bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hyperbaric oxygen-induced acute lung injury: A mouse model study on pathogenic characteristics and recovery dynamics
Authors: Wang Shu , Chen Hong , Li Zhi , Xu Guangxu , Bao Xiaochen
Published: October 2024

Oxygen is an essential substance for the maintenance of human life. It is also widely used in clinical and diving medicine. Although oxygen is crucial for survival, too much oxygen can be harmful. Excessive oxygen inhalation in a short period of time can lead to injury, and the lung is one of the main target organs. Acute lung injury (ALI) induced by hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) is notably more severe than that caused by normobaric oxygen, yet systematic research on such injury and its regression is scarce. In this study, two independent experiments were designed. In the first experiment, mice were exposed to 2 atmospheres absolute (ATA), ≥95% oxygen for 2, 4, 6, and 8 h. Changes in lung histopathology, inflammation and expression of chemokines, alveolar-capillary barrier, and 8-OHdG were detected before and after the exposure. In the second experiment, these parameters were measured at 0 h, 12 h, and 24 h following 6 h of exposure to 2 ATA of ≥95% oxygen. Research indicates that ALI induced by HBO is characterized histologically by alveolar expansion, atelectasis, inflammatory cell infiltration, and hemorrhage. At 2 ATA, significant changes in the alveolar-capillary barrier were observed after more than 95% oxygen exposure for 4 h, as evidenced by increased Evans blue (EB) extravasation (p = 0.0200). After 6 h of HBO exposure, lung tissue pathology scores, 8-OHdG levels, and inflammatory and chemotactic factors (such as Il6, CCL2, CCL3, CXCL5, and CXCL10), intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM1), and vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM1) were significantly elevated. Compared to lung injury caused by normobaric oxygen, the onset time of injury was significantly shortened. Additionally, it was observed that these markers continued to increase after leaving the HBO environment, peaking at 12 h and starting to recover at 24 h, indicating that the peak of inflammatory lung injury occurs within 12 h post-exposure, with recovery beginning at 24 h. This contradicts the common belief that lung injury is alleviated upon removal from a high-oxygen environment. However, EB levels, which reflect damage to the alveolar-capillary barrier, and VE-Cadherin (VE-Cad), tight junction protein 1 (ZO-1), ICAM1, and VCAM1 remained significantly altered 24 h after leaving the HBO environment. This suggests that the alveolar-capillary barrier is the most sensitive and slowest recovering part of the lung injury induced by HBO. These findings can provide insights into the pathogenesis and progression of lung injury caused by HBO and offer references for identifying corresponding intervention targets.
Genome sequence of a European Diplocarpon coronariae strain and in silico structure of the mating-type locus
Authors: Richter Sophie , Kind Sabine , Oberhänsli Thomas , Schneider Michael , Nenasheva Natalia , Hoff Katharina , Keilwagen Jens , Yeon Il-Kweon , Philion Vincent , Moriya Shigeki , Flachowsky Henryk , Patocchi Andrea , Wöhner Thomas Wolfgang
Published: October 2024

Diplocarpon coronariae is a fungal pathogen that is prevalent in low-input apple production. Over the past 15 years, it has become increasingly distributed in Europe. However, comprehensive insights into its biology and pathogenicity remain limited. One particular aspect is the rarity of the sexual morph of this pathogen, a phenomenon hitherto unobserved in Europe. Diplocarpon coronariae reproduces through a heterothallic mating system requiring at least two different mating types for sexual reproduction. Genes determining the mating types are located on the mating-type locus. In this study, D. coronariae strain DC1_JKI from Dresden, Germany, was sequenced and used to unravel the structure of the mating type locus. Using short-read and long-read sequencing methods, the first gapless and near-complete telomere-to-telomere genome assembly of D. coronariae was achieved. The assembled genome spans 51.2 Mbp and comprises 21 chromosome-scale contigs of high completeness. The generated genome sequence was used to in silico elucidate the structure of the mating-type locus, identified as MAT1-2. Furthermore, an examination of MAT1-1 and MAT1-2 frequency across a diverse set of samples sourced from Europe and Asia revealed the exclusive presence of MAT1-2 in European samples, whereas both MAT loci were present in Asian counterparts. Our findings suggest an explanation for the absence of the sexual morph, potentially linked to the absence of the second mating idiomorph of D. coronariae in European apple orchards.
Overexpression of lily MicroRNA156-resistant SPL13A stimulates stem elongation and flowering in Lilium formosanum under non-inductive (non-chilling) conditions
Authors: Yamagishi Masumi , Nomizu Toshikazu , Nakatsuka Takashi
Published: October 2024

Flowering plants undergo juvenile vegetative, adult vegetative, and reproductive phases. Lily plants (Lilium spp.) develop scaly leaves during their juvenile vegetative phase. Stem elongation occurs in the adult vegetative phase and is followed by floral transition. As the duration of the juvenile vegetative phase is long in lilies, the microRNA156 (miR156) and SQUAMOSA PROMOTER-BINDING PROTEIN-LIKE (SPL) modules are expected to play a major role in vegetative phase change and flower induction. In the present study, we aimed to explore the functions of lily SLP13A. We evaluated phenotypic changes and gene expression in L. formosanum plants overexpressing miR156-resistant SPL13A (rSPL13A) and examined the accumulation levels of gene transcripts and mature miRNAs in non-transformed L. longiflorum plants. Lily plants overexpressing rSPL13A exhibited stem elongation under non-inductive conditions, and FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) genes were poorly involved in this stem elongation. Flowering was induced in the transformed plants with elongated stems, and the accumulation of MADS5 (APETALA1) transcripts and mature miR172 was elevated in these plants. In non-transformed lilies, SPL13A transcripts were highly accumulated in the shoot apices of both juvenile and adult plants. As mature miR156 was poorly accumulated in the shoot apices of the adult plants, SPL13A was active enough to stimulate stem elongation and flower induction. In contrast, mature miR156 was reliably detected in shoot apices of the juvenile plants. Because our transient assay using tobacco plants expressing a SPL13A-GFP fusion protein indicated that miR156 repressed SPL13A expression mainly at the translational level, SPL13A activity should be insufficient to stimulate stem elongation in the juvenile plants. In addition, the accumulation of MADS5 transcripts and mature miR172 in the shoot apices increased with plant growth and peaked before the transition to the reproductive phase. Therefore, we conclude that SPL13A regulates stem elongation in the adult vegetative phase, which differs from the mechanisms evaluated in Arabidopsis and rice, wherein stem elongation proceeds in a reproductive phase and FT genes are heavily involved in it, and that SPL13A induces flowering by the activation of genes related to the age pathway underlying floral transition, as APETALA1 and primary-MIR172 are mainly involved in this pathway.
The effect of aeration and irrigation on the improvement of soil environment and yield in dryland maize
Authors: Yu Zhen-zhen , Wang Hong-xuan , Yu De-shui , Yin Ning-xia , Zhang Jing
Published: October 2024

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of long-term aerated seepage irrigation technology on soil fertility changes and maize yield under continuous maize cropping system in red loam soil, and to explain the mechanism of maize yield increase under this technology, which can provide theoretical basis for crop quality improvement and yield increase under aerated irrigation (AI) technology. Therefore, this research was conducted for four field seasons in 2020–2023 at the National Soil Quality Observation Experimental Station, Zhanjiang, China. Soil aeration, soil fertility, root growth, physiological traits, and yield indicators were evaluated by conventional underground drip irrigation (CK) and AI. Our results showed that AI treatment significantly improved soil aeration and soil fertility. Increases in soil oxygen content, soil respiration rate, soil bacterial biomass, and soil urease activity were observed, corresponding to increases from 3.08% to 21.34%, 1.90% to 24.71%, 26.37% to 0.09%, and 12.35% to 100.96%, respectively. The effect of AI on maize indicators increased year by year. Based on improvements in soil aeration and fertility, root length, root surface area, and root dry weight under AI treatment were enhanced by 15.56% to 53.79%, 30.13% to 62.31%, and 19.23% to 35.64% (p < 0.05) compared to the CK group. In addition, maize agronomic traits and physiological characteristics showed improved performance; in particular, over 1.16% to 14.42% increases were identified in maize yield by AI treatment. Further analysis using a structural equation model (SEM) demonstrated that the AI technology significantly promotes the improvement of root indicators by enhancing soil aeration and soil fertility. As a result, maize yield could be increased significantly and indirectly
Discovery of genes that positively affect biomass and stress associated traits in poplar
Authors: Georgieva Tatyana , Yordanov Yordan , Yordanova Elena , Khan Md Rezaul Islam , Lyu Kaiwen , Busov Victor
Published: October 2024

Woody biomass serves as a renewable resource for various industries, including pulp and paper production, construction, biofuels, and electricity generation. However, the molecular mechanisms behind biomass traits are poorly understood, which significantly curtails the speed and efficiency of their improvement. We used activation tagging to discover genes that can positively affect tree biomass-associated traits. We generated and screened under greenhouse conditions a population of 2,700 independent activation tagging lines. A total of 761 lines, which had significantly and positively affected at least one biomass-associated trait, were discovered. The tag was positioned in the genome for forty lines which were affected in multiple traits and activation of proximal genes validated for a subset. For two lines we fully recapitulated the phenotype of the original lines through overexpression. Moreover, the overexpression led to more pronounced and additional improvements, not observed in the original lines. Importantly, the overexpression of a Fasciclin-like gene (PtaFLA10) and a Patatin-like gene (PtaPAT) was found to substantially improve biomass, with a 40% increase in dry-stem weight, and enhance drought tolerance, respectively. Additionally, PtaPAT overexpression increased cellulose content, which is crucial for biofuel production. Our work shows that the activation tagging approach applied even on a non-genome saturation scale in a poplar tree can be successfully used for the discovery of genes positively modify biomass productivity. Such dominant forward genetics approaches can aid in biotechnological manipulation of woody biomass traits and help unravel the functions and mechanisms of individual genes, gene families, and regulatory modules.
Voice biomarkers in middle and later adulthood as predictors of cognitive changes
Authors: Mahon Elizabeth , Lachman Margie E.
Published: October 2024

Background

Prosody voice measures, especially jitter and shimmer, have been associated with cognitive impairment and hold potential as early indicators of risk for cognitive decline. Prior research suggests that voice measures assessed concurrently with longitudinal cognitive outcomes are associated with 10-year cognitive declines in middle-age and older adults from Midlife in the U.S. (MIDUS) study.

Results

Using a subsample from the same study, we expanded previous research to examine voice measures that were (1) collected 8 years before cognitive outcomes, (2) derived from narrative speech in logical memory tests instead of word list recall tests, and (3) independent of the cognitive outcomes. Multilevel analyses controlled for covariates of age, sex, education, neurological conditions, depressive symptoms, and chronic conditions. The results indicated that higher jitter and lower shimmer predicted greater 10-year declines in episodic memory and working memory.

Conclusion

These findings extend previous research by highlighting prosody voice measures assessed 8 years earlier as predictors of subsequent cognitive declines over a decade.
Older people in the world of esport: a qualitative study
Authors: Esnard Catherine , Haza Marion , Grangeiro Rebeca
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The inclusion of older players in the gaming world is growing rapidly, leading to the emergence of specific categories for them at major esport events. The aim of this study is to analyze the psychological issues faced by older people when engaging with the competitive context of esport.

Materials and methods

The study was conducted in 2021 within the French association Silver Geek, which offers digital workshops using Nintendo Wii consoles to older people living in retirement homes and organizes annual amateur competitions between teams of older adults. This qualitative study involved 16 participants (eight women, eight men) aged 63 to 97 years. Semi-structured interviews were used to explore the motivations, emotional well-being, and social impact of esport on older people.

Results

The results show that older people who participate in esport are motivated by the discovery and mastery of new game skills, as well as the pleasure of performance through social comparison. All experience a psychological well-being that translates into intense positive emotions. Moreover, the esport context, whether during the pre-competition workshops or the competitions themselves, proved to be a strong vector for positive social relationships, especially with the young e-sports coaches. However, this activity had little impact on existing family relationships.

Conclusion

This study highlights the potential of esport as a recreational activity to promote mental health and social integration in older adults. The challenge for future research is to identify the levers that will enable this activity to become a true medium for intergenerational communication.
Falls and fall-related injuries: prevalence, characteristics, and treatment among participants of the Geelong Osteoporosis Study
Authors: Yosef Tewodros , Pasco Julie A. , Tembo Monica C. , Williams Lana J. , Holloway-Kew Kara L.
Published: October 2024

Background

Falls are a significant public health challenge, especially among older adults. In Australia, falls and related injuries incur an annual cost of $2.3 billion. However, there is a scarcity of prevalence data on falls among population-based groups. This study aimed to report the characteristics, circumstances, and treatment for falls and fall-related injuries in a population-based sample of Australian men and women.

Methods

Participants from the Geelong Osteoporosis Study provided cross-sectional data: baseline for men (2001–2006) and 10-year follow-up for women (2004–2008). Falls over the previous 12 months were self-reported by 2,631 participants aged 20–97 years (1,533 men and 1,098 women). The study described the timing, location, cause, and treatment of falls. Fall prevalence was standardized to the 2006 Australian population. Data collection included self-reported prior fractures, medication, disease conditions, anthropometry, and biochemical tests. Binary logistic regression identified factors linked to fall-related injuries.

Results

Fall rates by age group: 20–29 (24.4%), 30–39 (21.5%), 40–49 (18.7%), 50–59 (24.9%), 60–69 (25.0%), 70–79 (34.6%), 80+ (40.5%). The age-standardized prevalence of falls was 25.0% (95% CI: 23.4–26.7%). In adults ≥65 years, the age-standardized prevalence of falls was 32.4% (95% CI: 29.3–35.5%). Fallers were typically older, less mobile, had higher BMI and cholesterol levels, and were more likely to have musculoskeletal conditions, cancer, and polypharmacy. Men had a higher fall risk, but fewer fall-related fractures compared to women. Most falls occurred outdoors (62.1%), were due to extrinsic cause (58.5%), and were on the same level (78.5%). Factors associated with fall-related injuries included being female, elevated falls and falls outside the home. Nearly half (45.7%) of those injured sought medical attention, primarily from general practitioners (25.7%) and emergency departments (12.6%).

Conclusion

Falls are common, occurring in approximately one quarter of adults in this study, with a greater prevalence among those ≥65 years. Women experienced fewer multiple falls than men. Many participants sought medical attention, primarily from general practitioners. This research identifies fall characteristics and circumstances, informing targeted prevention strategies to reduce occurrences and alleviate burdens on healthcare systems and individuals.
Impact of pleural reconstruction on postoperative outcomes in rib tumor resection: a decade-long retrospective study
Authors: Xie Hao , Li Bowen , Sun Yixin , Ma Lin , Zhang Qiang
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the effects of pleural reconstruction during rib compartment tumor resection surgery on postoperative outcomes, including drainage volume, drainage duration, hospital stay, complications, and pain control.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 142 patients who underwent rib compartment tumor resection surgery at Beijing Jishuitan Hospital from January 2013 to October 2023. The patients were divided into two groups: those who received pleural reconstruction and those who did not. Data were collected from hospital medical records and outpatient care records, focusing on postoperative drainage volume, total drainage time, length of hospital stay, complications, and pain scores. Continuous variables were compared using t-tests or nonparametric tests, while categorical variables were analyzed using chi-square tests or Fisher's exact tests.

Results

The analysis showed no significant differences between the two groups in terms of postoperative complications and pain thresholds. However, patients who underwent pleural reconstruction had significantly lower postoperative drainage volume (937.74 ± 855.97 vs. 1,595.26 ± 1,054.50 ml, p < 0.05), shorter drainage duration (5.5 ± 2.39 vs. 8.43 ± 2.87 days, p < 0.05), and reduced length of hospital stay (7.32 ± 3.30 vs. 10.99 ± 6.83 days, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Pleural reconstruction during rib compartment tumor resection surgery reduces postoperative drainage volume, drainage duration, and hospital stay without increasing complications or short-term pain. Further large-scale studies are recommended to validate these findings.
A New Approximation for the Perimeter of an Ellipse
Authors: Moscato Pablo , Ciezak Andrew
Published: October 2024

We consider the problem of approximating the perimeter of an ellipse, for which there is no known finite formula, in the context of high-precision performance. Ellipses are broadly used in many fields, like astronomy, manufacturing, medical imaging, and geophysics. They are applied on large and nanoscales, and while numerical integration can be used to obtain precision measurements, having a finite formula can be used for modeling. We propose an iterative symbolic regression approach, utilizing the pioneering work of Ramanujan’s second approximation introduced in 1914 and a known Padé approximation, leading to good results for both low and high eccentricities. Our proposed model is also compared with a very comprehensive historical collection of different approximations collated by Stanislav Sýkora. Compared with the best-known approximations in this centuries-old mathematical problem, our proposed model performs at both extremities while remaining consistent in mid-range eccentricities, whereas existing models excel only at one extremity.
Virtual Reality-Based Alcohol Prevention: The Results of a Cross-Sectional Study with Visitors of an Art Exhibition
Authors: Hrynyschyn Robert , Kucenko Sergej , Lyk Patricia Bianca , Majgaard Gunver , Rockweiler Susanne , Stehr Sara , Stock Christiane
Published: October 2024

Virtual reality (VR) can help to prevent alcohol consumption by simulating peer pressure. While existing VR applications for adolescents are primarily tested in schools, expanding them to museums and art galleries offers setting-specific benefits and could enhance their reach. An interactive VR simulation was presented in an art exhibition on substance use reflection. This study aimed to (1) describe visitor experiences with the simulation and (2) analyse differences according to gender and age. Visitors (n = 293) explored Virtual LimitLab for about 15 min before completing a survey on user experience and perceived learning experiences, which also included open questions on its positive and negative aspects. The quantitative user experience and perceived learning experience items were rated positively, except for knowledge increase. Young visitors (≤18 years of age) perceived Virtual LimitLab as more interesting (p = 0.043) and exciting (p = 0.047) than older ones. Female visitors rated the reflective response (p = 0.016) and sensitisation to social pressure (p = 0.024) higher than males. The qualitative evaluation showed that visitors appreciated the simulation’s realism, authenticity and adaptability. VR-based public health interventions in the arts setting need further research to study their preventive potential.
Infiltration Characteristics and Hydrodynamic Parameters in Response to Topographic Factors in Bare Soil Surfaces, Laboratory Experiments Based on Cropland Fields of Purple Soil in Southwest China
Authors: Wang Yong , Ma Ziting , Li Dandan , Hou Guirong , Zheng Jiangkun
Published: October 2024

Topography is an important factor that impacts the hydrological processes on sloping farmlands. Yet, few studies have reported the combined influences of slope gradient and slope position on infiltration characteristics and hydrodynamic parameters on sloping croplands in purple soil regions, an important area for agricultural productivity in Southwest China. Here, laboratory-simulated rainfall experiments were conducted in a steel trough (5 m long, 2 m wide, and 0.45 m deep), and rainfall lasted for 1 h at a rate of 90 mm h−1 to examine the variations in the infiltration rates and hydrodynamic parameters under varying slope gradients (i.e., 3°, 6°, 10°, 15°, 21°, and 27°) and slope positions (i.e., upper, middle, and lower), and explore the relationships between the infiltration rate and the soil detachment rate. The results showed that the infiltration rate decreased gradually with duration rainfall and ultimately approached a steady state in the six slope treatments. Cumulative infiltration ranged from 15.54 to 39.32 mm during rainfall, and gradually reduced with the increase of slope gradient. The Horton’s model outperforms other models for predicting the infiltration rate with an R2 value of 0.86. Factors such as Darcy–Weisbach friction, flow shear force, Manning friction coefficient, unit energy, and runoff depth varied in the following order: upper slope > middle slope > lower slope, whilst the Reynolds number and Froude number gradually increased along the slope transect from the upper to lower slope positions. A significant linear function was fitted between the soil detachment rate and the infiltration rate at the gentle slopes (3°, 6°, 10°), whereas an exponential relationship was observed at the steep slopes (15°, 21°, and 27°). Observation also suggested that 15° was the critical slope gradient of sediment detachment, infiltration characteristics, and hydrodynamic parameters. Our results provide theoretical insight for developing models that predict the impacts of topographic factors on hydrological characteristic and soil erosion in hilly agricultural landscapes of purple soil fields.
Zinc Biofortification of Selective Colored Rice Cultivars: Improvement of Zinc Uptake, Agronomic Traits, and Nutritional Value
Authors: Wang Yuanqi , Farooq Muhammad Raza , Guo Yukun , Sun Haoyuan , Rao Pincheng , Peng Zhiwei , Chen Youtao , Yin Xuebin
Published: October 2024

It is difficult for ordinary rice to break the zinc-rich standard. However, employing multiple unique rice cultivar resources through biofortification of agronomic measures to achieve the target is a promising attempt. In this study, a pot experiment was conducted on seven different colored rice cultivars (GFHN 166, GFHN 168, GFHN 169, GH 1, GXHZ, GHSZ, and YXN), aiming to analyze the effect on zinc content, growth, quality, and health risk index when spraying zinc (400 g/ha) on the leaves at the heading age. The result indicated that after foliar biofortification treatment, the zinc content and the zinc accumulation of colored rice grains could reach up to 41.55 mg/kg and 2.28 mg/pot, respectively, increased by 43.92% and 65.22%. In addition, the SPAD value and grain protein content was 42.85 and 8.49%, also increased significantly by 2.15% and 2.91%, respectively. Among these, GXHZ and GHSZ could realize the zinc content of polished rice up to 69.7 mg/kg and 55.4 mg/kg, breaking through the standard of zinc-enrich rice (45 mg/kg). GXHZ plant height increased by 11.22%, and the zinc harvest index (6.44%) and zinc use efficiency (26.79%) were the highest. Meanwhile, the biofortification promoted the SPAD value of GHSZ and the protein content of GFHN 166 by 4.95% and 24.81%, respectively. Foliar-applied zinc at the heading stage is a vital practice to get better agronomic indicators, quality, and grain zinc biofortification of colored rice.
A Soybean Pyrroline-5-Carboxylate Dehydrogenase GmP5CDH1 Modulates Plant Growth and Proline Sensitivity
Authors: Dong Shupeng , Mao Zhuozhuo , Yang Zhongyi , Li Xiao , Hu Dezhou , Wu Fei , Yu Deyue , Huang Fang
Published: October 2024

Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.], as a globally commercialized crop, is an important source of protein and oil for both humans and livestock. With more frequent extreme weather disasters, abiotic stress has become one of the critical factors restricting soybean production. Proline (Pro) is a well-known substance in plants that responds to abiotic stress. To identify potential effector genes involved in soybean resistance to abiotic stress, we focused on the pyrroline-5-carboxylate dehydrogenase (P5CDH) which is a key enzyme in the degradation process of Pro. Through homologous sequence alignment, phylogenetic tree, and predicted expression, we chose GmP5CDH1 (Glyma.05G029200) for further research. Tissue-specific expression assay showed that GmP5CDH1 had higher expression levels in soybean seed and cotyledon development. Subcellular localization assay revealed that GmP5CDH1 was a nuclear-membrane-localized protein. As the result of the predicted cis-acting regulatory element indicates, the expression level of GmP5CDH1 was induced by low temperature, drought, salt stress, and ABA in soybean. Next, we constructed transgenic Arabidopsis overexpressing GmP5CDH1. The results showed that GmP5CDH1 also strongly responded to exogenous Pro, and overcame the toxicity of abiotic stress on plants by regulating the endogenous concentration of Pro. The interaction between GmP5CDH1 and GmSAM1 was validated through yeast two-hybrid, LUC fluorescence complementary, and BIFC. In conclusion, overexpression of a soybean pyrroline-5-carboxylate dehydrogenase GmP5CDH1 regulates the development of Arabidopsis thaliana by altering proline content dynamically under salt stress, especially improving the growth of plants under exogenous Pro.
Alien Rainbow Trout Oncorhynchus mykiss in the Balkhash Basin (Kazakhstan, Central Asia): 50 Years of Naturalization
Authors: Mamilov Nadir Shamilevich , Tursynali Marlen , Khassengaziyeva Gulnur Kuanyshkyzy , Urban Jan , Bartunek Dinara , Sharakhmetov Sayat Ermukhanbetovich , Sapargaliyeva Nazym , Urgenishbayeva Zhansulu , Kegenova Gulnar Bolatovna , Kozhabaeva Eleonora , Baimukanov Mirgaliy , Levin Boris
Published: October 2024

Rainbow trout, or mykiss (Oncorhynchus mykiss), is one of the most popular species used in aquaculture and has been naturalized worldwide, including in the Central Asian Balkhash basin, which has unique aboriginal fish fauna. Both rainbow trout from European farms and wild mykiss from Kamchatka were introduced to some mountain lakes and rivers of the Balkhash basin about 50 years ago. This study investigates the current distribution and life history traits of the alien species and its possible impact on the local fish fauna. This study showed that the rainbow trout occupies various habitats in the Ili River basin: mountain lakes, fast-flowing mountain rivers, and lowland rivers with slow currents and warm water (up to +27 °C). Rainbow trout from European fish farms dominate the mountain Middle Kolsay Lake, while the wild trout from Kamchatka occupies the small Ulken Kokpak River. Both co-occur in the Chilik River. Contrary to that in other regions, the distribution of rainbow trout in the Balkhash basin remained almost the same after their introduction. Broad intrapopulation variability in terms of size, growth rate, and maturation age was revealed, apparently as a result of adaptation to the new environment and intrapopulation competition. In particular, the growth rate has decreased, but life span, surprisingly, has increased as compared to the originally introduced fish. Intrapopulation variation in growth and maturity patterns was also noted. Differences in skin coloration between highland (cold-water) and lowland (warm-water) populations were discovered. The feeding mode of naturalized trout is insectivorous (insect imago), indicating that it occupies its own niche in the local fish communities. The largest population of rainbow trout was recorded in the Lower Kolsay Lake, lowering the population of native fish species, while in other localities, no negative impact on local fish communities was recorded.
Boosting Expression of a Specifically Targeted Antimicrobial Peptide K in Pichia pastoris by Employing a 2A Self-Cleaving Peptide-Based Expression System
Authors: Zhu Yunhui , Li Yuwen , Fang Yuxin , Hu Mingyang , Zhao Lu , Sui Mingrui , Dong Na
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: The current epidemic of drug-resistance bacterial strains is one of the most urgent threats to human health. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are known for their good activity against multidrug resistance bacteria. Specifically targeted AMPs (STAMPs) are a fraction of AMPs that target specific bacteria and maintain the balance of the healthy microbiota of a host. We reported a STAMP Peptide K (former name: peptide 13) for E. coli. The aim of this study was to effectively produce peptide K using methylotrophic yeast Pichia pastoris. Methods: Three inserts (sequence of peptide K (K), two copies of peptide K fused with 2A sequence (KTK), and two copies of peptide K fused with 2A and an extra α mating factor (KTAK)) were designed to investigate the effect of the number of repeats and the trafficking of peptide on the yield. Results: The yield from KTK was the highest—more than two-fold higher compared with K—implying the role of the 2A sequence in heterologous peptide expression apart from the co-translation. Then, the fermentation condition for KTK was optimized. The optimized yield of KTK was 6.67 mg/mL, suggesting the efficiency of the expression system. Selectivity, antibacterial activity, biocompatibility, and the stability of the fermentation product were equivalent to the chemically synthesized peptide. The actional mechanism of the fermentation product included membrane permeabilization and ROS induction. Conclusions: Together, our work provided a new perspective to augment the yield of the antimicrobial peptide in the microbial system, building a technological foundation for their large-scale production and expanding the market application of AMPs.
Can a Shorter Dwell Time Reduce Infective Complications Associated with the Use of Umbilical Catheters?
Authors: Buttera Martina , Corso Lucia , Casadei Leonardo , Valenza Cinzia , Sforza Francesca , Candia Francesco , Miselli Francesca , Baraldi Cecilia , Lugli Licia , Berardi Alberto , Iughetti Lorenzo
Published: October 2024

Background: Umbilical venous catheters (UVCs) are the standard of care in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) to administer fluids, parenteral nutrition and medications, although complications may occur, including central line-associated blood stream infections (CLABSIs). However, the dwell time to reduce CLABSI risk remains an open issue. Methods: We performed a single-center retrospective study of newborns hospitalized in the Modena NICU with at least one UVC inserted over a 6-year period (period 1: January 2011–December 2013; period 2: January 2019–December 2021). We selected a non-consecutive 6-year period to emphasize the differences in UVC management practices that have occurred over time in our NICU. The UVC dwell time and catheter-related complications during the first 4 weeks of life were examined. Results: The UVC dwell time was shorter in period 2 (median 4 days vs. 5 days, p < 0.00001). Between the two periods, the incidence of CLABSIs remained unchanged (p = 0.5425). However, in period 2, there was an increased need for peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) after UVC removal, with a rise in PICC infections after UVC removal (p = 0.0239). Conclusions: In our NICU, shortening UVC dwell time from 5 to 4 days did not decrease the UVC-related complications. Instead, the earlier removal of UVCs led to a higher number of PICCs inserted, possibly increasing the overall infectious risk.
Physiological and Microstructure Analysis Reveals the Mechanism by Which Formic Acid Delays Postharvest Physiological Deterioration of Cassava
Authors: Che Yannian , Ding Zhongping , Shen Chen , Fernie Alisdair R. , Tang Xiangning , Yao Yuan , Liu Jiao , Wang Yajie , Li Ruimei , Guo Jianchun
Published: October 2024

Formic acid is reported to act as a food preservative and feed additive, but its effects on controlling postharvest physiological deterioration (PPD) development in cassava are unclear. In this study, we assessed the effectiveness of different concentrations of formic acid in attenuating PPD occurrence in fresh-cut cassava. The results showed that the concentration of 0.1% (v/v) formic acid could significantly delay the occurrence of PPD, and that the higher the concentration of formic acid supplied, the later the occurrence of PPD symptoms. The physiological and biochemical analysis of 0.5%-formic-acid-treated cassava slices revealed that formic acid decreased the degradation of starch, inhibited the accumulation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), malondialdehyde (MDA), and water-soluble pectin in cassava slices with PPD development, and increased the activities of the antioxidant enzymes ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and glutathione reductase (GR). A microscopic observation showed that the formic acid treatment inhibited the enlargement of the intercellular space during the cassava PPD process, which suggests that the formation of an intercellular layer of the cell wall was inhibited by formic acid. This study thus revealed the mechanism used by formic acid to extend the cassava shelf life; however, a detailed evaluation of the possible side effects on, for example, the cyanide content will be needed to categorically ensure the safety of this method.
Managing the Nutraceutical and Sensorial Qualities of Pisanello, an Ancient Tomato Landrace, in Soilless Conditions
Authors: Cela Fatjon , Najar Basma , Taglieri Isabella , Sanmartin Chiara , Carmassi Giulia , Ceccanti Costanza , Incrocci Luca , Venturi Francesca
Published: October 2024

Recently, there has been significant consumer demand for traditional tomato varieties due to their favourable organoleptic qualities; however, the cultivation of these ancient varieties is becoming more restricted due to inadequate shelf life and low productivity. The “Pisanello” is a Tuscany tomato variety mainly cultivated in the provinces of Pisa, Lucca, and Livorno, and the main producers of this ancient tomato are small local farmers. The purpose of this work was, firstly, to study the range of quality parameters of this landrace tomato grown using different cultivation techniques, both in soil and soilless systems. For this purpose, the physicochemical parameters of Pisanello tomatoes grown in six different farms in Tuscany using both soilless and soil methods were investigated. Secondly, Pisanello tomatoes grown using different soilless techniques (rockwool and aeroponics) and soil-grown tomatoes (Pisanello and Goldmar F1) were evaluated from organoleptic and nutraceutical points of view. The sensory profile evaluation of all types of tomatoes under investigation was carried out. The aeroponic cultivation of Pisanello induced higher organoleptic qualities than those of tomatoes cultivated in rockwool (+34% for titratable acidity and +18% for total soluble solids). On the other hand, soilless rockwool-grown tomatoes showed a better sensory profile with respect to aeroponic cultivation. Nevertheless, the Goldmar F1 tomato, morphologically similar to ‘Pisanello’, received lower scores from the sensory panel compared to the Tuscany landrace tomato. This indicates that ancient tomato varieties selected over decades remain the preferred choice for consumers. Therefore, from a long-term viewpoint, the valorisation of local tomato varieties such as Pisanello can promote the regional commercialization of novel niche products originating from ancient fruit thanks to their acceptability by consumers.
Quantitative Assessment of Green Inventory Management in Supply Chains: Simulation-Based Study of Economic and Environmental Outcomes Aligned with ISO 14083 Standard
Authors: Žic Jasmina , Žic Samir , Đukić Goran
Published: October 2024

This research employs numerical simulations and scenario analysis to assess a supply chain model’s economic and environmental performance operating under stochastic market demand, with inventory levels managed by a periodic review (R, s, S) inventory system. The inventory model in this research is designed to determine the minimal inventory levels required to achieve predefined fill rates across various operational constraints. The supply chain’s inventory model simulates optimal responses to normally distributed market demand within 365-day periods characterized by mean and two levels of demand variability through two fill rate levels, two workweek schedules, 15 review periods, and 16 lead times. By conducting an extensive analysis of the 192000 simulation experiments of the supply chain under periodic review (R, s, S) inventory system, complex influences between system variables and economic outcomes of supply chain operation measured by ordering, transportation, holding, penalty, and total costs along with greenhouse gas emissions arising from inventory-related transportation according to the ISO 14083 standard are analyzed. The insights from this research have significant practical implications, providing valuable guidance for supply chain managers, researchers, and freight companies offering guidance for improving economic and environmental performance.
Research on Optimal Control of Treadmill Shock Absorption Based on Ground Reaction Force Constraint
Authors: Huang Lang , Wang Xiancheng , Wang Zeng , Wu Xueguang
Published: October 2024

Research shows that treadmill shock-absorbing devices can reduce the impact of ground reaction forces on the knee and ankle joints during running. Most existing treadmills use fixed or passive shock absorption, meaning their shock-absorbing systems do not actively adjust to changes in ground reaction forces (GRFs). Methods: This study establishes a mathematical model integrating human motion biomechanics and treadmill running surfaces, analyzing the relationships between various parameters affecting the system. Ultimately, an optimal shock-absorbing treadmill control system is designed, utilizing a microcontroller as the main control unit, airbags for shock absorption, and a widely used foot pressure testing system. Objective: The goal is to more effectively prevent running injuries caused by excessive foot pressure. Compared to conventional shock absorption systems, this design features an active multilevel adjustment function with higher precision in regulation. Results: The experimental results demonstrate that the ground reaction force (GRF) generated by the optimal shock-absorbing treadmill control system is reduced by up to 10% compared to that of a conventional shock-absorbing treadmill. Conclusions: This leads to a smaller impact force on the knees due to foot pressure, resulting in better injury prevention outcomes.
Research on a Bridge Hybrid Isolation Control System Based on PID Active Control and Genetic Algorithm Optimization
Authors: Li Ning , Sheng Ying , Zheng Wenjie , Yang Zhenchao , Zhang Zhonghai , Li Yanmei
Published: October 2024

A bridge hybrid isolation system, integrating both active and passive control strategies, is proposed and investigated to enhance seismic performance. The system is modeled as a two-layer structure, with the upper layer subjected to active control via a Proportional–Integral–Derivative (PID) controller, and the lower layer employing a conventional passive base isolation system. The displacement response of the superstructure is minimized by the control forces generated by the PID controller, which also accounts for the reaction forces transmitted to the lower isolation layer. To optimize the controller’s performance, a genetic algorithm is implemented for real-time tuning of the PID parameters. Numerical simulations, conducted using the Newmark method, are employed to assess the influence of active control on the lower isolation system. The results reveal that, while active control increases the peak displacement of the superstructure to some extent, it significantly prolongs the structural period, thus enhancing the system’s overall seismic resilience and stability.
Investigation of Load Characteristics and Stress-Energy Evolution Laws of Gob-Side Roadways Under Thick and Hard Roofs
Authors: Zhou Jinlong , Pan Junfeng , Xia Yongxue , Liu Wengang , Du Taotao , Wu Jianhong
Published: October 2024

The stress environments of gob-side roadways (GSRs) are becoming increasingly complex during deep coal mining under thick and hard roofs. This leads to strong strata behaviors, including roadway floor heave, roof subsidence, and even coal bursts. Among them, coal bursts pose the greatest threat to production safety in coal mines. Coal bursts in a GSR strongly correlate with the load characteristics and stress-energy evolution laws of the roadway. This study analyzes the roof structures of double working faces (DWFs) during the initial weighting stage (IWS) and full mining stage (FMS) of gob-side working faces (GSWFs). This study also explores how varying roof structures affect the stability of GSRs. Three-dimensional roof structure models of DWFs and mechanical models of dynamic and static loads superposition on a GSR throughout the IWS and FMS of a GSWF were developed. An analysis identified the primary stress sources affecting the GSR throughout various mining stages of the GSWF. Subsequently, the principle of “three-load” superposition was developed. A novel method was proposed to quantify the stress state in the GSR surrounding rock across different mining stages of the GSWF. The method quantitatively characterizes the load of the GSR surrounding rock. Based on this, the criterion for judging the burst failure of the roadway was established. Numerical simulations are used to analyze the stress-energy evolution laws of the working face, coal pillar, and GSR surrounding rock during the mining process of the GSWF. These findings offer valuable references for studying and preventing coal bursts in GSRs under equivalent geological situations.
Sequence-to-Sequence Models and Their Evaluation for Spoken Language Normalization of Slovenian
Authors: Sepesy Maučec Mirjam , Verdonik Darinka , Donaj Gregor
Published: October 2024

Sequence-to-sequence models have been applied to many challenging problems, including those in text and speech technologies. Normalization is one of them. It refers to transforming non-standard language forms into their standard counterparts. Non-standard language forms come from different written and spoken sources. This paper deals with one such source, namely speech from the less-resourced highly inflected Slovenian language. The paper explores speech corpora recently collected in public and private environments. We analyze the efficiencies of three sequence-to-sequence models for automatic normalization from literal transcriptions to standard forms. Experiments were performed using words, subwords, and characters as basic units for normalization. In the article, we demonstrate that the superiority of the approach is linked to the choice of the basic modeling unit. Statistical models prefer words, while neural network-based models prefer characters. The experimental results show that the best results are obtained with neural architectures based on characters. Long short-term memory and transformer architectures gave comparable results. We also present a novel analysis tool, which we use for in-depth error analysis of results obtained by character-based models. This analysis showed that systems with similar overall results can differ in the performance for different types of errors. Errors obtained with the transformer architecture are easier to correct in the post-editing process. This is an important insight, as creating speech corpora is a time-consuming and costly process. The analysis tool also incorporates two statistical significance tests: approximate randomization and bootstrap resampling. Both statistical tests confirm the improved results of neural network-based models compared to statistical ones.
Coupled System of Dual-Axis Clinostat and Helmholtz Cage for Simulated Microgravity Experiments
Authors: Malczyk Maciej , Blachowicz Tomasz , Ehrmann Andrea
Published: October 2024

The experimental investigation of plant growth under space conditions is a necessary prerequisite of long-term space missions. Besides experiments in space, many studies are performed under simulated microgravity, using a clinostat. However, the Earth magnetic field is usually not taken into account in such investigations. Here, a self-designed and constructed system of coupled devices—a clinostat and a Helmholtz cage—is presented. The clinostat can, on average, cancel the effective gravity field by using two independent rotations, enabling simulated zero-valued gravity experiments. Additionally, an appropriately symmetrically mounted Helmholtz cage can be used to cancel the natural Earth magnetic field in the volume where the clinostat is located. The combination of these two devices offers the opportunity, e.g., for bio-inspired experiments in which plant cultivation can be carried out in conditions that imitate a space environment. We provide information about the experimental setup and show first experimental results of growth tests.