bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on Sea Trial Techniques for Motion Responses of HDPE Floating Rafts Used in Aquaculture
Authors: Fu Fei , Zhang Xiaoying , Hu Zhe , Li Yan , Wang Lihe , Yu Jianxing
Published: July 2024

The innovative aquaculture equipment known as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) floating rafts has gained popularity among fishermen in the southeast coastal regions of China. Compared to deep-water anti-wave fish cages, the construction costs of HDPE floating rafts are 50% to 75% less. There is a dearth of comprehensive publicly available records of HDPE floating rafts sea trial data, despite substantial numerical studies on the motion response of aquaculture fish cages and scale model experiments under controlled-wave conditions. This study involves sea trial techniques under operational and extreme environmental conditions for motion responses of HDPE floating rafts, presents a comprehensive procedure for sea trials of HDPE floating rafts, summarizes the issues encountered during the trials, and suggests solutions. Using MATLAB for independent programming, motion videos and photos collected from the sea trials are processed for image capture, yielding the original time history curve of vertical displacement. Based on the sea trials’ data, including motion displacement, acceleration, mooring line force, overall deformation patterns, and current and wave data, recommendations are provided for the design and layout of HDPE floating rafts. Based on the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) method for spectral analysis, the influence of interference items on the observational data is eliminated; the rationality of the observational data is verified in conjunction with the results of the Gabor Transform. This study offers a scientific analytical method for the structural design and safe operation of HDPE floating rafts and provides a reference for subsequent numerical simulations.
Express Diagnosis and Prediction of Remote Mass Mortality of Scallop Mizuhopecten yessoensis in Mariculture Farms Using Biomarkers
Authors: Slobodskova Valentina Vladimirovna , Dovzhenko Nadezhda Vladimirovna , Kukla Sergey Petrovich , Chelomin Victor Pavlovich , Mazur Andrey Alexandrovich
Published: July 2024

The cage method for the cultivation of the seaside scallop Mizuhopecten yessoensis is the most developed and popular method at sea farms in Primorsky Krai (Sea of Japan). However, this method of mollusk cultivation requires the careful planning of farming activities. Recently, mariculture farms in different countries have often encountered the mass mortality of cultured hydrobionts. The causes of such diseases are not quite clear, and often their identification requires a large amount of time and financial expenditure. Therefore, the use of predictive mechanisms based on biomarkers can help identify hidden threats in cultured scallop organisms that lead to mass mortality. In this study, we propose a rapid diagnostic method for predicting the distant mass mortality of M. yessoensis cultured in cages using biomarkers. The assessment of the pathological state of cultured mollusks at earlier developmental stages using the DNA comet method and oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde) will allow the diagnosis and prediction of significant losses of marketable individuals in marine farms. In this study, we evaluated different age groups of mollusks cultured in the different water areas of Peter the Great Bay (Sea of Japan). During the study, we found that the death of cultured mollusks increased with increasing DNA damage and the active accumulation of malondialdehyde in tissues. It was observed that in scallops aged 1+ cultured in Severnaya Bay, high levels of DNA molecule damage and malondialdehyde were registered in the digestive glands and gills, which subsequently led to the death of almost all marketable individuals aged 3+. Therefore, the work is of significant value in assisting the aquaculture industry in solving the emerging problems of scallop farming and preserving marketable products. The proposed markers effectively reflect the condition of molluscs under extreme conditions caused by various factors, making them highly suitable for monitoring studies and forecasts on aquaculture farms.
Improving Agar Degradation Activity of Vibrio natriegens WPAGA4 via Atmospheric and Room Temperature Plasma (ARTP)
Authors: Tong Xiufang , Fan Shichang , Li Xuelian , Zhang Mengyuan , Wang Jianxin , Qu Wu
Published: July 2024

Agar oligosaccharides from the degradation of agar harbor great potential in the food and pharmaceutical industries. An agar-degrading bacterium, Vibrio natriegens WPAGA4, was isolated from the deep sea in our previous work. However, the agar-degrading activity of WPAGA4 remains to be improved for more production benefits of this strain. The aim of this study was to enhance the agar-degrading activity of WPAGA4 by using atmospheric and room temperature plasma (ARTP) mutagenesis. Three mutant strains, including T1, T2, and T3, with good genetic stability were obtained, and the agar-degrading activities of these strains increased by 136%, 141%, and 135%, respectively. The optimal temperature and pH for agar degradation were slightly changed in the mutant strains. No sequence mutation was detected in all the agarase genes of WPAGA4, including agaW3418, agaW3419, agaW3420, and agaW3472. However, ARPT mutagenesis increased the relative expression levels of agaW3418, agaW3419, and agaW3420 in the mutant strains, which could be the reason for the improvement of degradation activities in the mutant strains. Furthermore, T3 had the lowest consumption rate of agar oligosaccharide, which was 21% less than the wild-type strain. Therefore, T3 possessed a preferable production value due to its higher degrading activity and lower consumption of agar oligosaccharides. The current work enhanced the agar-degrading activity of WPAGA4 and offered strains with greater potential for agar oligosaccharide production, thereby laying the foundation for industrial applications.
Ionic Liquid 1-Octyl-3-Methylimidazolium (M8OI) Is Mono-Oxygenated by CYP3A4 and CYP3A5 in Adult Human Liver
Authors: Leitch Alistair C. , Abdelghany Tarek M. , Charlton Alex , Cooke Martin , Wright Matthew C.
Published: July 2024

Environmental sampling around a landfill site in the UK previously identified the methylimidazolium ionic liquid, 1-octyl-3-methylimidazolium (M8OI), in the soil. More recently, M8OI was shown to be detectable in sera from 5/20 PBC patients and 1/10 controls and to be oxidised on the alkyl chain in the human liver. The objective of this study was to examine the metabolism of M8OI in humans in more detail. In human hepatocytes, M8OI was mono-oxygenated to 1-(8-Hydroxyoctyl)-3-methyl-imidazolium (HO8IM) then further oxidised to 1-(7-carboxyheptyl)-3-methyl-1H-imidazol-3-ium (COOH7IM). The addition of ketoconazole—in contrast to a range of other cytochrome P450 inhibitors—blocked M8OI metabolism, suggesting primarily CYP3A-dependent mono-oxygenation of M8OI. Hepatocytes from one donor produced negligible and low levels of HO8IM and COOH7IM, respectively, on incubation with M8OI, when compared to hepatocytes from other donors. This donor had undetectable levels of CYP3A4 protein and low CYP3A enzyme activity. Transcript expression levels for other adult CYP3A isoforms—CYP3A5 and CYP3A43—suggest that a lack of CYP3A4 accounted primarily for this donor’s low rate of M8OI oxidation. Insect cell (supersome) expression of various human CYPs identified CYP3A4 as the most active CYP mediating M8OI mono-oxygenation, followed by CYP3A5. HO8IM and COOH7IM were not toxic to human hepatocytes, in contrast to M8OI, and using a pooled preparation of human hepatocytes from five donors, ketoconazole potentiated M8OI toxicity. These data demonstrate that CYP3A initiates the mono-oxygenation and detoxification of M8OI in adult human livers and that CYP3A4 likely plays a major role in this process.
Exploring the Spatiotemporal Evolution Patterns and Determinants of Construction Land in Mianning County on the Eastern Edge of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
Authors: Zhao Yinbing , Ni Zhongyun , Zhang Yang , Wan Peng , Geng Chuntao , Yu Wenhuan , Li Yongjun , Long Zhenrui
Published: July 2024

Studying the spatiotemporal evolution and driving forces behind construction land amidst the intricate ecological and geological setting on the eastern edge of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau offers invaluable insights for local sustainable development in a landscape transition zone and ecologically fragile area. Using construction land data from four phases, spanning 1990 to 2020, in Mianning County, this study employs methodologies like the Landscape Expansion Index (LEI) and land use transfer matrix to delineate the spatiotemporal evolution characteristics of construction land. A comprehensive set of 12 influencing factors across five categories—geomorphology, geological activity, climate, river and vegetation environment, and social economy—were examined. The Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) model was then employed to decipher the spatial distribution pattern of construction land in 1990 and 2020, shedding light on the driving mechanisms behind its changes over the three decades. The research reveals distinct patterns of construction land distribution and evolution in Mianning County, shaped by the ecological and geological landscape. Notably, the Anning River wide valley exhibits a concentrated and contiguous development mode, while the Yalong River deep valley showcases a decentralized development pattern, and the Dadu River basin manifests an aggregation development mode centered around high mountain lakes. Over the study period, all three river basins witnessed varying degrees of construction land expansion, transitioning from quantitative expansion to qualitative enhancement. Edge expansion predominantly characterizes the expansion mode, complemented by leapfrog and infilling modes, accompanied by conversions from cropland and forest land to construction land. An analysis of the spatial pattern and drivers of construction land change highlights human-induced factors dominating the Anning River Basin, contrasting with natural factors prevailing in the Yalong River Basin and the Dadu River Basin. Future efforts should prioritize climate change considerations and environmental capacity, aiming for an ecologically resilient spatial pattern of construction land.
Evolutionary Characteristics of Urban Public Space Accessibility for Vulnerable Groups from a Perspective of Temporal–Spatial Change: Evidence from Nanjing Old City, China
Authors: Xu Ning , Wang Pu
Published: July 2024

Social equity/inequity and equal/unequal rights to the city extend beyond the distribution of urban parks and green spaces, necessitating research on equitable accessibility to encompass a broader range of public spaces. However, previous research has predominantly focused on green spaces, neglecting other types of public spaces. To address this gap, the present study takes the public space pattern of Nanjing Old City as the research object, employing the minimum distance method, the gravity potential method, and bivariate local Moran’s I to evaluate the matching relationship between the demand of socially vulnerable groups and the supply of public spaces, as well as its temporal–spatial evolution from 2010 to 2020. The results reveal spatial heterogeneity in the accessibility of public spaces for vulnerable groups at the block level, with 28.1% of the total number of blocks and 22.1% of the total area of blocks experiencing a supply–demand imbalance in 2010. From 2010 to 2020, under the rapid urban development, construction of public spaces, and the general decline in population density and proportion of vulnerable populations, the supply–demand imbalance has exacerbated the distribution of public spaces at both individual and aggregate levels. This imbalance is reflected in the deteriorated accessibility of public spaces for vulnerable groups. This study reveals the mismatches between development, population movement, and public space construction in the old city of Nanjing over the past decade, providing decision-making suggestions and foundations for the future optimization of public spaces, thereby offering an effective tool for assessing and improving the accessibility and equitable distribution of public spaces based on the needs of vulnerable groups.
A Contribution to the Integration of International, National and Local Cultural Heritage Protection in Planning Methodology: A Case Study of the Djerdap Area
Authors: Niković Ana , Manić Božidar , Čolić Marković Nataša , Krunić Nikola
Published: July 2024

The paper focuses on the question of how the application of a multilevel, integrated, and territorial approach can contribute to the protection of cultural heritage through planning instruments in Serbia. The principles of territorialization, integration and digitalization highlighted in the recent strategic documents of the Republic of Serbia are related to international recommendations and theoretical concepts and analyzed with regards to the possibilities of their implementation in planning methodology. The case study is the spatial plan for the Djerdap National Park, a special purpose area with already recognized international and national importance. The research suggests that the encompassed cultural heritage, except the Roman limes, is still recognized at the level of individual entities. The study emphasizes the importance of aligning all levels of governance to safeguard the whole spatial entity rather than focusing solely on its particular areas. The international and national significance of the planning area contributes to the strengthening of awareness of heritage and its institutional protection. However, the vitality of the area, which is key to its sustainable development, comes from the local level. Planning documents contribute to the integration of local values and local communities into development programs and projects.
Typhoon-Induced Forest Damage Mapping in the Philippines Using Landsat and PlanetScope Images
Authors: Magallon Benjamin Jonah Perez , Tsuyuki Satoshi
Published: July 2024

Forests provide valuable resources for households in the Philippines, particularly in poor and upland communities. This makes forests an integral part of building resilient communities. This relationship became complex during extreme events such as typhoon occurrence as forests can be a contributor to the intensity and impact of disasters. However, little attention has been paid to forest cover losses due to typhoons during disaster assessments. In this study, forest damage caused by typhoons was measured using harmonic analysis of time series (HANTS) with Landsat-8 Operation Land Imager (OLI) images. The ΔHarmonic Vegetation Index was computed by calculating the difference between HANTS and the actual observed vegetation index value. This was used to identify damaged areas in the forest regions and create a damage map. To validate the reliability of the results, the resulting maps produced using ΔHarmonic VI were compared with the damage mapped from PlanetScope’s high-resolution pre- and post-typhoon images. The method achieved an overall accuracy of 69.20%. The accuracy of the results was comparable to the traditional remote sensing techniques used in forest damage assessment, such as ΔVI and land cover change detection. To further the understanding of the relationship between forest and typhoon occurrence, the presence of time lag in the observations was investigated. Additionally, different contributing factors in forest damage were identified. Most of the forest damage observed was in forest areas with slopes facing the typhoon direction and in vulnerable areas such as near the coast and hill tops. This study will help the government and forest management sectors preserve forests, which will ultimately result in the development of a more resilient community, by making it easier to identify forest areas that are vulnerable to typhoon damage.
Disagreement Strategies in the Discourse of American Speakers of Arabic
Authors: Hamdan Hady J. , Hamdan Wael J. , Al-Khawaldeh Nisreen Naji , Al-Shboul Othman Khalid
Published: July 2024

This study attempts to investigate the disagreement strategies that are used by American speakers of Arabic with a view to identifying which disagreement strategies they use in equal and non-equal status situations. In addition, it aims to see whether variables like gender and social status affect the linguistic choices and disagreement strategies that they use. The subjects of the study are 28 (14 male and 14 female) American speakers of Arabic who were learning Arabic and were residing in Jordan at the time of data collection. The researchers analyze their interactional recorded responses to a set of stimuli included in an oral (recorded) discourse completion task (ODCT) prepared for this purpose. The ODCT comprises six scenarios in which the respondent is requested to disagree with two peers, two higher-status interlocutors, and two lower-status interlocutors. The findings of the study show that the American speakers of Arabic use two main disagreement strategies, non-confrontational and confrontational disagreements, which are in turn divided into sub-strategies. Further, they employ the non-confrontational strategies slightly more than the confrontational ones, as the percentage for the former is 51% while for the latter is 49%. Interestingly, the study suggests that the topic of discussion significantly influences the choice of strategy, sometimes resulting in women being more confrontational than men, which contrasts with common perceptions reported in the literature about gender-based communication styles.
Methyl and Benzyl (Ethyl 3,4-di-O-benzyl-2-O-benzoyl-1-thio-β-d-glucopyranosyl)uronate
Authors: Wootton Hannah S. , Miller Gavin J.
Published: July 2024

Methyl and benzyl (ethyl 3,4-di-O-benzyl-2-O-benzoyl-1-thio-β-D-glucopyranosyl)uronate were synthesised from a protected thioglycoside in three steps. A regioselective ring opening of the benzylidene acetal with BH3.THF generated C6-OH material, which was subsequently oxidised using biphasic TEMPO/BAIB conditions. The resultant uronic acid was esterified with either a methyl or benzyl moiety. The products were obtained on a multigram scale and fully characterised by 1H, 13C and 2D NMR, alongside MS and IR analysis.
Peach Gum Polysaccharide as an Additive for Thermoplastic Starch to Produce Water-Soluble Films
Authors: Miguel Guillem Juan Vicente , Juan-Polo Andrea , Pavon Cristina , López-Martínez Juan
Published: July 2024

Thermoplastic starch (TPS) has gained considerable attention during the last few years in developing starch-based biodegradable food packaging materials or edible coatings due to its high availability and low cost. TPS is manufactured from starch plasticized with food-grade plasticizers, making it suitable for food contact applications. In addition, TPS is bio-based and biodegradable, which, from an environmental perspective, closes the circle of the circular economy. However, the industrial application of TPS is somewhat limited due to its poor mechanical performance and low water resistance. However, the low water resistance could increase the water sensitivity of TPS, which could be advantageous for coating application or food encapsulation. The present work aims to tailor the water sensitivity of TPS by adding peach gum polysaccharide to obtain water-soluble films. With this aim, peach gum polysaccharide (PGP) was extracted from peach gum (PG) using the thermal hydrolysis method. Films of TPS-PG and TPS-PGP were prepared and characterized by their water sensitivity and mechanical, microstructural, and thermal properties. The results show that PGP allows the obtaining of films with water sensitivities higher than 70% but also improves TPS elongation at break, making the material more suitable for application as film.
Navigating the Multimodal Landscape: A Review on Integration of Text and Image Data in Machine Learning Architectures
Authors: Binte Rashid Maisha , Rahaman Md Shahidur , Rivas Pablo
Published: July 2024

Images and text have become essential parts of the multimodal machine learning (MMML) framework in today’s world because data are always available, and technological breakthroughs bring disparate forms together, and while text adds semantic richness and narrative to images, images capture visual subtleties and emotions. Together, these two media improve knowledge beyond what would be possible with just one revolutionary application. This paper investigates feature extraction and advancement from text and image data using pre-trained models in MMML. It offers a thorough analysis of fusion architectures, outlining text and image data integration and evaluating their overall advantages and effects. Furthermore, it draws attention to the shortcomings and difficulties that MMML currently faces and guides areas that need more research and development. We have gathered 341 research articles from five digital library databases to accomplish this. Following a thorough assessment procedure, we have 88 research papers that enable us to evaluate MMML in detail. Our findings demonstrate that pre-trained models, such as BERT for text and ResNet for images, are predominantly employed for feature extraction due to their robust performance in diverse applications. Fusion techniques, ranging from simple concatenation to advanced attention mechanisms, are extensively adopted to enhance the representation of multimodal data. Despite these advancements, MMML models face significant challenges, including handling noisy data, optimizing dataset size, and ensuring robustness against adversarial attacks. Our findings highlight the necessity for further research to address these challenges, particularly in developing methods to improve the robustness of MMML models.
A Real-Number SNP Circuit for the Adder and Subtractor with Astrocyte-like Dendrite Selection Behavior Based on Colored Spikes
Authors: Jimenez-Borgonio Tonatiuh , Sanchez-Garcia Juan Carlos , Olvera-Martinez Luis , Cedillo-Hernandez Manuel , Diaz-Rodriguez Carlos , Frias-Carmona Thania
Published: July 2024

In recent years, several proposals have emerged for executing arithmetic operations using different variants of Spiking Neural P (SNP) systems. However, some of these proposals rely on distinct circuits for each arithmetic operation, while others mandate preliminary configurations for result computation. Recent research suggests that the biological brain decides to activate or inhibit specific neurons based on the operations performed, without prior preparation. Building upon this understanding, the current work introduces a real-number arithmetic SNP circuit capable of dynamically adjusting its behavior without the need for prior configuration. This adaptability is achieved by selecting between addition or subtraction through the utilization of astrocyte-like control and colored spikes. To validate its performance, the circuit was implemented on an FPGA system. The results indicate that the growth in the quantity of 10th-order digits is comparable to recent proposals in terms of hardware usage, requiring fewer neurons than alternative approaches. Moreover, the computation of floating-point numbers enhances the resolution and precision in various arithmetic applications.
Development of a Predictive Nomogram for Sepsis in Patients with Urolithiasis-Related Obstructive Pyelonephritis
Authors: Tsai Yi-Chun , Huang Yu-Hsuan , Niu Kuang-Yu , Tsai Yu-Chen , Chen Chen-Bin , Yen Chieh-Ching
Published: July 2024

Background and Objectives: In patients with urolithiasis-related obstructive pyelonephritis (UROP), sepsis represents a critical and concerning complication that can substantially increase the mortality rate. This study aimed to identify the risk factors for sepsis in UROP patients and to develop a predictive nomogram model. Materials and Methods: We analyzed data from 148 patients who met the UROP criteria and were admitted to Chang Gung Memorial Hospital between 1 January 2016 and 31 December 2021. The primary outcome evaluated was the incidence of sepsis, as defined by the most recent Sepsis-3 guidelines. To identify potential risk factors for sepsis, we employed the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression technique. Subsequently, we utilized multivariable logistic regression to construct the predictive model. Results: There was a total of 102 non-sepsis cases and 46 sepsis cases. Risk factors for sepsis in multivariable analysis were a history of diabetes mellitus (DM) (OR = 4.24, p = 0.007), shock index (SI) (×10−1) (OR = 1.55, p < 0.001), C-reactive protein (CRP) (mg/dL) (OR = 1.08, p = 0.005), and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (×10) (OR = 1.58, p = 0.007). The nomogram exhibited an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.890 (95% CI 0.830–0.949). Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that patients with UROP who have DM, higher SI, higher NLR, and elevated CRP levels are significantly more likely to develop sepsis. These insights may aid in risk stratification, and it is imperative that clinicians promptly initiate treatment for those identified as high risk.
Spontaneous Resolution of Symptomatic Synovial Cysts of the Lumbar Spine: A Comprehensive Review with Two Illustrative Cases
Authors: Scrofani Raffaele , De Simone Matteo , Migliorini Filippo , Amoroso Ettore , Maffulli Nicola , Narciso Nicola , Iaconetta Giorgio
Published: July 2024

Although lumbar synovial cysts (LSCs) are frequently described in the literature, they are a relatively uncommon cause of low back and radicular leg pain. Furthermore, their spontaneous resolution is an even rarer event. The standard treatment of the lumbar synovial cyst is surgical excision. Spontaneous resolution in the literature is a sporadic event. In our experience, we have had two cases where the lumbar synovial cyst disappeared spontaneously. To date, only nine cases of spontaneous resolution of synovial cysts have been documented in the literature. In this discussion, we highlight a pathology that typically suggests surgical intervention, yet conservative treatment can be a viable alternative. We present two cases of large synovial cysts that were initially scheduled for surgery but ultimately resolved spontaneously without any treatment. While the spontaneous resolution of lumbar synovial cysts is extremely rare, conservative strategies are an option that should not be overlooked. Our cases contribute to the growing body of evidence on the spontaneous regression of symptomatic LSC, potentially enhancing the understanding of the disease’s natural progression in the future.
Endovascular Treatment of “Donut-Shaped” Aneurysm—A Case Series
Authors: Nestorovic Dragoslav , Nikolic Igor , Stankovic Ana , Bila Mladen , Cvetic Vladimir , Miletic Marko , Jovanovic Vladimir , Tasic Goran
Published: July 2024

Background and Objectives: Partially thrombosed aneurysms represent a subset primarily found within large and giant aneurysms. The presence of an intraluminal thrombus can cause an aneurysm to present in different shapes upon angiographic examination. We present a series of five cases of “donut-shaped” aneurysms observed over the past decade at the Clinic for Neurosurgery in the University Clinical Centre of Serbia. Materials and Methods: The management of “donut-shaped” aneurysms was accomplished through endovascular interventions, employing techniques such as the deployment of flow-diverting stents or a combination of stent placement and coil embolization. Results: Four out of five patients underwent endovascular treatment, yielding positive outcomes with complete thrombosis of the aneurysms during follow-up. The fifth patient was successfully diagnosed; however, due to their deteriorating condition, treatment was not feasible. Conclusions: Given the potential life-threatening complications associated with this entity, accurate diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial. In our cohort, endovascular interventions demonstrated efficacy in the majority of cases, underscoring the significance of this approach in treating “donut-shaped” aneurysms. Nevertheless, considering the rarity of this condition, further research is justified to refine diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for these complex intracranial vascular anomalies.
Exploring the Role of the Microbiome in Rheumatoid Arthritis—A Critical Review
Authors: Ermencheva Plamena , Kotov Georgi , Shumnalieva Russka , Velikova Tsvetelina , Monov Simeon
Published: July 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, autoimmune rheumatic disease characterized by synovial joint inflammation with subsequent destruction as well as systemic manifestation, leading to impaired mobility and impaired quality of life. The etiopathogenesis of RA is still unknown, with genetic, epigenetic and environmental factors (incl. tobacco smoking) contributing to disease susceptibility. The link between genetic factors like “shared epitope alleles” and the development of RA is well known. However, why only some carriers have a break in self-tolerance and develop autoimmunity still needs to be clarified. The presence of autoantibodies in patients’ serum months to years prior to the onset of clinical manifestations of RA has moved the focus to possible epigenetic factors, including environmental triggers that could contribute to the initiation and perpetuation of the inflammatory reaction in RA. Over the past several years, the role of microorganisms at mucosal sites (i.e., microbiome) has emerged as an essential mediator of inflammation in RA. An increasing number of studies have revealed the microbial role in the immunopathogenesis of autoimmune rheumatic diseases. Interaction between the host immune system and microbiota initiates loss of immunological tolerance and autoimmunity. The alteration in microbiome composition, the so-called dysbiosis, is associated with an increasing number of diseases. Immune dysfunction caused by dysbiosis triggers and sustains chronic inflammation. This review aims to provide a critical summary of the literature findings related to the hypothesis of a reciprocal relation between the microbiome and the immune system. Available data from studies reveal the pivotal role of the microbiome in RA pathogenesis.
Humoral and Innate Immunological Profile of Paediatric Recipients of Pfizer-BioNTech BNT162b2 mRNA Vaccine
Authors: Jeremiah Sundararaj Stanleyraj , Das Priya , Venkatesan Manu , Albinzayed Reem , Ahmed Aysha , Stevenson Nigel John , Corbally Martin , Alqahtani Manaf , Al-Wedaie Fatima , Farid Eman , Hejres Suha
Published: July 2024

The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was one of the essential tools in curtailing the COVID-19 pandemic. Unlike conventional vaccines, this newly approved mRNA vaccine is taken up by cells, which leads to the synthesis of the specific viral Spike antigen. The vaccine was initially introduced for adults, and the immunological profile of adult recipients is well-characterized. The vaccine was approved for paediatric use much later after its efficacy and safety had been confirmed in children. However, the complete picture of how the paediatric immune system in children reacts to the vaccine is not well documented. Therefore, in order to better understand the immune response in children, we analysed the humoral response, immune cell count, and interferon signalling in paediatric vaccine recipients ranging between 5 and 17 years of age. Our findings suggest that the paediatric recipients elicit a robust humoral response that is sustained for at least three months. We also found that the vaccine triggered a transient lymphocytopenia similar to that observed during viral infection. Interestingly, we also found that the vaccine may sensitise the interferon signalling pathway, priming the cells to mount a potent response when exposed to interferons during a subsequent infection. The study offers new insights into the workings of the paediatric immune system and innate immunity, thereby opening the doors for further research in this field.
Characterization of Clostridioides difficile Persister Cells and Their Role in Antibiotic Tolerance
Authors: Inostroza Osvaldo , Fuentes Juan A. , Yáñez Paulina , Espinoza Giovanni , Fica Omar , Queraltó Camila , Rodríguez José , Flores Isidora , González Ruth , Soto Jorge A. , Calderón Iván L. , Gil Fernando
Published: July 2024

Clostridioides difficile is a Gram-positive pathogen known for its toxin production and spore formation. It is primarily responsible for most cases of antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Bacterial persisters are a small subset of the population that exhibits transient tolerance to bactericidal substances, and they are of significant medical concern due to their association with the emergence of antibiotic resistance and difficult-to-treat chronic or recurrent infections. Vancomycin, the predominant antibiotic utilized in the management of C. difficile infection, is extensively applied in the realm of clinical practice. Previous studies have demonstrated a persister-like phenotype with treatments involving this antibiotic. However, the mechanism in C. difficile remains largely unknown, primarily due to the challenge of isolating this small population at any given time. To better characterize C. difficile persister cells, we present a study that enables the enrichment and characterization of persister cells from bacterial cultures in both the exponential and stationary phases. Moreover, we could differentiate between triggered (induced using antibiotics such as vancomycin) and spontaneous (stochastic) persister cells. Additionally, we observed the involvement of toxin-antitoxin systems and Clp proteases in persister cell formation.
Tropheryma whipplei Colonization in Adults and Children: A Prospective Study
Authors: Moro Lucia , Zavarise Giorgio , Castagna Giada , Pomari Elena , Perandin Francesca , Piubelli Chiara , Mazzi Cristina , Beltrame Anna
Published: July 2024

We conducted a prospective cohort study at the IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital in Negrar di Valpolicella from 2019 to 2021 to investigate the duration of T. whipplei colonization. In addition, the correlation between persistent colonization and the continent of origin, current treatment regimen, clinical manifestations, and parasite coinfection was evaluated. The cohort included subjects who were tested in a previous study (years 2014–2016) and found to be positive for T. whipplei DNA in fecal samples. Thirty-three subjects were enrolled in a prospective study between 2019 and 2021. Feces, saliva, urine, and blood were collected at baseline and after 12 months. Medical history, current treatment, and symptoms were recorded. Among them, 25% showed persistent intestinal or oral colonization, 50% had no colonization at both visits, and 25% had intermittent colonization. No association was found between persistent T. whipplei colonization and subjects’ continent of origin, current treatment regimen, initial clinical manifestations, and parasite coinfection. The longest duration of persistent T. whipplei intestinal colonization exceeded six years, with 11 subjects presenting persistent positivity for more than three years, including 1 minor. Our research was limited by the lack of a strain-specific identification of T. whipplei that made it impossible to distinguish between persistence of the same T. whipplei strain, reinfection from household exposure, or infection by a new strain. Larger prospective studies are needed to further explore the implications of this persistence and determine the key factors influencing the duration of colonization and its potential health impacts.
Evaluation of the Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities and Acute Toxicity of Caco Seed (Chrysobalanus icaco L.) in Murine Models
Authors: Arce-Ortiz Abel , Jiménez-Martínez Cristian , Gutiérrez-Rebolledo Gabriel Alfonso , Corzo-Ríos Luis Jorge , Olivo-Vidal Zendy Evelyn , Mora-Escobedo Rosalva , Cruz-Narváez Yair , Sánchez-Chino Xariss M.
Published: July 2024

Chysobalanus icaco L. (C. icaco) is a plant that is native to tropical America and Africa. It is also found in the southeast region of Mexico, where it is used as food and to treat certain diseases. This study aimed to carry out a phytochemical analysis of an aqueous extract of C. icaco seed (AECS), including its total phenol content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and condensed tannins (CT). It also aimed to examine the antioxidant and metal-ion-reducing potential of the AECS in vitro, as well as its toxicity and anti-inflammatory effect in mice. Antioxidant and metal-ion-reducing potential was examined by inhibiting DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP. The acute toxicity test involved a single administration of different doses of the AECS (0.5, 1, and 2 g/kg body weight). Finally, a single administration at doses of 150, 300, and 600 mg/kg of the AECS was used in the carrageenan-induced model of subplantar acute edema. The results showed that the AECS contained 124.14 ± 0.32 mg GAE, 1.65 ± 0.02 mg EQ, and 0.910 ± 0.01 mg of catechin equivalents/g dried extract (mg EC/g de extract) for TPC, TFC and CT, respectively. In the antioxidant potential assays, the values of the median inhibition concentration (IC50) of the AECS were determined with DPPH (0.050 mg/mL), ABTS (0.074 mg/mL), and FRAP (0.49 mg/mL). Acute toxicity testing of the AECS revealed no lethality, with a median lethal dose (LD50) value of >2 g/kg by the intragastric route. Finally, for inhibition of acute edema, the AECS decreased inflammation by 55%, similar to indomethacin (59%, p > 0.05). These results demonstrated that C. icaco seed could be considered a source of bioactive molecules for therapeutic purposes due to its antioxidant potential and anti-inflammatory activity derived from TPC, with no lethal effect from a single intragastric administration in mice.
Strain-Induced Robust Exchange Bias Effect in Epitaxial La0.7Sr0.3MnO3/LaFeO3 Bilayers
Authors: Zhang Jun , Su Tiancong , Ma Jianchun
Published: July 2024

The ground state of correlated electrons in complex oxide films can be controlled by applying epitaxial strain, offering the potential to produce unexpected phenomena applicable to modern spintronic devices. In this study, we demonstrate that substrate-induced strain strongly affects the coupling mode of interfacial magnetic moments in a ferromagnetic (FM)/antiferromagnetic (AFM) system. In an epitaxial bilayer comprising AFM LaFeO3 (LFO) and FM La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 (LSMO), samples grown on a LaAlO3 (LAO) substrate exhibit a larger exchange bias field than those grown on a SrTiO3 substrate. Our results indicate a transition in the alignment of magnetic moments from perpendicular to collinear due to the large compressive strain exerted by the LAO substrate. Collinear magnetic moments at the LSMO/LFO interface generate strong exchange coupling, leading to a considerable exchange bias effect. Thus, our findings provide a method for tailoring and manipulating the orientations of magnetic moments at the FM/AFM heterogeneous interface using strain engineering, thereby augmenting methods for exchange bias generation.
Is the Biopesticide from Tea Tree Oil an Effective and Low-Risk Alternative to Chemical Pesticides? A Critical Review
Authors: Dziągwa-Becker Magdalena , Oleszek Marta
Published: July 2024

The use of chemical pesticides in agriculture contributes to soil, water and air pollution, biodiversity loss, and injury to non-target species. The European Commission has already established a Harmonized Risk Indicator to quantify the progress in reducing the risks linked to pesticides. Therefore, there is an increasing need to promote biopesticides, or so-called low-risk pesticides (LRP). Tea tree oil (TTO) is known for its antiseptic, antimicrobial, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. TTO has been extensively studied in pest management as well as in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry; there are already products based on its active substances on the market. This review focuses on the overall evaluation of TTO in terms of effectiveness and safety as a biopesticide for the first time. The collected data can be an added value for further evaluation of TTO in terms of the authorization extension as a fungicide in 2026.
Study of the Effects on the Strengthening Mechanism and Wear Behavior of Wear-Resistant Steel of Temperature Controlling in Heat Treatment
Authors: Zhu Xiaoyu , Lin Jianghai , Jiang Shaoning , Cao Aijun , Yao Yuan , Sun Yu , Li Sensen , Zhang Zhanfeng
Published: July 2024

To improve the wear resistance of the materials used for blades in engineering machinery, this study focused on the microstructural characteristics, mechanical properties, and wear behavior of HB500 grade wear-resistant steel developed using an optimized heat treatment system. To improve the temperature uniformity of the heat treatment furnace, the method of cyclic heating was used to heat the components. Carefully designing the quenching equipment, such as using a cross-shaped press, was employed to enhance the quenching effect and reduce the deformation of the steel plates. The crystal orientation analysis revealed a uniform and fine-grained microstructure, primarily characterized by plate-type tempered martensite, which indicated a good hardenability. The microstructure observations showed that the width of martensite is approximately 200 nm, with a significant presence of dislocations and carbides. Tensile tests and multi-temperature gradient impact tests indicated superior mechanical properties compared to similar grade wear-resistant steels, including a Rockwell hardness of 53, tensile strength of 1610 MPa, yield strength of 1404 MPa, and total elongation around 12.7%. The results of friction and wear experiments indicate that the wear rate decreases as the load increases from 100 N to 300 N, demonstrating an excellent wear resistance under a large load. Observations of the worn surfaces indicated that the wear mainly involved adhesive wear, fatigue wear, and oxidative wear. The properties’ improvements were attributed to microstructure refinement and precipitation strengthening. This study indicates that designing a heat treatment system to control temperature uniformity and stability is feasible.
Evaluating the Effects of Reduced N Application, a Nitrification Inhibitor, and Straw Incorporation on Fertilizer-N Fates in the Maize Growing Season: A Field 15N Tracer Study
Authors: Quan Zhi , Li Shanlong , Xun Zhifeng , Liu Chang , Liu Dong , Wang Yanzhi , Zhao Xinghan , Yang Ming , Lu Caiyan , Chen Xin , Fang Yunting
Published: July 2024

Reducing fertilizer-N rate, applying a nitrification inhibitor (NI), and incorporating straw are widely recommended to improve N use efficiency of crops and decrease N losses. A field 15N tracer study was conducted to compare their effectiveness on fertilizer-N fates during the maize growing season in Northeast China. The following six treatments were used: (1) no N fertilization (control); (2) 200 kg urea-N ha−1 (100%N); (3) 200 kg urea-N ha−1 and straw (100%N + S); (4) 160 kg urea-N ha−1 (80%N); (5) 160 kg urea-N ha−1 and NI (Nitrapyrin in this study) (80%N + NI); and (6) 160 kg urea-N ha−1, NI, and straw (80%N + NI + S). The results showed that the five N fertilization treatments yielded 16–25% more grain and 39–60% more crop N uptake than the control, but the differences among the five treatments were not statistically significant. Compared with the 100%N, 20% fertilizer-N reduction (80%N) decreased the 15N concentration in topsoil and plant pools but increased the proportion of plant 15N recovery at harvesting (NUE15N, 60% vs. 50%). Compared with the 80%N, NI co-application (80%N + NI) delayed soil nitrification and increased soil 15N retention at harvesting (52% vs. 36%), thereby decreasing NUE15N significantly. Straw incorporation decreased fertilizer-N retention in soil compared with NI co-application because it promoted NUE15N significantly. In conclusion, the results demonstrate that NI and straw additions are efficient strategies for stabilizing fertilizer-N in soils and potentially minimizing N loss; however, their effects on NUE15N vary and the related mechanism must be further clarified in long-term trials.
Effects of Ursolic Acid on Colorectal Cancer: A Review of Recent Evidence
Authors: Kornel Amanda , Tsiani Evangelia
Published: July 2024

Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths, and the five-year survival rate of the metastatic disease is less than 15%. Treatment approaches include surgery, systemic chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The aggressive nature and low five-year survival rate of metastatic colorectal cancer indicate a need for new treatment options to help combat this disease. Ursolic acid is a pentacyclic triterpenoid naturally occurring in many plants, with high concentrations found in cranberries. This review summarizes evidence from the last ten years of the effects of ursolic acid on colorectal cancer. Overall, the available studies indicate that the treatment of colon cancer cells with ursolic acid results in a significant inhibition of proliferation and induction of apoptosis. In addition, the limited in vivo studies indicate a significant reduction in tumor volume and tumor angiogenesis in animal models of colorectal cancer administered ursolic acid. More in vivo animal studies are required to better understand the potential anticancer properties of ursolic acid and to form the basis for human clinical trials.
Cnida Morphology as Taxonomic Tools within Tube-Dwelling Anemones (Ceriantharia, Cnidaria)
Authors: Forero-Mejia Anny C. , Duchatelet Laurent , Östman Carina
Published: July 2024

Cnidome morphology appears to be a valuable tool for anthozoan (Octocarallia, Ceriantharia, and Hexacorallia) taxonomy. Ceriantharian cnidomes consist of b-mastigophores, isorhizas, spirocysts, and ptychocysts, including different subtypes. The b-mastigophores are the most valuable ceriantharian cnidae for species identification. The Ceriantharian b-mastigophore terminology is congruent to the b-mastigophores of Carlgren, b-rhabdoids, including the “faltstück” of Schmidt, spirulae, and also potentially the penicilli of den Hartog. The apical tightly folded, inverted b-mastigophore shafts, the “faltstück”, are important species-specific characteristics due to their various patterns. The mesenterial structures known as craspedonemes, cnidorages, and acontioids also have high taxonomic value. Drop-shaped b-mastigophores might be characteristic nematocysts for mesenteries. The occurrence of isorhizas and striations on the inner ptychocyst capsule walls are other species’ characteristics. The morphological similarities of spirulae and penicilli to b-mastigophores within Hexacorallia are highlighted by naming spirulae and penicilli as b-mastigophores/spirulae and b-mastigophores/penicilli subtypes, respectively. The slight morphological distinction between spirulae and penicilli will doubtfully justify the suborders Spirularia and Penicillaria. The spirocysts presence in Ceriantharia and Hexacorallia indicates a closer relationship between Ceriantharia and Hexacorallia than between Ceriantharia and Octocorallia. Octocorallia are the only anthozoans without spirocysts. This work underlines the importance of cnidome morphological analysis for taxonomic identification and classification.