bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Investigation on Gasoline—Water Mixture Fuel Impingement Preparation Method and Spray Characteristics with High Injection Temperatures and Pressures
Authors: Ji Meng , Wu Zhijun , Ferrari Alessandro , Fu Lezhong , Vento Oscar
Published: August 2023

Gasoline–water mixed injections are of great interest because of their advantages for reduced manufacturing costs and improved atomization, with the potential to alleviate engine detonation and reduce emissions. In this work, based on the principle of impinging flow, a real-time gasoline–water mixture preparation system for internal combustion engines was designed and the preparation system performance was compared with the standard swirl mixing technique. An image processing method was established to quantify the uniformity of the prepared mixture. Based on the flash-boiling spray flash-boiling spray experiment, the spray characteristics of different gasoline–water mixtures were analyzed under different injection temperatures (30–160 °C) and pressures (5–15 MPa). The experiments showed that the impinging pressure was the main factor affecting the emulsification performance of the real-time gasoline–water mixture, and that the proposed real-time mixing system could produce a stable gasoline–water emulsion. For temperatures in the 30–160 °C range, the flash-boiling spray flash-boiling spray experiments showed that the spray penetration distance first decreases and then increases with the injection temperature, while the spray angle shows an opposite trend. The turning point corresponded to the flash-boiling point of each gasoline–water mixture.
Energy Storage Mix Optimization Based on Time Sequence Analysis Methodology for Surplus Renewable Energy Utilization
Authors: Lee Jaegul , Jung Solyoung , Lee Yongseung , Jang Gilsoo
Published: August 2023

Increasing the proportion of carbon-free power sources, such as renewable energy, is essential for transitioning to a zero-carbon power system. However, when the rate of grid expansion and flexibility cannot match the rate of renewable energy increase, surplus energy is the result. Surplus energy can be discarded through curtailment or stored and utilized when required. The optimal equipment configuration of the storage system should be determined based on the surplus energy characteristics. This study proposes an optimal energy storage mix configuration method by considering long-term forecasts of surplus energy in the South Korean renewable energy supply and power grid expansion plan. The surplus energy by time slot is comprehensively analyzed considering renewable energy power output, power demand, and power system operation constraints. We calculate the required power and energy of storage devices. Furthermore, we construct a long-term optimal energy storage mix using surplus energy generation patterns and technical and economical characteristics of storage technologies. The total cost minimization was considered as the objective function, comprising three elements: initial construction, equipment replacement, and loss costs for charging and discharging. We propose a time sequence analysis (TSA) method that enables chronological analysis from the starting year to the final target year. The TSA method provides an energy storage mix configuration roadmap that can utilize surplus energy for various years over the entire period, considering the annual increase in surplus energy and commercialization timing of each storage technology. We compare the difference between our proposed TSA method and the method that analyzes only the final target year to validate the superiority of this methodology.
Energy Performance and Thermal Comfort Delivery Capabilities of Solid-Desiccant Rotor-Based Air-Conditioning for Warm to Hot and Humid Climates—A Critical Review
Authors: Halawa Edward , Bruno Frank
Published: August 2023

There has been considerable research worldwide on desiccant-based air-conditioning during the past 30 years. The rationale for the push for this new research focus has been twofold: (a) the need to provide an alternative to conventional refrigerative air-conditioning systems which rely heavily on fossil fuels as their energy sources, and (b) the need to provide better thermal comfort in air-conditioned spaces in warm to hot and humid climates. A desiccant air-conditioning system consists of several components to cool and dehumidify the air before it is supplied to a conditioned space. Earlier research work has identified the potential advantages of this technology, which include the following: (1) working fluids that do not impact on the ozone layer, (2) reduced electricity consumption, (3) improved indoor air quality, (4) simpler construction and less maintenance, and (5) integral provision of heating and cooling for cold/temperate climates. On the other hand, the authors of this paper identified the following drawbacks: (1) inevitable heating of air while being dehumidified, (2) the need for desiccant regeneration and low thermal COP paradox, (3) limited options for regeneration heat sources, (4) limited options for reliable cooling, and (5) low electrical coefficient of performance (COP). This paper presents a critical review of the energy and thermal comfort performance of solid-desiccant rotor-based air-conditioning systems, and discusses in detail their potential advantages and drawbacks. This critical review found that the drawbacks of the systems outweigh their identified advantages. The main reason for this is the inevitable heating of air while being dehumidified and counterintuitive addition of moisture to air during the evaporative cooling process. During the past 30 years of research and development efforts, no significant innovations have been discovered to resolve these crucial issues. Unless future research and development is directed to find a breakthrough, this technology will have limited commercial application.
Physical and Mathematical Models of Micro-Explosions: Achievements and Directions of Improvement
Authors: Antonov Dmitrii V. , Fedorenko Roman M. , Yanovskiy Leonid S. , Strizhak Pavel A.
Published: August 2023

The environmental, economic, and energy problems of the modern world motivate the development of alternative fuel technologies. Multifuel technology can help reduce the carbon footprint and waste from the raw materials sector as well as slow down the depletion of energy resources. However, there are limitations to the active use of multifuel mixtures in real power plants and engines because they are difficult to spray in combustion chambers and require secondary atomization. Droplet micro-explosion seems the most promising secondary atomization technology in terms of its integral characteristics. This review paper outlines the most interesting approaches to modeling micro-explosions using in-house computer codes and commercial software packages. A physical model of a droplet micro-explosion based on experimental data was analyzed to highlight the schemes and mathematical expressions describing the critical conditions of parent droplet atomization. Approaches are presented that can predict the number, sizes, velocities, and trajectories of emerging child droplets. We also list the empirical data necessary for developing advanced fragmentation models. Finally, we outline the main growth areas for micro-explosion models catering for the needs of spray technology.
Hydrogen Carriers: Scientific Limits and Challenges for the Supply Chain, and Key Factors for Techno-Economic Analysis
Authors: Clematis Davide , Bellotti Daria , Rivarolo Massimo , Magistri Loredana , Barbucci Antonio
Published: August 2023

Hydrogen carriers are one of the keys to the success of using hydrogen as an energy vector. Indeed, sustainable hydrogen production exploits the excess of renewable energy sources, after which temporary storage is required. The conventional approaches to hydrogen storage and transport are compressed hydrogen (CH2) and liquefied hydrogen (LH2), which require severe operating conditions related to pressure (300–700 bar) and temperature (T < −252 °C), respectively. To overcome these issues, which have hindered market penetration, several alternatives have been proposed in the last few decades. In this review, the most promising hydrogen carriers (ammonia, methanol, liquid organic hydrogen carriers, and metal hydrides) have been considered, and the main stages of their supply chain (production, storage, transportation, H2 release, and their recyclability) have been described and critically analyzed, focusing on the latest results available in the literature, the highlighting of which is our current concern. The last section reviews recent techno-economic analyses to drive the selection of hydrogen carrier systems and the main constraints that must be considered. The analyzed results show how the selection of H2 carriers is a multiparametric function, and it depends on technological factors as well as international policies and regulations.
Performance Evaluation of LiBr-H2O and LiCl-H2O Working Pairs in Compression-Assisted Double-Effect Absorption Refrigeration Systems for Utilization of Low-Temperature Heat Sources
Authors: Lei Tong , Qian Zuoqin , Ren Jie
Published: August 2023

To improve the performance of conventional double-effect absorption refrigeration systems (DEARS), new series parallel (SP) and reverse parallel (RP) configurations using LiCl-H2O and LiBr-H2O as working fluids, combined with two vapor compressors (VC), are proposed and thermodynamically evaluated. The effects of the distribution ratio (D) and compression ratio (CR) on the system performance are discussed. The results reveal that both configurations can extend the operation ranges of DEARS effectively at a higher distribution ratio, and the performance for low-grade heat source utilization is improved substantially by the use of VC. The compressor positioned between the evaporator and absorber is superior to that between the high-pressure generator and low-pressure generator because of the better performance improvement and larger operating ranges. In all the examined cases, LiCl-H2O systems perform better than LiBr-H2O systems in terms of the coefficient of performance (COP) and exergetic efficiency. At the higher CR of approximately 2, the compression-assisted DEARS can be driven by heat sources below 100 °C with high levels of COPs above 1.16 for the LiBr-H2O working pair and 1.29 for the LiCl-H2O working pair. The system can operate at the optimum condition by adjusting the CR values according to the characteristics of the heat sources.
Optimal Voltage Control Method for a Step Voltage Regulator Considering the Under-Load Tap Changer in a Distribution System Interconnected with a Renewable Energy Source
Authors: Lee Hyun-ok , Kim Dae-Jin , Kim Chun-Sung , Kim Byungki
Published: August 2023

The voltage in distribution systems is controlled by the under-load tap changer of the substation and the pole transformer of the primary feeders. Recently, as one of the main countermeasures, a step voltage regulator is being introduced to solve voltage problems such as overvoltage phenomena in a distribution feeder interconnected with a renewable energy source and under voltage in a long-distance feeder. However, the tap of the step voltage regulator may be frequently operated due to its interdependent relationship with the under-load tap changer in the distribution system. Furthermore, given the existing operating characteristics of the step voltage regulator, it is difficult to perfectly maintain the customer voltage within an allowable limit using existing methods such as the line drop compensation method for a step voltage regulator. In addition, the existing line drop compensation method, considering the distributed generators, may be not able to control the proper voltage within an allowable limit. Therefore, in order to solve such voltage problems, this paper proposes a voltage control method for a step voltage regulator by considering the output voltage of an under-load tap changer that is operated via the line drop compensation method. In other words, to overcome the limitations of existing voltage control methods for step voltage regulators, this paper proposes an optimal control method to determine the optimal compensation rate for a step voltage regulator by considering the reverse power flow from a renewable energy source and the output voltage of the under-load tap changer of the main transformer.
Validation of Actuator Line Modeling and Large Eddy Simulations of Kite-Borne Tidal Stream Turbines against ADCP Observations
Authors: Prabahar Nimal Sudhan Saravana , Fredriksson Sam T. , Broström Göran , Bergqvist Björn
Published: August 2023

The representation of tidal energy in future renewable energy systems is growing. Most of the current tidal turbine designs are limited by the minimum current velocity required for efficient operation. The Deep Green (DG) is a kite-borne tidal power plant designed to sustain efficient operation in tidal current velocities as low as 1.2 ms−1. This could increase the geographical areas suitable for large-scale tidal power arrays. Numerical modeling of the Deep Green was carried out in a previous study using large eddy simulations and the actuator line method. This numerical model is compared with acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP) measurements taken in the wake of a DG operating in a tidal flow under similar conditions. To be comparable, and since the ADCP measures current velocities using averages of beam components, the numerical model data were resampled using a virtual ADCP in the domain. The sensitivity of the wake observations to ADCP parameters such as pulse length, bin length, and orientation of the beams is studied using this virtual ADCP. After resampling with this virtual ADCP, the numerical model showed good agreement with the observations. Overall, the LES/ALM model predicted the flow features well compared to the observations, although the turbulence levels were underpredicted for an undisturbed tidal flow and overestimated in the DG wake 70 m downstream. The velocity deficit in the DG wake was weaker in the observations compared to the LES. The ALM/LES modeling of kite-borne tidal stream turbines is suitable for further studies of array optimization and wake propagation, etc.
Scientific and Pharmaceutical Aspects of Christensenella minuta, a Promising Next-Generation Probiotic
Authors: Pető Ágota , Kósa Dóra , Szilvássy Zoltán , Fehér Pálma , Ujhelyi Zoltán , Kovács Gabriella , Német István , Pócsi István , Bácskay Ildikó
Published: August 2023

Christensenella minuta (C. minuta), a member of a recently described bacterial family, is one of the most heritable next-generation probiotics. Many observational studies confirmed that the relative abundance of C. minuta is associated with lean body types with a low host body mass index (BMI), and is also influenced by age, diet, and genetics. By utilizing its benefits, it could be suited to many therapies, including human and animal health as well. However, a reliable method for culturing the strain must also be developed to enable the therapeutic administration of the microbe. Sludge microfiltration could be a promising solution for large scale-up cultivation. In this review, different processing methods are also described from pharmaceutical aspects.
An Efficient Adaptive Data-Link-Layer Architecture for LoRa Networks
Authors: Coutinho Micael , Afonso Jose A. , Lopes Sérgio F.
Published: August 2023

LoRa is one of the most popular low-power wireless network technologies for implementation of the Internet of Things, with the advantage of providing long-range communication, but lower data rates, when compared with technologies such as Zigbee or Bluetooth. LoRa is a single-channel physical layer technology on top of which LoRaWAN implements a more complex multi-channel network with enhanced functionalities, such as adaptive data rate. However, LoRaWAN relies on expensive hardware to support these functionalities. This paper proposes a LoRa data-link-layer architecture based on a multi-layer star network topology that adapts relevant LoRa parameters for each end node dynamically taking into account its link distance and quality in order to balance communication range and energy consumption. The developed solution is comprised of multiple components, including a LoRa parameter calculator to help the user to configure the network parameters, a contention-free MAC protocol to avoid collisions, and an adaptive spreading factor and transmission power mechanism. These components work together to ensure a more efficient use of the chosen ISM band and end node resources, but with low-cost implementation and operation requirements.
A Link-Layer Virtual Networking Solution for Cloud-Native Network Function Virtualisation Ecosystems: L2S-M
Authors: Gonzalez Luis F. , Vidal Ivan , Valera Francisco , Martin Raul , Artalejo Dulce
Published: August 2023

Microservices have become promising candidates for the deployment of network and vertical functions in the fifth generation of mobile networks. However, microservice platforms like Kubernetes use a flat networking approach towards the connectivity of virtualised workloads, which prevents the deployment of network functions on isolated network segments (for example, the components of an IP Telephony system or a content distribution network). This paper presents L2S-M, a solution that enables the connectivity of Kubernetes microservices over isolated link-layer virtual networks, regardless of the compute nodes where workloads are actually deployed. L2S-M uses software-defined networking (SDN) to fulfil this purpose. Furthermore, the L2S-M design is flexible to support the connectivity of Kubernetes workloads across different Kubernetes clusters. We validate the functional behaviour of our solution in a moderately complex Smart Campus scenario, where L2S-M is used to deploy a content distribution network, showing its potential for the deployment of network services in distributed and heterogeneous environments.
Enhanced Enzymatic Performance of β-Mannanase Immobilized on Calcium Alginate Beads for the Generation of Mannan Oligosaccharides
Authors: Chen Xinggang , Tian Zhuang , Zhou Hongbo , Zhou Guoying , Cheng Haina
Published: August 2023

Mannan oligosaccharides (MOSs) are excellent prebiotics that are usually obtained via the enzymatic hydrolysis of mannan. In order to reduce the cost of preparing MOSs, immobilized enzymes that demonstrate good performance, require simple preparation, and are safe, inexpensive, and reusable must be developed urgently. In this study, β-mannanase was immobilized on calcium alginate (CaAlg). Under the optimal conditions of 320 U enzyme addition, 1.6% sodium alginate, 2% CaCl2, and 1 h of immobilization time, the immobilization yield reached 68.3%. The optimum temperature and pH for the immobilized β-mannanase (Man-CaAlg) were 75 °C and 6.0, respectively. The Man-CaAlg exhibited better thermal stability, a high degree of pH stability, and less substrate affinity than free β-mannanase. The Man-CaAlg could be reused eight times and retained 70.34% of its activity; additionally, the Man-CaAlg showed 58.17% activity after 30 days of storage. A total of 7.94 mg/mL of MOSs, with 4.94 mg/mL of mannobiose and 3.00 mg/mL of mannotriose, were generated in the oligosaccharide production assay. It is believed that this convenient and safe strategy has great potential in the important field of the use of immobilized β-mannanase for the production of mannan oligosaccharides.
Preparation of Bovine Hides Gelatin by Ultra-High Pressure Technique and the Effect of Its Replacement Fat on the Quality and In Vitro Digestion of Beef Patties
Authors: Liu Mengying , Gao Yanlei , Shen Ruheng , Yang Xue , Zhang Li , Ma Guoyuan , Guo Zhaobin , Chen Cheng , Shi Xixiong , Ma Xiaotong
Published: August 2023

Beef skin gelatin can be used as a good substitute for animal fat in meat patties. In this paper, the effect of different parameters on low-fat beef patties with cowhide gelatin substituted for beef fat (0, 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%) prepared by ultra-high pressure assisted technology was investigated by texture, cooking loss, and sensory scores. The beef patties were also stored at 0–4 °C for 0, 7, 14, 21, and 28 d. The differences and changing rules of fatty acid and amino acid compositions and contents of beef patties with different fat contents were investigated by simulating gastrointestinal digestion in vitro. The optimal process formulation of low-fat beef patties with cowhide gelatin was determined by experimental optimization as follows: ultra-high pressure 360 MPa, ultra-high of pressure time of 21 min, NaCl addition of 1.5%, compound phosphate addition of 0.3%. The addition of cowhide gelatin significantly increased monounsaturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, amino acid content, and protein digestibility of beef patties (p < 0.05). Moreover, with the extension of storage time, the content of saturated fatty acids was significantly higher (p < 0.05), the content of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids was significantly lower (p < 0.05), the content of amino acids was significantly lower (p < 0.05), and protein digestibility was significantly lower (p < 0.05) under all substitution ratios. Overall, beef patties with 75% and 100% substitution ratios had better digestibility characteristics. The results of this study provide a theoretical basis for gelatin’s potential as a fat substitute for beef patties and for improving the quality of low-fat meat products.
Solving General Fractional Lane-Emden-Fowler Differential Equations Using Haar Wavelet Collocation Method
Authors: Albalawi Kholoud Saad , Kumar Ashish , Alkahtani Badr Saad , Goswami Pranay
Published: August 2023

This paper aims to solve general fractional Lane-Emden-Fowler differential equations using the Haar wavelet collocation method. This method transforms the fractional differential equation into a nonlinear system of equations, which is further solved for Haar coefficients using Newton’s method. We have constructed the higher-order Lane-Emden-Fowler equations. We have also discussed the convergence rate and stability analysis of our technique. We have explained the applications and numerically simulated the examples graphically and in tabular format to elaborate on the accuracy and efficiency of this approach.
Silica Gels Doped with Gold Nanoparticles: Preparation, Structure and Optical Properties
Authors: Shandurkov Dimitar , Danchova Nina , Spassov Tony , Petrov Vesselin , Tsekov Roumen , Gutzov Stoyan
Published: August 2023

A novel, one-pot sol–gel preparation scheme leading to reproducible incorporation of 20–40 nm sized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in SiO2 gels is developed based on in situ reduction during gelation using chloroauric acid and ascorbic acid. Variation in the preparation conditions affects the chemical composition, optical properties and size distribution of the AuNPs incorporated in the silica gels. Different organic dopants, i.e., oleic acid, acetic acid or dodecanethiol, are applied to modify the final composite material and to control the rate of reduction and growth of the AuNPs in the gels. The synthesized samples are characterized by UV/Vis/NIR spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, thermal conductivity measurements and DTA/TG measurements. The optical properties of the obtained composites are explained using Mie theory. The incorporation of AuNPs leads to an increase in the thermal conductivity of the silica gels. The best process method in this contribution is the use of NaOH as a gelation catalyst and oleic acid as an organic modifier, leading to 20 nm AuNPs dispersed in the silica matrix.
Refinement of Leishmania donovani Genome Annotations in the Light of Ribosome-Protected mRNAs Fragments (Ribo-Seq Data)
Authors: Sánchez-Salvador Alejandro , González-de la Fuente Sandra , Aguado Begoña , Yates Phillip A. , Requena Jose M.
Published: August 2023

Advances in next-generation sequencing methodologies have facilitated the assembly of an ever-increasing number of genomes. Gene annotations are typically conducted via specialized software, but the most accurate results require additional manual curation that incorporates insights derived from functional and bioinformatic analyses (e.g., transcriptomics, proteomics, and phylogenetics). In this study, we improved the annotation of the Leishmania donovani (strain HU3) genome using publicly available data from the deep sequencing of ribosome-protected mRNA fragments (Ribo-Seq). As a result of this analysis, we uncovered 70 previously non-annotated protein-coding genes and improved the annotation of around 600 genes. Additionally, we present evidence for small upstream open reading frames (uORFs) in a significant number of transcripts, indicating their potential role in the translational regulation of gene expression. The bioinformatics pipelines developed for these analyses can be used to improve the genome annotations of other organisms for which Ribo-Seq data are available. The improvements provided by these studies will bring us closer to the ultimate goal of a complete and accurately annotated L. donovani genome and will enhance future transcriptomics, proteomics, and genetics studies.
The Prevalence and Correlated Factors of Occupational Stress, Cumulative Fatigue, and Musculoskeletal Disorders among Information Technology Workers: A Cross-Sectional Study in Chongqing, China
Authors: Zheng Bailiang , Chen Fengqiong , Wang Jin , Deng Huaxin , Li Jinshan , Zhou Chunmin , Ye Mengliang
Published: August 2023

Occupational stress, cumulative fatigue, and work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are major concerns in the field of occupational health. Previous studies on occupational health focused on key industries, such as medical care, while there were few related studies on Information Technology (IT) industry. Our study explored the factors influencing occupational stress, cumulative fatigue, and musculoskeletal disorders in the IT industry. We collected 1363 IT workers’ valid questionnaires, of which 73.1% of participants were technicians in Chongqing, 2021. The core occupational stress scale (COSS), self-diagnosis checklist for the assessment of workers’ accumulated fatigue and Chinese musculoskeletal disorders questionnaire were used to measure the occupational stress, cumulative fatigue, and musculoskeletal disorders of the respondents. Logistic regressions were used to explore the correlated factors affecting these indicators. The results showed that the prevalence of occupational stress, cumulative fatigue, and musculoskeletal disorders was 50.4%, 47%, and 72.3%, respectively. Working in the current position for 3–10 years was a common increased risk for all three indicators. Insomnia was associated with an increased risk of cumulative fatigue (Odds Ratio, OR = 2.156, p < 0.001) and musculoskeletal disorders (OR = 1.878, p < 0.001). Cumulative fatigue was also associated with an increased risk of having WMSDs (OR = 3.207, p < 0.001). According to our findings, occupational factors, such as long working years, overtime work, and personal lifestyle, are highly related to the occurrence of occupational stress, cumulative fatigue, and musculoskeletal disorders for IT industry workers. More attention should be paid to women and those with long working hours in the IT industry.
Risk Influence of Some Environmental and Behavioral Factors on Air Contamination in the Operating Room: An Experimental Study
Authors: Albertini Prospero , Mainardi Pierangela , Bagattini Maria , Lombardi Annalisa , Riccio Patrizia , Ragosta Maria , Pennino Francesca , Bruzzese Dario , Triassi Maria
Published: August 2023

Air contamination in operating rooms (ORs) depends on the conditions of the room and on activities therein performed. Methodologies of air quality assessment in ORs are often inadequately described in the scientific literature, and the time required for a change in status in air quality is never taken into account. The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of the state and the presence of human operators on air quality by implementing a precise measurement protocol that also took into account the time required for changes in the room to affect air pollution. As the main indicators of air pollution, bacterial load and concentration of airborne dust were measured. The results showed that: the use of surgical masks by operators in the OR did not significantly affect bacterial load within a distance of 2 m; keeping OR doors open did not induce a significant increase in bacterial load and of 5 μm particles while 10 μm particles concentration was positively affected; and air pollution measured with open doors was not significantly different from that due to the presence of two staff members, whether or not they were wearing masks. The results clarified the role of some factors on air pollution in ORs.
Expression of HOXA10 Gene in Women with Endometriosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lazim Nurunnajah , Elias Marjanu Hikmah , Sutaji Zulazmi , Abdul Karim Abdul Kadir , Abu Mohammad Azrai , Ugusman Azizah , Syafruddin Saiful Effendi , Mokhtar Mohd Helmy , Ahmad Mohd Faizal
Published: August 2023

The homeobox A10 (HOXA10) gene is known to be related to endometriosis; however, due to a lack of knowledge/evidence in the pathogenesis of endometriosis, the mechanisms that link HOXA10 to endometriosis still need to be clarified. This review addresses the difference in the expression of the HOXA10 gene in endometriotic women versus non-endometriotic women across populations by country and discusses its influences on women’s fertility. An organized search of electronic databases was conducted in Scopus, ScienceDirect, PubMed, and Web of Science. The keywords used were (HOXA10 OR “homeobox A10” OR PL OR HOX1 OR HOX1H OR HOX1.8) AND (“gene expression”) AND (endometriosis). The initial search resulted in 623 articles, 10 of which were included in this review. All ten papers included in this study were rated fair in terms of the quality of the studies conducted. The expression of the HOXA10 gene was found to be downregulated in most studies. However, one study provided evidence of the downregulation and upregulation of HOXA10 gene expression due to the localization of endometriotic lesions. Measuring the expression of the HOXA10 gene in women is clinically essential to predicting endometriosis, endometrial receptivity, and the development of pinopodes in the endometrium during the luteal phase.
Deficiency of Caspase-1 Attenuates HIV-1-Associated Atherogenesis in Mice
Authors: Alam Mohammad Afaque , Caocci Maurizio , Ren Mi , Chen Zheng , Liu Fengming , Khatun Mst Shamima , Kolls Jay K. , Qin Xuebin , Burdo Tricia H.
Published: August 2023

Within arterial plaque, HIV infection creates a state of inflammation and immune activation, triggering NLRP3/caspase-1 inflammasome, tissue damage, and monocyte/macrophage infiltration. Previously, we documented that caspase-1 activation in myeloid cells was linked with HIV-associated atherosclerosis in mice and people with HIV. Here, we mechanistically examined the direct effect of caspase-1 on HIV-associated atherosclerosis. Caspase-1-deficient (Casp-1−/−) mice were crossed with HIV-1 transgenic (Tg26+/−) mice with an atherogenic ApoE-deficient (ApoE−/−) background to create global caspase-1-deficient mice (Tg26+/−/ApoE−/−/Casp-1−/−). Caspase-1-sufficient (Tg26+/−/ApoE−/−/Casp-1+/+) mice served as the controls. Next, we created chimeric hematopoietic cell-deficient mice by reconstituting irradiated ApoE−/− mice with bone marrow cells transplanted from Tg26+/−/ApoE−/−/Casp-1−/− (BMT Casp-1−/−) or Tg26+/−/ApoE−/−/Casp-1+/+ (BMT Casp-1+/+) mice. Global caspase-1 knockout in mice suppressed plaque deposition in the thoracic aorta, serum IL-18 levels, and ex vivo foam cell formation. The deficiency of caspase-1 in hematopoietic cells resulted in reduced atherosclerotic plaque burden in the whole aorta and aortic root, which was associated with reduced macrophage infiltration. Transcriptomic analyses of peripheral mononuclear cells and splenocytes indicated that caspase-1 deficiency inhibited caspase-1 pathway-related genes. These results document the critical atherogenic role of caspase-1 in chronic HIV infection and highlight the implication of this pathway and peripheral immune activation in HIV-associated atherosclerosis.
An Interference-Free Voltammetric Method for the Detection of Sulfur Dioxide in Wine Based on a Boron-Doped Diamond Electrode and Reaction Electrochemistry
Authors: Culková Eva , Lukáčová-Chomisteková Zuzana , Bellová Renata , Rievaj Miroslav , Švancarová-Laštincová Jarmila , Tomčík Peter
Published: August 2023

This paper describes a new, simple, and highly selective analytical technique for the detection of sulfur dioxide in wine, as a real sample with a relatively complicated matrix. The detection of the above analyte was based on the electrogeneration of iodine from iodide on a boron-doped diamond electrode, without modifications, in the presence of 0.1 mol dm−3 HClO4 as a supporting electrolyte. The electrogenerated iodine reacted with sulfur dioxide, forming iodide ions and sulfuric acid (i.e., a Bunsen reaction). The product of this reaction, the iodide ion, diffused back to the surface of the boron-doped diamond electrode and oxidized itself again. This chemical redox cycling enhanced the voltammetric response of the boron-doped diamond electrode. The selectivity of the determination was assured using NaOH and formaldehyde during sample preparation, and a blank was also measured and taken into account. The detection limit was estimated to be 10−6–10−7 mol dm−3. However, the content of sulfur dioxide in wine is significantly higher, which can lead to more accurate and reliable results.
Genome-Wide Identification of GmSPS Gene Family in Soybean and Expression Analysis in Response to Cold Stress
Authors: Shen Jiafang , Xu Yiran , Yuan Songli , Jin Fuxiao , Huang Yi , Chen Haifeng , Shan Zhihui , Yang Zhonglu , Chen Shuilian , Zhou Xinan , Zhang Chanjuan
Published: August 2023

Sucrose metabolism plays a critical role in development, stress response, and yield formation of plants. Sucrose phosphate synthase (SPS) is the key rate-limiting enzyme in the sucrose synthesis pathway. To date, genome-wide survey and comprehensive analysis of the SPS gene family in soybean (Glycine max) have yet to be performed. In this study, seven genes encoding SPS were identified in soybean genome. The structural characteristics, phylogenetics, tissue expression patterns, and cold stress response of these GmSPSs were investigated. A comparative phylogenetic analysis of SPS proteins in soybean, Medicago truncatula, Medicago sativa, Lotus japonicus, Arabidopsis, and rice revealed four families. GmSPSs were clustered into three families from A to C, and have undergone five segmental duplication events under purifying selection. All GmSPS genes had various expression patterns in different tissues, and family A members GmSPS13/17 were highly expressed in nodules. Remarkably, all GmSPS promoters contain multiple low-temperature-responsive elements such as potential binding sites of inducer of CBF expression 1 (ICE1), the central regulator in cold response. qRT-PCR proved that these GmSPS genes, especially GmSPS8/18, were induced by cold treatment in soybean leaves, and the expression pattern of GmICE1 under cold treatment was similar to that of GmSPS8/18. Further transient expression analysis in Nicotiana benthamiana and electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) indicated that GmSPS8 and GmSPS18 transcriptions were directly activated by GmICE1. Taken together, our findings may aid in future efforts to clarify the potential roles of GmSPS genes in response to cold stress in soybean.
Impact of Intron and Retransformation on Transgene Expression in Leaf and Fruit Tissues of Field-Grown Pear Trees
Authors: Lebedev Vadim
Published: August 2023

Stable and high expression of introduced genes is a prerequisite for using transgenic trees. Transgene stacking enables combining several valuable traits, but repeated transformation increases the risk of unintended effects. This work studied the stability and intron-mediated enhancement of uidA gene expression in leaves and different anatomical parts of pear fruits during field trials over 14 years. The stability of reporter and herbicide resistance transgenes in retransformed pear plants, as well as possible unintended effects using high-throughput phenotyping tools, were also investigated. The activity of β-glucuronidase (GUS) varied depending on the year, but silencing did not occur. The uidA gene was expressed to a maximum in seeds, slightly less in the peel and peduncles, and much less in the pulp of pear fruits. The intron in the uidA gene stably increased expression in leaves and fruits by approximately twofold. Retransformants with the bar gene showed long-term herbicide resistance and exhibited no consistent changes in leaf size and shape. The transgenic pear was used as rootstock and scion, but grafted plants showed no transport of the GUS protein through the graft in the greenhouse and field. This longest field trial of transgenic fruit trees demonstrates stable expression under varying environmental conditions, the expression-enhancing effect of intron and the absence of unintended effects in single- and double-transformed woody plants.
Widely Targeted Metabolomic Profiling Combined with Transcriptome Analysis Provides New Insights into Lipid Biosynthesis in Seed Kernels of Pinus koraiensis
Authors: Li Yan , Xu Yujin , Han Rui , Liu Lin , Pei Xiaona , Zhao Xiyang
Published: August 2023

Lipid-rich Pinus koraiensis seed kernels are highly regarded for their nutritional and health benefits. To ascertain the molecular mechanism of lipid synthesis, we conducted widely targeted metabolomic profiling together with a transcriptome analysis of the kernels in P. koraiensis cones at various developmental stages. The findings reveal that 148 different types of lipid metabolites, or 29.6% of total metabolites, are present in kernels. Among those metabolites, the concentrations of linoleic acid, palmitic acid, and α-linolenic acid were higher, and they steadily rose as the kernels developed. An additional 10 hub genes implicated in kernel lipid synthesis were discovered using weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), gene interaction network analysis, oil body biosynthesis, and transcriptome analysis. This study used lipid metabolome and transcriptome analyses to investigate the mechanisms of key regulatory genes and lipid synthesis molecules during kernel development, which served as a solid foundation for future research on lipid metabolism and the creation of P. koraiensis kernel food.
Anaphase-Promoting Complex Subunit 1 Associates with Bone Mineral Density in Human Osteoporotic Bone
Authors: Malavašič Petra , Polajžer Sara , Lovšin Nika
Published: August 2023

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) are one of the most common approaches to identify genetic loci that are associated with bone mineral density (BMD). Such novel genetic loci represent new potential targets for the prevention and treatment of fragility fractures. GWAS have identified hundreds of associations with BMD; however, only a few have been functionally evaluated. A locus significantly associated with femoral neck BMD at the genome-wide level is intronic SNP rs17040773 located in the intronic region of the anaphase-promoting complex subunit 1 (ANAPC1) gene (p = 1.5 × 10−9). Here, we functionally evaluate the role of ANAPC1 in bone remodelling by examining the expression of ANAPC1 in human bone and muscle tissues and during the osteogenic differentiation of human primary mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). The expression of ANAPC1 was significantly decreased 2.3-fold in bone tissues and 6.2-fold in muscle tissue from osteoporotic patients as compared to the osteoarthritic and control tissues. Next, we show that the expression of ANAPC1 changes during the osteogenic differentiation process of human MSCs. Moreover, the silencing of ANAPC1 in human osteosarcoma (HOS) cells reduced RUNX2 expression, suggesting that ANAPC1 affects osteogenic differentiation through RUNX2. Altogether, our results indicate that ANAPC1 plays a role in bone physiology and in the development of osteoporosis.
Mitochondrial Redox Balance of Fibroblasts Exposed to Ti-6Al-4V Microplates Subjected to Different Types of Anodizing
Authors: Zalewska Anna , Antonowicz Bożena , Szulimowska Julita , Zieniewska-Siemieńczuk Izabela , Leśniewska Barbara , Borys Jan , Zięba Sara , Kostecka-Sochoń Paula , Żendzian-Piotrowska Małgorzata , Lo Giudice Roberto , Lo Giudice Giusseppe , Żukowski Piotr , Maciejczyk Mateusz
Published: August 2023

Despite the high biocompatibility of titanium and its alloys, the need to remove titanium implants is increasingly being debated due to the potential for adverse effects associated with long-term retention. Therefore, new solutions are being sought to enhance the biocompatibility of titanium implants. One of them is to increase the thickness of the passive layer of the implant made of titanium dioxide. We were the first to evaluate the effect of hard-anodized (type II) Ti-6Al-4V alloy discs on the cytotoxicity, mitochondrial function, and redox balance of fibroblasts mitochondria compared to standard-anodized (type III) and non-anodized discs. The study used fibroblasts obtained from human gingival tissue. The test discs were applied to the bottom of 12-well plates. Cells were cultured for 24 h and 7, 14, and 21 days and mitochondria were isolated. We demonstrated the occurrence of oxidative stress in the mitochondria of fibroblasts of all tested groups, regardless of the presence and type of anodization. Type II anodization prevented changes in complex II activity (vs. control). The lowest degree of citrate synthase inhibition occurred in mitochondria exposed to titanium discs with type II anodization. In the last phase of culture, the presence of type II anodization reduced the degree of cytochrome c oxidase inhibition compared to the other tests groups and the control group, and prevented apoptosis. Throughout the experiment, the release of titanium, aluminium, and vanadium ions from titanium discs with a hard-anodized passive layer was higher than from the other titanium discs, but decreased with time. The obtained results proved the existence of dysfunction and redox imbalance in the mitochondria of fibroblasts exposed to hard-anodized titanium discs, suggesting the need to search for new materials perhaps biodegradable in tissues of the human body.
Codium fragile Suppresses PM2.5-Induced Cognitive Dysfunction by Regulating Gut–Brain Axis via TLR-4/MyD88 Pathway
Authors: Kim Tae Yoon , Kim Jong Min , Lee Hyo Lim , Go Min Ji , Joo Seung Gyum , Kim Ju Hui , Lee Han Su , Lee Dong Yeol , Kim Hyun-Jin , Heo Ho Jin
Published: August 2023

This study was conducted to evaluate the cognitive dysfunction improvement effect of aqueous extract of Codium fragile (AECF) by regulating the imbalance of the gut–brain axis in chronic particulate matter (PM)2.5-exposed mice. The physiological compounds of AECF were identified as hexadecanamide, oleamide, octadecanamide, stearidonic acid, and linolenic acid by the ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry (UPLC Q-TOF MSE) analysis. To evaluate the effect of PM2.5 on the antioxidant system, superoxide dismutase (SOD) contents, reduced glutathione (GSH) contents, and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents were measured in colon and brain tissues. AECF significantly ameliorated the imbalance of the antioxidant systems. Also, AECF improved intestinal myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, the abundance of the gut microbiome, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) contents, and tight junction protein expression against PM2.5-induced damage. In addition, AECF prevented PM2.5-induced inflammatory and apoptotic expression via the toll-like receptor-4 (TLR-4)/myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88) pathway in colon and brain tissues. Additionally, AECF enhanced the mitochondrial function, including the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) contents in brain tissues. Furthermore, AECF regulated the cholinergic system, such as acetylcholine (ACh) contents, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, and protein expression levels of AChE and choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) in brain tissues. To evaluate the effect of cognitive dysfunction caused by PM2.5-induced intestinal dysfunction, behavior tests such as Y-maze, passive avoidance, and Morris water maze tests were performed. From the results of the behavior tests, AECF ameliorated spatial learning and memory, short-term memory, and long-term learning and memory function. This study confirmed that AECF reduced PM2.5-induced cognitive dysfunction by regulating gut microbiome and inflammation, apoptosis, and mitochondrial function by enhancing the gut–brain axis. Based on these results, this study suggests that AECF, which contains fatty acid amides, might be a potential material for ameliorating PM2.5-induced cognitive dysfunction via gut–brain axis improvement.
The Role of microRNAs in Epigenetic Regulation of Signaling Pathways in Neurological Pathologies
Authors: Tregub Pavel P. , Ibrahimli Irada , Averchuk Anton S. , Salmina Alla B. , Litvitskiy Peter F. , Manasova Zaripat Sh. , Popova Inga A.
Published: August 2023

In recent times, there has been a significant increase in researchers’ interest in the functions of microRNAs and the role of these molecules in the pathogenesis of many multifactorial diseases. This is related to the diagnostic and prognostic potential of microRNA expression levels as well as the prospects of using it in personalized targeted therapy. This review of the literature analyzes existing scientific data on the involvement of microRNAs in the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the development of pathologies such as Alzheimer’s disease, cerebral ischemia and reperfusion injury, and dysfunction of the blood–brain barrier.
Exploration into Natural Variation Genes Associated with Determinate and Capitulum-like Inflorescence in Brassica napus
Authors: Wan Wei , Zhao Haifei , Yu Kunjiang , Xiang Yang , Dai Wendong , Du Caifu , Tian Entang
Published: August 2023

Brassica napus is a globally important vegetable and oil crop. The research is meaningful for the yield and plant architecture of B. napus. In this study, one natural mutant line with determinate and capitulum-like inflorescence was chosen for further study. Genetic analysis indicated that the segregation patterns of inflorescences in the F2 populations supported a digenic inheritance model, which was further approved via the BSA-Seq technique. The BSA-Seq method detected two QTL regions on C02 (14.27–18.41 Mb) and C06 (32.98–33.68 Mb) for the genetic control of determinate inflorescences in MT plants. In addition, the expression profile in MT compared with WT was analyzed, and a total of 133 candidate genes for regulating the flower development (75 genes, 56.4%), shoot meristem development (29 genes, 21.8%), and inflorescence meristem development (13 genes, 9.8%) were identified. Then one joint analysis combing BSA-Seq and RNA-Seq identified two candidate genes of BnaTFL1 and BnaAP1 for regulating the MT phenotype. Furthermore, the potential utilization of the MT plants was also discussed.