bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimum Design of Coaxial Hydraulic Sealing Systems Made from Polytetrafluoroethylene and Its Compounds
Authors: Deaconescu Andrea , Deaconescu Tudor
Published: June 2024

Fluidic actuation systems are optimizable as to energy consumption by reducing the friction in the hydraulic cylinders. Polymeric materials with special antifriction properties and good resistance to hydraulic fluids can be deployed to enhance the performance of hydraulic cylinders. Small friction forces can also be ensured by facilitating the hydrodynamic separation of the elements of the friction tribosystem, namely the seal and sealed-off surface, respectively. The study presented in this paper analyzed the hydrodynamic separation phenomenon in hydraulic cylinders with coaxial sealing systems of the pistons. The process underlying the forming of the fluid film between the seal and its contact surface was considered and the formula for calculating film thickness was deduced. This paper presents graphs that describe the variation of the fluid film thickness versus the dimensional and material characteristics of the sealing systems. The study yielded recommendations as to the most adequate polymeric material to be used and the optimum dimensional characteristics of the seal.
Thermal Resistance Modeling for the Optimal Design of EE and E/PLT Core-Based Planar Magnetics
Authors: Bakri Reda , Margueron Xavier , Le Moigne Philippe , Idir Nadir
Published: June 2024

With the integration of power electronic converters and components, an accurate thermal design becomes essential. Hence, precise thermal models for components are needed for their optimal design. This paper focuses on the development of an analytical model for the design of thermal resistance of planar magnetic cores (PMC). Based on computational fluid dynamic (CFD) simulations, the PMC design thermal resistance variation is studied, according to ambient temperature and level of losses. Then, a polynomial equation is developed to model those variations, and coefficients are deduced for all the sizes of PMC. This analytical model, useful for designers, is finally validated with thermal measurements on a planar transformer prototype.
Automotive e-Fuels via Hydrocracking of FT-Wax: e-Gasoline and e-Diesel Production
Authors: Dimitriadis Athanasios , Chrysikou Loukia , Bezergianni Stella
Published: June 2024

The main goal of this research is the production of e-fuels in gasoline- and diesel-range hydrocarbons via the hydrocracking of wax from Fischer–Tropsch (FT-wax) synthesis. The hydrogen for the hydrocracking process originated from solar energy via water electrolysis, thus, the produced fuels were called e-fuels. The FT-wax was produced via the Fischer–Tropsch synthesis of syngas stream from the chemical looping gasification (CLG) of biogenic residues. For the hydrocracking tests, a continuous-operation TRL3 (Technology Readiness Level) pilot plant was utilized. At first, hydrocracking catalyst screening was performed for the upgrading of the FT-wax. Three hydrocracking catalysts were investigated (Ni-W, Ni-W zeolite-supported, and Ni-W Al2O3-supported catalyst) via various operating conditions to identify the optimal operating window for each one. These three catalysts were selected, as they are typical catalysts that are used in the petroleum refinery industry. The optimal catalyst was found to be the NiW catalyst, as it led to high e-fuel yields (38 wt% e-gasoline and 47 wt% e-diesel) with an average hydrogen consumption. The optimum operating window was found at a 603 K reactor temperature, 8.3 MPa system pressure, 1 hr−1 LHSV, and 2500 scfb H2/oil ratio. In the next phase, the production of 5 L of hydrocracked wax was performed utilizing the optimum NiW catalyst and the optimal operating parameters. The liquid product was further fractionated to separate the fractions of e-gasoline, e-diesel, and e-heavy fuel. The e-gasoline and e-diesel fractions were qualitatively assessed, indicating that they fulfilled almost all EN 228 and EN 590 for petroleum-based gasoline and diesel, respectively. Furthermore, a 12-month storage study showed that the product can be stored for a period of 4 months in ambient conditions. In general, green transportation e-fuels with favorable properties that met most of the fossil fuels specifications were produced successfully from the hydrocracking of FT-wax.
Detection and Determination of User Position Using Radio Tomography with Optimal Energy Consumption of Measuring Devices in Smart Buildings
Authors: Styła Michał , Kozłowski Edward , Tchórzewski Paweł , Gnaś Dominik , Adamkiewicz Przemysław , Laskowski Jan , Skrzypek-Ahmed Sylwia , Małek Arkadiusz , Kasperek Dariusz
Published: June 2024

The main objective of the research presented in the following work was the adaptation of reflection-radar technology in a detection and navigation system using radio-tomographic imaging techniques. As key aspects of this work, the energy optimization of high-frequency transmitters can be considered for use inside buildings while maintaining user safety. The resulting building monitoring and control system using a network of intelligent sensors supported by artificial intelligence algorithms, such as logistic regression or neural networks, should be considered an outcome. This paper discusses the methodology for extracting information from signal echoes and how they were transported and aggregated. The data extracted in this way were used to support user navigation through a building, optimize energy based on presence information, and increase the facility’s overall security level. A band from 5 GHz to 6 GHz was chosen as the carrier frequency of the signals, representing a compromise between energy expenditure, range, and the properties of wave behavior in contact with different types of matter. The system includes proprietary hardware solutions that allow parameters to be adjusted over the entire range and guarantee adaptation for RTI (radio tomography imaging) technology.
Potential and Environmental Benefits of Biochar Utilization for Coal/Coke Substitution in the Steel Industry
Authors: Al Hosni Suad , Domini Marta , Vahidzadeh Reza , Bertanza Giorgio
Published: June 2024

The metallurgical sector is one of the most emission- and energy-intensive industries. The possibility of using fossil carbon substitutes has been investigated to reduce the environmental impact of the steelmaking sector. Among others, biochar emerged as a promising fossil coal/coke substitute. We conducted a literature review on biochar use in the metallurgical sector and its potential environmental benefits. The possibility for biochar as a coal/coke substitute is influenced by the source of biochar production and the process within which it can be used. In general, it has been observed that substitution of biochar ranging from a minimum of 5% to a maximum of 50% (mostly around 20–25%) is possible without affecting, or in some cases improving, the process, in coke making, iron sintering, blast furnaces and electric furnaces application. In some studies, the potential CO2 reduction due to biochar use was estimated, ranging from 5% to about 50%. Despite there still being an area of further investigation, biochar appeared as a promising resource with a variety of uses in the metallurgical sector, contributing to the lowering of the environmental impact of the sector.
UAV Path Planning Based on Random Obstacle Training and Linear Soft Update of DRL in Dense Urban Environment
Authors: Zhu Yanfei , Tan Yingjie , Chen Yongfa , Chen Liudan , Lee Kwang Y.
Published: June 2024

The three-dimensional (3D) path planning problem of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) considering the effect of environmental wind in a dense city is investigated in this paper. The mission of the UAV is to fly from its initial position to its destination while ensuring safe flight. The dense obstacle avoidance and the energy consumption in 3D space need to be considered during the mission, which are often ignored in common studies. To solve these problems, an improved Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) path planning algorithm based on Double Deep Q-Network (DDQN) is proposed in this paper. Among the algorithms, the random obstacle training method is first proposed to make the algorithm consider various flight scenarios more globally and comprehensively and improve the algorithm’s robustness and adaptability. Then, the linear soft update strategy is employed to realize the smooth neural network parameter update, which enhances the stability and convergence of the training. In addition, the wind disturbances are integrated into the energy consumption model and reward function, which can effectively describe the wind disturbances during the UAV mission to achieve the minimum drag flight. To prevent the neural network from interfering with training failures, the meritocracy mechanism is proposed to enhance the algorithm’s stability. The effectiveness and applicability of the proposed method are verified through simulation analysis and comparative studies. The UAV based on this algorithm has good autonomy and adaptability, which provides a new way to solve the UAV path planning problem in dense urban scenes.
A New Tailored Approach to Calculate the Optimal Number of Outdoor Air Changes in School Building HVAC Systems in the Post-COVID-19 Era
Authors: D’Agostino Diana , Di Mascolo Martina , Minelli Federico , Minichiello Francesco
Published: June 2024

Air conditioning systems can play a positive or negative role in the spread of COVID-19 infection. The importance of sufficient outdoor air changes in buildings was highlighted by the World Health Organization, therefore these should be guaranteed by mechanical ventilation systems or adequate air conditioning systems. The proposed case study concerns the optimal number of outdoor air changes to limit COVID-19 contagion for a school building in Central Italy. The Wells–Riley model is used to assess the risk of airborne infection, while energy consumption is calculated by a dynamic energy simulation software. The scope of the paper offers an innovative method to define the optimal ventilation strategy for the building’s HVAC system design to reduce the risk of infection with limited increases in energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Results show that the desirable approach is the one in which the same low value of contagion risk is set in all rooms. This new approach results in significant energy savings, compared to the most common ones (setting the same high outdoor air rates for all rooms) to counteract the risk of infection. Finally, the zero-emission building target is verified by introducing a suitable photovoltaic system to offset pollutant emissions.
Study of Condensation during Direct Contact between Steam and Water in Pressure-Relief Tank
Authors: Yin Shasha , Wang Yingjie , Yuan Yuan , Li Bei
Published: June 2024

Direct contact condensation (DCC) is a phenomenon observed when steam interacts with subcooled water, exhibiting higher heat and mass transfer rates compared to wall condensation. It has garnered significant interest across industries such as nuclear, chemical, and power due to its advantageous characteristics. In the context of pressure-relief tanks, understanding and optimizing the DCC process are critical for safety and efficiency. The efficiency of pressure-relief tanks depends on the amount of steam condensed per unit of time, which directly affects their operational parameters and design. This study focuses on investigating the direct gas–liquid contact condensation process in pressure-relief tanks using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Through experimental validation and a sensitivity analysis, the study provides insights into the influence of inlet steam parameters and basin temperature on the steam plume characteristics. Furthermore, steady-state and transient calculation models are developed to simulate the behaviour of the pressure-relief tank, providing valuable data for safety analysis and design optimization. There is a relatively high-pressure area in the upper part of the bubble hole of the pressure-relief tube, and the value increases as it is closer to the holes. The steam velocity in the bubbling hole near the 90° elbow position is higher. This study contributes to the understanding of steam condensation dynamics in pressure-relief tanks. When the steam emission and pressure are fixed, the equilibrium temperature increases linearly as the initial temperature increases (where a = 1, b = 20 in y = a x+ b correlation), the equilibrium pressure increases nearly exponentially, and the equilibrium gas volume decreases. When the steam emission and initial temperature are fixed, the equilibrium temperature does not change as the steam discharge pressure increases. The correlations between the predicted equilibrium parameters and the inlet steam parameters and tank temperature provide valuable insights for optimizing a pressure-relief tank design and improving the operational safety in diverse industrial contexts.
Short-Term Power Load Forecasting Using a VMD-Crossformer Model
Authors: Li Siting , Cai Huafeng
Published: June 2024

There are several complex and unpredictable aspects that affect the power grid. To make short-term power load forecasting more accurate, a short-term power load forecasting model that utilizes the VMD-Crossformer is suggested in this paper. First, the ideal number of decomposition layers was ascertained using a variational mode decomposition (VMD) parameter optimum approach based on the Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC). Second, the original data was decomposed into multiple modal components using VMD, and then the original data were reconstructed with the modal components. Finally, the reconstructed data were input into the Crossformer network, which utilizes the cross-dimensional dependence of multivariate time series (MTS) prediction; that is, the dimension-segment-wise (DSW) embedding and the two-stage attention (TSA) layer were designed to establish a hierarchical encoder–decoder (HED), and the final prediction was performed using information from different scales. The experimental results show that the method could accurately predict the electricity load with high accuracy and reliability. The MAE, MAPE, and RMSE were 61.532 MW, 1.841%, and 84.486 MW, respectively, for dataset I. The MAE, MAPE, and RMSE were 68.906 MW, 0.847%, and 89.209 MW, respectively, for dataset II. Compared with other models, the model in this paper predicted better.
Research on a Three-Stage Dynamic Reactive Power Optimization Decoupling Strategy for Active Distribution Networks with Carbon Emissions
Authors: Wu Yuezhong , Xiong Yujie , Peng Xiaowei , Cai Cheng , Zheng Xiangming
Published: June 2024

The reactive power optimization of an active distribution network can effectively deal with the problem of voltage overflows at some nodes caused by the integration of a high proportion of distributed sources into the distribution network. Aiming to address the limitations in previous studies of dynamic reactive power optimization using the cluster partitioning method, a three-stage dynamic reactive power optimization decoupling strategy for active distribution networks considering carbon emissions is proposed in this paper. First, a carbon emission index is proposed based on the carbon emission intensity, and a dynamic reactive power optimization mathematical model of an active distribution network is established with the minimum active power network loss, voltage deviation, and carbon emissions as the satisfaction objective functions. Second, in order to satisfy the requirement for the all-day motion times of discrete devices, a three-stage dynamic reactive power optimization decoupling strategy based on the partitioning around a medoids clustering algorithm is proposed. Finally, taking the improved IEEE33 and PG&E69-node distribution network systems as examples, the proposed linear decreasing mutation particle swarm optimization algorithm was used to solve the mathematical model. The results show that all the indicators of the proposed strategy and algorithm throughout the day are lower than those of other methods, which verifies the effectiveness of the proposed strategy and algorithm.
Witness of the Little Ice Age—One of the Oldest Spruces in Poland (Śnieżnik Massif, Sudetes, SW Poland)
Authors: Cedro Anna , Cedro Bernard , Borówka Ryszard Krzysztof , Okupny Daniel , Osóch Paweł , Stefaniak Krzysztof , Wojtuń Bronisław , Kasprzak Marek , Ratajczak-Skrzatek Urszula , Kmiecik Paweł , Rusinek Krzysztof , Jiroušek Martin , Plášek Vítězslav , Hrynowiecka Anna , Michczyński Adam
Published: June 2024

During an interdisciplinary study of the mire “Torfowisko pod Małym Śnieżnikiem”, a very old specimen of the Norway spruce (Picea abies L.) was encountered. The aim of the present work was to perform a detailed examination of this tree, to compare it to other spruce trees on the mire, and to provide support for establishing protection for this tree stand. Tree ring cores were sampled at 1.3 m above ground using a Pressler borer, in two field campaigns: June and July 2023, the latter campaign aiming to find the oldest trees. A total of 46 trees were sampled, yielding 84 measured radii. Tree ring widths were measured down to 0.01 mm under a stereomicroscope. The oldest sampled tree yielded a total of 370 tree rings in the two radii, representing the period 1653–2022. The average tree ring width for this oldest tree equals 0.33 mm/year, and shows low values (on average 0.19 mm/year) for the period 1742–1943, i.e., during the Little Ice Age cooling. Changes in the tree ring width coincide with periods of cooling and warming in the nearby Tatra Mountains. The oldest tree does not stand out from other trees from the population with respect to height or trunk diameter. A comparison of the age of this tree to the oldest spruce trees in Poland indicates that it is one of the longest living specimens of this species. Considering the natural character of the stand, the remaining flora, and the peat-forming processes taking place within the mire “Pod Małym Śnieżnikiem”, we argue that the mire should become protected by the law as soon as possible in order to preserve this valuable high mountain habitat.
Prefeasibility Analysis of Different Anaerobic Digestion Upgrading Pathways Using Organic Kitchen Food Waste as Raw Material
Authors: Agudelo-Patiño Tatiana , Ortiz-Sánchez Mariana , Alzate Carlos Ariel Cardona
Published: June 2024

Anaerobic digestion (AD) is a widely applied technology for renewable energy generation using biogas as energy vector. The existing microbial consortium in this technology allows for the use of several types of biomass as substrates. A promising alternative for the production of high-value products (e.g., mixed volatile fatty acids–VFAs, hydrogen) is the use of modified AD. There are several techniques to achieve this objective by modifying the operating conditions of the process. The literature has described the best AD routes for generating renewable energy or high-value products based on specific substrate types and operating conditions. Few studies have reported the integral fraction valorization of the AD process applying the biorefinery concept. This article provides an analysis of the different routes that favor the production of energy carriers and high-value products involving key issues related to operating conditions and substrates. Moreover, AD is addressed through the biorefinery concept. Finally, a case study is presented where renewable energy and mixed VFAs are generated by applying the biorefinery concept in a number of proposed scenarios using organic kitchen food waste (OKFW) as feedstock. The case study involves an experimental and simulation stage. Then, the economic feasibility of the proposed scenarios is evaluated. In conclusion, AD is a promising and economically feasible technology to produce valuable products from several types of waste materials.
Implementation of Lightweight Machine Learning-Based Intrusion Detection System on IoT Devices of Smart Homes
Authors: Javed Abbas , Ehtsham Amna , Jawad Muhammad , Awais Muhammad Naeem , Qureshi Ayyaz-ul-Haq , Larijani Hadi
Published: June 2024

Smart home devices, also known as IoT devices, provide significant convenience; however, they also present opportunities for attackers to jeopardize homeowners’ security and privacy. Securing these IoT devices is a formidable challenge because of their limited computational resources. Machine learning-based intrusion detection systems (IDSs) have been implemented on the edge and the cloud; however, IDSs have not been embedded in IoT devices. To address this, we propose a novel machine learning-based two-layered IDS for smart home IoT devices, enhancing accuracy and computational efficiency. The first layer of the proposed IDS is deployed on a microcontroller-based smart thermostat, which uploads the data to a website hosted on a cloud server. The second layer of the IDS is deployed on the cloud side for classification of attacks. The proposed IDS can detect the threats with an accuracy of 99.50% at cloud level (multiclassification). For real-time testing, we implemented the Raspberry Pi 4-based adversary to generate a dataset for man-in-the-middle (MITM) and denial of service (DoS) attacks on smart thermostats. The results show that the XGBoost-based IDS detects MITM and DoS attacks in 3.51 ms on a smart thermostat with an accuracy of 97.59%.
A Divergent Platelet Transcriptome in Patients with Lipedema and Lymphedema
Authors: Scalise Alliefair , Aggarwal Anu , Sangwan Naseer , Hamer Annelise , Guntupalli Suman , Park Huijun Edelyn , Aleman Jose O. , Cameron Scott J.
Published: June 2024

Lipedema and lymphedema are physically similar yet distinct diseases that are commonly misdiagnosed. We previously reported that lipedema and lymphedema are associated with increased risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE). The underlying etiology of the prothrombotic profile observed in lipedema and lymphedema is unclear, but may be related to alterations in platelets. Our objective was to analyze the platelet transcriptome to identify biological pathways that may provide insight into platelet activation and thrombosis. The platelet transcriptome was evaluated in patients with lymphedema and lipedema, then compared to control subjects with obesity. Patients with lipedema were found to have a divergent transcriptome from patients with lymphedema. The platelet transcriptome and impacted biological pathways in lipedema were surprisingly similar to weight-matched comparators, yet different when compared to overweight individuals with a lower body mass index (BMI). Differences in the platelet transcriptome for patients with lipedema and lymphedema were found in biological pathways required for protein synthesis and degradation, as well as metabolism. Key differences in the platelet transcriptome for patients with lipedema compared to BMI-matched subjects involved metabolism and glycosaminoglycan processing. These inherent differences in the platelet transcriptome warrant further investigation, and may contribute to the increased risk of thrombosis in patients with lipedema and lymphedema.
Mitogenomic Insights into the Evolution, Divergence Time, and Ancestral Ranges of Coturnix Quails
Authors: Dey Prateek , Ray Swapna Devi , Kochiganti Venkata Hanumat Sastry , Pukazhenthi Budhan S. , Koepfli Klaus-Peter , Singh Ram Pratap
Published: June 2024

The Old-World quails, Coturnix coturnix (common quail) and Coturnix japonica (Japanese quail), are morphologically similar yet occupy distinct geographic ranges. This study aimed to elucidate their evolutionary trajectory and ancestral distribution patterns through a thorough analysis of their mitochondrial genomes. Mitogenomic analysis revealed high structural conservation, identical translational mechanisms, and similar evolutionary pressures in both species. Selection analysis revealed significant evidence of positive selection across the Coturnix lineage for the nad4 gene tree owing to environmental changes and acclimatization requirements during its evolutionary history. Divergence time estimations imply that diversification among Coturnix species occurred in the mid-Miocene (13.89 Ma), and their current distributions were primarily shaped by dispersal rather than global vicariance events. Phylogenetic analysis indicates a close relationship between C. coturnix and C. japonica, with divergence estimated at 2.25 Ma during the Pleistocene epoch. Ancestral range reconstructions indicate that the ancestors of the Coturnix clade were distributed over the Oriental region. C. coturnix subsequently dispersed to Eurasia and Africa, and C. japonica to eastern Asia. We hypothesize that the current geographic distributions of C. coturnix and C. japonica result from their unique dispersal strategies, developed to evade interspecific territoriality and influenced by the Tibetan Plateau’s geographic constraints. This study advances our understanding of the biogeographic and evolutionary processes leading to the diversification of C. coturnix and C. japonica, laying important groundwork for further research on this genus.
Effects of Environmental Hypoxia on Serum Hematological and Biochemical Parameters, Hypoxia-Inducible Factor (hif) Gene Expression and HIF Pathway in Hybrid Sturgeon (Acipenser schrenckii ♂ × Acipenser baerii ♀)
Authors: Ren Yuanyuan , Tian Yuan , Cheng Bo , Liu Yang , Yu Huanhuan
Published: June 2024

Hypoxia is a globally pressing environmental problem in aquatic ecosystems. In the present study, a comprehensive analysis was performed to evaluate the effects of hypoxia on physiological responses (hematology, cortisol, biochemistry, hif gene expression and the HIF pathway) of hybrid sturgeons (Acipenser schrenckii ♂ × Acipenser baerii ♀). A total of 180 hybrid sturgeon adults were exposed to dissolved oxygen (DO) levels of 7.00 ± 0.2 mg/L (control, N), 3.5 ± 0.2 mg/L (moderate hypoxia, MH) or 1.00 ± 0.1 mg/L (severe hypoxia, SH) and were sampled at 1 h, 6 h and 24 h after hypoxia. The results showed that the red blood cell (RBC) counts and the hemoglobin (HGB) concentration were significantly increased 6 h and 24 h after hypoxia in the SH group. The serum cortisol concentrations gradually increased with the decrease in the DO levels. Moreover, several serum biochemical parameters (AST, AKP, HBDB, LDH, GLU, TP and T-Bil) were significantly altered at 24 h in the SH group. The HIFs are transcription activators that function as master regulators in hypoxia. In this study, a complete set of six hif genes were identified and characterized in hybrid sturgeon for the first time. After hypoxia, five out of six sturgeon hif genes were significantly differentially expressed in gills, especially hif-1α and hif-3α, with more than 20-fold changes, suggesting their important roles in adaptation to hypoxia in hybrid sturgeon. A meta-analysis indicated that the HIF pathway, a major pathway for adaptation to hypoxic environments, was activated in the liver of the hybrid sturgeon 24 h after the hypoxia challenge. Our study demonstrated that hypoxia, particularly severe hypoxia (1.00 ± 0.1 mg/L), could cause considerable stress for the hybrid sturgeon. These results shed light on their adaptive mechanisms and potential biomarkers for hypoxia tolerance, aiding in aquaculture and conservation efforts.
Comparative Analysis of Non-Pneumatic Tire Spoke Designs for Off-Road Applications: A Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics Perspective
Authors: Sidhu Charanpreet , El-Sayegh Zeinab
Published: June 2024

This study explores the development of a terramechanics-based model for non-pneumatic tire–terrain interaction, focusing on different spoke designs. The research investigates how four spoke shapes (honeycomb, modified honeycomb, re-entrant honeycomb, and straight spokes) affect non-pneumatic tire performance in off-road conditions. Using the finite element method (FEM) to model non-pneumatic tires, and smoothed-particle hydrodynamics (SPH) to model dry, loose soil, simulations were conducted to replicate real-world loading conditions. This study utilizes virtual environment solution finite element analysis software to examine the interaction between a non-pneumatic tire and dry, loose soil, with a focus on calculating longitudinal and vertical forces. These forces play a pivotal role in determining the motion resistance coefficient. The results show distinct variations in the motion-resistance coefficients among the spoke designs on dry, loose soil. This analysis helps to identify the spoke configurations that optimize energy efficiency and fuel consumption. By comparing and evaluating the four spoke designs, this study shows the effect of spoke design on tire motion resistance. This study concluded that the modified honeycomb spoke design is the most stable and the least sensitive to operating conditions.
Assessment of Human Health Risk Indices Due to Metal Contamination in the Surface Water of the Negro River Sub-Basin, Áncash
Authors: Bravo-Zevallos Walter , Fernández-Jerí Yadira , Torres-Lázaro Juan C. , Zuñiga-Bardales Karol
Published: June 2024

The accelerated loss of glacial cover in the Cordillera Blanca in Áncash, Peru, exposes the underlying rocks with high concentrations of sulfides from the Chicama Formation to oxidation and leaching processes, generating acid rock drainage (ARD) in glacial and periglacial areas. These are transported by surface runoff, contaminating the surface water with high concentrations of metals and sulfates, as well as increasing the acidity, which poses a risk to human health and the ecosystem. Therefore, the risk indices for human health due to metal contamination were evaluated at 19 surface water sampling points distributed in the Río Negro sub-basin. Hydrochemical analyses revealed average metal concentrations in the following order: Fe (28.597 mg/L), Al (3.832 mg/L), Mn (1.085 mg/L), Zn (0.234 mg/L), Ni (0.085 mg/L), Co (0.053 mg/L), Li (0.036 mg/L), Cu (0.005 mg/L), and Pb (0.002 mg/L). The risk was determined by calculating the Heavy Metal Pollution Index (HPI) and the Hazard Index (HI). The average HPI value was 360.959, indicating a high level of contamination (HPI ≥ 150). The human health risk assessment indicated that adverse effects caused by iron, lithium, and cobalt in children and adults should be considered. Through the use of Pearson correlation analysis, principal component analysis, and cluster analysis, it was identified that SO42−, Fe, S, Al, Co, Mn, Ni, Zn, and Li originate from natural sources, associated with the generation of ARD in glacial and periglacial areas.
Obesity Enhances Non-Th2 Airway Inflammation in a Murine Model of Allergic Asthma
Authors: Mohamed Marwa M. E. , Amrani Yassine
Published: June 2024

Obese patients with asthma present with aggravated symptoms that are also harder to treat. Here, we used a mouse model of allergic asthma sensitised and challenged to house dust mite (HDM) extracts to determine whether high-fat-diet consumption would exacerbate the key features of allergic airway inflammation. C57BL/6 mice were intranasally sensitised and challenged with HDM extracts over a duration of 3 weeks. The impact of high-fat-diet (HFD) vs. normal diet (ND) chow was studied on HDM-induced lung inflammation and inflammatory cell infiltration as well as cytokine production. HFD-fed mice had greater inflammatory cell infiltration around airways and blood vessels, and an overall more severe degree of inflammation than in the ND-fed mice (semiquantitative blinded evaluation). Quantitative assessment of HDM-associated Th2 responses (numbers of lung CD4+ T cells, eosinophils, serum levels of allergen-specific IgE as well as the expression of Th2 cytokines (Il5 and Il13)) did not show significant changes between the HFD and ND groups. Interestingly, the HFD group exhibited a more pronounced neutrophilic infiltration within their lung tissues and an increase in non-Th2 cytokines (Il17, Tnfa, Tgf-b, Il-1b). These findings provide additional evidence that obesity triggered by a high-fat-diet regimen may exacerbate asthma by involving non-Th2 and neutrophilic pathways.
Genome-Wide Identification of CHYR Gene Family in Sophora alopecuroides and Functional Analysis of SaCHYR4 in Response to Abiotic Stress
Authors: Zhu Youcheng , Wang Ying , Ma Zhipeng , Wang Di , Yan Fan , Liu Yajing , Li Jingwen , Yang Xuguang , Gao Ziwei , Liu Xu , Wang Le , Wang Qingyu
Published: June 2024

Sophora alopecuroides has important uses in medicine, wind breaking, and sand fixation. The CHY-zinc-finger and RING-finger (CHYR) proteins are crucial for plant growth, development, and environmental adaptation; however, genetic data regarding the CHYR family remain scarce. We aimed to investigate the CHYR gene family in S. alopecuroides and its response to abiotic stress, and identified 18 new SaCHYR genes from S. alopecuroides whole-genome data, categorized into 3 subclasses through a phylogenetic analysis. Gene structure, protein domains, and conserved motifs analyses revealed an exon–intron structure and conserved domain similarities. A chromosome localization analysis showed distribution across 12 chromosomes. A promoter analysis revealed abiotic stress-, light-, and hormone-responsive elements. An RNA-sequencing expression pattern analysis revealed positive responses of SaCHYR genes to salt, alkali, and drought stress. SaCHYR4 overexpression considerably enhanced alkali and drought tolerance in Arabidopsis thaliana. These findings shed light on SaCHYR’s function and the resistance mechanisms of S. alopecuroides, presenting new genetic resources for crop resistance breeding.
Targeted Treatment against Cancer Stem Cells in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Martínez-Pérez Julia , Torrado Carlos , Domínguez-Cejudo María A. , Valladares-Ayerbes Manuel
Published: June 2024

The cancer stem cell (SC) theory proposes that a population of SCs serves as the driving force behind fundamental tumor processes, including metastasis, recurrence, and resistance to therapy. The standard of care for patients with stage III and high-risk stage II colorectal cancer (CRC) includes surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy. Fluoropyrimidines and their combination with oxaliplatin increased the cure rates, being able to eradicate the occult metastatic SC in a fraction of patients. The treatment for unresectable metastatic CRC is based on chemotherapy, antibodies to VEGF and EGFR, and tyrosine-kinase inhibitors. Immunotherapy is used in MSI-H tumors. Currently used drugs target dividing cells and, while often effective at debulking tumor mass, these agents have largely failed to cure metastatic disease. SCs are generated either due to genetic and epigenetic alterations in stem/progenitor cells or to the dedifferentiation of somatic cells where diverse signaling pathways such as Wnt/β-catenin, Hedgehog, Notch, TGF-β/SMAD, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, NF-κB, JAK/STAT, DNA damage response, and Hippo-YAP play a key role. Anti-neoplastic treatments could be improved by elimination of SCs, becoming an attractive target for the design of novel agents. Here, we present a review of clinical trials assessing the efficacy of targeted treatment focusing on these pathways in CRC.
Long-Term High-Fat Diet Limits the Protective Effect of Spontaneous Physical Activity on Mammary Carcinogenesis
Authors: Marlin Sébastien , Goepp Marie , Desiderio Adrien , Rougé Stéphanie , Aldekwer Sahar , Le Guennec Delphine , Goncalves-Mendes Nicolas , Talvas Jérémie , Farges Marie-Chantal , Rossary Adrien
Published: June 2024

Breast cancer is influenced by factors such as diet, a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, and postmenopausal status, which are all linked to prolonged hormonal and inflammatory exposure. Physical activity offers protection against breast cancer by modulating hormones, immune responses, and oxidative defenses. This study aimed to assess how a prolonged high-fat diet (HFD) affects the effectiveness of physical activity in preventing and managing mammary tumorigenesis. Ovariectomised C57BL/6 mice were provided with an enriched environment to induce spontaneous physical activity while being fed HFD. After 44 days (short-term, ST HFD) or 88 days (long-term, LT HFD), syngenic EO771 cells were implanted into mammary glands, and tumour growth was monitored until sacrifice. Despite similar physical activity and food intake, the LT HFD group exhibited higher visceral adipose tissue mass and reduced skeletal muscle mass. In the tumour microenvironment, the LT HFD group showed decreased NK cells and TCD8+ cells, with a trend toward increased T regulatory cells, leading to a collapse of the T8/Treg ratio. Additionally, the LT HFD group displayed decreased tumour triglyceride content and altered enzyme activities indicative of oxidative stress. Prolonged exposure to HFD was associated with tumour growth despite elevated physical activity, promoting a tolerogenic tumour microenvironment. Future studies should explore inter-organ exchanges between tumour and tissues.
Long Noncoding RNAs in Response to Hyperosmolarity Stress, but Not Salt Stress, Were Mainly Enriched in the Rice Roots
Authors: Pang Yanrong , Zheng Kaifeng , Min Qinyue , Wang Yinxing , Xue Xiuhua , Li Wanjie , Zhao Heping , Qiao Feng , Han Shengcheng
Published: June 2024

Due to their immobility and possession of underground parts, plants have evolved various mechanisms to endure and adapt to abiotic stresses such as extreme temperatures, drought, and salinity. However, the contribution of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) to different abiotic stresses and distinct rice seedling parts remains largely uncharacterized beyond the protein-coding gene (PCG) layer. Using transcriptomics and bioinformatics methods, we systematically identified lncRNAs and characterized their expression patterns in the roots and shoots of wild type (WT) and ososca1.1 (reduced hyperosmolality-induced [Ca2+]i increase in rice) seedlings under hyperosmolarity and salt stresses. Here, 2937 candidate lncRNAs were identified in rice seedlings, with intergenic lncRNAs representing the largest category. Although the detectable sequence conservation of lncRNAs was low, we observed that lncRNAs had more orthologs within the Oryza. By comparing WT and ososca1.1, the transcription level of OsOSCA1.1-related lncRNAs in roots was greatly enhanced in the face of hyperosmolality stress. Regarding regulation mode, the co-expression network revealed connections between trans-regulated lncRNAs and their target PCGs related to OsOSCA1.1 and its mediation of hyperosmolality stress sensing. Interestingly, compared to PCGs, the expression of lncRNAs in roots was more sensitive to hyperosmolarity stress than to salt stress. Furthermore, OsOSCA1.1-related hyperosmolarity stress-responsive lncRNAs were enriched in roots, and their potential cis-regulated genes were associated with transcriptional regulation and signaling transduction. Not to be ignored, we identified a motif-conserved and hyperosmolarity stress-activated lncRNA gene (OSlncRNA), speculating on its origin and evolutionary history in Oryza. In summary, we provide a global perspective and a lncRNA resource to understand hyperosmolality stress sensing in rice roots, which helps to decode the complex molecular networks involved in plant sensing and adaptation to stressful environments.
Efficacy and Molecular Mechanism of Quercetin on Constipation Induced by Berberine via Regulating Gut Microbiota
Authors: Cui Mengyao , Li Ying , Zheng Tingting , Chen Huan , Wang Jinrui , Feng Yifan , Ye Hanyi , Dong Zhengqi , Li Geng
Published: June 2024

Berberine (BBR) is used to treat cancer, inflammatory conditions, and so on. But the side effects of BBR causing constipation should not be ignored. In clinical application, the combination of Amomum villosum Lour. (AVL) and BBR can relieve it. However, the effective ingredients and molecular mechanism of AVL in relieving constipation are not clear. A small intestine propulsion experiment was conducted in constipated mice to screen active ingredients of AVL. We further confirmed the molecular mechanism of action of the active ingredient on BBR-induced constipation. Quercetin (QR) was found to be the effective ingredient of AVL in terms of relieving constipation. QR can efficiently regulate the microbiota in mice suffering from constipation. Moreover, QR significantly raised the levels of substance P and motilin while lowering those of 5-hydroxytryptamine and vasoactive intestinal peptide; furthermore, it also increased the protein expression levels of calmodulin, myosin light-chain kinase, and myosin light chain. The use of QR in combination with BBR has an adverse effect-reducing efficacy. The study provides new ideas and possibilities for the treatment of constipation induced by BBR.
Bisphenol A—What Do We Know? A Global or Local Approach at the Public Health Risk Level
Authors: Charkiewicz Angelika Edyta , Omeljaniuk Wioleta Justyna , Nikliński Jacek
Published: June 2024

BPA has demonstrated enormous multisystem and multi-organ toxicity shown mainly in animal models. Meanwhile, the effects of its exposure in humans still require years of observation, research, and answers to many questions. Even minimal and short-term exposure contributes to disorders or various types of dysfunction. It is released directly or indirectly into the environment at every stage of the product life cycle, demonstrating its ease of penetration into the body. The ubiquity and general prevalence of BPA influenced the main objective of the study, which was to assess the toxicity and health effects of BPA and its derivatives based on the available literature. In addition, the guidelines of various international institutions or regions of the world in terms of its reduction in individual products were checked. Bisphenol A is the most widely known chemical and perhaps even the most studied by virtually all international or national organizations, but nonetheless, it is still controversial. In general, the level of BPA biomonitoring is still too high and poses a potential threat to public health. It is beginning to be widely argued that future toxicity studies should focus on molecular biology and the assessment of human exposure to BPA, as well as its substitutes. The effects of its exposure still require years of observation, extensive research, and answers to many questions. It is necessary to continue to deepen the knowledge and interest of many organizations, companies, and consumers around the world in order to make rational purchases as well as future choices, not only consumer ones.
The Effect of Interleukin-10 Immunotherapy on Renal Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Preclinical Studies
Authors: Prionas Apostolos , Hamaoui Karim , Vanezis Konstantinos , Reebye Vikash , Habib Nagy , Papalois Vassilios
Published: June 2024

Renal ischemia-reperfusion is a common cause of acute kidney injury leading to significant morbidity and mortality. There are no effective treatments available in clinical practice. This meta-analysis aims to assess the effect of IL-10 immunotherapy on renal ischemia-reperfusion injury. Medline, Embase, Cochrane-library, Google Scholar and clinicaltrials.gov were searched up to 31 March 2023. Preclinical and clinical interventional studies investigating IL-10 immunotherapy for renal ischemia-reperfusion were eligible for inclusion. The primary endpoint was renal function (serum creatinine) following ischemia-reperfusion. The secondary endpoints included mitochondrial integrity, cellular proliferation, regulated cell death (TUNEL assay), expression of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β), M1/M2 macrophage polarization, tissue integrity (tubular injury score), long-term kidney fibrosis (fibrotic area %) and adverse events (pulmonary toxicity, cardiotoxicity hepatotoxicity). The search returned 861 records. From these, 16 full texts were screened and subsequently, seven animal studies, corresponding to a population of 268 mice/rats, were included. Compared to the control treatment, IL-10 immunotherapy reduced serum creatinine more effectively within 24 h of administration (95% CI: −9.177, −5.601, I2 = 22.42%). IL-10 immunotherapy promoted mitochondrial integrity and cellular proliferation and reduced regulated cell death (95% CI: −11.000, −4.184, I2 = 74.94%). It decreased the expression of TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β, led to M2 polarization of the local macrophages, reduced tubular injury score (95% CI: −8.917, −5.755, I2 = 22.71%), and long-term kidney fibrosis (95% CI: −6.963, −3.438, I2 = 0%). No adverse outcomes were captured. In Conclusion, IL-10 immunotherapy safely improves outcomes in animal models of renal ischemia-reperfusion; the translational potential of IL-10 immunotherapy needs to be further investigated in clinical trials.
Whole-Genome Sequencing and Analysis of Tumour-Forming Radish (Raphanus sativus L.) Line
Authors: Kuznetsova Xenia , Dodueva Irina , Afonin Alexey , Gribchenko Emma , Danilov Lavrentii , Gancheva Maria , Tvorogova Varvara , Galynin Nikita , Lutova Lyudmila
Published: June 2024

Spontaneous tumour formation in higher plants can occur in the absence of pathogen invasion, depending on the plant genotype. Spontaneous tumour formation on the taproots is consistently observed in certain inbred lines of radish (Raphanus sativus var. radicula Pers.). In this paper, using Oxford Nanopore and Illumina technologies, we have sequenced the genomes of two closely related radish inbred lines that differ in their ability to spontaneously form tumours. We identified a large number of single nucleotide variants (amino acid substitutions, insertions or deletions, SNVs) that are likely to be associated with the spontaneous tumour formation. Among the genes involved in the trait, we have identified those that regulate the cell cycle, meristem activity, gene expression, and metabolism and signalling of phytohormones. After identifying the SNVs, we performed Sanger sequencing of amplicons corresponding to SNV-containing regions to validate our results. We then checked for the presence of SNVs in other tumour lines of the radish genetic collection and found the ERF118 gene, which had the SNVs in the majority of tumour lines. Furthermore, we performed the identification of the CLAVATA3/ESR (CLE) and WUSCHEL (WOX) genes and, as a result, identified two unique radish CLE genes which probably encode proteins with multiple CLE domains. The results obtained provide a basis for investigating the mechanisms of plant tumour formation and also for future genetic and genomic studies of radish.
The Neuroimmune Axis and Its Therapeutic Potential for Primary Liver Cancer
Authors: Mandal Santosh K. , Yadav Poonam , Sheth Rahul A.
Published: June 2024

The autonomic nervous system plays an integral role in motion and sensation as well as the physiologic function of visceral organs. The nervous system additionally plays a key role in primary liver diseases. Until recently, however, the impact of nerves on cancer development, progression, and metastasis has been unappreciated. This review highlights recent advances in understanding neuroanatomical networks within solid organs and their mechanistic influence on organ function, specifically in the liver and liver cancer. We discuss the interaction between the autonomic nervous system, including sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves, and the liver. We also examine how sympathetic innervation affects metabolic functions and diseases like nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We also delve into the neurobiology of the liver, the interplay between cancer and nerves, and the neural regulation of the immune response. We emphasize the influence of the neuroimmune axis in cancer progression and the potential of targeted interventions like neurolysis to improve cancer treatment outcomes, especially for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).