bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From MASLD to PAD: Looking for Cardiovascular Disease Starting from Metabolic Status
Authors: Boccatonda Andrea , D’Ardes Damiano , Moronti Veronica , Santilli Jessica , Cipollone Alessia , Lessiani Gianfranco , Di Gregorio Nicoletta , Serra Carla , Piscaglia Fabio , Ferri Claudio , Cipollone Francesco
Published: October 2024

Background: Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is still the least studied and evaluated form in clinical practice among atherosclerotic pathologies, despite the increased mortality and comorbidities related to it. The relationship between steatotic liver disease and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease has been extensively documented. Methods: The purpose of this work is to perform a review of the evidence linking NAFLD or MASLD to PAD, and examine possible clinical scenarios that arise from this new terminology. Results: The new definition of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) includes the presence of cardiometabolic risk factors and hepatic steatosis without any other underlying causes of hepatic steatosis; this terminology, coined in the hepatological field, could generate confusion, especially in the initial stages of its diffusion and among different medical specialists. Conclusions: Some recent data in the literature have strengthened the evidence of a pathological link between hepatic metabolic alteration (NAFLD or MAFLD) and PAD.
Contribution of Other Respiratory Viruses During Influenza Epidemic Activity in Catalonia, Spain, 2008–2020
Authors: Torner Nuria , Soldevila N. , Basile L. , Mosquera M. M. , de Molina P. , Marcos M. A. , Martínez A. , Jané M. , Domínguez A. ,   The Working Group for the Catalan Influenza and Acute Respiratory Infection Sentinel Surveillance Network (PIDIRAC)
Published: October 2024

Background: During seasonal influenza activity, circulation of other respiratory viruses (ORVs) may contribute to the increased disease burden that is attributed to influenza without laboratory confirmation. The objective of this study was to characterize and evaluate the magnitude of this contribution over 12 seasons of influenza using the Acute Respiratory Infection Sentinel Surveillance system in Catalonia (PIDIRAC). Methods: A retrospective descriptive study of isolations from respiratory samples obtained by the sentinel surveillance network of physicians was carried out from 2008 to 2020 in Catalonia, Spain. Information was collected on demographic variables (age, sex), influenza vaccination status, epidemic activity weeks each season, and influenza laboratory confirmation. Results: A total of 12,690 samples were collected, with 46% (5831) collected during peak influenza seasonal epidemic activity. In total, 49.6% of the sampled participants were male and 51.1% were aged <15 years. Of these, 73.7% (4298) of samples were positive for at least one respiratory virus; 79.7% (3425 samples) were positive for the influenza virus (IV), with 3067 samples positive for one IV type, 8 samples showing coinfection with two types of IV, and 350 showing coinfection of IV with more than one virus. The distribution of influenza viruses was 64.2% IVA, 35.2% IVB, and 0.1% IVC. Of the other respiratory viruses identified, there was a high proportion of human rhinovirus (32.3%), followed by human adenovirus (24.3%) and respiratory syncytial virus (18; 7%). Four percent were coinfected with two or more viruses other than influenza. The distribution of coinfections with ORVs and influenza by age groups presents a significant difference in proportions for 0–4, 5–14, 15–64 and >64 (21.5%, 10.8%, 8.2% and 7.6%: p < 0.001). A lower ORVs coinfection ratio was observed in the influenza-vaccinated population (11.9% vs. 17.4% OR: 0.64 IC 95% 0.36–1.14). Conclusions: During the weeks of seasonal influenza epidemic activity, other respiratory viruses contribute substantially, either individually or through the coinfection of two or more viruses, to the morbidity attributed to influenza viruses as influenza-like illness (ILI). The contribution of these viruses is especially significant in the pediatric and elderly population. Identifying the epidemiology of most clinically relevant respiratory viruses will aid the development of models of infection and allow for the development of targeted treatments, particularly for populations most vulnerable to respiratory viruses-induced diseases.
Streptococcus equi Subspecies zooepidemicus Endocarditis and Meningitis in a 62-Year-Old Horse Rider Patient: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Franceschi Giacomo , Soffritti Alessandra , Mantovani Matteo , Digaetano Margherita , Prandini Federica , Sarti Mario , Bedini Andrea , Meschiari Marianna , Mussini Cristina
Published: October 2024

The present article presents a case report and literature review concerning the Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus (SEZ), a rare zoonotic pathogen in humans. The case involves a 62-year-old man with no prior heart disease, presenting with endocarditis, pneumonia, and meningitis following close contact with a horse. The patient underwent urgent aortic valve replacement due to severe valvular damage caused by the infection. Blood and cerebrospinal fluid cultures confirmed the presence of SEZ, and the patient was treated with a combination of antibiotics, followed by a successful step-down to oral therapy using linezolid. A review of 25 additional Streptococcus equi endocarditis cases highlights the rarity of the condition, its association with animal contact, and its tendency to cause multi-site infections, such as pneumonia and meningitis. Early diagnosis, appropriate antibiotic therapy, and, in severe cases, surgical intervention are critical for a favorable outcome. This report emphasizes the importance of recognizing zoonotic infections in at-risk populations and the potential need for public health surveillance in these scenarios.
The Microbiota of the Outer Gut Mucus Layer of the Migrating Northeast Arctic Cod (Gadus morhua) as Determined by Shotgun DNA Sequencing
Authors: Le Doujet Typhaine , Haugen Peik
Published: October 2024

Animals form functional units with their microbial communities, termed metaorganisms. Despite extensive research on some model animals, microbial diversity in many species remains unexplored. Here, we describe the taxonomic profile of the microbes from the outer gut mucus layer from the Northeast Arctic cod using a shotgun DNA sequencing approach. We focused on the mucus to determine if its microbial composition differs from that of the fecal microbiota, which could reveal unique microbial interactions and functions. Metagenomes from six individuals were analyzed, revealing three different taxonomic profiles: Type I is dominated in numbers by Pseudomonadaceae (44%) and Xanthomonadaceae (13%), Type II by Vibrionaceae (65%), and Type III by Enterobacteriaceae (76%). This stands in sharp contrast to the bacterial diversity of the transient gut content (i.e., feces). Additionally, binning of assembled reads followed by phylogenomic analyses place a high-completeness bin of Type I within the Pseudomonas fluorescens group, Type II within the Photobacterium phosphoreum clade, and Type III within the Escherichia/Shigella group. In conclusion, we describe the adherent bacterial diversity in the Northeast Arctic cod’s intestine using shotgun sequencing, revealing different taxonomic profiles compared to the more homogenous transient microbiota. This suggests that the intestine contains two separate and distinct microbial populations.
Evolutionary Dynamics and Pathogenicity Analysis of Feline Panleukopenia Virus in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Zhang Hanwen , Zhang Wenxiang , Pan Yu , Li Honghuan , He Tao , Dong Qianqian , Song Wenyan , Zhang Wenya , Zhang Liyan , Kareem Kashaf , Jiang Song , Sheng Jinliang
Published: October 2024

Feline panleukopenia virus (FPV), a globally pervasive and highly pathogenic pathogen, has garnered significant attention recently due to the cross-species transmission of its variants. Despite the vast body of research conducted on FPV, studies exploring its evolutionary history, dynamics, and the factors driving its evolution remain scarce. The pathogenicity of strains with the prevalent mutations (A91S and I101T) in the VP2 protein has also not been fully elucidated. This study conducted a comparative analysis of FPV VP2 sequences sourced from Xinjiang province in China, other provinces in China, and other countries. It was confirmed that the evolutionary rate of FPV approached that of RNA viruses, at approximately 1.13 × 10−4 substitutions/site/year. The study reconstructed molecular models of the VP2 protein with the A91S and I101T mutations and used viral strains carrying these mutations to perform the animal regression experiment. It was confirmed that isolates with the A91S and I101T mutations could cause typical leukopenia and acute enteritis symptoms, suggesting that the mutant strains still possess certain pathogenicity. This is the first study to report on the evolutionary dynamics of FPV in Xinjiang, China, and it emphasized the importance of continuously monitoring FPV evolutionary dynamics.
Guanethidine Enhances the Antibacterial Activity of Rifampicin Against Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria
Authors: Zhao Xiaoou , Zhang Zhendu , Liu Lizai , Wang Duojia , Zhang Xin , Zhao Luobing , Zhao Yunhui , Jin Xiangshu , Wang Lei , Liu Xiaoxiao
Published: October 2024

The escalating global threat of antibiotic resistance necessitates innovative strategies, such as the combination of antibiotics with adjuvants. Monotherapy with rifampicin is more likely to induce resistance in pathogens compared to other antibiotics. Herein, we found that the antihypertensive drug guanethidine enhanced the activity of rifampicin against certain clinically resistant Gram-negative bacteria, resulting in a reduction of up to 128-fold in the minimum inhibitory concentration. In infected animal models, this combination has achieved treatment benefits, including increased survival and decreased bacterial burden. The antimicrobial mechanism of guanethidine in synergy with rifampicin involves the disruption of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, leading to dissipation of the proton motive force. This results in an increase in reactive oxygen species and a reduction in ATP synthesis, severely disturbing energy metabolism and ultimately increasing bacterial mortality. In summary, guanethidine has the potential to become a novel adjuvant for rifampicin, offering a new option for the treatment of clinical Gram-negative bacterial infections.
The Re-Emergence of Neuroinvasive Flaviviruses in Croatia During the 2022 Transmission Season
Authors: Bogdanic Maja , Savic Vladimir , Klobucar Ana , Barbic Ljubo , Sabadi Dario , Tomljenovic Morana , Madic Josip , Hruskar Zeljka , Curman Posavec Marcela , Santini Marija , Stevanovic Vladimir , Petrinic Suncica , Antolasic Ljiljana , Milasincic Ljiljana , Al-Mufleh Mahmoud , Roncevic Dobrica , Vilibic-Cavlek Tatjana
Published: October 2024

(Re-)emerging arboviruses, such as tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), West Nile virus (WNV), and Usutu virus (USUV), are continuously increasing in incidence. We analyzed the epidemiological characteristics of flavivirus infections in humans, sentinel animals, and mosquitoes detected in the 2022 transmission season in Croatia. From April to November 2022, 110 hospitalized patients with neuroinvasive diseases (NID) were tested for the presence of arboviruses. RT-qPCR was used to detect TBEV, WNV, and USUV RNA. An ELISA and virus neutralization tests were used for the detection of flavivirus antibodies. TBEV infection was confirmed in 22 patients with NID. WNV NID was detected in six patients. TBE showed male predominance (81.8%; male-to-female ratio of 4.5:1). All but one WNV patients were males. TBE occurred from April to August, with the majority of patients (83.3%) being detected during the May–June–July period. WNV infections were recorded in August and September. In addition to human cases, asymptomatic WNV infections (IgM positive) were reported in 10 horses. For the first time in Croatia, WNV NID was observed in one horse that presented with neurological symptoms. Furthermore, USUV was confirmed in one dead blackbird that presented with neurological symptoms. A total of 1984 mosquitoes were collected in the City of Zagreb. Two Ae. albopictus pools tested positive for flavivirus RNA: one collected in July (USUV) and the other collected in August (WNV). A phylogenetic analysis of detected human and avian strains confirmed WNV lineage 2 and the USUV Europe 2 lineage. The presented results confirm the endemic presence of neuroinvasive flaviviruses in continental Croatia. The continuous monitoring of virus circulation in humans, sentinel animals, and mosquitoes is needed to reduce the disease burden.
The Characterization of the Building Materials Used in the Refectory of the Manzana Jesuítica in Córdoba (Argentina) on the Basis of a Study of Its Historical Background and the Archaeological Evidence
Authors: Gallegillo Soledad M. , Arizzi Anna , Sebastián Eduardo Pardo , Medina María Rebeca , Uribe Alfonso
Published: October 2024

This paper explores the historical and geological background of the refectory of the Manzana Jesuítica in the city of Córdoba (Argentina), as a basis for characterising some of the building materials used in it. The aim is to gain a better understanding of the raw materials, labour, and production methods employed by the Jesuits in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. To this end, six fragments containing brick, render, and paint layers were studied by X-ray diffraction and using optical and scanning electron microscopies. Our results show that the ceramics differed solely in terms of their firing temperature, while the mortars were either air lime- or gypsum-based. The paints, mainly lime-based with clays, have similar mineralogical compositions, with some differences in colour due to the presence of goethite. This study demonstrates that the Jesuits, through their strategically situated settlements in the province of Córdoba, developed an economic system for the extraction and transport of raw materials, centred around the use of local resources. This, combined with construction techniques imported from Spain and adapted to local circumstances, was a sign of the adaptability of the Jesuit Order and their lasting influence on the region. Understanding the materials and techniques used by the Jesuits provides valuable insight into the methods of construction employed in historical buildings, offering key perspectives for their conservation. Moreover, it highlights the significance of local resource management in the longevity and preservation of these architectural works.
Assessment of the Potential for CO2 Storage and Utilization in the Fractured and Porous Reservoir of the Cambrian Sandstones in West Lithuania’s Baltic Basin
Authors: Šliaupa Saulius , Michelevičius Dainius , Šliaupienė Rasa , Liugas Jonas
Published: October 2024

Cambrian sandstones comprise a large and saline-only aquifer that can be utilized for CO2 geological storage in the Baltic basin, including Lithuania. The two prospective storage sites with the most potential are located in west Lithuania. Despite the larger area of the Gargždai elevation (233 km2), the Syderiai uplift (62 km2) is characterized by the largest storage volume. The most significant difference between the studied structures is primarily related to the much higher reservoir quality of the Cambrian sandstones at the Syderiai site. The sandstones’ average porosity is 16% and their permeability measures 310 mD, while the Gargždai site is characterized by poor reservoir quality (average porosity of 7% and permeability as low as 10 mD in the sandstone). The main controlling parameter for the sandstones is authigenic quartz cementation. The reservoir type is classified as the porous sandstone type for the Syderiai site and as the fractured reservoir type for the Gargždai site. The storage volumes of CO2 of the sites were assessed as 56.7 Mt and 31.3 Mt, respectively. The present study determined that the Syderiai uplift was the prospective site with the most potential for the geological storage trapping of CO2, owing to its high reservoir quality, while the Gargždai elevation is characterized as a potential alternative for CO2 storage combined with EOR technology for oil exploitation, despite its poor reservoir quality.
The Role of the Organic Moiety in the Diffusion and Transport of Carboxylates into Liposomes
Authors: Torres-Huerta Aaron , Valkenier Hennie
Published: October 2024

Understanding carboxylate transport through lipid membranes under physiological conditions is critical in biomedicine and biotechnology, as it allows for the emulation of biological membrane functions and can enhance the absorption of hydrophobic carboxylate-based drugs. However, the structural diversity of carboxylates has made it challenging to study their transport, and the limited available examples do not provide a comprehensive understanding of the role of the organic moiety in this process. Here, we present an in-depth analysis of the diffusion and transport of various aliphatic and aromatic carboxylates into liposomes. We assessed the influence of their size, number of carboxylate groups, and presence of hydroxyl groups. Our findings from fluorescence assays, using lucigenin and HPTS as probes, revealed that most carboxylates can spontaneously diffuse into liposomes in their protonated state, facilitated by the efflux of HNO3 when using NaNO3 solutions at pH 7. The Cl-ISE assay showed chloride/carboxylate exchange by a synthetic anion transporter. Clear trends were observed when the organic moiety was systematically varied, with a particular enhancement of anion transport by the presence of hydroxyl groups in the aromatic carboxylates. Our findings provide insights into the processes by which carboxylates can enter liposomes, which can contribute to understanding the transport of other biologically relevant organic anions.
Synergistic Integration of Carbon Quantum Dots in Biopolymer Matrices: An Overview of Current Advancements in Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Active Packaging
Authors: Singh Ajit Kumar , Itkor Pontree , Lee Myungho , Saenjaiban Aphisit , Lee Youn Suk
Published: October 2024

Approximately one-third of the world’s food production, i.e., 1.43 billion tons, is wasted annually, resulting in economic losses of nearly USD 940 billion and undermining food system sustainability. This waste depletes resources, contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, and negatively affects food security and prices. Although traditional packaging preserves food quality, it cannot satisfy the demands of extended shelf life, safety, and sustainability. Consequently, active packaging using biopolymer matrices containing antioxidants and antimicrobials is a promising solution. This review examines the current advancements in the integration of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) into biopolymer-based active packaging, focusing on their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. CQDs provide unique advantages over traditional nanoparticles and natural compounds, including high biocompatibility, tunable surface functionality, and environmental sustainability. This review explores the mechanisms through which CQDs impart antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, their synthesis methods, and their functionalization to optimize the efficacy of biopolymer matrices. Recent studies have highlighted that CQD-enhanced biopolymers maintain biodegradability with enhanced antioxidant and antimicrobial functions. Additionally, potential challenges, such as toxicity, regulatory considerations, and scalability are discussed, offering insights into future research directions and industrial applications. This review demonstrates the potential of CQD-incorporated biopolymer matrices to transform active packaging, aligning with sustainability goals and advancing food preservation technologies.
3,4-Dihalo-5-hydroxy-2(5H)-furanones: Highly Reactive Small Molecules
Authors: Żurawska Katarzyna , Byczek-Wyrostek Anna , Kasprzycka Anna , Walczak Krzysztof
Published: October 2024

3,4-Dichloro-5-hydroxy-2(5H)-furanone and its dibromo analog are highly reactive molecules. Both are members of the 2(5H)-furanone family, which are important as pharmacophores present in drugs and natural products. Compounds possessing the 2(5H)-furanone skeleton isolated from plants and marine organisms exhibit bioactivity against various microorganisms and viruses and can also be used in other medical treatments. The structures of these 3,4-dihalo-2(5H)-furanones cause their high reactivity due to the presence of a carbonyl group on the C2 carbon conjugated with a double bond and a hydroxyl group on the C5 carbon. Two labile halogen atoms on carbons 3 and 4 offer additional possibilities for the introduction of other substituents. These structural features make 3,4-dihalo-5-hydroxy-2(5H)-furanones versatile reactants in chemical synthesis. In this review, we present methods of 3,4-dihalo-5-hydroxy-2(5H)-furanone synthesis, their applications as substrates in various chemical transformations, and examples of their biologically active derivatives.
A Facile Synthesis of RGO-Ag2MoO4 Nanocomposites for Efficient Lead Removal from Aqueous Solution
Authors: Shoeb Mohd , Mashkoor Fouzia , Khan Mohmmad Naved , Jeong Changyoon
Published: October 2024

Efficiently treating wastewater, particularly the elimination of heavy metal ions from water systems, continues to be one of the most pressing and complex challenges in modern environmental management. In this work, reduced graphene oxide coupled silver molybdate binary nanocomposites (RGO-Ag2MoO4 NCs) have been prepared via hydrothermal method. The crystalline nature and surface properties of the developed RGO-Ag2MoO4 NCs were proved by XRD, FTIR, SEM, and EDS techniques. Adsorption experiments demonstrated that the nanocomposites (NCs) effectively removed Pb(II) ions within 120 min, achieving a maximum removal efficiency ranging from 94.96% to 86.37% for Pb(II) concentrations between 20 and 100 mg/L at pH 6. Kinetic studies showed that the adsorption process followed a pseudo-second order model. Isotherm analysis presented that the Langmuir model provided the greatest fit for the equilibrium data, with a monolayer adsorption capacity of 128.94 mg/g. Thermodynamic analysis revealed that the adsorption process was spontaneous and endothermic. The results of this study highlight RGO-Ag2MoO4 NCs as a highly promising and eco-friendly material for the effective elimination of Pb(II) ions from wastewater. Their strong adsorption capacity, coupled with sustainable properties, makes them an efficient solution for addressing lead contamination, offering significant potential for practical applications in water treatment systems.
Investigating Flavonoids by HPTLC Analysis Using Aluminium Chloride as Derivatization Reagent
Authors: Sultana Sharmin , Hossain Md Lokman , Sostaric Tom , Lim Lee Yong , Foster Kevin J. , Locher Cornelia
Published: October 2024

This is the first study to report on high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) generated spectrophotometric data to systematically capture flavonoid compounds using optimized derivatization with either AlCl3 or NaNO2-AlCl3-NaOH as visualisation reagents. While the traditional AlCl3 colorimetric method using UV–Vis analysis provides valuable insights into the presence of flavonoids and allows derivation of the total flavonoid content (TFC) of a sample, HPTLC fingerprints obtained after spraying with AlCl3 or NaNO2-AlCl3-NaOH enable the visualization of the various flavonoids present in a sample based on their respective absorption shifts, thus complementing the traditional TFC assay. In this study, 40 different flavonoids representing different classes (flavonols, flavanolols, flavan-3-ol, flavones, flavanones, and isoflavonoids) were analysed. Upon derivatization with AlCl3 most of the investigated flavonoids recorded bathochromic shifts, yielding characteristic λmax values between 370 and 420 nm, while spraying with NaNO2-AlCl3-NaOH triggered hyperchromic shifts, and thus an increase in absorbance intensity in flavonoids with particular substitution patterns. A few non-flavonoid components with structural similarities to flavonoids (e.g., rosmarinic acid, gallic acid, aspirin, salicylic acid) served as the negative control in this study to determine whether the derivatization reagents allowed exclusive detection of flavonoids. The method was then applied to the analysis of flavonoid containing supplements as well as red clover honey to demonstrate the method’s application in the analysis of natural products.
Drying of Red Chili Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.): Process Kinetics, Color Changes, Carotenoid Content and Phenolic Profile
Authors: Krzykowski Andrzej , Rudy Stanisław , Polak Renata , Biernacka Beata , Krajewska Anna , Janiszewska-Turak Emilia , Kowalska Iwona , Żuchowski Jerzy , Skalski Bartosz , Dziki Dariusz
Published: October 2024

Studies were conducted focusing on the drying of chili pepper fruits (Capsicum annuum L.), cultivar Cyklon, using convective (AD), convective-microwave (AMD), vacuum (VD), and freeze-drying (FD) methods. The influence of the drying method and temperature on the kinetics of the process and selected quality attributes of the dried product were evaluated. It was demonstrated that the Midilli model best described the drying kinetics for all methods across the entire measurement range. FD and VD produced dried products with the highest brightness and the greatest value of the a* color parameter. The lowest b* color parameter was observed for the product dried using FD at 40 °C, while the highest b* value was noted for samples dried using AMD (100 W) at 60 °C. The highest carotenoid retention was achieved with the FD method at 40 °C, while the lowest carotenoid content was found in the product obtained using the AMD method (100 W) at 60 °C. The smallest losses of capsaicinoids were observed after FD drying at 40 °C, while the largest were found for AMD (100 W) at 60 °C. The analysis of chili pepper fruit extracts revealed the quantitative composition of 12 main phenolic compounds using the UHPLC-UV method. The highest polyphenol content was obtained with FD, while the lowest total polyphenol content was recorded after AD. Regardless of temperature, the total flavonoid content was highest in extracts from FD products, and the lowest flavonoid content was found after AMD at 100 W. For all drying methods analyzed, the total flavonoid content in the pepper extracts decreased with increasing temperature.
Influence of the Carrier Gas Flow in the CVD Synthesis of 2-Dimensional MoS2 Based on the Spin-Coating of Liquid Molybdenum Precursors
Authors: Esposito Fiorenza , Bosi Matteo , Attolini Giovanni , Rossi Francesca , Fornari Roberto , Fabbri Filippo , Seravalli Luca
Published: October 2024

Atomically thin molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) is a two-dimensional semiconductor with versatile applications. The recent adoption of liquid molybdenum precursors in chemical vapor deposition has contributed significantly to the reproducible wafer-scale synthesis of MoS2 monolayer and few-layer films. In this work, we study the effects of the carrier gas flow rate on the properties of two-dimensional molybdenum disulfide grown by liquid-precursor-intermediate chemical vapor deposition on SiO2/Si substrates. We characterized the samples using Optical Microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and Photoluminescence spectroscopy. We analyzed samples grown with different nitrogen carrier flows, ranging from 150 to 300 sccm, and discussed the effect of carrier gas flows on their properties. We found a correlation between MoS2 flake lateral size, shape, and number of layers, and we present a qualitative growth model based on changes in sulfur provision caused by different carrier flows. We show how the use of liquid precursors can allow for the synthesis of homogeneous, single-layer flakes up to 100 µm in lateral size by optimizing the gas flow rate. These results are essential for gaining a deeper understanding of the growth process of MoS2.
Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation on Inflammatory Markers in Obese Patients with Acute and Chronic Orthopedic Conditions
Authors: Gawryjołek Michał , Wiciński Michał , Zabrzyńska Maria , Ohla Jakub , Zabrzyński Jan
Published: October 2024

Numerous studies have shown that vitamin D may play an important role in modulating the inflammatory process. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of vitamin D supplementation on inflammatory markers in patients with orthopedic disorders and obesity. Thirty-three obese subjects were included in the study and were divided into two groups based on their medical condition: acute orthopedic diseases and chronic orthopedic diseases. Inclusion criteria for the research included age 18–75 years, BMI > 30 kg/m2, vitamin D deficiency, and no previous vitamin D supplementation. Samples were collected before and after 3 months of 4000 IU/day vitamin D supplementation. The study used enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and measured serum levels of markers such as chitinase-3-like protein 1 (YKL-40), interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 17 (IL-17), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), and adiponectin. After 3 months of vitamin D supplementation, a statistically significant increase in vitamin D and IL-17 levels was observed in the group with acute orthopedic diseases. Similarly, after supplementation, a statistically significant increase in vitamin D, IL-6 and TNF-α levels was observed in the group with chronic orthopedic diseases. Moreover, after vitamin D supplementation, statistically significantly higher adiponectin levels were observed in the chronic orthopedic group than in the acute orthopedic group. Despite high-dose vitamin D supplementation, inflammatory markers increased in acute and chronic orthopedic conditions. Based on our study, vitamin D does not reduce inflammation in patients with orthopedic conditions and obesity.
Design and Characteristics of Photonic Crystal Resonators for Surface-Emitting Quantum Cascade Lasers
Authors: Sakoda Kazuaki , Yao Yuanzhao , Ikeda Naoki , Sugimoto Yoshimasa , Mano Takaaki , Kuroda Takashi , Tanimura Hirotaka , Takagi Shigeyuki , Hashimoto Rei , Kaneko Kei , Kakuno Tsutomu , Ohkuma Shinji , Togawa Ryuichi , Miyagawa Tetsuya , Ohno Hiroshi , Saito Shinji
Published: October 2024

We present our recent development of the surface-emitting quantum cascade laser with a PC (photonic crystal) resonator and a strain-compensated MQW (multiple quantum well) active layer operating at around 4.3 μm. We describe the laser performance mainly from the viewpoint of the design and analysis of the PC resonators, which include both numerical calculations by FEM (finite element method) and analytical calculations using the k·p perturbation theory and group theory. We analyze the resonance quality factor, overlap factor, extraction efficiency, and far-field pattern, and show how the output power and beam quality have been improved by the appropriate design of the PC resonator.
In Vivo Insights: Near-Infrared Photon Sampling of Reflectance Spectra from Cranial and Extracranial Sites in Healthy Individuals and Patients with Essential Tremor
Authors: Currà Antonio , Gasbarrone Riccardo , Gattabria Davide , Bonifazi Giuseppe , Serranti Silvia , Greco Daniela , Missori Paolo , Fattapposta Francesco , Picciano Alessandra , Maffucci Andrea , Trompetto Carlo
Published: October 2024

Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy is a powerful non-invasive technique for assessing the optical properties of human tissues, capturing spectral signatures that reflect their biochemical and structural characteristics. In this study, we investigated the use of NIR reflectance spectroscopy combined with chemometric analysis to distinguish between patients with Essential Tremor (ET) and healthy individuals. ET is a common movement disorder characterized by involuntary tremors, often making it difficult to clinically differentiate from other neurological conditions. We hypothesized that NIR spectroscopy could reveal unique optical fingerprints that differentiate ET patients from healthy controls, potentially providing an additional diagnostic tool for ET. We collected NIR reflectance spectra from both extracranial (biceps and triceps) and cranial (cerebral cortex and brainstem) sites in ET patients and healthy subjects. Using Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA) and Partial Least Squares (PLS) regression models, we analyzed the optical properties of the tissues and identified significant wavelength peaks associated with spectral differences between the two groups. The chemometric analysis successfully classified subjects based on their spectral profiles, revealing distinct differences in optical properties between cranial and extracranial sites in ET patients compared to healthy controls. Our results suggest that NIR spectroscopy, combined with machine learning algorithms, offers a promising non-invasive method for the in vivo characterization and differentiation of tissues in ET patients.
Two-Way Single-Photon Laser Time Transfer for High-Speed Moving Platforms
Authors: Zhu Xinyi , Wang Yurong , Li Zhaohui , Li Xue , Wu Guang
Published: October 2024

The two-way laser time transfer technology, based on single-photon detection, is among the techniques requiring the least weight and power consumption for ultra-long-distance clock synchronization. It holds promise as the most viable technology for high-accuracy inter-satellite clock synchronization, particularly for small satellites that are highly sensitive to weight and power consumption. In this study, we analyze laser time transfer in fast-moving platforms and find that not only does the relative motion speed between platforms significantly impact the clock offset measurement, but also the components of each platform’s relative motion velocity are critical. We introduce a lightweight scenario for laser time transfer, capable of achieving high-precision and high-accuracy interstellar clock offset measurements within a 5000 km range using high repetition rate microchip lasers and single-pixel single-photon detectors. With a speed accuracy of ±0.06 m/s, the precision of clock offset measurement surpasses 3 ps at full width at half maximum (FWHM), making it suitable for high-speed and high-precision clock synchronization between near-Earth satellites.
Mechanisms by Which Increased pH Ameliorates Copper Excess in Citrus sinensis Roots: Insight from a Combined Analysis of Physiology, Transcriptome, and Metabolome
Authors: Zhang Jiang , Huang Wei-Lin , Chen Wen-Shu , Rao Rong-Yu , Lai Ning-Wei , Huang Zeng-Rong , Yang Lin-Tong , Chen Li-Song
Published: October 2024

Limited data are available on copper (Cu)–pH interaction-responsive genes and/or metabolites in plant roots. Citrus sinensis seedlings were treated with 300 μM (Cu toxicity) or 0.5 μM (control) CuCl2 at pH 3.0 or 4.8 for 17 weeks. Thereafter, gene expression and metabolite profiles were obtained using RNA-Seq and widely targeted metabolome, respectively. Additionally, several related physiological parameters were measured in roots. The results indicated that elevating the pH decreased the toxic effects of Cu on the abundances of secondary metabolites and primary metabolites in roots. This difference was related to the following several factors: (a) elevating the pH increased the capacity of Cu-toxic roots to maintain Cu homeostasis by reducing Cu uptake and Cu translocation to young leaves; (b) elevating the pH alleviated Cu toxicity-triggered oxidative damage by decreasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation and free fatty acid abundances and increasing the ability to detoxify ROS and maintain cell redox homeostasis in roots; and (c) increasing the pH prevented root senescence and cell wall (CW) metabolism impairments caused by Cu toxicity by lowering Cu levels in roots and root CWs, thus improving root growth. There were some differences and similarities in Cu–pH interaction-responsive genes and metabolites between leaves and roots.
Correlation Analysis Among the Chemical Composition and Cytotoxic and Antioxidative Activities of a Tessaria absinthioides Decoction for Endorsing Its Potential Application in Oncology
Authors: Pascual Lourdes Inés , Luna Lorena , González Roxana Elizabeth , Ortiz Javier Esteban , Gomez-Gomez Luciano , Donadel Osvaldo Juan , Hapon María Belén , Feresin Gabriela Egly , Gamarra-Luques Carlos
Published: October 2024

Historically, botanical preparations have been used to improve human health. Their active ingredients are influenced by multiple factors such as intraspecies variations, environmental conditions, collection time and methods, and the part of the plant used. To ensure the efficiency and safety of these herbal drugs, qualitative and quantitative analyses are required. A Tessaria absinthioides decoction (DETa) was reported as having hypocholesterolemic, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, antitumor, and antioxidative properties. This work aimed to analyze DETa by correlating its chemical composition with cytotoxic and antioxidative properties, with the aim of promoting research on it as an anticancer agent. DETa collections (2017, 2018, 2019, and 2022) were analyzed by UHPLC-DAD, UHPLC-DAD-FLD, and UPLC-MS/MS; cytotoxicity was assessed on the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line; antioxidative capacity was evaluated by the DPPH and FRAP methods; and correlation analysis was used to determine biological and chemical markers. The results provide evidence that biological activities were consistent across the collections. Among the quantified compounds, apigenin, naringin, gallocatechin gallate, ginnalin A, myricetin, epicatechin, OH-tyrosol, quercetin, and chlorogenic, tessaric, p-coumaric, vanillic, caffeic, caftaric, ellagic, and rosmarinic acids correlated as bioactive and chemical markers. Moreover, tessaric acid could be established as a species marker. Altogether, these findings add relevant information to DETa properties, encouraging further exploration of its potential application as an anticancer botanical.
Microbe-Friendly Plants Enable Beneficial Interactions with Soil Rhizosphere Bacteria by Lowering Their Defense Responses
Authors: Arkhipov Alexander , Shao Ziyu , Muirhead Sean R. , Harry Muchineripi S. , Batool Maria , Mirzaee Hooman , Carvalhais Lilia C. , Schenk Peer M.
Published: October 2024

The use of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria presents a promising addition to conventional mineral fertilizer use and an alternative strategy for sustainable agricultural crop production. However, genotypic variations in the plant host may result in variability of the beneficial effects from these plant–microbe interactions. This study examined growth promotion effects of commercial vegetable crop cultivars of tomato, cucumber and broccoli following application with five rhizosphere bacteria. Biochemical assays revealed that the bacterial strains used possess several nutrient acquisition traits that benefit plants, including nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, biofilm formation, and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) production. However, different host cultivars displayed genotype-specific responses from the inoculations, resulting in significant (p < 0.05) plant growth promotion in some cultivars but insignificant (p > 0.05) or no growth promotion in others. Gene expression profiling in tomato cultivars revealed that these cultivar-specific phenotypes are reflected in differential expressions of defense and nutrient acquisition genes, suggesting that plants can be categorized into “microbe-friendly” cultivars (with little or no defense responses against beneficial microbes) and “microbe-hostile” cultivars (with strong defense responses). These results validate the notion that “microbe-friendly” (positive interaction with rhizosphere microbes) should be considered an important trait in breeding programs when developing new cultivars which could result in improved crop yields.
Daphnetin Protects Schwann Cells Against High-Glucose-Induced Oxidative Injury by Modulating the Nuclear Factor Erythroid 2-Related Factor 2/Glutamate–Cysteine Ligase Catalytic Subunit Signaling Pathway
Authors: Ko Chih-Yuan , Meng Run-Tian , Wu Chung-Hsin , Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan , Chen Yu-En , Wu James Swi-Bea , Huang Wen-Chung , Shen Szu-Chuan
Published: October 2024

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), a common complication of diabetes mellitus, is primarily characterized by damage to Schwann cells caused by oxidative stress under hyperglycemic conditions. Recently, we demonstrated the ability of coumarin-rich Ficus formosana Maxim. to alleviate DPN in ovariectomized diabetic mice. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we established an in vitro DPN model using RSC96 Schwann cells exposed to high glucose levels. Daphnetin, a natural coumarin found abundantly in Ficus formosana Maxim., was co-incubated with Schwann cells in a high-glucose medium to investigate its protective effects against DPN. The free radical scavenging capacity of daphnetin was evaluated, along with assessments of cell viability, apoptosis, H2O2 levels, and the expression of proteins by the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/glutamate–cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (GCLC) pathway in RSC96 Schwann cells. The results showed that daphnetin was non-toxic within the tested concentration range of 6.25 μM to 50 μM in RSC96 Schwann cells. Moreover, daphnetin significantly improved cell viability, exhibited strong antioxidant activity, reduced H2O2 levels, and regulated the Nrf2/GCLC pathway protein expressions in RSC96 cells cultured in high-glucose medium. Additionally, daphnetin influenced apoptosis-related proteins by decreasing the expression levels of Bax and Caspase 3, while increasing the Bcl-2 expression level in high-glucose-treated RSC96 cells. These findings suggest that daphnetin may alleviate oxidative stress induced by high glucose levels through activation of the Nrf2/GCLC pathway and inhibition of Schwann cell apoptosis, underscoring its potential as a therapeutic agent for DPN.
Research on the Mechanism of Thermal Power Enhancement in an Interior Permanent Magnet Eddy Current Heater Driven by Wind
Authors: Lu Honglei , Zhou Ce , Hong Wenpeng , Ding Haoshu
Published: October 2024

This article uses numerical simulation methods to study the comprehensive influences of the stator structure and materials on the thermal power of an interior permanent magnet eddy current heater (IPMECH). By analyzing the air-gap magnetic flux density (MFD), stator MFD, thermal power, and torque at different rotational speeds, the mechanism of thermal power enhancement has been revealed in depth. The results indicate that the armature magnetic field (MF) generated by the eddy current produces a magnetization effect on the side of its rotation direction, but the MF in the stator will be weakened in general, and this effect becomes more significant with the increase in the rotational speed. The stator material of the IPMECH has higher permeability, which has higher thermal power and torque, and a lower proportion of high-order harmonics, which is beneficial for reducing the radial vibration of the IPMECH. A permanent magnet with high remanence can increase the thermal power and torque of the IPMECH. Reducing the length of the air gap is beneficial for improving the thermal power, but it also increases the harmonic MFD. The rotational speed is 200 rpm, the air gap is 0.1 mm and 2 mm, and the thermal power is 1.12 kW and 0.35 kW, respectively. The fundamental amplitudes of the 0.1 mm and 2 mm air-gap lengths are 0.94 T and 0.64 T, respectively, and the 3rd harmonic Bi* values are 0.24 and 0.18, respectively. At rotational speeds of 200 rpm, 800 rpm, and 1600 rpm, the δPmax values are 17 mm, 11 mm, and 8 mm, respectively. When designing a heater, the higher the rotational speed, the smaller the stator wall thickness should be.
A Review of Intelligent Depth Distance Perception Research for Power Transmission Line Corridor Scenarios
Authors: Zhang Jiaxin , Wang Bo , Ma Hengrui , Wang Leixiong , Wang Hongxia , Ma Fuqi , Luo Peng
Published: October 2024

Transmission lines are essential carriers for the transmission of electrical energy, and their safe operation is fundamental to ensuring reliable power supply. However, the environment of transmission line corridors is complex and variable, posing numerous risks of external damage. With the development of smart power systems, information technologies such as video monitoring provide effective means for monitoring and managing external damage to transmission lines. Nonetheless, the current technology for identifying external damage and safe distances for transmission lines is weak, leading to frequent false alarms and low efficiency in practical applications. To address this issue, this paper systematically reviews and summarizes the progress of distance recognition technology in power systems. First, it outlines the spatial distance perception performance requirements for models in transmission line corridor scenarios and summarizes the spatial distance data characteristics of these corridors. Second, the paper categorizes existing common safety distance recognition methods from the perspectives of active and passive ranging, analyzing their advantages and disadvantages in the context of transmission line corridors. Finally, this paper summarizes the types and performance characteristics of current deep learning-based distance recognition methods and proposes a potential application framework for these methods in transmission line corridor scenarios. It also discusses the future application prospects and challenges faced by this framework.
Experimental and Numerical Investigations of Low-Permeability Sandstone Under Water Injection–Induced Dilation in West Oilfield, South China Sea
Authors: Wu Shaowei , Yuan Hui , Chen Huan , Chen Xiao , Cao Yanfeng , Lao Wentao , Gao Yanfang , Li Dengke
Published: October 2024

With the development of offshore oil fields, the reservoirs of X oilfield in the west of the South China Sea are poor in physical property, serious in pollution, and increasingly prominent in interlayer contradictions. Water injection dilation technology has strongly affected the development of loose sandstone reservoirs. To explore whether this technology applies to the low-permeability sandstone of X oilfield in the west of the South China Sea and the dilation effect and radius of water injection dilation technology on the target reservoir, low confining pressure rock mechanics experiments and numerical simulation of water injection in this reservoir section are carried out. The triaxial shear experiment of low confining pressure shows that the target reservoir sandstone with low-permeability can have a shear strength of 45 MPa when the effective confining pressure is 0.5 MPa, and the target reservoir core can have dilatancy. When the axial strain is 2.5%, the core dilatancy is 1%, and the permeability changes by 1.17 times. It was found that the core volume dilation was obviously under low effective confining pressure, and the permeability is 2 orders higher than in the initial condition. The numerical simulation of the target reservoir shows that the bottom-hole pressure reaches 47.12 MPa at the end of water injection in typical wells. The reservoir was deformed to different degrees around the well, and the top layer was raised by 5.58 mm. This paper characterizes the rock expansion potential and expansion flow capacity of low-permeability sandstone reservoirs from multiple perspectives and establishes a three-dimensional, full-size wellbore formation crustal stress strict matching geological model for offshore expansion wells. We have provided theoretical guidance for on-site construction.