bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Significance of the Terminal Location of Prion-Forming Regions of Yeast Proteins
Authors: Galliamov Arthur A. , Urakov Valery N. , Dergalev Alexander A. , Kushnirov Vitaly V.
Published: February 2025

The prion-forming regions (PFRs) of yeast prion proteins are usually located at either the N- or C-terminus of a protein. In the Sup35 prion, the main prion structure contains 71 N-terminal residues. Here, we investigated the importance of the terminal PFR location for prion properties. Two prionogenic sequences of 29 and 30 residues and two random sequences of 23 and 15 residues were added to the Sup35 N-terminus, making the original PFR internal. These proteins were overproduced in yeast with two variants of the Sup35 prion. Mapping of the prion-like structures of these proteins by partial proteinase K digestion showed that in most cases, the extensions acquired an amyloid fold, and, strikingly, the prion structure was no longer present or was substantially altered at its original location. The addition of two to five residues to the Sup35 N-terminus often resulted in prion instability and loss when the respective genes were used to replace chromosomal SUP35. The structures of yeast prions Mot3, Swi1, Lsb2, candidate prions Asm4, Nsp1, Cbk1, Cpp1, and prions based on scrambled Sup35 PFRs were mapped. The mapping showed that the N-terminal location of a QN-rich sequence predisposes to, but does not guarantee, the formation of a prion structure by it and that the prion structure located near a terminus does not always include the actual terminus, as in the cases of Sup35 and Rnq1.
Influence of Prosthesis Position on Pacing Burden and Long-Term Survival in TAVI Patients with New Pacemaker
Authors: Schmitt Ramona , Salz-Sculean Yannick , Kaier Klaus , von zur Mühlen Constantin , Brado Johannes , Hein Manuel , Soschynski Martin , Schlett Christopher L. , Neumann Franz-Josef , Westermann Dirk , Ruile Philipp , Breitbart Philipp
Published: February 2025

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of three-dimensional transcatheter heart valve (THV) position on mid-term pacing burdens and to examine the effect of stimulation rates on survival after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Methods: In patients receiving a new PPM before discharge after TAVI, we analyzed the final three-dimensional THV position in 107 patients (78 with Sapien S3 THV and 29 with Evolut R THV) using fusion imaging from pre- and post-TAVI computed tomography angiography. The PPM stimulation rates were examined pre-discharge and after 3 months. Patient survival was tracked over a period of 5 years. Results: A high pacing burden (stimulation rate of >20%) was observed in 69% of patients before discharge and in 67% after three months. One-third of the patients with an initial low pacing burden developed a high pacing burden after 3 months. The implantation depth did not differ between patients with or without a high pacing burden at discharge (p = 0.550) or after 3 months (p = 0.901). The three-dimensional THV position showed no influence on the pacing burden pre-discharge (p = 0.550) and after 3 months (0.901). There were no significant differences in survival, regardless of the pacing burden pre-discharge and after 3 months (log-rank p = 0.676). Conclusions: Three-dimensional THV position did not predict a high pacing burden after TAVI. Pacing burden was not associated with survival. One-third of patients experienced an increase to a high pacing burden within 3 months, suggesting potential long-term conduction system damage after TAVI.
Robot-Assisted Urachal Excision and Partial Cystectomy for Urachal Pathologies: Systematic Review with Insights from Single-Center Experience
Authors: Drobot Rafał B. , Stawarz Grzegorz , Lipa Marcin , Antoniewicz Artur A.
Published: February 2025

Background: Urachal pathologies, while rare, carry a risk of malignant transformation. Robot-assisted urachal excision and partial cystectomy (RAUEPC) is a minimally invasive technique that offers potential advantages, but the available evidence remains limited. This study aims to evaluate the outcomes of RAUEPC for benign and malignant urachal pathologies through a systematic review and single-center experience. Methods: A systematic review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, and ScienceDirect (last search: 1 November 2024). Inclusion criteria encompassed studies reporting on RAUEPC for urachal pathologies, while non-robotic approaches and incomplete data were excluded. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for cohort studies and the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Case Reports. Descriptive statistics summarized continuous data (means, medians, 95% confidence intervals), and chi-square tests analyzed associations between categorical variables. Heterogeneity analysis was infeasible, necessitating narrative synthesis. Institutional retrospective data from three cases (2021–2024) were included for comparison. This study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024597785). No external funding was received. Results: A total of 44 studies (n = 145) met the inclusion criteria. Benign lesions accounted for 66.2% and malignant lesions for 33.8%. Mean operative time was 177.8 min (cumulative), 162.7 min (benign), 192.2 min (malignant), 85.33 min (institutional, 95% CI: 74.13–96.53). Mean blood loss was 85.4 mL (cumulative), 99.5 mL (benign), 72.7 mL (malignant), 216.66 mL (institutional). Mean hospital stay was 3.64 days (cumulative), 3.26 days (benign), 4.36 days (malignant), 6.33 days (institutional, 95% CI: 3.46–9.20). Complications occurred in 10.04% (cumulative), 11.82% (benign), 8.57% (malignant), with one minor event (Clavien–Dindo II) in institutional cases. No conversions to open surgery were reported. All cases achieved complete excision with no R1 resections. No recurrences were observed at 10.66-month (institutional) mean follow-up. Conclusions: RAUEPC appears to be a feasible and safe approach with promising short-term outcomes. The associations between symptoms and diagnostic methods highlight its utility. The limitations of the evidence include small sample sizes and retrospective designs. Further prospective studies are needed to validate these findings.
Energy Absorption Mechanisms of Riveted and Assembled Double-Trapezoidal Auxetic Honeycomb Core Structures Under Quasi-Static Loading
Authors: Tian Zhenhua , Shi Shaoqing , Liao Yu , Wang Wenkang , Zhang Lei , Xiao Yingjie
Published: February 2025

Auxetic honeycomb structures, known for their exceptional mechanical properties, are widely used as sacrificial layers to protect critical targets from extreme explosive loads. However, conventional double arrowhead auxetic honeycomb-core structures (DA-AHSs) encounter significant interfacial connectivity challenges, and scaling auxetic honeycombs with alternative cellular microstructures introduces further complexity. To overcome these issues, riveted and assembled double-trapezoidal auxetic honeycomb-core structures (DT-AHSs) were developed as a replacement for DA-AHSs. The deformation modes and energy absorption mechanisms of DT-AHSs were analyzed through theoretical methods and quasi-static testing. The results show that DT-AHSs energy absorption primarily relies on the yield deformation of the longer inclined walls and rotational deformation of the shorter inclined walls. Additionally, the shorter walls support auxetic behavior by stabilizing the deformation of the longer walls. These findings provide a basis for further exploration of the protective potential of DT-AHSs.
Combined Motion Compensation Method for Long Synthetic Aperture Radar Based on Subaperture Processing
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Huang Limin , Xu Zhichao , Wang Zihao , Chen Biao
Published: February 2025

Long synthetic aperture radar (SAR) offers the advantage of achieving higher resolution by utilizing longer synthetic aperture times, which makes it a promising technology for ocean observation in the future. However, compared to SAR systems with shorter synthetic aperture times, it suffers more severely from issues such as image defocusing, blurring and artifacts during the observation of maritime targets, due to motion errors. To improve the quality of SAR imaging against motion errors in long synthetic aperture time scenarios, this paper proposes a combined motion compensation (MOCO) method based on subaperture processing. The method first divides the full aperture data into several subapertures. Within each subaperture, the platform is assumed to move at approximately constant velocity. The major imaging step is then combined with two motion compensation operations, which are performed individually within each subaperture. Then, the processed subaperture data are stitched together, and finally, the residual errors are compensated by the third MOCO, resulting in the final image. By simulating maritime observation targets with point targets, simulation results demonstrate that the proposed MOCO algorithm effectively reduce the influence of motion errors, suppress the sidelobe interference to the imaging, and improve the focusing accuracy. Compared with other classical MOCO algorithms, the ISLR_r and ISLR_a metrics show improvements of 0.2662 and 0.8170 dB, respectively. Further verification of the proposed method is conducted by processing the imaging results of measured sea surface data. The proposed algorithm produces clearer wave textures and achieves better imaging performance on targets such as ships in the sea. This result validates the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed method. The proposed method effectively addresses the need for high-precision motion error compensation in high-resolution imaging within long synthetic aperture time system.
Landscape–Ecological Problems Resulting from Spatial Conflicts of Interest in the Poľana Biosphere Reserve
Authors: Izakovičová Zita , Melicher Jakub , Špulerová Jana , Dobrovodská Marta , Piscová Veronika
Published: February 2025

This paper is focused on presenting a methodological procedure for assessing landscape–ecological problems resulting from conflicts of interest and its application in the Poľana Biosphere Reserve. The approach is grounded in the concept of the landscape as a geosystem. It examines natural and socio-economic phenomena, classifying them as either threatened or threatening. By intersecting these phenomena, spatial delineation of the conflicts of interest has been achieved. Within the Poľana Biosphere Reserve, three groups of problems resulting from spatial conflicts of interest were identified: threats to biodiversity and ecological stability; threats to natural resources; and threats to the environment of human society. A total of 121 specific threats were identified in the area. This approach is applicable to other biosphere reserves for identifying areas with conflicts of interest as the identification of spatial conflicts is crucial for the effective and targeted design of measures aimed at their mitigation or elimination, aligning with the overarching objective of biosphere reserves—sustainable development. An indispensable condition is to bridge the sectoral approach in landscape management and ensure effective communication and cooperation between individual stakeholder groups in the territory.
Effectiveness of Inspiratory Muscle Training in Individuals with Chronic Venous Disease: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Görünmezoğlu Cemre , Çinar Özdemir Özlem , Barğı Gülşah , Karabay Dündar Özalp
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to investigate the effects of 6-week inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on pain, pulmonary functions, respiratory muscle strength, lower extremity functionality, exercise capacity and quality of life (QoL) in individuals with chronic venous disease (CVD). Individuals were randomly assigned to training (TG) (n = 15, 45.53 ± 8.64 years) and control (CG) (n = 15, 47 ± 9.30 years) groups. While individuals in the TG performed IMT (30 min/everyday), individuals in the CG performed thoracic expansion exercises (TEEs) (10 respiratory cycles/set, four sets/day). Pain, pulmonary function and respiratory muscle strength tests, lower body strength and functional mobility, submaximal exercise capacity and QoL were assessed in all individuals. After 6 weeks, FEV1/FVC, PEF, FEF25–75% and MIP significantly increased in the TG compared to the CG (p < 0.05). Within the TG, FEV1, PEF, FEF25–75%, MIP, sit-to-stand number and 6-MWT distance significantly increased while resting pain, activity pain and QoL scores significantly decreased after 6 weeks (p < 0.05). Within the CG, FVC and sit-to-stand number significantly increased while activity pain and QoL scores decreased after 6 weeks (p < 0.05). Inspiratory muscle strength and pulmonary functions improved following IMT compared to TEE in individuals with CVD. As pulmonary functions, pain, lower extremity functionality and QoL may improve via IMT or TEE in individuals with CVD, submaximal capacity may improve following IMT.
The Role of the Subcostal Transversus Abdominis Plane Block in Facilitating Operating Room Extubation After Living Donor Liver Transplantation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Propensity Score-Matching Analysis
Authors: Huh Jaewon , Chae Min Suk
Published: February 2025

Background: Effective pain management is essential to early extubation and recovery in living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). The subcostal transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block has emerged as a potential strategy to address postoperative pain while reducing opioid consumption. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the TAP block in facilitating early extubation in the OR and examined its impact on re-intubation rates, postoperative fentanyl requirements, and pain intensity upon ICU admission to determine its role in perioperative pain management. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included adult patients who underwent LDLT for hepatocellular carcinoma within the Milan criteria. Propensity score matching was performed to compare outcomes between patients who received the subcostal TAP block and those who did not. The primary outcome was the rate of successful extubation in the operating room (OR). Secondary outcomes included re-intubation rates, postoperative fentanyl requirements, and peak numeric rating scale (NRS) pain scores upon ICU admission. Results: The subcostal TAP block was associated with a significantly higher rate of successful OR extubation compared with no TAP block. Multivariable analysis revealed that the TAP block independently increased the likelihood of successful extubation. Patients receiving the TAP block required less fentanyl for pain management and demonstrated lower peak NRS pain scores upon ICU admission. No complications related to the TAP block were observed, underscoring its safety in this high-risk population. Conclusions: The subcostal TAP block facilitates early OR extubation by effectively managing postoperative pain and reducing opioid requirements, promoting smoother recovery without increasing adverse events. These findings support its inclusion in multimodal analgesia protocols for optimizing perioperative outcomes in LDLT patients.
Sperm Separation and Selection Techniques to Mitigate Sperm DNA Damage
Authors: Fleming Steven , Morroll David , Nijs Martine
Published: February 2025

Semen preparation and sperm selection techniques exploit the morphological and physiological characteristics of sperm function, including motility, morphology, density, and maturity, as reflected by their cell-surface charge and the expression of hyaluronan receptors. The various methods employed have a common purpose of mimicing sperm selection within the female reproductive tract and, thereby, increasing the likelihood that oocytes will be fertilised by spermatozoa with intact nuclear DNA and a normal genome. Indeed, the paternal genome is relevant to embryonic genome activation and blastocyst development, and has a fundamental impact upon successful implantation, ongoing pregnancy and live birth. The clinical use of both well-established and some more recently developed techniques is discussed in this comparative clinical review of sperm separation from seminal plasma and selection for insemination.
Changes in Shoulder Girdle Muscle Activity and Ratio During Pilates-Based Exercises
Authors: Seo Seong-Ik , Jung Eui-Young , Mun Woo-Lim , Roh Su-Yeon
Published: February 2025

Among the Pilates-based exercises, the modified side-arm (MSA) and modified high-five (MHF) are commonly used for shoulder strengthening and rehabilitation. This study examined shoulder girdle muscle activity and ratios across different spring intensities. Twenty-two healthy males performed the MSA and MHF using yellow (low), blue (medium), and red (high) springs. Surface electromyography (EMG) was used to measure serratus anterior (SA), lower trapezius (LT), levator scapulae (LS), upper trapezius (UT), and middle deltoid (MD) muscle activity, along with LS/SA, LS/LT, and UT/LT ratios during concentric, isometric, and eccentric phases. Muscle activities were generally higher in the MHF than in the MSA with the same spring. Both exercises demonstrated a proportional increase in activity with spring intensity, though the activity of the SA and LT in the MHF plateaued. MHF ratios were significantly higher with the red spring. These findings indicate that the MHF stimulates shoulder girdle muscles more than the MSA, and that the MSA can further stimulate shoulder girdle muscles by increasing spring intensity. Additionally, optimal spring intensity exists in the MHF for targeting shoulder stabilization muscles. However, excessive spring intensity during the MHF may lead to abnormal compensation, emphasizing the need for careful spring intensity progression.
Formation Mechanism and Influencing Factors of Micro-Nano Dual-Size NiPd Alloy with a Flake-like Microstructure
Authors: Zhao Hui , Xiao Wuyun , Liu Dahai , Zhao Wei , Zhou Kang , Hou Linghui , Ma Xinhua , Liang Yanxia
Published: February 2025

The large-scale and engineering preparation of NiPd powder with an excellent structure is crucial for promoting the development of catalytic applications and the utilization of hydrogen energy. In this study, micro-nano dual-size NiPd alloy with a flake-like microstructure was synthesized using a simple and efficient high-energy ball milling method. Micro-structural analysis was performed on samples at various stages of ball milling to investigate the atomic migration and refinement mechanisms during the process. The microstructure and elemental distribution at different stages of particle refinement were examined, and the particle size distribution of NiPd alloy at varying ball milling times was statistically analyzed. The NiPd alloy produced using this method exhibits two distinct structural features: a flake-like polycrystalline structure and a dual-size nanocrystalline structure. A flake-like polycrystalline powder was achieved using relatively short ball milling durations and characterized by a polygonal two-dimensional structure with a single particle aspect ratio of 24. After 60 h of ball milling, the NiPd alloy developed a dual-size nanocrystalline structure. Under a high ball-to-powder ratio, the average particle size of the alloy decreased to 3.6 μm, more than tenfold smaller than the initial size. The alloy particles transformed from their original elemental metals into alloy phases, with nanoscale alloy particles (approximately 158 nm) adhering to micrometer-sized alloy particles. Additionally, the influence of the ball-to-powder ratio on the refinement process and outcomes was investigated, indicating that a higher ball-to-powder ratio can effectively improve preparation efficiency by accelerating the ball milling process and reducing the final particle size of the NiPd alloy at each milling stage.
Giant Seebeck Effect in a PEDOT Material Coated on a Felt Fiber
Authors: Arimatsu Hideki , Osada Yuki , Takagi Ryo , Fujima Takuya
Published: February 2025

Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) has been extensively investigated not only as a conductive polymer but also as a promising thermoelectric material. Numerous efforts have been undertaken to enhance the thermoelectric performance, particularly because improving the Seebeck coefficient is crucial for practical applications. In this study, we explored the thermoelectric property modification of PEDOT using a low-molecular carrier dopant and a fibrous substrate. PEDOT was coated on a felt texture with p-toluenesulfonic acid (PTSA) as the carrier dopant. The thermoelectric properties, including the Seebeck coefficient and electric conductivity, were measured. Raman spectroscopy was used to characterize the molecular strain of the PEDOT. The PEDOT sample coated on a felt texture with PTSA exhibited a wide range of Seebeck coefficients (−2100 to 3100 μV K−1). An estimation suggested the power factor reached 2400 µW m−1 K−2 for the p-type and 1100 µW m−1 K−2 for the n-type at the maxima. Raman spectroscopy showed a strong correlation between the strain in the Cβ-Cβ bond of the PEDOT molecule and its Seebeck coefficient.
The Design and Research of a Cup Body Weld Seam Polishing Positioning System Based on Machine Vision
Authors: Qiu Yanqing , Zhao Zhinan , Lang Tingting , Liu Wei
Published: February 2025

A machine vision-based weld seam positioning system for thermos cups is proposed. The system’s operational flow and image algorithms are designed to achieve automatic calibration of the weld seam orientation. Experimental results show a qualification rate of 97.8%, demonstrating robust performance across various cup models. The average positioning error is 45 pixels, with a maximum error of 153 pixels, corresponding to angular deviations of 0.68° and 2.30°, respectively. The average processing time of a single algorithm run is 128 ms, ensuring efficient operation in non-high-speed production scenarios. The results of this study have good application value and also provide some insights for the position calibration of other rotational objects.
A Design of a Small-Aperture Low-Profile Omnidirectional Conformal Antenna
Authors: Bai Jieying , Li Xi , Zhang Ziyu , Wu Junjun , Yang Lin
Published: February 2025

In this article, a small-aperture, low-profile, and omnidirectional conformal antenna is proposed which can be utilized on space-limited equipment platforms such as airplanes, ships, and vehicles. The antenna consists of an open metal cavity, a discone antenna, a parasitic structure, and a radome. The small aperture and low-profile design of the metal cavity result in a rapid narrowing of the bandwidth of the discone antenna. Therefore, we introduce a parasitic structure that not only enlarges the impedance bandwidth by adding a resonant point, but can also be used to adjust the unroundness of the horizontal pattern. Meanwhile, the conformal design of the antenna with four surfaces of different curvatures is presented. The simulation and testing results demonstrate that the antenna can achieve a VSWR of less than 2 within a bandwidth of 1.95–2.62 GHz (29.3%), with a minimum aperture of 0.43 omnidirectional radiation pattern, with a gain exceeding −2.2 dBi in the azimuthal plane. This antenna offers the advantages of a small aperture, low profile, and conformal capability. Furthermore, the resonances of high and low frequencies can be adjusted through two different structures, enhancing the flexibility of antenna design.
Effect of Different Crushing Methods on Chalcopyrite Liberation and Heavy Media Preconcentration
Authors: Xu Jian , Wang Hailiang , Gao Chunqing , Zhang Lin , Yang Hanxu , Sai Mingyu , Hu Jun , Huang Qiuju , Luo Hongzhen
Published: February 2025

In order to find a short, economically feasible process for chalcopyrite preconcentration and to provide a reference for the preconcentration of similar copper sulfide ores, the particle size characteristics of the crushed products from a high-pressure grinding roller (HPGR) and jaw crusher (JC) were analyzed, as well as the liberation degree and fracture characteristics of the chalcopyrite. The float–sink test (FST) was carried out on the crushed products, and the effects of the two crushing methods on the FSTs of the crushed products were compared. The research results show that at the same crushing fineness, the chalcopyrite liberation in HPGR products can be enhanced by 14%~18% compared with the JC. The single-particle crushing of the JC tends to produce intergranular fracturing of chalcopyrite, while the lamination crushing of the HPGR produces more transgranular fracturing of chalcopyrite; the chalcopyrite in the −5 + 0.5 mm size fraction mainly produces intergranular fracturing, and the chalcopyrite in the −0.5 mm size fraction mainly produces transgranular fracturing. The FST results show that heavy media preconcentration was suitable for chalcopyrite, and, in the optimal conditions of a size fraction of −3 + 0.5 mm and separation density of 2.55 g/cm3, the grade and distribution rate of Cu in the sinks obtained by HPGR-FST were 0.35% and 89.86%, respectively, and the floats yield was 24.76%, with a better enrichment of sinks and higher floats yields, which was better when compared with that of the JC-FST.
The Effects of Indirect and Direct Modulation of Endocannabinoid System Function on Anxiety-Related Behavior in Mice Assessed in the Elevated Plus Maze Test
Authors: Kruk-Slomka Marta , Dzik Agnieszka , Biala Grazyna
Published: February 2025

Background: The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is one of the most important systems modulating functions in the body. The ECS, via cannabinoid (CB: CB1 and CB2) receptors, endocannabinoids occurring in the brain (e.g., anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG)) and enzymes degrading endocannabinoids in the brain (fatty-acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL)), plays a key role in the regulation of mood and anxiety. However, the effects of cannabinoid compounds on anxiety-related responses are complex and yield mixed results depending on the type of pharmacological manipulation (direct or indirect) of functions of the ECS, as well as the kinds of cannabinoids, dosage and procedure. Methods: The aim of this study was to determine and compare the influence of the direct (via CB receptors ligands) and indirect (via inhibition of enzymes degrading endocannabinoids in the brain) pharmacological modulation of ECS function on anxiety-like responses in mice in the elevated plus maze (EPM) test. For this purpose, in the first step of the experiments, we used selected ligands of CB1, CB1/CB2 and CB2 receptors to assess which types of CB receptors are involved in anxiety-related responses in mice. Next, we used inhibitors of FAAH (which breaks down AEA) or MAGL (which breaks down 2-AG) to assess which endocannabinoid is more responsible for anxiety-related behavior in mice. Results: The results of our presented research showed that an acute administration of CB1 receptor agonist oleamide (5–20 mg/kg) had no influence on anxiety-related responses and CB1 receptor antagonist AM 251 (0.25–3 mg/kg) had anxiogenic effects in the EPM test in mice. In turn, an acute administration of mixed CB1/CB2 receptor agonist WIN55,212-2 used at a dose of 1 mg/kg had an anxiolytic effect observed in mice in the EPM test. What is of interest is that both the acute administration of a CB2 receptor agonist (JWH 133 at the doses of 1 and 2 mg/kg) and antagonist (AM 630 at the doses of 0.5–2 mg/kg) had anxiogenic effects in this procedure. Moreover, we revealed that an acute administration of only FAAH inhibitor URB 597 (0.3 mg/kg) had an anxiolytic effect, while MAGL inhibitor JZL 184 (at any used doses (2–40 mg/kg)) after an acute injection had no influence on anxiety behavior in mice, as observed in the EPM test. Conclusions: In our experiments, we confirmed the clearly significant involvement of the ECS in anxiety-related responses. In particular, the pharmacological indirect manipulation of ECS functions is able to elicit promising anxiolytic effects. Therefore, the ECS could be a potential target for novel anxiolytic drugs; however, further studies are needed.
Biocompatible Black Phosphorus Nanosheets-Antimicrobial Peptide Nanocomposites for Enhanced Anti-Infection Therapy
Authors: Liu Shuo , Shi Zhishang , Teng Lin , Nie Junlian , Zhang Libing
Published: February 2025

Bacterial infections are one of the major problems affecting human health, which is exacerbated by increasing antibiotic resistance. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are an ideal alternative to antibiotics, but their instability and toxicity to mammalian cells need to be addressed. Here, black phosphorus nanosheets (BPs) were successfully decorated with melittin (Mel), a kind of AMP, through electrostatic interaction. The size impacts of BPs on the antibacterial ability and biocompatibility of BPs/Mel nanocomposites were studied systematically. Results showed that the nanocomposites made from middle-sized BPs (BPs/Mel-7) have strong antibacterial ability as well as good biocompatibility. Moreover, BPs/Mel-7 could accelerate skin wound healing infected by Staphylococcus aureus. This study provides a facile strategy to expand the application of AMPs.
Synthesis of Lignocellulose-Based Poly(Butylene 3-Propyladipate-Co-Furanoate): Replacing Adipate
Authors: Hu Ruijia , Li Weihao , Zhou Xi , Yi Shunmin , Zheng Xingfu , Mo Qiufeng , Liu Wanyu
Published: February 2025

A novel lignocellulose-based poly(butylene 3-propyladipate-co-furanoate) (PBApF) was synthesized from lignocellulose-derived 3-propyladipic acid (3PAA), 1,4-butanediol (BDO), and 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA). The copolyesters were characterized by 1H NMR, GPC, DSC, TGA, XRD, DMA, rotational rheology, tensile tests, and enzymatic degradation tests. They were random copolymers whose composition was well controlled, and the number-average sequence lengths of the copolyesters were around 1.35–4.33. By combining the results of tensile tests and DMA, the elongation at break of PBApF45 (1865%) had a much greater value than that of PBAF45 (1250%), i.e., the branching incorporated into the linear polymer increased the melt strength and conferred tension-hardening properties, which helped to enhance the elongation of the polymer. In addition, the influences of 3PAA content on enzymatic degradation were studied in terms of weight loss; when the content of 3PAA was 55 mol%, the copolyesters exhibited good biodegradability. Thus, depending on their composition, PBApFS might find end applications as biodegradable elastomers or impact modifiers for other polymers.
Beef Traceability Between China and Argentina Based on Various Machine Learning Models
Authors: Xiang Xiaomeng , Zhao Chaomin , Zhang Runhe , Zeng Jing , Wang Liangzi , Zhang Shuran , Cristos Diego , Liu Bing , Xu Siyan , Yi Xionghai
Published: February 2025

Beef, as a nutrient-rich food, is widely favored by consumers. The production region significantly influences the nutritional value and quality of beef. However, current methods for tracing the origin of beef are still under development, necessitating effective approaches to ensure food safety and meet consumer demand for high-quality beef. This study aims to establish a classification model for beef origin prediction by analyzing elemental content and stable isotopes in beef samples from two countries. The concentrations of elements in beef were analyzed using ICP-MS and ICP-OES, while the stable carbon isotope ratio was determined using EA-IRMS. Machine learning algorithms were employed to construct classification prediction models. A total of 83 beef samples were analyzed for the concentrations of 52 elements and the stable carbon isotope ratio. The classification accuracy of the PLS-DA model built on these results was 98.8%, while the prediction accuracy was 94.12% for the convolutional neural network (CNN) and 82.35% for the Random Forest algorithm. The PLS-DA model demonstrated higher classification accuracy compared to CNN and Random Forest, with an explanatory power (R2) of 0.924 and predictive ability (Q2) of 0.787. Combining the analysis of 52 elements and the stable carbon isotope ratio with machine learning algorithms enables effective tracing and origin prediction of beef from different regions. Key factors influencing beef origin were identified as Fe, Cs, As, δ13C, Co, V, Sc, Rb, and Ru.
Rheological Behavior, Textural Properties, and Antioxidant Activity of Porphyra yezoensis Polysaccharide
Authors: Ji Chenyang , Long Xiaoshan , Wang Jingjie , Qi Bo , Cao Yang , Hu Xiao
Published: February 2025

Porphyra yezoensis has attracted much attention due to its gelling properties and bioactivity. In this study, the chemical structure of Porphyra yezoensis polysaccharides (PYPSs) was characterized, and the effects of concentration, temperature, pH, and calcium ion (Ca2+) addition on the rheological properties of PYPS were systematically investigated. Chemical composition analysis indicated that PYPS primarily contained galactose (89.76%) and sulfate (15.57%). Rheological tests demonstrated that PYPS exhibited typical pseudoplastic properties, with apparent viscosity increasing with an increasing concentration. Temperature elevation from 30 °C to 90 °C weakened the intermolecular forces and reduced the apparent viscosity, whereas neutral pH (7.0) provided an optimal electrostatic equilibrium to maintain the highest viscosity. Ca2+ could modulate the interactions between PYPS molecules and affect the formation of the gel network structure. When the Ca2+ concentration reached the optimal value of 6 mM, the calcium bridges formed between Ca2+ and PYPS molecules not only enhanced the rheological behavior and textural properties but also formed a smooth and well-ordered network structure, achieving the highest value of fractal dimension (Df = 2.9600), though excessive Ca2+ disrupted this well-ordered structure. Furthermore, PYPS possessed significant scavenging ability against DPPH, ABTS, and HO• radicals, demonstrating its potential application as a natural antioxidant in functional foods.
Influence of Electrolyte Composition on the Semiconductor–Electrolyte Interface (SEI) Built-In for Enhanced Photoelectrochemical (PEC) Processes
Authors: Leks Bartłomiej , Parzuch Aleksandra , Nawaz Nabila , Widera-Kalinowska Justyna , Bienkowski Krzysztof , Solarska Renata
Published: February 2025

The relentless consumption of fossil fuels and soaring CO2 emissions have plunged the world into an energy and environmental crisis. As society grapples with these challenges, the demand for clean, renewable, and sustainable energy solutions has never been more urgent. However, even though many efforts have been made in this field, there is still room for improvement concerning efficiency, material stability, and catalytic enhancement regarding kinetics and selectivity of photoelectrochemical (PEC) processes. Herein, we provide the experimental proof for the enhancement of the photocurrent efficiency by the critical focus on semiconductor–electrolyte interface (SEI) properties. By tailoring electrolyte composition, researchers can unlock significant improvements in catalytic efficiency and stability, paving the way for advanced PEC technologies. In this study, we investigate the influence of electrolyte composition on SEI properties and its impact on PEC performance. By employing electrolytes enriched with carbonates, borates, sulphates, and alkali cations, we demonstrate their profound role in optimising photoelectrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) efficiency. Central to this work is Cu2O—an affordable, highly promising photocatalyst. While its potential is undeniable, Cu2O’s inherent instability and diverse reduction products, ranging from CH3OH to CO, HCOOH, CH3COOH, and CH3CH2OH, have hindered its widespread adoption in PEC CO2 reduction (CO2RR). Our approach leverages a straightforward yet powerful electrodeposition method, enabling a deeper exploration of SEI dynamics during photocatalysis. Key parameters, such as carbonate concentration, local pH, alkali cation presence, anionic geometry, CO2 solubility, and electrolyte conductivity, are systematically investigated. The findings reveal the formation of a unique “rigid layer” at the photocatalyst surface, driven by specific cation–anion interactions. This rigid layer plays a pivotal role in boosting PEC performance, offering a new perspective on optimising, among other PEC processes, CO2RR catalytic efficiency. This profound study bridges a critical knowledge gap, shedding light on the dual influence of cations and anions on SEI properties and PEC CO2RR. By unravelling these intricate interactions, we provide a roadmap for designing next-generation PEC systems. These insights pave the way for sustainable energy advancements, inspiring innovative strategies to tackle one of the most pressing challenges of our time.
Influence of Mediterranean Diet and Incidence of Global Warming on Food Habits and Plant Growth in Northern Mediterranean Latitudes: Narrative Review
Authors: Latruffe Norbert , Lizard Gérard
Published: February 2025

Background: Climate change has consequences for farming, food diversity and availability, and diet habits. There is now evidence that the Mediterranean climate is rapidly spreading to the Northern European latitudes. Objective: This narrative review aims to identify relevant studies related to climate change that could favor the progression of the Mediterranean climate in the northern latitudes of Europe, mainly in France, and to predict what the consequences of these changes on the human diet could be, especially using the concept of the Mediterranean diet, with subsequent impacts on health, farming, and eating habits. Methods: This narrative review was realized by consulting the PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and Google Scholar databases. Results: The key points developed in this review are as follows: investigating the Mediterranean diet as a healthy diet, with evidence supporting health benefits and perspectives; similarities with other places in the world at the same Mediterranean latitudes; climate change and the resulting consequences on plant growth, farming, and food habits; and perspectives on the need for societal adaptations of populations towards agriculture, food, and cooking changes. As climate change facilitates the development of new farming practices with more or fewer environmental impacts, the growth of Mediterranean plants in the highest latitudes of Europe, such as olive trees, pomegranates, and almonds, has already begun for economic reasons. Future perspectives: In the near future, besides economic interests, climate change will favor the consumption of several products associated with the Mediterranean diet in the Northern European latitudes. In this context, producers and consumers play major roles.
Effects of the Combined Supplementation of Caffeine and Rhodiola Rosea with Resistance Training on Lower Limb Explosive Power in Male Volleyball Players
Authors: Wang Zhaolong , Du Haoyu , Li Huixin , Zhao Kai , Zhao Bingran , Ma Yifei , Zhang Jiashuo , Wu Kangshuo , Jiang Wei , Liu Chang
Published: February 2025

Background: This study investigated the effects of combined Rhodiola rosea (RHO) and caffeine (CAF) supplementation on lower limb explosive power and fatigue recovery in volleyball players, aiming to validate their potential synergistic effects. Methods: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design was implemented involving 48 male volleyball athletes allocated into four groups: placebo (CTR), Rhodiola rosea (RHO), caffeine (CAF), and combined (RHO + CAF). Over four weeks, participants engaged in twice-weekly high-intensity lower limb resistance training, with performance evaluated through multiple tests, including two-step-approach jump height, countermovement jump (CMJ), five-jump test (5 JT), continuous 20 vertical jumps, and intermittent jump recovery alongside Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) assessments. Results: Results showed that the combined supplementation (RHO + CAF) group exhibited significant improvement across multiple performance metrics. In particular, the combined group demonstrated the highest increases in jump height and the least power decline during high-frequency jumps, outperforming the CTR and other supplementation groups (p < 0.05). Additionally, RHO + CAF supplementation significantly lowered RPE scores, particularly in the final week of training, indicating improved perceived fatigue and recovery. Conclusions: This study suggests that combining RHO and CAF optimizes high-intensity performance by enhancing explosive power, reducing fatigue, and improving recovery, presenting an effective nutritional strategy for volleyball athletes.
An Assessment of the Dietary Habits of Individuals with Migraine Living in Spain: An Exploratory Observational Cross-Sectional Pilot Study
Authors: Esteves-Mesquita Vanessa , Fernández-Cardero Álvaro , Sarriá Beatriz , Martín-Cabrejas Izaskun
Published: February 2025

Background/objectives: Eating habits have been proposed as a potential therapeutic approach for migraines; nevertheless, scientific evidence to support firm recommendations is lacking. Specifically, dietary habits in migraineurs living in Spain have not been investigated. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate their dietary patterns and examine how these habits vary based on the frequency of migraine attacks or the degree of migraine-related disability. Methods: An exploratory, observational, cross-sectional pilot study was conducted on 260 individuals (18–64 years old) diagnosed with migraine in Spain. Data on diet, lifestyle, and migraine characteristics were collected with an online questionnaire consisting of a food frequency questionnaire and enquires about perceptions about diet, lifestyle, and different aspects related to migraines. Statistical differences were analyzed with the Kruskal–Wallis test, followed by Dunn’s post-hoc test, using JASP. Results: The consumption of plant-based foods was below the AESAN recommendations. No differences were observed in terms of food servings consumption across different migraine attack frequencies or levels of migraine-related disability. Both the chronic migraine group and the severe disability group showed differences in the consumption of some foods considered as migraine triggers (such as chocolate, cured cheese, cured meats, and alcoholic beverages). Moreover, people who suffered from infrequent migraine consumed significantly more caffeine than those who had chronic migraine. Conclusion: It remains unclear whether avoiding dietary migraine triggers is driven by the biological effects of certain food compounds or influenced by dietary perceptions and unfounded beliefs. Thus, further research on the role of diet in migraine management is necessary.
Hydration Assessment in Males and Females Using the WUT (Weight, Urine Color, and Thirst) Venn Diagram Compared to Blood and Urinary Indices
Authors: Keefe Marcos S. , Luk Hui-Ying , Rolloque Jan-Joseph , Jiwan Nigel C. , Sekiguchi Yasuki
Published: February 2025

Objectives: The WUT (weight, urine color, thirst) Venn diagram has been demonstrated as a practical tool for hydration assessment. However, no investigations have examined if there are sex differences in the accuracy of this method. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore potential sex differences in the accuracy of the WUT Venn diagram for hydration status determination. Methods: Twelve men (21 ± 2 years; 81.0 ± 15.9 kg) and twelve women (22 ± 3 years; 68.8 ± 15.2 kg) completed the study. Body mass, urine color, urine specific gravity (USG), urine osmolality (UOSM), thirst level, and plasma osmolality (POSM) were collected at first-morning and afternoon visits for three consecutive days in free-living and euhydrated states. The number of markers indicating dehydration levels were categorized into either 3, 2, 1, or 0 WUT markers. Receiver-operating characteristics analysis calculated the sensitivity and specificity of 1, 2, or 3 hydration markers in detecting dehydration or euhydration. Results: WUT2 and WUT3 resulted in high specificity values in comparison to USG (WUT2—male: 0.912, female: 0.949; WUT3—male: 0.991, female: 1.000), UOSM (WUT2—male: 0.901, female: 0.946; WUT3—male: 0.991, female: 1.000), and POSM (WUT2—male: 0.859, female: 0.896 WUT3; male: 0.977, female: 0.991). WUT1 resulted in high sensitivity values compared to USG (male: 0.931, female: 0.857), but varied between sexes for UOSM (male: 0.875, female: 0.794) and POSM (male: 0.469, female:0.536). Conclusions: The WUT Venn diagram accurately detects dehydration when two or three WUT markers are met in both males and females. The WUT Venn diagram accurately assesses hydration status in males and females, thus providing medical personnel and athlete support teams a cost-effective and time-efficient hydration testing tool.
ICARUS at the Short-Baseline Neutrino Program: First Results
Authors: Artero Pons Maria
Published: February 2025

The ICARUS collaboration employed the 760-ton T600 detector in a successful three-year physics run at the underground LNGS laboratory. In 2021, ICARUS started its new operation at Fermilab, collecting a substantial amount of neutrino events from the Booster Neutrino Beam (BNB) and the neutrinos at the Main Injector (NuMI) beam off-axis. These were used to test the ICARUS event selection, reconstruction, and analysis algorithms. ICARUS successfully completed its commissioning phase in June 2022, moving then to data taking for neutrino oscillation physics, aiming at first to either confirm or refute the claim by the Neutrino-4 short-baseline reactor experiment. ICARUS will also perform measurements of neutrino cross sections in LAr with the NuMI beam and several Beyond Standard Model studies. After the first year of operations, ICARUS will search for evidence of sterile neutrinos jointly with the Short-Baseline Near Detector, within the Short-Baseline Neutrino program. In this work, preliminary results from the ICARUS data with the BNB and NuMI beams are presented, both in terms of the performance of all ICARUS subsystems and the capability to select and reconstruct neutrino events.