bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gear Shifting in Biological Energy Transduction
Authors: Zhang Yanfei , Westerhoff Hans V.
Published: June 2023

Confronted with thermodynamically adverse output processes, free-energy transducers may shift to lower gears, thereby reducing output per unit input. This option is well known for inanimate machines such as automobiles, but unappreciated in biology. The present study extends existing non-equilibrium thermodynamic principles to underpin biological gear shifting and identify possible mechanisms. It shows that gear shifting differs from altering the degree of coupling and that living systems may use it to optimize their performance: microbial growth is ultimately powered by the Gibbs energy of catabolism, which is partially transformed into Gibbs energy (‘output force’) in the ATP that is produced. If this output force is high, the cell may turn to a catabolic pathway with a lower ATP stoichiometry. Notwithstanding the reduced stoichiometry, the ATP synthesis flux may then actually increase as compared to that in a system without gear shift, in which growth might come to a halt. A ‘variomatic’ gear switching strategy should be optimal, explaining why organisms avail themselves of multiple catabolic pathways, as these enable them to shift gears when the growing gets tough.
A Non-Intrusive Automated Testing System for Internet of Vehicles App Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Zhang Yanan , Guo Zhen , Sun Tao
Published: June 2023

In the non-intrusive automated testing system for Internet of Vehicles (IoV) applications, automatic recognition of text and icons on vehicle central control screens is of paramount importance. However, the detection and recognition of content on vehicle central control screens are inherently complex. Additionally, during non-intrusive vehicle central control screen image testing, there is a deficiency of suitable datasets and detection methods. This deficiency renders information within vehicle application images difficult to be accurately extracted by the detection network. To address this problem, this study first constructs a dataset tailored for text detection and recognition on vehicle screens. This dataset encompasses a variety of vehicle central control images, enabling the generic text detection and recognition network to more effectively identify and interpret text within vehicle screens. Subsequently, this research proposes an enhanced Fully Convolutional Networks for Text Detection (FOTS) method for vehicle central control screen text detection and recognition. This method elevates the semantic expression capabilities of features by sharing vehicle central control screen text detection and recognition features. Furthermore, it improves multi-scale feature processing capabilities through the utilization of a feature transformation module. Validation through visual and quantitative experiments demonstrates that the proposed method can effectively accomplish text detection and recognition tasks on vehicle screens. This achievement bears significant implications for the field of automated testing in IoV applications.
An Overview on Transport Phenomena within Solid Electrolyte Interphase and Their Impact on the Performance and Durability of Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Cappabianca Roberta , De Angelis Paolo , Fasano Matteo , Chiavazzo Eliodoro , Asinari Pietro
Published: June 2023

The nature of the electrode–electrolyte interface has an impact on the performance and durability of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). The initial electrolyte’s thermodynamic instability at the anode–electrolyte interface in LIBs results in the formation of a passivation layer, called solid electrolyte interphase (SEI). The initial dense and intact layer allows Li+ transport and restricts electron tunneling, thus preventing electrolyte decomposition and ensuring the electrochemical stability of a battery. However, the growth of this layer can reduce the availability of active lithium and electrolyte, and ultimately lead to an irreversible battery capacity fade. Investigating the transport phenomena of lithium ions within SEI is crucial for understanding its formation and growth. Nonetheless, accurately describing all relevant mechanisms is challenging due to its complex and multiscale nature. An overview of current computational efforts to study Li+ transport within SEI is given in this article, ranging from electronic/atomistic scale simulations to macroscopic models. The drawbacks and advantages of the proposed numerical approaches are summarized along with the obstacles that need to be overcome to obtain accurate experimental data, identified on the basis of the most recent literature evidence. We highlight collaboration gaps between modeling and experimental approaches, as well as the urgent need for new multiscale models, to gain a better understanding of such a crucial transport phenomenon.
Evaluation of the Power Generation Impact for the Mobility of Battery Electric Vehicles
Authors: Rey Javier , Cremades Lázaro V.
Published: June 2023

European institutions have decided to ban the sale of Internal Combustion Vehicles (ICEVs) in the EU from 2035. This opens a possible scenario in which, in the not-too-distant future, all vehicles circulating in Europe are likely to be Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs). The Spanish vehicle fleet is one of the oldest and has the lowest percentage of BEVs in Europe. The aim of this study is to evaluate the hypothetical scenario in which the current mobility of ICEVs is transformed into BEVs, in the geographical area of the province of Barcelona and in Spain in general. The daily electricity consumption, the required installation capacity of wind and solar photovoltaic energies, and the potential reduction of NOx and particulate matter (PM) emissions are estimated. The daily emission reduction would be about 314 tons of NOx and 17 tons of PM in Spain. However, the estimated investment required in Spain to generate the additional electricity from renewable sources would be enormous (over EUR 25.4 billion), representing, for example, 5.5% of the total national budget in 2022.
Evaluation of the Accuracy and Frequency Response of Medium-Voltage Instrument Transformers under the Combined Influence Factors of Temperature and Vibration
Authors: Agazar Mohamed , Istrate Daniela , Pradayrol Patrice
Published: June 2023

Instrument transformers are largely used to measure voltages and currents in public electricity networks. Their performance is essential for Power Quality measurements. Tests and procedures to estimate the effect of single influence factors are performed according to current standards. However, the instrument transformers are exposed simultaneously to more than one factor. The standardized procedures for their characterization with combined influence factors are under construction in Europe. The work in this paper is focused on the development of a new set-up for the determination of the accuracy and frequency response of medium-voltage transformers within the combined influence factors of temperatures and vibrations. The test set-up includes a platform for the combination of temperature and vibrations, a generating system for harmonics up to 9 kHz superposed with 35 kV, 50 Hz voltage and a reference measuring system. The results of several tests carried out on a 35 kV/100 V/50 Hz voltage transformer in the presence of these influence factors are discussed in this paper. They show that the accuracy and frequency response of the voltage transformers are more influenced by temperature than by vibrations.
Multistep Forecasting of Power Flow Based on LSTM Autoencoder: A Study Case in Regional Grid Cluster Proposal
Authors: Aksan Fachrizal , Li Yang , Suresh Vishnu , Janik Przemysław
Published: June 2023

A regional grid cluster proposal is required to tackle power grid complexities and evaluate the impact of decentralized renewable energy generation. However, implementing regional grid clusters poses challenges in power flow forecasting owing to the inherent variability of renewable power generation and diverse power load behavior. Accurate forecasting is vital for monitoring the imported power during peak regional load periods and surplus power generation exported from the studied region. This study addressed the challenge of multistep bidirectional power flow forecasting by proposing an LSTM autoencoder model. During the training stage, the proposed model and baseline models were developed using autotune hyperparameters to fine-tune the models and maximize their performance. The model utilized the last 6 h leading up to the current time (24 steps of 15 min intervals) to predict the power flow 1 h ahead (4 steps of 15 min intervals) from the current time. In the model evaluation stage, the proposed model achieved the lowest RMSE and MAE scores with values of 32.243 MW and 24.154 MW, respectively. In addition, it achieved a good R2 score of 0.93. The evaluation metrics demonstrated that the LSTM autoencoder outperformed the other models for multistep forecasting task in a regional grid cluster proposal.
Vibration-Based Energy Harvesters: New Ways to Scavenge Energy
Authors: Ouakad Hassen M.
Published: June 2023

The need for wirelessly connected systems is heavily anticipated in today’s smart world since it is necessary for such a world to quickly transform into a global market through them [...]
A Novel Energy Balance Control Method for a Modular Multilevel Converter in a High-Speed PMSM Drive Application
Authors: Xia Tianqi , Peng Fei , Huang Yunkai
Published: June 2023

Nowadays, high-speed permanent magnet synchronous machines (HSPMSMs) are widely used in high-speed direct-drive applications. Moreover, modular multilevel converters (MMCs) have attracted a lot of attention. In this paper, the mathematical model of the MMC for the HSPMSM was built on high- and low-speed regions, respectively, and the control of each model is completely decoupled. Moreover, energy balance control schemes based on the common mode current injection of the MMC with HSPMSM drive applications have been proposed for high- and low-speed cases, respectively. Based on this model, the controller is proposed for high- and low-speed cases, respectively. Simulation and experiment results indicate that the proposed energy balance control method for an MMC in the high-speed PMSM drive application exhibits significant performance, which can ensure the energy balance of the MMC and eliminate the circulating current of the MMC directly.
Selected Technologies of Electrochemical Energy Storage—A Review
Authors: Detka Kalina , Górecki Krzysztof
Published: June 2023

The paper presents modern technologies of electrochemical energy storage. The classification of these technologies and detailed solutions for batteries, fuel cells, and supercapacitors are presented. For each of the considered electrochemical energy storage technologies, the structure and principle of operation are described, and the basic constructions are characterized. Values of the parameters characterizing individual technologies are compared and typical applications of each of them are indicated. Selected characteristics illustrating properties of the presented electrochemical energy storage devices are also shown. The advantages and disadvantages of the considered electrochemical energy storage devices and typical areas of their application are indicated. In addition, new, constantly developing technologies, not yet commercially available, are mentioned. Examples of existing energy storage solutions using the discussed technologies on the example of electric cars or storage systems in the world are given.
Whiting (Merlangius merlangus) Grows Slower and Smaller in the Adriatic Sea: New Insights from a Comparison of Two Populations with a Time Interval of 30 Years
Authors: Calì Federico , Stranci Federica , La Mesa Mario , Mazzoldi Carlotta , Arneri Enrico , Santojanni Alberto
Published: June 2023

Nowadays, overexploitation and climate change are among the major threats to fish production all over the world. In this study, we focused our attention on the Adriatic Sea (AS), a shallow semi-enclosed sub-basin showing the highest exploitation level and warming trend over the last decades within the Mediterranean Sea. We investigated the life history traits and population dynamics of the cold-water species whiting (Merlangius merlangus, Gadidae) 30 years apart, which is one of the main commercial species in the Northern AS. The AS represents its southern limit of distribution, in accordance with the thermal preference of this cold-water species. Fish samples were collected monthly using a commercial bottom trawl within the periods 1990–1991 and 2020–2021. The historical comparison highlighted a recent reduction in large specimens (>25 cm total length, TL), which was not associated with trunked age structures, therefore indicating a decrease in growth performance over a period of 30 years (L∞90–91 = 29.5 cm TL; L∞20–21 = 22.8 cm TL). The current size at first sexual maturity was achieved within the first year of life, at around 16 cm TL for males and 17 cm TL for females. In the AS, whiting spawns in batches from December to March, showing a reproductive investment (gonadosomatic index) one order of magnitude higher in females than in males. Potential fecundity (F) ranged from 46,144 to 424,298, with it being heavily dependent on fish size. We hypothesize that the decreased growth performance might be related to a metabolic constraint, possibly related to the increased temperature and its consequences. Moreover, considering the detrimental effects of size reduction on reproductive potential, these findings suggest a potential endangerment situation for the long-term maintenance of whiting and cold-related species in the AS, which should be accounted for in setting management strategies.
Morphological and Functional Alterations in Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Liver after Exposure to Two Ecologically Relevant Concentrations of Lead
Authors: Macirella Rachele , Curcio Vittoria , Ahmed Abdalmoiz I. M. , Talarico Federica , Sesti Settimio , Paravani Enrique , Odetti Lucia , Mezzasalma Marcello , Brunelli Elvira
Published: June 2023

Lead (Pb) is a non-essential, highly toxic, and persistent element widely recognized as one of the most concerning pollutants. It is listed on the Priority List of Hazardous Substances. Widespread environmental contamination from Pb is a serious issue for human health and wildlife. In fish, Pb mainly accumulates in the liver, which is a key component for metal detoxification and excretion processes. In this study, we investigated, for the first time, the morphological and functional injuries induced in zebrafish (Danio rerio) liver by two very low and environmentally relevant concentrations of Pb (2.5 and 5 μg/L) after 48, 96, and 192 h of exposure. We observed significant histological alterations in all the exposed samples, and it was demonstrated that the extent of injuries increased with dose and exposure time. The most common modifications observed were congestion of blood vessels and sinusoids, cytoplasmic vacuolizations, parenchyma dyschromia, and macrophage proliferation. Pb administration also resulted in a significant increase in lipid content and the upregulation of key genes that are involved in metal detoxification (mtf1) and the defensive response against oxidative stress (sod1 and cat). We show that even very low doses of Pb can disrupt liver morphology and function.
Phylogenetic Analyses of Pristipomoides (Perciformes: Lutjanidae) Based on New Mitochondrial Genomes
Authors: Liu Chunhui , Li Dezhao , Zhang Yue , Péré Maxime , Zhuang Zhibo , Liu Jingyu , Zhou Haolang , Chen Xiao
Published: June 2023

The species in the genus Pristipomoides are commercial fishes with high economic value. There are few studies on the phylogenetic relationship within the genus Pristipomoides at present. mtDNA has the characteristics of maternal inheritance, close gene arrangement, and a high evolutionary rate, which is an excellent tool to study the phylogeny of the species. In this study, the mitochondrial genomes of five species in the genus Pristipomoides were sequenced using the Sanger sequencing method and analyzed for their features. The mitochondrial genome length of the five species ranged from 16,499 to 16,530 bp. The start codon was ATG\GTG, and the stop codon was TAA\TAG\T--\AGG. The ratio of Ka and Ks for protein-coding genes ranged from 0 to 0.117, suggesting a strong purifying selection acting on the 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs). The gene with the highest diversity was nd2 (NADH dehydrogenase subunit 2), suggesting the highest evolutionary rate. Phylogenetic analysis of five Pristipomoides species with other species of Lutjanidae was conducted using maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian Inference (BI). The results showed that P. zonatus and P. auricilla were closely related to P. argyrogrammicus and P. sieboldii, respectively, and P. filamentosus and P. multidens clustered together. Furthermore, A. rutilans is deeply nested within the Pristipomoides genus, indicating a close phylogenetic relationship with the species in the Pristipomoides genus. Based on this evidence, we suggest that A. rutilans should be classified under the Pristipomoides genus and recommend a revision in its taxonomy. The molecular data and phylogenetic analysis provided in this study would be helpful for the species identification and phylogenetic studies of the family Lutjanidae.
On a Singular Non local Fractional System Describing a Generalized Timoshenko System with Two Frictional Damping Terms
Authors: Mesloub Said , Alhefthi Reem K.
Published: June 2023

This paper concerns a nonhomogeneous singular fractional order system, with two frictional damping terms. This system can be considered as a generalization of the so-called Timoshenko system. Results on the existence, uniqueness, and continuous dependence on the solution were obtained via an energy approach, which mainly relies on a priori bounds and density arguments. The approach relies on functional analysis tools and operator theory. Very few results concerning the well-posedness of fractional order Timoshenko systems can be found in the literature. Our results generalize and improve the previous ones and significantly boost the development of the used method.
Polarizing Macrophage Functional Phenotype to Foster Cardiac Regeneration
Authors: Molinaro Claudia , Scalise Mariangela , Leo Isabella , Salerno Luca , Sabatino Jolanda , Salerno Nadia , De Rosa Salvatore , Torella Daniele , Cianflone Eleonora , Marino Fabiola
Published: June 2023

There is an increasing interest in understanding the connection between the immune and cardiovascular systems, which are highly integrated and communicate through finely regulated cross-talking mechanisms. Recent evidence has demonstrated that the immune system does indeed have a key role in the response to cardiac injury and in cardiac regeneration. Among the immune cells, macrophages appear to have a prominent role in this context, with different subtypes described so far that each have a specific influence on cardiac remodeling and repair. Similarly, there are significant differences in how the innate and adaptive immune systems affect the response to cardiac damage. Understanding all these mechanisms may have relevant clinical implications. Several studies have already demonstrated that stem cell-based therapies support myocardial repair. However, the exact role that cardiac macrophages and their modulation may have in this setting is still unclear. The current need to decipher the dual role of immunity in boosting both heart injury and repair is due, at least for a significant part, to unresolved questions related to the complexity of cardiac macrophage phenotypes. The aim of this review is to provide an overview on the role of the immune system, and of macrophages in particular, in the response to cardiac injury and to outline, through the modulation of the immune response, potential novel therapeutic strategies for cardiac regeneration.
Towards the Investigation of the Adaptive Divergence in a Species of Exceptional Ecological Plasticity: Chromosome-Scale Genome Assembly of Chouardia litardierei (Hyacinthaceae)
Authors: Radosavljević Ivan , Križanović Krešimir , Šarančić Sara Laura , Jakše Jernej
Published: June 2023

One of the central goals of evolutionary biology is to understand the genomic basis of adaptive divergence. Different aspects of evolutionary processes should be studied through genome-wide approaches, therefore maximizing the investigated genomic space. However, in-depth genome-scale analyses often are restricted to a model or economically important species and their closely related wild congeners with available reference genomes. Here, we present the high-quality chromosome-level genome assembly of Chouardia litardierei, a plant species with exceptional ecological plasticity. By combining PacBio and Hi-C sequencing technologies, we generated a 3.7 Gbp genome with a scaffold N50 size of 210 Mbp. Over 80% of the genome comprised repetitive elements, among which the LTR retrotransposons prevailed. Approximately 86% of the 27,257 predicted genes were functionally annotated using public databases. For the comparative analysis of different ecotypes’ genomes, the whole-genome sequencing of two individuals, each from a distinct ecotype, was performed. The detected above-average SNP density within coding regions suggests increased adaptive divergence-related mutation rates, therefore confirming the assumed divergence processes within the group. The constructed genome presents an invaluable resource for future research activities oriented toward the investigation of the genetics underlying the adaptive divergence that is likely unfolding among the studied species’ ecotypes.
Comparative Transcriptome Profiling of CMS-D2 and CMS-D8 Systems Characterizes Fertility Restoration Genes Network in Upland Cotton
Authors: Song Xiatong , Zhang Meng , Shahzad Kashif , Zhang Xuexian , Guo Liping , Qi Tingxiang , Tang Huini , Wang Hailin , Qiao Xiuqin , Feng Juanjuan , Han Yang , Xing Chaozhu , Wu Jianyong
Published: June 2023

Resolving the genetic basis of fertility restoration for cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) can improve the efficiency of three-line hybrid breeding. However, the genetic determinants of male fertility restoration in cotton are still largely unknown. This study comprehensively compared the full-length transcripts of CMS-D2 and CMS-D8 systems to identify potential genes linked with fertility restorer genes Rf1 or Rf2. Target comparative analysis revealed a higher percentage of differential genes in each restorer line as compared to their corresponding sterile and maintainer lines. An array of genes with specific expression in the restorer line of CMS-D2 had functional annotations related to floral development and pathway enrichments in various secondary metabolites, while specifically expressed genes in the CMS-D8 restorer line showed functional annotations related to anther development and pathway enrichment in the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites. Further analysis identified potentially key genes located in the target region of fertility restorer genes Rf1 or Rf2. In particular, Ghir_D05G032450 can be the candidate gene related to restorer gene Rf1, and Ghir_D05G035690 can be the candidate gene associated with restorer gene Rf2. Further gene expression validation with qRT-PCR confirmed the accuracy of our results. Our findings provide useful insights into decoding the potential regulatory network that retrieves pollen fertility in cotton and will help to further reveal the differences in the genetic basis of fertility restoration for two CMS systems.
Effects of Individual Circulating FFAs on Plasma and Hepatic FFA Epoxides, Diols, and Epoxide-Diol Ratios as Indices of Soluble Epoxide Hydrolase Activity
Authors: Oh Young Taek , Yang Jun , Morisseau Christophe , He Qiyi , Hammock Bruce , Youn Jang H.
Published: June 2023

Oxylipins, oxidation products of unsaturated free fatty acids (FFAs), are involved in various cellular signaling systems. Among these oxylipins, FFA epoxides are associated with beneficial effects in metabolic and cardiovascular health. FFA epoxides are metabolized to diols, which are usually biologically less active, by soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH). Plasma epoxide-diol ratios have been used as indirect measures of sEH activity. This study was designed to examine the effects of acute elevation of individual plasma FFAs on a variety of oxylipins, particularly epoxides, diols, and their ratios. We tested if FFA epoxide-diol ratios are altered by circulating FFA levels (i.e., substrate availability) independent of sEH activity. Wistar rats received a constant intravenous infusion of olive (70% oleic acid (OA)), safflower seed (72% linoleic acid (LA)), and fish oils (rich in ω-3 FFAs) as emulsions to selectively raise OA, LA, and ω-3 FFAs (eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)), respectively. As expected, olive, safflower seed, and fish oil infusions selectively raised plasma OA (57%), LA (87%), EPA (70%), and DHA (54%), respectively (p < 0.05 for all). Raising plasma FFAs exerted substrate effects to increase hepatic and plasma epoxide and diol levels. These increases in epoxides and diols occurred to similar extents, resulting in no significant changes in epoxide-diol ratios. These data suggest that epoxide-diol ratios, often used as indices of sEH activity, are not affected by substrate availability or altered plasma FFA levels and that epoxide-diol ratios may be used to compare sEH activity between conditions of different circulating FFA levels.
Successful Use of Methylene Blue in Catecholamine-Resistant Septic Shock: A Case Report and Short Literature Review
Authors: Pluta Michał P. , Putowski Zbigniew , Czempik Piotr F. , Krzych Łukasz J.
Published: June 2023

Despite efforts to improve treatment outcomes, mortality in septic shock remains high. In some patients, despite the use of several adrenergic drugs, features of refractory vasoplegic shock with progressive multiorgan failure are observed. We present a case report of the successful reversal of vasoplegic shock following the use of methylene blue, a selective inhibitor of the inducible form of nitric oxide synthase, which prevents vasodilation in response to inflammatory cytokines. We also briefly review the literature.
Photon- and Singlet-Oxygen-Induced Cis–Trans Isomerization of the Water-Soluble Carotenoid Crocin
Authors: Fusi Franco , Romano Giovanni , Speranza Giovanna , Agati Giovanni
Published: June 2023

Studying the cis–trans isomerization process in crocin (CR), one of the few water-soluble carotenoids extracted from saffron, is important to better understand the physiological role of cis-carotenoids in vivo and their potential as antioxidants in therapeutic applications. For that, cis–trans isomerization of both methanol- and water-dissolved CR was induced by light or thermally generated singlet oxygen (1O2). The kinetics of molecular concentrations were monitored by both high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and non-destructive spectrophotometric methods. These last made it possible to simultaneously follow the cis–trans isomerization, the possible bleaching of compounds and the amount of thermally generated 1O2. Our results were in accordance with a comprehensive model where the cis–trans isomerization occurs as relaxation from the triplet state of all-trans- or 13-cis-CR, whatever is the way to populate the CR triplet state, either by photon or 1O2 energy transfer. The process is much more (1.9 to 10-fold) efficient from cis to trans than vice versa. In H2O, a 1O2-induced bleaching effect on the starting CR was not negligible. However, the CR “flip-flop” isomerization reaction could still occur, suggesting that this process can represent an efficient mechanism for quenching of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in vivo, with a limited need of carotenoid regeneration.
Protective Effect of Amaranthus cruentus L. Seed Oil on UVA-Radiation-Induced Apoptosis in Human Skin Fibroblasts
Authors: Wolosik Katarzyna , Chalecka Magda , Palka Jerzy , Surazynski Arkadiusz
Published: June 2023

Since the exposure of fibroblasts to prolonged UVA radiation induces oxidative stress and apoptosis, there is a need for effective skin protection compounds with cytoprotective and antioxidant properties. One of their sources is Amaranthus cruentus L. seed oil (AmO), which is rich in unsaturated fatty acids, squalene, vitamin E derivatives and phytosterols. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether AmO evokes a protective effect on the apoptosis induced by UVA radiation in human skin fibroblasts. UVA radiation at an applied dose of 10 J/cm2 caused a significant reduction in the survival of human skin fibroblasts and directed them into the apoptosis pathway. Increased expression of p53, caspase-3, caspase-9 and PARP proteins in UVA-treated fibroblasts suggests the intrinsic mechanism of apoptosis. Application of the oil at 0.1% and 0.15% concentrations to UVA-treated cells decreased the expression of these proteins, which was accompanied by increased cell survival. Similarly, the UVA-dependent decrease in the expression of p-Akt and mTOR proteins was restored under the effect of the studied oil. The molecular mechanism of this phenomenon was related to the stimulation of antioxidant processes through the activation of Nrf2. This suggests that AmO stimulated the antioxidant system in fibroblasts, preventing the effects of UVA-induced oxidative stress, which may lead to pharmaceutical and cosmetological applications as a sun-protective substance.
Unraveling Molecular and Genetic Insights into Neurodegenerative Diseases: Advances in Understanding Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s Diseases and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Ciurea Alexandru Vlad , Mohan Aurel George , Covache-Busuioc Razvan-Adrian , Costin Horia-Petre , Glavan Luca-Andrei , Corlatescu Antonio-Daniel , Saceleanu Vicentiu Mircea
Published: June 2023

Neurodegenerative diseases are, according to recent studies, one of the main causes of disability and death worldwide. Interest in molecular genetics has started to experience exponential growth thanks to numerous advancements in technology, shifts in the understanding of the disease as a phenomenon, and the change in the perspective regarding gene editing and the advantages of this action. The aim of this paper is to analyze the newest approaches in genetics and molecular sciences regarding four of the most important neurodegenerative disorders: Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. We intend through this review to focus on the newest treatment, diagnosis, and predictions regarding this large group of diseases, in order to obtain a more accurate analysis and to identify the emerging signs that could lead to a better outcome in order to increase both the quality and the life span of the patient. Moreover, this review could provide evidence of future possible novel therapies that target the specific genes and that could be useful to be taken into consideration when the classical approaches fail to shed light.
Functional and Molecular Changes in the Prefrontal Cortex of the Chronic Mild Stress Rat Model of Depression and Modulation by Acute Ketamine
Authors: Mingardi Jessica , Ndoj Elona , Bonifacino Tiziana , Misztak Paulina , Bertoli Matteo , La Via Luca , Torazza Carola , Russo Isabella , Milanese Marco , Bonanno Giambattista , Popoli Maurizio , Barbon Alessandro , Musazzi Laura
Published: June 2023

Stress is a primary risk factor in the onset of neuropsychiatric disorders, including major depressive disorder (MDD). We have previously used the chronic mild stress (CMS) model of depression in male rats to show that CMS induces morphological, functional, and molecular changes in the hippocampus of vulnerable animals, the majority of which were recovered using acute subanesthetic ketamine in just 24 h. Here, we focused our attention on the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), a brain area regulating emotional and cognitive functions, and asked whether vulnerability/resilience to CMS and ketamine antidepressant effects were associated with molecular and functional changes in the mPFC of rats. We found that most alterations induced by CMS in the mPFC were selectively observed in stress-vulnerable animals and were rescued by acute subanesthetic ketamine, while others were found only in resilient animals or were induced by ketamine treatment. Importantly, only a few of these modifications were also previously demonstrated in the hippocampus, while most are specific to mPFC. Overall, our results suggest that acute antidepressant ketamine rescues brain-area-specific glutamatergic changes induced by chronic stress.
Domatinostat Targets the FOXM1–Survivin Axis to Reduce the Viability of Ovarian Cancer Cells Alone and in Combination with Chemotherapeutic Agents
Authors: Nakagawa-Saito Yurika , Mitobe Yuta , Suzuki Shuhei , Togashi Keita , Sugai Asuka , Kitanaka Chifumi , Okada Masashi
Published: June 2023

The deregulation of the FOXM1 transcription factor is a key molecular alteration in ovarian cancer, contributing to the development and progression of ovarian cancer via activation of the target genes. As such, FOXM1 is a highly attractive therapeutic target in the treatment of ovarian cancer, but there has been no clinically tested FOXM1 inhibitor to date. We investigated in this study the effects of domatinostat, a class I-selective HDAC inhibitor currently in the clinical stage of development as a cancer therapeutic, on the expression of FOXM1 and viability of ovarian cancer cells. Cell viability, as well as protein and mRNA expression of FOXM1 and its transcriptional target survivin, was examined after domatinostat treatment of TOV21G and SKOV3 ovarian cancer cell lines in the absence or presence of cisplatin and paclitaxel. The effect of FOXM1 knockdown on survivin expression and those of genetic and pharmacological inhibition of survivin alone or in combination with the chemotherapeutic agents on cell viability were also examined. Domatinostat reduced the protein and mRNA expression of FOXM1 and survivin and also the viability of ovarian cancer cells alone and in combination with cisplatin or paclitaxel at clinically relevant concentrations. Knockdown experiments showed survivin expression was dependent on FOXM1 in ovarian cancer cells. Survivin inhibition was sufficient to reduce the viability of ovarian cancer cells alone and in combination with the chemotherapeutic agents. Our findings suggest that domatinostat, which effectively targets the FOXM1–survivin axis required for the viability of ovarian cancer cells, is a promising option for the treatment of ovarian cancer.
Nicotianamine: A Key Player in Metal Homeostasis and Hyperaccumulation in Plants
Authors: Seregin Ilya V. , Kozhevnikova Anna D.
Published: June 2023

Nicotianamine (NA) is a low-molecular-weight N-containing metal-binding ligand, whose accumulation in plant organs changes under metal deficiency or excess. Although NA biosynthesis can be induced in vivo by various metals, this non-proteinogenic amino acid is mainly involved in the detoxification and transport of iron, zinc, nickel, copper and manganese. This review summarizes the current knowledge on NA biosynthesis and its regulation, considers the mechanisms of NA secretion by plant roots, as well as the mechanisms of intracellular transport of NA and its complexes with metals, and its role in radial and long-distance metal transport. Its role in metal tolerance is also discussed. The NA contents in excluders, storing metals primarily in roots, and in hyperaccumulators, accumulating metals mainly in shoots, are compared. The available data suggest that NA plays an important role in maintaining metal homeostasis and hyperaccumulation mechanisms. The study of metal-binding compounds is of interdisciplinary significance, not only regarding their effects on metal toxicity in plants, but also in connection with the development of biofortification approaches to increase the metal contents, primarily of iron and zinc, in agricultural plants, since the deficiency of these elements in food crops seriously affects human health.
Proteoglycans in Articular Cartilage and Their Contribution to Chondral Injury and Repair Mechanisms
Authors: Alcaide-Ruggiero Lourdes , Cugat Ramón , Domínguez Juan Manuel
Published: June 2023

Proteoglycans are vital components of the extracellular matrix in articular cartilage, providing biomechanical properties crucial for its proper functioning. They are key players in chondral diseases, specifically in the degradation of the extracellular matrix. Evaluating proteoglycan molecules can serve as a biomarker for joint degradation in osteoarthritis patients, as well as assessing the quality of repaired tissue following different treatment strategies for chondral injuries. Despite ongoing research, understanding osteoarthritis and cartilage repair remains unclear, making the identification of key molecules essential for early diagnosis and effective treatment. This review offers an overview of proteoglycans as primary molecules in articular cartilage. It describes the various types of proteoglycans present in both healthy and damaged cartilage, highlighting their roles. Additionally, the review emphasizes the importance of assessing proteoglycans to evaluate the quality of repaired articular tissue. It concludes by providing a visual and narrative description of aggrecan distribution and presence in healthy cartilage. Proteoglycans, such as aggrecan, biglycan, decorin, perlecan, and versican, significantly contribute to maintaining the health of articular cartilage and the cartilage repair process. Therefore, studying these proteoglycans is vital for early diagnosis, evaluating the quality of repaired cartilage, and assessing treatment effectiveness.
Structural and Biochemical Investigation of Selected Pathogenic Mutants of the Human Dihydrolipoamide Dehydrogenase
Authors: Szabo Eszter , Nemes-Nikodem Eva , Vass Krisztina Rubina , Zambo Zsofia , Zrupko Eszter , Torocsik Beata , Ozohanics Oliver , Nagy Balint , Ambrus Attila
Published: June 2023

Clinically relevant disease-causing variants of the human dihydrolipoamide dehydrogenase (hLADH, hE3), a common component of the mitochondrial α-keto acid dehydrogenase complexes, were characterized using a multipronged approach to unravel the molecular pathomechanisms that underlie hLADH deficiency. The G101del and M326V substitutions both reduced the protein stability and triggered the disassembly of the functional/obligate hLADH homodimer and significant FAD losses, which altogether eventually manifested in a virtually undetectable catalytic activity in both cases. The I12T-hLADH variant proved also to be quite unstable, but managed to retain the dimeric enzyme form; the LADH activity, both in the forward and reverse catalytic directions and the affinity for the prosthetic group FAD were both significantly compromised. None of the above three variants lent themselves to an in-depth structural analysis via X-ray crystallography due to inherent protein instability. Crystal structures at 2.89 and 2.44 Å resolutions were determined for the I318T- and I358T-hLADH variants, respectively; structure analysis revealed minor conformational perturbations, which correlated well with the residual LADH activities, in both cases. For the dimer interface variants G426E-, I445M-, and R447G-hLADH, enzyme activities and FAD loss were determined and compared against the previously published structural data.
Hormone-Dependent Cancers: New Aspects on Biochemistry and Molecular Pathology
Authors: Miki Yasuhiro
Published: June 2023

Hormones, especially steroids, are closely involved in the physiological functions and proliferation of various target tissues and have long been known to play a key role in the tumorigenesis or carcinogenesis of these target tissues [...]
Molecular Dynamics Simulations Combined with Markov Model to Explore the Effect of Allosteric Inhibitor Binding on Bromodomain-Containing Protein 4
Authors: Yang Xiaotang , Gao Yilin , Cao Fuyan , Wang Song
Published: June 2023

Bromodomain-Containing Protein 4 (BRD4) can play an important role in gene transcriptional regulation of tumor development and survival by participating in histone modification epigenetic mechanism. Although it has been reported that novel allosteric inhibitors such as ZL0590 have a high affinity with target protein BRD4 and good efficacy, their inhibitory mechanism has not been studied further. The aim of this study was to reveal the inhibition mechanism of allosteric inhibitor ZL0590 on Free-BRD4 and BRD4 binding MS436 (orthosteric inhibitor) by molecular dynamics simulation combined with a Markov model. Our results showed that BRD4-ZL0590 led to α-helices formation of 100–105 compared with Free-BRD4; the combination of MS436 caused residues 30–40 and 95–105 to form α-helices, while the combination of allosteric inhibitors untangled the α-helices formed by the MS436. The results of Markov flux analysis showed that the binding process of inhibitors mainly involved changes in the degree of α-helices at ZA loop. The binding of ZL0590 reduced the distance between ZA loop and BC loop, blocked the conformation at the active site, and inhibited the binding of MS436. After the allosteric inhibitor binding, the MS436 that could normally penetrate into the interior of the pocket was floating on the edge of the active pocket and did not continue to penetrate into the active pocket as expected. In summary, we provide a theoretical basis for the inhibition mechanism of ZL0590 against BRD4, which can be used as a reference for improving the development of drug targets for cancer therapy.
Design and Operation of a Gripper for a Berthing Task
Authors: Titov Alexander , Russo Matteo , Ceccarelli Marco
Published: June 2023

The idea of an extension of life for CubeSats is proposed to reduce space debris in a low-earth orbit. In this work, a gripper is designed for geometry-based grasping in berthing tasks. The grasping operation is outlined for square- and rectangle-shaped CubeSats. Equilibrium conditions are formulated to design the fingertips’ shape and parameters for grasping CubeSat bodies. A design scheme is proposed to provide the required accuracy. A design concept is developed into a lab prototype by using low-cost 3D printing manufacturing, and a mock-up grasping task that is representative of the berthing operation is evaluated with the lab prototype. Center-mass hanging setup for the prototype and grasped body is used to evaluate the impact of grasping, partially replicating the conditions in space by reducing the effect of gravity on the system.
Study of the Kinetics of Radiation Damage in CeO2 Ceramics upon Irradiation with Heavy Ions
Authors: Giniyatova Sholpan G. , Kozlovskiy Artem L. , Rspayev Ruslan M. , Borgekov Daryn B. , Zdorovets Maxim V.
Published: June 2023

In this work, the effect of irradiation with heavy Kr15+ and Xe22+ ions on the change in the structural and strength properties of CeO2 microstructural ceramics, which is one of the candidates for inert matrix materials for dispersed nuclear fuel, is considered. Irradiation with heavy Kr15+ and Xe22+ ions was chosen to determine the possibility of simulation of radiation damage comparable to the action of fission fragments, as well as neutron radiation, considering damage accumulation at a given depth of the near-surface layer. During the research, it was found that the main changes in the structural properties with an increase in the irradiation fluence are associated with the crystal lattice deformation distortions and the consequent radiation damage accumulation in the surface layer, and its swelling. Evaluation of the effect of gaseous swelling caused by the radiation damage accumulation showed that a variation in the ion type during irradiation results in a growth in the value of swelling and destruction of the near-surface layer with the accumulation of deformation distortions. Results of the strength variation demonstrated that the most intense decrease in the near-surface layer hardness is observed when the fluence reaches more than 1013–1014 ion/cm2, which is typical for the effect of overlapping radiation damage in the material.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Dual Scaled NbC/Ti2AlC Reinforced Titanium–Aluminum Composite
Authors: Cui Sen , Cui Chunxiang , Wang Xin
Published: June 2023

A TiAl composite containing hybrid particles and whisker reinforcements is fabricated by vacuum melting. The results of this study show that the comprehensive mechanical properties and refining effect of the material are best when the content of reinforcement is 1 wt.%, and then the mechanical properties begin to deteriorate as the content increases further. Finely dispersed NbC particles and uniformly dispersed Ti2AlC whiskers are the ideal second phases. The synergistic strengthening effect of NbC particles and in situ Ti2AlC whiskers are key to the improvement of mechanical properties. Compared with the TiAlNb matrix, the fracture stress/strain of the composite at 1073 K is improved from 612 MPa/19.4% to 836 MPa/26.6%; the fracture toughness at room temperature is improved from 18.8 MPa/m2 to 27.4 MPa/m2.
High Storable Power Density of Triboelectric Nanogenerator within Centimeter Size
Authors: Shang Yurui , Li Chengyu , Yu Gao , Yang Yuhan , Zhao Wenting , Tang Wei
Published: June 2023

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) possess significant attributes, such as a simple structure, high energy conversion efficiency, and ease of fabrication, rendering them crucial for powering mobile and distributed low-power electronic devices. In this study, a multilayer spring TENG with a cushion layer structure is proposed that enhances the output performance of the basic TENG structure. The fundamental topology of the energy harvesting circuit is chosen based on the electrical performance parameters of the generator and optimizes the selection of each electronic component in the actual circuit. This allows the small-size TENG (2 cm3) to have a high storable power density (5.45 mW m−2). Finally, the fabrication method of the small-size TENG and how to choose suitable electronic components based on the intrinsic electrical parameters of the TENG were summarized. This work provides valuable guidance for designing and fabricating self-powered IoT node devices.
Preparation of Bi2O3–YSZ and YSB–YSZ Composite Powders by a Microemulsion Method and Their Performance as Electrolytes in a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell
Authors: Liu Shuangshuang , Zhang Jingde , Tian Yuhang , Sun Jian , Huang Panxin , Li Jianzhang , Han Guifang
Published: June 2023

Bi2O3 is a promising sintering additive for YSZ that not only decreases its sintering temperature but also increases its ionic conductivity. However, Bi2O3 preferably grows into large-sized rods. Moreover, the addition of Bi2O3 induces phase instability of YSZ and the precipitation of monoclinic ZrO2, which is unfavorable for the electrical property. In order to precisely control the morphology and size of Bi2O3, a microemulsion method was introduced. Spherical Bi2O3 nanoparticles were obtained from the formation of microemulsion bubbles at the water–oil interface due to the interaction between the two surfactants. Nanosized Bi2O3–YSZ composite powders with good mixing uniformity dramatically decreased the sintering temperature of YSZ to 1000 °C. Y2O3-stabilized Bi2O3 (YSB)–YSZ composite powders were also fabricated, which did not affect the phase of YSZ but decreased its sintering temperature. Meanwhile, the oxygen vacancy concentration further increased to 64.9% of the total oxygen with the addition of 5 mol% YSB. In addition, its ionic conductivity reached 0.027 S·cm−1 at 800 °C, one order of magnitude higher than that of YSZ. This work provides a new strategy to simultaneously decrease the sintering temperature, stabilize the phase and increase the conductivity of YSZ electrolytes.