bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of support based on family centered empowerment model on care burden in family caregivers of patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Mousaei Farshid Mohammad , Mirhosseini Seyedmohammad , Mafi Mohammad Hossein , Günaydın Nevin , Zendehtalab Hamid Reza
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Family caregivers of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) are at risk of care burden that may lead to a detrimental effect on their quality of life (QoL), physical and mental well-being. This study aimed to determine the effect of the family-centered empowerment model (FCEM) on the care burden of caregivers of patients with MS.

Methods

This quasi-experimental study was conducted using convenience sampling on 60 caregivers of patients referring to the Multiple Sclerosis Clinic in Ghaem Hospital, Mashhad, Iran. The participants were assigned to FCEM and control groups based on the days they were referred to the MS clinic. Data collection tools included the Zarit Caregiver Burden Inventory (CBI), completed in the intervention and control groups before and 1 month after the intervention. The support based on FCEM was provided during eight 45-60-min sessions, and the control group received the medical center’s routine training. Data were analyzed by Chi-square, independent t-test, analysis of covariance, and repeated measure tests.

Results

The results of the present study showed that all demographic characteristics were homogeneous at the baseline. Before the intervention, no significant difference was observed between the two groups regarding mean scores of care burden. Based on the repeated measure test, there was no significant treatment and time interaction in changes in care burden.

Conclusion

The FCEM has no significant effect in alleviating the care burden. It is recommended to observe the necessary considerations regarding the context of this type of intervention and to carry out further investigations in different intervals.
Special Issue “Current Management of Early and Advanced Rectal Cancer”
Authors: Belli Filiberto
Published: July 2023

As expected, surgery for low or ultralow disease remains a challenging issue in rectal cancer treatment [...]
Quantum Mechanical Approach to the Khintchine and Bochner Criteria for Characteristic Functions
Authors: Cohen Leon
Published: July 2023

While it is generally accepted that quantum mechanics is a probability theory, its methods differ radically from standard probability theory. We use the methods of quantum mechanics to understand some fundamental aspects of standard probability theory. We show that wave functions and operators do appear in standard probability theory. We do so by generalizing the Khintchine and Bochner criteria for a complex function to be a characteristic function. We show that quantum mechanics clarifies these criteria and suggests generalizations of them.
Construction of Optimal Frequency Hopping Sequence Set with Low-Hit-Zone
Authors: Tian Xinyu , Han Hongyu , Niu Xianhua , Liu Xing
Published: July 2023

In quasi-synchronous frequency-hopping multiple access (QS-FHMA) systems, low-hit-zone (LHZ) frequency-hopping sequence (FHS) sets have been well-applied to reduce mutual interference (MI). In this paper, we propose three constructions of LHZ FHS sets with new parameters via interleaving techniques. The obtained sequences can be verified that they are optimal with respect to the Peng–Fan–Lee bound.
Optimal Resource Allocation for Loss-Tolerant Multicast Video Streaming
Authors: Zuhra Sadaf ul , Besser Karl-Ludwig , Chaporkar Prasanna , Karandikar Abhay , Poor H. Vincent
Published: July 2023

In video streaming applications, especially during live streaming events, video traffic can account for a significant portion of the network traffic and can lead to severe network congestion. For such applications, multicast provides an efficient means to deliver the same content to a large number of users simultaneously. However, in multicast, if the base station transmits content at rates higher than what can be decoded by users with the worst channels, these users will experience outages. This makes the multicast system’s performance dependent on the weakest users in the system. Interestingly, video streams can tolerate some packet loss without a significant degradation in the quality experienced by the users. This property can be leveraged to improve the multicast system’s performance by reducing the dependence of the multicast transmissions on the weakest users. In this work, we design a loss-tolerant video multicasting system that allows for some controlled packet loss while satisfying the quality requirements of the users. In particular, we solve the resource allocation problem in a multimedia broadcast multicast services (MBMS) system by transforming it into the problem of stabilizing a virtual queuing system. We propose two loss-optimal policies and demonstrate their effectiveness using numerical examples with realistic traffic patterns from real video streams. It is shown that the proposed policies are able to keep the loss encountered by every user below its tolerable loss. The proposed policies are also able to achieve a significantly lower peak SNR degradation than the existing schemes.
Data Sharing Mechanism and Strategy for Multi-Service Integration for Smart Grid
Authors: He Qingsu , Liu Yuping , Jiang Lihua , Zhang Zhiqiang , Wu Muqing , Zhao Min
Published: July 2023

The new power system is an energy interconnection network based on renewable energy generation. Information interconnection, data security, and reliability are the basis for the digital transformation of the power grid. Data sharing, lifecycle management, security, and user information privacy are issues that need to be addressed urgently. This paper analyzes the characteristics of the multi-combination of power grid data across services and introduces smart contract, cross-chain, and security encryption-related technologies. Based on the effective combination of smart contract and CP-ABE, data sharing schemes, including data sharing mechanism and data access control model are designed. Given this scheme, the blockchain system’s overall architecture is proposed, including the main chain, side chain, data sharing, and cross-chain information interaction. Finally, the underlying blockchain service platform is built using the Hyperledger open-source framework. We deploy the platform to verify the feasibility of the scheme according to the requirements of the data center, trust center, and blockchain-distributed nodes.
Design Consideration of ZVS Single-Ended Parallel Resonant DC-DC Converter, Based on Application of Optimization Techniques
Authors: Hinov Nikolay , Gilev Bogdan
Published: July 2023

The paper presents the design of a single-ended transistor zero-voltage switch (ZVS) parallel resonant DC-DC converter. Due to the use of a resonant inverter in the structure of the DC-DC converter, it is characterized by high efficiency and improved performance. On the other hand, due to the specifics of the power circuit operation, in the work, it is proposed to find the values of some of the elements of the circuit of the electronic converter to be carried out based on the application of optimization. To solve this task, various tools available in Matlab/Simulink have been applied, as well as author’s programs specially developed for the purpose. The use of a hybrid method for the design of power electronic converters, which combines analytical and optimization approaches, is justified in cases where there is no adequate design procedure. With the increase in the complexity of the power topologies and their possible modes of operation, difficulties arise related to their design such as: assumptions and limitations in conducting the analysis and the corresponding methodologies based on this analysis; high order of the differential equations composing the mathematical models; need for highly qualified specialists in the field of design. The proposed approach does not negate the classical design methods based only on analytical ratios determined by analysis of power circuits, but complements and develops them with innovative ones based on the application of computational mathematics and information and communication technologies.
Bubble Effect Phenomenon in Modern Transformer Insulation Systems Using Aramid-Based Materials and Alternative Insulating Liquids
Authors: Lewandowski Kamil , Moranda Hubert , Szewczyk Radoslaw
Published: July 2023

One of the possible causes of transformer failures is high moisture in the winding insulation system. In an extreme case, when the critical temperature is exceeded, a sudden release of water vapor from the transformer insulation, called the bubble effect, can occur. This article analyzes the initiation temperature of the bubble phenomenon in various solid insulation materials (Kraft cellulose paper and aramid-based high-temperature papers such as Nomex® 910 and Nomex® 926) immersed in two electro-insulating liquids (mineral oil and Midel 7131 synthetic ester). The initiation temperature of the bubble effect depends mainly on the moisture content of the solid insulation, but it was found to be slightly lower for high-temperature materials than for cellulose. However, after taking into account the differences related to uneven water absorption of the tested materials, the differences in the initiation temperature of individual solid materials are very small. Synthetic ester, compared to mineral oil, slightly increases the bubble initiation temperature, regardless of the solid material used.
Effect of Regenerative Braking on Battery Life
Authors: Chidambaram Ramesh Kumar , Chatterjee Dipankar , Barman Barnali , Das Partha Pratim , Taler Dawid , Taler Jan , Sobota Tomasz
Published: July 2023

It is a well-known fact that automotive industries in every country are shifting towards electric vehicles (EVs) and in the days to come it is expected that the industry will become dominated by them, along with hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). Unfortunately, the acceptance of EVs for mobility is affected by its poor range per charge. Thus, energy optimization and waste energy recuperation are currently in need. A promising method to recover energy that is lost during vehicle deceleration is regenerative braking, which extends the range of a vehicle by recovering the kinetic energy from braking and using it to recharge the battery. However, the intensity of the charging–discharging rate and the operating temperature of lithium–ion (Li–ion) batteries make them vulnerable to failure, making the rate of current delivered to the battery by regenerative braking a serious concern. Therefore, the focus of this review article is on how regenerative braking affects battery life and the precautions being taken to safeguard the battery against increased charge during regenerative braking. In this review paper, various research articles are referred to in order to examine how regenerative braking affects battery life. It is concluded that charging current obtained from long-term regenerative braking is the prominent factor in battery deterioration, regardless of the current intensity. Additionally, the rate of lithium plating is increased if the temperature and state of charge (SOC) are outside of the ideal range. By lowering the depth of discharge (DOD) and using shorter recharging times, higher levels of regenerative braking will extend a battery’s lifecycle even at high SOC and temperature.
A System-Level Modeling of PEMFC Considering Degradation Aspect towards a Diagnosis Process
Authors: Bäumler Antoine , Meng Jianwen , Benterki Abdelmoudjib , Azib Toufik , Boukhnifer Moussa
Published: July 2023

This paper proposes a modular modeling towards a health system integration of fuel cells by considering not only the dynamics of the gases but also fault models that affect the PEMFC performances. The main goal is to simulate the faulty state in order to overcome data scarcity, since running a fuel cell to generate a database under faulty conditions is a costly process in time and resources. The degradation processes detailed in this paper allow to introduce a classification of faults that can occur, giving a better understanding of the performance losses necessary to simulate them. The faults that are detailed and modeled are the flooding, drying and aging processes. This modeling is based on a system approach, so it runs faster than real-time degradation tests, allowing the training and validation of online supervisors, such as the energy management strategy (EMS) method or diagnosis. The faults are reproduced according to the study requirements to be a very effective support tool to help design engineers to include faulty conditions in early design stages toward a diagnosis process and health-conscious energy management strategies.
Low Complexity Non-Linear Spectral Features and Wear State Models for Remaining Useful Life Estimation of Bearings
Authors: Chelmiah Eoghan T. , McLoone Violeta I. , Kavanagh Darren F.
Published: July 2023

Improving the reliability and performance of electric and rotating machines is crucial to many industrial applications. This will lead to improved robustness, efficiency, and eco-sustainability, as well as mitigate significant health and safety concerns regarding sudden catastrophic failure modes. Bearing degradation is the most significant cause of machine failure and has been reported to cause up to 75% of low-voltage machine failures. This paper introduces a low complexity machine learning (ML) approach to estimate the remaining useful life (RUL) of rolling element bearings using real vibration signals. This work explores different ML recipes using novel feature engineering coupled with various k-Nearest Neighbour (k-NN), and Support Vector Machines (SVM) kernel and weighting functions in order to optimise this RUL approach. Original non-linear wear state models and feature sets are investigated, the latter are derived from Short-time Fourier Transform (STFT) and Hilbert Marginal Spectrum (HMS). These feature sets incorporate one-third octave band filtering for low complexity multivariate feature subspace compression. Our proposed ML algorithm stage has employed two robust supervised ML approaches: weighted k-NN and SVM. Real vibration data were drawn from the Pronostia platform to test and validate this prognostic monitoring approach. The results clearly demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach, with classification accuracy results of up to 82.8% achieved. This work contributes to the field by introducing a robust and computationally inexpensive method for accurate monitoring of machine health using low-cost vibration-based sensing.
Joint State of Charge (SOC) and State of Health (SOH) Estimation for Lithium-Ion Batteries Packs of Electric Vehicles Based on NSSR-LSTM Neural Network
Authors: Hu Panpan , Tang W. F. , Li C. H. , Mak Shu-Lun , Li C. Y. , Lee C. C.
Published: July 2023

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are widely used in electrical vehicles (EVs), but safety issues with LIBs still occur frequently. State of charge (SOC) and state of health (SOH) are two crucial parameters for describing the state of LIBs. However, due to inconsistencies that may occur among hundreds to thousands of battery cells connected in series and parallel in the battery pack, these parameters can be difficult to estimate accurately. To address this problem, this paper proposes a joint SOC and SOH estimation method based on the nonlinear state space reconstruction (NSSR) and long short-term memory (LSTM) neural network. An experiment testbed was set up to measure the SOC and SOH of battery packs under different criteria and configurations, and thousands of charging/discharging cycles were recorded. The joint estimation algorithms were validated using testbed data, and the errors for SOC and SOH estimation were found to be within 2.5% and 1.3%, respectively, which is smaller than the errors obtained using traditional Ah-Integral and LSTM-only algorithms.
Triple-Objective Optimization of SCO2 Brayton Cycles for Next-Generation Solar Power Tower
Authors: Qiu Yu , E Erqi , Li Qing
Published: July 2023

In this paper, the SCO2 Brayton regenerative and recompression cycles are studied and optimized for a next-generation solar power tower under a maximum cycle temperature of over 700 °C. First, a steady-state thermodynamic model is developed and validated, and the impacts of different operating parameters on three critical performance indexes, including the cycle thermal efficiency, specific work, and heat storage temperature difference, are analyzed. The results reveal that these performance indexes are influenced by the operating pressures, the SCO2 split ratio, and the effectiveness of the regenerators in complex ways. Subsequently, considering the three performance indexes as the optimization objectives, a triple-objective optimization is carried out to determine the optimal operating variables with the aim of obtaining Pareto solutions for both cycles. The optimization indicates that the regenerative cycle can achieve the maximum heat storage temperature difference and the maximum specific work of 396.4 °C and 180.6 kW·kg−1, respectively, while the recompression cycle can reach the maximum thermal efficiency of 55.95%. Moreover, the optimized maximum and minimum pressure values of both cycles are found to be around 30 MPa and 8.2 MPa, respectively. Additionally, the distributions of the optimized values of the regenerator effectiveness and the SCO2 split ratio show different influences on the performance of the cycles. Therefore, different cycles with different optimized variables should be considered to achieve specific cycle performance. When considering thermal efficiency as the most important performance index, the recompression cycle should be adopted. Meanwhile, its SCO2 split ratio and the regenerator effectiveness should be close to 0.7 and 0.95, respectively. When considering heat storage temperature difference or specific work as the most important performance index, the regenerative cycle should be adopted. Meanwhile, its regenerator effectiveness should be close to 0.75. The results from this study will be helpful for the optimization of superior SCO2 cycles for next-generation solar tower plants.
Chronological Changes in the Expression and Localization of Sox9 between Achilles Tendon Injury and Functional Recovery in Mice
Authors: Watanabe Genji , Yamamoto Masahito , Taniguchi Shuichirou , Sugiyama Yuki , Hirouchi Hidetomo , Ishizuka Satoshi , Kitamura Kei , Mizoguchi Toshihide , Takayama Takashi , Hayashi Katsuhiko , Abe Shinichi
Published: July 2023

Tendons help transmit forces from the skeletal muscles and bones. However, tendons have inferior regenerative ability compared to muscles. Despite studies on the regeneration of muscles and bone tissue, only a few have focused on tendinous tissue regeneration, especially tendon regeneration. Sex-determining region Y-box transcription factor 9 (Sox9) is an SRY-related transcription factor with a DNA-binding domain and is an important control factor for cartilage formation. Sox9 is critical to the early-to-middle stages of tendon development. However, how Sox9 participates in the healing process after tendon injury is unclear. We hypothesized that Sox9 is expressed in damaged tendons and is crucially involved in restoring tendon functions. We constructed a mouse model of an Achilles tendon injury by performing a 0.3 mm wide partial excision in the Achilles tendon of mice, and chronologically evaluated the function restoration and localization of the Sox9 expressed in the damaged sites. The results reveal that Sox9 was expressed simultaneously with the formation of the pre-structure of the epitenon, an essential part of the tendinous tissue, indicating that its expression is linked to the functional restoration of tendons. Lineage tracing for Sox9 expressed during tendon restoration revealed the tendon restoration involvement of cells that switched into Sox9-expressing cells after tendon injury. The stem cells involved in tendon regeneration may begin to express Sox9 after injury.
Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms in Base-Excision Repair-Related Genes Involved in the Risk of an Occurrence of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Ziółkowska Sylwia , Kosmalski Marcin , Kołodziej Łukasz , Jabłkowska Aleksandra , Szemraj Janusz Zbigniew , Pietras Tadeusz , Jabłkowski Maciej , Czarny Piotr Lech
Published: July 2023

Oxidative stress is one of the pillars crucial in the development of a non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and may cause DNA damage. Since the main pathway responsible for the repair of oxidative DNA damage is the base-excision repair (BER) pathway, we examined the relationship between the presence of different genetic variants of BER-associated genes and the risk of NAFLD. The study evaluates seven single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within five genes, hOGG1, APEX1, NEIL1, LIG3, LIG1, in 150 NAFLD patients and 340 healthy controls. The genotyping was performed using TaqMan probes and the results were presented as odds ratio with its corresponding 95% confidence interval. The following SNPs were assessed in the study: hOGG1 (rs1052133), APEX1 (rs176094 and rs1130409), NEIL1 (rs4462560), LIG3 (rs1052536), LIG3 (rs4796030), and LIG1 (rs20579). Four of the investigated SNPs, i.e., rs176094, rs1130409, rs4462560 and rs4796030, were found to be associated with NAFLD risk. Furthermore, the occurrence of insulin resistance in patients with steatosis depended on various LIG3 genetic variants. The findings imply the impact of genes involved in BER on NAFLD and fatty liver-related insulin sensitivity.
Fusion-Assisted Hydrothermal Synthesis of Technogenic-Waste-Derived Zeolites and Nanocomposites: Synthesis, Characterization, and Mercury (II) Adsorption
Authors: Suleimenova Madina , Zharylkan Saule , Mekenova Meruyert , Mutushev Alibek , Azat Seytkhan , Tolepova Aidana , Baimenov Alzhan , Satayeva Aliya , Tauanov Zhandos
Published: July 2023

This study presents the synthesis of zeolites derived from coal fly ash (CFA) using the fusion-assisted alkaline hydrothermal method. The zeolites were synthesized by combining CFA and NaOH at a molar ratio of 1:1.2 under fusion temperatures of 500, 600, and 700 °C. Subsequently, the obtained zeolites were subjected to further modifications through the incorporation of magnetic (Fe3O4) and silver (Ag0) nanoparticles (NPs). The Fe3O4 NPs were introduced through co-precipitation of Fe(NO3)2 and FeCl3 at a molar ratio of 1:1, followed by thermal curing at 120 °C. On the other hand, the Ag0 NPs were incorporated via ion exchange of Na+ with Ag+ and subsequent reduction using NaBH4. The synthesized porous materials exhibited the formation of zeolites, specifically analcime and sodalite, as confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. Additionally, the presence of Fe3O4 and Ag0 NPs was also confirmed by XRD analysis. The elemental composition analysis of the synthesized nanocomposites further validated the successful formation of Fe3O4 and Ag0 NPs. Nitrogen porosimetric analysis revealed the formation of a microporous structure, with the BET surface area of the zeolites and nanocomposites ranging from 48.6 to 128.7 m2/g and pore sizes ranging from 0.6 to 4.8 nm. The porosimetric characteristics of the zeolites exhibited noticeable changes after the modification process, which can be attributed to the impregnation of Fe3O4 and Ag0 NPs. The findings of this research demonstrate the effectiveness of the fusion-assisted method in producing synthetic zeolites and nanocomposites derived from CFA. The resulting composites were evaluated for their potential application in the removal of mercury ions from aqueous solutions. Among the samples tested, the composite containing Ag0 NPs exhibited the highest adsorption capacity, reaching 107.4 mg of Hg2+ per gram of composite. The composites modified with Fe3O4 NPs and Ag/Fe3O4 nanocomposites displayed adsorption capacities of 68.4 mg/g and 71.4 mg/g, respectively.
Age, Origin and Functional Study of the Prevalent LDLR Mutation Causing Familial Hypercholesterolaemia in Gran Canaria
Authors: Suárez Nicolás M. , Jebari-Benslaiman Shifa , Jiménez-Monzón Roberto , Benito-Vicente Asier , Brito-Casillas Yeray , Garcés Laida , González-Lleo Ana M. , Tugores Antonio , Boronat Mauro , Martin César , Wägner Ana M. , Sánchez-Hernández Rosa M.
Published: July 2023

The p.(Tyr400_Phe402del) mutation in the LDL receptor (LDLR) gene is the most frequent cause of familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) in Gran Canaria. The aim of this study was to determine the age and origin of this prevalent founder mutation and to explore its functional consequences. For this purpose, we obtained the haplotypic information of 14 microsatellite loci surrounding the mutation in one homozygous individual and 11 unrelated heterozygous family trios. Eight different mutation carrier haplotypes were identified, which were estimated to originate from a common ancestral haplotype 387 (110–1572) years ago. This estimation suggests that this mutation happened after the Spanish colonisation of the Canary Islands, which took place during the fifteenth century. Comprehensive functional studies of this mutation showed that the expressed LDL receptor was retained in the endoplasmic reticulum, preventing its migration to the cell surface, thus allowing us to classify this LDLR mutation as a class 2a, defective, pathogenic variant.
Synthesis of Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen-Targeted Bimodal Conjugates of Cytotoxic Agents and Antiandrogens and Their Comparative Assessment with Monoconjugates
Authors: Zyk Nikolai Y. , Garanina Anastasiia S. , Plotnikova Ekaterina A. , Ber Anton P. , Nimenko Ekaterina A. , Dashkova Natalia S. , Uspenskaia Anastasiia A. , Shafikov Radik R. , Skvortsov Dmitry A. , Petrov Stanislav A. , Pankratov Andrey A. , Zyk Nikolai V. , Majouga Alexander G. , Beloglazkina Elena K. , Machulkin Aleksei E.
Published: July 2023

Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men. We designed and synthesized new ligands targeting prostate-specific membrane antigen and suitable for bimodal conjugates with diagnostic and therapeutic agents. In vitro studies of the affinity of the synthesized compounds to the protein target have been carried out. Based on these ligands, a series of bimodal conjugates with a combination of different mitosis inhibitors and antiandrogenic drugs were synthesized. The cytotoxicity of the compounds obtained in vitro was investigated on three different cell lines. The efficacy of the two obtained conjugates was evaluated in vivo in xenograft models of prostate cancer. These compounds have been shown to be highly effective in inhibiting the growth of PSMA-expressing tumors.
Recent Advances in Plant–Insect Interactions
Authors: Barbero Francesca , Maffei Massimo E.
Published: July 2023

Plant–insect interaction is a fast-developing research field that continues to increase the interest of numerous scientists, many of whom come from heterogeneous backgrounds [...]
Habitual Residence: Review of Developments and Proposed Guidelines
Authors: Schuz Rhona
Published: July 2023

Habitual residence is a key concept in the scheme of the Hague Child Abduction Convention because it determines the applicability of the mandatory return mechanism. However, the concept is not defined, and over the years there have developed different approaches thereto. In recent years, there has been increasing doctrinal uniformity as a result of wide adoption of the hybrid approach. However, there are real disparities in the way in which this approach is applied by different judges and the question of habitual residence remains one of the most litigated issues under the Convention. This article reviews recent case law developments and explains the disparities. It then proceeds to propose guidelines that might assist in increasing uniformity and ensuring that findings of habitual residence promote the objectives of the Convention.
Translocation Tales: Unraveling the MYC Deregulation in Burkitt Lymphoma for Innovative Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Tandon Amol , Kuriappan Jissy Akkarapattiakal , Dubey Vaibhav
Published: July 2023

MYC deregulation, a cardinal event in Burkitt lymphoma (BL) pathogenesis, necessitates the elucidation of the molecular mechanisms governing MYC activation to devise innovative and effective therapeutic strategies. The t(8;14)(q24;q32) chromosomal translocation commonly observed in hematological malignancies results in MYC deregulation, endowing cancer cells with a competitive edge through heightened cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, apoptosis evasion, and metabolic reprogramming. Recent discoveries of recurrent MYC mutations in BL underscore the potential of precision medicine, employing tailored therapeutics to specifically inhibit MYC activity. However, the intricate genetic landscape of BL, featuring additional alterations, such as mutations in TP53, TCF3, and ID3, may necessitate a combinatorial approach targeting multiple oncogenic pathways for effective intervention. Despite significant strides in hematological malignancy treatment, a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms underpinning MYC’s oncogenic properties remains crucial for the potential development of highly potent and selective MYC-directed cancer therapies. This review offers an in-depth analysis of MYC translocation and its implications in Burkitt lymphoma, with a spotlight on cutting-edge advances in research and emerging therapeutic paradigms.
Structural and Functional Characterization of Drosophila melanogaster α-Amylase
Authors: Rhimi Moez , Da Lage Jean-Luc , Haser Richard , Feller Georges , Aghajari Nushin
Published: July 2023

Insects rely on carbohydrates such as starch and glycogen as an energy supply for growth of larvae and for longevity. In this sense α-amylases have essential roles under extreme conditions, e.g., during nutritional or temperature stress, thereby contributing to survival of the insect. This makes them interesting targets for combating insect pests. Drosophila melanogaster α-amylase, DMA, which belongs to the glycoside hydrolase family 13, sub family 15, has been studied from an evolutionary, biochemical, and structural point of view. Our studies revealed that the DMA enzyme is active over a broad temperature and pH range, which is in agreement with the fluctuating environmental changes with which the insect is confronted. Crystal structures disclosed a new nearly fully solvated metal ion, only coordinated to the protein via Gln263. This residue is only conserved in the subgroup of D. melanogaster and may thus contribute to the enzyme adaptive response to large temperature variations. Studies of the effect of plant inhibitors and the pseudo-tetrasaccharide inhibitor acarbose on DMA activity, allowed us to underline the important role of the so-called flexible loop on activity/inhibition, but also to suggest that the inhibition modes of the wheat inhibitors WI-1 and WI-3 on DMA, are likely different.
Design, Synthesis, Computational and Biological Evaluation of Novel Structure Fragments Based on Lithocholic Acid (LCA)
Authors: Peng Jiangling , Fan Mingjie , Huang Kelly X. , Huang Lina A. , Wang Yangmeng , Yin Runkai , Zhao Hanyi , Xu Senlin , Li Hongzhi , Agua Alon , Xie Jun , Horne David A. , Kandeel Fouad , Huang Wendong , Li Junfeng
Published: July 2023

The regulation of bile acid pathways has become a particularly promising therapeutic strategy for a variety of metabolic disorders, cancers, and diseases. However, the hydrophobicity of bile acids has been an obstacle to clinical efficacy due to off-target effects from rapid drug absorption. In this report, we explored a novel strategy to design new structure fragments based on lithocholic acid (LCA) with improved hydrophilicity by introducing a polar “oxygen atom” into the side chain of LCA, then (i) either retaining the carboxylic acid group or replacing the carboxylic acid group with (ii) a diol group or (iii) a vinyl group. These novel fragments were evaluated using luciferase-based reporter assays and the MTS assay. Compared to LCA, the result revealed that the two lead compounds 1a–1b were well tolerated in vitro, maintaining similar potency and efficacy to LCA. The MTS assay results indicated that cell viability was not affected by dose dependence (under 25 µM). Additionally, computational model analysis demonstrated that compounds 1a–1b formed more extensive hydrogen bond networks with Takeda G protein-coupled receptor 5 (TGR5) than LCA. This strategy displayed a potential approach to explore the development of novel endogenous bile acids fragments. Further evaluation on the biological activities of the two lead compounds is ongoing.
Modeling of Nitrogen Removal from Natural Gas in Rotating Packed Bed Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Surmi Amiza , Shariff Azmi Mohd , Lock Serene Sow Mun
Published: July 2023

Novel or unconventional technologies are critical to providing cost-competitive natural gas supplies to meet rising demands and provide more opportunities to develop low-quality gas fields with high contaminants, including high carbon dioxide (CO2) fields. High nitrogen concentrations that reduce the heating value of gaseous products are typically associated with high CO2 fields. Consequently, removing nitrogen is essential for meeting customers’ requirements. The intensification approach with a rotating packed bed (RPB) demonstrated considerable potential to remove nitrogen from natural gas under cryogenic conditions. Moreover, the process significantly reduces the equipment size compared to the conventional distillation column, thus making it more economical. The prediction model developed in this study employed artificial neural networks (ANN) based on data from in-house experiments due to a lack of available data. The ANN model is preferred as it offers easy processing of large amounts of data, even for more complex processes, compared to developing the first principal mathematical model, which requires numerous assumptions and might be associated with lumped components in the kinetic model. Backpropagation algorithms for ANN Lavenberg–Marquardt (LM), scaled conjugate gradient (SCG), and Bayesian regularisation (BR) were also utilised. Resultantly, the LM produced the best model for predicting nitrogen removal from natural gas compared to other ANN models with a layer size of nine, with a 99.56% regression (R2) and 0.0128 mean standard error (MSE).
Dendritic Mesoporous Organosilica Nanoparticles with Photosensitizers for Cell Imaging, siRNA Delivery and Protein Loading
Authors: Omar Haneen , Jakimoska Sara , Guillot Julia , Alsharaeh Edreese , Charnay Clarence , Cunin Frédérique , Bessière Aurélie , Durand Jean-Olivier , Raehm Laurence , Lichon Laure , Onofre Mélanie , Gary-Bobo Magali
Published: July 2023

Dendritic mesoporous organosilica nanoparticles (DMON) are a new class of biodegradable nanoparticles suitable for biomolecule delivery. We studied the photochemical internalization (PCI) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) of DMON to investigate new ways for DMON to escape from the endosomes-lysosomes and deliver biomolecules into the cytoplasm of cells. We added photosensitizers in the framework of DMON and found that DMON were loaded with siRNA or FVIII factor protein. We made four formulations with four different photosensitizers. The photosensitizers allowed us to perform imaging of DMON in cancer cells, but the presence of the tetrasulfide bond in the framework of DMON quenched the formation of singlet oxygen. Fortunately, one formulation allowed us to efficiently deliver proapoptotic siRNA in MCF-7 cancer cells leading to 31% of cancer cell death, without irradiation. As for FVIII protein, it was loaded in two formulations with drug-loading capacities (DLC) up to 25%. In conclusion, DMON are versatile nanoparticles capable of loading siRNA and delivering it into cancer cells, and also loading FVIII protein with good DLC. Due to the presence of tetrasulfide, it was not possible to perform PDT or PCI.
Cytotoxicity and Genotoxicity Evaluation of Zanthoxylum rhoifolium Lam and In Silico Studies of Its Alkaloids
Authors: Azonsivo Rufine , Albuquerque Kelly Cristina Oliveira de , Castro Ana Laura Gadelha , Correa-Barbosa Juliana , Souza Helena Joseane Raiol de , Almada-Vilhena Andryo Orfi de , Ferreira Gleison Gonçalves , Souza Anderson Albuquerque de , Marinho Andrey Moacir do Rosario , Percario Sandro , Nagamachi Cleusa Yoshiko , Pieczarka Julio Cesar , Dolabela Maria Fâni
Published: July 2023

The alkaloids isolated from Zanthoxylum rhoifolium have demonstrated great pharmacological potential; however, the toxic profiles of these extracts and fractions are still not well elucidated. This study evaluated the toxicity of the ethanol extract (EEZR) and neutral (FNZR) and alkaloid (FAZR) fractions. Chemical characterization was performed by chromatographic methods: thin-layer chromatography (TLC) and high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection (HPLC–DAD). The cytotoxicity of the samples was evaluated in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cells using the cell viability method (MTT) and mutagenicity by the Allium cepa assay (ACA). Alkaloids isolated from the species were selected for toxicity prediction using preADMET and PROTOX. The molecular docking of the topoisomerase II protein (TOPOII) was used to investigate the mechanism of cell damage. In the EEZR, FNZR, and FAZR, the presence of alkaloids was detected in TCL and HPLC–DAD analyses. These samples showed a 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) greater than 400 μg/mL in HepG2 cells. In ACA, time- and concentration-dependent changes were observed, with a significant reduction in the mitotic index and an increase in chromosomal aberrations for all samples. Nuclear sprouts and a micronucleus of the positive control (PC) were observed at 10 µg/mL and in the FAZR at 30 µg/mL; a chromosomal bridge in FNZR was observed at 105 µg/mL, CP at a concentration of 40 µg/mL, and nuclear bud and mitotic abnormalities in the EEZR were observed at 170 µg/mL. The alkaloids with a benzophenanthridine were selected for the in silico study, as structural alterations demonstrated certain toxic effects. Molecular docking with topo II demonstrated that all alkaloids bind to the protein. In summary, the fractionation of Z. rhoifolium did not interfere with toxicity; it seems that alkaloids with a benzophenanthridine nucleus may be involved in this toxicity.
Synthesis, Characterization, Antibacterial, Antifungal and Anticorrosion Activities of 1,2,4-Triazolo[1,5-a]quinazolinone
Authors: Ettahiri Walid , Salim Rajae , Adardour Mohamed , Ech-chihbi Elhachmia , Yunusa Ismaeel , Alanazi Mohammed M. , Lahmidi Sanae , Barnossi Azeddin El , Merzouki Oussama , Iraqi Housseini Abdelilah , Rais Zakia , Baouid Abdesselam , Taleb Mustapha
Published: July 2023

The synthesis of 5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-[1,2,4]triazolo[5,1-b]quinazolin-9(4H)-one (THTQ), a potentially biologically active compound, was pursued, and its structure was determined through a sequence of spectral analysis, including 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, IR, and HRMS. Four bacterial and four fungal strains were evaluated for their susceptibility to the antibacterial and antifungal properties of the THTQ compound using the well diffusion method. The impact of THTQ on the corrosion of mild steel in a 1 M HCl solution was evaluated using various methods such as weight loss, potentiodynamic polarization (PDP), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. The study revealed that the effectiveness of THTQ as an inhibitor increased with the concentration but decreased with temperature. The PDP analysis suggested that THTQ acted as a mixed-type inhibitor, whereas the EIS data showed that it created a protective layer on the steel surface. This protective layer occurs due to the adsorption behavior of THTQ following Langmuir’s adsorption isotherm. The inhibition potential of THTQ is also predicted theoretically using DFT at B3LYP and Monte Carlo simulation.
Impact of Low Lithium Concentrations on the Fatty Acids and Elemental Composition of Salvinia natans
Authors: Török Anamaria Iulia , Moldovan Ana , Senila Lacrimioara , Kovacs Eniko , Resz Maria-Alexandra , Senila Marin , Cadar Oana , Tanaselia Claudiu , Levei Erika Andrea
Published: July 2023

The photosynthetic pigments, protein, macro and microelements concentrations, and fatty acids composition of Salvinia natans, a free-floating aquatic plant, were analyzed after exposure to Hoagland nutrient solution containing 1, 3, and 5 mg/L Li. The Li content of Salvinia natans grew exponentially with the Li concentration in the Hoagland nutrient solution. The exposure to Li did not induce significant changes in Na, Mg, K, Cu, and Zn content but enhanced the Ba, Cr, Mn, Ni and Mo absorption in Salvinia natans. The most abundant fatty acids determined in oils extracted from Salvinia natans were C16:0, C18:3(n6), C18:2(n6), and C18:3(n3). The photosynthetic pigments did not change significantly after exposure to Li. In contrast, chlorophyll and protein content decreased, whilst monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids content increased after the exposure to 1 mg/L Li. The results indicated that Salvinia natans exposed to low Li concentrations may be a good source of minerals, omega 6 and omega 3.
Weight Loss Supplements
Authors: Dini Irene , Mancusi Andrea
Published: July 2023

Being overweight or obese can predispose people to chronic diseases and metabolic disorders such as cardiovascular illnesses, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and cancer, which are costly public health problems and leading causes of mortality worldwide. Many people hope to solve this problem by using food supplements, as they can be self-prescribed, contain molecules of natural origin considered to be incapable of causing damage to health, and the only sacrifice they require is economic. The market offers supplements containing food plant-derived molecules (e.g., primary and secondary metabolites, vitamins, and fibers), microbes (probiotics), and microbial-derived fractions (postbiotics). They can control lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, reduce appetite (interacting with the central nervous system) and adipogenesis, influence intestinal microbiota activity, and increase energy expenditure. Unfortunately, the copious choice of products and different legislation on food supplements worldwide can confuse consumers. This review summarizes the activity and toxicity of dietary supplements for weight control to clarify their potentiality and adverse reactions. A lack of research regarding commercially available supplements has been noted. Supplements containing postbiotic moieties are of particular interest. They are easier to store and transport and are safe even for people with a deficient immune system.
Precise Molecular Engineering of Type I Photosensitizer with Aggregation-Induced Emission for Image-Guided Photodynamic Eradication of Biofilm
Authors: Shi Jinghong , Wang Yucheng , He Wei , Ye Ziyue , Liu Mengli , Zhao Zheng , Lam Jacky Wing Yip , Zhang Pengfei , Kwok Ryan Tsz Kin , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: July 2023

Biofilm-associated infections exert more severe and harmful attacks on human health since they can accelerate the generation and development of the antibiotic resistance of the embedded bacteria. Anti-biofilm materials and techniques that can eliminate biofilms effectively are in urgent demand. Therefore, we designed a type I photosensitizer (TTTDM) with an aggregation-induced emission (AIE) property and used F-127 to encapsulate the TTTDM into nanoparticles (F-127 AIE NPs). The NPs exhibit highly efficient ROS generation by enhancing intramolecular D–A interaction and confining molecular non-radiative transitions. Furthermore, the NPs can sufficiently penetrate the biofilm matrix and then detect and eliminate mature bacterial biofilms upon white light irradiation. This strategy holds great promise for the rapid detection and eradication of bacterial biofilms.
Effects of Calcination Temperature and Calcination Atmosphere on the Performance of Co3O4 Catalysts for the Catalytic Oxidation of Toluene
Authors: Jiang Sicheng , You Zhimin , Tang Ning
Published: July 2023

A series of Co3O4 catalysts were synthesized and derived from Co-BTC (BTC = 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylic acid). The effects of different calcination temperatures and calcination atmospheres on the catalytic activity of the materials were investigated. The characteristics of the catalysts were investigated by using various techniques, including X-ray diffraction, N2 adsorption–desorption measurements, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and H2 temperature-programmed reduction. The findings demonstrated that an increase in calcination temperature caused a higher agglomeration of grains, reduced the specific surface area, and influenced the contents of the active substance Co3+ and surface-adsorbed oxygen of the catalyst. The catalyst pretreated under the N2 atmosphere showed a more uniform particle distribution, better low-temperature reducibility, and the highest catalytic activity. The in situ DRIFTS results indicated that toluene was decomposed successively to benzaldehyde, benzoic acid, bicarbonate, and carbonate species and was eventually broken down into small molecules of CO2 and H2O as the temperature increased.
Aromatic Fingerprints: VOC Analysis with E-Nose and GC-MS for Rapid Detection of Adulteration in Sesame Oil
Authors: Aghili Nadia Sadat , Rasekh Mansour , Karami Hamed , Edriss Omid , Wilson Alphus Dan , Ramos Jose
Published: July 2023

Food quality assurance is an important field that directly affects public health. The organoleptic aroma of food is of crucial significance to evaluate and confirm food quality and origin. The volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions (detectable aroma) from foods are unique and provide a basis to predict and evaluate food quality. Soybean and corn oils were added to sesame oil (to simulate adulteration) at four different mixture percentages (25–100%) and then chemically analyzed using an experimental 9-sensor metal oxide semiconducting (MOS) electronic nose (e-nose) and gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) for comparisons in detecting unadulterated sesame oil controls. GC-MS analysis revealed eleven major VOC components identified within 82–91% of oil samples. Principle component analysis (PCA) and linear detection analysis (LDA) were employed to visualize different levels of adulteration detected by the e-nose. Artificial neural networks (ANNs) and support vector machines (SVMs) were also used for statistical modeling. The sensitivity and specificity obtained for SVM were 0.987 and 0.977, respectively, while these values for the ANN method were 0.949 and 0.953, respectively. E-nose-based technology is a quick and effective method for the detection of sesame oil adulteration due to its simplicity (ease of application), rapid analysis, and accuracy. GC-MS data provided corroborative chemical evidence to show differences in volatile emissions from virgin and adulterated sesame oil samples and the precise VOCs explaining differences in e-nose signature patterns derived from each sample type.