinones on Fe(110): A Dispersion-Corrected DFT Analysis
Authors: Lgaz Hassane , Aldalbahi Ali , Lee Han-Seung
Published: October 2024

Corrosion of metallic equipment is a critical issue across various industries, necessitating the development of advanced protective strategies. This study utilized dispersion-corrected density functional theory (DFT) with Becke–Johnson D3(BJ) to examine the atomic-level adsorption of quinoxalinones on Fe(110) surfaces, focusing on optimizing substitution strategies to enhance corrosion inhibition. Three quinoxalinones, quinoxalin-2(1H)-one (QNO), 3-methylquinoxalin-2(1H)-one (QNOM), and 3,7-dimethylquinoxalin-2(1H)-one (QNO2M), were investigated in various configurations and protonation states. Protonated quinoxalinones demonstrated a stronger surface affinity, primarily interacting through oxygen atoms and conjugated systems, with greater energetic stability compared to neutral molecules, driven by enhanced electrostatic interactions and charge transfer mechanisms. The parallel adsorption configuration was more stable than the perpendicular mode, which in some adsorption systems did not form bonds with the iron surface. Notably, the presence of methyl substitutions did not significantly enhance adsorption strength; QNO exhibited higher energetic stability due to reduced steric interference, which maintained its planarity. Projected density of states (PDOS), electron density difference (EDD), and electron localization function (ELF) analyses confirmed the importance of charge transfer between quinoxalinone active sites and the 3d orbitals of iron in stabilizing the adsorption of molecules. These findings underscore the importance of judicious quinoxalinone functionalization to preserve their efficacy as corrosion inhibitors.
Enhancing Aseptic Inflammation Resolution with 1-(2-Ethoxyethyl)-4-(pent-1-yn-1-yl)piperidin-4-yl Propionate: A Novel β-Cyclodextrin Complex as a Therapeutic Agent
Authors: Zhumakova Symbat , Tokusheva Aliya , Zharkynbek Tolganay , Balabekova Marina , Koks Sulev , Seilkhanov Tulegen , Dembitsky Valery , Zazybin Alexey , Aydemir Murat , Kemelbekov Ulan , Kairanbayeva Gulgul , Yu Valentina
Published: October 2024

The synthesized compound, 1-(2-ethoxyethyl)-4-(pent-1-yn-1-yl)piperidin-4-yl propionate (EPPP), and its 1:1 complex with β-cyclodextrin (EPPPβCD) have been characterized for the first time through a comprehensive suite of analytical methods. This study explores the therapeutic potential of EPPPβCD in modulating immune responses and accelerating the resolution of septic inflammation induced by chromium and vanadium ions in outbred male rats. The research highlights the significant impact of EPPPβCD on the dynamics of regulatory T lymphocytes (Tregs), notably causing a reduction in the CD4+CD25+ fractions at the onset of inflammation. This effect is attributed to the inhibition of Treg proliferation, which is crucial in hastening the resolution of inflammation. These findings underscore the potential of EPPPβCD as a promising therapeutic agent in controlling and mitigating inflammation mediated by heavy metal exposure, thereby offering a new avenue for the development of anti-inflammatory treatments.
The Degree of Branching of Serum IgG N-glycans as a Marker of Advanced Endometriosis
Authors: Kratz Ewa Maria , Sołkiewicz Katarzyna , Jędryka Marcin
Published: October 2024

Endometriosis is a gynecological disease for which the diagnostics are difficult and often invasive; therefore, non-invasive diagnostic methods using sensitive and specific parameters present in easily available body fluid such as blood serum are needed for the detection of this disease. Our study aimed to answer the question of whether there are any differences between women with advanced endometriosis (AE), patients with gynecological diseases other than endometriosis (NE), and healthy women (control) in terms of the number of antennas of N-glycans from serum IgG. The degree of branching of IgG N-glycans was determined by a modified lectin ELISA with biotinylated lectin Con A (Canavalia ensiformis agglutinin) recognizing α-linked mannose, specifically reacting with biantennary N-glycans. The PHA-L/Con A ratio was calculated from the obtained N-glycan reactivities with Con A and PHA-L (Phaseolus vulgaris leucoagglutinin, specific to tri- and/or tetra-antennary N-linked glycans). The expression of Con A-reactive biantennary N-glycans in serum IgG was significantly lower in the control group than in the NE group (p = 0.045). The values of the PHA-L/Con A ratio were significantly higher in the NE group than in the AE and control groups (p = 0.019 and p = 0.022, respectively). The PHA-L/Con A ratio could be taken into account as a parameter helpful in the non-invasive diagnosis of advanced endometriosis, thus differentiating this disease from other gynecological diseases with an inflammatory background.
Exploring Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus Nematode Symbionts in Search of Novel Therapeutics
Authors: Sajnaga Ewa , Kazimierczak Waldemar , Karaś Magdalena Anna , Jach Monika Elżbieta
Published: October 2024

Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus bacteria, which live in mutualistic symbiosis with entomopathogenic nematodes, are currently recognised as an important source of bioactive compounds. During their extraordinary life cycle, these bacteria are capable of fine regulation of mutualism and pathogenesis towards two different hosts, a nematode and a wide range of insect species, respectively. Consequently, survival in a specific ecological niche favours the richness of biosynthetic gene clusters and respective metabolites with a specific structure and function, providing templates for uncovering new agrochemicals and therapeutics. To date, numerous studies have been published on the genetic ability of Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus bacteria to produce biosynthetic novelty as well as distinctive classes of their metabolites with their activity and mechanism of action. Research shows diverse techniques and approaches that can lead to the discovery of new natural products, such as extract-based analysis, genetic engineering, and genomics linked with metabolomics. Importantly, the exploration of members of the Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus genera has led to encouraging developments in compounds that exhibit pharmaceutically important properties, including antibiotics that act against Gram- bacteria, which are extremely difficult to find. This article focuses on recent advances in the discovery of natural products derived from these nematophilic bacteria, with special attention paid to new valuable leads for therapeutics.
Effect of the Total Saponins of Bupleurum chinense DC. Water Extracts Following Ultrafiltration Pretreatment on Macroporous Resin Adsorption
Authors: Wang Ruihong , Liu Hongbo , Tang Zhishu , Zhu Huaxu , Liu Huan , Guo Ran , Song Zhongxing , Xu Hongbo , Li Bo , Li Guolong , Zhang Yue
Published: October 2024

Macroporous resin is an efficient separation technology that plays a crucial role in the separation and purification of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). However, the application of macroporous resins in TCM pharmaceuticals is hindered by serious fouling caused by the complex materials used in TCM. This study examines the impact of ultrafiltration (UF) membrane technology on the macroporous resin adsorption behavior of TCM extracts. In this paper, Bupleurum chinense DC. (B. chinense) water extracts were included as an example to study the effect of UF pretreatment on the macroporous resin adsorption of total saponins. The study results indicated that the adsorption of total saponins constituents from the water extracts of B. chinense on the macroporous resin followed the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and the Langmuir model. The thermodynamic parameters of adsorption, including enthalpy changes and Gibbs free energies, were negative, while entropy changes were positive. These results demonstrated that the total saponin components form a monolayer adsorption layer by spontaneous thermal adsorption on the macroporous resin, and that the adsorption rate is not determined by the rate of intraparticle diffusion. Following treatment with a UF membrane with an average molecular weight cut-off of 50 kDa, the protein, starch, pectin, tannin, and other impurities in the water extracts of B. chinense were reduced, while the total saponin content was retained at 82.32%. The adsorption kinetic model of the saponin constituents on the macroporous resin remained unchanged and was consistent with both the second-order kinetic model and the Langmuir model; the adsorption rate of the second-order kinetic model increased by 1.3 times and in the Langmuir model at 25 °C, the adsorption performance improved by 1.16 times compared to the original extracts. This study revealed that UF technology as a pretreatment method can reduce the fouling of macroporous resin by TCM extracts and improve the adsorption performance of macroporous resin.
Modulatory Effect of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate (NADPH) on the 2-Oxoglutarate Mitochondrial Carrier
Authors: Spagnoletta Anna , Miniero Daniela Valeria , Gambacorta Nicola , Oppedisano Francesca , De Grassi Anna , Nicolotti Orazio , Pierri Ciro Leonardo , De Palma Annalisa
Published: October 2024

The 2-oxoglutarate carrier (OGC), pivotal in cellular metabolism, facilitates the exchange of key metabolites between mitochondria and cytosol. This study explores the influence of NADPH on OGC transport activity using proteoliposomes. Experimental data revealed the ability of NADPH to modulate the OGC activity, with a significant increase of 60% at 0.010 mM. Kinetic analysis showed increased Vmax and a reduction in Km for 2-oxoglutarate, suggesting a direct regulatory role. Molecular docking pointed to a specific interaction between NADPH and cytosolic loops of OGC, involving key residues such as K206 and K122. This modulation was unique in mammalian OGC, as no similar effect was observed in a plant OGC structurally/functionally related mitochondrial carrier. These findings propose OGC as a responsive sensor for the mitochondrial redox state, coordinating with the malate/aspartate and isocitrate/oxoglutarate shuttles to maintain redox balance. The results underscore the potential role of OGC in redox homeostasis and its broader implications in cellular metabolism and oxidative stress responses.
Design, Synthesis and Biological Activity Evaluation of β-Carboline Derivatives Containing Nitrogen Heterocycles
Authors: Wu Guiyun , Wang Wenhang , Li Fulian , Xu Chenlu , Zhou Yue , Li Zhurui , Liu Bingqian , Shao Lihui , Chen Danping , Bai Song , Wang Zhenchao
Published: October 2024

A series of β-carboline derivatives containing nitrogen heterocycles were designed and synthesized. All compounds were screened for their antitumor activity against four human tumor cell lines (A549, K562, PC-3, T47D). Notably, compound N-(4-(morpholinomethyl)phenyl)-2-((5-(1-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)-9H-pyrido[3,4-b]indol-3-yl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl)thio)acetamide (8q) exhibited significant inhibitory activity against PC-3 cells with an IC50 value of 9.86 µM. Importantly, compound 8q effectively suppressed both the proliferation and migration of PC-3 cells. Mechanistic studies revealed that compound 8q induced cell apoptosis and caused the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase in PC-3 cells.
The Inhibition of Serum Amyloid A Protein Aggregation by a Five-Residue Peptidomimetic: Structural and Morphological Insights
Authors: Witkowska Julia , Skibiszewska Sandra , Wityk Paweł , Pilarski Marcel , Jankowska Elżbieta
Published: October 2024

Serum amyloid A (SAA) is a small protein consisting of 104 residues and, under physiological conditions, exists mainly in hexameric form. It belongs to the positive acute-phase proteins, which means that its plasma concentration increases rapidly in response to injury, inflammation, and infection. The accumulation of SAA molecules promotes the formation of amyloid aggregates, which deposit extracellularly in many organs, causing their dysfunction. In our previous work, we successfully designed a peptidomimetic that inhibited the aggregation of amyloidogenic SAA fragments. In the present paper, we show how the same inhibitor, named saa3Dip, affects the oligomerization and aggregation processes of MetSAA1.1 protein. The thioflavin T assay showed that saa3Dip inhibited its fibrillization. The measurement of the internal fluorophore fluorescence (Trp) showed differences that occurred in the tertiary structure of MetSAA1.1 in the presence of the inhibitor, which was also confirmed by CD spectra in the aromatic range. FTIR results suggested that saa3Dip could stabilize some fragments of the native structure of MetSAA1.1, which was confirmed by determining the melting temperature (Tm) of the protein–inhibitor complex. AFM images demonstrated that the presence of saa3Dip prevented the formation of large SAA aggregates. Our results suggest that saa3Dip stabilizes the native conformation of MetSAA1.1.
Synthesis of bis-Chalcones Based on Green Chemistry Strategies and Their Cytotoxicity Toward Human MeWo and A375 Melanoma Cell Lines
Authors: Olender Dorota , Pawełczyk Anna , Leśków Anna , Sowa-Kasprzak Katarzyna , Zaprutko Lucjusz , Diakowska Dorota
Published: October 2024

Chalcone is an aromatic ketone that forms the central core of many important biological compounds. Chalcone derivatives show various biological activities, especially anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticancer activities, and also inhibit melanoma cell growth. In this study, we synthesized chalcone compounds with bis-chalcone’s chemical structure under microwave (MW) and microwave–ultrasound (MW-US) conditions and compared them to chalcones produced using the classical synthesis method. All bis-chalcones were synthesized with terephthalaldehyde and an appropriate aromatic ketone as substrates in Claisen–Schmidt condensation. All the obtained compounds were tested regarding their roles as potential anticancer agents. The cytotoxic effect of the bis-chalcones against human MeWo and A375 melanoma cell lines was investigated through colorimetric MTT and SRB assays. The data were analyzed statistically. In the case of the synthesis of bis-chalcones, it was determined that the use of green conditions supported by the MW or MW-US factors led to an increase in the yield of the final products and a reduction in the reaction time compared to the classic method. The biological results showed the high cytotoxic effect of bis-chalcones. The present results show the compounds’ high antiproliferative and cytotoxic potential, especially for the two selected bis-chalcone derivatives (3b and 3c), in particular, at concentrations of 50 μM–200 μM at 24, 48 h, and 72 h of incubation. The use of MW and US for the synthesis of bis-chalcones significantly improved the process compared to the classical method. The derivatives containing two hydroxy and two methoxy groups were the most effective against the tested cancer cells.
Optimization and Multimachine Learning Algorithms to Predict Nanometal Surface Area Transfer Parameters for Gold and Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Demers Steven M. E. , Sobecki Christopher , Deschaine Larry
Published: October 2024

Interactions between gold metallic nanoparticles and molecular dyes have been well described by the nanometal surface energy transfer (NSET) mechanism. However, the expansion and testing of this model for nanoparticles of different metal composition is needed to develop a greater variety of nanosensors for medical and commercial applications. In this study, the NSET formula was slightly modified in the size-dependent dampening constant and skin depth terms to allow for modeling of different metals as well as testing the quenching effects created by variously sized gold, silver, copper, and platinum nanoparticles. Overall, the metal nanoparticles followed more closely the NSET prediction than for Förster resonance energy transfer, though scattering effects began to occur at 20 nm in the nanoparticle diameter. To further improve the NSET theoretical equation, an attempt was made to set a best-fit line of the NSET theoretical equation curve onto the Au and Ag data points. An exhaustive grid search optimizer was applied in the ranges for two variables, 0.1≤C≤2.0 and 0≤α≤4, representing the metal dampening constant and the orientation of donor to the metal surface, respectively. Three different grid searches, starting from coarse (entire range) to finer (narrower range), resulted in more than one million total calculations with values C=2.0 and α=0.0736. The results improved the calculation, but further analysis needed to be conducted in order to find any additional missing physics. With that motivation, two artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) algorithms, multilayer perception and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression, gave a correlation coefficient, R2, greater than 0.97, indicating that the small dataset was not overfitting and was method-independent. This analysis indicates that an investigation is warranted to focus on deeper physics informed machine learning for the NSET equations.
Diffusion-Induced Ordered Nanowire Growth: Mask Patterning Insights
Authors: Bikmeeva Kamila R. , Bolshakov Alexey D.
Published: October 2024

Innovative methods for substrate patterning provide intriguing possibilities for the development of devices based on ordered arrays of semiconductor nanowires. Control over the nanostructures’ morphology in situ can be obtained via extensive theoretical studies of their formation. In this paper, we carry out an investigation of the ordered nanowires’ formation kinetics depending on the growth mask geometry. Diffusion equations for the growth species on both substrate and nanowire sidewalls depending on the spacing arrangement of the nanostructures and deposition rate are considered. The value of the pitch corresponding to the maximum diffusion flux from the substrate is obtained. The latter is assumed to be the optimum in terms of the nanowire elongation rate. Further study of the adatom kinetics demonstrates that the temporal dependence of a nanowire’s length is strongly affected by the ratio of the adatom’s diffusion length on the substrate and sidewalls, providing insights into the proper choice of a growth wafer. The developed model allows for customization of the growth protocols and estimation of the important diffusion parameters of the growth species.
Recent Progress in Nanomaterial-Based Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy for Food Safety Detection
Authors: Bahlol Hagar S. , Li Jiawen , Deng Jiamin , Foda Mohamed F. , Han Heyou
Published: October 2024

Food safety has recently become a widespread concern among consumers. Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is a rapidly developing novel spectroscopic analysis technique with high sensitivity, an ability to provide molecular fingerprint spectra, and resistance to photobleaching, offering broad application prospects in rapid trace detection. With the interdisciplinary development of nanomaterials and biotechnology, the detection performance of SERS biosensors has improved significantly. This review describes the advantages of nanomaterial-based SERS detection technology and SERS’s latest applications in the detection of biological and chemical contaminants, the identification of foodborne pathogens, the authentication and quality control of food, and the safety assessment of food packaging materials. Finally, the challenges and prospects of constructing and applying nanomaterial-based SERS sensing platforms in the field of food safety detection are discussed with the aim of early detection and ultimate control of foodborne diseases.
Safety Evaluations of Rapamycin Perfluorocarbon Nanoparticles in Ovarian Tumor-Bearing Mice
Authors: Zhou Qingyu , Harding John C. , Fan Ping , Spasojevic Ivan , Kovacs Attila , Akk Antonina , Mitchell Adam , Springer Luke E. , Gaut Joseph P. , Rauch Daniel A. , Wickline Samuel A. , Pham Christine T. N. , Fuh Katherine , Pan Hua
Published: October 2024

Nanomedicine holds great potential for revolutionizing medical treatment. Ongoing research and advancements in nanotechnology are continuously expanding the possibilities, promising significant advancements in healthcare. To fully harness the potential of nanotechnology in medical applications, it is crucial to conduct safety evaluations for the nanomedicines that offer effective benefits in the preclinical stage. Our recent efficacy studies indicated that rapamycin perfluorocarbon (PFC) nanoparticles showed promise in mitigating cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury (AKI). As cisplatin is routinely administered to ovarian cancer patients as their first-line chemotherapy, in this study, we focused on evaluating the safety of rapamycin PFC nanoparticles in mice bearing ovarian tumor xenografts. Specifically, this study evaluated the effects of repeat-dose rapamycin PFC nanoparticle treatment on vital organs, the immune system, and tumor growth and assessed pharmacokinetics and biodistribution. Our results indicated that rapamycin PFC nanoparticle treatment did not cause any detectable adverse effects on cardiac, renal, or hepatic functions or on splenocyte populations, but it reduced the splenocyte secretion of IL-10, TNFα, and IL12p70 upon IgM stimulation. The pharmacokinetics and biodistribution results revealed a significant enhancement in the delivery of rapamycin to tumors by rapamycin PFC nanoparticles, which, in turn, led to a significant reduction in ovarian tumor growth. Therefore, rapamycin PFC nanoparticles have the potential to be clinically beneficial in cisplatin-treated ovarian cancer patients.