bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrated Anatomical and Transcriptomic Analysis Revealed the Molecular Mechanism of the Healing Process in Homografted and Heterografted Seedlings of Acanthopanax senticosus
Authors: Wang Qi , Deng Kedan , Ai Jun , Wang Yingping , Wang Yougui , Ren Yueying , Zhang Nanqi
Published: June 2023

Grafting is a widely used technique, and graft compatibility between the rootstock and scion is a prerequisite for grafting. To date, the underlying reasons for the success of healing after heterografting remain largely unknown. Here, using Acanthopanax senticosus (A. senticosus) grafted onto more vigorously grown Acanthopanax sessiliflorus (A. sessiliflorus) rootstocks, and self-grafting A. senticosus as controls, anatomical analysis was used to conduct studies on the healing process of grafted plants and transcriptome analysis was also performed on the healing union at 16 days after grafting (DAGs). In total, 10,215 significantly differentially expressed genes were detected between the transcriptomes of heterografts and homografts at 16 DAGs. Go and KEGG analyses showed that a number of metabolic, physiological and hormonal responses are involved in the healing process of heterografted seedlings, including metabolic processes, cellular processes, responses to stimulus, plant hormone signal transduction, the plant–pathogen interaction, the MAPK signaling pathway of the plant, transcription factors and defense responses. This study advances our understanding of the molecular mechanism of the grafting healing process in heterografts and provides a useful reference for elucidating the molecular mechanism of the healing process in homografted and heterografted systems and the candidate genes for functional analysis.
Effects of Combined Long-Term Straw Return and Nitrogen Fertilization on Wheat Productivity and Soil Properties in the Wheat-Maize-Soybean Rotation System in the Pannonian Plain
Authors: Jaćimović Goran , Aćin Vladimir , Mirosavljević Milan , Brbaklić Ljiljana , Vujić Svetlana , Dunđerski Dušan , Šeremešić Srđan
Published: June 2023

The study, conducted to evaluate the effects of long-term straw management combined with the application of increasing nitrogen rates on the yield of twenty winter wheat varieties, as well as on soil properties, was carried out in a long-term field trial established in 1971. The trial was monitored for twenty growing seasons under rainfed conditions in a typical chernozem zone of the southern part of the Pannonian Plain. The cropping system was a winter wheat-maize-soybean rotation. The ten SN-treatments (combinations of straw management (S) and N-fertilization) were as follows: In the plot (treatment) with straw return (S1), seven variants of nitrogen fertilization (0–180 kg N ha−1) were included, while on the plot without straw return (S0) the variants of N-fertilization were 0, 90 and 150 kg N ha−l. Based on the high relative share in the total sum of squares, variance analysis showed that wheat grain yield (GY) was significantly affected by years, SN-treatments, and their interaction, and they can explain the largest part of the total variance of GY. The results showed that straw return integrated with N fertilization could increase wheat yield to varying degrees over 20 years. On average, for all years, the highest GYs were obtained in the treatment S1 and fertilization with 180 and 150 kg N ha−1. The overall results showed that long-term straw returning significantly increased GY by an average of 8.4 ± 4.5%, with a considerable simultaneous increase in yield stability compared to straw removal. In addition, straw incorporation (SI) significantly increased soil humus, total nitrogen (TN), and soil organic carbon (SOC) contents at a soil depth of 0–30 cm by an average of 4.2, 3.8, and 11.3%, respectively. The results of our study have demonstrated that the long-term practice of straw return, in combination with the application of mineral fertilizers, has the potential to serve as a sustainable soil management strategy that is economically viable and environmentally acceptable. However, additional research is required to investigate its interactive effects on both grain yield and soil productivity.
Recognition of Edible Fungi Fruit Body Diseases Based on Improved ShuffleNetV2
Authors: Xu Xingmei , Zhang Yuqi , Cao Hongcheng , Yang Dawei , Zhou Lei , Yu Helong
Published: June 2023

Early recognition of fruit body diseases in edible fungi can effectively improve the quality and yield of edible fungi. This study proposes a method based on improved ShuffleNetV2 for edible fungi fruit body disease recognition. First, the ShuffleNetV2+SE model is constructed by deeply integrating the SE module with the ShuffleNetV2 network to make the network pay more attention to the target area and improve the model’s disease classification performance. Second, the network model is optimized and improved. To simplify the convolution operation, the 1 × 1 convolution layer after the 3 × 3 depth convolution layer is removed, and the ShuffleNetV2-Lite+SE model is established. The experimental results indicate that the accuracy, precision, recall, and Macro-F1 value of the ShuffleNetV2-Lite+SE model on the test set are, respectively, 96.19%, 96.43%, 96.07%, and 96.25%, which are 4.85, 4.89, 3.86, and 5.37 percent higher than those before improvement. Meanwhile, the number of model parameters and the average iteration time are 1.6 MB and 41 s, which is 0.2 MB higher and 4 s lower than that before the improvement, respectively. Compared with the common lightweight convolutional neural networks MobileNetV2, MobileNetV3, DenseNet, and EfficientNet, the proposed model achieves higher recognition accuracy, and its number of model parameters is significantly reduced. In addition, the average iteration time is reduced by 37.88%, 31.67%, 33.87%, and 42.25%, respectively. The ShuffleNetV2-Lite+SE model proposed in this paper has a good balance among performance, number of parameters, and real-time performance. It is suitable for deploying on resource-limited devices such as mobile terminals and helps in realization of real-time and accurate recognition of fruit body diseases of edible fungi.
Optimal Pollution Control and Pump-and-Fertilize Strategies in a Nitro-Polluted Aquifer, Using Genetic Algorithms and Modflow
Authors: Kontos Yiannis N. , Rompis Ioakeim , Karpouzos Dimitrios
Published: June 2023

Nitro-pollution in a confined aquifer may originate from its recharge area, e.g., agricultural sites, animal feedlots, septic tanks, and other waste disposal sites or from treated wastewater recharge wells. The latter case is studied. Existing water supply pumping wells should be protected for a given period. Instead of typically investigating optimal pump-and-treat or hydrodynamic pollution control management/remediation strategies, a novel combined pollution control and pump-and-fertilize (PAF) approach is proposed: protect existing wells with additional wells, considering pumped nitro-polluted groundwater as profitable reusable fertilizer rather than a pollutant to be remediated; convey pumped polluted water to an irrigation reservoir, considering nitrogen (N) uptake by irrigated crops in nearby farmlands and proportional decrease in fertilizer application, meaning profit. Optimization entails the operation of optimally located additional pumping wells with optimal flow rates, minimizing the sum of (i) annual pumping cost, (ii) pipe network (connecting additional wells and reservoir) amortization cost, and (iii) profit from retrieved N reuse. Modflow simulates a 3D flow field and advection-dispersion mass transport, while Genetic Algorithms (GAs) handle optimization. Various scenarios are simulated concerning crops’ retrieved N root uptake percentage, fertilizer, and energy market prices. The paper provides a data-ready optimization/decision support tool that creates a pool of alternative (sub)optimal management solutions/strategies.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Bacterial Community Structure as Influenced by Biodegradable Film Mulching in Eastern China
Authors: Xiong Jiahuan , Ye Tiancheng , Sun Kaixuan , Gao Yizhuo , Chen Huizhe , Xiang Jing , Wang Yaliang , Wang Zhigang , Zhang Yuping , Zhang Yikai
Published: June 2023

Machine transplanting technology of biodegradable films has solved the problems of the higher cost of artificial film and the serious environmental pollution of polyethylene film residue. Previous studies have shown the positive impact of mulching on mitigating global warming potential. However, the mechanisms underlying the association between greenhouse gas emissions and the bacterial community structure in paddy field soil with biodegradable film mulching (BM) still remain limited. In this study, greenhouse gas emissions and the associated bacterial community in non-mulching, biodegradable mulching in a paddy field in Eastern China were analyzed over the 2019 and 2020 rice growing seasons. Rice mulching cultivation significantly inhibited CH4 emissions from a rice paddy, mainly due to the significant reduction in methane emission peaks. Film mulching significantly increased the diversity of the bacterial community as revealed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The relative abundance of methanogens was decreased, while the relative abundance of methanotrophs was increased in the paddy soil due to the BM treatment, with the change pattern basically consistent with CH4 emissions. The N2O emissions during the growth period showed a pronounced downward trend. However, the total abundance of bacteria involved in nitrification and denitrification was higher under BM. Mulching cultivation improved the soil nutrient availability and significantly increased the yield by 5.0%. BM inhibited the greenhouse gas emission intensity (GHGI) of the paddy field by 46.9%. Film mechanical transplanting could promote yield increases and significantly mediate the warming potential (GWP) of greenhouse gases in the paddy fields of the Middle-Lower Yangtze Area. The rational use of film mechanical transplanting would play a role in carbon neutrality in paddy fields. This study provided a theoretical basis for paddy field emission reduction and sustainable agricultural development.
Increasing Nitrogen Fertilizer Application Is a Feasible Strategy to Mitigate Rice Yield Reduction in Wet Year
Authors: Liao Bin , Aziz Omar , He Yangbo , Yang Xue , Yu Qianan , Luo Yufeng , Lu Guoan , Cui Yuanlai
Published: June 2023

Rice production is intimately related to water and nitrogen management, whereas rice yield inevitably decreases with extreme rainfall. Optimization of water and nitrogen management may mitigate the degree of rice yield reduction. Hence, we conducted a field experiment in a normal and wet year to investigate suitable water and nitrogen management that could reduce the risk of rice yield reduction. The field experiment comprised six water and nitrogen management methods, which included two irrigation methods (CF: continuous flooding; AWD: alternating wet and dry) and three nitrogen fertilizer levels (N0, N90, and N180: 0, 90, and 180 kg N ha−1, respectively). The results showed an average yield reduction of 23.5% in the wet year compared to normal year. The nitrogen rate of N0, N90, and N180 resulted in a 36.9%, 24.8%, and 11.0% of yield reduction in the wet year, which presented a decrease in yield reduction with the increase in nitrogen rate. Panicle contributed over almost 60% and 75% on average to biomass and total nitrogen uptake, but both the total amount and proportion of nitrogen uptake in panicle showed a decrease in the wet year. In addition, the rice yield showed a significant positive correlation with nitrogen uptake both in the normal and wet year. Therefore, in the wet year, the decrease in nitrogen uptake in panicle results in a yield reduction. With the increase in nitrogen rate, the nitrogen internal use efficiency (IEN) was significantly decreased in the normal year, while it increased in the wet year, and the nitrogen recovery use efficiency (REN) and nitrogen harvest index (HIN) were not affected by nitrogen rate. Therefore, these results suggested that increased nitrogen rate in a wet year could improve rice nitrogen uptake to reduce the risk of yield reduction and maintain the nitrogen use efficiency (NUE).
Genotype–Trait (GT) Biplot Analysis for Yield and Quality Stability in Some Sweet Corn (Zea mays L. saccharata Sturt.) Genotypes
Authors: Stansluos Atom Atanasio Ladu , Öztürk Ali , Niedbała Gniewko , Türkoğlu Aras , Haliloğlu Kamil , Szulc Piotr , Omrani Ali , Wojciechowski Tomasz , Piekutowska Magdalena
Published: June 2023

A strong statistical method for investigating the correlations between traits, assessing genotypes based on numerous traits, and finding individuals who excel in particular traits is genotype–trait (GT) biplot analysis. The current study was applied to evaluate 11 sweet corn (Zea mays L. saccharata) genotypes and correlate them based on genotype–trait (GT) biplot analysis for two cropping seasons in Erzurum, Türkiye using the RCBD experimental design with three reputations. The results showed that the genotypes were significantly different for the majority of the examined variables according to the combined analysis of variance findings at 0.01 probability level. An ecological analysis was performed to evaluate sweet corn varieties and environmental conditions and interactions between them (genotype × environmental conditions). Our results showed that the summation of the first two and second main components was responsible for 73.51% of the combined cropping years of the sweet corn growth and development variance, demonstrating the biplot graph’s optimum relative validity, which was obtained. In this study, the Khan F1 (G6) genotype was found to be the stablest genotype, and the Kompozit Seker (G7) genotype was the non-stable genotype, moreover based on the first cropping year, second cropping year, and the average mean of the two cropping years. As a conclusion, the Khan F1 (G6) genotype is the highest-yielding genotype, and the Kompozit Seker (G7) is the lowest. Based on the heat map dendrogram, the context of the differential extent of trait association of all genotypes into two clusters is indicated. The highest genetic distance was shown between the BATEM Tatlı (G3) and Febris (G5) genotypes. Our results provide helpful information about the sweet corn genotypes and environments for future breeding programs.
Developmental Changes of Duckling Liver and Isolation of Primary Hepatocytes
Authors: Bao Qiang , Wang Laidi , Hu Xiaodan , Yuan Chunyou , Zhang Yang , Chang Guobin , Chen Guohong
Published: June 2023

The liver is the main site of fat synthesis and plays an important role in the study of fat deposition in poultry. In this study, we investigated the developmental changes of duckling livers and isolated primary duck hepatocytes. Firstly, we observed morphological changes in duckling livers from the embryonic period to the first week after hatching. Liver weight increased with age. Hematoxylin-eosin and Oil Red O staining analyses showed that hepatic lipids increased gradually during the embryonic period and declined post-hatching. Liver samples were collected from 21-day-old duck embryos for hepatocyte isolation. The hepatocytes showed limited self-renewal and proliferative ability and were maintained in culture for up to 7 days. Typical parenchymal morphology, with a characteristic polygonal shape, appeared after two days of culture. Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining analysis confirmed the characteristics of duck embryo hepatocytes. PCR analysis showed that these cells from duck embryos expressed the liver cell markers ALB and CD36. Immunohistochemical staining and immunofluorescence analysis also confirmed ALB and CK18 expression. Our findings provide a novel insight regarding in vitro cell culture and the characteristics of hepatocytes from avian species, which could enable further studies concerning specific research on duck lipid metabolism.
Testing and Refining the Ethical Framework for the Use of Horses in Sport
Authors: Brown Bluebell , Cardwell Jacqueline M. , Verheyen Kristien L. P. , Campbell Madeleine L. H.
Published: June 2023

In 2021, in response to an acknowledged need for universal, consistent ethics to guide decision making in the horse sport sector, Campbell published a theoretical ethical framework for the use of horses in competitive sport. The research reported here tested the applied usefulness of that theoretical ethical framework through stakeholder engagement in a three-round modified Delphi study and refined it to develop a practical decision-making tool which can be applied consistently across multiple equestrian disciplines. Stakeholders from a broad range of equestrian competitive disciplines participated in the research. Participants were required to apply the ethical framework to a pre-determined ethical dilemma, individually (Rounds 1 and 2) and within a group (Round 3), and at the end of each round to complete a questionnaire designed to gauge opinion and user experience. At the completion of each round of testing, the theoretical framework was refined based on stakeholder feedback. Results showed that participants perceived useability and application of the framework to generally increase with each round. Qualitative content analysis identified key concepts, including cognition (e.g., broadens/deepens thinking) and application (e.g., considers multiple angles from a variety of information sources, needs to be a short/simple process). Results suggested that the refined framework is beneficial for group decision making across a wide variety of ethical issues and equestrian competitive disciplines. The framework thus has the potential to improve equine welfare through facilitating consistent ethical decision making in which the interests of the horse are prioritized.
The Impact of Two Recommended Withholding Periods for Omeprazole and the Use of a Nutraceutical Supplement on Recurrence of Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome in Thoroughbred Racehorses
Authors: Shan Ran , Steel Catherine M. , Sykes Ben
Published: June 2023

The impact of recommended withholding periods (RWPs) for omeprazole on the recurrence of Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS) is unknown. The study was designed to compare the effect of two RWPs on EGUS recurrence post-omeprazole treatment and to determine if a nutraceutical supplement would reduce EGUS recurrence when administrated during an RWP. The study was a blinded, randomized clinical trial. Part 1: Horses were allocated to an RWP0 or RWP2 and crossed over after 4-weeks. Horses received oral omeprazole once daily, except during the RWPs at the end of the treatment periods. Part 2: Horses received omeprazole for 21 days prior to an RWP2 during which they received a nutraceutical supplement. Gastroscopy was performed on Day 0 and pre- and post- RWP. Part 1: More horses were affected by Equine Squamous Gastric Disease (ESGD) after the ‘2-clear-days’ RWP than the ‘not on race-day’ RWP (p = 0.012). The prevalence of ESGD post-RWP for ‘2-clear-days’ did not differ from day 0 (p = 0.478). Part 2: The prevalence of ESGD post-RWP was lower than on Day 0 (p = 0.046). A difference in recurrence of ESGD was present between the two common RWPs. The implications of this on the welfare of Thoroughbred racehorses warrant further discussion.
Selection of Flagship Species and Their Use as Umbrellas in Bird Conservation: A Case Study in Lishui, Zhejiang Province, China
Authors: Wang Yifei , Shi Jie , Wu Yi , Zhang Wenwen , Yang Xiao , Lv Huanxin , Xia Shaoxia , Zhao Shengjun , Tian Jing , Cui Peng , Xu Jiliang
Published: June 2023

The concept of flagship species is widely used in conservation biology. Flagship birds play a key role in raising conservation funds, increasing awareness of biodiversity conservation, and maintaining ecosystem services. This study selected flagship bird species in Lishui, Zhejiang Province, China, and assessed their conservation effectiveness and ability to serve as umbrella species. A regional bird survey program from 2019–2022 recorded 361 bird species in Lishui. This study constructed a framework of flagship species selection based on social, ecological, economic, and cultural criteria. The analytic hierarchy process-entropy weight method (AHP-EM) was used to rank the score of 361 bird species, and the MaxEnt model was used to analyze the suitable distribution areas of these species. Finally, 10 species, which covered the distribution sites of all 361 bird species, were selected as the flagship species of Lishui. The distribution areas covered all the nature reserves and the priority areas of biodiversity of Lishui, in which these 10 species can also serve as umbrella species to protect local biodiversity. The methodology and ideas in this study could provide insights into the application of conservation concepts at the local level, as well as suggest possible recommendations for local governments to select flagship species for conservation.
Interrupted Lives: Welfare Considerations in Wildlife Rehabilitation
Authors: Willette Michelle , Rosenhagen Nicki , Buhl Gail , Innis Charles , Boehm Jeff
Published: June 2023

Each year in the United States, thousands of sick, injured, or displaced wild animals are presented to individuals or organizations who have either a federal or state permit that allows them to care for these animals with the goal of releasing them back to the wild. The purpose of this review is to demonstrate the complexity of considerations rehabilitators and veterinarians face while trying to optimize the welfare of wild animals in need of care and rehabilitation. The process of rehabilitation is inherently stressful for wildlife. Maintaining an animal’s welfare during the rehabilitation process—from initial contact and tria+ge to the animal’s euthanasia, release, or captive placement—requires deliberate, timely and humane decision making. The welfare of wild animals can be improved by preventing human-related causes of admission, providing resources and support for wildlife rehabilitation (almost all rehabilitation in the United States is privately funded and access to veterinary care is often limited); further developing evidence-based wildlife rehabilitation methods and welfare measures, attracting more veterinary professionals to the field, harmonizing regulatory oversight with standards of care, training, and accountability, and increasing public education.
A New Species of Ultratenuipalpus (Acari: Tenuipalpidae) from Brazil and Re-Description of Ultratenuipalpus meekeri (De Leon), the Type Species of the Genus, with DNA Barcodes
Authors: Castro Elizeu B. , Beard Jennifer J. , Ochoa Ronald , Bauchan Gary R. , Otero-Colina Gabriel , Dowling Ashley P. G. , Lofego Antonio C. , Feres Reinaldo J. F.
Published: June 2023

Species of the genus Ultratenuipalpus bear a broad subquadrate propodosoma with many large, flattened, lanceolate to ovate dorsal setae. They also bear some plesiomorphic character states, such as the presence of three pairs of ventral ps setae. Here, we describe Ultratenuipalpus parameekeri Castro, Ochoa & Feres sp. nov. based on adult females, males, and immatures, collected on ferns from Brazil. We also re-describe Ultratenuipalpus meekeri (De Leon), the type species of the genus, based on types and newly collected material from Mexico, and include additional novel data (e.g., dorsal and ventral ornamentation, leg chaetotaxy, and setal measurements) in a standardized form. We include highly detailed images obtained using LT-SEM, accompanied by DNA barcodes, for both species. The ontogenetic additions of leg chaetotaxy are presented and discussed.
An Edible Biopolymeric Microcapsular Wrapping Integrating Lytic Bacteriophage Particles for Salmonella enterica: Potential for Integration into Poultry Feed
Authors: Pereira Arthur O. , Barros Nicole M. A. , Guerrero Bruna R. , Emencheta Stephen C. , Baldo Denicezar Â. , Oliveira Jr. José M. , Vila Marta M. D. C. , Balcão Victor M.
Published: June 2023

This research work aimed at developing an edible biopolymeric microcapsular wrapping (EBMW) integrating lytic bacteriophage particles for Salmonella enterica, with potential application in poultry feed for biocontrol of that pathogen. This pathogen is known as one of the main microorganisms responsible for contamination in the food industry and in foodstuff. The current techniques for decontamination and pathogen control in the food industry can be very expensive, not very selective, and even outdated, such as the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics that end up selecting resistant bacteria. Hence, there is a need for new technologies for pathogen biocontrol. In this context, bacteriophage-based biocontrol appears as a potential alternative. As a cocktail, both phages were able to significantly reduce the bacterial load after 12 h of treatment, at either multiplicity of infection (MOI) 1 and 10, by 84.3% and 87.6%, respectively. Entrapment of the phage virions within the EBMW matrix did not exert any deleterious effect upon their lytic activity. The results obtained showed high promise for integration in poultry feed aiming at controlling Salmonella enterica, since the edible biopolymeric microcapsular wrapping integrating lytic bacteriophage particles developed was successful in maintaining lytic phage viability while fully stabilizing the phage particles.
Effects of Monensin and Rapamycin Combination Therapy on Tumor Growth and Apoptosis in a Xenograft Mouse Model of Neuroblastoma
Authors: Serter Kocoglu Sema , Sunay Fatma Bahar , Akkaya Pakize Nur
Published: June 2023

Neuroblastoma is the most common pediatric solid tumor originating from the neural crest. New treatment options are needed to improve treatment outcomes and the survival of patients with neuroblastoma. Monensin is an ionophore antibiotic with antiparasitic, antibacterial, and anticancer properties isolated from Streptomyces cinnamonensis. The aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic effects of single and combined monensin and rapamycin treatments on mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) signaling pathway-mediated apoptosis and tumor growth in an SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cell xenograft model. Control, monensin, rapamycin, and monensin + rapamycin groups were formed in the xenograft neuroblastoma model obtained from CD1 nude mice, and tumor volumes and animal weights were recorded throughout the treatment. In xenograft neuroblastoma tumor tissues, apoptosis was determined by TUNEL (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end-labeling) and cleaved-caspase 3 immunohistochemistry, and PI3K (phosphoinositide-3-kinase)/AKT/mTOR expression was determined by the immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence methods. The combination of monensin and rapamycin was to reduce the growth of xenograft neuroblastoma tumor tissues, trigger apoptosis, and suppress the expression of PI3K/AKT/mTOR. A significant increase in apoptotic cell rate was demonstrated in the combination group, supported by cleaved-caspase 3 immunohistochemistry results. In addition, it was reported that the combination treatment regime triggered apoptosis by reducing the expression of phosphorylated PI3K/AKT/mTOR. Our preclinical results may be a precursor to develop new therapeutic approaches to treat neuroblastoma.
Autophagy Activation Promoted by Pulses of Light and Phytochemicals Counteracting Oxidative Stress during Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Pinelli Roberto , Ferrucci Michela , Biagioni Francesca , Berti Caterina , Bumah Violet Vakunseth , Busceti Carla Letizia , Puglisi-Allegra Stefano , Lazzeri Gloria , Frati Alessandro , Fornai Francesco
Published: May 2023

The seminal role of autophagy during age-related macular degeneration (AMD) lies in the clearance of a number of reactive oxidative species that generate dysfunctional mitochondria. In fact, reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the retina generate misfolded proteins, alter lipids and sugars composition, disrupt DNA integrity, damage cell organelles and produce retinal inclusions while causing AMD. This explains why autophagy in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), mostly at the macular level, is essential in AMD and even in baseline conditions to provide a powerful and fast replacement of oxidized molecules and ROS-damaged mitochondria. When autophagy is impaired within RPE, the deleterious effects of ROS, which are produced in excess also during baseline conditions, are no longer counteracted, and retinal degeneration may occur. Within RPE, autophagy can be induced by various stimuli, such as light and naturally occurring phytochemicals. Light and phytochemicals, in turn, may synergize to enhance autophagy. This may explain the beneficial effects of light pulses combined with phytochemicals both in improving retinal structure and visual acuity. The ability of light to activate some phytochemicals may further extend such a synergism during retinal degeneration. In this way, photosensitive natural compounds may produce light-dependent beneficial antioxidant effects in AMD.
Marine-Derived Bioactive Peptides Self-Assembled Multifunctional Materials: Antioxidant and Wound Healing
Authors: Yu Dingyi , Cui Shenghao , Chen Liqi , Zheng Shuang , Zhao Di , Yin Xinyu , Yang Faming , Chen Jingdi
Published: May 2023

Peptide self-assembling materials have received significant attention from researchers in recent years, emerging as a popular field in biological, environmental, medical, and other new materials studies. In this study, we utilized controllable enzymatic hydrolysis technology (animal proteases) to obtain supramolecular peptide self-assembling materials (CAPs) from the Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas). We conducted physicochemical analyses to explore the pro-healing mechanisms of CAPs on skin wounds in both in vitro and in vivo experiments through a topical application. The results demonstrated that CAPs exhibit a pH-responsive behavior for self-assembly and consist of peptides ranging from 550 to 2300 Da in molecular weight, with peptide chain lengths of mainly 11–16 amino acids. In vitro experiments indicated that CAPs display a procoagulant effect, free radical scavenging activity, and promote the proliferation of HaCaTs (112.74% and 127.61%). Moreover, our in vivo experiments demonstrated that CAPs possess the ability to mitigate inflammation, boost fibroblast proliferation, and promote revascularization, which accelerates the epithelialization process. Consequently, a balanced collagen I/III ratio in the repaired tissue and the promotion of hair follicle regeneration were observed. With these remarkable findings, CAPs can be regarded as a natural and secure treatment option with high efficacy for skin wound healing. The potential of CAPs to be further developed for traceless skin wound healing is an exciting area for future research and development.
Effects of Dietary Nitrate Supplementation on Performance during Single and Repeated Bouts of Short-Duration High-Intensity Exercise: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials
Authors: Alsharif Nehal S. , Clifford Tom , Alhebshi Abrar , Rowland Samantha N. , Bailey Stephen J.
Published: June 2023

Inorganic nitrate (NO3−) has emerged as a potential ergogenic aid over the last couple of decades. While recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses have suggested some small positive effects of NO3− supplementation on performance across a range of exercise tasks, the effect of NO3− supplementation on performance during single and repeated bouts of short-duration, high-intensity exercise is unclear. This review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. MEDLINE and SPORTDiscus were searched from inception to January 2023. A paired analysis model for cross-over trials was incorporated to perform a random effects meta-analysis for each performance outcome and to generate standardized mean differences (SMD) between the NO3− and placebo supplementation conditions. The systematic review and meta-analysis included 27 and 23 studies, respectively. Time to reach peak power (SMD: 0.75, p = 0.02), mean power output (SMD: 0.20, p = 0.02), and total distance covered in the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery level 1 test (SMD: 0.17, p < 0.0001) were all improved after NO3− supplementation. Dietary NO3− supplementation had small positive effects on some performance outcomes during single and repeated bouts of high-intensity exercise. Therefore, athletes competing in sports requiring single or repeated bouts of high-intensity exercise may benefit from NO3− supplementation.
Association of Oxidative-Stress-Related Gene Polymorphisms with Pain-Related Temporomandibular Disorders and Oral Behavioural Habits
Authors: Vrbanović Ema , Zlendić Marko , Trošelj Koraljka Gall , Tomljanović Marko , Vuković Đerfi Kristina , Alajbeg Iva Z.
Published: June 2023

The frequency of selected polymorphisms, one in each gene coding for proteins with antioxidative properties (CAT(rs1001179), SOD2(rs4880), GPX1(rs1050450), and NQO1(rs689452)), was compared between patients suffering from pain-related temporomandibular disorders (TMDp; n = 85) and control subjects (CTR; n = 85). The same was evaluated when participants were divided with respect to oral behavioural habits frequency into high-frequency parafunction (HFP; n = 98) and low-frequency parafunction (LFP; n = 72) groups. Another aim was to investigate whether polymorphisms in these genes can be associated with participants’ psychological and psychosomatic characteristics. Polymorphisms were genotyped using the genomic DNA extracted from buccal mucosa swabs and real-time TaqMan genotyping assays. No differences in genotype distribution between TMDp patients and control subjects were found. Still, TMDp patients who were homozygous for minor allele A, related to the GPX1 polymorphism rs1050450, reported significantly more waking-state oral behaviours than GA + GG genotype carriers (score: 30 vs. 23, p = 0.019). The frequency of genotype AA for rs1050450 polymorphism was higher in HFP than in LFP participants (14.3% vs. 4.2%, p  = 0.030). The most important predictors of waking-state oral behaviours were depression, anxiety, AA genotype (rs1050450), and female sex. The explored gene polymorphisms were not found to be significant risk factors for either TMDp or sleep-related oral behaviours. The association of waking-state oral behaviours with selected gene polymorphisms additionally supports previous assumptions that daytime bruxism is more closely linked to various stress manifestations, which might also be reflected through the variability related to the cellular antioxidative activity.
The Role of Oxidative Stress and Antioxidants in Cardiovascular Comorbidities in COPD
Authors: Miklós Zsuzsanna , Horváth Ildikó
Published: June 2023

Oxidative stress driven by several environmental and local airway factors associated with chronic obstructive bronchiolitis, a hallmark feature of COPD, plays a crucial role in disease pathomechanisms. Unbalance between oxidants and antioxidant defense mechanisms amplifies the local inflammatory processes, worsens cardiovascular health, and contributes to COPD-related cardiovascular dysfunctions and mortality. The current review summarizes recent developments in our understanding of different mechanisms contributing to oxidative stress and its countermeasures, with special attention to those that link local and systemic processes. Major regulatory mechanisms orchestrating these pathways are also introduced, with some suggestions for further research in the field.
Glutathione Depletion Disrupts Redox Homeostasis in an Anoxia-Tolerant Invertebrate
Authors: Ferreira-Cravo Marlize , Moreira Daniel C. , Hermes-Lima Marcelo
Published: June 2023

The upregulation of endogenous antioxidants is a widespread phenomenon in animals that tolerate hypoxia/anoxia for extended periods. The identity of the mobilized antioxidant is often context-dependent and differs among species, tissues, and stresses. Thus, the contribution of individual antioxidants to the adaptation to oxygen deprivation remains elusive. This study investigated the role of glutathione (GSH) in the control of redox homeostasis under the stress of anoxia and reoxygenation in Helix aspersa, an animal model of anoxia tolerance. To do so, the total GSH (tGSH) pool was depleted with l-buthionine-(S, R)-sulfoximine (BSO) before exposing snails to anoxia for 6 h. Then, the concentration of GSH, glutathione disulfide (GSSG), and oxidative stress markers (TBARS and protein carbonyl) and the activity of antioxidant enzymes (catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione transferase, glutathione reductase, and glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase) were measured in foot muscle and hepatopancreas. BSO alone induced tGSH depletion by 59–75%, but no other changes happened in other variables, except for foot GSSG. Anoxia elicited a 110–114% increase in glutathione peroxidase in the foot; no other changes occurred during anoxia. However, GSH depletion before anoxia increased the GSSG/tGSH ratio by 84–90% in both tissues, which returned to baseline levels during reoxygenation. Our findings indicate that glutathione is required to withstand the oxidative challenge induced by hypoxia and reoxygenation in land snails.
Improved Photocatalytic and Antioxidant Activity of Olive Fruit Extract-Mediated ZnO Nanoparticles
Authors: Ghaffar Sadia , Abbas Azhar , Naeem-ul-Hassan Muhammad , Assad Nasir , Sher Muhammad , Ullah Sami , Alhazmi Hassan A. , Najmi Asim , Zoghebi Khalid , Al Bratty Mohammed , Hanbashi Ali , Makeen Hafiz A. , Amin Hatem M. A.
Published: June 2023

Photodegradation is an efficient strategy for the removal of organic pollutants from wastewater. Due to their distinct properties and extensive applications, semiconductor nanoparticles have emerged as promising photocatalysts. In this work, olive (Olea Europeae) fruit extract-based zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO@OFE NPs) were successfully biosynthesized using a one-pot sustainable method. The prepared ZnO NPs were systematically characterized using UV-Vis, FTIR, SEM, EDX and XRD and their photocatalytic and antioxidant activity was evaluated. SEM demonstrated the formation of spheroidal nanostructures (57 nm) of ZnO@OFE and the EDX analysis confirmed its composition. FTIR suggested the modification/capping of the NPs with functional groups of phytochemicals from the extract. The sharp XRD reflections revealed the crystalline nature of the pure ZnO NPs with the most stable hexagonal wurtzite phase. The photocatalytic activity of the synthesized catalysts was evaluated by measuring the degradation of methylene blue (MB) and methyl orange (MO) dyes under sunlight irradiation. Improved degradation efficiencies of 75% and 87% were achieved within only 180 min with photodegradation rate constant k of 0.008 and 0.013 min−1 for MB and MO, respectively. The mechanism of degradation was proposed. Additionally, ZnO@OFE NPs exhibited potent antioxidant activity against DPPH, hydroxyl, peroxide and superoxide radicals. Hence, ZnO@OFE NPs may have potential as a cost-effective and green photocatalyst for wastewater treatment.
Characterization of Soluble Salts on the Frescoes by Saturnino Gatti in the Church of San Panfilo in Villagrande di Tornimparte (L’Aquila)
Authors: Comite Valeria , Bergomi Andrea , Lombardi Chiara Andrea , Borelli Mattia , Fermo Paola
Published: May 2023

Salt crystallization is one of the most dangerous forms of degradation affecting frescoes. This phenomenon can lead to cracking, flaking and detachment of the pictorial layer, ultimately ruining the work of art. However, the characterization of soluble salts via chemical analysis can be employed to determine the conditions of the artifact and establish the proper restoration and/or conservation strategies to be adopted. In this archaeometric study, a first-ever characterization of the soluble salts and related degradation phenomena on the frescoes by Saturnino Gatti in the church of San Panfilo in Villagrande di Tornimparte (L’Aquila) was carried out. Sampling was performed in areas with evident detachments, exfoliations and saline crystallization (efflorescences). Eleven samples of powder and fragments were taken from different panels of the fresco: nine were taken from Panels A, C, D and E and two from the top part of the vault. Chemical characterizations were performed using two analytical techniques: ion chromatography (IC) and attenuated total reflectance Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). Ion chromatography was used for the quantification of the main ions and to evaluate the presence of soluble salts, whereas infrared spectroscopy was used to characterize the mineralogical phases. The results show efflorescence consisting of newly formed gypsum and carbonate in samples taken closer to the ground. Furthermore, a good correlation between sodium and chloride ions was observed, indicating the presence of an efflorescence composed of newly formed sodium chloride. Capillary rise and infiltration were highlighted as the main sources of soluble salts. This information will be crucial in guiding future restoration or conservation operations.
Experimental Study on Ice Melting of Bridge Tower Crossbeams under Different Conditions
Authors: Chen Zhi , Lu Jian , Mao Anqi , Xi Lei , Li Wentao , Ma Qiang , Xiao Henglin
Published: May 2023

The bridge tower beams of long-span bridges freeze during winter. The accumulated ice on the beam flakes off and falls into the bridge deck from a high altitude with temperature rise, threatening traffic safety. To solve this problem, an electric heating method is used to melt the snow and ice on bridge tower beams. A design scheme based on embedding carbon fiber heating wires in a bridge tower beam is proposed in which electrical energy is converted into heat energy to melt the snow and ice on the beam. In this paper, a beam icing test and beam de-icing test are carried out through a laboratory model test. The model test results show that under the conditions of a wind speed of 4.5 m/s and an ambient temperature of −15 °C, the average internal temperature of the beam after heating stabilization is 1.37 °C; this is higher than the average critical temperature of 1.31 °C. This temperature is sufficient to melt the ice and proves the practicability of this method. The de-icing method of embedded carbon fiber heating is simple, efficient, and environmentally friendly. This can provide a reliable reference for the practical application of de-icing a bridge beam.
Effective and Interpretable Rule Mining for Dynamic Job-Shop Scheduling via Improved Gene Expression Programming with Feature Selection
Authors: Sitahong Adilanmu , Yuan Yiping , Ma Junyan , Lu Yongxin , Mo Peiyin
Published: May 2023

Gene expression programming (GEP) is frequently used to create intelligent dispatching rules for job-shop scheduling. The proper selection of the terminal set is a critical factor for the success of GEP. However, there are various job features and machine features that can be included in the terminal sets to capture the different characteristics of the job-shop state. Moreover, the importance of features in the terminal set varies greatly between scenarios. The irrelevant and redundant features may lead to high computational requirements and increased difficulty in interpreting generated rules. Consequently, a feature selection approach for evolving dispatching rules with improved GEP has been proposed, so as to select the proper terminal set for different dynamic job-shop scenarios. First, the adaptive variable neighborhood search algorithm was embedded into the GEP to obtain a diverse set of good rules for job-shop scenarios. Secondly, based on the fitness of the good rules and the contribution of features to the rules, a weighted voting ranking method was used to select features from the terminal set. The proposed approach was then compared with GEP-based algorithms and benchmark rules in the different job-shop conditions and scheduling objectives. The experimentally obtained results illustrated that the performance of the dispatching rules generated using the improved GEP algorithm after the feature selection process was better than that of both the baseline dispatching rules and the baseline GEP algorithm.
Dental Anomalies in Maxillary Incisors and Canines among Patients with Total Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Paradowska-Stolarz Anna , Kawala Beata
Published: May 2023

Cleft lip and palate is the most common asymmetric congenital condition of the orofacial region, which also finds its reflection in dental anomalies. The aim of the study was to present the dental asymmetries of the front region of the maxilla in cleft patients. Materials and Methods: We analyzed plaster casts and panoramic X-rays of 154 patients with total clefts and 151 healthy individuals. The cleft patients’ age ranged between 7.1 and 20 years (mean 13.18). The control group had a similar age range (7.1 and 20 years, mean 13.44). The digital caliper was used to measure the width of the teeth. Each measurement was performed three times each. Results: Most of the dental anomalies among cleft patients referred to the lateral incisors and were focused on the cleft side. The asymmetry of the incisors is reflected both in the number of teeth in the cleft region and their width. The lateral incisor was missing twice as frequently on the cleft side of the individual. If present, the lateral incisor was usually ±1.5 mm narrower than the incisor on the opposite side. In bilateral clefts, dental anomalies occurred more frequently on the left side. Conclusions: Dental problems occurred more frequently in patients with total cleft lip and palate than in healthy individuals. The most commonly affected teeth were the lateral incisors. The width of the lateral incisors was reduced in cleft patients—showing a smaller mesiodistal dimension on the cleft side.
Spatial Deformation Calculation and Parameter Analysis of Pile–Anchor Retaining Structure
Authors: Yin Quan , Fu Helin , Zhou Yi
Published: May 2023

Scholars often consider the deformation of a foundation pit retaining structure as a significant indicator of its stability. However, the current theoretical prediction formula for pit with pile–anchorretaining structure deformation is not yet perfect. This study utilizes a simplified spatial deformation model of a pile–anchorretaining structure and the principle of minimum potential energy to derive a prediction formula for the retaining structure’s spatial deformation. Afterwards, a numerical simulation model is developed based on actual engineering practices. On-site monitoring data is compared with the results of theoretical calculation formulas and numerical simulation models to validate their applicability. The research findings reveal minimal discrepancies between the theoretical calculation results, numerical simulation outcomes, and on-site monitoring data, indicating a high level of accuracy. Those three results follow consistent rules. The horizontal deformation curve of the crown beam exhibits a ‘V’-shaped distribution, and as the distance from the calculation point to the centerline of the foundation pit decreases, the horizontal deformation of the crown beam increases. The horizontal deformation curve of the pile displays a ‘V’-shaped distribution, and the pile’s horizontal deformation increases as the distance to the centerline of the foundation pit decreases. The research findings indicate that increasing the size and material strength of the crown beam and waist beam has only a limited effect on controlling the retaining structure’s deformation. However, by increasing the size and material strength of the pile, the deformation of the retaining structure can be significantly reduced.