bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Tanning Chemical Agents on DNA Degradation: A Robust Procedure for the Analysis of Tanned Animal Hide—A Pilot Study
Authors: Hebenstreitova Kristyna , Salaba Ondrej , Trubac Jakub , Kufnerova Jitka , Vanek Daniel
Published: January 2024

Illegal wildlife trade is currently on the rise, and it is becoming one of the most lucrative crime sectors. The rarer the species, the higher the demand. Wildlife trade falls under international regulations, such as the CITES convention. Proving that this convention has been violated is a complex process and can be very difficult to do. DNA analysis methods remain (in many cases) the only way to determine whether a certain specimen originated from a protected animal species, a specific individual, or a species in which it is legal to trade. Tanned animal hides are a specific type of specimen. With this type of biological material, obtaining amplifiable DNA is often difficult. This pilot study aimed to map the effect of the chemicals used in the tanning process on the degradation of the DNA yielded from such samples. The DNA was quantified using two different approaches: qPCR and Qubit fluorometry. The degree of DNA fragmentation was assessed by determining the degradation index. The results indicate that reagents containing chromium have the greatest influence on DNA degradation. However, by using the presented protocol, enough amplifiable DNA can be obtained from hides treated with aluminum-based reagents.
Diversity of Endophytes of Actinidia arguta in Different Seasons
Authors: Liu Yingxue , Lu Wenpeng , Li Yang , Zhai Boyu , Zhang Baoxiang , Qin Hongyan , Xu Peilei , Yang Yiming , Fan Shutian , Wang Yue , Li Changyu , Zhao Jianjun , Ai Jun
Published: January 2024

The seasonal changes in environmental conditions can alter the growth states of host plants, thereby affecting the living environment of endophytes and forming different endophytic communities. This study employs Illumina MiSeq next-generation sequencing to analyze the 16SrRNA and ITS rDNA of endophytes in 24 samples of Actinidia arguta stem tissues across different seasons. The results revealed a high richness and diversity of endophytes in Actinidia arguta, with significant seasonal variations in microbial community richness. This study identified 897 genera across 36 phyla for bacteria and 251 genera across 8 phyla for fungi. Notably, 69 bacterial genera and 19 fungal genera significantly contributed to the differences in community structure across seasons. A distinctive feature of coexistence in the endophytic community, both specific and conservative across different seasons, was observed. The bacterial community in winter demonstrated significantly higher richness and diversity compared to the other seasons. Environmental factors likely influence the optimal timing for endophyte colonization. Solar radiation, temperature, precipitation, and relative humidity significantly impact the diversity of endophytic bacteria and fungi. In addition, seasonal variations show significant differences in the nutritional modes of fungal endophytes and the degradation, ligninolysis, and ureolysis functions of bacterial endophytes. This study elucidates the potential role of endophytes in assisting Actinidia arguta in adapting to seasonal changes and provides a theoretical basis for further exploration of functional microbial strains.
Analysis of Hot Tensile Fracture and Flow Behaviors of Inconel 625 Superalloy
Authors: Pan Xin-Zhe , Chen Xiao-Min , Ning Meng-Tao
Published: January 2024

In this work, Inconel 625 alloy is explored regarding high-temperature tensile deformation and fracture behaviors at a strain rate of 0.005–0.01 s−1 under a deformation temperature ranging from 700–800 °C. The subsequent analysis focuses on the impact of deformation parameters on flow and fracture characteristics. The fractured surface reveals that ductile fracture is dominated by the nucleation, growth, and coalescence of microvoids as the primary failure mechanisms. The elevated deformation temperature and reduced strain rate stimulate the level of dynamically recrystallized (DRX) structures, resulting in intergranular fractures. The Arrhenius model and the particle swarm optimization-artificial neural network (PSO-ANN) model are developed to predict the hot tensile behavior of the superalloy. It indicates that the PSO-ANN model exhibits a correlation coefficient (R) as high as 0.9967, surpassing the corresponding coefficient of 0.9344 for the Arrhenius model. Furthermore, the relative absolute error of 9.13% (Arrhenius) and 1.85% (PSO-ANN model) are recorded. The developed PSO-ANN model accurately characterizes the flow features of the Inconel 625 superalloy with high precision and reliability.
Fatigue Behaviour of Brazed Joints for Heat Exchangers
Authors: Hanželič Blaž , Kralj Jernej , Bončina Tonica , Nečemer Branko , Kramberger Janez , Satošek Roman , Glodež Srečko
Published: January 2024

The plate heat exchanger (PHE) is a component that provides heat to be transferred from hot water to domestic cold water without mixing them with high efficiency. Over the lifetime of the PHE, cyclic pressures act on the brazing points and the plates, and this may lead to fatigue failure. The fatigue behaviour of the PHE, designed using copper-brazed 316L stainless steel, was investigated in this study. First, the fatigue tests under the load ratio R = 0.1 were performed on the Vibrophore 100 testing machine to obtain the S-N curve of the analysed brazed joint. Based on the obtained experimental results, an appropriate material model of the analysed brazed joint has been created, which was validated with numerical calculation in the framework of a program code Ansys. A validated material model was then used for the subsequent numerical analysis of PHE. In order to carry out a numerical calculation using the finite element method (FEM), a three-dimensional model of the heat exchanger was created based on the previous scanning of PHE-geometry. Thereafter, the geometry was parameterised, which allowed us to perform parametric simulations (monitoring different responses depending on the input geometry). Numerical simulations were carried out in the framework of the Ansys 2023-R1 software, whereby the obtained results were analysed, and the responses were appropriately characterised according to previously determined load cases.
On the Analytical Solution of the SIRV-Model for the Temporal Evolution of Epidemics for General Time-Dependent Recovery, Infection and Vaccination Rates
Authors: Kröger Martin , Schlickeiser Reinhard
Published: January 2024

The susceptible–infected–recovered/removed–vaccinated (SIRV) epidemic model is an important generalization of the SIR epidemic model, as it accounts quantitatively for the effects of vaccination campaigns on the temporal evolution of epidemic outbreaks. Additional to the time-dependent infection (a(t)) and recovery (μ(t)) rates, regulating the transitions between the compartments S→I and I→R, respectively, the time-dependent vaccination rate v(t) accounts for the transition between the compartments S→V of susceptible to vaccinated fractions. An accurate analytical approximation is derived for arbitrary and different temporal dependencies of the rates, which is valid for all times after the start of the epidemics for which the cumulative fraction of new infections J(t)≪1. As vaccination campaigns automatically reduce the rate of new infections by transferring persons from susceptible to vaccinated, the limit J(t)≪1 is even better fulfilled than in the SIR-epidemic model. The comparison of the analytical approximation for the temporal dependence of the rate of new infections J˚(t)=a(t)S(t)I(t), the corresponding cumulative fraction J(t), and V(t), respectively, with the exact numerical solution of the SIRV-equations for different illustrative examples proves the accuracy of our approach. The considered illustrative examples include the cases of stationary ratios with a delayed start of vaccinations, and an oscillating ratio of recovery to infection rate with a delayed vaccination at constant rate. The proposed analytical approximation is self-regulating as the final analytical expression for the cumulative fraction J∞ after infinite time allows us to check the validity of the original assumption J(t)≤J∞≪1.
An Icon-Based Methodology for the Design of a Prototype of a Multi-Process, Multi-Product, Aggregated Production Planning Software
Authors: Miranda-Meza Erick , Derpich Iván , Sepúlveda Juan M.
Published: January 2024

This paper proposes an icon-based methodology for the design of prototype aggregated production planning software that addresses the complexity of multi-process and multi-product production. Aggregate planning is a critical task in production management, which involves coordinating the production of multiple products in different processes to meet demand efficiently. The approach focuses on the use of visual icons to represent key elements of the production process, such as products, processes, resources, and constraints. These icons allow an intuitive representation of information and facilitate communication between production team members. In addition, this paper presents a conceptual structure that defines the relationships between the icons and how they are used to model and simulate aggregate production planning. The prototype software based on a conceptual foundation allows planners to easily create and adjust production plans in a visual environment. This method improves the ability to make informed and rapid decisions in response to changes in demand or production capacity. The prototype is based on icons and programmed in Excel spreadsheets to facilitate the planner’s planning. At the end of the document, the application of a case study is shown.
Solving Heterogeneous USV Scheduling Problems by Problem-Specific Knowledge Based Meta-Heuristics with Q-Learning
Authors: Ma Zhenfang , Gao Kaizhou , Yu Hui , Wu Naiqi
Published: January 2024

This study focuses on the scheduling problem of heterogeneous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) with obstacle avoidance pretreatment. The goal is to minimize the overall maximum completion time of USVs. First, we develop a mathematical model for the problem. Second, with obstacles, an A* algorithm is employed to generate a path between two points where tasks need to be performed. Third, three meta-heuristics, i.e., simulated annealing (SA), genetic algorithm (GA), and harmony search (HS), are employed and improved to solve the problems. Based on problem-specific knowledge, nine local search operators are designed to improve the performance of the proposed algorithms. In each iteration, three Q-learning strategies are used to select high-quality local search operators. We aim to improve the performance of meta-heuristics by using Q-learning-based local search operators. Finally, 13 instances with different scales are adopted to validate the effectiveness of the proposed strategies. We compare with the classical meta-heuristics and the existing meta-heuristics. The proposed meta-heuristics with Q-learning are overall better than the compared ones. The results and comparisons show that HS with the second Q-learning, HS + QL2, exhibits the strongest competitiveness (the smallest mean rank value 1.00) among 15 algorithms.
Ascophyllum nodosum (Linnaeus) Le Jolis from Arctic: Its Biochemical Composition, Antiradical Potential, and Human Health Risk
Authors: Obluchinskaya Ekaterina D. , Pozharitskaya Olga N. , Gorshenina Elena V. , Daurtseva Anna V. , Flisyuk Elena V. , Generalova Yuliya E. , Terninko Inna I. , Shikov Alexander N.
Published: January 2024

Ascophyllum nodosum is a brown seaweed common in Arctic tidal waters. We have collected A. nodosum samples from the Barents Sea (BS), Irminger Sea (IS), and Norwegian Sea (NS) in different reproductive stages and have evaluated their biochemical composition, radical scavenging potential, and health risks. The total content of dominating carbohydrates (fucoidan, mannitol, alginate, and laminaran) ranged from 347 mg/g DW in NS to 528 mg/g DW in BS. The proportion of two main structural monosaccharides of fucoidan (fucose and xylose) differed significantly between the seas and reproductive phase, reaching a maximum at the fertile phase in the BS sample. Polyphenols and flavonoids totals were highest in NS A. nodosum samples and increased on average in the following order: BS < IS < NS. A positive correlation of free radical scavenging activity for seaweed extracts with polyphenols content was observed. The concentration of elements in A. nodosum from the Arctic seas region was in the following order: Ca > Mg > Sr > Fe > Al > Zn > As total > Rb > Mn > Ba > Cu > Co. Seaweeds from BS had the lowest metal pollution index (MPI) of 38.4. A. nodosum from IS had the highest MPI of 83. According to the calculated target hazard quotient (THQ) and hazard index (HI) values, Arctic A. nodosum samples pose no carcinogenic risk to adult and child health and are safe for regular consumption. Our results suggest that the Arctic A. nodosum has a remarkable potential for food and pharmaceutical industries as an underestimated source of polysaccharides, polyphenols, and flavonoids.
Processing, Microstructure, and Properties of Bimetallic Steel-Ni Alloy Powder HIP
Authors: Huang Shenyan , Shen Chen , Samarov Victor
Published: January 2024

This work explores technical feasibility in hot isostatic pressing (HIP) manufacturing of an integral bimetallic component using steel and Ni alloy powder for supercritical carbon dioxide (sCO2) turbomachinery. Lab-scale bimetallic HIP specimens using HAYNES® 282® and SS316L or SS415 powder are investigated in powder configuration, heat treatment, microstructure, and tensile properties up to 400 °C. Interdiffusion profiles at dissimilar alloy interfaces caused by HIP cycle is predicted by DICTRA simulations and validated by electron probe microanalysis (EPMA). The interdiffusion distance of most elements is around 100 μm, while C and N have a higher interdiffusion distance. Dense distribution of Ti-rich carbonitrides and alumina particles are found to decorate prior particle boundaries near joining interface on the 282 side, affecting tensile strength across interface as well as tensile failure location. A higher amount of excessive carbonitride formation near interface is observed in SS316L/282 than in SS415/282, which is consistent with the predicted greater degree of interdiffusion effect in SS316L/282. Typical HAYNES® 282® heat treatment condition is applicable to 282/SS316L and 282/SS415 combinations, resulting in a higher strength than cast CF8M and CA6NM. A pilot-scale bimetallic SS415/282 pipe is then demonstrated to show the promise of scaleup.
Fabrication of Uniform and Rounded Closed-Cell Aluminum Foams Using Novel Foamable Precursor Particles (FPPs)
Authors: Mudge Angela , Morsi K.
Published: January 2024

The powder metallurgy (PM) route for the production of closed-cell metallic foams has recently received a significant amount of attention. One of the major issues is the non-uniform and non-spherical nature of the cells produced, which can negatively affect the mechanical behavior. The current paper uses the PM route to process metallic foams for the first time using novel Al-TiH2 foamable precursor “particles” (FPPs). The effect of FPP content (0–10 wt.%) on the developed foam structure of aluminum and its mechanical properties is investigated. An increase in FPP content results in a decline in product density by forming uniform and near-spherical cells. The main advantage of the FPPs is the localization of the blowing agent TiH2 particle content within Al-TiH2 composite particles (i.e., giving rise to a higher local TiH2 content), which has led to the production of pores with relatively high circularities even at very low overall TiH2 contents. The foams produced displayed energy absorption capacities of 10–25 MJ/m3 at 50% strain, and maximum energy absorption efficiencies ranging from 0.6–0.7 (for 40–60% closed cell content)
Celastrol Stabilizes Glycolipid Metabolism in Hepatic Steatosis by Binding and Regulating the Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor γ Signaling Pathway
Authors: Luo Mingzhu , Wang Yiting , Ma Yanyan , Li Jingzhe , Wang Jingyi , Liu Changzhen
Published: January 2024

The prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been increasing. Obesity, insulin resistance, and lipid metabolic dysfunction are always accompanied by NAFLD. Celastrol modulates the Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α (C/EBPα) signaling pathways, thereby promoting lipolysis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. In the present study, oleic-acid-induced NAFLD and differentiated 3T3-L1 preadipocytes were used as models of NAFLD and obesity to investigate the protective effect of celastrol. We investigated the impact of celastrol on hepatic steatosis caused by oleic acid (OA), as well as the associated underlying molecular pathways. To address the aforementioned questions, we used a cellular approach to analyze the signaling effects of celastrol on various aspects. These factors include the improvement in fatty liver in HepG2 cells, the differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes, glucose uptake, and the modulation of key transcriptional pathways associated with PPARγ. The administration of celastrol effectively mitigated lipid accumulation caused by OA in HepG2 cells, thereby ameliorating fatty liver conditions. Furthermore, celastrol suppressed the impacts on adipocyte differentiation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Additionally, celastrol exhibited the ability to bind to PPARγ and modulate its transcriptional activity. Notably, the ameliorative effects of celastrol on hepatic steatosis were reversed by rosiglitazone. According to our preliminary findings from in vitro celastrol signaling studies, PPARγ is likely to be the direct target of celastrol in regulating hepatic steatosis in HepG2 cells and adipocyte differentiation in 3T3-L1 cells.
The Omics Dashboard for Interactive Exploration of Metabolomics and Multi-Omics Data
Authors: Paley Suzanne , Karp Peter D.
Published: January 2024

The Omics Dashboard is a software tool for interactive exploration and analysis of metabolomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and multi-omics datasets. Organized as a hierarchy of cellular systems, the Dashboard at its highest level contains graphical panels for the full range of cellular systems, including biosynthesis, energy metabolism, and response to stimulus. Thus, the Dashboard top level surveys the state of the cell across a broad range of key systems in a single screen. Each Dashboard panel contains a series of X–Y plots depicting the aggregated omics data values relevant to different subsystems of that panel, e.g., subsystems within the biosynthesis panel include amino acid biosynthesis, carbohydrate biosynthesis and cofactor biosynthesis. Users can interactively drill down to focus in on successively lower-level subsystems of interest. In this article, we present for the first time the metabolomics analysis capabilities of the Omics Dashboard, along with significant new extensions to better accommodate metabolomics datasets, enable analysis and visualization of multi-omics datasets, and provide new data-filtering options.
Enhancing Surface Modification and Carrier Extraction in Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells via Self-Assembled Monolayers
Authors: Kim Gisung , Kim Hyojung , Kim Mijoung , Sin Jaegwan , Kim Moonhoe , Kim Jaeho , Zhou Haoran , Kang Sung Ho , Oh Hye Min , Yang JungYup
Published: January 2024

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have been significantly improved by utilizing an inorganic hole-transporting layer (HTL), such as nickel oxide. Despite the promising properties, there are still limitations due to defects. Recently, research on self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) is being actively conducted, which shows promise in reducing defects and enhancing device performance. In this study, we successfully engineered a p-i-n perovskite solar cell structure utilizing HC-A1 and HC-A4 molecules. These SAM molecules were found to enhance the grain morphology and uniformity of the perovskite film, which are critical factors in determining optical properties and device performance. Notably, HC-A4 demonstrated superior performance due to its distinct hydrophilic properties with a contact angle of 50.3°, attributable to its unique functional groups. Overall, the HC-A4-applied film exhibited efficient carrier extraction properties, attaining a carrier lifetime of 117.33 ns. Furthermore, HC-A4 contributed to superior device performance, achieving the highest device efficiency of 20% and demonstrating outstanding thermal stability over 300 h.
Magnetic Properties and THz Emission from Co/CoO/Pt and Ni/NiO/Pt Trilayers
Authors: Kanistras Nikolaos , Scheuer Laura , Anyfantis Dimitrios I. , Barnasas Alexandros , Torosyan Garik , Beigang René , Crisan Ovidiu , Poulopoulos Panagiotis , Papaioannou Evangelos Th.
Published: January 2024

THz radiation emitted by ferromagnetic/non-magnetic bilayers is a new emergent field in ultra-fast spin physics phenomena with a lot of potential for technological applications in the terahertz (THz) region of the electromagnetic spectrum. The role of antiferromagnetic layers in the THz emission process is being heavily investigated at the moment. In this work, we fabricate trilayers in the form of Co/CoO/Pt and Ni/NiO/Pt with the aim of studying the magnetic properties and probing the role of very thin antiferromagnetic interlayers like NiO and CoO in transporting ultrafast spin current. First, we reveal the static magnetic properties of the samples by using temperature-dependent Squid magnetometry and then we quantify the dynamic properties with the help of ferromagnetic resonance spectroscopy. We show magnetization reversal that has large exchange bias values and we extract enhanced damping values for the trilayers. THz time-domain spectroscopy examines the influence of the antiferromagnetic interlayer in the THz emission, showing that the NiO interlayer in particular is able to transport spin current.
Hydrophilic Biocompatible Fluorescent Organic Nanoparticles as Nanocarriers for Biosourced Photosensitizers for Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Sasaki Isabelle , Brégier Frédérique , Chemin Guillaume , Daniel Jonathan , Couvez Justine , Chkair Rayan , Vaultier Michel , Sol Vincent , Blanchard-Desce Mireille
Published: January 2024

Most photosensitizers of interest for photodynamic therapy—especially porphyrinoids and chlorins—are hydrophobic. To circumvent this difficulty, the use of nanocarriers is an attractive strategy. In this perspective, we have developed highly water-soluble and biocompatible fluorescent organic nanoparticles (FONPs) made from citric acid and diethyltriamine which are then activated by ethlynene diamine as nanoplatforms for efficient photosensitizers (PSs). Purpurin 18 (Pp18) was selected as a biosourced chlorin photosensitizer combining the efficient single oxygen generation ability and suitable absorption in the biological spectral window. The simple reaction of activated FONPs with Pp18, which contains a reactive anhydride ring, yielded nanoparticles containing both Pp18 and Cp6 derivatives. These functionalized nanoparticles combine solubility in water, high singlet oxygen generation quantum yield in aqueous media (0.72) and absorption both in the near UV region (FONPS) and in the visible region (Soret band approximately 420 nm as well as Q bands at 500 nm, 560 nm, 660 nm and 710 nm). The functionalized nanoparticles retain the blue fluorescence of FONPs when excited in the near UV region but also show deep-red or NIR fluorescence when excited in the visible absorption bands of the PSs (typically at 520 nm, 660 nm or 710 nm). Moreover, these nanoparticles behave as efficient photosensitizers inducing colorectal cancer cell (HCT116 and HT-29 cell lines) death upon illumination at 650 nm. Half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values down to, respectively, 0.04 and 0.13 nmol/mL were observed showing the potential of FONPs[Cp6] for the PDT treatment of cancer. In conclusion, we have shown that these novel biocompatible nanoparticles, which can be elaborated from biosourced components, both show deep-red emission upon excitation in the red region and are able to produce singlet oxygen with high efficiency in aqueous environments. Moreover, they show high PDT efficiency on colorectal cancer cells upon excitation in the deep red region. As such, these functional organic nanoparticles hold promise both for PDT treatment and theranostics.
Tissue Nanotransfection Silicon Chip and Related Electroporation-Based Technologies for In Vivo Tissue Reprogramming
Authors: Xuan Yi , Wang Cong , Ghatak Subhadip , Sen Chandan K.
Published: January 2024

Tissue nanotransfection (TNT), a cutting-edge technique of in vivo gene therapy, has gained substantial attention in various applications ranging from in vivo tissue reprogramming in regenerative medicine, and wound healing to cancer treatment. This technique harnesses the advancements in the semiconductor processes, facilitating the integration of conventional transdermal gene delivery methods—nanoelectroporation and microneedle technologies. TNT silicon chips have demonstrated considerable promise in reprogramming fibroblast cells of skin in vivo into vascular or neural cells in preclinical studies to assist in the recovery of injured limbs and damaged brain tissue. More recently, the application of TNT chips has been extended to the area of exosomes, which are vital for intracellular communication to track their functionality during the wound healing process. In this review, we provide an in-depth examination of the design, fabrication, and applications of TNT silicon chips, alongside a critical analysis of the electroporation-based gene transfer mechanisms. Additionally, the review discussed the existing limitations and challenges in the current technique, which may project future trajectories in the landscape of gene therapy. Through this exploration, the review aims to shed light on the prospects of TNT in the broader context of gene therapy and tissue regeneration.
A Comprehensive Review on the Role of Resting-State Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Predicting Post-Stroke Motor and Sensory Outcomes
Authors: Christidi Foteini , Orgianelis Ilias , Merkouris Ermis , Koutsokostas Christos , Tsiptsios Dimitrios , Karavasilis Efstratios , Psatha Evlampia A. , Tsiakiri Anna , Serdari Aspasia , Aggelousis Nikolaos , Vadikolias Konstantinos
Published: January 2024

Stroke is a major leading cause of chronic disability, often affecting patients’ motor and sensory functions. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is the most commonly used method of functional neuroimaging, and it allows for the non-invasive study of brain activity. The time-dependent coactivation of different brain regions at rest is described as resting-state activation. As a non-invasive task-independent functional neuroimaging approach, resting-state fMRI (rs-fMRI) may provide therapeutically useful information on both the focal vascular lesion and the connectivity-based reorganization and subsequent functional recovery in stroke patients. Considering the role of a prompt and accurate prognosis in stroke survivors along with the potential of rs-fMRI in identifying patterns of neuroplasticity in different post-stroke phases, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest literature regarding the role of rs-fMRI in stroke prognosis in terms of motor and sensory outcomes. Our comprehensive review suggests that with the advancement of MRI acquisition and data analysis methods, rs-fMRI emerges as a promising tool to study the motor and sensory outcomes in stroke patients and evaluate the effects of different interventions.
The Garlic Compound, Diallyl Trisulfide, Attenuates Benzo[a]Pyrene-Induced Precancerous Effect through Its Antioxidant Effect, AhR Inhibition, and Increased DNA Repair in Human Breast Epithelial Cells
Authors: Ferguson Dominique T. , Taka Equar , Messeha Samia , Flores-Rozas Hernan , Reed Sarah L. , Redmond Bryan V. , Soliman Karam F. A. , Kanga Konan J. W. , Darling-Reed Selina F.
Published: January 2024

Exposure to B[a]P, the most characterized polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, significantly increases breast cancer risk. Our lab has previously reported that diallyl trisulfide (DATS), a garlic organosulfur compound (OSC) with chemopreventive and cell cycle arrest properties, reduces lipid peroxides and DNA damage in normal breast epithelial (MCF-10A) cells. In this study, we evaluated the ability of DATS to block the B[a]P-induced initiation of carcinogenesis in MCF-10A cells by examining changes in proliferation, clonogenic formation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) levels, and protein expression of ARNT/HIF-1β, CYP1A1, and DNA POLβ. The study results indicate that B[a]P increased proliferation, clonogenic formation, ROS formation, and 8-OHdG levels, as well as increasing the protein expression of ARNT/HIF-1β and CYP1A1 compared to the control. Conversely, DATS/B[a]P co-treatment (CoTx) inhibited cell proliferation, clonogenic formation, ROS formation, and 8-OHdG levels compared to B[a]P alone. Treatment with DATS significantly inhibited (p < 0.0001) AhR expression, implicated in the development and progression of breast cancer. The CoTx also attenuated all the above-mentioned B[a]P-induced changes in protein expression. At the same time, it increased DNA POLβ protein expression, which indicates increased DNA repair, thus causing a chemopreventive effect. These results provide evidence for the chemopreventive effects of DATS in breast cancer prevention.
A Clustering Study of Dietary Patterns and Physical Activity among Workers of the Uruguayan State Electrical Company
Authors: Medina-Vadora Maria Mercedes , Plaza-Diaz Julio , Llorente-Cantarero Francisco Jesús , Severi Cecilia , Lecot Carlos , Ruiz-López María Dolores , Gil Ángel
Published: January 2024

Recent studies have shown that certain nutrients, specific food groups, or general dietary patterns (DPs) can promote health and prevent noncommunicable chronic diseases (NCCDs). Both developed and developing countries experience a high prevalence of NCCDs due to poor lifestyle habits, DPs, and low physical activity levels. This study aims to examine the dietary, physical activity, sociodemographic, and lifestyle patterns of Uruguayan State Electrical Company workers (the IN-UTE study). A total of 2194 workers participated in the study, providing information about their sociodemographics, lifestyles, and dietary habits through different questionnaires. To identify DPs from 16 food groups, principal component analysis (PCA) was performed. A hierarchical cluster algorithm was used to combine food groups and sociodemographic/lifestyle variables. Four DPs were extracted from the data; the first DP was related to the intake of energy-dense foods, the second DP to the characteristics of the job, the third DP to a Mediterranean-style diet, and the fourth DP to age and body mass index. In addition, cluster analysis involving a larger number of lifestyle variables produced similar results to the PCA. Lifestyle and sociodemographic factors, including night work, working outside, and moderate and intense PA, were significantly correlated with the dietary clusters, suggesting that working conditions, socioeconomic status, and PA may play an important role in determining DPs to some extent. Accordingly, these findings should be used to design lifestyle interventions to reverse the appearance of unhealthy DPs in the UTE population.
Interrater Agreement between Bedside and Video Raters Using the CPOT-Neuro for Pain Assessment in Critically Ill Patients with a Brain Injury
Authors: Nguyen Vivienne , Richard-Lalonde Melissa , Gélinas Céline
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to examine the interrater agreement of Critical-Care Pain Observation Tool-Neuro (CPOT-Neuro) scores as a newly developed tool for pain assessment in patients with critical illness and brain injury between raters using two methods of rating (bedside versus video) during standard care procedures (i.e., non-invasive blood pressure and turning). The bedside raters were research staff, and the two video raters had different backgrounds (health and non-health disciplines). Raters received standardized 45 min training by the principal investigator. Video recordings of 56 patient participants with a brain injury at different levels of consciousness were included. Interrater agreement was supported with an Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) > 0.65 for all pairs of raters and for each procedure. Interrater agreement was highest during turning in the conscious group, with ICCs ranging from 0.79 to 0.90. The use of video recordings was challenging for the observation of some behaviors (i.e., tearing, face flushing), which were influenced by factors such as lighting and the angle of the camera. Ventilator alarms were also challenging to distinguish from other sources for the video rater from a non-health discipline. Following standardized training, video technology was useful in achieving an acceptable interrater agreement of CPOT-Neuro scores between bedside and video raters for research purposes.
Nutritional Properties, Antioxidant Activity, and Heavy Metal Accumulation in Selected Marine Macro-Algae Species of Sri Lanka
Authors: Warnasooriya Viraji , Gunawardena Sadhisha , Weththasinghe Pabodha , Jayawardana Barana , Qader Mallique , Liyanage Ruvini
Published: January 2024

In recent years, the emergence of drug resistance and sensitivity in leading diseases has heightened global interest in natural nutraceuticals as primary health supplements. However, comprehensive scientific scrutiny is essential before marketing these as supplements. In this study, we assessed the nutritional composition, antioxidant activities, and trace metal accumulation in eleven selected Sri Lankan coastal seaweed species. Gracilaria corticata had the highest (p < 0.05) ash and crude fiber content among the species. Protein content ranged from 4.87% to 23.67% (DW), with Ulva rigida displaying the highest (p < 0.05). Crude fat content ranged from 0.09% to 4.13% (DW), with Cladophora herpestica having the highest (p < 0.05) crude fat content. Sargassam cinereum, Turbinaria ornata and Sargassum crassifolium had the highest (p < 0.05) TPC content (51.32 ± 0.61–28.90 ± 2.68 mg/GAE g) and the highest (p < 0.05) radical scavenging antioxidant activity compared to other seaweeds. The study findings indicate that most of the studied metals in seaweeds exceeded the WHO-recommended levels. Aluminum was the highest (p < 0.05) accumulated metal in seaweeds compared to other metals. Toxic heavy metals, such as arsenic, cadmium and chromium, levels in all of the studied seaweeds surpassed the WHO limits. While seaweeds displayed acceptable nutritional and antioxidant properties, heavy metal presence poses a potential health risk to consumers. Products using seaweeds with accumulated heavy metals may have lower nutritional quality. Thus, this study underscores the need for comprehensive scientific investigation before developing high-quality natural food products or supplements from seaweeds.
Combination Treatment with Liposomal Doxorubicin and Inductive Moderate Hyperthermia for Sarcoma Saos-2 Cells
Authors: Orel Valerii E. , Diedkov Anatoliy G. , Ostafiichuk Vasyl V. , Lykhova Oleksandra O. , Kolesnyk Denys L. , Orel Valerii B. , Dasyukevich Olga Yo. , Rykhalskyi Oleksandr Yu. , Diedkov Serhii A. , Prosvietova Anna B.
Published: January 2024

Despite efforts in osteosarcoma (OS) research, the role of inductive moderate hyperthermia (IMH) in delivering and enhancing the antitumor effect of liposomal doxorubicin formulations (LDOX) remains unresolved. This study investigated the effect of a combination treatment with LDOX and IMH on Saos-2 human OS cells. We compared cell viability using a trypan blue assay, apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) measured by flow cytometry and pro-apoptotic Bax protein expression examined by immunocytochemistry in response to IMH (42 MHz frequency, 15 W power for 30 min), LDOX (0.4 μg/mL), and LDOX plus IMH. The lower IC50 value of LDOX at 72 h indicated increased accumulation of the drug in the OS cells. LDOX plus IMH resulted in a 61% lower cell viability compared to no treatment. Moreover, IMH potentiated the LDOX action on the Saos-2 cells by promoting ROS production at temperatures of <42 °C. There was a 12% increase in cell populations undergoing early apoptosis with a less heterogeneous distribution of Bax after combination treatment compared to those treated with LDOX (p < 0.05). Therefore, we determined that IMH could enhance LDOX delivery and its antitumor effect via altered membrane permeabilization, ROS generation, and a lower level of visualized Bax heterogeneity in the Saos-2 cells, suggesting the potential translation of these findings into in vivo studies.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration on Real World Data to Close the Knowledge Gap: A Reflection on “De Sutter et al. Predicting Volume of Distribution in Neonates: Performance of Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Modelling”
Authors: Allegaert Karel , Smits Anne , Annaert Pieter
Published: January 2024

This commentary further reflects on the paper of De Sutter et al. on predicting volume of distribution in neonates, and the performance of physiologically based pharmacokinetic models We hereby stressed the add on value to collaborate on real world data to further close this knowledge gap. We illustrated this by weight distribution characteristics in breastfed (physiology) and in asphyxiated (pathophysiology), with additional reflection on their kidney and liver function.
Effects of Aqueous Boundary Layers and Paracellular Transport on the Efflux Ratio as a Measure of Active Transport Across Cell Layers
Authors: Kotze Soné , Ebert Andrea , Goss Kai-Uwe
Published: January 2024

The efflux ratio (ER), determined by Caco-2/MDCK assays, is the standard in vitro metric to establish qualitatively whether a compound is a substrate of an efflux transporter. However, others have also enabled the utilisation of this metric quantitatively by deriving a relationship that expresses the ER as a function of the intrinsic membrane permeability of the membrane (P0) as well as the permeability of carrier-mediated efflux (Ppgp). As of yet, Ppgp cannot be measured directly from transport experiments or otherwise, but the ER relationship provides easy access to this value if P0 is known. However, previous derivations of this relationship failed to consider the influence of additional transport resistances such as the aqueous boundary layers (ABLs) and the filter on which the monolayer is grown. Since single fluxes in either direction can be heavily affected by these experimental artefacts, it is crucial to consider the potential impact on the ER. We present a model that includes these factors and show both mathematically and experimentally that this simple ER relationship also holds for the more realistic scenario that does not neglect the ABLs/filter. Furthermore, we also show mathematically how paracellular transport affects the ER, and we experimentally confirm that paracellular dominance reduces the ER to unity and can mask potential efflux.
Accessing the Efficacy of Sargassum-Based Aqueous Phase Products Derived from Hydrothermal Carbonisation and Hydrothermal Liquefaction on Plant Growth
Authors: Smith James , Pilsbury Amy , Kumar Vinod , Karamerou Eleni E. , Chuck Christopher J. , Herrera-Rodriguez Leopoldo , Suarez Julio V. , Allen Michael J.
Published: January 2024

Mass Sargassum inundations have created opportunities for readily available biomass to be used as a crop enrichment application. However, the heavy metal contents of Sargassum pose serious concerns for crop administration and subsequent human consumption. Hydrothermal processing can break the feedstock components, allowing heavy metals to be partitioned, through the utilisation of high temperatures and pressures. As a result, seemingly nutrient-rich phases can be produced. Elemental analyses showed that Sargassum-derived fractions contain important macro- and micronutrients for plants, particularly ammonium, orthophosphate, and potassium, making them potential nutrient sources for plant growth. To date, no research has investigated the plant growth potential of hydrothermally processed Sargassum products from a bioavailability or biotoxicity perspective. We seek to determine if the aqueous phase products derived following Sargassum processing by hydrothermal carbonisation and liquefaction are toxic to higher plants, and if they can support plant growth. Aqueous phase products in ≥1% concentrations inhibit root growth and lateral root formation in Arabidopsis plants, likely from the presence of inhibitory compounds. However, aqueous phase products in ≤0.1% concentrations paired with an established nutrient mix may provide improved leaf and root growth. Both HTC and HTL were capable of eliciting improved foliage growth, while only HTC induced improved root growth. Conclusively, aqueous phase products lack nutrient potency to allow high dilutions for fertiliser application on their own and may contain inhibitory compounds that deter plant growth at high concentrations. However, they might have a purpose as an additive extract. The recovery of important elements needed for plant growth draws a promising path for future applications of hydrothermal processing with different feedstocks.
Essential Fatty Acid Associated with Heart Rate Variability in Highly Trained Male Cross-Country Skiers: A Pilot Study
Authors: Lyudinina Aleksandra Y. , Markov Alexander L. , Bojko Evgeny R.
Published: January 2024

Polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) metabolites play important roles in the modulation of vascular tone, heart rate variability (HRV), and cardiovascular diseases. This study was undertaken to examine the relationship between HRV and the plasma levels of essential acids. Methods: Highly trained cross-country skiers participated in the study (n = 19). Time-domain and frequency-domain HRV analyses were performed. The plasma levels of fatty acids were determined using gas–liquid chromatography. Results: Plasma eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid were found to be negatively correlated with resting heart rate (HR) (p = 0.026). The plasma levels of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) were positively associated with the relative value of high-frequency power (rs = 0.465, p = 0.045) and negatively correlated with the sympathovagal balance ratio (rs = −0.493, p = 0.032) and the absolute and relative values of low-frequency power (rs = −0.490, p = 0.028). The plasma levels of arachidonic acid (ARA) were positively associated with the relative value of high-frequency power (rs = 0.59, p = 0.006) and negatively correlated with the sympathovagal balance ratio (rs = −0.54, p = 0.017) and the relative values of low-frequency power (rs = −0.52, p = 0.022). No correlation was found between n6/n3 and HRV parameters except for HR and pNN50. Conclusions: n-3 PUFAs and ARA play an important role in the autonomic regulation of heart rate in highly trained skiers. Athletes with substantial deficiencies in plasma ALA and excess levels of ARA had increased sympathetic and decreased parasympathetic activity.
Arabidopsis Leaf Chloroplasts Have a Specific Sphingolipidome
Authors: Yang Chang , Wang Ling-Yan , Li Yong-Kang , Lin Jia-Ting , Chen Ding-Kang , Yao Nan
Published: January 2024

Sphingolipids are ubiquitous in eukaryotes and certain prokaryotes, where they serve as vital components of biological membranes and bioactive molecules. Chloroplasts have complex membrane structures that play crucial roles in photosynthesis, but their specific sphingolipidome remains unreported. In this study, we used liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to analyze the sphingolipidome of purified Arabidopsis thaliana chloroplasts. We detected 92 chloroplast sphingolipids. The chloroplast sphingolipidome differed from total leaf (TL) samples, with a higher content of free long-chain bases and hydroxyceramides and a greater proportion of complex sphingolipids with 16C fatty acid (FA) forms. Notably, chloroplast glucosylceramides were predominantly the d18:1 h16:0 and t18:1 h16:0 forms rather than the 24C FA form found in TL and other cellular structures. Comparing the sphingolipidomes of different cellular structures underscores the inhomogeneity of the intracellular distribution of sphingolipids. This provides a robust reference for further elucidating the function of sphingolipids in plant cells.
Phenotypic and Genotypic Variation of Cultivated Panax quinquefolius
Authors: Abaya Abdurraouf , Zaro Geovanna Cristina , De la Mora Pena Alvaro , Hsiang Tom , Goodwin Paul H.
Published: January 2024

American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) is widely used due to its medicinal properties. Ontario is a major producer of cultivated American ginseng, where seeds were originally collected from the wild without any subsequent scientific selection, and thus the crop is potentially very diverse. A collection of 162 American ginseng plants was harvested from a small area in a commercial garden and phenotyped for morphological traits, such as root grade, stem length, and fresh and dry weights of roots, leaves, stems, and seeds. All of the traits showed a range of values, and correlations were observed between root and stem weights, root dry weight and leaf dry weight, as well as root and leaf fresh weights. The plants were also genotyped using single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at the PW16 locus. SNP analysis revealed 22 groups based on sequence relatedness with some groups showing no SNPs and others being more diverse. The SNP groups correlated with significant differences in some traits, such as stem length and leaf weight. This study provides insights into the genetic and phenotypic diversity of cultivated American ginseng grown under similar environmental conditions, and the relationship between different phenotypes, as well as genotype and phenotype, will aid in future selection programs to develop American ginseng cultivars with desirable agronomic traits.
Effects of Foliar Selenium Application on Oxidative Damage and Photosynthetic Properties of Greenhouse Tomato under Drought Stress
Authors: Song Jiawen , Xin Lang , Gao Fukui , Liu Hao , Wang Xingpeng
Published: January 2024

Both drought stress and exogenous selenium (Se) cause changes in plant physiological characteristics, which are key factors affecting crop yield. Although Se is known to be drought-resistant for crops, its internal physiological regulatory mechanisms are not clear. This study analyzed the effects of selenium application (SeA) on antioxidant enzyme activities, osmoregulatory substance contents, and photosynthetic characteristics of greenhouse tomatoes under drought stress and related physiological mechanisms. The results showed that drought stress induced oxidative damage in cells and significantly increased the content of the membrane lipidation product malondialdehyde (MDA) and the osmoregulatory substance proline (p < 0.001) compared with the adequate water supply. The proline content of severe drought stress (W1) was 9.7 times higher than that of the adequate water supply (W3), and foliar SeA increased glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) activity, and SeA induced different enzymatic reactions in cells under different drought stresses; catalase (CAT) was induced under severe drought stress (p < 0.01) and was significantly increased by 32.1% compared with the clear water control, CAT. Peroxidase (POD) was induced under adequate water supply conditions (p < 0.01), which was significantly increased by 15.2%, and SeA attenuated cell membrane lipidation, which reduced MDA content by an average of 21.5% compared with the clear water control, and also promoted photosynthesis in the crop. Meanwhile, through the entropy weighting method analysis (TOPSIS) of the indexes, the highest comprehensive evaluation score was obtained for the S5W3, followed by the S2.5W3 treatment. Therefore, this study emphasized the importance of SeA to reduce oxidative damage and enhance photosynthesis under drought stress.