bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quorum Quenching Nanofibers for Anti-Biofouling Applications
Authors: Taiswa Amos , Andriolo Jessica M. , Hailer M. Katie , Skinner Jack L.
Published: January 2024

Biofilms, complex microbial communities, adept at forming on diverse surfaces within environments, such as membrane technologies, ship hulls, medical devices, and clinical infections, pose persistent challenges. While various biofilm prevention methods, including antimicrobial coatings, physical barriers, and bacteriophage utilization, have been devised for engineered systems, their efficacy fluctuates based on application type and microbial species. Consequently, there remains a pressing need for the development of highly targeted and efficient biofilm control strategies tailored to specific applications remains a pressing need. In our investigation, we disrupt microbial cell-to-cell communication in Pseudomonas aeruginosa through the application of anti-quorum sensing (anti-QS) furanone C-30 molecules. The incorporation of these molecules onto electrospun surfaces yielded substantial reductions of 69% in petri dish assays and 58% on mixed cellulose ester (MCE) membranes in a dead-end nanofiltration system, showcasing the potent anti-biofouling impact. Notably, the functionalization of MCE surfaces with anti-QS molecules resulted in a remarkable 16.7% improvement in filtration output. These findings underscore the potential of this targeted approach to mitigate biofilm formation, offering a technical foundation for advancing tailored strategies in the ongoing pursuit of effective and application-specific biofilm control measures.
Recent Progress on the Tribology of Pure/Doped Diamond-like Carbon Coatings and Ionic Liquids
Authors: Shaikh Shahsharif , Sadeghi Mohammadamin , Cruz Sandra , Ferreira Fábio
Published: January 2024

This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in tribology concerning pure/doped diamond-like carbon coatings (DLCs) and ionic liquid (ILs) interaction. DLC coatings are often used in industrial machinery and processes where sliding occurs between surfaces, leading to wear and degradation of their surfaces. DLC coatings are optimized by adjusting operating and deposition parameters as well as doping them with other elements to improve performance, such as thermal stability and chemical resistance. ILs are a promising green lubricant option due to their low melting temperature, superior thermal stability, and high miscibility with organic substances. ILs have been studied as neat lubricants and additives, and their tribological properties have been investigated, including their use as extreme temperature lubricants. The tribological properties of pure/doped DLC coatings with ILs have also been explored, although limited research has been conducted in this area. The combined effect of DLCs and ILs shows great promise in reducing energy loss due to friction, promoting longevity, and conserving energy.
The Impact of Spinning Speed on n-TiO2/ZnO Bilayer Thin Film Fabricated through Sol–Gel Spin-Coating Method
Authors: Arifin Nurliyana Mohamad , Mhd Noor Ervina Efzan , Mohamad Fariza , Mohamad Norhidayah
Published: January 2024

The spinning speed parameter plays a crucial role in determining the properties of an n-TiO2/ZnO bilayer thin film fabricated using the sol–gel spin-coating technique, especially for solar cell applications. In this study, various spinning speeds were employed on an n-TiO2/ZnO bilayer thin film, and characterizations were conducted, such as morphological, structural, and optical properties. The findings revealed that the optimal conditions for the thin film were achieved at a spinning speed of 3000 rpm. Under this condition, a homogenous and compact surface morphology was observed, with an even distribution of ZnO grains. The successful fabrication of an n-TiO2/ZnO bilayer thin film was confirmed by the presence of characteristic peaks for both TiO2 and ZnO. Obviously, three dominant ZnO orientation peaks, which included (100), (002), and (101) were identified. The prevalence of the (002)-ZnO orientation plane indicated a high-quality structure with excellent crystallinity. In terms of optical properties, the achievement of high transmittance up to 75% resembles the high transparency of the thin film. The optical energy of the n-TiO2/ZnO bilayer thin film is estimated at 3.10 eV. In summary, the spinning speed parameter played a pivotal role in enhancing various properties of the thin film, making it a significant factor in its development for diverse applications.
Tailoring the Silicon Cementation Applied to P265GH Grade Steel
Authors: Branzei Mihai , Cojocaru Mihai Ovidiu , Morariu Mircea Dan , Druga Leontin Nicolae
Published: January 2024

Increasing the serviceability of industrial components intended for the petrochemical industry is possible through their superficial saturation with silicon (silicon cementation). Obtaining a silicon-rich surface coating results in a considerable increase in corrosion resistance, refractoriness, and wear resistance. One of the most economically convenient options for silicon cementation is pack siliconizing in powdery solid media. This paper presents the possibility of pack siliconizing that contains ferrosilicon (FeSi75C) and a thermite mixture (SiO2 + Al) as active, silicon-providing components, in P265GH grade steel, which is frequently used in the petrochemical industry. The aim of the study was to determine the most suitable active component of the two that were analyzed and at the same time identify the processing conditions in which the siliconized coating has the greatest thickness, is free of porosity, and is in direct contact with the support. The use of experimental programming methods allowed the optimization of the operation to obtain the optimal solution. It was concluded that the thermite mixture is not compatible with pack siliconizing because it results in a superficial saturation predominantly composed of aluminum. When ferrosilicon is used as the active component, it determines the particularly intense formation kinetics of the non-porous siliconized coating with its maximum thickness being reached at high processing temperature values (over 1100 °C) with a proportion of 60% FeSi75 and, simultaneously, with the lowest possible proportion of ammonium chloride (max. 3%), which is the surface activation/cleaning component.
Effects of Friction Stir Processing on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of an Ultralight Mg-Li Alloy
Authors: Song Wenjie , Wu Zongyu , He Shuai , Liu Jie , Yang Guang , Liu Yanhui , Jin Huijin , He Yupeng , Heng Zhonghao
Published: January 2024

Magnesium–lithium alloys are arguably the lightest metal structural materials but have low strength. In order to increase strength, friction stir processing (FSP) is applied to a hot-rolled Mg-10Li-3Al-3Zn (LA103Z) sheet to study the effects on the microstructure and mechanical properties. In this study, the strengthening mechanisms of various FSP regions of an Mg-Li alloy were clarified by a combination of numerical simulation and experimental method. Based on ANSYS APDL, a finite element model with a moving heat source is established. Rotational speeds of 800, 1000, and 1200 rpm and traverse speeds of 100, 110, and 120 mm/min were used in this research. The simulation results confirm that the influence of the rotation speed on the alloy temperature field is greater than that of the travel speed. The temperature of the processing area increases with an increase in rotation speed and decreases with an increase in travel speed. Then, hot-rolled LA103Z alloy plates are processed by FSP. The correspondence between the numerical simulation and experiment was verified by infrared thermography. The results indicate that FSP decreases the grain size significantly for the dynamic recrystallization and dramatic mechanical crushing of the stirring pin. The α-Mg and AlLi are solid soluted in the β-Li matrix. The tensile strength of the processing zone is 260.67 MPa (1000 rpm, 110 mm/min) versus the 170.47 MPa of the base metal. The SZ has the highest microhardness of 77.8 HV (800 rpm, 120 mm/min) and decreases gradually to the BM. The severe deformation, recrystallization, and solid solution of the α-Mg are important factors contributing to the improved mechanical properties.
Does the Efficacy of Semaglutide Treatment Differ between Low-Risk and High-Risk Subgroups of Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Obesity Based on SCORE2, SCORE2-Diabetes, and ASCVD Calculations?
Authors: Matovinović Martina , Belančić Andrej , Jug Juraj , Mustač Filip , Sirovica Maja , Santini Mihovil , Bošnjaković Anja , Lovrić Mario , Lovrić Benčić Martina
Published: January 2024

Background: Diabetes is the primary contributor to cardiovascular disease risk, and when combined with obesity, it further underscores the significance of cardiovascular risk assessment. Methods: A retrospective study of 64 patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity on once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide stratified by cardiovascular risk categories determined using the SCORE2/SCORE2-OP, SCORE2-Diabetes, and ASCVD score calculations. We compare the differences between groups (ASCVD: low + borderline + intermediate versus high-risk group; SCORE2/SCORE2-OP: low + moderate versus high + very high-risk group and SCORE2-Diabetes: low + moderate versus high + very high-risk group) in terms of change from baseline in body mass index (BMI) and HbA1c and weight loss outcomes. Results: Patients in the high-risk group, according to ASCVD risk score, had statistically better results in weight loss ≥ 3%, ≥5%, and ≥10% compared to ASCVD low + borderline + intermediate and without difference regarding HbA1c. According to SCORE2/SCORE2-OP, the high + very high-risk group had statistically better HbA1c and weight loss results but only for ≥5% versus the low + moderate risk group. Based on the score SCORE2-Diabetes, the high + very high-risk group had statistically significant better results in lowering HbA1c and weight loss but only for ≥5% versus the low + moderate risk group. Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, this study represents the initial investigation linking glycemic control and weight reduction outcomes in individuals with T2D and obesity treated with once-weekly semaglutide stratified by cardiovascular risk categories determined using the SCORE2/SCORE2-OP, SCORE2-Diabetes and ASCVD score calculations.
Transfer Learning in Multiple Hypothesis Testing
Authors: Cabras Stefano , Nueda María Eugenia Castellanos
Published: January 2024

In this investigation, a synthesis of Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) and Bayesian inference is presented, leading to a novel approach to the problem of Multiple Hypothesis Testing (MHT). Diverging from traditional paradigms, this study introduces a sequence-based uncalibrated Bayes factor approach to test many hypotheses using the same family of sampling parametric models. A two-step methodology is employed: initially, a learning phase is conducted utilizing simulated datasets encompassing a wide spectrum of null and alternative hypotheses, followed by a transfer phase applying this fitted model to real-world experimental sequences. The outcome is a CNN model capable of navigating the complex domain of MHT with improved precision over traditional methods, also demonstrating robustness under varying conditions, including the number of true nulls and dependencies between tests. Although indications of empirical evaluations are presented and show that the methodology will prove useful, more work is required to provide a full evaluation from a theoretical perspective. The potential of this innovative approach is further illustrated within the critical domain of genomics. Although formal proof of the consistency of the model remains elusive due to the inherent complexity of the algorithms, this paper also provides some theoretical insights and advocates for continued exploration of this methodology.
Economic Shocks and Perceptions of Efficiency Changes: The Cases of Lithuania and Latvia
Authors: Subačienė Rasa , Budrionytė Ramunė , Žemgulienė Jolanta , Faituša Ivita , Rudžionienė Kristina
Published: January 2024

In recent years, economic uncertainty has been heightened, including as a result of the economic shocks generated by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia–Ukraine War, and the unstable international political situation. These had a global impact on various spheres and influenced all economic processes. However, the lack of available data has made it difficult to investigate the latest global events and their consequences. The latest studies continue to concentrate on the COVID-19 economic crisis. This study investigates accounting specialists’ perceptions of the changes in employee and company efficiency and changes in the main performance indicators during the economic crisis provoked by the COVID-19 pandemic. The research employed an online questionnaire administered to accountants at various levels. Descriptive statistical data analysis methods were used for the evaluation of the survey results. The results show that 86% of respondents had the possibility of working online before the quarantine period, around 30% of respondents indicated an increase in work efficiency when working online, and more than 40% of respondents indicated that the company’s main performance indicators (revenue, cost of sales, profit) remained stable under the quarantine regime. During the pandemic, Latvia experienced greater fluctuations than Lithuania in the main performance indicators, but overall, both countries maintained a positive tendency toward stability and recovery.
Artificial Intelligence for Electrochemical Prediction and Optimization of Direct Carbon Fuel Cells Fueled with Biochar
Authors: Cherni Adam , Halouani Kamel
Published: January 2024

At present, direct carbon fuel cells constitute an emerging energy technology that electrochemically converts solid carbon to electricity with high efficiency. The recent trend of DCFCs fueled with biochar from biomass carbonization as green fuel has reinforced the environmental benefits of DCFCs as a clean and sustainable technology. However, there remain new challenges related to some complex unknown kinetic parameters, X=(αa,αc,σg,i0,a,i0,c,ilO2,ilCO2,c,ilCO2,a,ilCO), of the electrochemical conversion of biochar in DCFCs and there is a need for intelligent techniques for prediction and optimization, refering to the available experimental data. The differential evolution (DE) algorithm, which ranked as one of the top performers in optimization competitions with competitive accuracy and convergence speed, was used here for providing the optimized values of these parameters by minimizing the root mean squared errors (RMSE). The proposed technique was then applied to DCFCs fueled by activated pure carbon (APC) using CO2 and CO/CO2 electrochemical models with RMSE around 10−2 and 10−3, respectively. Then, the CO/CO2 model was applied to a DCFC fueled with almond shell biochar (ASB), which displayed a slight increase in RMSE (of the order of 10−2) due to the complex porous structure of ASB and the content of additional chemical elements that affect the electrochemistry of the DCFC and are not considered in the model.
Compression Ignition Internal Combustion Engine’s Energy Parameter Research Using Variable (HVO) Biodiesel and Biobutanol Fuel Blends
Authors: Valeika Gintaras , Matijošius Jonas , Orynycz Olga , Rimkus Alfredas , Kilikevičius Artūras , Tucki Karol
Published: January 2024

This study investigates the impact of different biofuels, such as pure hydrogenated vegetable oil, hydrogenated vegetable oil, and biobutanol, as well as their blends, on the non-energetic operational characteristics of a compression ignition internal combustion engine. The research investigations were conducted using a turbocharged direct injection compression ignition engine that was put within a Skoda Octavia 1.9 TDI automobile. Throughout the investigation, the primary emphasis was placed on analyzing energy characteristics such as power, brake-specific fuel consumption (BSFC), brake thermal efficiency (BTE), and other related factors. The analysis involved the utilization of multiple combinations of bio-based fuels, namely four mixes of HVO with biobutanol (HVO100, HVOB5, HVOB10, and HVOB20), which were subsequently compared to fossil diesel (D100). The findings of the study indicate that the utilization of HVO100 fuel results in notable reductions in power output and mass fraction when compared to D100 gasoline. HVO100 fuel demonstrates superior performance to D100 gasoline, exhibiting a range of 1.7% to 28% improvement in brake-specific fuel consumption. Additionally, at an engine speed of 4500 rpm, the use of HVO100 fuel leads to a decrease in brake thermal efficiency of 4.4%.
Estimating Forest Variables for Major Commercial Timber Plantations in Northern Spain Using Sentinel-2 and Ancillary Data
Authors: Novo-Fernández Alís , López-Sánchez Carlos A. , Cámara-Obregón Asunción , Barrio-Anta Marcos , Teijido-Murias Iyán
Published: January 2024

In this study, we used Spanish National Forest Inventory (SNFI) data, Sentinel-2 imagery and ancillary data to develop models that estimate forest variables for major commercial timber plantations in northern Spain. We carried out the analysis in two stages. In the first stage, we considered plots with and without sub-meter geolocation, three pre-processing levels for the Sentinel-2 images and two machine learning algorithms. In most cases, geometrically, radiometrically, atmospherically and topographically (L2A-ATC) corrected images and the random forest algorithm provided the best results, with topographic correction producing a greater gain in model accuracy as the average slope of the plots increased. Our results did not show any clear impact of the geolocation accuracy of SNFI plots on results, suggesting that the usual geolocation accuracy of SNFI plots is adequate for developing forest models with data obtained from passive sensors. In the second stage, we used all plots together with L2A-ATC-corrected images to select five different groups of predictor variables in a cumulative process to determine the influence of each group of variables in the final RF model predictions. Yield variables produced the best fits, with R2 ranging from 0.39 to 0.46 (RMSE% ranged from 44.6% to 61.9%). Although the Sentinel-2-based estimates obtained in this research are less precise than those previously obtained with Airborne Laser Scanning (ALS) data for the same species and region, they are unbiased (Bias% was always below 1%). Therefore, accurate estimates for one hectare are expected, as they are obtained by averaging the values of 100 pixels (model resolution of 10 m pixel−1) with an expected error compensation. Moreover, the use of these models will overcome the temporal resolution problem associated with the previous ALS-based models and will enable annual updates of forest timber resource estimates to be obtained.
Searching for Jewish Ancestors before They Had a Fixed Family Name—Three Case Studies from Bohemia, Southern Germany, and Prague
Authors: Fürth Thomas
Published: January 2024

Anyone who traces their Jewish ancestors back to the 18th century and even further back in history encounters the challenge of looking for ancestry without the clue that a fixed family name provides. Before the end of the 18th and beginning of the 19th century, when Jews were forced by law to adopt a fixed family name, Ashkenazim Jewish families used patronymic names as last names. A patronymic name changes every generation. Sometimes, in larger cities, various types of nicknames were used as last names. Such a nickname could change within a generation and often indicated the place a person came from, his occupation, or personal characteristics. In this article, I will show, using three case studies, how I have faced the challenge of determining which patronymic names and nicknames my ancestors used as last names before they were forced to adopt a fixed family name. The three case studies are the ancestors of Josef Stern, who lived in the late 18th and early 19th century in Neu Bistritz in southern Bohemia, today Nova Bystrice in Czechia; Julius Strauss, 1883–1939, who lived in the late 18th, 19th, and early 20th century in Frücht and Giessen in Nassau/Hesse, today in southern Germany; and Simon Reiniger, who lived in Prague in the 18th and early 19th century.
Cerebrospinal Fluid C1-Esterase Inhibitor and Tie-1 Levels Affect Cognitive Performance: Evidence from Proteome-Wide Mendelian Randomization
Authors: Zagkos Loukas , Dib Marie-Joe , Cronjé Héléne T. , Elliott Paul , Dehghan Abbas , Tzoulaki Ioanna , Gill Dipender , Daghlas Iyas
Published: January 2024

Objective: The association of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) protein levels with cognitive function in the general population remains largely unexplored. We performed Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses to query which CSF proteins may have potential causal effects on cognitive performance. Methods and analysis: Genetic associations with CSF proteins were obtained from a genome-wide association study conducted in up to 835 European-ancestry individuals and for cognitive performance from a meta-analysis of GWAS including 257,841 European-ancestry individuals. We performed Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses to test the effect of randomly allocated variation in 154 genetically predicted CSF protein levels on cognitive performance. Findings were validated by performing colocalization analyses and considering cognition-related phenotypes. Results: Genetically predicted C1-esterase inhibitor levels in the CSF were associated with a better cognitive performance (SD units of cognitive performance per 1 log-relative fluorescence unit (RFU): 0.23, 95% confidence interval: 0.12 to 0.35, p = 7.91 × 10−5), while tyrosine-protein kinase receptor Tie-1 (sTie-1) levels were associated with a worse cognitive performance (−0.43, −0.62 to −0.23, p = 2.08 × 10−5). These findings were supported by colocalization analyses and by concordant effects on distinct cognition-related and brain-volume measures. Conclusions: Human genetics supports a role for the C1-esterase inhibitor and sTie-1 in cognitive performance.
Effects of Different Foliar Fertilizer Treatments on Fruit Quality of the Korla Fragrant Pear
Authors: Zhuang Yuan , Wang Xiaoya , Gong Xin , Bao Jianping
Published: January 2024

Persistent calyx affects the fruit quality of the Korla fragrant pear including increasing fruit hardness. In order to reduce fruit hardness and improve fruit quality, in this study, we used the Korla fragrant pear which has persistent calyx. Korla fragrant pear fruit at different development stages were treated with foliar fertilizers of 101 and calcium–magnesium (Ca–Mg) solutions, and the hardness and pectase, cellulose, lipoxygenase, and amylase activities of persistent calyx fruit were determined and analyzed. We found that the fruit hardness of two foliar fertilizers increased compared with the control after treatment. The fruit hardness of calcium–magnesium foliar fertilizer and 101 foliar fertilizer treatments were increased by 11.7% and 6.8% compared with the control, respectively. Furthermore, the activities of cellulase, pectinase, and lipoxygenase were increased by 30%, 12.7%, and 42% after treatment with calcium–magnesium foliar fertilizer, respectively. The 101 foliar fertilizer inhibited the contents of cellulose and starch. In summary, the internal quality of Korla fragrant pear fruit treated with calcium–magnesium foliar fertilizer was better than 101 foliar fertilizer. It was confirmed that calcium and magnesium foliar fertilizer had a good control effect on the hardness of Korla fragrant pear persistent calyx fruit, and its fruit quality was also improved. This study has great application value in production practice.
Optimizing Micropropagation and Rooting Protocols for Diverse Lavender Genotypes: A Synergistic Approach Integrating Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Şimşek Özhan , Dalda Şekerci Akife , Isak Musab A. , Bulut Fatma , İzgü Tolga , Tütüncü Mehmet , Dönmez Dicle
Published: January 2024

This study comprehensively explored the micropropagation and rooting capabilities of four distinct lavender genotypes, utilizing culture media with and without 2 g/L of activated charcoal. A systematic examination of varying concentrations of BAP for micropropagation and IBA for rooting identified an optimal concentration of 1 mg/L for both BAP and IBA, resulting in excellent outcomes. Following robust root development, the acclimatization of plants to external conditions achieved a 100% survival rate across all genotypes. In addition to the conventional techniques employed, integrating machine learning (ML) methodologies holds promise for further enhancing the efficiency of lavender propagation protocols. Using cutting-edge computational tools, including MLP, RBF, XGBoost, and GP algorithms, our findings were rigorously examined and forecast using three performance measures (RMSE, R2, and MAE). Notably, the comparative evaluation of different machine learning models revealed distinct R2 rates for plant characteristics, with MLP, RBF, XGBoost, and GP demonstrating varying degrees of effectiveness. Future studies may leverage ML models, such as XGBoost, MLP, RBF, and GP, to fine-tune specific variables, including culture media composition and growth regulator treatments. The adaptability and ability of ML techniques to analyze complex biological processes can provide valuable insights into optimizing lavender micropropagation on a broader scale. This collaborative approach, combining traditional in vitro techniques with machine learning, validates the success of current micropropagation and rooting protocols and paves the way for continuous improvement. By embracing ML in lavender propagation studies, researchers can contribute to advancing sustainable and efficient plant propagation techniques, thereby fostering the preservation and exploitation of genetic resources for conservation and agriculture.
Distinctive Patterns of 5-Methylcytosine and 5-Hydroxymethylcytosine in Schizophrenia
Authors: Xie Jiaxiang , Wang Yang , Ye Changcheng , Li Xiao-Jiang , Lin Li
Published: January 2024

Schizophrenia is a highly heritable neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by cognitive and social dysfunction. Genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors are together implicated in the pathogenesis and development of schizophrenia. DNA methylation, 5-methycytosine (5mC) and 5-hydroxylcytosine (5hmC) have been recognized as key epigenetic elements in neurodevelopment, ageing, and neurodegenerative diseases. Recently, distinctive 5mC and 5hmC pattern and expression changes of related genes have been discovered in schizophrenia. Antipsychotic drugs that affect 5mC status can alleviate symptoms in patients with schizophrenia, suggesting a critical role for DNA methylation in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia. Further exploring the signatures of 5mC and 5hmC in schizophrenia and developing precision-targeted epigenetic drugs based on this will provide new insights into the diagnosis and treatment of schizophrenia.
Microbial Colonization of the Host Plant: Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Symbiosis
Authors: Fedorova Elena E. , Pueyo José J.
Published: January 2024

Nitrogen is an essential element for all plants, animals, and microorganisms in the Earth’s biosphere [...]
Systemic Treatment with Fas-Blocking Peptide Attenuates Apoptosis in Brain Ischemia
Authors: Chung Sungeun , Yi Yujong , Ullah Irfan , Chung Kunho , Park Seongjun , Lim Jaeyeoung , Kim Chaeyeon , Pyun Seon-Hong , Kim Minkyung , Kim Dokyoung , Lee Minhyung , Rhim Taiyoun , Lee Sang-Kyung
Published: January 2024

Apoptosis plays a crucial role in neuronal injury, with substantial evidence implicating Fas-mediated cell death as a key factor in ischemic strokes. To address this, inhibition of Fas-signaling has emerged as a promising strategy in preventing neuronal cell death and alleviating brain ischemia. However, the challenge of overcoming the blood–brain barrier (BBB) hampers the effective delivery of therapeutic drugs to the central nervous system (CNS). In this study, we employed a 30 amino acid-long leptin peptide to facilitate BBB penetration. By conjugating the leptin peptide with a Fas-blocking peptide (FBP) using polyethylene glycol (PEG), we achieved specific accumulation in the Fas-expressing infarction region of the brain following systemic administration. Notably, administration in leptin receptor-deficient db/db mice demonstrated that leptin facilitated the delivery of FBP peptide. We found that the systemic administration of leptin-PEG-FBP effectively inhibited Fas-mediated apoptosis in the ischemic region, resulting in a significant reduction of neuronal cell death, decreased infarct volumes, and accelerated recovery. Importantly, neither leptin nor PEG-FBP influenced apoptotic signaling in brain ischemia. Here, we demonstrate that the systemic delivery of leptin-PEG-FBP presents a promising and viable strategy for treating cerebral ischemic stroke. Our approach not only highlights the therapeutic potential but also emphasizes the importance of overcoming BBB challenges to advance treatments for neurological disorders.
Breed-Related Differential microRNA Expression and Analysis of Colostrum and Mature Milk Exosomes in Bamei and Landrace Pigs
Authors: Li Jie , Shang Xuefeng , Zhang Sen , Yang Qiaoli , Yan Zunqiang , Wang Pengfei , Gao Xiaoli , Gun Shuangbao , Huang Xiaoyu
Published: January 2024

Breast milk, an indispensable source of immunological and nutrient components, is essential for the growth and development of newborn mammals. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are present in various tissues and body fluids and are selectively packaged inside exosomes, a type of membrane vesicle. Milk exosomes have potential regulatory effects on the growth, development, and immunity of newborn piglets. To explore the differences in milk exosomes related to the breed and milk type, we isolated exosomes from colostrum and mature milk from domestic Bamei pigs and foreign Landrace pigs by using density gradient centrifugation and then characterized them by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA). Furthermore, the profiles and functions of miRNAs in the two types of pig milk exosomes were investigated using miRNA-seq and bioinformatics analysis. We identified a total of 1081 known and 2311 novel miRNAs in pig milk exosomes from Bamei and Landrace pigs. These differentially expressed miRNAs (DE-miRNAs) are closely associated with processes such as cell signaling, cell physiology, and immune system development. Functional enrichment analysis showed that DE-miRNA target genes were significantly enriched in endocytosis, the T cell receptor signaling pathway, and the Th17 cell differentiation signaling pathway. The exosomal miRNAs in both the colostrum and mature milk of the two pig species showed significant differences. Based on related signaling pathways, we found that the colostrum of local pig breeds contained more immune-system-development-related miRNAs. This study provides new insights into the possible function of milk exosomal miRNAs in the development of the piglet immune system.
A Nested PCR Telomere Fusion Assay Highlights the Widespread End-Capping Protection of Arabidopsis CTC1
Authors: Vaquero-Sedas María I. , Vega-Palas Miguel A.
Published: January 2024

Telomeres protect the ends of linear eukaryotic chromosomes from being recognized as DNA double-strand breaks. Two major protein complexes are involved in the protection of telomeres: shelterin and CST. The dysfunction of these complexes can challenge the function of telomeres and lead to telomere fusions, breakage–fusion–bridge cycles, and cell death. Therefore, monitoring telomere fusions helps to understand telomeres biology. Telomere fusions are often analyzed by Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization (FISH) or PCR. Usually, both methods involve hybridization with a telomeric probe, which allows the detection of fusions containing telomeric sequences, but not of those lacking them. With the aim of detecting both types of fusion events, we have developed a nested PCR method to analyze telomere fusions in Arabidopsis thaliana. This method is simple, accurate, and does not require hybridization. We have used it to analyze telomere fusions in wild-type and mutant plants altered in CTC1, one of the three components of the Arabidopsis CST telomere capping complex. Our results show that null ctc1-2 mutant plants display fusions between all telomeric regions present in Arabidopsis chromosomes 1, 3 and 5, thus highlighting the widespread end-capping protection achieved by CTC1.
A Million-Cow Validation of a Chromosome 14 Region Interacting with All Chromosomes for Fat Percentage in U.S. Holstein Cows
Authors: Prakapenka Dzianis , Liang Zuoxiang , Zaabza Hafedh B. , VanRaden Paul M. , Van Tassell Curtis P. , Da Yang
Published: January 2024

A genome-wide association study (GWAS) of fat percentage (FPC) using 1,231,898 first lactation cows and 75,198 SNPs confirmed a previous result that a Chr14 region about 9.38 Mb in size (0.14–9.52 Mb) had significant inter-chromosome additive × additive (A×A) effects with all chromosomes and revealed many new such effects. This study divides this 9.38 Mb region into two sub-regions, Chr14a at 0.14–0.88 Mb (0.74 Mb in size) with 78% and Chr14b at 2.21–9.52 Mb (7.31 Mb in size) with 22% of the 2761 significant A×A effects. These two sub-regions were separated by a 1.3 Mb gap at 0.9–2.2 Mb without significant inter-chromosome A×A effects. The PPP1R16A-FOXH1-CYHR1-TONSL (PFCT) region of Chr14a (29 Kb in size) with four SNPs had the largest number of inter-chromosome A×A effects (1141 pairs) with all chromosomes, including the most significant inter-chromosome A×A effects. The SLC4A4-GC-NPFFR2 (SGN) region of Chr06, known to have highly significant additive effects for some production, fertility and health traits, specifically interacted with the PFCT region and a Chr14a region with CPSF1, ADCK5, SLC52A2, DGAT1, SMPD5 and PARP10 (CASDSP) known to have highly significant additive effects for milk production traits. The most significant effects were between an SNP in SGN and four SNPs in PFCT. The CASDSP region mostly interacted with the SGN region. In the Chr14b region, the 2.28–2.42 Mb region (138.46 Kb in size) lacking coding genes had the largest cluster of A×A effects, interacting with seventeen chromosomes. The results from this study provide high-confidence evidence towards the understanding of the genetic mechanism of FPC in Holstein cows.
The Role of Endocrine Disruptors Bisphenols and Phthalates in Obesity: Current Evidence, Perspectives and Controversies
Authors: Dalamaga Maria , Kounatidis Dimitrios , Tsilingiris Dimitrios , Vallianou Natalia G. , Karampela Irene , Psallida Sotiria , Papavassiliou Athanasios G.
Published: January 2024

Excess body weight constitutes one of the major health challenges for societies and healthcare systems worldwide. Besides the type of diet, calorie intake and the lack of physical exercise, recent data have highlighted a possible association between endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), such as bisphenol A, phthalates and their analogs, and obesity. EDCs represent a heterogeneous group of chemicals that may influence the hormonal regulation of body mass and adipose tissue morphology. Based on the available data from mechanistic, animal and epidemiological studies including meta-analyses, the weight of evidence points towards the contribution of EDCs to the development of obesity, associated disorders and obesity-related adipose tissue dysfunction by (1) impacting adipogenesis; (2) modulating epigenetic pathways during development, enhancing susceptibility to obesity; (3) influencing neuroendocrine signals responsible for appetite and satiety; (4) promoting a proinflammatory milieu in adipose tissue and inducing a state of chronic subclinical inflammation; (5) dysregulating gut microbiome and immune homeostasis; and (6) inducing dysfunction in thermogenic adipose tissue. Critical periods of exposure to obesogenic EDCs are the prenatal, neonatal, pubertal and reproductive periods. Interestingly, EDCs even at low doses may promote epigenetic transgenerational inheritance of adult obesity in subsequent generations. The aim of this review is to summarize the available evidence on the role of obesogenic EDCs, specifically BPA and phthalate plasticizers, in the development of obesity, taking into account in vitro, animal and epidemiologic studies; discuss mechanisms linking EDCs to obesity; analyze the effects of EDCs on obesity in critical chronic periods of exposure; and present interesting perspectives, challenges and preventive measures in this research area.
Effect of Solute on Interfacial Properties and Micelle Structure of Dodecylbenzenesulfonate (DBS): Experimental and Molecular Dynamics Studies
Authors: Hung Huang-Chin , Shreve Gina S.
Published: January 2024

A combined experimental and molecular dynamic simulation approach was used to examine the structure and interfacial properties of solute-saturated micelles. The properties of dodecylbenzenesulfonate (DBS) micelles were examined in dodecane and benzene hydrocarbon systems. Pyrene fluorescence was used to determine the aggregation number of surfactant monomers in the micelle systems. Molecular dynamic (MD) simulations using energy minimization applying the CHARMm force field with the TIP3P model for water. Comparison of the DBS/benzene and DBS/Dodecane micelles equilibrium structures via radial distribution function (RDF) and probability distribution function (PDF) analysis indicates that the area per head group for the DBS/Benzene micelle interface is significantly larger than that of the DBS/Dodecane at the interface. It was also determined that benzene molecules can move freely within the micelle while dodecane is strictly confined in the core of the micelle. The increased interfacial area per monomer caused by the insertion of benzene also reduces the effectiveness of the surfactant, which has implications for use in various environmental applications. However, the DBS/benzene micelle can solubilize many more hydrocarbon molecules in one micelle with less surfactant monomer (i.e., lower aggregation number) per micelle due to the increased available packing positions within the micelle. This, in turn, increases the efficiency of the surfactant in real-world applications which is consistent with previous laboratory results. Understanding the differing solubilization characteristics of surfactants against various classes of hydrocarbons in single solute systems is a necessary step to beginning to understand their solubilization properties in the mixed waste systems prevalent in most surfactant enhanced remediation (SEAR) strategies.
Landscape Analysis of Neurodevelopmental Comorbidities in Newborn Screening Conditions: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Talebizadeh Zohreh , Hu Valerie , Shababi Monir , Brower Amy
Published: January 2024

Newborn screening (NBS) is a large-scale public health program in the US that screens 3.8 million newborns for up to 81 genetic conditions each year. Many of these conditions have comorbidities, including neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). These comorbidities can have a significant impact on health outcomes across the lifespan. Most screened conditions are inborn errors of metabolism. PKU, the first condition identified by NBS, is an inherited metabolic disorder that can cause developmental delays and intellectual/developmental disabilities if not treated. The Newborn Screening Translational Research Network (NBSTRN) is a program that has been funded by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development since 2008. NBSTRN is charged with developing, maintaining, and enhancing tools, resources, and expertise supporting NBS research. One of the tasks led by NBSTRN is to provide direction for developing question/answer sets used in the Longitudinal Pediatric Data Resource (LPDR) to create consensus-based and standardized common data elements (CDEs) for NBS conditions. There is growing interest in the NBS community in assessing neurodevelopmental trajectories through long-term follow-up studies. This could be streamlined by employing uniform CDEs. To address this unmet need, we conducted a landscape analysis to (1) explore the co-occurrence of NDD-related comorbidities and NBS conditions using text mining in MedGen, (2) compile a list of NDD-related CDEs from existing repositories as well as LPDR data dictionaries, and (3) identify challenges and knowledge gaps hindering the early identification of risks for NDDs in NBS conditions. Our findings can inform future efforts toward advancing the research infrastructure for this established public health program. The renewed awareness of the risk of NDDs after a positive NBS and diagnosis could lead to improved treatment guidelines for mental health conditions.
Lucilia silvarum Meigen (Diptera: Calliphoridae) Is a Primary Colonizer of Domestic Cats (Felis catus)
Authors: Bagsby Kelly , Hans Krystal
Published: January 2024

Lucilia silvarum Meigen (Diptera: Calliphoridae) is widespread throughout North America and Europe. Described in 1826, this blow fly was quickly associated with myiasis in amphibians, and to date has rarely been reported in carrion. There is limited data regarding the time of colonization of animals with fur and the interpretation of this data is difficult due to variation in the animal models used. During an examination of initial insect colonization of cats (Felis catus) with light and dark fur, twelve domestic short-haired cats were placed in cages 15.2 m apart in a grassy field in West Lafayette, Indiana, USA. Eggs from initial oviposition events were collected and reared to identify the colonizing species. Three species of Lucilia (Diptera: Calliphoridae), including L. silvarum, colonized the cats on the initial day of placement. In this study, L. silvarum was the primary colonizer of cats, and this may be the first study where a large number of L. silvarum were collected. Further studies should include development studies on L. silvarum to understand its life history and aid in time of colonization estimations. More work regarding the colonization of furred mammals is needed to further examine L. silvarum as a primary colonizer.
Short-Term Prediction of Ship Roll Motion in Waves Based on Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Hou Xianrui , Xia Sijun
Published: January 2024

In this study, a short-term prediction method for ship roll motion in waves based on convolutional neural network (CNN) is presented. Firstly, based on the ship roll motion equation, the data for free roll attenuation motion in still water, roll motion in regular waves, and roll motion excited by irregular waves are simulated, respectively. Secondly, the simulation data is normalized and preprocessed, and then the time-sliding window technique is applied to construct the training and testing sample sets. Thirdly, the CNN model is trained by learning from the constructed training sample sets, and the well-trained CNN model is applied to predict the roll motion. To validate the CNN model’s prediction accuracy and effectiveness, a comparison between the forecasted results and the simulation data is conducted. Meanwhile, the predicted results are also compared with that of the long-short-term memory (LSTM) neural network. The research results demonstrate that CNN can effectively achieve accurate prediction of ship roll motion in waves, and its prediction accuracy is the same as that of the LSTM neural network.
How Does Age Moderate the Determinants of Crowdfunding Adoption by SMEs’s: Evidences from Morocco?
Authors: Laaouina Soukaina , El Aoufi Sara , Benali Mimoun
Published: January 2024

In recent years, crowdfunding has emerged as a new fundraising technique for start-up ventures; however, Moroccan small and medium-sized businesses are still wary of this novel source of funding. This is confirmed by the low adoption rate of this financial innovation as well as the limited number of crowdfunding platforms in Morocco. This study aims to identify the impact of performance expectancy (PE), effort expectancy (EE), social influence (SI), facilitating conditions (FC), and perceived risk (PR) on SMEs’s intention to use crowdfunding platforms using a research model based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). Empirical data were collected from 241 respondents through a survey, and structural equation modelling was used to analyze the findings. The results show that performance expectancy (PE), effort expectancy (EE), and facilitating conditions (FE) affect SMEs’s intentions to use crowdfunding. However, social influences (SI) and perceived risk (PR) were not found to be significant determinants. Regarding the moderating effect of age, our study has highlighted that this variable has moderated the relationship between the three independents variables: performance expectancy, facilitating conditions and perceived risk. Finally, this paper offers recommendations for how to increase SMEs’s intention to use crowdfunding platforms.
Exploring the Rural Revitalization Effect under the Interaction of Agro-Tourism Integration and Tourism-Driven Poverty Reduction: Empirical Evidence for China
Authors: Ma Debin , Sun Dongqi , Wang Ziyi
Published: January 2024

Under the robust impetus of China’s rural revitalization strategy, agro-tourism integration and tourism-driven poverty reduction have profoundly impacted various aspects of China’s economy, society, and ecology. This has propelled coordinated urban–rural development and the sustainable development of the tourism industry. This study introduces an analytical framework encompassing tourism-driven poverty reduction, agro-tourism integration, and rural revitalization. Through PVAR and threshold models, it empirically examines the interactive effects, dynamic relationships, and threshold effects between agro-tourism integration, tourism-driven poverty reduction, and rural revitalization. The conclusions are as follows: Firstly, the indices of rural revitalization and the level of agro-tourism integration show an increasing trend across Chinese provinces, with varying trends in tourism-driven poverty reduction efficiency. Secondly, there is a significant dynamic relationship among these factors, with the explanatory power of tourism-driven poverty reduction and agro-tourism integration gradually strengthening. Agro-tourism integration is identified as the most effective means of driving rural revitalization, while tourism-driven poverty reduction has a relatively weaker direct impact. Thirdly, tourism-driven poverty reduction exhibits a positive impulse response to agro-tourism integration. The improvement in tourism-driven poverty reduction efficiency propels further development in agro-tourism integration, thereby fostering rural revitalization. The efficiency of tourism-driven poverty reduction presents a single threshold effect in the process of agro-tourism integration promoting rural revitalization. Fourthly, the development of China’s tourism industry has become an indispensable means of promoting rural revitalization and poverty reduction. However, rural revitalization is a comprehensive project influenced by various factors, requiring improvements and development across multiple aspects.