bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative efficacy between retrograde intrarenal surgery with vacuum-assisted ureteral access sheath and minimally invasive percutaneous nephrolithotomy for 1–2 cm infectious upper ureteral stones: a prospective, randomized controlled study
Authors: Tang Qing-lai , Liang Ping , Ding Ye-fei , Zhou Xing-zhu , Tao Rong-zhen
Published: July 2023

Objective

To observe the efficacy and safety of retrograde intrarenal surgery combined with vacuum-assisted ureteral access sheath (V-UAS) and minimally invasive percutaneous nephrolithotomy (MPCNL) in patients with 1–2 cm infectious upper ureteral stone.

Patients and methods

A total of 173 patients with 1–2 cm infectious upper ureteral stone were prospectively randomized into two groups. Eighty-six in the V-UAS group and 87 cases as control in the MPCNL group. The SFRs at different times (Postoperative 1 day, 2nd week and 4th week) was considered as the primary outcome of the study. The secondary end points were operative time, postoperative hospital stay and operative complications.

Results

There was no obvious difference between two groups in patients' demographics and preoperative clinical characteristics (all P > 0.05). Postoperative data showed that the SFR at postoperative 1 day in the V-UAS group was significantly lower than that in the MPCNL group (73.2% vs. 86.2%, P = 0.034). However, there was no statistical significance between two groups in SFRs during postoperative 2 weeks and 4 weeks (All P > 0.05). The levels of WBC, CRP and PCT were all significant lower in the V-UAS group than those in the MPCNL group at the postoperative 24 h and 48 h (all P < 0.05). Postoperative complications included fever (≥38.5°C), bleeding, pain and urosepsis. In terms of the rates of fever, pain and urosepsis, MPCNL group were all significantly higher than those in the V-UAS group (10.3 vs. 2.4%, P = 0.031; 14.9 vs. 2.4%, P = 0.003; 4.6 vs. 0.0%, P = 0.044; respectively). No significant difference was found between two groups in bleeding. Meanwhile, postoperative hospital stay in the V-UAS group was more shorten than that in the MPCNL group (3.7 vs. 5.9 days, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our study showed that RIRS with V-UAS, a new partnership to treat 1–2 cm infectious upper ureteral stones, was satisfying as it achieved a high SFR rate and a low rate of infectious complications. This method was safe and reproducible in clinical practice.
Heat stress effects on milk yield traits and metabolites and mitigation strategies for dairy cattle breeds reared in tropical and sub-tropical countries
Authors: Habimana Vincent , Nguluma Athumani Shabani , Nziku Zabron Cuthibert , Ekine-Dzivenu Chinyere Charlotte , Morota Gota , Mrode Raphael , Chenyambuga Sebastian Wilson
Published: July 2023

Heat stress is an important problem for dairy industry in many parts of the world owing to its adverse effects on productivity and profitability. Heat stress in dairy cattle is caused by an increase in core body temperature, which affects the fat production in the mammary gland. It reduces milk yield, dry matter intake, and alters the milk composition, such as fat, protein, lactose, and solids-not-fats percentages among others. Understanding the biological mechanisms of climatic adaptation, identifying and exploring signatures of selection, genomic diversity and identification of candidate genes for heat tolerance within indicine and taurine dairy breeds is an important progression toward breeding better dairy cattle adapted to changing climatic conditions of the tropics. Identifying breeds that are heat tolerant and their use in genetic improvement programs is crucial for improving dairy cattle productivity and profitability in the tropics. Genetic improvement for heat tolerance requires availability of genetic parameters, but these genetic parameters are currently missing in many tropical countries. In this article, we reviewed the HS effects on dairy cattle with regard to (1) physiological parameters; (2) milk yield and composition traits; and (3) milk and blood metabolites for dairy cattle reared in tropical countries. In addition, mitigation strategies such as physical modification of environment, nutritional, and genetic development of heat tolerant dairy cattle to prevent the adverse effects of HS on dairy cattle are discussed. In tropical climates, a more and cost-effective strategy to overcome HS effects is to genetically select more adaptable and heat tolerant breeds, use of crossbred animals for milk production, i.e., crosses between indicine breeds such as Gir, white fulani, N’Dama, Sahiwal or Boran to taurine breeds such as Holstein-Friesian, Jersey or Brown Swiss. The results of this review will contribute to policy formulations with regard to strategies for mitigating the effects of HS on dairy cattle in tropical countries.
Effectiveness and Safety of COVID-19 Vaccinations: An Umbrella Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jiesisibieke Zhu Liduzi , Liu Wen-Yi , Yang Yu-Pei , Chien Ching-Wen , Tung Tao-Hsin
Published: July 2023

Objectives: This umbrella meta-analysis aims to provide comprehensive and synthesized evidence regarding the effectiveness and safety of COVID-19 vaccinations based on current studies.

Methods: Studies from the Cochrane Library, PubMed, and EMBASE, published before 10 December 2021, were included in the analysis. The pooled results of effectiveness and safety were estimated and shown in forest plots.

Results: We included nineteen studies (fifteen studies regarding safety and nine regarding effectiveness) in the analysis. The mRNA vaccines, adenovirus vector vaccines, subunit vaccines, and inactivated vaccines were found to be effective; however, mRNA vaccines, adenovirus vector vaccines and subunit vaccines were associated with local adverse events and systemic events when compared with inactivated vaccines.

Conclusion: Our study suggested that till date, COVID-19 vaccination is still a preferred pharmaceutical way to control the widespread pandemic. However, all reported adverse events should be revisited to provide further evidence for mass vaccinations.
Comparative Analysis and Determination of the Fatty Acid Composition of Kazakhstan’s Commercial Vegetable Oils by GC-FID
Authors: Toishimanov Maxat , Nurgaliyeva Meruyet , Serikbayeva Assiya , Suleimenova Zhulduz , Myrzabek Karima , Shokan Aksholpan , Myrzabayeva Nurgul
Published: July 2023

Here, we present the results of analyzing the fatty acid composition of the main edible vegetable oils from Kazakhstani oilseed producers (safflower, sunflower, maize (corn), linseed, cottonseed, soybean and rapeseed) in comparison with the known fatty acid (FA) composition of specific vegetable oils complying with the Codex Standard for Named Vegetable Oil (Codex Stan 210-1999). The fatty acid composition of 35 different vegetable oils was analyzed by gas chromatography with a Shimadzu GC-2010 Plus instrument with flame ionization detection using a high-polarity CP-Sil 2560, which allowed us to establish their authenticity for high accuracy and excellent separation. A comparative study of the fatty acid composition, groups and omega-6/omega-3 ratios in seven different vegetable oils was carried out. Subsequently, the data were processed by hierarchical clustering analysis, principal component analysis, artificial neural network and Pearson’s correlation. Artificial neural network analysis demonstrated correct predictions. Principal component analysis showed the effects of oleic, linoleic and α-linolenic acids to vegetable oils classification.
BIM Application in Multi-Criteria Assessment of Suspended Brickwork Façade Production Methods for a Reconstructed Building
Authors: Zigmund Viačeslav , Antucheviciene Jurgita , Migilinskas Darius
Published: July 2023

This research aims to promote a new cost-saving method for rebuilding old masonry brickwork façade by installing a suspended brickwork system. This research introduces a case study for rebuilding masonry façade by applying MCDM (multiple-criteria decision making) and BIM (building information modeling) methodologies with the evaluation of three types of brickwork façade installation alternatives prepared for production. The first type is the installation of suspended brickwork and mounting of brickwork lintels; the second type is the installation of suspended brickwork and pre-prefabricated stainless-steel components, which have been manufactured offsite, completed with adhesively bonded brick slips; and the third type is the installation of prefabricated suspended brickwork masonry panels. The main aim of the research is to promote a cost-saving production method by comparing these three alternative types of brickwork production using the BIM application in accordance with the multiple-criteria assessments. A multiple-criteria system was developed, and an expert survey was employed to estimate the relative weights of the criteria; afterwards, the alternatives were assessed using the WASPAS (Weighted Aggregated Sum Product Assessment) method. A BIM brickwork façade model was developed based on survey data, analyzed design solutions, and adaptation for the production of suspended brickwork elements. The final results and details regarding the best BIM applications in the multiple-criteria assessment of suspended brickwork façade are presented in the conclusions.
Special Issue on Advances in Characterization of Materials with Optical Methods
Authors: Lamberti Luciano
Published: July 2023

Materials characterization is a basic field of science and engineering [...]
Further Characterization of Fungal Halogenase RadH and Its Homologs
Authors: Peh GuangRong , Gunawan Gregory A. , Tay Terence , Tiong Elaine , Tan Lee Ling , Jiang Shimin , Goh Yi Ling , Ye Suming , Wong Joel , Brown Christopher J. , Zhao Huimin , Ang Ee Lui , Wong Fong Tian , Lim Yee Hwee
Published: July 2023

RadH is one of the flavin-dependent halogenases that has previously exhibited promising catalytic activity towards hydroxycoumarin, hydroxyisoquinoline, and phenolic derivatives. Here, we evaluated new functional homologs of RadH and expanded its specificities for the halogenation of non-tryptophan-derived, heterocyclic scaffolds. Our investigation revealed that RadH could effectively halogenate hydroxyquinoline and hydroxybenzothiophene. Assay optimization studies revealed the need to balance the various co-factor concentrations and where a GDHi co-factor recycling system most significantly improves the conversion and efficiency of the reaction. A crystal structure of RadH was also obtained with a resolution of 2.4 Å, and docking studies were conducted to pinpoint the binding and catalytic sites for substrates.
Leptin: A Heavyweight Player in Obesity-Related Cancers
Authors: Caruso Amanda , Gelsomino Luca , Panza Salvatore , Accattatis Felice Maria , Naimo Giuseppina Daniela , Barone Ines , Giordano Cinzia , Catalano Stefania , Andò Sebastiano
Published: July 2023

Obesity, defined as the abnormal or excessive expansion of white adipose tissue, has reached pandemic proportions and is recognized as an important health concern since it is a common root for several comorbidities, including malignancies. Indeed, the current knowledge of the white adipose tissue, which shifts its role from an energy storage tissue to an important endocrine and metabolic organ, has opened up new avenues for the discovery of obesity’s effects on tumor biology. In this review, we will report the epidemiological studies concerning the strong impact of obesity in several types of cancer and describe the mechanisms underlying the heterotypic signals between cancer cell lines and adipocytes, with particular emphasis on inflammation, the insulin/IGF-1 axis, and adipokines. Among the adipokines, we will further describe the in vitro, in vivo, and clinical data concerning the role of leptin, recognized as one of the most important mediators of obesity-associated cancers. In fact, leptin physiologically regulates energy metabolism, appetite, and reproduction, and several studies have also described the role of leptin in affecting cancer development and progression. Finally, we will summarize the newest pharmacological strategies aimed at mitigating the protumorigenic effects of leptin, underlining their mechanisms of action.
Tourists’ Perception of Macau’s City Image: Based on the Analysis of User-Generated Content (UGC) Text Data
Authors: Yin Jianqiang , Feng Jingzhao , Wu Ruochan , Jia Mengyan
Published: July 2023

City image reflects urban culture and communication and influences tourists’ travel behavior. However, based on field investigations, it was found that Macau’s city space currently faces issues such as an imbalance in practical use efficiency, an overload of historical urban areas, and a mismatch between tourist numbers and spatial capacity. To further understand tourists’ travel experiences and influencing factors in Macau, this study uses user-generated content (UGC) textual data and takes the Macau Special Administrative Region in China as a case study. The ROST CM6.0 software and grounded theory analysis method are utilized to analyze the perceptual content and underlying influencing mechanisms of city image from the perspective of tourists. The research results show that: 1. Tourists’ perception of Macau’s city image mainly stays at the intuitive and superficial level, represented by individual landscapes such as the “Ruins of St. Paul’s”, “Grand Lisboa”, and “Galaxy”. 2. Tourists’ perception of Macau’s city image can be summarized into four main dimensions: architectural and landscape image, cultural and historical image, economic and commercial image, and spatial governance and public service image. 3. Negative aspects of tourists’ perception of Macau’s city image include infrastructure perception, tourism service perception, urban experience perception, and urban safety perception, with spatial scale perception being the most influential factor. Finally, this study proposes effective measures to optimize urban spatial resource allocation, improve urban infrastructure, enhance the spatial environment of the old city, strengthen the promotion of historical culture, improve urban transportation convenience, and enhance urban safety to provide references for enriching the theory of city image perception research and the development of urban tourism in Macau.
The Role of Targeted Therapy in the Multi-Disciplinary Approach to Colorectal Liver Metastasis
Authors: Ruff Samantha M. , Shannon Alexander H. , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: July 2023

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common cause of cancer-related mortality in the United States. Among newly diagnosed patients with CRC, 20% will present with metastatic disease and another 25% will develop metastases. The surgical resection of the primary tumor and metastatic disease sites confers the best chance at long-term survival. Unfortunately, many patients will recur after resection or present with unresectable disease. As such, metastatic CRC is commonly treated with a combination of surgery, systemic therapy, and/or liver-directed therapies. Despite best efforts, 5-year survival for unresectable metastatic CRC is only about 20%. CRC is a heterogeneous disease and the underlying genetic differences inform behavior, treatment strategy, and prognosis. Given the limitations of cytotoxic chemotherapy and the growing role of molecular profiling, research has focused on identifying and developing targeted therapies. We herein review how genetic profiling informs prognosis, crucial cell-signaling pathways that play a role in CRC carcinogenesis, and currently approved targeted therapies for metastatic CRC.
Clinical Decision Support Systems for Brain Tumour Diagnosis and Prognosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Mukherjee Teesta , Pournik Omid , Lim Choi Keung Sarah N. , Arvanitis Theodoros N.
Published: July 2023

CDSSs are being continuously developed and integrated into routine clinical practice as they assist clinicians and radiologists in dealing with an enormous amount of medical data, reduce clinical errors, and improve diagnostic capabilities. They assist detection, classification, and grading of brain tumours as well as alert physicians of treatment change plans. The aim of this systematic review is to identify various CDSSs that are used in brain tumour diagnosis and prognosis and rely on data captured by any imaging modality. Based on the 2020 preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) protocol, the literature search was conducted in PubMed and Engineering Village Compendex databases. Different types of CDSSs identified through this review include Curiam BT, FASMA, MIROR, HealthAgents, and INTERPRET, among others. This review also examines various CDSS tool types, system features, techniques, accuracy, and outcomes, to provide the latest evidence available in the field of neuro-oncology. An overview of such CDSSs used to support clinical decision-making in the management and treatment of brain tumours, along with their benefits, challenges, and future perspectives has been provided. Although a CDSS improves diagnostic capabilities and healthcare delivery, there is lack of specific evidence to support these claims. The absence of empirical data slows down both user acceptance and evaluation of the actual impact of CDSS on brain tumour management. Instead of emphasizing the advantages of implementing CDSS, it is important to address its potential drawbacks and ethical implications. By doing so, it can promote the responsible use of CDSS and facilitate its faster adoption in clinical settings.
Advances for Pulmonary Functional Imaging: Dual-Energy Computed Tomography for Pulmonary Functional Imaging
Authors: Ozawa Yoshiyuki , Ohno Yoshiharu , Nagata Hiroyuki , Tamokami Keigo , Nishikimi Keitaro , Oshima Yuka , Hamabuchi Nayu , Matsuyama Takahiro , Ueda Takahiro , Toyama Hiroshi
Published: July 2023

Dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) can improve the differentiation of material by using two different X-ray energy spectra, and may provide new imaging techniques to diagnostic radiology to overcome the limitations of conventional CT in characterizing tissue. Some techniques have used dual-energy imaging, which mainly includes dual-sourced, rapid kVp switching, dual-layer detectors, and split-filter imaging. In iodine images, images of the lung’s perfused blood volume (PBV) based on DECT have been applied in patients with pulmonary embolism to obtain both images of the PE occluding the pulmonary artery and the consequent perfusion defects in the lung’s parenchyma. PBV images of the lung also have the potential to indicate the severity of PE, including chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension. Virtual monochromatic imaging can improve the accuracy of diagnosing pulmonary vascular diseases by optimizing kiloelectronvolt settings for various purposes. Iodine images also could provide a new approach in the area of thoracic oncology, for example, for the characterization of pulmonary nodules and mediastinal lymph nodes. DECT-based lung ventilation imaging is also available with noble gases with high atomic numbers, such as xenon, which is similar to iodine. A ventilation map of the lung can be used to image various pulmonary diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Long-Term Persistence of Three Microbial Wildfire Biomarkers in Forest Soils
Authors: Fernández-González Antonio J. , Lasa Ana V. , Cobo-Díaz José F. , Villadas Pablo J. , Pérez-Luque Antonio J. , García-Rodríguez Fernando M. , Tringe Susannah G. , Fernández-López Manuel
Published: July 2023

Long-term monitoring of microbial communities in the rhizosphere of post-fire forests is currently one of the key knowledge gaps. Knowing the time scale of the effects is indispensable to aiding post-fire recovery in vulnerable woodlands, including holm oak forests, that are subjected to a Mediterranean climate, as is the case with forests that are found in protected areas such as the Sierra Nevada National and Natural Park in southeastern Spain. We took rhizosphere soil samples from burned and unburned holm oak trees approximately 3, 6, and 9 years after the 2005 fire that devastated almost 3500 ha in southeastern Spain. We observed that the prokaryotic communities are recovering but have not yet reached the conditions observed in the unburned forest. A common denominator between this fire and other fires is the long-term persistence of three ecosystem recovery biomarkers—specifically, higher proportions of the genera Arthrobacter, Blastococcus, and Massilia in soil microbial communities after a forest fire. These pyrophilous microbes possess remarkable resilience against adverse conditions, exhibiting traits such as xerotolerance, nitrogen mineralization, degradation of aromatic compounds, and copiotrophy in favorable conditions. Furthermore, these biomarkers thrive in alkaline environments, which persist over the long term following forest fires. The relative abundance of these biomarkers showed a decreasing trend over time, but they were still far from the values of the control condition. In conclusion, a decade does not seem to be enough for the complete recovery of the prokaryotic communities in this Mediterranean ecosystem.
Differentiation of Forest Stands by Susceptibility to Folivores: A Retrospective Analysis of Time Series of Annual Tree Rings with Application of the Fluctuation-Dissipation Theorem
Authors: Soukhovolsky Vladislav , Krasnoperova Polina , Kovalev Anton , Sviderskaya Irina , Tarasova Olga , Ivanova Yulia , Akhanaev Yuriy , Martemyanov Vyacheslav
Published: July 2023

This study analyzed the relationship between characteristics of annual tree ring time series and the intensity of attacks on forest stands by forest insects. Using tenets of the fluctuation–dissipation theorem (which is widely used in physics), time series parameters are proposed that can help to assess the susceptibility of a forest stand to insect pests. The proposed approach was applied to evaluate differences in parameters of tree ring widths among outbreaks of the pine looper, Siberian silk moth, and spongy moth. A comparison of trees characteristics between outbreak locations and undamaged forest stands (control) showed that the tested parameters statistically significantly differed between the outbreak locations and control stands and can be used to assess the risk of pest outbreaks in forest stands.
Occupational COVID-19 Exposures and Illnesses among Workers in California—Analysis of a New Occupational COVID-19 Surveillance System
Authors: Bui David Pham , Gibb Kathryn , Fiellin Martha , Rodriguez Andrea , Majka Claire , Espineli Carolina , Gebreegziabher Elisabeth , Flattery Jennifer , Vergara Ximena P.
Published: July 2023

Little is known about occupational SARS-CoV-2 exposures and COVID-19 outcomes. We established a Doctor’s First Reports of Occupational Injury or Illness (DFR)-based surveillance system to study cases of work-related COVID-19 exposures and disease. The surveillance data included demographics, occupation, industry, exposure, and illness, details including hospitalization and lost work. We classified workers into ‘healthcare’, non-healthcare ‘public-facing’, or ‘other’ worker groups, and rural–urban commuting areas (RUCAs). We describe worker exposures and outcomes overall by worker group and RUCA. We analyzed 2848 COVID-19 DFRs representing workers in 22 detailed occupation groups and 19 industry groups. Most DFRs were for workers in metropolitan RUCAs (89%) and those in healthcare (42%) and public-facing (24%) worker groups. While DFRs were from 382 unique worksites, 52% were from four hospitals and one prison. Among 1063 DFRs with a suspected exposure, 73% suspected exposure to a patient or client. Few DFRs indicated hospitalization (3.9%); however, the proportion hospitalized was higher among nonmetropolitan (7.4%) and public-facing (6.7%) workers. While 56% of DFRs indicated some lost work time, the proportion was highest among public-facing (80%) workers. Healthcare and prison workers were the majority of reported occupational COVID-19 exposures and illnesses. The risk of COVID-19 hospitalization and lost work may be highest among nonmetropolitan and public-facing workers.
Coping with COVID-19: Can a Sense of Coherence and Social Support Play a Protective Role in the Perception of COVID-19 by Polish Women Football Players? A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ussorowska-Krokosz Anna , Blecharz Jan , Siekanska Malgorzata , Grygorowicz Monika
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Athletes have demonstrated a significant increase in anxiety and stress connected to the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing on the theory of salutogenesis, this study examined the relationship between the sense of coherence and social support and competitive elite-level athletes’ perception of the COVID-19 pandemic situation. Materials and Methods: The perceived secondary gains associated with the pandemic were analysed with a quasi-qualitative research methodology. The sample consisted of 204 competitive elite-level female football players aged 14–36 (M = 17.61, SD = 4.42) who completed the Sense of Coherence Questionnaire (SOC-29), the Berlin Social Support Scales (BSSS), and the researchers’ own questionnaire to assess the perception of the COVID-19 situation. Results: The results confirmed a relationship between a sense of coherence and coping better with the difficult situation caused by the coronavirus pandemic. No protective role of social support in the adaptive perception of the pandemic situation was identified. Conclusions: The data from the quasi-qualitative study testify to the use of the adversity of the pandemic to grow in many areas of female football players’ lives. The sense of coherence was a protective factor in mitigating the negative consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic situation.
The Impact of Meso-Level Factors on SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine Early Hesitancy in the United States
Authors: Kaliba Aloyce R. , Andrews Donald R.
Published: July 2023

The extant literature on the U.S. SARS-CoV-2 virus indicates that the vaccination campaign was lagging, insufficient, and uncoordinated. This study uses the spatial model to identify the drivers of vaccine hesitancy (in the middle of the pandemic), one of the critical steps in creating impactful and effective interventions to influence behavioral changes now and in the future. The applied technique accounted for observed and unobserved homogeneity and heterogeneity among counties. The results indicated that political and religious beliefs, quantified by Cook’s political bipartisan index and the percentage of the population affiliated with the main Christian groups, were the main drivers of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine hesitancy. The past vaccination experience and other variables determining the demand and supply of vaccines were also crucial in influencing hesitancy. The results imply that vaccination campaigns require engaging community leaders at all levels rather than depending on politicians alone and eliminating barriers to the supply and demand of vaccines at all levels. Coordination among religious and community leaders would build a practical institutional arrangement to facilitate (rather than frustrate) the vaccination drives.
Multiple cry Genes in Bacillus thuringiensis Strain BTG Suggest a Broad-Spectrum Insecticidal Activity
Authors: Arsov Alexander , Gerginova Maria , Paunova-Krasteva Tsvetelina , Petrov Kaloyan , Petrova Penka
Published: July 2023

The properties of Bacillus thuringiensis strains as a biopesticide with potent action against moths, beetles, and mosquitoes have been known for decades, with individual subspecies showing specific activity against a particular pest. The aim of the present work is to characterize strains that can be used for broad-spectrum pest control in agriculture. Twenty strains of B. thuringiensis were isolated from Bulgarian soil habitats. The strains were screened for genes encoding 12 different crystal (Cry) endotoxins by PCR with specific primer pairs. Seven of the isolates contained cry genes in their genomes. B. thuringiensis strains PL1, PL3, and PL20 contained at least three different cry genes, while B. thuringiensis serovar galleriae BTG contained at least four. Moreover, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) investigation revealed the production of bipyramidal (PL1, PL3, PL20), polygonal (PL1), cubic (BTG), and spherical crystals (BTG and PL20). Potentially containing the most cry genes, the BTG genome was sequenced and annotated. It comprises 6,275,416 base pairs, does not contain plasmids, has a GC content of 35.05%, and contained 7 genes encoding crystal toxins: cry1Ab35, cry1Db, cry1Fb, cry1Ib, cry2Ab, cry8Ea1, and cry9Ba. This unique combination would possibly enable the simultaneous pesticidal action against pest species from orders Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, Diptera, and Hemiptera, as well as class Gastropoda. Whole-genome sequencing provided accurate information about the presence, localization, and classification of Cry toxins in B. thuringiensis BTG, revealing the great potential of the strain for the development of new broad-spectrum bio-insecticides.
A Mediterranean Diet May Be Protective in the Development of Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Bryl Anna , Mrugacz Małgorzata , Falkowski Mariusz , Zorena Katarzyna
Published: July 2023

The Mediterranean diet is recognized as one of the healthiest available dietary patterns. This perception results from its beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system and, also, on hypertension, diabetes, and cancer compared with other diets. Its impact on the course of diabetes is assessed in the available scientific literature; however, little information is available about its impact on diabetic retinopathy. The MD is characterized mainly by the consumption of fish, seafood, foods of plant origin, and fresh fruit and vegetables. It is also recommended to consume legumes, which are a source of folic acid, magnesium, iron, and dietary fiber. High consumption of nuts and unrefined grains is also recommended in the MD. Marine fish provide polyunsaturated acids from the omega-3 group. Olive oil plays a very important role, especially olive oil obtained from mechanical pressing. Additionally, olive oil contains vitamins E, K, and polyphenols. Polyphenols, which are present in a diverse range of vegetables, fruits, and seeds, have the ability to decrease oxidative stress, inflammation, and insulin resistance. Resveratrol is naturally found in grape skins and seeds, as well as in peanuts and berries, and is a constituent of red wine. Resveratrol can inhibit increased vascular leakage and loss of pericytes and regulate the level of VEGF protein in the retina, thus inhibiting the development of DR. Consumption of fruits, vegetables, fish, and olive oil may be correlated with a lower risk of diabetic retinopathy. This paper presents the definition of the Mediterranean diet and its influence on the course of diabetes and diabetic retinopathy.
Ambiguous Contribution of Glucocorticosteroids to Acute Neuroinflammation in the Hippocampus of Rat
Authors: Tret’yakova Liya V. , Kvichansky Alexey A. , Barkovskaya Ekaterina S. , Manolova Anna O. , Bolshakov Alexey P. , Gulyaeva Natalia V.
Published: July 2023

Effects of modulation of glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptors (GR and MR, respectively) on acute neuroinflammatory response were studied in the dorsal (DH) and ventral (VH) parts of the hippocampus of male Wistar rats. Local neuroinflammatory response was induced by administration of bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to the DH. The modulation of GR and MR was performed by dexamethasone (GR activation), mifepristone, and spironolactone (GR and MR inhibition, respectively). Experimental drugs were delivered to the dentate gyrus of the DH bilaterally by stereotaxic injections. Dexamethasone, mifepristone, and spironolactone were administered either alone (basal conditions) or in combination with LPS (neuroinflammatory conditions). Changes in expression levels of neuroinflammation-related genes and morphology of microglia 3 days after intrahippocampal administration of above substances were assessed. Dexamethasone alone induced a weak proinflammatory response in the hippocampal tissue, while neither mifepristone nor spironolactone showed significant effects. During LPS-induced neuroinflammation, GR activation suppressed expression of selected inflammatory genes, though it did not prevent appearance of activated forms of microglia. In contrast to GR activation, GR or MR inhibition had virtually no influence on LPS-induced inflammatory response. The results suggest glucocorticosteroids ambiguously modulate specific aspects of neuroinflammatory response in the hippocampus of rats at molecular and cellular levels.
Genome-Wide Analysis and Identification of 1-Aminocyclopropane-1-Carboxylate Synthase (ACS) Gene Family in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Liu Shuqing , Lei Chao , Zhu Zhanhua , Li Mingzhen , Chen Zhaopeng , He Wei , Liu Bin , Chen Liuping , Li Xuejun , Xie Yanzhou
Published: July 2023

Ethylene has an important role in regulating plant growth and development as well as responding to adversity stresses. The 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate synthase (ACS) is the rate-limiting enzyme for ethylene biosynthesis. However, the role of the ACS gene family in wheat has not been examined. In this study, we identified 12 ACS members in wheat. According to their position on the chromosome, we named them TaACS1-TaACS12, which were divided into four subfamilies, and members of the same subfamilies had similar gene structures and protein-conserved motifs. Evolutionary analysis showed that fragment replication was the main reason for the expansion of the TaACS gene family. The spatiotemporal expression specificity showed that most of the members had the highest expression in roots, and all ACS genes contained W box elements that were related to root development, which suggested that the ACS gene family might play an important role in root development. The results of the gene expression profile analysis under stress showed that ACS members could respond to a variety of stresses. Protein interaction prediction showed that there were four types of proteins that could interact with TaACS. We also obtained the targeting relationship between TaACS family members and miRNA. These results provided valuable information for determining the function of the wheat ACS gene, especially under stress.
Endothelial Function in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: The Role of GLP-1 Agonists, Lipoprotein Subfractions, and Redox Balance
Authors: Hardonova Miroslava , Siarnik Pavel , Sivakova Monika , Sucha Bianka , Penesova Adela , Radikova Zofia , Havranova Andrea , Imrich Richard , Vlcek Miroslav , Zitnanova Ingrid , Krastev Georgi , Kiacikova Maria , Kollar Branislav , Turcani Peter
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Epidemiological studies have suggested an increased vascular risk in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). There is increasing evidence of the beneficial effects of GLP-1 agonists (GLP-1a) in preventing vascular complications and slowing the progression of neurodegeneration. Our objective was to explore the changes in the endothelial function of MS patients after 12 months of GLP-1a therapy. We also explored the role of lipoprotein subfractions and the antioxidant capacity of plasma. Methods: MS patients were enrolled in a prospective, unicentric study. GLP-1a (dulaglutide) was administered to 13 patients. The control population consisted of 12 subjects. Endothelial function was determined by peripheral arterial tonometry and expressed as reperfusion hyperemia index (RHI). Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) was used to assess the total antioxidant capacity of the plasma. The levels of lipoprotein subfractions were evaluated. Results: The GLP-1a group did not have a significant change in their RHIs after 12 months (2.1 ± 0.6 vs. 2.1 ± 0.7; p = 0.807). However, a significant increase in their TEACs was observed (4.1 ± 1.4 vs. 5.2 ± 0.5 mmol/L, p = 0.010). On the contrary, the subjects in the control group had a significant worsening of their RHIs (2.1 ± 0.5 vs. 1.8 ± 0.6; p = 0.030), without significant changes in their TEACs. Except for a significant decrease in very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) (30.8 ± 10.2 vs. 22.6 ± 8.3 mg/dL, p = 0.043), no other significant changes in the variables were observed in the control group. VLDL levels (beta = −0.637, p = 0.001), the use of GLP-1a therapy (beta = 0.560, p = 0.003), and small LDL (beta = 0.339, p = 0.043) were the only significant variables in the model that predicted the follow-up RHI. Conclusion: Our results suggest that the application of additional GLP-1a therapy may have atheroprotective and antioxidant effects in MS patients with high MS activity and thus may prospectively mitigate their vascular risk. However, the lipoprotein profile may also play an important role in the atherogenic risk of MS subjects.
Effects of High Temperature Stress on the Physiological and Biochemical Characteristics of Paeonia ostii
Authors: Hong Erman , Xia Xuanze , Ji Wen , Li Tianyao , Xu Xianyi , Chen Jingran , Chen Xia , Zhu Xiangtao
Published: July 2023

In order to explore the effects of high temperature stress on the physiological characteristics of Paeonia ostii, the Paeonia ostii were subjected to 25 °C, 35 °C, 38 °C, and 40 °C for 7 days. Meanwhile, the physiological indicators of oxidative stress (hydrogen peroxide, H2O2; malondialdehyde, MDA; relative electrical conductivity, REC), antioxidant enzyme activity (superoxide dismutase, SOD; ascorbate peroxidase, APX; catalase, CAT; peroxidase, POD), photosynthetic pigment content (chlorophyll a, Chla; chlorophyll b, Chlb), photosynthetic characteristics (net photosynthetic rate, Pn; intercellular CO2 concentration, Ci; stomatal conductance, Gs; transpiration rate, Tr), and osmoregulatory substances content (soluble protein, SP; soluble sugar, SS) were determined. The results showed that, with the increase in temperature and stress time, the H2O2 content, MDA content, REC value, CAT activity, and APX activity increased, while Chla content, Chlb content, SS content, and SP content decreased. With the extension of stress time, the SOD activity, POD activity, and Tr value of each high temperature stress group first increased and then decreased; Ci first decreased, then increased, and then decreased; meanwhile, Pn and Gs showed an overall downward trend. PLS-DA (partial least squares discriminant analysis) was used to analyze the changes in physiological and biochemical indexes of peony leaves under 40 °C stress for different days. SOD was found to be the biggest factor affecting the changes in physiological and biochemical indexes of peony leaves treated with different days of stress.
Fungal BGCs for Production of Secondary Metabolites: Main Types, Central Roles in Strain Improvement, and Regulation According to the Piano Principle
Authors: Zhgun Alexander A.
Published: July 2023

Filamentous fungi are one of the most important producers of secondary metabolites. Some of them can havse a toxic effect on the human body, leading to diseases. On the other hand, they are widely used as pharmaceutically significant drugs, such as antibiotics, statins, and immunosuppressants. A single fungus species in response to various signals can produce 100 or more secondary metabolites. Such signaling is possible due to the coordinated regulation of several dozen biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs), which are mosaically localized in different regions of fungal chromosomes. Their regulation includes several levels, from pathway-specific regulators, whose genes are localized inside BGCs, to global regulators of the cell (taking into account changes in pH, carbon consumption, etc.) and global regulators of secondary metabolism (affecting epigenetic changes driven by velvet family proteins, LaeA, etc.). In addition, various low-molecular-weight substances can have a mediating effect on such regulatory processes. This review is devoted to a critical analysis of the available data on the “turning on” and “off” of the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites in response to signals in filamentous fungi. To describe the ongoing processes, the model of “piano regulation” is proposed, whereby pressing a certain key (signal) leads to the extraction of a certain sound from the “musical instrument of the fungus cell”, which is expressed in the production of a specific secondary metabolite.
Proteome Profiling of the Dura Mater in Patients with Moyamoya Angiopathy
Authors: Carrozzini Tatiana , Pollaci Giuliana , Gorla Gemma , Potenza Antonella , Rifino Nicola , Acerbi Francesco , Vetrano Ignazio G. , Ferroli Paolo , Bersano Anna , Gianazza Erica , Banfi Cristina , Gatti Laura
Published: July 2023

Moyamoya angiopathy (MMA) is an uncommon cerebrovascular disease characterized by a progressive steno-occlusive lesion of the internal carotid artery and the compensatory development of an unstable network of collateral vessels. These vascular hallmarks are responsible for recurrent ischemic/hemorrhagic strokes. Surgical treatment represents the preferred procedure for MMA patients, and indirect revascularization may induce a spontaneous angiogenesis between the brain surface and dura mater (DM), whose function remains rather unknown. A better understanding of MMA pathogenesis is expected from the molecular characterization of DM. We performed a comprehensive, label-free, quantitative mass spectrometry-based proteomic characterization of DM. The 30 most abundant identified proteins were located in the extracellular region or exosomes and were involved in extracellular matrix organization. Gene ontology analysis revealed that most proteins were involved in binding functions and hydrolase activity. Among the 30 most abundant proteins, Filamin A is particularly relevant because considering its well-known biochemical functions and molecular features, it could be a possible second hit gene with a potential role in MMA pathogenesis. The current explorative study could pave the way for further analyses aimed at better understanding such uncommon and disabling intracranial vasculopathy.
Investigation of the Protective Function of a Lignin Coating of Natural Fiber Geotextiles against Biodegradation
Authors: Kaya Cigdem , Stegmaier Thomas , Gresser Götz T.
Published: July 2023

Natural fibers do not have a long life in soil; therefore, they cannot replace synthetic textiles in many applications. However, in order to solve ever-increasing global environmental problems due to microplastics, more and more natural polymers must be used, creating a need for research into the sustainable life extension of natural fibers. Lignin is, along with cellulose, a main component of wood, and is produced in large quantities as waste during paper production. With appropriate processing, lignin can be exploited/used as a textile auxiliary to combine the strength-enhancing properties of textiles made from natural fibers with the protective properties of a lignin coating. However, there is not yet sufficient research on how to integrate lignin into textile applications. For this purpose, in this study, we have investigated whether thermoplastic lignin can be processed as a surface protective coating. We tested lignin as a yarn coating to extend the service life of cellulosic textiles. Cotton yarns have been coated with lignin in variations of coating mass, characterized and investigated by means of soil burial tests. As the soil burial tests conducted in climate chamber and outdoor field environments showed, the lifespan of textiles made from natural fibers can be significantly extended with a lignin coating. Long-term resilience has been demonstrated in standard burial tests. In the outdoor tests, the lignin coating was still fully intact, even after about 160 days of burial. The textile materials coated in this way enable sustainable applications, especially for geotextiles. They have an adjustable, sufficiently long service life; however, they are still biodegradable, and can therefore replace some applications, such as vegetating trench/brook slopes, with synthetic materials. Lignin-coated textiles have the potential to significantly reduce the carbon footprint, reduce not only the dependence on petroleum-based products but also the amount of microplastics entering the environment. Further research can be conducted to improve lignin compounding in terms of other interesting properties for specific textile applications. Process optimization could increase the protective effect and further extend the life of useful textiles in soil.
Study of the TIG Welding Process of Thin-Walled Components Made of 17-4 PH Steel in the Aspect of Weld Distortion Distribution
Authors: Mróz Marek , Kucel Bartłomiej , Rąb Patryk , Olszewska Sylwia
Published: July 2023

This article presents the results of a study on the distribution of weld distortion in thin-walled components made of 17-4 PH steel, resulting from TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) welding. Both manual and automatic welding processes were examined. Physical simulation of the automated welding process was conducted on a custom-built welding fixture. Analysis of weld distortion in thin-walled components made of 17-4 PH steel was based on the results of measurements of transverse shrinkage and displacement angle values. These measurements were taken on thin-walled parts before and after the welding process using a coordinate measuring machine (CMM). To determine the effect of manual and automated welding processes on the microstructure of the welded joint area, metallographic tests and hardness measurements were performed. The microstructure was analyzed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). An analysis of the chemical composition of selected welded joint zones was also conducted. These tests were performed using an optical emission spectrometer (OES). According to the results, the use of automated welding and special fixtures for manufacturing thin-walled aircraft engine components made of 17-4 PH steel reduces the propensity of these components for distortion due to the effects of the thermal cycle of the welding process. This conclusion is supported by the results of the observation of the microstructure and analysis of the chemical composition of the various zones of the welded joint area.
Constitutive Model for Grouted Rock Mass by Macro-Meso Damage
Authors: Liu Yang , Wang Yingchao , Zhong Zhibin , Li Qingli , Zuo Yapeng
Published: July 2023

Rock fractures have a significant impact on the stability of geotechnical engineering, and grouting is currently the most commonly used reinforcement method to address this issue. To ensure the stability of grouted rock mass, it is necessary to study its deformation law and mechanical properties. In this study, theoretical analyses and laboratory experiments were conducted, and the fracture width, Weibull model and effective bearing area were introduced to improve the applicability and accuracy of the original damage constitutive model. Moreover, the constitutive model of grouted rock mass was derived by combining it with the mixing law of composite materials. The main conclusions are summarized as follows: (1) Based on macroscopic damage tensor theory, the fracture width parameter was introduced, which effectively described the variation law of macroscopic damage with fracture width to improve the accuracy of the original damage constitutive model. (2) The effective bearing area was used to optimize the original Weibull model to match the stress-strain curve of the rock mass with fractures. (3) The grouting-reinforced rock mass was considered to be a composite material, the original equivalent elastic modulus model was improved by combining macroscopic damage with the Reuss model, and the constitutive damage model of the grouted rock mass was deduced.