bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal Configuration of Power-to-Heat Equipment Considering Peak-Shaving Ancillary Service Market
Authors: Yu Yanjuan , Zhou Guohua , Wu Kena , Chen Cheng , Bian Qiang
Published: September 2023

The serious problem of wind power curtailment in northern China has created a pressing need to enhance the peak-shaving ability of the power system. As the main source of power supply in northern China, combined heat and power (CHP) units have significant potential for peak-shaving. Currently, the Chinese government encourages CHP plants to increase their peak-shaving capacity by installing power-to-heat (P2H) equipment. In addition, the government has implemented auxiliary service market policies to encourage CHP plants to provide peak-shaving services. In order to maximize economic benefits for CHP plants, this paper proposes an optimal configuration method of P2H equipment with the static payback time (SPT) as the objective function. Cost and income models of installing the P2H equipment are constructed by taking into account the auxiliary service market policies. The peak-shaving income model of the CHP plant is derived emphatically as a key part of the proposed method. Finally, the district heating region in Jilin province is used as a case study example. The results show that adding the P2H equipment is significantly effective in improving the peak-shaving ability of CHP units, and investing in heat pumps is more cost-effective than electric boilers. The proposed method can be applied to other northern regions relying on CHP units for central heating, providing a valuable solution to the problem of wind power curtailment in these regions.
Analytical Model of Critical Ventilation Flow Rate for Accidental Hydrogen Leakage in a Confined Space
Authors: Sun Xuxu , Yang Jiale , Wang Jun , Chen Xianfeng , Shi Jihao
Published: September 2023

The determination of the critical ventilation flow rate is significant for risk control and standard development during accidental hydrogen leakage in a confined space with hydrogen-related equipment. This paper presents an analytical model for calculating the critical ventilation flow rate through the quantification and constraint solution of the ventilation effect and ventilation cost. The experimental method was used to investigate the effects of nozzle diameter and stagnation pressure on the diffusion and ventilation of horizontal hydrogen leakage in a cuboid chamber. Ventilations from 30 to 180 m3/h were carried out through the rectangular vent. It was shown that the peak concentration of the measuring point was positively correlated with the stagnation pressure and the nozzle diameter. The experimental data were used to verify the analytical model by calculating the effective ventilation time. This study demonstrates that the critical ventilation flow rate can be increased significantly at higher stagnation pressures and larger nozzle diameters. Furthermore, the discrepancy of critical ventilation flow rates under different nozzle diameters will be enhanced with the increase of stagnation pressure. For a stagnation pressure of 0.4 MPa, the critical ventilation flow rate under a 4 mm nozzle even increased by 52% relative to the 2 mm nozzle.
Controls on Gas-Reservoir Formation in the Benxi Formation in the Ganquan–Fuxian Area of the Ordos Basin, China
Authors: Song Ming , Meng Xiangzhen , Pu Renhai , Gao Xiaoping , Qiang Teng , Fan Yujie
Published: September 2023

The Benxi Formation is one of the most important gas-producing layers in the Ganquan–Fuxian area, but the complex gas–water distribution and lack of sandstone have severely constrained natural gas exploration and development in this area. This study analyzed the structure, paleogeomorphology, sedimentary facies, reservoir closures, and gas–water distribution of the Benxi Formation in the study area through drilling, coring, logging, seismic surveying, and experimental testing. The results show that the gas reservoirs in the Benxi Formation are mainly lithologic traps distributed along NW-trending barrier sandstones, with a small portion of updip pinchout closures. The water layers are mainly composed of thin sandstones with a single-layer thickness of less than 2 m, which are tidal-channel or barrier-margin microfacies sandstones. The water saturation in some thick sandstones is related to the activity and destruction of large individual faults. The dry layers are tight sandstones with porosity of less than 3.2%, mainly associated with high amounts of volcaniclastic matrix and lithic fragments, as well as compaction. The charging of the underlying high-quality Ordovician limestone reservoirs by carboniferous source rocks in the Benxi Formation reduces the probability of gas accumulation in Benxi sandstone. Based on the control of sedimentary facies and physical properties on gas accumulation, favorable reservoir distributions were predicted using seismic attributes and gas detection methods, providing the basis for the next phase of natural gas exploration and development in this area.
Cloning and Characterization of Cellulase from Paenibacillus peoriae MK1 Isolated from Soil
Authors: Kim Sang Jin , Shin Kyung-Chul , Kim Dae Wook , Kim Yeong-Su , Park Chang-Su
Published: September 2023

An isolated bacterium from soil that highly hydrolyzes cellulose was identified as Paenibacillus peoriae and named P. peoriae MK1. The cellulase from P. peoriae MK1 was cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli. The purified recombinant cellulase, a soluble protein with 13.2-fold purification and 19% final yield, displayed a specific activity of 77 U/mg for CM-cellulose and existed as a metal-independent monomer of 65 kDa. The enzyme exhibited maximum activity at pH 5.0 and 40 °C with a half-life of 9.5 h in the presence of Ca2+ ion. The highest activity was observed toward CM-cellulose as an amorphous substrate, followed by swollen cellulose, and sigmacell cellulose and α-cellulose as crystalline substrates. The enzyme and substrate concentrations for the hydrolysis of CM-cellulose were optimized to 133 U/mL and 20 g/L CM-cellulose, respectively. Under these conditions, CM-cellulose was hydrolyzed to reducing sugars composed mostly of oligosaccharides by cellulase from P. peoriae MK1 as an endo-type cellulase with a productivity of 11.1 g/L/h for 10 min. Our findings will contribute to the industrial usability of cellulase and the research for securing cellulase sources.
In Silico Chromosome Mapping of the Male-Specific/Linked Loci in the Jade Perch (Scortum barcoo) Suggests Chromosome 19 as the Putative Y Sex Chromosome
Authors: Panthum Thitipong , Wattanadilokchatkun Pish , Jaisamut Kitipong , Singchat Worapong , Ahmad Syed Farhan , Muangmai Narongrit , Duengkae Prateep , Antunes Agostinho , Srikulnath Kornsorn
Published: September 2023

Jade perch (Scortum barcoo) has an XX/XY sex-determination system (SDS); however, its sex chromosomes and sex-determining region remain unknown. The recent availability of the jade perch chromosome-level genomic data provides a valuable resource for pinpointing the location of functional genes and the whole genomic structure. In this study, we conducted. In silico chromosome mapping of male-specific/linked loci of jade perch and identified a potential 11.18 Mb male-linked region localized on chromosome 19 (SBA19). Repeat annotations of the male-linked region revealed an abundance of transposable elements, particularly Ty3/Gypsy and novel repeats. Sequence analysis of this region identified a remnant of amh gene, which is considered a potential candidate for SDS in many teleosts. A duplicate copy of amh remnant was located at SBA6. These duplicated amh copies were highly similar to those of XX/XY SDS in teleosts, in which one copy of amh was identified on the Y sex chromosome. Taken all together, we hypothesize SBA19 as the putative sex chromosome and the 11.18 Mb male-linked region to be a potential male-determining region.
Effects of Three Microalgal Diets Varying in LC-PUFA Composition on Growth, Fad, and Elovl Expressions, and Fatty Acid Profiles in Juvenile Razor Clam Sinonovacula constricta
Authors: Kong Fei , Ran Zhaoshou , Xie Haixuan , Tian Xuxu , Liao Kai , Xu Jilin
Published: September 2023

The razor clam Sinonovacula constricta is the first marine mollusk demonstrated to possess the complete long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA) biosynthetic pathway. This study explored the impact of different microalgae on growth, Fad and Elovl expressions, and fatty acid (FA) profiles in juvenile S. constricta. Results revealed that juveniles fed with Isochrysis galbana (rich in DHA) or Chaetoceros calcitrans (rich in EPA) consistently exhibited higher growth than those fed Chlorella sp. (rich in LA and ALA), underscoring the importance of dietary LC-PUFA in S. constricta’s development. Expression of most Fad and Elovl in C. calcitrans and I. galbana-fed juveniles were initially up-regulated, then down-regulated, suggesting LC-PUFA demand for faster growth. Although Chlorella sp.-fed juveniles exhibited decreased mRNA levels for most genes, levels were notably higher lately compared to those fed C. calcitrans or I. galbana, hinting at potential LC-PUFA biosynthesis induction. FA profiles in S. constricta generally mirrored those in ingested microalgae, implying direct FA accumulation from diets. Some microalgal FA were absent in farmed S. constricta, while others emerged, indicating S. constricta’s ability to selectively accumulate and synthesize FA. This study enhances the understanding of dietary FA metabolism in S. constricta, valuable for selecting appropriate microalgae in its farming practices.
Synergistic Effects of Climate Change and Alien Fish Invasions in Freshwater Ecosystems: A Review
Authors: Carosi Antonella , Lorenzoni Francesca , Lorenzoni Massimo
Published: September 2023

The interaction between climate warming and alien fish invasions could have severe consequences in inland waters, which represent isolated environments with high biodiversity richness. Due to the current climatic trend, increasing water temperatures and salinization, shorter ice cover period, and altered flow regimes are predicted for these environments. The aim of this review is to offer a comprehensive analysis at a global scale of the recent studies available in the literature, focused on the responses of invasive freshwater fish to the effects of climate change in both lotic and lentic environments. To achieve this purpose, we selected 34 relevant papers, using the Scopus and Google Scholar database. New alien species establishment, distribution range expansion of species already introduced, and exacerbating impacts on freshwater ecosystems and the native fish communities they host were included in the topics covered by the analyzed papers. Despite the uncertainties related to the unpredictability with which the effects of global warming will occur, the findings of the selected studies served as a support to evaluate conservation and management implications, with particular reference to possible mitigation strategies.
Analysis of the Hydrodynamics Behavior Inside a Stirred Reactor for Lead Recycling
Authors: Ramirez-Lopez Adan
Published: September 2023

This work focuses on an analysis of hydrodynamics to improve the efficiency in a batch reactor for lead recycling. The study is based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) methods, which are used to solve Navier–Stokes and Fick’s equations (continuity and momentum equations for understanding hydrodynamics and concentration for understanding distribution). The reactor analyzed is a tank with a dual geometry with a cylindrical body and a hemisphere for the bottom. This reactor is symmetrical vertically, and a shaft with four blades is used as an impeller for providing motion to the resident fluid. The initial resident fluid is static, and a tracer is defined in a volume inside to measure mixing efficiency, as is conducted in laboratory and industrial practices. Then, an evaluation of the mixing is performed by studying the tracer concentration curves at different evolution times. In order to understand the fluid flow hydrodynamics behavior with the purpose of identifying zones with rich and poor tracer concentrations, the tracer’s concentration was measured at monitoring points placed all around in a defined control plane of the tank. Moreover, this study is repeated independently to evaluate different injection points to determine the best one. Finally, it is proved that the selection of an appropriate injection point can reduce working times for mixing, which is an economically attractive motivation to provide proposals for improving industrial practices.
Is Mushy Tuna Syndrome a Growing Problem for the Tuna Industry?
Authors: Peter Soni Maria Jacob , Blomberg Simone P. , Holden Matthew H. , Hoffman Louwrens C. , Tibbetts Ian R.
Published: September 2023

Reducing food loss and waste is crucial for a sustainable global food system and an efficient use of natural resources. Fast-growing tuna provides a key contribution to global nutrition targets; however, reports suggest that an appreciable proportion of the catch is lost from its value chain due to flesh quality issues, one of which is Mushy Tuna Syndrome (MTS). MTS-affected tuna flesh becomes soft and pasty, unfit for canning or human consumption, resulting in high wastage of partially processed material. We investigated the prevalence of MTS globally by surveying the tuna industry using a questionnaire. Of the responses from 32 companies across 14 nations, 97% acknowledged MTS as an issue that predominantly affects skipjack (Katsuwonus pelamis) tuna. The cost of rejects reported by participants from 2017 to 2019 varied greatly, from less than 1000 USD per year to over 1 million USD. The median cost was over 60,000 USD and the average rejection rate was 1.8%. The occurrence of MTS was noted to be seasonal, mainly in the summer months. More than half of the respondents who experience MTS reported an increasing trend of occurrence. Industry perceptions suggest MTS causes are associated with environmental, physiological, and biological factors. The survey results highlight that MTS is prevalent in the industry and demonstrate the need to identify amelioration strategies for the fishers and processors to minimise loss and maximise resource efficiency.
Monovalent Salt and pH-Stimulated Gelation of Scallop (Patinopecten yessoensis) Male Gonad Hydrolysates/κ-Carrageenan
Authors: Yan Jia-Nan , Nie Bin , Zhang Zhu-Jun , Gao Ling-Yi , Lai Bin , Wang Ce , Zhang Li-Chao , Wu Hai-Tao
Published: September 2023

The gelation of scallop Patinopecten yessoensis male gonad hydrolysates (SMGHs) and κ-carrageenan (KC) subjected to pH (2–8, 3–9) and NaCl/KCl stimuli-response was investigated. SMGHs/KC gels subjected to a NaCl response exhibited an increasing storage modulus G′from 2028.6 to 3418.4 Pa as the pH decreased from pH 8 to 2, with corresponding T23 fluctuating from 966.40 to 365.64 ms. For the KCl-treated group, SMGHs/KC gels showed an even greater G′ from 4646.7 to 10996.5 Pa, with T23 fluctuating from 622.2 to 276.98 ms as the pH decreased from 9 to 3. The improved gel strength could be ascribed to the blueshift and redshift of hydroxyl groups and amide I peaks, enhanced enthalpy and peak temperature, and gathered characteristic diffraction peaks from SMGHs, KC, NaCl, and KCl. The CLSM and cryo-SEM images further reflected that SMGHs/KC gels showed more flocculation formation and denser and more homogeneous networks with smaller pore sizes in more acidic domains, especially when subjected to the KCl response. This research gives a theoretical and methodological understanding of the construction of salt- and pH-responsive SMGHs/KC hydrogels as novel functional soft biomaterials applied in food and biological fields.
Quantifying the Effect of Grilling and Roasting on the Eating Quality of Lamb Leg Muscles
Authors: Al-Moadhen Hussein , Lees Jarrod C. , Pannier Liselotte , McGilchrist Peter
Published: September 2023

Lamb eating quality was measured using untrained consumer sensory panels to determine the difference in intrinsic eating quality scores of grilled and roasted leg cut muscles. The Knuckle, Outside flat, and Topside from both legs of 65 mixed-sex lambs from diverse genetic backgrounds were prepared using alternative grill and roast cook methods. Each sample was eaten by 10 consumers and scored for tenderness, juiciness, flavor, and overall liking. All cuts scored higher (p < 0.001) when grilled compared with when roasted for all traits except for Topside tenderness. Grilled Knuckle scored higher than roast Knuckle by 13.6%, 23.9%, 14.4% and 15.8% for tenderness, juiciness, flavor, and overall liking, respectively. The grilled Outside flat scored higher than roast Outside flat by 14.1%, 27.1%, 10.9%, and 14.3% for tenderness, juiciness, flavor, and overall liking, respectively. Finally, grilled Topside scored higher than roast Topside by 21.3%, 7.4%, and 6.6% for juiciness, flavor, and overall liking, respectively. Carcass traits for intramuscular fat and shear force had a significant (p < 0.001) effect on all eating quality traits for both grill and roast cuts. Girth rib fat had a significant effect (p = 0.01) on tenderness and juiciness (p = 0.03) for Outside flat and Topside but had no effect (p > 0.05) on Knuckle for both grill and roast. This study identified that specific cooking methods can improve sensory traits for individual cuts and suggests that a cut-by-cook method eating quality model for sheepmeat can therefore increase consumer satisfaction.
Energy-Preserving AVF Methods for Riesz Space-Fractional Nonlinear KGZ and KGS Equations
Authors: Sun Jianqiang , Yang Siqi , Zhang Lijuan
Published: September 2023

The Riesz space-fractional derivative is discretized by the Fourier pseudo-spectral (FPS) method. The Riesz space-fractional nonlinear Klein–Gordon–Zakharov (KGZ) and Klein–Gordon–Schrödinger (KGS) equations are transformed into two infinite-dimensional Hamiltonian systems, which are discretized by the FPS method. Two finite-dimensional Hamiltonian systems are thus obtained and solved by the second-order average vector field (AVF) method. The energy conservation property of these new discrete schemes of the fractional KGZ and KGS equations is proven. These schemes are applied to simulate the evolution of two fractional differential equations. Numerical results show that these schemes can simulate the evolution of these fractional differential equations well and maintain the energy-preserving property.
Adaptive Control Design for Euler–Lagrange Systems Using Fixed-Time Fractional Integral Sliding Mode Scheme
Authors: Ahmed Saim , Azar Ahmad Taher , Tounsi Mohamed , Ibraheem Ibraheem Kasim
Published: September 2023

This paper presents an adaptive fixed-time fractional integral control for externally disturbed Euler–Lagrange systems. In the first step of the control design, the approach of fractional-order fixed-time integral nonsingular terminal sliding mode control (FoIFxTSM) is introduced. This scheme combines the benefits of fractional calculus with integral sliding mode control, resulting in fast convergence, smooth nonsingular control inputs, and fixed-time stability. By integrating an adaptive scheme, the proposed method is used to control the dynamical system in the presence of uncertainty and external perturbations. The findings of the fixed-time stability using Lyapunov analyses are provided for the closed-loop system. The simulation results are compared with the adaptive fractional-order sliding mode control scheme, and they show the better tracking and convergence performance of the proposed method.
Applications of Fractional Differential Operator to Subclasses of Uniformly q-Starlike Functions
Authors: Khan Nazar , Khan Kashif , Tawfiq Ferdous , Ro Jong-Suk , Al-shbeil Isra
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we use the concept of quantum (or q-) calculus and define a q-analogous of a fractional differential operator and discuss some of its applications. We consider this operator to define new subclasses of uniformly q-starlike and q-convex functions associated with a new generalized conic domain, Λβ,q,γ. To begin establishing our key conclusions, we explore several novel lemmas. Furthermore, we employ these lemmas to explore some important features of these two classes, for example, inclusion relations, coefficient bounds, Fekete–Szego problem, and subordination results. We also highlight many known and brand-new specific corollaries of our findings.
“Education Is a Cultural Weapon”: The Inner London Education Authority and the Politics of Literature for Young People
Authors: Sands-O’Connor Karen
Published: September 2023

The Inner London Education Authority (ILEA) was founded in 1965 to manage education in London’s inner boroughs; by the early 1970s, it was held up as one of the most progressive education experiments in British history. One of the marks of this progressiveness was its attention to London’s Black child population and its attempts to connect with Black culture through multiculturalism. However, while the ILEA prided itself on its anti-racist, multicultural education methods, its publication arm often provided mixed messages about the value and place of Black students in the education system and society. Multiculturalism, which the ILEA used to guide the production of reading materials, often resulted in a lack of cultural specificity and an avoidance of issues facing Black students, such as racism. Partnering with Black educators allowed the ILEA to offer more culturally specific and anti-racist material, but doing so also brought the ILEA to the attention of critical governmental authorities, who would eventually disband the ILEA out of fear of Black radicalism.
Shoulder and Neck Pain in Swimmers: Front Crawl Stroke Analysis, Correlation with the Symptomatology in 61 Masters Athletes and Short Literature Review
Authors: Rinonapoli Giuseppe , Ceccarini Paolo , Manfreda Francesco , Talesa Giuseppe Rocco , Simonetti Simonetta , Caraffa Auro
Published: September 2023

Background: Swimming and, specifically, front crawl, can be included among the “overhead” sports. Overhead sports are a risk factor for some problems of the musculoskeletal system, especially the shoulder. The aim of this study was to assess the incidence of shoulder and neck pain in a Masters Swimming Team and its correlation with the crawl stroke. Methods: This is an observational study through video-analysis of the stroke and a questionnaire. The participants selected for the present study were 61 athletes of a Masters team, whose prevailing training stroke was the front crawl. Their stroke was analyzed during training using a go-pro camera mounted on a sliding trolley on a track, evaluating their technical defects with their trainer. A questionnaire about frequency of shoulder and neck pain during the last five years was administered to all the participants at the study. Results: From the questionnaire, 45 and 55 out of 61 athletes had suffered from shoulder pain and cervical pain, respectively. Both types of pain were correlated with the weekly swimming volume. The swimmers with hyperflexion of the wrist and prolonged internal rotation in the pulling phase had shoulder problems. Those who suffered from current shoulder pain reduced the underwater time. The four swimmers with an excessive body roll during breathing and those who kept their heads extended, reported cervical pain. Conclusions: Shoulder and neck pain could be prevented with the correction of specific technical errors in crawl stroke.
Low Emulsifier Diet in Healthy Female Adults: A Feasibility Study of Nutrition Education and Counseling Intervention
Authors: Khatib Mai A. , Saleemani Haneen H. , Kurdi Nersian B. , Alhibshi Haya N. , Jastaniah Manar A. , Ajabnoor Sarah M.
Published: September 2023

Emulsifiers are food additives commonly found in processed foods to improve texture stabilization and food preservation. Dietary emulsifier intake can potentially damage the gut mucosal lining resulting in chronic inflammation such as Crohn’s disease. This study investigates the feasibility of a low-emulsifier diet among healthy female adults, as no previous reports have studied the feasibility of such a diet on healthy participants. A quasi-experimental study for a nutrition education and counseling intervention was conducted over 14 days among healthy Saudi participants aged 18 years and over. Assessment of dietary intake using 3-day food records was conducted at the baseline and 2-week follow-up. Participants attended an online educational session using the Zoom application illustrating instructions for a low-emulsifier diet. Daily exposure to emulsifiers was evaluated and nutrient intake was measured. A total of 30 participants completed the study. At baseline, 38 emulsifiers were identified, with a mean ± SD exposure of 12.23 ± 10.07 emulsifiers consumed per day. A significant reduction in the mean frequency of dietary emulsifier intake was observed at the end of the intervention (12.23 ± 10.07 vs. 6.30 ± 7.59, p < 0.01). However, intake of macronutrients and micronutrients was significantly reduced (p < 0.05). Good adherence to the diet was achieved by 40% of the participants, and 16.66% attained a 50% reduction of emulsifier intake. The study demonstrates that a low-emulsifier diet provided via dietary advice is feasible to follow and tolerable by healthy participants. However, the diet still needs further investigation and assessment of it is nutritional intake and quality before implementing it in patients with inflammatory bowel disease who are at high risk of poor nutritional intake.
Group-Privacy Threats for Geodata in the Humanitarian Context
Authors: Masinde Brian K. , Gevaert Caroline M. , Nagenborg Michael H. , Zevenbergen Jaap A.
Published: September 2023

The role of geodata technologies in humanitarian action is arguably indispensable in determining when, where, and who needs aid before, during, and after a disaster. However, despite the advantages of using geodata technologies in humanitarianism (i.e., fast and efficient aid distribution), several ethical challenges arise, including privacy. The focus has been on individual privacy; however, in this article, we focus on group privacy, a debate that has recently gained attention. We approach privacy through the lens of informational harms that undermine the autonomy of groups and control of knowledge over them. Using demographically identifiable information (DII) as a definition for groups, we first assess how these are derived from geodata types used in humanitarian DRRM. Second, we discuss four informational-harm threat models: (i) biases from missing/underrepresented categories, (ii) the mosaic effect—unintentional sensitive knowledge discovery from combining disparate datasets, (iii) misuse of data (whether it is shared or not); and (iv) cost–benefit analysis (cost of protection vs. risk of misuse). Lastly, borrowing from triage in emergency medicine, we propose a geodata triage process as a possible method for practitioners to identify, prioritize, and mitigate these four group-privacy harms.
The Spectrum of Cognitive Dysfunction in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: An Update
Authors: Jellinger Kurt A.
Published: September 2023

Cognitive dysfunction is an important non-motor symptom in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) that has a negative impact on survival and caregiver burden. It shows a wide spectrum ranging from subjective cognitive decline to frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and covers various cognitive domains, mainly executive/attention, language and verbal memory deficits. The frequency of cognitive impairment across the different ALS phenotypes ranges from 30% to 75%, with up to 45% fulfilling the criteria of FTD. Significant genetic, clinical, and pathological heterogeneity reflects deficits in various cognitive domains. Modern neuroimaging studies revealed frontotemporal degeneration and widespread involvement of limbic and white matter systems, with hypometabolism of the relevant areas. Morphological substrates are frontotemporal and hippocampal atrophy with synaptic loss, associated with TDP-43 and other co-pathologies, including tau deposition. Widespread functional disruptions of motor and extramotor networks, as well as of frontoparietal, frontostriatal and other connectivities, are markers for cognitive deficits in ALS. Cognitive reserve may moderate the effect of brain damage but is not protective against cognitive decline. The natural history of cognitive dysfunction in ALS and its relationship to FTD are not fully understood, although there is an overlap between the ALS variants and ALS-related frontotemporal syndromes, suggesting a differential vulnerability of motor and non-motor networks. An assessment of risks or the early detection of brain connectivity signatures before structural changes may be helpful in investigating the pathophysiological mechanisms of cognitive impairment in ALS, which might even serve as novel targets for effective disease-modifying therapies.
Immunohistochemical Expression of Glutathione Peroxidase-2 (Gpx-2) and Its Clinical Relevance in Colon Adenocarcinoma Patients
Authors: Brzozowa-Zasada Marlena , Ianaro Angela , Piecuch Adam , Michalski Marek , Matysiak Natalia , Stęplewska Katarzyna
Published: September 2023

Glutathione peroxidase 2 (Gpx-2) is a selenoenzyme with antioxidant capabilities that may play a role in cancer development. Hence, we investigated the immunohistochemical expression of Gpx-2 protein in colon adenocarcinoma samples derived from patients with colon adenocarcinoma who did not receive any form of treatment prior to the surgical procedure. The associations between the immunohistochemical expression of Gpx-2 and clinical parameters were analysed using the Chi2 test and Fisher’s exact test. A Kaplan–Meier analysis and the log-rank test were used to verify the relationship between the intensity of Gpx-2 expression and the 5-year survival rate of patients. In total, 101 (80.80%) samples had strong Gpx-2 protein expression and 24 (19.20%) samples were characterized with low expression. The high expression of Gpx-2 was correlated with the histological grade of the tumour (p < 0.001), PCNA immunohistochemical expression (p < 0.001), depth of invasion (p = 0.001) and angioinvasion (p < 0.001). We can conclude that high expression of Gpx-2 is correlated with reduced survival of colon adenocarcinoma patients (log-rank, p < 0.001).
Fatty Liver Index (FLI) Identifies Not Only Individuals with Liver Steatosis but Also at High Cardiometabolic Risk
Authors: Carli Fabrizia , Sabatini Silvia , Gaggini Melania , Sironi Anna Maria , Bedogni Giorgio , Gastaldelli Amalia
Published: September 2023

A fatty liver index (FLI) greater than sixty (FLI ≥ 60) is an established score for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), which carries a high risk for diabetes and cardiovascular disease, while a FLI ≤ 20 rules out the presence of steatosis. Thus, we investigated whether FLI was associated with cardiometabolic risk factors, i.e., visceral (VAT), subcutaneous (SC), epicardial (EPI), extrapericardial (PERI), and total cardiac (CARD-AT) adipose tissue, hepatic fat ((by magnetic resonance imaging, MRI, and spectroscopy, MRS), and insulin resistance (IR, HOMA-IR and OGIS-index), and components of metabolic syndrome. All individuals with FLI ≥ 60 had MASLD, while none with FLI ≤ 20 had steatosis (by MRS). Subjects with FLI ≥ 60 had a higher BMI and visceral and cardiac fat (VAT > 1.7 kg, CARD-AT > 0.2 kg). FLI was positively associated with increased cardiac and visceral fat and components of metabolic syndrome. FLI, VAT, and CARD-AT were all associated with IR, increased blood pressure, cholesterol, and reduced HDL. For FLI ≥ 60, the cut-off values for fat depots and laboratory measures were estimated. In conclusion, FLI ≥ 60 identified not only subjects with steatosis but also those with IR, abdominal and cardiac fat accumulation, increased blood pressure, and hyperlipidemia, i.e., those at higher risk of cardiometabolic diseases. Targeted reduction of FLI components would help reduce cardiometabolic risk.
Differential Effects of Pancreatic Cancer-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Driving a Suppressive Environment
Authors: Purushothaman Anurag , Oliva-Ramírez Jacqueline , Treekitkarnmongkol Warapen , Sankaran Deivendran , Hurd Mark W. , Putluri Nagireddy , Maitra Anirban , Haymaker Cara , Sen Subrata
Published: September 2023

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells display extensive crosstalk with their surrounding environment to regulate tumor growth, immune evasion, and metastasis. Recent advances have attributed many of these interactions to intercellular communication mediated by small extracellular vesicles (sEVs), involving cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF). To explore the impact of sEVs on monocyte lineage transition as well as the expression of checkpoint receptors and activation markers, peripheral blood monocytes from healthy subjects were exposed to PDAC-derived sEVs. Additionally, to analyze the role of sEV-associated HA in immune regulation and tissue-resident fibroblasts, monocytes and pancreatic stellate cells were cultured in the presence of PDAC sEVs with or depleted of HA. Exposure of monocytes to sEVs resulted in unique phenotypic changes in HLA-DR, PD-L1, CD86 and CD64 expression, and cytokine secretion that was HA-independent except for IL-1β and MIP1β. In contrast, monocyte suppression of autologous T cell proliferation was reduced following exposure to HA-low sEVs. In addition, exposure of stellate cells to sEVs upregulated the secretion of various cytokines, including MMP-9, while removal of HA from PDAC-derived sEVs attenuated the secretion of MMP-9, demonstrating the role of sEV-associated HA in regulating expression of this pro-tumorigenic cytokine from stellate cells. This observation lends credence to the findings from the TCGA database that PDAC patients with high levels of enzymes in the HA synthesis pathway had worse survival rates compared with patients having low expression of these enzymes. PDAC-derived sEVs have an immune modulatory role affecting the activation state of monocyte subtypes. However, sEV-associated HA does not affect monocyte phenotype but alters cytokine secretion and suppression of autologous T cell proliferation and induces secretion of pro-tumorigenic factors by pancreatic stellate cells (PSC), as has been seen following the conversion of PSCs to cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Interruption of the hexosamine biosynthetic pathway, activated in PDAC producing the key substrate (UDP-GlcNAc) for HA synthesis, thus, represents a potential clinical interception strategy for PDAC patients. Findings warrant further investigations of underlying mechanisms involving larger sample cohorts.
Histone Modifications in NAFLD: Mechanisms and Potential Therapy
Authors: Shi Yulei , Qi Wei
Published: September 2023

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a progressive condition that encompasses a spectrum of liver disorders, beginning with the simple steatosis, progressing to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and possibly leading to more severe diseases, including liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In recent years, the prevalence of NAFLD has increased due to a shift towards energy-dense dietary patterns and a sedentary lifestyle. NAFLD is also strongly associated with metabolic disorders such as obesity and hyperlipidemia. The progression of NAFLD could be influenced by a variety of factors, such as diet, genetic factors, and even epigenetic factors. In contrast to genetic factors, epigenetic factors, including histone modifications, exhibit dynamic and reversible features. Therefore, the epigenetic regulation of the initiation and progression of NAFLD is one of the directions under intensive investigation in terms of pathogenic mechanisms and possible therapeutic interventions. This review aims to discuss the possible mechanisms and the crucial role of histone modifications in the framework of epigenetic regulation in NAFLD, which may provide potential therapeutic targets and a scientific basis for the treatment of NAFLD.
NMR-Based Characterization of the Interaction between Yeast Oxa1-CTD and Ribosomes
Authors: Liu Yong , Yang Jing , Ruan Maosen , Zhang Huiqin , Wang Junfeng , Li Yunyan
Published: September 2023

In mitochondria, the major subunits of oxidative phosphorylation complexes are translated by the mitochondrial ribosome (mito-ribosome). The correct insertion and assembly of these subunits into the inner mitochondrial membrane (IMM) are facilitated by mitochondrial oxidase assembly protein 1 (Oxa1) during the translation process. This co-translational insertion process involves an association between the mito-ribosome and the C-terminus of Oxa1 (Oxa1-CTD) Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) methods were mainly used to investigate the structural characterization of yeast Oxa1-CTD and its mode of interaction with the E. coli 70S ribosome. Oxa1-CTD forms a transient α-helical structure within the residues P342–Q385, which were reported to form an α-helix when combining with the ribosome. Two conserved contact sites that could interact with the ribosome were further identified. The first site was located on the very end of the N-terminus (V321–I327), and the second one encompassed a stretch of amino acid residues I348–Q370. Based on our discoveries and previous reports, a model has been proposed in which Oxa1-CTD interacts with ribosomes, accompanied by transient-to-stable transitions at the second contact site. These observations may enhance our understanding of the potential role of Oxa1-CTD in facilitating the assembly of oxidative phosphorylation complexes and provide insight into the structural characteristics of Oxa1-CTD.
Comparative Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Analyses of Differences in Trunk Spiral Grain in Pinus yunnanensis
Authors: Gan Peihua , Li Peiling , Zhang Xiaolin , Li Hailin , Ma Shaojie , Zong Dan , He Chengzhong
Published: September 2023

Having a spiral grain is considered to be one of the most important wood properties influencing wood quality. Here, transcriptome profiles and metabolome data were analyzed in the straight grain and twist grain of Pinus yunnanensis. A total of 6644 differential expression genes were found between the straight type and the twist type. A total of 126 differentially accumulated metabolites were detected. There were 24 common differential pathways identified from the transcriptome and metabolome, and these pathways were mainly annotated in ABC transporters, arginine and proline metabolism, flavonoid biosynthesis, isoquinoline alkaloid biosynthesis, linoleic acid metabolism, phenylpropanoid, tryptophan metabolism, etc. A weighted gene coexpression network analysis showed that the lightblue4 module was significantly correlated with 2′-deoxyuridine and that transcription factors (basic leucine zipper (bZIP), homeodomain leucine zipper (HD-ZIP), basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH), p-coumarate 3-hydroxylase (C3H), and N-acetylcysteine (NAC)) play important roles in regulating 2′-deoxyuridine, which may be involved in the formation of spiral grains. Meanwhile, the signal transduction of hormones may be related to spiral grain, as previously reported. ARF7 and MKK4_5, as indoleacetic acid (IAA)- and ethylene (ET)-related receptors, may explain the contribution of plant hormones in spiral grain. This study provided useful information on spiral grain in P. yunnanensis by transcriptome and metabolome analyses and could lay the foundation for future molecular breeding.
Novel Therapeutic Targets in Cancers
Authors: Levantini Elena
Published: September 2023

Cancer cells can arise in any organ of the body, and their cells of origin vary depending on the tissue type [...]
Anhydrous Alum Inhibits α-MSH-Induced Melanogenesis by Down-Regulating MITF via Dual Modulation of CREB and ERK
Authors: In Kyu-Ree , Kang Mi Ae , Kim Su Dong , Shin Jinho , Kang Sung Un , Park Tae Jun , Kim Seung-Joo , Lee Jong-Soo
Published: September 2023

Melanogenesis, the intricate process of melanin synthesis, is central to skin pigmentation and photoprotection and is regulated by various signaling pathways and transcription factors. To develop potential skin-whitening agents, we used B16F1 melanoma cells to investigate the inhibitory effects of anhydrous alum on melanogenesis and its underlying molecular mechanisms. Anhydrous alum (KAl(SO4)2) with high purity (>99%), which is generated through the heat-treatment of hydrated alum (KAl(SO4)2·12H2O) at 400 °C, potentiates a significant reduction in melanin content without cytotoxicity. Anhydrous alum downregulates the master regulator of melanogenesis, microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), which targets key genes involved in melanogenesis, thereby inhibiting α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH)-induced melanogenesis. Phosphorylation of the cAMP response element-binding protein, which acts as a co-activator of MITF gene expression, is attenuated by anhydrous alum, resulting in compromised MITF transcription. Notably, anhydrous alum promoted extracellular signal-regulated kinase phosphorylation, leading to the impaired nuclear localization of MITF. Overall, these results demonstrated the generation and mode of action of anhydrous alum in B16F1 cells, which constitutes a promising option for cosmetic or therapeutic use.
Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease: Is There a Role for Autophagy?
Authors: Ponticelli Claudio , Moroni Gabriella , Reggiani Francesco
Published: September 2023

Autosomal-Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD) is a monogenic disorder initiated by mutations in either PKD1 or PKD2 genes, responsible for encoding polycystin 1 and polycystin 2, respectively. These proteins are primarily located within the primary cilia. The disease follows an inexorable progression, leading most patients to severe renal failure around the age of 50, and extra-renal complications are frequent. A cure for ADPKD remains elusive, but some measures can be employed to manage symptoms and slow cyst growth. Tolvaptan, a vasopressin V2 receptor antagonist, is the only drug that has been proven to attenuate ADPKD progression. Recently, autophagy, a cellular recycling system that facilitates the breakdown and reuse of aged or damaged cellular components, has emerged as a potential contributor to the pathogenesis of ADPKD. However, the precise role of autophagy in ADPKD remains a subject of investigation, displaying a potentially twofold impact. On the one hand, impaired autophagy may promote cyst formation by inducing apoptosis, while on the other hand, excessive autophagy may lead to fibrosis through epithelial to mesenchymal transition. Promising results of autophagy inducers have been observed in preclinical studies. Clinical trials are warranted to thoroughly assess the long-term safety and efficacy of a combination of autophagy inducers with metabolic and/or aquaferetic drugs. This research aims to shed light on the complex involvement of autophagy in ADPKD, explore the regulation of autophagy in disease progression, and highlight the potential of combination therapies as a promising avenue for future investigations.
Effects of Vitamin E on the Gut Microbiome in Ageing and Its Relationship with Age-Related Diseases: A Review of the Current Literature
Authors: Gothandapani Dashine , Makpol Suzana
Published: September 2023

Ageing is inevitable in all living organisms and is associated with physical deterioration, disease and eventually death. Dysbiosis, which is the alteration of the gut microbiome, occurs in individuals during ageing, and plenty of studies support that gut dysbiosis is responsible for the progression of different types of age-related diseases. The economic burden of age-linked health issues increases as ageing populations increase. Hence, an improvement in disease prevention or therapeutic approaches is urgently required. In recent years, vitamin E has garnered significant attention as a promising therapeutic approach for delaying the ageing process and potentially impeding the development of age-related disease. Nevertheless, more research is still required to understand how vitamin E affects the gut microbiome and how it relates to age-related diseases. Therefore, we gathered and summarized recent papers in this review that addressed the impact of the gut microbiome on age-related disease, the effect of vitamin E on age-related disease along with the role of vitamin E on the gut microbiome and the relationship with age-related diseases which are caused by ageing. Based on the studies reported, different bacteria brought on various age-related diseases with either increased or decreased relative abundances. Some studies have also reported the positive effects of vitamin E on the gut microbiome as beneficial bacteria and metabolites increase with vitamin E supplementation. This demonstrates how vitamin E is vital as it affects the gut microbiome positively to delay ageing and the progression of age-related diseases. The findings discussed in this review will provide a simplified yet deeper understanding for researchers studying ageing, the gut microbiome and age-related diseases, allowing them to develop new preclinical and clinical studies.
Long-Term Effects of Suramin on Renal Function in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes in Rats
Authors: Chyła-Danił Gabriela , Sałaga-Zaleska Kornelia , Kreft Ewelina , Stumski Olaf , Krzesińska Aleksandra , Sakowicz-Burkiewicz Monika , Kuchta Agnieszka , Jankowski Maciej
Published: September 2023

In short-term diabetes (3 weeks), suramin, a drug used clinically, affects renal function and the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A), which may be involved in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy, the main cause of end-stage renal disease. In the present study, we evaluated the long-term (11 weeks) effects of suramin (10 mg/kg, i.p., once-weekly) in diabetic rats. Concentrations of VEGF-A, albumin, soluble adhesive molecules (sICAM-1, sVCAM-1), nucleosomes, and thrombin–antithrombin complex (TAT) were measured by ELISA, total protein was measured using a biuret reagent. Glomerular expression of VEGF-A was evaluated by Western blot, mRNA for VEGF-A receptors in the renal cortex by RT-PCR. The vasoreactivity of the interlobar arteries to acetylcholine was assessed by wire myography. Long-term diabetes led to an increased concentration of VEGF-A, TAT, and urinary excretion of total protein and albumin, and a decrease in the concentration of sVCAM-1. We have shown that suramin in diabetes reduces total urinary protein excretion and restores the relaxing properties of acetylcholine relaxation properties to non-diabetic levels. Suramin had no effect on glomerular expression VEGF-A expression and specific receptors, and on sICAM-1 and nucleosomes concentrations in diabetic rats. In conclusion, the long-term effect of suramin on the kidneys in diabetes, expressed in the reduction of proteinuria and the restoration of endothelium-dependent relaxation of the renal arteries, can be considered as potentially contributing to the reduction/slowing down of the development of diabetic nephropathy.