bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study of the Performance of Dissimilar Pulsed-Laser-Welded JSC590R/JAC980YL Steel Joints of Differential Thickness
Authors: Zhang Rui , Feng Qiaobo , Wang Chunliang , Tian Shuai , Niu Sizhe , Lou Ming
Published: November 2024

To reveal the correlation between the mechanical properties of JSC590R/JSC980YL steel pulse-laser-welded joints and welding parameters, this study adopts the response surface analysis test method to determine the welding parameters, and examined the macroscopic morphology, microstructure, microhardness, and tensile properties of the cross-section of the welded joints. The results revealed that the key factors influencing welded joints quality, in descending order of importance, are distance to focus, welding speed, and single-pass heat input. The interaction between these factors is extremely significant. The weld zone of the joints is primarily composed of lath martensite, while the heat-affected zone is composed of ferrite, martensite, carburite, tempered martensite, and residual austenite. The optimized welding parameters align with actual expectations, yielding an average engineering stress of 616.9 MPa for the joint. Notably, the fracture area shifts from the heat-affected zone of JSC590R to the base material.
Disrupted NAD(P) Metabolism and Xanthine Dehydrogenase in a Stress-Induced Rat Model of Depression: NMR Metabolomics Insights
Authors: Chen Songjiao , Wei Jumeng , Wang Yongchi , Yao Yidan , Wang Haibo , Peng Jie , Li Jinquan
Published: November 2024

Background: Clinical findings have shown a negative correlation between the severity of depressive symptoms and serum uric acid levels in men, yet the role of metabolic regulation in the pathophysiology of depression remains largely unknown. Methods: In this study, we utilized an acute restraint-stress-induced male rat model of depression to investigate biochemical changes through NMR-based metabolomics combined with serum biochemical analysis. Additionally, we employed qPCR, immunoblotting, and enzyme activity assays to assess the expression and activity of xanthine oxidoreductase, the rate-limiting enzyme in uric acid production. Results: Our findings indicate the following: (1) restraint stress is a valid method for inducing a depressive phenotype in rats; (2) depressive rats exhibit decreased NAD(P) levels in the liver and increased nicotinamide N-oxide and nicotinate levels in urine, accompanied by decreased levels of uric acid, allantoin, and allantoic acid in serum or tissues; (3) xanthine dehydrogenase activity is diminished in depressive rats without corresponding changes in gene or protein expression. Conclusion: The increased urinary excretion of NAD(P) precursors results in reduced hepatic NAD(P) levels, thereby suppressing NAD-dependent xanthine dehydrogenase activity and diminishing the production of uric acid and its downstream metabolites (allantoin and allantoic acid).
Range Expansion Technology for Ring MEMS Gyroscopes Based on Drive Voltage Modulation
Authors: Cui Ke , Liu Li , An Daren , Wang Xinyu , An Qi , Lei Zengyu , Kou Zhiwei , Cao Huiliang
Published: November 2024

This paper proposes a method to control the sensitivity of a ring MEMS gyroscope by adjusting the driving control voltage via MEMS. The aim is to explore the relationship between the range of the ring MEMS gyroscope and the driving control voltage, establishing a mathematical model that correlates driving control voltage with sensitivity. By applying different driving voltages to the same gyroscope, the study evaluates the performance and range of the gyroscope. Experimental results demonstrate that lower driving voltages increase the gyroscope’s range. At a driving voltage of 10.85 V, the gyroscope achieves a range of ±200°/s, a minimum resolution of 0.019°/s, and a nonlinearity of 22.37 ppm. At 1.46 V, the gyroscope range expands to ±1000°/s, with a minimum resolution of 0.05138°/s and a nonlinearity of 60.73 ppm. As the measurement range increased fivefold, the degradation in gyroscope performance was significantly less than the scale of range expansion. Compared to the gain in modulation detection circuitry, gyroscope performance was optimized across the entire operational range.
Editorial for the Special Issue on the Latest Advancements in Semiconductor Materials, Devices and Systems
Authors: Chen Xinghuan , Wang Fangzhou , Wang Zirui , Wang Zeheng , Huang Jing-Kai
Published: November 2024

The field of semiconductor research is experiencing a paradigm shift as the boundaries of Moore’s Law are being approached [...]
Sensitivity of Collagenolytic Periopathogenic Microorganisms to Chlorhexidine Solution: A Comprehensive Review of In Vitro Studies
Authors: Barbosa Bruno , Castro Filipe , Pereira Jorge , Catarino Maria , Guimarães Jaime , Fernandes Gustavo Vicentis Oliveira
Published: November 2024

Objective: This review evaluated chlorhexidine (CHX)’s beneficial effect as an antibacterial substance on periodontopathogenic bacteria, which can influence the preservation of periodontal tissues and biomaterials. Methods: A search was performed in the PubMed/MedLine, B-On, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane Library databases. In vitro studies published between 1 January 2000 and 31 December 2023 in the English language were included; studies that did not correlate the sensitivity of collagenolytic microorganisms to CHX and observational and in vivo studies were excluded. The Quality Assessment Tool for In Vitro Studies (QUIN) evaluated the risk of bias. Results: Eight studies were included; six assessed the inhibitory effect of CHX on the activity of various bacteria associated with periodontitis and collagen degradation; two studies evaluated the same effect only for P. gingivalis. All the studies had an evaluation percentage above 70%, representing a low bias risk. Conclusions: There is a relationship between collagen degradation and the microorganisms in periodontal diseases. CHX showed efficacy against various microorganisms, inhibiting their growth and cell viability. CHX demonstrated significant implications for preventing and treating infections associated with collagen degradation.
Directional and Strain-Specific Interaction Between Lactobacillus plantarum and Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Kondakala Sandeep , Yoon Sunghyun , Daddy Gaoh Soumana , Kweon Ohgew , Kim Seong-Jae , Hart Mark E.
Published: November 2024

The interaction between Lactobacillus plantarum and Staphylococcus aureus strains FRI-1169 and MN8, two original isolated strains from menstrual toxic shock syndrome (mTSS) cases, is a key focus for developing non-antibiotic strategies to control S. aureus-related infections. While the antagonistic effects of Lactobacilli species on S. aureus through mechanisms like organic acid and bacteriocin production are known, the molecular dynamics of these interactions remain underexplored. This study employs a proteomic approach to analyze the interactions between L. plantarum WCFS1 and S. aureus strains, FRI-1169 and MN8, during co-culture. We profiled differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) found in the spent media and cytosols of both bacteria, revealing distinct directional and strain-specific responses. The findings demonstrate that L. plantarum exerts a more pronounced effect on S. aureus, with more DEPs and upregulated proteins, while S. aureus showed fewer DEPs and more downregulated proteins. These strain-specific interactions highlight the complex metabolic and regulatory adjustments between these bacterial species. This research provides valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms of Lactobacillus-S. aureus antagonism and underscores the potential of proteomic analysis as a powerful tool for studying bacterial dynamics in co-culture systems.
The Natural Whey Starter Used in the Production of Grana Padano and Parmigiano Reggiano PDO Cheeses: A Complex Microbial Community
Authors: Neviani Erasmo
Published: November 2024

Natural whey starter (NWS) is an undefined complex culture used in the production of Grana Padano and Parmigiano Reggiano PDO cheeses. The aim of this review is to discuss, in light of the latest research results, the role of NWS as a primary player in the cheese-making process, considering the microbial community scenario. NWS is traditionally produced by fermenting part of the whey collected at the end of a previous cheese-making process. The method used to produce NWS, based on the back-slopping principle, favors the selection of a microbiota composed mainly of thermophilic lactic acid bacteria. This method of preparation induces the survival of several different species and biotypes. The presence of such a mixture of strains facilitates the development of a natural starter characterized by a remarkable ability to adapt to non-standardized cheese-making parameters. NWS is a microbial community whose activity is not simply the result of the sum of the activities of individual microorganisms, but rather the activity of the community as a whole, in which each individual bacterial cell responds to the presence of the others. According to this traditional protocol, the NWS becomes the ‘microbiological bond’ between cheeses over time.
Post-Sterilization Physicochemical Characterization and Biological Activity of Cellulose Nanocrystals Coated with PDDA
Authors: Donato Ashley , Nadkarni Siddharth , Tiwari Lakshay , Poran Serafina , Sunasee Rajesh , Ckless Karina
Published: November 2024

The rapid expansion of medical nanotechnology has significantly broadened the potential applications of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs). While CNCs were initially developed for drug delivery, they are now being investigated for a range of advanced biomedical applications. As these applications evolve, it becomes crucial to understand the physicochemical behavior of CNCs in biologically relevant media to optimize their design and ensure biocompatibility. Functionalized CNCs can adsorb biomolecules, forming a “protein corona” that can impact their physicochemical properties, including alterations in particle size, zeta potential, and overall functionality. In this study, CNCs were coated with low (8500 Da)- and high (400,000–500,000 Da)-molecular-weight cationic polymer (poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride—(PDDA) via non-covalent grafting, and their physicochemical characteristics, as well as their biological effects, were assessed in physiologically relevant media after sterilization. Our findings show that autoclaving significantly alters the physicochemical properties of CNC-PDDA, particularly when coated with low-molecular-weight (LMW) polymer. Furthermore, we observed that CNC-PDDA of a high molecular weight (HMW) has a greater impact on cell viability and blood biocompatibility than its LMW counterpart. Moreover, cellular immune responses to both CNC-PDDA LMW and HMW vary in the presence or absence of serum, implying that protein adsorption influences cell-nanomaterial recognition and their biological activity. This study provides valuable insights for optimizing CNC-based nanomaterials for therapeutic applications.
Analysis of the Chemical Composition, Antimicrobial, and Antioxidant Qualities of Microwave and Supercritical CO2-Extracted Lavender Essential Oils Cultivated in a Hyperarid Region of Türkiye
Authors: Gedikoğlu Ayça , Öztürk Hale İnci , Özçoban Afranur
Published: November 2024

This study compares the chemical composition, antioxidant capacity, and antibacterial properties of lavender essential oils extracted using microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) and supercritical CO2 extraction (SCDE). Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis revealed that the MAE oil contained higher levels of linalyl acetate (36.19%) and linalool (28.29%) compared with the SCDE oil, which had values of 28.72% and 27.48%, respectively. The MAE oil also showed superior antioxidant activity, with DPPH IC50 values of 72.99 mg/mL and FRAP values of 1.31 mM Fe2+/g, compared with 80.84 mg/mL and 1.14 mM Fe2+/g for the SCDE oil. Antibacterial tests indicated that the MAE oil exhibited lower MIC values, demonstrating twice the antibacterial activity against Bacillus cereus NRRL B3711, Bacillus subtilis PY79, and Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212 compared with the SCDE oil. These results highlight the superior bioactivity of MAE-extracted lavender oil, making MAE a preferred method for high-quality oil extraction from drought-affected lavender plants.
The Reversible Electron Transfer Within Stimuli-Responsive Hydrochromic Supramolecular Material Containing Pyridinium Oxime and Hexacyanoferrate (II) Ions
Authors: Foretić Blaženka , Klaser Teodoro , Ovčar Juraj , Lončarić Ivor , Žilić Dijana , Šantić Ana , Štefanić Zoran , Bjelopetrović Alen , Popović Jasminka , Picek Igor
Published: November 2024

The structural and electronic features of the stimuli-responsive supramolecular inter-ionic charge-transfer material containing electron accepting N-benzylyridinium-4-oxime cation (BPA4+) and electron donating hexacyanoferrate (II) are reported. The study of reversible stimuli-induced transformation between hydrated reddish-brown (BPA4)4[Fe(CN)6]·10H2O and anhydrous blue (BPA4)4[Fe(CN)6] revealed the origin of observed hydrochromic behavior. The comparison of the crystal structures of decahydrate and anhydrous phase showed that subsequent exclusion/inclusion of lattice water molecules induces structural relocation of one BPA4+ that alter the donor-to-acceptor charge-transfer states, resulting in chromotropism seen as reversible reddish-brown to blue color changes. The decreased donor-acceptor distance in (BPA4)4[Fe(CN)6] enhanced charge-transfer interaction allowing charge separation via one-electron transfer, as evidenced by in-situ ESR and FTIR spectroscopies. The reversibility of hydrochromic behavior was demonstrated by in-situ HT-XRPD, hot-stage microscopic and in situ diffuse-reflectance spectroscopic analyses. The insight into electronic structural features was obtained with density functional theory calculations, employed to elucidate electronic structure for both compounds. The electrical properties of the phases during dehydration process were investigated by temperature-dependent impedance spectroscopy.
Study of the Thermal Decomposition Process of Explosive Mixtures Based on Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Zakusylo Roman , Pavlenko Oksana , Jarosz Tomasz , Maranda Andrzej , Zakusylo Daryna , Stolarczyk Agnieszka
Published: November 2024

In this work, we have investigated the thermal features of hydrogen peroxide-based energetic materials formulations. Initial research has shown that both the auxiliary oxidiser (sodium nitrate, potassium nitrate or calcium nitrate) and sensitising agent (glass microspheres) have significant influence on the rate of hydrogen peroxide decay in such formulations. In terms of the thermal features of the tested energetic materials, a similar and significant influence of the auxiliary oxidising agent and sensitising agent choice was observed. We have established that the use of calcium nitrate as an auxiliary oxidising agent (at ambient temperature of approx 20 °C), which allows the formulations to maintain capacity to undergo detonation for longer under storage conditions, negatively impacts the qualitative characteristics of the mixture as an energetic material. The thermal effects accompanying chemical interaction are much smaller than mixtures containing potassium and sodium nitrates as additional oxidising agents. Another important conclusion is that glass microspheres as sensitising agents significantly impact the thermal decomposition processes of the investigated on-site mixed (OSM) energetic material (EM) samples, except for the mixture using calcium nitrate.
Symmetry Breaking in the Lowest-Lying Excited-State of CCl4: Valence Shell Spectroscopy in the 5.0–10.8 eV Photon Energy Range
Authors: Dalagnol Luiz V. S. , Kumar Sarvesh , Barbosa Alessandra S. , Akther Umma S. , Jones Nykola C. , Hoffmann Søren V. , Bettega Márcio H. F. , Limão-Vieira Paulo
Published: November 2024

We report absolute high-resolution vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) photoabsorption cross-sections of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) in the photon energy range 5.0–10.8 eV (248–115 nm). The molecular spectrum and electronic structure have been comprehensively investigated together with quantum chemical calculations, providing geometries, bond lengths, vertical excitation energies and oscillator strengths. The major electronic excitations have been assigned to valence and Rydberg transitions which are also accompanied by vibrational excitation assigned to degenerate stretching, v3′t2 and degenerate deformation v4′t2 modes. The rather complex nuclear dynamics along the degenerate deformation mode, v4′t2, have been thoroughly investigated by Time-Dependent Density Functional Theory (TD-DFT) method. The relevant Jahn–Teller distortion operative within the lowest-lying electronic excited-state is shown here for the first time in order to yield a weak absorption feature at 6.156 eV. Further calculations on the potential energy curves for the singlet excited-states along the C–Cl stretching coordinate show the relevance of efficient C–Cl bond excision.
Development and Validation of a Self-Administered Semiquantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire Focused on Gut Microbiota: The Stance4Health-FFQ
Authors: Formisano Annarita , Russo Marika Dello , Russo Paola , Siani Alfonso , Hinojosa-Nogueira Daniel , Navajas-Porras Beatriz , Toledano-Marín Ángela , Pastoriza Silvia , Blasco Telmo , Lerma-Aguilera Alberto , Francino María Pilar , Planes Francisco Javier , González-Vigil Verónica , Rufián-Henares José Ángel , Lauria Fabio
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Diet significantly influences gut microbiota (GM), with variations in GM responses linked to the type and quantity of food consumed. These variations underscore the need for personalized nutrition. The Stance4Health (S4H) project developed the S4H Food Frequency Questionnaire (S4H-FFQ) and the i-Diet S4H app to assess dietary intake of foods affecting GM. This study aimed to validate the S4H-FFQ against the validated I.Family-FFQ and the i-Diet S4H app; Methods: The S4H-FFQ, with 200 food items across 14 food groups, evaluates dietary intake over the past month. Qualitative validation compared food group consumption frequencies from the S4H-FFQ and the I.Family-FFQ, while quantitative validation assessed nutrient and energy intake using the i-Diet S4H app. The S4H-GM score, a measure of GM-relevant food consumption, was evaluated through the S4H-FFQ and i-Diet S4H app; Results: Pearson correlations between the S4H-FFQ and the I.Family-FFQ ranged from 0.3 to 0.7 and were statistically significant across all the food groups. Quantitative validation showed lower but consistent correlations, comparable with other studies, confirming the S4H-FFQ’s ability to estimate food intake. A positive correlation was also found between the S4H-GM scores from the S4H-FFQ and the i-Diet S4H app (p < 0.001); Conclusions: The S4H-FFQ is a reliable tool for assessing dietary patterns that influence GM. Its application in nutritional studies can enhance personalized nutrition and support future research aimed at optimizing GM and improving health outcomes.
L-Arginine Supplementation Did Not Impact the Rapid Recovery of Cardiovascular and Autonomic Function Following Exercise in Physically Active Healthy Males: A Triple-Blind Randomised Placebo-Controlled Crossover Trial
Authors: Porto Andrey Alves , Gonzaga Luana Almeida , Ribeiro Felipe , de Oliveira Camila Marcondes , Marques Vanderlei Luiz Carlos , Valenti Vitor Engrácia
Published: November 2024

Background and Aims: Post-exercise recovery strategies include massage, low-intensity active exercise, thermal contrast, hydration, and nutritional and herbal approaches. These strategies aim to accelerate recovery, enhance performance, and optimise the physical training process. L-arginine (L-ARG) is the physiological precursor of nitric oxide (NO), a crucial mediator of vasodilation and the inhibition of platelet aggregation. A previous study reported that L-ARG supplementation could significantly reduce the systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). This study aimed to investigate the effects of L-ARG on autonomic and cardiovascular recovery immediately following submaximal exercise. Methods and Results: Thirty-two healthy individuals were subjected to two experimental protocols. The first protocol included 60 min of rest, a treadmill warm-up, and load increments until reaching 80% of their maximum HR. Before this protocol, the subjects consumed 3 g of starch (placebo protocol). The second protocol was identical, but the subjects consumed 3 g of L-ARG. Heart rate recovery (HRR), heart rate variability (HRV), and blood pressure (BP) responses were assessed. No significant differences in HRR were found (p = 0.944) regarding the root mean square of successive differences in the RR interval (RMSSD30) of HRV (p = 0.562) or in the BP responses (mean arterial pressure (MAP), p = 0.687; pulse pressure (PP), p = 0.929) between the protocols. Conclusions: L-ARG supplementation did not significantly alter immediate post-exercise autonomic recovery in healthy males.
From Food Supplements to Functional Foods: Emerging Perspectives on Post-Exercise Recovery Nutrition
Authors: Wang Lifeng , Meng Qing , Su Chun-Hsien
Published: November 2024

Effective post-exercise recovery is vital for optimizing athletic performance, focusing on muscle repair, glycogen replenishment, rehydration, and inflammation management. This review explores the evolving trend from traditional supplements, such as protein, carbohydrates, creatine, and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), toward functional foods rich in bioactive compounds. Evidence highlights the benefits of functional foods like tart cherry juice (anthocyanins), turmeric-seasoned foods, and sources of omega-3 fatty acids, including fish, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts, for mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation. Additionally, probiotics and prebiotics support gut health and immune function, which are integral to effective recovery. Personalized nutrition, informed by genetic and metabolic profiling, is examined as a promising approach to tailor recovery strategies. A systematic search across PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar (2000–2024) identified studies with high empirical rigor and relevance to recovery outcomes. Findings underscore the need for further research into nutrient interactions, dosage optimization, and long-term effects on athletic performance. Integrating functional foods with personalized nutrition presents a comprehensive framework for enhanced recovery, greater resilience to physical stress, and sustained performance in athletes.
Impact of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus on Fetal Growth and Nutritional Status in Newborns
Authors: Karcz Karolina , Królak-Olejnik Barbara
Published: November 2024

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the most prevalent complications associated with pregnancy, exhibiting a gradual rise in prevalence worldwide. Given the potential for numerous short- and long-term complications for both mother and child, patients diagnosed with GDM require individualised treatment to compensate for metabolic abnormalities and ultimately reduce the risk of the known adverse consequences of impaired glucose tolerance. Methods and results: The manuscript presents a summary of the current knowledge on changes in maternal metabolism during physiological pregnancy and pregnancy complicated by gestational diabetes. Furthermore, the article provides a synthesis of the findings from recent research examining the impacts of gestational diabetes and the therapeutic modalities employed on the nutritional status of the fetus and neonate. Additionally, the review elucidates the function of the placenta and placental hormones in fetal development, as well as the impact of hyperglycemia, insulin resistance and adipokines on fetal and neonatal nutritional programming and predisposition to metabolic complications in adulthood. Conclusions: The metabolic environment, resulting from abnormal glucose tolerance during pregnancy, exerts a particularly significant impact on fetal growth and, consequently, on the birth weight and fat mass of the newborn infants. This is a pivotal factor influencing the nutritional and metabolic programming of the developing fetus, predisposing the individual to the development of metabolic complications throughout their lifetime.
Effect of Trematode Metacercarial Infection on Walking in Larval Salamanders in the Southern Appalachian Mountains, USA
Authors: Camp Carlos , Vaca-Nava Alexia , Bowen Addison
Published: November 2024

According to the Host Manipulation Hypothesis, parasites modify the phenotype of their host to enhance host–host transmission and thereby increase fitness. Metacercarial infection of some amphibians changes host behavior, including locomotion, and thereby enhances predation by the definitive host. To further test this hypothesis, it is first necessary to determine whether a parasite actually modifies a host’s phenotype. In the southern Appalachian Mountains of the US, metacercariae of the trematode Metagonimoides oregonensis (Price, 1931) encyst in the musculature of its second intermediate host, the salamander Desmognathus amphileucus Bishop, 1941. Metacercarial infections of musculature in fish negatively affect host swimming performance. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that infection by M. oregonensis affects walking in the aquatic larvae of D. amphileucus. We compared this mode of locomotion between infected and uninfected larvae by placing them in 1 m troughs of water and allowing them to wander freely until they stopped. Non-parametric (Kaplan–Meier) survival analysis determined that infected salamanders stopped significantly sooner than uninfected ones. Because infected salamanders move less, the presence of this parasite may contribute to genetic divergence in these salamanders by slowing dispersal and concomitant gene flow. Our results suggest that macroparasites can potentially modify a host’s behavior with biological consequences beyond enhancement of parasite transmission.
Functional Analysis of Promoters, mRNA Cleavage, and mRNA Secondary Structure on esxB-esxA in Mycolicibacterium smegmatis
Authors: Peters Ryan G. , Kelly Jessica M. , Bibeau Sarah , Zhou Ying , Shell Scarlet S.
Published: November 2024

The ESX-1 secretion system is critical for the virulence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis as well as for conjugation in the saprophytic model Mycolicibacterium smegmatis. EsxB (CFP-10) and EsxA (ESAT-6) are secreted effectors required for the function of ESX-1 systems. While some transcription factors regulating the expression of esxB and esxA have been identified, little work has addressed their promoter structures or other determinants of their expression. Here, we defined two promoters, one located two genes upstream of esxB and one located immediately upstream, that contribute substantially to the expression of esxB and esxA. We also defined an mRNA cleavage site within the esxB 5′ untranslated region (UTR) and found that a single-nucleotide substitution reprogramed the position of this cleavage event without impacting esxB-esxA transcript abundance. We furthermore investigated the impact of a double stem-loop structure in the esxB 5′ UTR and found that it does not confer stability on a reporter gene transcript. Consistent with this, there was no detectable correlation between mRNA half-life and secondary structure near the 5′ ends of 5′ UTRs on a transcriptome-wide basis. Collectively, these data shed light on the determinants of esxB-esxA expression in M. smegmatis as well as provide broader insight into the determinants of mRNA cleavage in mycobacteria and the relationship between 5′ UTR secondary structure and mRNA stability.
Contribution of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Studies to the Understanding of Cerebral Malaria Pathogenesis
Authors: Comino Garcia-Munoz Alicia , Varlet Isabelle , Grau Georges Emile , Perles-Barbacaru Teodora-Adriana , Viola Angèle
Published: November 2024

Cerebral malaria (CM), the most lethal clinical syndrome of Plasmodium falciparum infection, mostly affects children under 5 in sub-Saharan Africa. CM is characterized by seizures and impaired consciousness that lead to death in 15–20% of cases if treated quickly, but it is completely fatal when untreated. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an invaluable source of information on the pathophysiology of brain damage, but, due to limited access to scanners in endemic regions, only until very recently have case reports of CM patients studied with advanced MRI methods been published. The murine model of experimental cerebral malaria (ECM) shares many common features with the human disease and has been extensively used to study the pathogenic mechanisms of the neurological syndrome. In vivo MRI studies on this model, the first of which was published in 2005, have contributed to a better understanding of brain lesion formation in CM and identified disease markers that were confirmed by MRI studies published from 2013 onwards in pediatric patients from endemic areas. In this review, we recapitulate the main findings and critically discuss the contributions of MRI studies in the ECM model to the understanding of human CM.
A Personalist Approach to the Just Allocation of Resources in the Midst of a Pandemic
Authors: Sakr Johnny
Published: November 2024

This paper examines the ethical implications of healthcare resource allocation during the first wave of COVID-19 in Italy, from 21 February to 31 May 2020, with a focus on the utilitarian principles that prioritized age-based resource allocation. By comparing this approach to an ontological personalist bioethics framework, the study aims to offer a more equitable strategy for healthcare allocation applicable to any pandemic. Data from governmental reports, healthcare policies, and ethical guidelines were analyzed, revealing that Italy’s utilitarian method led to significant ethical concerns, particularly regarding age discrimination. In contrast, the ontological personalist approach emphasizes the dignity and intrinsic worth of each individual, irrespective of age or health condition. The findings demonstrate that this personalist framework fosters a more balanced and fair allocation of resources, respecting human dignity and offering a universally applicable alternative to age-based prioritization. Ultimately, the study suggests that integrating ontological personalist principles into healthcare policies could enhance ethical decision-making in future pandemics, ensuring that resource allocation practices align more closely with human rights and individual dignity.
SIC-Free Based Indoor Two-User NOMA-VLCP System
Authors: Jin Jianli , Shang Qianlong , Wang Jianping , Lu Huimin , Chen Danyang , Yang Dongmei
Published: November 2024

In this letter, an integrated dual-user visible light communication and positioning (VLCP) system based on non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) is proposed. The system consists of a single light-emitting diode (LED) and five photodiodes (PD), and the adaptive feedback threshold (AFT) algorithm is used to reduce error propagation (EP) to improve noise immunity. The particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is employed to construct a joint optimization function that optimizes the power allocation factor of the two users and the roll-off coefficient of the square-root-raised-cosine(SRRC) filter. The simulation results demonstrate that, in the given indoor environment, the bit error ratio (BER) of each user in the proposed system is lower than the front error correction (FEC) limit and the average positioning errors of the two users are 4.62 cm and 5.74 cm respectively.
Evaluation of the Potential Hypoglycaemic Properties of Mimusops zeyheri Sond. and Aloe marlothii A.Berger, Two Plants Used by Traditional Healers in South Africa
Authors: Kamga-Simo Ferdinand De Yogam , Kamatou Guy Paulin , Kgopa Ananias Hodi , Mokgotho Matlou Phineas , Shai Leshweni Jeremia
Published: November 2024

Mimusops zeyheri Sond. And Aloe marlothii A.Berger are used traditionally in South Africa to manage many diseases, including diabetes mellitus. The mechanism through which these extracts exert blood glucose lowering is not well understood or reported. This study was aimed at assessing M. zeyheri and A. marlothii plant extracts for their potential to exhibit antidiabetic activity and their associated mechanisms. We evaluated the action of both extracts on major genes involved in the insulin signalling pathways in skeletal muscle cells. The in vitro cytotoxic effects of M. zeyheri and A. marlothii extracts were evaluated using the MTT assay and glucose uptake was evaluated using a glucose oxidase assay. The amount of translocated GLUT-4 was determined using the flow cytometry. Conventional PCR was used to determine the expression of GLUT-1 and GLUT-4 and RT-qPCR. IRS-1 total protein and Phospho-Akt were determined using ELISA. Plant extracts stimulated glucose absorption by skeletal muscle cells. M. zeyheri extract increased glucose absorption in muscle cells after 1 and 3 h of incubation. A 2-fold increase in translocated GLUT-4 was noted with M. zeyheri. The mRNA levels of GLUT-4 and GLUT-1 remained uniform in all treatments, while IRS-1, PI3K, Akt1, Akt2, and PPAR-γ were downregulated by both extracts. The expression of GLUT-4 was significantly increased by the action of insulin and M. zeyheri extract at 500 μg/mL. This study validates the traditional use of aqueous extracts of A. marlothii and M. zeyheri as hypoglycaemic plants and raises the assertion that the selected plant extracts utilise the IRS-1/PI3K/Akt pathway.
Explainable Artificial Intelligence to Predict the Water Status of Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L., 1763) from Sentinel-2 Images in the Mediterranean Area
Authors: Garofalo Simone Pietro , Modugno Anna Francesca , De Carolis Gabriele , Sanitate Nicola , Negash Tesemma Mesele , Scarascia-Mugnozza Giuseppe , Tekle Tegegne Yitagesu , Campi Pasquale
Published: November 2024

Climate change and water scarcity bring significant challenges to agricultural systems in the Mediterranean region. Novel methods are required to rapidly monitor the water stress of the crop to avoid qualitative losses of agricultural products. This study aimed to predict the stem water potential of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L., 1763) using Sentinel-2 satellite imagery and machine learning techniques to enhance monitoring and management of cotton’s water status. The research was conducted in Rutigliano, Southern Italy, during the 2023 cotton growing season. Different machine learning algorithms, including random forest, support vector regression, and extreme gradient boosting, were evaluated using Sentinel-2 spectral bands as predictors. The models’ performance was assessed using R2 and root mean square error (RMSE). Feature importance was analyzed using permutation importance and SHAP methods. The random forest model using Sentinel-2 bands’ reflectance as predictors showed the highest performance, with an R2 of 0.75 (±0.07) and an RMSE of 0.11 (±0.02). XGBoost (R2: 0.73 ± 0.09, RMSE: 0.12 ± 0.02) and AdaBoost (R2: 0.67 ± 0.08, RMSE: 0.13 ± 0.02) followed in performance. Visible (blue and red) and red edge bands were identified as the most influential predictors. The trained RF model was used to model the seasonal trend of cotton’s stem water potential, detecting periods of acute and moderate water stress. This approach demonstrates the prospective for high-frequency, non-invasive monitoring of cotton’s water status, which could support smart irrigation strategies and improve water use efficiency in Mediterranean cotton production.
Floristic Diversity and Distribution Pattern along an Altitudinal Gradient in the Central Andes: A Case Study of Cajatambo, Peru
Authors: Quinteros-Gómez Yakov , Macedo-Bedoya Jehoshua , Santos-Linares Victor , Angeles-Alvarez Franco , Gómez-Ticerán Doris , Campos-De la Cruz José , Solis Sarmiento Julio , Salinas-Inga Abel , Valencia-Saavedra Zinnia
Published: November 2024

Introduction: This study focuses on the central mountain region of the Peruvian Andes, particularly its western slopes, high-altitude areas, and inter-Andean valleys situated above 3000 m.a.s.l. Despite its ecological importance, the region remains understudied, resulting in significant information gaps. Objective: To identify flora species along an altitudinal gradient in the Cajatambo district. Methods: Sampling was carried out at five distinct altitudinal levels using a combination of sampling techniques. Taxonomic identification was performed, and statistical analyses including ANOVA, the Mantel test, and NMDS were applied. Results: 424 plant species were identified, revealing the dominance of Asteraceae. The approach used allowed for the identification of floristic and structural patterns in various habitats, ranging from arid montane scrub to puna grassland. Surprisingly, Asteraceae richness had a significant impact on species diversity, while altitude did not. Additionally, floristic similarity between nearby altitudinal levels was not related to geographical distance. The analysis of ecosystems has shown that certain families are adaptable. Additionally, floristic diversity has been affected by human activity near the district capital. The distribution of medicinal species has been limited due to selective extraction. Conclusions: The shrubland and thorny scrub was the most diverse ecosystem and had the widest distribution across the altitudinal gradient.
A Mechanism for Slow Electrostatic Solitary Waves in the Earth’s Plasma Sheet
Authors: Lakhina Gurbax Singh , Singh Satyavir
Published: November 2024

An analysis of the Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) spacecraft data shows the presence of slow electrostatic solitary waves (SESWs) in the Earth’s plasma sheet, which have been interpreted as slow electron holes (SEHs). An alternative mechanism based on slow ion-acoustic solitons is proposed for these SESWs. The SESWs are observed in the region where double humped ion distributions and hot electrons co-exist. Our theoretical model considers the plasma in the SESW region to consist of hot electrons with a vortex distribution, core Maxwellian protons drifting parallel to the magnetic field, B and beam protons drifting anti-parallel to B. Parallel propagating nonlinear ion-acoustic waves are studied using the Sagdeev pseudopotential technique. The analysis yields four types of modes, namely, two slow ion-acoustic (SIA1 and SIA2) solitons and two fast ion-acoustic (FIA1 and FIA2) solitons. All solitons have positive potentials. Except the FIA1 solitons which propagate parallel to B; the other three types propagate anti-parallel to B. Good agreement is found between the amplitudes of electrostatic potential, the electric field, the widths and speed of SIA1 and SIA2 solitons, and the observed properties of SESWs by the MMS spacecraft.
Damage Investigation in PMMA Polymer: Experimental and Phase-Field Approaches
Authors: Ben Said Lotfi , Hentati Hamdi , Wali Mondher , Ayadi Badreddine , Alhadri Muapper
Published: November 2024

The prediction of crack patterns is one of the main tasks in the field of fracture mechanics in order to prevent the total damage of various materials, particularly Methyl Methacrylate Polymer (PMMA). The few data in the literature underscores the need for additional experiments on PMMA to analyze the performance of the phase-field approach to predict crack trajectories. The main purpose of this study is to verify the accuracy of the phase-field approach with a staggered scheme, based on spectral decomposition, for predicting crack propagation in PMMA specimens by comparing it with the experimental results presented in this work. Based on the tensile test and SEM analysis, this material exhibits brittle behavior. The numerical approach considers cracks as diffuse damage rather than sharp discontinuities, enabling a more accurate representation of brittle fracture processes. Experimental determination of material properties is used in the development of the numerical model. The main aim of these experiments is to explore how variations in load and specific geometries influence fracture initiation and crack trajectory. Consequently, these experiments will establish a dataset to further validate numerical advancements.
Analysis of Tensile Failure Behavior of Metal Fiber Laminates Under Different Temperature Environments
Authors: Lu Hongbin , Sheng Dongfa , Fang Yuting , Yu Hongquan , Yang Fan
Published: November 2024

The tensile properties of fiber metal laminates were examined at temperatures ranging from 30 °C to 180 °C in this paper through the integration of numerical simulation techniques, experimental measurements, and digital image correlation techniques. The laminates were initially modeled using finite elements, and the failure behavior of porous basalt-fiber-reinforced aluminum alloy plates was numerically simulated. Consequently, metal fiber laminate stress–strain responses were varied by numerous tensile experiments conducted at varying temperatures. Simultaneously, a scanning electron microscope was used to scan a porous basalt-fiber-reinforced aluminum alloy laminate at different temperatures to determine the tensile mechanical behavior and micro-damage morphology. Lastly, the laminate’s dynamic response to the tensile process was observed through digital image correlation technology. The stress distribution was determined to be concentrated around circular openings through analysis. The strain distribution graph exhibited a “band” shape as the number of perforations increased. The findings indicate that fiber metal laminates lose tensile strength as temperatures increase. The ultimate tensile strength of the laminate decreases as the number of perforations increases at the same temperature. Complex damage mechanisms, including matrix debonding, fiber withdrawal, and matrix fracture, can be captured through scanning electron microscopy at varying temperatures. The tensile behavior and damage mechanisms of laminates with hole-containing structures under thermal conditions are examined, and the results can be used to inform the design and utilization of laminate structures.
Development of Dispersion Process to Improve Quality of Hyaluronic Acid Filler Crosslinked with 1,4-Butanediol Diglycidyl Ether
Authors: Choi Sunglim , Cho Jin Cheol , Lee Seunghwa , Lee Seong Jin
Published: November 2024

This study proposes a new and simple process that improves the quality of a hyaluronic acid (HA) filler crosslinked with 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether (BDDE) using solution dispersion at a low temperature. This process involves the solvent being dispersed among the solute naturally after the mixing process. The process used in this study involved two reactions. First, the solution was dispersed among HA molecules (Mw = ~0.7 MDa) creating a well-homogenized mixture. Second, the decomposition and synthesis of HA occurred naturally in an aqueous alkaline solution (>pH 11), the weight average molar mass (Mw) was adjusted (Mw = ~143,000), and the crosslinking surface area was expanded, allowing for a high degree of crosslinking. Therefore, the viscoelasticity and cohesion of the filler increased with the new method compared to the previous process both at the lab scale (previous process:new process, viscosity (cP) = 24M:43M, storage modulus (Pa) = 306:538, loss modulus (Pa) = 33:61, and tack (N) = 0.24:0.43) and at the factory scale (previous process:new process, complex viscosity (cP) = 19M:26M, storage modulus (Pa) = 229:314, loss modulus (Pa) = 71:107, and tack (N) = 0.35:0.43).
Investigation of Gamma Ray Shielding Characteristics of Binary Composites Containing Polyester Resin and Lead Oxide
Authors: Özdoğan Hasan , Üncü Yiğit Ali , Akman Ferdi , Polat Hasan , Kaçal Mustafa Recep
Published: November 2024

Ionizing radiation plays an essential role across various fields but also poses significant health risks, requiring effective shielding solutions. This study focuses on the photon shielding properties of PbO-reinforced composites, specifically PbO-0, PbO-2, PbO-4, PbO-6, PbO-8, and PbO-10, through experimental measurements of photon energies ranging from 59.5 keV to 1408.0 keV. The measurements were taken using an HPGe detector. Experimental results were compared to theoretical calculations. Among the tested composites, PbO-10, which contains the highest concentration of lead oxide (PbO), provided the most effective radiation shielding. This sample demonstrated superior mass and linear attenuation coefficients, offering excellent protection at low photon energies. Furthermore, PbO-10 exhibited the lowest half-value layer (HVL) and tenth-value layer (TVL) values, indicating its efficiency in reducing radiation intensity with thinner material layers. It was determined that the experimental TVL results for PbO-O, PbO-2, PbO-4, PbO-6, PbO-8, and PbO-10 at 59.5 keV photon energy were 9.95, 5.98, 4.77, 3.67, 3.22, and 2.71 cm, respectively. With these outstanding attenuation capabilities, PbO-10 is deemed highly suitable for use in medical, industrial, and radiation-heavy environments. In summary, this research emphasizes the effectiveness of PbO-reinforced composites in gamma-ray shielding, with PbO-10 emerging as the top performer, demonstrating great potential for applications that require durable and efficient radiation protection.
Silver-Catalyzed Aqueous Electrochemical Valorization of Soda Lignin into Aliphatics and Phenolics
Authors: Lindenbeck Lucie , Brand Silas , Stallmann Franka , Barra Vanessa , Frauscher Marcella , Beele Björn B. , Slabon Adam , Rodrigues Bruno V. Manzolli
Published: November 2024

Transitioning from crude oil to renewable sources of carbon-based chemicals is critical for advancing sustainable development. Lignin, a wood-derived biomacromolecule, holds great potential as a renewable feedstock, but efficient depolymerization and dearomatization methods are required to fully unlock its potential. In this investigation, we present a silver-catalyzed aqueous electrocatalytic method for the selective depolymerization and partial dearomatization of soda lignin under mild, ambient conditions. Utilizing a water/sodium carbonate solvent system and a silver electrode to mediate the electrochemical reduction, we achieved significant lignin depolymerization over reaction times ranging from 5 to 20 h. Analysis by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) revealed sodium levulinate, sodium acetate, and sodium formate as the main aliphatic products, alongside various aromatic species in the depolymerized lignin products (DL). This selective conversion of lignin into both valuable aromatic compounds and reactive aliphatic intermediates offers promising opportunities for further synthesis of a wide range of organic chemicals, contributing to the development of a more sustainable and circular economy.