bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Dietary Supplementation with Lactobacillus reuteri Postbiotics on Growth Performance, Intestinal Flora Structure and Plasma Metabolome of Weaned Piglets
Authors: Sun Dongfeng , Tong Wenfei , Han Shaochen , Wu Mengjun , Li Peng , Li Youguo , Liang Yunxiang
Published: January 2025

Probiotics and their postbiotics have the potential to improve the health and growth performance of piglets, which has brought them widespread attention in the post-antibiotic era. In the present study, the effects of dietary supplementation of Lactobacillus reuteri postbiotics on the growth performance, intestinal flora structure and plasma metabolome of weaned piglets were investigated. A total of 816 healthy male piglets with uniform weight were divided into two treatment groups: piglets in the control (CTR) group were fed with a basic diet, and the ones in the LAC group were fed with the basic diet supplemented with 500 mg/kg Lactobacillus reuteri postbiotics. There were six replicates in each group and 68 piglets in each replicate. The animal trial lasted for 30 days. The feces and blood of piglets were collected for investigation, and the growth performance during the trial was counted. Our outcomes show that dietary supplementation with Lactobacillus reuteri postbiotics had no effect on the growth performance of piglets; however, it reduced the mortality rate of piglets by 6.37%. The levels of total superoxide dismutase in the serum, propionic acid and butyric acid in the feces were elevated, and the content of malondialdehyde in the serum was decreased with Lactobacillus reuteri postbiotics-treated piglets (p < 0.05). The fecal flora sequencing results show that the relative abundance of Firmicutes and monoglobus was upregulated, and the relative abundance of Bacteroides was downregulated with Lactobacillus reuteri postbiotics-treated piglets (p < 0.05). In addition, the levels of propionic acid and butyric acid in the feces were positively correlated with the relative abundance of Firmicutes and negatively correlated with the relative abundance of Bacteroides (p < 0.05). The plasma metabolome results show that dietary supplementation with Lactobacillus reuteri postbiotics raised the level of coenzyme Q10 in the serum, and the abundance of coenzyme Q10 was positively correlated with the relative abundance of Firmicutes and the level of total superoxide dismutase in the serum. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with Lactobacillus reuteri postbiotics contributed to improving the antioxidant function and reducing the mortality of piglets by regulating the structure of intestinal flora and upregulating the content of coenzyme Q10 in serum.
Effect of Dietary Supplementation of Durvillaea Antarctica Meal on Production and Meat Quality Traits of Lambs
Authors: Quiñones John , Huaquipán Rodrigo , Díaz Rommy , Pérez Núñez Isabela , Cortes Matías , Martínez Ailín , Sepúlveda Gastón , Velaszquez Lidiana , Cancino David , Paz Erwin , Sepulveda Néstor
Published: January 2025

Worldwide, there are reports indicating that sheep raised in insular systems spontaneously consume seaweed. In the southern hemisphere, there exists Durvillaea antarctica, a brown seaweed that possesses minerals and fatty acids that could improve some aspects of sheep production and meat quality, respectively. However, the consumption of this algae in lambs has been scarcely studied. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary inclusion of Durvillaea antarctica meal on the growth performance, blood profile, and meat quality of fattening lambs. Thirty Araucana Creole lambs were housed and allocated to three pens. One pen served as a control, while the remaining two were supplemented with diets containing 5% and 10% Durvillaea antarctica meal. After 9 weeks, the animals were slaughtered. The dietary treatments did not significantly affect body weight and blood biochemical parameters. However, changes were observed in meat quality traits, including increased redness and reduced luminosity in the loin for the high inclusion treatment, in addition to slight alterations in pH and lower lipid oxidation in lambs’ meat fed Durvillaea antarctica. Furthermore, the meat from lambs supplemented with Durvillaea antarctica exhibited increased levels of linoleic acid and arachidonic acid, along with higher monounsaturated fatty acid content and a reduced omega-3/omega-6 ratio. This study shows that Durvillaea antarctica can be used to feed lambs without impairing growth or production parameters, which has been little studied. It is possible that this brown seaweed could be considered a natural additive to improve the quality and nutritional value of lamb meat. The effect of this seaweed on other ruminant models could be addressed in future studies.
Morphological, Morphometrical and Radiological Features of the Pelvic Limb Skeleton in African Green Monkeys (Chlorocebus sabaeus) from Saint Kitts and Nevis Islands
Authors: Martonos Cristian Olimpiu , Gudea Alexandru Ion , Rawlins Gilda , Stan Florin Gheorghe , Lațiu Calin , Dezdrobitu Cristian Constantin
Published: January 2025

The paper presents a detailed gross anatomical description of the elements of the pelvic limb in the African green monkey and provides comparative and differential elements on pelvic limb monkey osteology. The osteometric investigation adds value to the gross morphological and radiological investigation, adjoining metric data to the gross descriptive data set. The main methodology used was the gross morphological investigation, doubled by regular osteometrical and radiographical assessments. For each of the elements, several morphological aspects are described, pointing to the specific and differential aspects that might serve as landmarks in the specific diagnosis of different adaptative changes, related to the type of locomotion. For the pelvis, the aspect of the symphysis, the overall shape of the pelvic inlet, the iliac wing aspect and the acetabular shape are listed as significant elements. The femur has a spherical head with an inferior position of the femoral fovea and a well-developed (tall) greater trochanter, lacking the third trochanter. The medial condyle of the femur is better developed than the lateral one and an evident extensor’s fossa is noted at the level of the distal shaft. The proximal lateral condyloid surface in the tibia is slightly larger than the medial one, with noticeable intercondilar eminences. The fibula is long and unfused with the tibia. Some specific anatomical features are listed only for the talus and calcaneus from tarsals. The study revealed the presence of the gastrocnemius sesamoid bones and the proximal sesamoidi bones as well. Investigation presents a series of osteometrical data with an attempt to show some basic metrical differences among the investigated specimens.
Assessing and Improving Animal Welfare Using Applied Ethology
Authors: Fàbrega Emma , Hötzel Maria J.
Published: January 2025

The papers in this Special Issue, entitled “Editorial Board Members’ Collection Series: Behaviour, Applied Ethology and Welfare of Farmed Animals”, bring to the forefront empirical data and theoretical discussions that contribute to the discussion of contemporary issues, from environmental enrichment to improvements in animal welfare, the intensification of animal rearing systems, and innovations like virtual fencing and dietary adjustments to improve animal health and welfare in organic systems [...]
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) Supplementation in Adult Horses Supports Improved Skeletal Muscle Inflammatory Gene Expression Following Exercise
Authors: Barshick Madison R. , Ely Kristine M. , Mogge Keely C. , Chance Lara M. , Johnson Sally E.
Published: January 2025

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a sulfur-containing molecule with reported anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Exercise causes the formation of free radicals and stimulates inflammatory gene expression in leukocytes and skeletal muscle. The hypothesis that dietary supplementation with MSM alters the exercise-mediated inflammatory and oxidant response was assessed in unfit adult thoroughbred geldings. Ten geldings (6.7 ± 1.6 yr) were assigned to a diet supplemented without (CON, n = 5) or with 21 g of MSM (n = 5) for 30 days. Following the supplementation period, horses performed a standardized exercise test (SET) with blood collections before (t = 0), 10 min, 1 h, 4 h, and 24 h post-SET. Skeletal muscle biopsies were retrieved from the middle gluteus before and 1 h post-SET for total RNA isolation. All horses were rested for 120 days before the experiment was repeated in a cross-over design. Plasma total antioxidant capacity was unaffected (p > 0.05) by either exercise or MSM. Plasma glutathione peroxidase activity was less (p < 0.05) in MSM horses than in the CON. Plasma IL6, IL8, IL10, and TNFα were unaffected (p > 0.05) by either exercise or diet. Transcriptomic analysis of skeletal muscle revealed 35 genes were differentially expressed (DEG; p < 0.05) by 2-fold or more in response to exercise; no MSM DEGs were noted. A comparison of the exercise by diet contrasts revealed that horses supplemented with MSM contained a greater number of exercise-responsive genes (630; logFC > 0.2; q < 0.05) by comparison to the CON (237), with many of these mapping to the immune response (71) and cytokine signal transduction (60) pathways. These results suggest supplementation of MSM as a dietary aid for improved anti-inflammatory responses in skeletal muscle following exercise.
RETRACTED: Kanan et al. Empowering Low- and Middle-Income Countries to Combat AMR by Minimal Use of Antibiotics: A Way Forward. Antibiotics 2023, 12, 1504
Authors: Kanan Mohammed , Ramadan Maali , Haif Hanan , Abdullah Bashayr , Mubarak Jawaher , Ahmad Waad , Mari Shahad , Hassan Samaher , Eid Rawan , Hasan Mohammed , Qahl Mohammed , Assiri Atheer , Sultan Munirah , Alrumaih Faisal , Alenzi Areej
Published: January 2025

The journal retracts the article “Empowering Low- and Middle-Income Countries to Combat AMR by Minimal Use of Antibiotics: A Way Forward” [...]
The Appearance of Antiphage Antibodies in Sera of Patients Treated with Phages
Authors: Łusiak-Szelachowska Marzanna , Weber-Dąbrowska Beata , Żaczek Maciej , Międzybrodzki Ryszard , Górski Andrzej
Published: January 2025

Background: Bacteriophages are neutralized by the sera of patients undergoing phage therapy (PT), particularly during local or concomitant local and oral phage administration in bone infections, soft tissue infections, or upper respiratory tract infections. Methods: The antiphage activity of the sera (AAS) level of 27 patients with bacterial infections such as bone infections, soft tissue infections, or upper respiratory tract infections undergoing PT was performed using the plate phage neutralization test. Results: Our preliminary results suggest that high levels of antiphage antibodies appear late in the treatment period, at the earliest in the 3rd–8th week of PT. Patients with bone infections treated locally with the S. aureus phage Staph_1N and patients with upper respiratory tract infections administered locally and orally with the S. aureus phage Staph_A5L had elevated levels of antiphage antibodies in sera during PT. In parallel to these results, it has been shown that a strong antiphage humoral response does not prevent a positive outcome of phage treatment. Conclusions: The earliest time point at which high levels of antiphage antibodies in sera appear during local and oral PT is day 21 of therapy. We noticed that the high level of antiphage antibodies in sera occurring during local or both local and oral PT was correlated with the type of infection and phage type.
Antibiotic Residues in Animal Products from Some African Countries and Their Possible Impact on Human Health
Authors: Oladeji Oluwaseun Mary , Mugivhisa Liziwe Lizbeth , Olowoyo Joshua Oluwole
Published: January 2025

This review investigates the levels of antibiotic residues in animal products, types of antibiotics, and their possible impact on human health in Africa. The literature search involved the use of a systematic survey using data that were published from Africa from 2015 to 2024. The search terms used the Boolean operators with keywords such as antibiotics, antibiotic residues, antibiotics in animal products in Africa, and impact on human health. Only research conducted in Africa was used in the present study. The findings showed that the most prevalent groups of antibiotic residues were aminoglycoside, macrolides, β-lactams, fluoroquinolones, tetracyclines sulfonamides, and phenicols. Tetracycline showed the most prevalent antibiotic residue with 43% mostly from East Africa, followed by sulfonamides at 19%, and β-lactams at 16%; most of the antibiotic residue levels were higher than the World Health Organization permissible limit. Noncompliance with withdrawal periods and maximum residue limits for antibiotics used in food-producing animals may lead to negative outcomes such as allergic reactions, teratogenicity, carcinogenicity, microbiome alterations, and, most notably, antibiotic resistance. As a result, there is a need for constant monitoring of antibiotic residues in animal products in addition to the consideration of alternatives to antibiotics in order to avoid their health implications.
A Comparative Analysis of the Antioxidant Profiles Generated by the RoXstaTM System for Diverse Biological Fluids Highlights the Powerful Protective Role of Human Seminal Plasma
Authors: Aitken Robert J. , Wilkins Alexandra , Harrison Natasha , Bahrami Mohammad , Gibb Zamira , McIntosh Kaitlin , Vuong Quan , Lambourne Sarah
Published: January 2025

(1) Background: The RoXstaTM system has been developed as a rapid, effective means of profiling different types of antioxidant activity. The purpose of this study was to examine its performance utilizing a diverse array of biological fluids including semen, blood plasma, serum, urine, saliva, follicular fluid and plant extracts. (2) Methods: The RoXstaTM system was used to assess the ability of different fluids to suppress free radical formation as well as scavenge a variety of toxic oxygen metabolites including free radicals and both hydrogen and organic peroxides. (3) Results: Human semen was shown to have significantly (p < 0.001) more peroxide scavenging power than any other fluid tested (10–14 mM vitamin C equivalent compared with 1–2 mM for blood serum or plasma), while urine was particularly effective in scavenging free radicals and preventing free radical formation (p < 0.001). The powerful antioxidant properties of human semen were shown to reside within the seminal plasma (SP) fraction, rather than the spermatozoa, and to be resistant to snap freezing in liquid nitrogen. Moreover, comparative studies demonstrated that human SP exhibited significantly (p < 0.001) higher levels of antioxidant potential than any other species examined (stallion, bull, dog) and that this intense activity reflected the relative vulnerability of human spermatozoa to peroxide attack. (4) Conclusions: The RoXstaTM system provides valuable information on the antioxidant profile of complex biological fluids, supporting its diagnostic role in conditions associated with oxidative stress. Based on the results secured in this study, human semen is identified as a particularly rich source of antioxidants capable of scavenging both hydrogen and organic peroxides, in keeping with the high susceptibility of human spermatozoa to peroxide-mediated damage.
Work Roles in Human–Robot Collaborative Systems: Effects on Cognitive Ergonomics for the Manufacturing Industry
Authors: Segura Pablo , Lobato-Calleros Odette , Soria-Arguello Isidro , Hernández-Martínez Eduardo Gamaliel
Published: January 2025

Human–robot collaborative systems have been adopted by manufacturing organizations with the objective of releasing physical workload to the human factor. However, the roles and responsibilities of human operators in these semi-automated systems have not been properly analyzed. This might carry important consequences in the cognitive dimension of ergonomics, which then contradicts the main well-being goals of collaborative work. Therefore, we designed a series of collaborative scenarios where we shifted the assignment of work responsibilities between humans and robots while executing a quality inspection task. Variations in the state of cognitive ergonomics were estimated with subjective and objective techniques via workload tests and physiological responses respectively. Furthermore, we introduced a work design framework based on 50 state-of-the-art applications for a structured implementation of human–robot collaborative systems that contemplates the underlying organizational and technological components necessary to fulfill its basic functionalities. Human operators that possessed responsibility roles over collaborative robots presented better results in terms of cognitive workload and spare mental capacity alike. In this regard, mental demand is seen as a key workload variable to consider when designing collaborative work in current manufacturing settings.
Complex Rock Mechanics Problems and Risk Prevention Solutions
Authors: Zhu Chun , Huang Ming , Cai Qiang , Zuo Yujun , Tang Shibin , Yin Qian
Published: January 2025

The emergence of rock mechanics was driven by the need to address stability issues in rock engineering and to examine conditions leading to rock failure [...]
Robust Optimization for Electric Vehicle Routing Problem Considering Time Windows Under Energy Consumption Uncertainty
Authors: Wang Dan , Zheng Weibo , Zhou Hong
Published: January 2025

Compared to fossil fuel-based internal combustion vehicles, electric vehicles with lower local pollution and noise are becoming more and more popular in urban logistic distribution. When electric vehicles are involved, high-quality delivery depends on energy consumption. This research proposes an electric vehicle routing problem considering time windows under energy consumption uncertainty. A mixed-integer programming model is established. The robust optimization method is adopted to deal with the uncertainty. Based on the modification of adaptive large neighborhood search algorithm, a metaheuristic procedure, called novel hybrid adaptive large neighborhood search, is designed to solve the problem, and some new operators are proposed. The numerical experiments show that the proposed metaheuristic can obtain high-performance solutions with high efficiency for large-scale instances. Furthermore, the robust solution based on the proposed model can achieve a satisfactory tradeoff between performance and risk.
Comprehensive Monitoring of Construction Spoil Disposal Areas in High-Speed Railways Utilizing Integrated 3S Techniques
Authors: Hu Xiaodong , Xia Bo , Guo Yongqi , Yin Yang , Chen Huihua
Published: January 2025

High-speed railways are critical infrastructure in many countries, but their construction generates substantial spoil, particularly in mountainous regions dominated by tunnels and slopes, necessitating the establishment and monitoring of spoil disposal areas. Inadequate monitoring of spoil disposal areas can lead to significant environmental issues, including soil erosion and geological hazards such as landslides and debris flows, while also hindering the recycling and reuse of construction spoil, thereby impeding the achievement of circular economy and sustainable development goals for high-speed railways. Although the potential of geographic information systems, remote sensing, and global positioning systems in waste monitoring is increasingly recognized, there remains a critical research gap in their application to spoil disposal areas monitoring within high-speed railway projects. This study proposes an innovative framework integrating geographic information systems, remote sensing, and global positioning systems for monitoring spoil disposal areas during high-speed railway construction across three key scenarios: identification of disturbance boundaries (scenario 1), extraction of soil and water conservation measures (scenario 2), and estimation of spoil volume changes (scenario 3). In scenario 1, disturbance boundaries were identified using Gaofen-1 satellite data through processes such as imagery fusion, unsupervised classification, and spatial analysis. In scenario 2, unmanned aerial vehicle data were employed to extract soil and water conservation measures via visual interpretation and overlay analysis. In scenario 3, Sentinel-1 data were used to analyze elevation changes through the differential interferometric synthetic aperture radar method, followed by the estimation of spoil volume changes. The effectiveness of this integrated framework was validated through a case study. The results demonstrate that the framework can accurately delineate disturbance boundaries, efficiently extract soil and water conservation measures, and estimate dynamic changes in spoil volume with an acceptable error margin (15.5%). These findings highlight the framework’s capability to enhance monitoring accuracy and efficiency. By integrating multi-source data, this framework provides robust support for sustainable resource management, reduces the environmental impact, and advances circular economy practices. This study contributes to the efficient utilization of construction spoil and the sustainable development of high-speed railway projects.
Experimental Study on Tunnel Failure Mechanism and the Effect of Combined Anti-Dislocation Measures Under Fault Dislocation
Authors: Du Jiaxuan , Yan Songhong , Sun Weiyu , Cao Mingxing , Li Yuxiang
Published: January 2025

Taking the tunnels crossing active faults in China’s Sichuan–Tibet Railway as the research background, experimental studies were conducted using a custom-developed split model box. The research focused on the cracking characteristics of the surrounding rock surface under the action of strike-slip faults, the progressive failure process of the tunnel model, and the mechanical response of the tunnel lining. In-depth analyses were performed on the tunnel damage mechanism under strike-slip fault action and the mitigation effects of combined anti-dislocation measures. The results indicate the following: Damage to the upper surface of the surrounding rock primarily occurs within the fault fracture zone. The split model box enables the graded transfer of fault displacement within this zone, improving the boundary conditions for the model test. Under a 50 mm fault displacement, the continuous tunnel experiences severe damage, leading to a complete loss of function. The damage is mainly characterized by circumferential shear and is concentrated within the fault fracture zone. The zone 20 cm to 30 cm on both sides of the fault plane is the primary area influenced by tunnel forces. The force distribution on the left and right sidewalls of the lining exhibits an anti-symmetric pattern across the fault plane. The left side wall is extruded by surrounding rock in the moving block, while the right side wall experiences extrusion from the surrounding rock in the fracture zone, and there is a phenomenon of dehollowing and loosening of the surrounding rock on both sides of the fault plane; the combination of anti-dislocation measures significantly enhances the tunnel’s stress state, reducing peak axial strain by 93% compared to a continuous tunnel. Furthermore, the extent and severity of tunnel damage are greatly diminished. The primary cause of lining segment damage is circumferential stress, with the main damage characterized by tensile cracking on both the inner and outer surfaces of the lining along the tunnel’s axial direction.
The Evolution of Digital Building Logbook: Exploring Building Information Gathering Systems to Boost Building Maintenance and Renovation
Authors: Signorini Martina , Dejaco Mario Claudio , Lupica Spagnolo Sonia
Published: January 2025

The architecture, engineering, construction, and operations industry is distinguished by having plenty of and a variety of data, which makes the acquisition, storage, retrieval, and use of information difficult. Due to a data exchange system primarily based on paper-based transmission, multiple classification systems, the use of inconsistent criteria and practices, and a significant number of stakeholders involved during the building life cycle (each with distinct requirements and levels of access to information), the entire construction process must deal with ineffective information exchange among actors. Instead of multiple sources of information and tools to collect, store, and share data, one single source of information could become a reference point for numerous stakeholders. In this regard, a digital building logbook is assumed to be a collector of building-related data starting from the design phase, which plays a fundamental role in information management. This paper proposes a systematic literature review aimed at identifying the main features of the tool, investigating its growth in the construction sector. The results show that the digital building logbook’s main application is in the operations and maintenance field with relevance to renovation. However, a common model is absent, varying greatly based on the country and category of building. This analysis contributes to increasing awareness by identifying the attributes, gaps, and potentialities of the subject matter.
An Integrated Stacking Ensemble Model for Natural Gas Purchase Prediction Incorporating Multiple Features
Authors: Wang Junjie , Jiang Lei , Zhang Le , Liu Yaqi , Yu Qihong , Bu Yuheng
Published: January 2025

Accurate prediction of natural gas purchase volumes is crucial for both the economy and the environment. It not only facilitates the rational allocation of resources for companies but also helps to reduce operational costs. Although existing prediction methods have achieved some success in addressing the nonlinear relationships in natural gas purchases, there remains potential for further improvement. To address this issue, a stacking ensemble learning model was developed to enhance the ability to handle complex nonlinear problems. This model integrates diverse algorithms and incorporates weather factors, while regionalizing characteristics of natural gas usage, thereby achieving accurate forecasts of natural gas purchase volumes. We selected three distinctly different base models—Informer, multiple linear regression (MLR), and support vector regression (SVR)—for our research. By conducting four different feature combination experiments for each base model, including weather, time, regional, and usage features, we constructed 12 foundational models. Subsequently, we integrated these base models using a meta-learner to form the final stacking ensemble model. The experimental results indicate that the stacking ensemble model outperforms individual models across key metrics, including R2, MRE, and RMSE. Notably, the R2 values improved by 4–15% compared to the 12 base models. The model was subsequently applied to predict natural gas purchase volumes in Pi County, Chengdu, China. In November 2024, a side-by-side comparison of the predicted and actual data revealed a maximum error of just 5.39%. This exceptional accuracy effectively meets forecasting requirements, underscoring the model’s predictive strength in the energy sector.
A Proposal for a Zero-Trust-Based Multi-Level Security Model and Its Security Controls
Authors: Park Jun-Hyung , Park Sung-Chae , Youm Heung-Youl
Published: January 2025

The rapid advancement of technology and increasing data utilisation have underscored the need for new models to manage and secure big data effectively. However, the constraints of isolated network environments and the limitations of existing security frameworks hinder the adoption of cutting-edge technologies such as AI and cloud computing, as well as the safe utilisation of data. To address these challenges, this study proposes an enhanced security model that integrates the concepts of Multi-Level Security (MLS) and Zero Trust (ZT). The proposed model classifies data into the following three sensitivity levels: “Classified”, “Sensitive”, and “Open”. It applies tailored security requirements and dynamic controls to each level, enhancing both data security and usability. Furthermore, the model overcomes the static access control limitations of MLS by incorporating ZT’s automated dynamic access capabilities, significantly improving responsiveness to anomalous behaviours. This study contributes to the design and evaluation of a new security model that ensures secure data protection and utilisation, even in isolated network environments such as those of military and governmental organisations. It also provides a foundation for the future development of advanced security frameworks.
Behavior of Micropile (Type D) Subjected to Vertical Load: Parametric Numerical Studies
Authors: Ayasrah Mo’men
Published: January 2025

Micropiles, small-diameter-drilled and grouted piles, are often used to provide foundation support in challenging ground conditions. This research seeks to understand the behavior of Type D micropiles (pressure-grouted) within layered soil profiles. Layered soils frequently create complexity because of differences in stiffness, strength, and permeability, which impact load transfer and the interaction between the micropiles and the surrounding soil. Type D micropiles use pressure injection, which results in enhanced skin friction, better grout–soil contact, and a greater capacity to carry loads. A set of numerical simulations was conducted to analyze the behavior of the micropile Type D under axial loading, which was evaluated by considering factors such as micropile diameter, spacing, and inclination. The results indicated that increasing the diameter of a micropile significantly improves its performance by enhancing load transfer and structural stiffness, as well as reducing soil deformation and settlement. In addition, for vertical micropiles and those with inclination angles of 10° and 20°, stiffness increased with diameter, while axial displacement remained constant at a 45° inclination. Furthermore, larger diameters reduced lateral displacements up to 20° inclination angles by increasing stiffness, but lateral deflection increased at 45° due to greater lateral load components. The bending moment increased with inclination angle, driven by higher horizontal loads and increased eccentricity, while spacing had little effect for angles greater than 20° due to effective load redistribution.
Comprehensive Analysis of the Immune Response to SARS-CoV-2 Epitopes: Unveiling Potential Targets for Vaccine Development
Authors: Deng Huixiong , Li Yanlei , Wang Gefei , Li Rui
Published: January 2025

SARS-CoV-2 continues to be a major global health threat. In this study, we performed a comprehensive meta-analysis on the epitopes of SARS-CoV-2, revealing its immunological landscape. Furthermore, using Shannon entropy for sequence conservation analysis and structural network-based methods identified candidate epitopes that are highly conserved and evolutionarily constrained in SARS-CoV-2 and other zoonotic coronaviruses. Finally, the population coverage of T cell epitopes was analyzed. The results highlighted regions within each SARS-CoV-2 protein where the immunological activity of antibodies, CD4+, and CD8+ T cell responses was predominantly concentrated. Sequence-based correlation analysis found that epitopes recognized by B cells and CD4+ T cells showed a positive correlation with high viral variability, and these high variability regions were typically linked to robust immune responses. Conversely, epitopes recognized by CD8+ T cells exhibited a negative correlation with high variability. From a structural network degree perspective, no clear correlation was identified between B cell antibody epitopes and CD4+ T cell reactivity with the degree of residue network connectivity. However, a significant positive correlation was observed between CD8+ T cell reactivity and the degree of residue network connectivity. By integrating sequence Shannon entropy and structural network correlation analysis, we pinpointed highly conserved and evolutionarily constrained SARS-CoV-2 candidate epitopes. Furthermore, we utilized immunoinformatics to assess the conservation of SARS-CoV-2 within coronaviruses and the population coverage of these epitopes. Our analysis uncovered key immune responses linked to preventing viral infection and viral clearance, emphasized areas of interest for broad-spectrum SARS-CoV-2 vaccine development, and offered insights for future research and clinical applications.
Omics-Based Interaction Analysis Reveals Interplay of Chemical Pollutant (Ozone) and Photoradiation (UVSSR) Stressors in Skin Damage
Authors: Zhang Hong , Dong Yiying , Xiao Xue , Cui Xiao , Gu Xuelan
Published: January 2025

The skin acts as the first line of defense against various environmental stressors, such as solar ultraviolet radiation, visible light, pollution particles and ozone. Simultaneous exposure to different stressors is common in everyday life but has been less studied than exposure to single stressors. Herein, the combined effects of a chemical pollutant (ozone) and a UV radiation stressor (UVSSR) were investigated on a 3D pigmented living skin equivalent model. Our results demonstrate that skin lightness (L* value) was significantly decreased by exposure to either UVSSR or ozone alone and that co-exposure to UVSSR and ozone further exacerbated surface darkness, suggesting that these stressors had a significant joint effect. Conventional differential expression analysis showed that, among exposure groups, co-exposure dysregulated the most genes, followed by ozone and UVSSR alone. Omics-based interaction framework (OBIF) analysis showed that most interactive genes following ozone and UVSSR exposure displayed a cooperative effect and had functions related to the skin barrier; these genes with synergistic effects were enriched in biological pathways such as the chronic inflammatory response and the apoptotic signaling pathway. In summary, exposure to ozone in combination with UVSSR showed a joint effect on UVSSR-induced phenotypic changes in the skin; the underlying mechanism was determined by using transcriptome analysis, showing the additive impacts of ozone on UVSSR-induced skin damage, such as cellular stress and inflammatory responses. These findings shed light on how ozone exacerbates UVSSR damage and indicate that the synergistic response genes identified using OBIF analysis may drive the progression of skin damage induced by chemical/photoradiation stress co-exposure.
Role of Environmental Factors in Legume-Rhizobium Symbiosis: A Review
Authors: Yeremko Liudmyla , Czopek Katarzyna , Staniak Mariola , Marenych Mykola , Hanhur Volodymyr
Published: January 2025

Legumes play a pivotal role in addressing global challenges of food and nutrition security by offering a sustainable source of protein and bioactive compounds. The capacity of legumes to establish symbiotic relationships with rhizobia bacteria enables biological nitrogen fixation (BNF), reducing the dependence on chemical fertilizers while enhancing soil health. However, the efficiency of this symbiosis is significantly influenced by environmental factors, such as soil acidity, salinity, temperature, moisture content, light intensity, and nutrient availability. These factors affect key processes, including rhizobia survival, nodule formation, and nitrogenase activity, ultimately determining the growth and productivity of legumes. This review summarizes current knowledge on legume-rhizobia interactions under varying abiotic conditions. It highlights the impact of salinity and acidity in limiting nodule development, soil temperature in regulating microbial community dynamics, and moisture availability in modulating metabolic and hormonal responses during drought and waterlogging. Moreover, the role of essential nutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and trace elements such as iron, molybdenum, and boron, in optimizing symbiosis is critically analyzed.
Correction: Yeh et al. Identification of NSP3 (SH2D3C) as a Prognostic Biomarker of Tumor Progression and Immune Evasion for Lung Cancer and Evaluation of Organosulfur Compounds from Allium sativum L. as Therapeutic Candidates. Biomedicines 2021, 9, 1582
Authors: Yeh Yuan-Chieh , Lawal Bashir , Hsiao Michael , Huang Tse-Hung , Huang Chi-Ying F.
Published: January 2025

In the original publication [...]
Biologically Inspired Spatial–Temporal Perceiving Strategies for Spiking Neural Network
Authors: Zheng Yu , Xue Jingfeng , Liu Jing , Zhang Yanjun
Published: January 2025

A future unmanned system needs the ability to perceive, decide and control in an open dynamic environment. In order to fulfill this requirement, it needs to construct a method with a universal environmental perception ability. Moreover, this perceptual process needs to be interpretable and understandable, so that future interactions between unmanned systems and humans can be unimpeded. However, current mainstream DNN (deep learning neural network)-based AI (artificial intelligence) is a ‘black box’. We cannot interpret or understand how the decision is made by these AIs. An SNN (spiking neural network), which is more similar to a biological brain than a DNN, has the potential to implement interpretable or understandable AI. In this work, we propose a neuron group-based structural learning method for an SNN to better capture the spatial and temporal information from the external environment, and propose a time-slicing scheme to better interpret the spatial and temporal information of responses generated by an SNN. Results show that our method indeed helps to enhance the environment perception ability of the SNN, and possesses a certain degree of robustness, enhancing the potential to build an interpretable or understandable AI in the future.
Reliability of the Second and Third Iterations of the Sensory–Motor Dysfunction Questionnaire in a Subclinical Neck Pain Population
Authors: Ambalavanar Ushani , Haavik Heidi , Kumari Nitika , Amjad Imran , Rotondi Nooshin Khobzi , Murphy Bernadette Ann
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to address limitations of the pilot reliability study on the Sensory–Motor Dysfunction Questionnaire (SMD-Q) in two parts. Part 1 evaluated the intra-rater reliability of SMD-Q version 2 (V2). Part 2 addressed V2’s limitations before assessing the intra-rater reliability of version 3 (V3). V2 framed questions as “over the past week”, whereas V3 also framed questions as “in a typical/usual week”. Methods: The SMD-Q was administered via QualtricsTM at baseline and 4 to 7 days later to subclinical neck pain participants, 51 in part 1 (32 F; mean age ± SD: 21.17 ± 2.66 y) and 27 in part 2 (20 F; mean age ± SD: 21.89 ± 2.81 y). Reliability statistics (quadratic weighted kappa (Kw) and Cronbach’s alpha (α)) were calculated for all items (V2) and total scores (V2 and V3). Results: There was excellent agreement for V2 total scores (Kw ≥ 0.75), and V3 total scores for “in a typical/usual week” (Kw ≥ 0.75), but fair to good agreement for V3 total scores of “over the past week” (0.40 < Kw < 0.75). V2 had acceptable (0.7 ≤ α < 0.8) to good internal consistency (0.8 ≤ α < 0.9), while V3 had good internal consistency for both administrations. Conclusions: Versions 2 and 3 of the SMD-Q appear to reliably capture disordered sensorimotor integration in people with subclinical neck pain, with improved reliability in V3 when questions are framed as “in a typical/usual week”. However, further research is needed to confirm this finding.
Normative Values of Brainstem Auditory-Evoked Responses in Sheep
Authors: Suntinger Katharina , Dalbert Adrian , Prochazka Lukas , Tegelkamp Milena , Kronen Peter , Klein Karina , Röösli Christof , Huber Alexander , Pfiffner Flurin
Published: January 2025

Background: The brainstem auditory-evoked response (BAER) is an established electrophysiological measure of neural activity from the auditory nerve up to the brain stem. The BAER is used to diagnose abnormalities in auditory pathways and in neurophysiological human and animal research. However, normative data for BAERs in sheep, which represent an adequate large animal model for translational and basic otological research, are lacking. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the function of the ovine auditory nervous system by determining normative values for the BAER and to compare sheep with human BAER data. Methods: In this retrospective study, BAER data for click stimuli at a range of sound pressure levels (SPLs) were analyzed. A series of 15 samples from six sheep with a mean age of 41.8 months was included. Results: The mean BAER threshold was 45.3 dB SPL. At 100 dB SPL, the mean (±standard deviation, SD) latency of wave V was 4.35 (±0.18) ms, that of wave III was 2.44 (±0.15) ms, and that of wave I was 0.88 (±0.13) ms. At 100 dB SPL, the mean interpeak latency of waves I–III was 1.56 (±0.18) ms, that of waves III–V was 1.91 (±0.16) ms, and that of waves I–V was 3.47 (±0.20) ms. The mean amplitudes at 100 dB SPL were 0.04 (±0.03) µV for wave I, 0.50 (±0.24) µV for wave III, and 0.40 (±0.25) µV for wave V. Conclusions: The normative values for sheep BAERs were reproducible and similar to those of humans. The normative BAER values further support sheep as an adequate animal model for otological research.
Diagnosis and Management of Skin Toxicities in Systemic Treatment of Genitourinary Cancers
Authors: Chowdhury Deepro , Chin Laura , Odabashian Roupen , Fawaz Ali , Canil Christina , Ong Michael , Kirchhof Mark G. , Reaume Martin. Neil , Beltran-Bless Ana-Alicia , Savard Marie-France , Tsoulis David J. , Bossé Dominick
Published: January 2025

The landscape of available therapeutic options for treatment of genitourinary (GU) cancers is expanding dramatically. Many of these treatments have distinct, sometimes severe, skin toxicities including morbilliform, bullous, pustular, lichenoid, eczematous, psoriasiform, and palmoplantar eruptions. Pruritus and skin pigmentation changes have also been noted. This review aims to synthesize dermatologic events observed with antibody drug conjugates, poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors, androgen receptor pathway inhibitors, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and the combination of these agents used for the treatment of GU cancers. It provides a guide on diagnosis and initial management of these rashes for medical oncologists.
γδ T Are Significantly Impacted by CLL Burden but Only Mildly Influenced by M-MDSCs
Authors: Zarobkiewicz Michał , Kowalska Wioleta , Szymańska Agata , Lehman Natalia , Kowalczyk Bożena , Tomczak Waldemar , Bojarska-Junak Agnieszka
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives. The current study explores the impact of CLL on γδ T cells and, in an attempt to better understand the sources of immunosuppression, assesses the impact of M-MDSCs on γδ T cells in vitro. Methods. The study included 163 CLL patients and 34 healthy volunteers. γδ T cells were screened with flow cytometry, including NKG2D, Fas, FasL, and TRAIL staining. Additionally, to deepen understanding of the immunosuppressive impact of CLL on γδ T, a set of in vitro co-cultures of γδ T and M-MDSCs was performed. Results. RNAseq revealed significant, though relatively minor, changes in the transcriptome. Functional analyses showed a minor drop in cytotoxic potential against CLL cells. Finally, depletion of M-MDSCs from CLL-derived peripheral blood mononuclear cells did not restore γδ T cells’ proliferative response. Conclusions. Altogether, this suggests a minor impact of M-MDSCs on activated γδ T. Thus, it seems probable that other mechanisms than M-MDSCs mediate the negative impact of CLL on circulating γδ T cells.
Annealing Temperature Effects of Seeded ZnO Thin Films on Efficiency of Photocatalytic and Photoelectrocatalytic Degradation of Tetracycline Hydrochloride in Water
Authors: Wazzan Ghaida M. , AlGhamdi Jwaher M. , Mu’azu Nuhu Dalhat , Kayed Tarek Said , Cevik Emre , Elsayed Khaled A.
Published: January 2025

In this study, seeded zinc oxide (Z-ZnO) thin films were fabricated by a two-step electrochemical deposition process. Different annealing temperatures (300, 400, 500, and 600 °C) were investigated to determine the most effective temperature for the photocatalytic activity. Comprehensive analyses were conducted using X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and UV–visible spectrophotometry. The XRD results confirmed the formation of a wurtzite hexagonal structure, with the highest crystallinity observed at 400 °C. The lowest band gap value, 3.29 eV, was also recorded for Z-ZnO thin film annealed at 400 °C. SEM images revealed that the thin film treated at 400 °C exhibited a well-defined and uniform structure, contributing to its enhanced properties. The photocatalytic efficiency of ZnO (without seeding layer) and Z-ZnO thin films annealed at 400 °C was evaluated through the degradation of tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH) to prove the effect of the presence of a primary seeding layer on ZnO 400 °C thin film efficiency. The degradation efficiency of ZnO thin film without seeding layer was 69.8%. By applying a seeding layer in Z-ZnO 400 °C thin film, the degradation efficiency has been increased to 75.8%. On the other hand, Z-ZnO 400 °C thin film achieved a high degradation efficiency of 82.6% over 300 min in the photoelectrocatalytic system. The obtained Z-ZnO thin films annealed at 400 °C are highly effective photocatalysts and photoelectrocatalysts, offering a significant potential for the degradation of pharmaceuticals and other pollutants in water.
Prediction of the Binding to the Nuclear Factor NF-Kappa-B by Constituents from Teucrium polium L. Essential Oil
Authors: de Barros Renilson Castro , da Costa Renato Araújo , Guenane Nesrine , Bakchiche Boulanouar , Benaceur Farouk , Elkiran Omer , Farias Suelem Daniella Pinho , Mota Vanessa Regina Silva , Dolabela Maria Fani
Published: January 2025

Teucrium polium L. is a plant with various claims of ethnobotanical use, primarily for inflammatory diseases. Chemical studies have already isolated different types of terpenes from the species, and studies have established its pharmacological potential. The present study evaluates the components of T. polium essential oil cultivated in the Algerian Saharan Atlas. GC-MS identified the major components as fenchone (31.25%), 3-carene (15.77%), cis-limonene oxide (9.77%), and myrcene (9.15%). In the in silico prediction, molecules with more than 1% abundance were selected. Regarding Lipinski’s rule, all molecules followed the rule. All molecules were found to be toxic in at least one model, with some molecules being non-genotoxic (6, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13) and others being non-mutagenic (5, 7, 9, 14). Three molecules were selected that showed the best results in pharmacokinetic and toxicity studies: the molecules that did not present carcinogenic potential (7—myrtenal; 9—myrtenol; 14—verbenol). The molecular target was established, and it seems that all three bound to the nuclear factor NF-kappa-B. Based on the docking and molecular dynamics results, these molecules have potential as anti-inflammatory and antitumor therapies, with further in vitro and in vivo studies needed to evaluate their activity and toxicity.