bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Explaining the Validity of the ASVAB for Job-Relevant Multitasking Performance: The Role of Placekeeping Ability
Authors: Hambrick David Z. , Burgoyne Alexander P. , Altmann Erik M. , Matteson Tyler J.
Published: December 2023

Scores on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) predict military job (and training) performance better than any single variable so far identified. However, it remains unclear what factors explain this predictive relationship. Here, we investigated the contributions of fluid intelligence (Gf) and two executive functions—placekeeping ability and attention control—to the relationship between the Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) score from the ASVAB and job-relevant multitasking performance. Psychometric network analyses revealed that Gf and placekeeping ability independently contributed to and largely explained the AFQT–multitasking performance relationship. The contribution of attention control to this relationship was negligible. However, attention control did relate positively and significantly to Gf and placekeeping ability, consistent with the hypothesis that it is a cognitive “primitive” underlying the individual differences in higher-level cognition. Finally, hierarchical regression analyses revealed stronger evidence for the incremental validity of Gf and placekeeping ability in the prediction of multitasking performance than for the incremental validity of attention control. The results shed light on factors that may underlie the predictive validity of global measures of cognitive ability and suggest how the ASVAB might be augmented to improve its predictive validity.
A Critical Review of On-Line Oil Wear Debris Particle Detection Sensors
Authors: Han Wenbo , Mu Xiaotong , Liu Yu , Wang Xin , Li Wei , Bai Chenzhao , Zhang Hongpeng
Published: December 2023

In the field of marine engineering, the friction and wear experienced by rotating mechanisms are recognized as significant contributors to the failure of marine machinery. In order to enhance the safety and dependability of marine ship operations, the implementation of on-line oil wear debris particle detection sensors enables the on-line monitoring of oil and facilitates the rapid identification of abnormal wear locations. This paper provides a critical review of the recent research progress and development trends in the field of sensors for on-line detection of oil wear debris particles. According to the method of sensor detection, wear debris particle detection sensors can be classified into two distinct categories: electrical and non-electrical sensors. Electrical sensors encompass a range of types, including inductive, capacitive, and resistive sensors. Non-electrical sensors encompass a range of technologies, such as image processing sensors, optical sensors, and ultrasonic sensors. Finally, this review addresses the future research directions for wear debris particle detection sensors in light of the challenging problems currently faced by these sensors.
Maritime Transport Network in Korea: Spatial-Temporal Density and Path Planning
Authors: Lee Jeong-Seok , Kim Tae-Hoon , Park Yong-Gil
Published: December 2023

The increase in maritime traffic and vessel size has strengthened the need for economical and safe maritime transportation networks. Currently, ship path planning is based on past experience and shortest route usage. However, the increasing complexity of the marine environment and the development of autonomous ships require automatic shortest path generation based on maritime traffic networks. This paper proposes an efficient shortest path planning method using Dijkstra’s algorithm based on a maritime traffic network dataset created by extracting maritime traffic routes through a spatial-temporal density analysis of large-scale AIS data and Delaunay triangulation. Additionally, the depth information of all digital charts in Korea was set as a safety contour to support safe path planning. The proposed network-based shortest path planning method was compared with the path planning and sailing distance of a training ship, and compliance with maritime laws was verified. The results demonstrate the practicality and safety of the proposed method, which can enable the establishment of a safe and efficient maritime transportation network along with the development of autonomous ships.
Reproductive Cycle of the Sea Urchin Paracentrotus lividus (Lamarck, 1816) on the Central West Coast of Portugal: New Perspective on the Gametogenic Cycle
Authors: Raposo Andreia , Ferreira Susana M. F. , Ramos Rodolfo , Anjos Catarina , Gonçalves Sílvia C. , Santos Pedro M. , Baptista Teresa , Costa José L. , Pombo Ana
Published: December 2023

A population of sea urchins, Paracentrotus lividus, from the central west coast of Portugal was studied to characterise their reproductive biology and possible relationships with environmental factors. An annual gametogenic cycle was found, with a broad spawning season, from May to November, according to a relatively synchronous gamete maturation process. Depending on the environmental factors (temperature, photoperiod), two separate periods could be distinguished, with more individuals maturing and spawning at the same time. When this happened, the first event evolved when temperature rose to a critical point, and the second occurred afterwards, when temperature decreased significantly. Notwithstanding, it was found that individuals matured later than previously described for other populations (e.g., north of Portugal), mostly in late spring, with a higher gonadosomatic index in May. A new classification scale was proposed for identifying the stages of P. lividus gametogenic cycle, based on new findings. It contributed to its simplification and easier comprehension. This study provides useful information for a differentiated sustainable management of P. lividus, according to local conditions. Establishing a closed harvesting season might be considered, based on the differences observed between Portuguese populations and other European ones.
Assessing the Fishing Impact on the Marine Ecosystem of Guishan Island in the Northeastern Waters of Taiwan Using Ecopath and Ecosim
Authors: Chin Chien-Pang , Su Kuan-Yu , Liu Kwang-Ming
Published: December 2023

The northeastern waters of Guishan Island constitute one of the crucial fishing grounds for coastal trawl fishery in Taiwan and have been exploited for many decades. To construct the marine ecosystem and to examine the interactions among trophic levels of fisheries resources in the waters of Guishan Island, historical catch, catch composition, biological information, fishing effort, environmental data such as sea surface temperature, salinity, and nutrients were analyzed using Ecopath with Ecosim. The results indicated that the longline and drift net fisheries have a very minor incidental catch of cetaceans, with a fishing mortality (F) of 0.01 year−1 and an exploitation rate (E) of 0.03. The F and E were 0.308 year−1 and 0.617 for small skates and rays, and were 0.261 year−1 and 0.580, respectively, for small sharks. The F and E of the dolphinfish, Coryphaena hippurus, an important pelagic species, were 0.411 year−1 and 0.245, respectively. Fisheries had negative impact on major commercial species except the dolphinfish and the oil fish, Lepidocybium spp., which benefited from the reduction of their predators or competitors. The keystone species of the Guishan Island marine ecosystem is phytoplankton, which has the lowest trophic level and great biomass, and is an important energy source of the ecosystem. The influences of zooplankton and anchovy rank as second and third, respectively, with regard to the keystone species in the ecosystem due to their great biomass. Regarding the biomass of less abundant species, carangids had the highest influence followed by hairtail due to their feeding habits. The results of simulations using Ecosim indicated that the hairtail, small sharks, skates and rays, mackerels, and marine eels will benefit if fishing efforts are reduced by 30%. On the other hand, the biomass of phytoplankton, zooplankton, demersal benthivores, and shrimps will decrease due to the increase in the biomass of their predators.
Food Selectivity in Juvenile Three-Spined Stickleback Gasterosteus aculeatus L. (Gasterosteidae) at Nursery Grounds in the White Sea
Authors: Genelt-Yanovskaya Anna S. , Genelt-Yanovskiy Evgeny A. , Polyakova Natalia V. , Ivanov Mikhail V. , Ivanova Tatiana S. , Lajus Dmitry L.
Published: December 2023

The spatial and temporal variability in the dietary preferences of juvenile three-spined stickleback Gasterosteus aculeatus were studied across the typical coastal habitats of Keret Archipelago, Kandalaksha Bay(the White Sea). The sampling of fish using a beach seine was conducted in the late July–early August period and in late August. Additionally, zooplankton samples were collected to conduct a quantitative assessment of the abundance of potential prey items. The similarity percentage (SIMPER) analysis was applied to the data obtained from the stomach content and revealed the five planktonic taxa most prominently contributing to the diet of juvenile sticklebacks. Among these, the copepod Temora longicornis was the most important prey item at marine sites, while Acartia longiremis dominated the diet of fish in the marine lagoon. The calculation of the selectivity index revealed that some taxa (such as A. longiremis) were always avoided by juvenile fish, whereas the selectivity of some taxa increased in late August. In general, juvenile sticklebacks demonstrated a pronounced individual variation in their selectivity, even when a particular prey item was selected positively during the whole period of study. Our data highlight that despite the predominant consumption of easily available prey by juvenile sticklebacks, they demonstrate taxonomic- and size-specific prey selectivity.
Transcriptional Reprogramming of Candida tropicalis in Response to Isoespintanol Treatment
Authors: Contreras-Martínez Orfa Inés , Angulo-Ortíz Alberto , Santafé-Patiño Gilmar , Aviña-Padilla Katia , Velasco-Pareja María Camila , Yasnot María Fernanda
Published: December 2023

Candida tropicalis, an opportunistic pathogen, ranks among the primary culprits of invasive candidiasis, a condition notorious for its resistance to conventional antifungal drugs. The urgency to combat these drug-resistant infections has spurred the quest for novel therapeutic compounds, with a particular focus on those of natural origin. In this study, we set out to evaluate the impact of isoespintanol (ISO), a monoterpene derived from Oxandra xylopioides, on the transcriptome of C. tropicalis. Leveraging transcriptomics, our research aimed to unravel the intricate transcriptional changes induced by ISO within this pathogen. Our differential gene expression analysis unveiled 186 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in response to ISO, with a striking 85% of these genes experiencing upregulation. These findings shed light on the multifaceted nature of ISO’s influence on C. tropicalis, spanning a spectrum of physiological, structural, and metabolic adaptations. The upregulated DEGs predominantly pertained to crucial processes, including ergosterol biosynthesis, protein folding, response to DNA damage, cell wall integrity, mitochondrial activity modulation, and cellular responses to organic compounds. Simultaneously, 27 genes were observed to be repressed, affecting functions such as cytoplasmic translation, DNA damage checkpoints, membrane proteins, and metabolic pathways like trans-methylation, trans-sulfuration, and trans-propylamine. These results underscore the complexity of ISO’s antifungal mechanism, suggesting that it targets multiple vital pathways within C. tropicalis. Such complexity potentially reduces the likelihood of the pathogen developing rapid resistance to ISO, making it an attractive candidate for further exploration as a therapeutic agent. In conclusion, our study provides a comprehensive overview of the transcriptional responses of C. tropicalis to ISO exposure. The identified molecular targets and pathways offer promising avenues for future research and the development of innovative antifungal therapies to combat infections caused by this pathogenic yeast.
Nutraceutical Potential of Lentinula edodes’ Spent Mushroom Substrate: A Comprehensive Study on Phenolic Composition, Antioxidant Activity, and Antibacterial Effects
Authors: Baptista Filipa , Campos Joana , Costa-Silva Valéria , Pinto Ana Rita , Saavedra Maria José , Ferreira Luis Mendes , Rodrigues Miguel , Barros Ana Novo
Published: December 2023

Lentinula edodes, commonly known as shiitake mushroom, is renowned for its potential health advantages. This research delves into the often-overlooked by-product of shiitake cultivation, namely spent mushroom substrate (SMS), to explore its nutraceutical properties. The SMS samples were collected and subjected to different extraction methods, namely short or long agitation, and ultrasound-assisted extractions using different temperatures and distilled water or a 50% (v/v) ethanol as solvents. The extracts were tested for phenolic content (total phenols, ortho-diphenols, and flavonoids), antioxidant capacity (DPPH, 2,2-diphenyl-1 picrylhydrazyl; ABTS, 2,2’-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid; and FRAP, ferric reducing antioxidant power), and antibacterial activity. The different extraction methods revealed substantial variations (p < 0.05) in phenolic composition and antioxidant capacity. The highest phenolic content and antioxidant capacity were achieved using 24 h extraction, agitation, 50 °C, and ethanol as the solvent. Furthermore, the extracted compounds displayed antibacterial activity in specific tested bacterial strains. This study highlights the nutraceutical potential of L. edodes’ SMS, positioning it as a valuable dietary supplement for animal nutrition, with emphasis on its prebiotic properties. Hence, this research unveils the promising health benefits of SMS in both human and animal nutrition.
Influences of Internal Control on Enterprise Performance: Does an Information System Make a Difference?
Authors: Alshaiti Hani
Published: December 2023

It is generally perceived that the effective implementation of an adequate internal control system prevents and controls an entity’s risks and improves its procedures and performance. This study empirically investigates the relationship between the internal control system and firms’ performance, with particular emphasis on the moderation role of an integrated information system. For this purpose, a survey was developed and sent to 215 Saudi firms that had implemented an integrated information system. A hundred and two valid responses were received. Partial least squares structural equation modeling was utilized for the data analysis and hypothesis testing. The findings confirmed that organizational structure, prospectors’ strategy, information system quality, and management support significantly influence the internal control system for the study sample. The finding also supports the role of an information system as a moderator variable in the relationship between internal control and organizational performance. Additionally, the study elucidates the importance of information system maturity for information system quality.
Moisture Transport in Loose Fibrous Insulations under Steady-State Boundary Conditions
Authors: Kosiński Piotr
Published: December 2023

This research aimed to compare the transport capacity of loose-fill mineral wool, cellulose fibers, and wood wool to transfer moisture under steady-state conditions. The tests were carried out in the heat flow meter apparatus, which created a constant thermal field, limiting samples of sorptive moistened materials. The thermal conductivity, stabilization time, and moisture content of the samples were measured. Based on the variation in the results, the dynamism of moisture transport in the materials was determined. Mineral wool samples showed the lowest sorption. As a result, the moisture transport in this material stopped the fastest. In the case of cellulose and wood fibers, moisture transport continued throughout the whole test procedure. It was noted that the amount of moisture transport is influenced primarily by the structure of the fibers, the moisture content, and the possible presence of air in the pores. The wetter the material, the faster the transport. The dynamism of moisture transport according to trends of thermal conductivity changes over time was analyzed. The greater the slope of the linear regression line, the greater the dynamics of change. The smallest dynamics of change were found for mineral wool, for which the measured slope was between −0.008 and −0.033. For cellulose and wood wool, the range of slope was from −0.141 to −0.210, and from −0.162 to −0.211, respectively. The results of this research may provide the basis for further work on buffering moisture in the adjacent internal layers of the frame walls.
The Mechanism of Deformation Compatibility of TA2/Q345 Laminated Metal in Dynamic Testing with Split-Hopkinson Pressure Bar
Authors: Fu Yanshu , Chen Shoubo , Zhao Penglong , Ye Xiaojun
Published: December 2023

The laminated metal materials are widely used in military, automobile and aerospace industries, but their dynamic response mechanical behavior needs to be further clarified, especially for materials with joint interface paralleling to the loading direction. The mechanical properties of TA2/Q345 (Titanium/Steel) laminated metal of this structure were studied by using the split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB). To shed light on the stress-state of a laminated metal with parallel structure, the relative non-uniformity of internal stress R(t) was analyzed. The mechanism of deformation compatibility of welding interface was discussed in detail. The current experiments demonstrate that in the strain rate range of 931–2250 s−1, the discrepancies of the internal stress in specimens are less than 5%, so the stress-state equilibrium hypothesis is satisfied during the effective loading time. Therefore, it is reasonable to believe that all stress–strain responses of the material are valid and reliable. Furthermore, the four deformation stages, i.e., the elastic stage, the plastic modulus compatible deformation stage, uniform plastic deformation stage and non-uniform plastic deformation stage, of the laminated metal with parallel structure were firstly proposed under the modulating action of the welding interface. The deformation stages are helpful for better utilization of laminated materials.
Influence of the Relative Displacements and the Minimum Chip Thickness on the Surface Texture in Shoulder Milling
Authors: Nowakowski Lukasz , Blasiak Slawomir , Skrzyniarz Michal
Published: December 2023

The formation of surface texture in milling is a complex process affected by numerous factors. This paper focuses on the surface roughness of X37CrMoV51 steel machined by shoulder milling. The aim of the study was to develop a mathematical model to predict the surface roughness parameter Ra. The proposed model for predicting the surface roughness parameter Ra in shoulder milling takes into account the feed per tooth, fz, the corner radius, rε, and the actual number of inserts involved in the material removal process as well as hmin and D(ξ). The correlation coefficient between the theoretical and experimental data was high (0.96). The milling tests were carried out on a three-axis vertical milling machine using a square shoulder face mill. The geometric analysis of the face mill shows that at a feed rate of 0.04 mm/tooth, cutting was performed by three out of five inserts, and when the feed rate exceeded 0.12 mm/tooth, material was removed by all inserts. The minimum chip thickness parameter and the standard deviation of the relative displacement increased as the feed increased. Over the whole range of feeds per tooth, the displacement increased by 0.63 µm. Higher cutting speeds resulted in lower minimum chip thicknesses and the average standard deviation of the relative displacements for the whole range of cutting speeds was 2 μm.
Production of Porous Biochar from Cow Dung Using Microwave Process
Authors: Tsai Wen-Tien , Kuo Li-An , Tsai Chi-Hung , Huang Hsiang-Lan , Yang Ru-Yuan , Tsai Jen-Hsiung
Published: December 2023

To valorize livestock manure, the present study investigated the production of biochar from cow dung (CD) by microwave pyrolysis. The pore properties and chemical characteristics of CD and CD-based biochar products were found to correlate with the process parameters like microwave power (300–1000 W) and residence time (5–20 min). The findings indicated that CD is an excellent biomass based on the richness of lignocellulosic constituents from the results of proximate analysis and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Higher calorific values were obtained at mild microwave conditions, giving the maximal enhancement factor 139% in comparison with the calorific value of CD (18.97 MJ/kg). Also, it can be concluded that the biochar product obtained at 800 W for a holding time of 5 min had the maximal BET surface area of 127 m2/g and total pore volume of 0.104 cm3/g, which were microporous and mesoporous in the nitrogen adsorption–desorption adsorption analysis. On the other hand, the CD-based biochar contained oxygen-containing functional groups and inorganic minerals based on the spectroscopic analyses by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), thus featuring to be prone to hydrophilicity in aqueous solutions.
Microstructure, Mechanical Properties, and Corrosion Resistance of Ag–Cu Alloys with La2O3 Fabricated by Selective Laser Melting
Authors: Zhao Xueyang , Zheng Haiyan , Ma Xin , Sheng Yinying , Zeng Dahai , Yuan Junping
Published: December 2023

Ag and its alloys, when prepared by a selective laser melting (SLM) process, have a low density and poor overall performance due to their high reflectivity when the most commonly used laser (λ = 1060 nm) is used, and they have exorbitant thermal conductivity. These characteristics lead to the insufficient melting of the powders and severely limit the applications of additive manufactured silver alloys. To improve the absorption of the laser, as well as for better mechanical properties and higher resistance to sulfidation, Ag–Cu alloys with different La2O3 contents were prepared in this work using the SLM process, via the mechanical mixing of La2O3 nanoparticles with Ag–Cu alloy powders. A series of analyses and tests were conducted to study the effects of La2O3 in Ag–Cu alloys on their density, microstructure, mechanical properties, and corrosion resistance. The results revealed that the addition of La2O3 particles to Ag–Cu alloy powders improved the laser absorptivity and reduced defects during the SLM process, leading to a significant rise from 7.76 g/cm3 to 9.16 g/cm3 in the density of the Ag–Cu alloys. The phase composition of the Ag–Cu alloys prepared by SLM was Silver-3C. La2O3 addition had no influence on the phase composition, but refined the grains of the Ag–Cu alloys by inhibiting the growth of columnar grains during the SLM process. No remarkable preferred orientation existed in all the samples prepared with or without La2O3. An upwards trend was achieved in the hardness of the Ag–Cu alloy by increasing the contents of La2O3 from 0 to 1.2%, and the average hardness was enhanced significantly, from 0.97 GPa to 2.88 GPa when the alloy contained 1.2% La2O3 due to the reduced pore defects and the refined grains resulting from the effects of the La2O3. EIS and PD tests of the samples in 1% Na2S solution proved that La2O3 addition improved the corrosion resistance of the Ag–Cu alloys practically and efficaciously. The samples containing La2O3 exhibited higher impedance values and lower corrosion current densities.
Research Progress of Aluminum Alloy Welding/Plastic Deformation Composite Forming Technology in Achieving High-Strength Joints
Authors: Song Gang , Wang Zejie , Fan Xiaoyu , Liu Liming
Published: December 2023

Fusion welding causes joint deterioration when joining aluminum alloys, which limits the use of aluminum alloy components in high-end equipment. This paper focuses on an overview of how to achieve high-strength aluminum alloy welded joints using welding/plastic deformation composite forming technology. The current technology is summarized into two categories: plastic deformation welding and plastic deformation strengthening. Plastic deformation welding includes friction stir welding, friction welding, diffusion welding, superplastic solid-state welding, explosive welding, and electromagnetic pulse welding. Plastic deformation strengthening refers to the application of plastic deformation to the weld seam or heat-affected zone, or even the whole joint, after welding or during welding, including physical surface modification and large-scale plastic deformation technology. Important processing parameters of plastic deformation welding and their effects on weld quality are discussed, and the microstructure is described. The effect of plastic deformation strengthening technology on the microstructure and performance evolution, including the hardness, tensile strength, fatigue property, residual stress, and hot cracking of aluminum alloy welded joints, and its evolution mechanism are systematically analyzed. Finally, this paper discusses the future development of plastic deformation strengthening technology and anticipates growing interest in this research area.
A Neural Network Weights Initialization Approach for Diagnosing Real Aircraft Engine Inter-Shaft Bearing Faults
Authors: Berghout Tarek , Bentrcia Toufik , Lim Wei Hong , Benbouzid Mohamed
Published: December 2023

The deep learning diagnosis of aircraft engine-bearing faults enables cost-effective predictive maintenance while playing an important role in increasing the safety, reliability, and efficiency of aircraft operations. Because of highly dynamic and harsh operating conditions of this system, such modeling is challenging due to data complexity and drift, making it difficult to reveal failure patterns. As a result, the objective of this study is dual. To begin, a highly structured data preprocessing strategy ranging from extraction, denoising, outlier removal, scaling, and balancing is provided to solve data complexity that resides specifically in outliers, noise, and data imbalance problems. Gap statistics under k-means clustering are used to evaluate preprocessing results, providing a quantitative estimate of the ideal number of clusters and thereby enhancing data representations. This is the first time, to the best of authors’ knowledge, that such a criterion has been employed for an important step in a preliminary ground truth validation in supervised learning. Furthermore, to tackle data drift issues, long-short term memory (LSTM) adaptive learning features are used and subjected to a learning parameter improvement method utilizing recursive weights initialization (RWI) across several rounds. The strength of such methodology can be seen by application to realistic, extremely new, complex, and dynamic data collected from a real test-bench. Cross validation of a single LSTM layer model with only 10 neurons shows its ability to enhance classification performance by 7.7508% over state-of-the-art results, obtaining a classification accuracy of 92.03 ± 0.0849%, which is an exceptional performance in such a benchmark.
Effects of Chest Mobilization and Breathing Exercises on Respiratory Function, Trunk Stability, and Endurance in Chronic Stroke Patients after Coronavirus Disease
Authors: Lee Yangjin , Kim Yoorim , Kim Donghoon
Published: December 2023

Background and objectives: This study investigates the effects of chest mobilization and breathing exercises on respiratory function, trunk stability, and endurance in chronic stroke patients who have contracted coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Materials and Methods: Thirty inpatients of a tertiary hospital in South Korea, who had a history of COVID-19 and were diagnosed with stroke within the last 6 months, were randomly assigned to either chest mobilization exercise with breathing exercise (CMEBE) or conservative physical therapy with breathing exercise (CPTBE) groups. The respiratory function, trunk stability, and endurance were measured at baseline and 6 weeks after the interventions. Results: Both CMEBE and CPTBE groups showed improvements in respiratory function, trunk stability, and endurance after the intervention (p < 0.05). However, the CMEBE group showed significantly greater improvements in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (p < 0.05), trunk stability (p < 0.05), and endurance (p < 0.05) than the CPTBE group. No significant intergroup difference was observed in forced vital capacity and peak expiratory flow. Conclusions: The combination of chest mobilization and breathing exercises improved respiratory muscle mobility and endurance, stabilized the trunk, and enhanced balance and the transfer of weight. The findings suggest that this intervention could be beneficial in improving respiratory function and endurance in stroke patients.
Death Due to Anaphylactic Reaction: The Role of the Forensic Pathologist in an Accurate Postmortem Diagnosis
Authors: Del Duca Fabio , Manetti Alice , Maiese Aniello , Napoletano Gabriele , Ghamlouch Alessandro , Pascale Natascha , Giorgio Bolino , Paola Frati , Russa Raffaele
Published: December 2023

Background and Objectives: The diagnosis of anaphylaxis comprehensively depends on both situational information and laboratory investigations. For this purpose, serum tryptase concentration is examined as an indicator of systemic mast cell mediator release, linked to an underlying anaphylactic process. Increased levels of tryptase may occur in some events different from anaphylaxis, but usually information from crime scene investigations is lacking and autoptic findings are not specific. For legal reasons, it is required to achieve a definite diagnosis of mast cell degranulation that can lead to a certain diagnosis of death from anaphylaxis. Immunohistochemistry seems to be a relatively simple, reliable, and easily repeatable method that can assist the forensic pathologist in the differential diagnosis of death from anaphylaxis. Materials and Methods: This work provides an overview of the current literature on immunohistochemical methods useful in the determination process of anaphylactic-related deaths. A systematic search, according to the PRISMA statement, was performed in databases to identify studies investigating immunohistochemical targets related to anaphylaxis death. Results: This work underscores the importance of anaphylaxis mediators such as tryptase, CD117, and chymase in the immunohistochemical analysis of anaphylactic deaths. Conclusions: According to the reviewed literature, the diagnosis of death due to anaphylaxis should depend not just on the suspicion of an anaphylactic reaction but also on confirming mast cell degranulation through the identification of IHC positivity for inflammatory mediators, particularly in the respiratory tract.
Sustainable Recovery of Platinum Group Metals from Spent Automotive Three-Way Catalysts through a Biogenic Thiosulfate-Copper-Ammonia System
Authors: Compagnone Mariacristina , González-Cortés José Joaquín , Pilar Yeste María , Cantero Domingo , Ramírez Martín
Published: December 2023

This study explores an eco-friendly method for recovering platinum group metals from a synthetic automotive three-way catalyst (TWC). Bioleaching of palladium (Pd) using the thiosulfate-copper-ammonia leaching processes, with biogenic thiosulfate sourced from a bioreactor used for biogas biodesulfurization, is proposed as a sustainable alternative to conventional methods. Biogenic thiosulfate production was optimized in a gas-lift bioreactor by studying the pH (8–10) and operation modes (batch and continuous) under anoxic and microaerobic conditions for 35 d. The maximum concentration of 4.9 g S2O32− L−1 of biogenic thiosulfate was reached under optimal conditions (batch mode, pH = 10, and airflow rate 0.033 vvm). To optimize Pd bioleaching from a ground TWC, screening through a Plackett–Burman design determined that oxygen and temperature significantly affected the leaching yield negatively and positively, respectively. Based on these results, an optimization through an experimental design was performed, indicating the optimal conditions to be Na2S2O3 1.2 M, CuSO4 0.03 M, (NH4)2SO4 1.5 M, Na2SO3 0.2 M, pH 8, and 60 °C. A remarkable 96.2 and 93.2% of the total Pd was successfully extracted from the solid at 5% pulp density using both commercially available and biogenic thiosulfate, highlighting the method’s versatility for Pd bioleaching from both thiosulfate sources.
Bioactive Dairy-Fermented Products and Phenolic Compounds: Together or Apart
Authors: Wróblewska Barbara , Kuliga Aleksandra , Wnorowska Kinga
Published: December 2023

Fermented dairy products (e.g., yogurt, kefir, and buttermilk) are significant in the dairy industry. They are less immunoreactive than the raw materials from which they are derived. The attractiveness of these products is based on their bioactivity and properties that induce immune or anti-inflammatory processes. In the search for new solutions, plant raw materials with beneficial effects have been combined to multiply their effects or obtain new properties. Polyphenols (e.g., flavonoids, phenolic acids, lignans, and stilbenes) are present in fruit and vegetables, but also in coffee, tea, or wine. They reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, or inflammation. Hence, it is becoming valuable to combine dairy proteins with polyphenols, of which epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) and chlorogenic acid (CGA) show a particular predisposition to bind to milk proteins (e.g., α-lactalbumin β-lactoglobulin, αs1-casein, and κ-casein). Reducing the allergenicity of milk proteins by combining them with polyphenols is an essential issue. As potential ‘metabolic prebiotics’, they also contribute to stimulating the growth of beneficial bacteria and inhibiting pathogenic bacteria in the human gastrointestinal tract. In silico methods, mainly docking, assess the new structures of conjugates and the consequences of the interactions that are formed between proteins and polyphenols, as well as to predict their action in the body.
Identification of Terpene Compositions in the Leaves and Inflorescences of Hybrid Cannabis Species Using Headspace-Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Lee Sangin , Kim Eun Jae , Kwon Eunjeong , Oh Seo Jeong , Cho Mansoo , Kim Chul Min , Lee Wonwoong , Hong Jongki
Published: December 2023

Although cannabidiol and tetrahydrocannabinol in Cannabis species exert their pharmacological effects via the endocannabinoid system, it is believed that other phytochemicals, particularly terpenes, can modulate therapeutic outcomes through the entourage effect. Therefore, to gain a better understanding of the pharmacological effects of Cannabis, obtaining information on phytochemical compositions, including mono-, di-, and sesqui-terpenes in Cannabis species is essential. Applying a sophisticated analytical method is indispensable. In this study, headspace-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (HS-GC/MS) was employed to identify major terpenes in the leaves and inflorescences of hybrid Cannabis species. The incubation time and temperature conditions for HS-GC/MS were optimized. This method was successfully applied to the leaves (n = 9) and inflorescences (n = 7) of hybrid Cannabis species. A total of 26 terpenes in Cannabis species were detected, and six major components, such as α-pinene (9.8–2270 μg/g), β-pinene (2.6–930 μg/g), myrcene (0.7–17,400 μg/g), limonene (1.3–300 μg/g), β-caryophyllene (60–3300 μg/g), and α-humulene (40–870 μg/g), were quantified. Each sample showed different terpene compositions, but six major terpenes among all the terpenes detected were consistently found in both the leaves and inflorescences of hybrid Cannabis species. In this study, the six major terpenes’ potential in hybrid Cannabis species was evaluated as biomarkers to distinguish hybrid Cannabis species samples. This study contributes to a better understanding of the entourage effect of Cannabis-based botanical drugs.
A Review of the Utilization of Canola Protein as an Emulsifier in the Development of Food Emulsions
Authors: Tang Yan Ran , Ghosh Supratim
Published: December 2023

Canola is the second-largest cultivated oilseed crop in the world and produces meal consisting of about 35–40% proteins. Despite this, less than 1% of the global plant-based protein market is taken up by canola protein. The reason behind such underutilization of canola protein and its rapeseed counterpart could be the harsh conditions of the industrial oil extraction process, the dark colour of the meal, the presence of various antinutrients, the variability in the protein composition based on the source, and the different properties of the two major protein components. Although academic research has shown immense potential for the use of canola protein and its rapeseed counterpart in emulsion development and stabilization, there is still a vast knowledge gap in efficiently utilizing canola proteins as an effective emulsifier in the development of various emulsion-based foods and beverages. In this context, this review paper summarizes the last 15 years of research on canola and rapeseed proteins as food emulsifiers. It discusses the protein extraction methods, modifications made to improve emulsification, emulsion composition, preparation protocols, and emulsion stability results. The need for further improvement in the scope of the research and reducing the knowledge gap is also highlighted, which could be useful for the food industry to rationally select canola proteins and optimize the processing parameters to obtain products with desirable attributes.
Combined Transcriptomics and Metabolomics Analysis Reveals the Effect of Selenium Fertilization on Lycium barbarum Fruit
Authors: Yang Wenqin , Jiang Tingting , Wang Yaqi , Wang Xiaojing , Wang Rui
Published: December 2023

As a beneficial nutrient and essential trace element, selenium plays a significant role in plant growth functions and human protein biosynthesis. Plant selenium enrichment is mainly obtained from both natural soil and exogenous selenium supplementation, while human beings consume selenium-enriched foods for the purposes of selenium supplementation. In this study, different types of selenium fertilizers were sprayed onto Lycium barbarum in Ningxia, and transcriptomics and metabolomics techniques were used to explore the effects of selenium on the fruit differentials and differential genes in Lycium barbarum. Taking the “Ning Qiyi No.1” wolfberry as the research object, sodium selenite, nano-selenium, and organic selenium were sprayed at a concentration of 100 mg·L−1 three times from the first fruiting period to the harvesting period, with a control treatment comprising the spraying of clear water. We determined the major metabolites and differential genes of the amino acids and derivatives, flavonoids, and alkaloids in ripe wolfberries. We found that spraying selenium significantly enhanced the Lycium barbarum metabolic differentiators; the most effective spray was the organic selenium, with 129 major metabolic differentiators and 10 common metabolic pathways screened after spraying. Nano-selenium was the next best fertilizer we screened, with 111 major metabolic differentiators, the same number as organic selenium in terms of differential genes and common metabolite pathways. Sodium selenite was the least effective of the three, with only 59 of its major metabolic differentials screened, but its differential genes and metabolites were enriched for five common pathways.
RETRACTED: Akter et al. Potential Role of Natural Products to Combat Radiotherapy and Their Future Perspectives. Molecules 2021, 26, 5997
Authors: Akter Rokeya , Najda Agnieszka , Rahman Md. Habibur , Shah Muddaser , Wesołowska Sylwia , Hassan Syed Shams ul , Mubin Sidra , Bibi Parveen , Saeeda Saeeda
Published: December 2023

This published review [...]
Efficient Degradation of Ciprofloxacin in Water over Copper-Loaded Biochar Using an Enhanced Non-Radical Pathway
Authors: Guo Ting , Yang Qinyu , Qiu Ruoqi , Gao Jie , Shi Jingzhuan , Lei Xiaoyun , Zhao Zuoping
Published: December 2023

The development of an efficient catalyst with excellent performance using agricultural biomass waste as raw materials is highly desirable for practical water pollution control. Herein, nano-sized, metal-decorated biochar was successfully synthesized with in situ chemical deposition at room temperature. The optimized BC-Cu (1:4) composite exhibited excellent peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation performance due to the enhanced non-radical pathway. The as-prepared BC-Cu (1:4) composite displays a superior 99.99% removal rate for ciprofloxacin degradation (initial concentration 20 mg·L−1) within 40 min. In addition, BC-Cu (1:4) has superior acid-base adaptability (3.98~11.95) and anti-anion interference ability. The trapping experiments and identification of reactive oxidative radicals confirmed the crucial role of enhanced singlet oxygen for ciprofloxacin degradation via a BC-Cu (1:4)/PMS system. This work provides a new idea for developing highly active, low-cost, non-radical catalysts for efficient antibiotic removal.
Correction: Han et al. Study on the Joint Toxicity of BPZ, BPS, BPC and BPF to Zebrafish. Molecules 2021, 26, 4180
Authors: Han Ying , Fei Yumeng , Wang Mingxin , Xue Yingang , Chen Hui , Liu Yuxuan
Published: December 2023

In the original publication [...]
Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion of [14C]BS1801, a Selenium-Containing Drug Candidate, in Rats
Authors: Yang Cheng , Xue Mingzhen , He Yifei , Yin Hanwei , Yang Chen , Zhong Dafang , Zeng Huihui , Zheng Yuandong , Diao Xingxing
Published: December 2023

BS1801 is a selenium-containing drug candidate with potential for treating liver and lung fibrosis. To fully elucidate the biotransformation of BS1801 in animals and provide sufficient preclinical drug metabolism data for human mass balance study, the metabolism of BS1801 in rats was investigated. We used radiolabeling techniques to investigate the mass balance, tissue distribution, and metabolite identification of BS1801 in Sprague–Dawley/Long–Evans rats after a single oral dose of 100 mg/kg (100 μCi/kg) [14C]BS1801: 1. The mean recovery of radioactive substances in urine and feces was 93.39% within 168 h postdose, and feces were the main excretion route. 2. Additionally, less than 1.00% of the dose was recovered from either urine or bile. 3. BS1801-related components were widely distributed throughout the body. 4. Fifteen metabolites were identified in rat plasma, urine, feces, and bile, and BS1801 was detected only in feces. 5. BS1801-M484, the methylation product obtained via a N–Se bond reduction in BS1801, was the most abundant drug-related component in plasma. The main metabolic pathways of BS1801 were reduction, amide hydrolysis, oxidation, and methylation. Overall, BS1801 was distributed throughout the body, and excreted mainly as an intact BS1801 form through feces. No differences were observed between male and female rats in distribution, metabolism, and excretion of BS1801.
The Structure of 2,6-Di-tert-butylphenol–Argon by Rotational Spectroscopy
Authors: Li Wenqin , Maris Assimo , Melandri Sonia , Lesarri Alberto , Evangelisti Luca
Published: December 2023

The molecular structure of a van der Waals-bonded complex involving 2,6-di-tert-butylphenol and a single argon atom has been determined through rotational spectroscopy. The experimentally derived structural parameters were compared to the outcomes of quantum chemical calculations that can accurately account for dispersive interactions in the cluster. The findings revealed a π-bound configuration for the complex, with the argon atom engaging the aromatic ring. The microwave spectrum reveals both fine and hyperfine tunneling components. The main spectral doubling is evident as two distinct clusters of lines, with an approximate separation of 179 MHz, attributed to the torsional motion associated with the hydroxyl group. Additionally, each component of this doublet further splits into three components, each with separations measuring less than 1 MHz. Investigation into intramolecular dynamics using a one-dimensional flexible model suggests that the main tunneling phenomenon originates from equivalent positions of the hydroxyl group. A double-minimum potential function with a barrier of 1000 (100) cm−1 effectively describes this extensive amplitude motion. However, the three-fold fine structure, potentially linked to internal motions within the tert-butyl group, requires additional scrutiny for a comprehensive understanding.
Breaking Azacalix[4]arenes into Induline Derivatives
Authors: Chen Zhongrui , Canard Gabriel , Grauby Olivier , Mourot Benjamin , Siri Olivier
Published: December 2023

Tetraamino-tetranitro-azacalixarene 5 is at the crossroad of two different families of compounds depending on the conditions and the agent used to reduce the NO2 groups: (1) azacalixphyrin 7 in neutral medium, or (2) phenazinium of type 8 in acidic medium. The key role of the N-substituted amino functions at the periphery is highlighted by investigating octaaminoazacalixarene as a model compound, and by using the corresponding tetrahydroxy-tetranitro-azacalixarene 15 as a precursor, which behaves differently.
The Non-Coding RNA Journal Club: Highlights on Recent Papers—13
Authors: Shiu Patrick K. T. , DiStefano Johanna K. , Alahari Suresh K. , Enguita Francisco J. , Feinberg Mark W. , Sideris Nikolaos , Bayraktar Salih , Castellano Leandro , Buitrago Diana Luna , Caporali Andrea , Mannucci Alessandro , Goel Ajay
Published: December 2023

We are delighted to share with you our thirteenth Journal Club and highlight some of the most interesting papers published recently [...]
Usual Nutrient Intake Distribution and Prevalence of Nutrient Intake Inadequacy among Japanese Children and Adults: A Nationwide Study Based on 8-Day Dietary Records
Authors: Shinozaki Nana , Murakami Kentaro , Masayasu Shizuko , Sasaki Satoshi
Published: December 2023

In this cross-sectional study, we evaluated nutrient intake adequacy in 4450 Japanese people aged 1–79 years. Dietary data was collected through non-consecutive 8-day weighed dietary records. Usual nutrient intakes from foods and beverages were estimated using the Multiple Source Method. Participant proportions with intakes below and above the Japanese Dietary Reference Intakes (2020) were calculated. Usual intakes of most nutrients were below the Estimated Average Requirement; calcium showed a high percentage of inadequacy across all sex and age groups (29–88%), and iron showed a high inadequacy among females aged 12–64 years (79–95%). The percentages of energy from protein and carbohydrates, dietary fibre, and potassium were typically below the lower limit of the Tentative Dietary Goal for Preventing Lifestyle-related Diseases (DG). Furthermore, over 20% of the participants exceeded the upper limit of the DG for the percentages of energy from total and saturated fats, and over 88% exceeded the upper limit of the DG for sodium. Japanese children and adults could improve their nutrient intake by increasing calcium, iron, dietary fibre, and potassium and reducing total and saturated fats and sodium. These findings can inform policies and interventions to improve nutrient intake in Japan.