bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formation of grain quality indicators of winter wheat (Triticum L.) varieties depending on agrothechnical and environmental factors
Authors: Demydov O. , Los R. , Dubovyk N. , Gumeniuk O. , Kyrylenko V. , Pravdziva I. , Sabadyn V. , Vlasenko I.
Published: September 2023

When growing grain crops, it is important to increase not only the yield of grain, but also its quality indicators, which determine the technological, flourmilling and baking properties and market value of grain. The study was conducted in a four-factor field experiment in the fields of the V.M. Remeslo Myronivka Institute of Wheat NAAS of Ukraine (MIW) located in the central part of the Forest-Steppe of Ukraine in 2018/19–2020/21 (factor В). The object of the research were five new winter wheat varieties bred at Myronivka (MIP Fortuna (G1), MIP Lada (G2), MIP Yuvileina (G3), Aurora Myronivska (G4)) and one variety of hard winter wheat MIP Lakomka (G6) — in comparison with the standard Podolianka (factor А). The experiments were laid down after two preceding crops sunflower, soybean (factor C), sowing was carried out on September 25 and October 5 with a deviation of 1–3 days (factor D). Experiments were laid down: after two predecessors such as sunflower, soybean — factor C; sowing was carried out on September 25 and October 5 with a deviation of 1–3 days — factor D. The maximum range of variation of the interaction year×predecessor was revealed by the sedimentation index (from 0.2% G3 ’MIP Yuvileina’ to 20.7% G2 ’MIP Fortuna’), pulp porosity (from 0.3% G2 ’MIP Fortuna’ to 35.4% G4 ’MIP Lakomka’), flour strength (from 0.5% G1 ’Podolyanka’ to 22.3% G4 ’MIP Lakomka’); the interaction of year×sowing period — in the volume of bread (from 0.5% G3 ’MIP Yuvileina’ to 20.7% G5 ’MIP Lada’), flour strength (from 0.7% G4 ’MIP Lakomka’ to 36.4% G2 ’MIP Fortune’); the interaction predecessor×sowing period — by the nature of the grain (from 0.1% G2 ’MIP Fortuna’ to 17.8% G5 ’MIP Lada’), the sedimentation index (from 0.0% G3 ’MIP Yuvileina’ to 17.5% G5 ’MIP Lada’); interaction of year×predecessor×sowing period — by grain type (from 0.3% G3 ’MIP Yuvileina’ to 15.5% G5 ’MIP Lada’), flour strength (from 1.3% G6 ’Aurora Myronivska’ to 34.2% G2 ’MIP Fortune’); unaccounted for factors — by sedimentation rate (from 6.7% G4 ’MIP Lakomka’ and G5 ’MIP Lada’ to 34.9% G3 ’MIP Yuvileina’), pulp porosity (from 7.5% G4 ’MIP Lakomka’ up to 56.6% G3 ’MIP Yuvileina’).
Complex Sentences in English Legislative Texts: Patterns and Translation Strategies
Authors: Abu-Ssaydeh Abdul-Fattah
Published: September 2023

Of all the challenges a translator may encounter in the translation of English legislative texts, perhaps the greatest one lies in the rendition of syntactically complex sentences into the target language. In order to overcome such a challenge, the translator needs to be aware of three factors: the internal structure of the complex sentence, the relationship between a given constituent and its mobility in translation and, finally, the techniques typically used by experienced translators to reconstruct the sentence in the target language. To this end, the researchers endeavored to identify the most common elements in the complex sentence in English legislative writing. They attempted to decide, exemplify, and analyze cases where a correlation can be established between a given English grammatical constituent and the position(s) at which the constituent may be placed in the Arabic translated sentence. They also tried to determine the techniques the United Nations translators tend to use to reassemble the sentence in Arabic and consider the implications for translation pedagogy. .
Lexical Translation Difficulties and Context-dependent Synonymy
Authors: Ilyas Al-Titinchy Asim
Published: September 2023

This paper is concerned with the general difficulties involved in translation equivalence at the lexical level, with examples from English-Arabic translation. The study tackles the major difficulties associated with lexical equivalence that are related to dictionary-based meanings. It attempts to provide a more comprehensive and systematic list of difficulty sources in relation to lexical equivalence, by suggesting additional categories that have been overlooked, or loosely mentioned in the literature, using authentic English-Arabic translation examples as much as possible. Six types of lexical difficulties are added to the ones previously listed in the literature. It also highlights cases in which the literal meaning of some lexical items and their intended or implied meanings are in asymmetric relation and cannot be rendered by the use of dictionary-based equivalents, but by using context-based equivalents..
Dragonfly (Odonata) Specimens Collection of Bogor Botanical Garden
Authors: Rachmatiyah Rina , Pungki Lupiyaningdyah
Published: September 2023

Dragonfly (Odonata) specimens that have been collected for 76 years (1929-2005) by the Bogor Botanical Gardens (BBG) and kept at the Zoologicum Bogoriense Museum (ZBM) are interesting to study because quite a number of these specimens have not been identified at the species taxon level. The research objective was to record and identify dragonfly species that once lived and were found flying in the BBG area and have become ZBM specimen collections. The research method used is by sorting, grouping, and identifying specimen collections. The identification results of dragonfly specimen collection showed that there were 1,357 specimens consisting of 7 families and 25 species. The most collected family was Libellulidae. The most collected species was Agriocnemis femina (311 specimens), followed by Crocothemis servilia (245 specimens), and Brachythemis contaminata (217 specimens).  The year 1995 was the year with the highest number of specimens collected at 1,137 specimens. Garuda Park Pond, Building 9 Pond, Palace Pond, and inside the botanical garden area were the locations with the most dragonfly encounters.
Mimicking acute airway tissue damage using femtosecond laser nanosurgery in airway organoids
Authors: Gentemann Lara , Donath Sören , Seidler Anna E. , Patyk Lara , Buettner Manuela , Heisterkamp Alexander , Kalies Stefan
Published: September 2023

Airway organoids derived from adult murine epithelial cells represent a complex 3D in vitro system mimicking the airway epithelial tissue’s native cell composition and physiological properties. In combination with a precise damage induction via femtosecond laser-based nanosurgery, this model might allow for the examination of intra- and intercellular dynamics in the course of repair processes with a high spatio-temporal resolution, which can hardly be reached using in vivo approaches. For characterization of the organoids’ response to single or multiple-cell ablation, we first analyzed overall organoid survival and found that airway organoids were capable of efficiently repairing damage induced by femtosecond laser-based ablation of a single to ten cells within 24 h. An EdU staining assay further revealed a steady proliferative potential of airway organoid cells. Especially in the case of ablation of five cells, proliferation was enhanced within the first 4 h upon damage induction, whereas ablation of ten cells was followed by a slight decrease in proliferation within this time frame. Analyzing individual trajectories of single cells within airway organoids, we found an increased migratory behavior in cells within close proximity to the ablation site following the ablation of ten, but not five cells. Bulk RNA sequencing and subsequent enrichment analysis revealed the differential expression of sets of genes involved in the regulation of epithelial repair, distinct signaling pathway activities such as Notch signaling, as well as cell migration after laser-based ablation. Together, our findings demonstrate that organoid repair upon ablation of ten cells involves key processes by which native airway epithelial wound healing is regulated. This marks the herein presented in vitro damage model suitable to study repair processes following localized airway injury, thereby posing a novel approach to gain insights into the mechanisms driving epithelial repair on a single-cell level.
Recent progress in metal assisted multicomponent reactions in organic synthesis
Authors: Sakthivel Kokila , Gana R. J. , Shoji Toshitaka , Takenaga Naoko , Dohi Toshifumi , Singh Fateh V.
Published: September 2023

To prepare complicated organic molecules, straightforward, sustainable, and clean methodologies are urgently required. Thus, researchers are attempting to develop imaginative approaches. Metal-catalyzed multicomponent reactions (MCRs) offer optimal molecular diversity, high atomic efficiency, and energy savings in a single reaction step. These versatile protocols are often used to synthesize numerous natural compounds, heterocyclic molecules, and medications. Thus far, the majority of metal-catalyzed MCRs under investigation are based on metal catalysts such as copper and palladium; however, current research is focused on developing novel, environmentally friendly catalytic systems. In this regard, this study demonstrates the effectiveness of metal catalysts in MCRs. The aim of this study is to provide an overview of metal catalysts for safe application in MCRs.
Hypervalent hydridosilicate in the Na–Si–H system
Authors: Spektor Kristina , Kohlmann Holger , Druzhbin Dmitrii , Crichton Wilson A. , Bhat Shrikant , Simak Sergei I. , Vekilova Olga Yu , Häussermann Ulrich
Published: September 2023

Hydrogenation reactions at gigapascal pressures can yield hydrogen-rich materials with properties relating to superconductivity, ion conductivity, and hydrogen storage. Here, we investigated the ternary Na–Si–H system by computational structure prediction and in situ synchrotron diffraction studies of reaction mixtures NaH–Si–H2 at 5–10 GPa. Structure prediction indicated the existence of various hypervalent hydridosilicate phases with compositions NamSiH(4+m) (m = 1–3) at comparatively low pressures, 0–20 GPa. These ternary Na–Si–H phases share, as a common structural feature, octahedral SiH62− complexes which are condensed into chains for m = 1 and occur as isolated species for m = 2, 3. In situ studies demonstrated the formation of the double salt Na3[SiH6]H (Na3SiH7, m = 3) containing both octahedral SiH62− moieties and hydridic H−. Upon formation at elevated temperatures (>500°C), Na3SiH7 attains a tetragonal structure (P4/mbm, Z = 2) which, during cooling, transforms to an orthorhombic polymorph (Pbam, Z = 4). Upon decompression, Pbam-Na3SiH7 was retained to approx. 4.5 GPa, below which a further transition into a yet unknown polymorph occurred. Na3SiH7 is a new representative of yet elusive hydridosilicate compounds. Its double salt nature and polymorphism are strongly reminiscent of fluorosilicates and germanates.
Comparison of procedural characteristics of percutaneous annuloplasty and edge-to-edge repair for the treatment of severe tricuspid regurgitation
Authors: Mattig Isabel , Barbieri Fabian , Kasner Mario , Romero Dorta Elena , Heinrich-Schüler Anna Lisa , Zhu Miry , Stangl Karl , Landmesser Ulf , Reinthaler Markus , Dreger Henryk
Published: September 2023

Background

In recent years, new interventional therapies for tricuspid regurgitation (TR) demonstrated their effectiveness in reducing TR severity and improving symptoms. Currently, tricuspid transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (T-TEER) and percutaneous annuloplasty are the most widely used techniques in Europe. In this retrospective study, we compared procedural characteristics and learning curves of both TR devices in a real-world cohort.

Material and methods

Eligible patients with severe to torrential TR underwent either percutaneous annuloplasty or T-TEER as recommended by the local heart team. Patients with combined mitral and tricuspid interventions were excluded from the analysis. The study focused on procedural characteristics, TR reduction and learning curves.

Results

A total of 122 patients underwent either percutaneous annuloplasty (n = 64) or T-TEER (n = 58) with a technical and device success rate of 98% and 97%, respectively. Reasons for technical failure included right coronary artery (RCA) dissection prior to percutaneous annuloplasty, and two single leaflet device attachments (SLDA) during T-TEER implantation. The mean improvement of TR severity was 2.4 ± 0.8 degrees after T-TEER and 2.5 ± 0.8 after percutaneous annuloplasty. T-TEER procedures were shorter in terms of both procedure time and radiation exposure, while percutaneous annuloplasty, although taking longer, showed a significant reduction in procedure time over the course of the analysed period.

Conclusion

In summary, both interventional therapies reduce TR severity by approximately two degrees when used in the appropriate anatomy. The learning curve for annuloplasty group showed a significant decrease of procedure times.
A single 36-h water-only fast vastly remodels the plasma lipidome
Authors: Hong Brian V. , Rhodes Christopher H. , Agus Joanne K. , Tang Xinyu , Zhu Chenghao , Zheng Jack Jingyuan , Zivkovic Angela M.
Published: September 2023

Background

Prolonged fasting, characterized by restricting caloric intake for 24 h or more, has garnered attention as a nutritional approach to improve lifespan and support healthy aging. Previous research from our group showed that a single bout of 36-h water-only fasting in humans resulted in a distinct metabolomic signature in plasma and increased levels of bioactive metabolites, which improved macrophage function and lifespan in C. elegans.

Objective

This secondary outcome analysis aimed to investigate changes in the plasma lipidome associated with prolonged fasting and explore any potential links with markers of cardiometabolic health and aging.

Method

We conducted a controlled pilot study with 20 male and female participants (mean age, 27.5 ± 4.4 years; mean BMI, 24.3 ± 3.1 kg/m2) in four metabolic states: (1) overnight fasted (baseline), (2) 2-h postprandial fed state (fed), (3) 36-h fasted state (fasted), and (4) 2-h postprandial refed state 12 h after the 36-h fast (refed). Plasma lipidomic profiles were analyzed using liquid chromatography and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry.

Results

Several lipid classes, including lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LPE), phosphatidylethanolamine, and triacylglycerol were significantly reduced in the 36-h fasted state, while free fatty acids, ceramides, and sphingomyelin were significantly increased compared to overnight fast and fed states (P < 0.05). After correction for multiple testing, 245 out of 832 lipid species were significantly altered in the fasted state compared to baseline (P < 0.05). Random forest models revealed that several lipid species, such as LPE(18:1), LPC(18:2), and FFA(20:1) were important features in discriminating the fasted state from both the overnight fasted and postprandial state.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that prolonged fasting vastly remodels the plasma lipidome and markedly alters the concentrations of several lipid species, which may be sensitive biomarkers of prolonged fasting. These changes in lipid metabolism during prolonged fasting have important implications for the management of cardiometabolic health and healthy aging, and warrant further exploration and validation in larger cohorts and different population groups.
Asymmetric modulation of solar activity on tropical cyclone frequency over the western North Pacific and the possible mechanism
Authors: Li Delin , Xiao Ziniu , Xu Jianjun , Zhao Liang
Published: September 2023

The impacts of solar activity on the tropical Pacific climate have been widely reported. However, few studies focus on the effects of solar activity on the tropical cyclone (TC). Based on the observational and reanalysis data for 1979–2020, this study investigated the solar modulation of TC frequency over the western North Pacific in different solar cycle phases. Results suggest that the regressions of TC frequency to solar activity are asymmetric in the high- and low-solar activity years (HS and LS). Specifically, the intensified solar activity could markedly induce more TCs in HS; however, no significant modulation can be found in LS. Further exploration reveals a possible air–sea coupled mechanism for this interesting phenomenon. The relatively cloud-free area in the western North Pacific could receive more incoming solar radiation at the surface in HS than in LS. This increased regional surface net solar radiation in HS could produce a stronger surface upward latent heat flux and, thus, greater evaporation. Along with that, the local upward motion is dramatically enhanced over the TC source. Then, for compensation, the regional sea level pressure is reduced, and the low-level winds become cyclonic over the TC origin. All of these solar-caused regional atmospheric anomalies in HS contribute to more TC generations. The key to this possible mechanism is the increased regional solar forcing at the ocean surface that is amplified by regionally enhanced upward latent heat flux and evaporation.
Landslide susceptibility mapping of Al Taif urban area, Saudi Arabia, using remote sensing data and microtremor measurements: integrated approach
Authors: Abdelrahman Kamal , Al-Amri Abdullah M. , Al-Kahtany Khaled , Al-Otaibi Naif
Published: September 2023

Many people are killed by landslides due to earthquakes or severe rain, and structures and facilities built on or near slopes sustain significant damage. Such landslides on naturally occurring slopes can be large enough to utterly destroy towns or communities. Based on remote sensing and microtremor data, the area around Al Taif has been evaluated for its susceptibility to landslides. Digital elevation model (DEM), slope angle, and slope aspect thematic layers were used to depict remote sensing data. The landslide susceptibility was extracted from remote sensing thematic data. The elevations of the Al Taif area, which range from 832 to 2,594 m amsl, were identified based on the DEM. Al Taif’s slope angles range from 0° to 67.3° degrees. Nearly flat (0° to 4.75°), moderate (4.75° to 11.1°), steep (11.2° to 29.1°), and very steep slope (≤29.1°) are the different classifications for the slope. Additionally, measurements of the microtremor have been taken at 42 locations throughout the region. The horizontal-to-vertical spectral ratio (HVSR) approach was used to process and analyze microtremor data in order to determine the resonance frequency and H/V amplification factor. The findings show that, while the amplification factor varies from 1.17 to 9.28, the dominant frequency values fall between 0.3 and 12.75 Hz. To determine the frequency, amplitude, and azimuthal site response, 11 sites were eventually chosen. Furthermore, the direction of the site response in the sliding areas was parallel to the landslide directional response, indicating that the site response direction tracked the landslide direction. Practical approval of the study’s findings has been given at a number of locations by field measurements at some of the Taif urban area’s most recent landslide occurrence areas. These findings show that the integration between remote sensing and microtremor measurements is a useful tool for pinpointing landslide-prone areas, which helps to lessen the danger to people’s lives and property. This susceptibility zonation applied to the Al Taif area has produced a good match between the distribution of the reported landslides and the zones of high susceptibility. To define the general trend and geographic distribution of potentially unstable slopes and landslide potential zones, this study’s findings must be used as a guide.
Seven design principles for teaching complex socioscientific issues: the design of a complex systems agent-based disease epidemic model and the application of epistemic practices in high school biology
Authors: Yoon Susan A. , Chinn Clark , Noushad Noora , Richman Thomas , Hussain-Abidi Huma , Hunkar Kyle , Cottone Amanda , Katz Jacqueline , Mitkus Erika , Wendel Daniel
Published: September 2023

Historic challenges in the biological sciences, such as the spread of disease and climate change, have created an unprecedented need for humans to engage with scientific information to address societal problems. However, understanding these socioscientific issues (SSI) can be hard due to the difficulty of comprehending their complex structures and behaviors, the intentional propagation of misinformation, and an insufficient understanding of the epistemic practices that scientists use to develop relevant knowledge. Education researchers have highlighted additional problems in the way science is taught with a focus mainly on concepts rather than practices, competing curricular mandates, and professional development activities that do not provide usable knowledge. The research reported here follows more than a decade of work using agent-based computational models to support the comprehension and analysis of complex biological systems. Our recent work has aimed to build tools and strategies to support students in decision making about complex SSIs. In this paper, we discuss 7 design challenges and principles that underpin this recent focus. Specifically, we combine agent-based modeling with strategies to develop students’ epistemic performance in high school biology curricula. We then provide a detailed case study of how the 7 design principles were used to create a disease epidemic model and unit anchored in the biology topic of the nature of science. Our goal is to offer a comprehensive set of research-derived design principles that can bridge classroom experiences in biology to applications of SSIs.
Superheating field in superconductors with nanostructured surfaces
Authors: Pathirana W. P. M. R. , Gurevich A.
Published: September 2023

We report calculations of a DC superheating field Hsh in superconductors with nanostructured surfaces. Numerical simulations of the Ginzburg–Landau (GL) equations were performed for a superconductor with an inhomogeneous impurity concentration, a thin superconducting layer on top of another superconductor, and superconductor–insulator–superconductor (S-I-S) multilayers. The superheating field was calculated taking into account the instability of the Meissner state with a non-zero wavelength along the surface, which is essential for the realistic values of the GL parameter κ. Simulations were performed for the material parameters of Nb and Nb3Sn at different values of κ and the mean free paths. We show that the impurity concentration profile at the surface and thicknesses of S-I-S multilayers can be optimized to enhance Hsh above the bulk superheating fields of both Nb and Nb3Sn. For example, an S-I-S structure with a 90-nm-thick Nb3Sn layer on Nb can boost the superheating field up to ≈500 mT, while protecting the superconducting radio-frequency (SRF) cavity from dendritic thermomagnetic avalanches caused by local penetration of vortices.
Case report: Remarkable response to a novel combination of mitotane, etoposide, paraplatin, and sintilimab in a patient with metastatic adrenocortical carcinoma
Authors: Weng Yan , Wang Lin , Wang Xiao-Yi , Fan Xin-Xiang , Yan Li , Li Zhi-Hua , Zhang Shao-Ling
Published: September 2023

Background

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare malignancy with a poor prognosis and limited treatment options for metastases. However, new effective regimens are emerging for specific conditions in metastatic ACC.

Case presentation

We report a case of a 36-year-old man diagnosed with metastatic ACC who had a large left adrenal mass (158 mm × 112 mm) and multiple metastases in the liver and lungs. Genetic testing revealed a microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) tumor, a splice mutation in MLH1, and a high tumor mutational burden (TMB). After the left adrenalectomy, he received sequential treatment with a combination of mitotane, etoposide, paraplatin (EP-M), and sintilimab. His condition has been assessed as a stable disease since the sixth cycle of the combined regimen.

Conclusion

This case highlights the remarkable response of our patient’s ACC with MSI-H tumor, MLH1 spice mutation, and high TMB to treatment with a novel combination of EP-M and sintilimab. Our findings suggest a promising therapeutic option for patients with similar molecular profiles.
Different subtypes of nonthyroidal illness syndrome on the prognosis of septic patients: a two-centered retrospective cohort study
Authors: Ning Ning , Li Juan , Sun Wenwu , Ma Chaoping , Li Jiaoyan , Sheng Huiqiu , Chen Ying , Zhao Bing , Zhang Jiyuan , Zhu Jiyue , Gao Chengjin , Mao Enqiang
Published: September 2023

Background

Nonthyroidal illness syndrome (NTIS) is a common endocrine dysfunction predicting unfavorable outcomes in critical illness. The objective of the study is to evaluate the association between different NTIS subtypes with outcomes in septic patients.

Methods

Septic patients in two Chinese academic centers from October 2012 and October 2022 are enrolled in analysis. Multivariable regressions are used to assess associations between NTIS and outcomes. Outcomes include in-hospital mortality, length of stay in hospital (LOS), non-invasive ventilation failure and weaning failure. Patients with NTIS are categorized into 4 types according to the different levels of FT4 and TSH. The association between different NTIS subtypes and mortality are further analyzed. Survival curve is plotted using the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

After screening, a total of 1226 septic patients with complete thyroid hormones result are eventually enrolled. Among them, 520 (42.4%) patients are diagnosed as NTIS. In multivariable regression analysis, NTIS is independently associated with increased 30-days mortality (OR=1.759, CI 1.009-3.104, p=0.047), but has no association with 60-days mortality (OR=1.524, CI 0.893-2.618, p=0.123), 90-days mortality (OR=1.411, CI 0.831-2.408, p=0.203), LOS, non-invasive ventilation failure or weaning failure. In NTIS subtypes, NTIS patients with low FT3 and TSH levels, regardless of the FT4 values, have significantly higher mortality than euthyroid patients (30-days mortality, OR= 6.488, CI 1.546-27.808, p=0.01; 60-days mortality, OR=3.973, CI 1.006-15.579, p=0.046; 90-days mortality, OR=3.849, CI 0.977-15.088, p=0.051). This result is consistent in patients with low FT3 and FT4 levels, regardless of the TSH values (30-days mortality, OR=3.349, CI 1.402-7.957, p=0.006; 60-days mortality, OR= 2.594, CI 1.122-5.930, p=0.024; 90-days mortality, OR=2.55, CI 1.110-5.804, p=0.025). There is no survival difference between NTIS patients with low FT3 only and euthyroid patients. Survival plot shows the worst prognosis is in NTIS patients with low FT3, FT4 and TSH level.

Conclusions

NTIS is frequent in sepsis. A reduction of FT3 together with FT4 or TSH, but not FT3 only, is associated with an increased risk of mortality.
Evaluation of fuel consumption and emissions benefits of connected and automated vehicles in mixed traffic flow
Authors: Li Honggang , Li Hongtao , Hu Yi , Xia Tong , Miao Qiqi , Chu Jiangwei
Published: September 2023

Introduction: The presence of connected and automated vehicles (CAV) in mixed traffic flows with different market penetration rates (MPRs) in urban road scenarios has a significant effect on fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.

Methods: Therefore, in this study, real-world road networks and traffic data are simulated using SUMO based on actual data from a survey. The fuel consumption and emission benefits of CAVs in mixed traffic flows are well-evaluated, and the energy-saving performance of CAVs under low-speed vehicle interference is tested. In addition, this study explores both the energy consumption and emissions of purely electric vehicles.

Results: The results show that with 100% CAV penetration, fuel vehicles have a maximum reduction in fuel consumption of 18% and a maximum increase in average speed of 31.6%, while the energy consumption of electric vehicles increases due to communication, detection, and collaboration between CAVs.

Discussion: However, the results clearly demonstrate that the carbon emissions of electric vehicles are significantly lower than fuel vehicles. In addition, the increase in low-speed vehicles will result in an increase in energy consumption and emissions. Therefore, increasing the percentage of electric vehicles on the roads and transitioning from manual to autonomous driving systems is crucial to curbing carbon emissions.
An increasing trend in daily monsoon precipitation extreme indices over Pakistan and its relationship with atmospheric circulations
Authors: Ullah Waheed , Karim Aisha , Ullah Sami , Rehman Atta-Ur , Bibi Tehmina , Wang Guojie , Ullah Safi , Bhatti Asher Samuel , Ali Gohar , Abbas Adnan , Hagan Daniel Fiffi Tawia , Nooni Isaac Kwesi , Zhu Chenxia , Hussain Azfar
Published: September 2023

This study assessed spatiotemporal trends in daily monsoon precipitation extremes at seasonal and sub-seasonal scales (June, July, August, and September) and their links with atmospheric circulations over Pakistan. The study used observed precipitation data from fifty in-situ stations and reanalysis products from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) and National Centers for Environmental Prediction/the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCEP/NCAR) during 1981–2018. A suite of seven extreme precipitation indices and non-parametric statistical techniques were used to infer trends in the frequency and intensity of extreme precipitation indices. An increase in frequency and intensity of overall extreme indices was evident, with a maximum tendency in the country’s northwestern (z-score=>2.5), central, and eastern (z-score > 4) monsoon-dominant parts. The northern and southwestern parts of the country exhibited a slight decrease (z-score <–2) in frequency and intensity. The Sen’s Slope estimator (SSE) shows an increase in western parts (0.20 days) indicating a shift in the maxima of the monsoon precipitation. The regional precipitation shows an increase in wet days (R1 mm) with higher values of mMK (3.71) and SSE (0.3) in region 2 Similar results of moderate regional increase are evident for extreme indices except regions 1 and 3. The extreme 1-day maximum precipitation increased in region 3 (mMK: 1.39, SSE: 2.32). The extremely wet days (R99p TOT) precipitation has a moderate increase in all regions with a decrease in region 1. The temporal mutations showed dynamic changes, clearly reflecting the country’s historical extreme events. The frequency and intensity of precipitation extremes negatively correlated with the altitude (R = −0.00039). The probability density function (PDF) showed a significant increase in the density during June and September with a probabilistic positive shift during July and August. The intensified mid-latitude westerlies and subtropical zonal easterlies teleconnections, strengthening of the monsoon trough, and land-ocean thermal contrast are the potential drivers of the increasing trend in precipitation extremes. The current study could serve as a benchmark for future researchers and policymakers to devise effective mitigation strategies for sustainable development.
Expression of the ether-a-gò-gò-related gene 1 channel during B and T lymphocyte development: role in BCR and TCR signaling
Authors: Sala Cesare , Staderini Martina , Lottini Tiziano , Duranti Claudia , Angelini Gabriele , Constantin Gabriela , Arcangeli Annarosa
Published: September 2023

The functional relevance of K+ and Ca2+ ion channels in the “Store Operated Calcium Entry” (SOCE) during B and T lymphocyte activation is well proven. However, their role in the process of T- and B- cell development and selection is still poorly defined. In this scenario, our aim was to characterize the expression of the ether à-go-go-related gene 1 (ERG1) and KV1.3 K+ channels during the early stages of mouse lymphopoiesis and analyze how they affect Ca2+signaling, or other signaling pathways, known to mediate selection and differentiation processes of lymphoid clones. We provide here evidence that the mouse (m)ERG1 is expressed in primary lymphoid organs, bone marrow (BM), and thymus of C57BL/6 and SV129 mice. This expression is particularly evident in the BM during the developmental stages of B cells, before the positive selection (large and small PreB). mERG1 is also expressed in all thymic subsets of both strains, when lymphocyte positive and negative selection occurs. Partially overlapping results were obtained for KV1.3 expression. mERG1 and KV1.3 were expressed at significantly higher levels in B-cell precursors of mice developing an experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). The pharmacological blockage of ERG1 channels with E4031 produced a significant reduction in intracellular Ca2+ after lymphocyte stimulation in the CD4+ and double-positive T-cell precursors’ subsets. This suggests that ERG1 might contribute to maintaining the electrochemical gradient responsible for driving Ca2+ entry, during T-cell receptor signaling which sustains lymphocyte selection checkpoints. Such role mirrors that performed by the shaker-type KV1.3 potassium channel during the activation process of mature lymphocytes. No effects on Ca2+ signaling were observed either in B-cell precursors after blocking KV1.3 with PSORA-4. In the BM, the pharmacological blockage of ERG1 channels produced an increase in ERK phosphorylation, suggesting an effect of ERG1 in regulating B-lymphocyte precursor clones’ proliferation and checkpoint escape. Overall, our results suggest a novel physiological function of ERG1 in the processes of differentiation and selection of lymphoid precursors, paving the way to further studies aimed at defining the expression and role of ERG1 channels in immune-based pathologies in addition to that during lymphocyte neoplastic transformation.
Herring roe oil in treatment of psoriasis – influence on immune cells and cytokine network
Authors: Petrovic Aleksandra , Bueide Ingvild , Tveit Kåre Steinar , Hallaråker Hogne , Bjørndal Bodil , Holmes Tim D. , Davies Richard , Brokstad Karl Albert , Bergum Brith , Appel Silke
Published: September 2023

Background

Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated skin disease with systemic inflammation and comorbidities. Although the disease severity may vary over time, many patients suffer from mild to moderate disease. Often local treatment will be sufficient to control the symptoms, but they may have several side effects. ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids have shown promising results in clinical trials with mild-to-moderate psoriasis.

Methods

We explored the impact of phospholipid bound docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid in a 3:1 ratio on immune cells and cytokine networks in peripheral blood of patients with psoriasis. We investigated the inter-relation of plasma cytokine levels and disease severity in 58 patients, and explored the status of circulating immune cell activity in 18 patients with non-severe psoriasis before and during herring roe oil supplementation. Plasma concentration of 22 cytokines was measured by Luminex technology and circulating immune cells were analyzed by multicolor flow cytometry.

Results

CCL2 levels decreased over time, and IFN-γR1 increased, possibly related to the action of ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. We observed a shift from naïve to effector CD4+ T cells and decreases of CD38 expression on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, CD56bright NK cells and CD14+CD16- classical monocytes.

Conclusions

These findings support the beneficial effect of herring roe oil supplementation.
The role of TRPV1 in RA pathogenesis: worthy of attention
Authors: Qu Yuan , Fu Yang , Liu Yuan , Liu Chuanguo , Xu Bing , Zhang Qian , Jiang Ping
Published: September 2023

Transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1) is a Ca2+permeable, non-selective cation channel that is found primarily in sensory nerve fibres. Previous studies focused on pain transmission. However, recent studies have found that the TRPV1 channel, in addition to being associated with pain, also plays a role in immune regulation and their dysregulation frequently affects the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). A thorough understanding of the mechanism will facilitate the design of new TRPV1-targeted drugs and improve the clinical efficacy of RA. Here, we provide an updated and comprehensive overview of how the TRPV1 channel intrinsically regulates neuronal and immune cells, and how alterations in the TRPV1 channel in synoviocytes or chondrocytes extrinsically affect angiogenesis and bone destruction. Rapid progress has been made in research targeting TRPV1 for the treatment of inflammatory arthritis, but there is still much-uncharted territory regarding the therapeutic role of RA. We present a strategy for targeting the TRPV1 channel in RA therapy, summarising the difficulties and promising advances in current research, with the aim of better understanding the role of the TRPV1 channel in RA pathology, which could accelerate the development of TRPV1-targeted modulators for the design and development of more effective RA therapies.
BCG mediated protection of the lung against experimental SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Hilligan Kerry L. , Namasivayam Sivaranjani , Sher Alan
Published: September 2023

The observation of reduced COVID-19 incidence and severity in populations receiving neonatal intradermal BCG vaccination vaccine raised the question of whether BCG can induce non-specific protection against the SARS-CoV-2 (SCV2) virus. Subsequent epidemiologic studies and clinical trials have largely failed to support this hypothesis. Furthermore, in small animal model studies all investigators have failed to observe resistance to viral challenge in response to BCG immunization by the conventional and clinically acceptable intradermal or subcutaneous routes. Nevertheless, BCG administered by the intravenous (IV) route has been shown to strongly protect both hamsters and mice against SCV2 infection and disease. In this Perspective, we review the current data on the effects of BCG vaccination on resistance to COVID-19 as well as summarize recent work in rodent models on the mechanisms by which IV administered BCG promotes resistance to the virus and discuss the translational implications of these findings.
Temporal and spatial variability of sympagic metazoans in a high-Arctic fjord, Svalbard
Authors: Pitusi Vanessa , Gradinger Rolf , Søreide Janne E.
Published: September 2023

Svalbard is one of the fastest warming regions in the Arctic including massive loss in fjord sea ice both in terms of area coverage, ice thickness and duration. Sea ice is a habitat for a wide variety of microscopic flora and fauna, and we know little about the impact of accelerated loss of sea ice on this unique sea ice community. Here, we present the first study on the seasonal progression and spatial distribution of the sympagic meiofauna community, in a Svalbard fjord. Further, the meiofauna community in sea ice versus the water column below were compared to investigate the link between the two habitats. In total, we found 12 taxa associated with the sea ice and 15 taxa in the water column below with 11 taxa occurring in both habitats. However, a Canonical-analysis (CA) showed that despite similarities in taxa the two mediums were distinctly different (potentially) due to the low abundance of ice nematodes and polychaete juveniles, in pelagic samples. Temporally, ice meiofauna abundances ranged from 9.7 to 25.3 x 103ind m-2from beginning of March to end of April, following the seasonal build-up of ice algal biomass from 0.02 to 15.99 mg Chlam-2during the same time span. For the transect stations, the lowest ice meiofauna abundance was recorded at the outermost station (VMF2) with 1.6 x 103ind m-2and the highest abundance at the mid-station MS with 25.3 x 103ind m-2. Our results indicate that fjord ice harbors most ice algae and sympagic meiofauna in its lower 10-cm with highest values in the lowermost 2-cm, at the sea ice water interface. Sympagic meiofauna communities were mostly dominated by nematodes or polychaete juveniles. We observed the phenology of ice nematodes through the maturation of females and hatching of juveniles from eggs. Polychaete larvae developed (quickly) into juveniles and grew morphological features indicative of readiness for settlement. Thus, we propose, that as with other parts of the Arctic, sea ice in Svalbard fjords plays an important role in the life cycle of ice nematodes and for accelerating the growth of polychaete larvae. Loss of coastal sea ice may therefore negatively impact coastal biodiversity and affect recruitment for some benthic infauna in Svalbard.
Fibrinolytic potential as a risk factor for postpartum hemorrhage
Authors: Gruneberg Daniel , Braun Paula , Schöchl Herbert , Nachtigall-Schmitt Tereza , von der Forst Maik , Tourelle Kevin , Dietrich Maximilian , Wallwiener Markus , Wallwiener Stephanie , Weigand Markus A. , Fluhr Herbert , Spratte Julia , Hofer Stefan , Schmitt Felix Carl Fabian
Published: September 2023

Background

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is still the leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide. While impaired fibrin polymerization plays a crucial role in the development and progress of PPH, recent approaches using viscoelastic measurements have failed to sensitively detect early changes in fibrinolysis in PPH. This study aimed to evaluate whether women experiencing PPH show alterations in POC-VET fibrinolytic potential during childbirth and whether fibrinolytic potential offers benefits in the prediction and treatment of PPH.

Methods

Blood samples were collected at three different timepoints: T0 = hospital admission (19 h ± 18 h prepartum), T1 = 30–60 min after placental separation, and T2 = first day postpartum (19 h ± 6 h postpartum). In addition to standard laboratory tests, whole-blood impedance aggregometry (Multiplate) and viscoelastic testing (VET) were performed using the ClotPro system, which included the TPA-test lysis time, to assess the POC-VET fibrinolytic potential, and selected coagulation factors were measured. The results were correlated with blood loss and clinical outcome markers. Severe PPH was defined as a hemoglobin drop > 4g/dl and/or the occurrence of shock or the need for red blood cell transfusion.

Results

Blood samples of 217 parturient women were analyzed between June 2020 and December 2020 at Heidelberg University Women's Hospital, and 206 measurements were eligible for the final analysis. Women experiencing severe PPH showed increased fibrinolytic potential already at the time of hospital admission. When compared to non-PPH, the difference persisted 30–60 min after placental separation. A higher fibrinolytic potential was accompanied by a greater drop in fibrinogen and higher d-dimer values after placental separation. While 70% of women experiencing severe PPH showed fibrinolytic potential, 54% of those without PPH showed increased fibrinolytic potential as well.

Conclusion

We were able to show that antepartal and peripartal fibrinolytic potential was elevated in women experiencing severe PPH. However, several women showed high fibrinolytic potential but lacked clinical signs of PPH. The findings indicate that high fibrinolytic potential is a risk factor for the development of coagulopathy, but further conditions are required to cause PPH.
The role of immune suppression in COVID-19 hospitalization: clinical and epidemiological trends over three years of SARS-CoV-2 epidemic
Authors: Canuti Marta , Monti Maria Cristina , Bobbio Chiara , Muscatello Antonio , Muheberimana Toussaint , Baldi Sante Leandro , Blasi Francesco , Canetta Ciro , Costantino Giorgio , Nobili Alessandro , Peyvandi Flora , Tettamanti Mauro , Villa Simone , Aliberti Stefano , Raviglione Mario C. , Gori Andrea , Bandera Alessandra ,   COVID-19 Network Study Group
Published: September 2023

Specific immune suppression types have been associated with a greater risk of severe COVID-19 disease and death. We analyzed data from patients >17 years that were hospitalized for COVID-19 at the “Fondazione IRCCS Ca′ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico” in Milan (Lombardy, Northern Italy). The study included 1727 SARS-CoV-2-positive patients (1,131 males, median age of 65 years) hospitalized between February 2020 and November 2022. Of these, 321 (18.6%, CI: 16.8–20.4%) had at least one condition defining immune suppression. Immune suppressed subjects were more likely to have other co-morbidities (80.4% vs. 69.8%, p < 0.001) and be vaccinated (37% vs. 12.7%, p < 0.001). We evaluated the contribution of immune suppression to hospitalization during the various stages of the epidemic and investigated whether immune suppression contributed to severe outcomes and death, also considering the vaccination status of the patients. The proportion of immune suppressed patients among all hospitalizations (initially stable at <20%) started to increase around December 2021, and remained high (30–50%). This change coincided with an increase in the proportions of older patients and patients with co-morbidities and with a decrease in the proportion of patients with severe outcomes. Vaccinated patients showed a lower proportion of severe outcomes; among non-vaccinated patients, severe outcomes were more common in immune suppressed individuals. Immune suppression was a significant predictor of severe outcomes, after adjusting for age, sex, co-morbidities, period of hospitalization, and vaccination status (OR: 1.64; 95% CI: 1.23–2.19), while vaccination was a protective factor (OR: 0.31; 95% IC: 0.20–0.47). However, after November 2021, differences in disease outcomes between vaccinated and non-vaccinated groups (for both immune suppressed and immune competent subjects) disappeared. Since December 2021, the spread of the less virulent Omicron variant and an overall higher level of induced and/or natural immunity likely contributed to the observed shift in hospitalized patient characteristics. Nonetheless, vaccination against SARS-CoV-2, likely in combination with naturally acquired immunity, effectively reduced severe outcomes in both immune competent (73.9% vs. 48.2%, p < 0.001) and immune suppressed (66.4% vs. 35.2%, p < 0.001) patients, confirming previous observations about the value of the vaccine in preventing serious disease.
In vitro screening and characterization of lactic acid bacteria from Lithuanian fermented food with potential probiotic properties
Authors: Megur Ashwinipriyadarshini , Daliri Eric Banan-Mwine , Balnionytė Toma , Stankevičiūtė Jonita , Lastauskienė Eglė , Burokas Aurelijus
Published: September 2023

The present work aimed to identify probiotic candidates from Lithuanian homemade fermented food samples. A total of 23 lactic acid bacteria were isolated from different fermented food samples. Among these, only 12 showed resistance to low pH, tolerance to pepsin, bile salts, and pancreatin. The 12 strains also exhibited antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213, Salmonella Typhimurium ATCC 14028, Streptococcus pyogenes ATCC 12384, Streptococcus pyogenes ATCC 19615, and Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 13883. Cell-free supernatants of isolate 3A and 55w showed the strongest antioxidant activity of 26.37 μg/mL and 26.06 μg/mL, respectively. Isolate 11w exhibited the strongest auto-aggregation ability of 79.96% as well as the strongest adhesion to HCT116 colon cells (25.671 ± 0.43%). The selected strains were tested for their synbiotic relation in the presence of a prebiotic. The selected candidates showed high proliferation in the presence of 4% as compared to 2% galactooligosaccharides. Among the strains tested for tryptophan production ability, isolate 11w produced the highest L-tryptophan levels of 16.63 ± 2.25 μm, exhibiting psychobiotic ability in the presence of a prebiotic. The safety of these strains was studied by ascertaining their antibiotic susceptibility, mucin degradation, gelatin hydrolysis, and hemolytic activity. In all, isolates 40C and 11w demonstrated the most desirable probiotic potentials and were identified by 16S RNA and later confirmed by whole genome sequencing as Lacticaseibacillus paracasei 11w, and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 40C: following with the harboring plasmid investigation. Out of all the 23 selected strains, only Lacticaseibacillus paracasei 11w showed the potential and desirable probiotic properties.