bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Limited-Scope Probabilistic Risk Assessment Study to Risk-Inform the Design of a Fuel Storage System for Spent Pebble-Filled Dry Casks
Authors: Lee Joomyung , Tayfur Havva , Hamza Mostafa M. , Alzahrani Yahya A. , Diaconeasa Mihai A.
Published: June 2023

This limited-scope study demonstrates the application of probabilistic risk assessment (PRA) methodologies to a spent fuel storage system for spent pebble-filled dry cask with a focus only on the necessary PRA technical elements sufficient to risk-inform the spent fuel storage system design. A dropping canister scenario in a silo of the spent fuel storage system is analyzed through an initiating event (IE) identification from the Master Logic Diagram (MLD); event sequence analysis (ES) by establishing the event tree; data analysis (DA) for event sequence quantification (ESQ) with uncertainty quantification; mechanistic source term (MST) analysis by using ORIGEN; radiological consequence analysis (RC) by deploying MicroShield, and risk integration (RI) by showing the Frequency-Consequence (F-C) target curve in the emergency area boundary (EAB). Additionally, a sensitivity study is conducted using the ordinary least square (OLS) regression method to assess the impact of variables such as failed pebble numbers, their location in the canister, and building wall thickness. Furthermore, the release categories grouped from the end states in the event tree are verified as safety cases through the F-C curve. This study highlights the implementation of PRA elements in a logical and structured manner, using appropriate methodologies and computational tools, thereby showing how to risk-inform the design of a dry cask system for storing spent pebble-filled fuel.
Valorization of Uruguayan Pinus elliottii Bark by Developing Sustainable Adhesives
Authors: Serrentino Paola , Santos Jorge , Fuentealba Cecilia , Hernandez-Mena Laidy , Mary Alvaro , Ibañez Claudia Marcela
Published: June 2023

Pinus elliottii Engelm bark is a byproduct of Uruguay’s milling industry. As a circular economy strategy, it is burned in broilers for energy production. Aiming to increase the added value of the bark, this work analyzes the extraction of its tannins to use them in the development of formaldehyde-free adhesives, while evaluating whether it retains its calorific power for further energy production. The best extraction conditions (methanol at 65 °C for 2 h) were identified at a laboratory level after which they were scaled up to 50 L, which did not affect extraction yield. The Stiasny number remained above 65%, meaning the extractive was suitable for its use in adhesive formulations. The characterization of the extractives was completed with molecular weight distribution, FTIR-ATR, ABES and DSC. Finally, two formaldehyde-free adhesive formulations were developed using hexamine and glyoxal as hardeners. Their behaviors were compared through rheological analysis, DSC and ABES. It was determined that the adhesive formulations with hexamine at pHs of 8 and 10 are suitable for their use in the timber industry. It was noted that they react the best at a pressing temperature of 160 °C. After the extraction, the calorific power of the P. elliottii Engelm bark decreased by only 13%, thus remaining useful for energy production.
Flammability and Acetic Acid Emissions from Acetylated Wood under Well-Ventilated Burning Conditions
Authors: Hasburgh Laura E. , Zelinka Samuel L.
Published: June 2023

Acetylation is a type of commercial wood modification used to enhance the durability of wood. Despite its adoption, especially in outdoor environments, there are mixed data on how acetylation affects the combustion of wood. This paper evaluates the differences in acetylated and untreated wood using a cone calorimeter in combination with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) to look for acetic acid vapors in the combustion gases. Two thicknesses of acetylated pine boards were tested and compared against an untreated board from the same genus. No differences were observed between the peak heat release between the acetylated and untreated boards. Likewise, there were no trends in the time to ignition between the acetylated wood and the control group. Differences were observed however in the chemical composition of the combustion products. An increase in acetic acid in the products of combustion was observed for the acetylated samples that corresponded with the peak heat release of the sample.
Effect of Photoinitiator Concentration and Film Thickness on the Properties of UV-Curable Self-Matting Coating for Wood-Based Panels
Authors: Zhang Haiqiao , Feng Xinhao , Wu Yan , Wu Zhihui
Published: June 2023

Matte coatings have found wide-ranging applications across diverse industries. In this study, self-matting films with surface wrinkles were produced by exposing UV-curable polyurethane acrylate (UV-WPUA) resin to 172 nm Xe2* excimer and medium-pressure mercury lamps. The gloss values, micromorphologies, water contact angles (WCAs), roughness values, and friction behaviors of UV-WPUA films with different photoinitiator (PI) concentrations and thickness were investigated for the first time. The results indicate that the gloss values of the films at the same thickness enhance with the increase of PI concentration, while the amplitude of wrinkles, roughness, and WCAs decrease; however, the friction coefficient shows insignificant variations. While the PI concentration is unchanged, an increase in film thickness results in a decrease in gloss value and an increase in roughness and friction coefficient. Nevertheless, the WCA is relatively constant. The PI concentration of 0.5 wt% (lowest gloss value of cured film) was utilized to prepare the UV-WPUA wood coating. The cured coating film exhibited low gloss (4.9 GU at 60° and 5.2 GU at 85°) and outstanding mechanical properties, including 3H pencil hardness, grade 0 adhesion, excellent wear resistance, and tensile property. These findings can be utilized to guide the development of self-matting wood coatings and the production of wood-based panels used in industrial finishing.
The Effect of Guanidinoacetic Acid Addition on In Vitro Rumen Fermentation Characteristics and Gas Production of Early- and Late-Stage Sheep-Fattening Diets
Authors: Li Wen-Juan , Zhang Fan , Pei Shi-Teng , He Shan-Shan , Xiong Feng-Liang , Lv Liang-Kang , Yang Hong-Jian
Published: June 2023

This study explores whether guanidinoacetic acid (GAA) addition can regulate nutrient degradability, rumen fermentation characteristics, and gas composition in two sheep-fattening diets. A 2 × 8 factorial in vitro culture was examined to determine the effects of GAA addition at the following levels of 0%, 0.03%, 0.05%, 0.07%, 0.09%, 0.11%, 0.13%, and 0.15% of two total mixed rations (T1 diet: early fattening stage diet; T2 diet: late fattening stage diet). After 72 h in vitro incubation of two diets with mixed rumen liquid obtained from six rumen-cannulated lambs, the T2 diet exhibited higher dry matter (DM) digestibility, higher cumulative gas production at 72 h (GP72), higher asymptotic gas production(A), and longer the time at which half of A is reached (C). However, it exhibited a lower acetic acid and a lower ratio of acetate to propionate than the diet of T1. A quadratic increase occurred in neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) digestibility, with a maximum point occurring at the 0.09% GAA group. The gas production kinetic result indicated that increasing the level of GAA addition resulted mainly in an increase of GP72 and A, with the maximum point occurring at 0.09% for the T1 diet and 0.07–0.09% for the T2 diet. Moreover, the levels of GAA addition did not affect pH, the proportion of any of the volatile acid, or gas composition, but when the levels of GAA addition were increased, the microbial crude protein (MCP), ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), and total volatile fatty acid (TVFA) content exhibited a quadratic relationship. The highest MCP contents were seen in the 0.07%, 0.09%, and 0.11% groups, while NH3-N and TVFA were in the 0.07% group. In summary, the appropriate level of GAA addition in early and late fattening stage diets ranged from 0.07% to 0.11%.
Fire-Safe Biobased Composites: Enhancing the Applicability of Biocomposites with Improved Fire Performance
Authors: Zhang Dan
Published: June 2023

Research has recently transitioned from the study of fossil-based materials to bio-sourced ones, following the quest to achieve sustainability. However, fire presents a unique hazard to bio-composite materials, which limits their applicability in various sectors. This necessitates an in-depth assessment of the fire behaviour of biobased composites used for specific applications. Improving the fire properties of bio-composites with flame retardants tends to reduce mechanical strength. Therefore, this review focused on biobased composite materials for packaging, structural, automotive, and aeronautical applications that are both mechanically strong and fire safe. It was noticed that the interfacial bonding between the matrix and the reinforcement should be optimized. In addition, optimum amounts of flame retardants are required for better fire performance. This article covers flame retardants for biobased composites, the optimum amount required, and the extent of improvement to the thermal stability and flammability of the materials. This research will help material scientists and the like in their selection of biomass feedstock, flame retardants, and general materials for different types of applications.
Thermochemical Characterization of Rice-Derived Residues for Fuel Use and Its Potential for Slagging Tendency
Authors: Tsai Chi-Hung , Shen Yun-Hwei , Tsai Wen-Tien
Published: June 2023

Rice is the most important cereal in Asia. However, it also results in the generation of large quantities of rice-derived residues (i.e., rice straw and rice husk). Due to the residues richness in lignocellulosic components, they potentially have considerable value in material and/or energy production without illegal burning in open fields. This work focused on investigating the thermochemical properties and inorganic/metal element contents of rice straw and rice husk. The former included proximate analysis, calorific value, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The latter covered the ten elements most relevant to their slagging/fouling indices. The results showed that they are suitable for energy use as biomass fuels, but rice husk was superior to rice straw because of the high silica content in the rice husk and the significant contents of potassium, sulfur and phosphorus in the rice straw. Using several slagging and fouling indices, the evaluation results were also consistent with their contents of inorganic elements or oxides. To increase the fuel properties of rice-derived residues, they could be pretreated with alkaline leaching, thus causing lower emissions of particulates and reduced slagging tendency when co-firing them with coal in industrial boilers.
The Perturbation of Ozone and Nitrogen Oxides Impacted by Blue Jet Considering the Molecular Diffusion
Authors: Xu Chen , Zhang Wei
Published: June 2023

This study investigated the diffusion impact on the chemical perturbation of NOx and O3 caused by the streamer and leader parts of a blue jet in the low stratosphere (18–30 km), using the coupling of a detailed stratospheric chemistry model and a typical diffusion model. The study found that diffusion significantly impacted the evolution of chemical perturbations at both short-term and long-term time scales after the blue jet discharge, with changes in NOx and O3 concentrations observed at different altitudes (18–28 km). At 18 km, the concentrations of NOx and N2O that account for diffusion start to decrease after 1 s, whereas those without diffusion remain at their peak concentrations. Meanwhile, O3 is slowly destroyed with less NOx, rather than dropping to an unrealistic low value immediately after the discharge without diffusion. The perturbation caused by the blue jet discharge disappears within a few tens of seconds at 18 km when molecular diffusion is considered. At 30 km, the chemical perturbation from four point sources was observed through changes in NO2 concentrations. However, the total concentration of NO2 perturbed by the streamer part discharge at the given surface was negligible when considering diffusion. Overall, this study provided a useful model tool for a more accurate assessment of the chemical effects of individual blue jets.
Metabolome, Plant Hormone, and Transcriptome Analyses Reveal the Mechanism of Spatial Accumulation Pattern of Anthocyanins in Peach Flesh
Authors: Sun Ping , Yang Chengkun , Zhu Wencan , Wu Jiaqi , Lin Xianrui , Wang Yi , Zhu Jianxi , Chen Chenfei , Zhou Kaibing , Qian Minjie , Shen Jiansheng
Published: June 2023

Anthocyanins are important secondary metabolites in fruits, and anthocyanin accumulation in the flesh of peach exhibits a spatial pattern, but the relevant mechanism is still unknown. In this study, the yellow-fleshed peach, cv. ‘Jinxiu’, with anthocyanin accumulation in the mesocarp around the stone was used as the experimental material. Red flesh (RF) and yellow flesh (YF) were sampled separately for flavonoid metabolite (mainly anthocyanins), plant hormone, and transcriptome analyses. The results showed that the red coloration in the mesocarp was due to the accumulation of cyanidin-3-O-glucoside, with an up-regulation of anthocyanin biosynthetic genes (F3H, F3′H, DFR, and ANS), transportation gene GST, and regulatory genes (MYB10.1 and bHLH3). Eleven ERFs, nine WRKYs, and eight NACs were also defined as the candidate regulators of anthocyanin biosynthesis in peach via RNA-seq. Auxin, cytokinin, abscisic acid (ABA), salicylic acid (SA), and 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC, ethylene precursor) were enriched in the peach flesh, with auxin, cytokinin, ACC, and SA being highly accumulated in the RF, but ABA was mainly distributed in the YF. The activators and repressors in the auxin and cytokinin signaling transduction pathways were mostly up-regulated and down-regulated, respectively. Our results provide new insights into the regulation of spatial accumulation pattern of anthocyanins in peach flesh.
Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Edible Films and Coatings in the Shelf-Life Improvement of Chicken Meat
Authors: Moura-Alves Márcio , Esteves Alexandra , Ciríaco Maria , Silva José A. , Saraiva Cristina
Published: June 2023

Meat deterioration during processing, distribution, and display can compromise the quality and safety of products, causing several undesirable changes and decreasing products’ shelf-life, which has a negative impact on the industry and consumers. In recent years, studies have been carried out using decontamination techniques and new packaging methodologies to overcome deterioration problems, increase sustainability, and reduce waste. Edible films and coatings obtained from biopolymers such as polysaccharides, proteins, and lipids, combined with active compounds, can be an alternative approach. This article focused on recent studies that used alternative biodegradable polymeric matrices in conjunction with natural compounds with antioxidant/antimicrobial activity on chicken meat. Its impact on physicochemical, microbiological, and sensory characteristics was evident, as well as the effect on its shelf-life. In general, different combinations of active edible films or coatings had a positive effect on the chicken meat. Different studies reported that the main results were a decrease in microbial growth and pathogen survival, a slowdown in lipid oxidation evolution, and an improvement in sensory quality and shelf-life (an increase from 4 to 12 days).
Rapid Identification of Corn Sugar Syrup Adulteration in Wolfberry Honey Based on Fluorescence Spectroscopy Coupled with Chemometrics
Authors: Hao Shengyu , Yuan Jie , Wu Qian , Liu Xinying , Cui Jichun , Xuan Hongzhuan
Published: June 2023

Honey adulteration has become a prominent issue in the honey market. Herein, we used the fluorescence spectroscopy combined with chemometrics to explore a simple, fast, and non-destructive method to detect wolfberry honey adulteration. The main parameters such as the maximum fluorescence intensity, peak positions, and fluorescence lifetime were analyzed and depicted with a principal component analysis (PCA). We demonstrated that the peak position of the wolfberry honey was relatively fixed at 342 nm compared with those of the multifloral honey. The fluorescence intensity decreased and the peak position redshifted with an increase in the syrup concentration (10–100%). The three-dimensional (3D) spectra and fluorescence lifetime fitting plots could obviously distinguish the honey from syrups. It was difficult to distinguish the wolfberry honey from another monofloral honey, acacia honey, using fluorescence spectra, but it could easily be distinguished when the fluorescence data were combined with a PCA. In all, fluorescence spectroscopy coupled with a PCA could easily distinguish wolfberry honey adulteration with syrups or other monofloral honeys. The method was simple, fast, and non-destructive, with a significant potential for the detection of honey adulteration.
Dendrobium officinale Polysaccharide Prevents Diabetes via the Regulation of Gut Microbiota in Prediabetic Mice
Authors: Liu Haodong , Xing Yan , Wang Yinbo , Ren Xinxiu , Zhang Danyang , Dai Jianying , Xiu Zhilong , Yu Shiqiang , Dong Yuesheng
Published: June 2023

Dendrobium officinale polysaccharide (DOP), which serves as a prebiotic, exhibits a variety of biological activities, including hypoglycemic activities. However, the effects of DOP on diabetes prevention and its hypoglycemic mechanisms are still unclear. In this study, the effects of DOP treatment on the prediabetic mice model were studied and the mechanism was investigated. The results showed that 200 mg/kg/d of DOP reduced the relative risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) from prediabetes by 63.7%. Meanwhile, DOP decreased the level of LPS and inhibited the expression of TLR4 by regulating the composition of the gut microbiota, consequently relieving the inflammation and alleviating insulin resistance. In addition, DOP increased the abundance of SCFA (short chain fatty acid)-producing bacteria in the intestine, increased the levels of intestinal SCFAs, promoted the expression of short-chain fatty acid receptors FFAR2/FFAR3, and increased the secretion of the intestinal hormones GLP-1 and PYY, which helped to repair islet damage, suppress appetite, and improve insulin resistance. Our results suggested that DOP is a promising functional food supplement for the prevention of T2DM.
Pharmacology and Toxicology of Amphetamine-Type Stimulants
Authors: Capela João Paulo , Costa Vera Marisa
Published: June 2023

Amphetamine-type stimulants are drugs chemically related to the natural compounds ephedrine and cathinone [...]
Barriers and Facilitators of People with and without Disabilities before and after Autonomous Shuttle Exposure
Authors: Classen Sherrilene , Sisiopiku Virginia , Mason Justin R. , Stetten Nichole E. , Hwangbo Seung Woo , Kwan Joseph , Yang Wencui
Published: June 2023

The deployment of autonomous shuttles (ASs) holds health and safety benefits for people with and without disabilities. Transportation is critical in helping people with disabilities (PWDs) access health care, services, and jobs, but the current transportation system has not afforded them ubiquitous access. To understand the acceptance of ASs, we (1) quantified PWDs’ (N = 42) perceptions before and after riding in an AS (Level 4) and (2) developed a model of facilitators and barriers from 143 participants. For Objective 1, after riding in the AS, PWDs (n = 42) expressed increased Intention to Use (p < 0.001) and Acceptance (p < 0.001), and decreased Perceived Barriers (p < 0.001), compared with baseline. For Objective 2, four multiple linear regression models were conducted to predict the outcomes for Intention to Use, Perceived Barriers, Well-being, and Acceptance among all participants (N = 143). The results indicated that optimism and ease of use negatively predicted Perceived Barriers and positively predicted Intention to Use, Well-being, and Acceptance. Driving status (i.e., active driver) negatively predicted Intention to Use, Well-being, and Acceptance. Predictors of user Acceptance included optimism, perceived ease of use, driver status, and race/ethnicity—with 30.7% of the variance in Acceptance explained. We also recommended deployment strategies to project stakeholders.
Concentration Dependence of TiO2 Nanoparticles in Carbon Xerogels on Adsorption–Photodegradation Applications
Authors: Safri Anam , Fletcher Ashleigh Jane
Published: June 2023

A suite of composite materials comprising carbon xerogel content and TiO2 was synthesised via a modified sol–gel method. The textural, morphological, and optical properties of the composites were extensively characterised and correlated with the observed adsorption and photodegradation performances. The homogeneity and porous structure of the composites depended on the amount of TiO2 deposited in the carbon xerogel. During polymerisation, Ti-O-C linkages were formed, which favoured the adsorption and photocatalytic degradation of the target methylene blue dye. Adsorption was deemed favourable, and most accurately fitted by the Sips model, exhibiting a maximum uptake of 209 mg g−1 estimated for the sample containing 50% TiO2. However, the synergistic effect of adsorption and photocatalytic degradation for each composite depended on the amount of TiO2 deposited in the carbon xerogel. The dye degradation process for the composites with 50%, 70%, and 90% TiO2 improved by 37%, 11%, and 2%, respectively, after exposure to visible light after adsorption. Repeated runs demonstrated over 80% of activity was retained after four cycles. Thus, this paper provides insight into the optimal amount of TiO2 required within such composites for maximum removal efficiency via adsorption and visible light photocatalysis.
Construction of Pt@BiFeO3 Xerogel-Supported O-g-C3N4 Heterojunction System for Enhanced Visible-Light Activity towards Photocatalytic Degradation of Rhodamine B
Authors: Katsina Abubakar Usman , Mihai Sonia , Matei Dănuţa , Cursaru Diana-Luciana , Şomoghi Raluca , Nistor Cristina Lavinia
Published: June 2023

Synthetic organic pigments from the direct discharge of textile effluents are considered as colossal global concern and attract the attention of scholars. The efficient construction of heterojunction systems involving precious metal co-catalysis is an effective strategy for obtaining highly efficient photocatalytic materials. Herein, we report the construction of a Pt-doped BiFeO3/O-g-C3N4 (Pt@BFO/O-CN) S-scheme heterojunction system for photocatalytic degradation of aqueous rhodamine B (RhB) under visible-light irradiation. The photocatalytic performances of Pt@BFO/O-CN and BFO/O-CN composites and pristine BiFeO3 and O-g-C3N4 were compared, and the photocatalytic process of the Pt@BFO/O-CN system was optimized. The results exhibit that the S-scheme Pt@BFO/O-CN heterojunction has superior photocatalytic performance compared to its fellow catalysts, which is due to the asymmetric nature of the as-constructed heterojunction. The as-constructed Pt@BFO/O-CN heterojunction reveals high performance in photocatalytic degradation of RhB with a degradation efficiency of 100% achieved after 50 min of visible-light irradiation. The photodegradation fitted well with pseudo-first-order kinetics proceeding with a rate constant of 4.63 × 10−2 min−1. The radical trapping test reveals that h+ and •O2− take the leading role in the reaction, while the stability test reveals a 98% efficiency after the fourth cycle. As established from various interpretations, the considerably enhanced photocatalytic performance of the heterojunction system can be attributed to the promoted charge carrier separation and transfer of photoexcited carriers, as well as the strong photo-redox ability established. Hence, the S-scheme Pt@BFO/O-CN heterojunction is a good candidate in the treatment of industrial wastewater for the mineralization of organic micropollutants, which pose a grievous threat to the environment.
Special Issue “Omics Research of Pathogenic Microorganisms”
Authors: Baarlen Peter van
Published: June 2023

Infectious diseases of plants, animals and humans pose a serious threat to global health and seriously impact ecosystem stability and agriculture, including food security [...]
Modifiers of Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease Severity: The Role of PKD1 Hypomorphic Alleles
Authors: Ambrosini Enrico , Montanari Francesca , Cristalli Carlotta Pia , Capelli Irene , La Scola Claudio , Pasini Andrea , Graziano Claudio
Published: June 2023

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the most common genetic cause of kidney failure in adult life. Rarely, ADPKD can be diagnosed in utero or in infancy, and the genetic mechanism underlying such severe presentation has been shown to be related to reduced gene dosage. Biallelic PKD1 variants are often identified in early onset ADPKD, with one main pathogenic variant and a modifier hypomorphic variant showing an in trans configuration. We describe two unrelated individuals with early onset cystic kidney disease and unaffected parents, where a combination of next-generation sequencing of cystic genes including PKHD1, HNF1B and PKD1 allowed the identification of biallelic PKD1 variants. Furthermore, we review the medical literature in order to report likely PKD1 hypomorphic variants reported to date and estimate a minimal allele frequency of 1/130 for this category of variants taken as a group. This figure could help to orient genetic counseling, although the interpretation and the real clinical impact of rare PKD1 missense variants, especially if previously unreported, remain challenging.
Self-Injurious Behavior and Its Characteristics in a Sample of Mexican Adolescent Students
Authors: Gómez-Peresmitré Gilda , Platas-Acevedo Romana Silvia , León-Hernández Rodrigo , Guzmán-Saldaña Rebeca
Published: June 2023

Adolescence is a difficult stage, a period of risk for developing disorders, including depression and self-injurious behavior. A non-random sample was drawn (n = 563) from first-year high school students (32.8%) 185 males and 378 females (67.14%) from public schools in Mexico. The age range was 15 and 19 years, with a mean age of 15.63 (SD = 0.78). According to the results, the sample was divided into n1 = 414 (73.3%) adolescents without self-injury (S.I.) and n2 = 149 (26.4%) S.I. adolescents. In addition, results were obtained on methods, motives, time, and frequency of S.I., and a model was generated in which depression and first sexual experience obtained the highest Odd Ratio and d values in their relationship with S.I. Finally, we contrasted the results with earlier reports and concluded that depression is an important variable in S.I. behavior. Early S.I. detection will prevent the aggravation of S.I. and suicide attempts.
In Vitro Conservation and Regeneration of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.): Role of Paclobutrazol and Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Baltazar Bernal Obdulia , Spinoso-Castillo José Luis , Mancilla-Álvarez Eucario , Muñoz-Márquez Trujillo Rafael Arturo , Bello-Bello Jericó Jabín
Published: June 2023

In vitro conservation and regeneration of potato germplasm is important in breeding programs. The objective of this study was to assess the combined effect of paclobutrazol (PAC) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) during reduced-growth conservation and their in vitro ability to regenerate S. tuberosum after conservation treatments. For the conservation system, apices were used as explants in Murashige and Skoog culture media with different combinations of PAC (0, 0.5, 1 and 2 mg L−1) and AgNPs (0, 50, 100 and 200 mg L−1). At six months of culture, plant length, number of lateral branches, number of leaves and roots, root length, stomatal density and total chlorophyll content were assessed. For regeneration, explants were internodes cultured in medium with only 2 mg L−1 benzyladenine (BA). At 60 d of culture, the response percentage, number of shoots per explant and shoot length were assessed. For in vitro conservation, the combination of 2 mg L−1 PAC and 50 mg L−1 AgNPs was the best treatment, whereas for in vitro regeneration, the highest number of shoots was in explants that were treated with 1 or 2 mg L−1 PAC with 50 mg L−1 AgNPs. In conclusion, PAC and AgNPs are alternatives for in vitro S. tuberosum conservation, and their evaluation in other species recalcitrant to the effect of ethylene is recommended.
Factors Associated with Osteoarthritis and Their Influence on Health-Related Quality of Life in Older Adults with Osteoarthritis: A Study Based on the 2020 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Chang Weon-Young , Choi Sungwook , Yoo Seung Jin , Lee Jaeryun , Lim Chaemoon
Published: June 2023

Numerous studies have investigated factors associated with osteoarthritis (OA), but few have investigated their effects on psychological problems and health-related quality of life in older adults with OA. We aimed to investigate factors associated with OA and their influence on health-related quality of life in older adults with OA. Among 1394 participants aged ≥65 years, 952 and 442 were categorized into the OA and non-OA groups, respectively. Comprehensive data on demographic characteristics, medical conditions, health-related quality of life, blood test results, and nutritional intake were obtained. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate the odds ratio for factors associated with OA, including age (odds ratio (OR), 1.038; p = 0.020), female sex (OR, 5.692; p < 0.001), body mass index (OR, 1.108; p < 0.001), hypertension (OR, 1.451; p < 0.050), hyperlipidemia (OR, 1.725; p = 0.001), osteoporosis (OR, 2.451; p < 0.001), and depression (OR, 2.358; p = 0.041). The OA group showed a significantly lower subjective health status (p < 0.001) and higher difficulty in mobility (p < 0.001) and pain/discomfort (p = 0.010) than the non-OA group. The sleeping hours were significantly shorter in the OA group than those in the non-OA group (p = 0.013). OA was a significant contributing factor for unfavorable health-related quality of life in older adults. Controlling the factors associated with OA should be prioritized, and health-related quality of life should be monitored in older adults with OA.
Barriers, Facilitators, and Strategies for Developing a Culturally Informed Lifestyle Intervention for Native Hawaiian, CHamoru, and Filipino Breast Cancer Survivors: Mixed-Methods Findings from Focus Group Participants
Authors: Aflague Tanisha F. , Hammond Kristi , Delos Reyes Bernice , Rios Dareon , De Leon Elaine , Leon Guerrero Rachael T. , Esquivel Monica K.
Published: June 2023

Breast cancer disproportionately impacts Native Hawaiian, CHamoru, and Filipino women. Few culturally informed interventions addressing breast cancer survivors exist and none have been developed or tested specifically for Native Hawaiian, CHamoru, and Filipino women. This study aimed to conduct focus groups with Native Hawaiian, CHamoru, and Filipino women previously diagnosed with breast cancer to inform future research in Guam and Hawai’i. Convenience sampling and grounded theory approaches were used. Focus group sessions were conducted during summer 2023 and included questions to understand the barriers, motivators, and implementation recommendations for lifestyle interventions aimed at reducing the risk for breast cancer recurrence among the target population. Data saturation was reached after a total of seven focus groups (an average of four survivors/group per site) were conducted (three in Hawai’i and four in Guam), which represented 28 breast cancer survivors. Themes from the focus groups emerged around developing support systems with other survivors, providing physical activity and nutrition intervention activities and materials in multiple formats, and incorporating activities and foods that accommodate the side effects of breast cancer treatments and are culturally relevant. The average desired intervention length was eight weeks. These findings will inform the development and feasibility testing of a culturally informed lifestyle intervention for breast cancer survivors in Guam and Hawai’i.
Interventions for COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy: A Systematic Review and Narrative Synthesis
Authors: Terrell Rowan , Alami Abdallah , Krewski Daniel
Published: June 2023

Vaccines effectively protect against COVID-19, but vaccine hesitancy and refusal hinder vaccination rates. This systematic review aimed to (1) review and describe current interventions for addressing COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy/refusal and (2) assess whether these interventions are effective for increasing vaccine uptake. The protocol was registered prospectively on PROSPERO and comprehensive search included Medline, Embase, CINAHL, PsycInfo, and Web of Science databases. Only studies that evaluated the effectiveness of non-financial interventions to address COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy were included, while those focusing intentions or financial incentive were excluded. Risk of bias for all included studies was evaluated using Cochrane risk of bias tools. In total, six articles were included in the review (total participants n = 200,720). A narrative synthesis was performed due to the absence of common quantitative metrics. Except for one randomized controlled trial, all studies reported that interventions were effective, increasing COVID-19 vaccination rates. However, non-randomized studies were subject to confounding biases. Evidence on the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy interventions remains limited and further evidence is needed for the development of clear guidance on effective interventions to increase vaccine uptake.
BCL11A Expression in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancers
Authors: Kątnik Ewa , Gomułkiewicz Agnieszka , Piotrowska Aleksandra , Grzegrzółka Jędrzej , Kmiecik Alicja , Ratajczak-Wielgomas Katarzyna , Urbaniak Anna , Glatzel-Plucińska Natalia , Błasiak Piotr , Dzięgiel Piotr
Published: June 2023

B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 11A (BCL11A) may be one of the potential biomarkers of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, its role in the development of this cancer has not yet been precisely established. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of BCL11A at the mRNA and protein levels in NSCLC cases and non-malignant lung tissue (NMLT) and to determine the relationship between BCL11A expression and the clinicopathological factors and Ki-67, Slug, Snail and Twist. The localization and the level of BCL11A protein were examined using immunohistochemistry (IHC) on 259 cases of NSCLC, and 116 NMLT samples were prepared as tissue microarrays and using immunofluorescence (IF) in the following cell lines: NCI-H1703, A549 and IMR-90. The mRNA expression of BCL11A was determined using real-time PCR in 33 NSCLC cases, 10 NMLT samples and the cell lines. BCL11A protein expression was significantly higher in NSCLC cases compared to NMLT. Nuclear expression was found in lung squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) cells, while cytoplasmic expression was demonstrated in adenocarcinoma (AC) cells. Nuclear expression of BCL11A decreased with increasing malignancy grade and correlated positively with Ki-67 and Slug and Twist expression. The opposite relationships were found for the cytoplasmic expression of BCL11A. Nuclear expression of BCL11A in NSCLC cells may affect tumor cell proliferation and change their phenotype, thus promoting tumor progression.
Genetic Influence on Treatment Response in Psoriasis: New Insights into Personalized Medicine
Authors: Berna-Rico Emilio , Perez-Bootello Javier , Abbad-Jaime de Aragon Carlota , Gonzalez-Cantero Alvaro
Published: June 2023

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease with an established genetic background. The HLA-Cw*06 allele and different polymorphisms in genes involved in inflammatory responses and keratinocyte proliferation have been associated with the development of the disease. Despite the effectiveness and safety of psoriasis treatment, a significant percentage of patients still do not achieve adequate disease control. Pharmacogenetic and pharmacogenomic studies on how genetic variations affect drug efficacy and toxicity could provide important clues in this respect. This comprehensive review assessed the available evidence for the role that those different genetic variations may play in the response to psoriasis treatment. One hundred fourteen articles were included in this qualitative synthesis. VDR gene polymorphisms may influence the response to topical vitamin D analogs and phototherapy. Variations affecting the ABC transporter seem to play a role in methotrexate and cyclosporine outcomes. Several single-nucleotide polymorphisms affecting different genes are involved with anti-TNF-α response modulation (TNF-α, TNFRSF1A, TNFRSF1B, TNFAIP3, FCGR2A, FCGR3A, IL-17F, IL-17R, and IL-23R, among others) with conflicting results. HLA-Cw*06 has been the most extensively studied allele, although it has only been robustly related to the response to ustekinumab. However, further research is needed to firmly establish the usefulness of these genetic biomarkers in clinical practice.
Spin Crossover and Thermochromism in Iron(II) Complexes with 2,6-Bis(1H-imidazol-2-yl)-4-methoxypyridine
Authors: Shakirova Olga G. , Os’kina Irina A. , Korotaev Evgeniy V. , Petrov Sergey A. , Kuratieva Natalia V. , Tikhonov Alexsei Ya. , Lavrenova Lyudmila G.
Published: June 2023

New iron(II) complexes with 2,6-bis(1H-imidazol-2-yl)-4-methoxypyridine (L) of the composition [FeL2]An∙mH2O (A = SO42−, n = 1, m = 2 (I); A = ReO4−, n = 2, m = 1 (II); A = Br−, n = 2, m = 2 (III)) have been synthesized and investigated. To determine the coordination ability of the ligand, a single crystal of a copper(II) complex of the composition [CuLCl2] (IV) was obtained and studied by X-ray technique. Compounds I–III were studied using methods of X-ray phase analysis, electron (diffuse reflection spectra), infrared and Mössbauer spectroscopy, static magnetic susceptibility. The study of the µeff(T) dependence showed that the 1A1 ↔ 5T2 spin crossover manifests itself in the compounds. The spin crossover is accompanied by thermochromism: there is a distinct color change orange ↔ red-violet.
Current Indications and Future Landscape of Bispecific Antibodies for the Treatment of Lung Cancer
Authors: Arasanz Hugo , Chocarro Luisa , Fernández-Rubio Leticia , Blanco Ester , Bocanegra Ana , Echaide Miriam , Labiano Ibone , Huerta Ana Elsa , Alsina Maria , Vera Ruth , Escors David , Kochan Grazyna
Published: June 2023

Bispecific antibodies are a promising type of therapy for the treatment of cancer due to their ability to simultaneously inhibit different proteins playing a role in cancer progression. The development in lung cancer has been singularly intense because of the increasingly vast knowledge of the underlying molecular routes, in particular, in oncogene-driven tumors. In this review, we present the current landscape of bispecific antibodies for the treatment of lung cancer and discuss potential scenarios where the role of these therapeutics might expand in the near future.
Antiproliferative Activity and Impact on Human Gut Microbiota of New O-Alkyl Derivatives of Naringenin and Their Oximes
Authors: Kozłowska Joanna , Duda-Madej Anna , Baczyńska Dagmara
Published: June 2023

Naringenin is a 5,7,4′-trihydroxyflavanone naturally occurring mainly in citrus fruits, characterized by a wide spectrum of biological activity. Chemical modifications based on alkylation and oximation in most cases increase its bioactivity. The aim of our research was to evaluate the antiproliferative activity and influence on selected representatives of the human gut microbiota of new synthesized O-alkyl derivatives (A1–A10) and their oximes (B1–B10), which contain hexyl, heptyl, octyl, nonyl and undecyl chains attached to the C-7 or to both the C-7 and C-4′ positions in naringenin. To the best of our knowledge, compounds A3, A4, A6, A8–A10 and B3–B10 have not been described in the scientific literature previously. The anticancer activity was tested on human colon cancer cell line HT-29 and mouse embryo fibroblasts 3T3-L1 using the sulforhodamine B (SRB) and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays. We also determined the impacts of all compounds on the growth of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis and Escherichia coli. The antimicrobial activity was expressed in terms of minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentrations (MBC) values. For 7,4′-di-O-hexylnaringenin (A2), 7-O-undecylnaringenin (A9) and their oximes (B2, B9), which were safe for microbiota (MIC > 512 µg/mL) and almost all characterized by high cytotoxicity against the HT-29 cell line (A2: IC50 > 100 µg/mL; A9: IC50 = 17.85 ± 0.65 µg/mL; B2: IC50 = 49.76 ± 1.63 µg/mL; B9: IC50 = 11.42 ± 1.17 µg/mL), apoptosis assays were performed to elucidate their mechanisms of action. Based on our results, new compound B9 induced an apoptotic process via caspase 3/7 activation, which proved its potential as an anticancer agent.
Anti-Cancer Roles of Probiotic-Derived P8 Protein in Colorectal Cancer Cell Line DLD-1
Authors: An Byung Chull , Ahn Jun Young , Kwon Daebeom , Kwak Sang Hee , Heo Jin Young , Kim Seungwoo , Ryu Yongku , Chung Myung Jun
Published: June 2023

A novel probiotics-derived protein, P8, suppresses the growth of colorectal cancer (CRC). P8 can penetrate the cell membrane via endocytosis and cause cell cycle arrest in DLD-1 cells through down-regulation of CDK1/Cyclin B1. However, neither the protein involved in the endocytosis of P8 nor the cell cycle arrest targets of P8 are known. We identified two P8-interacting target proteins [importin subunit alpha-4 (KPNA3) and glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK3β)] using P8 as a bait in pull-down assays of DLD-1 cell lysates. Endocytosed P8 in the cytosol was found to bind specifically to GSK3β, preventing its inactivation by protein kinases AKT/CK1ε/PKA. The subsequent activation of GSK3β led to strong phosphorylation (S33,37/T41) of β-catenin, resulting in its subsequent degradation. P8 in the cytosol was also found to be translocated into the nucleus by KPNA3 and importin. In the nucleus, after its release, P8 binds directly to the intron regions of the GSK3β gene, leading to dysregulation of GSK3β transcription. GSK3β is a key protein kinase in Wnt signaling, which controls cell proliferation during CRC development. P8 can result in a cell cycle arrest morphology in CRC cells, even when they are in the Wnt ON signaling state.
Effect of ipt Gene Induction in Transgenic Tobacco Plants on Hydraulic Conductance, Formation of Apoplastic Barriers and Aquaporin Activity under Heat Shock
Authors: Vysotskaya Lidiya , Akhiyarova Guzel , Seldimirova Oksana , Nuzhnaya Tatiana , Galin Ilshat , Ivanov Ruslan , Kudoyarova Guzel
Published: June 2023

Cytokinins are known to keep stomata open, which supports gas exchange and correlates with increased photosynthesis. However, keeping the stomata open can be detrimental if the increased transpiration is not compensated for by water supply to the shoots. In this study, we traced the effect of ipt (isopentenyl transferase) gene induction, which increases the concentration of cytokinins in transgenic tobacco plants, on transpiration and hydraulic conductivity. Since water flow depends on the conductivity of the apoplast, the deposition of lignin and suberin in the apoplast was studied by staining with berberine. The effect of an increased concentration of cytokinins on the flow of water through aquaporins (AQPs) was revealed by inhibition of AQPs with HgCl2. It was shown that an elevated concentration of cytokinins in ipt-transgenic plants increases hydraulic conductivity by enhancing the activity of aquaporins and reducing the formation of apoplastic barriers. The simultaneous effect of cytokinins on both stomatal and hydraulic conductivity makes it possible to coordinate the evaporation of water from leaves and its flow from roots to leaves, thereby maintaining the water balance and leaf hydration.
Synthesis and Anticancer Activity of A-Ring-Modified Derivatives of Dihydrobetulin
Authors: Tolmacheva Irina , Beloglazova Yulia , Nazarov Mikhail , Gagarskikh Olga , Grishko Victoria
Published: June 2023

Multidrug resistance (MDR) is a common phenomenon in clinical oncology, whereby cancer cells become resistant to chemotherapeutic drugs. A common MDR mechanism is the overexpression of ATP-binding cassette efflux transporters in cancer cells, with P-glycoprotein (P-gp) being one of them. New 3,4-seco-lupane triterpenoids, and the products of their intramolecular cyclization with the removed 4,4-gem-dimethyl group, were synthesized by the selective transformations of the A-ring of dihydrobetulin. Among the semi-synthetic derivatives, the MT-assay-enabled methyl ketone 31 (MK), exhibiting the highest cytotoxicity (0.7–16.6 µM) against nine human cancer cell lines, including P-gp overexpressing subclone HBL-100/Dox, is identified. In silico, MK has been classified as a potential P-gp-inhibitor; however, the Rhodamine 123 efflux test, and the combined use of P-gp-inhibitor verapamil with MK in vitro, showed the latter to be neither an inhibitor nor a substrate of P-gp. As the studies have shown, the cytotoxic effect of MK against HBL-100/Dox cells is, arguably, induced through the activation of the ROS-mediated mitochondrial pathway, as evidenced by the positive Annexin V-FITC staining of apoptotic cells, the cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase, mitochondrial dysfunction, cytochrome c release, and the activation of caspase-9 and -3.
The Role of H2-Calponin Antigen in Cancer Metastasis: Presence of Autoantibodies in Liver Cancer Patients
Authors: Bin Xiaoyun , Luo Yu , Sun Zefeng , Lin Chaoqun , Huang Peng , Tu Zhenbo , Li Ling , Qu Cong , Long Jiamin , Zhou Sufang
Published: June 2023

To investigate the potential of H2-calponin (CNN2) as a serum biomarker for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), this study employed the serological analysis of recombinantly expressed cDNA clone (SEREX) technique to identify the presence of CNN2 antibody in the serum of patients with HCC and other tumors. The CNN2 protein was produced through genetic engineering and used as an antigen to determine the positive rate of serum CNN2 autoantibodies via indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In addition, the mRNA and protein expressions of CNN2 in cells and tissues were evaluated using RT-PCR, in situ RT-PCR, and immunohistochemistry methods. The HCC group exhibited a significantly higher positive rate of anti-CNN2 antibody (54.8%) compared to gastric cancer (6.5%), lung cancer (3.2%), rectal cancer (9.7%), hepatitis (3.2%), liver cirrhosis (3.2%), and normal tissues (3.1%). The positive rates of CNN2 mRNA in HCC with metastasis, non-metastatic HCC, lung cancer, gastric cancer, nasopharyngeal cancer, liver cirrhosis, and hepatitis were 56.67%, 41.67%, 17.5%, 10.0%, 20.0%, 53.13%, and 41.67%, respectively. Meanwhile, the positive rates of CNN2 protein were 63.33%, 37.5%, 17.5%, 27.5%, 45%, 31.25%, and 20.83%, respectively. The down-regulation of CNN2 could inhibit the migration and invasion of liver cancer cells. CNN2 is a newly identified HCC-associated antigen that is implicated in the migration and invasion of liver cancer cells, making it a promising target for liver cancer therapy.