bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utilization of Diversified Cover Crops as Green Manure-Enhanced Soil Organic Carbon, Nutrient Transformation, Microbial Activity, and Maize Growth
Authors: Kucerik Jiri , Brtnicky Martin , Mustafa Adnan , Hammerschmiedt Tereza , Kintl Antonin , Sobotkova Julie , Alamri Saud , Baltazar Tivadar , Latal Oldrich , Naveed Muhammad , Malicek Ondrej , Holatko Jiri
Published: September 2024

Studying green manure in several returning methods to enhance soil fertility and crop benefits is a strong foundation for cropland nutrient management. However, how different types of green manures and their variable doses affect the efficacy of applied manures, either buried or mulched, remain overlooked. The objective of this study was to optimize green manure management to enhance soil fertility and maize biomass using five types of green manures (white mustard, forest rye, fiddleneck, sufflower, and pea) in two different doses (low, 5 g per pot, and high, 10 g per pot), which were either buried or mulched before and after maize sowing. Results revealed that total carbon content increased due to green manure treatments, representing a 10% increase over control, particularly through buried w. mustard (10% increase before maize cultivation) and mulched safflower and pea (12% and 11% increase after maize cultivation over control). Dry maize aboveground biomass yields also improved across all variants, with buried mustard yielding 18.4 g·plant−1 (compared to 8.6 g·plant−1 in the control), mulched mustard yielding 16.4 g·plant−1, and buried pea yielding 17.8 g·plant−1. Green mulching generally acidified the soil (pH 5.71 compared to 6.21 in the control), except for buried fiddleneck (pH 6.39 after maize cultivation) at a high dose of manures. Carbon-mineralizing enzyme activities (dehydrogenase and β-glucosidase) were significantly increased by green manures, with buried fiddleneck showing a 22.6% and 20.6% increase over the control, and mulched fiddleneck showing a 24.5% and 22.4% increase under high doses. The study suggests that partially decomposed and mineralized mulched biomass may induce a negative priming effect on carbon-mineralizing enzymes due to a decrease in the C/N ratio of the soil. It emphasizes that the nutrient content and stoichiometry of green manures, alongside soil characteristics such as the C/N ratio, are critical factors for sustainable soil management and carbon sequestration. These findings underscore the need for careful selection and management of green manures to optimize soil health and carbon-storage outcomes.
Pharmacokinetic Pattern of Menbutone in Calves after Single Intravenous and Intramuscular Administration
Authors: Diez Raquel , Rodriguez Jose M. , Lopez Cristina , de la Puente Raul , Sierra Matilde , Diez M. Jose , Fernandez Nelida , Garcia Juan J. , Sahagun Ana M.
Published: September 2024

Menbutone is a choleretic agent currently used in Europe to treat digestive disorders in livestock and dogs. Pharmacokinetic parameters were established in 4-month Holstein calves after intravenous (IV) and intramuscular (IM) administration. The drug was administered to 12 animals (10 mg/kg) for both IV and IM routes following a crossover design. Plasma samples were collected at various time points over 24 h and analyzed by reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography with a photodiode-array detector, following a method validated according to European Medicines Agency guidelines. Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated using compartmental and non-compartmental methods. Menbutone followed a two-compartment open model after IV injection, with a total clearance (Cl) of 71.9 ± 13.5 mL/h/kg, an elimination half-life (t½β) of 4.53 ± 2.45 h, and a volume of distribution at steady-state (Vss) of 310.4 ± 106.4 mL/kg. Non-compartmental elimination half-life (t½λ) was 4.2 ± 1.1 h. After IM administration, drug pharmacokinetics was best described by a one-compartment open model. The peak plasma concentration (Cmax) was 15.1 ± 4.3 µg/mL; the time to reach Cmax (tmax), 1.66 ± 0.55 h; and the mean absorption time (MAT), 2.50 ± 1.42 h. Absorption was high, with a fraction of the dose absorbed (F) of 83.5 ± 22.4%. Menbutone was rapidly eliminated from plasma for both routes of administration, with a fast and high IM bioavailability.
Effect of Two Different Sperm Selection Methods on Boar Sperm Parameters and In Vitro Fertilisation Outcomes
Authors: Serrano-Albal Maria , Aquilina Marie Claire , Kiazim Lucas G. , Zak Louisa J. , Griffin Darren K. , Ellis Peter J.
Published: September 2024

Porcine in vitro embryo production (IVP) protocols have conventionally used density gradient selection (DGS) by centrifugation to prepare sperm samples and achieve successful fertilisation. However, the possible toxicity of the solutions used and the potential damage caused by the centrifugation step may have a negative effect on the quality of the sample. Microfluidic chip-based sperm (MCS) sorting has been proposed as an alternative technique for the selection of high-quality sperm with the purpose of improving reproductive outcomes in IVF. This device does not require centrifugation or any toxic solution to prepare the sample for fertilisation. The sample is not subjected to unnecessary stress, and the process is less operator-dependent. In this study, we compared the sperm parameters of unselected extender-diluted boar semen samples with selected samples using DGS and MCS methods. The results show an expected reduction in sperm concentration after both methods. All the groups were significantly different from one another, with MCS being the group with the lowest concentration. Though the three groups had a similar overall motility, significant differences were found in progressive motility when comparing the unselected group (control, 19.5 ± 1.4%) with DGS and MCS. Progressive motility in DGS was also significantly higher than in MCS (65.2 ± 4.9% and 45.7% ± 5.3, respectively). However, MCS selection resulted in enriched sperm samples with a significantly lower proportion of morphologically abnormal sperm compared to DGS. After fertilisation, no statistical differences were found between the two methods for embryological parameters such as cleavage rates, blastulation rates, and embryo quality. The number of cells in blastocysts derived from MCS was significantly greater than those derived from DGS sperm. Thus, we demonstrate that MCS is at least as good as the standard DGS for most measures. As a more gentle and reproducible approach for sperm selection, however, it could improve consistency and improve IVP outcomes as mediated by a greater proportion of morphologically normal sperm and manifested by a higher cell count in blastocysts.
The Effects of Octapeptin Supplementation on Growth Performance, Serum Biochemistry, Serum Immunity, and Gut Microbiota in Weaned Piglets
Authors: Huang Sheng , Yang Li , Wang Li , Chen Yu , Ding Xiuliang , Yang Feiyun , Qiao Shiyan , Huang Jinxiu
Published: September 2024

With the prohibition of antibiotics in animal feed, the livestock industry faces significant challenges, including increased morbidity and mortality rates and reduced farming efficiency. Developing green, natural, and safe antibiotic alternatives has become a research hotspot. This study evaluated the effects of octapeptin as a feed additive on growth performance, diarrhea incidence, serum biochemistry, serum immune factors, and gut microbiota of weaned piglets. Seventy-two weaned piglets were randomly assigned to three groups based on body weight and sex, with each group receiving different dietary treatments: a negative control group (CON, basal diet), a positive control group (MC, basal diet + 5 mg/kg Microcin C7), and an octapeptin supplement group (OP, basal diet + 40 mg/kg octapeptin). After 28 days of feeding experimental diets, the results demonstrated that supplementing the diet of weaned piglets with octapeptin significantly improved the feed conversion ratio compared to the control group (p < 0.05) over the entire experimental period. Furthermore, a reduction in diarrhea incidence was observed during the late nursery period (14–28 d), resulting in an overall improvement in diarrhea compared to the other two groups (p < 0.01). Serum biochemical analysis results revealed a trend towards decreased alanine aminotransferase level in the octapeptin group, with no significant differences in other indicators, suggesting potential improvements in liver function without causing liver damage. In addition, compared to the control group, octapeptin enhanced mucosal immunity by decreasing TNF-α level (p < 0.05). Fecal microbiota analysis results showed a significant increase in beneficial bacteria such as Collinsella and Olsenella in the octapeptin group compared to the other two groups (p < 0.05), indicating a positive impact on gut health. These findings supported the potential of octapeptin as an alternative to antibiotic growth promoters in weaned piglets’ diets.
Effects of Low-Pressure Systems on Temperature, Humidity, Egg Production, and Feed Utilization Efficiency in Large-Scale Poultry Houses during Summer
Authors: Peng Haiqing , Wang Yang , Zhang Zhihao , Qin Wenxiang , Li Baoming , Zheng Weichao , Yin Peng , Zhu Hao
Published: September 2024

Low-pressure systems (LPSs) are among the most critical weather systems, producing excessive precipitation that causes air temperatures to drop and rise considerably. Acute temperature changes directly affect poultry feed intake (FI) and laying performance. To explore the effects of LPSs on hens, the parameters of air temperature, relative humidity, egg production, and feed utilization efficiency were evaluated during different LPSs in three houses. Results indicated that about 2.8 ± 0.7 d, 2.4 ± 0.5 d, and 2.4 ± 0.5 d before the LPS landfall in houses 1, 2, and 3, respectively, the indoor air temperature started to decrease, with the average decreases being 1.7 °C ± 0.4 °C, 2.4 °C ± 0.6 °C, and 1.8 °C ± 0.4 °C, respectively. Significant differences were observed between different LPSs for reducing indoor air temperature (p < 0.05) in the three houses. In house 1, the egg production rates (EPRs) were decreased by 6.6% and 1.1% when LPSs 1 and 2 landed. The average egg weight (AEW) and FI during the LPS landfall were significantly higher than those before the LPS landfall (p < 0.01). Under successive LPSs landfall in the three houses, the EPRs initially reduced by 3.9%, 4.0%, and 0.5%, respectively, but the second LPS event increased the EPRs by 1.8%, 5.3%, and 1.0%, respectively. Furthermore, the LPS landfall increased the feed conversion ratio (FCRe) in the three houses, all above 2.00. In conclusion, LPSs can reduce heat stress, lower the EPRs, and lead to higher FI, FCRe, and AEW.
Integration of IoT in Small-Scale Aquaponics to Enhance Efficiency and Profitability: A Systematic Review
Authors: Zamnuri Muhammad Aiman Hakim bin , Qiu Shuting , Rizalmy Muhammad Akmal Arif bin , He Weiyi , Yusoff Sumiani , Roeroe Kakaskasen Andreas , Du Jianguo , Loh Kar-Hoe
Published: September 2024

Aquaponics combines aquaculture and hydroponics to offer a sustainable approach to agriculture, addressing food security issues with minimal environmental harm. However, small-scale practitioners face challenges due to a lack of professional knowledge in water chemistry and system maintenance. Economic hurdles, such as operational costs and energy-intensive components, hinder the viability of small-scale aquaponics. Selecting suitable fish and plant species, along with appropriate stocking densities, is crucial. Media Bed (MB), Deep Water Culture (DWC), and the Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) are commonly used hydroponic techniques. This study outlines optimal conditions, including water quality, temperature, pH, and nutrient concentrations, essential for symbiotic fish and plant cultivation. Integrating IoT technology enhances efficiency and profitability by optimizing resource utilization, monitoring water quality, and ensuring optimal growth conditions. Knowledge sharing among practitioners fosters innovation and sustainability through collaborative learning and best practices exchange. Establishing a community for knowledge sharing is vital for continuous improvement, advancing small-scale aquaponics towards a more efficient and sustainable future.
Nocturnal Extreme Rainfall over the Central Yungui Plateau under Cold and Warm Upper-Level Anomaly Backgrounds during Warm Seasons in 1980–2020
Authors: Yuan Weihua , Li Zhi
Published: September 2024

The spatiotemporal and cloud features of the extreme rainfall under the warm and cold upper-level anomalies over the central Yungui Plateau (YGP) were investigated using the hourly rain gauge records, ERA5 reanalysis data, TRMM, and Fengyun satellite data, aiming to refine the understanding of different types of extreme rainfall. Extreme rainfall under an upper-level negative temperature anomaly (cold events) presents stronger convective cloud features when compared with the positive temperature anomaly (warm events). The maximum rainfall intensity and duration in cold events is much larger than that of warm events, while the brightness temperature of the cloud top is lower, and the ratio of convective rainfall is higher. In cold events, the middle-to-upper troposphere is dominated by a cold anomaly, and an unstable configuration with upper (lower) cold (warm) anomalies is observed around the central YGP. Although the upper-level temperature anomaly is positive, the anomalous divergence and convergence of southerly and northerly winds, as well as the strong moisture center and upward motions, are also found over the central YGP in warm events. The stronger atmospheric instability and higher convective energy under the upper-level cold anomalous circulation are closely associated with the rainfall features over the central YGP. The results indicate that the upper tropospheric temperature has significant influences on extreme rainfall, and thus more attention should be paid to the upper tropospheric temperature in future analyses.
The Diagnostic Analysis of the Thermodynamic Characteristics of Typhoon “Maysak” during Its Transformation Process
Authors: Zhou Guanbo , Du Han
Published: September 2024

This study utilized high-resolution numerical simulation data from the WRF model to conduct a thermodynamic diagnosis of the process by which Typhoon “Maysak” transformed and merged with the Northeast Cold Vortex. The results indicated that the continuous intrusion of cold vortex air and the relative cold advection formed by the typhoon’s movement led to the demise of the typhoon’s warm core structure. The low-level low-pressure convergence and upper-level high-pressure divergence structure disappeared. After the transformation and merging with the Northeast Cold Vortex, the cyclone became cold throughout the entire layer, with a cold center appearing at low levels. During the process of the typhoon’s transformation and merging with the Northeast Cold Vortex, cold air accumulated near the low levels of the cyclone, causing the pseudo-adiabatic potential temperature lines to tilt and resulting in the slanted development of vertical vorticity in the mid-levels of the cyclone. After the typhoon transformed and merged with the Northeast Cold Vortex, the positive vertical vorticity advection at the bottom of the upper-level cold vortex trough promoted the cyclone’s development directly from the mid-levels to the upper levels, while the jet stream at the bottom of the cold vortex trough facilitated the maintenance of the positive vertical vorticity advection. Concurrently, the thermodynamic shear vorticity parameter could describe the typical vertical structure characteristics of the dynamic and thermodynamic fields above the rain area during the typhoon transformation process. In terms of temporal evolution trends, there was a certain correspondence with the development and movement of the ground rain area, and the perturbation thermodynamic divergence parameter had a good indicative effect on the area of heavy rainfall.
Dust Storms Are Associated with an Increase in Outpatient Visits for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Chen Conmin , Chen Chin-Shyan , Liu Tsai-Ching
Published: September 2024

Our study is the first to illuminate a previously underexplored dimension in the intricate interplay between environmental factors, specifically dust storms (DSs), and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) outcomes. An Auto Regressive Moving Average (ARMA) time-series estimation model was employed to analyze rheumatoid arthritis outpatient visits, dust storms, air pollution, and meteorology data in Taiwan from 2006 to 2012. The results show that females are three times more likely to experience RA-related issues and seek medical attention. Percentage analysis revealed a 10–15% increase in daily RA outpatient visits on post-event days 1 and 2 compared to non-DS days. However, the time-series estimation indicated a delayed and statistically significant (p < 0.05) increase in RA outpatient visits on post-event day 1 for males but not females. Additionally, a significant increase in RA outpatient visits (p < 0.05) was observed on post-event day 1 among individuals aged 61 and above. Environmental factors such as temperature and SO2 showed strong significance across all genders and age groups (p < 0.001). The findings highlight distinct gender and age disparities regarding the impacts of DS on RA outpatient visits, emphasizing the heightened sensitivity of males to environmental pollutants and the vulnerability of the elderly population.
Impact of Polar Vortex Modes on Winter Weather Patterns in the Northern Hemisphere
Authors: Mariaccia Alexis , Keckhut Philippe , Hauchecorne Alain
Published: September 2024

This study is an additional investigation of stratosphere–troposphere coupling based on the recent stratospheric winter descriptions in five distinct modes: January, February, Double, Dynamical, and Radiative. These modes, established in a previous study, categorize the main stratospheric winter typologies modulated by the timing of important sudden stratospheric warmings (SSWs) and final stratospheric warmings (FSWs). The novelty of this research is to investigate the Northern Annular Mode, mean sea level pressure (MSLP) anomalies in the Ural and Aleutian regions, and the decomposition of Eliassen–Palm flux into wavenumbers 1 and 2 within each mode. The results show that the January and Double modes exhibit similar pre-warming surface signals, characterized by Ural blocking and Aleutian trough events preceding weak polar vortex events. The January mode displays a positive MSLP anomaly of +395 Pa (−191 Pa) in the Ural (Aleutian) region in December, while the Double mode shows +311 Pa (−89 Pa) in November. These modes are primarily wave-1 driven, generating tropospheric responses via negative Arctic Oscillation patterns. Conversely, the February and Dynamical modes show opposite signals, with Aleutian blocking and Ural trough events preceding strong polar vortex events. In December, the February mode exhibits MSLP anomalies of +119 Pa (Aleutian) and −180 Pa (Ural), while the Dynamical mode shows +77 Pa and −184 Pa, respectively. These modes, along with important SSWs in February and dynamical FSWs, are driven by both wave-1 and wave-2 and do not significantly impact the troposphere. The Radiative mode’s occurrence is strongly related to the Aleutian blocking presence. These findings confirm that SSW timing is influenced by specific dynamical forcing related to surface precursors and underscore its importance in subsequent tropospheric responses. This study establishes a connection between early winter tropospheric conditions and upcoming stratospheric states, potentially improving seasonal forecasts in the northern hemisphere.
Noncommutative Multi-Parameter Subsequential Wiener–Wintner-Type Ergodic Theorem
Authors: Sun Mu , Zhang Yinmei
Published: September 2024

This paper is devoted to the study of a multi-parameter subsequential version of the “Wiener–Wintner” ergodic theorem for the noncommutative Dunford–Schwartz system. We establish a structure to prove “Wiener–Wintner”-type convergence over a multi-parameter subsequence class Δ instead of the weight class case. In our subsequence class, every term of k̲∈Δ is one of the three kinds of nonzero density subsequences we consider. As key ingredients, we give the maximal ergodic inequalities of multi-parameter subsequential averages and obtain a noncommutative subsequential analogue of the Banach principle. Then, by combining the critical result of the uniform convergence for a dense subset of the noncommutative Lp(M) space and the noncommutative Orlicz space, we immediately obtain the main theorem.
Probabilistic Perturbation Bounds for Invariant, Deflating and Singular Subspaces
Authors: Petkov Petko H.
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we derive new probabilistic bounds on the sensitivity of invariant subspaces, deflation subspaces and singular subspaces of matrices. The analysis exploits a unified method for deriving asymptotic perturbation bounds of the subspaces under interest and utilizes probabilistic approximations of the entries of random perturbation matrices implementing the Markoff inequality. As a result of the analysis, we determine with a prescribed probability asymptotic perturbation bounds on the angles between the corresponding perturbed and unperturbed subspaces. It is shown that the probabilistic asymptotic bounds proposed are significantly less conservative than the corresponding deterministic perturbation bounds. The results obtained are illustrated by examples comparing the known deterministic perturbation bounds with the new probabilistic bounds.
A Hybrid Segmentation Algorithm for Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosis Using X-ray Images
Authors: Rajesh Govindan , Malarvizhi Nandagopal , Leung Man-Fai
Published: September 2024

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune illness that occurs in the joints, resulting in inflammation, pain, and stiffness. X-ray examination is one of the most common diagnostic procedures for RA, but manual X-ray image analysis has limitations because it is a time-consuming procedure and is prone to errors. A specific algorithm aims to a lay stable and accurate segmenting of carpal bones from hand bone images, which is vitally important for identifying rheumatoid arthritis. The algorithm demonstrates several stages, starting with Carpal bone Region of Interest (CROI) specification, dynamic thresholding, and Gray Level Co-occurrence Matrix (GLCM) application for texture analysis. To get the clear edges of the image, the component is first converted to the greyscale function and thresholding is carried out to separate the hand from the background. The pad region is identified to obtain the contours of it, and the CROI is defined by the bounding box of the largest contour. The threshold value used in the CROI method is given a dynamic feature that can separate the carpal bones from the surrounding tissue. Then the GLCM texture analysis is carried out, calculating the number of pixel neighbors, with the specific intensity and neighbor relations of the pixels. The resulting feature matrix is then employed to extract features such as contrast and energy, which are later used to categorize the images of the affected carpal bone into inflamed and normal. The proposed technique is tested on a rheumatoid arthritis image dataset, and the results show its contribution to diagnosis of the disease. The algorithm efficiently divides carpal bones and extracts the signature parameters that are critical for correct classification of the inflammation in the cartilage images.
Study of the Synchronization and Transmission of Intracellular Signaling Oscillations in Cells Using Bispectral Analysis
Authors: Astashev Maxim E. , Serov Dmitriy A. , Tankanag Arina V. , Knyazeva Inna V. , Dorokhov Artem A. , Simakin Alexander V. , Gudkov Sergey V.
Published: September 2024

The oscillation synchronization analysis in biological systems will expand our knowledge about the response of living systems to changes in environmental conditions. This knowledge can be used in medicine (diagnosis, therapy, monitoring) and agriculture (increasing productivity, resistance to adverse effects). Currently, the search is underway for an informative, accurate and sensitive method for analyzing the synchronization of oscillatory processes in cell biology. It is especially pronounced in analyzing the concentration oscillations of intracellular signaling molecules in electrically nonexcitable cells. The bispectral analysis method could be applied to assess the characteristics of synchronized oscillations of intracellular mediators. We chose endothelial cells from mouse microvessels as model cells. Concentrations of well-studied calcium and nitric oxide (NO) were selected for study in control conditions and well-described stress: heating to 40 °C and hyperglycemia. The bispectral analysis allows us to accurately evaluate the proportion of synchronized cells, their synchronization degree, and the amplitude and frequency of synchronized calcium and NO oscillations. Heating to 40 °C increased cell synchronization for calcium but decreased for NO oscillations. Hyperglycemia abolished this effect. Heating to 40 °C changed the frequencies and increased the amplitudes of synchronized oscillations of calcium concentration and the NO synthesis rate. The first part of this paper describes the principles of the bispectral analysis method and equations and modifications of the method we propose. In the second part of this paper, specific examples of the application of bispectral analysis to assess the synchronization of living cells in vitro are presented. The discussion compares the capabilities of bispectral analysis with other analytical methods in this field.
Chemical Composition, Antioxidant Capacity, and Anticancerous Effects against Human Lung Cancer Cells of a Terpenoid-Rich Fraction of Inula viscosa
Authors: Seglab Fatiha , Abou Assali Mazen , AlYafei Thoraya , Hassan Hassan , Pinto Diana C. G. A. , Baydoun Safaa , Al Thani Asmaa A. , Shaito Abdullah A.
Published: September 2024

Inula viscosa is a widely used plant in traditional Mediterranean and Middle Eastern medicine for various illnesses. I. viscosa has been shown to have anticancer effects against various cancers, but its effects against lung cancer have been under limited investigation. At the same time, I. viscosa is rich in terpenoids whose anti-lung cancer effects have been poorly investigated. This study aimed to examine the potential anticancer properties of methanolic and aqueous extracts of stems and leaves of I. viscosa and its terpenoid-rich fraction against human lung cancer A549 cells. Results showed that the methanolic extracts of I. viscosa had significantly higher polyphenol and flavonoid content and radical scavenging capacity than the aqueous extracts. In addition, leaves methanolic extracts (IVLM) caused the highest reduction in viability of A549 cells among all the extracts. IVLM also reduced the viability of human ovarian SK-OV-3, breast MCF-7, liver HepG2, and colorectal HCT116 cancer cells. A terpenoid-rich I. viscosa fraction (IVL DCM), prepared by liquid-liquid separation of IVLM in dichloromethane (DCM), displayed a substantial reduction in the viability of A549 cells (IC50 = 27.8 ± 1.5 µg/mL at 48 h) and the panel of tested cancerous cell lines but was not cytotoxic to normal human embryonic fibroblasts (HDFn). The assessment of IVL DCM phytochemical constituents using GC-MS analysis revealed 21 metabolites, highlighting an enrichment in terpenoids, such as lupeol and its derivatives, caryophyllene oxide, betulin, and isopulegol, known to exhibit proapoptotic and antimetastatic functions. IVL DCM also showed robust antioxidant capacity and decent polyphenol and flavonoid contents. Furthermore, Western blotting analysis indicated that IVL DCM reduced proliferation (reduction of proliferation marker Ki67 and induction of proliferation inhibitor proteins P21 and P27), contaminant with P38 MAP kinase activation, and induced the intrinsic apoptotic pathway (P53/BCL2/BAX/Caspase3/PARP) in A549 cells. IVL DCM also reduced the migration of A549 cells, potentially by reducing FAK activation. Future identification of anticancer metabolites of IVL DCM, especially terpenoids, is recommended. These data place I. viscosa as a new resource of herbal anticancer agents.
Inhibition of MAT2A Impairs Skeletal Muscle Repair Function
Authors: Xiao Wanli , Huang Tian-E , Zhou Jing , Wang Benhui , Wang Xiang , Zeng Weirong , Wang Qiquan , Lan Xinqiang , Xiang Yang
Published: September 2024

The regenerative capacity of muscle, which primarily relies on anabolic processes, diminishes with age, thereby reducing the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions aimed at treating age-related muscle atrophy. In this study, we observed a decline in the expression of methionine adenosine transferase 2A (MAT2A), which synthesizes S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), in the muscle tissues of both aged humans and mice. Considering MAT2A’s critical role in anabolism, we hypothesized that its reduced expression contributes to the impaired regenerative capacity of aging skeletal muscle. Mimicking this age-related reduction in the MAT2A level, either by reducing gene expression or inhibiting enzymatic activity, led to inhibiting their differentiation into myotubes. In vivo, inhibiting MAT2A activity aggravated BaCl2-induced skeletal muscle damage and decreased the number of satellite cells, whereas supplementation with SAM improved these effects. RNA-sequencing analysis further revealed that the Fas cell surface death receptor (Fas) gene was upregulated in Mat2a-knockdown C2C12 cells. Suppressing MAT2A expression or activity elevated Fas protein levels and increased the proportion of apoptotic cells. Additionally, inhibition of MAT2A expression or activity increased p53 expression. In conclusion, our findings demonstrated that impaired MAT2A expression or activity compromised the regeneration and repair capabilities of skeletal muscle, partially through p53–Fas-mediated apoptosis.
Exosomes: Key Factors in Ovarian Cancer Peritoneal Metastasis and Drug Resistance
Authors: Shao Ming , Gao Yunran , Xu Xiling , Chan David Wai , Du Juan
Published: September 2024

Ovarian cancer remains a leading cause of death among gynecological cancers, largely due to its propensity for peritoneal metastasis and the development of drug resistance. This review concentrates on the molecular underpinnings of these two critical challenges. We delve into the role of exosomes, the nano-sized vesicles integral to cellular communication, in orchestrating the complex interactions within the tumor microenvironment that facilitate metastatic spread and thwart therapeutic efforts. Specifically, we explore how exosomes drive peritoneal metastasis by promoting epithelial–mesenchymal transition in peritoneal mesothelial cells, altering the extracellular matrix, and supporting angiogenesis, which collectively enable the dissemination of cancer cells across the peritoneal cavity. Furthermore, we dissect the mechanisms by which exosomes contribute to the emergence of drug resistance, including the sequestration and expulsion of chemotherapeutic agents, the horizontal transfer of drug resistance genes, and the modulation of critical DNA repair and apoptotic pathways. By shedding light on these exosome-mediated processes, we underscore the potential of exosomal pathways as novel therapeutic targets, offering hope for more effective interventions against ovarian cancer’s relentless progression.
‘Exerkines’: A Comprehensive Term for the Factors Produced in Response to Exercise
Authors: Novelli Giuseppe , Calcaterra Giuseppe , Casciani Federico , Pecorelli Sergio , Mehta Jawahar L.
Published: September 2024

Regular exercise and physical activity are now considered lifestyle factors with positive effects on human health. Physical activity reduces disease burden, protects against the onset of pathologies, and improves the clinical course of disease. Unlike pharmacological therapies, the effects mediated by exercise are not limited to a specific target organ but act in multiple biological systems simultaneously. Despite the substantial health benefits of physical training, the precise molecular signaling processes that lead to structural and functional tissue adaptation remain largely unknown. Only recently, several bioactive molecules have been discovered that are produced following physical exercise. These molecules are collectively called “exerkines”. Exerkines are released from various tissues in response to exercise, and play a crucial role in mediating the beneficial effects of exercise on the body. Major discoveries involving exerkines highlight their diverse functions and health implications, particularly in metabolic regulation, neuroprotection, and muscle adaptation. These molecules, including peptides, nucleic acids, lipids, and microRNAs, act through paracrine, endocrine, and autocrine pathways to exert their effects on various organs and tissues. Exerkines represent a complex network of signaling molecules that mediate the multiple benefits of exercise. Their roles in metabolic regulation, neuroprotection, and muscle adaptation highlight the importance of physical activity in maintaining health and preventing disease.
Abnormally High Expression of DNAJB6 Accelerates Malignant Progression of Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Wang Di , Xiao Jiayu , Du Yang , Zhang Li , Qin Xuzhen
Published: September 2024

DNAJB6, a major member of the DNAJ/HSP40 family, plays an important role in tumor development. We explored the effect of DNAJB6 expression on the prognosis of patients and its biological role in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). mRNA and clinical data were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Enriched pathways were determined by the Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses. A nomogram incorporating DNAJB6 and three clinical features was constructed to predict the survival rate. DNAJB6 expression and function in LUAD were explored using immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, proliferation, cell cycle analysis, RNA sequencing, and xenograft tumor assays. DNAJB6 mRNA levels were elevated in the LUAD-TCGA dataset. DNAJB6 protein levels were higher in LUAD tumor tissues than in normal tissues. A high DNAJB6 level was an independent risk factor for poor prognosis in patients with LUAD. The proportion of tumor-infiltrating immune cells significantly differed between high and low DNAJB6 expression. DNAJB6 was associated with cell cycle pathways; therefore, its knockdown induced G2/M cell cycle arrest and inhibited LUAD cell proliferation. This is the first report of the DNAJB6 requirement for LUAD cell proliferation and its potentially crucial role in LUAD prognosis.
Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Populations in a Suburb of the Largest City in Western Romania
Authors: Dumitrescu Andreea , Vitcu Gabriela Mut , Stoica Svetlana , Susa Septimiu Radu , Stoicescu Emil Robert
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a major public health issue worldwide, disproportionately affecting socioeconomically disadvantaged populations due to the social determinants of health (SDOHs). In Western Romania, these populations are particularly vulnerable to CVD. This study aims to investigate the prevalence and impact of cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs) among socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals in Western Romania and identify the primary CVRFs contributing to the high incidence of CVD within this population. Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational design was employed, utilizing data from the medical records of 1433 eligible individuals. The inclusion criteria were based on Eurostat’s EU-SILC benchmarks, focusing on severe material deprivation, at-risk-of-poverty rates, and low work intensity. Data on demographics, familial and personal medical history, smoking status, blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, and HbA1c levels were collected. Results: Of the 1433 subjects, 34.75% were male, with a median age of 52 years. Significant conditions included diabetes (7.39%), coronary disease (3.83%), arterial hypertension (35.58%), and dyslipidemia (21.28%). Median ages were higher for those with diabetes (65 vs. 51 years, p < 0.0001), coronary disease (64 vs. 51 years, p < 0.0001), arterial hypertension (65 vs. 43 years, p < 0.0001), and dyslipidemia (66 vs. 47 years, p < 0.0001). BMI (Body Mass Index) classifications showed 33.77% were overweight, 21.21% obese, and 15.07% morbidly obese. Smokers were younger than non-smokers (48 vs. 54 years, p < 0.0001). Conclusions: The findings highlight the significant prevalence of CVRFs among socioeconomically disadvantaged populations in Western Romania. Socioeconomically disadvantaged populations exhibit a significantly higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors such as diabetes, impaired glucose regulation, hypertension, and dyslipidemia compared to their before known status.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Approvals of Biological Drugs in 2023
Authors: Martins Alexander C. , Oshiro Mariana Y. , Albericio Fernando , de la Torre Beatriz G.
Published: September 2024

An increase in total drug (small molecules and biologics) approvals by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was seen in 2023 compared with the previous year. Cancer remained the disease most targeted by monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), followed by autoimmune conditions. Our data reveal the prevalence of approvals for biologics even during years when the total number of authorizations was low, such as in 2022. Over half the drugs that received the green light in 2023 benefited from expedited programs, as the incidence of many diseases increased. In addition, over half of the biologics approved received Orphan Drug Designation from the FDA. This narrative review delves into details of the most significant approvals in 2023, including mAbs, enzymes, and proteins, explaining their mechanisms of action, differences from previous drugs, placebo, and standards of care, and outcomes in clinical trials. Given the varying number of drugs authorized annually by the U.S. health authority, this review also examines the limits of external influences over the FDA′s decisions and independence regarding drug approvals and withdrawals.
Impact of Hyponatremia on COVID-19-Related Outcomes: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Piza Pedro Maciel de Toledo , de Freitas Victor Muniz , Aguiar-Brito Isabella , Calsolari-Oliveira Barbara Monique , Rangel Érika Bevilaqua
Published: September 2024

Background: Sodium disturbances are observed in one-third of patients with COVID-19 and result from multifaceted mechanisms. Notably, hyponatremia is associated with disease progression and mortality. Aim: We aimed to analyze the impact of hyponatremia on COVID-19 outcomes and its correlation with clinical and laboratory parameters during the first wave. Methods: We evaluated the sodium levels of 558 patients with COVID-19 between 21 March 2020, and 31 July 2020, at a single center. We performed linear regression analyses to explore the correlation of sodium levels with COVID-19-related outcomes, demographic data, signs and symptoms, and laboratory parameters. Next, we conducted Pearson correlation analyses. A p-value < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Hyponatremia was found in 35.3% of hospitalized patients with COVID-19. This was associated with the need for intensive care transfer (B = −1.210, p = 0.009) and invasive mechanical ventilation (B = −1.063, p = 0.032). Hyponatremia was frequently found in oncologic patients (p = 0.002) and solid organ transplant recipients (p < 0.001). Sodium was positively associated with diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.041) and productive cough (p = 0.022) and negatively associated with dry cough (p = 0.032), anorexia (p = 0.004), and nausea/vomiting (p = 0.007). Regarding the correlation of sodium levels with other laboratory parameters, we observed a positive correlation with hematocrit (p = 0.011), lymphocytes (p = 0.010), pCO2 (p < 0.0001), bicarbonate (p = 0.0001), and base excess (p = 0.008) and a negative correlation with the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (p = 0.009), the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (p = 0.033), and arterial blood glucose (p = 0.016). Conclusions: Hyponatremia is a risk factor for adverse outcomes in COVID-19 patients. It is associated with demographic data and clinical and laboratory parameters. Therefore, hyponatremia is an important tool for risk stratification in COVID-19 patients.
CGull: A Non-Flapping Bioinspired Composite Morphing Drone
Authors: Bishay Peter , Rini Alex , Brambila Moises , Niednagel Peter , Eghdamzamiri Jordan , Yousefi Hariet , Herrera Joshua , Saad Youssef , Bertuch Eric , Black Caleb , Hanna Donovan , Rodriguez Ivan
Published: September 2024

Despite the tremendous advances in aircraft design that led to successful powered flights of aircraft as heavy as the Antonov An-225 Mriya, which weighs 640 tons, or as fast as the NASA-X-43A, which reached a record of Mach 9.6, many characteristics of bird flight have yet to be utilized in aircraft designs. These characteristics enable various species of birds to fly efficiently in gusty environments and rapidly change their momentum in flight without having modern thrust vector control (TVC) systems. Vultures and seagulls, as examples of expert gliding birds, can fly for hours, covering more than 100 miles, without a single flap of their wings. Inspired by the Great Black-Backed Gull (GBBG), this paper presents “CGull”, a non-flapping unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) with wing and tail morphing capabilities. A coupled two degree-of-freedom (DOF) morphing mechanism is used in CGull’s wings to sweep the middle wing forward and the outer feathered wing backward, replicating the GBBG’s wing deformation. A modular two DOF mechanism enables CGull to pitch and tilt its tail. A computational model was first developed in MachUpX to study the effects of wing and tail morphing on the generated forces and moments. Following the biological construction of birds’ feathers and bones, CGull’s structure is mainly constructed from carbon-fiber composite shells. The successful flight test of the proof-of-concept physical model proved the effectiveness of the proposed morphing mechanisms in controlling the UAV’s path.
A Bibliometric Review of the Trends of Construction Digitalization Research in the Past Ten Years
Authors: Ametepey Simon Ofori , Aigbavboa Clinton , Addy Hutton , Thwala Wellington Didibhuku
Published: September 2024

The adoption of digital technologies into construction practices has become a critical area of interest, particularly in addressing challenges related to efficiency, quality, and sustainability. This study focuses on the impacts of digital technologies such as building information modeling (BIM), automation, and blockchain on the construction industry. An in-depth bibliometric analysis of the literature from 2013 to 2023 was conducted using data from the Elsevier Scopus database. Employing the key terms “Construction” and “Digitalization” in the Scopus database ensured that this research systematically identified and examined relevant articles related to digital technologies in construction. Advanced tools like the VOS viewer were used to analyze bibliometric networks, providing insights into current research trends within the built environment sector. The findings strongly focused on digital modeling, automation, and blockchain technologies. The findings also revealed new paradigms such as smart contracts and modular construction. This investigation enhances the academic discourse by elucidating the various nuances, ongoing developments, and future directions in the evolving field of construction digitalization research.
Sustainable Healing and Therapeutic Design Driven Well-Being in Hospital Environment
Authors: Feng Haoran , Liu Yi , Liu Zhen , Chi Ziyuan , Osmani Mohamed
Published: September 2024

Despite the growing awareness of healing hospitals, they are still far from being globally widespread, and traditional hospital building models are increasingly unable to address the serious resource constraints and environmental stresses that we face today. In addition, sustainable development concepts have become key driving forces in the construction process of healing buildings. Currently, while research on healing hospital design continues to grow, there is relatively little that specifically addresses the integration of sustainable development concepts. Hence, this paper aims to explore the current state of development and knowledge structure of sustainable healing and therapeutic design (HTD) in hospital scenarios using a systematic methodology that integrates macro-quantitative bibliometric analysis and follow-up micro-qualitative content analysis methods based on data from the Web of Science (WOS) database, which investigates eight research objectives, including the background, current state, hotspots, high-frequency words, integration with sustainable development goals (SDGs), particularly SDG3, “Ensure healthy lifestyles and promote well-being of people of all ages”, and the challenges posed by public health emergencies, such as the COVID-19 era, for sustainable HTD in hospitals. This paper identified six main clusters: the environment of a hospital, mental health, quality of life, illness and care, COVID-19, and wound healing. These clusters were taken from keyword network visualization analysis, emphasizing key terms focused on wound healing, mental health, quality of life, nursing, children, and evidence-based design via high-frequency keyword analysis. These have been further grouped into three categories: strategy, approach, and method. Subsequently, this paper further explores how hospital HTD relates to SDG 3 targeted on reducing child mortality (SDG 3.2), promoting mental health and physical health (SDG 3.4), and achieving universal health coverage (SDG 3.8) to explore wound healing, mental health, quality of life, nursing, and children, which are stressed in the results of both macro-quantitative bibliometric and follow-up micro-qualitative content analyses. In addition, it is shown that more changes should be made to sustainable hospital HTD in the context of the pandemic era to cope with unpredictable crises. Finally, the expression HTD is discussed to justify the keywords. The results of this study complement sustainable hospital HTD and provide assistance to future architects, policy makers, and healthcare professionals.
Eye-Tracking and Psychological Analysis: The Impact of Building Shape on Visitor Visual Preference
Authors: Wang Xinman , Che Baoqi , Zhu Rong
Published: September 2024

Garden buildings not only enhance the aesthetics of gardens but also affect the visual and psychological experience of visitors. However, existing studies lack a systematic analysis of the shape types and combination patterns of buildings, which indirectly affects the overall experience of visitors. This study explores the attractiveness of different forms, styles, and combinations of buildings to visitors through oculometry and psychological analysis. The results of the study show that buildings are always the main focus of visitors’ sight in the garden, and traditional buildings can stimulate visitors’ excitement and curiosity. When observed at close range, visitors’ attention to simple-shaped buildings was mainly focused on the overall shape, while details of complex-shaped buildings, such as decorations, doors, windows, and columns, can significantly attract the eye. In contrast, when viewed from a distance, simple and regular combinations of building shapes were more effective in attracting visitors’ attention, while the appeal of the historic features of complex buildings declined, possibly due to reduced clarity of detail. Visually striking elements such as buildings with acute angles or curved eaves attracted more visual attention when viewed from a distance. This study not only provides a scientific basis for the design of shapes and historical characteristics of garden buildings but also provides practical guidance for the layout and spatial remodeling of garden buildings.