bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insights into the Effect of Recycled Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer on the Mechanical Strengths of Cement Mortar
Authors: Kaboré Mohamed Wendlassida , El Bitouri Youssef , Lharti Habiba , Salgues Marie , Frugier Jérémy , Léger Romain , Perrin Didier , Ienny Patrick , Garcia-Diaz Eric
Published: November 2024

The incorporation of recycled glass fiber reinforced polymer (rGFRP) in cementitious materials is an interesting recycling and valorization method. However, this incorporation generally results in a significant loss of workability, often compensated by an adjustment of the water to cement ratio, which can affect mechanical performance, particularly compressive strength. The aim of this paper is to examine the effect of different size fractions of rGFRP (0.063 mm, 0.16 mm, 0.63 mm, 1.25 mm and 2 mm) on the mechanical strengths of cement mortars with a mixing method that is likely to maintain the workability of the mix without adjusting the water to cement ratio. For this, a substitution rate of 10% (in volume of sand by rGFRP), supposed to induce workability loss, is chosen. A pre-mixing of rGFRP with water before adding cement and sand is performed and allows for the workability to be maintained without increasing the water content. The results show that compressive and flexural strengths are almost maintained compared with reference mortar for two rGFRP size fractions (2 mm and 0/2 mm). For the 2 mm fraction, a slight improvement (3%) in flexural strength after 7 months of curing and a 5% reduction in compressive strength are observed. After 7 months of curing, fibers or clusters of rGFRP are still observed, although they are not alkali-resistant.
Droplet-Based Microfluidic Photobioreactor as a Growth Optimization Tool for Cyanobacteria and Microalgae
Authors: Prasetija Nadia , Schneider Steffen , Xie Ting , Cao Jialan
Published: November 2024

Microalgae and cyanobacteria are photosynthetic microorganisms with significant biotechnological potential for the production of bioactive compounds, making them a promising resource for diverse industrial applications. This study presents the development and validation of a modular, droplet-based microfluidic photobioreactor (µPBR) designed for high-throughput screening and cultivation under controlled light conditions. The µPBR, based on polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) tubing and a 4-channel LED illumination system, enables precise modulation of light intensity, wavelength, and photoperiod, facilitating dose–response experiments. Synechococcus elongatus UTEX 2973 and Chlorella vulgaris were used to demonstrate the system’s capacity to support photosynthetic growth under various conditions. The results indicate that continuous illumination, particularly under blue and mixed blue-red light, promotes higher autofluorescence and chlorophyll a content in cyanobacteria Synechococcus elongatus UTEX2973, while Chlorella vulgaris achieved optimal growth under a 16:8 light-dark cycle with moderate light intensity. This µPBR offers not only a flexible, scalable platform for optimizing growth parameters but also allows for the investigation of highly resolved dose response screenings of environmental stressors such as salinity. The presented findings highlight its potential for advancing microalgal biotechnology research and applications.
Vegetation Recovery Patterns at Jeongseon Alpine Stadium, Mount Gariwang, in the Republic of Korea, After the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympics
Authors: Lee Su-Won , Lee Jeong-Eun , Song Ju-Hyeon , Yun Chung-Weon
Published: November 2024

This study assessed vegetation recovery at Jeongseon Alpine Stadium, Mt. Gariwang, 5 years after the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics to aid in restoration planning. A total of 50 quadrats were surveyed across undisturbed areas, forest edges, and damaged areas at different altitudes. Species occurrences were recorded using a tabulation method to identify characteristic and differential species based on disturbance type. Importance value analysis showed that tree layers were present only in undisturbed areas at all altitudes, while shade-intolerant species, such as Amur choke cherry (P. glandulifolia), had high importance in the subtree layer in low-altitude damaged areas and mid-altitude forest edges. Species diversity was higher in forest edges at medium and high altitudes, whereas control areas exhibited higher diversity at low altitudes. DCA ordination revealed distinct community groupings based on altitude and disturbance type, indicating community heterogeneity. The study found rapid vegetation recovery in damaged areas and forest edges, driven by shade-intolerant species. Restoration efforts should prioritize these species to support successful recovery.
Thermal, Optical, and Emission Traits of SM3+-Ion-Doped Fluoride/Chloride/Oxide Glass for Red/Orange Laser Fiber Applications
Authors: Burtan-Gwizdala Bozena , Cisowski Jan , Lisiecki Radoslaw , Kowalska Kinga J. , Jarzabek Bozena , Nosidlak Natalia , Reben Manuela , Alshehri Ali M. , Hussein Khalid I. , Yousef El Sayed
Published: November 2024

This study examined spectroscopic, thermal, and other qualities, such as the lasing parameters, of Sm3+-doped glass with the composition 40P2O5–30ZnO–20LiCl–10BaF2. The ellipsometric data were used in a Sellmeier dispersion relation to estimate the refractive index values of the glasses investigated. The measured absorption spectra of the doped glass reveal the presence of various absorption bands assigned to transitions from the 6H5/2 ground state attributed to Sm3+-ion-excited states. We studied the decay of the 4G5/2 level of the Sm3+ ions in the doped glass by analyzing its absorption and emission fluorescence spectra. The Judd–Ofelt hypothesis allowed us to determine that the quantum efficiency of the 4G5/2–6H7/2 transition is high: 96% and 97% for glass doped with 4.05 × 1019 ions/cm−3 and 11 × 1019 ions/cm−3, respectively. Furthermore, this glass exhibits efficient red/orange enhanced spontaneous emission that matches the excitation band of the photosensitizer material used in medical applications.
Effect of Traditional and Non-Traditionally Processed Blue Corn Tortilla Consumption During the Gestation of Rats in the Dentate Gyrus of Pups
Authors: González-Nieto Paola , Alvarado-Olivarez Mayvi , Guzmán-Gerónimo Rosa , Rodríguez-Landa Juan , Hernández-Salazar Laura
Published: November 2024

The effect of consuming traditionally and non-traditionally processed blue corn tortillas on the dentate gyrus of rat pups during gestation was evaluated. Blue corn tortillas were made from grains steeped or not steeped in a solution of gallic acid and processed by traditional or microwave nixtamalization. Total polyphenol and total anthocyanin contents were analyzed. At day 20 of gestation, the pups were analyzed according to the diet administered to the pregnant rats, as follows: the control group fed with standard diet; the TN group = standard diet + blue corn tortilla by traditional nixtamalization; the TNGA group = standard diet + blue corn tortilla by traditional nixtamalization + gallic acid; the MN group = standard diet + blue corn tortilla by microwave nixtamalization; and the MNGA group = standard diet + blue corn tortilla by microwave nixtamalization + gallic acid. The cell density and soma size of the dentate gyrus in pups, along with the number of pups per litter and the litter weight, were recorded. The highest polyphenol and anthocyanin content were found in blue corn tortillas made from grains steeped in gallic acid and processed by microwave nixtamalization. The MNGA group showed larger litters as well as higher cell density (33%) and soma size (50% in the range of 30–50 μm2) in the dentate gyrus of pups as compared to the control.
Saussurea involucrata SiLEA5 Enhances Tolerance to Drought Stress in Solanum lycopersicum
Authors: Liu Xiaoyan , Li Aowei , Luo Guanghong , Zhu Jianbo
Published: November 2024

Drought adversely affects plant growth, which leads to reduced crop yields and exacerbates food insecurity. Late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) proteins are crucial for plants’ responses to abiotic stresses. This research further investigates the role of SiLEA5 by utilizing transgenic tomatoes under drought stress. The expression of SiLEA5 was upregulated under drought and abscisic acid (ABA) treatment, resulting in decreased electrolyte leakage and malondialdehyde content, alongside increased levels of osmotic regulators and antioxidant enzyme activity. These biochemical alterations reduce oxidative damage and enhance drought resistance. qRT-PCR analysis revealed the upregulation of ABA signaling genes and key enzymes involved in proline biosynthesis (P5CS) and dehydrin (DHN) synthesis under drought stress. Additionally, overexpression of SiLEA5 increased the net photosynthetic rate (Pn) and fruit yield of tomatoes by regulating stomatal density and aperture. These findings suggest that SiLEA5 may be a potential target for improving drought tolerance in tomatoes and other crops.
Novel Insights into the Enrichment Pattern of Aroma and Taste in Cooked Marinated Meat Products of Black Pork via Typical Process Steps
Authors: Wang Haitang , Li Jiapeng , Zhao Yan , Li Qiang , Wang Shouwei
Published: November 2024

This study aims to reveal the evolution mechanism of odour and taste active compounds in cooked marinated pork knuckles via typical process steps; among them, the brine soup stage was the most important part due to spices’ enriching flavours. These results revealed that the content and diversity of volatile compounds increased due to the addition of spices and heating temperature, imparting a unique aroma. Aldehydes played the main role in the overall odour. Benzaldehyde, hexanal, 1-octen-3-ol, levulinic acid, hydroxyacetone, ethyl octanoate, and 2-pentyl-furan were identified as the most important odour-active compounds. The key taste-active amino acids were glutamine, leucine, valine, and lysine. The IMP, AMP, and GMP provided a strong umami taste. Taste nucleotides and Val, Leu, Ile, and Phe were important precursor substances for aldehydes. The high responses of the electronic nose indicated that the gas component contained alkanes, alcohols, and aldehydes. The synergistic effects between umami-free amino acids and nucleotides correlated well with umami, as assessed by the electronic tongue. These results could be a starting point for the manufacturing industry, contributing to a better understanding of product performance.
Preparation and Characterization of Temperature-Sensitive Gel Plugging Agent
Authors: Liu Fengbao , Yin Da , Sun Jinsheng , Luo Xiao , Huang Xianbin
Published: November 2024

In order to use intelligent gel systems to realize deep source water control in medium and high water cut reservoirs, and also to solve the shortcomings of conventional gels, such as the high chemical dose required, large profile control radius, poor temperature resistance, shear resistance, and plugging performance, a temperature-sensitive gel based on natural cellulose was developed, and the temperature resistance, rheological performance, and plugging performance of the temperature-sensitive gel were tested and evaluated. The results show that the system can maintain a viscosity retention rate of up to 95% after high-temperature aging at 90–120 °C for 50 days. When using medium- to low-salinity calcium chloride formation water for preparation, the gelation effect is good. The rheometer oscillation frequency scanning test shows that the system gel is a strong elastic body dominated by elasticity. The core displacement experiment shows that the highest sealing rate of the system is 97%, and the breakthrough pressure can reach 2.5 MPa at this time. The microstructure of the gel system was tested by infrared, and it was found that the gel system had strong hydrogen bonding and the gel had good stability. The research results contribute to improving the recovery rate of high water cut oil reservoirs.
Whole-Genome Sequence and Characterization of Ralstonia solanacearum MLY102 Isolated from Infected Tobacco Stalks
Authors: Lin Guan , Gao Juntao , Zou Junxian , Li Denghui , Cui Yu , Liu Yong , Kong Lingxue , Liu Shiwang
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Bacterial wilt disease is a soil-borne disease caused by Ralstonia solanacearum that causes huge losses to crop economies worldwide. Methods: In this work, strain MLY102 was isolated and further identified as R. solanacearum from a diseased tobacco stalk. The genomic properties of MLY102 were explored by performing biochemical characterization, genome sequencing, compositional analysis, functional annotation and comparative genomic analysis. Results: MLY102 had a pinkish-red color in the center of the colony surrounded by a milky-white liquid with fluidity on TTC medium. The biochemical results revealed that MLY102 can utilize carbon sources, including D-glucose (dGLU), cane sugar (SAC) and D-trehalose dihydrate (dTRE). Genome sequencing through the DNBSEQ and PacBio platforms revealed a genome size of 5.72 Mb with a G+C content of 67.59%. The genome consists of a circular chromosome and a circular giant plasmid with 5283 protein-coding genes. A comparison of the genomes revealed that MLY102 is closely related to GMI1000 and CMR15 but has 498 special genes and 13 homologous genes in the species-specific gene family, indicating a high degree of genomic uniqueness. Conclusions: The unique characteristics and genomic data of MLY102 can provide important reference values for the prevention and control of bacterial wilt disease.
Differences in 6-Minute Walk Distance Across Heart Disease Recurrence Risk Levels in Cardiac Rehab Patients
Authors: Lian Eric , Roberts Kimberly , Young Lufei
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs are multi-component interventions comprising structured strength and cardiovascular exercise training, psychological support, education, and therapies to promote positive lifestyle changes. This study aimed to determine if there are differences in the 6-minute walk distance (6MWD) across risk groups for recurrent heart disease. Methods: This retrospective cohort study used existing data collected from electronic medical records. The 6-minute walk distance was measured at baseline (pre-6MWD) and upon the completion of the CR program (post-6MWD). Short-term cardiac event recurrence risk was determined using a two-year recurrent coronary heart disease (2yRCHD) risk percentage, calculated according to the Framingham 2yRCHD calculator. Risk was then stratified into (1) low, (2) moderate, and (3) high-risk groups. Demographic variables (e.g., age, sex, racial/ethnic group) and clinical variables (e.g., BMI, lipid panels, fasting glucose levels, comorbidities) were collected to describe the study participants and identify potential confounders. An ANOVA and ANCOVA were performed to examine the differences in 6MWD across the 2yRCHD risk groups. Results: A total of 394 CR participants’ data were included in this analysis. Ninety-nine percent of the female participants were classified as low risk for recurrent heart disease, resulting in an extremely small sample size in the moderate-risk (n = 1) and no representation (n = 0) in the high-risk group. This lack of representation made it impossible to conduct comparative analyses across all the participants or to analyze female participants separately by risk category. Consequently, only male participant data were included in the final analysis. The study showed that pre- and post-6MWD measurements were significantly different across the three 2yRCHD risk groups (p = 0.006 for pre-6MWD; p = 0.002 for post-6MWD). The ANCOVA indicated that these differences were independent of the selected covariates. Post hoc analyses revealed significant differences in 6MWDs between the low- and high-risk groups and between the moderate- and high-risk groups, but not between the low- and moderate-risk groups, for both pre- and post-6MWD measurements. Compared to the CR participants in the high-risk group, those in the low- and moderate-risk groups achieved significantly longer distances in the 6-minute walk tests. Conclusions: The observed differences in the 6MWD across short-term cardiac recurrence risk levels suggest its potential as a simple, accessible tool for assessing cardiac recurrence risk levels in community settings. Further research is needed to generalize these findings to more diverse populations and to support aging in place for older adults living with heart disease.
Physical Activity Component of the Greek Interventional Geriatric Study to Prevent Cognitive Impairment and Disability (GINGER): Protocol Development and Feasibility Study
Authors: Billis Evdokia , Nastou Eftychia , Lampropoulou Sofia , Tsekoura Maria , Dimakopoulou Eleni , Mastoras Nikolaos , Fragiadaki Ioanna-Maria , Siopis Eleftherios , Michalopoulos Nikolaos , Sakka Paraskevi , Koula Maria , Basta Maria , Alexopoulos Panagiotis
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Individuals with subjective cognitive decline (SCD) have an increased risk of developing dementia, while non-pharmacological multicomponent lifestyle interventions are recommended for prevention/management. The Greek Interventional Geriatric Initiative to Prevent Cognitive Impairment and Disability (GINGER) is such a multicomponent approach, encompassing simultaneous interventions (cognitive training, depression and sleep management, etc.). Exercise/Physical activity (PA) is suggested as one such intervention. This study (i) presents the exercise protocol developed for GINGER and (ii) explores its feasibility (acceptability, applicability, adherence, users’ satisfaction and reliability). Methods: Exercise/PA protocol development, targeting SCD individuals aged > 55 years, utilized relevant guidelines/literature followed by focus group involving exercise specialists. Data were synthesized through consensus to design optimal exercise interventions prescribed on participant’s physical capacity (heart rate, exertion, etc.), comprising 6-month combined aerobic, strengthening, balance and dual-task exercises, delivered 3 times/weekly in two group-based supervised sessions (in-person and online) and one home-based session. Physical outcomes include balance, aerobic capacity [2-Minute Walk Test (2 MWT), IPAQ-7], strength [Hand Grip Strength (HGS), Sit-to-Stand], fear of falling. Eligibility for entering intervention is low IPAQ-7, 2 MWT or HGS scoring. Feasibility was explored with adherence (exercise diaries and Exercise Adherence Rating Scale) and satisfaction (Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire) Results: Intervention was easily delivered with good reliability across testers’ assessments on 13 SCD participants (ICCs = 0.62–0.99), and improved physical outcomes, whereas users’ adherence and satisfaction scored highly. Conclusions: The exercise protocol for SCD was feasible, acceptable, applicable, reliable, demonstrating adherence and satisfaction, while improving physical parameters. It is thus integrated in the GINGER study, where multiple simultaneous interventions will take place to prevent/enhance cognitive function.
Adolescents’ Knowledge and Misconceptions About Sexually Transmitted Infections: A Cross-Sectional Study in Middle School Students in Portugal
Authors: Abreu Catarina , Sá Luísa , Santos Paulo
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Adolescence represents a period of heightened vulnerability to risky sexual behaviours. In Portugal, adolescents are initiating sexual activity at increasingly younger ages, making it relevant to characterise their knowledge about sexually transmitted diseases and prevention methods at an earlier stage of their development. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted involving the application of a questionnaire to 750 ninth-grade students from Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto, Portugal. The questionnaire covered topics such as perceptions of sexuality, knowledge of sexuality and STIs, methods of transmission prevention, and sources of information. Results: The mean age was 14.4 years, with 19.9% reporting having already initiated sexual activity. Overall, the knowledge about sexually transmitted infections was low, with a score of 7.08 out of a maximum score of 18. Condoms and immunisation were well-recognised preventive measures, but many misconceptions persisted. Better knowledge is associated with better attitudes regarding the likelihood of having sexual intercourse. Conclusions: This study reveals adolescents’ limited knowledge about sexually transmitted infections, misconceptions about prevention, and reliance on peers and the internet over trusted sources, highlighting the need for comprehensive sexual education in middle school.
Spatial Disparities in Access to Dialysis Facilities in Texas: An Analysis of End-Stage Renal Data in 1974–2020
Authors: Kim Dongeun , Chun Yongwan , Griffith Daniel A.
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: This study investigates the spatial disparities in access to dialysis facilities across Texas. The objective is to analyze how urbanization and socio-economic/demographic factors influence these disparities, with a focus on differences between urban and rural areas. Methods: The enhanced two-step floating catchment area method is employed to calculate accessibility scores to dialysis facilities across the state. Additionally, Moran eigenvector spatial filtering is utilized to analyze the influence of urbanization and socio-economic/demographic factors on accessibility disparities. Results: The Moran eigenvector spatial filtering analysis revealed a significant level of spatial autocorrelation in accessibility scores, particularly highlighting disparities between urban and rural areas. Urban regions, especially major metropolitan areas, achieved higher accessibility scores due to the dense concentration of dialysis facilities. In contrast, rural areas, notably in western and northern Texas, exhibited lower accessibility, underscoring the challenges faced by residents in these regions. The model further identified urbanization and the percentage of the elderly population as critical covariates affecting accessibility, with urban counties showing higher accessibility and elderly populations in rural areas facing significant challenges. Conclusions: These findings emphasize the importance of considering spatial dependencies in healthcare accessibility studies. They suggest the need for targeted policy interventions to address the identified disparities, particularly in underserved rural regions, to improve access to dialysis facilities for vulnerable populations.
Factors Associated with the Practice of Assessing Drug–Drug Interactions Among Pharmacists in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alhussain Khalid , Al Dandan Abdullah , Al Elaiwi Haider , Al Wabari Hassan , Al Abdulathim Ali , Almohaish Sulaiman
Published: November 2024

Background: Drug–drug interactions (DDIs) occur when two or more drugs are administered concomitantly, changing the pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics of a drug’s characteristics. Despite the advances in health technology, DDIs remain a concern to patient safety. This study aimed to (1) assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of hospital and community pharmacists toward DDIs in Saudi Arabia and (2) examine factors associated with their practice. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online self-administered questionnaire targeting hospital and community pharmacists working in Saudi Arabia. The study questionnaire consisted of five sections: demographics, knowledge, attitude, and practice toward DDIs, as well as pharmacy characteristics. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the characteristics of participants as count and percentage. Chi-square tests were used to examine associations between practice variables and other independent variables. Results: A total of 131 pharmacists participated in the study. The majority were males (81.7%), aged 26–35 years (64.9%), and worked in community pharmacies (81.7%). Nearly half of the participants reported optimal practice regarding checking drug interactions before dispensing any drug. Factors associated with the practice of checking DDIs were found to be gender, perceived workload, perceived knowledge, and attitude variables. Regarding the practice of asking patients about their prescription and OTC drugs, there were statistically significant differences between hospital and community pharmacists. Conclusions: Our findings on both community and hospital pharmacists in Saudi Arabia reveal that pharmacists’ attitudes and perceived knowledge might influence the practice of pharmacists toward DDIs.
Combined Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Analyses Reveal the Mechanisms by Which the Interaction Between Sulfur and Nitrogen Affects Garlic Yield and Quality
Authors: Ren Licai , Pan Xudong , Deng Yang , Ge Zhengkang , Li Shiyuan , Su Dong , Zhao Guoqian , Tang Hui , Wang Xiangfei
Published: November 2024

Nitrogen and sulfur are essential macronutrients in plant growth and development, and their interaction profoundly influences gene expression, metabolic activities, and adaptability in plants, directly affecting plant growth and yield. Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is a crop of significant economic and medicinal value. However, despite the critical role of the nitrogen–sulfur interaction in garlic’s adaptability, yield, and quality, the specific mechanisms underlying these effects remain unclear. In this study, transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses were employed to investigate the effects of combined sulfur and nitrogen application on garlic bulb tissues. The results show that the combined application of sulfur and nitrogen significantly increased the diameter and weight of garlic bulbs by 14.96% and 35.47%, respectively. The content of alliin increased by 28.48%, while the levels of abscisic acid (ABA), jasmonic acid (JA), salicylic acid (SA), and gibberellin (GA) increased by 15.82%, 12.94%, 32.34%, and 48.13%, respectively. Additionally, the activities of alliinase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) were enhanced by 7.93%, 4.48%, and 19.74%, respectively. Moreover, the application of sulfur and nitrogen significantly reduced the malondialdehyde (MDA) content and peroxidase (POD) activity in garlic bulbs by 29.66% and 9.42%, respectively, thereby improving garlic’s adaptability and growth potential. Transcriptomic analysis revealed differentially expressed genes in several key pathways, including plant hormone signal transduction, RNA degradation, glutathione metabolism, amino acid biosynthesis, and glycerophospholipid metabolism. Metabolomic analysis identified 80 differentially abundant metabolites primarily consisting of amino acids, indole carboxylic acids, and fatty acids. The integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses highlighted the pivotal roles of glutathione metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, and amino acid biosynthesis pathways in the synergistic effects of sulfur and nitrogen. This study not only provides critical scientific evidence for understanding the mechanisms underlying the nitrogen–sulfur interaction’s impact on the yield and quality of garlic but also offers a scientific basis for optimizing nutrient management strategies to enhance garlic yield and quality.
Small Molecule Inhibitors of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Topoisomerase I Identified by Machine Learning and In Vitro Assays
Authors: Chadni Somaia Haque , Young Matthew A. , Igorra Pedro , Bhuiyan Md Anisur Rahman , Kenyon Victor , Tse-Dinh Yuk-Ching
Published: November 2024

Tuberculosis (TB) caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a leading infectious cause of death globally. The treatment of patients becomes much more difficult for the increasingly common multi-drug resistant TB. Topoisomerase I is essential for the viability of M. tuberculosis and has been validated as a new target for the discovery of novel treatment against TB resistant to the currently available drugs. Virtual high-throughput screening based on machine learning was used in this study to identify small molecules that target the binding site of divalent ion near the catalytic tyrosine of M. tuberculosis topoisomerase I. From the virtual screening of more than 2 million commercially available compounds, 96 compounds were selected for testing in topoisomerase I relaxation activity assay. The top hit that has IC50 of 7 µM was further investigated. Commercially available analogs of the top hit were purchased and tested with the in vitro enzyme assay to gain further insights into the molecular scaffold required for topoisomerase inhibition. Results from this project demonstrated that novel small molecule inhibitors of bacterial topoisomerase I can be identified starting with the machine-learning-based virtual screening approach.
Microbial Diversity and Biodegradation Mechanism of Microorganisms in the Dingtao M2 Tomb
Authors: Wang Yu , Wang Cen , Hou Lilong , Yang Xinyu , Li Chenghao , Cui Shengkuan , Ma Cuilian , Wang Ling , Zhang Lu , Liu Yuanyuan , Guo Hong , Pan Jiao
Published: November 2024

The Dingtao M2 tomb, the largest and best-preserved imperial “Huangchangticou” tomb in China, holds great significance for its conservation. Currently, varying degrees of microbial degradation are occurring on the surfaces of the M2 tomb. This study aimed to determine the microbial diversity of the M2 tomb and its surrounding environment during July 2021 and August 2022. High-throughput metagenomic sequencing revealed that the dominant fungus on the surface of the tomb chamber was Dacrymyces stillatus (DTT1) in July 2021, which changed to Talaromyces pinophilus (DTT2) in August 2022. Enzymatic activities for cellulose and lignin degradation suggested that DTT1 has high levels of manganese peroxidase, lignin peroxidase, laccase, and cellulase. The wood of the tomb contained higher levels of Fe2+ and Ca2+, and experiments with different concentration gradients of these ions in the culture medium revealed that DTT1 exhibited greater activity of cellulose and lignin degradation in environments with higher concentrations of Fe2+ and Ca2+. DTT2 degraded both cellulose and lignin. Lastly, a laboratory plate inhibition experiment demonstrated that isothiazolinone fungicide had a significant fungicidal effect on these two dominant fungi. This study provides valuable data and a theoretical basis for the preservation of the M2 tomb and other wooden cultural relics.
Correction: Schaltz et al. A Theoretical Study of Hydrogen Abstraction Reactions in Guanosine and Uridine. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24, 8192
Authors: Schaltz Kasper F. , Sauer Stephan P. A.
Published: November 2024

In the original publication [...]
Chemical Landscape of Adipocytes Derived from 3T3-L1 Cells Investigated by Fourier Transform Infrared and Raman Spectroscopies
Authors: Augustyniak Karolina , Lesniak Monika , Golan Maciej P. , Latka Hubert , Wojtan Katarzyna , Zdanowski Robert , Kubiak Jacek Z. , Malek Kamilla
Published: November 2024

Adipocytes derived from 3T3-L1 cells are a gold standard for analyses of adipogenesis processes and the metabolism of fat cells. A widely used histological and immunohistochemical staining and mass spectrometry lipidomics are mainly aimed for examining lipid droplets (LDs). Visualizing other cellular compartments contributing to the cellular machinery requires additional cell culturing for multiple labeling. Here, we present the localization of the intracellular structure of the 3T3-L1-derived adipocytes utilizing vibrational spectromicroscopy, which simultaneously illustrates the cellular compartments and provides chemical composition without extensive sample preparation and in the naïve state. Both vibrational spectra (FTIR—Fourier transform infrared and RS—Raman scattering spectroscopy) extended the gathered chemical information. We proved that both IR and RS spectra provide distinct chemical information about lipid content and their structure. Despite the expected presence of triacylglycerols and cholesteryl esters in lipid droplets, we also estimated the length and unsaturation degree of the fatty acid acyl chains that were congruent with known MS lipidomics of these cells. In addition, the clustering of spectral images revealed that the direct surroundings around LDs attributed to lipid-associated proteins and a high abundance of mitochondria. Finally, by using quantified markers of biomolecules, we showed that the fixative agents, paraformaldehyde and glutaraldehyde, affected the cellular compartment differently. We concluded that PFA preserves LDs better, while GA fixation is better for cytochromes and unsaturated lipid analysis. The proposed analysis of the spectral images constitutes a complementary tool for investigations into the structural and molecular features of fat cells.
Design Strategies to Minimize Mobile Usability Issues in Navigation Design Patterns
Authors: Umar Muhammad , Hussain Ibrar , Mahmood Toqeer , Mirza Hamid Turab , Faisal C. M. Nadeem
Published: November 2024

Recent development in mobile technology has significantly improved the quality of life. Everyday life is increasingly becoming dependent on mobile devices as mobile applications are targeting the needs of the end users. However, many end users struggle with navigating mobile applications, leading to frustration, especially with sophisticated and unfamiliar interfaces. This study focuses on addressing specific usability issues in mobile applications by investigating the impact of introducing a floating action button (FAB) and icons with names at the bottom in popular applications such as YouTube, Plex, and IMDb. The current research includes three studies: Study-1 explores the navigation issues that users face; Study-2 measures the experiences of the users with improved navigation designs; and Study-3 compares the results of Study-1 and Study-2 to evaluate user experience with both existing and improved navigation designs. A total of 147 participants participated and the systems usability scale was used to evaluate the navigation design. The experiments indicated that the existing design patterns are complex and difficult to understand leading to user frustration compared to newly designed and improved navigation designed patterns. Moreover, the proposed newly designed navigation patterns improved the effectiveness, learnability, and usability. Consequently, the results highlight the imperativeness of effective navigation design in improving user satisfaction and lowering frustration with mobile applications.
Transcatheter Tricuspid Regurgitation Repair—An Overview of Techniques and Eligible Patient Selection
Authors: Mustafa Edme Roxana , Marinescu Daniela , Florescu Cristina , Donoiu Ionuț , Istrătoaie Octavian
Published: November 2024

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is frequently encountered in clinical practice. It is classified into primary TR (organic), which accounts for a minority of cases; and into secondary TR (functional), which has a higher prevalence. Although it can be asymptomatic for a long time, TR causes right ventricle dysfunction and increases hospitalizations for heart failure and mortality. In most patients with severe, isolated TR, surgery is not indicated due to the high surgical risk. In the last 10 years, transcatheter tricuspid valve repair became feasible with the following good results: reduction in TR severity, reverse remodeling of the right heart chambers, improvement in symptoms and reduction in hospitalization time. This paper presents the main transcatheter techniques and data from relevant trials that used these techniques, focusing on patient characteristics that define eligibility and high probability of repair. Information is provided regarding the observed benefits and the complications.
Wood–Cement Composites: A Sustainable Approach for Mitigating Environmental Impact in Construction
Authors: Maier Dorin , Manea Daniela Lucia , Tămaș-Gavrea Daniela-Roxana , Țiriac Alexandra , Costin Paul
Published: November 2024

The construction industry’s environmental impact has become a growing concern, largely due to the energy-intensive production of conventional building materials. This paper explores the potential of wood–cement composites as a more sustainable alternative through a comprehensive literature review, including a bibliometric and scientometric analysis of research trends. Our analysis traces the evolution of wood–cement composites from early studies focused on mechanical properties, to recent investigations into their environmental benefits and practical applications. Key findings suggest that optimal performance can be achieved by treating wood with tetraethyl orthosilicate, incorporating additives like cellulose nanocrystals or wollastonite, and using wood from species such as Pinus. While partial cement replacement with wood waste and ash offers significant environmental advantages, precise formulations are needed to maintain structural integrity. This study also acknowledges certain methodological limitations, such as the reliance on keyword-based filtering, which may have excluded some relevant studies. Future research should address long-term durability, economic feasibility, and standardized testing methodologies to facilitate the adoption of wood–cement composites in the construction industry. These materials, particularly suitable for non-structural applications and insulation, hold promise as viable, eco-friendly building solutions capable of reducing the construction industry’s carbon footprint.
Hydrodynamic Characteristics of Offshore Wind Turbine Pile Foundations Under Combined Focusing Wave-Current Conditions
Authors: Ji Renwei , Li Xiangquan , Ye Yonglin , Zhu Renqing , Sun Ke , Wu Miankui , Huang Fei , Reabroy Ratthakrit
Published: November 2024

In extreme marine environments, the interaction between offshore wind turbine pile foundations (OWTPFs) is critical, and the associated hydrodynamic loads are complex. This study focused on fixed OWTPFs and used computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to numerically simulate the flow field around pile foundations under the combined action of focusing waves and current. The objective was to investigate the influence of different focusing wave and current parameters on the hydrodynamic properties of the pile foundations. The findings indicate the following: (1) When the wave and current directions are opposite, the maximum wave force on the pile foundations is greater than when they are aligned. (2) Large-amplitude focusing waves around pile foundations generate secondary loads, which are nonlinear and lead to a rapid increase in the wave force. These secondary loads are short-lived and particularly prominent near the front row of pile foundations. (3) The influence of the group pile effect diminishes under high-amplitude waves, where the wave component dominates the generation of the dimensionless wave force, and the impact of the current on this force decreases.
Automatic Identification and Suppression of Random Noise and Methods for Profile Splicing in the Sub-Bottom Profile of Deep Water
Authors: Feng Xia , Ding Weifeng
Published: November 2024

The complex topography of deep sea presents numerous challenges for the accurate exploration of sub-bottom profiles. These include real-time tracking of seafloor reflectors, acquisition and storage of deep-sea long-term reflection data, and splicing of successive profiles. Based on the actual survey data of deep sea, we have developed automatic positioning and noise suppression algorithms, namely the double-difference threshold of proximity points. Furthermore, we have created automatic algorithms, namely content expansion and group data moving, based on extremum in seafloor’s depth. These have been designed to automatically suppress the random noise and effectively splice the sub-bottom profile data in deep water. The aforementioned processing techniques facilitate the enhancement of the quality of deep-water sub-bottom profile data, thereby enabling the provision of a comprehensive and successively long profile for interpretation in the context of deep-water sub-bottom profile data.
Gas–Water–Sand Inflow Patterns and Completion Optimization in Hydrate Wells with Different Sand Control Completions
Authors: Liu Chenfeng , Dong Changyin , Shi Haoxian , Yu Yanjiang , Yin Bin
Published: November 2024

Sand production poses a significant problem for marine natural gas hydrate efficient production. However, the bottom hole gas–water–sand inflow pattern remains unclear, hindering the design of standalone screen and gravel packing sand control completions. Therefore, gas–water–sand inflow patterns were studied in horizontal and vertical wells with the two completions. The experimental results showed that gas–water stratification occurred in horizontal and vertical standalone screen wells. The gas–water interface changed dynamically, leading to an uneven screen plugging, with severe plugging at the bottom and high permeability at the top. The high sand production rate and low well deviation angle exacerbated screen plugging, resulting in a faster rising rate of the gas–water interface. The screen plugging degree initially decreased and then increased as the gas–water ratio increased, resulting in the corresponding variation in the gas–water interface rising rate. Conversely, gas–water stratification did not occur in the gravel packing well because of the pore throat formed between the packing gravels. However, the impact of gas and water led to gravel rearrangement and the formation of erosion holes, causing sand control failure. A higher gas–water ratio and lower packing degree could result in more severe destabilization. Therefore, for the standalone screen completion, sand control accuracy should be designed at different levels according to the uneven plugging degree of the screen. For the gravel packing completion, increase the gravel density without destabilizing the hydrate reservoir, and use the coated gravel with a cementing effect to improve the gravel layer stability. In addition, the screen sand control accuracy inside the gravel packing layer should be designed according to the sand size to keep long-term stable hydrate production.
Response of the Endophytic Microbiome in Cotinus coggygria Roots to Verticillium Wilt Infection
Authors: Cheng Yanli , Zhao Juan , Liu Yayong , Zhang Taotao , Hsiang Tom , Yu Zhihe , Qin Wentao
Published: November 2024

Verticillium wilt caused by Verticillium dahliae Kleb. is a lethal soil-borne fungal disease of Cotinus coggygria. The plant endophytic microbiome plays an important role in maintaining plant health and disease resistance, but it is unclear how the endophytic microbiome of C. coggygria roots varies in response to Verticillium wilt occurrence. In this study, the endophytic microbial diversity, community composition, dominant species, and co-occurrence network of C. coggygria under Verticillium wilt-affected and healthy conditions were assessed using Illumina sequencing. Compared with healthy plants, the bacterial alpha diversity indices of Verticillium wilt-affected plants decreased significantly, while the fungal alpha diversity indices showed obvious increases. The relative abundance of dominant taxa including Proteobacteria, Actinobacteriota, Ascomycota, and Basidiomycota at the phylum level, as well as Gammaproteobacteria, Thermoleophilia, Dothideomycetes, and Agaricomycetes at the class level, differed significantly between Verticillium wilt-affected and healthy plants. Co-occurrence networks revealed that the fungal network of Verticillium wilt-affected roots was denser with more negative interactions, which may be relevant to functional changes from reciprocity to competition in the microbial community, in response to V. dahliae infection. The results enhanced our understanding on the relationships between the endophytic microbiome and Verticillium wilt, which could provide information for the management of this disease in C. coggygria.
Evaluation of a New Automated Mono-Test for the Detection of Aspergillus Galactomannan: Comparison of Aspergillus Galactomannan Ag VirCLIA® Mono-Test with PlateliaTM Aspergillus Ag ELISA Assay
Authors: Lo Cascio Giuliana , Lepera Valentina , Sorrentino Annarita , Caleca Domenico , Gigante Paolo , Tocci Gabriella , Bazaj Alda , Mancini Annalisa , Bolzoni Marina , Cattadori Evelina , Gibellini Davide , Gorrini Chiara , Farina Claudio , Schiavo Roberta ,   on behalf of the Medical Mycology Committee (CoSM)—Italian Association of Clinical Microbiology (AMCLI)
Published: November 2024

The analytical performance of the new Aspergillus Galactomannan Ag VirCLIA® mono-test (Vircell S.L.) was compared to the Platelia™ Aspergillus Ag ELISA assay (Bio-Rad). Prospective serum and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples from patients at risk of invasive aspergillosis (IA) were tested using both the Aspergillus Galactomannan Ag VirCLIA® mono-test and the Platelia™ Aspergillus Ag ELISA assay. Concordance, sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were calculated using the manufacturer-recommended cutoff levels. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis and the Youden index were performed to determine the optimal cutoff. A total of 187 serum samples and 73 BAL samples were analyzed with both assays. The concordance between the Aspergillus Galactomannan Ag VirCLIA® mono-test and the Platelia™ Aspergillus Ag ELISA assay was 87.8%, with a Cohen’s kappa of 0.75. The sensitivity and specificity of the Aspergillus Galactomannan Ag VirCLIA® mono-test were 78.6% and 96.2%, respectively, with positive and negative predictive values of 94.8% and 83.3%. The ROC curve for the Aspergillus Galactomannan Ag VirCLIA® mono-test demonstrated an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.87, and the Youden index at the manufacturer’s established cutoff was 0.73. This new Aspergillus Galactomannan Ag VirCLIA® mono-test exhibited adequate analytical and clinical performance, showing good correlation with the Platelia™ Aspergillus Ag ELISA assay. The single-sample, semi-automated test is user-friendly, allowing small laboratories to perform the test on demand without the need for batch evaluations, providing a useful solution for timely diagnostic support for clinicians.
How Can an Urban Botanical Garden in a Densely Built-Up Landscape Develop Sustainably with Urban Renewal?—The Case of Shanghai Botanical Garden
Authors: Zhang Ting , Yan Wei , Guo Jiankang
Published: November 2024

Urban botanical gardens collect, preserve, research, and utilize important regional plant resources and serve as ecologically friendly cores of development and renewal for urban organisms. Meanwhile, they offer garden landscape displays and public science education. Furthermore, biodiversity conservation has become important globally. Here, the connotation of urban botanical gardens is interpreted, the functional evolution of urban botanical gardens is examined, and the challenges of sustainably developing urban botanical gardens in the context of biodiversity conservation are analysed. Taking the Shanghai Botanical Garden as an example, the abilities of urban botanical gardens in high-density downtown areas to coexist with urban spaces and thrive along with cities—thus enhancing their five core functions of ex situ conservation, scientific research, popular science education, garden horticulture, and public service—are discussed. These discussions provide references for the sustainable development of urban botanical gardens in similarly high-density city centres.