bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary Supplementation with R-(+)-Limonene Improves Growth, Metabolism, Stress, and Antioxidant Responses of Silver Catfish Uninfected and Infected with Aeromonas hydrophila
Authors: Da Silva Elisia Gomes , Finamor Isabela Andres , Bressan Caroline Azzolin , Schoenau William , Vencato Marina De Souza , Pavanato Maria Amália , Cargnelutti Juliana Felipetto , Da Costa Sílvio Teixeira , Antoniazzi Alfredo Quites , Baldisserotto Bernardo
Published: October 2023

R-(+)-limonene is a monoterpene from plants of the genus Citrus with diverse biological properties. This research evaluated the effects of dietary supplementation with R-(+)-limonene on growth, metabolic parameters in plasma and liver, and the antioxidant and stress responses in silver catfish, Rhamdia quelen, challenged or not with Aeromonas hydrophila. Fish were fed for 67 days with different doses of R-(+)-limonene in the diet (control 0.0, L0.5, L1.0, and L2.0 mL/kg of diet). On the 60th day, a challenge with A. hydrophila was performed. R-(+)-limonene in the diet potentiated the productive performance of the fish. The metabolic and antioxidant responses indicate that R-(+)-limonene did not harm the health of the animals and made them more resistant to the bacterial challenge. Histological findings showed the hepatoprotective effect of dietary R-(+)-limonene against A. hydrophila. Igf1 mRNA levels were upregulated in the liver of fish fed with an L2.0 diet but downregulated with bacterial challenge. The expression levels of crh mRNA were higher in the brains of fish fed with the L2.0 diet. However, the L2.0 diet downregulated crh and hspa12a mRNA expression in the brains of infected fish. In conclusion, the results indicated that R-(+)-limonene can be considered a good dietary supplement for silver catfish.
The Interrelated Pollution Characteristics of Atmospheric Speciated Mercury and Water-Soluble Inorganic Ions in Ningbo, China
Authors: Yi Hui , Li Dan , Li Jianrong , Xu Lingling , Huang Zhongwen , Xiao Hang , Tong Lei
Published: October 2023

Atmospheric mercury and water-soluble inorganic ions (WSIIs) are commonly observable airborne pollutants in the atmosphere that may have similar emission sources. In this study, the interrelated pollution characteristics of atmospheric speciated mercury and WSIIs were studied using a Piper diagram, correlation analysis, pollution episode analysis and potential source contribution function (PSCF) techniques. Also, an empirical regression equation for predicting the temporal variation in gaseous elemental mercury (GEM) was constructed. The results showed that the concentrations of GEM and particle-bound mercury (PBM) roughly increased with the increasing percentage values of NH4+ in cationic normality, and exponentially increased with the decreasing percentage values of Na+ + Mg2+ in cationic normality. Correlation analysis revealed that the atmospheric speciated mercury was positively (p < 0.01) correlated with most water-soluble inorganic ions, especially for GEM, which was closely correlated with NO2, NOx, CO, PM2.5, NO3− SO42−, NH4+ and K+ (r > 0.5, p < 0.01), indicating that the emission sources of GEM were related to fossil fuel and biomass combustion, industrial activities, and traffic exhausts. Pollution episode analysis showed that PM2.5, WSIIs (including SO42−, NO3−, NH4+, K+ and Cl−), SO2 and NO2 generally exhibited synchronous variations with GEM and PBM, and positive correlations were observed between GEM and PM2.5, SO42−, NO3−, NH4+, K+, Cl−, SO2 and NO2 (r = 0.35–0.74, p-value < 0.01). In addition, the potential source region of GEM was similar to that of PM2.5, SO42−, NO3−, NH4+, K+ and Ca2+. Based on the above findings, a satisfactory empirical regression equation, with PM2.5, NOx, CO and the percentage value of Na+ + Mg2+ in cationic normality as independent variables for GEM simulation, was constructed. The result showed that the variation in GEM concentrations could be predicted well by these variables. This model could serve as a potential substitute tool for GEM measurement in the future.
Optimizing Li Ion Transport in a Garnet-Type Solid Electrolyte via a Grain Boundary Design
Authors: Sun Tao , Cheng Xiaopeng , Cao Tianci , Wang Mingming , Tian Jiao , Yan Tengfei , Qin Dechen , Liu Xianqiang , Lu Junxia , Zhang Yuefei
Published: October 2023

Garnet-type solid electrolytes have gained considerable attention owing to their exceptional ionic conductivity and broad electrochemical stability window, making them highly promising for solid-state batteries (SSBs). However, this polycrystalline ceramic electrolyte contains an abundance of grain boundaries (GBs). During the repetitive electroplating and stripping of Li ions, uncontrolled growth and spreading of lithium dendrites often occur at GBs, posing safety concerns and resulting in a shortened cycle life. Reducing the formation and growth of lithium dendrites can be achieved by rational grain boundary design. Herein, the garnet-type solid electrolyte LLZTO was firstly coated with Al2O3 using the atomic layer deposition (ALD) technique. Subsequently, an annealing treatment was employed to introduce Al2O3 into grain boundaries, effectively modifying them. Compared with the Li/LLZTO/Li cells, the Li/LLZTO@Al2O3-annealed/Li symmetric batteries exhibit a more stable cycling performance with an extended period of 200 h at 1 mA cm−2. After matching with the NMC811 cathode, the capacity retention rate of batteries can reach 96.8% after 50 cycles. The infusion of Al2O3 demonstrates its capability to react with LLZTO particles, creating an ion-conducting interfacial layer of Li-Al-O at the GBs. This interfacial layer effectively inhibits Li nucleation and filament growth within LLZTO, contributing to the suppression of lithium dendrites. Our work provides new suggestions for optimizing the synthesis of solid-state electrolytes, which can help facilitate the commercial application of solid-state batteries.
Heart Murmur Classification Using a Capsule Neural Network
Authors: Tsai Yu-Ting , Liu Yu-Hsuan , Zheng Zi-Wei , Chen Chih-Cheng , Lin Ming-Chih
Published: October 2023

The healthcare industry has made significant progress in the diagnosis of heart conditions due to the use of intelligent detection systems such as electrocardiograms, cardiac ultrasounds, and abnormal sound diagnostics that use artificial intelligence (AI) technology, such as convolutional neural networks (CNNs). Over the past few decades, methods for automated segmentation and classification of heart sounds have been widely studied. In many cases, both experimental and clinical data require electrocardiography (ECG)-labeled phonocardiograms (PCGs) or several feature extraction techniques from the mel-scale frequency cepstral coefficient (MFCC) spectrum of heart sounds to achieve better identification results with AI methods. Without good feature extraction techniques, the CNN may face challenges in classifying the MFCC spectrum of heart sounds. To overcome these limitations, we propose a capsule neural network (CapsNet), which can utilize iterative dynamic routing methods to obtain good combinations for layers in the translational equivariance of MFCC spectrum features, thereby improving the prediction accuracy of heart murmur classification. The 2016 PhysioNet heart sound database was used for training and validating the prediction performance of CapsNet and other CNNs. Then, we collected our own dataset of clinical auscultation scenarios for fine-tuning hyperparameters and testing results. CapsNet demonstrated its feasibility by achieving validation accuracies of 90.29% and 91.67% on the test dataset.
Does Constitutive Expression of Defense-Related Genes and Salicylic Acid Concentrations Correlate with Field Resistance of Potato to Black Scurf Disease?
Authors: Zrenner Rita , Genzel Franziska , Baldermann Susanne , Guerra Tiziana , Grosch Rita
Published: October 2023

Black scurf disease on potato caused by Rhizoctonia solani AG3 occurs worldwide and is difficult to control. The use of potato cultivars resistant to black scurf disease could be part of an integrated control strategy. Currently, the degree of resistance is based on symptom assessment in the field, but molecular measures could provide a more efficient screening method. We hypothesized that the degree of field resistance to black scurf disease in potato cultivars is associated with defense-related gene expression levels and salicylic acid (SA) concentration. Cultivars with a moderate and severe appearance of disease symptoms on tubers were selected and cultivated in the same field. In addition, experiments were conducted under controlled conditions in an axenic in vitro culture and in a sand culture to analyze the constitutive expression of defense-related genes and SA concentration. The more resistant cultivars did not show significantly higher constitutive expression levels of defense-related genes. Moreover, the level of free SA was increased in the more resistant cultivars only in the roots of the plantlets grown in the sand culture. These results indicate that neither expression levels of defense-related genes nor the amount of SA in potato plants can be used as reliable predictors of the field resistance of potato genotypes to black scurf disease.
Norlobaridone Inhibits Quorum Sensing-Dependent Biofilm Formation and Some Virulence Factors in Pseudomonas aeruginosa by Disrupting Its Transcriptional Activator Protein LasR Dimerization
Authors: Soltane Raya , Alasiri Ahlam , Taha Mostafa N. , Abd El-Aleam Rehab H. , Alghamdi Kawthar Saad , Ghareeb Mosad A. , Keshek Doaa El-Ghareeb , Cardoso Susana M. , Sayed Ahmed M.
Published: October 2023

In the present study, norlobaridone (NBD) was isolated from Parmotrema and then evaluated as a new potent quorum sensing (QS) inhibitor against Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm development. This phenolic natural product was found to reduce P. aeruginosa biofilm formation (64.6% inhibition) and its related virulence factors, such as pyocyanin and rhamnolipids (% inhibition = 61.1% and 55%, respectively). In vitro assays inhibitory effects against a number of known LuxR-type receptors revealed that NBD was able to specifically block P. aeruginosa’s LasR in a dose-dependent manner. Further molecular studies (e.g., sedimentation velocity and thermal shift assays) demonstrated that NBD destabilized LasR upon binding and damaged its functional quaternary structure (i.e., the functional dimeric form). The use of modelling and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations also allowed us to further understand its interaction with LasR, and how this can disrupt its dimeric form. Finally, our findings show that NBD is a powerful and specific LasR antagonist that should be widely employed as a chemical probe in QS of P. aeruginosa, providing new insights into LasR antagonism processes. The new discoveries shed light on the mysterious world of LuxR-type QS in this key opportunistic pathogen.
MiR-506 Promotes Antitumor Immune Response in Pancreatic Cancer by Reprogramming Tumor-Associated Macrophages toward an M1 Phenotype
Authors: Yang Tiantian , Han Yitong , Chen Junhang , Liang Xiaoyu , Sun Longhao
Published: October 2023

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly malignant cancer with a poor prognosis, and effective treatments for PDAC are lacking. In this study, we hypothesized that miR-506 promotes antitumor immune response in PDAC by reprogramming tumor-associated macrophages toward an M1 phenotype to reverse its immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). First, the relationship between TME and the expression of miR-506 was assessed using clinical samples. Our results provided evidence that lower expression of miR-506 was associated with poor prognosis and immunosuppressive TME in PDAC patients. In addition, miR-506 inhibit the PDAC progression and reversed its immunosuppressive microenvironment in a macrophage-dependent manner. Next, we established a PDAC mouse model by orthotopic injection to further explore the role of miR-506 in vivo. Mechanistic investigations demonstrated that miR-506 could reprogram the polarization of M2-like macrophages toward an M1-like phenotype through targeting STAT3. Meanwhile, miR-506 could also sensitize PDAC to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy, because the tumor microenvironment remodeling effects of miR-506 could reprogram macrophage polarization and subsequently promote cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) infiltration. These findings suggest a relationship between miR-506 and TME, especially M2-like macrophages, thus providing novel insights into mechanisms of tumor progression and potential immunotherapeutic targets for further clinical treatment.
HIF-2α Controls Expression and Intracellular Trafficking of the α2-Subunit of Na,K-ATPase in Hypoxic H9c2 Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Baloglu Emel
Published: October 2023

The Na,K-ATPase (NKA) pump plays essential roles for optimal function of the heart. NKA activity decreases in necropsy materials from ischemic heart disease, heart failure and in experimental models. Cellular adaptation to hypoxia is regulated by hypoxia-induced transcription factors (HIF); we tested whether HIFs are involved in regulating the expression and intracellular dynamics of the α2-isoform of NKA (α2-NKA). HIF-1α and HIF-2α expression was suppressed in H9c2 cardiomyocytes by adenoviral infection, where cells were kept in 1% O2 for 24 h. The silencing efficiency of HIFs was tested on the mRNA and protein expression. We measured the mRNA expression of α2-NKA in HIF-silenced and hypoxia-exposed cells. The membrane and intracellular expression of α2-NKA was measured after labelling the cell surface with NHS-SS-biotin, immunoprecipitation and Western blotting. Hypoxia increased the mRNA expression of α2-NKA 5-fold compared to normoxic cells in an HIF-2α-sensitive manner. The plasma membrane expression of α2-NKA increased in hypoxia by 2-fold and was fully prevented by HIF-2α silencing. Intracellular expression of α2-NKA was not affected. These results showed for the first time that in hypoxic cardiomyocytes α2-NKA is transcriptionally and translationally regulated by HIF-2α. The molecular mechanism behind this regulation needs further investigation.
The Mediation Role of Sleep Disturbances between Vitamin D and Depressive Symptoms: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Yao Lihua , Chen Mianmian , Zhang Nan , Ma Simeng , Xie Xinhui , Xu Shuxian , Nie Zhaowen , Wang Wei , Zhou Enqi , Xu Shunsheng , Weng Shenhong , Chen Hexiang , Xiang Dan , Liu Zhongchun
Published: October 2023

Depression and sleep disturbances are highly prevalent health problems that have been suggested to be associated with vitamin D deficiency. This study investigated whether sleep disturbances affect the association between vitamin D and depressive symptoms. A total of 425 patients with depression were included in this study. Spearman correlation coefficients were chosen to assess the relation between vitamin D concentrations and depressive symptomatology (according to the PHQ-9 and HAMD-17 scores). The GLM Mediation Model in the Medmod module for data analysis in Jamovi 2.2.5 was used to analyze the mediation models for sleep disturbances. Vitamin D concentrations were significantly correlated with PHQ-9 and HAMD-17 scale scores. In addition, item 3 was suggested to have a mediating effect between vitamin D and depressive symptoms in the mediating model of PHQ-9, and item 4 was suggested to have a mediating effect between vitamin D and depressive symptoms in the mediating model of HAMD-17. Sleep disturbances (especially difficulty falling asleep) are mediators between vitamin D and depressive symptoms, suggesting that increasing vitamin D levels at the right time to regulate sleep disturbances may improve depression symptoms, yet further research is necessary.
GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and Related Mental Health Issues; Insights from a Range of Social Media Platforms Using a Mixed-Methods Approach
Authors: Arillotta Davide , Floresta Giuseppe , Guirguis Amira , Corkery John Martin , Catalani Valeria , Martinotti Giovanni , Sensi Stefano L. , Schifano Fabrizio
Published: October 2023

The emergence of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs; semaglutide and others) now promises effective, non-invasive treatment of obesity for individuals with and without diabetes. Social media platforms’ users started promoting semaglutide/Ozempic as a weight-loss treatment, and the associated increase in demand has contributed to an ongoing worldwide shortage of the drug associated with levels of non-prescribed semaglutide intake. Furthermore, recent reports emphasized some GLP-1 RA-associated risks of triggering depression and suicidal thoughts. Consistent with the above, we aimed to assess the possible impact of GLP-1 RAs on mental health as being perceived and discussed in popular open platforms with the help of a mixed-methods approach. Reddit posts yielded 12,136 comments, YouTube videos 14,515, and TikTok videos 17,059, respectively. Out of these posts/entries, most represented matches related to sleep-related issues, including insomnia (n = 620 matches); anxiety (n = 353); depression (n = 204); and mental health issues in general (n = 165). After the initiation of GLP-1 RAs, losing weight was associated with either a marked improvement or, in some cases, a deterioration, in mood; increase/decrease in anxiety/insomnia; and better control of a range of addictive behaviors. The challenges of accessing these medications were a hot topic as well. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study documenting if and how GLP-1 RAs are perceived as affecting mood, mental health, and behaviors. Establishing a clear cause-and-effect link between metabolic diseases, depression and medications is difficult because of their possible reciprocal relationship, shared underlying mechanisms and individual differences. Further research is needed to better understand the safety profile of these molecules and their putative impact on behavioral and non-behavioral addictions.
The Immunological Landscape of M1 and M2 Macrophages and Their Spatial Distribution in Patients with Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma
Authors: Laberiano-Fernandez Caddie , Baldavira Camila Machado , Machado-Rugolo Juliana , Tamegnon Auriole , Pandurengan Renganayaki Krishna , Ab’Saber Alexandre Muxfeldt , Balancin Marcelo Luiz , Takagaki Teresa Yae , Nagai Maria Aparecida , Capelozzi Vera Luiza , Parra Edwin Roger
Published: October 2023

Background: Several tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) have shown promise as prognosticators in cancer. Our aim was to validate the importance of TAMs in malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) using a two-stage design. Methods: We explored The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA-MESO) to select immune-relevant macrophage genes in MPM, including M1/M2 markers, as a discovery cohort. This computational cohort was used to create a multiplex immunofluorescence panel. Moreover, a cohort of 68 samples of MPM in paraffin blocks was used to validate the macrophage phenotypes and the co-localization and spatial distribution of these immune cells within the TME and the stromal or tumor compartments. Results: The discovery cohort revealed six immune-relevant macrophage genes (CD68, CD86, CD163, CD206, ARG1, CD274), and complementary genes were differentially expressed by M1 and M2 phenotypes with distinct roles in the tumor microenvironment and were associated with the prognosis. In addition, immune-suppressed MPMs with increased enrichment of CD68, CD86, and CD163 genes and high densities of M2 macrophages expressing CD163 and CD206 proteins were associated with worse overall survival (OS). Interestingly, below-median distances from malignant cells to specific M2a and M2c macrophages were associated with worse OS, suggesting an M2 macrophage-driven suppressive component in these tumors. Conclusions: The interactions between TAMs in situ and, particularly, CD206+ macrophages are highly relevant to patient outcomes. High-resolution technology is important for identifying the roles of macrophage populations in tissue specimens and identifying potential therapeutic candidates in MPM.
Implications of Rectal Cancer Radiotherapy on the Immune Microenvironment: Allies and Foes to Therapy Resistance and Patients’ Outcome
Authors: Sartorius Dorothée , Blume Moritz Leander , Fleischer Johannes Robert , Ghadimi Michael , Conradi Lena-Christin , De Oliveira Tiago
Published: October 2023

Aside from surgical resection, locally advanced rectal cancer is regularly treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. Since the concept of cancer treatment has shifted from only focusing on tumor cells as drivers of disease progression towards a broader understanding including the dynamic tumor microenvironment (TME), the impact of radiotherapy on the TME and specifically the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) is increasingly recognized. Both promoting as well as suppressing effects on anti-tumor immunity have been reported in response to rectal cancer (chemo-)radiotherapy and various targets for combination therapies are under investigation. A literature review was conducted searching the PubMed database for evidence regarding the pleiotropic effects of (chemo-)radiotherapy on the rectal cancer TIME, including alterations in cytokine levels, immune cell populations and activity as well as changes in immune checkpoint proteins. Radiotherapy can induce immune-stimulating and -suppressive alterations, potentially mediating radioresistance. The response is influenced by treatment modalities, including the dosage administered and the highly individual intrinsic pre-treatment immune status. Directly addressing the main immune cells of the TME, this review aims to highlight therapeutical implications since efficient rectal cancer treatment relies on personalized strategies combining conventional therapies with immune-modulating approaches, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Colorectal Cancer Screening: Lesion Detection and Lesion Characterization
Authors: Young Edward , Edwards Louisa , Singh Rajvinder
Published: October 2023

Colorectal cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality worldwide, despite the widespread uptake of population surveillance strategies. This is in part due to the persistent development of ‘interval colorectal cancers’, where patients develop colorectal cancer despite appropriate surveillance intervals, implying pre-malignant polyps were not resected at a prior colonoscopy. Multiple techniques have been developed to improve the sensitivity and accuracy of lesion detection and characterisation in an effort to improve the efficacy of colorectal cancer screening, thereby reducing the incidence of interval colorectal cancers. This article presents a comprehensive review of the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI), which has recently emerged as one such solution for improving the quality of screening and surveillance colonoscopy. Firstly, AI-driven algorithms demonstrate remarkable potential in addressing the challenge of overlooked polyps, particularly polyp subtypes infamous for escaping human detection because of their inconspicuous appearance. Secondly, AI empowers gastroenterologists without exhaustive training in advanced mucosal imaging to characterise polyps with accuracy similar to that of expert interventionalists, reducing the dependence on pathologic evaluation and guiding appropriate resection techniques or referrals for more complex resections. AI in colonoscopy holds the potential to advance the detection and characterisation of polyps, addressing current limitations and improving patient outcomes. The integration of AI technologies into routine colonoscopy represents a promising step towards more effective colorectal cancer screening and prevention.
Detrimental Effects of ApoE ε4 on Blood–Brain Barrier Integrity and Their Potential Implications on the Pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Kirchner Kevin , Garvert Linda , Kühn Luise , Bonk Sarah , Grabe Hans Jörgen , Van der Auwera Sandra
Published: October 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease representing the most common type of dementia in older adults. The major risk factors include increased age, genetic predisposition and socioeconomic factors. Among the genetic factors, the apolipoprotein E (ApoE) ε4 allele poses the greatest risk. Growing evidence suggests that cerebrovascular dysfunctions, including blood–brain barrier (BBB) leakage, are also linked to AD pathology. Within the scope of this paper, we, therefore, look upon the relationship between ApoE, BBB integrity and AD. In doing so, both brain-derived and peripheral ApoE will be considered. Despite the considerable evidence for the involvement of brain-derived ApoE ε4 in AD, information about the effect of peripheral ApoE ε4 on the central nervous system is scarce. However, a recent study demonstrated that peripheral ApoE ε4 might be sufficient to impair brain functions and aggravate amyloid-beta pathogenesis independent from brain-based ApoE ε4 expression. Building upon recent literature, we provide an insight into the latest research that has enhanced the understanding of how ApoE ε4, secreted either in the brain or the periphery, influences BBB integrity and consequently affects AD pathogenesis. Subsequently, we propose a pathway model based on current literature and discuss future research perspectives.
Evaluation of Physical Literacy in 9- to 11-Year-Old Children: Reliability and Validity of Two Measurement Tools in Three Southeastern European Countries
Authors: Vuletic Petra Rajkovic , Kesic Marijana Geets , Gilic Barbara , Pehar Miran , Uzicanin Edin , Idrizovic Kemal , Sekulic Damir
Published: October 2023

The awareness of the importance of physical literacy (PL) is globally increasing; however, knowledge of the applicability of PL measurement tools in southeastern Europe is limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate the reliability and validity of translated versions of the CAPL-2 and PLAYself questionnaires in 9- to 11-year-old elementary school children from Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro. The participants were 303 children (141 girls; all 9 to 11 years of age) from Croatia (n = 71), Bosnia and Herzegovina (n = 162), and Montenegro (n = 70), enrolled in regular elementary school. The participants were tested throughout a test–retest procedure using two PL evaluation tools, i.e., the Canadian Assessment of Physical Literacy (shorter version, CAPL-2) and the Physical Literacy Assessment of Youth (PLAYself) questionnaires. With an intraclass correlation (ICC) of 0.70–0.80 for specific questionnaire subscales and 0.84 for the total score, PLAYself was found to be reliable. With Kappa values of 0.11–0.23 and a percentage of absolute agreement of less than 62%, CAPL-2 appeared to be less reliable. Factors related to sport participation were significantly positively associated with the PLAYself score, indicating its proper validity. In conclusion, we suggest the usage of the PLAYself questionnaire in further studies examining PL in children of a similar age in the region. Future studies in other age groups and languages are also warranted.
Fungal Diversity and Distribution in the Biodiversity Hotspots of the Western Himalayas
Authors: Yadav Neelesh , Rakholia Shrey , Ali Naseem , Yosef Reuven
Published: October 2023

The western Himalayan region is a biodiversity hotspot. Although much of the flora and fauna has been documented, there are very few studies on fungal diversity. We present the statistical analyses of the sample collections from the last 150 years of data in the fungarium of the Forest Research Institute. We found that the host tree species—pine, oak, deodar, and spruce, had very high Shannon diversity (SD) and species richness (SR), while Dalbergia and Rhododendron had moderate to low SD and SR values; although sal occurs at lower altitudes, it has high SD and SR values. Among fungal families, the highest SD and SR value was found in Polyporaceae. Hymenochaetaceae, Peniophoraceae, Coleosporiaceae, and Stereaceae also showed SD with moderate SR. Fomitopsidaceae, Cronartiaceae, Ganodermataceae, and Thelephoraceae have low biodiversity and species. Thelephoraceae are distributed above 2000 m altitude, and Ganodermataceae and Hymenochaetaceae have wider distribution ranges, namely, 0–3500 m and 0–5000 m, respectively. The Polyporaceae show diverse variations in species distribution and occur between 0 and 4500 m; Coleosporiaceae and Cronartiaceae around 2000 m; Stereaceae, Meruliaceae, Peniophoraceae, and Fomitopsidaceae occur between 1700 and 1800 m, with all Stereaceae and Fomitopsidaceae having different distribution ranges of up to 5000 m. We found that areas with relatively low rainfall had lower species richness, and vice versa, and that high solar radiation negatively affected fungal density and SR, as observed in the distribution of Thelephoraceae. While families with high SD and SR values such as Polyporaceae were found under relatively high rainfall, moderate solar radiation, and high temperatures. Similar studies need to be undertaken in other parts of the Himalayas and the importance of fungi in ethnobotany needs to be understood to ensure sustainable use.
Preoperative Balloon-Occluded Transcatheter Arterial Chemoembolization Followed by Surgical Resection: Pathological Evaluation of Necrosis
Authors: Kim Jihoon , Gwon Dong Il , Kim Yonghun , Kim Gun Ha , Kim Seong Ho , Chu Hee Ho , Kim Jin Hyoung , Shin Ji Hoon , Ko Gi-Young , Yoon Hyun-Ki
Published: October 2023

This study investigates the clinical and pathological outcomes of preoperative balloon-occluded transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (B-TACE) in patients with single hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The data are from 25 consecutive patients who underwent sequential treatment of subsegmental B-TACE and hepatic surgery for single HCC. Radiological and pathological evaluation of oily subsegmentectomy, defined as the iodized oil-laden necrotic area that includes the entire HCC and surrounding liver parenchyma, were performed. Subsegmental B-TACE was technically successful in all patients. The major and minor complication rates were 8% and 24%, respectively. On the first follow-up computed tomography (CT), oily subsegmentectomy was observed in 18 (72%) out of 25 patients. Apart from one patient showing a partial response, the remaining 24 (96%) patients showed a complete response. Pathological complete necrosis of the HCC was observed in 18 (72%) out of 25 patients with complete or extensive necrosis of the peritumoral liver parenchyma. The remaining seven patients without peritumoral parenchymal necrosis had extensive necrosis of the HCCs. In conclusion, preoperative B-TACE can be a safe and effective method for the treatment of single HCC and a good bridge treatment for subsequent surgical resection. In addition, oily subsegmentectomy itself on the CT can be a good predictor of pathological complete necrosis of the HCC. The findings obtained from this study would provide a potential role of B-TACE in the treatment strategy for single HCC.
CO2 Injection via a Horizontal Well into the Coal Seam at the Experimental Mine Barbara in Poland
Authors: Stańczyk Kamil , Hildebrandt Robert , Chećko Jarosław , Urych Tomasz , Wiatowski Marian , Masum Shakil , Sadasivam Sivachidambaram , Kempka Thomas , Otto Christopher , Ernst Priscilla , Thomas Hywel Rhys
Published: October 2023

This study, conducted as part of the ROCCS project, investigates the potential of coal seams for CO2 sequestration through in situ tests. The in situ tests, performed at Experimental Mine Barbara in Mikołów, Poland, involved injecting CO2 through a horizontal well into a coal seam, with variable well lengths and injection parameters. The experiments included monitoring for CO2 leakage and migration within the coal seam. The objective was to examine the correlation between the CO2 injection rate and the coal–CO2 contact area, monitoring for any potential leakage. The total mass of CO2 injected was about 7700 kg. Significant leakage, probably due to the formation of preferential pathways, prevented pressure buildup in the injection well. The results provide insights into challenges regarding CO2 injection into coal seams, with implications for the design of commercial-scale CO2 storage installations.
A Feasibility Study on the Lateral Behavior of a 3D-Printed Column for Application in a Wind Turbine Tower
Authors: Yang In-Hwan , Bui Quang-The , Park Ji-Hun , Jeong Seung-Tae
Published: October 2023

Although 3D printing technology has been applied worldwide, the problem of connecting a printed structure and a foundation has rarely been examined. In particular, loads in the horizontal direction, such as wind loads and earthquake loads, can significantly affect the stability of a printed structure. Therefore, in this study, the effect of lateral loads on printed columns that were connected to a foundation by two types of connectors was investigated. A steel angle with bolts and couplers was used to connect the printed column to a concrete footing. In addition, two types of lateral reinforcement were applied to the printed column to enhance its bonding strength and shear resistance. The lateral reinforcements were attached to the interface of the printed layers at distances of 100 and 200 mm to investigate the effect of lateral reinforcement distance on the lateral behavior of the printed column. The results showed that the use of couplers as connections between the columns and foundation significantly improved the load capacity. Furthermore, the effects of the lateral reinforcement types and lateral reinforcement distances were assessed.
Cycling Stability of Calcium-Impregnated Vermiculite in Open Reactor Used as a Thermochemical Storage Material
Authors: Sullivan Geraint , Griffiths Chris , Jewell Eifion , Searle Justin , Elvins Jonathon
Published: October 2023

Recent research into thermochemical storage (TCS) materials has highlighted their promising potential for seasonal building heating, through energy capture and release during dehydration and hydration cycling. A common TCS material used throughout this investigation was calcium chloride (CaCl2)-impregnated vermiculite-based salt in matrix (SIM). This material was assessed for its robustness during charging and discharging cycles to assess its behavior and in terms of energy stability and chemical stability; the results of which showed consistent volumetric energy density and maximum temperature changes over seven cycles. The calcium SIM did, however, show a decline in leachable Ca content, which was presumed to be a result of stabilization within the vermiculite, and chloride concentration showed little change over the course of the study. Real-time visualization using a high-resolution microscope of calcium SIM particles showed a salt phase change and migration of liquid salt into the valleys of the lamella. A novel cobalt chloride (CoCl2) SIM was used to visualize the hydration path across the particle, through distinct color changes depending on hydration state. The results indicated that the topography of the vermiculite played a significant role in the passive hydration modeling.
An Assessment of Long-Term Climate Change on Building Energy in Indonesia
Authors: Shah Sheikh Khaleduzzaman , Graham Peter , Burton Craig , Harrington Philip
Published: October 2023

This paper reports on modelling outcomes for improvements to building energy performance in Indonesia. Long-term climate effects due to building energy demand and carbon emissions are also considered. The global change assessment model (GCAM) was used to generate the related end-user building energy data, including socioeconomics, for urban areas of Indonesia. As a comprehensive study, the total life cycle of carbon in the building sector and the concept of zero-carbon buildings, including energy efficiency, zero-emissions electricity and fuel-switching options, were considered. Building shell conductance (U-value) of the building envelope, floor area ratio (FAR), air conditioner (AC) efficiency, electrical appliance (APL) efficiency, rooftop photovoltaic (PV) performance and ground source heat pump (GSHP) systems were considered as parameters to mitigate carbon emissions under the operational energy category in the GCAM. Carbon mitigation associated with the cement production process was considered in the raw material category. Urban population and labour productivity in Indonesia were used as base inputs with projected growth rates to 2050 determined from the available literature. Low growth rate ‘LowRate’ and high growth rate ‘HighRate’ were considered as variable inputs for U-value, FAR, AC efficiency, APLs efficiency and PV capacity factor to model emissions mitigation. The energy consumption of the GSHP was compared to the conventional reverse cycle ACs to identify the potential of the GSHP as a fuel-switching option. In the GCAM, the benchmark (base case scenario) data set was generated based on input parameters (urban population and labour productivity rate) only for the residential building sector in Indonesia. Total potential carbon emissions mitigation was found to be 432 Mt CO2-e for the residential building sector in Indonesia over 2020–2050. It was found that an average of 24% carbon emissions mitigation could be achieved by 2020–2030 and 76% by 2031–2050.
Energy Literacy: A Systematic Review of the Scientific Literature
Authors: Santillán Oscar S. , Cedano Karla G.
Published: October 2023

Amidst the global energy crisis, governments are pursuing transitions towards low-carbon energy systems. In addition to physical infrastructure, political and regulatory enablers, and knowledge and capacities, changes in the energy systems require an energy-literate citizenship. Energy literacy is the understanding of how energy is generated, transported, stored, distributed, and used; awareness about its environmental and social impacts; and the knowledge to use it efficiently. The objective of the study is to provide a systematic review of the literature concerning energy literacy. In the methodology followed, the 138 papers found were categorized and subcategorized according to the research field and the main research objective, respectively. The papers are later described together with similar studies. Results show that most of the work performed around energy literacy addresses its evaluation among different groups, particularly students at different levels, and the construction, application, and evaluation of tools for improving energy literacy. Also studied are the influence of energy literacy in decision-making, its drivers, and conceptual research about the topic. The discussion highlights the debate on the link between energy-literate persons and efficient energy use, the under-researched areas of energy literacy, and the key role of energy literacy in addressing the energy crisis.
How Are Urban Birds Affected by Surrounding Forests and Agricultural Landscapes?
Authors: Bisikirskienė Loreta , Brazaitis Gediminas , Šimkevičius Kastytis , Brazaitytė Gailenė
Published: October 2023

The main objective of this study was to assess the influence of surrounding forest and agricultural landscapes on the bird communities within cities. Using the point count method, we collected data and analyzed the species richness and relative abundance of breeding birds. We found differences in the species richness and relative abundance of breeding birds between urbanized areas surrounded by forests and agricultural landscapes. However, both types of landscapes significantly differed in terms of bird community structure. The highest relative abundances of bird species were observed in city forest parks and cities surrounded by forest landscapes, while the lowest abundances were detected in highly urbanized areas. Cities surrounded by forests exhibited an additional nine species compared to other areas. The ecological grouping of species revealed that cities surrounded by forests had higher relative abundances of typical forest species, such as the Great Tit (Parus major), Eurasian Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus), Common Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs), and European Pied Flycatcher (Ficedula hypoleuca), whereas cities surrounded by agricultural landscapes were characterized by bird communities adapted to open or semi-open landscapes with specific feeding and nesting behaviors. The presence of specialist forest species in the composition of urban bird communities enhances biological diversity, which is crucial for the stability of both urban ecosystems and bird communities.
Certain Fermented Foods and Their Possible Health Effects with a Focus on Bioactive Compounds and Microorganisms
Authors: Deveci Gülsüm , Çelik Elif , Ağagündüz Duygu , Bartkiene Elena , Rocha João Miguel F. , Özogul Fatih
Published: October 2023

Fermented foods refer to beverages or foods made by carefully regulated microbial growth and the enzymatic conversion of dietary components. Fermented foods have recently become more popular. Studies on fermented foods suggest the types of bacteria and bioactive peptides involved in this process, revealing linkages that may have impacts on human health. By identifying the bacteria and bioactive peptides involved in this process, studies on fermented foods suggest relationships that may have impressions on human health. Fermented foods have been associated with obesity, cardiovascular disease, and type 2 diabetes. In this article, fermented dairy products, vegetables and fruits, legumes, meats, and grains are included. Two elements in particular are emphasized when discussing the fermentation of all of these foods: bioactive chemicals generated during fermentation and microorganisms involved during fermentation. Organic acids, bioactive peptides, conjugated linoleic acid, biogenic amines, isoflavones, phytoestrogens, and nattokinase are a few of the bioactive compounds included in this review. Also, certain bacteria such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Streptococcus, and Bacillus species, which are utilized in the fermentation process are mentioned. The effects of both substances including anti-fungal and antioxidant properties; the modulation of intestinal microbiota; anti-inflammatory, antidiabetes, anti-obesity, anticancer, and antihypertension properties; and the protection of cognitive function are explained in this review.
Optimization of a Novel Tyrosinase Inhibitory Peptide from Atrina pectinata Mantle and Its Molecular Inhibitory Mechanism
Authors: Wang Wen , Lin Haisheng , Shen Weiqiang , Qin Xiaoming , Gao Jialong , Cao Wenhong , Zheng Huina , Chen Zhongqin , Zhang Zhishu
Published: October 2023

In order to realize the multi-level utilization of marine shellfish resources and to develop the potential biological activity of processing by-products of Atrina pectinata, gelatin was extracted from the mantle and the potential whitening effect of its enzymatic peptides was explored. Taking tyrosinase inhibitory activity as the evaluation index, the enzyme hydrolysate process was optimized by response-surface methodology, and the optimal enzyme hydrolysate conditions were as follows: pH 5.82, 238 min enzyme hydrolysate time, and temperature of 54.5 °C. Under these conditions, the tyrosinase inhibition activity of Atrina pectinata mantle gelatin peptide (APGP) was 88.6% (IC50 of 3.268 ± 0.048 mg/mL). The peptides obtained from the identification were separated by ultrafiltration and LC–MS/MS, and then four new peptides were screened by molecular docking, among which the peptide Tyr-Tyr-Pro (YYP) had the strongest inhibitory effect on tyrosinase with an IC50 value of 1.764 ± 0.025 mM. The molecular-docking results indicated that hydrogen bonding is the main driving force for the interaction of the peptide YYP with tyrosinase. From the Lineweaver–Burk analysis, it could be concluded that YYP is inhibitory to tyrosinase and exhibits a mixed mechanism of inhibition. These results suggest that YYP could be widely used as a tyrosinase inhibitor in whitening foods and pharmaceuticals.
Effects of Blanching, Freezing and Canning on the Carbohydrates in Sweet Corn
Authors: Whent Monica M. , Childs Holly D. , Ehlers Cheang Shawn , Jiang Jiani , Luthria Devanand L. , Bukowski Michael R. , Lebrilla Carlito B. , Yu Liangli , Pehrsson Pamela R. , Wu Xianli
Published: October 2023

Sweet corn is frequently consumed in the US and contains carbohydrates as major macronutrients. This study examined the effects of blanching, freezing, and canning on carbohydrates in sweet corn. Fresh bi-color sweet corn was picked in the field and processed immediately into frozen and canned samples. Simple sugars, starch, and dietary fiber (DF) (including total DF (TDF), insoluble DF (IDF) and two fractions of soluble DF (SDF)) were measured according to the AOAC methods. Additional glycomic analysis including oligosaccharides, monosaccharide composition of total polysaccharides (MCTP) and glycosidic linkage of total polysaccharides (GLTP) were analyzed using UHPLC-MS. Sucrose is the major simple sugar, and IDF is the main contributor to TDF. Sucrose and total simple sugar concentrations were not altered after blanching or freezing but were significantly reduced in canned samples. Kestose was the only oligosaccharide identified in sweet corn and decreased in all heat-treated or frozen samples. Starch content decreased in frozen samples but increased in canned samples. While two SDF fractions did not differ across all samples, blanching, freezing and canning resulted in increases in TDF and IDF. Six monosaccharides were identified as major building blocks of the total polysaccharides from MCTP analysis. Glucose and total monosaccharide concentrations increased in two canned samples. GLTP was also profoundly altered by different food processing methods. This study provided insights into the changes in the content and quality of carbohydrates in sweet corn after food processing. The data are important for accurate assessment of the carbohydrate intake from different sweet corn products.
Identification of Polyphenols in Sea Fennel (Crithmum maritimum) and Seaside Arrowgrass (Triglochin maritima) Extracts with Antioxidant, ACE-I, DPP-IV and PEP-Inhibitory Capacity
Authors: Calvo Marta María , López-Caballero María Elvira , Martínez-Alvarez Oscar
Published: October 2023

Sea fennel and seaside arrowgrass are two abundant but underutilized halophytes along the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts. This study investigated the antioxidant capacity and the potential antihypertensive (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme I, ACE-I inhibition), hypoglycaemic (Dipeptidyl Peptidase IV, DPP-IV inhibition), and nootropic (Prolyl Endopeptidase, PEP inhibition) activity of their polyphenol extracts. They had a high phenol content (21–24 mEq GA/g), antioxidant capacity evaluated using the ABTS (17–2 mg ascorbic acid/g) and FRAP (170–270 mM Mohr’s salt/g) assays, and effective ACE-inhibiting properties (80–90% inhibiting activity at final concentration of 0.5 mg/mL). Additionally, the sea fennel extract displayed high DPP-IV inhibitory capacity (73% at 1 mg/mL), while the seaside arrowgrass extract exhibited potent Prolyl endopeptidase inhibitory capacity (75% at 1 mg/mL). Fractionation by HPLC concentrated the bioactive molecules in two fractions, for which the composition was analyzed by LC-MS/MS. Different chlorogenic acids seemed to play an important role in the bioactivity of sea fennel extract, and different flavonoids, mainly apigenin, luteolin and chrysoeriol, in the bioactivity of the seaside arrowgrass extract. Given their potential health benefits, these extracts could serve as valuable bioactive ingredients and could potentially encourage the cultivation of these species in regions where traditional crops face challenges in growth.