bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low-Earth-Orbit Satellites and Robust Theory-Augmented GPS/Inertial-Navigation-System Tight Integration for Vehicle-Borne Positioning
Authors: Zhang Shixuan , Tu Rui , Gao Zhouzheng , Zhang Pengfei , Wang Siyao , Lu Xiaochun
Published: January 2024

Positioning by means of the Global Positioning System (GPS) is a traditional and widely used method. However, its performance is affected by the user environment, such as multi-path effects and poor anti-interference abilities. Therefore, an Inertial Navigation System (INS) has been integrated with GPS to overcome the disadvantages of GPS positioning. INSs do not rely on any external system information and has strong autonomy and independence from the external environment. However, the performance of GPS/INS is visibly degraded in low-observability GPS environments (tall buildings, viaducts, underground tunnels, woods, etc.). Fortunately, with the emergence of Low-Earth-Orbit (LEO) satellites in recent years, the constellation configuration can be extended with the advantages of lower orbits, greater speeds, and richer geometric structures. LEO improves the geometric structure between users and satellites and provides many more observations. Meanwhile, a robust theory approach is applied that can restrain or remove the impact of low-accuracy observations. In this study, we applied LEO data and a robust theory approach to enhance the GPS/INS tight integration. To verify the effectiveness of this method, a set of vehicles and simulated LEO data were analyzed. The results show that robust Kalman filtering (RKF) provides a visible enhancement in the positioning accuracy of GPS/INS integration. This effectively restrains the mutation error and has a smoothing effect on the positioning results. In addition, the addition of LEO data significantly improves the positioning accuracy of a sole GPS and GPS/INS integration. The GPS/LEO/INS integration has the highest positioning accuracy, with Root-Mean-Square Errors (RMSEs) of the north, east, and vertical positions of 2.38 m, 1.94 m, and 2.49 m, respectively, which corresponds to an improvement of 30.21%, 47.43%, and 34.13% compared to sole GPS-based positioning and 8.60%, 17.24%, and 12.14% when compared to the GPS/INS mode. Simultaneously, the simulation results show that LEO and INSs can improve the positioning performance of GPS under GPS-blocked conditions.
Increasing the Efficiency of Loading Devices for Biomass Boilers
Authors: Shyshko Yuliia , Cherniavskyi Anatolii , Shyshko Daria , Borychenko Olena , Zaporozhets Artur , Zaitsev Ievgen
Published: January 2024

The article examines a method of loading biomass waste into a boiler unit, which ensures the gas tightness of the boiler’s working chamber by forming a “plug” of biomass as it moves through the cylindrical channel of the screw feeder. Local biomass wastes (sunflower husks, coniferous wood sawdust, and walnut shells) were selected for the study, a distinctive feature of which is that they did not undergo any prior processing before use (drying, fractionation, grinding, etc.). The properties of biomass as a bulk material (angle of internal friction) were determined experimentally. According to the results, sawdust from coniferous wood has an average angle of internal friction that is 1.48 times bigger than that of sunflower husks and 1.29 times bigger than walnut shells, while the average loading mass of sawdust is 2.2 times less than that of sunflower husks and 2.6 times less than that of walnut shells. This low bulk density and high angle of internal friction for sawdust suggest the likelihood of spontaneous compaction and layer suspension. Experimental studies were also conducted on the compaction force of the biomass layer. It was found that neither coniferous wood sawdust nor walnut shells can be used in the proposed feeder because the sawdust forms a dense layer that does not disperse under any compaction, and the walnut shells do not form a “plug” in the studied pressure range. Therefore, only sunflower husks were used for further studies. The empirical dependence of the density of the sunflower husk layer on the compaction pressure was obtained from the results. It was determined that to ensure a suction level through a screw feeder with a diameter of 0.1 ÷ 0.25 m into the furnace of the boiler unit of no more than 0.1 m3/h with a pressure difference between the boiler furnace and the surrounding environment ΔP = 0.05 ÷ 0.3 kPa, the relative increase in the density of the “plug” from sunflower husks should not exceed the bulk density of the uncompacted layer by more than 11.5%. Experimentally, it was determined that the geometric dimensions of the “plug” from sunflower husk, which ensure the necessary level of gas tightness of the feeder, depend only on the diameter of the channel and are 1.136·d. Calculations were made to obtain the dependencies of the compaction force of the biomass waste layer on the level of suction (in the studied range Q = 0.01 ÷ 0.1 m3/h) into the furnace of the boiler unit under controlled pressure drops (in the studied range ΔP = 0.05 ÷ 0.3 kPa) between the boiler furnace and the surrounding environment for feeders with different screw diameters (d = 0.1 ÷ 0.25 m), which can be used for the practical determination of the geometric and operational parameters of the screw feeder when operating a boiler unit on sunflower husks.
Analysis of the Radiator Loss Safety Boundary of a Space Reactor Gas Turbine Cycle with Multiple PCU Modules
Authors: Ma Wenkui , Ye Ping , Gao Yue , Hao Yadong , Yao Yi , Yang Xiaoyong
Published: January 2024

The development of space exploration technologies puts higher demand on space power systems. The space reactor gas turbine cycle (SRGTC) has the advantages of compact configuration and small mass and volume and is one of the optimal options for future high-power space power systems. The SRGTC operates in an isolated island state and the radiator is fragile if it is hit by asteroids and space debris. The transient characteristics of the SRGTC are fundamental for safe operation in radiator loss accidents. In this paper, a dynamic model for the SRGTC is established, and the performance of the SRGTC with dual power conversion unit (PCU) modules (SRGTC-DPCU) after radiator loss was investigated. The results indicated that the waste heat of the system was accumulated in the radiator after radiator loss, which increased the consumed power of the compressor and further led to speed fluctuations. The bypass valve control and the temperature negative feedback effect can ensure the safe operation of the shaft and the reactor. More radiator loss decreased the speed far below the rated speed and exceeded the safety margin of the bypass valve control, which further led to system shutdown. There is a safety boundary of radiator loss accidents. Furthermore, the coupling effects of multiple PCUs after radiator loss were analyzed. The working fluid inventory was redistributed among the PCU modules. The reduction of working fluid inventory in the accident PCU module promoted the safety boundary. This study provides a reference for the operation of the SRGTC.
The Impact of Asymmetric Contact Resistance on the Operating Parameters of Thermoelectric Systems
Authors: Buchalik Ryszard , Nowak Grzegorz , Nowak Iwona
Published: January 2024

This paper presents a simulation model for a system equipped with thermoelectric elements, considering the impact of independent thermal contact resistances on each side of the module. An analytical model was constructed, taking into account the asymmetry of thermal resistances between the generator/cooler and the respective heat source/heat sink. A comparative analysis of thermoelectric device operating indicators such as conducted heat, efficiency, and the electricity/cooling power produced was performed. The selection of electrical current in the circuit was analysed based on the maximization of power or efficiency. This paper discusses deviations from ideal conditions, specifically the absence of thermal resistance between the heat source/sink and the thermoelectric junction. The model accurately simulates the operating conditions of the thermoelectric system with a low computational cost. The results indicate that the total thermal resistance, rather than its location, predominantly affects the operation of the thermoelectric generator. However, in cooling operations, the influence of thermal resistance significantly depends on the cooling power demand and temperature.
An Evolutionary Game Study on Green Technology Innovation of Coal Power Firms under the Dual-Regulatory System
Authors: Ou Kai , Shi Yu , Zhou Wenwen
Published: January 2024

The transformation of Chinese coal power firms is crucial for achieving carbon emission reduction (CER) goals, and promoting green technology innovation (GTI) is the key for the achievement. To examine the interactive mechanism of central and local government regulatory behavior and coal power firms’ GTI behavior under China’s dual-regulatory system, this paper introduces environmental impact coefficients and develops a tripartite evolutionary game model (EGM) from the perspective of CER. The influencing factors and interactive relationships among them are analyzed. Additionally, through numerical simulation, the impacts of changes in central and local government S&P (subsidies and penalties) on the evolution of the system are also obtained. The findings indicate the following: (1) Enhancing the initial willingness can accelerate the system’s attainment of an optimal state. The local government exhibits a slower pace of evolution. Coal power firms are more sensitive to changes in the initial willingness of the central government. (2) The local government is more sensitive to changes in the central government’s S&P intensity rather than changes in the central government’s initial willingness. Low levels of central government S&P and high penalties are ineffective, while high subsidies can lead to a sudden decrease in the local government’s willingness. (3) Local government penalties have a positive correlation with their effectiveness in promoting GTI, whereas high subsidies are ineffective. (4) The separate implementation of subsidies or penalties by either the central or the local government is detrimental to achieving the optimal state. Such an approach renders the fluctuant or negative behavior of the local government and coal power firms.
Epigenetics of Genes Preferentially Expressed in Dissimilar Cell Populations: Myoblasts and Cerebellum
Authors: Ehrlich Melanie , Ehrlich Kenneth C. , Lacey Michelle , Baribault Carl , Sen Sagnik , Estève Pierre-Olivier , Pradhan Sriharsa
Published: January 2024

While studying myoblast methylomes and transcriptomes, we found that CDH15 had a remarkable preference for expression in both myoblasts and cerebellum. To understand how widespread such a relationship was and its epigenetic and biological correlates, we systematically looked for genes with similar transcription profiles and analyzed their DNA methylation and chromatin state and accessibility profiles in many different cell populations. Twenty genes were expressed preferentially in myoblasts and cerebellum (Myob/Cbl genes). Some shared DNA hypo- or hypermethylated regions in myoblasts and cerebellum. Particularly striking was ZNF556, whose promoter is hypomethylated in expressing cells but highly methylated in the many cell populations that do not express the gene. In reporter gene assays, we demonstrated that its promoter’s activity is methylation sensitive. The atypical epigenetics of ZNF556 may have originated from its promoter’s hypomethylation and selective activation in sperm progenitors and oocytes. Five of the Myob/Cbl genes (KCNJ12, ST8SIA5, ZIC1, VAX2, and EN2) have much higher RNA levels in cerebellum than in myoblasts and displayed myoblast-specific hypermethylation upstream and/or downstream of their promoters that may downmodulate expression. Differential DNA methylation was associated with alternative promoter usage for Myob/Cbl genes MCF2L, DOK7, CNPY1, and ANK1. Myob/Cbl genes PAX3, LBX1, ZNF556, ZIC1, EN2, and VAX2 encode sequence-specific transcription factors, which likely help drive the myoblast and cerebellum specificity of other Myob/Cbl genes. This study extends our understanding of epigenetic/transcription associations related to differentiation and may help elucidate relationships between epigenetic signatures and muscular dystrophies or cerebellar-linked neuropathologies.
Effect of Plantation Density on Some Physical and Technological Parameters of Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris L.)
Authors: Sharapov Evgenii , Demakov Yury , Korolev Aleksandr
Published: January 2024

The issue of optimising the initial stand density (ISD) of tree plantations has high practical importance. The objective of this study was to non-destructively evaluate the influence of the initial stand density of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) plantations located in the European part of the Russian Federation on wood basic density (BD), moisture content (MC), ultrasound velocity (UV), latewood content, and drilling resistance (DR). The trees at the age of 45 years with initial plantation densities of 500, 1000, 3000, 5000, and 10,000 trees/ha were tested by a 5 cm-long core sample for gravimetric MCGM and BD by PULSAR-2.2 for UV along the height (UVH) and through the tree trunk diameter (UVD) by the IML-RESI PD-400 tool for DR, as well as by GANN HT 85T for MC based on the electrical-resistance method (MCERM). A significant influence of ISD was found on DBH, UVD, MCGM, and MCERM. ISD had no significant impact on BD, UVH, and DR. The wood BD ranged from 356 to 578 kg·m−3 with a mean value of 434 ± 3.3 kg·m−3 and was restricted by the soil and environmental factors. DBH and 70% MCERM were good indicators of tree vitality. Linear correlations between DBH and MCERM (R2 = 0.67), DBH and MCGM (R2 = 0.74), DR and BD (R2 = 0.71), and the two-factor model MCGM = f(DBH, BD) with R2 = 0.76 were found.
Evaluation of Fine Root Morphology and Rhizosphere Environmental Characteristics of the Dioecious Idesia polycarpa Maxim
Authors: Li Zhi , Yang Yi , Feng Jian , Rana Sohel , Wang Shasha , Wang Huimin , Zhang Tao , Wang Yanmei , Guo Gaiping , Cai Qifei , Geng Xiaodong , Yuan Qiupeng , Miao Chao , Dai Li , Liu Zhen
Published: January 2024

To explore the differences in the fine root characteristics and rhizosphere environment of male and female Idesia polycarpa Maxim at different stages, 7-year-old male and female I. polycarpa were used as plant materials. The fine root characteristics were measured with a root scanner, and rhizosphere soil was collected at the flowering stage (May), fruit accumulation stage (July), and fruit maturity stage (October). In addition, this study analyzed the soil nutrient characteristics of these conditions at different stages. At the same time, Illumine high-throughput sequencing technology and gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (GC–MS) technology were used to analyze the rhizosphere microbes and metabolites of male and female plants at different stages. The results showed that the total root length, surface area, total volume, root tip number, and total average diameter of the fine root of female plants were larger than those of male plants, and the difference reached its maximum in the fruit material accumulation stage. Total carbon (TC) and total nitrogen (TN) content in the rhizosphere soil of male and female plants significantly differed over multiple stages, while available soil nitrogen and potassium content significantly differed during fruit ripening. The rhizosphere microbial composition of male and female plants was similar, and the dominant bacteria in the rhizosphere soil of each stage were Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, Ascomycota, and Mortierellomycota. The relative abundance of Bacillus, Arthrobacter, Volutella, and Neocosmospora in rhizosphere soil at different stages differed between male and female plants. Combined with the OPLS-DA model and database retrieval, 29 significantly different metabolites, most of which were carbohydrates, were detected in the rhizosphere soil of male and female plants. Moreover, there were more significant metabolites in the rhizosphere soil at the flowering stage than in the fruit ripening stage. Through RDA analysis, available potassium (AK), Pedomicrobium, Chaetomium, and Glucose 1 had the greatest influence on fine root traits of I. polycarpa. The results indicated that the fine root traits were negatively correlated with AK and rhizosphere metabolites. Moreover, positive correlations were found with rhizosphere microorganism traits. The above results laid a foundation for the field management of I. polycarpa and the screening and application of rhizosphere growth-promoting bacteria resources.
Spore-Based Probiotic Bacillus subtilis: Current Applications in Humans and Future Perspectives
Authors: Williams Natasha , Weir Tiffany L.
Published: January 2024

Bacillus subtilis has been used for more than 50 years in many different industrial applications, including farming, precision fermentation, and probiotic supplements. It is particularly attractive as a probiotic because of its ability to form shelf-stable, acid-resistant spores that lend to diverse applications in the food system. B. subtilis is the most ubiquitous species of the genus and can be isolated from a broad variety of environments including animal and human gastrointestinal (GI) tracts. This is a comprehensive review of human intervention studies utilizing B. subtilis as a probiotic for supporting gastrointestinal health, as well as the reported impacts of B. subtilis use on the human gut microbiota and other biomarkers of health. It briefly covers the fate of ingested spores in the GI tract, summarizes the observed effects of different probiotic B. subtilis strains, and offers a perspective for the continued and future uses of B. subtilis in human applications.
Spatiotemporal Distribution of Antarctic Silverfish in the Ross Sea, Antarctica
Authors: Lee Sara , Oh Wooseok , La Hyoung Sul , Son Wuju , Kim Jeong-Hoon , Lee Kyounghoon
Published: January 2024

Antarctic silverfish (Pleuragramma antarcticum) play a crucial intermediary role in connecting top predators and krill in the food web of the Antarctic Ocean. Despite their crucial role, research on their abundance is lacking. In this study, we estimated the abundance of juvenile Antarctic silverfish as foundational data for predicting their abundance. The density of juvenile Antarctic silverfish was estimated using an acoustic backscattering theoretical model. The mean volume backscattering strength was used to investigate the vertical and horizontal distributions of juvenile Antarctic silverfish in the Antarctic Ross Sea. The survey area was located near Cape Hallett, Antarctica, where Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba), ice krill (E. crystallorophias), and Antarctic silverfish coexist. The survey was performed four times using the Korean Antarctic research ship, RV Araon (R/V, 7507 GT). Frame trawls were conducted to identify the length and weight of the target fish species in the survey area. Captured Antarctic silverfish captured measured 3–9 cm. The maximum target strength (TS) was −92.93 dB at 38 kHz, −86.63 dB at 120 kHz, and 85.89 dB at 200 kHz. The average TS was −100.00 dB at 38 kHz, −93.00 dB at 120 kHz, and −106.90 dB at 200 kHz. Most juvenile Antarctic silverfish were found at a depth of 100 m and were distributed closer to sea ice. Between nearshore and polynya waters, the fish demonstrated a proclivity for polynya waters.
Effects of Edible Organic Acid Soaking on Color, Protein Physicochemical, and Digestion Characteristics of Ready-to-Eat Shrimp upon Processing and Sterilization
Authors: Guo Chao , Fan Yingchen , Wu Zixuan , Li Deyang , Liu Yuxin , Zhou Dayong
Published: January 2024

Soft-packed ready-to-eat (RTE) shrimp has gradually become popular with consumers due to its portability and deliciousness. However, the browning caused by high-temperature sterilization is a non-negligible disadvantage affecting sensory quality. RTE shrimp is processed through “boiling + vacuum soft packing + high temperature and pressure sterilization”. Ultraviolet-visible (UV) spectroscopy with CIELAB color measurement showed that phytic acid (PA) + lactic acid (LA), PA + citric acid (CA), and PA + LA + CA soaking before cooking alleviated browning, as well as UVabsorbance and the browning index (BI). Meanwhile, UV spectroscopy and fluorescence spectroscopy showed that organic acid soaking reduced the content of carbonyl, dityrosine, disulfide bonds, surface hydrophobicity, and protein solubility, but promoted the content of free sulfhydryl and protein aggregation. However, in vitro digestion simulations showed that organic acid soaking unexpectedly inhibited the degree of hydrolysis and protein digestibility. This study provides the basis for the application of organic acids as color protectors for RTE aquatic muscle product.
Adaptive Output Synchronization of Coupled Fractional-Order Memristive Reaction-Diffusion Neural Networks
Authors: You Feng , Tang Hong-An , Wang Yanhong , Xia Zi-Yi , Li Jin-Wei
Published: January 2024

This article discusses the adaptive output synchronization problem of coupled fractional-order memristive reaction-diffusion neural networks (CFOMRDNNs) with multiple output couplings or multiple output derivative couplings. Firstly, by using Lyapunov functional and inequality techniques, an adaptive output synchronization criterion for CFOMRDNNs with multiple output couplings is proposed. Then, an adaptive controller is designed for ensuring the output synchronization of CFOMRDNNs with multiple output derivative couplings. Finally, two numerical examples are given to verify the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Association between Body Composition, Physical Activity Profile, and Occurrence of Knee and Foot Postural Alterations among Young Healthy Adults
Authors: Ashraf Sadaf , Viveiros Roberto , França Cíntia , Ornelas Rui Trindade , Rodrigues Ana
Published: January 2024

Knee and foot deformities refer to structural abnormalities in the knee and foot bones, joints, ligaments, or muscles. Various factors, including genetics, injury, disease, or excessive use, can cause these deformities. These musculoskeletal conditions can significantly impact individuals’ quality of life. This study examined foot and knee deformities in 231 young healthy adults (165 men, 66 women) aged 22.6 ± 4.9 years and their association with physical activity and body composition. The postural assessment was performed by two Physiotherapists, with the subject standing in three views: side, anterior, and posterior. Physical activity (Baecke’s Habitual Physical Activity Questionnaire) and body composition (InBody 770) were assessed. Results showed that the most common foot deformity was pes planus, while the genu recurvatum was the most common knee deformity among the individuals. Physical activity level was negatively associated with knee and foot deformities. Conversely, body composition differed with the presence of genu recurvatum. These findings present a starting point to understand the occurrence of knee and foot postural alterations according to the individuals’ body composition and physical activity profiles, which could support the deployment of tailored interventions among healthy adults. In addition, early detection of postural changes is crucial in mitigating their negative long-term impact on physical well-being.
Machine Learning-Based Flood Forecasting System for Window Cliffs State Natural Area, Tennessee
Authors: Darkwah George K. , Kalyanapu Alfred , Owusu Collins
Published: January 2024

The prevalence of unforeseen floods has heightened the need for more accurate flood simulation and forecasting models. Even though forecast stations are expanding across the United States, the coverage is usually limited to major rivers and urban areas. Most rural and sub-urban areas, including recreational areas such as the Window Cliffs State Natural Area, do not have such forecast stations and as such, are prone to the dire effects of unforeseen flooding. In this study, four machine learning model architectures were developed based on the long short-term memory, random forest, and support vector regression techniques to forecast water depths at the Window Cliffs State Natural Area, located within the Cane Creek watershed in Putnam County, Tennessee. Historic upstream and downstream water levels and absolute pressure were used to forecast the future water levels downstream of the Cane Creek watershed. The models were tested with lead times of 3, 4, 5, and 6 h, revealing that the model performances reduced with an increase in lead time. Even though the models yielded low errors of 0.063–0.368 ft MAE, there was an apparent delay in predicting the peak water depths. However, including rainfall data in the forecast showed a promising improvement in the models’ performance. Tests conducted on the Cumberland River in Tennessee showed a promising improvement in model performance when trained with larger data.
Study to Determine the Prevalence of Menstrual Migraine in Reproductive-Age Women in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Qahtani Zainah , Narapureddy Bayapa Reddy , Reddy Lingala Kalyan Viswanath , Asiri Hassan Yahya M. , Alsulami Ahmed Abdullah H. , Hassan Nawaf Khalid Ahmed , Shawkhan Rammas Abdullah , Hamood Nouf Abdulraheem , Almahdi Hussein Ahmed M. , Al Qasim Yousef Yahya , Al Majbar Yahya Ayed Mohammed , Swadi Abdullah Ali A. , Asiri Abdulbari Hadi H. , Almaker Bassam Ahmed A.
Published: January 2024

Background: Migraine is a common health condition in both men and women. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects many women during their menstrual cycle, with around 50–60% of women with migraine attacks experiencing menstrual headaches. Most have mild symptoms, but 5–8% suffer from moderate to severe symptoms, causing distress and functional issues. Pure menstrual migraine (PMM) occurs in about 50% of women with migraine, and it can be debilitating in terms of frequency and severity. This information is crucial for Saudi Arabian medical professionals to provide better care and support, improving the quality of life for women with PMS and menstrual migraine (MM) attacks. Objectives: To estimate the prevalence of MM in women, to evaluate the severity and frequency of MM in women with PMS, and to identify potential risk factors aggravating MM in women with PMS in Saudi Arabia. Methodology: A cross-sectional community-based study was conducted on reproductive-aged (18–50 years) women who had regular menstrual cycles and were diagnosed with PMS, using a self-administered questionnaire between December 2022 to May 2023 in Saudi Arabia. Results: Out of the 2130 female participants, 397 (18.6%) had migraine. Among these 397 migraine sufferers, 230 (57.9%) experienced MM, while 167 (42.1%) had non-MM. In reproductive women in general, MM occurred in 10.7% of cases, while non-MM was observed in 7.8%. There is a correlation between increasing BMI and an increased incidence of MM. About one-third of the participants experienced moderate disability due to migraine attacks, with 134 (33.8%) individuals affected. Additionally, most MM sufferers missed at least 3 days of work in the last 3 months due to their condition. Conclusions: Migraine attacks occurring during the menstrual cycle impair the ability to engage in social, physical, household, and academic activities, often hindering the fulfillment of professional commitments. To gain a deeper understanding of menstrual and non-menstrual migraine attacks, it is essential to conduct extensive prospective studies aimed at developing effective management strategies.
Related in Death? Further Insights on the Curious Case of Bishop Peder Winstrup and His Grandchild’s Burial
Authors: Krzewińska Maja , Rodríguez-Varela Ricardo , Yaka Reyhan , Vicente Mário , Runfeldt Göran , Sager Michael , Ahlström Arcini Caroline , Ahlström Torbjörn , Hertzman Niklas , Storå Jan , Götherström Anders
Published: January 2024

In 2021, we published the results of genomic analyses carried out on the famous bishop of Lund, Peder Winstrup, and the mummified remains of a 5–6-month-old fetus discovered in the same burial. We concluded that the two individuals were second-degree relatives and explored the genealogy of Peder Winstrup to further understand the possible relation between them. Through this analysis, we found that the boy was most probably Winstrup’s grandson and that the two were equally likely related either through Winstrup’s son, Peder, or his daughter, Anna Maria von Böhnen. To further resolve the specific kinship relation, we generated more genomic data from both Winstrup and the boy and implemented more recently published analytical tools in detailed Y chromosome- and X chromosome-based kinship analyses to distinguish between the competing hypotheses regarding maternal and paternal relatedness. We found that the individuals’ Y chromosome lineages belonged to different sub-lineages and that the X-chromosomal kinship coefficient calculated between the two individuals were elevated, suggesting a grandparent–grandchild relation through a female, i.e., Anna Maria von Böhnen. Finally, we also performed metagenomic analyses, which did not identify any pathogens that could be unambiguously associated with the fatalities.
Short-Term Evaluation of Woodland Strawberry in Response to Melatonin Treatment under Low Light Environment
Authors: Shi Yunlong , Fan Xiaobin , Sun Yahan , Yu Zhiru , Huang Yan , Li Danlei , Song Zhizhong , Zhang Kai , Zhang Hongxia
Published: January 2024

The cultivation of strawberries in controlled environments presents challenges related to environmental stressors, especially insufficient light. Melatonin, as a widely investigated plant growth regulator, was considered as a potential candidate to mitigate damage, and enhance photosynthesis stability. However, whether melatonin can improve photosynthesis under light deficiency in woodland strawberry (Fragaria vesca) remains elusive. In this study, we evaluated gas exchange parameters, Chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, photochemical efficiency, and the related genes’ expression levels to decipher the multifaceted impact of melatonin on photosynthesis. We found concentration-dependent effects of melatonin on photosynthetic parameters, with potential benefits at lower concentration and inhibitory effects at higher concentration. Notably, melatonin increased non-photochemical quenching (NPQ), a mechanism for dissipating excess light energy, while leaving photochemical quenching (qP) relatively stable. Further analysis showed that melatonin up-regulated key xanthophyll cycle-related genes (DHAR, VDE, and PsbS), indicating its involvement in energy dissipation processes. In conclusion, our study uncovered the dual and complex role of melatonin in the short-term response of photosynthesis in woodland strawberries under low-light conditions.
Genetic Diversity and Population Structure Analysis of Excellent Sugar Beet (Beta vulgaris L.) Germplasm Resources
Authors: Peng Fei , Pi Zhi , Li Shengnan , Wu Zedong
Published: January 2024

This study analyzed the genetic diversity, population structure, and cluster analysis of 129 sugar beet germplasm resources to screen superior germplasms for breeding using the 27 simple sequence repeat (SSR) and 33 pairs of insertion–deletion (InDel) molecular markers. After integrating the phenotypic variation of 16 descriptive and 4 qualitative phenotypic variables, the genetic variation levels of the 129 sugar beet germplasms’ phenotypic traits were analyzed using the principal component analysis (PCA), correlation analysis, and analysis of variance methods. The genetic diversity examination of molecular markers showed a polymorphism information content (PIC) of 0.419–0.773 (mean = 0.610). Moreover, the mean number of effective alleles detected via the SSR and InDel markers was 3.054 and 2.298, respectively. Meanwhile, the PIC ranged from 0.130 to 0.602 (mean = 0.462). The population structure analysis revealed the most appropriate K-value, indicating three populations (K = 3). The genetic distances of the 129 germplasm resources ranged from 0.099 to 0.466 (mean = 0.283). The cluster analysis results demonstrated that the germplasms were grouped into three primary classes. Based on the analysis of variance, the two qualitative features with the highest coefficients of variation were petiole width (16.64%) and length (17.11%). The descriptive trait root length index (1.395) exhibited the greatest genetic diversity. The PCA reduced the 20 phenotypic traits into five principal components, contributing 51.151%. The results of this study provide a theoretical foundation for the future selection and breeding of superior sugar beet germplasm resources.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction, Oxidative Stress, and Inter-Organ Miscommunications in T2D Progression
Authors: Veluthakal Rajakrishnan , Esparza Diana , Hoolachan Joseph M. , Balakrishnan Rekha , Ahn Miwon , Oh Eunjin , Jayasena Chathurani S. , Thurmond Debbie C.
Published: January 2024

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a heterogenous disease, and conventionally, peripheral insulin resistance (IR) was thought to precede islet β-cell dysfunction, promoting progression from prediabetes to T2D. New evidence suggests that T2D-lean individuals experience early β-cell dysfunction without significant IR. Regardless of the primary event (i.e., IR vs. β-cell dysfunction) that contributes to dysglycemia, significant early-onset oxidative damage and mitochondrial dysfunction in multiple metabolic tissues may be a driver of T2D onset and progression. Oxidative stress, defined as the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), is mediated by hyperglycemia alone or in combination with lipids. Physiological oxidative stress promotes inter-tissue communication, while pathological oxidative stress promotes inter-tissue mis-communication, and new evidence suggests that this is mediated via extracellular vesicles (EVs), including mitochondria containing EVs. Under metabolic-related stress conditions, EV-mediated cross-talk between β-cells and skeletal muscle likely trigger mitochondrial anomalies leading to prediabetes and T2D. This article reviews the underlying molecular mechanisms in ROS-related pathogenesis of prediabetes, including mitophagy and mitochondrial dynamics due to oxidative stress. Further, this review will describe the potential of various therapeutic avenues for attenuating oxidative damage, reversing prediabetes and preventing progression to T2D.
Scanning the Horizon for Environmental Applications of Genetically Modified Viruses Reveals Challenges for Their Environmental Risk Assessment
Authors: Eckerstorfer Michael F. , Dolezel Marion , Miklau Marianne , Greiter Anita , Heissenberger Andreas , Engelhard Margret
Published: January 2024

The release of novel genetically modified (GM) virus applications into the environment for agricultural, veterinary, and nature-conservation purposes poses a number of significant challenges for risk assessors and regulatory authorities. Continuous efforts to scan the horizon for emerging applications are needed to gain an overview of new GM virus applications. In addition, appropriate approaches for risk assessment and management have to be developed. These approaches need to address pertinent challenges, in particular with regard to the environmental release of GM virus applications with a high probability for transmission and spreading, including transboundary movements and a high potential to result in adverse environmental effects. However, the current preparedness at the EU and international level to assess such GM virus application is limited. This study addresses some of the challenges associated with the current situation, firstly, by conducting a horizon scan to identify emerging GM virus applications with relevance for the environment. Secondly, outstanding issues regarding the environmental risk assessment (ERA) of GM virus applications are identified based on an evaluation of case study examples. Specifically, the limited scientific information available for the ERA of some applications and the lack of detailed and appropriate guidance for ERA are discussed. Furthermore, considerations are provided for future work that is needed to establish adequate risk assessment and management approaches.
Multi-Omics Approaches for Freshness Estimation and Detection of Illicit Conservation Treatments in Sea Bass (Dicentrarchus Labrax): Data Fusion Applications
Authors: Benedetto Alessandro , Robotti Elisa , Belay Masho Hilawie , Ghignone Arianna , Fabbris Alessia , Goggi Eleonora , Cerruti Simone , Manfredi Marcello , Barberis Elettra , Peletto Simone , Arillo Alessandra , Giaccio Nunzia , Masini Maria Angela , Brandi Jessica , Cecconi Daniela , Marengo Emilio , Brizio Paola
Published: January 2024

Fish freshness consists of complex endogenous and exogenous processes; therefore, the use of a few parameters to unravel illicit practices could be insufficient. Moreover, the development of strategies for the identification of such practices based on additives known to prevent and/or delay fish spoilage is still limited. The paper deals with the identification of the effect played by a Cafodos solution on the conservation state of sea bass at both short-term (3 h) and long-term (24 h). Controls and treated samples were characterized by a multi-omic approach involving proteomics, lipidomics, metabolomics, and metagenomics. Different parts of the fish samples were studied (muscle, skin, eye, and gills) and sampled through a non-invasive procedure based on EVA strips functionalized by ionic exchange resins. Data fusion methods were then applied to build models able to discriminate between controls and treated samples and identify the possible markers of the applied treatment. The approach was effective in the identification of the effect played by Cafodos that proved to be different in the short- and long-term and complex, involving proteins, lipids, and small molecules to a different extent.
Kisspeptin-10 Improves Testicular Redox Status but Does Not Alter the Unfolded Protein Response (UPR) That Is Downregulated by Hypothyroidism in a Rat Model
Authors: Santos Luciano Cardoso , dos Anjos Cordeiro Jeane Martinha , Cunha Maria Clara da Silva Galrão , Santos Bianca Reis , Oliveira Luciana Santos de , da Silva Adriana Lopes , Barbosa Erikles Macêdo , Niella Raquel Vieira , de Freitas Gustavo José Cota , Santos Daniel de Assis , Serakides Rogéria , Ocarino Natália de Melo , Borges Stephanie Carvalho , de Lavor Mário Sérgio Lima , Silva Juneo Freitas
Published: January 2024

Hypothyroidism compromises the testicular redox status and is associated with reduced sperm quality and infertility in men. In this regard, studies have demonstrated the antioxidant potential of kisspeptin in reproductive and metabolic diseases. In this study, we evaluate the effects of kisspeptin-10 (Kp10) on the testicular redox, as well as mediators of the unfolded protein response (UPR) in adult rats with hypothyroidism. Adult male Wistar rats were randomly separated into the Control (n = 15), Hypo (n = 13) and Hypo + Kp10 (n = 14) groups, and hypothyroidism was induced with 6-propyl-2-thiouracil (PTU) for three months. In the last month, half of the hypothyroid animals received Kp10. Testis samples were collected for enzymatic, immunohistochemical and/or gene evaluation of mediators of oxidative stress (TBARs, lipid hydroperoxides (LOOH), ROS, peroxynitrite, SOD, CAT and GPX), endoplasmic reticulum stress (GRP78, ATF6, PERK, CHOP, HO-1 and sXBP1) and antiapoptocytes (BCL-2). Hypothyroidism increased apoptosis index, TBARS and LOOH concentrations, and reduced testicular gene expression of Sod1, Sod2 and Gpx1, as well as the expression of Grp78, Atf6, Ho1 and Chop. Treatment with Kp10, in turn, reduced testicular apoptosis and the production of peroxynitrite, while increased SOD1 and GPX ½ expression, and enzymatic activity of CAT, but did not affect the lower expression of UPR mediators caused by hypothyroidism. This study demonstrated that hypothyroidism causes oxidative stress and dysregulated the UPR pathway in rat testes and that, although Kp10 does not influence the low expression of UPR mediators, it improves the testicular redox status, configuring it as an important antioxidant factor in situations of thyroid dysfunction.
Adverse Childhood Experiences and the Risk of Multiple Sclerosis Development: A Review of Potential Mechanisms
Authors: Eid Karine , Bjørk Marte-Helene , Gilhus Nils Erik , Torkildsen Øivind
Published: January 2024

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), such as abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction, contribute to long-term systemic toxic stress and inflammation that may last well into adulthood. Such early-life stressors have been associated with increased susceptibility to multiple sclerosis (MS) in observational studies and with the development of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in animal models. In this review, we summarize the evidence for an ACE-mediated increase in MS risk, as well as the potential mechanisms for this association. ACEs dysregulate neurodevelopment, stress responses, and immune reactivity; they also alter the interplay between the immune system and neural networks. All of this may be relevant for MS risk. We further discuss how ACEs induce epigenetic changes and how the toxic stress caused by ACEs may reactivate the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), a key risk factor for MS. We conclude by suggesting new initiatives to obtain further insights into this topic.
Small-Molecule-Directed Endogenous Regeneration of Visual Function in a Mammalian Retinal Degeneration Model
Authors: Mokady Daphna , Charish Jason , Barretto-Burns Patrick , Grisé Kenneth N. , Coles Brenda L. K. , Raab Susanne , Ortin-Martinez Arturo , Müller Alex , Fasching Bernhard , Jain Payal , Drukker Micha , van der Kooy Derek , Steger Matthias
Published: January 2024

Degenerative retinal diseases associated with photoreceptor loss are a leading cause of visual impairment worldwide, with limited treatment options. Phenotypic profiling coupled with medicinal chemistry were used to develop a small molecule with proliferative effects on retinal stem/progenitor cells, as assessed in vitro in a neurosphere assay and in vivo by measuring Msx1-positive ciliary body cell proliferation. The compound was identified as having kinase inhibitory activity and was subjected to cellular pathway analysis in non-retinal human primary cell systems. When tested in a disease-relevant murine model of adult retinal degeneration (MNU-induced retinal degeneration), we observed that four repeat intravitreal injections of the compound improved the thickness of the outer nuclear layer along with the regeneration of the visual function, as measured with ERG, visual acuity, and contrast sensitivity tests. This serves as a proof of concept for the use of a small molecule to promote endogenous regeneration in the eye.
Longitudinal NMR-Based Metabolomics Study Reveals How Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients Recover: Evidence of Dyslipidemia and Energy Metabolism Dysregulation
Authors: Ansone Laura , Rovite Vita , Brīvība Monta , Jagare Lauma , Pelcmane Līva , Borisova Daniella , Thews Anne , Leiminger Roland , Kloviņš Jānis
Published: January 2024

Long COVID, or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), can manifest as long-term symptoms in multiple organ systems, including respiratory, cardiovascular, neurological, and metabolic systems. In patients with severe COVID-19, immune dysregulation is significant, and the relationship between metabolic regulation and immune response is of great interest in determining the pathophysiological mechanisms. We aimed to characterize the metabolomic footprint of recovering severe COVID-19 patients at three consecutive timepoints and compare metabolite levels to controls. Our findings add proof of dysregulated amino acid metabolism in the acute phase and dyslipidemia, glycoprotein level alterations, and energy metabolism disturbances in severe COVID-19 patients 3–4 months post-hospitalization.
Abietic Acid as a Novel Agent against Ocular Biofilms: An In Vitro and Preliminary In Vivo Investigation
Authors: Dzięgielewska Monika , Bartoszewicz Marzenna , Książczyk Marta , Dudek Bartłomiej , Brożyna Malwina , Szymczyk-Ziółkowska Patrycja , Gruber Piotr , Pawlak Jacek , Kozłowska Weronika , Zielińska Sylwia , Fischer Jędrzej , Woytoń Aleksandra , Junka Adam
Published: January 2024

Biofilm-related ocular infections can lead to vision loss and are difficult to treat with antibiotics due to challenges with application and increasing microbial resistance. In turn, the design and testing of new synthetic drugs is a time- and cost-consuming process. Therefore, in this work, for the first time, we assessed the in vitro efficacy of the plant-based abietic acid molecule, both alone and when introduced to a polymeric cellulose carrier, against biofilms formed by Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans in standard laboratory settings as well as in a self-designed setting using the topologically challenging surface of the artificial eye. These analyses were performed using the standard microdilution method, the biofilm-oriented antiseptic test (BOAT), a modified disk-diffusion method, and eyeball models. Additionally, we assessed the cytotoxicity of abietic acid against eukaryotic cell lines and its anti-staphylococcal efficacy in an in vivo model using Galleria mellonella larvae. We found that abietic acid was more effective against Staphylococcus than Pseudomonas (from two to four times, depending on the test applied) and that it was generally more effective against the tested bacteria (up to four times) than against the fungus C. albicans at concentrations non-cytotoxic to the eukaryotic cell lines and to G. mellonella (256 and 512 µg/mL, respectively). In the in vivo infection model, abietic acid effectively prevented the spread of staphylococcus throughout the larvae organisms, decreasing their lethality by up to 50%. These initial results obtained indicate promising features of abietic acid, which may potentially be applied to treat ocular infections caused by pathogenic biofilms, with higher efficiency manifested against bacterial than fungal biofilms.
Quercetin Improves Barrier Properties in Porcine Small Intestine but Not in Peyer’s Patches
Authors: Cornelius Valeria , Droessler Linda , Amasheh Salah
Published: January 2024

Peyer’s patches (PPs) are part of the gut-associated lymphatic tissue (GALT) and represent the first line of the intestinal immunological defense. They consist of follicles with lymphocytes and an overlying subepithelial dome with dendritic cells and macrophages, and they are covered by the follicle-associated epithelium (FAE). A sealed paracellular pathway in the FAE is crucial for the controlled uptake of luminal antigens. Quercetin is the most abundant plant flavonoid and has a barrier-strengthening effect on tight junctions (TJs), a protein complex that regulates the paracellular pathway. In this study, we aimed to analyze the effect of quercetin on porcine PPs and the surrounding villus epithelium (VE). We incubated both tissue types for 4 h in Ussing chambers, recorded the transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), and measured the unidirectional tracer flux of [3H]-mannitol. Subsequently, we analyzed the expression, protein amount, and localization of three TJ proteins, claudin 1, claudin 2, and claudin 4. In the PPs, we could not detect an effect of quercetin after 4 h, neither on TEER nor on the [3H]-mannitol flux. In the VE, quercetin led to a higher TEER value, while the [3H]-mannitol flux was unchanged. The pore-forming claudin 2 was decreased while the barrier-forming claudin 4 was increased and the expression was upregulated. Claudin 1 was unchanged and all claudins could be located in the paracellular membrane by immunofluorescence microscopy. Our study shows the barrier-strengthening effect of quercetin in porcine VE by claudin 4 upregulation and a claudin 2 decrease. Moreover, it underlines the different barrier properties of PPs compared to the VE.