bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Neglected Crops Can Solve the World’s Food Problems?
Authors: Loedolff Bianke , Peters Shaun
Published: February 2024

Humankind is in crisis! Our ever-growing population, global warming, and changing climate is threatening our ability to produce enough food in the future. We rely on only a few major crops (such as maize, wheat, and rice) as our main food crops. These crops have been successfully farmed over thousands of years to feed humankind and keep people from being hungry. However, the major food crops do not provide sufficient nutrition, and these crops are also struggling to grow and produce food under changing climate conditions. We need alternative food crops! Legumes like peas and beans are one tasty alternative. In this article, we will tell you how legume crops are useful to humankind and why they are so well suited for our ever-changing world.
Malaria—Why Do Mostly Children Get Sick?
Authors: Garza Rolando , Huson Mischa , Garcia Anakaren , Gonzalez Bella , Musinguzi Kenneth , Nagaragere Avani , Nansubuga Evelyn , Zedi Maato , Bunnik Evelien M. , Bol Sebastiaan
Published: February 2024

Did you know that micro-organisms can live in blood? Plasmodium parasites can infect red blood cells and cause a serious disease called malaria. This disease is mostly seen in young children living in Africa. Sick children have a fever, aches, can feel very tired, and in bad cases, they can even die from malaria. There are medicines that cure malaria, but it is hard to get these to everyone who needs them. Fortunately, as children grow older, they do not feel as sick when they are infected by the malaria-causing parasite. Better yet, adults hardly ever get malaria. The reason for this difference between children and adults has to do with how well the body’s defense system can fight off the parasite. Keep reading if you want to learn more about malaria, the Plasmodium parasite and how the immune system fights against it.
Prognostic factors in gastric cancer patients: a 10-year mono-institutional experience
Authors: De Ruvo N. , Fenocchi S. , Veronesi L. , Missori G. , Ricciardolo A. A. , Rossi E. G. , Sorrentino L. , Cautero N. , Serra F. , Gelmini R.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the main causes of death from cancer globally. Long-term survival, especially in Western countries, remains dismal, with no significant improvements in recent years. Therefore, precise identification of clinical and pathological risk factors is crucial for prognosis, as it allows a better selection of patients suitable for oncologically radical treatments and contributes to longer survivals.

Methods

We devised a retrospective observational longitudinal study over 10 years of experience with GC patients operated with curative intent.

Results

Several factors were thoroughly investigated in a multivariate analysis to look for significance as independent risk factors for disease-free survival. Our results showed that only BMI, pTNM, and lymph node ratio expressed hazard ratios with implications for survival in our series of patients.

Discussion

Although limited by the retrospective nature of the study, this is one of the few cancer reports from Northern Italy showing results over 10 years, which may in our view, have an impact on decision-making processes for multidisciplinary teams dedicated to the care of gastric cancer patients.
Molecular and phylogenetic analysis of herpesviruses in endangered free-ranging cervids of Chile: ovine gammaherpesvirus-2—A novel threat to wild and domestic animal health in Chilean Patagonia
Authors: Hidalgo-Hermoso Ezequiel , Cabello Javier , Lopez Rodrigo , Vergara-Wilson Vicente , Vera Frank , Valencia Carola , Sanchez Carlos , Celis Sebastian , Silva Alejandra , Cariñanos Aintzane , Barria Ismael , Vicencio Rocio , Muñoz-Leal Sebastián , Aravena Paula , Lagos Rocio , Toro-Letelier Juan , Verasay-Caviedes Sebastián , Garnham Antonio , Peña Irene , Sánchez Fernando , Moreira-Arce Dario , Vergara Pablo M. , Alegria-Moran Raul , Cortés-Hinojosa Galaxia
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Herpesvirus infections have been highlighted as emerging diseases affecting wildlife health and the conservation of several taxa. Malignant catarrhal fever (MCF) and infectious keratoconjunctivitis (IKC) are two viruses that infect wild ruminants. Nevertheless, epidemiological data on herpesviruses in South American wild ruminants are limited. An outbreak of caprine gammaherpesvirus-2 (CpHV-2) that recently was suspected as the cause of MCF in southern pudus (Pudu puda) prompted the need to conduct molecular screenings in Chilean cervids to understand the epidemiology of herpesviruses. The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence and genetic diversity of herpesviruses in free-ranging cervids from Chile.

Methods

Herpesvirus infection was assessed in antemortem blood samples (n = 86) from pudus (n = 81) and huemuls (Hippocamelus bisulcus) (n = 5), as well as postmortem samples of spleen (n = 24) and lung (n = 3) from pudus, using a nested pan-herpesvirus PCR assay.

Results

Combining all suitable sample types, DNA of pudu gammaherpesvirus-1 was detected in five pudues and five huemuls, with an overall prevalence of 9.90% (n = 10/101; 95% CI = 5.11–17.87%). One pudu tested positive for ovine gammaherpesvirus-2 (n = 1/96; 1.04%; 95% CI = 0.05–6.49%), and one pudu tested positive for a Macavirus sequence with 98.63 similarity to ovine gammaherpesvirus-2 (n = 96; 1.04%; 95% CI = 0.05–6.49%).

Discussion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a herpesvirus in huemul and of ovine gammaherpesvirus-2 in Chile. Our results also confirm the active circulation of herpesvirus in free-ranging cervids in Chilean Patagonia, and as such, MCF should be considered as a possible cause of disease in free-ranging Chilean pudus and livestock species. Further research is necessary to develop a plan of systematic monitoring (serological and pathological screening) of herpesviruses in Chilean wild and domestic ruminants to understand their diversity and impact on animal health and conservation.
Design of Flyby Trajectories with Powered Gravity and Aerogravity Assist Maneuvers
Authors: Yu Wanze , Qi Yi
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we investigate flyby trajectories combining powered gravity assist (PGA) with aerogravity assist (AGA) in the planar elliptic restricted three-body problem (PERTBP). The patched flyby trajectory is divided into three portions: the PGA, AGA and ballistic portions, successively. In the PGA portion, continuous thrusts are conducted to change the speed and drive the altitude of a vehicle below the atmosphere edge. A simple flight-path angle guidance algorithm for three stages is used to design the orbit in the AGA portion. Taking the Sun–Mars PERTBP system as an example, flyby trajectories around Mars combining PGA with AGA are constructed and discussed in detail. In addition, numerical results show that the elliptical effect of the model should not be ignored, and it is necessary to investigate patched flyby orbits in the PERTBP.
Impacts of Climate Change and Agricultural Practices on Nitrogen Processes, Genes, and Soil Nitrous Oxide Emissions: A Quantitative Review of Meta-Analyses
Authors: Hui Dafeng , Ray Avedananda , Kasrija Lovish , Christian Jaekedah
Published: February 2024

Microbial-driven processes, including nitrification and denitrification closely related to soil nitrous oxide (N2O) production, are orchestrated by a network of enzymes and genes such as amoA genes from ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) and archaea (AOA), narG (nitrate reductase), nirS and nirK (nitrite reductase), and nosZ (N2O reductase). However, how climatic factors and agricultural practices could influence these genes and processes and, consequently, soil N2O emissions remain unclear. In this comprehensive review, we quantitatively assessed the effects of these factors on nitrogen processes and soil N2O emissions using mega-analysis (i.e., meta-meta-analysis). The results showed that global warming increased soil nitrification and denitrification rates, leading to an overall increase in soil N2O emissions by 159.7%. Elevated CO2 stimulated both nirK and nirS with a substantial increase in soil N2O emission by 40.6%. Nitrogen fertilization amplified NH4+-N and NO3−-N contents, promoting AOB, nirS, and nirK, and caused a 153.2% increase in soil N2O emission. The application of biochar enhanced AOA, nirS, and nosZ, ultimately reducing soil N2O emission by 15.8%. Exposure to microplastics mostly stimulated the denitrification process and increased soil N2O emissions by 140.4%. These findings provide valuable insights into the mechanistic underpinnings of nitrogen processes and the microbial regulation of soil N2O emissions.
CRISPR/Cas9-Mediated Targeted Mutagenesis of Betaine Aldehyde Dehydrogenase 2 (BADH2) in Tobacco Affects 2-Acetyl-1-pyrroline
Authors: Chen Mingli , Shen Siyu , Li Zhiyuan , Wang Huashun , Wang Jin , Yang Guangyu , Yang Wenwu , Deng Lele , Gong Daping , Zhang Jianduo
Published: February 2024

2-acetyl-1-pyrroline (2AP) is a highly effective volatile compound that gives fragrance to numerous plant species and food. Mutation(s) in the betaine aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (BADH2) gene results in the accumulation of 2AP. However, the function of BADH genes in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) remains poorly understood. In this study, we successfully obtained four betaine aldehyde dehydrogenase (BADH) genes from tobacco. Phylogenetic analysis of the protein sequences showed that two of the four BADH genes were closely related to the wolfberry (Lycium barbarum) BADH gene (LbBADH1), so we named them NtBADH1a and NtBADH1b, respectively. The other two BADH genes were orthologues of the tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) aminoaldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (SlAMADH2) gene, and were named NtBADH2a and NtBADH2b, respectively. Expression analysis revealed that the biological functions of NtBADH1a and NtBADH1b were different from those of genes NtBADH2a and NtBADH2b. We introduced mutations into NtBADH1a, NtBADH1b, NtBADH2a and NtBADH2b in tobacco using the CRISPR/Cas9 system and identified transgenic Ntbadh mutant tobacco lines. Single mutants (Ntbadh1a, Ntbadh1b, Ntbadh2a and Ntbadh2b) and double mutants (Ntbadh1a-Ntbadh1b and Ntbadh2a-Ntbadh2b) harbored deletion or insertion of nucleotides, both of which led to the production of a frameshift, preventing protein accumulation. A popcorn-like scent was noticeable in tobacco leaves from the Ntbadh2a-Ntbadh2b double mutant, but not from any single mutant or the Ntbadh1a-Ntbadh1b double mutant or the wild type. Consistent with this observation, we only detected 2AP in fresh leaves from the Ntbadh2a-Ntbadh2b double mutant. These findings indicate that only the combined inactivation of NtBADH2a and NtBADH2b results in 2AP accumulation in tobacco, which was not related to NtBADH1.
Fine-Mapping and Candidate Gene Analysis of qSERg-1b from O. glumaepatula to Improve Stigma Exsertion Rate in Rice
Authors: Cao Lixia , Dan Juncheng , Li Xiaohui , Tan Quanya , Zhang Shaodi , Song Ruifeng , Fu Xuelin
Published: February 2024

The stigma exsertion rate (SER) is one of the important factors affecting the seed production of hybrid rice. In the genus Oryza, wild rice species usually show higher SERs than cultivars. We previously identified one novel SER-QTL, qSERg-1b, from the single-segment substitution line (SSSL) SG22 of O. glumaepatula. In this study, qSERg-1b was fine-mapped by developing the secondary SSSLs (s-SSSLs) of SG22 and substitution mapping among the s-SSSLs. A total of 11 s-SSSLs were developed and used for qSERg-1b fine-mapping. As a result, qSERg-1b was narrowed down to the 122.59 kb physical region between InDel markers M01 and M49. There were 19 genes annotated in both O. glumaepatula and the HJX74 genomes at the qSERg-1b interval. Based on the genome re-sequencing of SG22 and HJX74, and the expression levels of the annotated functional genes, multiple nucleotide variations were found in LOC_Os01g53630, LOC_Os01g53680, and LOC_Os01g53710, including base substitutions and insertions/deletions of the genes, and they also showed significant differences in expression levels between SG22 and HJX74. Therefore, LOC_Os01g53630, LOC_Os01g53680, and LOC_Os01g53710 were selected as the most possible candidate genes of qSERg-1b for further validation. The above results laid an important foundation for qSERg-1b cloning and provided valuable resources for molecular breeding of SER in rice.
Effect of Swathing or Direct Combining on Yield, Seed Losses and Costs of Camelina
Authors: Pari Luigi , Cozzolino Luca , Marsac Sylvain , Hermet Louise , Bergonzoli Simone
Published: February 2024

Camelina is an interesting crop and producers must adopt cultural practices to achieve the highest yield and oil content possible. Considering the size of the seed, the harvesting phase is crucial to reduce losses and maximize income. Furthermore, in recent years, with the worsening of climatic conditions due to global warming, crop management can no longer follow the classic seasonality but must adapt to new climatic conditions. The possibility of double cropping, that is the process of producing two crops in a single season, allows multiple advantages such as weed control, greater remuneration, and less exposure to bare soil which determine greater resilience of the production system. To enable this, especially in recent years, even a few days of difference in the cultivation phases can guarantee the success of double cropping. For these reasons, the authors compared two different harvesting strategies: direct combining at full maturity (DC); swathing + combining at full maturity (SW). The working performance, cost, and seed losses associated with each harvesting method were calculated. The results highlighted how SW reduced the crop cycle length by 11 days, did not influence seed losses and crop yield but showed lower performance and higher cost with respect to DC.
Identification, Expression and Antimicrobial Functional Analysis of Interleukin-8 (IL-8) in Response to Streptococcus iniae and Flavobacterium covae in Asian Seabass (Lates calcarifer Bloch, 1790)
Authors: Muangrerk Chayanee , Uchuwittayakul Anurak , Srisapoome Prapansak
Published: February 2024

In this research, the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-8 (IL-8) was shown to play a key role in inflammatory responses in fish. This study involved the cloning of the gene that encodes IL-8 in Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer) as well as analyses of its expression and function in this fish. The expression levels of LcIL-8 indicated that it was broadly expressed in most analyzed tissues, with the most predominant expression in the whole blood 6 to 24 h after infection with S. iniae at concentrations of 105 colony-forming units (CFU)/fish (p < 0.05). After fish were immersed in F. covae, the LcIL-8 transcript was upregulated in the gills, liver and intestine, and the highest expression level was observed in the gills. However, LcIL-8 was downregulated in all the tested tissues at 48 and 96 h after infection with the two pathogenic strains, indicating that Lc-IL8 has a short half-life during the early immune responses to pathogens. Moreover, the MIC of the rLcIL-8 protein against S. iniae was 10.42 ± 3.61 µg/mL. Furthermore, functional analyses clearly demonstrated that 10 and 100 µg of the rLcIL-8 protein efficiently enhanced the phagocytic activity of Asian seabass phagocytes in vitro (p < 0.05). Additionally, in vivo injection of S. iniae following the rLcIL-8 protein indicated that 50 and 100 µg of rLc-IL-8 were highly effective in protecting fish from this pathogen (p < 0.001). The obtained results demonstrate that rLcIL-8 possesses a biological function in the defense against bacterial infections in Asian seabass.
Effects of Dietary Selenium Yeast Supplementation in Pregnant Cashmere Goats on the Development of Offspring Hair Follicles
Authors: Zhao Chenxi , Duan Yujiao , Diao Xiaogao , He Liwen , Zhang Wei
Published: February 2024

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of maternal dietary selenium yeast (SY) supplementation during pregnancy on the hair follicle development of kids. Sixty pregnant Hanshan white cashmere goats were randomly divided into the con group (fed with a basal diet) and the SY group (fed with a basal diet with 0.4 mg/kg SY). SY was supplemented during the pregnancy until the birth of the kids. The growth performance, cashmere performance, hair follicle characteristics, and serum antioxidant capacity of the kids were periodically determined. The results showed that the birth weight of the kids in the SY group was significantly higher than that in the con group (p < 0.05), and the average weight at 15 days, 1 month, 3 months, and 5 months of age increased by 13.60%, 8.77%, 8.86%, and 3.90%, respectively (p > 0.05). The cashmere fineness at early birth was dramatically reduced with SY supplementation (p < 0.001), whereas cashmere length and production were significantly increased at 5 months of age (p < 0.05). Histology assays indicated that the primary hair follicles were fully developed at birth, and there was no significant difference in the number of primary hair follicles between the two groups (p > 0.05). The number of secondary hair follicles and the number and density of active secondary hair follicles in the SY group at 15 days were significantly higher than those in the con group (p < 0.05) and were increased by 11.18%, 6.18%, and 22.55% at 5 months of age, respectively (p > 0.05). The serum antioxidant capacity analysis revealed that the SY group had higher levels of T-AOC, SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px activities and lower levels of MDA (p > 0.05). These results reveal that the maternal dietary supplementation of SY in gestation can promote the morphogenesis and maturation of secondary hair follicles and increase the number and density of secondary hair follicles by enhancing the body’s antioxidant capacity, contributing to the improvement of cashmere quality and yield.
Pathological Changes in Early Medieval Horses from Different Archaeological Sites in Poland
Authors: Janeczek Maciej , Makowiecki Daniel , Rozwadowska Aleksandra , Chudziak Wojciech , Pasicka Edyta
Published: February 2024

The work is the first comprehensive analysis of equine pathological changes from the Polish territory. The research material was collected from 20 archaeological sites, mainly early medieval settlements, such as strongholds, settlements, towns and horse graves. In the material examined, 186 cases of lesions were found. Of these, 26.9% were lesions of the spine, 39.8% lesions of the limb skeleton and 31.7% lesions of the head including dental pathologies. Most of the lesions in the limbs involved their distal segments. The vast majority of pathological cases can be linked to animal use. It was found that horses in which pathological lesions were observed were used under cover. In one case, the observed cranial trauma was the cause of death associated with injury to the nasal auricles and large vessels and consequent blood loss and possible shock. It was found that, in some of the cases, the horses started to be used early which affected their organs of motion and spine.
TLR2 and TLR9 Blockade Using Specific Intrabodies Inhibits Inflammation-Mediated Pancreatic Cancer Cell Growth
Authors: Ajay Amrendra K. , Gasser Martin , Hsiao Li-Li , Böldicke Thomas , Waaga-Gasser Ana Maria
Published: February 2024

Pancreatic cancer (pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, PDAC) remains a deadly cancer worldwide with a need for new therapeutic approaches. A dysregulation in the equilibrium between pro- and anti-inflammatory responses with a predominant immunosuppressive inflammatory reaction in advanced stage tumors seem to contribute to tumor growth and metastasis. The current therapies do not include strategies against pro-tumorigenic inflammation in cancer patients. We have shown that the upregulated cell surface expression of Toll-like Receptor (TLR) 2 and of TLR9 inside PDAC cells maintain chronic inflammatory responses, support chemotherapeutic resistance, and mediate tumor progression in human pancreatic cancer. We further demonstrated intracellular TLR2 and TLR9 targeting using specific intrabodies, which resulted in downregulated inflammatory signaling. In this study, we tested, for the first time, an intrabody-mediated TLR blockade in human TLR2- and TLR9-expressing pancreatic cancer cells for its effects on inflammatory signaling-mediated tumor growth. Newly designed anti-TLR2- and anti-TLR9-specific intrabodies inhibited PDAC growth. Co-expression analysis of the intrabodies and corresponding human TLRs showed efficient retention and accumulation of both intrabodies within the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), while co-immunoprecipitation studies indicated both intrabodies interacting with their cognate TLR antigen within the pancreatic cancer cells. Cancer cells with attenuated proliferation expressing accumulated TLR2 and TRL9 intrabodies demonstrated reduced STAT3 phosphorylation signaling, while apoptotic markers Caspases 3 and 8 were upregulated. To conclude, our results demonstrate the TLR2 and TLR9-specific intrabody-mediated signaling pathway inhibition of autoregulatory inflammation inside cancer cells and their proliferation, resulting in the suppression of pancreatic tumor cell growth. These findings underscore the potential of specific intrabody-mediated TLR inhibition in the ER relevant for tumor growth inhibition and open up a new therapeutic intervention strategy for the treatment of pancreatic cancer.
Synthesis of Novel Artemisinin, Ciprofloxacin, and Norfloxacin Hybrids with Potent Antiplasmodial Activity
Authors: Vamvoukaki Georgia , Antoniou Antonia I. , Baltas Michel , Mouray Elisabeth , Charneau Sebastien , Grellier Philippe , Athanassopoulos Constantinos M.
Published: February 2024

The synthesis and antiplasmodial evaluation of new hybrids combining the pharmacophore structures of artemisinin, ciprofloxacin or norfloxacin, and 7-chloroquinoline are reported in this study. The first step for all of the syntheses is the obtainment of key piperazine esters intermediates bearing the drugs ciprofloxacin and norfloxacin. Using these platforms, 18 final compounds were synthesized through a multistep procedure with overall yields ranging between 8 and 20%. All compounds were screened for their antiplasmodial activity against the chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium falciparum FcB1 strain. Compounds 20, 21, 22, and 28, bearing an artesunate fragment with ciprofloxacin, exhibited IC50 values in the range of 3.5–5.4 nM and excellent selectivity indices. Among the compounds bearing the artesunate moiety on the norfloxacin, two of them, 23 and 24, afforded IC50 values of 1.5 nM and 1.9 nM, respectively. They also showed excellent selectivity indices. The most potent compounds were also evaluated against the CQ-resistant Dd2 strain of Plasmodium falciparum, demonstrating that those compounds incorporating the artesunate fragment were the most potent. Finally, the combination of artesunate with either ciprofloxacin or norfloxacin moieties in a single molecular entity proved to substantially enhance the activity and selectivity when compared to the administration of the unconjugated counterparts artesunate/ciprofloxacin and artesunate/norfloxacin.
Natural Products Biosynthesis by Streptomyces netropsis IMV Ac-5025 under Exogenous Sterol Action
Authors: Loboda Mariia , Biliavska Liudmyla , Iutynska Galyna , Newitt Jake , Mariychuk Ruslan
Published: February 2024

Streptomycetes are known as producers of bioactive substances, particularly antibiotics. Streptomyces netropsis IMV Ac-5025 simultaneously produces different classes of antibiotics, including polyene compounds, phytohormones, and sterols, but the metabolic pathways involved in their biosynthesis are largely understudied. The aim of this work was to explore the biosynthesis of polyene antibiotics, sterols, and phytohormones when the producer is cultivated in a nutrient medium supplemented with exogenous β-sitosterol. Gas chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography were applied to analyze the spectrum of bioactive compounds. The obtained results demonstrated not only an increase in the accumulation of biomass but also polyene antibiotics, intracellular sterols, auxins, and cytokinins, when cultivating S. netropsis IMV Ac-5025 in a liquid medium with the addition of β-sitosterol. The amount of biomass raised 1.5–2-fold, whilst the sum of polyene antibiotics increased 4.5-fold, sterols’ sum (ergosterol, cholesterol, stigmasterol, β-sitosterol, and 24-epibrassinolide) by 2.9-fold, auxins’ sum (indole-3-acetic acid, indole-3-acetic acid hydrazide, indole-3-carbinol, indole-3-butyric acid, indole-3-carboxaldehyde, and indole-3-carboxylic acid) by 6-fold, and cytokinins’ sum (zeatin, isopentyladenine, zeatin riboside, and isopentenyladenosine) by 11-fold. Thus, we put forward the hypothesis that β-sitosterol plays a regulatory role in the network of biosynthetic reactions of S. netropsis IMV Ac-5025.
Staphylococcus capitis Bloodstream Isolates: Investigation of Clonal Relationship, Resistance Profile, Virulence and Biofilm Formation
Authors: Romero Letícia Calixto , Silva Lucas Porangaba , Teixeira Nathalia Bibiana , de Camargo Karen Vilegas , Del Masso Pereira Milena Aparecida , Corrente José Eduardo , Pereira Valéria Cataneli , Ribeiro de Souza da Cunha Maria de Lourdes
Published: February 2024

Staphylococcus capitis has been recognized as a relevant opportunistic pathogen, particularly its persistence in neonatal ICUs around the world. Therefore, the aim of this study was to describe the epidemiological profile of clinical isolates of S. capitis and to characterize the factors involved in the persistence and pathogenesis of these strains isolated from blood cultures collected in a hospital in the interior of the state of São Paulo, Brazil. A total of 141 S. capitis strains were submitted to detection of the mecA gene and SCCmec typing by multiplex PCR. Genes involved in biofilm production and genes encoding enterotoxins and hemolysins were detected by conventional PCR. Biofilm formation was evaluated by the polystyrene plate adherence test and phenotypic resistance was investigated by the disk diffusion method. Finally, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) was used to analyze the clonal relationship between isolates. The mecA gene was detected in 99 (70.2%) isolates, with this percentage reaching 100% in the neonatal ICU. SCCmec type III was the most prevalent type, detected in 31 (31.3%) isolates and co-occurrence of SCCmec was also observed. In vitro biofilm formation was detected in 46 (32.6%) isolates but was not correlated with the presence of the ica operon genes. Furthermore, biofilm production in ICU isolates was favored by hyperosmotic conditions, which are common in ICUs because of the frequent parenteral nutrition. Analysis of the clonal relationship between the isolates investigated in the present study confirms a homogeneous profile of S. capitis and the persistence of clones that are prevalent in the neonatal ICU and disseminated across the hospital. This study highlights the adaptation of isolates to specific hospital environments and their high clonality.
The Role of Nicotinamide Mononucleotide Supplementation in Psoriasis Treatment
Authors: Zhang Zhengyi , Cheng Baochen , Du Wenqian , Zeng Mengqi , He Ke , Yin Tingyi , Shang Sen , Su Tian , Han Dan , Gan Xinyi , Wang Ziyang , Liu Meng , Wang Min , Liu Jiankang , Zheng Yan
Published: February 2024

Psoriasis is one of several chronic inflammatory skin diseases with a high rate of recurrence, and its pathogenesis remains unclear. Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), as an important precursor of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), has been reported to be a promising agent in treating various diseases, its positive effects including those induced via its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. For this reason, we have aimed to explore the possible role of NMN in the treatment of psoriasis. Psoriasis models were constructed with imiquimod (IMQ) stimulation for 5 days in vivo and with M5 treatment in keratinocyte cell lines in vitro. NMN treatment during the IMQ application period markedly attenuated excess epidermal proliferation, splenomegaly, and inflammatory responses. According to GEO databases, Sirtuin1 (SIRT1) levels significantly decreased in psoriasis patients’ lesion tissues; this was also the case in the IMQ-treated mice, while NMN treatment reversed the SIRT1 decline in the mouse model. Moreover, NMN supplementation also improved the prognoses of the mice after IMQ stimulation, compared to the untreated group with elevated SIRT1 levels. In HEKa and HaCaT cells, the co-culturing of NMN and M5 significantly decreased the expression levels of proinflammation factors, the phosphorylation of NF-κB, stimulator of interferon genes (STING) levels, and reactive oxygen species levels. NMN treatment also recovered the decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential and respiration ability and reduced mtDNA in the cytoplasm, leading to the inhibition of autoimmune inflammation. The knockdown of SIRT1 in vitro eliminated the protective and therapeutic effects of NMN against M5. To conclude, our results indicate that NMN protects against IMQ-induced psoriatic inflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction by activating the SIRT1 pathway.
Protective Effect of Knee Postoperative Fluid on Oxidative-Induced Damage in Human Knee Articular Chondrocytes
Authors: Giordo Roberta , Tulasigeri Totiger Smitha , Caggiari Gianfilippo , Cossu Annalisa , Manunta Andrea Fabio , Posadino Anna Maria , Pintus Gianfranco
Published: February 2024

The oxidative-stress-elicited deterioration of chondrocyte function is the initial stage of changes leading to the disruption of cartilage homeostasis. These changes entail a series of catabolic damages mediated by proinflammatory cytokines, MMPs, and aggrecanases, which increase ROS generation. Such uncontrolled ROS production, inadequately balanced by the cellular antioxidant capacity, eventually contributes to the development and progression of chondropathies. Several pieces of evidence show that different growth factors, single or combined, as well as anti-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, can stimulate chondrogenesis and improve cartilage repair and regeneration. In this view, hypothesizing a potential growth-factor-associated action, we investigate the possible protective effect of post-operation knee fluid from patients undergoing prosthesis replacement surgery against ROS-induced damage on normal human knee articular chondrocytes (HKACs). To this end, HKACs were pre-treated with post-operation knee fluid and then exposed to H2O2 to mimic oxidative stress. Intracellular ROS levels were measured by using the molecular probe H2DCFDA; cytosolic and mitochondrial oxidative status were assessed by using HKACs infected with lentiviral particles harboring the redox-sensing green fluorescent protein (roGFP); and cell proliferation was determined by measuring the rate of DNA synthesis with BrdU incorporation. Moreover, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione levels from the cell lysates of treated cells were also measured. Postoperative peripheral blood sera from the same patients were used as controls. Our study shows that post-operation knee fluid can counteract H2O2-elicited oxidative stress by decreasing the intracellular ROS levels, preserving the cytosolic and mitochondrial redox status, maintaining the proliferation of oxidatively stressed HKACs, and upregulating chondrocyte antioxidant defense. Overall, our results support and propose an important effect of post-operation knee fluid substances in maintaining HKAC function by mediating cell antioxidative system upregulation and protecting cells from oxidative stress.
SiONx Coating Regulates Mesenchymal Stem Cell Antioxidant Capacity via Nuclear Erythroid Factor 2 Activity under Toxic Oxidative Stress Conditions
Authors: Ahuja Neelam , Awad Kamal , Yang Su , Dong He , Mikos Antonios , Aswath Pranesh , Young Simon , Brotto Marco , Varanasi Venu
Published: February 2024

Healing in compromised and complicated bone defects is often prolonged and delayed due to the lack of bioactivity of the fixation device, secondary infections, and associated oxidative stress. Here, we propose amorphous silicon oxynitride (SiONx) as a coating for the fixation devices to improve both bioactivity and bacteriostatic activity and reduce oxidative stress. We aimed to study the effect of increasing the N/O ratio in the SiONx to fine-tune the cellular activity and the antioxidant effect via the NRF2 pathway under oxidative stress conditions. The in vitro studies involved using human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to examine the effect of SiONx coatings on osteogenesis with and without toxic oxidative stress. Additionally, bacterial growth on SiONx surfaces was studied using methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) colonies. NRF2 siRNA transfection was performed on the hMSCs (NRF2-KD) to study the antioxidant response to silicon ions. The SiONx implant surfaces showed a >4-fold decrease in bacterial growth vs. bare titanium as a control. Increasing the N/O ratio in the SiONx implants increased the alkaline phosphatase activity >1.5 times, and the other osteogenic markers (osteocalcin, RUNX2, and Osterix) were increased >2-fold under normal conditions. Increasing the N/O ratio in SiONx enhanced the protective effects and improved cell viability against toxic oxidative stress conditions. There was a significant increase in osteocalcin activity compared to the uncoated group, along with increased antioxidant activity under oxidative stress conditions. In NRF2-KD cells, there was a stunted effect on the upregulation of antioxidant markers by silicon ions, indicating a role for NRF2. In conclusion, the SiONx coatings studied here displayed bacteriostatic properties. These materials promoted osteogenic markers under toxic oxidative stress conditions while also enhancing antioxidant NRF2 activity. These results indicate the potential of SiONx coatings to induce in vivo bone regeneration in a challenging oxidative stress environment.
Numerical Simulation Research on Aerodynamic Characteristics during Take-Off Phase in Ski Jumping
Authors: Hu Qi , Tang Weidi , Liu Yu
Published: February 2024

In view of the inability to directly and accurately obtain an athlete’s aerodynamic force during the take-off phase through the wind tunnel test, the athlete’s aerodynamic force and surrounding flow field form under different take-off postures are obtained through numerical simulation research, and the effects of different take-off modes on the aerodynamic characteristics during take-off in ski jumping are discussed. The multi-body system composed of the athlete and skis was selected as the research object. By using a partially averaged Navier–Stokes (PANS) turbulence model and a 3D numerical simulation of computational fluid dynamics (CFD), the aerodynamic characteristics of the athlete under different take-off postures were predicted. The take-off modes include the knee-push-hip (KPH) mode and hip-drive-knee (HDK) mode, and the hip joint angle of the HDK mode is significantly greater than that of the KPH mode. First, the aerodynamic force ratio of the athlete’s torso and legs is obviously large. Although the aerodynamic forces of arms themselves are not obvious, they have a great impact on the overall aerodynamic characteristics of the athlete, so the posture of the arms cannot be ignored. The total drag and moment of the HDK mode are significantly higher than that of the KPH mode, and the lift-to-drag ratio of the HDK mode is significantly lower than that of the KPH mode. At first, the total lift of the HDK mode is higher than that of the KPH mode, but in the last attitude, the total lift of the HDK mode does not rise but fall, and finally, the total lift of the HDK mode is lower than that of the KPH mode. The aerodynamic characteristics change dramatically during the take-off phase, and the aerodynamic characteristics of the two take-off modes are quite different, and these changes and differences are difficult to observe during real training and at the competition site. The KPH mode has an obvious aerodynamic advantage over the HDK mode. During the take-off process, the athlete should increase the force generated by the knee joint extension and appropriately reduce the speed of the hip joint extension, control the using force order of the lower limb joints, and push the hip joint extension by the knee joint extension in order to avoid issues, such as the hip joint angle being too large, the hip joint extension angle being too fast, the center of gravity being too far back, and other problems. Studying the aerodynamic characteristics during the take-off phase provides valuable insights for athletes to achieve favorable flight postures after take-off, offering scientific guidance to improve their training strategies and enhance their competitive performance.
Modeling and Control Simulation of Power Converters in Automotive Applications
Authors: Dini Pierpaolo , Saponara Sergio
Published: February 2024

This research introduces a model-based approach for the analysis and control of an onboard charger (OBC) system for contemporary electrified vehicles. The primary objective is to integrate the modeling of SiC/GaN MOSFETs electrothermal behaviors into a unified simulation framework. The motivation behind this project stems from the fact that existing literature often relies on finite element method (FEM) software to examine thermal dynamics, necessitating the development of complex models through partial derivative equations. Such intricate models are computationally demanding, making it difficult to integrate them with circuit equations in the same virtual environment. As a result, lengthy wait periods and a lack of communication between the electrothermal models limit the thorough study that can be conducted during the design stage. The selected case study for examination is a modular 1ϕ (single phase) onboard computer (OBC). This system comprises a dual active bridge (DAB) type DC/DC converter, which is positioned after a totem pole power factor correction (PFC) AC/DC converter. Specifically, the focus is directed toward a 7 kW onboard computer (OBC) utilizing high-voltage SiC/GaN MOSFETs to ensure optimal efficiency and performance. A systematic approach is presented for the assessment and selection of electronic components, employing circuit models for the totem pole power factor correction (PFC) and dual active bridge (DAB) converter. These models are employed in simulations closely mimicking real-world scenarios. Furthermore, rigorous testing of the generated models is conducted across a spectrum of real-world operating conditions to validate the stability of the implemented control algorithms. The validation process is bolstered by a comprehensive exploration of parametric variations relative to the nominal case. Notably, each simulation adheres to the recommended operational limits of the selected components and devices. Detailed data sheets encompassing electrothermal properties are provided for contextual reference.
Performance Assessment of Waste Cooking Oil-Modified Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Alkuime Hamza , Kassem Emad , Alshraiedeh Khaled A. , Bustanji Manaf , Aleih Ahmad , Abukhamseh Fawzi
Published: February 2024

This study aims to develop a framework to incorporate Waste Cooking Oil (WCO) into asphalt mixtures. Such a framework utilizes a Balanced Mix Design (BMD) approach to ensure adequate resistance to cracking and rutting. Transportation agencies can use the proposed framework to incorporate recycled materials such as used cooking oils and reclaimed asphalt pavements into asphalt mixtures, which promotes sustainability in asphalt pavement construction. This study evaluated the cracking and rutting performance of the control and modified asphalt mixtures with different WCO dosages (i.e., 2, 3, 4, 5, and 7% by the weight of the binder) using the Indirect Tensile Asphalt Cracking (IDEAL) and High-temperature Indirect Tensile (High-IDT) Rutting Assessment Tests, respectively. The results demonstrated that WCO improved the cracking resistance of the control balanced mixture but reduced its resistance to rutting. A statistically significant effect was observed at high WCO dosages. Furthermore, the interaction plot indicates that the overall performance of WCO-modified asphalt becomes softer and more flexible with the increase in WCO dosage. Thus, the designed balanced control mixture becomes unbalanced when using WCO oil at any dosage. This study proposed several approaches to design a more economically balanced WCO-modified balance asphalt mixture.
Rock Mass Structure Classification of Caves Based on the 3D Rock Block Index
Authors: Dong Jun , Chen Qingqing , Yuan Guangxiang , Xie Kaiyan
Published: February 2024

In large-scale water conservancy and hydropower projects, complex rock structures are considered to be the main factor controlling the stability of hydraulic structures. The classification of rock mass structure plays an important role in the safety of all kinds of large buildings, especially underground engineering buildings. As a quantitative classification index of rock mass, the rock block index is very common in the classification of borehole and dam foundation rock mass structures. However, there are few studies on the classification of underground engineering rock masses. Moreover, their classification criteria have disadvantages in spatial dimension. Therefore, this paper takes the long exploratory cave CPD1 in the water transmission and power generation system of the Qingtian pumped storage power station in Zhejiang Province as the research object and launches a study on the structural classification of the rock mass of a flat cave based on the 3D rock block index. According to the group distribution of joints, the sections are statistically homogeneous. Additionally, the Monte Carlo method is used to carry out random simulations to generate a three-dimensional joint network model. The virtual survey lines are arranged along the center of the shape of the three different orthogonal planes of the 3D joint network model to represent the boreholes, and the RBI values of the virtual survey lines on each orthogonal plane are counted to classify the rock mass structure of the flat cave in a refined manner using the rock block index of the rock mass in 3D. The above method realizes the application of the 3D rock block index in underground engineering and overcomes the limitations of traditional rock mass classification methods in terms of classification index and dimension. The results show that: (1) Three-dimensional joint network simulations built on statistical and probabilistic foundations can visualize the structure of the rock mass and more accurately reflect the structural characteristics of the actual rock mass. (2) Based on the 3D rock block index, the rock mass structure of the long-tunnel CPD1 is classified, from that of a continuous structure to a blocky structure, corresponding to the integrity of the rock mass from complete to relatively complete. The classification results are consistent with the evaluation results of horizontal tunnel seismic wave geophysical exploration. (3) Based on the 3D joint network model, it is reasonable and feasible to use the 3D rock block index as a quantitative evaluation index to determine the structure type of flat cave rock masses. The above method is helpful and significant in the classification of underground engineering rock mass structures.
Service Life Prediction and Life Cycle Costs of Light Weight Partitions
Authors: Urlainis Alon , Paciuk Monica , Shohet Igal M.
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the life expectancy (LE) and life cycle costs (LCC) of three alternatives of interior partitions in residential units: gypsum board, autoclaved concrete block, and hollow concrete block partitions. The aim is to examine the sustainability and cost-effectiveness of these partitions in various service and occupancy conditions. Three different service conditions were analyzed: Standard (constructed without faults), Inherent Defect Conditions (with initial, non-progressing defects), and Failure Conditions (developing defects over time). To analyze the impact of occupancy conditions, six ‘negative occupancy factors’ were identified that accelerate partition deterioration, including non-ownership, poor maintenance, high residential density, the presence of young children, the presence of domestic animals, and the density of furniture. These factors define four occupancy condition categories: light, moderate, standard, and intensive. The research found that hollow concrete block partitions are the most durable, exceeding 100 years in light or moderate conditions. Gypsum board partitions, while cost-effective, have a lower life expectancy, needing replacement in 11–27 years in intensive conditions. Autoclaved concrete blocks offer moderate durability, with similar costs to hollow blocks in normal conditions. Overall, the study highlights the influence of service and occupancy on the lifespan of interior building components, and provides recommendations for partition type selection that are based on specific conditions. These recommendations are a pivotal outcome, highlighting the study’s significant contribution to the understanding of the long-term performance and sustainability of building materials in residential construction.
The Influence of the Public Lighting Environment on Local Residents’ Subjective Assessment
Authors: Castilla Nuria , Blanca-Giménez Vicente , Pérez-Carramiñana Carlos , Llinares Carmen
Published: February 2024

Sustainable development and energy savings are crucial to the significant worldwide trend in smart city-related research and projects. In this regard, public lighting systems have great energy-saving potential. Nevertheless, while citizen engagement is a key element of most conceptualisations of smart cities, many smart lighting projects and systems fail to take account of the citizen’s viewpoint. Applying a citizen-centric lighting design model, the objective of this study is to examine the affective impressions of local residents of the luminous environments in their areas, taking account of the activities they carry out there. Kansei Engineering is employed to connect luminous design elements with citizens’ affective responses. Lighting environments in 18 urban spaces were evaluated by 310 local residents. The results show that subjective assessments in the evaluation of urban lighting environments can be explained by the following dimensions: Expressive-interesting, Innovative-efficient, Defined-sufficient, Formal-uniform and Glaring. The relationship of these dimensions to urban social activities shows that public lighting should generate, in local residents, sensations consistent with the nature of the activities. Urban lighting must create in the citizen a feeling of innovation (being up-to-date and contemporary) if it is to be seen as energy-saving and caring for the environment. These findings may be valuable for governments, architects, engineers, and lighting designers when developing strategies to ensure their designs are evaluated as being efficient, sustainable, and environmentally friendly.
Electron Capture from Molecular Hydrogen by Metastable Sn2+* Ions
Authors: Bijlsma Klaas , Oltra Lamberto , de Wit Emiel , Assink Luc , Rabadán Ismanuel , Méndez Luis , Hoekstra Ronnie
Published: February 2024

Over a wide and partly overlapping energy range, the single-electron capture cross-sections for collisions of metastable Sn2+(5s5p Po3) (Sn2+∗) ions with H2 molecules were measured (0.1–10 keV) and calculated (0.3–1000 keV). The semi-classical calculations use a close-coupling method on a basis of electronic wavefunctions of the (SnH2)2+ system. The experimental cross-sections were extracted from double collisions in a crossed-beam experiment of Sn3+ with H2. The measured capture cross-sections for Sn2+∗ show good agreement with the calculations between 2 and 10 keV, but increase toward lower energies, whereas the calculations decrease. Additional Landau–Zener calculations were performed and show that the inclusion of spin-orbit splitting cannot explain the large cross-sections at the lowest energies which we now assume to be likely due to vibrational effects in the molecular hydrogen target.