bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Challenges and Stakeholder Perspectives on Implementing Ecological Designs in Green Public Spaces: A Case Study of Hue City, Vietnam
Authors: Ignatieva Maria , Tran Duy Khiem , Tenorio Rosangela
Published: September 2023

In recent years, ecological design has emerged as an innovative approach for landscape designs to address urban environmental issues such as biodiversity protection and the promotion of ecosystem services. However, in developing countries like Vietnam, an ecological approach is still in its early stages and requires more research and practical application. This study aims to explore stakeholder perspectives and identify suitable ecological landscape approaches through semi-structured interviews based on designed images. The findings reveal various challenges to implementing ecological designs in the public green spaces of Hue City, such as the prioritisation of short-term goals over ecosystem services, solely focusing on increasing green per capita, the lack of market interest, and the lack of motivation among different departments responsible for the design and management of public green spaces. In addition, the study also finds that stakeholders are willing to accept a hybrid ecological landscape approach in combination with ‘cues to care’ landscapes, such as buffer zones of well-managed vegetation or regularly cut lawns. Results highlight the necessity of prioritising ecosystem services in decision-making, policy, and planning development concerning urban green spaces in Vietnamese cities. In addition, education and awareness campaigns are needed for the public and stakeholders to increase acceptance of ecological design.
A New Model for Determining the Price of Product Distribution Based on Fuzzy Logic
Authors: Grozdanović Predrag , Gligorijević Anđela , Andrejić Milan , Nikolić Miloš , Kilibarda Milorad
Published: September 2023

Background: Distribution is a very important part of logistics and an activity that is present in every area today. One of the basic problems in distribution is how to correctly determine its price. For this reason, this paper presents a model created to determine the price of the product distribution service. Methods: The model first determines the base of the distribution price, which consists of a fixed and a variable part. The fixed part depends on the distance traveled, and the variable part is defined by fuzzy logic. To determine the variable part, a fuzzy logic system was created that depends on four input variables: inaccessibility of the client’s location, driving time, quantity of goods, and unloading time. The reason for applying fuzzy logic is its ability to set the distribution price for each client individually, without generalization. Certain criteria that affect the distribution price such as type of vehicle, quality of service, and type of goods, which could not be represented by fuzzy numbers, were considered as additional corrective factors. Results: The model was tested on hypothetical examples created by the authors from this field and on examples of company that provide distribution services. In the case study, a comparison was made between the distribution price obtained by applying the created fuzzy logic model and the price defined by the model used by the company "X". Conclusions: The model created in this way enables easy adaptation to constant changes in the prices of oil derivatives due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the war but also considers various unpredictable circumstances that may occur during delivery such as roadworks, crowds, vehicle breakdown, location inaccessibility due to bad weather, etc.
A Review of Electrode Manufacturing Methods for Electrical Discharge Machining: Current Status and Future Perspectives for Surface Alloying
Authors: Garba Elhuseini , Abdul-Rani Ahmad Majdi , Yunus Nurul Azhani , Aliyu Abdul Azeez Abdu , Gul Iqtidar Ahmed , Al-Amin Md , Aliyu Ruwaida
Published: September 2023

In electrical discharge machining (EDM), the tool electrode is one of the substantial components of the system, and it ensures the success or failure of the EDM process. The electrode’s role is to conduct electrical charges and erode the workpiece to the desired shape. Different electrode materials have different impacts on machining. Certain electrode materials remove metal quickly but wear out rapidly, while others degrade slowly but the material removal is too slow. The choice of the electrode has an influence on both the mechanical properties, such as metal removal rate (MRR), wear rate, surface finish, surface modification and machinability, and the electrical properties, such as sparking initiation, time lag, gap contamination and process stability. There are factors to consider when fabricating an electrode, which include the type of workpiece materials, the metallurgical alloying of the materials, the choice of fabrication techniques, the intended use of the electrode, and material cost. Considerable challenges in EDM electrode fabrication have been reported, which include excessive tool wear for green compact electrodes, high toughness for sintered electrodes, and poor rigidity for additively manufactured electrodes. To address these issues, researchers have explored different manufacturing methods, such as casting, conventional machining, electrodeposition, powder metallurgy and additive manufacturing. In this paper, the various techniques attempted and adopted in EDM electrode manufacturing are analyzed and discussed. This paper also sought to give insight into EDM, its various forms, the dielectric fluid’s properties, EDM electrode’s size and shape, the effects of the electrode on the EDM process, material removal, electrode wear, present technologies for electrode fabrication, and the limitations of these technologies. Finally, directions for future research are highlighted.
Influence of the Particle Size on the Electrical, Magnetic and Biological Properties of the Bioglass® Containing Iron Oxide
Authors: Regadas Joana Soares , Gavinho Sílvia Rodrigues , Teixeira Sílvia Soreto , de Jesus Juliana Vieira , Pádua Ana Sofia , Silva Jorge Carvalho , Devesa Susana , Graça Manuel Pedro Fernandes
Published: September 2023

Bioglasses have been used throughout the past century as a biomaterial in the bone regeneration field. However, recent studies have attempted to use them as a therapeutic material as well, mainly in the treatment of osteosarcomas. The most widely recognized bioglass is the 45S5 Bioglass, invented by Larry Hench et al., which presents higher bioactivity. A possible application of this bioglass in the treatment of osteosarcomas can be accomplished by adding specific ions, such as iron, that will allow the use of magnetic hyperthermia and Fenton reaction as therapeutic mechanisms. In this study, a 45S5 Bioglass containing 10%mol of Fe2O3 was produced using the melt-quenching method. A group of samples was prepared by changing the overall ball milling time, from 1 h up to 48 h, to analyze the effects of iron in the bioactive glass matrix and evaluate the influence of particle size on their physical and biological properties. The studied bioglasses showed no evidence of changes in the amorphous structural nature compared to the 45S5 Bioglass. The data of the impedance spectroscopy study revealed that the addition of Fe2O3 can increase the standard rate constant of the Electro-Fenton reaction, with the sample milled for 12 h showing the most promising results. The reduction in the particle size influenced the cytotoxicity and the bioactivity. The samples with lower particle sizes showed a higher level of cytotoxicity.
Multistage Adaptive Robust Binary Optimization: Uncertainty Set Lifting versus Partitioning through Breakpoints Optimization
Authors: Motamed Nasab Farough , Li Zukui
Published: September 2023

Two methods for multistage adaptive robust binary optimization are investigated in this work. These methods referred to as binary decision rule and finite adaptability inherently share similarities in dividing the uncertainty set into subsets. In the binary decision rule method, the uncertainty is lifted using indicator functions which result in a nonconvex lifted uncertainty set. The linear decision rule is further applied to a convexified version of the lifted uncertainty set. In the finite adaptability method, the uncertainty set is divided into partitions and a constant decision is applied for each partition. In both methods, breakpoints are utilized either to define the indicator functions in the lifting method or to partition the uncertainty set in the finite adaptability method. In this work, we propose variable breakpoint location optimization for both methods. Extensive computational study on an illustrating example and a larger size case study is conducted. The performance of binary decision rule and finite adaptability methods under fixed and variable breakpoint approaches is compared.
Developing Hybrid DMO-XGBoost and DMO-RF Models for Estimating the Elastic Modulus of Rock
Authors: Lin Weixing , Liu Leilei , Zhao Guoyan , Jian Zheng
Published: September 2023

Accurate estimation of the elastic modulus (E) of rock is critical for the design of geotechnical projects such as mining, slopes, and tunnels. However, the determination of rock mechanical parameters usually involves high budget and time requirements. To address this problem, numerous researchers have developed machine learning models to estimate the E of rock. In this study, two novel hybrid ensemble learning models were developed to estimate the E of rock by optimizing the extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) and random forest (RF) algorithms through the dwarf mongoose optimization (DMO) approach. Firstly, 90 rock samples with porosity, dry density, P-wave velocity, slake durability, and water absorption as input indicators were collected. Subsequently, the hyperparameters of XGBoost and RF were tuned by DMO. Based on the optimal hyperparameters configuration, two novel hybrid ensemble learning models were constructed using the training set (80% of the data). Finally, the performance of the developed models was evaluated by the coefficient of determination (R2 score), root mean squared error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), and variance accounted for (VAF) on the test set (20% of the data). The results show that the DMO-RF model achieved the best comprehensive performance with an R2 score of 0.967, RMSE of 0.541, MAE of 0.447, and VAF of 0.969 on the test set. The dry density and slake durability were more influential indicators than others. Moreover, the convergence curves suggested that the DMO-RF model can reduce the generalization error and avoid overfitting. The developed models can be regarded as viable and useful tools in estimating the E of rock.
Self-C2AD: Enhancing CA Auditing in IoT with Self-Enforcement Based on an SM2 Signature Algorithm
Authors: Li Jianfeng , Liu Yu , Li Siqi , Zhang Guangwei , Gao Xiang , Gong Peng
Published: September 2023

Malicious certificate authorities (CAs) pose a significant threat to the security of the Internet of Things (IoT). Existing CA auditing schemes primarily rely on passive detection and public data collection, lacking real-time and comprehensive monitoring. In this paper, we propose a novel double-authentication preventing signature scheme based on an SM2 algorithm, referred to as Dap-SM2. We further enhance its functionality by introducing Self-C2AD, a CA auditing mechanism with self-enforcement. In our proposed mechanism, any malicious CA that generates two certificates with different descriptions (such as public key and basic information) for the same IoT device will immediately lose its private key. To ensure the security of our proposed scheme, we provide a detailed security analysis of Dap-SM2. The analysis demonstrates that our Self-C2AD mechanism meets the necessary security requirements, offering robust protection against malicious CAs. Additionally, we conduct an efficiency evaluation and present experimental data to illustrate the promising potential of our construction for future IoT applications. By introducing the Dap-SM2 scheme and the Self-C2AD mechanism, we address the critical issue of malicious CAs in the IoT domain. Our approach provides real-time and comprehensive auditing capabilities, surpassing the limitations of existing schemes. The security analysis confirms the effectiveness of Dap-SM2, while the efficiency evaluation and experimental data demonstrate its suitability for practical IoT applications. In summary, our work presents a novel solution to combat the threat of malicious CAs in the IoT context. The Dap-SM2 scheme, coupled with the Self-C2AD mechanism, offers enhanced security and real-time auditing capabilities. The security analysis validates the robustness of our approach, while the efficiency evaluation and experimental data showcase its potential for future IoT deployments.
Lie Symmetry Classification, Optimal System, and Conservation Laws of Damped Klein–Gordon Equation with Power Law Non-Linearity
Authors: Zaman Fiazuddin D. , Mahomed Fazal M. , Arif Faiza
Published: September 2023

We used the classical Lie symmetry method to study the damped Klein–Gordon equation (Kge) with power law non-linearity utt+α(u)ut=(uβux)x+f(u). We carried out a complete Lie symmetry classification by finding forms for α(u) and f(u). This led to various cases. Corresponding to each case, we obtained one-dimensional optimal systems of subalgebras. Using the subalgebras, we reduced the Kge to ordinary differential equations and determined some invariant solutions. Furthermore, we obtained conservation laws using the partial Lagrangian approach.
Chitin Extracted from the Shell of Blue Swimming Crabs (Portunus pelagicus Linn.) Inhibits NF-kappaB p65 in Ethanol-Induced Gastric Ulcerative Wistar Rats
Authors: Amelia Renny , Sumiwi Sri Adi , Saptarini Nyi Mekar , Levita Jutti
Published: September 2023

Peptic ulcer disease is generated by the activation of NF-kappaB activity. A recent clinical study reported a significant increase in NF-kappaB2 gene expression in 79 samples of peptic ulcer patients compared to the control group. Moreover, the deacetylated chitin could alter the translocation of NF-kappaB p65 to the nucleus. Considering this, our work aims to explore the effect of chitin extracted from the shell of blue swimming crabs (Portunus pelagicus Linn.) towards NF-kappaB p65 levels in ethanol-induced gastric ulcerative Wistar rats. The shells are found abundantly as the waste of seafood processing in the northern part of West Java, Indonesia. In this study, chitin extraction was carried out using the microwave-assisted extraction method by employing choline chloride (C5H14ClNO) and DL-malic acid (C₄H₆O₅) as the solvents. The inhibitory activity assay of chitin on the expression of NF-kappaB p65 was performed by using Western blot. The extraction yielded a good quality of chitin with a deacetylation degree of 30.8026%, molecular weight of 3.35 × 105 Da, and a negligible heavy metals level. Moreover, chitin extract at doses of 150, 300, and 600 mg/kg BW significantly reduced the percentage of gastric ulcer index compared to the negative control group. Meanwhile, chitin extract at doses of 300 and 600 mg/kg BW significantly inhibited NF-kappaB expression compared to the negative control group. Histopathological examination demonstrated a decrease in the number of necrotic cells and fat degeneration in the gastric mucosa and an increase in normal cells. Taken together, chitin extract obtained from the shells of blue swimming crabs may be able to prevent gastric ulcers induced by ethanol via the inhibition of NF-kappaB p65; however, further studies are needed to verify its anti-ulcerative properties.
Persistent Reverse End Diastolic Flow in Fetal Middle Cerebral Artery: A Rare Finding with Poor Outcomes
Authors: Setiawan Dani , Mose Johanes Cornelius , Kharismawati Nuniek , Zahra Fatima , Putra Muhammad Gilang Dwi
Published: September 2023

Doppler findings of persistent reverse end-diastolic flow (PREDF) in a fetal middle cerebral artery (MCA) are a very rare sonographic finding and are a marker of poor fetal condition. This finding often leads to intrauterine fetal death or early neonatal death. Reverse end-diastolic flow in the middle cerebral artery is an advanced hemodynamic event. Fetal cerebral circulation normally has a high impedance; in the event of fetal hypoxemia, impedance decreases, resulting in the central redistribution of blood flow to vital organs, which maintains the oxygen delivery to the brain. Reverse flow in the middle cerebral arteries describes the loss of this autoregulatory process. PREDF is a sequence that occurs due to increased extracranial or intracranial pressure. Previous case reports mentioned intracranial hemorrhage, fetal growth restriction, fetal anemia, and fetal hepatic abnormalities as problems leading to PREDF. This condition presumably arises due to cerebral edema associated with severe hypoxemia. We reported Doppler findings of PREDF MCA in a 33-year-old female patient at 30 weeks gestation who was referred to the hospital with severe preeclampsia accompanied by fetal growth restriction and oligohydramnios. A cesarean section was performed due to severe preeclampsia and a low bishop score. Hypotheses on various etiologies and their association with intrauterine/neonatal death as well as the best management still require further investigation.
Safety and Efficacy of Post-Dilation in Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Using Polymer-Free Ultrathin Strut Sirolimus-Probucol Coated Drug-Eluting Stents
Authors: Shin Yonghoon , Won Yoonsun , Yang Taeil , Kim Joohan , Lee Joonpyo , Seo Jeongduk , Jang Albert Youngwoo , Kim Minsu , Oh Pyung Chun , Lee Kyounghoon , Kang Woong Chol , Han Seung Hwan , Suh Soon Yong
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives: Polymer-free ultrathin strut sirolimus- and probucol-eluting stents (PF-SES) are recognized as safe and effective in diverse patient populations, although the implications of post-dilation during stent implantation remain underexamined. Materials and Methods: In this study, patients implanted with PF-SES at Gachon University Gil Medical Center between December 2014 and February 2018 were evaluated. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), encompassing nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI), nonfatal stroke, and cardiovascular death were identified as primary outcomes, with secondary outcomes including target vessel revascularization (TVR), target lesion revascularization (TLR), and in-stent restenosis (ISR). Results: Of the 384 initial patients, 299 were considered eligible for analysis. The groups, delineated by those undergoing post-dilation (143 patients) and those not (156 patients), exhibited comparable rates of primary outcomes [hazard ratio (HR), 2.17; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.40 to 11.87; p = 0.37]. The outcomes remained consistent irrespective of the post-dilation status and were similarly unaffected in multivariate analyses (HR, 2.90; 95% CI, 0.52 to 16.34; p = 0.227). Conclusions: These results suggest that the clinical outcomes of patients with post-dilation were similar to that of those without post-dilation in those with the polymer-free sirolimus- and probucol-eluting stents.
IgE-Mediated and Non-IgE-Mediated Fish Allergy in Pediatric Age: A Holistic Approach—A Consensus by Diagnostic Commission of the Italian Society of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology
Authors: Mastrorilli Carla , Arasi Stefania , Barni Simona , Caimmi Davide , Chiera Fernanda , Comberiati Pasquale , Dinardo Giulio , Giannetti Arianna , Gismondi Marco , Gracci Serena , Paravati Francesco , Pelosi Umberto , Miraglia Del Giudice Michele , Bernardini Roberto , Pecoraro Luca
Published: September 2023

Fish is one of the “big nine” foods triggering allergic reactions. For this reason, fish allergens must be accurately specified on food labels. Fish allergy affects less than 1% of the world population, but a higher prevalence is observed in pediatric cohorts, up to 7%. Parvalbumin is the main fish allergen found in the muscles. In childhood, sensitization to fish allergens occurs most frequently through the ingestion of fish, rarely transcutaneously or by inhalation. Fish allergy symptoms usually appear within two hours of the allergen contact. The diagnosis begins with the collection of the history. If it is suggestive of fish allergy, prick tests or the measurement of serum-specific IgE should be performed to confirm the suspicion. The oral food challenge is the gold standard for the diagnosis. It is not recommended in case of a severe allergic reaction. It is important to make a differential diagnosis with anisakiasis or scombroid poisoning, which have overlapping clinical features but differ in pathogenesis. Traditionally, managing fish allergy involves avoiding the triggering species (sometimes all bony fish species) and requires an action plan for accidental exposures. The present review will analyze IgE- and non-IgE-mediated fish allergy in children from epidemiology, pathogenesis to clinical features. Moreover, clinical management will be addressed with a particular focus on potential nutritional deficiencies.
Resistin: A Potential Indicator of Aortic Stiffness in Non-Dialysis Chronic Kidney Disease Patients
Authors: Kuo Chiu-Huang , Chen Min-Shuo , Wang Chih-Hsien , Lai Yu-Hsien , Lin Yu-Li , Hsu Bang-Gee
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives: In the progression and development of atherosclerosis, resistin plays a significant role. Chronic kidney disease (CKD), frequently associated with atherosclerosis, exhibits a marked increase in morbidity and mortality rates. This study set out to explore the association between aortic stiffness and serum levels of resistin in non-dialysis-dependent CKD patients ranging from stages 3 to 5. Materials and Methods: We collected fasting blood samples from 240 CKD patients across stages 3 to 5. The concentration of resistin in serum was determined using a commercially available enzyme immunoassay kit. Those patients who exhibited a carotid–femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) greater than 10 m/s were identified as the aortic stiffness group. Results: Out of the 240 CKD patients, 88 (36.7%) were classified within the aortic stiffness group. This group demonstrated higher incidences of diabetes, advanced age, increased body weight, body mass index, body fat mass, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, fasting glucose, and serum resistin levels. Multivariate logistic regression analysis highlighted resistin, diabetes, and body weight as independent predictors of aortic stiffness. Additionally, body fat mass, logarithmically transformed cfPWV (log-cfPWV) values and log-triglyceride levels were independent predictors of log-resistin levels by multivariate stepwise linear regression analysis. Conclusions: In CKD patients from stages 3 to 5, a positive correlation exists between elevated serum resistin levels and cfPWV values, identifying resistin as a potential predictor of aortic stiffness.
Effect of Blended Perfluorinated Sulfonic Acid Ionomer Binder on the Performance of Catalyst Layers in Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Kim Beom-Seok , Park Jong-Hyeok , Park Jin-Soo
Published: September 2023

In this study, blended perfluorinated sulfonic acid (PFSA) ionomers with equivalent weights (EWs, g/mol) of ~1000, 980, and 830 are prepared. Catalyst layers (CLs), using blended PFSA ionomers, with different side chain lengths and EWs are investigated and compared to CLs using single ionomers. The ion exchange capacity results confirm that blended ionomers have the target EWs. As a result, blended ionomers exhibit higher ion conductivity than single ionomers at all temperatures due to the higher water uptake of the blended ionomers. This implies that blended ionomers have a bulk structure to form a competent free volume compared to single ionomers. Blended ionomers with short side chains and low EWs can help reduce the activation energy in proton conduction due to enhanced hydrophobic and hydrophilic segregation. In addition, when using the blended ionomer, the CLs form a more porous microstructure to help reduce the resistance of oxygen transport and contributes to lower mass transfer loss. This effect is proven in fuel cell operations at not a lower temperature (70 °C) and full humidification (100%) but at an elevated temperature (80 °C) and lower relative humidity (50 and 75%). Blended ionomer-based CLs with a higher water uptake and porous CL structure result in improved fuel cell performance with better mass transport than single ionomer-based CLs.
Recent Advances and Perspectives in Relation to the Metabolomics-Based Study of Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: He Shuling , Sun Lvyun , Chen Jiali , Ouyang Yang
Published: September 2023

Diabetic retinopathy (DR), a prevalent microvascular complication of diabetes, is a major cause of acquired blindness in adults. Currently, a clinical diagnosis of DR primarily relies on fundus fluorescein angiography, with a limited availability of effective biomarkers. Metabolomics, a discipline dedicated to scrutinizing the response of various metabolites within living organisms, has shown noteworthy advancements in uncovering metabolic disorders and identifying key metabolites associated with DR in recent years. Consequently, this review aims to present the latest advancements in metabolomics techniques and comprehensively discuss the principal metabolic outcomes derived from analyzing blood, vitreous humor, aqueous humor, urine, and fecal samples.
Resonant-Type Piezoelectric Pump Driven by Piezoelectric Stacks and a Rhombic Micro Displacement Amplifier
Authors: Zhu Chunli , Shu Xiaolong , Liu Dongcai , Du Xianghan , Li Lexi , Pan Qiaosheng
Published: September 2023

To obtain a high flow rate, a resonant-type piezoelectric pump is designed, fabricated, and studied in this paper. The pump consists of four parts: a piezoelectric vibrator, a pump chamber, a check valve and a compressible space. The designed piezoelectric vibrator is composed of a rhombic micro displacement amplifier, counterweight blocks and two piezoelectric stacks with low-voltage drive and a large output displacement. ANSYS software (Workbench 19.0) simulation results show that at the natural frequency of 946 Hz, the designed piezoelectric vibrator will produce the maximum output displacement. The bilateral deformation is symmetrical, and the phase difference is zero. Frequency, voltage, and backpressure characteristics of the piezoelectric pump are investigated. The experimental results show that at a certain operating frequency, the flow rate and the backpressure of the piezoelectric pump both increase with the increase in voltage. When the applied voltage is 150 Vpp, the flow rate reaches a peak of 367.48 mL/min at 720 Hz for one diaphragm pump, and reaches a peak of 700.15 mL/min at 716 Hz for two diaphragm pumps.
Aureimonas altamirensis: First Isolation from a Chicken Slaughterhouse in Italy Followed by Genotype and Phenotype Evaluations
Authors: Buzzanca Davide , Chiarini Elisabetta , Mania Ilaria , Chiesa Francesco , Alessandria Valentina
Published: September 2023

The presence of foodborne pathogens in meat is linked to several contamination sources, and the slaughterhouse environment represents a relevant reservoir of contamination. Aureimonas altamirensis is a Gram-negative bacteria associated with different isolation sources, including human clinical cases. This study aims to identify and characterize an A. altamirensis isolate from chicken guts collected in an Italian slaughterhouse. The study approach includes whole-genome analysis jointly with phenotypical tests. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) confirms the initial MALDI-TOF MS identification, finding putative virulence and biofilm-related genes. Moreover, the gene class evaluation reveals that the numerically largest gene category in the A. altamirensis genome is related to amino acid metabolism and transport. The analyses performed on a human gut mucus-producing cell line (HT29-MTX-E12) demonstrated the ability of A. altamirensis to colonize the host cell layer. Moreover, the antibiotic resistance test showed a high resistance of A. altamirensis to gentamicin (MIC 0.5 mg/L). The detection of a potential pathogenic and antibiotic-resistant A. altamirensis strain isolated from a slaughterhouse underlines the necessity of active surveillance studies focused on this species and the need for further studies about A. altamirensis in foods.
Molecular Epidemiology of Porcine Circovirus Type 2 and Porcine Parvoviruses in Guangxi Autonomous Region, China
Authors: Chen Pin , Wang Geng , Chen Jiping , Zhang Weichao , He Yin , Qian Ping
Published: September 2023

Both porcine circovirus (PCV) and porcine parvovirus (PPV) cause various diseases and bring huge economic losses to the global swine industry. PCV2 is associated with several diseases and syndromes, including postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS), porcine dermatitis and nephropathy syndrome (PDNS) and porcine respiratory disease complex (PRDC). The classical PPV is one of the most common causes of reproductive failure in pigs. In this study, tissue samples (tonsil, lung, mesenteric lymph node, hilar lymph node and superficial inguinal lymph node) were collected from pigs with suspected PCV2-associated disease (PCVAD), and viral DNA was extracted. The coinfection of PCV2 and PPV1–5 was detected using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. Phylogenetic analysis based on capsid genes of PCV2, PPV2, PPV3 and PPV5 was conducted. The prevalence rates of PCV2, PPV1, PPV2, PPV3, PPV4 and PPV5 were 51.2%, 15.9%, 36.6%, 19.5%, 14.6% and 10.9% on the individual pig level, respectively. The coinfection rates of PCV2 with PPV1, PPV2, PPV3, PPV4 and PPV5 were 8.5%, 25.6%, 17.1%, 13.4% and 3.7%, respectively. The prevalence of PPV2, PPV3 and PPV4 in PCV2-positive pigs was significantly higher than those in PCV2-negative pigs. Phylogenetic analyses were performed using the neighbor-joining (NJ) method with 1000 bootstraps. The results indicated the existence of PCV2d and two major clusters of PPV2, PPV3 and PPV5 in the Guangxi Autonomous Region. PCV2d was the dominant strain, and the novel PPVs were circulating in domestic pigs in the Guangxi Autonomous Region. The results of this study underline the importance of active surveillance of PCV2d and PPVs from the swine population in this area.
Exploring Host-Specificity: Untangling the Relationship between Leishmania (Viannia) Species and Its Endosymbiont Leishmania RNA Virus 1
Authors: Santana Mayara Cristhine de Oliveira , Chourabi Khaled , Cantanhêde Lilian Motta , Cupolillo Elisa
Published: September 2023

A relevant aspect in the epidemiology of Tegumentary Leishmaniasis (TL) are the Leishmania parasites carrying a viral endosymbiont, Leishmania RNA Virus 1 (LRV1), a dsRNA virus. Leishmania parasites carrying LRV1 are prone to causing more severe TL symptoms, increasing the likelihood of unfavorable clinical outcomes. LRV1 has been observed in the cultured strains of five L. (Viannia) species, and host specificity was suggested when studying the LRV1 from L. braziliensis and L. guyanensis strains. The coevolution hypothesis of LRV1 and Leishmania was based on phylogenetic analyses, implying an association between LRV1 genotypes, Leishmania species, and their geographic origins. This study aimed to investigate LRV1 specificity relative to Leishmania (Viannia) species hosts by analyzing LRV1 from L. (Viannia) species. To this end, LRV1 was screened in L. (Viannia) species other than L. braziliensis or L. guyanensis, and it was detected in 11 out of 15 L. naiffi and two out of four L. shawi. Phylogenetic analyses based on partial LRV1 genomic sequencing supported the hypothesis of host specificity, as LRV1 clustered according to their respective Leishmania species’ hosts. These findings underscore the importance of investigating Leishmania and LRV1 coevolution and its impact on Leishmania (Viannia) species dispersion and pathogenesis in the American Continent.
Persistent Dysbiosis, Parasite Rise and Growth Impairment in Aquacultured European Seabass after Oxytetracycline Treatment
Authors: Rigas Dimitris , Grivas Nikos , Nelli Aikaterini , Gouva Evangelia , Skoufos Ioannis , Kormas Konstantinos , Tzora Athina , Lagkouvardos Ilias
Published: September 2023

The use of antibiotics in open-water aquaculture is often unavoidable when faced with pathogens with high mortality rates. In addition, seasonal pathogen surges have become more common and more intense over the years. Apart from the apparent cost of antibiotic treatment, it has been observed that, in aquaculture practice, the surviving fish often display measurable growth impairment. To understand the role of gut microbiota on the observed growth impairment, in this study, we follow the incidence of Photobacterium damselae subsp. piscicida in a seabass commercial open-water aquaculture setting in Galaxidi (Greece). Fish around 10 months of age were fed with feed containing oxytetracycline (120 mg/kg/day) for twelve days, followed by a twelve-day withdrawal period, and another eighteen days of treatment. The fish were sampled 19 days before the start of the first treatment and one month after the end of the second treatment cycle. Sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene was used to measure changes in the gut microbiome. Overall, the gut microbiota community, even a month after treatment, was highly dysbiotic and characterized by very low alpha diversity. High abundances of alkalophilic bacteria in the post-antibiotic-treated fish indicated a rise in pH that was coupled with a significant increase in gut parasites. This study’s results indicate that oxytetracycline (OTC) treatment causes persistent dysbiosis even one month after withdrawal and provides a more suitable environment for an increase in parasites. These findings highlight the need for interventions to restore a healthy and protective gut microbiome.
Oral Microbiota: The Influences and Interactions of Saliva, IgA, and Dietary Factors in Health and Disease
Authors: Nagakubo Daisuke , Kaibori Yuichiro
Published: September 2023

Recent advances in metagenomic analyses have made it easier to analyze microbiota. The microbiota, a symbiotic community of microorganisms including bacteria, archaea, fungi, and viruses within a specific environment in tissues such as the digestive tract and skin, has a complex relationship with the host. Recent studies have revealed that microbiota composition and balance particularly affect the health of the host and the onset of disease. Influences such as diet, food preferences, and sanitation play crucial roles in microbiota composition. The oral cavity is where the digestive tract directly communicates with the outside. Stable temperature and humidity provide optimal growth environments for many bacteria. However, the oral cavity is a unique environment that is susceptible to pH changes, salinity, food nutrients, and external pathogens. Recent studies have emphasized the importance of the oral microbiota, as changes in bacterial composition and balance could contribute to the development of systemic diseases. This review focuses on saliva, IgA, and fermented foods because they play critical roles in maintaining the oral bacterial environment by regulating its composition and balance. More attention should be paid to the oral microbiota and its regulatory factors in oral and systemic health.
Source and Migration of Fluids in a Meso-Tethyan Subduction Zone: Fluid Inclusion Study of Syn-Mélange Veins from the Mugagangri Accretionary Complex
Authors: Liu Xinyu , Zeng Min , Li Chenwei , Chen Si , Li Tianyuan
Published: September 2023

The Mugagangri Group (MG), located at the southern margin of the Qiangtang terrane in Tibet, is a crucial research target for understanding the subduction and accretion history of the Meso-Tethys Ocean. Extensional crack-seal veins restricted within sandstone blocks from the broken formation in the MG (Gaize) formed synchronously in the mélange formation. The primary inclusions trapped in the veins recorded multiple pieces of information during the formation of the accretionary wedge. To precisely constrain the MG subduction–accretion processes, we investigated the trapping temperature, salinity, density, and composition of the fluid inclusions within the crack-seal veins derived from the broken formation in the MG (Gaize). The primary inclusions indicate that the crack was sealed at ~151–178 °C. The salinity of the primary inclusions exhibited a well-defined average of 3.3 ± 0.7 wt% NaCl equivalent, slightly lower than the average of seawater (3.5 wt%). There were no nonpolar gases, and only H2O (low salinity) was detectable in the primary inclusions. These characteristics suggest that the syn-mélange fluids were a type of pore fluid in the shallow subduction zone, with the principal source being pore water from sediments overlying the oceanic crust. Because of mineral dehydration and compaction, the pore fluids became more diluted with H2O and fluid overpressure owing to a pore fluid pressure that was greater than the hydrostatic pressure. Subsequently, the creation of cracks through hydraulic fracturing provided a novel pathway for the flow of fluids which, in turn, contributed to the décollement step-down and underthrusting processes. These fractures acted as conduits for fluid movement and played a crucial role in facilitating these peculiar occurrences of quartz veins. The depth (~5 km) and temperature estimates of the fluid expulsion align with the conditions of the décollement step-down, thereby leading to the trapping of fluids within the sandstone blocks and their subsequent underplating to the accretionary complex. In our preferred model, such syn-mélange fluids have the potential to provide valuable constraints on the subduction–accretion processes occurring in other accretionary complexes.
Supergene Hydrous Sulfates in the Tuolugou Co-Au Deposit, Northern Qinghai–Tibet Plateau: Implications for Genetic Mechanism and Exploration
Authors: Niu Sida , Wu Huaying , Zhang Jianpeng , Niu Xianglong , Wang Yingchao , Lin Xiaoju , Santosh M. , Chen Jiahao
Published: September 2023

Supergene hydrous sulfate minerals form through the oxygenation and weathering of primary sulfides. In the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau region, with an alpine and dry environment, hydrous sulfate minerals oxidized from pyrite-bearing ore bodies provide important clues regarding the mineralization and environment. The Tuolugou sedimentary-exhalative (SEDEX) Co-Au deposit is located in the East Kunlun metallogenic belt of the northern Qinghai–Tibet Plateau in China. In the mining district, pyrite is the prevalent Co-hosting sulfide mineral, and is partially exposed on the surface to weathering and oxidation. Herein, we document the mineral assemblages in the supergene oxidation zone in the Tuolugou deposit, probe the genesis of supergene assemblage, and explore the implications for exploration. Three zones can be recognized in the oxidation zone of the Tuolugou deposit, including the outer zone (natrojarosite), intermediate zone (rozenite and aplowite), and inner zone (roemerite and melanterite). The mechanism of oxidation under aerobic and anaerobic conditions, as well as zoning with different oxidation degrees, are described in detail. Hydrous sulfates such as natrojarosite can be used as possible indicators of the exploration of albitite-related SEDEX deposit in this region.
Application of Organic Petrology and Raman Spectroscopy in Thermal Maturity Determination of the Karoo Basin (RSA) Shale Samples
Authors: Chabalala Vongani , Wagner Nikki , Malumbazo Nandi
Published: September 2023

An assessment performed using raman spectroscopy has found space in the black shales of the Cisuralian-age rocks of the Karoo Basin in South Africa, particularly those from the Guadalupian Ripon, Cisuralian Whitehill and Prince Albert Formations. It is used in conjunction with geochemical screening techniques such as organic petrology and programmed pyrolysis. In turn, the combination of these techniques is used for the assessment of the thermal maturity of the sedimentary organic matter from the perspective of hydrocarbon generation, retention, and expulsion. To provide further understanding of the black shales in the Cisuralian-age rocks of the Karoo Basin in South Africa, this study focuses on the characterization of samples from the KWV−01 borehole drilled in the southeastern Karoo Basin. In addition, the USA Devonian/Carboniferous Berea Sandstone project samples were included for comparison, and were used as a quality assurance measure. Organic petrology was utilized to assess the organic quality and thermal maturity of the black shales. The results obtained showed that the Karoo Basin shales are overmature, containing an abundance of solid bitumen, and this often characterizes a shale reservoir with moveable hydrocarbons (shale gas). The programmed pyrolysis analysis conducted on the black shales of the Karoo Basin yielded artifact results, as they were determined from a very low and poorly defined S2 peak. This indicated the shales to be overmature and categorized them to be of poor hydrocarbon generation potential. Raman spectroscopy was used to gain insights about the molecular structure of the black shales and to assess if this technique could be used as a complimentary tool to determine the thermal maturity of the shale samples. Raman parameters such as G–D1 Band separation, G and D1 band full width at half maximum (Gfwhm and D1fwhm) and G band position were successfully correlated with vitrinite reflectance (RoV), demonstrating a good potential for Raman spectroscopy to predict the thermal maturity of the shales. Overall, the study provides valuable information and knowledge concerning black shale sample characterization (particularly the thermal maturity and molecular structural characterization) in the Karoo Basin, South Africa.
Advances in Extraction, Purification, and Analysis Techniques of the Main Components of Kudzu Root: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Xuan Tong , Liu Yuhan , Liu Rui , Liu Sheng , Han Jiaqi , Bai Xinyu , Wu Jie , Fan Ronghua
Published: September 2023

Kudzu root (Pueraria lobate (Willd.) Ohwi, KR) is an edible plant with rich nutritional and medicinal values. Over the past few decades, an ample variety of biological effects of Pueraria isoflavone have been evaluated. Evidence has shown that Pueraria isoflavone can play an active role in antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, neuroprotection, and cardiovascular protection. Over 50 isoflavones in kudzu root have been identified, including puerarin, daidzein, daidzin, 3′-hydroxy puerarin, and genistein, each with unambiguous structures. However, the application of these isoflavones in the development of functional food and health food still depends on the extraction, purification and identification technology of Pueraria isoflavone. In recent years, many green and novel extraction, purification, and identification techniques have been developed for the preparation of Pueraria isoflavone. This review provides an updated overview of these techniques, specifically for isoflavones in KR since 2018, and also discusses and compares the advantages and disadvantages of these techniques in depth. The intention is to provide a research basis for the green and efficient extraction, purification, and identification of Pueraria isoflavone and offers investigators a valuable reference for future studies on the KR.
Recent Development of Novel Aminoethyl-Substituted Chalcones as Potential Drug Candidates for the Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Sharma Pratibha , Singh Manjinder , Singh Varinder , Singh Thakur Gurjeet , Singh Tanveer , Ahmad Sheikh F.
Published: September 2023

No drug on the market, as a single entity, participates in different pathways involved in the pathology of Alzheimer’s disease. The current study is aimed at the exploration of multifunctional chalcone derivatives which can act on multiple targets involved in Alzheimer’s disease. A series of novel aminoethyl-substituted chalcones have been developed using in silico approaches (scaffold morphing, molecular docking, and ADME) and reported synthetic methods. The synthesized analogs were characterized and evaluated biologically using different in vitro assays against AChE, AGEs, and radical formation. Among all compounds, compound PS-10 was found to have potent AChE inhibitory activity (IC50 = 15.3 nM), even more than the standard drug (IC50 = 15.68 nM). Further, the in vivo evaluation of PS-10 against STZ-induced dementia in rats showed memory improvement (Morris Water Maze test) in rats. Also, PS-10 inhibited STZ-induced brain AChE activity and oxidative stress, further strengthening the observed in vitro effects. Further, the molecular dynamic simulation studies displayed the stability of the PS-10 and AChE complex. The novel aminoethyl-substituted chalcones might be considered potential multifunctional anti-Alzheimer’s molecules.
Dual-Responsive Supramolecular Chiral Assemblies from Amphiphilic Dendronized Tetraphenylethylenes
Authors: Zhang Jianan , Lu Xueting , Li Wen , Zhang Afang
Published: September 2023

Supramolecular assembly of amphiphilic molecules in aqueous solutions to form stimuli-responsive entities is attractive for developing intelligent supramolecular materials for bioapplications. Here we report on the supramolecular chiral assembly of amphiphilic dendronized tetraphenylethylenes (TPEs) in aqueous solutions. Hydrophobic TPE moieties were connected to the hydrophilic three-fold dendritic oligoethylene glycols (OEGs) through a tripeptide proline–hydroxyproline–glycol (POG) to afford the characteristic topological structural effects of dendritic OEGs and the peptide linker. Both ethoxyl- and methoxyl-terminated dendritic OEGs were used to modulate the overall hydrophilicity of the dendronized TPEs. Their supramolecular aggregates exhibited thermoresponsive behavior that originated from the dehydration and collapse of the dendritic OEGs, and their cloud point temperatures (Tcps) were tailored by solution pH conditions. Furthermore, aggregation-induced fluorescent emission (AIE) from TPE moieties was used as an indicator to follow the assembly, which was reversibly tuned by temperature variation at different pH conditions. Supramolecular assemblies from these dendronized amphiphiles exhibited enhanced supramolecular chirality, which was dominated mainly by the interaction balance between TPE with dendritic OEG and TPE with POG moieties and was modulated through different solvation by changing solution temperature or pH conditions. More interestingly, ethoxyl-terminated dendritic OEG provided a much stronger shielding effect than its methoxyl-terminated counterpart to prevent amino groups within the peptide from protonation, even in strong acidic conditions, resulting in different responsive behavior to the solution temperature and pH conditions for these supramolecular aggregates.
Liquid–Liquid Phase Separation and Protective Protein Aggregates in Bacteria
Authors: Kuczyńska-Wiśnik Dorota , Stojowska-Swędrzyńska Karolina , Laskowska Ewa
Published: September 2023

Liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS) and the formation of membraneless organelles (MLOs) contribute to the spatiotemporal organization of various physiological processes in the cell. These phenomena have been studied and characterized mainly in eukaryotic cells. However, increasing evidence indicates that LLPS-driven protein condensation may also occur in prokaryotes. Recent studies indicate that aggregates formed during proteotoxic stresses may also play the role of MLOs and increase the fitness of bacteria under stress. The beneficial effect of aggregates may result from the sequestration and protection of proteins against irreversible inactivation or degradation, activation of the protein quality control system and induction of dormancy. The most common stress that bacteria encounter in the natural environment is water loss. Therefore, in this review, we focus on protein aggregates formed in E. coli upon desiccation–rehydration stress. In silico analyses suggest that various mechanisms and interactions are responsible for their formation, including LLPS, disordered sequences and aggregation-prone regions. These data support findings that intrinsically disordered proteins and LLPS may contribute to desiccation tolerance not only in eukaryotic cells but also in bacteria. LLPS-driven aggregation may be a strategy used by pathogens to survive antibiotic treatment and desiccation stress in the hospital environment.