bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A low-calorie diet raises β-aminoisobutyric acid in relation to glucose regulation and leptin independent of exercise in women with obesity
Authors: Faiz Habiba , Malin Steven K.
Published: June 2023

Introduction: β-aminoisobutyric acid (BAIBA) is a suggested cytokine secreted from skeletal muscles that regulates insulin sensitivity, pancreatic function, and fat oxidation. However, no studies to date have examined if a low-calorie diet (LCD) or LCD + with interval exercise (LCD + INT) differentially raises BAIBA. The purpose was to examine if LCD or LCD + INT raises circulating BAIBA in relation to cardiometabolic health.

Methods: For this, twenty-three women with obesity were randomized to either 2-weeks of LCD (n = 12, 48.4 ± 2.5 y, 37.84 ± 1.5 kg/m2; ∼1200 kcal/day) or LCD + INT (n = 11, 47.6 ± 4.3 y, 37.9 ± 2.3 kg/m2; ∼60 min/d of INT alternating 3 min of 90% and 50% HRpeak), with matched energy availability. Fasting BAIBA and adipokines along with glucose, insulin, C-peptide, and FFA after every 30 min up to 120 min were obtained during a 75 g OGTT to estimate total area under the curve (tAUC), insulin sensitivity (SIIS), pancreatic function [disposition index (DI)], and hepatic insulin clearance (HIC). Fuel use (indirect calorimetry) was tested at 0, 60, and 120 min of the OGTT along with fitness (VO2peak) and body composition (BodPod).

Results: Both treatments lowered body weight (p < 0.001) and leptin (p < 0.001) but raised BAIBA (p = 0.007) and insulin sensitivity (p = 0.02). LCD + INT increased VO2peak (p = 0.02) and REE tAUC120min (p = 0.02) while LCD and LCD + INT decreased carbohydrate oxidation (CHOox) tAUC120min (p < 0.001). Increased BAIBA associated with reduced weight (r = −0.67, p < 0.001), leptin (r = −0.66, p = 0.001), CHOox tAUC120min (r = −0.44, p = 0.03) and DImuscle120min (r = −0.45, p = 0.03), but elevated HIC120min (r = 0.47, p = 0.02).

Discussion: Concluding, LCD and LCD + INT increased BAIBA in relation to reduced body weight and pancreatic function in women with obesity. This suggests energy deficit is a key factor regulating circulating BAIBA.
Novel sources of resistance to fusarium wilt in Luffa species
Authors: Bindal Sumant , Sheu Zong-ming , Kenyon Lawrence , Taher Dalia , Rakha Mohamed
Published: June 2023

Fusarium wilt is a serious disease of cucurbit crops including cultivated Luffa species (Luffa aegyptiaca, Luffa acutangula) causing considerable amount of reduction in yield and quality. Luffa is starting to be used as rootstocks for major commercial cucurbit crops, but little is known of its resistance against soilborne diseases. Here, 63 Luffa accessions from the World Vegetable Center genebank were evaluated for resistance to an aggressive isolate of Fusarium oxysporum f. FoCu-1 (Fsp-66). According to visual screening based on disease severity rating, 14 accessions exhibited a high level of resistance against Fsp-66. These accessions were further evaluated for resistance against Fsp-66 and two more isolates FoCu-1 (isolated from infected cucumber plants) and FoM-6 (isolated from infected bitter gourd plants). Of the 14 accessions, 11 were confirmed resistant against isolate Fsp-66. In addition, 13 accessions showed high resistance against isolates FoCu-1 and FoM-6. This is the first report of Fusarium wilt resistance in Luffa and these sources will be valuable for the development of Luffa rootstocks/cultivars resistant to soil-borne pathogen to manage this serious disease.
Comprehensive metabolomics-based analysis of sugar composition and content in berries of 18 grape varieties
Authors: Zhong Haixia , Yadav Vivek , Wen Zhang , Zhou Xiaoming , Wang Min , Han Shouan , Pan Mingqi , Zhang Chuan , Zhang Fuchun , Wu Xinyu
Published: June 2023

Xinjiang is the largest grape-producing region in China and the main grape cultivation area in the world. The Eurasian grape resources grown in Xinjiang are very rich in diversity. The sugar composition and content are the main factors that determine the quality of berries. However, there are currently no systematic reports on the types and contents of sugars in grapes grown in Xinjiang region. In this research, we evaluated the appearance and fruit maturity indicators of 18 grape varieties during fruit ripening and determined their sugar content using GC-MS. All cultivars primarily contained glucose, D-fructose, and sucrose. The glucose content in varieties varied from 42.13% to 46.80% of the total sugar, whereas the fructose and sucrose contents varied from 42.68% to 50.95% and 6.17% to 12.69%, respectively. The content of trace sugar identified in grape varieties varied from 0.6 to 2.3 mg/g. The comprehensive assessment by principal component analysis revealed strong positive correlations between some sugar components. A comprehensive study on the content and types of sugar will provide the foundation to determine the quality of grape cultivars and effective ways to utilize resources to improve sugar content through breeding.
Rentier State Theory 50 years on: new developments
Authors: Walker Scott
Published: June 2023

As Rentier State Theory (RST) has recently passed the half-century mark, it is clear that rentier states have changed dramatically during that time. The article discusses three recent developments in RST scholarship in recent years. First, the theory has evolved a great deal in order to survive. Second, scholars have incorporated a greater degree of dynamism into state behavior. Finally, there have been attempts to explain how and when RST may cease to exist in its current form.
NASA resilience and leadership: examining the phenomenon of awe
Authors: Thompson Jeff
Published: June 2023

This study examines how a phenomenon, awe, along with related resilience practices, is perceived by a NASA medical and mental health professional, who also serves in a leadership role, and how awe has impacted their work and personal life. Considering both their leadership role and how their work involves supporting the wellbeing of astronauts pre-mission, during missions, and post-mission, the potential impact of awe on the NASA expert has individual implications along with many others, especially in stressful environments. The results indicate that reflecting on awe experiences can support a person finding meaning and purpose in their life, evoke gratitude, increase social connectedness, promote optimism and other resilience skills in the moment, and generally have a sustainable positive effect.
Design guidelines for limiting and eliminating virtual reality-induced symptoms and effects at work: a comprehensive, factor-oriented review
Authors: Souchet Alexis D. , Lourdeaux Domitile , Burkhardt Jean-Marie , Hancock Peter A.
Published: June 2023

Virtual reality (VR) can induce side effects known as virtual reality-induced symptoms and effects (VRISE). To address this concern, we identify a literature-based listing of these factors thought to influence VRISE with a focus on office work use. Using those, we recommend guidelines for VRISE amelioration intended for virtual environment creators and users. We identify five VRISE risks, focusing on short-term symptoms with their short-term effects. Three overall factor categories are considered: individual, hardware, and software. Over 90 factors may influence VRISE frequency and severity. We identify guidelines for each factor to help reduce VR side effects. To better reflect our confidence in those guidelines, we graded each with a level of evidence rating. Common factors occasionally influence different forms of VRISE. This can lead to confusion in the literature. General guidelines for using VR at work involve worker adaptation, such as limiting immersion times to between 20 and 30 min. These regimens involve taking regular breaks. Extra care is required for workers with special needs, neurodiversity, and gerontechnological concerns. In addition to following our guidelines, stakeholders should be aware that current head-mounted displays and virtual environments can continue to induce VRISE. While no single existing method fully alleviates VRISE, workers' health and safety must be monitored and safeguarded when VR is used at work.
Exploring public attention and sentiment toward carbon neutrality: evidence from Chinese social media Sina Weibo
Authors: Wang Bo , Jiang Zixiao , Cheng Dawei , Wang Ziao
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Exploring the public’s cognition toward carbon neutrality is conducive to improving the quality and effectiveness of policymaking, and promoting the realization of carbon neutrality goals. This study aims to explore the public’s attention and sentiment toward carbon neutrality from the perspective of social psychology.

Methods

Using posts on carbon neutrality from the Chinese social media platform Sina Weibo as the data source, this study uses statistical analysis, the Mann-Kendall method, keyword analysis, the BERT model, and the LDA model to explore public attention and sentiment.

Results

The results show that: (1) men, people living east of the Hu line (economically developed regions), and the public in the energy finance market are more concerned about carbon neutrality; (2) high public attention and great dynamic changes in public attention toward carbon neutrality could be trigged by highly credible government or international governmental organizations’ information; (3) public sentiment toward carbon neutrality is mostly positive; however, specific topics affect public sentiment differently.

Discussion

The research results contribute to policymakers’ better understanding of the trend of public attention and sentiment toward carbon neutrality, and support improvements in the quality and impact of policymaking.
Neuroimaging study of electroconvulsive therapy for depression
Authors: Chen Xiaolu , Yang Hanjie , Cui Long-Biao , Li Xiao
Published: June 2023

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is an important treatment for depression. Although it is known as the most effective acute treatment for severe mood disorders, its therapeutic mechanism is still unclear. With the rapid development of neuroimaging technology, various neuroimaging techniques have been available to explore the alterations of the brain by ECT, such as structural magnetic resonance imaging, functional magnetic resonance imaging, magnetic resonance spectroscopy, positron emission tomography, single photon emission computed tomography, arterial spin labeling, etc. This article reviews studies in neuroimaging on ECT for depression. These findings suggest that the neurobiological mechanism of ECT may regulate the brain functional activity, and neural structural plasticity, as well as balance the brain’s neurotransmitters, which finally achieves a therapeutic effect.
The effective on intradermal acupuncture based on changes in biological specificity of acupoints for major depressive disorder: study protocol of a prospective, multicenter, randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Tu Mingqi , Wu Xiaoting , Qu Siying , Jin Junyan , Chen Nisang , Xiong Sangsang , Pei Shuangyi , Li Xinwei , Shi Yan , Hu Hantong , Li Xiaoyu , Fang Jianqiao , Shao Xiaomei
Published: June 2023

Background

Antidepressants still have some side effects in treating major depressive disorder (MDD), and acupuncture therapy is a complementary therapy of research interest for MDD. Acupoints are sensitive sites for disease response and stimulation points for acupuncture treatment. Prior studies suggest that the biological specificity of acupoints is altered in physiological and pathological situations. Therefore, we hypothesize that the biological specificity of acupoints is associated with the diagnosis of MDD and that stimulating acupoints with significant biological specificity can achieve a better therapeutic effect than clinical common acupoints. This study aims to investigate the efficacy and safety of intradermal acupuncture (IA) treatment for MDD based on changes in the biological specificity of acupoints.

Methods

The first part of the study will enroll 30 MDD patients and 30 healthy control (HC) participants to assess pain sensitivity and thermal specificity of MDD-related acupoints using a pressure pain threshold gauge (PTG) and infrared thermography (IRT). The potentially superior acupoints for treating MDD will be selected based on the results of PTG and IRT tests and referred to as pressure pain threshold strong response acupoints (PSA) and temperature strong response acupoints (TSA).

The second part of the study will enroll 120 eligible MDD patients randomly assigned to waiting list (WL) group, clinical common acupoint (CCA) group, TSA group, and PSA group in a 1:1:1:1 ratio. The change in the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 Items (PHQ-9), the MOS item short-form health survey (SF-36), pressure pain threshold, temperature of acupoints, and adverse effects will be observed. The outcomes of PHQ-9 and SF-36 measures will be assessed before intervention, at 3 and 6 weeks after intervention, and at a 4-week follow-up. The biological specificity of acupoint measures will be assessed before intervention and at 6 weeks after intervention. All adverse effects will be assessed.

Discussion

This study will evaluate the therapeutic effect and safety of IA for MDD based on changes in the biological specificity of acupoints. It will investigate whether there is a correlation between the biological specificity of MDD-related acupoints and the diagnosis of MDD and whether stimulating strong response acupoints is superior to clinical common acupoints in the treatment of MDD. The study’s results may provide insights into the biological mechanisms of acupuncture and its potential as a complementary therapy for MDD.

Clinical Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT05524519.
Adverse short-term effects of ozone on cardiovascular mortalities modified by season and temperature: a time-series study
Authors: Gao Panjun , Wu Yongsheng , He Lihuan , Wang Li , Fu Yingbin , Chen Jinrong , Zhang Fengying , Krafft Thomas , Martens Pim
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Ambient ozone pollution becomes critical in China. Conclusions on the short-term effects of ozone on cardiovascular mortality have been controversial and limited on cause-specific cardiovascular mortalities and their interactions with season and temperature. This research aimed to investigate the short-term effects of ozone and the modifications of season and temperature on cardiovascular mortality.

Methods

Cardiovascular death records, air pollutants, and meteorological factors in Shenzhen from 2013 to 2019 were analyzed. Daily 1-h maximum of ozone and daily maximum 8-h moving average of ozone were studied. Generalized additive models (GAMs) were applied to evaluate their associations with cardiovascular mortalities in sex and age groups. Effect modifications were assessed by stratifying season and temperature.

Results

Distributed lag impacts of ozone on total cardiovascular deaths and cumulative effects on mortality due to ischemic heart disease (IHD) were most significant. Population under 65 years old was most susceptible. Majority of significant effects were found in warm season, at high temperature, and at extreme heat. Ozone-associated risks in total deaths caused by hypertensive diseases reduced in warm season, while risks in IHD in males increased at high temperature. Extreme heat enhanced ozone effects on deaths caused by CVDs and IHD in the population under 65 years old.

Discussion

The revealed cardiovascular impacts of ozone below current national standard of air quality suggested improved standards and interventions in China. Higher temperature, particularly extreme heat, rather than warm season, could significantly enhance the adverse effects of ozone on cardiovascular mortality in population under 65 years old.
Study on Life Prediction Method of Ball Screw Base on Constructed Degradation Feature and IGWO-BiLSTM
Authors: Wu Qin , Niu Jun , Wang Xinglian
Published: June 2023

Regarding the problem of reduced remaining useful life (RUL) due to wear of the ball screw in the feed system of CNC (computer numerical control) machine tools, a prediction method based on constructing the degradation feature vector of the signal data and the improved gray-wolf optimization with bidirectional long short-term memory (IGWO-BiLSTM) neural network regression model is proposed. Firstly, a time-domain analysis and the complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise analysis (CEEMDAN) were carried out based on the collected life cycle signal data of a ball screw. The time-domain feature vector and the energy feature vector of each IMF (intrinsic mode function) component after CEEMDAN decomposition were constructed. The Pearson correlation coefficient was used to filter feature vectors and construct the multivariate feature vector. Secondly, this paper improves the traditional gray wolf optimization algorithm, adds a search strategy based on dimension learning, and combines the improved algorithm with the BiLSTM model, based on the IGWO-BiLSTM theory. A regression model between feature vectors and the remaining life of a ball-screw system was established. Finally, the prediction model was established according to the proposed method and compared with the other five neural network models: LSTM, BiLSTM, BO-LSTM (Bayesian optimization of LSTM), BO-BiLSTM, and IGWO-LSTM. The results indicate that this method has high accuracy and good generalization ability for predicting the remaining life of a ball-screw system.
Loyalty Programmes and Their Specifics in the Chinese Hospitality Industry—Qualitative Study
Authors: Gubíniová Katarína , Moller Thorsten Robert , Treľová Silvia , Jarossová Malgorzata Agnieszka
Published: June 2023

Instead of aiming to achieve as many members as possible, it is important to focus on retaining customers, which is achieved with the support of loyalty programmes. As the tourism and hospital industries have become the fastest growing sectors in the world, hotels have realised the potential to focus on their loyal customers. A qualitative approach was adopted to explore the attractiveness of loyalty programmes to Chinese consumers and the challenges of such programmes in the hospitality industry. The aim of this paper is to identify which aspects of a loyalty programme in the hospitality industry are perceived as attractive to Chinese customers. This qualitative research highlights the perspective of industry leaders such as general managers and executives working in the club lounges of five-star hotels in Suzhou as well as loyalty programme consultants with a focus on China. The qualitative research findings are aimed at supporting hotels in China and loyalty programmes with a focus on Chinese consumers in the hospitality industry in order to receive more knowledge and to explore new strategies on how to retain and satisfy Chinese programme members.
State-of-Charge Estimation of Batteries for Hybrid Urban Air Mobility
Authors: Yoo Min Young , Lee Jung Heon , Choi Joo-Ho , Huh Jae Sung , Sung Woosuk
Published: June 2023

This paper proposes a framework for accurately estimating the state-of-charge (SOC) and current sensor bias, with the aim of integrating it into urban air mobility (UAM) with hybrid propulsion. Considering the heightened safety concerns in an airborne environment, more reliable state estimation is required, particularly for the UAM that uses a battery as its primary power source. To ensure the suitability of the framework for the UAM, a two-pronged approach is taken. First, realistic test profiles, reflecting actual operational scenarios for the UAM, are used to model the battery and validate its state estimator. These profiles incorporate variations in battery power flow, namely, charge-depleting and charge-sustaining modes, during the different phases of the UAM’s flight, including take-off, cruise, and landing. Moreover, the current sensor bias is estimated and corrected concurrently with the SOC. An extended Kalman filter-based bias estimator is developed and experimentally validated using actual current measurements from a Hall sensor, which is prone to noise. With this correction, a SOC estimation error is consistently maintained at 2% or lower, even during transitions between operational modes.
Alloparenting by Helpers in Striped Hyena (Hyaena hyaena)
Authors: Hadad Ezra , Balaban Amir , Yosef Reuven
Published: June 2023

In an ongoing study of the striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena), we observed that in the nine different females, alloparenting by the daughters of a previous litter was not uncommon and occurred on fifteen different occasions, twice with two helpers. Alloparenting persisted from when the cubs are approximately a month old until they reach the age when they go out foraging with their mothers at 10–12 months. Helpers perform most maternal duties, except suckling, even in the mother’s presence. Helpers accrued indirect fitness and practiced parenting before reaching sexual maturity. Future studies must study the reproductive biology of the striped hyena in the wild throughout its geographic range to elucidate additional breeding properties that have not yet been identified. The continued persecution of striped hyenas and the lack of information about their breeding rituals and capabilities in the wild mean that this study of their different reproduction strategies, focusing on surrogate mothers, is of great conservation importance. The fact that we have found cooperative breeding in this solitary species suggests that there is much more to uncover of the enigmatic striped hyena in the wild.
A Literature Review of Modeling Approaches Applied to Data Collected in Automatic Milking Systems
Authors: Ozella Laura , Brotto Rebuli Karina , Forte Claudio , Giacobini Mario
Published: June 2023

Automatic milking systems (AMS) have played a pioneering role in the advancement of Precision Livestock Farming, revolutionizing the dairy farming industry on a global scale. This review specifically targets papers that focus on the use of modeling approaches within the context of AMS. We conducted a thorough review of 60 articles that specifically address the topics of cows’ health, production, and behavior/management Machine Learning (ML) emerged as the most widely used method, being present in 63% of the studies, followed by statistical analysis (14%), fuzzy algorithms (9%), deterministic models (7%), and detection algorithms (7%). A significant majority of the reviewed studies (82%) primarily focused on the detection of cows’ health, with a specific emphasis on mastitis, while only 11% evaluated milk production. Accurate forecasting of dairy cow milk yield and understanding the deviation between expected and observed milk yields of individual cows can offer significant benefits in dairy cow management. Likewise, the study of cows’ behavior and herd management in AMSs is under-explored (7%). Despite the growing utilization of machine learning (ML) techniques in the field of dairy cow management, there remains a lack of a robust methodology for their application. Specifically, we found a substantial disparity in adequately balancing the positive and negative classes within health prediction models.
Research Animal Behavioral Management Programs for the 21st Century
Authors: Turner Patricia V. , Bayne Kathryn
Published: June 2023

Behavioral management programs have been developed commonly for research dogs and primates but rarely has program consideration been expanded to include all research species worked with. This is necessary to reduce animal stress and promote natural behaviors, which can promote good animal welfare and result in more robust and reproducible scientific data. We describe the evolution of consideration for research animal needs and define an umbrella-based model of research animal behavioral management programs, which may be used for all research species. In addition to developing a more comprehensive program, we emphasize the need for regular welfare assessments to determine whether the program is working cohesively and whether any aspects require modification.
Enhancing Rearing of European Seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) in Aquaponic Systems: Investigating the Effects of Enriched Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) Prepupae Meal on Fish Welfare and Quality Traits
Authors: Zarantoniello Matteo , de Oliveira Adriana Alves , Sahin Tolga , Freddi Lorenzo , Torregiani Matteo , Tucciarone Isabella , Chemello Giulia , Cardinaletti Gloriana , Gatto Elia , Parisi Giuliana , Bertolucci Cristiano , Riolo Paola , Nartea Ancuta , Gioacchini Giorgia , Olivotto Ike
Published: June 2023

Within the modern aquaculture goals, the present study aimed to couple sustainable aquafeed formulation and culturing systems. Two experimental diets characterized by 3 and 20% of fish meal replacement with full-fat spirulina-enriched black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) prepupae meal (HPM3 and HPM20, respectively) were tested on European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) juveniles during a 90-day feeding trial performed in aquaponic systems. The experimental diets ensured 100% survival and proper zootechnical performance. No behavioral alterations were evidenced in fish. Histological and molecular analyses did not reveal structural alterations and signs of inflammation at the intestinal level, highlighting the beneficial role on gut health of bioactive molecules typical of HPM or derived from the enriching procedure of insects’ growth substrate with spirulina. Considering the quality traits, the tested experimental diets did not negatively alter the fillet’s fatty acid profile and did not compromise the fillet’s physical features. In addition, the results highlighted a possible role of spirulina-enriched HPM in preserving the fillet from lipid oxidation. Taken together, these results corroborate the use of sustainable ingredients (spirulina-enriched HPM) in aquaponic systems for euryhaline fish rearing.
Effects of Dietary Bioactive Lipid Compounds of Acacia nilotica Bark on Productive Performance, Antioxidant Status, and Antimicrobial Activities of Growing Rabbits under Hot Climatic Conditions
Authors: Abdel-Wareth Ahmed A. A. , El-Sayed Hazem G. M. , Hassan Hamdy A. , El-Chaghaby Ghadir A. , Abdel-Warith Abdel-Wahab A. , Younis Elsayed M. , Amer Shimaa A. , Rashad Sayed , Lohakare Jayant
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of dietary Acacia nilotica bark bioactive lipid compounds (ANBBLCs) as novel feed additives on the growth performance, carcass criteria, antioxidants, and antimicrobial activities of growing male rabbits. A total of 100 California male weanling rabbits aged 35 days were divided into four nutritional treatments, each of which contained ANBBLCs at concentrations of 0 (control group), 50, 100, and 150 mg/kg diet (n = 25 per treatment, each replication consisting of one animal). The average body weight of the animals was 613 ± 14 g. The experiments lasted for 56 days. Dietary ANBBLC levels linearly improved (p < 0.05) the body weight, body weight gain, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) of rabbits. Furthermore, with increasing concentrations of ANBBLCs, the total antioxidant capacity of blood and liver tissue was linearly (p < 0.05) enhanced. Lactobacillus increased and Staphylococcus decreased (p < 0.05) in comparison to the control group when ANBBLC levels were added to the diets of rabbits. Rabbit diets supplemented with ANBBLCs increased dressing percentages and decreased abdominal fat. This study shows that ANBBLCs can be used as a feed additive to enhance the growth performance, carcass criteria, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties of growing rabbits.
The Effect of Reduced Crude Protein on Growth Performance, Nutrient Digestibility, and Meat Quality in Weaning to Finishing Pigs
Authors: Han Young-Geol , Lee Geon-Il , Do Sung-Ho , Jang Jae-Cheol , Kim Yoo-Yong
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to evaluate optimal crude protein (CP) levels based on the National Research Council guidelines from 1998 and 2012 and their impacts on growth performance, fecal score, blood profiles, nutrient digestibility, and carcass characteristics of weaning to finishing pigs. Four diets were established in this experiment: high-protein (HP), medium-high-protein (MHP), medium-low-protein (MLP), and low-protein (LP). The HP diet followed the NRC (1998) guidelines, while the MHP diet reduced the CP content by 1%. The MLP diet had 1.5% lower CP content than the HP diet. The LP diet followed the NRC guideline of 2012, which suggests less protein than the NRC guideline of 1998. There were no significant differences in body weight, average daily feed intake, or nutrient digestibility. However, the average daily gain (ADG) of pigs fed the LP diet at 7–10 weeks was lower than in the other treatments, whereas the ADG of the pigs fed the LP diet was higher compared with that of pigs fed the other diets, showing compensatory growth in finishing periods (p < 0.05). The blood urea nitrogen of pigs fed the LP diet showed the lowest value, whereas the highest value was found in pigs fed the HP diet, and the other two diets were similar to the HP diet or positioned between the HP and LP diets (p < 0.05). Water holding capacity, cooking loss, shear force, and pH in the longissimus muscle were not influenced by varying dietary CP levels (p > 0.05), but the hunter values L and b were increased in pigs fed the LP diet (p < 0.05). Conclusively, a low-protein diet did not negatively affect growth performance, nutrient digestibility, or meat quality.
A Comparative Genomic and Phylogenetic Investigation of the Xenobiotic Metabolism Enzymes of Cytochrome P450 in Elephants Shows Loss in CYP2E and CYP4A
Authors: Watanabe Kanami , Kondo Mitsuki , Ikenaka Yoshinori , Nakayama Shouta M. M. , Ishizuka Mayumi
Published: June 2023

Cytochrome P450 is an important enzyme that metabolizes a variety of chemicals, including exogenous substances, such as drugs and environmental chemicals, and endogenous substances, such as steroids, fatty acids, and cholesterol. Some CYPs show interspecific differences in terms of genetic variation. As little is known about the mechanisms of elephant metabolism, we carried out a comparative genomic and phylogenetic analysis of CYP in elephants. Our results suggest that elephant CYP genes have undergone independent duplication, particularly in the CYP2A, CYP2C, and CYP3A genes, a unique cluster specific to elephant species. However, while CYP2E and CYP4A were conserved in other Afrotheria taxa, their decay in elephants resulted in genetic dysfunction (pseudogene). These findings outline several remarkable characteristics of elephant CYP1–4 genes and provide new insights into elephant xenobiotic metabolism. Further functional investigations are necessary to characterize elephant CYP, including expression patterns and interactions with drugs and sensitivities to other chemicals.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Crossbred Cow Milk Production in a Silvopastoral System in Tropical Mexico
Authors: Sarabia-Salgado Lucero , Alves Bruno J. R. , Boddey Robert , Urquiaga Segundo , Galindo Francisco , Flores-Coello Gustavo , Santos Camila Almeida dos , Jiménez-Ocampo Rafael , Ku-Vera Juan , Solorio-Sánchez Francisco
Published: June 2023

In Mexico, pasture degradation is associated with extensive pastures; additionally, under these conditions, livestock activities contribute considerably to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Among the options to improve grazing systems and reduce GHG emissions, silvopastoral systems (SPS) have been recommended. The objectives of this work were to quantify the N outflow in a soil–plant–animal interface, as well as the CH4 emissions and milk production in an SPS with woody legumes (Leucaena leucocephala) that is associated with stargrass (Cynodon nlemfuensis). This was then compared with stargrass in a monoculture system (MS) in the seasons (dry and rainy period) over a two-year period. Dung was collected from the animals of each of the grazing systems and applied fresh to the land plots. Fresh dung and urine were collected from the cows of each grazing system and were applied to the experimental plots. In addition, the soil CH4 and N2O contents were measured to quantify the emissions. Average milk yield by seasons was similar: MS (7.1 kg per animal unit (AU)/day−1) and SPS (6.31 kg per AU/day−1). Cows in the MS had a mean N intake of 171.9 g/UA day−1 without seasonal variation, while the SPS animals’ mean N intake was 215.7 g/UA day−1 for both seasons. For the urine applied to soil, the N2O outflow was higher in the MS (peak value = 1623.9 μg N-N2O m−2 h−1). The peak value for the SPS was 755.9 μg of N-N2O m−2 h−1. The N2O emissions were higher in the rainy season (which promotes denitrification). The values for the feces treatment were 0.05% (MS) and 0.01% (SPS). The urine treatment values were 0.52% (MS) and 0.17% (SPS). The emissions of CH4 showed that the feces of the SPS systems resulted in a higher accumulation of gas in the rainy season (29.8 g C ha−1), followed by the feces of the MS system in the dry season (26.0 g C ha−1). Legumes in the SPS helped to maintain milk production, and the N2O emissions were lower than those produced by the MS (where the pastures were fertilized with N).
Optimization of High-Speed Rail Express Transportation Plan Considering Products’ Variable Time Requirements
Authors: Lu Teer , Chen Junhua , Zhao Chunxiao , Xie Xiaoling
Published: June 2023

The global express market has expanded significantly in recent years. High-speed rail express freight transportation has been implemented between multiple cities in China, significantly improving transportation efficiency and effectively meeting demand. In this paper, an optimization model for HSR (high-speed railway) express transport plan is constructed using a space-time-state network, and an improved adaptive genetic algorithm is designed to solve the model. Reasonable transport schemes could be arranged for each cargo flow with the objective of maximizing operational revenue. The numerical experiment based on the Harbin–Dalian high-speed railway in China verifies the effectiveness and applicability of the proposed model. The results show that for HSR operators, appropriate transport strategies can be planned in terms of delivery priorities and transportation mode selection to make full use of the remaining capacity of HSR trains and increase operational revenue.
Cross-Wind Aeroelastic Effects of Tall Buildings with a Hexagonal Cross-Section
Authors: Fan Yuhui , Lu Jingwen , Wang Lei
Published: June 2023

This research investigates the cross-wind aeroelastic effects of tall buildings with hexagonal cross-sections by using aeroelastic models with multiple-degree-of-freedom (MDOF). Cross-wind displacement and acceleration responses at the top of each model are measured using the wind tunnel test. The aerodynamic damping ratios for the two representative wind directions are identified by analyzing the measured responses using the random decrement technique. Results show that large-amplitude vortex-induced vibrations occur for one of the representative wind directions where the vertex of the hexagonal model is against the approaching wind, while there is no significant VIV observed for the other representative wind direction where the face of the hexagonal model is perpendicular to the approaching wind. The most dangerous wind direction is then identified based on the discussion. Two expressions for the cross-wind aerodynamic damping ratio are established for the two wind representative wind directions. The two equations can be used in engineering practice to estimate the cross-wind aerodynamic damping ratio of hexagonal tall buildings.
Extreme Heat Events over Southeast Europe Based on NEX-GDDP Ensemble: Present Climate Evaluation and Future Projections
Authors: Chervenkov Hristo , Malcheva Krastina
Published: June 2023

Southeast Europe is considered one of the most vulnerable regions in the context of climate change, and projected future summer warming is expected to exceed global rates significantly. Despite the importance of this problem, there have been few studies that utilized Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) Global Circulation Models (GCMs) and the multi-model ensemble approach to examine extreme heat events on a regional scale. Additionally, the NEX-GDDP dataset, successfully applied in other parts of the world to assess extreme heat, has not yet been utilized for Southeast Europe. This study aims to fill that gap, presenting the time evolution and spatial distribution of extreme heat events in Southeast Europe for the historical period 1950–2005 and for the expected future climate up to the end of the 21st century based on the NEX-GDDP dataset. In order to leverage the strengths of the multi-model ensemble approach, a set of purpose-tailored indicators, such as the annual number of hot days, the maximum number of consecutive hot days, and hot spell duration at different thresholds, is computed by the daily maximum temperature data from all datasets, produced by NEX-GDDP (21 for the historical period and 42 for the future period). The E-OBS dataset is used as a reference for evaluating the NEX-GDDP’s capability to simulate the features of the observed historical extreme heat events. The results show that the multi-model ensemble can satisfactorily capture the occurrence of extreme heat events in the historical period, and therefore it is reasonable to assume that the NEX-GDDP dataset has the potential to reproduce such extremes in the projected future. The study provides clear evidence that the persistence and spatial extent of extreme heat will increase significantly. Some indicators that were not relevant for the historical period due to the high-temperature threshold will become helpful in assessing extreme heat in Southeast Europe in the latter part of the century. Thus, under the RCP8.5 scenario, the area-averaged duration of hot spells at 32 °C and 34 °C will increase from near zero in 1976–2005 to 60 and 45 days, respectively, by the end of the century. The indicators used in the study may be helpful for decision-makers to implement climate change mitigation strategies and actions adequately. The findings are consistent with general tendencies in maximum temperatures considered in our previous works but also with the outcomes of recent studies dedicated to the future climate of the region.
A Spatially Detailed Projection of Environmental Conditions in the Arctic Initiated by Climate Change
Authors: Kislov Alexander , Alyautdinov Ali , Baranskaya Alisa , Belova Nataliya , Bogatova Daria , Vikulina Marina , Zheleznova Irina , Surkova Galina
Published: June 2023

The environmental conditions of the Arctic are vulnerable to the effects of climate change. We focus on the territory of the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug (YaNAO). The objective of this study is to project mid-21st century climate-driven changes in the state of climate and the natural environment in the YaNAO. For this purpose, the CMIP6 data models with the climate change scenario SSP5-8.5 were used. Climate change directly affects the statistics of extreme events and climatically driven phenomena, such as frosts and thaws, as well as avalanches and slush flows. Climate change causes changes in the Arctic environment, primarily due to permafrost degradation, leading to important modifications in events such as mudflows, cryogenic landslides, abrasion, erosion, suffusion, frost heave, solifluction, thermokarst, and others. In some cases, the intensity and area of these processes increase, such as heaving processes and thermokarst becoming more active by 2050. In other cases, the solifluction processes decrease in the south part of the YaNAO due to the discontinuous or sporadic permafrost distribution. Projected climatic changes will inevitably lead to the restructuring of the geosystems in YaNAO, creating risks for infrastructure in economically active territories.
Improved Line Intensity Analysis of Neutral Helium by Incorporating the Reabsorption Processes in a Helium Collisional-Radiative Model
Authors: Lin Keren , Goto Motoshi , Akatsuka Hiroshi
Published: June 2023

In this study, eight emission lines in the visible wavelength range of neutral helium were used to diagnose the electron density and temperature of the Large Helical Device (LHD) helium plasma instead of the conventional three-line method. The collisional-radiative (CR) model for low-pressure helium plasma was revised to include the optical escape factors for spontaneous transition from the n1P states to the ground state so that the influence of the absorption effect under optically thick conditions could be considered. The developed algorithm was based on fitting the number densities of eight excited states obtained using optical emission spectroscopy (OES). The electron density, electron temperature, ground-state density, and optical escape factors were selected as the fitting parameters. The objective function was set as the summation of the residual errors between the number densities measured in the experiment and those calculated using the revised model. A regularization term was introduced for the optical escape factor and optimized through bias and variance analyses. The results show that the agreement between the number density calculated by the algorithm and its counterpart measured in the experiment was generally improved compared to the method using three lines.
Integrated Design of a Functional Composite Electrolyte and Cathode for All-Solid-State Li Metal Batteries
Authors: Zhang Zhenghang , Fan Rongzheng , Huang Saifang , Zhao Jie , Zhang Yudong , Dai Weiji , Zhao Cuijiao , Song Xin , Cao Peng
Published: June 2023

Solid composite electrolytes exhibit tremendous potential for practical all-solid-state lithium metal batteries (ASSLMBs), whereas the interfacial contact between cathode and electrolyte remains a long-standing problem. Herein, we demonstrate an integrated design of a double-layer functional composite electrolyte and cathode (ID-FCC), which effectively improves interfacial contact and increases cycle stability. One composite electrolyte layer, PVDFLiFSI@LLZNTO (PL1@L), comes into contact with the LLZNTO (Li6.5La3Zr1.5Nb0.4Ta0.1O12)-containing cathode, while the other layer, PEOLiTFSI@LLZNTO (PL2@L) with a Li anode, is introduced in each. Such a design establishes a continuous network for the transport of Li+ on the interface, and includes the advantages of both PEO and PVDF for improving stability with the electrodes. The Li symmetric cells Li/PL2@L-PL1@L-PL2@L/Li steadily cycled for more than 3800 h under the current density of 0.05 mA cm−2 at 60 °C. Outstandingly, the all-solid-state batteries of LiFePO4-ID-FCC/Li showed an initial specific capacity of 161.5 mA h g−1 at 60 °C, demonstrating a remaining capacity ratio of 56.1% after 1000 cycles at 0.1 C and 74.5% after 400 cycles at 0.5 C, respectively. This work provides an effective strategy for solid-state electrolyte and interface design towards ASSLMBs with high electrochemical performance.
Simultaneous Inhibition of Mcl-1 and Bcl-2 Induces Synergistic Cell Death in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Michalski Marlen , Bauer Magdalena , Walz Franziska , Tümen Deniz , Heumann Philipp , Stöckert Petra , Gunckel Manuela , Kunst Claudia , Kandulski Arne , Schmid Stephan , Müller Martina , Gülow Karsten
Published: June 2023

Despite the recent approval of new therapies, the prognosis for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains poor. There is a clinical need for new highly effective therapeutic options. Here, we present a combined application of BH3-mimetics as a potential new treatment option for HCC. BH3-mimetics inhibit anti-apoptotic proteins of the BCL-2 family and, thus, trigger the intrinsic apoptosis pathway. Anti-apoptotic BCL-2 proteins such as Bcl-2 and Mcl-1 are frequently overexpressed in HCC. Therefore, we analyzed the efficacy of the two BH3-mimetics ABT-199 (Bcl-2 inhibitor) and MIK665 (Mcl-1 inhibitor) in HCC cell lines with differential expression levels of endogenous Bcl-2 and Mcl-1. While administration of one BH3-mimetic alone did not substantially trigger cell death, the combination of two inhibitors enhanced induction of the intrinsic apoptosis pathway. Both drugs acted synergistically, highlighting the effectivity of this specific BH3-mimetic combination, particularly in HCC cell lines. These results indicate the potential of combining inhibitors of the BCL-2 family as new therapeutic options in HCC.
Development of Personalized Thrombogenesis and Thrombin Generation Assays to Assess Endothelial Dysfunction in Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Bacci Monica , Cancellara Assunta , Ciceri Roberta , Romualdi Erica , Pessi Valentina , Tumminello Fabio , Fantuzzi Martina , Donadini Marco Paolo , Lodigiani Corrado , Della Bella Silvia , Calcaterra Francesca , Mavilio Domenico
Published: June 2023

The study of endothelial dysfunction (ED) is crucial to identify the pathogenetic mechanism(s) and provide indications for patient management in cardiovascular diseases. It is currently hindered by the limited availability of patient-specific primary endothelial cells (ECs). Endothelial colony-forming cells (ECFCs) represent an optimal non-invasive tool to overcome this issue. Therefore, we investigated the use of ECFCs as a substrate in thrombogenesis and thrombin generation assay (TGA) to assess ED. Both assays were set up on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and then tested on ECFCs obtained from healthy donors. To prove the ability of the assays to detect endothelial activation, ECs stimulated with TNFα were compared with unstimulated ECs. EC activation was confirmed by the upregulation of VCAM-1 and Tissue Factor expression. Both assays discriminated between unstimulated and activated HUVECs and ECFCs, as significantly higher platelet deposition and fibrin formation in thrombogenesis assay, and thrombin generation in TGA, were observed when TNFα-activated ECs were used as a substrate. The amount of fibrin and thrombin measured in the two assays were directly correlated. Our results support the combined use of a thrombogenesis assay and TGA performed on patient-derived ECFCs to provide a personalized global assessment of ED relevant to the patient’s hemostatic profile.
Early Knee Osteoarthritis Classification and Clinical Evolution: A Longitudinal Observational Pilot Study
Authors: Herrero-Manley Luz , Alabajos-Cea Ana , Suso-Martí Luis , Viosca-Herrero Enrique , Vazquez-Arce Isabel
Published: June 2023

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is one of the main problems of an aging society in terms of incidence, impairment to the quality of daily living (QOL), and economics. The main aim of this study was to verify the usefulness, in practical terms, of applying the existing diagnostic criteria of early knee osteoarthritis (EKOA). The secondary objective of this project was to evaluate the clinical progression of healthy subjects (HS) at risk of osteoarthritis and of patients with diagnosed EKOA. A cross-sectional longitudinal pilot study was carried out, in which 105 participants were classified as EKOA patients or HS according to the diagnostic criteria. Measures of disability, pain, and self-reported variables were assessed. Two follow-ups were performed in order to assess the diagnoses and radiological progression, and the clinical progression was evaluated using self-reported measures. Following the current diagnostic criteria, the participants were divided into EKOA and HS. Most of the participants did not present changes in their classification, although some subjects were reclassified as EKOA or HS in the follow-ups which were performed. The current classification criteria for EKOA based on self-reported measures, radiological findings, and clinical conditions such as pain could lead to a misdiagnosis of this process, as fluctuations in the classifications of patients according to their conditions were found during follow up.