bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CFD-Predicted Rotordynamic Characteristics for High-Temperature Water Liquid Seal Considering Tooth Deformation
Authors: Chen Pingwei , Wang Tong , Ma Wensheng , Xie Zhongliang , Yu Guangbin
Published: September 2022

With the development of high-temperature centrifugal pump, the temperature of the medium in the pump must be higher than the normal water temperature. It is particularly important to study the rotordynamic characteristics of the seal at high temperature due to it being the core component of the rotor system. This paper takes the high temperature water liquid seal as a research object to study its rotordynamic characteristics based on the fluid-solid-thermal coupling, the deformation of seal teeth under thermal and dynamic loads was calculated. Based on the test rig, the leakage flow rate and drag power loss of water liquid seal at 20 °C, 50 °C, and 86 °C temperatures were tested and compared with the CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) calculation. Meanwhile, the DEFINE-CG-MOTION and DEFINE-PROFILE control macro were used to establish the rotor whirling equation, the frequency-independent rotordynamic coefficients (K, k, C, c) and frequency-dependent rotordynamic coefficients (Keff,Ceff) were evaluated by transient CFD method. This analysis was done at three different pressure drops (2.08, 4.12, and 8.25 bar) and three rotational speeds (2000, 4000, and 6000 r/min). The results show that with the increase of water temperature, both the leakage flow rate and drag power loss decrease, indicating the 86 °C water seal has a better sealing capacity. From the rotordynamic perspective, with the increase of water temperature, the direct stiffness coefficient decreases, and the effective stiffness coefficient Keff for 20 °C water seal possesses a better stiffness capability than the other two temperature seals. The effective damping coefficient Ceff for 20 °C water seal is larger than the other two temperature seals, which means it is more stable for the rotor system.
Prediction of Mechanical Properties of Highly Functional Lightweight Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Based on Deep Neural Network and Ensemble Regression Trees Methods
Authors: Stel’makh Sergey A. , Shcherban’ Evgenii M. , Beskopylny Alexey N. , Mailyan Levon R. , Meskhi Besarion , Razveeva Irina , Kozhakin Alexey , Beskopylny Nikita
Published: September 2022

Currently, one of the topical areas of application of artificial intelligence methods in industrial production is neural networks, which allow for predicting the performance properties of products and structures that depend on the characteristics of the initial components and process parameters. The purpose of the study was to develop and train a neural network and an ensemble model to predict the mechanical properties of lightweight fiber-reinforced concrete using the accumulated empirical database and data from construction industry enterprises, and to improve production processes in the construction industry. The study applied deep learning and an ensemble of regression trees. The empirical base is the result of testing a series of experimental compositions of fiber-reinforced concrete. The predicted properties are cubic compressive strength, prismatic compressive strength, flexural tensile strength, and axial tensile strength. The quantitative picture of the accuracy of the applied methods for strength characteristics varies for the deep neural network method from 0.15 to 0.73 (MAE), from 0.17 to 0.89 (RMSE), and from 0.98% to 6.62% (MAPE), and for the ensemble of regression trees, from 0.11 to 0.62 (MAE), from 0.15 to 0.80 (RMSE), and from 1.30% to 3.4% (MAPE). Both methods have shown high efficiency in relation to such a hard-to-predict material as concrete, which is so heterogeneous in structure and depends on many factors. The value of the developed models lies in the possibility of obtaining additional useful information in the process of preparing highly functional lightweight fiber-reinforced concrete without additional experiments.
Morphological Features of PUR-Wood Particle Composite Foams
Authors: Mirski Radosław , Walkiewicz Joanna , Dukarska Dorota , Derkowski Adam
Published: September 2022

The aim of this study was to apply waste wood particles (WP) with different sizes from primary wood processing as a filler for open-cell PUR foams. For this purpose, various wood particle sizes were added as a filler for polyurethane foams (PUR). The effects of the addition of of 0.05–<0.125 mm, 0.125–<0.315 mm, 0.315–1.25 mm, and >1.25–2.0 of WP to the polyurethane matrix on the density, the kinetics of PUR foaming, the cell structure, and the morphology were investigated. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray computer tomography were used. Based on the results, it was found that the addition of WP in the amount of 10% leads to an increase in density with an increase in particle size. The research shows that the morphology of the PUR-WP foam is influenced by its particle size. The difference in the number and size of cells in PUR-WP composites depends on the wood particle size. The addition of dust causes the formation of cells of much smaller sizes; confirmed by SEM images. Moreover, computer tomography clearly demonstrates that the WP are well-dispersed within the foams’ structures.
Nonlinear Creep Amplification Factor Considering Damage Evolution of Concrete under Compression
Authors: Pan Zuanfeng , Cao Dong , Zeng Bin , Wang Yuwei
Published: September 2022

Creep affects the long-term deformation of concrete structures. Nonlinear creep further overestimates the safety factor of structures and affects the safety service performance. The coupling of creep and a damage model considering the rate effect is conducive to accurate prediction of nonlinear creep, but the iterative process of strain makes the calculation method more complex. The purpose of this study is to propose a nonlinear creep explicit method that considers the damage evolution of concrete under compression. Two groups of axial compression members with compressive stresses of 0.2 fc and 0.4 fc were made. Considering the law of concrete damage evolution under uniaxial compression, coupled with elastic creep and damage incremental strain, the lower limit of the medium stress level that gives rise to nonlinear creep is analyzed. The concrete nonlinear creep amplification coefficient with a loading age of 28 days and loading duration of 360 days is studied with consideration for the uncertainty of relative humidity and the theoretical thickness of the component. On this basis, the explicit calculation formula of the nonlinear creep amplification coefficient related to the concrete axial compressive strength and stress level is given. The results indicate that the nonlinear creep amplification coefficient increases nonlinearly with an increase in the stress level, and, when the compressive stress level ratio is higher than 0.6, the nonlinear creep amplification coefficient increases significantly; when the stress level is determined, the creep amplification coefficient decreases gradually with an increase in the compressive strength of the concrete. It is suggested that a stress level range of 0.35~0.75 should be used for the study of a nonlinear creep amplification factor under the medium stress state.
Interplay of Fracture and Martensite Transformation in Microstructures: A Coupled Problem
Authors: Farahani Ehsan Borzabadi , Aragh Behnam Sobhani , Juhre Daniel
Published: September 2022

We are witnessing a tremendous transition towards a society powered by net-zero carbon emission energy, with a corresponding escalating reliance on functional materials (FM). In recent years, the application of FM in multiphysics environments has brought new challenges to the mechanics and materials research communities. The underlying mechanism in FM, which governs several fundamental characteristics, is known as martensitic phase transformation (MPT). When it comes to the application of FM in the multiphysics context, a thorough understanding of the interplay between MPT and fracture plays a crucial role in FM design and application. In the present work, a coupled problem of crack nucleation and propagation and multivariant stress-induced MPT in elastic materials is presented using a finite element method based on Khachaturyan’s microelasticity theory. The problem is established based on a phase-field (PF) approach, which includes the Ginzburg–Landau equations with advanced thermodynamic potential and the variational formulation of Griffith’s theory. Therefore, the model consists of a coupled system of the Ginzburg–Landau equations and the static elasticity equation, and it characterizes evolution of distributions of austenite and two martensitic variants as well as crack growth in terms of corresponding order parameters. The numerical results show that crack growth does not begin until MPT has grown almost completely through the microstructure. Subsequent to the initial formation of the martensite variants, the initial crack propagates in such a way that its path mainly depends on the feature of martensite variant formations, the orientation and direction upon which the martensite plates are aligned, and the stress concentration between martensite plates. In addition, crack propagation behavior and martensite variant evaluations for different lattice orientation angles are presented and discussed in-detail.
The Roles of FinTech with Perceived Mediators in Consumer Financial Satisfaction with Cashless Payments
Authors: Chen Fuzhong , Jiang Guohai
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the association between FinTech payments and consumer financial satisfaction with cashless payments using data from the 2017 China Household Finance Survey. This study defines computer payment and mobile terminal payment using a cell phone or pad as payments with FinTech. The results indicate that payments with FinTech are positively associated with financial satisfaction with cashless payments. Furthermore, this result holds in the eastern and central groups of China, but not in the western group, where payments with FinTech are not associated with financial satisfaction with cashless payments. Similarly, the positive association does not hold for consumers with low financial literacy. Moreover, analyses on the mediating effects imply that payments with FinTech play roles through three perceived mediators. Specifically, payments with FinTech help increase consumers’ perceived convenience and perceived popularity as well as reduce perceived risk, which eventually improves financial satisfaction with cashless payments. These findings have implications for consumer policymakers, such as improving the development of FinTech, noticing the heterogeneity in terms of location, and guiding consumers to correctly understand the risks associated with FinTech. Surrounding this issue, future studies may also explore other mediators related to psychology and expand the connotation of Fintech from payments with FinTech to lending and portfolio investments with FinTech.
A Modification of the Mixed Joint Universality Theorem for a Class of Zeta Functions
Authors: Kačinskaitė Roma , Togobickij Benjaminas
Published: September 2022

The property of zeta functions on mixed joint universality in the Voronin’s sense states that any two holomorphic functions can be approximated simultaneously with an accuracy of ε>0 by suitable vertical shifts of the pair consisting the Riemann and Hurwitz zeta functions. A rather general result can be obtained for the classes of zeta functions, particularly when an approximating pair is composed of the Matsumoto zeta functions’ class and the periodic Hurwitz zeta function. In this paper, we prove that this set of shifts has a strict positive density for all but at most countably ε>0. Moreover, we provide concluding remarks on certain more general mixed tuples of zeta functions.
Which Histometric Analysis Approach Is More Reliable for Assessing Histological Bone Tissue Samples?
Authors: Pereira Rodrigo dos Santos , Mourão Carlos Fernando , Piattelli Adriano , Romanos Georgios E. , Coelho Mendes Bruno , Giubilato Flavio , Montemezzi Pietro , Júnior Conforte Jadson , Griza Geraldo Luiz , Bonardi João Paulo , Hochuli-Vieira Eduardo
Published: September 2022

This study aims to evaluate the grid of Merz and ImageJ methods for histometric quantification, verifying which is more reliable and defining which is most suitable based on the time required to perform. Thirty histological samples of maxillary sinuses grafted with xenografts were evaluated using an optical light microscope attached to an image capture camera and connected to a microcomputer. The images were digitalized and recorded as a TIFF image, and the new bone formation was evaluated using the grid of Merz and ImageJ. The Bland–Altman analysis was used to identify the agreement between the methods and determine suitable future research options. The timing of the quantification was also performed to identify a possible advantage. The mean value for the quantification analysis timing for the grid of Merz was 194.9 ± 72.0 s and for ImageJ was 871.7 ± 264.4, with statistical significance between the groups (p = 0.0001). The Bland–Altman analysis demonstrated a concordance between the methods, due to the bias being next to the maximum concordance (−1.25) in addition to the graphic showing the scattering points next to the mean of differences and inside of limits of agreement. Thus, it was demonstrated that the grid of Merz presents reliable outcomes and advantages over the ImageJ methodology regarding the time spent to contour the areas of interest.
Interaction Energy between Two Separated Charged Spheres Surrounded Inside and Outside by Electrolyte
Authors: Sugár István P.
Published: September 2022

By using the recently generalized version of Newton’s shell theorem, analytical equations are derived to calculate the electric interaction energy between two separated, charged spheres surrounded outside and inside by electrolyte. This electric interaction energy is calculated as a function of the electrolyte’s ion concentration, temperature, distance between the spheres and size of the spheres. At the same distance between the spheres, the absolute value of the interaction energy decreases with increasing electrolyte ion concentration and increases with increasing temperature. At zero electrolyte ion concentration, the derived analytical equation transforms into the Coulomb Equation Finally, the analytical equation is generalized to calculate the electric interaction energy of N separated, charged spheres surrounded by electrolyte.
Characterization of Ferroelectric Al0.7Sc0.3N Thin Film on Pt and Mo Electrodes
Authors: Nie Ran , Shao Shuai , Luo Zhifang , Kang Xiaoxu , Wu Tao
Published: September 2022

In the past decade, aluminum scandium nitride (AlScN) with a high Sc content has shown ferroelectric properties, which provides a new option for CMOS-process-compatible ferroelectric memory, sensors and actuators, as well as tunable devices. In this paper, the ferroelectric properties of Al0.7Sc0.3N grown on different metals were studied. The effect of metal and abnormal orientation grains (AOGs) on ferroelectric properties was observed. A coercive field of approximately 3 MV/cm and a large remanent polarization of more than 100 μC/cm2 were exhibited on the Pt surface. The Al0.7Sc0.3N thin film grown on the Mo metal surface exhibited a large leakage current. We analyzed the leakage current of Al0.7Sc0.3N during polarization with the polarization frequency, and found that the Al0.7Sc0.3N films grown on either Pt or Mo surfaces have large leakage currents at frequencies below 5 kHz. The leakage current decreases significantly as the frequency approaches 10 kHz. The positive up negative down (PUND) measurement was used to obtain the remanent polarization of the films, and it was found that the remanent polarization values were not the same in the positive and negative directions, indicating that the electrode material has an effect on the ferroelectric properties.
Effects of Prolonged Storage Condition on the Physicochemical and Microbiological Quality of Sachet Water and Its Health Implications: A Case Study of Selected Water Brands Sold within Samaru Community, Northwest Nigeria
Authors: Adesakin Taiwo Adekanmi , Oyewale Abayomi Tolulope , Mohammed Ndagi Abubakar , Bayero Umar , Adedeji Adebukola Adenike , Aduwo Idowu Adedeji , Bolade Adetolani Christianah , Adam Maryam
Published: September 2022

The aim of this research is to investigate the effect of long-term storage conditions on the physicochemical and microbial quality of selected sachet water brands sold within the Samaru community and its health implication for consumers. Three brands of sachet water were subjected to different storage conditions and were analyzed for microbial and physicochemical parameters at intervals of 3 weeks for a period of 3 months, based on procedures and standard methods of APHA (2005). The highest pH means concentration was recorded in sachet water samples used for control (7.14 ± 0.24) while EC, TDS, BOD, and calcium (336.67 ± 73.69 µS/cm, 168.33 ± 34.89 mg/L, 1.87 ± 0.39 mg/L and 2.97 ± 0.19 mg/L) were recorded in the sachet water samples stored on the floor. A total number of 15 fungal species and 4 bacteria species were identified from the three selected brands of sachet water examined. Aspergillus niger and Penicillium spp. have the highest species occurrence of 25% among the fungus identified while Proteus Sp. recorded the highest species occurrence (50%) among the bacteria isolated. Sachet water samples stored on the floor have the highest abundances of microbial species of five and six. All the physicochemical parameters were within the stipulated limits set by the World Health Organization and the Nigeria Standard for Drinking Water Quality, but fail microbial tests due to the presence of pathogens such as Aspergillus, Candida, Vibro, Yersinia, etc., that can cause a wide range of life-threatening system infections in a patient with mild immune-deficiency. Being under prolonged storage and the type of storage conditions can encourage the regrowth of microbial in packaged water under favorable environmental conditions, to levels that may be harmful to humans.
Identification and Full Genome Analysis of the First Putative Virus of Sea Buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.)
Authors: Balke Ina , Zeltina Vilija , Zrelovs Nikita , Kalnciema Ieva , Resevica Gunta , Ludviga Rebeka , Jansons Juris , Moročko-Bičevska Inga , Segliņa Dalija , Zeltins Andris
Published: September 2022

The agricultural importance of sea buckthorn (SBT; Hippophae rhamnoides L.) is rapidly increasing. Several bacterial and fungal pathogens infecting SBT have been identified and characterized; however, the viral pathogens are not yet known. In this study, we identified, isolated, and sequenced a virus from a wild plantation of SBT for the first time. Sequence analysis of the obtained viral genome revealed high similarity with several viruses belonging to the genus Marafivirus. The genome of the new virus is 6989 nucleotides (nt) in length according to 5′, 3′ RACE (without polyA-tail), with 5′ and 3′ 133 and 109 nt long untranslated regions, respectively. The viral genome encoded two open reading frames (ORFs). ORF1 encoded a polyprotein of 1954 amino acids with the characteristic marafivirus non-structural protein domains—methyltransferase, Salyut domain, papain-like cysteine protease, helicase, and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase. ORF1 was separated from ORF2 by 6 nt, encoding the coat protein (CP) with typical signatures of minor and major forms. Both CP forms were cloned and expressed in a bacterial expression system. Only the major CP was able to self-assemble into 30 nm virus-like particles that resembled the native virus, thus demonstrating that minor CP is not essential for virion assembly.
Application of High-Precision Filters on Airborne Magnetic Data: A Case Study of the Ogoja Region, Southeast Nigeria
Authors: Ekwok Stephen E. , Eldosouky Ahmed M. , Ben Ubong C. , Alzahrani Hassan , Abdelrahman Kamal , Achadu Ogiji-Idaga M. , Pham Luan Thanh , Akpan Anthony E. , Gómez-Ortiz David
Published: September 2022

Aeromagnetic data from the Ogoja region, Southeast Nigeria, were enhanced using high-precision methods including the tilt angle of total horizontal gradient (TAHG), the softsign function (SF), and the improved logistic function (IL) with the aim of creating a new structural map. This new map can help improve the understanding of the trend, spatial distribution, and pattern of the lineaments. The TAHG, SF, and IL methods generated geologic structures with correlating trends, distributions, and patterns. However, the SF and IL techniques mapped the borders of geologic structures more precisely. The lineaments extracted from the SF and IL maps were reduced to equator (RTE) magnetic data, and a GIS was used to create structural maps with NE–SW, NW–SE, NNE–SSW, and NNW–SSE orientations. Furthermore, the depths (0–2100 m) of these geologic structures were estimated using the tilt depth technique (TDT). The high lineament density and thin sedimentation observed in the study area were triggered by the widespread Santonian igneous intrusions associated with the Abakaliki Anticlinorium. The techniques applied in our study can be employed in areas with the same conditions around the world for the precise delineation of geologic structures from magnetic and gravity data.
Cheminformatics Modeling of Gene Silencing for Both Natural and Chemically Modified siRNAs
Authors: Dong Xialan , Zheng Weifan
Published: September 2022

In designing effective siRNAs for a specific mRNA target, it is critically important to have predictive models for the potency of siRNAs. None of the published methods characterized the chemical structures of individual nucleotides constituting a siRNA molecule; therefore, they cannot predict the potency of gene silencing by chemically modified siRNAs (cm-siRNA). We propose a new approach that can predict the potency of gene silencing by cm-siRNAs, which characterizes each nucleotide (NT) using 12 BCUT cheminformatics descriptors describing its charge distribution, hydrophobic and polar properties. Thus, a 21-NT siRNA molecule is described by 252 descriptors resulting from concatenating all the BCUT values of its composing nucleotides. Partial Least Square is employed to develop statistical models. The Huesken data (2431 natural siRNA molecules) were used to perform model building and evaluation for natural siRNAs. Our results were comparable with or superior to those from Huesken’s algorithm. The Bramsen dataset (48 cm-siRNAs) was used to build and test the models for cm-siRNAs. The predictive r2 of the resulting models reached 0.65 (or Pearson r values of 0.82). Thus, this new method can be used to successfully model gene silencing potency by both natural and chemically modified siRNA molecules.
Association of Gastric Myoelectric Activity with Dietary Intakes, Substrate Utilization, and Energy Expenditure in Adults with Obesity
Authors: Abulmeaty Mahmoud M. A. , Aljuraiban Ghadeer S. , Aldisi Dara , Albaran Batool , Aldossari Zaid , Alsager Thamer , Razak Suhail , Almuhtadi Yara , El-Shorbagy Eman , Berika Mohamed , Al Zaben Mohamed , Almajwal Ali
Published: September 2022

Obesity can modulate gastric myoelectric activity (GMA); however, the relationship of GMA with nutrient intakes and substrate utilization in adults with obesity is lacking. We examined the association of dietary intakes, energy expenditure, and substrate utilization with the GMA. Participants (n = 115, 18–60 y) were divided into healthy weight (HW, n = 24), overweight (OW, n = 29), obese (OB, n = 41) and morbidly obese (MO, n = 21). Two-day multi-pass 24 h recalls were conducted. The GMA was measured by multichannel electrogastrography (EGG) with water-load (WL) testing. Resting metabolic rate (RMR) and percentages of substrate utilization were measured by indirect calorimetry. In the HW, protein intake was directly correlated with average dominant frequency (ADF) and with WL volume, while in obese participants and the MO subgroup, WL volume correlated with carbohydrate intake. In participants with obesity, ADF was positively correlated with fiber intake. In participants with obesity and the OB subgroup, RMR was positively correlated with water-load volume (r = 0.39 and 0.37, p < 0.05). The ADF showed negative correlations with percent of fat utilization and positive correlations with percent of CHO utilization in non-obese groups. However, protein utilization showed inverse correlation in all obese groups. In conclusion, these distinctive associations suggest that certain dietary compositions and dieting regimens impact GMA patterns.
Apelin-13 and Asprosin in Adolescents with Anorexia Nervosa and Their Association with Psychometric and Metabolic Variables
Authors: Jowik Katarzyna , Dmitrzak-Węglarz Monika , Pytlińska Natalia , Jasińska-Mikołajczyk Anna , Słopień Agnieszka , Tyszkiewicz-Nwafor Marta
Published: September 2022

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a widespread, metabo-psychiatric disorder with high relapse rates, comorbidity, and mortality. Many regulatory proteins and neurohormones studied to date play essential roles in the etiopathogenesis of eating disorders and the maintenance of psychopathological symptoms. Nevertheless, the regulatory and pathophysiological mechanisms of AN are still poorly understood. In the presented study, the plasma levels of apelin-13 (APE-13) and asprosin (ASP), as well as carbohydrate metabolism parameters and psychometric parameters, were evaluated in low-weight adolescent female patients with AN (AN1), after partial weight normalization (AN2) and in an age-matched healthy control group (CG) were evaluated. APE-13 levels were higher in the AN1 group than in the post-realimentation and the CG group. APE-13 levels were independent of insulin and glucose levels. Plasma ASP levels increased with increasing body weight in patients with AN, correlating with the severity of eating disorder symptoms in emaciation. The presented data suggest that APE-13 and ASP may be AN’s biomarkers-regulation of eating behavior by APE-13 and ASP, the close relationship between them and emotional behavior, and changes in neurohormone levels in patients with eating and affective disorders seem to support these hypotheses. Moreover, their plasma levels seem to be related to the severity of psychopathological symptoms of eating disorders.
TetraSOD®, a Unique Marine Microalgae Ingredient, Promotes an Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Status in a Metabolic Syndrome-Induced Model in Rats
Authors: Gil-Cardoso Katherine , Del Bas Josep M. , Caimari Antoni , Lama Carmen , Torres Sonia , Mantecón Lalia , Infante Carlos
Published: September 2022

Increased oxidative stress has been linked to the pathogenic process of obesity and can trigger inflammation, which is often linked with the risk factors that make up metabolic syndrome (MetS), including obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidaemia and hypertension. TetraSOD®, a natural marine vegan ingredient derived from the microalgae Tetraselmis chuii that is high in the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) has recently demonstrated in vitro increased activity of these key antioxidant enzymes. In the present study, the potential bioactive effects of three dietary dosages of TetraSOD® in enhancing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms to combat the metabolic disturbances that compose MetS were assessed in rats given a cafeteria (CAF) diet. Chronic supplementation with 0.17, 1.7, and 17 mg kg−1 day−1 of TetraSOD® for 8 weeks ameliorated the abnormalities associated with MetS, including oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting endogenous antioxidant defence mechanisms in the liver (GPx and GSH), modulating oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in plasma (NOx, oxLDL and IL-10), and regulating genes involved in antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory pathways in the liver, mesenteric white adipose tissue (MWAT), thymus, and spleen. Overall, TetraSOD® appears to be a potential therapeutic option for the management of MetS.
Novel Insights into the Effects of Genetic Variants on Serum Urate Response to an Acute Fructose Challenge: A Pilot Study
Authors: Zhang Xinruo , Mass Baba B. , Talevi Valentina , Hou Ruixue , North Kari E. , Voruganti Venkata Saroja
Published: September 2022

Studies have shown that genetic variations can influence metabolic response to nutrient intake, and that diets rich in fructose contribute to hyperuricemia. In this pilot study, our aim was to determine the variability of serum urate in response to an acute fructose challenge and to investigate if genetic variants would affect this response in young to middle-aged adults who self-reported as Black or White. Fifty-seven participants consumed a fructose-rich beverage after an overnight fast. Blood was drawn at five time points (baseline, 30, 60, 120, and 180 min after consumption). Thirty urate-related single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were analyzed for their associations with baseline serum urate and its percent changes, using a two-step modeling approach followed by meta-analysis. At baseline, serum urate (mg/dL, mean ± SD) was higher in Whites (5.60 ± 1.01 vs. 5.37 ± 0.96), men (6.17 ± 1.14 vs. 5.24 ± 0.79), and those with obesity (5.69 ± 1.08 vs. 5.42 ± 1.06 vs. 5.34 ± 0.80). Three SNPs were significantly associated with baseline serum urate or its percent changes, and six SNPs were nominally associated with percent changes in serum urate. In summary, our results showed that genetic variants could play a role in short-term urate metabolism.
Association of Coffee and Tea Consumption with the Risk of Asthma: A Prospective Cohort Study from the UK Biobank
Authors: Lin Fengyu , Zhu Yiqun , Liang Huaying , Li Dianwu , Jing Danrong , Liu Hong , Pan Pinhua , Zhang Yan
Published: September 2022

Background: Previous observational studies investigated the relationship between coffee and tea intake and the risk of asthma, however, the conclusions were inconsistent. Further, the combined effect of coffee and tea consumption on asthma has rarely been studied. Methods: We examined associations between the self-reported intake of tea and coffee and the risk of incident asthma in a total of 424,725 participants aged from 39 to 73 years old from the UK Biobank. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate the associations between coffee/tea consumption and incident adult-onset asthma, adjusting for age, sex, race, smoking status, body mass index (BMI), education, and Townsend deprivation index. Results: Cox models with penalized splines showed J-shaped associations of coffee, tea, caffeinated coffee, and caffeine intake from coffee and tea with the risk of adult-onset asthma (p for nonlinear <0.01). Coffee intake of 2 to 3 cups/d (hazard ratio [HR] 0.877, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.826–0.931) or tea intake of 0.5 to 1 cups/d (HR 0.889, 95% CI 0.816–0.968) or caffeinated coffee intake of 2 to 3 cups/d (HR 0.858, 95% CI 0.806–0.915) or combination caffeine intake from tea and coffee of 160.0 to 235.0 mg per day (HR 0.899, 95% CI 0.842–0.961) were linked with the lowest hazard ratio of incident asthma after adjustment for age, sex, race, smoking status, BMI, qualification, and Townsend deprivation index. Conclusions: Collectively, the study showed light-to-moderate coffee and tea consumption was associated with a reduced risk of adult-onset asthma and controlling total caffeine intake from coffee and tea for a moderate caffeine dose of 160.0 to 305.0 mg/day may be protective against adult-onset asthma. Further investigation on the possible preventive role of caffeine in asthma is warranted.
The Modified Yale Food Addiction Scale May Be Simplified and Diagnostically Improved: The Same Prevalence but Different Severity and Risk Factors of Food Addiction among Female and Male Students
Authors: Charzyńska Edyta , Brytek-Matera Anna , Atroszko Paweł A.
Published: September 2022

The Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS) is the most commonly used scale for measuring food addiction (FA). The previous approach to the YFAS and its subsequent versions assumed dichotomization of items, separating addiction symptoms and clinical significance items, and factorial validity testing on a subset of items. In this paper, we discuss the drawbacks associated with these procedures. In addition, we present a different analytical approach to investigate the validity of the modified YFAS (mYFAS) along with an alternative scoring method that overcomes limitations related to the previous approach. After establishing the structure of the mYFAS, we investigated the potential antecedents and consequences of FA separately for men and women. The sample consisted of 1182 Polish undergraduate students (613 women, 559 men, 10 missing values on gender) with a mean age of 20.33 years (SD = 1.68; range: 18–36). They were asked to complete self-report questionnaires measuring FA, personality traits (Big Five), self-esteem, narcissism, self-efficacy, social anxiety, loneliness, and well-being indicators. Due to the low content, factorial, and clinical validity, the first three items were excluded from the Polish version of the mYFAS. The six-item mYFAS demonstrated measurement invariance, allowing for meaningful comparisons between genders and yielded almost identical prevalence rates for men and women. The hierarchical multiple regression analysis showed that, narcissism, and social anxiety predicted FA in both genders, whereas important gender differences in antecedents were also noted. In addition, FA was associated with body mass index (BMI) and most of the well-being indicators, even after controlling for relevant variables. The findings suggest that our modified analytical approach allows researchers to measure FA using a valid, useful, and simple tool.
Effectivity of Saffron Extract (Saffr’Activ) on Treatment for Children and Adolescents with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A Clinical Effectivity Study
Authors: Blasco-Fontecilla Hilario , Moyano-Ramírez Esther , Méndez-González Olga , Rodrigo-Yanguas María , Martin-Moratinos Marina , Bella-Fernández Marcos
Published: September 2022

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is the most prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder worldwide. Choice treatment includes psychostimulants, but parents tend to be reluctant to administer them due to side effects, and alternatives are needed. Saffron extract is a natural stimulant that has been proven safe and effective for treating a variety of mental disorders. This study compares the efficacy of saffron and the usual treatment with methylphenidate, using objective and pen-and-paper tests. We performed a non-randomized clinical trial with two groups, methylphenidate (n = 27) and saffron (n = 36), in children and adolescents aged 7 to 17. Results show that the efficacy of saffron is comparable to that of methylphenidate. Saffron is more effective for treating hyperactivity symptoms, while methylphenidate is more effective for inattention symptoms.
Advances in Immunotherapy for Hepatitis B
Authors: Wang Dongyao , Fu Binqing , Wei Haiming
Published: September 2022

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a hepatotropic virus with the potential to cause chronic infection, and it is one of the common causes of liver disease worldwide. Chronic HBV infection leads to liver cirrhosis and, ultimately, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The persistence of covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) and the impaired immune response in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) has been studied over the past few decades. Despite advances in the etiology of HBV and the development of potent virus-suppressing regimens, a cure for HBV has not been found. Both the innate and adaptive branches of immunity contribute to viral eradication. However, immune exhaustion and evasion have been demonstrated during CHB infection, although our understanding of the mechanism is still evolving. Recently, the successful use of an antiviral drug for hepatitis C has greatly encouraged the search for a cure for hepatitis B, which likely requires an approach focused on improving the antiviral immune response. In this review, we discuss our current knowledge of the immunopathogenic mechanisms and immunobiology of HBV infection. In addition, we touch upon why the existing therapeutic approaches may not achieve the goal of a functional cure. We also propose how combinations of new drugs, and especially novel immunotherapies, contribute to HBV clearance.
Caulis Polygoni Multiflori Accelerates Megakaryopoiesis and Thrombopoiesis via Activating PI3K/Akt and MEK/ERK Signaling Pathways
Authors: Yang Xin , Wang Long , Zeng Jing , Wu Anguo , Qin Mi , Wen Min , Zhang Ting , Chen Wang , Mei Qibing , Qin Dalian , Yang Jing , Jiang Yu , Wu Jianming
Published: September 2022

Thrombocytopenia is one of the most common complications of cancer therapy. Until now, there are still no satisfactory medications to treat chemotherapy and radiation-induced thrombocytopenia (CIT and RIT, respectively). Caulis Polygoni Multiflori (CPM), one of the most commonly used Chinese herbs, has been well documented to nourish blood for tranquilizing the mind and treating anemia, suggesting its beneficial effect on hematopoiesis. However, it is unknown whether CPM can accelerate megakaryopoiesis and thrombopoiesis. Here, we employ a UHPLC Q–Exactive HF-X mass spectrometer (UHPLC QE HF-X MS) to identify 11 ingredients in CPM. Then, in vitro experiments showed that CPM significantly increased megakaryocyte (MK) differentiation and maturation but did not affect apoptosis and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release of K562 and Meg-01 cells. More importantly, animal experiments verified that CPM treatment markedly accelerated platelet recovery, megakaryopoiesis and thrombopoiesis in RIT mice without hepatic and renal toxicities in vivo. Finally, RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) and western blot were used to determine that CPM increased the expression of proteins related to PI3K/Akt and MEK/ERK (MAPK) signaling pathways. On the contrary, blocking PI3K/Akt and MEK/ERK signaling pathways with their specific inhibitors suppressed MK differentiation induced by CPM. In conclusion, for the first time, our study demonstrates that CPM may be a promised thrombopoietic agent and provide an experimental basis for expanding clinical use.
Alternative Methotrexate Oral Formulation: Enhanced Aqueous Solubility, Bioavailability, Photostability, and Permeability
Authors: Giri Bhupendra Raj , Yang Hyun Seok , Song Im-Sook , Choi Han-Gon , Cho Jung Hyun , Kim Dong Wuk
Published: September 2022

The poor aqueous solubility and/or permeability and thereby limited bioavailability largely restricts the pharmaco-therapeutic implications of potent anticancer drugs such as methotrexate (MTX). Furthermore, MTX’s inherently unstable nature makes it difficult to develop a viable oral formulation. In this study we developed the spray-dried amorphous inclusion complexes of MTX with native β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and its derivatives, namely HP-β-CD, M-β-CD, and DM-β-CD to enhance the aqueous solubility, photostability, permeability, and oral bioavailability of MTX in rats. Our findings show that the 1:1 stoichiometry ratio of MTX and CDs improves the aqueous solubility, stability, and pharmacokinetic profiles of the drug, the better results being obtained particularly with DM-β-CD as a host, which has a higher complexation ability with the drug compared to other β-CDs. Specifically, the pharmacokinetic analysis demonstrated 2.20- and 3.29-fold increments in AUC and Cmax, respectively, in comparison to free MTX. Even though the absorptive permeability of MTX and MTX/DM-β-CD inclusion complexes was similar, the efflux of the absorbed MTX from ICs was significantly lower compared to the free MTX (4.6- vs. 8.0-fold). Furthermore, the physicochemical characterization employing SEM, DSC, and PXRD confirmed the transformation of crystalline MTX to its amorphous state. In solution, 1H NMR studies revealed that MTX embedded into the DM-β-CD cavity resulting in both H-3 and H-5 chemical shifts implied the presence of intermolecular interaction between the drug and CD moiety. It was, therefore, evident that an MTX IC could be a successful oral formulation technique, preventing MTX degradation and enhancing its pharmacologically relevant properties.
Dominance of Fagus sylvatica in the Growing Stock and Its Relationship to Climate—An Analysis Using Modeled Stand-Level Climate Data
Authors: Škrk Nina , Serrano-Notivoli Roberto , de Luis Martín , Čufar Katarina
Published: September 2022

In the future, climate change is expected to affect the spatial distribution of most tree species in Europe. The European beech (Fagus sylvatica), a drought-sensitive tree species, is currently distributed throughout Europe, where it is an ecologically and economically important species. In Slovenia, the European beech represents 33% of the growing stock, but such a proportion greatly varies across Europe. Whether such a variation is related to the climate environmental gradients or because of historical or management decisions is an as-yet unexplored question. For this study, we employed the Slovenian Forests Service inventory, where the proportion of beech in the forest stock has been monitored in 341,341 forest stands across the country. Modeled climate data from the SLOCLIM database, calculated for each of the stands, was also used to test the hypothesis that although beech forests have always been influenced by human activity, the dominance of beech trees in forest stands is at least partially dictated by the climate. The results showed the distribution of the main climate variables (annual precipitation, the share of summer and spring precipitation, and annual maximum and minimum temperatures) and how they affect the current dominance of beech trees at the stand level. Due to the large number and variability of forest stands studied, the results should be transferable to better understand and manage the climatic suitability and risks of Fagus sylvatica. The modeled data is publicly available in the web repository Zenodo.
Co-Inoculation of Plant-Growth-Promoting Bacteria Modulates Physiological and Biochemical Responses of Perennial Ryegrass to Water Deficit
Authors: Cortés-Patiño Sandra , Vargas Christian D. , Alvarez-Flórez Fagua , Estrada-Bonilla German
Published: September 2022

Perennial ryegrass is a forage commonly used in temperate regions for livestock feeding; however, its yield is affected by reduced biomass production under water deficit. In a previous study, three co-inoculations of beneficial bacteria were selected based on their ability to promote plant growth under reduced water availability. The aim of this work was to elucidate some mechanisms by which the selected bacteria can help improve the response of perennial ryegrass to water deficit. Ryegrass plants were inoculated with each of the co-inoculations (Herbaspirillum sp. AP02–Herbaspirillum sp. AP21; Herbaspirillum sp. AP02–Pseudomonas sp. N7; Herbaspirillum sp. AP21–Azospirillum brasilense D7) and subjected to water deficit for 10 days. Physiological and biochemical measurements were taken 10 days after stress and shortly after rehydration. The results showed that bacteria had a positive effect on shoot biomass production, dissipation of excess energy, and proline and chlorophyll pigments during the days of water deficit (p < 0.05). The leaf water status of the inoculated plants was 12% higher than that of the uninoculated control after rehydration. Two Herbaspirillum strains showed greater potential for use as biofertilizers that help ameliorate the effects of water deficit.
The Alleviation of Metal Stress Nuisance for Plants—A Review of Promising Solutions in the Face of Environmental Challenges
Authors: Labudda Mateusz , Dziurka Kinga , Fidler Justyna , Gietler Marta , Rybarczyk-Płońska Anna , Nykiel Małgorzata , Prabucka Beata , Morkunas Iwona , Muszyńska Ewa
Published: September 2022

Environmental changes are inevitable with time, but their intensification and diversification, occurring in the last several decades due to the combination of both natural and human-made causes, are really a matter of great apprehension. As a consequence, plants are exposed to a variety of abiotic stressors that contribute to their morpho-physiological, biochemical, and molecular alterations, which affects plant growth and development as well as the quality and productivity of crops. Thus, novel strategies are still being developed to meet the challenges of the modern world related to climate changes and natural ecosystem degradation. Innovative methods that have recently received special attention include eco-friendly, easily available, inexpensive, and, very often, plant-based methods. However, such approaches require better cognition and understanding of plant adaptations and acclimation mechanisms in response to adverse conditions. In this succinct review, we have highlighted defense mechanisms against external stimuli (mainly exposure to elevated levels of metal elements) which can be activated through permanent microevolutionary changes in metal-tolerant species or through exogenously applied priming agents that may ensure plant acclimation and thereby elevated stress resistance.
DEFECTIVE EMBRYO AND MERISTEMS1 (DEM1) Is Essential for Cell Proliferation and Cell Differentiation in Tomato
Authors: Matthew Louisa , Reyes Melquiades E. C. , Mann Christopher W. G. , McDowall Alasdair W. , Eamens Andrew L. , Carroll Bernard J.
Published: September 2022

Most flowering plant species contain at least two copies of the DEFECTIVE EMBRYO AND MERISTEMS (DEM) gene with the encoded DEM proteins lacking homology to proteins of known biochemical function. In tomato (Sl; Solanum lycopersicum), stable mutations in the SlDEM1 locus result in shoot and root meristem defects with the dem1 mutant failing to progress past the cotyledon stage of seedling development. Generation of a Somatic Mutagenesis of DEM1 (SMD) transformant line in tomato allowed for the characterization of SlDEM1 gene function past the seedling stage of vegetative development with SMD plants displaying a range of leaf development abnormalities. Further, the sectored or stable in planta expression of specific regions of the SlDEM1 coding sequence also resulted in the generation of tomato transformants that displayed a range of vegetative development defects, which when considered together with the dem1 mutant seedling and SMD transformant line phenotypic data, allowed for the assignment of SlDEM1 gene function to early embryo development, adaxial epidermis cell development, lateral leaf blade expansion, and mesophyll cell proliferation and differentiation.
Nematicidal Potential of Sulla (Hedysarum coronarium L.) against the Root-Knot Nematode Meloidogyne incognita
Authors: D’Addabbo Trifone , Tava Aldo , Argentieri Maria Pia , Biazzi Elisa , Candido Vincenzo , Avato Pinarosa
Published: September 2022

The content of nematicidal metabolites such as saponins, flavonoids and tannins in sulla (Hedysarum coronarium L.) suggests its potential nematicidal activity. In this study, the biocidal activity of 62.5–1000 μg mL−1 concentrations of flavonoid and tannin fractions from sulla was assessed in in vitro assays on the infective juveniles (J2) of the root-knot nematode (RKN) Meloidogyne incognita, while the suppressive effects of soil amendments with 10–40 g kg−1 soil rates of sulla biomass were investigated on potted tomato infested by M. incognita. The content of total nitrogen, carbon, flavonoids, tannins and saponins of sulla experimental material was also determined. After a 96-h exposure, more than 80% of the M. incognita J2 were killed even by a 125 µg mL−1 concentration of the flavonoid extract, while mortality peaked at 89% only at the 1000 µg mL−1 concentration of the tannin solution. Soil incorporation with sulla biomass significantly reduced the M. incognita densities both on tomato roots and in the soil, compared to either the non-treated control and chemical treatment with Fluopyram. The data confirmed the nematicidal potential of sulla, mainly due to its content of flavonoids and tannins, suggesting its suitability as green manure or a soil amendment for sustainable RKN management.