bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Neuroprotective Potential of 6-O-(3-Hexadecyloxy-2-Hydroxypropyl)-Piperine-Nanoparticles in a Rat Model of Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Tripathi Amit , Kumar Gaurav , Ray Lipika , Mukherjee Sumedha , Mishra Sunil Kumar , PATNAIK RANJANA 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Piperine is an alkaloid found in black pepper (piper nigrum) responsible for pungent smelling, potential therapeutic benefits. It has several significant biological properties, such as bioavailability enhancer, therapeutic potential, low water solubility, pharmakinetic properties, cardiovascular benefits, and neuroprotective effects. In a rodent model of transient focal cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (TFCIRI), piperine has been demonstrated to have a protective effect on the brain.
Methods
The present study was designed to prepare 6-O-(3-hexadecyloxy-2-hydroxypropyl dextran (HDD)--Piperine-Nanoparticles (HDD-PIP-NPs), its physicochemical characterization and neuroprotective potential against TFCIRI. The piperine was encapsulated in self-assembled 6-O-(3-hexadecyloxy-2-hydroxypropyl)-dextran (HDD) nanoparticles (HDD-PIP-NPs). HDD-PIP-NPs were characterized for their drug loading, entrapment efficiency, particle size, surface morphology, and in-vitro drug release profile.
Results
Plasma pharmacokinetics (Cmax (4.71 ± 0.77), Tmax (60 min), t1/2 (449.19 ± 98.02), UAC1 − infinite (641.62 ± 54.01), and UAC1 − 360 (641.62 ± 54.01)) brain distribution profile of PIP in cerebrum, cerebellum and cortical region, and the neuroprotective potential of HDD-PIP-NPs have been characterised in rat model of TFCIRI. HDD-PIP-NPs (14, 28, and 56 mg/kg) was administered orally after 1h onset of TFCIRI. HDD-PIP-NPs chemical synthesis and its biochemical and biophysical characterization have been done. The percentage decreased infarction (~ 52.52%) of orally administered HDD-PIP-NPs (56 mg/kg) is ameliorated in rat model of TFCIRI. Physiological parameters such as CBF (~ 201.23), pCO2 (~ 38.55 mmHg), pO2 (~ 128.42 mmHg) and rectal temperature (~ 36.9ºC) was recorded the 56mg/kg oral treatment. Neurological deficit score recorded after the 24h, 48h and 72h of reperfusion injury. Brain penetration studies and bioavailability of PIP estimated in male Charles foster albino rats. The results indicated that HDD-PIP-NPs treatment significantly decreased the percentage of infarction, percentage brain water content and neurological deficit scores in dose dependent manner.
Conclusion
These findings suggest that piperine (PIP) possesses significant neuroprotective potential. Its nano-formulation, HDD-PIP-NPs, has shown enhanced plasma and brain pharmacokinetics, leading to improved neurological outcomes following transient focal cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (TFCIRI) in rats. HDD-PIP-NPs could potentially be useful for neuroprotective interventions against various neurological disorders.
Strengthening SIDH Protocol Security: Mitigating the Castryck-Decru Attack with Structural and Algorithmic Enhancements
Authors: Baraka Mohammed El , Ezzouak Siham 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The Supersingular Isogeny Diffie-Hellman (SIDH) protocol is a leading contender for post-quantum cryptography. However, recent advances, specifically the Castryck-Decru attack, have exposed significant security flaws, primarily related to the predictability of torsion points and vulnerabilities in curve parameters. This study proposes and evaluates enhancements to the SIDH protocol, including increasing the size of torsion subgroups, introducing randomized isogeny generation , and employing advanced obfuscation techniques. Experimental results demonstrate that these modifications substantially improve SIDH’s security, with a manageable increase in computational overhead, positioning SIDH as a more resilient candidate for post-quantum cryptographic applications.
Artificial Intelligence-Driven Optimization of Ready-Mix Concrete for Enhanced Strength, Cost Efficiency, and Carbon Dioxide Emission Reduction
Authors: Faridmehr Iman , Azarsa Meysam , Varjavand Iman , Valerievich Kiyanets Aleksandr 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

This study builds upon the evolving landscape of sustainable construction practices, where optimizing ready-mix concrete for strength, cost-efficiency, and reduced CO2 emissions is crucial in aligning with global environmental sustainability targets. Through an extensive analysis of diverse input parameters, including water-cement ratio, aggregate characteristics, additives, and their interactions with critical output parameters, this research has unveiled a substantial dependence on concrete performance, cost-efficiency, and environmental impact on cement selection and proportioning. This research emphasizes the pivotal role of cement in determining both the cost and CO2 emissions of concrete production, highlighting a notable positive correlation between cement content and compressive strength (R2 = 0.4946), and an even more pronounced correlation with CO2 emissions (R2 = 0.9529). This underlines the importance of optimizing cement use for balanced performance. Furthermore, the study reveals that while admixtures play a limited role in enhancing compressive strength (R2 = 0.0426), their impact on other concrete properties like workability and durability is significant. The optimization of concrete components, including a strategic reduction in admixture use, can lead to considerable cost and CO2 emission reductions, exemplified by a 5% cost decrease and a 7% drop in emissions with a 20% admixture reduction. Overall, these findings highlight the transformative impact of AI in concrete mix design, paving the way for more sustainable construction methods and contributing to global efforts to reduce the infrastructure sector's carbon footprint.
Enriching Fluorotelomer Carboxylic Acids-Degrading Consortia from Sludges and Soils
Authors: Wu Chen , Li Mengyan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Fluorotelomer carboxylic acids (FTCAs) has drawn increasing attention due to their prevalent occurrence, high toxicity, and bioaccumulating effects. In this study, we enriched and characterized microbial consortia with sustainable FTCA removal abilities from two activated sludges and five soils when no external carbon sources were supplemented. After four generations of enrichment, stable 6:2 FTCA and 5:3 FTCA biodegradation were achieved, reaching 0.72~0.98 and 0.53~1.05 µM/day, respectively. Coupling with 6:2 FTCA biotransformation, fluoride release co-occurred, conducive to approximate 0.19 fluoride per 6:2 FTCA molecule that was biodegraded. In contrast, minimal free fluoride was detected in 5:3 FTCA-amended consortia, indicating the dominance of “non-fluoride releasing pathways”. Microbial community analysis revealed the dominance of 13 genera across all consortia. Among them, 3 genera, including Hyphomicrobium, Methylorubrum, and Achromobacter, were found more enriched in consortia amended with 6:2 FTCA than those with 5:3 FTCA from an identical inoculation source, suggesting their involvement in biodefluorination. This study uncovered that microbial consortia can degrade FTCAs without the supplement of external carbon sources, though with low biotransformation and biodefluorination rates. Further research is underscored to investigate the involved biotransformation pathways and biodefluorination mechanisms, as well as effects of external carbon sources.
Unveiling the Characteristics of the Mainland-Indochina Southwest Monsoon: Interannual Variability and ENSO Exclusion via a New Monsoon Index
Authors: Oo Kyaw Than , Chen Haishan , Dalhatu Aminu , Jonah Kazora , Dong Yinshuo , Madhushanka Dinesh , Yohannes Tamirat 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The south Asian summer monsoon (SASM) is a crucial weather system in South Asia, characterized by three main types according to the Asia-Pacific monsoon split: East Asian Monsoon (EASM), Indian Monsoon (ISM), and Western North Pacific Summer Monsoon (WNPSM). The Mainland-Indochina (MIC) study region lies at the transition between ISM and WNPSM, displaying a unique climate influenced by these monsoon systems. Understanding the SASM's onset, particularly the Mainland-Indochina Southwest Monsoon (MSwM), is vital for agricultural planning and water resource management. This study examines the onset dates of the MSwM over Mainland Indochina region using various meteorological datasets and indices. An objective, non-threshold definition of the MSwM onset is established based on surface winds and moisture flux transport changes. The study reveals significant interannual variability in MSwM onset dates, impacting agricultural activities and water resources. Spatial patterns of MSwM onset dates are analyzed, highlighting localized variations within the MIC region. The study correlates MSwM onset dates with May rainfall across Asia, showing significant relationships with moderate to strong correlations, particularly over MIC. Atmospheric circulation anomalies associated with late and early MSwM onsets are investigated, revealing distinct patterns in wind, vertical velocity, and sea surface temperature anomalies. Convective activity and atmospheric heating play crucial roles in driving circulation anomalies, affecting rainfall distribution across MIC. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the dynamics of the MSwM onset, its impact on regional rainfall, and the underlying atmospheric processes driving these phenomena. Understanding these complexities is essential for improving seasonal monsoon predictions and enhancing resilience in agriculture and water management in South Asia.
Preparation of Gray ZnO 1-x Photocatalyst Containing Oxygen Vacancies for the Highly Efficient Removal of Nitric Oxide and Acetaminophen
Authors: BI Xiang , DU Gao-Hui , WANG Li-Zhong , ZHAO Dong , XU Hao-Yu , QIU Yue , DAI Le 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

“defect engineering” has been consiered as an effective strategy to improve its photocatalytic activity. ZnO1 − x photocatalysts containing oxygen defects were prepared by “oxygen-atom capture” method in different lithium-naphthalene solution. The effect of concentration of lithium-naphthalene solution on the oxygen vacancies and photocatalytic performance of ZnO were researched comprehensively. The results indicate that ZnO photocatalysts treated in lithium-naphthalene solution show disordered structure on the material due to the presence of oxygen vacancies. Compared with W-ZnO, ZnO1 − x exhibit higher visible light absorption and enhanced photocatalytic properties. Moreover, more oxygen vacancies are introduced into ZnO−0.8, which reduce its bandgap to 3.04 eV and improve the separation efficiency and transfer speed of photo-generated carriers. Therefore, the efficiency of NO removal by ZnO−0.8 is enhanced to 54.3% under ultraviolet light irradiation, and its degradation efficiency of NO is ~ 12 times greated than that of W-ZnO. Oxygen vacancies acted as capturer of electrons, inhibiting the recombination of photogenerated electrons and holes. Thus, increasing the appropriate concentration of oxygen vacancies on the surface of the material can enhance its photocatalytic activity.
Assessing the Performance of WRF-ELEC and Lightning Potential Index for Lightning Forecasting in Odisha, India: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Mahapatra Debasish , Panda Subrat Kumar , Banik Trisanu , Banerjee Bijit Kumar 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

This study evaluates the WRF-ELEC model with the LPI (Lightning Potential Index) approach for lightning prediction in Odisha using data from the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) Lightning Location Network. It compares model outputs against observed data, focusing on capturing the spatial and temporal distribution of lightning occurrences. Specific cases from 15 June 2019, 24 June 2020, 27 July 2020, and 8 August 2021 were analysed. Results indicate WRF-ELEC's superior accuracy, with Aggregate Mismatch Count for FOD showing a maximum of 12 (mean 1.06) versus Lightning Density's 19 (mean 2.74). Percentage Mismatch for FOD was 50% (mean 4.42%) compared to Lightning Density's 79.17% (mean 11.48%). The Normalized Linear Intensity Mismatch for FOD had a maximum of 4.40 (mean 0.16), significantly lower than Lightning Density's 19.48 (mean 2.01). These findings highlight WRF-ELEC's strengths and weaknesses, contributing to enhanced operational lightning prediction and hazard mitigation strategies in severe weather-prone regions, aiming to improve preparedness in vulnerable areas.
Exploring the spatial-temporal arrangements of urban activity space from individual's daily commute: A Geospatial-Agent based Approach Using Empirical Data
Authors: Azari Mehdi , Moridpour Sara , Hatami Mohsen , Hosseini Monireh 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The study explores the significance of individual mobility measures, such as activity space, in understanding how individuals interact with their daily environments. Existing measures often overlook geographical concepts like spatial-temporal arrangements of activity spaces, focusing solely on numerical assessments. To address this gap, a multi-level modeling approach combining Agent-Based Modeling (ABM) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is utilized to simulate activity destination selection throughout a workday in Zanjan, Iran. The model integrates individual preferences, built environment characteristics, network attributes, and travel generation data. Real-world data from Emerging Data Sources (EDSs) validate the model's reliability and accuracy. Key findings include: (1) clustering analysis identifying four types of activity destinations at different hourly intervals, (2) a central activity space acting as a hub for activity-based travel with a monocentric distribution pattern, (3) individual preference for destinations with diverse and dense built environments, and (4) a decrease in trip frequency as distance from the main activity space increases, indicating a spatial decay effect on activity-based travels.
Firms’ fixed investment and global value chain position: Evidence from China’s value-added tax reform
Authors: Yang Qizhong 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The increased fragmentation of production on the global value chains (GVCs) is a key trend in international trade. This study examines the causal effect of an investment in fixed assets on a firm’s position in the GVCs. It employs a combined panel data of Chinese firms spanning 2000–2007, where identification relies on a quasi-experimental design via China’s 2004 value-added tax reform to encourage fixed investment purchasing. Accordingly, investment in fixed assets decreases a firm’s GVC upstreamness of exports and imports, with a larger impact on the former, inducing a wider production stage span for GVC firms. Further trade margin analysis demonstrates that fixed investment firms import high-quality inputs from more specific suppliers, followed by increasing exports. Notably, the findings explain the causal effect as the concentration of a firm’s production operations, given specialized equipment from fixed investments, and channels through which investment affects a firm’s positions.
GPD1L may inhibit the development of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway： bioinformatics analysis and experimental exploration
Authors: Gan LanLan , Zhou Lu , Chu ALan , Sun Chen , Wang YongTai , Yang MengLin , Liu ZongWen 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Esophageal squamous carcinoma (ESCC) is the most prevalent pathological subtype of esophageal cancer (EC). It has the characteristics of significant local invasion, quick disease progression, high recurrence rates, and a dismal prognosis for survival. Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/serine-threonine kinase (PI3K/AKT) is a signaling system whose aberrant activation regulates downstream factors, leading to the promotion of cancer development. This study looks at a protein called Glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase 1-like (GPD1L), which strongly affects the development of several cancers. However, its association with ESCC development and its underlying mechanisms are not clear.
Methods
In this paper, we analyzed six ESCC transcriptome data obtained from the GEO database. We utilized bioinformatics technology and immunohistochemistry to differentially analyze GPD1L levels of mRNA and protein expression in ESCC and normal adjacent tissues. Furthermore, we conducted survival, co-expression, enrichment, immune infiltration and drug sensitivity analysis. Finally, we further investigated the role and mechanism of GPD1L by Western Blot (WB), Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8), wound healing assay, Transwell assay, and flow cytometry.
Results
The findings manifest that the expression of GPD1L was low in ESCC, and functional experiments showed that GPD1L promoted apoptosis in vitro while blocking cell migration, invasion, and proliferation. Based on mechanism research, GPD1L's impact on ESCC could be explained by its suppression of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway's activation.
Conclusion
To sum up, our findings imply that GPD1L may impede the initiation and advancement of ESCC via modulating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. GPD1L is considered to be a promising therapeutic target and biomarker to diagnose and treat ESCC.
Thiostrepton induces apoptotic cell death at the level of BCL-2/CED-9 in C. elegans
Authors: Al-Kaabi Alanoud , Ali Tayyiba Akbar , Izadi Mahmoud , Prabhu Kirti S , Uddin Shahab , Pourkarimi Ehsan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Thiostrepton, a thiopeptide antibiotic, has been attracting increasing attention for its anti-proliferative and anti-cancer properties in various tested cell culture models. Extensive in vitro analysis has been conducted to understand its anti-cancer effect across multiple cancer types and cell lines, with numerous reports indicating that thiostrepton can inhibit cancer cell proliferation and tumor growth and induce apoptosis in vitro. On the other hand, the in vivo anti-tumor effect of thiostrepton remains elusive. In this study, we aimed to genetically and physiologically characterize the effects of thiostrepton on apoptosis induction in vivo using C. elegans. Our data demonstrate that thiostrepton induces apoptosis in C. elegans, and this apoptotic induction is independent of the genomic instability and is not related to P53 activity. Rather, the apoptotic cell death mediated by thiostrepton treatment occurs at the level of the BCL-2/CED-9 protein at the core apoptotic machinery. Furthermore, we have unlinked the high ROS (reactive oxygen species) induction reported in earlier in vitro studies from apoptosis induction upon thiostrepton treatment in C. elegans. Overall, our genetic data indicate that apoptosis induction mediated by thiostrepton occurs at the level of the BCL-2/CED-9 protein.
Influence of fractional-order PID-controlled secondary lateral damping suspension system on vibration of high-speed EMUs
Authors: Qi Yayun , Liu Hua , Ao Peng , Zhang Ailong 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

With the continuous increase of the operation speed of high-speed EMUs, the abnormal lateral vibration of the carbody problem continues to emerge, and the traditional passive suspension has a poor effect on the lateral vibration suppression of the carbody. This paper first established a two-degree-of-freedom theoretical model and designed algorithms with PID (Proportion Integration Differentiation) and the fractional-order PID (fra_PID) control algorithm as the core to control the damping force of dampers. Then the SIMPACK and SIMULINK are used to establish a co-simulation model of the second lateral damper control model of high-speed EMUs. Finally, the PID control algorithm and the fra_PID control algorithm variable damping suspension system are used to control the abnormal lateral vibration of the carbody, and the lateral vibration control effect of the vehicle in the tangent track, the curved track, the first hunting instability state, and second hunting instability state are studied. The results showed that the lateral vibration of the carbody is suppressed when the vehicle used the variable damping suspension system in the normal state and the hunting state. When in the first hunting instability state, the amplitude of the lateral acceleration of the carbody is decreased by 41% with the fra_PID control algorithm. When in the second hunting instability state, the amplitude of the lateral acceleration of the carbody is decreased by 17% with the fra_PID control algorithm. The PID controllable damping suspension system can provide a reference for suppressing abnormal vibration of the high-speed EMUs.
Harnessing Computational Methods for Uncovering Structural Insights into Leishmania donovani 3- MST: Implications for Drug Design and Target Specificity
Authors: Ranjan Ravi , Kumari Rashmi , Kumar Ashish , Vijayakumar Saravanan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

3-Mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3-MST) is an enzyme that plays integral roles in various biological processes. In the realm of Leishmania, the role of 3-MST is less explored. It is a critical player in maintaining oxidative homeostasis in Leishmania during stress for survival. This highlights the potential of Ld3-MST as an appealing drug target. However, recognising structural disparities becomes essential when a protein is present in the host and parasite. This study delves into the structural distinctions between Ld3-MST and Hs3-MST, providing valuable insights with direct implications for drug design. A standout feature of Ld3-MST is the elongated 70 amino acid C-terminal mainly contributing to a lid-like domain above the active site cavity, setting it apart from Hs3-MST. The RMSD analysis shows fluctuation due to the extended tail, while Rg and SASA confirm the open and solvent-accessible nature of Ld3-MST, especially in its active site, suggesting its ability to accommodate larger molecules. PC and FEL analysis reveals unique internal molecular dynamics of Ld3-MST, particularly in its active site. Docking studies demonstrate that Ld3-MST's active site can effectively accommodate molecules, highlighting its potential as a drug target. This comprehensive investigation lays the foundation for developing precise Ld3-MST inhibitors with promising therapeutic applications.