bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunosuppressive Therapy and Nutritional Status of Patients after Kidney Transplantation: A Protocol for a Systematic Review
Authors: Kajdas Aleksandra Anna , Szostak-Węgierek Dorota , Dąbrowska-Bender Marta , Normann Anne Katrine , Søndergaard Linde Ditte
Published: November 2023

(1) Background: Kidney transplantation is widely recognized as the most effective method of treating end-stage renal disease. Immunosuppressive therapy plays a pivotal role in the treatment of kidney transplant patients, encompassing all patients (except identical twins), and is administered from organ transplantation until the end of its function. The aim of this systematic review is to identify the evidence of the association between immunosuppressive therapy and nutritional status of patients following kidney transplantation. (2) Methods: This protocol has been designed in line with Preferred Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA-P). Our search encompasses several databases, including MEDLINE (via PubMed), EMBASE (Elsevier), Scopus and Web of Science. We intend to include observational studies (cross-sectional, case-control, and cohort designs), randomized controlled trials (RCTs), as well as completed and ongoing non-randomized study designs. We will confine our search to studies published in English within the past decade (from inception to 17 February 2023). Qualitative studies, case studies, and conference reports will be excluded. The selection process will be done in Covidence by two independent reviewers. Data extraction will be conducted using a standardized MS Excel template version 16.0. Quality assessment of included studies will be performed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool for randomized trials (RoB2), or the Risk of Bias in Non-randomized Studies of Interventions (ROBINS-I) tool. Risk-of-bias plots will be generated using the web application Robvis. Relevant data that have been extracted from eligible studies will be presented in a narrative synthesis. We expect the studies to be too heterogeneous to perform subgroup analyses. (3) Conclusion: This systematic review will offer insights into the evidence regarding association between immunosuppressive therapy and nutritional status of adult patients (18 years of age or older) within the initial year following kidney transplantation. To our knowledge, there is no systematic review addressing that question.
Striation-Based Beamforming with Two-Dimensional Filtering for Suppressing Tonal Interference
Authors: Li Pingzheng , Wu Yanqun , Guo Wei , Cao Chunyan , Ma Yanxin , Li Lifan , Leng Hongze , Zhou Aolong , Song Junqiang
Published: November 2023

Based on the interference spectrogram in the element–frequency domain using the data measured by the horizontal linear array, the source range can be estimated through the striation-based beamforming (SBF) method and its variants. Estimation of the striation slope is the basis for these ranging methods. But in practical scenarios, the tonal interferences and other noise make it difficult to estimate the slope. In this paper, we proposed a two-dimensional low-pass filtering method after the two-dimensional discrete Fourier transform (2D-DFT) of the element–frequency domain spectrogram. The signals can be separated from the interference and noise using this filter. For the linear frequency-modulated signal without a known waveform, we also proposed an extraction and phase compensation method based on the time–frequency spectrogram, and the acoustic data obtained can be used for source ranging. The experimental results indicate that the methods proposed are feasible.
Command-Filter-Based Region-Tracking Control for Autonomous Underwater Vehicles with Measurement Noise
Authors: Lv Tu , Wang Yujia , Liu Xing , Zhang Mingjun
Published: November 2023

This paper investigates the AUV region-tracking control problem with measurement noise and transient and steady-state constraints. To achieve the fluctuation of AUV tracking error within an expected region while satisfying the transient and steady-state performance constraints, this paper proposes an improved nonlinear tracking error transformation method. This method converts the tracking error into a new virtual error variable through nonlinear conversion, thus transforming the above performance requirements for the tracking error into boundedness requirements for the new virtual error variable. In addition, aiming at the problem of measurement noise causing strong fluctuation of the control signal, this paper proposes a finite-time AUV control method based on a two-stage command filter. This method utilizes a finite-time sliding mode differentiator to filter the virtual control signal during the derivation of the control law using the backstepping technique. In light of the signal loss incurred by two-stage filtering and its potential impact on system stability, a finite-time compensator is designed to compensate the signal loss and achieve finite-time stability of the closed-loop system. Finally, simulations conducted using ODIN AUV demonstrate that the proposed method exhibits smooth control signal and low energy consumption characteristics. Furthermore, the tracking error meets the requirements for both transient and steady-state performance, as well as regional tracking.
Acoustic Evidence of Shallow Gas Occurrences in the Offshore Sinú Fold Belt, Colombian Caribbean Sea
Authors: Osorio-Granada Ana María , Jigena-Antelo Bismarck , Vidal-Perez Juan , Zambianchi Enrico , Osorio-Granada Edward G. , Torrecillas Cristina , Romero-Cozar Jeanette , Leon-Rincón Hermann , Oviedo-Prada Karem , Muñoz-Perez Juan J.
Published: November 2023

High-resolution seismic analysis and bathymetry data, used in the Offshore Sinú Fold Belt (OSFB), have revealed seabed and sub-surface anomalies, which were probably caused by the presence of shallow gas within the sedimentary records. Shallow gas is widely detected by the frequent presence of anomalous acoustic reflections including acoustic blanking, enhanced reflections, acoustic plumes, pockmarks, and dome structures. More than 30 anomalies that occur within a subsurface depth of ~65 m were acoustically detected within an area of 1000 km2 on the continental shelf and upper continental slope, in water depths ranging from −20 to −1300 m. Moreover, a map with the spatial distribution of the gas occurrences is shown. A close relationship between the locally elevated seabed (dome structures), pockmarks, and acoustic blanking was found. Most of the active pockmarks may be closely related to the submarine path of the Uramita Fault, indicating that the gas occurrences are controlled by active faulting. The shallow gas occurrence was confirmed by the generation of authigenic carbonate and the occurrence of chemosymbiotic biological communities sampled in the area. Although there is an admixture of biogenic gas, it is believed that many of the features observed relate to thermogenic gas. The identification of these anomalies represents a useful basis for an assessment of marine geohazards and can serve as a hydrocarbon exploration tool.
Physical Properties of Retisol under Secondary Pulp and Paper Sludge Application
Authors: Butylkina Marina , Ikkonen Elena
Published: November 2023

A positive effect of pulp and paper mill sludges as a rich source of organic substrates on soil properties was previously found for some types of sludge and soil. In this study, the effect of secondary pulp and paper sludge on water characteristics and thermal properties of Retisol, as well as the growth parameters of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.), was tested on the basis of a pot experiment when watering plants with a 20 or 40% sludge solution. The sludge application enhanced plant growth with an increase in biomass accumulation of 21 and 53%, respectively, for 20 and 40% sludge treatments. When the sludge dose was increased from 0 to 40%, the number of leaves increased by 25%, and the leaf mass per area value increased by 42%. Due to the accumulation of more biomass in the shoots than in the roots, sludge causes a change in the allocation of plant biomass. A significant effect of the sludge application on soil particle and microaggregate sized compositions, as well as on the saturated soil hydraulic conductivity, was not found in this study. However, fitted soil water retention curves showed an increased soil water content in sludge-treated soil at all water content values exceeding field capacity. Secondary sludge application led to an increase in the saturated water content from 0.50 to 0.56 cm3 cm−3. The 40% sludge solution increased soil thermal conductivity from 0.92 to 0.98 W m−1 K−1 under saturated water content and from 0.83 to 0.92 W m−1 K−1 under field capacity. The thermal conductivity was higher in the sludge-treated than untreated soil due to a more pronounced positive effect of increased saturated water content than the negative effect of the increased organic matter content on heat transfer. The positive impact of secondary sludge application on both plant growth parameters and physical properties of Retisol, such as increased soil water-holding capacity and thermal conductivity coefficient confirms the possibility of using it to improve soil characteristics and plant productivity.
Research on Lubrication Characteristics of Ship Stern Bearings Considering Bearing Installation Errors
Authors: Yang Taiwei , Zhu Hanhua , Fan Shidong , Wu Jie , Yuan Junlang , Zheng Liangyan
Published: November 2023

The installation quality of a propulsion shaft system directly affects the lubrication statuses of the bearings. The quality of the shaft system installation not only affects the progress of ship construction, but also the safety, stability, and reliability of the shaft system. This article takes sliding bearings in ship shafting as the research object and establishes a hydrodynamic lubrication model of sliding bearings while considering installation errors to address the issue of installation errors of ship stern bearings. The finite difference method and super-relaxation iteration method are used to solve the problem, and the influences of bearing installation errors on bearing lubrication characteristic parameters are explored. An installation error of the stern bearing can lead to an increase in the film pressure at both ends of the stern bearing in the axial direction, leading to a decrease in the lubrication status of the bearing. Poor lubrication and wear faults of the stern bearing are prone to occur at both ends of the stern bearing. As the installation error of the stern bearing increases, the minimum film thickness of the stern bearing decreases and the maximum film pressure increases, and as the installation error increases, the sensitivity of the aft stern bearing to the vertical installation error is greater than that of the lateral installation error, and the sensitivity of the fore stern bearing to the lateral installation error is greater than that of the vertical installation error. The sensitivity of the lateral and vertical film forces at both ends of the aft stern bearing and the fore stern bearing is greater than that of the middle part; the installation error of bearings has a significant impact on the lubrication characteristics of bearings.
Industrial Process Improvement by Automation and Robotics
Authors: Campilho Raul D. S. G. , Silva Francisco J. G.
Published: November 2023

Automation and robotics have revolutionized industrial processes, making them more efficient, precise, and flexible [...]
Multi-Stage Approach Using Convolutional Triplet Network and Ensemble Model for Fault Diagnosis in Oil Plant Rotary Machines
Authors: Lee Seungjoo , Kim YoungSeok , Choi Hyun-Jun , Ji Bongjun
Published: November 2023

Ensuring the operational safety and reliability of rotary machinery systems, especially in oil plants, has become a focal point in both academic and industry arenas. Specifically, in terms of key rotary machinery components such as shafts, the diagnosis of these systems is paramount for achieving enhanced generalization capabilities in fault diagnosis, encompassing multiple sensor-derived variables with their respective fault patterns. This study introduces a multi-stage approach to generalize capabilities for fault diagnosis that considers multiple sensor-derived variables and their fault patterns. This method combines the Convolutional Triplet Network for feature extraction with an ensemble model for fault classification. Initially, vibration signals are processed to yield the most representative temporal and spatial features. Then, an ensemble approach is used to maximize both diversity and accuracy by balancing the contributions of the individual classifiers. The approach can detect three representative types of shaft faults more accurately than traditional single-stage machine learning models. Comprehensive experiments, detailed within, showcase the method’s efficacy in diagnosing rotary machine faults across diverse operational scenarios.
A Multi-Objective Optimization-Algorithm-Based ANFIS Approach for Modeling Dynamic Customer Preferences with Explicit Nonlinearity
Authors: Jiang Huimin , Sabetzadeh Farzad
Published: November 2023

In previous studies, customer preferences were assumed to be static when modeling their preferences based on online reviews. However, in fact, customer preferences for products are dynamic and changing over time. Few research has been conducted to model dynamic customer preferences as the time series data of customer preference are difficult to be obtained. Based on online reviews, an adaptive neuro fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) was introduced to model customer preferences, which can take into account the fuzzy nature of customers’ emotions and the nonlinearity of the model. However, ANFIS is plagued with black box problems, and the nonlinearity of the model cannot be directly demonstrated. To address the above research issues, a multi-objective chaos optimization algorithm (MOCOA)-based ANFIS approach is proposed to generate customer preferences models by using online reviews, which has explicit nonlinear inputs. Firstly, a sentiment analysis approach is used to derive information from online reviews by periods, which is used as the time series data sets of the proposed model. A MOCOA is combined into ANFIS to identify the nonlinear inputs, which include single items, interactive items, and terms of second order and/or higher-order terms. Consequently, the fuzzy rules in ANFIS are expressed in polynomial form, which allows for the explicit representation of the nonlinearity between customer preferences and product attributes. A case study of sweeping robots is used to compare the validation results of the proposed approach with those of ANFIS, subtractive cluster-based ANFIS, fuzzy c-means-based ANFIS, and K-means-based ANFIS. Moreover, the proposed approach provides better performance than the other four approaches in terms of mean relative error and variance of error.
Reliability Analysis and Optimal Replacement Policy for Systems with Generalized Pólya Censored δ Shock Model
Authors: Bian Lina , Peng Bo , Ye Yong
Published: November 2023

A fresh censored δ shock model is investigated. The arrival of random shocks follows a generalized Pólya process, and the failure mechanism of the system occurs based on the censored δ shock model. The generalized Pólya process is used for modeling because the generalized Pólya process has excellent properties, including the homogeneous Poisson process, the non-homogeneous Poisson process, and the Pólya process. Thus far, the lifetime properties of the censored δ shock model under the generalized Pólya process have not been studied. Therefore, for the established generalized Pólya censored δ shock model, the corresponding reliability function, the upper bound of the reliability function, the mean lifetime, the failure rate, and the class of life distribution are obtained. In addition, a replacement strategy N, based on the number of failures of the system, is considered using a geometric process. We determined the optimal replacement policy N* by objective function minimization. Finally, a numerical example is presented to verify the rationality of the model.
A Novel Two-Stage, Dual-Layer Distributed Optimization Operational Approach for Microgrids with Electric Vehicles
Authors: Zhou Bowen , Zhang Zhibo , Xi Chao , Liu Boyu
Published: November 2023

As the ownership of electric vehicles (EVs) continues to rise, EVs are becoming an integral part of urban microgrids. Incorporating the charging and discharging processes of EVs into the microgrid’s optimization scheduling process can serve to load leveling, reducing the reliance of the microgrid on external power networks. This paper proposes a novel two-stage, dual-layer distributed optimization operational approach for microgrids with EVs. The lower layer is a distributed control layer, which ensures, through consensus control methods, that every EV maintains a consistent charging/discharging and state of charge (SOC). The upper layer is the optimization scheduling layer, determining the optimal operational strategy of the microgrid using the multiagent reinforcement learning method and providing control reference signals for the lower layer. Additionally, this paper categorizes the charging process of EVs into two stages based on their SOC: the constrained scheduling stage and the free scheduling stage. By employing distinct control methods during these two stages, we ensure that EVs can participate in the microgrid scheduling while fully respecting the charging interests of the EV owners.
Investigating the Potential Anti-Alzheimer’s Disease Mechanism of Marine Polyphenols: Insights from Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking
Authors: Youn Kumju , Ho Chi-Tang , Jun Mira
Published: November 2023

Marine polyphenols, including eckol(EK), dieckol(DK), and 8,8’-bieckol(BK), have attracted attention as bioactive ingredients for preventing Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Since AD is a multifactorial disorder, the present study aims to provide an unbiased elucidation of unexplored targets of AD mechanisms and a systematic prediction of effective preventive combinations of marine polyphenols. Based on the omics data between each compound and AD, a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed to predict potential hub genes. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were performed to provide further biological insights. In the PPI network of the top 10 hub genes, AKT1, SRC, EGFR, and ESR1 were common targets of EK and BK, whereas PTGS2 was a common target of DK and BK. GO and KEGG pathway analysis revealed that the overlapped genes between each compound and AD were mainly enriched in EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance, the MAPK pathway, and the Rap1 and Ras pathways. Finally, docking validation showed stable binding between marine polyphenols and their top hub gene via the lowest binding energy and multiple interactions. The results expanded potential mechanisms and novel targets for AD, and also provided a system-level insight into the molecular targets of marine polyphenols against AD.
Occupational Therapy Interventions in Patients with Frontotemporal Dementia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Vlotinou Pinelopi , Tsiakiri Anna , Detsaridou Georgia , Nikova Alexandrina , Tsiptsios Dimitrios , Vadikolias Konstantinos , Aggelousis Nikolaos
Published: November 2023

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive impairments in behavior, executive function, and language, primarily affecting individuals under the age of 65. This disorder is associated with expressive and receptive anomia, word comprehension deficits, and behavioral symptoms such as apathy, loss of empathy, and disinhibition, all of which closely correlate with functional impairment in daily activities. Despite substantial efforts, research on occupational therapy (OT) interventions has yet to demonstrate clear benefits in managing the disease. The aim of this study is to investigate OT interventions and assess their efficacy, with a specific focus on individuals suffering from FTD. We systematically conducted searches on two databases, namely Medline and Science Direct, spanning a ten-year period from 2003 to 2023, in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria. OT interventions targeted both patients and caregivers and yielded significant positive improvements in their lives. A key focus of these interventions was to teach acceptable alternatives to the behaviors exhibited by FTD patients, as these behaviors are strongly influenced by the disease itself. OT contributes positively to enhancing the quality of life of FTD patients and alleviating the caregiving burden experienced by those providing long-term care to these patients.
New Creep Crack Growth Prediction Model for the Life Assessment of Stainless-Steel Material Using Computational Modeling
Authors: Sattar Mohsin , Othman Abdul Rahim , Othman Muhammad Firdaus , Ali Hafiz T. , Khan Muhammad Kashif
Published: November 2023

The limitations of the established and existing creep failure models have inspired the development of a new creep prediction model. Models like Norton–Bailey and Omega are unable to model the tertiary creep curve for engineering materials. Kachanov–Rabotnov, Theta Projection, and Sine hyperbolic models rely on specific material properties for accurate damage predictions. In order to overcome these weaknesses, a new creep model combining the Norton–Bailey and Kachanov–Rabotnov models has been further devised for the creep life prediction of metallic materials. The model combination helps in covering the limitations of one model over another and to benefit from each other’s strengths. A technique of user subroutine scripting was adapted to implement the new creep model in finite element (FE) software of ABAQUS, manufactured by Dassault Systemes, version 2020. The new model was tested on an FE dog bone stainless steel 304 specimen; the analysis showed excellent agreement with the experimental creep deformation data at 600 °C to 700 °C. The creep strain rate curves obtained by the method of user subroutine scripting were found to be 90.69% accurate to the 1000 h experimental creep strain rate curve. Similarly, while comparing with the 336 h experimental creep test, the new model accuracy was found to be 92.66% for the creep strain rate curve. The new model’s precision was 91.56% when compared with the Omega and Norton–Bailey models for creep strain rate for the same conditions. The quantitative accuracy of the new creep model is better as compared to the existing creep models and can be an improved source of alternatives to existing creep models for the deformation predictions.
The γ” Phase in Mg-RE-TM Alloys: A Review on the Structure and Stability of the γ” Phase and Its Effect on Mechanical Properties
Authors: Liu Zhenyang , Pei Zongrui , Zhou Nan , Zheng Kaihong , Chen Bin
Published: November 2023

In magnesium–rare earth–transition metal (Mg-RE-TM) alloys, the γ” phase (with a hexagonal structure with the space group P6¯2m) is a critical strengthening phase that can significantly improve their mechanical properties. However, compared to other phases in Mg-RE-TM alloys, research on the γ” phase is less documented, and an understanding of the γ” phase is not well established. As a result, different models of the structure of the γ” phase have been proposed. In this review, we summarize these structural models and find that the γ” phase is different from the Guinier–Preston (G.P.) zone, as revealed via Cs-corrected high-angle annular dark field-scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM) and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. In addition, we briefly summarize the stability of the γ” phase and its effect on the mechanical properties of Mg-RE-TM alloys.
The Respiratory Way without Microbial Growth of Paracoccus denitrificans
Authors: Alonso-Vargas Monserrat , Portillo-Torres Lizbeth Anahí , Mercado-Flores Yuridia , Ramírez-Vargas María del Rocío , Cadena-Ramírez Arturo
Published: November 2023

This study elucidates the effects of Carbon/Nitrogen (C/N) ratios on the respiratory behavior of Paracoccus denitrificans PD1222, a microorganism noted for its metabolic adaptability. We explored its ability to undergo dissimilative denitrification, a less understood process where energy is harnessed from nutrient consumption without resultant growth. By manipulating the C/N ratios and available nitrogen sources in our experimental design, we were able to demonstrate significant shifts in P. denitrificans metabolic behavior. At a C/N ratio of 1.34, with nitrate as the sole nitrogen source, dissimilative denitrification occurred with no observable increase in biomass. Succinate, the provided carbon source, was quickly metabolized without contributing to cell growth. Our results contribute to the understanding of environmental microbiology, specifically denitrification processes, and indicate P. denitrificans’s potential for wastewater treatment scenarios, where pollutant consumption without biomass proliferation is desired.
Co-Culturing Microalgae with Roseobacter Clade Bacteria as a Strategy for Vibrionaceae Control in Microalgae-Enriched Artemia
Authors: Pintado José , Ruiz Patricia , Del Olmo Gonzalo , Makridis Pavlos
Published: November 2023

Bacterial communities associated with fish larvae are highly influenced by the microbiota of live prey used as feed (rotifers or Artemia), generally dominated by bacterial strains with a low degree of specialization and high growth rates, (e.g., Vibrionaceae), which can be detrimental to larvae. Co-cultivation of microalgae used in the enrichment of Artemia (e.g., Phaeodactylum tricornutum, or Chlorella minutissima) with Vibrio-antagonistic probiotics belonging to the Roseobacter clade bacteria (e.g., Phaeobacter spp. or Ruegeria spp.) was studied. The introduction of the probiotics did not affect microalgae growth or significantly modify the composition of bacterial communities associated with both microalgae, as revealed by DGGE analysis. The inoculation of P. tricornutum with Ruegeria ALR6 allowed the maintenance of the probiotic in the scale-up of the microalgae cultures, both in axenic and non-axenic conditions. Using Ruegeria-inoculated P. tricornutum cultures in the enrichment of Artemia reduced the total Vibrionaceae count in Artemia by 2 Log units, therefore preventing the introduction of opportunistic or pathogenic bacteria to fish larvae fed with them.
Hypothetical Proteins of Mycoplasma synoviae Reannotation and Expression Changes Identified via RNA-Sequencing
Authors: Si Duoduo , Sun Jialin , Guo Lei , Yang Fei , Tian Xingmiao , He Shenghu , Li Jidong
Published: November 2023

Mycoplasma synoviae infection rates in chickens are increasing worldwide. Genomic studies have considerably improved our understanding of M. synoviae biology and virulence. However, approximately 20% of the predicted proteins have unknown functions. In particular, the M. synoviae ATCC 25204 genome has 663 encoding DNA sequences, among which 155 are considered encoding hypothetical proteins (HPs). Several of these genes may encode unknown virulence factors. This study aims to reannotate all 155 proteins in M. synoviae ATCC 25204 to predict new potential virulence factors using currently available databases and bioinformatics tools. Finally, 125 proteins were reannotated, including enzymes (39%), lipoproteins (10%), DNA-binding proteins (6%), phase-variable hemagglutinin (19%), and other protein types (26%). Among 155 proteins, 28 proteins associated with virulence were detected, five of which were reannotated. Furthermore, HP expression was compared before and after the M. synoviae infection of cells to identify potential virulence-related proteins. The expression of 14 HP genes was upregulated, including that of five virulence-related genes. Our study improved the functional annotation of M. synoviae ATCC 25204 from 76% to 95% and enabled the discovery of potential virulence factors in the genome. Moreover, 14 proteins that may be involved in M. synoviae infection were identified, providing candidate proteins and facilitating the exploration of the infection mechanism of M. synoviae.
Total Synthesis of Nicrophorusamide A and Structural Disproof of the Proposed Noursamycin A
Authors: Liao Xiaoyun , Li Shupeng , Guo Yian , Ye Tao
Published: November 2023

Total synthesis of the proposed noursamycin A has been accomplished, which disproves the original structural assignments. The synthetic strategy described herein has also been employed in the first total synthesis of nicrophorusamide A, a cyclopeptide that is structurally related to noursamycin A.
Mentha piperita: Essential Oil and Extracts, Their Biological Activities, and Perspectives on the Development of New Medicinal and Cosmetic Products
Authors: Hudz Nataliia , Kobylinska Lesya , Pokajewicz Katarzyna , Horčinová Sedláčková Vladimira , Fedin Roman , Voloshyn Mariia , Myskiv Iryna , Brindza Ján , Wieczorek Piotr Paweł , Lipok Jacek
Published: November 2023

This review aims to analyze Mentha piperita L. as a potential raw material for the development of new health-promoting products (nutraceuticals, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products). A lot of scientific publications were retrieved from the Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases which enable the study and generalization of the extraction procedures, key biologically active compounds of essential oil and extracts, biological properties, and therapeutic potential of M. piperita, along with perspectives on the development of its dosage forms, including combinations of synthetic active substances and herbal preparations of M. piperita. The results of this review indicate that M. piperita is a source rich in phytoconstituents of different chemical nature and can be regarded as a source of active substances to enhance health and to develop medicinal products for complementary therapy of various conditions, especially those related with oxidant stress, inflammation, and moderate infections. Essential oil has a broad spectrum of activities. Depending on the test and concentration, this essential oil has both anti- and prooxidant properties. Gram-positive bacteria are more sensitive to the essential oil of M. piperita than Gram-negative ones. This review also considered some facets of the standardization of essential oil and extracts of M. piperita. Among the identified phenolics of extracts were caffeic acid, rosmarinic acid, eriocitrin, luteolin derivates (luteolin-7-O-rutinoside, luteolin-7-O-glucoronide), and hesperidin. The concentration of these phenolics depends on the solvent used. This review also considered the relationships between the chemical component and biological activity. The results showed that the essential oil and extracts reduced inflammation in vitro by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), and in vivo by reducing the paw edema induced using carrageenan injection in rats. Therefore, herbal preparations of M. piperita are promising medicinal and cosmetic preparations for their usage in skincare and oral cavity care products with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. This plant can also be regarded as a platform for the development of antibacterial preparations and combined anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective medicinal products (synthetic active substances plus herbal preparations). This review could be considered for the justification of the composition of some medicinal products during their pharmaceutical development for writing a registration dossier in the format of Common Technical Document.
New Tricholomalides D–G from the Mushroom Tricholoma ustaloides Grown in an Italian Beech Wood
Authors: Gilardoni Gianluca , Negri Francesca , Vita Finzi Paola , Hussain Faiq H. S. , Vidari Giovanni
Published: November 2023

Four novel seconeodolastane diterpenoids, named tricholomalides D–G, were isolated, together with the known tricholomalide C, from the fruiting bodies of Tricholoma ustaloides Romagn., a species belonging to the large Tricholoma genus of higher mushrooms (Basidiomycota, family Tricholomataceae). They were isolated through multiple chromatographic separations, and the structures, including the absolute configuration, were established through a detailed analysis of MS, NMR, and CD spectral data and comparison with related compounds reported in the literature, which has been thoroughly revised.
Base-Catalyzed Nucleophilic Addition Reaction of Indoles with Vinylene Carbonate: An Approach to Synthesize 4-Indolyl-1,3-dioxolanones
Authors: Chen Xia , Zhou Xiao-Yu , Bao Ming
Published: November 2023

The N-functionalized indole is a privileged structural framework in a wide range of bioactive molecules. The nucleophilic addition between indoles with vinylene carbonate proceeded smoothly in the presence of K2CO3 as the catalyst to produce novel indolyl-containing skeletons and 4-indolyl-1,3-dioxolanones in satisfactory to excellent yields (up to >97% yield). Various synthetically useful functional groups, such as halogen atoms, cyano, nitro, and methoxycarbonyl groups, remained intact during the regioselective N-H addition reactions. The developed catalytic system also could accommodate 2-naphthalenol to achieve the target O-H additive product in good yield.
Possible Roles of Transition Metal Cations in the Formation of Interstellar Benzene via Catalytic Acetylene Cyclotrimerization
Authors: Murakami Tatsuhiro , Matsumoto Naoki , Fujihara Takashi , Takayanagi Toshiyuki
Published: November 2023

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are ubiquitous interstellar molecules. However, the formation mechanisms of PAHs and even the simplest cyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, benzene, are not yet fully understood. Recently, we reported the statistical and dynamical properties in the reaction mechanism of Fe+-catalyzed acetylene cyclotrimerization, whereby three acetylene molecules are directly converted to benzene. In this study, we extended our previous work and explored the possible role of the complex of other 3d transition metal cations, TM+ (TM = Sc, Ti, Mn, Co, and Ni), as a catalyst in acetylene cyclotrimerization. Potential energy profiles for bare TM+-catalyst (TM = Sc and Ti), for TM+NC−-catalyst (TM = Sc, Ti, Mn, Co, and Ni), and for TM+-(H2O)8-catalyst (TM = Sc and Ti) systems were obtained using quantum chemistry calculations, including the density functional theory levels. The calculation results show that the scandium and titanium cations act as efficient catalysts in acetylene cyclotrimerization and that reactants, which contain an isolated acetylene and (C2H2)2 bound to a bare (ligated) TM cation (TM = Sc and Ti), can be converted into a benzene–metal–cation product complex without an entrance barrier. We found that the number of electrons in the 3d orbitals of the transition metal cation significantly contributes to the catalytic efficiency in the acetylene cyclotrimerization process. On-the-fly Born–Oppenheimer molecular dynamics (BOMD) simulations of the Ti+-NC− and Ti+-(H2O)8 complexes were also performed to comprehensively understand the nuclear dynamics of the reactions. The computational results suggest that interstellar benzene can be produced via acetylene cyclotrimerization reactions catalyzed by transition metal cation complexes.
The Cultured Microbiome of Pollinated Maize Silks Shifts after Infection with Fusarium graminearum and Varies by Distance from the Site of Pathogen Inoculation
Authors: Thompson Michelle E. H. , Shrestha Anuja , Rinne Jeffrey , Limay-Rios Victor , Reid Lana , Raizada Manish N.
Published: November 2023

Styles transmit pollen-derived sperm nuclei from pollen to ovules, but also transmit environmental pathogens. The microbiomes of styles are likely important for reproduction/disease, yet few studies exist. Whether style microbiome compositions are spatially responsive to pathogens is unknown. The maize pathogen Fusarium graminearum enters developing grain through the style (silk). We hypothesized that F. graminearum treatment shifts the cultured transmitting silk microbiome (TSM) compared to healthy silks in a distance-dependent manner. Another objective of the study was to culture microbes for future application. Bacteria were cultured from husk-covered silks of 14 F. graminearum-treated diverse maize genotypes, proximal (tip) and distal (base) to the F. graminearum inoculation site. Long-read 16S sequences from 398 isolates spanned 35 genera, 71 species, and 238 OTUs. More bacteria were cultured from F. graminearum-inoculated tips (271 isolates) versus base (127 isolates); healthy silks were balanced. F. graminearum caused a collapse in diversity of ~20–25% across multiple taxonomic levels. Some species were cultured exclusively or, more often, from F. graminearum-treated silks (e.g., Delftia acidovorans, Klebsiella aerogenes, K. grimontii, Pantoea ananatis, Stenotrophomonas pavanii). Overall, the results suggest that F. graminearum alters the TSM in a distance-dependent manner. Many isolates matched taxa that were previously identified using V4-MiSeq (core and F. graminearum-induced), but long-read sequencing clarified the taxonomy and uncovered greater diversity than was initially predicted (e.g., within Pantoea). These isolates represent the first comprehensive cultured collection from pathogen-treated maize silks to facilitate biocontrol efforts and microbial marker-assisted breeding.
A Symmetric Parity–Time Coupled Optoelectronic Oscillator Using a Polarization–Dependent Spatial Structure
Authors: Zhang Fengling , Lin Xiaodong , Wu Zhengmao , Xia Guangqiong
Published: November 2023

We propose and experimentally investigate a symmetric parity-time (PT) coupled optoelectronic oscillator (COEO) based on a polarization-dependent spatial structure. In such a COEO system, the gain/loss and coupling coefficients of two orthogonal polarization optical waves can be controlled by adjusting the polarization controller (PC) and the bias voltage of a Mach-Zehnder modulator (MZM). The single-mode selection of a microwave signal can be implemented by the PT symmetry breaking of a special mode. The performance of the proposed COEO is experimentally examined, and a 10.0 GHz microwave signal with a phase noise of −109.1 dBc/Hz @ 10 kHz and a side mode suppression ratio of 51.4 dB is generated. Moreover, an optical frequency comb with a comb tooth spacing of 10.0 GHz and a bandwidth of 100 GHz within a 10 dB amplitude variation can be simultaneously generated.
Main Habitat Factors Driving the Phenotypic Diversity of Litsea cubeba in China
Authors: Liao Guoxiang , Ning Xiaodan , Yang Yuling , Wang Zongde , Fan Guorong , Wang Xuefang , Fu Dan , Liu Juan , Tang Ming , Chen Shangxing , Wang Jiawei
Published: November 2023

Litsea cubeba (Lour.) Pers. is an important woody spice tree in southern China, and its fruit is a rich source of valuable essential oil. We surveyed and sampled L. cubeba germplasm resources from 36 provenances in nine Chinese provinces, and detected rich phenotypic diversity. The survey results showed that plants of SC-KJ, SC-HJ, and SC-LS provenance presented higher leaf area (LA); YN-SM and YN-XC plants had larger thousand-grain fresh weight (TFW); and HN-DX plants had the highest essential oil content (EOC). To explain the large differences in the phenotypes of L. cubeba among different habitats, we used Pearson’s correlation analysis, multiple stepwise regression path analysis, and redundancy analysis to evaluate the phenotypic diversity of L. cubeba. It was found that compared to other traits, leaf and fruit traits had more significant geographical distributions, and that leaf phenotypes were correlated to fruit phenotypes. The results showed that elevation, latitude, longitude, total soil porosity (SP), soil bulk density (SBD), and average annual rainfall (AAR, mm) contributed significantly to the phenotypic diversity of L. cubeba. Geographical factors explained a higher percentage of variation in phenotypic diversity than did soil factors and climate factors. Plants of SC-KJ and HN-DX provenances could be important resources for domestication and breeding to develop new high-yielding varieties of this woody aromatic plant. This study describes significant phenotypic differences in L. cubeba related to adaptation to different environments, and provides a theoretical basis for the development of a breeding strategy and for optimizing L. cubeba cultivation.
Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, and Insecticidal Properties of Chemically Characterized Essential Oils Extracted from Mentha longifolia: In Vitro and In Silico Analysis
Authors: Tourabi Meryem , Nouioura Ghizlane , Touijer Hanane , Baghouz Asmae , El Ghouizi Asmae , Chebaibi Mohamed , Bakour Meryem , Ousaaid Driss , Almaary Khalid S. , Nafidi Hiba-Allah , Bourhia Mohammed , Farid Khallouki , Lyoussi Badiaa , Derwich Elhoussine
Published: November 2023

The present study aimed to explore the phytochemical profile, and evaluate the antioxidant, antimicrobial, and insecticidal properties, of Moroccan Mentha longifolia L. essential oil (ML-EO) using in vitro and in silico assays. Noteworthily, as chromatography (GC-MS/MS) revealed that ML-EO is majorly composed of piperitenone oxide (53.43%), caryophyllene (20.02%), and (−) germacrene D (16.53%). It possesses excellent antioxidant activity with an IC50 of 1.49 ± 0.00 for DPPH and 0.051 ± 0.06 μg/mL for ABTS. Moreover, the RP and TAC activities were 0.80 ± 0.01 μg/mL and 315.532 ± 0.00 mg EAA/g, respectively. ML-EO exhibited a potent antimicrobial effect, specifically against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It also exhibited strong antifungal ability, especially against Candida albicans. Regarding insecticidal activity, for ML-EO, a dose of 20 µL/mL produced a complete reduction in fecundity, fertility, and emergence of adult C. maculatus with mortality rates reaching 100%. In silico results showed that the antioxidant activity is mostly attributed to α-Cadinol, the antibacterial efficiency is attributed to piperitenone oxide, and antifungal capacity is related to cis-Muurola-4(15),5-diene and piperitenone oxide. Accordingly, ML-EO has high potential to be used as an alternative for preserving food and stored grain and protecting them against microbes and insect pests in the food and pharmaceutical sectors.
The Synthesis and Application of Novel, Star-Shaped Surfactants for the Destabilization of Water in Arabian Heavy Crude Oil Emulsions
Authors: Ezzat Abdelrahman O. , Al-Lohedan Hamad A. , Albarqan Mohammed Yousef , Toraba Meshary Abdullah , Faqihi Noorah A.
Published: November 2023

Water in heavy crude oil (W/O) emulsions, which are stubborn mixtures of immiscible heavy crude oil and brine, are a ubiquitous challenge in the petroleum industry. They cause serious corrosion problems, increase the viscosity of petroleum and make the production cost very high. This phenomenon appears during the production of crude oil and should be treated to maximize the overall profitability of oil production and meet transportation requirement. Surfactants are some of the most useful demulsifiers and play a pivotal role in breaking brine/oil emulsions. Herein, we aimed to combine ethyleneamine units and ethyleneoxide units to prepare star-shaped surfactants and test the effect of this combination on the demulsification performance. First, diethylenetriamine reacted with glycidyl 4-nonyl ether (GNE) through an epoxy ring opening to prepare trinonyl phenoxy diethylenetriamine (TNDT). Then, ethylene oxide units were introduced via the interaction of hydroxyl groups with 2-(2-chloroethoxy)ethanol to form ethoxylated trinonyl phenoxy diethylenetriamine (ETNDT). The chemical structures of the surfactants were verified via FTIR and NMR characteristic techniques. The surfactants were applied as demulsifiers for W/O emulsions. It was found that the introduction of the ethyleneoxide units enhanced the solubility of the water and the demulsification performance of the prepared surfactants. The demulsification efficiency was enhanced via ethoxylation and reached 100% for ETNDT for most of the W/O emulsions.
Biogas Upgradation by CO2 Sequestration and Simultaneous Production of Acetic Acid by Novel Isolated Bacteria
Authors: Upadhyay Apoorva , Chawade Aakash , Ikram Mohd Mohsin , Saharan Virendra Kumar , Pareek Nidhi , Vivekanand Vivekanand
Published: November 2023

Anaerobic digestion produces biogas, which is a proven bioprocess for generating energy, recovering nutrients, and reusing waste materials. Generally, the biogas generated contains methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) in a 3:2 ratio, which limits the usage of the biogas to only cooking gas. To further enhance the application of biogas to vehicular fuel and natural gas grids, CO2 must be removed for an enhanced calorific value. This study seeks to lower greenhouse gas emissions by sequestering carbon dioxide from biogas. CO2 sequestration by microorganisms to upgrade the biogas and simultaneously convert the CO2 into acetic acid is a less explored area of research. Therefore, this research focuses mainly on the analysis of CO2 consumption % and acetic acid yield by novel isolated bacteria from fruit waste and mixed consortia obtained from cow dung and digested samples. The research finding states that there was a 32% increase in methane yield shown by isolated strain A1, i.e., CH4% was increased from 60% to 90%, whereas only an 11% increase was shown by consortia, which was an increase from 60% to 80%. The highest biogas upgradation was shown by the A1 strain at 30 °C incubation temperature and pH 8. The A1 strain demonstrated the highest recorded yield of acetic acid, reaching a concentration of 2215 mg/L at pH 8. A pH range of 7–8 was found to be the best-suited pH, and a mesophilic temperature was optimum for CO2 consumption and acetic acid production. The major objective is to create an effective method for improving biogas so that it is acceptable for different energy applications by lowering the carbon dioxide content and raising the methane content. This development signifies a significant advancement in the enhancement of biogas upgradation, as well as the concurrent generation of value-added goods, thereby establishing a sustainable platform technology.
Chemical Looping Strategy in Various Types of Carbon Capture Technologies
Authors: Narindri Rara Winayu Birgitta , Tseng Ting-Ke , Chu Hsin
Published: November 2023

Considering the worsening of global warming, development of efficient strategies in carbon capture process is essential. The chemical looping process (CLP) is considered a promising method applicable in various carbon capture strategies. In pre-, post-, or oxy-fuel combustion strategies, the efficiency of CLP has been explored and tested. This review discusses the applied CLP in each type of carbon capture strategy. Chemical looping gasification and reforming are categorized in the pre-combustion system. On the other hand, the popularity of calcium looping and amine looping are recognized as post-combustion strategies. Additionally, numerous oxygen carrier materials have been determined to reach high efficiency in oxy-fuel combustion. The review of the characters and the principle of the method was complemented by justification for real-scale application. Nonetheless, the popularity of CLP’s real implementation as a carbon capture strategy was still limited by several factors, including required cost for the facilities and energy demand. Thus, analysis on the prospect of CLP utilization was also included in this study.