bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental and Numerical Investigation on the Interactions between the Weakly Three-Dimensional Waves
Authors: Liu Dianyong , Liang Chen , Liang Xiao
Published: January 2023

The results of laboratory experiments and numerical simulations were performed to investigate the interactions between the weakly three-dimensional waves in an ‘X’ configuration, which has a 16-degree approaching angle. In addition, another oblique two-dimensional experiment was also conducted for comparison with the ‘X’ configuration but in one single channel by removing a dummy wall in the interaction region. Our experimental results show that as the wave trains propagate into the interaction region, it is obvious that there is an increase in the wave height which reaches a maximum height of about 1.37H0 for different initial wave steepness at the center of the interaction region, and then decreases thereafter, where H0 is the input wave height. Then wave elevations at different positions downstream of the interaction region were also studied, indicating that the frequency and initial wave steepness were highly correlated with the wave-wave interaction between the weakly three-dimensional waves. For the wave with low frequency (f = 0.8 Hz), a crescent wave surface formed at the beginning of the interaction and then separated into two two-dimensional waves after the interaction, which illustrates that the waves can still keep their initial characteristic and propagate as their initial directions downstream of the interaction region. While the frequency increased (f = 1.2 Hz), three-dimensional effects appeared to dominate the interaction of weakly three-dimensional waves, especially for the large initial steepness, and the wave surfaces were also three-dimensional after interactions. Finally, numerical simulations with larger approaching angles were conducted to further understand the influence of propagation direction on the interactions between the weakly three-dimensional waves. The results suggest that intense interactions and strong three-dimensional characteristics of the wave trains downstream interactions can result from larger approaching angles.
Artificial Intelligence-Driven Talent Management System: Exploring the Risks and Options for Constructing a Theoretical Foundation
Authors: Faqihi Ali , Miah Shah Jahan
Published: January 2023

AI (Artificial intelligence) has the potential to improve strategies to talent management by implementing advanced automated systems for workforce management. AI can make this improvement a reality. The objective of this study is to discover the new requirements for generating a new AI-oriented artefact so that the issues pertaining to talent management are effectively addressed. The design artefact is an intelligent Human Resource Management (HRM) automation solution for talent career management primarily based on a talent intelligent module. Improving connections between professional assessment and planning features is the key goal of this initiative. Utilising a design science methodology we investigate the use of organised machine learning approaches. This technique is the key component of a complete AI solution framework that would be further informed through a suggested moderation of technology-organisation-environment (TOE) theory with the theory of diffusion of innovation (DOI). This framework was devised in order solve AI-related problems. Aside from the automated components available in talent management solutions, this study will make recommendations for practical approaches researchers may follow to fulfil a company’s specific requirements for talent growth.
Cross-Section of Returns, Predictors Credibility, and Method Issues
Authors: Yu Zhimin (Jimmy)
Published: January 2023

The paper focuses on the relationship between firms’ characteristics and cross-section returns. The author reviews and critically assesses the most recent contributions in the literature. After comparing the abnormal returns (Alpha) and t statistics of the original works with those of replication works, the author concludes that 94 characteristics are robust. The limitation of the paper is that measurement errors in the COMPUSTAT could affect the predictability of cross-section returns. The practical implication of the paper is that the author validates the practice of fundamental analysis. Investors could benefit from those discovered characteristics. The author validates the policy consequence and connects the theoretical frameworks with empirical results. The author evaluates the empirical methodology and proposes several methods to improve future research.
Chronic Kidney Disease—Mineral and Bone Disorder (CKD-MBD), from Bench to Bedside
Authors: Nitta Kosaku , Hanafusa Norio , Akiyama Kenichi , Kawaguchi Yuki , Tsuchiya Ken
Published: January 2023

Chronic kidney disease—mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD) is a systemic disorder that increases the risk of morbidity and mortality in dialysis patients. CKD-MBD is highly prevalent in dialysis patients, and appropriate treatment is important for improving their outcomes. Inorganic phosphate, fibroblast growth factor 23, parathyroid hormone, and calciprotein particles are markers for critical components and effectors of CKD-MBD, and higher circulating levels of these markers are linked to cardiovascular diseases. In this short review, we focus on the pathogenesis and management of CKD-MBD in CKD patients, especially those on dialysis therapy, and discuss the prospects for improving the management in CKD patients, including those on dialysis.
Evolution of Statistical Strength during the Contact of Amorphous Polymer Specimens below the Glass Transition Temperature: Influence of Chain Length
Authors: Boiko Yuri M.
Published: January 2023

A comprehensive study of the statistical distribution of the auto-adhesion lap-shear strength (σ) of amorphous polymer–polymer interfaces using various types of statistical tests and models is a useful approach aimed at a better understanding of the mechanisms of the self-healing interface. In the present work, this approach has been applied, for the first time, to a temperature (T) range below the bulk glass transition temperature (Tgbulk). The interest of this T range consists in a very limited or even frozen translational segmental motion giving little or no chance for adhesion to occur. To clarify this issue, the two identical samples of entangled amorphous polystyrene (PS) with a molecular weight (M) of 105 g/mol or 106 g/mol were kept in contact at T = Tgbulk − 33 °C for one day. The as-self-bonded PS–PS auto-adhesive joints (AJ) of PSs differing in M by an order of magnitude were fractured at ambient temperature, and their σ distributions were analyzed using the Weibull model, the quantile-quantile plots, the normality tests, and the Gaussian distribution. It has been shown that the Weibull model most correctly describes the σ statistical distributions of the two self-bonded PS–PS AJs with different M due to the joints’ brittleness. The values of the Weibull modulus (a statistical parameter) m = 2.40 and 1.89 calculated for PSs with M = 105 and 106 g/mol, respectively, were rather close, indicating that the chain length has a minor effect on the σ data scatter. The Gaussian distribution has been found to be less appropriate for this purpose, though all the normality tests performed have predicted the correctness of the normal distribution for these PS–PS interfaces.
Channel-Type Induction Heating Tundish Technology for Continuous Casting: A Review
Authors: Wang Ziming , Li Yue , Wang Xiuzhen , Li Xinlin , Yue Qiang , Xiao Hong
Published: January 2023

With the increasing demand for special steel, the quality of steel has become critical during the continuous casting tundish process. In recent years, tundish heating technology has played a key role in low superheat casting. Toward this, researchers have reported on the metallurgical effects of induction heating tundish (IHT). From 1984 to date, the channel-type IHT has been investigated in the production of continuous casting of special steel. In this article, the principle of this channel-type IHT technology and equipment composition were illustrated. A brief summary and comments were undertaken on the channel-type IHT, including physical modeling and numerical modeling. The application development trend of tundish induction heating equipment is summarized combined with industrial application data, which provide a reference for a better understanding of the induction heating process of tundish.
Preparation Optimization of CFRP and EPDM Composite by the Co-Curing Method
Authors: Wei Binxiao , Yu Chen , Bai Yongping , Liu Li , He Jinmei
Published: January 2023

As the requirements of aerospace technology become more rigorous, the performance of solid rocket motor (SRM) cases needs to be further optimized. In the present study, a co-curing technique was used to fabricate carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP)/ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM) composites whereby the properties of CFRP/EPDM composites were adjusted by varying the temperature, heating time and type of vulcanizing agent to obtain the optimum manufacturing process. The results of crosslink density (3.459 × 10−4 mol/cm3) tested by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), a 90° peel strength test (2.342 N/mm), and an interlaminar shear test (ILSS = 82.08 MPa) demonstrated that the optimum mechanical properties of composites were obtained under the temperature 160 °C heated for 20 min with the curing agent DCP/S. The interfacial phase and bonding mechanism of composites were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) further indicated that EPDM/DCP/S had favorable thermal stability. This will provide valuable recommendations for the optimization of the SRM shell preparation process.
Analysis of the Degradation of Pearlitic Steel Mechanical Properties Depending on the Stability of the Structural Phases
Authors: Šmak Radim , Votava Jiří , Lozrt Jaroslav , Kumbár Vojtěch , Binar Tomáš , Polcar Adam
Published: January 2023

The paper is focused on analysing the pearlitic steel phase transformations and their influence on the mechanical properties. The intention is to perform a detailed analysis of the heat treatment process using the exact heating temperature and chemical composition to achieve the optimal mechanical properties of the tool. The key area is monitoring and regulating the heat treatment. This technology is constantly undergoing an optimisation process and is an effort to introduce new trends in monitoring phase transformations and processes. The use of non-destructive methods is an adequate tool. The principle is to determine the exact structural phase at a given moment, which can be very difficult when a complex shaped part is heat treated. Which precludes the use of some other methods of phase transformation analysis. Specifically, the determination of the exact moment of finish of the austenitisation process is eminent. The monitoring of these processes will be ensured by both a non-contact pyrometer and also by the AE method with an adequate sensor and waveguide. The resulting structural phases formed after the heat treatment will be evaluated by electron microscopy, followed by the analysis of the mechanical properties of selected steels.
Compressed Graphene Assembled Film with Tunable Electrical Conductivity
Authors: Chen Qiang , Wang Zhe , Jin Huihui , Zhao Xin , Feng Hao , Li Peng , He Daping
Published: January 2023

Graphene and graphene-based materials gifted with high electrical conductivity are potential alternatives in various related fields. However, the electrical conductivity of the macro-graphene materials is much lower than their metal counterparts. Herein, we improved the electrical conductivity of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) based graphene assembled films (GAFs) by applying a series of compressive stress and systematically investigated the relationship between the compressive stress and the electrical conductivity. The result indicates that with increasing applied compressive stress, the sheet resistance increased as well, while the thickness decreased. Under the combined effect of these two competing factors, the number of charge carriers per unit volume increased dramatically, and the conductivity of compressed GAFs (c-GAFs) showed an initial increasing trend as we applied higher pressure and reached a maximum of 5.37 × 105 S/m at the optimal stress of 450 MPa with a subsequent decrease with stress at 550 MPa. Furthermore, the c-GAFs were fabricated into strain sensors and showed better stability and sensitivity compared with GAF-based sensors. This work revealed the mechanism of the tunable conductivity and presented a facile and universal method for improving the electrical conductivity of macro-graphene materials in a controllable manner and proved the potential applications of such materials in flexible electronics like antennas, sensors, and wearable devices.
Effect of Functionally Graded Material (FGM) Interlayer in Metal Additive Manufacturing of Inconel-Stainless Bimetallic Structure by Laser Melting Deposition (LMD) and Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM)
Authors: Yoo Seong-Won , Lee Choon-Man , Kim Dong-Hyeon
Published: January 2023

Bimetallic structures manufactured by direct deposition have a defect due to the sudden change in the microstructure and properties of dissimilar metals. The laser metal deposition (LMD)-wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) process can alleviate the defect between two different materials by depositing the functionally graded material (FGM) layer, such as a thin intermediate layer using LMD and can be used to fabricate bimetallic structures at high deposition rates with relatively low costs using WAAM. In this study, the LMD-WAAM process was performed, and the microstructure of the fabricated bimetallic structure of IN625-SUS304L was investigated. The microstructure of the FGM zone of the LMD-WAAM sample was mainly fine equiaxed dendrite morphologies. In contrast, coarse columnar dendrite morphologies constituted the WAAM zone. The composition of the major alloying elements of the LMD-WAAM sample gradually changed with the height of the deposited layer. The microhardness of the LMD-WAAM sample tended to increase with an increasing Inconel content. In the case of the LMD-WAAM sample, the fracture occurred near the interface between 25% IN625 and 0% IN625; in the WAAM sample, the final fracture occurred in SUS304L near the interface. The tensile strength of the LMD-WAAM samples was inversely proportional to the laser power. The results showed that the LMD-WAAM samples had 8% higher tensile strength than the samples fabricated using only WAAM.
A Camera Stabilized Platform Based on the Feedforward Strap-Down Control with Approximate Dead-Zone Model and a Compensator with LESO
Authors: Fu Tianlei , Gao Yanbin , Guan Lianwu , Qin Chao
Published: January 2023

A feedforward strap-down control with a compensator base on the linear extended state observer (LESO) is proposed for a miniaturized camera stabilized platform, which reduces the influence of the dead zone in speed regulation and uncertainties in parameters to reduce the level of angular bias to the field of vision (FOV) in a low-cost stabilized platform. Firstly, the feedforward control is inspired by an approximate linear model proposed for the dead zone to improve the response velocity of the system when tracking the varying reference. Then, the compensator, combining the LESO and proportional differential (PD) law, is designed to eliminate the disturbances including the model bias in the dead zone, inaccuracy in the plant model, and external disturbance. Moreover, the observation performance of the LESO is improved by a preprocessor based on a tracking differentiator (TD) to deal with the time delay and nonlinearities in sampling the state variables. Meanwhile, the complex and uncertain control plant is also simplified by an approximate model combining a disturbance compensator for practical application. Finally, the feasibility of the proposed controller is verified and analyzed by the simulation, and its effectiveness is simultaneously validated by the 2-DOF camera stabilized platform.
Fixed Point Approach: Ulam Stability Results of Functional Equation in Non-Archimedean Fuzzy φ-2-Normed Spaces and Non-Archimedean Banach Spaces
Authors: Tamilvanan Kandhasamy , Alkhaldi Ali H. , Agarwal Ravi P. , Alanazi Abdulaziz M.
Published: January 2023

In this work, we introduce a new type of generalized mixed-type quadratic-additive functional equation and obtain its general solution. The main goal of this work is to investigate Ulam stability of this mixed type of quadratic-additive functional equation in the setting of non-Archimedean fuzzy φ-2-normed space and non-Archimedean Banach space using the direct and fixed point approaches by taking into our account two cases: even mapping and odd mapping.
ML-k’sNN: Label Dependent k Values for Multi-Label k-Nearest Neighbor Rule
Authors: Cuevas-Muñoz José M. , García-Pedrajas Nicolás E.
Published: January 2023

Multi-label classification as a data mining task has recently attracted increasing interest from researchers. Many current data mining applications address problems with instances that belong to more than one category. These problems require the development of new, efficient methods. Multi-label k-nearest neighbors rule, ML-kNN, is among the best-performing methods for multi-label problems. Current methods use a unique k value for all labels, as in the single-label method. However, the distributions of the labels are frequently very different. In such scenarios, a unique k value for the labels might be suboptimal. In this paper, we propose a novel approach in which each label is predicted with a different value of k. Obtaining the best k for each label is stated as an optimization problem. Three different algorithms are proposed for this task, depending on which multi-label metric is the target of our optimization process. In a large set of 40 real-world multi-label problems, our approach improves the results of two different tested ML-kNN implementations.
A Straightforward Method to Prepare MOF-Based Membranes via Direct Seeding of MOF-Polymer Hybrid Nanoparticles
Authors: Fang Mingyuan , Drobek Martin , Cot Didier , Montoro Carmen , Semsarilar Mona
Published: January 2023

Metal Organic Frameworks (MOFs) present high surface areas, various pore topology as well as good stabilities. The functionalities and porosity can be tuned by using different linkers with various functional groups and a wide range of linker lengths. These properties make them good candidates in membrane separation applications. In this work, we propose a simple UiO-66 MOF-based membrane fabrication method following two steps. First, the α-alumina tubular membrane support was dip-coated with MOF-polymer hybrid nanoparticles (NPs). These NPs were prepared via one-pot synthesis by adding poly (methacrylic acid)-b-poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMAA-b-PMMA) NPs to the classical acetic acid-modulated UiO-66 or UiO-66-NH2 synthesis formulation. Second, secondary membrane growth was applied to give rise to a continuous and homogeneous crystalline MOF membrane layer. The gas permeances (He, N2, CO2 and SF6) tests confirmed high membrane permeability with no macro-defects. The as-prepared membranes that were used for dye separation (Rhodamine B) showed relatively good separation capacity.
Obesity-Induced Brain Neuroinflammatory and Mitochondrial Changes
Authors: Schmitt Luisa O. , Gaspar Joana M.
Published: January 2023

Obesity is defined as abnormal and excessive fat accumulation, and it is a risk factor for developing metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive deficits. Obesity is caused by an imbalance in energy homeostasis resulting from increased caloric intake associated with a sedentary lifestyle. However, the entire physiopathology linking obesity with neurodegeneration and cognitive decline has not yet been elucidated. During the progression of obesity, adipose tissue undergoes immune, metabolic, and functional changes that induce chronic low-grade inflammation. It has been proposed that inflammatory processes may participate in both the peripheral disorders and brain disorders associated with obesity, including the development of cognitive deficits. In addition, mitochondrial dysfunction is related to inflammation and oxidative stress, causing cellular oxidative damage. Preclinical and clinical studies of obesity and metabolic disorders have demonstrated mitochondrial brain dysfunction. Since neuronal cells have a high energy demand and mitochondria play an important role in maintaining a constant energy supply, impairments in mitochondrial activity lead to neuronal damage and dysfunction and, consequently, to neurotoxicity. In this review, we highlight the effect of obesity and high-fat diet consumption on brain neuroinflammation and mitochondrial changes as a link between metabolic dysfunction and cognitive decline.
Ultrasound Attenuation Improves Some Surface Properties of the Probiotic Strain Lacticaseibacillus casei ATCC 393
Authors: Giordano Irene , Mauriello Gianluigi
Published: January 2023

Ultrasound attenuation has been recently proposed as a tool to modulate probiotic metabolism. The study aimed to characterize the response of the probiotic Lacticaseibacillus casei ATCC 393 to sonication. Two ultrasound treatments were tested (57 W, duty cycle 50%, 6 or 8 min). Attenuation was assessed as a pH decrease in MRS broth after 6 and 24 h of incubation at 37 °C. Cultivability was evaluated by plate count immediately after sonication and by growth index on overnight cultures. Surface changes were determined by auto-aggregation, hydrophobicity, biofilm production tests, and by membrane damages. The 6 min treatment induced a temporary attenuation, while a prolongated exposure to sonic waves caused major attenuation effects (ΔpH 0.97 after 24 h). Both sonication treatments affected probiotic cultivability with a significant (p < 0.05) reduction of plate counts and an alteration of the growth index. Although auto-aggregation was negatively affected upon sonication, the hydrophobicity and biofilm production were improved with no significant differences (p > 0.05) between the sonicated samples. Moreover, sonicated L. casei ATCC 393 resulted in increased membrane permeability. These results suggest that ultrasound technology can be successfully used to modulate the L. casei ATCC 393 fermentative metabolism and to improve its surface properties.
Editorial for Special Issue “Comminution and Comminution Circuits Optimisation”
Authors: Chimwani Ngonidzashe
Published: January 2023

Comminution is the size reduction of rock particles from blasting during the mining stage to crushing and milling during the mineral processing stage [...]
Melt Composition and Phase Equilibria in the Eclogite-Carbonate System at 6 GPa and 900–1500 °C
Authors: Shatskiy Anton , Bekhtenova Altyna , Arefiev Anton , Litasov Konstantin
Published: January 2023

Melting phase relations in the eclogite-carbonate system were studied at 6 GPa and 900–1500 °C. Starting mixtures were prepared by blending natural bimineral eclogite group A (Ecl) with eutectic Na-Ca-Mg-Fe (N2) and K-Ca-Mg-Fe (K4) carbonate mixtures (systems Ecl-N2 and Ecl-K4). In the Ecl-N2 system, the subsolidus assemblage is represented by garnet, omphacite, eitelite, and a minor amount of Na2Ca4(CO3)5. In the Ecl-K4 system, the subsolidus assemblage includes garnet, clinopyroxene, K2Mg(CO3)2, and magnesite. The solidus of both systems is located at 950 °C and is controlled by the following melting reaction: Ca3Al2Si3O12 (Grt) + 2(Na or K)2Mg(CO3)2 (Eit) = Ca2MgSi3O12 (Grt) + [2(Na or K)2CO3∙CaCO3∙MgCO3] (L). The silica content (in wt%) in the melt increases with temperature from < 1 at 950 °C to 3–7 at 1300 °C, and 7–12 at 1500 °C. Thus, no gradual transition from carbonate to kimberlite-like (20–32 wt% SiO2) carbonate-silicate melt occurs even as temperature increases to mantle adiabat. This supports the hypothesis that the high silica content of kimberlite is the result of decarbonation at low pressure. As temperature increases from 950 to 1500 °C, the melt Ca# ranges from 58–60 to 42–46. The infiltration of such a melt into the peridotite mantle should lower its Ca# and causes refertilization from harzburgite to lherzolite and wehrlitization.
Systematic Study on Nonlinear Optical Chromophores with Improved Electro-Optic Activity by Introducing 3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)benzene Derivative Isolation Groups into the Bridge
Authors: Liu Tongtong , Huo Fuyang , Ge Changqing , Li Ya , He Jing , Zheng Han , He Qian , Zhao Yinsen , Chen Zhuo , Bo Shuhui
Published: January 2023

A series of novel chromophores A, B, C, and D, based on the julolidinyl donor and the tricyanofuran (TCF) and CF3-tricyanofuran (CF3-Ph-TCF) acceptors, have been synthesized and systematically investigated. The 3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)benzene derivative isolation group was introduced into the bridge in the chromophores C and D. These nonlinear optical chromophores showed good thermal stability, and their decomposition temperatures were all above 220 °C. Density functional theory (DFT) was used to calculate the energy gaps and first-order hyperpolarizability (β). The macroscopic electro-optic (EO) activity was measured using a simple reflection method. The highest EO coefficient of poled films containing 35 wt% of chromophore D doped in amorphous polycarbonate afforded values of 54 pm/V at 1310 nm. The results indicate that the 3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)benzene isolation group can suppress the dipole–dipole interaction of chromophores. The moderate r33 value, good thermal stability, and good yield of chromophores suggest their potential use in the nonlinear optical area.
Trivalent Polyhedra as Duals of Borane Deltahedra: From Molecular Endohedral Germanium Clusters to the Smallest Fullerenes
Authors: King R. Bruce
Published: January 2023

The duals of the most spherical closo borane deltahedra having from 6 to 16 vertices form a series of homologous spherical trivalent polyhedra with even numbers of vertices from 8 to 28. This series of homologous polyhedra is found in endohedral clusters of the group 14 atoms such as the endohedral germanium cluster anions [M@Ge10]3− (M = Co, Fe) and [Ru@Ge12]3− The next members of this series have been predicted to be the lowest energy structures of the endohedral silicon clusters Cr@Si14 and M@Si16 (M = Zr, Hf). The largest members of this series correspond to the smallest fullerene polyhedra found in the endohedral fullerenes M@C28 (M = Zr, Hf, Th, U). The duals of the oblate (flattened) ellipsoidal deltahedra found in the dirhenaboranes Cp*2Re2Bn−2Hn−2 (Cp* = η5-Me5C5; 8 ≤ n ≤ 12) are prolate (elongated) trivalent polyhedra as exemplified experimentally by the germanium cluster [Co2@Ge16]4− containing an endohedral Co2 unit.
Contribution of Reliable Chromatographic Data in QSAR for Modelling Bisphenol Transport across the Human Placenta Barrier
Authors: Gély Clémence A. , Picard-Hagen Nicole , Chassan Malika , Garrigues Jean-Christophe , Gayrard Véronique , Lacroix Marlène Z.
Published: January 2023

Regulatory measures and public concerns regarding bisphenol A (BPA) have led to its replacement by structural analogues, such as BPAF, BPAP, BPB, BPF, BPP, BPS, and BPZ. However, these alternatives are under surveillance for potential endocrine disruption, particularly during the critical period of fetal development. Despite their structural analogies, these BPs differ greatly in their placental transport efficiency. For predicting the fetal exposure of this important class of emerging contaminants, quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) studies were developed to model and predict the placental clearance indices (CI). The most usual input parameters were molecular descriptors obtained by modelling, but for bisphenols (BPs) with structural similarities or heteroatoms such as sulfur, these descriptors do not contrast greatly. This study evaluated and compared the capacity of QSAR models based either on molecular or chromatographic descriptors or a combination of both to predict the placental passage of BPs. These chromatographic descriptors include both the retention mechanism and the peak shape on columns that reflect specific molecular interactions between solute and stationary and mobile phases and are characteristic of the molecular structure of BPs. The chromatographic peak shape such as the asymmetry and tailing factors had more influence on predicting the placental passage than the usual retention parameters. Furthermore, the QSAR model, having the best prediction capacity, was obtained with the chromatographic descriptors alone and met the criteria of internal and cross validation. These QSAR models are crucial for predicting the fetal exposure of this important class of emerging contaminants.
Glochodpurnoid B from Glochidion puberum Induces Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Mediated Apoptosis in Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Tian Yang , Fan Runzhu , Yin Zhao , Huang Yongping , Huang Dong , Yuan Fangyu , Yin Aiping , Tang Guihua , Pu Rong , Yin Sheng
Published: January 2023

Glochidpurnoids A and B (1 and 2), two new coumaroyl or feruloyl oleananes, along with 17 known triterpenoids (3–19) were obtained from the stems and twigs of Glochidion puberum. Their structures were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic data analyses, chemical methods, and single crystal X-ray diffraction. All compounds were screened for cytotoxicity against the colorectal cancer cell line HCT-116, and 2, 3, 5, 6, 11, and 17 showed remarkable inhibitory activities (IC50: 0.80–2.99 μM), being more active than the positive control 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). The mechanistic study of 2, the most potent compound, showed that it could induce endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-mediated apoptosis and improve the sensitivity of HCT-116 cells to 5-FU.
Optimization of Ultrasound- and Microwave-Assisted Extraction for the Determination of Phenolic Compounds in Peach Byproducts Using Experimental Design and Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Tsiaka Thalia , Lantzouraki Dimitra Z. , Polychronaki Georgia , Sotiroudis Georgios , Kritsi Eftichia , Sinanoglou Vassilia J. , Kalogianni Despina P. , Zoumpoulakis Panagiotis
Published: January 2023

The conversion of plant byproducts, which are phenolic-rich substrates, to valuable co-products by implementing non-conventional extraction techniques is the need of the hour. In the current study, ultrasound- (UAE) and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) were applied for the recovery of polyphenols from peach byproducts. Two-level screening and Box–Behnken design were adopted to optimize extraction efficiency in terms of total phenolic content (TPC). Methanol:water 4:1% v/v was the extraction solvent. The optimal conditions of UAE were 15 min, 8 s ON-5 s OFF, and 35 mL g−1, while MAE was maximized at 20 min, 58 °C, and 16 mL g−1. Regarding the extracts’ TPC and antioxidant activity, MAE emerged as the method of choice, whilst their antiradical activity was similar in both techniques. Furthermore, a liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method was developed and validated to determine chlorogenic acid and naringenin in byproducts’ extracts. 4-Chloro-4′-hydroxybenzophenone is proposed as a new internal standard in LC-MS/MS analysis in foods and byproducts. Chlorogenic acid was extracted in higher yields when UAE was used, while MAE favored the extraction of the flavonoid compound, naringenin. To conclude, non-conventional extraction could be considered as an efficient and fast alternative for the recovery of bioactive compounds from plant matrices.
Rotational Barriers in N-Benzhydrylformamides: An NMR and DFT Study
Authors: Sadvakassova Madina Zh. , Khlebnikov Andrei I. , Bakibaev Abdigali A. , Kotelnikov Oleg A. , Erkassov Rakhmetulla Sh. , Yelubay Madeniyet A. , Issabayeva Manar A.
Published: January 2023

N-Benzhydrylformamides are pharmacologically active compounds with anticonvulsant, enzyme-inducing, antihypoxic, and other types of biological activity. The conformational behavior of benzhydrylformamides is determined to a great extent by the presence of substituents at the nitrogen atom and in the ortho-position(s) of the diphenylmethane moiety. Particularly, the NMR spectra of these compounds often contain two sets of signals originating from different orientations of the formyl group. With the use of the dynamic NMR method and DFT calculations, we investigated the internal rotations of aromatic and formyl fragments and estimated the corresponding rotational barriers in N-benzhydrylformamide (BHFA), N-methyl-N-benzhydrylformamide (BHFA-NMe), and in a series of ortho-halogen-substituted N-benzhydrylformamides. It was found that the DFT method at M06-2X/6-311+G* level of theory satisfactorily reproduces the experimental barrier ΔG298≠(Formyl) of the formyl group rotation in BHFA-NMe. In BHFA, BHFA-NMe, and in the ortho-halogen derivatives, the calculated ΔG298≠(Formyl) values are close to each other and lie within 20–23 kcal/mol. On the other hand, the ortho-substituents significantly hinder the rotation of aryl fragment with ΔG298≠(Aryl) values varying from 2.5 kcal/mol in BHFA to 9.8 kcal/mol in ortho-iodo-N-benzhydrylformamide.
Biocompatibility and Antimicrobial Activity of Electrospun Fibrous Materials Based on PHB and Modified with Hemin
Authors: Tyubaeva Polina M. , Varyan Ivetta A. , Nikolskaya Elena D. , Mollaeva Mariia R. , Yabbarov Nikita G. , Sokol Maria B. , Chirkina Margarita V. , Popov Anatoly A.
Published: January 2023

The effect of the hemin (Hmi) on the structure and properties of nanocomposite electrospun materials based on poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (PHB) is discussed in the article. The additive significantly affected the morphology of fibers allowed to produce more elastic material and provided high antimicrobial activity. The article considers also the impact of the hemin on the biocompatibility of the nonwoven material based on PHB and the prospects for wound healing.
The Association between Dietary Iron Intake and Incidence of Dementia in Adults Aged 60 Years or over in the UK Biobank
Authors: Liu Jiahao , Chen Yutong , Lu Xi , Xu Xiaojing , Bulloch Gabriella , Zhu Susan , Zhu Zhuoting , Ge Zongyuan , Wang Wei , Shang Xianwen , He Mingguang
Published: January 2023

Background Several studies have investigated the association between dietary iron intake and cognitive impairment, but little is known about the relationship between iron intake and dementia incidence. Objectives This study explored the association between dietary iron intake and incident dementia in males and females. Whether this association was modified by factors such as age and medical diseases was also examined. Methods We included 41,213 males and 48,892 females aged 60 years or over, from the UK-Biobank cohort. Dietary iron intake was measured using a web-based 24-h dietary recall questionnaire from between 2009 and 2012. Incident dementia was ascertained using hospital inpatient records and death registers until April 2021. Cox proportional regression models examined the association between iron intake and incident dementia, and hazard ratio curves were constructed with knots from the analysis indicating insufficient or excessive iron intake. Results During a mean follow-up of 11.8 years, 560 males and 492 females developed dementia. A non-linear relationship between iron intake and incident dementia was observed in both males and females. The lowest incidence rates were observed in the higher iron intake quintile (Q4: ≥15.73, <17.57 mg/day) for males, and the intermediate iron intake quintile (Q3: ≥12.4, <13.71 mg/day) for females. Among those aged 60 and above, all-cause dementia in males was associated with deficient iron intake (Q1 versus Q4: Hazard ratio [HR]: 1.37, 95% Confidence interval [95%CI]: 1.01–1.86, p = 0.042) and excessive iron intake (Q5 versus Q4: HR: 1.49, 95%CI: 1.14–1.96, p = 0.003), whilst significant associations between all-cause dementia and deficient iron intake were only observed in females without hypertension. Smoking status was a significant moderator (p-value for trend = 0.017) for dementia in males only. Conclusions Excessive iron intake (≥17.57 mg/day) is associated with a higher incidence of all-cause dementia in males and smoking status modified this association amongst males. Deficient iron intake (<10.93 mg/day) was associated with a higher incidence of all-cause dementia in females without a history of hypertension.
High Added Sugars Intake among US Adults: Characteristics, Eating Occasions, and Top Sources, 2015–2018
Authors: Lee Seung Hee , Zhao Lixia , Park Sohyun , Moore Latetia V. , Hamner Heather C. , Galuska Deborah A. , Blanck Heidi M.
Published: January 2023

The 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) recommends less than 10% of total daily calories come from added sugars. However, many adults overconsume added sugars putting them at risk for poor health outcomes. We examined characteristics of high added sugars consumers among US adults (≥20 years) and described their top 10 sources of added sugars intake using National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2015–2018 data (n = 9647). We defined high consumers as consuming >15% of daily calories from added sugars (1.5 times higher than the DGA). We used the National Cancer Institute method to estimate usual intake of energy and percent of calories from added sugars. Top 10 sources were identified based on their percentage contribution to total added sugars intake on a given day. T-tests were used to examine differences by age, sex, race/ethnicity, education, income, marital status, and weight status. Overall, mean usual total energy intake and added sugars intake was 2068 kcal/day and 264 kcal/day, respectively, and 30% of adults were classified as high consumers. The prevalence of high added sugars consumers was significantly higher among 20–30-year-olds (29%), 31–50-year-olds (33%), and 51–70-year-olds (29%) than those aged ≥70 years (22%); non-Hispanic Black (39%) and non-Hispanic White (31%) adults than Hispanics (26%); adults with <high school (37%), high school/GED (38%), or some college (34%) than adults with college or higher (15%); adults living in lower-income households (39% for federal poverty income ratio < 130% and 35% for 130%–<350%) than high-income households (21%). The prevalence of high consumers did not differ by sex or weight status. Top sources of added sugars were sweetened beverages (42%), tea (12%), sweet bakery products (11%), and jams/syrups/sugars (7%). Our findings can inform intervention efforts to decrease added sugars intake to support health.
Immunomodulation of B Lymphocytes by Prebiotics, Probiotics and Synbiotics: Application in Pathologies
Authors: Rousseaux Anaïs , Brosseau Carole , Bodinier Marie
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Prebiotics, probiotics and synbiotics are known to have major beneficial effects on human health due to their ability to modify the composition and the function of the gut mucosa, the gut microbiota and the immune system. These components largely function in a healthy population throughout different periods of life to confer homeostasis. Indeed, they can modulate the composition of the gut microbiota by increasing bacteria strands that are beneficial for health, such as Firmicute and Bifidobacteria, and decreasing harmful bacteria, such as Enteroccocus. Their immunomodulation properties have been extensively studied in different innate cells (dendritic cells, macrophages, monocytes) and adaptive cells (Th, Treg, B cells). They can confer a protolerogenic environment but also modulate pro-inflammatory responses. Due to all these beneficial effects, these compounds have been investigated to prevent or to treat different diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, allergies, autoimmune diseases, etc. Regarding the literature, the effects of these components on dendritic cells, monocytes and T cells have been studied and presented in a number of reviews, but their impact on B-cell response has been less widely discussed. Conclusions: For the first time, we propose here a review of the literature on the immunomodulation of B-lymphocytes response by prebiotics, probiotics and synbiotics, both in healthy conditions and in pathologies. Discussion: Promising studies have been performed in animal models, highlighting the potential of prebiotics, probiotics and synbiotics intake to treat or to prevent diseases associated with B-cell immunomodulation, but this needs to be validated in humans with a full characterization of B-cell subsets and not only the humoral response.
Stance4Health Nutritional APP: A Path to Personalized Smart Nutrition
Authors: Hinojosa-Nogueira Daniel , Ortiz-Viso Bartolomé , Navajas-Porras Beatriz , Pérez-Burillo Sergio , González-Vigil Verónica , de la Cueva Silvia Pastoriza , Rufián-Henares José Ángel
Published: January 2023

Access to good nutritional health is one of the principal objectives of current society. Several e-services offer dietary advice. However, multifactorial and more individualized nutritional recommendations should be developed to recommend healthy menus according to the specific user’s needs. In this article, we present and validate a personalized nutrition system based on an application (APP) for smart devices with the capacity to offer an adaptable menu to the user. The APP was developed following a structured recommendation generation scheme, where the characteristics of the menus of 20 users were evaluated. Specific menus were generated for each user based on their preferences and nutritional requirements. These menus were evaluated by comparing their nutritional content versus the nutrient composition retrieved from dietary records. The generated menus showed great similarity to those obtained from the user dietary records. Furthermore, the generated menus showed less variability in micronutrient amounts and higher concentrations than the menus from the user records. The macronutrient deviations were also corrected in the generated menus, offering a better adaptation to the users. The presented system is a good tool for the generation of menus that are adapted to the user characteristics and a starting point to nutritional interventions.
Fermented Supernatants of Lactobacillus plantarum GKM3 and Bifidobacterium lactis GKK2 Protect against Protein Glycation and Inhibit Glycated Protein Ligation
Authors: Lin Shih-Wei , Wu Chi-Hao , Jao Ya-Chien , Tsai You-Shan , Chen Yen-Lien , Chen Chin-Chu , Fang Tony J. , Chau Chi-Fai
Published: January 2023

With age, protein glycation in organisms increases continuously. Evidence from many studies shows that the accumulation of glycated protein is highly correlated with biological aging and the development of aging-related diseases, so developing a dietary agent to attenuate protein glycation is very meaningful. Previous studies have indicated that lactic acid bacteria-fermented products have diverse biological activities especially in anti-aging, so this study was aimed to investigate the inhibitory effect of the fermented supernatants of Lactobacillus plantarum GKM3 (GKM3) and Bifidobacterium lactis GKK2 (GKK2) on protein glycation. The results show that GKM3- and GKK2-fermented supernatants can significantly inhibit protein glycation by capturing a glycation agent (methylglyoxal) and/or protecting functional groups in protein against methylglyoxal-induced responses. GKM3- and GKK2-fermented supernatants can also significantly inhibit the binding of glycated proteins to the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE). In conclusion, lactic acid bacteria fermentation products have the potential to attenuate biological aging by inhibiting protein glycation.
Anti-AMPA Receptor Autoantibodies Reduce Excitatory Currents in Rat Hippocampal Neurons
Authors: Day Charlotte , Silva John-Paul , Munro Rebecca , Baker Terry S. , Wolff Christian , Bithell Angela , Stephens Gary J.
Published: January 2023

The GluR3 subunit of α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptors (AMPARs) has been identified as a target for autoantibodies (Aabs) in autoimmune encephalopathy and other diseases. Recent studies have proposed mechanisms by which these Aabs act, but their exact role in neuronal excitability is yet to be established. Patient Aabs have been shown to bind to specific regions within the GluR3 subunit. GLUR3B peptides were designed based on described (ELISA) immunogenic epitopes for Aabs and an immunisation strategy was used to generate novel anti-AMPAR Aabs. Target-specific binding and specificity of affinity-purified anti-AMPAR Aabs was confirmed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, immunocytochemistry and Western blot. Functional anti-AMPAR Aab effects were determined on excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) from primary hippocampal neurons using whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology. Acute (10 or 30 min) or longer-term (24 h) application of anti-AMPAR Aabs caused a significant reduction in the mean frequency of spontaneous and miniature EPSCs in hippocampal neurons. Our data demonstrate that anti-AMPAR Aabs targeting peptides linked to auto-immune diseases mediate inhibitory effects on neuronal excitability at the synaptic level, such effects may lead to disruption of the excitatory/inhibitory balance at a network level.
Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) Induce Cell Junction Alterations in a Human 3D In Vitro Model of the Blood-Brain Barrier
Authors: Salvador Ellaine , Köppl Theresa , Hörmann Julia , Schönhärl Sebastian , Bugaeva Polina , Kessler Almuth F. , Burek Malgorzata , Ernestus Ralf-Ingo , Löhr Mario , Hagemann Carsten
Published: January 2023

In a recent study, we showed in an in vitro murine cerebellar microvascular endothelial cell (cerebEND) model as well as in vivo in rats that Tumor-Treating Fields (TTFields) reversibly open the blood–brain barrier (BBB). This process is facilitated by delocalizing tight junction proteins such as claudin-5 from the membrane to the cytoplasm. In investigating the possibility that the same effects could be observed in human-derived cells, a 3D co-culture model of the BBB was established consisting of primary microvascular brain endothelial cells (HBMVEC) and immortalized pericytes, both of human origin. The TTFields at a frequency of 100 kHz administered for 72 h increased the permeability of our human-derived BBB model. The integrity of the BBB had already recovered 48 h post-TTFields, which is earlier than that observed in cerebEND. The data presented herein validate the previously observed effects of TTFields in murine models. Moreover, due to the fact that human cell-based in vitro models more closely resemble patient-derived entities, our findings are highly relevant for pre-clinical studies.
Green Manufacturing for Herbal Remedies with Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology
Authors: Tegtmeier Martin , Knierim Larissa , Schmidt Axel , Strube Jochen
Published: January 2023

Herbal remedies are in most cases still manufactured with traditional equipment installations and processes. Innovative chemical process engineering methods such as modeling and process intensification with green technology could contribute to the economic and ecologic future of those botanicals. The integration of modern unit operations such as water-based pressurized hot water extraction and inline measurement devices for process analytical technology approaches in traditional extraction processes is exemplified. The regulatory concept is based on the quality-by-design demand for autonomous feed-based recipe operation with the aid of digital twins within advanced process control. This may include real-time release testing to the automatic cleaning of validation issues. Digitalization and Industry 4.0 methods, including machine learning and artificial intelligence, are capable of keeping natural product extraction manufacturing and can contribute significantly to the future of human health.