bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soil C:N:P Stoichiometry Succession and Land Use Effect after Intensive Reclamation: A Case Study on the Yangtze River Floodplain
Authors: Su Baowei , Zhang Huan , Zhang Yalu , Shao Shuangshuang , Mouazen Abdul M. , Jiao He , Yi Shuangwen , Gao Chao
Published: April 2023

The coupling cycles of soil carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) have a significant impact on biogeochemical processes and ecosystem services. For centuries, large areas of floodplain wetlands in China have been extensively reclaimed for agricultural purposes due to population growth. However, little is known about the evolution of soil C:N:P stoichiometry along a reclamation chronosequence, particularly across different land uses. In this study, we investigated the variations in soil C:N:P ratios with land use and time gradients along a reclamation chronosequence comprising c. 0, 60, 100, 280, 2000, and 3000 years. Land reclamation induced nutrient decoupling, as it facilitated C and N accumulation from biological processes but restricted P supply controlled by geochemical processes. Soil C and N sequestration reached a stable state after 2000 years, while P declined steadily from 60 years. Soil C/P and N/P increased significantly and were controlled by organic carbon (OC) and total nitrogen (TN), respectively, indicating that an increase in C and N could also promote P uptake. Soil C/N declined in the first 60 years and stabilized at a threshold of 10:1. Different land use patterns following reclamation resulted in distinct soil nutrient structures. Paddies retained more OC and TN but exhibited lower adsorption of total phosphorus (TP) compared to adjacent dryland, leading to significant differences in C/P and N/P between land uses. Based on the redundancy analysis and random forest model, soil OC and TN were mainly affected by the abundance of bacteria metabolizing cellulose, while metal oxides, including Fe2O3 and CaO, could best predict TP. Soil C/P and N/P were mainly driven by soil texture and rose significantly with the increasing proportion of clay particles. Our study suggests that as reclamation proceeds, more anthropogenic management is required to regulate potential nutrient imbalances in order to prevent adverse effects on crop growth, soil quality, and ecosystem health. Additionally, any fertilization strategy should be developed based on dryland C and N deficiencies, and lack of P in paddies.
Plasticity of Morpho-Physiological Traits and Antioxidant Activity of Hydroponically Sprouted Hordeum vulgare L. When Using Saline Water
Authors: Soufan Walid , Azab Omar , Al-Suhaibani Nasser , Almutairi Khalid F. , Sallam Mohammed
Published: April 2023

Water salinity is a critical cause of the decrease in quality of fodder plants. The use of saline water as an alternative to fresh water requires the production of elite plant varieties that can tolerate excess amounts of sodium chloride. In this study, we evaluated six genotypes of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) used as sprout fodder for their tolerance to saline water conditions. The six genotypes were tested for their germination vigor, α-amylase activity, root system architecture (RSA) phenotyping, relative water content (RWC), chlorophyll content (ChC), reactive oxygen species accumulation (ROS), and total antioxidant capacity. Increasing the salt concentration caused a significant decrease in the germination time, α-amylase activity, germination percentage, ChC, and RWC of all the genotypes, but significant differences in the RSA and ChC were detected. In addition, the plasticity of these characteristics at the seedling stage increased their potential to select varieties that could produce high amounts of green fodder when fresh water alternatives are used. Strong and positive correlations were detected between the green carpet formed under the salt treatment and ChC at the seedling stage for a local genotype and G134.
Crop Residue Removal Effects on Soil Erosion and Phosphorus Loss in Purple Soils Region, Southwestern China
Authors: He Yuxin , Yang Kaicheng , Zhuang Wenhua , Liu Chao , Li Longguo , Zhang Chi , Li Mingming
Published: April 2023

Background: Purple soil has a fragile structure and is highly vulnerable to soil erosion and phosphorus (P) loss risks. Despite this, the region is endowed with abundant crop residue resources. To ensure sustainable agricultural development in this area, we conducted a study to investigate the impact of crop residue removal on soil aggregate structure, soil erosion, and the risk of P loss. Methods: We conducted a three-year on-farm experiment and analyzed various soil parameters. These parameters include mean weight diameter (MWD), geometric mean diameter (GMD), soil aggregates with a diameter greater than 0.25 mm (R>0.25mm), saturated hydraulic conductivity, soil erosion estimated by RUSLE 2, total soil phosphorus (TP) concentration, geometric mean concentration of TP (GMC), and geometric mean concentration of TP adjusted for aggregate size (GMCd). Results: Retaining all crop residue can significantly improve soil saturated hydraulic conductivity, which was 2.56 times higher than the complete removal treatment. After three years of experimentation, compared to four months, the 50% residue removal treatment increased the GMCd by 32.7%, while the 0% removal treatment increased the GMCd by 16.6%. Both improvements were higher than the complete removal treatment. Partial or complete removal of the crop residue can reduce the soil aggregate stability and increase the risk of soil erosion and P loss. Conclusions: The GMC and GMCd have the potential to serve as indicators for evaluating soil P loss risk. Removing crop residues can cause the degradation of the structure of purple soil aggregates, thus resulting in increased soil erosion and P loss. It is not recommended to remove crop residues in the purple soil region to ensure sustainable agricultural development.
Multilineage Differentiation Potential of Equine Adipose-Derived Stromal/Stem Cells from Different Sources
Authors: Stage Hannah J. , Trappe Susanne , Söllig Katharina , Trachsel Dagmar S. , Kirsch Katharina , Zieger Cornelia , Merle Roswitha , Aschenbach Jörg R. , Gehlen Heidrun
Published: April 2023

The investigation of multipotent stem/stromal cells (MSCs) in vitro represents an important basis for translational studies in large animal models. The study’s aim was to examine and compare clinically relevant in vitro properties of equine MSCs, which were isolated from abdominal (abd), retrobulbar (rb) and subcutaneous (sc) adipose tissue by collagenase digestion (ASCs-SVF) and an explant technique (ASCs-EXP). Firstly, we examined proliferation and trilineage differentiation and, secondly, the cardiomyogenic differentiation potential using activin A, bone morphogenetic protein-4 and Dickkopf-1. Fibroblast-like, plastic-adherent ASCs-SVF and ASCs-EXP were obtained from all sources. The proliferation and chondrogenic differentiation potential did not differ significantly between the isolation methods and localizations. However, abd-ASCs-EXP showed the highest adipogenic differentiation potential compared to rb- and sc-ASCs-EXP on day 7 and abd-ASCs-SVF a higher adipogenic potential compared to abd-ASCs-EXP on day 14. Osteogenic differentiation potential was comparable at day 14, but by day 21, abd-ASCs-EXP demonstrated a higher osteogenic potential compared to abd-ASCs-SVF and rb-ASCs-EXP. Cardiomyogenic differentiation could not be achieved. This study provides insight into the proliferation and multilineage differentiation potential of equine ASCs and is expected to provide a basis for future preclinical and clinical studies in horses.
Enclosure Background Preferences Differ between Sexes and Color Morphs in the Gouldian Finch
Authors: Moise Robert I. , Eccles Georgina R. , Mettke-Hofmann Claudia
Published: April 2023

Most wild animals camouflage well into their environment, providing protection from predators, whereas captive animals often contrast with their background. This can cause stress for the animal, which may perceive it as being exposed. Theory suggests that prey is more difficult to detect in front of complex backgrounds; hence, animals should prefer complex over simple backgrounds. We tested this in the polymorphic Gouldian finch by providing a complex background pattern in one half of the flight cage and a simple background pattern in the other half for 10 days (phase 1). Patterns were then swapped and presented for another week (phase 2). Groups of four birds consisting of either pure black-headed or red-headed or mixed head color (two black-headed and two red-headed) pairings were tested. Gouldian finches spent significantly more time in front of the simple background in phase 1 but not in phase 2. Specifically, females preferred the simple background in phase 1 significantly more than males. Moreover, red-headed birds consistently perched in front of the simple background, whereas black-headed birds used both backgrounds, particularly in phase 2. Results indicate that background preferences differ between sexes and morphs, which should be considered when designing backgrounds. Moreover, natural habitat preferences need consideration.
Exploring the Effect of Functional Diets Containing Phytobiotic Compounds in Whiteleg Shrimp Health: Resistance to Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrotic Disease Caused by Vibrio parahaemolyticus
Authors: Hernández-Cabanyero Carla , Carrascosa Esther , Jiménez Silvia , Fouz Belén
Published: April 2023

Acute hepatopancreatic necrosis (AHPND) is an emerging severe disease caused by strains of Vibrio parahaemolyticus (VpAHPND) in whiteleg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei). Mitigating its negative impact, and at the same time minimizing antibiotics treatments, is the major challenge in shrimp aquaculture. A sustainable strategy could be to include immunostimulants in diet. Phytobiotics, harmless plant extracts with immunostimulatory and biocidal activities, are promising candidates. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of two diets (E and F) supplemented with phytobiotics (functional diets) in terms of protecting shrimp against AHPND. For this purpose, groups of animals were fed functional or control diets for 4 and 5 weeks and, subsequently, they were challenged with VpAHPND by immersion. We compared the mortality in infected groups and estimated the percentage of carriers by using a specific qPCR in hepatopancreas tissue. The results showed that mortality was significantly lower in the group fed functional diet E and, after a 5-week feeding schedule. This group also showed the lowest percentage of carriers. The pathological effects were also reduced with diet F. Thus, feeding shrimp with phytobiotic-enriched diets in critical periods will be highly beneficial because it increases the host’s resistance to AHPND pathology.
New Insights into the Effects of Microbial Muramidase Addition in the Diets of Broiler Chickens
Authors: Amer Shimaa A. , Farahat Mahmoud , Gouda Ahmed , Abdel-Wareth Ahmed A. A. , Abdel-Warith Abdel-Wahab A. , Younis Elsayed M. , Elshopakey Gehad Elsaid , Baher Weam Mohamed , Saleh Gehan K. , Davies Simon J. , Attia Ghadeer A.
Published: April 2023

The study aimed to explore how broiler chickens’ blood biochemistry, breast muscles’ fatty acid profile, growth, intestinal morphology, and immune status would be influenced by adding microbial muramidase (MUR) to the diet. Four hundred 3-day-old male broiler chickens were allocated to a completely randomized design consisting of four nutritional treatments (n = 100 per treatment, 10 chicks/replicate), each containing MUR at levels of 0 (control group), 200, 400, and 600 mg Kg−1 diet, with enzyme activity 0, 12,000, 24,000, and 36,000 LSU(F)/kg diet, respectively. The 35-day experiment was completed. The findings showed that adding MUR to broiler meals in amounts of 200, 400, or 600 mg/kg had no impact on growth performance (p > 0.05) during the periods of 4–10, 11–23, and 24–35 days of age. MUR supplementation quadratically impacted the feed conversion ratio of broiler chicks at 11 and 23 days of age (p = 0.02). MUR addition to the diet significantly and level-dependently enhanced the percentage of n−3 and n−6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in breast muscles (p ≤ 0.01), with no alterations to the sensory characteristics of the breast muscles. Dietary MUR increased most of the morphometric dimensions of the small intestine, with the best results recorded at the 200 and 400 mg Kg−1 levels. MUR supplementation at 200, 400, and 600 mg kg−1 linearly lowered the total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level (p < 0.01). Still, it significantly increased the high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol contents compared with the unsupplemented group. Compared to controls, there was a substantial rise in the blood concentration of total protein, albumin, globulin, IL10, complement 3, and lysozyme activity as MUR levels increased (p < 0.01). Moreover, MUR addition significantly increased the immunoexpression of lymphocyte subpopulation biomarkers. We could conclude that MUR can be added to broiler chicken diets up to 600 mg kg −1 to improve broiler chickens’ fatty acid profile in breast muscles, immunity, and blood biochemistry. MUR addition had no positive influence on the bird’s growth.
Changes in Calprotectin (S100A8-A9) and Aldolase in the Saliva of Horses with Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome
Authors: Muñoz-Prieto Alberto , Contreras-Aguilar María Dolores , Cerón José Joaquín , Ayala de la Peña Ignacio , Martín-Cuervo María , Eckersall Peter David , Holm Henriksen Ida-Marie , Tecles Fernando , Hansen Sanni
Published: April 2023

Equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS) is a highly prevalent disease that affects horses worldwide. Within EGUS, two different forms have been described: equine squamous gastric disease (ESGD) and equine glandular gastric disease (EGGD). The associated clinical signs cause detrimental activity performance, reducing the quality of life of animals. Saliva can contain biomarkers for EGUS that could be potentially used as a complementary tool for diagnosis. The objective of this work was to evaluate the measurements of calprotectin (CALP) and aldolase in the saliva of horses as potential biomarkers of EGUS. For this purpose, automated assays for the quantification of these two proteins were analytically validated and applied for detecting EGUS in a total of 131 horses divided into 5 groups: healthy horses, ESGD, EGGD, combined ESGD and EGGD, and horses with other intestinal pathologies. The assays showed good precision and accuracy in analytical validation, and they were able to discriminate between horses with EGUS and healthy horses, especially in the case of CALP, although they did not show significant differences between horses with EGUS and horses with other diseases. In conclusion, salivary CALP and aldolase can be determined in the saliva of horses and further studies are warranted to elucidate the potential of these analytes as biomarkers in EGUS.
Workers of Apis mellifera Reared in Small-Cell Combs Show Higher Activity of the Proteolytic System in Hemolymph than Workers Reared in Standard-Cell Combs in Laboratory Cage Tests
Authors: Dziechciarz Piotr , Strachecka Aneta , Borsuk Grzegorz , Olszewski Krzysztof
Published: April 2023

The aim of the study was to compare the activities of proteases and their inhibitors in the hemolymph of honeybee workers reared in small-cell combs (SMC) and standard-cell combs (STC) in laboratory cage tests. The analyses conducted in laboratory conditions facilitated assessment of the impact of the comb cell width (small vs. standard) along with eliminating the influence of many environmental factors on the results. The width of the comb cells in which the workers were reared had a significant effect on the protein concentrations and proteolytic system activities in the hemolymph. Irrespective of the age of the workers, higher protein concentrations were found in the hemolymph of the SMC workers. In turn, the activities of proteases and their inhibitors in the hemolymph of 1-day-old bees were higher in the STC workers. In older bees, aged 7–21 days, activity was higher in the SMC workers. The role of the considerable cell width variability in natural combs that were built without the use of an artificially produced wax foundation is worth investigating. It is highly probable that the impact of the comb cell width on the features of workers reared in these combs modifies the age polyethism in the worker caste as well. The investigation results of one-season studies of honeybees could be seriously affected by random factors. To reduce the risk of these effects, it is advisable to continue experiments over a few consecutive years.
Sex Reversal Induced by Dietary Supplementation with 17α-Methyltestosterone during the Critical Period of Sex Differentiation in Oriental River Prawn (Macrobrachium nipponense)
Authors: Cai Pengfei , Yuan Huwei , Gao Zijian , Daka Peter , Qiao Hui , Zhang Wenyi , Jiang Sufei , Xiong Yiwei , Gong Yongsheng , Wu Yan , Jin Shubo , Fu Hongtuo
Published: April 2023

The steroid 17α-methyltestosterone (MT) inhibits ovarian function and is often used to induce sex reversal artificially in vertebrates. In the present study, different concentrations of MT were added as dietary supplementation, and the effects on sex ratio, growth, and gonadal development were examined. After 40 days, the sex ratio (male:female) in each group increased at different degrees with 50 (1.36:1), 100 (1.57:1), and 200 (2.61:1) mg/kg MT, and neo-males with testis–ovary coexistence were observed in the 200 mg/kg MT group. Furthermore, 50 and 100 mg/kg MT could induce female reversion in neo-males. Histologically, the development of the testes in experimental groups was slower, but the ovaries of the experimental and control groups had similar developmental rates. The expression levels of DMRT11E, Foxl2, and SoxE1 in males at 200 mg/kg MT were 8.65-, 3.75-, and 3.45-fold greater than those of the control group. In crustaceans, sex reversal through vertebrate sex hormones can be observed. Neo-males (sex-reversed female prawns) were maintained by exogenous androgen, and over-reliance led to slow testis growth, small body size, and low growth rate, but sperm was still produced. In female prawns, MT inhibited ovary development and promoted growth.
A Descriptive Methodology for Studying the Ontogeny of Object Play and Breed Differences in Dogs (Canis lupus familiaris)
Authors: Davis Karen M. , Partin Adam M. , Burghardt Gordon M. , Springer Cary M. , Albright Julia D.
Published: April 2023

Play behavior is a prominent aspect of juvenile behavior for many animals, yet early development, especially play with objects, has received little attention. Our previous study on object play introduced our general methods, focusing on litter differences in the developmental trajectory of object play and toy preferences. Here, we present a detailed ethogram of more than 30 observed object play behaviors. We focus on breed differences in the development of play in the three following breeds: Welsh Terriers, Vizslas, and standard Poodles. Puppies were video recorded from 3 to 7 weeks of age at half-week intervals upon the introduction of a standard set of five toys into their home environments. Ten minutes of video from each session for each puppy were analyzed using the Noldus Observer XT program. Aside from analyzing individual behaviors, they were also grouped into three behavioral categories. These were behaviors that occurred only in a solitary context, only in a social context, or in both contexts. Solitary object play developed first, and social object play developed later across breeds. There was a significant three-way interaction between breed, developmental age, and the context in which play occurred. Pairwise comparisons within each breed, age, and context are discussed, but a prominent result is that the onset of many behaviors occurred later in Welsh Terriers compared to the other breeds.
Synthesis, Molecular Docking Study, and Biological Evaluation of New 4-(2,5-Dimethyl-1H-pyrrol-1-yl)-N’-(2-(substituted)acetyl)benzohydrazides as Dual Enoyl ACP Reductase and DHFR Enzyme Inhibitors
Authors: Mahnashi Mater H. , Koganole Pooja , S. R. Prem Kumar , Ashgar Sami S. , Shaikh Ibrahim Ahmed , Joshi Shrinivas D. , Alqahtani Ali S.
Published: April 2023

In this study, a new series of 4-(2,5-dimethyl-1H-pyrrol-1-yl)-N’-(2-(substituted)acetyl) benzohydrazides (5a–n) were prepared and new heterocycles underwent thorough characterization and evaluation for antibacterial activity; some of them underwent further testing for in vitro inhibition of enoyl ACP reductase and DHFR enzymes. The majority of the synthesized molecules exhibited appreciable action against DHFR and enoyl ACP reductase enzymes. Some of the synthesized compounds also showed strong antibacterial and antitubercular properties. In order to determine the potential mode of action of the synthesized compounds, a molecular docking investigation was conducted. The results revealed binding interactions with both the dihydrofolate reductase and enoyl ACP reductase active sites. These molecules represent excellent future therapeutic possibilities with potential uses in the biological and medical sciences due to the compounds’ pronounced docking properties and biological activity.
Fomitopsis officinalis: Spatial (Pileus and Hymenophore) Metabolomic Variations Affect Functional Components and Biological Activities
Authors: Flores Giancarlo Angeles , Cusumano Gaia , Ianni Federica , Blasi Francesca , Angelini Paola , Cossignani Lina , Pellegrino Roberto Maria , Emiliani Carla , Venanzoni Roberto , Zengin Gokhan , Acquaviva Alessandra , Di Simone Simonetta Cristina , Libero Maria Loreta , Nilofar  , Orlando Giustino , Menghini Luigi , Ferrante Claudio
Published: April 2023

Fomitopsis officinalis is a holartic polyporous mushroom that forms large fruiting bodies on old standing trees, fallen logs, or stumps. F. officinalis is a medicinal mushroom species that is most commonly used in traditional European medicine. In this study, we explore the spatial metabolic differences in F. officinalis’ mushroom parts, i.e., the cap (median and apical parts) and the hymenium. Additionally, chromatographic analysis was conducted in order to unravel the composition of specialized metabolites in the hydroalcoholic mushroom extracts. The potential antifungal and bacterial effects of extracts were tested against pathogen strains of Gram+ and Gram– bacteria, and yeast, dermatophytic, and fungal-pool species. Extracts from the apical part were the richest in terms of phenolic compounds; consistent with this finding, the extracts were also the most effective antiradical and antimicrobial agents with MIC values < 100 µg/mL for most of the tested bacterial and dermatophytic species. According to these findings, F. officinalis extracts are valuable sources of primary and secondary metabolites, thus suggesting potential applications in the formulation of food supplements with biological properties in terms of antioxidant and antimicrobial activities.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Animal Model Presents Retinal Alterations and Methylphenidate Has a Differential Effect in ADHD versus Control Conditions
Authors: Sanches Eliane S. , Boia Raquel , Leitão Ricardo A. , Madeira Maria H. , Fontes-Ribeiro Carlos A. , Ambrósio António Francisco , Fernandes Rosa , Silva Ana Paula
Published: April 2023

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most prevalent neurodevelopmental disorders. Interestingly, children with ADHD seem to experience more ophthalmologic abnormalities, and the impact of methylphenidate (MPH) use on retinal physiology remains unclear. Thus, we aimed to unravel the retina’s structural, functional, and cellular alterations and the impact of MPH in ADHD versus the control conditions. For that, spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY) were used as animal models of ADHD and the controls, respectively. Animals were divided into four experimental groups as follows: WKY vehicle (Veh; tap water), WKY MPH (1.5 mg/kg/day), SHR Veh, SHR MPH. Individual administration was performed by gavage between P28-P55. Retinal physiology and structure were evaluated at P56 followed by tissue collection and analysis. The ADHD animal model presents the retinal structural, functional, and neuronal deficits, as well as the microglial reactivity, astrogliosis, blood-retinal barrier (BRB) hyperpermeability and a pro-inflammatory status. In this model, MPH had a beneficial effect on reducing microgliosis, BRB dysfunction, and inflammatory response, but did not correct the neuronal and functional alterations in the retina. Curiously, in the control animals, MPH showed an opposite effect since it impaired the retinal function, neuronal cells, and BRB integrity, and also promoted both microglia reactivity and upregulation of pro-inflammatory mediators. This study unveils the retinal alterations in ADHD and the opposite effects induced by MPH in the retina of ADHD and the control animal models.
Pravastatin Prevents Increases in Activity of Metalloproteinase-2 and Oxidative Stress, and Enhances Endothelium-Derived Nitric Oxide-Dependent Vasodilation in Gestational Hypertension
Authors: Toghi Cristal Jesus , Martins Laisla Zanetoni , Pacheco Leonardo Lopes , Caetano Edileia Souza Paula , Mattos Bruna Rahal , Rizzi Elen , Dias-Junior Carlos Alan
Published: April 2023

Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy and has been associated with placental growth restriction. The pre-eclamptic placenta releases free radicals to maternal circulation, thus increasing oxidative stress. An impaired redox state leads to reduction in circulating nitric oxide (NO) levels and activation of extracellular matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). However, activation of MMPs induced by oxidative stress is still unclear in PE. Antioxidant effects have been demonstrated with the use of pravastatin. Therefore, we hypothesized that pravastatin protects against oxidative stress-induced activation of MMPs in a rat model of PE. The animals were divided into four groups: normotensive pregnant rats (Norm-Preg); pregnant rats treated with pravastatin (Norm-Preg + Prava); hypertensive pregnant rats (HTN-Preg); and hypertensive pregnant rats treated with pravastatin (HTN-Preg + Prava). The deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA) and sodium chloride (DOCA-salt) model was used to induce hypertension in pregnancy. Blood pressure, and fetal and placental parameters were recorded. The gelatinolytic activity of MMPs, NO metabolites and lipid peroxide levels were also determined. Endothelium function was also examined. Pravastatin attenuated maternal hypertension, prevented placental weight loss, increased NO metabolites, inhibited increases in lipid peroxide levels, and reduced the activity of MMP-2, and these effects were observed along with enhanced endothelium-derived NO-dependent vasodilation. The present results provide evidence that pravastatin protects against activation of MMP-2 induced by oxidative stress in pre-eclamptic rats. These findings may also involve improvement in endothelial function related to NO and antihypertensive effects of pravastatin, thus suggesting pravastatin as a therapeutic intervention for PE.
CYP19A1 TC/CC Polymorphism, along with Deletion of GSTM1 and GSTT1 Genes, Strongly Influences Female Infertility Risk
Authors: Casteleiro Alves Maria Manuel , Almeida Micaela , Oliani António Hélio , Breitenfeld Luiza , Ramalhinho Ana Cristina
Published: April 2023

Oxidative stress has a fundamental role in the pathophysiology of various conditions, like infertility. This case-control study was performed to assess the potential role of CYP19A1, GSTM1, and GSTT1 in modifying individual predisposition to female infertility. Genotyping of 201 women with established infertility and 161 fertile female controls was performed, and statistical associations were analyzed. For carriers of GSTM1 null genotype along with CYP19A1 C allele, there is a significant association with female infertility risk (OR 7.023; 95% CI (3.627–13.601; p < 0.001), and, also for carriers of GSTT1 null genotype along with the CYP19A1 TC/CC genotype (OR 24.150; 95% CI (11.148–52.317; p < 0.001). A positive association with female infertility risk for carriers of the C allele in CYP19A1 and null genotypes in GTSM1 (OR 11.979; 95% CI (4.570–31.400; p < 0.001) or GSTT1 (OR 13.169; 95% CI (4.518–38.380; p < 0.001) was found. When both GSTs are deleted, the risk of developing female infertility is significant, independently of the CYP19A1 genotype; when all the presumed high-risk genotypes are present, we found a significant association with female infertility risk (OR 47,914; 95% CI (14,051–163,393; p < 0.001).
Potential of Plant Exosome Vesicles from Grapefruit (Citrus × paradisi) and Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) Juices as Functional Ingredients and Targeted Drug Delivery Vehicles
Authors: Kilasoniya Alina , Garaeva Luiza , Shtam Tatiana , Spitsyna Anastasiia , Putevich Elena , Moreno-Chamba Bryan , Salazar-Bermeo Julio , Komarova Elena , Malek Anastasia , Valero Manuel , Saura Domingo
Published: April 2023

Plant-derived extracellular vesicles (PEVs) have gained attention as promising bioactive nutraceutical molecules; their presence in common fruit juices has increased their significance because human interaction is inevitable. The goal of this study was to evaluate the potential of PEVs derived from grapefruit and tomato juices as functional ingredients, antioxidant compounds, and delivery vehicles. PEVs were isolated using differential ultracentrifugation and were found to be similar in size and morphology to mammalian exosomes. The yield of grapefruit exosome-like vesicles (GEVs) was higher than that of tomato exosome-like vesicles (TEVs), despite the latter having larger vesicle sizes. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity of GEVs and TEVs was found to be low in comparison to their juice sources, indicating a limited contribution of PEVs to the juice. GEVs showed a higher efficiency in being loaded with the heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) than TEVs, as well as a higher efficiency than TEV and PEV-free HSP70 in delivering HSP70 to glioma cells. Overall, our results revealed that GEVs present a higher potential as functional ingredients present in juice and that they exert the potential to deliver functional molecules to human cells. Although PEVs showed low antioxidant activity, their role in oxidative response in cells should be further addressed.
Evolutionarily Conserved Role of Thioredoxin Systems in Determining Longevity
Authors: AlOkda Abdelrahman , Van Raamsdonk Jeremy M.
Published: April 2023

Thioredoxin and thioredoxin reductase are evolutionarily conserved antioxidant enzymes that protect organisms from oxidative stress. These proteins also play roles in redox signaling and can act as a redox-independent cellular chaperone. In most organisms, there is a cytoplasmic and mitochondrial thioredoxin system. A number of studies have examined the role of thioredoxin and thioredoxin reductase in determining longevity. Disruption of either thioredoxin or thioredoxin reductase is sufficient to shorten lifespan in model organisms including yeast, worms, flies and mice, thereby indicating conservation across species. Similarly, increasing the expression of thioredoxin or thioredoxin reductase can extend longevity in multiple model organisms. In humans, there is an association between a specific genetic variant of thioredoxin reductase and lifespan. Overall, the cytoplasmic and mitochondrial thioredoxin systems are both important for longevity.
Reliability-Based Multi-Objective Optimization Design of a Compliant Feed Drive Mechanism for Micromachining
Authors: Nguyen Van-Khien , Pham Huy-Tuan , Pham Huy-Hoang , Dang Quang-Khoa , Minh Pham Son
Published: April 2023

In precision engineering, the use of compliant mechanisms (CMs) in positioning devices has recently bloomed. However, during the course of their development, beginning from conceptual design through to the finished instrument based on a regular optimization process, many obstacles still need to be overcome, since the optimal solutions often lie on constrained boundaries or at the margin of safe/unsafe domains. Accordingly, if uncertainty occurs during the fabrication or operation of the mechanism, it might lose its functions, rendering the design infeasible. This paper proposes a universal design process for positioning CMs, consisting of two steps: optimal design of the pseudo-rigid-body model, and reliability-integrated multi-objective optimization design using NSGA-II algorithms. This optimization algorithm is applied in the design of a feed drive mechanism for micromachining. The optimal design is also fabricated and tested. The results calculated for the displacement amplification ratio, natural frequency, and input/output stiffness using different approaches, including analytical methods, simulations, and experiments, were compared to evaluate the efficiency of the proposed synthesis method, and show discrepancies of less than 5%. Thus, the results convincingly support the applicability of the proposed optimization algorithm for the design of other precision-positioning CMs prone to failure in vulnerable conditions.
Dynamics and Control of Satellite Formations Invariant under the Zonal Harmonic Perturbation
Authors: Carletta Stefano
Published: April 2023

A satellite formation operating in low-altitude orbits is subject to perturbations associated to the higher-order harmonics of the gravitational field, which cause a degradation of the formation configurations designed based on the unperturbed model of the Hill–Clohessy–Wiltshire equations. To compensate for these effects, periodic reconfiguration maneuvers are necessary, requiring the prior allocation of a propellant mass budget and, eventually, the use of resources from the ground segment, having a non-negligible impact on the complexity and cost of the mission. Using the Hamiltonian formalism and canonical transformations, a model is developed that allows designing configurations for formation flying invariant with respect to the zonal harmonic perturbation. Jn invariant configurations can be characterized, selecting the drift rate (or boundedness condition) and the amplitude of the oscillations, based on four parameters which can be easily converted in position and velocity components for the satellites of the formation. From this model, a guidance strategy is developed to inject a satellite approaching another spacecraft into a bounded relative trajectory about it and the optimal time for the maneuver, minimizing the total ΔV, is identified. The effectiveness of the model and of the guidance strategy is verified on some scenarios of interest for formations operating in a sun-synchronous and a medium-inclination low Earth orbit and a medium-inclination lunar orbit.
An Artificial Intelligence Approach for Improving Maintenance to Supervise Machine Failures and Support Their Repair
Authors: Rojek Izabela , Jasiulewicz-Kaczmarek Małgorzata , Piechowski Mariusz , Mikołajewski Dariusz
Published: April 2023

Maintenance of production equipment has a key role in ensuring business continuity and productivity. Determining the implementation time and the appropriate selection of the scope of maintenance activities are necessary not only for the operation of industrial equipment but also for effective planning of the demand for own maintenance resources (spare parts, people, finances). A number of studies have been conducted in the last decade and many attempts have been made to use artificial intelligence (AI) techniques to model and manage maintenance. The aim of the article is to discuss the possibility of using AI methods and techniques to anticipate possible failures and respond to them in advance by carrying out maintenance activities in an appropriate and timely manner. The indirect aim of these studies is to achieve more effective management of maintenance activities. The main method applied is computational analysis and simulation based on the real industrial data set. The main results show that the effective use of preventive maintenance requires large amounts of reliable annotated sensor data and well-trained machine-learning algorithms. Scientific and technical development of the above-mentioned group of solutions should be implemented in such a way that they can be used by companies of equal size and with different production profiles. Even relatively simple solutions as presented in the article can be helpful here, offering high efficiency at low implementation costs.
Photogrammetry-Based 3D Textured Point Cloud Models Building and Rock Structure Estimation
Authors: Liu Tiexin , Deng Jianhui
Published: April 2023

Trace lines on the outcrop of a rock mass are usually the primary data source for the estimation of rock structure. It is important to obtain the data of trace lines precisely. Photogrammetry is well suited to finish this task. However, this is mainly conducted by commercial software, and not every researcher has easy access to the method of digital photogrammetry. This study aims to provide researchers with a low-cost method of building a photogrammetry-based textured 3D point cloud model (FMBPM) and display the applicability of the method to estimating the rock structure of rock masses. In the FMBPM, a digital single-lens reflex camera with a prime lens and a total station are the necessary hardware employed to capture images and measure the coordinates of feature points. A coordinate transformation means of converting model coordinates to physical coordinates was introduced. A program for calculating a joint orientation based on the coordinates of inflection points on the trace line of the joint was developed. A section of a rock slope was selected as a case to show the procedures and the practicability of the FMBPM. The textured 3D point cloud model of the rock slope was successfully built, and the rock structure of the rock slope was analyzed using the joint disk model generated based on the trace lines extracted from the point cloud model. The results show that: (1) the precision of the point coordinates of the textured 3D point cloud model could achieve 3.96 mm, taking the data of the total station as the reference; (2) the rock structure of the slope is good, according to the value of the rock quality designation; (3) the new method is applicable in engineering practices.
Mycoremediation as a Potentially Promising Technology: Current Status and Prospects—A Review
Authors: Akpasi Stephen Okiemute , Anekwe Ifeanyi Michael Smarte , Tetteh Emmanuel Kweinor , Amune Ubani Oluwaseun , Shoyiga Hassan Oriyomi , Mahlangu Thembisile Patience , Kiambi Sammy Lewis
Published: April 2023

Global environmental pollutants are becoming intense because of the increasing human population, urbanisation, and industrialisation. Human health and the ecosystem are affected by soil and water contamination. Therefore, creating strategies is essential to tackle this persistent issue. In the process, the health and environmental risk associated with these pollutants can be signifi-cantly reduced. Previously, traditional remediation techniques have been employed in combating these environmental pollutants, proving ineffective. Mycoremediation, which uses fungi or their compounds to remediate environmental pollutants, has shown to be a cost-efficient, environmen-tally friendly, and effective method of environmental remediation that includes organic, inorganic, and emerging contaminants (antibiotics, pharmaceuticals). This review provides an overview of various mycoremediation approaches through fungi for biosorption, precipitation, biotransfor-mation, and sequestration of environmental pollutants. In addition, the removal of metals, persis-tent organic pollutants, and other emerging contaminants by mycoremediation was highlighted. For example, fungi such as Pleurotusdryinus, Trameteshirsuta MK640786, and Aspergillusniger shows 91%, 94%, and 98.4% degradation of pollutants ranging from pesticides to azo dyes, respectively. Furthermore, prospects of mycoremediation to remove heavy metals and emerging pollutants from waters and soils were discussed. It was elucidated that fungi have great potential for the mycoremediation of emerging pollutants such as heavy metals, pharmaceuticals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), pesticides, and weedicides. The findings suggested a knowledge gap exists to enhance the rate of the mycoremediation process. Therefore, a possible framework of mycoremediation was proposed to facilitate this promising technology for rectifying global environmental problems. For mycoremediation procedures to be as effective as possible, further studies are needed on fungal enzymes’ role, activities, and regulation.
Cooperative Task Execution for Object Detection in Edge Computing: An Internet of Things Application
Authors: Amanatidis Petros , Karampatzakis Dimitris , Iosifidis George , Lagkas Thomas , Nikitas Alexandros
Published: April 2023

The development of computer hardware and communications has brought with it many exciting applications in the Internet of Things. More and more Single Board Computers (SBC) with high performance and low power consumption are used to infer deep learning models at the edge of the network. In this article, we investigate a cooperative task execution system in an edge computing architecture. In our topology, the edge server offloads different workloads to end devices, which collaboratively execute object detection on the transmitted sets of images. Our proposed system attempts to provide optimization in terms of execution accuracy and execution time for inferencing deep learning models. Furthermore, we focus on implementing new policies to optimize the E2E execution time and the execution accuracy of the system by highlighting the key role of effective image compression and the batch sizes (splitting decisions) received by the end devices from a server at the network edge. In our testbed, we used the You Only Look Once (YOLO) version 5, which is one of the most popular object detectors. In our heterogeneous testbed, an edge server and three different end devices were used with different characteristics like CPU/TPU, different sizes of RAM, and different neural network input sizes to identify sharp trade-offs. Firstly, we implemented the YOLOv5 on our end devices to evaluate the performance of the model using metrics like Precision, Recall, and mAP on the COCO dataset. Finally, we explore optimal trade-offs for different task-splitting strategies and compression decisions to optimize total performance. We demonstrate that offloading workloads on multiple end devices based on different splitting decisions and compression values improves the system’s performance to respond in real-time conditions without needing a server or cloud resources.
The Effectiveness of Using H5P for Undergraduate Students in the Asynchronous Distance Learning Environment
Authors: Mutawa A.M. , Al Muttawa Jamil Abdul Kareem , Sruthi Sai
Published: April 2023

As the COVID-19 pandemic caused many schools to go online, asynchronous distant learning has become popular. One of the main challenges of asynchronous distance learning is keeping students engaged and motivated, as they do not have the same engagement with their peers and teachers as in traditional face-to-face learning environments. HTML 5 package (H5P) is an interactive learning tool that has the potential to fill this need due to its numerous immediate interactive features, such as interactive videos, pop quizzes, and games during media playback. This study investigates the effectiveness of using H5P and Moodle in asynchronous distance learning environments for undergraduate students. The data collection methods included pre-and post-surveys for Moodle and H5P and the questions related to the student perspectives towards H5P features. The technology acceptance model (TAM) is employed to find student satisfaction. The results of this study suggest that both the H5P and Moodle could be valuable tools for making E-learning more effective. The interactive and engaging nature of H5P can provide students with a more enjoyable and effective learning experience, helping to keep them motivated and engaged throughout their studies.
From Reverse Engineering Software to CAD-CAM Systems: How Digital Environment Has Influenced the Clinical Applications in Modern Dentistry and Orthodontics
Authors: Ronsivalle Vincenzo , Ruiz Ferdinando , Lo Giudice Antonino , Carli Elisabetta , Venezia Pietro , Isola Gaetano , Leonardi Rosalia , Mummolo Stefano
Published: April 2023

Background: Reverse engineering (RE) or back engineering is a process that analyzes a physical object to obtain the primary data of the same project. RE technologies have different applications in industrial settings and productive chains; however, with the advent of digital technologies in dentistry and orthodontic fields, they are involved in the new diagnostic and clinical digital workflow. For example, 3D model scanning, 3D facial scanning, models superimposition, digital orthodontic setup, anatomical volumetric assessment, soft tissue analysis, orthodontic digital guided systems, and prototyped orthodontic appliances represent a few examples of the application of RE in orthodontics. Moreover, clinicians can manipulate the data derived from original digital file to enhance diagnosis and communication with other clinicians and dental technicians; however, RE and digital technologies systems are not exempt from shortcomings, including costs and knowledge curve. In this regard, the aim of the present manuscript was to describe the use of reverse engineering technologies in modern digital orthodontics and provide helpful information for those specialists who are at the beginning of the transition from analogic to digital orthodontic workflow.
Mesoscale Equivalent Numerical Study of Ultra-High Performance Concrete Subjected to Projectile Impact
Authors: Yang Jian , Ao Jie , Wan Wenzheng , Liu Yikang
Published: April 2023

Numerical investigations on the performance of ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) subjected to projectile impacts have attracted extensive attention, but there are still deficiencies in the accuracy and computational efficiency of related simulation methods. To make up for these deficiencies, a mesoscale equivalent model for UHPC is developed to simulate the response of UHPC under projectile impacts. In this model, an equivalent treatment is conducted on steel fibers to reduce their quantity under the premise that the interfacial shearing force between the fibers and the matrix remains equal. Based on the mesoscale equivalent model, numerical simulations of uniaxial compressive tests and projectile penetration tests on UHPC specimens are performed in LS-DYNA, and the numerical results are compared with the corresponding experimental results to verify the developed model. It is found that the mesoscale equivalent model could accurately reproduce the failure mode and stress-strain curve of UHPC specimens when the amplification factor of steel fibers is lower than 5. When the amplification factor is 5, the computational efficiency of the numerical models for penetration tests is significantly improved, and the maximum relative error between the numerical results of the crater diameter and penetration depth and experimental results is 11.7%. The successful application of the mesoscale equivalent model provides a more precise and in-depth perspective in simulating the response of UHPC with steel fibers subjected to projectile impact. Then, the influence of projectile striking velocities, UHPC compressive strengths, and volume percentages of steel fibers on the depth of penetration (DOP) are further numerically assessed. Based on the simulated data, modifications of the Young equation for predicting the DOP are conducted, and the maximum relative error of the modified equation is 13.9%. This demonstrates that the modified Young equation can accurately predict the DOP of UHPC subjected to projectile impacts.