bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antioxidant Potential of Lactoferrin and Its Protective Effect on Health: An Overview
Authors: Rascón-Cruz Quintín , Siqueiros-Cendón Tania Samanta , Siañez-Estrada Luis Ignacio , Villaseñor-Rivera Celina María , Ángel-Lerma Lidia Esmeralda , Olivas-Espino Joel Arturo , León-Flores Dyada Blanca , Espinoza-Sánchez Edward Alexander , Arévalo-Gallegos Sigifredo , Iglesias-Figueroa Blanca Flor
Published: December 2024

Chronic diseases, including cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases and cancer, are significant global health challenges. Oxidative stress, characterized by an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and antioxidant defenses, is a critical factor in the progression of these pathologies. Lactoferrin (Lf), a multifunctional iron-binding glycoprotein, has emerged as a promising therapeutic agent due to its potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and iron-regulating properties. Lf plays a pivotal role in iron homeostasis by chelating iron, modulating its cellular uptake, and reducing ROS production, thereby mitigating oxidative stress-related tissue damage. Lf also demonstrates neuroprotective potential in diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, where it alleviates oxidative damage, regulates iron metabolism, and enhances antioxidant defenses. Furthermore, its ability to enhance endogenous antioxidant mechanisms, such as superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, underscores its systemic protective effects. Lf’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities also contribute to its broad-spectrum protective role in chronic diseases. This review consolidates evidence of Lf’s mechanisms in mitigating oxidative stress and highlights its therapeutic potential as a versatile molecule for preventing and managing chronic conditions linked to oxidative damage.
Non-Coding RNAs in Breast Cancer: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Beňačka Roman , Szabóová Daniela , Guľašová Zuzana , Hertelyová Zdenka
Published: December 2024

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most prevalent forms of cancer globally, and has recently become the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in women. BC is a heterogeneous disease comprising various histopathological and molecular subtypes with differing levels of malignancy, and each patient has an individual prognosis. Etiology and pathogenesis are complex and involve a considerable number of genetic alterations and dozens of alterations in non-coding RNA expression. Non-coding RNAs are part of an abundant family of single-stranded RNA molecules acting as key regulators in DNA replication, mRNA processing and translation, cell differentiation, growth, and overall genomic stability. In the context of breast cancer, non-coding RNAs are involved in cell cycle control and tumor cell migration and invasion, as well as treatment resistance. Alterations in non-coding RNA expression may contribute to the development and progression of breast cancer, making them promising biomarkers and targets for novel therapeutic approaches. Currently, the use of non-coding RNAs has not yet been applied to routine practice; however, their potential has been very well studied. The present review is a literature overview of current knowledge and its objective is to delineate the function of diverse classes of non-coding RNAs in breast cancer, with a particular emphasis on their potential utility as diagnostic and prognostic markers or as therapeutic targets and tools.
The Transcription Factor VvbHLH053 Regulates the Expression of Copper Homeostasis-Associated Genes VvCTr5/6 and VvFRO4 and Confers Root Development in Grapevine
Authors: Li Songqi , Li Xufei , Jing Pengwei , Li Min , Sun Yadan , Wang Leilei , Shi Qiaofang , Yu Yihe
Published: December 2024

Chlormequat chloride (CCC) has been demonstrated to inhibit plant growth and strengthen seedlings. The present study demonstrated that the root growth of Thompson seedless grapevine seedlings was significantly enhanced by the application of CCC treatment. Nevertheless, the precise mechanism by which CCC regulates plant root growth remains to be elucidated. Consequently, an RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) analysis was conducted on grapevine roots subjected to CCC treatment and those undergoing natural growth. A total of 819 differentially expressed genes were identified. Subsequently, Gene Ontology (GO) functional enrichment and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) identified the Copper (Cu) homeostasis-associated genes, VvCTr4/5/6/8 and VvFRO4, which play a pivotal role in mediating the effect of CCC. To further elucidate the transcription factor regulating these Cu homeostasis-associated genes, the key transcription factor VvbHLH053 was identified based on the PlantTFDB database, WGCNA results, and expression patterns under CCC treatment. Furthermore, multiple bHLH binding sites were identified on the promoters of VvCTr4/5/6 and VvFRO4. The GUS activity analysis and dual-luciferase assay demonstrated that VvbHLH053 can directly regulate the expression of VvCTr5/6 and VvFRO4. These findings reveal the feedback mechanism of grapevine root growth mediated by CCC and establish a direct functional relationship between CCC, VvbHLH053, and Cu homeostasis-associated genes that regulate root growth.
Prostaglandins Differentially Regulate the Constitutive and Mechanosensitive Release of Soluble Nucleotidases in the Urinary Bladder Mucosa
Authors: Gutierrez Cruz Alejandro , Borhani Peikani Mahsa , Beaulac Tori D. , Mutafova-Yambolieva Violeta N.
Published: December 2024

The urothelium and lamina propria (LP) contribute to sensations of bladder fullness by releasing multiple mediators, including prostaglandins (PGs) and adenosine 5′-triphosphate (ATP), that activate or modulate functions of cells throughout the bladder wall. Mediators that are simultaneously released in response to bladder distention likely influence each other’s mechanisms of release and action. This study investigated whether PGs could alter the extracellular hydrolysis of ATP by soluble nucleotidases (s-NTDs) released in the LP of nondistended or distended bladders. Using an ex vivo murine detrusor-free bladder model to access the LP during bladder filling and a sensitive HPLC-FLD detection methodology, we evaluated the decrease in ATP and the increase in adenosine 5′-diphosphate (ADP), adenosine 5′-monophosphate (AMP), and adenosine by s-NTDs released in the LP. Endogenous PGE2 increased the spontaneous but not the distention-induced release of s-NTD via EP2 and EP3 prostanoid receptors, whereas exogenous PGE2 increased the spontaneous s-NTD release via EP3, EP4, and FP receptors and the distention-induced s-NTD release via EP1-4 and FP receptors. Endogenous PGF2α, PGD2, and PGI2 did not change the s-NTD release. Exogenous PGD2 increased the spontaneous s-NTD release via DP2 receptors and the distention-induced s-NTD release via DP1 and DP2 receptors. Exogenous PGF2α increased the spontaneous but not the distention-induced release of s-NTD via FP receptors. It is possible that higher concentrations of PGE2, PGF2α, and PGD2 (as expected in inflammation, bladder pain syndrome, or overactive bladder) potentiate the release of s-NTDs and the consecutive degradation of ATP as a safeguard mechanism to prevent the development of excessive bladder excitability and overactivity by high amounts of extracellular ATP.
Cytological, Physiological, and Transcriptome Analysis of Leaf-Yellowing Mutant in Camellia chekiangoleosa
Authors: Huang Bin , Huang Wenyin , Liu Zhenyu , Peng Yixuan , Qu Yanshu , Zhou Wencai , Huang Jianjian , Shu Huili , Wen Qiang
Published: December 2024

Color variation in plant leaves has a significant impact on their photosynthesis and plant growth. Camellia chekiangoleosa yellow-leaf mutants are ideal materials for studying the mechanisms of pigment synthesis and photosynthesis, but their mechanism of leaf variation is not clear. We systematically elucidated the intrinsic causes of leaf yellowing in the new Camellia chekiangoleosa variety ‘Diecui Liuji’ in terms of changes in its cell structure, pigment content, and transcript levels. This study indicates that the incomplete structure of chloroplast-like vesicles, the decrease in blue-green chlorophyll a, and the increase in yellow-green chlorophyll b in yellowing leaves are the direct causes of yellowing-leaf formation. The high expression of genes that catalyze the degradation of chlorophyll a (PAO and RCCR) and its conversion to chlorophyll b (CAO) in yellowing leaves leads to a decrease in the chlorophyll a content, while the low expression of CLH genes is the main reason for the increase in the chlorophyll b content. We also found transcription factors such as ERF, E2F, WRKY, MYB, TPC, TGA, and NFYC may regulate their expression. RT-qPCR assays of 12 DEGs confirm the RNA-seq results. This study will provide a foundation for investigating the transcriptional and regulatory mechanisms of leaf color changes.
Probing the Effects of Chemical Modifications on Anticoagulant and Antiproliferative Activity of Thrombin Binding Aptamer
Authors: Virgilio Antonella , Benigno Daniela , Aliberti Carla , Bello Ivana , Panza Elisabetta , Smimmo Martina , Vellecco Valentina , Esposito Veronica , Galeone Aldo
Published: December 2024

Thrombin binding aptamer (TBA) is one of the best-known G-quadruplex (G4)-forming aptamers that efficiently binds to thrombin, resulting in anticoagulant effects. TBA also possesses promising antiproliferative properties. As with most therapeutic oligonucleotides, chemical modifications are critical for therapeutic applications, particularly to improve thermodynamic stability, resistance in biological environment, and target affinity. To evaluate the effects of nucleobase and/or sugar moiety chemical modifications, five TBA analogues have been designed and synthesized considering that the chair-like G4 structure is crucial for biological activity. Their structural and biological properties have been investigated by Circular Dichroism (CD), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) techniques, and PT and MTT assays. The analogue TBAB contains 8-bromo-2′-deoxyguanosine (B) in G-syn glycosidic positions, while TBAL and TBAM contain locked nucleic acid guanosine (L) or 2′-O-methylguanosine (M) in G-anti positions, respectively. Instead, both the two types of modifications have been introduced in TBABL and TBABM with the aim of obtaining synergistic effects. In fact, both derivatives include B in syn positions, exhibiting in turn L and M in the anti ones. The most appealing results have been obtained for TBABM, which revealed an interesting cytotoxic activity against breast and prostate cancer cell lines, while in the case of TBAB, extraordinary thermal stability (Tm approximately 30 °C higher than that of TBA) and an anticoagulant activity higher than original aptamer were observed, as expected. These data indicate TBAB as the best TBA anticoagulant analogue here investigated and TBABM as a promising antiproliferative derivative.
Natural Molecule-Derived Nanogels from Hematoxylin and l-lysine for Biomedical Use with Antimicrobial Properties
Authors: Sahiner Mehtap , Tian Zhi , Allen-Gipson Diane , Sunol Aydin K. , Sahiner Nurettin
Published: December 2024

Hematoxylin (HT) is a natural staining dye used in histopathology, often combined with Eosin for H&E staining. A poly(hematoxylin-co-l-lysine) (p(HT-co-l)) nanonetwork was synthesized through a one-step Mannich condensation reaction using formaldehyde as a linking agent. The resulting p(HT-co-l) nanogels had an average size of about 200 nm and exhibited a smooth surface and desirable functional groups such as -OH, -NH2, and -COOH, as recognized by FT-IR analysis. The isoelectric point (IEP) of the p(HT-co-l) nanogel was determined as pH 7.9, close to physiological environments, despite HT being acidic IEP at pH 1.7 and l-lysine being basic IPE at pH 8.7. The time-dependent swelling studies of p(HT-co-l) nanogels were carried out using dynamic light scattering (DLS) in different salt solutions, e.g., MgCl2, KNO3, KCl, PBS, and DI water environments revealed that nanogels have high swelling ability depending on the medium, e.g., >10-fold in a saline solution compared to distilled water within 1.5 h. Hydrolytic degradation studies in PBS demonstrated a linear release profile up to 125 h at 37.5 °C. The p(HT-co-l) nanogels also demonstrated significant antimicrobial and antifungal activities against E. coli (ATCC 8739), S. aureus (ATCC 6538), and C. albicans (ATCC 10231). Furthermore, biocompatibility tests indicated that p(HT-co-l) nanogels are more biocompatible than HT alone, as tested with human Nuli-1 bronchial epithelial cells.
Development of Sensitive R6G/AuNCs Ratiometric Fluorescent Probes for the Detection of Biogenic Amines in Fish Products
Authors: Huang Yutong , Zhang Simiao , Zhou Mei , Xu Xiaokang , Sun Weiqing , Ma Jing , Wu Long
Published: December 2024

Biogenic amines (BAs), produced in fish and seafood due to microbial contamination, pose significant health risks. This study introduces a novel ratiometric fluorescent probe, synthesized by integrating rhodamine 6G(R6G) and gold nanoparticles (AuNCs), for the sensitive and specific detection of BAs. The probe operates on the principle of BAs hydrolysis, catalyzed by diamine oxidase, to produce hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), which selectively quenches the fluorescence of AuNCs at 620 nm, while the fluorescence of R6Gat 533 nm remains unaffected. The ratio of I620/I553 demonstrated excellent linearity with a wide dynamic range (1–1000 μM) and a low detection limit of 0.1 μM. Validation using grass carp samples showed high recovery rates (97.57% to 104.29%), confirming the probe’s efficacy and potential for practical application in food safety monitoring.
Low Bacterial Biomass in Human Pancreatic Cancer and Adjacent Normal Tissue
Authors: May Michael S. , Park Heekuk , Moallem Dalia H. , Seeram Dwayne , Dajiang Sun , Hibshoosh Hanina , Jamison Jacob K. , Uhlemann Anne-Catrin , Manji Gulam A.
Published: December 2024

The gut microbiome plays an important role in the carcinogenesis of luminal gastrointestinal malignancies and response to antineoplastic therapy. Preclinical studies have suggested a role of intratumoral gammaproteobacteria in mediating response to gemcitabine-based chemotherapy in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). To our knowledge, this is the first study to evaluate the impact of the PDAC microbiome on chemotherapy response using samples from human pancreatic tumor resections. We performed 16S rRNA gene amplification and sequencing on both formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) and fresh frozen human PDAC resection samples. We analyzed frozen samples from 26 patients with resected PDAC and examined tumor and tumor-adjacent normal tissue. These patients represented nine long-term survivors (LTS) and nine short-term survivors (STS) after neoadjuvant gemcitabine therapy and eight control patients who did not receive any neoadjuvant therapy prior to resection. We also included FFPE samples from five patients, including tumor samples (3 samples per patient), tumor-adjacent normal tissue (2 per patient) and tumor-adjacent paraffin (1 per patient). Within frozen tissue, total DNA yields were high, but bacterial DNA was generally low, comparable to those seen in negative controls. In FFPE tissue, DNA yields were low and bacterial abundances were comparable in paraffin, tumor and normal PDAC samples. Gammaproteobacteria concentrations did not correlate with outcomes in patients treated with neoadjuvant gemcitabine-based chemotherapy. Our study found low microbial biomass in pancreatic tumor tissue, with no detectable association between bacterial taxa and chemotherapy outcomes. These results suggest a limited role of the microbiome in gemcitabine-based chemotherapy response in PDAC. Preclinical studies have implicated the pancreatic tumor microbiome in driving response to therapy. Cytidine deaminase, an enzyme produced by gammaproteobacteria, can metabolize gemcitabine and has been hypothesized to inhibit pancreatic tumor response to chemotherapy. Several clinical trials have evaluated the role of the tumor microbiome in pancreatic cancer treatment. We evaluated the impact of the pancreatic tumor microbiome on chemotherapy response using samples from human pancreatic tumor resections. We found a low microbial load that is partially attributable to contaminants and that gammaproteobacteria levels did not correlate with outcomes in patients with pancreatic cancer treated with gemcitabine-based chemotherapy.
Exploring the Biological Impact of β-TCP Surface Polarization on Osteoblast and Osteoclast Activity
Authors: Zheng Jingpu , Nozaki Kosuke , Hashimoto Kazuaki , Yamashita Kimihiro , Wakabayashi Noriyuki
Published: December 2024

β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) is a widely utilized resorbable bone graft material, whose surface charge can be modified by electrical polarization. However, the specific effects of such a charge modification on osteoblast and osteoclast functions remain insufficiently studied. In this work, electrically polarized β-TCP with a high surface charge density was synthesized and evaluated in vitro in terms of its physicochemical properties and biological activity. Polarization was performed to achieve a high surface charge density, which was quantified using a thermally stimulated depolarization current. The proliferation and differentiation of MC3T3-E1 osteoblast-like cells were assessed via WST-8 and alkaline phosphatase assays. Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity and a resorption pit assay were used to evaluate the impact of surface charge on RAW264.7 osteoclast-like cell activity. Polarized β-TCP exhibited a surface charge of 1.3 mC cm−2. Electrically polarized surfaces significantly enhanced osteoblast proliferation and differentiation. TRAP activity assays demonstrated effective osteoclast differentiation of RAW264.7 cells, with enhanced activity observed on charged surfaces. Resorption pit assays further revealed improved osteoclast resorption capacity on β-TCP surfaces with a polarized charge. These findings indicate that β-TCP with a highly dense surface charge promotes osteoblast proliferation and differentiation, as well as osteoclast activity and resorption capacity.
Dysregulated Signaling Pathways in Canine Mammary Tumor and Human Triple Negative Breast Cancer: Advances and Potential Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Mei Chen , Liu Ying , Liu Zhenyi , Zhi Yan , Jiang Zhaoling , Lyu Xueze , Wang Hongjun
Published: December 2024

In 2022, human breast cancer (HBC) and canine mammary tumors (CMTs) remained the most prevalent malignant tumors worldwide, with high recurrence and lethality rates, posing a significant threat to human and dog health. The development of breast cancer involves multiple signaling pathways, highlighting the need for effective inhibitory drugs that target key proteins in these pathways. This article reviews the dysregulation of the EGFR, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, Hippo, pyroptosis, and PD-1/PD-L1 signaling pathways in HBC and CMT, as well as the corresponding drugs used to inhibit tumor growth, with the aim of providing theoretical support for the development of more efficient drugs.
Optimised Workflows for Profiling the Metabolic Fluxes in Suspension vs. Adherent Cancer Cells via Seahorse Technology
Authors: Giglio Eugenia , Giuseffi Martina , Picerno Simona , Sichetti Marzia , Mecca Marisabel
Published: December 2024

Oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis are the main ATP-generating pathways in cell metabolism. The balance between these two pathways is frequently altered to carry out cell-specific activities in response to stimuli involving activation, proliferation, or differentiation. Despite being a useful tool for researching metabolic profiles in real time in relatively small numbers of cancer cells, the main Agilent Seahorse XF Pro Analyzer (Agilent Technologies, Santa Clara, CA, USA) guideline is currently not fully detailed in the distinction between suspensions vs. adherent cancer cells. This article provides step-by-step protocols for profiling metabolic fluxes in suspension vs. adherent cancer cells via Seahorse technology, including adjustments for normalisation of data on the basis of the number of viable cells or the total protein content. Owing to the adaptations of plates, reagents, cell count, and protein quantification, it is possible to (i) analyse both adherent and suspension cells with a single instrument; (ii) conduct all experiments in 96-well plates, thus using fewer cells, media, and reagents; (iii) determine the effect of a drug or compound directly on cell metabolism; (iv) normalise data on the basis of the number of viable cells or the total protein content via a spectrophotometer; and (v) achieve notable savings in cost and time.
Two Novel Mouse Models of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy with Similar Dmd Exon 51 Frameshift Mutations and Varied Phenotype Severity
Authors: Baikova Iuliia P. , Ilchuk Leonid A. , Safonova Polina D. , Varlamova Ekaterina A. , Okulova Yulia D. , Kubekina Marina V. , Tvorogova Anna V. , Dolmatova Daria M. , Bakaeva Zanda V. , Kislukhina Evgenia N. , Lizunova Natalia V. , Bruter Alexandra V. , Silaeva Yulia Yu.
Published: December 2024

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a severe X-linked genetic disorder caused by an array of mutations in the dystrophin gene, with the most commonly mutated regions being exons 48–55. One of the several existing approaches to treat DMD is gene therapy, based on alternative splicing and mutant exon skipping. Testing of such therapy requires animal models that carry mutations homologous to those found in human patients. Here, we report the generation of two genetically modified mouse lines, named “insT” and “insG”, with distinct mutations at the same position in exon 51 that lead to a frameshift, presumably causing protein truncation. Hemizygous males of both lines exhibit classical signs of muscular dystrophy in all muscle tissues except for the cardiac tissue. However, pathological changes are more pronounced in one of the lines. Membrane localization of the protein is reduced to the point of absence in one of the lines. Moreover, an increase in full-length isoform mRNA was detected in diaphragms of insG line mice. Although further work is needed to qualify these mutations as sole origins of dissimilarity, both genetically modified mouse lines are suitable models of DMD and can be used to test gene therapy based on alternative splicing.
Comprehensive Analysis of the GiTCP Gene Family and Its Expression Under UV-B Radiation in Glycyrrhiza inflata Bat
Authors: Liu Ziliang , Zhao Jiaang , Xiao Ying , Li Caijuan , Miao Rong , Chen Sijin , Zhang Dan , Zhou Xiangyan , Li Mengfei
Published: December 2024

TCP is a plant-specific transcription factor that plays an important role in plant growth and development. In this study, we used bioinformatics to identify the entire genome of the TCP gene family in Glycyrrhiza inflata Bat, and we analyzed the expression characteristics of GiTCP genes under UV-B radiation using qRT-PCR. The results were as follows: (1) 24 members of the TCP gene family were identified in G. inflata, evenly distributed on its 24 chromosomes. (2) The GiTCP genes contained 0–4 introns and 0–5 exons. (3) The GiTCP genes were phylogenetically divided into three subfamilies—PCF, CIN, and CYC/TB1, with 14, 9, and 1 GiTCP proteins, respectively. (4) A covariance analysis showed that two pairs of GiTCP genes underwent a fragmentary duplication event. (5) A cis-element analysis showed that the cis-responsive elements of the GiTCP genes’ promoter regions were mainly comprised of light-responsive, stress-responsive, hormone-regulated, growth and development, and metabolic-regulated elements. (6) A protein network interaction analysis revealed a total of 14 functional molecules of TCPs and 8 potential interacting proteins directly related to GiTCP proteins. (7) GO annotation showed that the GiTCP genes were mainly enriched in BP, CC, and MF groups and had corresponding functions. (8) RNA-seq and qRT-PCR further indicated that GiTCP3, 6, 7, 8, 12, 14, 17, 23, and 24 were up- or down-regulated in G. inflata after UV-B radiation, demonstrating that these genes responded to UV-B radiation in G. inflata. (9) Subcellular localization analysis showed that the GiTCP8 protein was localized in the nucleus. The results of this study provide a basis for further exploration of the function of the GiTCP gene family in the growth and development of G. inflata.
Vegetation Effects on LoRa-Based Wireless Sensor Communication for Remote Monitoring of Automatic Orchard Irrigation Status
Authors: Ahmed Shahriar , Reza Md Nasim , Samsuzzaman  , Karim Md Rejaul , Jin Hongbin , Kim Heetae , Chung Sun-Ok
Published: December 2024

LoRa-based sensor nodes may provide a reliable solution for wireless communication in orchard cultivation and smart farming, facilitating real-time environmental monitoring. However, the signal strength and data integrity can be affected by several factors, such as trees, terrain, weather, and nearby electrical devices. The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of orchard trees on the performance of a LoRa sensor node under orchard conditions. A sensor node, built with a commercial LoRa transceiver and microcontroller unit (MCU), was paired with a single-channel gateway linked to an orchard irrigation system. Performance metrics such as the packet delivery ratio (PDR), received signal strength indicator (RSSI), and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) were measured over a range of 20 to 120 m under open field conditions and in an orchard with trees averaging 3.12 and 4.36 m in height. Data were sent every 20 s using three spreading factors (SF8, SF10, and SF12) and stored as a CSV file in the MCU via a Python program. The results showed that the PDR remained consistently high (100%) under non-vegetative (open field) conditions. In the orchard under vegetative conditions, the PDR dropped significantly, with SF12 maintaining 100% only up to 120 m. For SF10, the packet delivery rates dropped to 45% at 80 m, while SF8 achieved 100% at 20 m but decreased to 52% at 40 m. SNR values also declined with an increase in distance, becoming largely undetectable beyond 40 m for SF8. These findings indicate that vegetation greatly impacts LoRa sensor node performance, reducing packet delivery and signal quality in orchards.
A Comparison Between Italian Division I and College American Football Players in the NFL Combine Test Battery
Authors: Nigro Federico , Bartolomei Sandro , D’Amico Alessio , Ciacci Simone , Di Michele Rocco , Coloretti Vittorio , Cortesi Matteo
Published: December 2024

Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the level of physical capacities of Italian American Football (AF) players and compare their performances with published data of American college players. A secondary aim was to assess whether the performance of Italian players in the NFL Combine tests has improved over time compared to previously tested players of similar competitive level. A total of 41 Italian AF players (age 28.1 ± 4.7 y, stature 181.1 ± 5.9 cm, body mass 98.3 ± 17.8 kg) competing in the 2020/2021 Division I Championship, participated in this study and performed the NFL Combine test battery. Methods: The NFL Combine test battery includes the 40-yard dash, the 20-yard shuttle, the 3-cone drill tests, the broad jump test, the vertical jump test, and the maximum number of repetitions at bench press with a 100 kg load. Players were divided into three groups based on their playing position: skill players (SP = 14), big skill players (BSP = 9), or linemen (LM = 13). In addition, players’ performance scores were normalized to their stature and body weight. Results: Italian players showed lower performances in all the six tests compared to American college players. Significant differences were observed between player positions. Normalized performances were significantly lower in Italian compared to American players. Conclusions: Despite an improving trend in the NFL Combine tests being registered in Italian AF players, a relevant gap still exists compared to their US counterparts.
Multi-Objective Dynamic Path Planning with Multi-Agent Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Tao Mengxue , Li Qiang , Yu Junxi
Published: December 2024

Multi-agent reinforcement learning (MARL) is characterized by its simple structure and strong adaptability, which has led to its widespread application in the field of path planning. To address the challenge of optimal path planning for mobile agent clusters in uncertain environments, a multi-objective dynamic path planning model (MODPP) based on multi-agent deep reinforcement learning (MADRL) has been proposed. This model is suitable for complex, unstable task environments characterized by dimensionality explosion and offers scalability. The approach consists of two components: an action evaluation module and an action decision module, utilizing a centralized training with decentralized execution (CTDE) training architecture. During the training process, agents within the cluster learn cooperative strategies while being able to communicate with one another. Consequently, they can navigate through task environments without communication, achieving collision-free paths that optimize multiple sub-objectives globally, minimizing time, distance, and overall costs associated with turning. Furthermore, in real-task execution, agents acting as mobile entities can perform real-time obstacle avoidance. Finally, based on the OpenAI Gym platform, environments such as simple multi-objective environment and complex multi-objective environment were designed to analyze the rationality and effectiveness of the multi-objective dynamic path planning through minimum cost and collision risk assessments. Additionally, the impact of reward function configuration on agent strategies was discussed.
Light Regulates Secreted Metabolite Production and Antagonistic Activity in Trichoderma
Authors: Esquivel-Naranjo Edgardo Ulises , Mancilla-Diaz Hector , Marquez-Mazlin Rudi , Alizadeh Hossein , Kandula Diwakar , Hampton John , Mendoza-Mendoza Artemio
Published: December 2024

Secondary metabolism is one of the main mechanisms Trichoderma uses to explore and colonize new niches, and 6-pentyl-α-pyrone (6-PP) is an important secondary metabolite in this process. This work focused on standardizing a method to investigate the production of 6-PP. Ethanol and ethyl acetate were both effective solvents for quantifying 6-PP in solution and had limited solubility in potato–dextrose–broth media. The 6-PP extraction using ethyl acetate provided a rapid and efficient process to recover this metabolite. The 6-PP was readily produced during the development of Trichoderma atroviride growing in the dark, but light suppressed its production. The 6-PP was purified, and its spectrum by nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectroscopy was identical to that of commercial 6-PP. Light also induced or suppressed other unidentified metabolites in several other species of Trichoderma. The antagonistic activity of T. atroviride was influenced by light, as suppression of plant pathogens was greater in the dark. The secreted metabolite production on potato–dextrose–agar was differentially regulated by light, indicating that Trichoderma produced several metabolites with antagonistic activity against plant pathogens. Light has an important influence on the secondary metabolism and antagonistic activity of Trichoderma, and this trait is of key relevance for selecting antagonistic Trichoderma strains for plant protection.
Evolution and Attribution Analysis of Habitat Quality in China’s First Batch of National Parks
Authors: Dai Pengyue , Wang Yanfang , Ye Jinhong , Chen Jing , Li Runze , Cheng Xiping
Published: December 2024

In October 2021, China established its first group of national parks, representing a milestone in enhancing the country’s nature reserve system and aligning with global trends in ecological conservation. This study aims to assess habitat quality changes and identify the driving factors in five national parks using multi-temporal land use data from 2000 to 2020. By integrating the land use transfer matrix with the InVEST model, we quantified habitat quality changes, while the geographical detector method was employed to analyze the key natural and socioeconomic drivers. Results showed that grassland and cultivated land were predominantly converted into forestland, leading to improvements in habitat quality in some parks. Specifically, Wuyishan National Park exhibited the highest and most stable habitat quality index, while Three-River-Source National Park experienced significant improvement (+34.10%). However, the Giant Panda, Northeast China Tiger and Leopard, and Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Parks experienced habitat degradation, with decreases of 15.15%, 14.50%, and 13.90%, respectively. Key drivers, such as NDVI, temperature, precipitation, elevation, and population density, were found to significantly influence habitat quality across the parks. This study highlights the ecological benefits of forestland restoration and the risks posed by the conversion of forest to cultivated or construction land, providing valuable insights for optimizing conservation strategies in China’s national parks.
Selection of Processing Methods and Parameters for Composite Inserts in Window Profiles with Regard to the Strength of Their Welds
Authors: Kozielczyk Marek , Mencel Kinga , Kowalczyk Jakub , Paczkowska Marta
Published: December 2024

In the study of structural materials, the analysis of fracture and deformation resistance plays an important role, particularly in materials widely used in the construction industry, such as poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC). PVC is a popular material used, among others, in the manufacture of window profiles, doors, pipes, and many other structural components. The aim of this research was to define the influence of the degree of milling of the glass-fibre-reinforced composite on the strength of the window frame welds, and in the next step, to propose new welding parameters to obtain sufficient strength properties that allow reducing the cost of the technological welding operation. During the tests, it was found that the average failure load of the composite samples was highest at a milling depth of 1 mm and lowest at 6 mm. Up to a depth of 1 mm, the values of destructive loads show an increasing trend, while above this depth, a decreasing trend. A clear reduction in strength was observed when milling to a depth of 1.5 mm, which is related to material discontinuity and the lack of a visible weld joint caused by milling too deep. The differences in average failure loads between the samples of 0 mm, 0.5 mm, and 1 mm milling are minimal.
The Complex Valorization of Black Alder Bark Biomass in Compositions of Rigid Polyurethane Foam
Authors: Arshanitsa Alexandr , Pals Matiss , Vevere Laima , Jashina Lilija , Bikovens Oskars
Published: December 2024

The use of black alder (BA) bark biomass in rigid polyurethane (PUR) foam compositions was the main task of investigation. Extractive compounds isolated from the bark through hot water extraction were used as precursors for bio-polyol synthesis via acid-free liquefaction with the polyether polyol Lupranol 3300 and through oxypropylation with propylene carbonate. The OH functionality and composition of the polyols were analyzed via wet chemistry and FTIR spectroscopy. The solid remaining after the isolation of extractive compounds was also utilized as a natural filler in PUR foams. The effects of replacing commercial polyols with bio-polyols on the foam rising rate and their mechanical properties, morphology, thermal conductivity, and thermal degradation characteristics were examined. The oxypropylated extractive-based PUR compositions demonstrated the most favorable balance between the biomass content and material properties. At an apparent density of 40 kg/m3, the compressive strength of the produced foams was enhanced by 1.4–1.5 times, while the maximum thermal degradation rate in air decreased by 3.8–6.5 times compared to reference materials without adversely affecting the foam morphology. The composition based on liquefied extractives showed lower performance but still improved properties relative to the reference foams. Introducing 3.7–14% of extracted bark into the foam compositions increased the biomass content to 22–24%, although this led to a decrease in the compressive strength and thermal stability. It was shown that partially substituting fossil-derived components with renewable bark biomass in the composition of PUR foams allows for materials with characteristics similar or better to petrochemical-based materials to be obtained. Therefore, the results presented can be considered a contribution to addressing environmental problems and promoting the development of a sustainable economy.
Influence of Periodically Varying Slit Widths on Sound Absorption by a Slit Pore Medium
Authors: Attenborough Keith
Published: December 2024

A simple pore microstructure of parallel, identical, and inclined smooth-walled slits in a rigid solid, for which prediction of its geometrical and acoustic properties is straightforward, can yield useful sound absorption. This microstructure should be relatively amenable to 3D printing. Discrepancies between measurements and predictions of normal incidence sound absorption spectra of 3D printed vertical and slanted slit pore samples have been attributed to the rough surfaces of the slit walls and uneven slit cross-sections perpendicular to the printing direction. Theories of the influence of (a) sinusoidal walls and (b) periodically varying uniform slit widths on the normal incidence absorption spectra of a slit pore medium are outlined. Although the slit wall surface and geometrical imperfections due to 3D printing differ from these idealizations, predictions assuming the ideal forms of roughness confirm that pore-wall roughness could account for differences between predictions and data. Pore-wall roughness is predicted to increase both flow resistivity and tortuosity, thereby increasing the low-frequency sound absorption of thin hard-backed layers. The extent to which sinusoidal slit walls or periodically varying uniform slit widths could improve the sound absorption of a low flow resistivity hard-backed layer containing identical vertical slits is explored.
Lu3Al5O12:Ce3+ Fluorescent Ceramic with Deep Traps: Thermoluminescence and Photostimulable Luminescence Properties
Authors: Zhang Junwei , Zhao Miao , Hu Qiao , Jiang Renjie , Ruan Hao , Lin Hui
Published: December 2024

Electron-trapping materials have attracted a lot of attention in the field of optical data storage. However, the lack of suitable trap levels has hindered its development and application in the field of optical data storage. Herein, Lu3Al5O12:Ce3+ fluorescent ceramics were developed as the optical storage medium, and high-temperature vacuum sintering induced the formation of deep traps (1.36 eV). The matrix based on the garnet-structured material ensures excellent rewritability. By analyzing the thermoluminescence and photostimulable luminescence, it is found that the transition of electrons provided by Ce3+ between the conduction band and trap levels offers the possibility for optical data storage. As evidence of its application, the optical information encoding using 254 nm light and decoding using a light stimulus and thermal stimulus were applied. These findings are expected to provide candidate material for novel optical storage technology, and further promote the development of advanced information storage technology.
Assessment of Steel Storage Tank Thickness Obtained from the API 650 Design Procedure Through Nonlinear Dynamic Analysis, Accounting for Large Deformation Effects
Authors: Fallah Daryavarsari Sobhan , Nascimbene Roberto
Published: December 2024

This study evaluates the API 650 design procedure for steel storage tanks, incorporating nonlinear dynamic analysis with large deformation effects. Focusing on seismic vulnerability, the case study examines storage tanks proposed for construction in Naples, Italy, assessing their performance under site-specific seismic conditions. A target spectrum and 20 earthquake records were selected to reflect regional seismic characteristics. Initial tank thicknesses were calculated using API 650 guidelines and subsequently analyzed through nonlinear time-history simulations in SAP2000. Results reveal that thicknesses derived from API 650s linear average spectrum equations are insufficient for real seismic demands. Through a trial-and-error methodology, optimal thicknesses were determined to ensure satisfactory performance across all seismic records. Key findings highlight significant variations in mode participation, the frequent occurrence of elephant-foot buckling in tanks with lower H/R ratios, and the limitations of linear spectral analysis for realistic earthquake scenarios. Given the vital role of storage tanks in the oil and gas industry, this study emphasizes the need to integrate nonlinear time history analysis into design processes to enhance seismic resilience, particularly in high-risk regions.
Impact of Ce Doping on the Relaxor Behavior and Electrical Properties of Sr0.4Ba0.6Nb2O6 Ferroelectric Ceramics
Authors: Zhao Yingying , Mao Pu , Kang Ruirui , Li Ziao , Kang Fang
Published: December 2024

In this work, the rare earth element Ce was incorporated into the A-site of Sr0.4Ba0.6Nb2O6 ferroelectric ceramics, which was prepared using the conventional solid state reaction method and sintered under different procedures. A comprehensive investigation was conducted to assess the impact of Ce doping and varying sintering procedures on both the relaxor characteristics and electrical properties of the ceramics. When sintered at 1300 °C for 4 h, the grains exhibited an isometric shape. However, when the sintering temperature increases and the holding time prolongs, the grain size increases and presents columnar crystal. The change tendency of dielectric constant is similar with that of the grain size, and the dielectric peak value of samples sintered at 1300 °C for 4 h is the lowest. But the sintering procedure has almost no influence on the Curie point, which notably decreases as the Ce content rises and is primarily governed by the composition. The diffuseness fitting results and the deviation from the Curie–Weiss law indicate that relaxor characteristics increase with the Ce content increasing. The polarization electric (P-E) loops become slimmer with increasing Ce content, verifying the relaxor behavior variation of samples. As a result, the Pmax and Pr values decrease and the Pmax − Pr value increases with increasing Ce content. Notably, the energy storage density and efficiency enhance obviously with higher Ce content, which is attributed to the relaxor behavior. Furthermore, at a Ce content of 4 mol%, the P-E loops and energy storage performance exhibit remarkable frequency and fatigue stability. Therefore, this study offers valuable insights into the investigation of relaxor behavior and the influence of rare earth elements on the properties of tungsten bronze-structured ferroelectrics.
In-Volume Glass Modification Using a Femtosecond Laser: Comparison Between Repetitive Single-Pulse, MHz Burst, and GHz Burst Regimes
Authors: Lafargue Manon , Guilberteau Théo , Balage Pierre , Gavory Bastien , Lopez John , Manek-Hönninger Inka
Published: December 2024

In this study, we report, for the first time, to the best of our knowledge, on in-volume glass modifications produced by GHz bursts of femtosecond pulses. We compare three distinct methods of energy deposition in glass, i.e., the single-pulse, MHz burst, and GHz burst regimes, and evaluate the resulting modifications. Specifically, we investigate in-volume modifications produced by each regime under varying parameters such as the pulse/burst energy, the scanning velocity, and the number of pulses in the burst, with the aim of establishing welding process windows for both sodalime and fused silica.
Factorization of the Non-Normal Hamiltonian of Reggeon Field Theory in Bargmann Space
Authors: Intissar Abdelkader
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we present a “non-linear” factorization of a family of non-normal operators arising from Gribov’s theory of the following form: Hλ′,μ,λ=λ′A*2A2+μA*A+iλA*(A+A*)A, where the quartic Pomeron coupling λ′, the Pomeron intercept μ and the triple Pomeron coupling λ are real parameters, and i2=−1. A* and A are, respectively, the usual creation and annihilation operators of the one-dimensional harmonic oscillator obeying the canonical commutation relation [A,A*]=I. In Bargmann representation, we have A⟷ddz and A*⟷z, z=x+iy. It follows that Hλ′,μ,λ can be written in the following form: Hλ′,μ,λ=p(z)d2dz2+q(z)ddz, where p(z)=λ′z2+iλz and q(z)=iλz2+μz. This operator is an operator of the Heun type where the Heun operator is defined by H=p(z)d2dz2+q(z)ddz+v(z), where p(z) is a cubic complex polynomial, q(z) and v(z) are polynomials of degree at most 2 and 1, respectively, which are given. For z=−iy, Hλ′,μ,λ takes the following form: Hλ′,μ,λ=−a(y)d2dy2+b(y)ddz, with a(y)=y(λ−λ′y) and b(y)=y(λy+μ). We introduce the change of variable y=λ2λ′(1−cos(θ)), θ∈[0,π] to obtain the main result of transforming Hλ′,μ,λ into a product of two first-order operators: H˜λ′,μ,λ=λ′(ddθ+α(θ))(−ddθ+α(θ)), with α(θ) being explicitly determined.
Performance Analysis of Artificial-Noise-Based Secure Transmission in Wiretap Channel
Authors: Son Hyukmin
Published: December 2024

Artificial noise (AN)-aided techniques have been considered to be promising and practical candidates for enhancing physical layer security. However, there has been a lack of analysis regarding the AN effect on the eavesdropper (EV) from the perspective of the signal-to-interference plus noise ratio (SINR) regarding the existence of the EV’s channel state information (CSI) at the legitimate transmitter. In this paper, we analyze the performance of AN-aided secure transmission from the SINR perspective when a legitimate transmitter has and does not have the EV’s CSI. Based on the analyzed EV’s SINRs for the above two cases, the secrecy gap, which is the difference between the two secrecy capacities, is defined and analyzed. Based on the derived secrecy gap, we have analyzed the asymptotic performances of the secrecy capacity and gap when the number of antennas of the legitimate transmitter and the number of antennas of the EV have large values. Through asymptotic analysis, it is demonstrated that the AN-aided secure transmission under the practical environment (i.e., the case that the EV’s CSI is not available at the legitimate transmitter) can nearly achieve an ideal performance (i.e., the performance when the EV’s CSI is available at the legitimate transmitter) in a massive antenna system.
Enhanced Small Reflections Sparse-Spike Seismic Inversion with Iterative Hybrid Thresholding Algorithm
Authors: Feng Yue , Dai Ronghuo , Fan Zidan
Published: December 2024

Seismic inversion is a process of imaging or predicting the spatial and physical properties of underground strata. The most commonly used one is sparse-spike seismic inversion with sparse regularization. There are many effective methods to solve sparse regularization, such as L0-norm, L1-norm, weighted L1-norm, etc. This paper studies the sparse-spike inversion with L0-norm. It is usually solved by the iterative hard thresholding algorithm (IHTA) or its faster variants. However, hard thresholding algorithms often lead to a sharp increase or numerical oscillation of the residual, which will affect the inversion results. In order to deal with this issue, this paper attempts the idea of the relaxed optimal thresholding algorithm (ROTA). In the solution process, due to the particularity of the sparse constraints in this convex relaxation model, this model can be considered as a L1-norm problem when dealt with the location of non-zero elements. We use a modified iterative soft thresholding algorithm (MISTA) to solve it. Hence, it forms a new algorithm called the iterative hybrid thresholding algorithm (IHyTA), which combines IHTA and MISTA. The synthetic and real seismic data tests show that, compared with IHTA, the results of IHyTA are more accurate with the same SNR. IHyTA improves the noise resistance.