bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative Analysis of Carbonation Degree of Mortar Based on Multiple Interactive Influences
Authors: Xie Lihua , He Yang , Tian Zhenghong , Lu Hao , Zhang Xinyu , Li Lujia
Published: December 2024

This study conducts quantitative analysis of the degree of mortar carbonation under the influence of a multi-dimensional interaction. The HABT method is used to determine the degree of mortar carbonation and is compared with the TGA method. The result shows that the determination result of the HABT method is only 3.86% higher than that of the TGA method. This method is suitable for determining the degree of carbonation. The study analyzes the influence of factors such as water-reducing agents on the degree of carbonation, demonstrates the relationship between pore structure and mortar carbonation, and explores the degree of carbonation of corner areas and general edges. It is found that as time prolongs, the degree of carbonation and carbonation depth will no longer show a linear relationship. Carbonation time also affects the direction of the carbonation front line and the effect of water-reducing agents on concrete carbonation. The degree of carbonation is linearly related to carbonation time and the number of exposed surfaces. The water~cement ratio and the number of exposed surfaces affect the porosity of concrete. There is interaction in the multi-dimensional area of mortar. The degree of carbonation at two-dimensional corners is 1.20~1.25 times that at general edges, and the degree of carbonation at three-dimensional corner areas is 2.03~2.11 times that at general edges. Accounting based on general edges will underestimate the carbon sink capacity of mortar structures.
The Effects of Combined Use of Sodium Citrate and PCE Plasticizer on Microstructure and Properties of Binary OPC-CAC Binder
Authors: Shvetsova Victoria , Soloviev Vadim , Matiushin Evgenii , Erofeev Vladimir
Published: December 2024

This study examines the impact of sodium citrate and a plasticizing additive, along with their sequential introduction into a cement slurry or concrete mix, on the heat evolution of the cement slurry, the microstructure, phase composition of the cement paste, and the compressive strength of fine-grained concrete. The binder used in this research was a blended binder consisting of 90% Portland cement and 10% calcium aluminate cement. This type of binder is characterized by an increased heat evolution and accelerated setting time. The addition of sodium citrate at 5% of the binder mass alters the phase composition of newly formed compounds by increasing the quantity of AFt and AFm phases. The presence of sodium citrate significantly delays the hydration process of tricalcium silicate by a factor of 3.3. Initially, it accelerates belite hydration by 31.6%, but subsequently slows it down, with a retardation of 43.4% observed at 28 days. During the hardening process, the hydration of tricalcium aluminate and tetracalcium aluminoferrite is accelerated throughout the hardening process, with the maximum acceleration occurring within the first 24 h. During the first 24 h of hydration, the dissolution rates of tricalcium aluminate and tetracalcium aluminoferrite were 40.7% and 75% faster, respectively. Sodium citrate enhances heat evolution during the initial 24 h by up to 4.3 times and reduces the induction period by up to 5 times. Furthermore, sodium citrate promotes early strength development during the initial curing period, enhancing compressive strength by up to 6.4 times compared to the reference composition.
A Novel Simulation Model of Shielding Performance Based on the Anisotropic Magnetic Property of Magnetic Shields
Authors: Ma Yuzheng , Shi Minxia , Zhang Leran , Li Teng , Ling Xuechen , Yuan Shuai , Wang Hanxing , Gao Yi
Published: December 2024

To achieve a near-zero magnetic field environment, the use of permalloy sheets with high-performance magnetic properties is essential. However, mainstream welding processes for magnetically shielded rooms (MSRs), such as argon arc welding and laser welding, can degrade the magnetic properties of the material. Additionally, neglecting the anisotropy of permalloy sheets can introduce unpredictable errors in the evaluation of MSR performance. To address this issue, this paper proposes a modified model for calculating the shielding factor (SF) of MSRs that incorporates the anisotropic magnetic characteristics of permalloy sheets. These characteristics were measured using a two-dimensional single sheet tester (2D-SST). A high-precision measurement system was developed, comprising a 2D-SST (to generate two-dimensional magnetic fields and sense the induced B and H signals) and a control system (to apply in-phase 2D excitation signals and amplify, filter, and record the B and H data). Hysteresis loops were tested at low frequencies (0.1–9 Hz) and under different magnetization states (0.1–0.6 T) in two orientations—parallel and perpendicular to the annealing magnetic field—to verify anisotropy under varying conditions. Initial permeability, near-saturation magnetization, and basic magnetization curves (BM curves) were measured across different directions to provide parameters for simulations and theoretical calculations. Based on these measurements and finite element simulations, a mathematical model was developed to adjust the empirical coefficient λ used in theoretical SF calculations. The results revealed that the ratio of empirical coefficients in different directions is inversely proportional to the ratio of magnetic permeability in the corresponding directions. A verification group was established to compare the original model and the modified model. The mean squared error (MSE) between the original model and the finite element simulation was 49.97, while the MSE between the improved model and the finite element simulation was reduced to 0.13. This indicates a substantial improvement in the computational accuracy of the modified model.
Modified Magnesium Oxysulfate Foam Cement Doped with Iron Tailings
Authors: Fang Yitong , Xu Baoluo , Fu Lisha , Chen Le , Chen Zilong , Hao Wanjun , Zhang Kexi
Published: December 2024

The enhancement of the utilization rate of solid waste, along with balancing the comprehensive performance of materials, presents a significant challenge in the development of new functional building materials. This study examined the effects of high concentrations of iron tailing powder on the crystallization characteristics, pore structure, compressive strength, and water absorption of modified magnesium oxysulfate (MOS) foam cement with different dry densities. Furthermore, employing chemical foaming technology, the study characterized and analyzed the microstructure of modified MOS foam cement hydration products through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). The results indicated that the addition of an acidic modifier effectively facilitated the hydration reaction in the MgO-MgSO4-H2O system, enhancing the micro-crystallization characteristics of MOS foam cement. The internal pores were uniformly round, with a dense crystal structure within the pore walls. The compressive strength of the material with 40% dry density A08 grade iron tailing powder reached 6.83 MPa, and the lowest water absorption was 5.32% at a dry density of A09.
Surface Roughening Behavior and Mechanism in Aluminum Alloy Under Tensile Deformation
Authors: Zeng Xiang , Xu Shaoming , Mi Zhongbao , Huang Leheng , Xu Xuefeng , Fan Yubin , Yu Jiawen , Fan Xiaoguang , Chen Xiaoxiao , Tu Qiqi
Published: December 2024

Surface roughening (SR) has been found to occur in solid solution 2219 aluminum alloy under tensile deformation, which will deteriorate its surface quality. To make a precise study of the surface roughening (SR) behavior and mechanism, the surface morphology of annealed and solid solution 2219 aluminum alloy was compared and crystal plasticity finite element (CPFE) simulation was carried out in this study. Thereinto, representative volume element (RVE) models of polycrystals were established according to the initial grain morphology measured by electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). The results show that the surface roughening degree of the solid solution specimen is worse than that of annealed specimen after uniaxial tension deformation. In comparison with the annealed specimen, the grains show a larger size after solid solution treatment, thus resulting in the coarse surface to a certain extent. Moreover, texture type and density also have a significant influence on surface roughness. The rotation of grains with an S and Copper orientation intensifies the surface roughening during tensile deformation. The deformation difficulty of Goss texture in the normal direction (ND) and tangential direction (TD) varies, thus contributing to the different surface morphology. The research results will provide guidance for the improvement of the surface quality of high-strength aluminum alloy aerospace components.
Statistical Methods in the Analysis of the Effect of Carbonisate on the Hardness of Epoxy-Resin-Based Composites
Authors: Wieczorska Agata , Drewing Sebastian
Published: December 2024

This research concerns the manufacture and characterisation of epoxy composites with the addition of carbonisate, obtained by the pyrolysis of MDF (medium-density fibreboard) furniture board waste. The laminated composites were made by hand lamination, with the carbonisate used as a filler to improve the mechanical properties of the composite. The carbonisate was obtained by the thermal decomposition of MDF waste in an anaerobic environment by pyrolysis, which is an efficient method of waste management and material recycling. The resulting carbonisate was integrated into an epoxy resin matrix to investigate its potential as a reinforcing agent. The article describes a study on the hardness of epoxy-resin-based composites to which carbonisate was added in different fractions and percentages. The aim of the research was to test the possibility of using char as a component in improving the mechanical properties of epoxy composites with a view towards creating a durable recycled material with optimal parameters. As part of the study, a statistical analysis of the results of hardness measurements was carried out to accurately assess the effect of the quantity and size of the carbonate particles on the mechanical properties of the materials. The analysis identified significant differences between samples and verified the repeatability of the results. It was found that the addition of carbonisate to the A0 base sample (without the addition of carbonisate) leads to a significant hardening of the material. This was confirmed by the higher medians of samples A01 (carbonisate 5% with a 0.5 mm fraction), A02 (carbonisate 7.5% with a 0.5 mm fraction), and A03 (carbonisate 5% with a 1.0 mm fraction) compared to the base sample. The most homogeneous hardness was shown in sample A02, with the highest concentration of results and the lowest values of standard deviation and spread. The results indicated that the addition of carbonate significantly increased the hardness of the composite materials, with optimal stability achieved at 7.5% (by weight) of carbonate with a 0.5 mm fraction. The conducted research precisely determined the influence of the amount and characteristics of carbonisate particles on the mechanical properties of the materials, which enables the more effective designing of future composites. The statistical results provide a reliable basis for evaluating the potential applications of these materials in various industrial sectors, such as construction, automotive and aerospace, where high hardness and durability are important.
Abiotic Factors Modulating Metabolite Composition in Brown Algae (Phaeophyceae): Ecological Impacts and Opportunities for Bioprospecting of Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Lopes Clara , Obando Johana Marcela Concha , Santos Thalisia Cunha dos , Cavalcanti Diana Negrão , Teixeira Valéria Laneuville
Published: December 2024

Brown algae are vital structural elements and contributors to biodiversity in marine ecosystems. These organisms adapt to various environmental challenges by producing primary and secondary metabolites crucial for their survival, defense, and resilience. Besides their ecological role, these diverse metabolites have potential for biotechnological applications in industries including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food. A literature review was conducted encompassing studies from 2014–2024, evaluating the effects of hydrodynamics, temperature, light, nutrients, seasonality, and salinity on the chemical profiles of various Phaeophyceae algae species. Thirty original articles spanning 69 species from the Sargassaceae, Dictyotaceae, Fucaceae, and Scytosiphonaceae families were analyzed and systematically arranged, with a focus on methodologies and key findings. This review furthers ecological discussions on each environmental factor and explores the biotechnological potential of metabolites such as polysaccharides, fatty acids, phenolics, diterpenes, and pigments. The information in this work is beneficial for metabolite bioprospecting and in vitro cultivation models as well as indoor and outdoor cultivation studies.
Aging Treatment to Enhance Coercivity Through Grain Boundary Modification in SmFe10V2 Bulk Magnets
Authors: Zhou Tian-Hong , Zhang Baochao , Zheng Xing , Song Youngwoon , Si Pingzhan , Choi Chul-Jin , Cho Young-Rae , Park Jihoon
Published: December 2024

We explored the potential for an aging treatment to achieve high coercivity, of 0.859 MA/m, in a SmFe10V2 alloy with a ThMn12-type structure. Bulk magnets were fabricated by sintering ball-milled powders, followed by aging treatment. XRD and SEM analyses revealed that aging treatment promotes the formation of a Sm-rich grain boundary phase with nano-scale thickness. The high Sm content (~60–80 at.%) and low Fe content (~20–30 at.%) in the grain boundary phase led to non-ferromagnetism, enhancing the coercivity by isolating the 1–12 grains and weakening the dipolar interaction between the grains. The aging temperature and duration were optimized to maximize the Sm-rich phase and minimize the soft magnetic SmFe2 phase. This study provides a new fabrication method for ThMn12-type magnets and investigates the relationship between microstructure and coercivity, offering valuable insights for the future design and development of high-performance SmFe12-based magnets.
Protective Role of Selenium-Binding Protein 1 (SELENBP1) in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Fonseca-Camarillo Gabriela , Furuzawa-Carballeda Janette , Priego-Ranero Ángel A. , Barreto-Zúñiga Rafael , Martínez-Benítez Braulio , Yamamoto-Furusho Jesús K.
Published: December 2024

Background: The expression of selenium-binding protein 1 (SELENBP1), a molecule responsible for the absorption of selenium in the colon, is crucial for its immunoregulatory effect, but this phenomenon has not been studied in patients with UC. The present study aimed to determine the clinical outcome of SELENBP1 expression in colonic tissue from patients with UC. Methods: The relative mRNA expression of SELENBP1 was analyzed in 34 patients with UC and 20 controls. Statistical analyses were performed with SPSS 19. Results: SELENBP1 gene expression was significantly lower in patients with active UC than those with UC in remission (p = 0.003) and within the controls (p = 0.04). Overexpression of the SELENBP1 gene was associated with a more benign clinical course characterized by initial activity and more than two years of prolonged remission (OR 23.7, p = 0.003) and an intermittent clinical course (OR 47.5, p = 0.001), mild histological activity (OR 0.11; 95% CI: 1.00–1.41, p = 0.05) and severe histological activity (OR 0.08, 95% CI: 0.008–0.866, p = 0.02). SELENBP1-positive cells were found mainly in the submucosa’s inflammatory infiltrate and muscular and adventitia’s internal layers from patients with active UC compared to those in the control group (p ≤ 0.001). Conclusions: The upregulation of SELENBP1 was associated with a benign clinical course of UC. This is the first report suggesting the immunoregulatory role of SELENBP1 in patients with UC.
Widely Targeted Metabolomics Revealed the Metabolic Basis of Physiological Function and Flavor of Natto
Authors: Yin Xiaolong , Wang Xiaona , Xu Lili , Zhao Jianzhi , Li Can , Lin Jianqiang
Published: December 2024

Background: Natto is a fermented product derived from soybeans through the action of Bacillus subtilis natto, possessing various pharmacological and health-promoting properties. However, due to the absence of large-scale and systematic investigations into its metabolite profile, the mechanisms governing the biological functions and flavor characteristics of natto remain incompletely elucidated. Methods: In this study, a comprehensive, widely targeted metabolome analysis was conducted using UHPLC-MS/MS to compare soybeans and natto. Results: A total of 569 metabolites were identified, of which 160 exhibited differential expression between natto and soybeans, including 28 amino acids and their derivatives, 19 flavonoids, 18 alkaloids, and 10 nucleotides and their derivatives. Pathway enrichment analysis further demonstrated significant differences in the metabolic pathways between natto and soybeans, with these 160 differentially expressed metabolites primarily distributed across 40 metabolic pathways. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis of natto metabolites revealed that the majority of these mapped to three key metabolic pathways. Variations in the content of flavonoids and alkaloids, as well as changes in amino acid and saccharide composition and abundance, were found to collectively contribute to the distinctive flavor and biological functionality of natto. Conclusions: This study lays the foundation for future efforts to enhance the quality of natto.
Antihypertensive Effect of Perla and Esmeralda Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) Sprouts in an Induction Model with L-NAME In Vivo
Authors: García-Castro Abigail , Román-Gutiérrez Alma D. , Guzmán-Ortiz Fabiola A. , Cariño-Cortés Raquel
Published: December 2024

Background: Hypertension is one of the leading causes of premature death worldwide. Despite advances in conventional treatments, there remains a significant need for more effective and natural alternatives to control hypertension. In this context, sprouted barley extracts have emerged as a potential therapeutic option. This study presents the evaluation of the bioactive properties of extracts from two varieties of barley germinated for different periods (3, 5, and 7 days), focusing on their potential to regulate blood pressure mechanisms. Objectives/Methods: The main objective was to assess the effects of these extracts on blood pressure regulation in N(ω)-Nitro-L-Arginine Methyl Ester (L-NAME)-induced hypertensive rats. Renal (creatinine, urea, uric acid, and total protein) and endothelial (NOx levels) function, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) I and II activity, and histopathological effects on heart and kidney tissues were evaluated. Results: In particular, Esmeralda barley extract demonstrated 83% inhibition of ACE activity in vitro. Furthermore, the combined administration of sprouted barley extract (SBE) and captopril significantly reduced blood pressure and ACE I and II activity by 22%, 81%, and 76%, respectively, after 3, 5, and 7 days of germination. The treatment also led to reductions in protein, creatinine, uric acid, and urea levels by 3%, 38%, 42%, and 48%, respectively, along with a 66% increase in plasma NO concentrations. Conclusions: This study highlights the bioactive properties of barley extracts with different germination times, emphasizing their potential health benefits as a more effective alternative to conventional antihypertensive therapies.
Geography, Antimicrobial Resistance, and Genomics of Salmonella enterica (Serotypes Newport and Anatum) from Meat in Mexico (2021–2023)
Authors: Reynoso Eduardo Canek , Delgado-Suárez Enrique Jesús , Hernández-Pérez Cindy Fabiola , Chavarin-Pineda Yaselda , Godoy-Lozano Elizabeth Ernestina , Fierros-Zárate Geny , Aguilar-Vera Omar Alejandro , Castillo-Ramírez Santiago , Gómez-Pedroso Luz del Carmen Sierra , Sánchez-Zamorano Luisa María
Published: December 2024

Salmonella enterica non-typhoidal is a major contributor to diarrheal diseases, with over 2600 serovars identified across diverse environments. In Mexico, serovars Newport and Anatum have shown a marked increase, especially in foodborne disease, posing a public health problem. We conducted a cross-sectional study from 2021 to 2023 using active epidemiological surveillance to assess contamination in ground beef and pork at butcher shops nationwide. It involved isolation, phenotypic antimicrobial resistance, comparative genomics, spatial distribution, antimicrobial-resistance genes, and pangenome analysis. A total of 402 non-typhoidal S. enterica strains were isolated, including 59 Newport and 50 Anatum. After curating for redundancy, 45 Newport and 32 Anatum strains remained. We found that 75% of Newport strains exhibited multidrug resistance (MDR), compared to 25% of Anatum strains. Salmonella Newport also showed a broader distribution and stronger antibiotic-resistance capacity, particularly due to genes such as mphA and ramA. Our pangenome analysis showed a predominance of cell maintenance and survival-process genes in the accessory genome of both serotypes. Considering unique genes, Salmonella Anatum and Newport showed a notorious abundance of genes with functions related to replication, recombination, and repair. The substantial rise of Anatum and Newport strains in meat samples for human consumption presents an epidemiological alert, highlighting the critical need for stringent surveillance programs to mitigate human and ecosystem health risks.
Clostridioides difficile Infections and Antibiotherapy: Results of Four Years of Observation in a Romanian Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Vasile Carmen-Cristina , Gheorghe Luisa-Andreea , Chivu Carmen-Daniela , Anghel Marta Ana Maria , Mîinea Ștefan Eduard , Pițigoi Daniela , Crăciun Maria-Dorina
Published: December 2024

Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is one of the main causes of morbidity associated with antibiotic use, producing both healthcare-associated infections and community infections. This study aims to describe the epidemiological characteristics, the clinical outcomes, previous antibiotic exposure, and other risk factors of hospitalized patients with CDI in a tertiary infectious disease hospital in Bucharest, Romania. We performed a descriptive analysis based on four-year surveillance data, collected in a tertiary infectious disease hospital in Bucharest, Romania. The annual incidence of CDIs varied from 65.1 cases per 10,000 discharges in 2020 to 211.7 cases per 10,000 discharges in 2023, with a continuously ascending trend. Most of the cases were hospital-acquired cases. There was a high share of antibiotic consumption three months before admission (61.3%). Third-generation cephalosporins, β-lactams with inhibitor combination, and carbapenems were the most used antibiotics, with shares of 46.0%, 25.2%, and 18.6%, respectively. Hospitalization in the previous 12 months and contact with a confirmed CDI case were other frequent factors in the study group, the occurrences of which were recorded as 66.2% and 2.4%, respectively. The surveillance data identified that the annual trend in CDIs is very variable, suggesting the need for continuous and multiannual analysis.
Improvement of Late-Onset Hypogonadism Symptoms of Fermented Morinda citrifolia Extract in TM3 Leydig and TM4 Sertoli Cells
Authors: Kwon Hee-Yeon , Lee Hyesung , Choi Ji-Soo , Lim Seong Hun , Kim Taehyun , Bae Kyeongseok , Jang Yoon A , Lee Jae-Yeon , Choung Se-Young , Min Do Sik
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Late-onset hypogonadism (LOH), characterized by declining testosterone levels with age, negatively affects the health of men, causing physical, psychological, and sexual dysfunction. Conventional testosterone replacement therapies have side effects, which has led to interest in natural alternatives. We investigated the effects of a standardized fermented Morinda citrifolia extract (FME) on oxidative stress-induced damage in TM3 Leydig and TM4 Sertoli cells. The cells were treated with H2O2 to simulate oxidative stress, followed by the FME treatment. Methods: Cytotoxicity assays, testosterone measurements, and gene and protein expression analyses were conducted to evaluate the restorative properties of FME. Results: The H2O2 treatment significantly decreased the cell viability, testosterone production, and the expression of proteins involved in testosterone synthesis and spermatogenesis, and the FME treatment improved testosterone production and restored the luteinizing hormone receptor, steroidogenic acute regulatory protein, CYP11A1, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, 17,20 desmolase, and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase levels in the TM3 Leydig cells. It also reduced the expression of testosterone-degrading enzymes, aromatase and 5α-reductase. The FME treatment restored the levels of the androgen receptor and follicle-stimulating hormone receptor in the TM4 Sertoli cells. Conclusions: FME alleviates oxidative stress-induced damage in Leydig and Sertoli cells by promoting testosterone synthesis and spermatogenesis while regulating testosterone metabolism. These findings suggest that FME could be a promising candidate for the management of LOH symptoms.
Impact of Dietary Niacin on Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease in Mediterranean Subjects: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Antentas Maria , Rojo-López Marina Idalia , Vendrell Pau , Granado-Casas Minerva , Genua Idoia , Fernandez-Camins Berta , Rossell Joana , Niño-Narvión Julia , Moreira Estefanía , Castelblanco Esmeralda , Ortega Emilio , Vlacho Bogdan , Alonso Nuria , Mauricio Didac , Julve Josep
Published: December 2024

Background: The impact of dietary niacin on metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is elusive. This sub-study aimed to investigate the relationship between dietary niacin intake and the presence of MASLD in participants from two Catalonian cohorts. Methods: A total of 222 subjects with MASLD were age- and sex-matched to 222 non-MASLD subjects. Dietary nutrients were analyzed using a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Dietary niacin and other nutrients were adjusted for total energy intake. MASLD was defined by a Fatty Liver Index (FLI) of >60 and by having at least one component of metabolic syndrome. The association between niacin intake (distributed into tertiles) and the presence of MASLD was assessed using multivariate logistic regression. Potential non-linear relationships were also analyzed through restricted cubic spline regression (RCS). Results: Our data revealed that subjects with MASLD had worse metabolic profiles. The dietary intake of niacin did not differ between subjects with and without MASLD. Even after adjusting for different confounding variables, i.e., sociodemographic variables, smoking status, physical activity, and cardiometabolic comorbidities, no significant associations were observed between higher intakes of niacin (tertiles 2 and 3) and the presence of MASLD: odds ratio (95% confidence) second tertile: 0.99 (0.89–1.09); third tertile: 0.98 (0.89–1.10). However, RCS analysis uncovered a significant non-linear dose-response association between dietary niacin intake and odds of MASLD. Specifically, such analysis revealed that MASLD risk was decreased in subjects with niacin intake values of <35 mg/day. Conclusions: Our data showed that dietary niacin intake was associated with lower odds of MASLD in a Mediterranean population; however, our logistic regression analysis failed to reveal significant associations between the intake of niacin and the risk of MASLD. Further research is warranted to establish a causal relationship between dietary niacin interventions and MASLD.
Amino Acid and Essential Fatty Acid in Evacuation Shelter Food in the Noto Peninsula Earthquake: Comparison with the 2024 Simultaneous National Survey in Japan
Authors: Sakamoto Takamitsu , Miyata Hiroyo , Tsunou Ayako , Hokotachi Yoko , Sasaki Satoshi , Amagai Teruyoshi
Published: December 2024

Background: On 1 January 2024, a 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck the Noto Peninsula. We entered the disaster area to provide relief and set up a makeshift clinic in an evacuation center to evaluate the quality and quantity of food provided there. Methods: This cross-sectional study, of mainly older adults, was conducted to analyze the amino acid and fatty acid composition of evacuation shelter meals in comparison with the results of the Japan National Survey, mainly focused on older adults. (1) We analyzed 11 evacuation foods using the “Duplicated Combination” Model and the digestible amino acid score (DIAAS) in relation to the half-life determined by the N-terminal amino acid proteins. (2) Linoleic acid (LA) and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) levels were compared with European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) recommendations (3). The national survey of emergency food stocks in 198 hospitals and 189 social care institutions conducted in Jan 2024 was analyzed. Results: (1) DIAAS was less than 1.00 for all 11 foods provided and was considered inadequate, (2) the half-life of the protein, whose N-terminal valine has a half-life of 100 h, must be considered a possible deficiency when living in a shelter for more than a week, (3) LA and ALA levels were less than 40% of EFSA recommended, (4) the nationwide survey found that 80% of people have a three-day supply and data on amino acids and fatty acids were not available due to a lack of questionnaires. Conclusion: Analysis of food in evacuation shelters after the Noto Peninsula earthquake revealed the quality of amino acids involved in shelter meals using DIAAS and the lack of LA and ALA for older adults. The “Duplicated Combination” model used in this analysis could be beneficial for developing improved nutrition plans in similar future scenarios, mainly for older adults.
Genomic Insights into Fusarium verticillioides Diversity: The Genome of Two Clinical Isolates and Their Demethylase Inhibitor Fungicides Susceptibility
Authors: Degradi Luca , Tava Valeria , Esposto Maria Carmela , Prigitano Anna , Bulgari Daniela , Kunova Andrea , Saracchi Marco , Cortesi Paolo , Pasquali Matias
Published: December 2024

Fusarium verticillioides is an important plant pathogen in maize and other cereals that is seldom detected as the cause of human fusariosis. Here, we provide the analysis of the available diversity of F. verticillioides sequenced worldwide and report the first two genome assemblies and annotations (including mitochondrial DNA) of Fusarium verticillioides from clinical settings. Fusarium verticillioides 05-0160 (IUM05-0160) and Fusarium verticillioides 09-1037 (IUM09-1037) strains were obtained from the bone marrow and blood of two immunocompromised patients, respectively. The phylogenomic analysis confirmed the species identity of our two strains. Comparative genomic analyses among the reannotated F. verticillioides genomes (n = 46) did not lead to the identification of unique genes specific to the clinical samples. Two subgroups in the F. verticillioides clade were also identified and confirmed by a mitochondrial diversity study. Clinical strains (n = 4) were positioned in the multigene phylogenetic tree without any correlation between the host and the tree branches, grouping with plant-derived strains. To investigate the existence of a potential fitness advantage of our two clinical strains, we compared demethylase inhibitor fungicides susceptibility against the reference Fusarium verticillioides 7600, showing, on average, lower susceptibility to agricultural and medical-used antifungals. A significant reduction in susceptibility was observed for itraconazole and tetraconazole, which might be explained by structural changes in CYP51A and CYP51C sequences. By providing the first two annotated genomes of F. verticillioides from clinical settings comprehensive of their mitogenomes, this study can serve as a base for exploring the fitness and adaptation capacities of Fusarium verticillioides infecting different kingdoms.
Detection and Molecular Diversity of Brucella melitensis in Pastoral Livestock in North-Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Sibhat Berhanu , Adamu Haileeyesus , Asmare Kassahun , Lindahl Johanna F. , Magnusson Ulf , Sisay Tessema Tesfaye
Published: December 2024

Brucellosis is a neglected zoonotic disease affecting livestock and humans that remains endemic in Ethiopia. Despite its prevalence, only a few studies have identified Brucella species circulating in livestock in the country. This study aimed to determine the Brucella species responsible for infections in livestock in the Afar region of Ethiopia and characterize the isolates using whole-genome single nucleotide polymorphism (wgSNP) analysis and in silico multi-locus sequence typing (MLST). Comparisons were made between Ethiopian Brucella and regional and global isolates to determine their phylogenetic relationships. Surveys conducted in May and October–November 2022 in six villages of the Amibara district involved the collection of vaginal swabs (n = 231) and milk samples (n = 17) from 32 sheep and 199 goats kept by 143 pastoral households reporting recent abortions in the animals. Brucella melitensis was detected in three sheep and 32 goats, i.e., 15% (35/231) of animals across 20% (29/143) of households using bacterial culture and PCR-based methods (bcsp31, AMOS, and Bruce-ladder multiplex PCR). Of the 35 positive animals, B. melitensis was isolated from 24 swabs, while the remaining 11 were culture-negative and detected only by PCR. The genomic DNA of the 24 isolates was sequenced using Illumina Novaseq 6000 and assembled using the SPAdes pipeline. Nine- and 21-locus MLST identified 23 isolates as genotype ST12, while one isolate could not be typed. The wgSNP-based phylogenetic analysis revealed that the Ethiopian isolates clustered within the African clade and were closely related to isolates from Somalia. Several virulence factors responsible for adhesion, intracellular survival, and regulatory functions were detected in all isolates. No antimicrobial resistance genes associated with resistance to drugs commonly used for treating brucellosis were detected. Since B. melitensis is prevalent in sheep and goats, vaccination with the B. melitensis Rev-1 vaccine is the recommended strategy in these pastoral systems to protect animal and human health.
Predicting Pharmacokinetics of Active Constituents in Spatholobi caulis by Using Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Models
Authors: Liu Xiaoyan , Du Ruihu , Zhang Tao , Li Yingzi , Li Ludi , Yang Zheng , Zhang Youbo , Wang Qi
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Spatholobi Caulis (SPC) is a medicinal plant that mainly grows in China and Southeast Asian countries and commonly used in clinics; the pharmacokinetic characteristics in humans need to be determined. This study was to establish the physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models of multiple active constituents from SPC in rats, and predict the pharmacokinetic properties of rats with different dosages and extrapolated to humans. Methods: The parameters were collected based on our previous study and by prediction using ADMET Predictor software predict. The PBPK models for 3′-methoxydadizein (1), 8-O-methylretusin (2), daidzin (3), and isolariciresinol (4) administered orally to rats were established using GastroPlus software. These models were employed to simulate the pharmacokinetic properties in rats across various dosages, and subsequently extrapolated to humans. The calculated parameters including Cmax, Tmax, and AUC were compared with observed values. The accuracy of the PBPK models was assessed using fold-error (FE) values. Result: The FE values ranged from 1.03 to 1.52, meeting the PBPK model regulations where FE should be less than 2. The sensitivity analysis focusing on the absorption amount and AUC0→t of these four constituents in humans was also conducted. These results confirm the successful establishment of PBPK models of these four constituents from SPC in this study, and these models were applicable to predict pharmacokinetics across various doses and extrapolate across species. Conclusions: The PBPK models of four constituents can be used to predict the pharmacokinetic characteristics in humans after oral administration of SPC and provide useful data for safe and rational medication in clinical practice.
Randomized Clinical Evaluation of the Healing Activity of Green Propolis Ointment in Individuals with Lower Limb Ulcers Resulting from Leprosy: Preliminary Results of a Pilot Study
Authors: Rosa Cristiano da , Maquedano Larissa Kaori , Bueno Ian Lucas , Marson Fernando Augusto Lima , Longato Giovanna Barbarini
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Treating chronic wounds incurs substantial costs for Brazil’s Unified Health System. Natural compounds, particularly propolis, are increasingly explored as low-cost alternatives due to their healing properties. Brazilian green propolis, distinct in its chemical composition, has garnered scientific interest. This study aimed to assess the healing effects of green propolis ointment on lower-limb ulcers from leprosy. Methods: A blinded, randomized clinical trial included 18 wounds in two groups: propolis ointment (G1) and control (G2), with evaluations conducted weekly for 61 days. Wound progress was monitored using morphometry and the Pressure Ulcer Scale for Healing (PUSH). Results: No participants exhibited sensitivity to the propolis. G1 showed significant initial healing: average wound area reduction (%) for G1 vs. G2 included 56.38 vs. 6.13–p < 0.001 (week 1); 79.51 vs. 24.16–p = 0.022 (week 4); and 84.33 vs. 39.73–p = 0.051 (week 7). In G1, the PUSH scores decreased from the beginning, whereas in G2, reductions were observed after three weeks. By week 5, 71.4% of G1 wounds scored below eight points, versus 33.3% in G2. G1 wounds exhibited a reduced area and exudate, as well as revitalized granulation tissue without adverse effects. Conclusions: The findings suggest that green propolis ointment is safe, supports tissue repair and may offer cost-effective treatment benefits. Standard wound dressings are selected to support all healing stages, with an emphasis on antimicrobial action, hemostasis to reduce exudate, and pain-reducing and non-irritant properties. Green propolis ointment meets these criteria, offering a cost-effective treatment that accelerates lesion reduction and encouraging leprosy patients to follow the therapeutic regimen.
Innovative Nanomedicine Delivery: Targeting Tumor Microenvironment to Defeat Drug Resistance
Authors: Meng Wenjun , Huang Li , Guo Jiamin , Xin Qing , Liu Jiyan , Hu Yuzhu
Published: December 2024

Nanodrug delivery systems have revolutionized tumor therapy like never before. By overcoming the complexity of the tumor microenvironment (TME) and bypassing drug resistance mechanisms, nanotechnology has shown great potential to improve drug efficacy and reduce toxic side effects. This review examines the impact of the TME on drug resistance and recent advances in nanomedicine delivery systems to overcome this challenge. Characteristics of the TME such as hypoxia, acidity, and high interstitial pressure significantly reduce the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, leading to increased drug resistance in tumor cells. Then, this review summarizes innovative nanocarrier designs for these microenvironmental features, including hypoxia-sensitive nanoparticles, pH-responsive carriers, and multifunctional nanosystems that enable targeted drug release and improved drug penetration and accumulation in tumors. By combining nanotechnology with therapeutic strategies, this review offers a novel perspective by focusing on the innovative design of nanocarriers that interact with the TME, a dimension often overlooked in similar reviews. We highlight the dual role of these nanocarriers in therapeutic delivery and TME modulation, emphasize their potential to overcome drug resistance, and look at future research directions.
Ultra-Low Loss and Ultra-Compact Polarization-Insensitive SOI Multimode Waveguide Crossing Based on an Inverse Design Method
Authors: Wang Lu , Zhou Hongquan , Shi Hao , Zhao Chengqiang , Ma Chuanqi , Wu Yanqing , Tai Renzhong
Published: December 2024

Polarization-insensitive waveguide crossings are indispensable components of photonic integrated circuits (PICs), enabling the concurrent computing of optical signals from diverse waveguides inside the limits of a restricted spatial footprint. Leveraging mirror symmetry direct binary search, we successfully demonstrate an ultra-compact and ultra-low loss polarization-insensitive waveguide crossing that achieves insertion losses below −0.11 dB and crosstalk levels beneath −22.6 dB for transverse electric (TE) mode, as well as insertion losses below 0.05 dB and crosstalk levels beneath −24.5 dB for transverse magnetic (TM) mode across the C-band with a footprint of 3 × 4 μm2. The results confirm that this mirror symmetry optimization method yields high-efficiency devices while reducing computational time. We believe this high-efficiency polarization-insensitive waveguide crossing can have potential applications in dense PIC systems.
Unlocking the Growth Potential of Poplar: A Novel Transcriptomic-Metabolomic Approach to Evaluating the Impact of Divergent Pruning Strategies
Authors: Liu Xiaoting , Cai Kewei , Zhang Qinhui , An Weizi , Qu Guanzheng , Jiang Luping , Wang Fusen , Zhao Xiyang
Published: December 2024

Pruning is a common forest-tending method; its purpose is to promote growth and improve the overall stand quality. Poplar is a fast-growing, broad-leaved tree species with high ecological and economic value. It is a common management method to promote its growth by pruning and adjusting the spatial structure of the stand, but its potential regulatory mechanism remains unclear. In this study, transcriptome and metabolome data of different parts at all pruning intensities were determined and analyzed. The results showed that 7316 differentially expressed genes were identified in this study. In the plant hormone signal transduction pathway, candidate genes were found in eight kinds of plant hormones, among which the main expression was gibberellin, auxin, and brassinosteroid. Some candidate gene structures (beta-glucosidase, endoglucanase, hexokinase, glucan endo-1, 3-beta-D-glucosidase, beta-fructofuranosidase, fructokinase, maltase-glucoamylase, phosphoglucomutase, and sucrose) were specifically associated with starch and sucrose biosynthesis. In the starch and sucrose biosynthesis pathway, D-fructose 6-phosphate, D-glucose 1,6-bisphosphate, and glucose-1-phosphate were the highest in stems and higher in the first round of pruning than in no pruning. The bHLH plays a key role in the starch and sucrose synthetic pathway, and AP2/ERF-ERF is important in the plant hormone signal transduction pathway. These results laid a foundation for understanding the molecular mechanism of starch and sucrose biosynthesis and provided a theoretical basis for promoting tree growth through pruning.
Unlocking the Hidden Potential of Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus Spenn.): New Insights into Phenolics, Terpenes, and Antioxidants of Mediterranean Cultivars
Authors: Baptista Andrea , Menicucci Felicia , Brunetti Cecilia , dos Santos Nascimento Luana Beatriz , Pasquini Dalila , Alderotti Francesca , Detti Cassandra , Ferrini Francesco , Gori Antonella
Published: December 2024

Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus Spenn. syn. Rosmarinus officinalis L.) is a Mediterranean aromatic species used both as an official herb and as a spice. Different cultivars may exhibit diverse phytochemical compositions, making a comprehensive chemical characterization pivotal for a targeted selection of valuable cultivars. This study aimed to characterize and compare the phenolic and terpene composition and content of leaf extracts of six Mediterranean rosemary cultivars: ‘Alba’, ‘Arp’ ‘Ginger’, ‘Gorizia’, ‘Tuscan Blue’, and ‘Roseus’. HPLC-DAD analysis revealed a similar phenolic composition in all the cultivars, but quantitative differences were observed. The main compounds were carnosic acid derivatives, flavonoids (e.g., luteolin, apigenin, and quercetin glucosides), rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid, and other hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives. The highest phenolic content was found in ‘Alba’, with a predominance of carnosic acid derivatives, whereas the lowest was found in ‘Ginger’ and ‘Gorizia’. The GC-MS analysis evidenced quantitative differences among the cultivars. Particularly, ‘Alba’ contained the highest terpene content, whereas ‘Arp’ and ‘Gorizia’ showed the lowest values. Regarding the antioxidant activity, ‘Alba’ exhibited the highest values as regards phenols, while for terpenes, the highest ones were obtained for ‘Ginger’ and ‘Tuscan Blue’. Significant Pearson correlations were obtained between the total phenol/terpene content and the antioxidant activity. The chemical characterization of these cultivars provides relevant information to produce the rosemary phytocomplexes, finding multiple industrial applications.
Analysis of the Effects of Neutron Radiation on Cellulose Linen Fabrics Using Non-Destructive Testing
Authors: Barta César , Fernández-Álvarez María , Ruiz-Navas Elisa María
Published: December 2024

This work describes the effects of using neutron irradiation on cellulose and non-destructive methods to analyze linen fabrics of high heritage value. For this purpose, 8 samples were irradiated with increasing doses of neutrons and gamma rays up to 166 kGy of total dose. The samples were characterized by techniques such as ultraviolet luminescence, attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) technique. The luminescence of linen fabrics in the ultraviolet range increases markedly with dosage. Some chemical changes were also perceived by the ATR-FTIR spectra in the linen samples. Similarly, the fluorescence background observed in Raman spectroscopy intensifies with dosage. Due to the heterogeneity of the textile cellulose, NMR offers limited applicability for detecting neutron doses in cultural heritage fabrics. Radiation is applied for preservation against microorganisms in cultural heritage objects where the damage is to be assessed. This radiation can occasionally be found after earthquakes or in volcanic archaeological sites, which could question its dating using carbon 14. Despite some limitations encountered due to working with commonly used linen fabrics, the techniques employed in this study have made it possible to observe trends between the responses obtained and the irradiation dose for each linen sample.