bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Total Deoxynivalenol Contamination of Wheat Products and Coarse Grains in Shanghai, China: Occurrence and Health Risk Assessment
Authors: Xu Anqi , Yu Shenghao , Li Yiqi , Liu Hong , Yan Zheng , Wu Aibo , Peng Shaojie , Liu Na
Published: October 2024

Deoxynivalenol (DON) is an important mycotoxin produced by Fusarium spp., typically found in cereals, which has garnered considerable research attention. However, the risk assessment of DON exposure to muti-cereal is partial and biased, especially lacking the evaluation of different coarse grains. In this study, we synthesized and compared the presence of the total deoxynivalenol (free, acetylated, and masked) of a total of 372 grain samples (17 different types) based on high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC–MS/MS), as well as assessed the chronic and acute risks of total DON exposure in the Chinese population. DON was found at the highest frequency with an occurrence of 85.8% (319/372), followed by D3G at 17.2% (64/372). In total, 88.7% (330/372) of the grains were co-contaminated with mycotoxins. The DON and D3G contamination correlation coefficient was 0.68 in wheat flour. Moreover, different DON contamination levels were found in black beans (133.5 µg/kg), soybeans (128.7 µg/kg), and black rice (122.1 µg/kg). The DON/D3G/15A/tDON contamination level was significant differently among different coarse grains. Notably, the Monte Carlo model showed that 3.2–5.9% of adolescents consuming wheat flour and noodles suffered a chronic tDON risk.
Gelatin-Based Polymers Can Be Processed to Highly Resilient Biocompatible Porous Hydrogel Scaffolds for Soft Tissue Regeneration Applications
Authors: Goder Orbach Daniella , Sharabani-Yosef Orna , Hadad Or , Zilberman Meital
Published: October 2024

Tissue regeneration relies on the mechanical properties of the surrounding environment, and it has already been shown that mechanostimulation is highly dependent on the stiffness of the native biological tissue. The main advantage of injectable hydrogels in medical applications is their ability to be delivered through minimally invasive techniques. Natural polymer-based hydrogels have been widely used in biomedical applications, due to their high biocompatibility, low immunogenicity, and similarity to soft tissues. However, the crucial combination of low stiffness with high resilience has not been achieved for natural polymers. The current study focuses on the development of novel gelatin-based injectable hydrogels for soft tissue regeneration applications, elucidating the effects of the formulation parameters on the resilience, microstructure, biocompatibility, and mechanical properties. Non-foamed hydrogels demonstrated resilience of at least 95%, while porous hydrogels maintained resilience above 90%, allowing them to withstand mechanical stresses and dynamic conditions within the body. The adjustable modulus of these hydrogels provides the necessary flexibility to mimic the mechanical properties of soft and very soft tissues, without compromising resilience. Environmental Scanning Electron Microscopy (ESEM) observations of the porous hydrogels indicated round interconnected pore structures, desired for cell migration and nutrient flow. Biocompatibility tests on fibroblasts and pre-adipocytes confirmed high biocompatibility, both directly and indirectly. In summary, structuring these new hydrogels for achieving adjustable stiffness, along with the excellent resilience and biocompatibility, is expected to enable this new technology to fit various soft tissue regeneration applications.
Editorial for Special Issue: Gel-Based Drug Delivery Systems for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Wu Haoan , Gao Xingchun
Published: October 2024

In recent years, hydrogel-based cancer drug delivery systems have developed rapidly due to the versatility of hydrogels [...]
Rheological and Textural Investigation to Design Film for Packaging from Potato Peel Waste
Authors: Mileti Olga , Baldino Noemi , Marchio Vittoria , Lupi Francesca R. , Gabriele Domenico
Published: October 2024

The recovery of potato waste for circular-economy purposes is a growing area of industrial research. This waste, rich in nutrients and potential for reuse, can be a valuable source of starch for packaging applications. Rheology plays a crucial role in characterizing film-forming solutions before casting. In this work, packaging film was prepared from potato waste using rheological information to formulate the film-forming solution. To this aim, rheological measurements were carried out on starch/glycerol-only samples, and the data obtained were used to optimize the formulation from the waste. The polyphenol content of the peels was analyzed, and the resulting films were comprehensively characterized. This included assessments of color, extensibility, Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, surface microscopy, and contact angle. Polyphenol-loaded films, suitable for packaging applications, were developed from potato waste. These films exhibited distinct properties compared to those made with pure starch, including an improved wettability of about 75° for the best sample and a high elastic modulus of about 36 MPa, which reduces the deformability but enhances the resistance against the stress. Through rheological studies, we were able to design films from potato peel waste. These films demonstrated promising mechanical performance.
Investigation of Tannic Acid Crosslinked PVA/PEI-Based Hydrogels as Potential Wound Dressings with Self-Healing and High Antibacterial Properties
Authors: Karakuş Nimet Rumeysa , Türk Serbülent , Guney Eskiler Gamze , Syzdykbayev Marat , Appazov Nurbol O. , Özacar Mahmut
Published: October 2024

This study developed hydrogels containing different ratios of TA using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and polyethyleneimine (PEI) polymers crosslinked with tannic acid (TA) for the treatment of burn wounds. Various tests, such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), swelling, moisture retention, contact angle, tensile strength, the scratch test, antibacterial activity and the in vitro drug-release test, were applied to characterize the developed hydrogels. Additionally, the hydrogels were examined for cytotoxic properties and cell viability with the WST-1 test. TA improved both the self-healing properties of the hydrogels and showed antibacterial activity, while the added gentamicin (GEN) further increased the antibacterial activities of the hydrogels. The hydrogels exhibited good hydrophilic properties and high swelling capacity, moisture retention, and excellent antibacterial activity, especially to S. aureus. In addition, the swelling and drug-release kinetics of hydrogels were investigated, and while swelling of hydrogels obeyed the pseudo-second-order modeling, the drug release occurred in a diffusion-controlled manner according to the Higuchi and Korsmeyer–Peppas models. These results show that PVA/PEI-based hydrogels have promising potential for wound dressings with increased mechanical strength, swelling, moisture retention, self-healing, and antibacterial properties.
A Study of Hypertension and Fitness of Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Jeoung Bogja , Park Sunghae
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Individuals with spinal cord injuries have a higher incidence of chronic conditions such as hypertension and cardiovascular diseases due to a sedentary lifestyle and low levels of physical activity caused by their disability. Additionally, their physical fitness levels are lower compared to those without disabilities. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the relationship between hypertension and the fitness of individuals with spinal cord injuries in South Korea while considering differences across sexes and spinal cord injury levels. Methods: This study used data for 835 individuals with spinal cord injuries aged 20–64 years who visited the Korea Paralympic Committee fitness standard test centers from 2018 to 2022, obtained from the Korea Culture Information Sports Association’s big data market. The data were analyzed using a series of t-tests, a one-way analysis of variance, a logistic regression analysis, and the four-quartile method. Results: The prevalence of hypertension was 24.4%, and it was different according to the spinal cord injury impairment level. A lower grip strength, a lower arm curl, and a higher body mass index were associated with increased blood pressure. Conclusions: Therefore, a high level of physical strength in people with spinal cord injuries is thought to contribute to lowering blood pressure.
Assessing Daily Function and Sleep Disorders in Hemodialysis Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Saridi Maria , Batziogiorgos Georgios , Toska Aikaterini , Dimitriadou Ioanna , Malli Foteini , Zetta Stella , Fradelos Evangelos C.
Published: October 2024

Background: Chronic, end-stage renal disease significantly impacts patients’ daily activities and sleep quality, particularly those undergoing hemodialysis. However, there is limited research on the extent of these challenges and their correlation with this population. Aim: This study aims to assess the level of activity of daily living and the prevalence of sleep disturbances in patients with end-stage renal disease undergoing hemodialysis. Method: A cross-sectional study involved 130 patients receiving hemodialysis in two public General Hospitals in Greece. The Barthel Index was used to measure daily living activity, while the Athens Insomnia Scale assessed sleep disorders. The data were analyzed using SPSSV25.0. Results: Of the 210 questionnaires, 130 were returned fully completed (response rate 62%). Most of the sample participants suffered from comorbidities (76.9%). The total Barthel Index score showed moderate dependence for patients, significantly related to the years and hours of dialysis (p = 0.007 and p = 0.000, respectively). The total score of the Athens Insomnia Scale was also significantly associated with age (p = 0.029), marital status (p = 0.015) and the years and hours of hemodialysis (p = 0.004 and p = 0.001, respectively). A statistically significant difference was recorded between the daily activity of patients with end-stage renal failure and their sleep quality (p = 0.000) Finally, the physical activity level of the participants was related to the existence of another physical health (p = 0.000) or mental health problem (p = 0.000). Conclusions: Hemodialysis patients with chronic, end-stage renal disease experience significant challenges in maintaining daily activities and are prone to sleep disorders. These findings suggest a need for integrated care strategies that address both physical function and sleep quality to improve the overall well-being of this population.
Development of a Hyperspectral Imaging Protocol for Painting Applications at the University of Seville
Authors: Vasco Giovanna , Aureli Hélène , Fernández-Lizaranzu Isabel , Moreno-Soto Javier , Križnar Anabelle , Parrilla-Giraldez Rubén , Gómez-González Emilio , Respaldiza Galisteo Miguel Angel
Published: October 2024

In the last decade, the hyperspectral imaging (HSI) method allowed performing non-invasive analysis in the field of cultural heritage. However, a considerable limitation was given by redundant and time-consuming features, with the necessary application of statistical algorithms and image-processing tools to extract relevant information. In this study, the Centro Nacional de Aceleradores (CNA) and the Group of Interdisciplinary Physics (GFI) of the School of Engineering (ETSI) of the University of Seville tested the application of three different hyperspectral cameras in the visible and near-infrared (VNIR) and short-wave infrared (SWIR) range for the investigation of an ancient painting. A reference-based procedure was realised to build a starting personal library and to evaluate the best working conditions for non-invasive and non-destructive characterisation with data treatment using the commercially available software Evince® and Specim IQ® to apply, respectively, the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) model functions and the classification method. The evaluation of the protocol was tested by acquiring complementary information by X-ray fluorescence (XRF), Ultraviolet Luminescence (UVL) imaging, and Infrared Reflectography (IRR). This exploration established a simplified protocol to analyse the large collection of paintings of the Archbishop’s Palace and the Cathedral of Seville.
Arsenic Uptake and Distribution in Green Pea Plants Under Arsenite and Arsenate Treatments
Authors: Várallyay Szilvia , Bódi Éva , Balla Kovács Andrea , Soós Áron , Mukarram Shaikh Ayaz , Kovács Béla
Published: October 2024

Soil arsenic (As) contamination is a global issue affecting regions worldwide. As in the soil is primarily present in inorganic forms, such as arsenite [As(III)] and arsenate [As(V)]. As is a microelement that is toxic to plants grown in As-contaminated soil. The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of increasing concentrations (0, 3, 10, 30, 90, and 270 mg kg−1) of As(III) and As(V) on the As content in green pea (Pisum sativum L.) and the distribution of As among different plant parts at four phenophases (the four-node stage, beginning of flowering, green ripening, and mature stage). Another aim was to determine the percentage of total soil As available to plants under different treatments. The results indicate that the developmental stage of the pea and treatment concentration significantly influence the distribution of As among plant organs. However, the differences between the effect of inorganic As forms were less pronounced. The amount of As absorbed by the whole test plant increased with higher treatment concentrations. In the case of As(III)-treatment, As amount in the whole plant increased from 0.170 µg to 7.31 µg (I. Phenophase); from 0.294 µg to 10.1 µg (II. Phenophase); from 0.435 µg to 31.6 µg (III. Phenophase); and from 0.697 µg to 36.1 µg (IV. Phenophase). As a result of As(V)-treatment, the whole plant’s As content increased from 0.170 µg to 8.94 µg (I. Phenophase); from 0.294 µg to 17.4 µg (II. Phenophase); from 0.435 µg to 29.7 µg (III. Phenophase); and from 0.697 µg to 58.5 µg (IV. Phenophase). The concentration of As accumulated by the plant also increased over time. The proportion of As absorbed by generative parts was much smaller than that absorbed by vegetative organs. The pea seeds generally accumulated less As (maximum 7%) than the pea pods (in some cases, this reached the 10%). As the total amount of As taken up by the plant increased, the proportion of As reaching the seeds generally decreased (from 5% to 0.3% in the case of As[III]-treatment, and from 5% to 0.1% in the case of As[V]-treatment). At treatment levels where the ability of the stem to retain As increased, a maximum of 1% of the total As absorbed by the plant was found in the seeds. Depending on the treatment, 3.82–5.69% [As(V)-treatments] and 3.9–6.07% [As(III)-treatments] of the total soil As were available to the plants. The difference in the ratio of the total As content to the soluble As content was more evident at higher treatment levels (≥30 mg kg−1). This value was typically lower for the As(V)-treatments.
Evaluating Muscle Damage Biomarkers in Adolescent Athletes: Implications for Public Health in Tacna, Peru—2023
Authors: Yparraguirre Salcedo Kelly Geraldine , Rivera Prado Anthony Brayan , Lloja Lozano Luis , Chambilla Quispe Vicente Freddy , Ramirez Atencio Claudio Willbert
Published: October 2024

The success of an athlete is influenced by various factors, including nutritional status, physical condition, training level, recovery, psychological factors, and genetics. Studies on athletes often take a preventive approach to evaluate muscle fatigue caused by intense physical exercise, which can impair performance, particularly in soccer players. This study aims to determine the serum levels of biochemical markers of muscle damage in adolescents from sports centers in the city of Tacna. A sample of 326 adolescents who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria was analyzed for muscle damage markers, including CRP, LDH, CK-total, and CK-MB, to assess potential skeletal muscle injury. The results were as follows: for the LDH test, 2.5% had low-level values, 91.4% had values within the normal range, and 6.1% had high values; for the CK-total test, 74.8% were within normal limits, and 25.2% had elevated values; for the CK-MB test, 99.1% had normal values, and 0.9% had elevated values; and for the CRP test, 95.7% were negative, and 4.3% were positive. According to the CK-MB/CK relative index, 7.1% of adolescents were suspected of having muscle damage. This study concludes that there are alterations in the biochemical markers of muscle damage in adolescents from the sports centers in Tacna.
Implementation of an HIV Prevention Intervention at Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Predominantly Black Institutions
Authors: Holliday Rhonda C. , Martin Samantha D. , Phillips Romell , Shahin Zahra , Farley Kourtnii , Cahoy Alyssa B. , Ross Terry
Published: October 2024

Black Americans and the Southern United States are disproportionately represented in the HIV epidemic. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs), often located in communities that have been historically underserved, are uniquely positioned to implement HIV prevention interventions focused on Black young adults. The purpose of the current study was to conduct a qualitative study, using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) model as a guide, to identify the barriers and facilitators to implementing an HIV intervention pre- and post-implementation. Pre-implementation key informant interviews with administrators, faculty, and staff, alongside focus groups with students, highlighted several themes as potential influencers on intervention rollout. These included perceived need, campus health resources, cost, personnel availability, student priorities, HIV-related stigma, and institutional culture. Post-implementation interviews with campus liaisons further revealed themes including institutional culture, external partnerships, internal communication, student health resource accessibility, and peer educator recruitment and retention. These findings underscore the complexities of implementing public health interventions in academic settings and may guide future efforts at HBCUs and PBIs to effectively address HIV prevention.
Cancer Prevention in Adults with Intellectual Disabilities: A Systematic Literature Review of Caregiver Perspectives in Institutional and Home Care Settings
Authors: Klara Simon , Elmadani Mohammed , Éva Horváth , Lívia Tóth , Mbaabu Godfrey , Hamad Osama F. , Mesmar Amer , Andrade Diego , Mate Orsolya
Published: October 2024

Background: Individuals with intellectual disabilities (IDs) face unique challenges in accessing cancer prevention measures. Caregivers play a crucial role in facilitating these measures, yet their perspectives are under-researched. Methods: This systematic literature review explores caregiver perspectives on cancer prevention for adults with IDs in institutional and home care settings, aiming to understand their roles, knowledge, and challenges. Thirteen articles from the UK, the USA, Canada, and Ireland were analyzed through thematic synthesis. Four overarching themes were identified: breast cancer screening perspectives, caregivers’ knowledge and barriers to cancer prevention, caregivers’ perspectives, and cultural context and decision-making. Results: Caregivers, including healthcare professionals and family members, are essential in facilitating breast cancer screening for individuals with IDs. Challenges include explaining screening procedures, limited awareness, and logistical barriers, highlighting the need for targeted educational interventions. Disparities in access underscore the necessity for comprehensive training programs. Healthcare professionals’ perspectives reveal existing disparities and suggest interventions for improved accessibility and understanding. Cultural context influences decision-making, emphasizing the importance of culturally sensitive care. The role of family caregivers in decision-making necessitates empowering and supporting them through tailored interventions. Conclusions: This review provides insights into the challenges and opportunities in cancer prevention for individuals with IDs, suggesting the need for educational interventions, training programs, and systemic changes to address disparities. It lays the groundwork for future research and the development of holistic and inclusive strategies in this critical healthcare domain.
The Impact of Ownership Authority on Cash Conversion Cycle in Public Hospitals: A Comparative Analysis of Provincial and County Hospitals
Authors: Krzeczewski Bartlomiej
Published: October 2024

(1) Background: The aim of the paper is to identify and assess if there are differences concerning the cash conversion cycle (CCC) according to different types of ownership authority of hospitals. The main research hypothesis developed for the purpose of this study assumes that the ownership authority is of great importance for the short-term financial management analyzed through the prism of the cash conversion cycle in hospitals. (2) Methods: A statistical hypothesis testing method is employed in the empirical part of the study, analyzing differences both in the values of the cash conversion cycle itself as well as in the values of its components, i.e., inventory conversion period, receivables conversion period, and payables conversion period. The research sample consists of public hospitals subordinated to different types of ownership authorities, i.e., provinces and counties. (3) Results: It turns out that there are indeed statistically significant differences between the provincial and county hospitals as far as the cash conversion cycle and its components are analyzed, which supports the research hypothesis. (4) Conclusions: The county hospitals are characterized by a better financial situation as compared to their provincial counterparts concerning CCC management.
Early-Stage Infection-Specific Heterobasidion annosum (Fr.) Bref. Transcripts in H. annosum–Pinus sylvestris L. Pathosystem
Authors: Ramanenka Maryna , Ruņģis Dainis Edgars , Šķipars Vilnis
Published: October 2024

Transcriptomes from stem-inoculated Scots pine saplings were analyzed to identify unique and enriched H. annosum transcripts in the early stages of infection. Comparing different time points since inoculation identified 131 differentially expressed H. annosum genes with p-values of ≤0.01. Our research supports the results of previous studies on the Norway spruce–Heterobasidion annosum s.l. pathosystem, indicating the role of carbohydrate and lignin degradation genes in pathogenesis at different time points post-inoculation and the role of lipid metabolism genes (including but not limited to the delta-12 fatty acid desaturase gene previously reported to be an important factor). The results of this study indicate that the malic enzyme could be a potential gene of interest in the context of H. annosum virulence. During this study, difficulties related to incomplete reference material of the host plant species and a low proportion of H. annosum transcripts in the RNA pool were encountered. In addition, H. annosum transcripts are currently not well annotated. Improvements in sequencing technologies (including sequencing depth) or bioinformatics focusing on small subpopulations of RNA would be welcome.
The Influence of Physical Training on Breast Cancer: The Role of Exercise-Induced Myokines in Regulating Breast Cancer Cell Growth and Survival
Authors: Natarajan Anirudh , Pradhan Rashmita , Dieterich Walburga , Schwappacher Raphaela , Reljic Dejan , Herrmann Hans J. , Neurath Markus F. , Hack Carolin C. , Beckmann Matthias W. , Zopf Yurdagül
Published: October 2024

The beneficial impact of physical training in lowering cancer risk is well known. However, the precise mechanisms linking physical training and cancer are not fully understood. Skeletal muscle releases various myokines that seem to possess a direct anti-tumor effect. Although breast cancer (BC) is the prevalent form of cancer among women on a global scale, only limited data are available about the secretion of myokines following exercise in patients with BC. To study the effects of exercise on BC, the blood samples of patients with varied stages of BC were analyzed after 12 weeks of resistance training with whole-body electromyostimulation (WB-EMS). Following the training period, we observed that resistance training helps these patients to improve their physical characteristics and performance function by increasing skeletal muscle mass and strengthening their hand grip. Notably, the patient’s serum was found to inhibit the growth and promote the apoptosis of BC cells in vitro. Moreover, the conditioned medium collected from in vitro stimulated human myotubes using electric pulse stimulation (EPS), an in vitro simulation of WB-EMS training, induced the cell death of BC cells. These results highlighted the direct cancer-protective effects of activated skeletal muscle. In line with our observed effects of serum from exercise-trained pancreatic and prostate cancer patients, the growth of BC cells was notably inhibited when supplemented directly with recombinant myokines C-X-C motif ligand 1 (CXCL1), Interleukin 10 (IL10), and C-C motif chemokine ligand 4 (CCL4). Notably, treatment with these myokines also increased the expression of caspase 3/7 (Casp3/7), resulting in enhanced BC cell death. Our data strongly suggest that physical exercise has a positive impact on skeletal muscle mass and hand grip strength in BC patients, along with a significant anti-tumor effect in BC cells. This shows promising potential for considering sports and physical training as supportive therapies for achieving more impactful cancer treatment.
Leveraging Xenobiotic-Responsive Cancer Stemness in Cell Line-Based Tumoroids for Evaluating Chemoresistance: A Proof-of-Concept Study on Environmental Susceptibility
Authors: Kim Ki-Hyung , Lee Seung Joon , Kim Juil , Moon Yuseok
Published: October 2024

Emerging evidence suggests that cancer stemness plays a crucial role in tumor progression, metastasis, and chemoresistance. Upon exposure to internal or external stress, ribosomes stand sentinel and facilitate diverse biological processes, including oncological responses. In the present study, ribosome-inactivating stress (RIS) was evaluated for its modulation of cancer cell stemness as a pivotal factor of tumor cell reprogramming. Based on the concept of stress-responsive cancer cell stemness, we addressed human intestinal cancer cell line-based off-the-shelf spheroid cultures. Intestinal cancer cell line-based spheroids exhibited heightened levels of CD44+CD133+ cancer stemness, which was improved by chemical-induced RIS. Further evaluations revealed the potential of these stress-imprinted spheroids as a platform for chemoresistance screening. Compared to adherent cells, stemness-improved spheroid cultures displayed reduced apoptosis in response to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), a frontline chemotherapeutic agent against colorectal cancer. Moreover, serial subcultures with repeated RIS exposure maintained and even enhanced cancer stemness and chemoresistance patterns. In particular, isolated CD44+CD133+ cancer stem cells exhibited higher chemoresistance compared to unsorted cells. To elucidate the mechanisms underlying RIS-induced stemness, RNA-seq analysis identified Wnt signaling pathways and stemness-associated signals as notable features in spheroids exposed to RIS. Loss-of-function studies targeting connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), a negative regulator of Wnt signaling, revealed that CTGF-deficient spheroids exhibited improved cancer stemness and resistance to 5-FU, with RIS further enhancing these effects. In conclusion, this proof-of-concept study demonstrates the feasibility of leveraging stress-responsive cancer stemness for the development of spheroid-based platforms for chemoresistance evaluation and elucidation of pathophysiological processes of colorectal tumorigenesis under environmental stress.
Reference Gene Selection for RT-qPCR Normalization in Toxoplasma gondii Exposed to Broxaldine
Authors: Qiu Yanhua , Bai Yubin , Wang Weiwei , Wang Qing , Chen Shulin , Zhang Jiyu
Published: October 2024

Reverse transcription–quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) is widely used to accurately assess target gene expression. Evaluating gene expression requires the selection of appropriate reference genes. To identify reliable reference genes for Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) under varying concentrations of broxaldine (BRO), we employed the ΔCt method, BestKeeper, NormFinder, GeNorm, and the comprehensive web-based platform RefFinder to assess the expression stability of ten candidate reference genes in T. gondii. Herein, our findings reveal that the stability of these candidate reference genes is influenced by different experimental conditions. Under normal conditions, the most stable genes were TGME49_205470 and TGME49_226020. However, the most stable genes differed when BRO concentrations were at 1, 2, and 4 μg/mL. Across all samples, TGME49_247220 and TGME49_235930 were identified as the most stable reference genes. Moreover, we also confirmed the stability of TGME49_247220 and TGME49_235930 as reference genes through RT-qPCR assays. The present study provides a foundation for applying the RT-qPCR method to investigate target gene expression following BRO treatment in T. gondii.
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus-Induced Inflammation in the Placenta via IL-1β and Toll-like Receptor Pathways
Authors: Zgutka Katarzyna , Tkacz Marta , Tomasiak Patrycja , Piotrowska Katarzyna , Ustianowski Przemysław , Pawlik Andrzej , Tarnowski Maciej
Published: October 2024

Gestational diabetes mellitus is characterised by an insufficient insulin response to hyperglycaemia and the development of insulin resistance. This state has adverse effects on the health outcomes of the mother and child. Existing hyperglycaemia triggers a state of inflammation that involves several tissues, including the placenta. In this study, we analysed the putative pathomechanism of GDM, with special emphasis on the role of chronic, sterile, pro-inflammatory pathways. The expression and regulation of the elements of IL-1β and Toll-like receptor (TLR) pathways in GDM maternal blood plasma, healthy placental explants and a choriocarcinoma cell line (BeWo cell line) stimulated with pro-inflammatory factors was evaluated. Our results indicate elevated expression of the IL-1β and TLR pathways in GDM patients. After stimulation with IL-1β or LPS, the placental explants and BeWo cell line showed increased production of pro-inflammatory IL-6, TNFa and IL-1β together with increased expression of the elements of the signalling pathways. The application of selected inhibitors of NF-ĸB, MAPK and recombinant interleukin 1 receptor antagonist (IL1RA) proved the key involvement of the IL-1β pathway and TLRs in the pathogenesis of GDM. Our results show the possible existence of loops of autocrine stimulation and a possible inflammatory pathomechanism in placentas affected by GDM.
Achieving Ultra-Low-Sulfur Model Diesel Through Defective Keggin-Type Heteropolyoxometalate Catalysts
Authors: de la Fuente Natali , Wang Jin An , Chen Lifang , Valenzuela Miguel A. , Noreña Luis E. , Rojas Elizabeth , González Julio , He Mu , Peng Jiang , Zhou Xiaolong
Published: October 2024

Various Keggin-type heteropolyoxometalate catalysts with structural defects and surface acidity were synthesized by immobilizing 12-phosphotungstic acid (HPW) on mesoporous SBA−15, to produce near-zero-sulfur diesel fuel. As the calcination temperature increased, the W=O and the corner-shared W–O–W bonds in the Keggin unit partially broke, creating oxygen defects, as evidenced by the Rietveld refinement and in situ FTIR characterization. All the catalysts contained Lewis (L) and Brønsted (B) acid sites, with L acidity predominant. The relative intensity of the IR band (I980) of W=O bond inversely correlated with the number of L acid sites as the calcination temperature varied, suggesting that oxygen defects contributed to the Lewis acid sites formation. In the oxidation of dibenzothiophene (DBT) in a model diesel within a biphasic system, DBT conversion exceeded 99% under the optimal reaction conditions (reaction temperature 70 °C, reaction time 60 min, H2O2/sulfur molar ratio 8, H2O2/formic acid molar ratio 1.5, catalyst concentration 2 mg/mL). The influence of fuel composition and addition of indole and 4,6-DMDBT on DBT oxidation were also evaluated. Indole and cyclohexene negatively impacted the DBT oxidative removal. Oxygen defects served as active centers for competitive adsorption of sulfur compound and oxidant. Both L and B acid sites were involved in transferring O atom from peroxophosphotungstate complex to sulfur in DBT, resulting in DBTO2 sulfone, which was immediately extracted by polar acetonitrile. This study confirms that structural defects and surface acidity are crucial in the deep oxidative desulfurization (ODS) reaction, and in enabling the simultaneous oxidation and separation of refractory organosulfur compounds in a highly efficient model diesel.
Comprehensive Risk Assessment of LAD Disease Progression in CCTA: The CLAP Score Study
Authors: Tommasino Antonella , Dell’Aquila Federico , Redivo Marco , Pittorino Luca , Mattaroccia Giulia , Tempestini Federica , Santucci Stefano , Casenghi Matteo , Giovannelli Francesca , Rigattieri Stefano , Berni Andrea , Barbato Emanuele
Published: October 2024

Background: a wider left main bifurcation angle (LMBA) has been linked to severe plaque development in the proximal left anterior descending artery (LAD). This study aimed to identify predictors of severe proximal LAD stenosis and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) using coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). Methods: from an initial cohort of 650 consecutive patients, we analyzed 499 patients who met the inclusion criteria after exclusions. Plaque morphology and characteristics were assessed by CCTA, and MACE occurrences were recorded at follow-up. A predictive score for LAD disease progression (CLAP score) was developed and validated. Results: severe proximal LAD stenosis was detected in 32% (160/499) of patients by CCTA. MACE occurred in 12.5% of patients at follow-up. Significant predictors of MACE were LMBA > 80° (HR: 4.47; 95% CI: 3.80–6.70; p < 0.001), diabetes (HR: 2.94; 95% CI: 1.54–4.63; p = 0.031), chronic kidney disease (HR: 1.71; 95% CI: 1.31–6.72; p = 0.041), high-risk plaques (HR: 2.30; 95% CI: 1.45–3.64; p < 0.01), obstructive CAD (HR: 2.50; 95% CI: 1.50 to 4.10, p = 0.01), and calcium score (CAC) (HR: 1.05; 95% CI: 1.02–1.08, p = 0.004). The CLAP score demonstrated good discriminatory power in both the development (AUC 0.91; 95% CI: 0.86–0.96) and validation cohorts (AUC 0.85; 95% CI: 0.79–0.91); Conclusions: LMBA > 80°, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, obstructive CAD, CAC score >180 and high-risk plaques were significant predictors of MACE in CCTA patients. The CLAP score effectively predicted LAD disease progression, aiding in risk stratification and optimization of intervention strategies for suspected coronary artery disease.
Fault Diagnosis Method for Marine Electric Propulsion Systems Based on Zero-Crossing Tacholess Order Tracking
Authors: Zou Zhexiang , Chen Muquan , Yang Chao , Li Chun , Li Dongqin , Gu Fengshou , Ball Andrew D.
Published: October 2024

In marine electric propulsion systems (MEPS) driven by variable-frequency drives, motor current signals often exhibit complex modulation components, ambiguous spectra, and severe noise interference, rendering it challenging to extract fault-related modulation components. To address this issue, we propose a zero-crossing tacholess order tracking method based on motor current signals. This method utilizes zero-crossing estimation of the instantaneous frequency to perform angular resampling of stator current signals and demodulates the envelope spectrum to extract fault characteristic spectra, enabling the diagnosis of mechanical faults in MEPS. Given the synchronization of the synchronous motor speed with the inverter fundamental frequency, this method estimates instantaneous frequencies in the time domain without requiring integration or time–frequency representation, which is simple and computationally efficient. Data validation on a small-scale marine electric propulsion test platform demonstrates that the proposed method exhibits good robustness under variable-speed conditions and effectively detects imbalance faults caused by propeller breakages and gear faults resulting from bevel gear tooth defects. Therefore, the proposed method can be applied to diagnose faults in downstream mechanical equipment driven by motors.
Characterization of a New Hsp110 Inhibitor as a Potential Antifungal
Authors: Sun Cancan , Li Yi , Kidd Justin M. , Han Jizhong , Ding Liangliang , May Aaron E. , Zhou Lei , Liu Qinglian
Published: October 2024

Fungal infections present a significant global health challenge, prompting ongoing research to discover innovative antifungal agents. The 110 kDa heat shock proteins (Hsp110s) are molecular chaperones essential for maintaining cellular protein homeostasis in eukaryotes. Fungal Hsp110s have emerged as a promising target for innovative antifungal strategies. Notably, 2H stands out as a promising candidate in the endeavor to target Hsp110s and combat fungal infections. Our study reveals that 2H exhibits broad-spectrum antifungal activity, effectively disrupting the in vitro chaperone activity of Hsp110 from Candida auris and inhibiting the growth of Cryptococcus neoformans. Pharmacokinetic analysis indicates that oral administration of 2H may offer enhanced efficacy compared to intravenous delivery, emphasizing the importance of optimizing the AUC/MIC ratio for advancing its clinical therapy.
Screening of the Candidate Metabolite to Evaluate the Mycelium Physiological Maturation of Lyophyllum decastes Based on Metabolome and Transcriptome Analysis
Authors: Liang Lidan , Zang Xizhe , Zhang Peijin , Sun Jingwei , Shi Qingyun , Chang Siyuan , Ren Pengfei , Li Zhuang , Meng Li
Published: October 2024

Lyophyllum decastes is a commercially cultivated rare edible mushroom with high dietary and medicinal value. The mycelium physiological maturation was an important factor to the yield and quality of mushrooms obtained. However, it was impossible to obtain discriminative characteristics represented the maturity level of the mycelia from morphological features. In this article, we screened a candidate metabolite for evaluating the mycelium physiological maturation by metabolomic and transcriptomic analysis during mycelial vegetative growth stages of L. decastes. The results showed that mycelial vegetative growth 55 d had reached to physiological maturation according to the yield and quality of L. decastes, which the single bottle yield (307 g/bottle), the contents of flavonoids (2.94 mg/g dry weight), and 5 flavor amino acids (glutamate 177.90 μg/g, aspartate 95.74 μg/g, phenylalanine 31.68 μg/g, tyrosine 13.79 μg/g, and alanine 10.99 μg/g) were the highest. In addition, the metabolomic and transcriptomic analysis results showed that biosynthesis of secondary metabolites and amino acid had significant different during mycelial vegetative growth stages, and glutamine may be a candidate indicator to evaluate the mycelial physiological maturation. These findings contribute to improve our knowledge of mycelium physiological maturation and it will be used to increase mushroom yield and quality.
Exploring the Role of AI in Improving VAT Reporting Quality: Experimental Study in Emerging Markets
Authors: Al Najjar Moustafa , Mahboub Rasha , Nakhal Bilal , Gaber Ghanem Mohamed
Published: October 2024

In recent years, artificial intelligence has increasingly been interesting for its role in improving accounting practices. This research investigates whether there is a significant difference in value-added tax (VAT) reporting quality between traditional methods and those assisted by artificial intelligence (AI) in emerging markets. The experiment introduces an AI intervention using ChatGPT-4 to analyze data for accounting errors. The results demonstrate that AI-assisted reporting significantly improves reporting quality, as the AI effectively identified accounting errors that were missed in traditional reporting. This study makes a valuable contribution by providing novel, practical insights into the role and capabilities of AI in tax reporting, employing a rarely used experimental methodology to explore this topic.
Analysis of Multi-Dimensional Layers in Historic Districts Based on Theory of the Historic Urban Landscape: Taking Shenyang Fangcheng as an Example
Authors: Wang Yuan , Jin Chengxie , Xu Danyang , Wang Tiebo , Wang Baoxi
Published: October 2024

The accelerated process of urbanisation in China is resulting in a decline in and threat to the historic landscape of historic districts. This study is based on the theory of historic urban landscapes and employs a multi-dimensional layers research framework for historic districts. It adopts a single case study and a research method that combines quantitative and qualitative methods. The stratification elements of Fangcheng in Shenyang are identified and summarised, the process of stratification is analysed, and the stratification patterns and laws are summarised through the acquisition and collection of multivariate data. The findings of this study indicate that the stratification elements of the Fangcheng Historic District have undergone five distinct phases of stratification evolution. The resulting stratification pattern can be summarised as follows: newborn, preserve, override, juxtaposition and decession. The spatial elements are layered in the following pattern: The historic landscape can be conceptualised as comprising four layers: (1) the layering of the historic landscape with large public buildings as the anchor point; (2) the layering of the historic landscape with the spatial pattern as the skeleton; (3) the layering of the historic landscape with the iconic buildings as the nodes; and (4) the layering of the historic landscape with the correlative elements as the substrate. The law of value element layering primarily reflects the principles of concentration, diversity and adaptation. In light of the urban historic landscape theory, the reconstruction and restoration strategies, integration of old and new and adaptive conservation of historic landscapes are proposed to offer novel insights and guidance for the conservation of the historic landscape in the Fangcheng Historic District.
Multi-Scale Evaluation and Simulation of Livelihood Efficiency in Post-Poverty Mountainous Areas
Authors: Xu Yuxuan , Chang Jiangbo , Su Fang
Published: October 2024

Promoting the coordination of livelihoods at the county and farmers’ scales is essential for achieving balanced regional development and rural revitalization in post-poverty mountainous areas. Existing studies predominantly focus on farmers’ or regional livelihood capital and livelihood efficiency at a single scale, lacking research on cross-scale coordination between farmers’ and county livelihoods. Consequently, these studies fail to reveal the interactions and synergistic enhancement pathways between the two scales. This study, using the Qinba mountains in southern Shaanxi as a case, employs system dynamics to construct a coupled system dynamics model of farmers’ livelihood efficiency and county livelihood efficiency. From the perspective of livelihood capital, five regulatory modes, comprising a total of 17 scenarios, were designed and simulated. The results indicate the following data: (1) The coupling coordination degree between farmers’ livelihood efficiency and county livelihood efficiency in the Qinba mountains is 0.623, indicating a moderate level of coordination overall. However, the coupling coordination relationship requires further optimization and adjustment. Specifically, Foping exhibits a severe imbalance, while the coupling coordination degree of Shiquan, Zhashui, Baihe, Pingli, and Lan’gao is in a state of basic coordination. Additionally, 19 other counties, including Lueyang, Ningqiang, Yang, and others, exhibit moderate coordination. (2) Enhancing social or financial capital through various means typically promotes the coordinated development of farmers’ and county livelihood efficiency. On average, social capital and financial capital regulation models can increase the coupling coordination degree by 0.08 and 0.17, respectively. Additionally, strategies such as increasing fixed asset investment and regulating other capital types, including reducing arable land, also effectively improve the coupling coordination degree of farmers’ and county livelihood efficiency. This study provides a decision-making basis for improving the coordination of farmers’ and county livelihoods in post-poverty mountainous areas, thereby promoting economic development and intensive resource utilization. It assists in formulating more precise policy measures and offers a reference for sustainable development and rural revitalization in similar regions.
How Do “One-Time Bidding, Average Price Win” Land Auction Rules Affect Land Prices: A Quasinatural Experiment in Suzhou, China
Authors: Chai Duo , Li Shunru , Zhang Pengyuan
Published: October 2024

The land price reflects the supply and demand relationship in the land market and plays an important role in regulating land use. Improving land auction rules is of great significance for avoiding abnormal fluctuations in the land market and promoting the sustainable use of land resources. To regulate the abnormal fluctuations in the state-owned land use rights’ auction prices, Chinese local governments have implemented a “sealed one-time bidding, average price wins” rule. However, limited theoretical and empirical research that assesses its policy impact exists. This study examines the policy motivations behind this rule, constructing three game models; namely, static complete information, static incomplete information, and multiperiod repeated games. By deducing bidding strategies and equilibrium results, hypotheses are formulated. A baseline difference-in-differences (DID) and a dynamic policy effect model are designed, and the Python crawler is used to obtain 1182 microland auction samples in Suzhou. This study evaluates the impact of the one-time bidding rule on the starting prices, transaction prices, and premium rates. The empirical results underwent multiple robustness tests, eliminating potential endogeneity issues and biases. The results show that while the policy is effective in restraining the premium rate, indicating the bidding intensity in single-land auctions, it proves challenging to curb the long-term rise in land prices through continuous bidding auctions. Moreover, the policy may stimulate local governments to increase auction starting prices.