bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genomic Selection for Weaning Weight in Alpine Merino Sheep Based on GWAS Prior Marker Information
Authors: Wang Haifeng , Li Chenglan , Li Jianye , Zhang Rui , An Xuejiao , Yuan Chao , Guo Tingting , Yue Yaojing
Published: June 2024

This study aims to compare the accuracy of genomic estimated breeding values (GEBV) estimated using a genomic best linear unbiased prediction (GBLUP) method and GEBV estimates incorporating prior marker information from a genome-wide association study (GWAS) for the weaning weight trait in highland Merino sheep. The objective is to provide theoretical and technical support for improving the accuracy of genomic selection. The study used a population of 1007 highland Merino ewes, with the weaning weight at 3 months as the target trait. The population was randomly divided into two groups. The first group was used for GWAS analysis to identify significant markers, and the top 5%, top 10%, top 15%, and top 20% markers were selected as prior marker information. The second group was used to estimate genetic parameters and compare the accuracy of GEBV predictions using different prior marker information. The accuracy was obtained using a five-fold cross-validation. Finally, both groups were subjected to cross-validation. The study’s findings revealed that the heritability of the weaning weight trait, as calculated using the GBLUP model, ranged from 0.122 to 0.394, with corresponding prediction accuracies falling between 0.075 and 0.228. By incorporating prior marker information from GWAS, the heritability was enhanced to a range of 0.125 to 0.407. The inclusion of the top 5% to top 20% significant SNPs from GWAS results as prior information into GS showed potential for improving the accuracy of predicting genomic breeding value.
Added Value of Sensor-Based Behavioural Monitoring in an Infectious Disease Study with Sheep Infected with Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Doekes Harmen P. , Petie Ronald , de Jong Rineke , Adriaens Ines , Wisselink Henk J. , Stockhofe-Zurwieden Norbert
Published: June 2024

Sensor technologies are increasingly used to monitor laboratory animal behaviour. The aim of this study was to investigate the added value of using accelerometers and video to monitor the activity and drinking behaviour of three rams from 5 days before to 22 days after inoculation with Toxoplasma gondii. We computed the activity from accelerometer data as the vectorial dynamic body acceleration (VDBA). In addition, we assessed individual drinking behaviour from video, using frame differencing above the drinker to identify drinking bouts, and Aruco markers for individual identification. Four days after inoculation, rams developed fever and activity decreased. The daytime VDBA from days 4 to 10 was 60–80% of that before inoculation. Animal caretakers scored rams as lethargic on days 5 and 6 and, for one ram, also on the morning of day 7. Video analysis showed that each ram decreased its number of visits to the drinker, as well as its time spent at the drinker, by up to 50%. The fever and corresponding sickness behaviours lasted until day 10. Overall, while we recognize the limited conclusiveness due to the small number of animals, the sensor technologies provided continuous, individual, detailed, and objective data and offered additional insights as compared to routine observations. We recommend the wider implementation of such technologies in animal disease trials to refine experiments and guarantee the quality of experimental results.
High Biofilm-Forming Multidrug-Resistant Salmonella Infantis Strains from the Poultry Production Chain
Authors: Musa Laura , Toppi Valeria , Stefanetti Valentina , Spata Noah , Rapi Maria Cristina , Grilli Guido , Addis Maria Filippa , Di Giacinto Giacomo , Franciosini Maria Pia , Casagrande Proietti Patrizia
Published: June 2024

The ability of Salmonella species to adhere to surfaces and form biofilms, leading to persistent environmental reservoirs, might represent a direct link between environmental contamination and food processing contamination. The purpose of this study was to investigate the biofilm-forming ability of 80 multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing Salmonella enterica serovar Infantis strains isolated from the broiler food chain production through whole genome sequencing (WGS), PCR, and morphotype association assays. Biofilm formation was quantified by testing the strains at two different temperatures, using 96-well polystyrene plates. The rough and dry colony (rdar) morphotype was assessed visually on Congo red agar (CRA) plates. Based on our results, all tested S. Infantis strains produced biofilm at 22 °C with an rdar morphotype, while at 37 °C, all the isolates tested negative, except one positive. Most isolates (58.75%) exhibited strong biofilm production, while 36.25% showed moderate production. Only 5 out of 80 (6.25%) were weak biofilm producers. WGS analysis showed the presence of the fim cluster (fimADF) and the csg cluster (csgBAC and csgDEFG), also described in S. Typhimurium, which are responsible for fimbriae production. PCR demonstrated the presence of csgD, csgB, and fimA in all 80 S. Infantis strains. To our knowledge, this is the first study comparing the effects of two different temperatures on the biofilm formation capacity of ESBL producing S. Infantis from the broiler production chain. This study highlights that the initial biofilm components, such as curli and cellulose, are specifically expressed at lower temperatures. It is important to emphasize that within the broiler farm, the environmental temperature ranges between 18–22 °C, which is the optimum temperature for in vitro biofilm formation by Salmonella spp. This temperature range facilitates the expression of biofilm-associated genes, contributing to the persistence of S. Infantis in the environment. This complicates biosecurity measures and makes disinfection protocols on the farm and in the production chain more difficult, posing serious public health concerns.
Native Joint Septic Arthritis
Authors: Wu Kevin A. , Kugelman David N. , Seidelman Jessica L. , Seyler Thorsten M.
Published: June 2024

Native joint septic arthritis (NJSA) is a severe and rapidly progressing joint infection, predominantly bacterial but also potentially fungal or viral, characterized by synovial membrane inflammation and joint damage, necessitating urgent and multidisciplinary management to prevent permanent joint damage and systemic sepsis. Common in large joints like knees, hips, shoulders, and elbows, NJSA's incidence is elevated in individuals with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, immunosuppression, joint replacement history, or intravenous drug use. This review provides a comprehensive overview of NJSA, encompassing its diagnosis, treatment, antibiotic therapy duration, and surgical interventions, as well as the comparison between arthroscopic and open debridement approaches. Additionally, it explores the unique challenges of managing NJSA in patients who have undergone graft anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. The epidemiology, risk factors, pathogenesis, microbiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, antibiotic treatment, surgical intervention, prevention, and prophylaxis of NJSA are discussed, highlighting the need for prompt diagnosis, aggressive treatment, and ongoing research to enhance patient outcomes.
Risk Factors for 30-Day Mortality in Nosocomial Enterococcal Bloodstream Infections
Authors: Zerbato Verena , Pol Riccardo , Sanson Gianfranco , Suru Daniel Alexandru , Pin Eugenio , Tabolli Vanessa , Monticelli Jacopo , Busetti Marina , Toc Dan Alexandru , Crocè Lory Saveria , Luzzati Roberto , Di Bella Stefano
Published: June 2024

Enterococci commonly cause nosocomial bloodstream infections (BSIs), and the global incidence of vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) BSIs is rising. This study aimed to assess the risk factors for enterococcal BSIs and 30-day mortality, stratified by Enterococcus species, vancomycin resistance, and treatment appropriateness. We conducted a retrospective cohort study (2014–2021) including all hospitalized adult patients with at least one blood culture positive for Enterococcus faecalis or Enterococcus faecium. We included 584 patients with enterococcal BSI: 93 were attributed to vancomycin-resistant E. faecium. The overall 30-day mortality was 27.5%; higher in cases of BSI due to vancomycin-resistant E. faecium (36.6%) and vancomycin-sensitive E. faecium (31.8%) compared to E. faecalis BSIs (23.2%) (p = 0.016). This result was confirmed by multivariable Cox analysis. Independent predictors of increased mortality included the PITT score, complicated bacteremia, and age (HR = 1.269, p < 0.001; HR = 1.818, p < 0.001; HR = 1.022, p = 0.005, respectively). Conversely, male gender, consultation with infectious disease (ID) specialists, and appropriate treatment were associated with reduced mortality (HR = 0.666, p = 0.014; HR = 0.504, p < 0.001; HR = 0.682, p = 0.026, respectively). In conclusion, vancomycin-resistant E. faecium bacteremia is independently associated with a higher risk of 30-day mortality.
Green Light Mitigates Cyclic Chronic Heat-Stress-Induced Liver Oxidative Stress and Inflammation via NF-κB Pathway Inhibition in Geese
Authors: Guo Binbin , Yan Leyan , Tang Yi , Du Jie , Dai Zichun , Liu Jie , Lei Mingming , Hou Zhuocheng , Zhu Huanxi
Published: June 2024

Heat stress (HS) induces various physiological disorders in poultry, negatively impacting feed intake, feed efficiency, and growth performance. Considering the documented anti-stress and growth-promoting benefits of monochromatic green light in poultry, we aimed to investigate its effects on cyclic chronic HS-induced oxidative stress (OS) and inflammation in geese. We established three treatment groups—geese exposed to white light (W), white light with HS treatment (WH), and green light with HS treatment (GH)—treated over a six-week period with daily HS sessions. The results revealed that cyclic chronic HS induced liver OS and inflammation, leading to hepatocellular injury and reduced growth performance and feed intake. In comparison, the growth performance of geese under green light significantly improved. Additionally, liver index, serum, liver malondialdehyde (MDA), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels were reduced. Serum total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), liver catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were enhanced, reducing hepatic OS and inflammation. Liver transcriptomic analysis indicated that green light alleviates cyclic chronic HS-induced liver injury and promotes geese growth performance by suppressing NF-κB pathway activation.
Antioxidant Extracts from Greek and Spanish Olive Leaves: Antimicrobial, Anticancer and Antiangiogenic Effects
Authors: Magyari-Pavel Ioana Zinuca , Moacă Elena-Alina , Avram Ștefana , Diaconeasa Zorița , Haidu Daniela , Ștefănuț Mariana Nela , Rostas Arpad Mihai , Muntean Delia , Bora Larisa , Badescu Bianca , Iuhas Cristian , Dehelean Cristina Adriana , Danciu Corina
Published: June 2024

Olea europaea L. is the most valuable species of the Olea type, and its products offer a wide range of therapeutical uses. The olive tree has been extensively studied for its nourishing qualities, and the “Mediterranean diet”, which includes virgin olive oil as a key dietary component, is strongly associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and various malignancies. Olive leaves, a by-product in the olive harvesting process, are valued as a resource for developing novel phytomedicines. For this purpose, two ethanolic extracts obtained from Olivae folium from Spain (OFS) and Greece (OFG) were investigated. Our findings contribute to a wider characterization of olive leaves. Both extracts displayed important amounts of phenolic compounds and pentacyclic triterpenes, OFG having higher concentrations of both polyphenols, such as oleuropein and lutein, as well as triterpenes, such as oleanolic acid and maslinic acid. The antioxidant capacity is similar for the two extracts, albeit slightly higher for OFG, possibly due to metal polyphenol complexes with antioxidant activity. The extracts elicited an antimicrobial effect at higher doses, especially against Gram-positive bacteria, such as Streptococcus pyogenes. The extract with lower inorganic content and higher content of polyphenols and triterpenic acids induced a strong anti-radical capacity, a selective cytotoxic effect, as well as antimigratory potential on A375 melanoma cells and antiangiogenic potential on the CAM. No irritability and a good tolerability were noted after evaluating the extracts on the in vivo Hen’s Egg Test−Chorioallantoic Membrane (HET-CAM). Therefore, the present data are suggestive for the possible use of the two types of olive leaf products as high-antioxidant extracts, potentially impacting the healthcare system through their use as antimicrobial agents and as anticancer and anti-invasion treatments for melanoma.
Shelf Life of Minced Pork in Vacuum-Adsorbed Carvacrol@Natural Zeolite Nanohybrids and Poly-Lactic Acid/Triethyl Citrate/Carvacrol@Natural Zeolite Self-Healable Active Packaging Films
Authors: Karabagias Vassilios K. , Giannakas Aris E. , Andritsos Nikolaos D. , Leontiou Areti A. , Moschovas Dimitrios , Karydis-Messinis Andreas , Avgeropoulos Apostolos , Zafeiropoulos Nikolaos E. , Proestos Charalampos , Salmas Constantinos E.
Published: June 2024

Enhancing food preservation and safety using environmentally friendly techniques is urgently needed. The aim of this study was to develop food packaging films using biodegradable poly-L-lactic acid (PLA) as biopolymer and carvacrol (CV) essential oil as an antioxidant/antibacterial agent for the replacement of chemical additives. CV was adsorbed onto natural zeolite (NZ) via a new vacuum adsorption method. The novel nanohybrid CV@NZ with a high CV content contained 61.7%wt. CV. Pure NZ and the CV@NZ nanohybrid were successfully dispersed in a PLA/triethyl citrate (TEC) matrix via a melt extrusion process to obtain PLA/TEC/xCV@NZ and PLA/TEC/xNZ nanocomposite films with 5, 10, and 15%wt CV@NZ or pure NZ content. The optimum resulting film PLA/TEC/10CV@NZ contained 10%wt. CV@NZ and exhibited self-healable properties, 22% higher tensile strength, 40% higher elongation at break, 45% higher water barrier, and 40% higher oxygen barrier than the pure PLA/TEC matrix. This film also had a high CV release content, high CV control release rate as well as 2.15 mg/L half maximal effective concentration (EC50) and 0.27 mm and 0.16 mm inhibition zones against Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella enterica ssp. enterica serovar Typhimurium, respectively. This film not only succeeded in extending the shelf life of fresh minced pork, as shown by the total viable count measurements in four days but also prevented the lipid oxidation of fresh minced pork and provided higher nutritional values of the minced meat, as revealed by the heme iron content determination. It also had much better and acceptable sensory characteristics than the commercial packaging paper.
Video Multi-Scale-Based End-to-End Rate Control in Deep Contextual Video Compression
Authors: Wei Lili , Yang Zhenglong , Zhang Hua , Liu Xinyu , Deng Weihao , Zhang Youchao
Published: June 2024

In recent years, video data have increased in size, which results in enormous transmission pressure. Rate control plays an important role in stabilizing video stream transmissions by balancing the rate and distortion of video compression. To achieve high-quality videos through low-bandwidth transmission, video multi-scale-based end-to-end rate control is proposed. First, to reduce video data, the original video is processed using multi-scale bicubic downsampling as the input. Then, the end-to-end rate control model is implemented. By fully using the temporal coding correlation, a two-branch residual-based network and a two-branch regression-based network are designed to obtain the optimal bit rate ratio and Lagrange multiplier λ for rate control. For restoring high-resolution videos, a hybrid efficient distillation SISR network (HEDS-Net) is designed to build low-resolution and high-resolution feature dependencies, in which a multi-branch distillation network, a lightweight attention LCA block, and an upsampling network are used to transmit deep extracted frame features, enhance feature expression, and improve image detail restoration abilities, respectively. The experimental results show that the PSNR and SSIM BD rates of the proposed multi-scale-based end-to-end rate control are −1.24% and −0.50%, respectively, with 1.82% rate control accuracy.
DRL-SRS: A Deep Reinforcement Learning Approach for Optimizing Spaced Repetition Scheduling
Authors: Xiao Qinfeng , Wang Jing
Published: June 2024

Optimizing spaced repetition schedules is of great importance for enhancing long-term memory retention in both real-world applications, e.g., online learning platforms, and academic applications, e.g., cognitive science. Traditional methods tackle this problem by employing handcrafted rules while modern methods try to optimize scheduling using deep reinforcement learning (DRL). Existing DRL-based approaches model the problem by selecting the optimal next item to appear, which implies the learner can only learn one item in a day. However, the most essential point to enhancing long-term memory is to select the optimal interval to review. To this end, we present a novel approach to DRL to optimize spaced repetition scheduling. The contribution of our framework is three-fold. We first introduce a Transformer-based model to estimate the recall probability of a learning item accurately, which encodes the temporal dynamics of a learner’s learning trajectories. Second, we build a simulation environment based on our recall probability estimation model. Third, we utilize the Deep Q-Network (DQN) as the agent to learn the optimal review intervals for learning items and train the policy in a recurrent manner. Experimental results demonstrate that our framework achieves state-of-the-art performance against competing methods. Our method achieves an MAE (mean average error) score of 0.0274 on a memory prediction task, which is 11% lower than the second-best method. For spaced repetition scheduling, our method achieves mean recall probabilities of 0.92, 0.942, and 0.372 in three different environments, the best performance in all scenarios.
Activated Biochar-Amended Phytoextraction of Selenium in Contaminated Soil under Cold Climate in Northern Québec (Canada)
Authors: Etteieb Selma , Braghiroli Flavia , Robert Émilie , Magdouli Sara , Kaur Brar Satinder , Blais Jean-François
Published: June 2024

Combining phytoextraction and biochar amendment was suggested as an alternative for selenium (Se) bioremediation in contaminated soils. The current study aimed to test the performance of activated biochar as an amendment for the phytoextraction of selenium-contaminated soil by Phleum sp. Results showed that Se immobilization in soil was enhanced by the addition of activated biochar owing to its improved physicochemical structure compared to pristine biochar. In parallel, activated biochar contributed to improving soil fertility by increasing pH and organic matter. The bioaccumulation factor (BAF) of Se in the absence of activated biochar and biochar amendment was 8.7, which suggests the suitability of the Phleum plant species as a Se secondary accumulator species to be further used in a Nordic context. Se plant uptake was positively correlated to Se level in soil, pH, redox potential, organic matter, cations (Ca, Mg, Na, K), metals (Al, Cr, Fe, Mn, Co, Pb) and anions (Cl, SO4). However, Se bioavailability for plant uptake was reduced due to Se immobilization in soil by activated biochar. Thus, activated biochar addition played an important role to support Se levels reduction in contaminated soil and consequently hinder phytoextraction performance by Phleum species. This combination of activated biochar and Phleum Se-accumulator plant was validated as an efficient solution for Se remediation in contaminated soil which could be applied at large scale under cold climates.
Anthropometric Parameters and Body Composition in Elite Lead Climbers and Boulderers—A Retrospective Study
Authors: Ginszt Agata , Zieliński Grzegorz , Dolina Aleksandra , Stachyra Estera , Zaborek-Łyczba Monika , Łyczba Jakub , Gawda Piotr , Ginszt Michał
Published: June 2024

Based on previous research studies and systematic reviews, success in sport climbing seems to be determined by variables such as strength, power, or endurance. However, besides strength-endurance parameters, several other factors may influence the performance of sports climbing. Moreover, there is a lack of research assessing differences in body composition and anthropometric parameters between lead climbing and bouldering—the two most common sport climbing subdisciplines. The presented research analyzed the connection between body mass, body height, body mass index, and the best result in sport climbing among male lead climbers and boulderers. Additionally, we investigated differences in starting climbing age and climbing experience in both climbing subdisciplines. We analyzed 422 male sport climbers’ profiles in two categories: “Route Ranking: Top-10 climbs last 12 months” for lead climbers and “Boulder Ranking: Top-10 climbs last 12 months” for boulderers based on the 8a.nu world ranking website. The results showed that the “Elite” and “Higher Elite” lead climbers had lower body mass and lower body height. These differences were also observed between “Elite” and “Higher Elite” lead climbers. The “Higher Elite” group started climbing at a younger age and had a more extended period to achieve the most challenging route than “Elite” climbers in both subdisciplines. Our results suggest that lower body mass and lower body height can be key factors in lead climbing performance.
Study of the UHPC–NC Interfacial Bonding Properties of Steel Tubes with Internally Welded Reinforcement Rings
Authors: Deng Nianchun , Lv Guohua , Li Wujun , Chen Zhiqian
Published: June 2024

Ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) has the advantages of high strength, excellent durability performance, etc., and its compressive strength is several times that of normal concrete (NC). Due to the role of materials such as steel fibers, the tensile strength of UHPC is higher than that of NC. For steel-tube concrete columns in corrosive seawater environments, UHPC–NC columns with welded ring reinforcement inside the steel tube are proposed to strengthen the interfacial bonding performance, and the effects of seawater corrosion of steel-tube concrete are studied. Eight steel-tube UHPC–NC specimens were designed for push-out tests. The steel tubes were internally constructed with glossy unconstructed and reinforcing rings, with the core concrete with UHPC used below and the C40 plain concrete used above. By examining push-out load, slip displacements, and steel-tube wall strains, this study analyzed the influence of different factors on the bond behavior and failure mechanism of bond-slip in shear-resistant reinforcing ring connectors. The push-out simulation of the steel-tube concrete was carried out using ABAQUS 2021 software, and the simulation results were compared with the experimental results, which showed good agreement. The results show that the bond strength of the steel tube–concrete column interface can be significantly improved by using the construction measures of internally welded reinforcement rings; for specimens with the same percentage of core concrete UHPC and C40 thickness, the bond strength of the two rings was significantly improved by approximately 33% over that of the one-ring reinforcement ring; corrosive environments will degrade the bond strength of the steel tube–concrete column interface.
First Approach for Defining an Analytical Protocol for the Determination of Microplastics in Cheese Using Pyrolysis–Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Di Fiore Cristina , Carriera Fabiana , Iannone Alessia , Paris Enrico , Gallucci Francesco , Avino Pasquale
Published: June 2024

The exposure of humans to microplastics through food is a topic of great interest. Foods of marine origin, such as fish and salt, have been the most extensively studied in this regard. Conversely, foods considered less likely to be contaminated (such as dairy products) have been investigated to a lesser extent. This is the first study addressing the occurrence of microplastics in cheese. In this paper, we report the first analytical approach for cheese preparation, before a chemical analysis of microplastics in cheese was performed. Therefore, the most suitable digestion methods were investigated. Alkaline digestion (i.e., KOH 5 M, 50 °C, 48 h) achieved a digestion efficiency of 97.5 ± 0.8%. To assess the feasibility of the preparative method proposed, a recovery rate of spiked polystyrene microbeads (~10 µm) of 98.5 ± 0.4% was determined. Further, the effects of the digestion agent on the microbeads were also investigated. To confirm whether the preparative method allows for the confirmation of the plastic-nature of microparticles, a qualification of spiked microplastics (polystyrene, 150 µm, and polyethylene terephthalate, 300 µm) was performed using pyrolysis–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry.
Impact of Multiple Faults on the Maximum Credible Ground-Motion Parameters of Large Earthquakes at a Near-Field Site
Authors: Li Jiangyi , Li Zhengfang , Zhou Bengang
Published: June 2024

The ground-motion simulation of regional-specific earthquake scenarios is crucial for the seismic design of key facilities. Herein, we considered parameter uncertainty in ground-motion simulations and the impact of multiple faults when determining the maximum credible ground-motion parameters of large earthquakes at a near-field dam. The source models of the Daju–Lijiang, Xiaozhongdian–Daju, and Longpan–Qiaohou faults were established based on geological and geophysical data. Although the method for identifying asperity is not yet mature and still faces many difficulties, it provides an opportunity to identify the non-uniform slip distribution on the rupture plane by earthquake scenarios. A multi-scheme stochastic finite-fault simulation method was then used to estimate the minimum; mean; maximum; and 50th-, 84th-, and 95th-percentile values of the peak ground acceleration and pseudo-spectral acceleration response spectra. The results showed that the Longpan–Qiaohou fault can generate the largest ground-motion parameters compared with the other two faults. Moreover, this result was supported by the statistical analysis of the results of twelve thousand simulations of these three faults. Thus, it can be concluded that the maximum credible ground-motion parameters are represented by the 84th-percentile pseudo-spectral acceleration response spectrum of the Longpan–Qiaohou fault. This finding will benefit the seismic safety design of the target dam. More importantly, this multi-scheme method can be applied to other key facilities to obtain reasonable ground-motion parameters.
Investigation and Validation of Short-Wave Scattering in the Anisotropic Ionosphere under a Geomagnetic Field
Authors: Zhang Zhigang , She Jingyi , Fu Hongwei , Zhao Lin , Ji Shengyun
Published: June 2024

Short-wave communication, operating within the frequency range of 3–30 MHz, is extensively employed for long-distance communication because of its extended propagation range and robustness. The ionosphere undergoes complex transformations when influenced by the geomagnetic field, evolving into an uneven and anisotropic electromagnetic medium. This complex property makes the transmission of electromagnetic fields within the ionosphere extremely complex, posing significant challenges for accurately evaluating electromagnetic scattering phenomena. To address the aforementioned challenges, this paper proposes a new method for calculating short-wave ionospheric scattering based on a complex anisotropic multilayer medium transmission matrix. Firstly, by utilizing the characteristic changes of ionospheric electron density with height, the ionization layer is divided into multiple horizontal thin layers, each with an approximately uniform electron density, forming a multilayer horizontal anisotropic structure. Subsequently, the scattering characteristics of electromagnetic waves in the ionosphere were calculated using the transmission matrix approach. The results calculated using this method are consistent with actual measurement values and superior to traditional short-wave ionospheric transmission calculation methods.
Mesenchymal Stromal Cells for the Enhancement of Surgical Flexor Tendon Repair in Animal Models: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Epanomeritakis Ilias Ektor , Eleftheriou Andreas , Economou Anna , Lu Victor , Khan Wasim
Published: June 2024

Flexor tendon lacerations are primarily treated by surgical repair. Limited intrinsic healing ability means the repair site can remain weak. Furthermore, adhesion formation may reduce range of motion post-operatively. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) have been trialled for repair and regeneration of multiple musculoskeletal structures. Our goal was to determine the efficacy of MSCs in enhancing the biomechanical properties of surgically repaired flexor tendons. A PRISMA systematic review was conducted using four databases (PubMed, Ovid, Web of Science, and CINAHL) to identify studies using MSCs to augment surgical repair of flexor tendon injuries in animals compared to surgical repair alone. Nine studies were included, which investigated either bone marrow- or adipose-derived MSCs. Results of biomechanical testing were extracted and meta-analyses were performed regarding the maximum load, friction and properties relating to viscoelastic behaviour. There was no significant difference in maximum load at final follow-up. However, friction, a surrogate measure of adhesions, was significantly reduced following the application of MSCs (p = 0.04). Other properties showed variable results and dissipation of the therapeutic benefits of MSCs over time. In conclusion, MSCs reduce adhesion formation following tendon injury. This may result from their immunomodulatory function, dampening the inflammatory response. However, this may come at the cost of favourable healing which will restore the tendon’s viscoelastic properties. The short duration of some improvements may reflect MSCs’ limited survival or poor retention. Further investigation is needed to clarify the effect of MSC therapy and optimise its duration of action.
Morinda citrifolia Essential Oil: A Plant Resistance Biostimulant and a Sustainable Alternative for Controlling Phytopathogens and Insect Pests
Authors: Dias Bruna Leticia , Sarmento Renato Almeida , Venzon Madelaine , Jumbo Luis Oswaldo Viteri , dos Santos Lucas Samuel Soares , de Souza Moura Wellington , Mourão Dalmarcia de Souza Carlos , Fernandes Paulo Ricardo de Sena , Neitzke Taila Renata , Oliveira João Victor de Almeida , Dias Tiago , Dalcin Mateus Sunti , Oliveira Eugênio E. , Santos Gil Rodrigues dos
Published: June 2024

With the growing demand for sustainable and safe agricultural practices, plant compounds emerge as a solution for biological activities. Here, we evaluated the potential of using Morinda citrifolia essential oil to induce plant resistance and to control phytopathogens (Curvularia lunata) and insect pests (Daubulus maidis). We conducted a chromatographic analysis to unveil the essential oil components. We also quantified the activity levels of antioxidant enzymes and chitinase for resistance induction. The antifungal action was evaluated through disease progression and the inhibition of mycelial growth in addition to in silico studies that made it possible to predict the interaction site between the fungal protein and the compounds. We assessed the toxicity and repellent actions towards the D. maidis. Octanoic acid (58.43%) was identified as the essential oil major compound. Preventive treatment with essential oil and octanoic acid (25.0 µL mL−1) increased not only the plant defense activities (i.e., the activity of the enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase, phenol peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase, and chitinase) but also controlled Curvularia leaf spot. The stable interactions between octanoic acid and tyrosine-tRNA ligase from C. lunata suggested protein synthesis inactivation. The essential oil inhibited 51.6% of mycelial growth, and this effect was increased to 75.9% with the addition of adjuvants (i.e., angico gum). The essential oil reduced 76% of the population of D. maidis adults and repelled 50% of the number of D. maidis after 48 h under field conditions. The repellency effect in the field reduced the population of D. maidis adults, transmitters of the stunting complex, by 50%. The results highlight the potential of M. citrifolia as a resistance activator, fungicide, insecticide, and an effective biorational alternative.
Synthesis of Chiral Acyclic Pyrimidine Nucleoside Analogues from DHAP-Dependent Aldolases
Authors: Nigro Mariano , Sánchez-Moreno Israél , Benito-Arenas Raúl , Valino Ana L. , Iribarren Adolfo M. , Veiga Nicolás , García-Junceda Eduardo , Lewkowicz Elizabeth S.
Published: June 2024

Dihydroxyacetone phosphate (DHAP)-dependent aldolases catalyze the aldol addition of DHAP to a variety of aldehydes and generate compounds with two stereocenters. This reaction is useful to synthesize chiral acyclic nucleosides, which constitute a well-known class of antiviral drugs currently used. In such compounds, the chirality of the aliphatic chain, which mimics the open pentose residue, is crucial for activity. In this work, three DHAP-dependent aldolases: fructose-1,6-biphosphate aldolase from rabbit muscle, rhanmulose-1-phosphate aldolase from Thermotoga maritima, and fuculose-1-phosphate aldolase from Escherichia coli, were used as biocatalysts. Aldehyde derivatives of thymine and cytosine were used as acceptor substrates, generating new acyclic nucleoside analogues containing two new stereocenters with conversion yields between 70% and 90%. Moreover, structural analyses by molecular docking were carried out to gain insights into the diasteromeric excess observed.
Correction: Firoozi et al. A Cell-Free SDKP-Conjugated Self-Assembling Peptide Hydrogel Sufficient for Improvement of Myocardial Infarction. Biomolecules 2020, 10, 205
Authors: Firoozi Saman , Pahlavan Sara , Ghanian Mohammad-Hossein , Rabbani Shahram , Tavakol Shima , Barekat Maryam , Yakhkeshi Saeed , Mahmoudi Elena , Soleymani Mansoureh , Baharvand Hossein
Published: June 2024

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
Extracellular Vesicle-Mediated Modulation of Stem-like Phenotype in Breast Cancer Cells under Fluid Shear Stress
Authors: Brown Spenser R. , Radcliffe Margaret E. , Danner Joseph T. , Andújar Cruz Wilmer J. , Lackey Kimberly H. , Park Han-A , Weinman Steven T. , Kim Yonghyun
Published: June 2024

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are some of the key culprits that cause cancer metastasis and metastasis-related deaths. These cells exist in a dynamic microenvironment where they experience fluid shear stress (FSS), and the CTCs that survive FSS are considered to be highly metastatic and stem cell-like. Biophysical stresses such as FSS are also known to cause the production of extracellular vesicles (EVs) that can facilitate cell–cell communication by carrying biomolecular cargos such as microRNAs. Here, we hypothesized that physiological FSS will impact the yield of EV production, and that these EVs will have biomolecules that transform the recipient cells. The EVs were isolated using direct flow filtration with and without FSS from the MDA-MB-231 cancer cell line, and the expression of key stemness-related genes and microRNAs was characterized. There was a significantly increased yield of EVs under FSS. These EVs also contained significantly increased levels of miR-21, which was previously implicated to promote metastatic progression and chemotherapeutic resistance. When these EVs from FSS were introduced to MCF-7 cancer cells, the recipient cells had a significant increase in their stem-like gene expression and CD44+/CD24− cancer stem cell-like subpopulation. There was also a correlated increased proliferation along with an increased ATP production. Together, these findings indicate that the presence of physiological FSS can directly influence the EVs’ production and their contents, and that the EV-mediated transfer of miR-21 can have an important role in FSS-existing contexts, such as in cancer metastasis.
Relationship between Serum Sirtuin 1 and Growth Hormone/Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 Concentrations in Children with Growth Hormone Deficiency and Idiopathic Short Stature
Authors: Fedorczak Anna , Kowalik Dorota , Kopciuch Justyna , Głowacka Ewa , Mikołajczyk Katarzyna , Tkaczyk Marcin , Lewiński Andrzej , Stawerska Renata
Published: June 2024

Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) inhibits growth hormone (GH) intracellular signaling for the insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) synthesis via the janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription proteins (STATs) pathway. The aim of this study was to compare SIRT1 concentrations in children with GH deficiency (GHD) and so-called idiopathic short stature (ISS, non-GH deficient), in order to determine the possible impact of changes in serum SIRT1 concentrations on the GH-IGF-1 axis. The study group included 100 short-stature children: 38 with GHD and 62 with ISS (maxGH in two stimulation tests <10 and ≥10 ng/mL, respectively). The control group consisted of 47 healthy, normal-height children. For each child, the concentrations of SIRT1, IGF-1 and insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3) were determined and the IGF-1/IGFBP-3 molar ratio was calculated. The level of SIRT1 was significantly higher in both groups of short children than in the controls (p < 0.0001), but there were no differences between GHD and ISS (mean ± SD: 0.89 ± 0.45 for ISS; 1.24 ± 0, 86 for GHD; and 0.29 ± 0.21 for controls). A significant negative correlation was found between SIRT1 and height standard deviation score (SDS), IGF-1 and IGF-1/IGFBP-3, but not between SIRT1 and maxGH. Elevated SIRT1 levels may serve as one of the mechanisms through which the secretion of IGF-1 is reduced in children with short stature; however, further research is required to confirm this issue.
Utility of Radiological Follow Up of Main-Duct Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms and Mixed-Type Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms
Authors: Tzadok Roie , Kessner Rivka , Ritter Einat , Aizic Asaf , Yashar Hila , Lazar Sapir , Katz Yuval , Ronen-Amsalem Zur , Chernomorets Arthur , Shibolet Oren , Ben-Ami Shor Dana
Published: June 2024

Background: Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) have the potential to evolve into pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC). While main-duct IPMNs (MD-IPMNs), involving the main pancreatic duct (MPD), are less common than side-branch IPMNs (SB-IPMNs) or mixed-type IPMNs (mixed-IPMNs), their malignant transformation potential is far greater. Controversy exists between different guidelines in terms of recommended management strategies. This study was aimed at assessing the utility of the radiological follow up of MD-IPMNs and mixed-type IPMNs, including prevalence of worrisome radiological findings as well as clinical and laboratory parameters, and their correlation with the development of progression or pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Methods: Eighty-four patients with MD-IPMNs or mixed-type IPMNs who underwent at least one magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) were included. Clinical and laboratory data were obtained retrospectively. A cross-sectional analysis was carried out to establish clinical and laboratory parameters associated with development of PDAC. A retrospective cohort analysis was performed on 44 patients who had at least six months of follow up, trying to identify factors correlating with worrisome radiological features. Results: Nine cases (10.7%) of PDAC were recorded in this cohort. The laboratory and imaging factors associated with cyst size progression greater than 5 mm during follow up were elevated alanine transaminase (ALT) levels, the maximal cyst size, and the MPD diameter. Cross-sectional analysis indicated that PDAC was associated with nausea (p = 0.01), as well as increased levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (p = 0.05), gamma glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) (p = 0.01), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (p = 0.01). Conclusions: Elevated levels of liver enzymes were associated with IPMN progression and, subsequently, the development of PDAC. ALT levels, maximal cyst size, and MPD diameter are associated with the progression of cyst size. These data may aid in risk-stratifying patients when determining the follow up approach for IPMNs.
The Analysis of ECE1 and PPARG Variants in the Development of Osteopenia and Osteoporosis in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Uzar Izabela , Bogacz Anna , Łuszczyńska Małgorzata , Wolek Marlena , Kotrych Katarzyna , Modrzejewski Andrzej , Czerny Bogusław , Ziętek Paweł , Kamiński Adam
Published: June 2024

Osteoporosis is a multifactorial systemic skeletal disease that is characterized by a low bone mineral density (BMD) and the microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue, leading to bone fragility. The search for new genes that may play an important role in the regulation of bone mass and the development of osteoporosis is ongoing. Recently, it was found that altering the activity of the endothelin-1-converting enzyme encoded by the ECE1 gene may affect bone mineral density (BMD). Another gene involved in the process of osteoblast differentiation and maturation is believed to be PPARG (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma). This participates in regulating the transformation of stem cells and affects the process of bone formation and resorption. Therefore, we analyzed the association of the ECE1 and PPARG variants with osteopenia and osteoporosis risk in the Polish population. This study included a group (n = 608) of unrelated Polish women (245 individuals with osteoporosis (aged: 57 ± 9), 109 individuals with osteopenia (aged: 53 ± 8) and 254 healthy controls (aged: 54 ± 8)). The real-time PCR technique was used to determine the genetic variants for rs213045 (-338G>T) and rs213046 (-839A>C) of the ECE1 gene and rs1801282 (Pro12Ala, C>G) of the PPARG gene. Analysis of the PPARG rs1801282 variants did not show any association with the risk of osteoporosis and osteopenia. However, in the densitometric results, lower median Z-score values were observed for the T allele compared to the G allele for the rs213045 variant of the ECE1 gene (−1.11 ± 1.07 vs. −0.78 ± 1.21, p = 0.021). Moreover, the TT genotype for the rs213045 variant was more common in women with osteopenia (13.8%, OR = 2.82, p < 0.05) and osteoporosis (7.8%, OR = 1.38, p > 0.05) compared to the control group (5.5%). Additionally, our results suggested that the T allele of rs213045 was more common in women with osteopenia compared to the controls. We further observed that the haplotype containing two major GA alleles of ECE1 (rs213045, rs213046) could reduce the risk of osteopenia in our population. Finally, we found that women with osteoporosis had statistically significantly lower body mass and BMI values compared to the control group. Our results suggest that the ECE1 rs213045 variant may increase the risk of osteopenia. However, the data obtained require confirmation in further studies.
Non-Faradaic Impedimetric Detection of Heavy Metal Ions via a Hybrid Nanoparticle-DNAzyme Biosensor
Authors: Panagopoulou Chrysi , Skotadis Evangelos , Aslanidis Evangelos , Tzourmana Georgia , Rapesi Annita , Tsioustas Charalampos , Kainourgiaki Maria , Kleitsiotis Georgios , Tsekenis George , Tsoukalas Dimitrios
Published: June 2024

Due to rapid industrialization, novel water-quality monitoring techniques for the detection of highly toxic and hazardous heavy metal ions are essential. Herein, a hybrid noble nanoparticle/DNAzyme electrochemical biosensor is proposed for the simultaneous and label-free detection of Pb2+ and Cr3+ in aqueous solutions. The sensor is based on the combination of a two-dimensional naked-platinum nanoparticle film and DNAzymes, whose double-helix configuration disassembles into smaller fragments in the presence of target-specific heavy metal ions. The electrochemical behavior of the fabricated sensor was investigated with non-faradaic electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), resulting in the successful detection of Pb2+ and Cr3+ well below their maximum permitted levels in tap water. So far, there has been no report on the successful detection of heavy metal ions utilizing the non-faradaic electrochemical impedance spectroscopy technique based on advanced nanomaterials paired with DNAzymes. This is also one of the few reports on the successful detection of chromium (III) via a sensor incorporating DNAzymes.
Impacts of Kinematic Information on Action Anticipation and the Related Neurophysiological Associations in Volleyball Experts
Authors: Li Xizhe , Wang Danlei , Gao Siyu , Zhou Chenglin
Published: June 2024

In this study, we investigated the cognitive mechanisms underlying action anticipation in volleyball players, especially concerned with the differences between experts and amateurs. Participants included both expert (male, N = 26) and amateur (male, N = 23) volleyball players, who were asked to predict spiking movements containing high, medium, and low levels of kinematic information while their electrophysiological activities were recorded. The high-information stimuli included the whole spiking action, the medium-information stimuli ended at 120 ms, and the low-information stimuli ended at 160 ms before hand–ball contact. The results showed that experts significantly outperformed amateurs in both prediction accuracy (68% in experts vs. 55% in amateurs) and reaction time (475.09 ms in experts vs. 725.81 ms in amateurs) under the medium-information condition. Analysis of alpha rhythm activity revealed that experts exhibited the strongest desynchronization under the low-information condition, suggesting increased attentional engagement. In contrast, amateurs showed the weakest desynchronization under the medium-information condition. Furthermore, mu rhythm activity analysis showed greater desynchronization in the duration of 100–300 ms before hand–ball contact for experts, correlating with their higher anticipation accuracy. These findings highlight the significant kinematic information-processing abilities of volleyball experts and elucidate the neural mechanisms underlying efficient attentional engagement and mirroring. Therefore, this study provides valuable insights for the development of targeted training programs through which to enhance athletic performance.
Selective Activation of the Spinal Cord with Epidural Electrical Stimulation
Authors: Cuellar Carlos , Lehto Lauri , Islam Riaz , Mangia Silvia , Michaeli Shalom , Lavrov Igor
Published: June 2024

Spinal cord epidural electrical stimulation (EES) has been successfully employed to treat chronic pain and to restore lost functions after spinal cord injury. Yet, the efficacy of this approach is largely challenged by the suboptimal spatial distribution of the electrode contacts across anatomical targets, limiting the spatial selectivity of stimulation. In this study, we exploited different ESS paradigms, designed as either Spatial-Selective Stimulation (SSES) or Orientation-Selective Epidural Stimulation (OSES), and compared them to Conventional Monopolar Epidural Stimulation (CMES). SSES, OSES, and CMES were delivered with a 3- or 4-contact electrode array. Amplitudes and latencies of the Spinally Evoked Motor Potentials (SEMPs) were evaluated with different EES modalities. The results demonstrate that the amplitudes of SEMPs in hindlimb muscles depend on the orientation of the electrical field and vary between stimulation modalities. These findings show that the electric field applied with SSES or OSES provides more selective control of amplitudes of the SEMPs as compared to CMES. We demonstrate that spinal cord epidural stimulation applied with SSES or OSES paradigms in the rodent model could be tailored to the functional spinal cord neuroanatomy and can be tuned to specific target fibers and their orientation, optimizing the effect of neuromodulation.