bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the Efficiency, Evolutionary Trend, and Influencing Factors of Rural–Urban Integration Development in Sichuan and Chongqing Regions under the Background of Dual Carbon
Authors: Jiang Pan , Yang Yirui , Ye Wei , Liu Liang , Gu Xinchen , Chen Haipeng , Zhang Yuhan
Published: May 2024

Re-evaluating how urban and rural development can be integrated is a necessary step towards achieving the “dual-carbon” objective and facilitating a thorough transition towards a green and low-carbon economy and society. This study empirically investigates the geographical disparities, evolving patterns, and determinants of the effectiveness of urban–rural integration development in Sichuan and Chongqing. Results of the study indicate that (1) the effectiveness of urban–rural integration development in Sichuan and Chongqing is generally poor, and external environmental factors adversely affect the urban–rural integration of economically developed cities; (2) the urban–rural integration development efficiency in Sichuan and Chongqing does not show a more obvious polarization phenomenon, but the gap between the cities gradually widens; and (3) regarding influencing factors, market dynamics are favorable to overall urban–rural integration development in the Sichuan and Chongqing regions, while the development of the digital economy and the level of financial development can exacerbate the imbalance of regional urban–rural integration development. Based on this premise, pertinent policy suggestions are offered to facilitate the merger of urban and rural areas and foster efficient development in the regions of Sichuan and Chongqing.
Association of Metallic and Nonmetallic Elements with Fibrin Clot Properties and Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Jakubowski Hieronim , Sikora Marta , Bretes Ewa , Perła-Kaján Joanna , Utyro Olga , Wojtasz Izabela , Kaźmierski Radosław , Frankowski Marcin , Zioła-Frankowska Anetta
Published: May 2024

Objectives—Metallic elements and fibrin clot properties have been linked to stroke. We examined metallic and nonmetallic elements, fibrin clot lysis time (CLT), and maximum absorbance (Absmax) in relation to ischemic stroke. Design—A case–control study of ischemic stroke patients vs. healthy individuals. Subjects and Methods—Plasma and serum were collected from 260 ischemic stroke patients (45.0% women; age, 68 ± 12 years) and 291 healthy controls (59.7% women; age, 50 ± 17 years). Fibrin CLT and Absmax were measured using a validated turbidimetric assay. Serum elements were quantified by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). Data were analyzed by bivariate correlations and multiple or logistic regression. Results—In female stroke patients, copper, lithium, and aluminum were significantly lower compared with controls; in male stroke patients, potassium was lower, and beryllium was elevated. In female and male stroke patients, iron, zinc, nickel, calcium, magnesium, sodium, and silicon were significantly lower, while strontium was elevated. Positive correlations between fibrin clot properties and metals, observed in healthy controls, were lost in ischemic stroke patients. In multivariate regression analysis, fibrin CLT and/or Absmax was associated with zinc, calcium, potassium, beryllium, and silicon in stroke patients and with sodium, potassium, beryllium, and aluminum in controls. In logistic regression analysis, stroke was independently associated with lithium, nickel, beryllium, strontium, boron, and silicon and with sodium, potassium, calcium, and aluminum but not with fibrin CLT/Absmax. Conclusions—Various elements were associated with fibrin clot properties and the risk of ischemic stroke. Lithium, sodium, calcium, and aluminum abrogated the association of fibrin clot properties with ischemic stroke.
Stable Near-Infrared Photoluminescence of Hexagonal-Shaped PbS Nanoparticles with 1-Dodecanethiol Ligands
Authors: Liang Tsair-Chun , Su Hsin-Yu , Uma Kasimayan , Chen Sih-An , Deng Zhi-Chi , Kao Tzung-Ta , Lin Chun-Cheng , Chen Lung-Chien
Published: May 2024

In this study, lead(II) sulphide (PbS) nanoparticles of varying particle sizes were synthesized using the hot injection method, employing 1-octadecene (ODE) as a coordinating ligand in conjunction with oleylamine (OAm). This synthesis approach was compared with the preparation of hexagonal-shaped nanoparticles through the ligand of 1-Dodecanethiol (DT), resulting in DT-capped PbS nanoparticles. The prepared nanoparticles were characterized using multiple techniques including photoluminescence (PL), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The condensation reaction of DT ligands led to various nanoparticles within the range of 34.87 nm to 35.87 nm across different synthesis temperatures (120 °C, 150 °C, 180 °C, 210 °C, and 240 °C). The PbS with DT ligands exhibited a highly crystalline and superhydrophilic structure. Interestingly, near-infrared (NIR)-PL analysis revealed peaks at 1100 nm, representing the lowest-energy excitonic absorption peak of PbS nanoparticles for both ligands. This suggests their potential utility in various applications, including IR photoreactors, as well as in the development of non-toxic nanoparticles for potential applications in in vivo bioimaging.
The Influence of Rare Earth Ce on the Microstructure and Properties of Cast Pure Copper
Authors: Zhang Mingyi , Yang Jichun , Li Haixiao
Published: May 2024

The effects of rare earth Ce on the microstructure and properties of cast pure copper were investigated through thermodynamic calculations, XRD analysis, mechanical testing, metallographic microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The experimental results demonstrate that the reaction between rare earth Ce and oxygen as well as sulfur in copper exhibits a significantly negative Gibbs free energy value, indicating a strong thermodynamic driving force for deoxidation and desulfurization reactions. Ce is capable of removing trace amounts of O and S from copper. Moreover, the maximum solid solubility of Ce in Cu falls within the range of 0.009% to 0.01%. Furthermore, Ce can refine columnar grains while enlarging equiaxed grains in as-cast copper. Upon the addition of rare earth Ce, the tensile strength increased by 8.45%, elongation increased by 12.1%, and microhardness rose from 73.5 HV to 81.2 HV—an increase of 10.5%. Overall, rare earth Ce has been found to enhance both the microstructure and mechanical properties of cast pure copper.
Experimental Verification of Geometric Changes Caused by the Release of Residual Stresses for Large-Scale Welded Frames
Authors: Wieczorowski Michał , Jakubowicz Michał , Marciniak-Podsadna Lidia , Gapiński Bartosz , Barczewski Roman , Jakubek Bartosz , Rogiewicz Filip , Jermak Czesław , Khan Rehan
Published: May 2024

This paper presents geometric analyses of welded frames after free relaxing and vibratory stress relief (VSR). The tested frames were components of a prototype packaging machine. Two types of relaxation were carried out to remove stresses introduced as a result of the welding process. One of the frames was subjected to free relaxation, while the other one was subjected to accelerated vibration relaxation. Detection of the frame geometry changes was performed using a photogrammetric system. In addition, an evaluation of the geometry change was conducted for fifteen variants of a steel frame support. A comparative analysis of the geometric deviations of the frames after free and vibratory stress relief confirmed the assumption that the frame post vibration stress relief better reproduces the nominal dimensions. Nevertheless, it should be emphasized that after vibratory stress relief, the frame is not subject to further deformation, which is a desirable effect. In the case of free relaxing, the frame undergoes dimensional changes in a random manner. In summary, carrying out accelerated vibratory stress relief allows for control of spontaneous dimensional changes in the designed frame of a packaging machine resulting from spontaneous relaxation of stresses arising from the welding process. The shortening of the relaxation process of the welded frame is also an unquestionable advantage.
Orientation-Dependent Mechanical Behaviors of BCC-Fe in Light of the Thermo-Kinetic Synergy of Plastic Deformation
Authors: Liu Yu , Du Jinglian , Zhang Kunyu , Gao Kangxu , Xue Haotian , Fang Xiao , Song Kexing , Liu Feng
Published: May 2024

The orientation-dependent mechanical behaviors of metallic alloys are governed by deformation mechanisms, but the underlying physics remain to be explored. In this work, the mechanical responses along different orientations and behind the mechanisms of BCC-Fe are investigated by performing molecular dynamic simulations. It is found that the mechanical properties of BCC-Fe exhibit apparent anisotropic characteristics. The <100>-oriented BCC-Fe presents a Young’s modulus of E = 147.56 GPa, a strength of σy = 10.15 GPa, and a plastic strain of εy = 0.084 at the yield point, whereas the <111> orientation presents E = 244.84 GPa, σy = 27.57 GPa, and εy = 0.21. Based on classical dislocation theory, the reasons for such orientation-dependent mechanical behaviors are analyzed from the perspective of thermo-kinetic synergy upon deformation. It turns out that the anisotropic mechanical responses of BCC-Fe are associated with the magnitude of the thermodynamic driving force (ΔG) and kinetic energy barrier (Q) for dislocation motion, which dominate the corresponding deformation mechanism. Compared with the low ΔG (6.395 GPa) and high Q (11.95 KJ/mol) of the <100>-oriented BCC-Fe dominated by deformation twinning, the <111> orientation governed by dislocation slip presents a high ΔG (17.37 GPa) and low Q (6.45 KJ/mol). Accordingly, the orientation-dependent deformation behaviors of BCC-Fe are derived from the thermo-kinetic synergy for dislocation motion.
Method for Determining the Coefficient of Friction Variation Pattern as a Function of Density at Low Temperatures Using the Example of Dry Ice–Steel Contact
Authors: Górecki Jan , Łykowski Wiktor , Husar Jozef , Knapčíková Lucia , Berdychowski Maciej
Published: May 2024

The developments in manufacturing technologies are expected to reduce energy input without compromising product quality. Regarding the material densification process, numerical simulation methods are applied to achieve this goal. In this case, relevant material models are built using functions that describe the variation in mechanical parameters of the material in question due to its deformation. The literature review conducted for this research has revealed a shortage of experimental research methods allowing a determination of the coefficient of friction at low temperatures, approximately 200 K. This article proposes a method for determining the friction coefficient of dry ice sliding against steel. The experimental results were analysed to obtain several functions describing the variation in the coefficient of friction. These functions were then compared using goodness-of-fit indexes. Finally, two functions with similar goodness-of-fit values were chosen. The findings of this research project will complement the already available information and may be used in various research and implementation projects related to the development or improvement of currently used crystallised carbon dioxide conversion processes.
The Influence of Diatomite Addition on the Properties of Geopolymers Based on Fly Ash and Metakaolin
Authors: Nykiel Marek , Korniejenko Kinga , Setlak Kinga , Melnychuk Mykola , Polivoda Nina , Kozub Barbara , Hebdowska-Krupa Maria , Łach Michał
Published: May 2024

Geopolymer materials, considered to be an alternative to Portland cement-based concretes, can be produced from various types of waste aluminosilicate raw materials. This article presents the results of research related to the use of diatomite as an additive in geopolymers. The results of testing geopolymer composites with 1%, 3%, and 5% additions of diatomite with a grain size of 0–0.063 mm after and without thermal treatment were presented. This article presents the physical properties of the diatomite additive, the morphology of diatomite particles SEMs, thermal analysis, and compressive strength test results. In this research, diatomite was treated as a substitute for both fly ash and metakaolin (replaced in amounts of 1 and 3%) and as a substitute for sand introduced as a filler (in this case, 5% of diatomite was added). As a result of this research, it was found that the addition of diatomite instead of the main geopolymerization precursors in amounts of 1 and 3% had a negative impact on the strength properties of geopolymers, as the compressive strength was reduced by up to 28%. The introduction of crushed diatomite instead of sand in an amount of 5% contributed to an increase in strength of up to 24%.
Linear Generalized n-Derivations on C∗-Algebras
Authors: Ali Shakir , Alali Amal S. , Varshney Vaishali
Published: May 2024

Let n≥2 be a fixed integer and A be a C∗-algebra. A permuting n-linear map G:An→A is known to be symmetric generalized n-derivation if there exists a symmetric n-derivation D:An→A such that Gς1,ς2,…,ςiςi′,…,ςn=Gς1,ς2,…,ςi,…,ςnςi′+ςiD(ς1,ς2,…,ςi′,…,ςn) holds ∀ςi,ςi′∈A. In this paper, we investigate the structure of C∗-algebras involving generalized linear n-derivations. Moreover, we describe the forms of traces of linear n-derivations satisfying certain functional identity.
Interior Design Evaluation Based on Deep Learning: A Multi-Modal Fusion Evaluation Mechanism
Authors: Fan Yiyan , Zhou Yang , Yuan Zheng
Published: May 2024

The design of 3D scenes is of great significance, and one of the crucial areas is interior scene design. This study not only pertains to the living environment of individuals but also has applications in the design and development of virtual environments. Previous work on indoor scenes has focused on understanding and editing existing indoor scenes, such as scene reconstruction, segmentation tasks, texture, object localization, and rendering. In this study, we propose a novel task in the realm of indoor scene comprehension, amalgamating interior design principles with professional evaluation criteria: 3D indoor scene design assessment. Furthermore, we propose an approach using a transformer encoder–decoder architecture and a dual-graph convolutional network. Our approach facilitates users in posing text-based inquiries; accepts input in two modalities, point cloud representations of indoor scenes and textual queries; and ultimately generates a probability distribution indicating positive, neutral, and negative assessments of interior design. The proposed method uses separately pre-trained modules, including a 3D visual question-answering module and a dual-graph convolutional network for identifying emotional tendencies of text.
The Role of Bacteria in Acute Oak Decline in South-West Poland
Authors: Tkaczyk Miłosz , Sikora Katarzyna
Published: May 2024

The process of multifactorial oak disease has been of interest to scientists from all over the world for many years. Recently, a new phenomenon has been added to the model related to oak decline, acute oak dieback, which causes oak decline and was first described in the UK. This study presents research on this phenomenon in the area of the largest oak stand complex in Poland, the so-called Krotoszyn Plateau. This work was carried out in two stages. In the first stage, 54 trees were tested for the presence of bacteria using molecular biology (real-time PCR). Subsequently, a tissue fragment was taken for inoculation from the trees in which the presence of B. goodwinii and G. quercinecans bacteria was confirmed. The isolates obtained were used to test Koch’s postulates and for biochemical analyses for Polish strains. In addition, the results obtained were also compared with the presence of A. biguttatus, which is considered a bacterial vector, which, in turn, confirmed that the bacteria responsible for the AOD phenomenon can also be present in trees not inhabited by this insect. The results obtained confirmed the presence of bacteria and their potential to cause necrosis in oaks, which fits into the model of the spiral disease that has been causing mass mortality of oaks in this naturally and economically valuable area since the 1980s.
Comparative In Vitro Killing by Pradofloxacin in Comparison to Ceftiofur, Enrofloxacin, Florfenicol, Marbofloxacin, Tildipirosin, Tilmicosin and Tulathromycin against Bovine Respiratory Bacterial Pathogens
Authors: Blondeau Joseph M. , Fitch Shantelle D.
Published: May 2024

Pradofloxacin is the newest of the veterinary fluoroquinolones to be approved for use in animals—initially companion animals and most recently food animals. It has a broad spectrum of in vitro activity, working actively against Gram-positive/negative, atypical and some anaerobic microorganisms. It simultaneously targets DNA gyrase (topoisomerase type II) and topoisomerase type IV, suggesting a lower propensity to select for antimicrobial resistance. The purpose of this study was to determine the rate and extent of bacterial killing by pradofloxacin against bovine strains of Mannheimia haemolytica and Pasteurella multocida, in comparison with several other agents (ceftiofur, enrofloxacin, florfenicol, marbofloxacin, tildipirosin, tilmicosin and tulathromycin) using four clinically relevant drug concentrations: minimum inhibitory and mutant prevention drug concentration, maximum serum and maximum tissue drug concentrations. At the maximum serum and tissue drug concentrations, pradofloxacin killed 99.99% of M. haemolytica cells following 5 min of drug exposure (versus growth to 76% kill rate for the other agents) and 94.1–98.6% of P. multocida following 60–120 min of drug exposure (versus growth to 98.6% kill rate for the other agents). Statistically significant differences in kill rates were seen between the various drugs tested depending on drug concentration and time of sampling after drug exposure.
Improving Surfactin Production in Bacillus subtilis 168 by Metabolic Engineering
Authors: Guo Zihao , Sun Jiuyu , Ma Qinyuan , Li Mengqi , Dou Yamin , Yang Shaomei , Gao Xiuzhen
Published: May 2024

Surfactin is widely used in the petroleum extraction, cosmetics, biopharmaceuticals and agriculture industries. It possesses antibacterial and antiviral activities and can reduce interfacial tension. Bacillus are commonly used as production chassis, but wild-type Bacillus subtilis 168 cannot synthesise surfactin. In this study, the phosphopantetheinyl transferase (PPTase) gene sfp* (with a T base removed) was overexpressed and enzyme activity was restored, enabling B. subtilis 168 to synthesise surfactin with a yield of 747.5 ± 6.5 mg/L. Knocking out ppsD and yvkC did not enhance surfactin synthesis. Overexpression of predicted surfactin transporter gene yfiS increased its titre to 1060.7 ± 89.4 mg/L, while overexpression of yerP, ycxA and ycxA-efp had little or negative effects on surfactin synthesis, suggesting YfiS is involved in surfactin efflux. By replacing the native promoter of the srfA operon encoding surfactin synthase with three promoters, surfactin synthesis was significantly reduced. However, knockout of the global transcriptional regulator gene codY enhanced the surfactin titre to 1601.8 ± 91.9 mg/L. The highest surfactin titre reached 3.89 ± 0.07 g/L, with the yield of 0.63 ± 0.02 g/g DCW, after 36 h of fed-batch fermentation in 5 L fermenter. This study provides a reference for further understanding surfactin synthesis and constructing microbial cell factories.
Specific Mycobacterium tuberculosis Strain Circulating in Prison Revealed by Cost-Effective Amplicon Sequencing
Authors: Hurtado Joaquín , Bentancor María Noel , Laserra Paula , Coitinho Cecilia , Greif Gonzalo
Published: May 2024

This scientific study focuses on tuberculosis (TB) within prison settings, where persons deprived of liberty (PDL) face significantly higher rates of the disease compared to the general population. The research employs the low-cost amplicon sequencing of Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains, aiming first to identify specific lineages and also to detect mutations associated with drug resistance. The method involves multiplex amplification, DNA extraction, and sequencing, providing valuable insights into TB dynamics and resistance-mutation profiles within the prison system at an affordable cost. The study identifies a characteristic lineage (X) circulating among PDLs in the penitentiary system in Uruguay, absent in the general population, and notes its prevalence at prison entry. No high-confidence mutations associated with drug resistance were found. The findings underscore the importance of molecular epidemiology in TB control, emphasizing the potential for intra-prison transmissions and the need for broader studies to understand strain dynamics.
Enhanced Copper Bonding Interfaces by Quenching to Form Wrinkled Surfaces
Authors: Lu Tsan-Feng , Yen Yu-Ting , Wang Pei-Wen , Cheng Yuan-Fu , Chen Cheng-Hsiang , Wu YewChung Sermon
Published: May 2024

For decades, Moore’s Law has been approaching its limits, posing a huge challenge for further downsizing to nanometer dimensions. A promising avenue to replace Moore’s Law lies in three-dimensional integrated circuits, where Cu–Cu bonding plays a critical role. However, the atomic diffusion rate is notably low at temperatures below 300 °C, resulting in a distinct weak bonding interface, which leads to reliability issues. In this study, a quenching treatment of the Cu film surface was investigated. During the quenching treatment, strain energy was induced due to the variation in thermal expansion coefficients between the Si substrate and the Cu film, resulting in a wrinkled surface morphology on the Cu film. Grain growth was observed at the Cu–Cu bonding interface following bonding at 300 °C for 2 and 4 h. Remarkably, these procedures effectively eliminated the bonding interface.
The Model Study of Phase-Transitional Magnetic-Driven Micromotors for Sealing Gastric Perforation via Mg-Based Micropower Traction
Authors: Xiong Kang , Xu Leilei
Published: May 2024

Gastric perforation refers to the complete rupture of the gastric wall, leading to the extravasation of gastric contents into the thoracic cavity or peritoneum. Without timely intervention, the expulsion of gastric contents may culminate in profound discomfort, exacerbating the inflammatory process and potentially triggering perilous sepsis. In clinical practice, surgical suturing or endoscopic closure procedures are commonly employed. Magnetic-driven microswarms have also been employed for sealing gastrointestinal perforation. However, surgical intervention entails significant risk of bleeding, while endoscopic closure poses risks of inadequate closure and the need for subsequent removal of closure clips. Moreover, the efficacy of microswarms is limited as they merely adhere to the perforated area, and their sealing effect diminishes upon removal of the magnetic field. Herein, we present a Fe&Mg@Lard-Paraffin micromotor (LPM) constructed from a mixture of lard and paraffin coated with magnesium (Mg) microspheres and iron (Fe) nanospheres for sutureless sealing gastric perforations. Under the control of a rotating magnetic field, this micromotor demonstrates precise control over its movement on gastric mucosal folds and accurately targets the gastric perforation area. The phase transition induced by the high-frequency magnetothermal effect causes the micromotor composed of a mixed oil phase of lard and paraffin to change from a solid to a liquid phase. The coated Mg microspheres are subsequently exposed to the acidic gastric acid environment to produce a magnesium protonation reaction, which in turn generates hydrogen (H2) bubble recoil. Through a Mg-based micropower traction, part of the oil phase could be pushed into the gastric perforation, and it would then solidify to seal the gastric perforation area. Experimental results show that this can achieve long-term (>2 h) gastric perforation sealing. This innovative approach holds potential for improving outcomes in gastric perforation management.
Enhanced Thermal Stability of Carbonyl Iron Nanocrystalline Microwave Absorbents by Pinning Grain Boundaries with SiBaFe Alloy Nanoparticles
Authors: Xu Yifan , Chen Zhihong , Fu Ziwen , Hu Yuchen , Luo Yunhao , Li Wei , Guan Jianguo
Published: May 2024

Nanocrystalline carbonyl iron (CI) particles are promising microwave absorbents at elevated temperature, whereas their excessive grain boundary energy leads to the growth of nanograins and a deterioration in permeability. In this work, we report a strategy to enhance the thermal stability of the grains and microwave absorption of CI particles by doping a SiBaFe alloy. Grain growth was effectively inhibited by the pinning effect of SiBaFe alloy nanoparticles at the grain boundaries. After heat treatment at 600 °C, the grain size of CI particles increased from ~10 nm to 85.1 nm, while that of CI/SiBaFe particles was only 32.0 nm; with the temperature rising to 700 °C, the grain size of CI particles sharply increased to 158.1 nm, while that of CI/SiBaFe particles was only 40.8 nm. Excellent stability in saturation magnetization and microwave absorption was also achieved in CI/SiBaFe particles. After heat treatment at 600 °C, the flaky CI/SiBaFe particles exhibited reflection loss below −10 dB over 7.01~10.11 GHz and a minimum of −14.92 dB when the thickness of their paraffin-based composite was 1.5 mm. We provided a low-cost and efficient kinetic strategy to stabilize the grain size in nanoscale and microwave absorption for nanocrystalline magnetic absorbents working at elevated temperature.
The RNAi Machinery in the Fungus Fusarium fujikuroi Is Not Very Active in Synthetic Medium and Is Related to Transposable Elements
Authors: Pardo-Medina Javier , Dahlmann Tim A. , Nowrousian Minou , Limón M. Carmen , Avalos Javier
Published: May 2024

Small RNAS (sRNAs) participate in regulatory RNA interference (RNAi) mechanisms in a wide range of eukaryotic organisms, including fungi. The fungus Fusarium fujikuroi, a model for the study of secondary metabolism, contains a complete set of genes for RNAi pathways. We have analyzed by high-throughput sequencing the content of sRNAs in total RNA samples of F. fujikuroi grown in synthetic medium in the dark or after 1 h of illumination, using libraries below 150 nt, covering sRNAs and their precursors. For comparison, a parallel analysis with Fusarium oxysporum was carried out. The sRNA reads showed a higher proportion of 5′ uracil in the RNA samples of the expected sizes in both species, indicating the occurrence of genuine sRNAs, and putative miRNA-like sRNAs (milRNAS) were identified with prediction software. F. fujikuroi carries at least one transcriptionally expressed Ty1/copia-like retrotransposable element, in which sRNAs were found in both sense and antisense DNA strands, while in F. oxysporum skippy-like elements also show sRNA formation. The finding of sRNA in these mobile elements indicates an active sRNA-based RNAi pathway. Targeted deletion of dcl2, the only F. fujikuroi Dicer gene with significant expression under the conditions tested, did not produce appreciable phenotypic or transcriptomic alterations.
Neoagarotetraose Alleviates Atherosclerosis via Modulating Cholesterol and Bile Acid Metabolism in ApoE−/− Mice
Authors: Li Junyi , Yang Shaoqing , Liu Dan , Yan Qiaojuan , Guo Huiyuan , Jiang Zhengqiang
Published: May 2024

Atherosclerosis is closely associated with metabolic disorders such as cholesterol accumulation, bile acid metabolism, and gut dysbiosis. Neoagarotetraose supplementation has been shown to inhibit obesity and alleviate type 2 diabetes, but its effects on modulating the development of atherosclerosis remain unexplored. Therefore, the present study was conducted to investigate the protective effects and potential mechanisms of neoagarotetraose on high-fat, high-cholesterol diet (HFHCD)-induced atherosclerosis in ApoE−/− mice. The results showed that neoagarotetraose supplementation decreased the atherosclerotic lesion area by 50.1% and the aortic arch lesion size by 80.4% compared to the HFHCD group. Furthermore, neoagarotetraose supplementation led to a significant reduction in hepatic lipid content, particularly non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. It also resulted in a substantial increase in total bile acid content in both urine and fecal samples by 3.0-fold and 38.7%, respectively. Moreover, neoagarotetraose supplementation effectively downregulated the intestinal farnesoid X receptor by 35.8% and modulated the expressions of its associated genes in both the liver and intestine. In addition, correlation analysis revealed strong associations between gut microbiota composition and fecal bile acid levels. These findings highlight the role of gut microbiota in neoagarotetraose-mitigating atherosclerosis in HFHCD-fed ApoE−/− mice. This study indicates the potential of neoagarotetraose as a functional dietary supplement for the prevention of atherosclerosis.
Neem Leaf Extract Exhibits Anti-Aging and Antioxidant Effects from Yeast to Human Cells
Authors: Dang Jinye , Zhang Gongrui , Li Jingjing , He Libo , Ding Yi , Cai Jiaxiu , Cheng Guohua , Yang Yuhui , Liu Zhiyi , Fan Jiahui , Du Linfang , Liu Ke
Published: May 2024

Neem leaves have long been used in traditional medicine for promoting longevity. However, the precise mechanisms underlying their anti-aging effects remain elusive. In this study, we investigated the impact of neem leaf extract (NLE) extracted from a 50% ethanol solution on the chronological lifespan of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, revealing an extension in lifespan, heightened oxidative stress resistance, and a reduction in reactive oxygen species. To discern the active compounds in NLE, LC/MS and the GNPS platform were employed. The majority of identified active compounds were found to be flavonoids. Subsequently, compound-target pharmacological networks were constructed using the STP and STITCH platforms for both S. cerevisiae and Homo sapiens. GOMF and KEGG enrichment analyses of the predicted targets revealed that “oxidoreductase activity” was among the top enriched terms in both yeast and human cells. These suggested a potential regulation of oxidative stress response (OSR) by NLE. RNA-seq analysis of NLE-treated yeast corroborated the anti-oxidative effect, with “oxidoreductase activity” and “oxidation-reduction process” ranking high in enriched GO terms. Notably, CTT1, encoding catalase, emerged as the most significantly up-regulated gene within the “oxidoreductase activity” cluster. In a ctt1 null mutant, the enhanced oxidative stress resistance and extended lifespan induced by NLE were nullified. For human cells, NLE pretreatment demonstrated a decrease in reactive oxygen species levels and senescence-associated β-galactosidase activity in HeLa cells, indicative of anti-aging and anti-oxidative effects. This study unveils the anti-aging and anti-oxidative properties of NLE while delving into their mechanisms, providing novel insights for pharmacological interventions in aging using phytochemicals.
Concomitant Treatment with Doxycycline and Rifampicin in Balb/c Mice Infected with Brucella abortus 2308 Fails to Reduce Inflammation and Motor Disability
Authors: Maldonado-García José Luis , Alvarez-Herrera Samantha , Pérez-Sánchez Gilberto , Becerril-Villanueva Enrique , Pavón Lenin , Tesoro-Cruz Emiliano , Girón-Pérez Manuel Iván , Hurtado-Alvarado Gabriela , Damián-Morales Gabriela , López-Santiago Rubén , Moreno-Lafont Martha C.
Published: May 2024

Brucellosis is an infection widely distributed around the world, and in some countries it is considered a public health problem. Brucellosis causes insidious symptoms that make it difficult to diagnose. Infection can also trigger chronic pain and neuropsychiatric complications. Antibiotics are not always effective to eradicate infection, contributing to chronicity. We aimed to investigate the effects of antibiotic treatment on proinflammatory cytokines, neurotransmitters, corticosterone, and behavior in a murine model of infecrion of B. abortus strain 2308. Four study groups were created: (a) control; (b) antibiotic control; (c) infected with B. abortus 2308; and (d) infected and treated with rifampicin and doxycycline. We determined B. abortus 2308 colony-forming units (CFUs), the count of dendritic cells, and macrophages in the spleen; serum levels of cytokines and corticosterone; levels of serotonin, dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine in the brain; and equilibrium, physical strength, anxiety, and hopelessness tests. The infected and treated mice group was compared with the control and infected mice to assess whether treatment is sufficient to recover neuroimmunoendocrine parameters. Our results showed that despite the treatment of brucellosis with rifampicin and doxycycline, antibiotic-treated mice showed a persistence of B. abortus 2308 CFUs, an increased count in macrophage number, and higher circulating levels of corticosterone. Furthermore, the levels of IL-12, IL-6, and TNF-α remained higher. We found a decrease in muscular strength and equilibrium concomitant to changes in neurotransmitters in the hippocampus, cerebellum, and frontal cortex. Our data suggest that the remaining bacterial load after antibiotic administration favors inflammatory, neurochemical, and behavioral alterations, partly explaining the widespread and paradoxical symptomatology experienced by patients with chronic brucellosis.
HGFK1 Enhances the Anti-Tumor Effects of Angiogenesis Inhibitors via Inhibition of CD90+ CSCs in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Li Tao , Liu Ling , Li Li , Yao Xiaoxuan , Hu Xiaoyuan , Cheng Jiaxing , Chen Zhenpu , Guo Jiyin , Li Ruilei , Ge Chunlei , Lin Marie Chia-Mi , Yao Hong
Published: May 2024

The combination of anti-angiogenesis agents with immune-checkpoint inhibitors is a promising treatment for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC); however, therapeutic resistance caused by cancer stem cells present in tumor microenvironments remains to be overcome. In this study, we report for the first time that the Kringle 1 domain of human hepatocyte growth-factor α chain (HGFK1), a previously described anti-angiogenesis peptide, repressed the sub-population of CD90+ cancer stem cells (CSCs) and promoted their differentiation and chemotherapy sensitivity mainly through downregulation of pre-Met protein expression and inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin and Notch pathways. Furthermore, we showed that the i.p. injection of PH1 (a tumor-targeted and biodegradable co-polymer), medicated plasmids encoding Endostatin (pEndo), HGFK1 genes (pEndo), and a combination of 50% pEndo + 50% pHGFK1 all significantly suppressed tumor growth and prolonged the survival of the HCC-bearing mice. Importantly, the combined treatment produced a potent synergistic effect, with 25% of the mice showing the complete clearance of the tumor via a reduction in the microvessel density (MVD) and the number of CD90+ CSCs in the tumor tissues. These results suggest for the first time that HGFK1 inhibits the CSCs of HCC. Furthermore, the combination of two broad-spectrum anti-angiogenic factors, Endo and HGFK1, is the optimal strategy for the development of effective anti-HCC drugs.
Lymph Node-on-Chip Technology: Cutting-Edge Advances in Immune Microenvironment Simulation
Authors: Wang Qi , Yang Yuanzhan , Chen Zixuan , Li Bo , Niu Yumeng , Li Xiaoqiong
Published: May 2024

Organ-on-a-chip technology is attracting growing interest across various domains as a crucial platform for drug screening and testing and is set to play a significant role in precision medicine research. Lymph nodes, being intricately structured organs essential for the body’s adaptive immune responses to antigens and foreign particles, are pivotal in assessing the immunotoxicity of novel pharmaceuticals. Significant progress has been made in research on the structure and function of the lymphatic system. However, there is still an urgent need to develop prospective tools and techniques to delve deeper into its role in various diseases’ pathological and physiological processes and to develop corresponding immunotherapeutic therapies. Organ chips can accurately reproduce the specific functional areas in lymph nodes to better simulate the complex microstructure of lymph nodes and the interactions between different immune cells, which is convenient for studying specific biological processes. This paper reviews existing lymph node chips and their design approaches. It discusses the applications of the above systems in modeling immune cell motility, cell–cell interactions, vaccine responses, drug testing, and cancer research. Finally, we summarize the challenges that current research faces in terms of structure, cell source, and extracellular matrix simulation of lymph nodes, and we provide an outlook on the future direction of integrated immune system chips.
A Review of Recent Developments in Biopolymer Nano-Based Drug Delivery Systems with Antioxidative Properties: Insights into the Last Five Years
Authors: Stevanović Magdalena , Filipović Nenad
Published: May 2024

In recent years, biopolymer-based nano-drug delivery systems with antioxidative properties have gained significant attention in the field of pharmaceutical research. These systems offer promising strategies for targeted and controlled drug delivery while also providing antioxidant effects that can mitigate oxidative stress-related diseases. Generally, the healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, necessitating the continual development of innovative therapeutic approaches and drug delivery systems (DDSs). DDSs play a pivotal role in enhancing treatment efficacy, minimizing adverse effects, and optimizing patient compliance. Among these, nanotechnology-driven delivery approaches have garnered significant attention due to their unique properties, such as improved solubility, controlled release, and targeted delivery. Nanomaterials, including nanoparticles, nanocapsules, nanotubes, etc., offer versatile platforms for drug delivery and tissue engineering applications. Additionally, biopolymer-based DDSs hold immense promise, leveraging natural or synthetic biopolymers to encapsulate drugs and enable targeted and controlled release. These systems offer numerous advantages, including biocompatibility, biodegradability, and low immunogenicity. The utilization of polysaccharides, polynucleotides, proteins, and polyesters as biopolymer matrices further enhances the versatility and applicability of DDSs. Moreover, substances with antioxidative properties have emerged as key players in combating oxidative stress-related diseases, offering protection against cellular damage and chronic illnesses. The development of biopolymer-based nanoformulations with antioxidative properties represents a burgeoning research area, with a substantial increase in publications in recent years. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the recent developments within this area over the past five years. It discusses various biopolymer materials, fabrication techniques, stabilizers, factors influencing degradation, and drug release. Additionally, it highlights emerging trends, challenges, and prospects in this rapidly evolving field.
Numerical Simulation of Mold Filling of Polymeric Materials with Friction Effect during Hot Embossing Process at Micro Scale
Authors: Rabhi Faleh , Cheng Gang , Barriere Thierry
Published: May 2024

The filling efficiency during the hot embossing process at micro scale is essential for micro-component replication. The presence of the unfilled area is often due to the inadequate behavior law applied to the embossed materials. This research consists of the identification of viscoplastic law (two-layer viscoplastic model) of polymers and the optimization of processing parameters. Mechanical tests have been performed for two polymers at 20 °C and 30 °C above their glass transition temperature. The viscoplastic parameters are characterized based on stress–strain curves from the compression tests. The influences of imposed displacement, temperature, and friction on mold filling are investigated. The processing parameters are optimized to achieving the complete filling of micro cavities. The replication of a micro-structured cavity has been effectuated using this process and the experimental observations validate the results in the simulation, which confirms the efficiency of the proposed numerical approach.
Plateau-Adapted Single-Pump, Single-Bed Vacuum Pressure Swing Adsorption Oxygen Generation Process Simulation and Optimization
Authors: Zhang Yingying , Li Yanbin , Song Zhenxing , Sun Hongyun , Wen Bolun , Su Junming , Ma Jun , Zhang Yanjun
Published: May 2024

To enhance the oxygen guarantee capacity in high altitude areas and address the challenges of traditional pressure swing adsorption oxygen generation fixed equipment with large volume and multiple device modules, a novel single-reversible-pump single-bed vacuum pressure swing adsorption (VPSA) oxygen generation process was proposed and simulated. This study investigated the effects of purge on oxygen productivity, purity, recovery, and energy consumption, determining that the optimum ratio of total oxygen in the purge gas to the total oxygen in the feed gas (P/F) was 0.176. A set of principle prototypes was developed and validated in plains. The process performance was then simulated and studied at altitudes of 3000 m, 4000 m, and 5000 m. Finally, the optimization was carried out by adjusting the product flow rate and feed flow rate, revealing that the best performance can be achieved when the oxygen purity exceeded 90% with lower energy consumption or larger productivity than the optimization goal. This study serves as a valuable reference for the optimization of the VPSA oxygen generation process in a plateau environment.
SSAformer: Spatial–Spectral Aggregation Transformer for Hyperspectral Image Super-Resolution
Authors: Wang Haoqian , Zhang Qi , Peng Tao , Xu Zhongjie , Cheng Xiangai , Xing Zhongyang , Li Teng
Published: May 2024

The hyperspectral image (HSI) distinguishes itself in material identification through its exceptional spectral resolution. However, its spatial resolution is constrained by hardware limitations, prompting the evolution of HSI super-resolution (SR) techniques. Single HSI SR endeavors to reconstruct high-spatial-resolution HSI from low-spatial-resolution inputs, and recent progress in deep learning-based algorithms has significantly advanced the quality of reconstructed images. However, convolutional methods struggle to extract comprehensive spatial and spectral features. Transformer-based models have yet to harness long-range dependencies across both dimensions fully, thus inadequately integrating spatial and spectral data. To solve the above problem, in this paper, we propose a new HSI SR method, SSAformer, which merges the strengths of CNNs and Transformers. It introduces specially designed attention mechanisms for HSI, including spatial and spectral attention modules, and overcomes the previous challenges in extracting and amalgamating spatial and spectral information. Evaluations on benchmark datasets show that SSAformer surpasses contemporary methods in enhancing spatial details and preserving spectral accuracy, underscoring its potential to expand HSI’s utility in various domains, such as environmental monitoring and remote sensing.
Emerging Technologies for Remote Sensing of Floating and Submerged Plastic Litter
Authors: Goddijn-Murphy Lonneke , Martínez-Vicente Victor , Dierssen Heidi M. , Raimondi Valentina , Gandini Erio , Foster Robert , Chirayath Ved
Published: May 2024

Most advances in the remote sensing of floating marine plastic litter have been made using passive remote-sensing techniques in the visible (VIS) to short-wave-infrared (SWIR) parts of the electromagnetic spectrum based on the spectral absorption features of plastic surfaces. In this paper, we present developments of new and emerging remote-sensing technologies of marine plastic litter such as passive techniques: fluid lensing, multi-angle polarimetry, and thermal infrared sensing (TIS); and active techniques: light detection and ranging (LiDAR), multispectral imaging detection and active reflectance (MiDAR), and radio detection and ranging (RADAR). Our review of the detection capabilities and limitations of the different sensing technologies shows that each has their own weaknesses and strengths, and that there is not one single sensing technique that applies to all kinds of marine litter under every different condition in the aquatic environment. Rather, we should focus on the synergy between different technologies to detect marine plastic litter and potentially the use of proxies to estimate its presence. Therefore, in addition to further developing remote-sensing techniques, more research is needed in the composition of marine litter and the relationships between marine plastic litter and their proxies. In this paper, we propose a common vocabulary to help the community to translate concepts among different disciplines and techniques.
Proposal for a Flipped Classroom Program with Massive Open Online Courses to Improve Access to Information and Information Literacy in Primary School Teachers
Authors: Lendínez Turón Ana , Ortiz Marcos José Manuel , Lorenzo Quiles Oswaldo , Fernández-Otoya Fiorela Anaí
Published: May 2024

The objective of this study was to propose a teacher training program based on the flipped classroom model with MOOCs to strengthen access to information and information literacy among primary education teachers in the Lambayeque region of Peru. The non-experimental design was assumed with a quantitative approach and a propositional, descriptive type. A diagnosis was made using a questionnaire given to 917 primary school teachers. It was discovered that nearly all of the items in the questionnaire revealed a deficiency in the ability to navigate, search, and filter information, data, and digital content; the highest percentages were at the Basic level, with the exception of the item expressing information needs in an organized manner, which was at the Advanced C2 level. The lowest percentage was at the Advanced C1 level, and the majority of the lower percentages were at the Advanced level. In addition, there are competency deficiencies in the evaluation of information, data, and digital content of nearly all the items: the highest percentages were at the Basic level, with the exception of the item involving the processing of information, data, and digital content, where 26.4% were at the Intermediate B1 level and just 2.8% managed to be at the highest level, which is Advanced C2. Furthermore, when it came to storage and retrieval of information, data, and digital content competency, all the high percentages were at the Basic level, and all the low percentages were at the highest level, that is, Advanced. These findings helped us to understand that teachers have only a basic knowledge of information literacy and information competency. As a result, it is necessary to advocate for a teacher training program based on the flipped classroom model with MOOCs. This idea was supported by the opinions of five experts, who stated that its implementation would enable primary teachers of Regular Basic Education in the region of Lambayeque (Peru) to develop their access to information and information literacy competency area.