bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-wide identification and characterization of Puccinia striiformis-responsive lncRNAs in Triticum aestivum
Authors: Das Parinita , Grover Monendra , Mishra Dwijesh Chandra , Guha Majumdar Sayanti , Shree Bharti , Kumar Sundeep , Mir Zahoor Ahmad , Chaturvedi Krishna Kumar , Bhardwaj Subhash Chander , Singh Amit Kumar , Rai Anil
Published: August 2023

Wheat stripe rust (yellow rust) caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst) is a serious biotic stress factor limiting wheat production worldwide. Emerging evidence demonstrates that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) participate in various developmental processes in plants via post-transcription regulation. In this study, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed on a pair of near-isogenic lines—rust resistance line FLW29 and rust susceptible line PBW343—which differed only in the rust susceptibility trait. A total of 6,807 lncRNA transcripts were identified using bioinformatics analyses, among which 10 lncRNAs were found to be differentially expressed between resistance and susceptible lines. In order to find the target genes of the identified lncRNAs, their interactions with wheat microRNA (miRNAs) were predicted. A total of 199 lncRNAs showed interactions with 65 miRNAs, which further target 757 distinct mRNA transcripts. Moreover, detailed functional annotations of the target genes were used to identify the candidate genes, pathways, domains, families, and transcription factors that may be related to stripe rust resistance response in wheat plants. The NAC domain protein, disease resistance proteins RPP13 and RPM1, At1g58400, monodehydroascorbate reductase, NBS-LRR-like protein, rust resistance kinase Lr10-like, LRR receptor, serine/threonine-protein kinase, and cysteine proteinase are among the identified targets that are crucial for wheat stripe rust resistance. Semiquantitative PCR analysis of some of the differentially expressed lncRNAs revealed variations in expression profiles of two lncRNAs between the Pst-resistant and Pst-susceptible genotypes at least under one condition. Additionally, simple sequence repeats (SSRs) were also identified from wheat lncRNA sequences, which may be very useful for conducting targeted gene mapping studies of stripe rust resistance in wheat. These findings improved our understanding of the molecular mechanism responsible for the stripe rust disease that can be further utilized to develop wheat varieties with durable resistance to this disease.
The exposure of field-grown maize seedlings to weed volatiles affects their growth and seed quality
Authors: Sakurai Yusuke , Ishizaki Satomi , Izumi Shota , Yoshida Takuma , Shiojiri Kaori , Takabayashi Junji
Published: August 2023

Plants exposed to volatiles emitted from artificially damaged conspecific or heterospecific plants exhibit increased resistance to herbivorous insects. Here, we examined whether volatiles from artificially damaged weeds affect maize growth and reproduction. Seven days after germination, maize seedlings were exposed to volatiles emitted by artificially damaged mugwort (Artemisia indica var. maximowiczii) or tall goldenrod (Solidago altissima) plants either separately, or as a mixture of the two, for seven days. Unexposed seedlings were used as controls. Treated and control seedlings were cultivated in an experimental field without any insecticides applied. Plants exposed to either of the three volatile treatments sustained significantly less damage than controls. Additionally, seedlings exposed to either goldenrod or mixed volatiles produced more leaves and tillers than control plants. Furthermore, a significant increase in the number of ears was observed in plants exposed to the volatile mixture. In all treated plants, ear sugar content was significantly higher than that in the controls. Further, we cultivated seedlings that were either exposed to the volatile mixture or unexposed, under the conventional farming method using pesticides. Similar significant differences were observed for sugar content, number of tillers, leaves, damaged leaves, and ears. Laboratory experiments were conducted to further evaluate the mechanisms involved in the improved performance of volatile-treated plants. A significant reduction in the growth of common armyworm (Mythimna separata) larvae was observed when maize plants were exposed to the volatile mixture. This treatment did not affect the amount of jasmonic acid in the seedlings, whereas salicylic acid content increased upon exposure. The characteristic differences in chemical composition of mugwort and goldenrod volatiles were confirmed and, in turn, the volatile mixture differed significantly from the volatiles of either species.
Heavy metal induced resistance to herbivore of invasive plant: implications from inter- and intraspecific comparisons
Authors: Zhou Yue , Chen Chao , Xiong Yuntao , Xiao Feng , Wang Yi
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Heavy metals can affect the content of secondary metabolites in plants, which are one of the important defenses of plants against herbivores. However, studies on the effects of heavy metals on secondary metabolites of invasive plants are scarce. Phytolacca americana is an invasive plant in China, which can hyperaccumulate the heavy metal Mn.

Methods

This study used two Mn treatments (control and treatment group) and four species from Phytolacca (including the native and introduced populations of P. americana, its native and exotic congeners in China) to investigate the impact of heavy metal Mn on the invasive ability of P. americana.

Results

The results show that heavy metal Mn can enhance the inhibitory effect of the introduced populations of P. americana on the growth of herbivore (the weight of herbivore has decreased by 66%), and altered the feeding preferences of herbivore. We also found that heavy metal Mn can significantly increase the content of quantitative resistance in the leaves of the introduced populations of P. americana and is higher than its native populations, native and exotic congeners. In addition, heavy metal Mn caused the quantitative resistance of the exotic congener significantly higher than that of the native congeners.

Discussion

In summary, the heavy metal Mn can increase the content of secondary metabolites in leaves to enhance the interspecific competitive advantage of P. americana and promote its invasion, and also increase the invasion risk of exotic species.
Cryo-attenuated properties of Tilia miqueliana pericarps and seeds
Authors: Wu Yu , Sun Xiao Rui , Peng Chen Yin , Shen Yong Bao , Visscher Anne M. , Pritchard Hugh W. , Wang Ming Zhu , Deng Zhi Yun
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Cryo treatment of dry seeds is known to attenuate the structure of fruit and seed coats, but little is known about the microstructural impacts of such treatment. The seeds of Tilia miqueliana are dispersed within a hard pericarp, the manual removal (hulling) of which is time-consuming and inefficient. Rapid hulling technology is urgently needed for sustainable production and convenience of edible nuts.

Methods

We explored the mechanistic basis of liquid nitrogen (N)-treatment weakening of the pericarp of T. miqueliana fruits using a range of microscopical, biophysical and chemical approaches.

Results

Liquid N treatment (40 s) resulted in lower pericarp contents of cellulose and hemicellulose, and increased amounts of lignin. Profound changes in cell structure and mechanical properties included the emergence of large holes and gaps between the mesocarp and endocarp cells. Also, the toughness of the pericarp decreased, whilst the hardness and brittleness increased, thereby changing the fracture type from ductile to brittle. Liquid N treatment of dry fruits followed by tapping with a hammer, reduced the number of damaged seeds three-fold and pericarp peeling time four-fold compared with manual hulling, whilst seed viability was not negatively affected.

Discussion

Comparable findings for the efficient and economical removal of hard covering structures from dispersal units of five more species from three other families following liquid N treatment indicates the potential application of our findings to large-scale production of seeds and seedlings for breeding, forestry and conservation/restoration purposes. Furthermore, it introduces a novel concept for postharvest treatment and pre-treatment of deep processing in nuts.
The mediating role of negative symptoms in “secondary factors” determining social functioning in chronic schizophrenia
Authors: Hu Na , Li Wei , Deng Hu , Song Jiaqi , Yang Hanxue , Chai Jiabao , Huang Wenqian , Wang Hong , Zhou Xuanzi , Zhang Pan , He Sushuang , Cui Yonghua , Fan Tengteng , Li Ying
Published: August 2023

Background

Chronic schizophrenia is significantly influenced by negative symptoms, with several known contributors to secondary negative symptoms. However, the impact of these factors and negative symptoms on social functioning warrants further exploration.

Methods

We assessed the clinical symptoms, antipsychotic adverse reactions, and social functioning of 283 hospitalized patients with chronic schizophrenia using various standardized interviews and scales. We conducted multiple regression and mediation analyses to elucidate the impact of secondary factors on negative symptoms, and the relationship among these “secondary factors,” negative symptoms, and social functioning.

Results

Our findings identified depressive symptoms, extrapyramidal symptoms, and positive symptoms as significant contributors to secondary negative symptoms. We found that negative symptoms play a notable mediating role in the effect of depressive and positive symptoms on social functioning. However, the relationship between positive symptoms, negative symptoms, and social functioning proved to be intricate.

Conclusion

Our findings propose that negative symptoms act as pivotal mediators in the correlation between “secondary factors” (including the depressive symptoms and positive symptoms) and social functioning. The treatment of chronic schizophrenia necessitates focusing on key factors such as depressive and positive symptoms, which might significantly contribute to the development of secondary negative symptoms. Further research is essential to clarify the complex relationship among positive symptoms, negative symptoms, and social functioning in schizophrenia.
Biological agents and the aging brain: glial inflammation and neurotoxic signaling
Authors: Latham Amanda S. , Moreno Julie A. , Geer Charlize E.
Published: August 2023

Neuroinflammation is a universal characteristic of brain aging and neurological disorders, irrespective of the disease state. Glial inflammation mediates this signaling, through astrocyte and microglial polarization from neuroprotective to neurotoxic phenotypes. Glial reactivity results in the loss of homeostasis, as these cells no longer provide support to neurons, in addition to the production of chronically toxic pro-inflammatory mediators. These glial changes initiate an inflammatory brain state that injures the central nervous system (CNS) over time. As the brain ages, glia are altered, including increased glial cell numbers, morphological changes, and either a pre-disposition or inability to become reactive. These alterations induce age-related neuropathologies, ultimately leading to neuronal degradation and irreversible damage associated with disorders of the aged brain, including Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and other related diseases. While the complex interactions of these glial cells and the brain are well studied, the role additional stressors, such as infectious agents, play on age-related neuropathology has not been fully elucidated. Both biological agents in the periphery, such as bacterial infections, or in the CNS, including viral infections like SARS-CoV-2, push glia into neuroinflammatory phenotypes that can exacerbate pathology within the aging brain. These biological agents release pattern associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) that bind to pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) on glial cells, beginning an inflammatory cascade. In this review, we will summarize the evidence that biological agents induce reactive glia, which worsens age-related neuropathology.
Learning to reason over scene graphs: a case study of finetuning GPT-2 into a robot language model for grounded task planning
Authors: Chalvatzaki Georgia , Younes Ali , Nandha Daljeet , Le An Thai , Ribeiro Leonardo F. R. , Gurevych Iryna
Published: August 2023

Long-horizon task planning is essential for the development of intelligent assistive and service robots. In this work, we investigate the applicability of a smaller class of large language models (LLMs), specifically GPT-2, in robotic task planning by learning to decompose tasks into subgoal specifications for a planner to execute sequentially. Our method grounds the input of the LLM on the domain that is represented as a scene graph, enabling it to translate human requests into executable robot plans, thereby learning to reason over long-horizon tasks, as encountered in the ALFRED benchmark. We compare our approach with classical planning and baseline methods to examine the applicability and generalizability of LLM-based planners. Our findings suggest that the knowledge stored in an LLM can be effectively grounded to perform long-horizon task planning, demonstrating the promising potential for the future application of neuro-symbolic planning methods in robotics.
Bottom-up assessment of household electricity consumption in dynamic cities of the Global South—Evidence from Kigali, Rwanda
Authors: Vetter-Gindele Jannik , Bachofer Felix , Braun Andreas , Uwayezu Ernest , Rwanyiziri Gaspard , Eltrop Ludger
Published: August 2023

Data on electricity consumption is crucial for assessing and modeling energy systems, making it a key element of sustainable urban planning. However, many countries in the Global South struggle with a shortage of statistically valid, geocoded, and disaggregated household-level data. This paper aims to develop a generic methodology for the generation of such a database in terms of electricity consumption. The methodology was tested in Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda, with a focus on all single-family residential building types of the inner city. Discrete data on buildings is obtained through combined information products derived from very high resolution (VHR) satellite imagery, field surveys, and computer assisted personal interviewing. In total, 509 valid geocoded survey datasets were used to evaluate and model household electricity consumption, as well as electrical appliance ownership. The study's findings reveal that the arithmetic mean of specific electricity consumption was 3.66 kWh per household per day and 345 kWh per capita per year in 2015. By subdividing the data into distinct building types as well as their spatial location, and weighting the specific values according to their proportion in the study area, a more accurate mean value of 1.88 kWh per household per day and 160 kWh per capita per year was obtained. Applying this weighted mean to extrapolate household electricity consumption for the study area, in conjunction with the sample's precision level, resulted in an estimate of 126–137 GWh for the year 2015. In contrast, using the arithmetic mean would have led to values twice as high, even exceeding the total electricity consumption of the entire city, including multi-family and non-residential buildings. The study highlights the significance of on-site data collection combined with geospatial mapping techniques in enhancing of understanding of residential energy systems. Using building types as indicators to distinguish between households with contrasting electricity consumption and electrical appliance load levels can address the challenges posed by rapid urban growth in the Global South. This proposed method can assist municipal administrations in establishing a database that can be updated resource-efficiently at regular intervals by acquiring new satellite images.
Stoichiometric model of a fully closed bioregenerative life support system for autonomous long-duration space missions
Authors: Vermeulen Angelo C. J. , Papic Alvaro , Nikolic Igor , Brazier Frances
Published: August 2023

Bioregenerative life support systems (BLSS) are vital for long-duration and remote space missions to increase mission sustainability. These systems break down human waste materials into nutrients and CO2 for plants and other edible organisms, which in turn provide food, fresh water, and oxygen for astronauts. The central idea is to create a materially closed loop, which can significantly reduce mission mass and volume by cutting down or even eliminating disposable waste. In most BLSS studies only a fraction of the resources, such as food, are provided by the system itself, with the rest taken on board at departure or provided through resupply missions. However, for autonomous long-duration space missions without any possibility of resupply, a BLSS that generates all resources with minimal or no material loss, is essential. The goal of this study is to develop a stoichiometric model of a conceptually fully closed BLSS that provides all the metabolic needs of the crew and organisms. The MELiSSA concept of the European Space Agency is used as reference system, consisting of five interconnected compartments, each inhabited by different types of organisms. A detailed review of publicly available MELiSSA literature from 1989 to 2022 revealed that no existing stoichiometric model met the study’s requirements. Therefore, a new stoichiometric model was developed to describe the cycling of the elements C, H, O, and N through all five MELiSSA compartments and one auxiliary compartment. A compact set of chemical equations with fixed coefficients was established for this purpose. A spreadsheet model simulates the flow of all relevant compounds for a crew of six. By balancing the dimensions of the different compartments, a high degree of closure is attained at steady state, with 12 out of 14 compounds exhibiting zero loss, and oxygen and CO2 displaying only minor losses between iterations. This is the first stoichiometric model of a MELiSSA-inspired BLSS that describes a continuous provision of 100% of the food and oxygen needs of the crew. The stoichiometry serves as the foundation of an agent-based model of the MELiSSA loop, as part of the Evolving Asteroid Starships (E|A|S) research project.
The role of perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) exposure in inflammation of intestinal tissues and intestinal carcinogenesis
Authors: Durham Jerika , Tessmann Josiane Weber , Deng Pan , Hennig Bernhard , Zaytseva Yekaterina Y.
Published: August 2023

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are organofluorine substances that are used commercially in products like non-stick cookware, food packaging, personal care products, fire-fighting foam, etc. These chemicals have several different subtypes made of varying numbers of carbon and fluorine atoms. PFAS substances that have longer carbon chains, such as PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonic acid), can potentially pose a significant public health risk due to their ability to bioaccumulate and persist for long periods of time in the body and the environment. The National Academies Report suggests there is some evidence of PFOS exposure and gastrointestinal (GI) inflammation contributing to ulcerative colitis. Inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis are precursors to colorectal cancer. However, evidence about the association between PFOS and colorectal cancer is limited and has shown contradictory findings. This review provides an overview of population and preclinical studies on PFOS exposure and GI inflammation, metabolism, immune responses, and carcinogenesis. It also highlights some mitigation approaches to reduce the harmful effects of PFOS on GI tract and discusses the dietary strategies, such as an increase in soluble fiber intake, to reduce PFOS-induced alterations in cellular lipid metabolism. More importantly, this review demonstrates the urgent need to better understand the relationship between PFOS and GI pathology and carcinogenesis, which will enable development of better approaches for interventions in populations exposed to high levels of PFAS, and in particular to PFOS.
The Key Physiological and Biochemical Traits Underlying Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Response to Iron Deficiency, and Related Interrelationships
Authors: Nsiri Khawla , Krouma Abdelmajid
Published: August 2023

Iron deficiency is a worldwide nutritional problem affecting crop production. In Tunisia, this mineral disorder hampers the growth and yield of the major crops due to the abundance of calcareous soils that limit iron availability. The common bean is one of these crops suffering from lime-induced iron chlorosis. The exploration of the variability of common bean responses to iron deficiency allows us to screen tolerant cultivars and identify useful traits and indicators for further screening programs. To this end, two common bean cultivars (coco blanc, CB, and coco nain, CN) were cultivated hydroponically in standard nutrient solution (control) or nutrient solution deprived of iron (stressed). Analyses were reported on plant growth, photosynthetic pigments, photosynthesis, iron distribution, H-ATPase, and Fe-chelate reductase (Fe-CR) activities; important indicators were calculated; and convenient correlations were established. Current results demonstrated that iron deficiency stimulated specific symptoms of iron chlorosis on young leaves that were more precocious and severe in CB than CN. Spad index and chlorophyll pigments measurement confirmed these morphological changes and cultivar differences. Net photosynthesis (Pn) showed the same scheme of variation, with a significant decrease in Pn while respecting the previous cultivar’s variability. Plant growth is no exception to this general trend. The biomass decrease was two times higher in CB than CN. Otherwise, this mineral disorder significantly decreased Fe concentration in all plant organs. However, CN accumulated 40% more Fe than CB, resulting from its higher Fe Fe-CR and H-ATPase activities. Our results also demonstrated the close dependence of these metabolic functions on Fe availability in shoots and the strict relationship between Fe-CR and H-ATPase, photosynthesis, and chlorophyll content. Otherwise, CN demonstrated higher efficiency of Fe’s use (FeUE) for the key metabolic functions (photosynthesis, chlorophyll biosynthesis, and plant growth). The relative tolerance of CN as compared to CB was explained by its ability to establish a functional system less vulnerable to iron deficiency that operates effectively under problematic conditions. This system involves metabolic functions in shoots (photosynthesis, chlorophyll biosynthesis, Fe repartition, etc.) and others in roots (H-ATPase, Fe-CR), which are strictly interdependent.
Sexual Dimorphism in the Limb Bones of Asiatic Toad (Bufo gargarizans) in Relation to Sexual Selection
Authors: Yan Chengzhi , Ma Hui , Yang Yuejun , Mi Zhiping
Published: August 2023

Sexual dimorphism is often considered to be the result of differences in the intensity of sexual selection between sexes. From this point of view, the sexual dimorphism of the limb bones of the Bufo gargarizans in southwest China was studied. Results showed that the fore- and hindlimb skeletons of this species were sexually dimorphic in anatomy. The humerus, radioulna, and total lengths of the forelimb skeleton of males were substantially longer than those of females, but the hand length of males was smaller than that of females. Several other features of males, such as deltoid and medial crest areas and humerus and radioulnar weights, were also significantly larger than those of females. The femoris, tibiofibula, talus–calcaneus, and foot lengths; total hindlimb skeleton length; and femoral upper crest areas of males were significantly greater than those of females. However, no significant intersexual difference in femoris and tibiofibular weights was observed. These findings suggested that robust forelimb bones and long hindlimb bones could contribute to the mating success of males; if so, sexual selection promotes the evolution of sexual size and shape dimorphism in the limb bones of the B. gargarizans.
Geographic Variation in Organ Size in a Toad (Duttaphrynus melanostictus)
Authors: Deng Weiye , Jin Long , Qiu Duojing , Yan Chengzhi , Liao Wenbo
Published: August 2023

Adaptive evolution is the process by which organisms change their morphological, physiological and biochemical characteristics to adapt to different environments during long-term natural selection. Especially, researching variation in organ size can provide important insights into morphological adaptation in amphibians. In this study, we comparatively studied differences in organ sizes (heart, lungs, liver, gallbladder, kidneys, spleen, digestive tract, testes and brain) among five geographical populations of the Asian common toad Duttaphrynus melanostictus. Our results revealed significant variations in the size of these nine specific organs among the populations. Notably, we observed a significant positive correlation between the relative size of the testes and latitude and/or altitude. However, no correlation was found between the relative size of the heart and the length of the digestive tract with altitude across populations, respectively, contradicting Hesse’s rule and the digestion theory. These findings suggest that our study does not provide substantial theoretical support for the adaptive evolution of organ size in this particular toad species, but rather contributes to the understanding of the evolution and adaptations of species’ different environmental conditions. Further research is warranted to delve deeper into the factors influencing organ size in amphibian populations.
The Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Rates of Enterobacterales in a Rural Hospital from the Eastern Region, Ghana: A Retrospective Study, 2022
Authors: Seijas-Pereda Laura , Rescalvo-Casas Carlos , Hernando-Gozalo Marcos , Angmorkie-Eshun Vida , Agyei Eunice , Adu-Gyamfi Vivian , Sarsah Isaac , Alfonso-Romero Maite , Cuadros-González Juan , Soliveri-de Carranza Juan , Pérez-Tanoira Ramón
Published: August 2023

Low- and middle-income countries bear a disproportionate burden of antimicrobial resistance and often lack adequate surveillance due to a paucity of microbiological studies. In this 2022 study, our goal was to contribute to a more precise antimicrobial treatment by understanding the prevalence of resistance in a rural environment, promoting antibiotic stewardship, and raising awareness about antimicrobial resistance. We assessed the prevalence of Multidrug-Resistant (MDR) and Extensively Drug-Resistant (XDR) Enterobacterales in clinical samples from 2905 patients being treated at Saint Dominic’s Hospital, Akwatia, in the countryside of the Eastern Region, Ghana, in the year 2022. To this purpose, the samples were cultured on agar plates prepared in the laboratory using purified Oxoid™ Thermo Scientific™ agar (Thermo Fisher Scientific; Waltham, MA, USA). Cystine Lactose Electrolyte-Deficient (CLED) agar was used for urine samples, while blood agar, chocolate agar, and MacConkey agar were used for the rest of the specimens tested (HVS, blood, BFA, sputum). Antimicrobial susceptibility was determined on site using the disc diffusion method (Kirby-Bauer test). MDR bacteria accounted for more than half (53.7%) of all microorganisms tested for three or more antibiotics and 37.3% of these were XDR. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors associated with acquiring MDR/XDR bacteria. The results showed an increased likelihood of MDR acquisition linked to being male (OR 2.39, p < 0.001 for MDR and OR 1.95, p = 0.027 for XDR), higher age (OR 1.01, p = 0.049 for MDR), non-sputum samples (OR 0.32, p = 0.009 for MDR), and urine samples (OR 7.46, p < 0.001 for XDR). These findings emphasize the urgency for surveillance and control of antimicrobial resistance; to this end, making accurate diagnostics, studying the microorganism in question, and conducting susceptibility testing is of the utmost importance.
A Qualitative Study on the Policy Process and Development of the National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance in Singapore
Authors: Chua Alvin Qijia , Verma Monica , Azupardo Karen , Lota Maria Margarita , Hsu Li Yang , Legido-Quigley Helena
Published: August 2023

The global public health threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has been accelerated by many interrelated factors spanning across One Health—human health, animal health, and the environment. Singapore launched its own National Strategic Action Plan (NSAP) on AMR in November 2017 with the aim of tackling the growing threat of AMR in Singapore through coordinated approaches. However, little is known about the policy process and development of the NSAP in Singapore. In this study, we analysed these aspects using an AMR governance framework. In-depth interviews were conducted with 20 participants across the One Health spectrum. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically. Areas that were well executed included (1) good coordination across various agencies, (2) a dedicated office to coordinate the work on the NSAP, and (3) a high level of governmental support. Areas that were lacking included (1) a lack of participation from certain sectors, (2) insufficient awareness around the AMR issue, (3) constraints in information sharing, and (4) a lack of ideal indicators to track the progress in addressing AMR. Improvements in these areas will provide a more holistic One Health engagement in support of the effective planning and implementation of the NSAP.
Physical and Oxidative Stability of Emulsions Stabilized with Fractionated Potato Protein Hydrolysates Obtained from Starch Production Side Stream
Authors: Yesiltas Betül , García-Moreno Pedro J. , Mikkelsen Rasmus K. , Echers Simon Gregersen , Hansen Dennis K. , Greve-Poulsen Mathias , Hyldig Grethe , Hansen Egon B. , Jacobsen Charlotte
Published: August 2023

This work studies the emulsifying and antioxidant properties of potato protein hydrolysates (PPHs) fractions obtained through enzymatic hydrolysis of potato protein using trypsin followed by ultrafiltration. Unfractionated (PPH1) and fractionated (PPH2 as >10 kDa, PPH3 as 10–5 kDa, PPH4 as 5–0.8 kDa, and PPH5 as <0.8 kDa) protein hydrolysates were evaluated. Pendant drop tensiometry and dilatational rheology were applied for determining the ability of PPHs to reduce interfacial tension and affect the viscoelasticity of the interfacial films at the oil–water interface. Peptides >10 kDa showed the highest ability to decrease oil–water interfacial tension. All PPH fractions predominantly provided elastic, weak, and easily stretchable interfaces. PPH2 provided a more rigid interfacial layer than the other hydrolysates. Radical scavenging and metal chelating activities of PPHs were also tested and the highest activities were provided by the unfractionated hydrolysate and the fractions with peptides >5 kDa. Furthermore, the ability of PPHs to form physically and oxidatively stable 5% fish oil-in-water emulsions (pH 7) was investigated during 8-day storage at 20 °C. Our results generally show that the fractions with peptides >5 kDa provided the highest physicochemical stability, followed by the fraction with peptides between 5 and 0.8 kDa. Lastly, promising sensory results with mostly mild attributes were obtained even at protein concentration levels that are higher than needed to obtain functional properties. The more prominent attributes (e.g., bitterness and astringency) were within an acceptable range for PPH3 and PPH4.
Theoretical Analysis for Improving the Efficiency of HT-PEMFC through Unreacted Hydrogen Circulation
Authors: Park Sanghyoun , Lee Sangyong
Published: August 2023

To increase the efficiency of a fuel processor and HT-PEMFC (high temperature-proton exchange membrane fuel cell) combined system, it is essential to improve the efficiency of the fuel processor. In this research, the fuel processor was simulated by the Aspen Hysys® simulator, and the effect of the various operating conditions on the total efficiency was investigated. The thermal efficiency of the fuel processor increased as the temperature and S/C (steam-to-carbon) ratio increased, and the efficiency was higher at an S/C ratio of 3 than at an S/C of 4 with a reformer temperature of 700 °C and higher. Under the selected operating conditions of the fuel processor, the recycling of unreacted hydrogen from the anode off-gas (AOG) of the HT-PEMFC improved the overall efficiency of the combined fuel processor and HT-PEMFC by a factor of 1.28. The operating conditions where the AOG supplied more heat than was required for fuel processor operation were excluded. The high-efficiency operating conditions of the fuel cell system were proposed with the target of 5 kW of output as the capacity of the household HT-PEMFC.
Discrete Integral Optimal Controller for Quadrotor Attitude Stabilization: Experimental Results
Authors: Godinez-Garrido Gildardo , Santos-Sánchez Omar-Jacobo , Romero-Trejo Hugo , García-Pérez Orlando
Published: August 2023

The Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) attitude stabilization problem has been dealt with in many previous works through applying a vast range of philosophies of control strategies. In this paper, a discrete controller based on a Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) plus integral action is synthesized to stabilize the attitude and altitude of a quadrotor helicopter. This kind of control strategy allows us to reduce the energy consumption rate, and the desired UAV behavior is properly achieved. Experimental tests are conducted with external disturbances such as crosswinds deliberately added to affect the performance of the aerial vehicle. This provides experimental evidence that the integral part considered in the proposed control strategy contributes to improving the performance of the vehicle under external disturbances. In fact, a comparative analysis of potential and kinetic energy consumption is developed between the Optimal Integral Controller (OIC) and a Proportional Integral Derivative Controller (PID), allowing us to determine the level of improvement of the closed-loop system when the discrete Integral Optimal Controller is applied.
Extraction of Dietary Fibers from Plant-Based Industry Waste: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Buljeta Ivana , Šubarić Drago , Babić Jurislav , Pichler Anita , Šimunović Josip , Kopjar Mirela
Published: August 2023

The amount of waste generated by the production of food products has increased over the years, presenting economic and environmental problems. To minimize these problems, it is necessary to valorize food waste in order to explore its further utilization in the food industry and also in other industries. Such waste usually represents a valuable raw material in terms of dietary fibers or bioactive components. Dietary fibers, especially pectin, are usually derived from apple pomace or citrus peel. Currently, sources of dietary fibers include novel food waste streams and by-products. Also, the utilization of novel extraction techniques is in demand to limit conventional processes. This review provides information about the conventional and innovative extraction approaches for dietary fibers from different food wastes. The extraction of these fibers depends on the materials used and the extraction conditions, such as temperature, solvents, time, pH, and liquid/solid ratio. Novel green techniques may ensure an increase in fiber yield and better quality, as well as a reduction in operating time and toxic solvents.
A Multi-Behavior Recommendation Method for Users Based on Graph Neural Networks
Authors: Li Ran , Li Yuexin , Lei Jingsheng , Yang Shengying
Published: August 2023

Most existing recommendation models only consider single user–item interaction information, which leads to serious cold-start or data sparsity problems. In practical applications, a user’s behavior is multi-type, and different types of user behavior show different semantic information. To achieve more accurate recommendations, a major challenge comes from being able to handle heterogeneous behavior data from users more finely. To address this problem, this paper proposes a multi-behavior recommendation framework based on a graph neural network, which captures personalized semantics of specific behavior and thus distinguishes the importance of different behaviors for predicting the target behavior. Meanwhile, this model establishes dependency relationships among different types of interaction behaviors under the graph-based information transfer network, and the graph convolutional network is further used to capture the high-order complexity of interaction graphs. The experimental results of three benchmark datasets show that the proposed graph-based multi-behavior recommendation model displays significant improvements in recommendation accuracy compared to the baseline method.
Optimal Probability Distribution and Applicable Minimum Time-Scale for Daily Standardized Precipitation Index Time Series in South Korea
Authors: Lee Chaelim , Seo Jiyu , Won Jeongeun , Kim Sangdan
Published: August 2023

The Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) is a standardized measure of the variability of precipitation and is widely used for drought assessment around the world. In general, the probability distribution used to calculate the SPI in many studies is Gamma. In addition, a monthly time-scale is applied to calculate the SPI to assess drought based on atmospheric moisture supply over the medium-to-long term. However, probability distributions other than Gamma are applied in various regions, and the need for a daily time-scale is emerging as concerns about fresh drought increase. There are two main innovations of our work. The first is that we investigate the optimal probability distribution of daily SPIs rather than monthly SPIs, and the second is that we address the issue of determining the minimum time-scale that can be applied when applying a daily time-scale. In this study, we investigate the optimal probability distribution and the minimum-applicable time-scale for calculating the daily SPI using daily precipitation time series observed over 42 years at 56 sites in South Korea. Six candidate probability distributions (Gumbel, Gamma, GEV, Log-logistic, Log-normal, and Weibull) and ten time-scales (5 day, 10 day, 15 day, 21 day, 30 day, 60 day, 90 day, 180 day, 270 day, and 365 day) were applied to calculate the daily SPI. A chi-square test and AIC were applied to investigate the appropriate probability distribution for each time-scale, and the normality of the daily SPI time series derived from each probability distribution were compared. The Weibull distribution was suitable for calculating the daily SPI for short time-scales of 30 days or less, while the GEV distribution was suitable for longer time-scales of 270 days or more. However, overall, Gamma was found to be the best probability distribution. While there were some regional variations, the minimum time-scales that could be applied per season were as follows: 15 days for spring and summer, 21 days for fall, and 30 days for winter. It is shown that the minimum time-scale depends on how many zero values are included in the moving cumulative-precipitation time series, and it is shown that it is appropriate to have less than about 2.5%. Finally, the applicability of the GEV distribution is investigated.
MSAFormer: A Transformer-Based Model for PM2.5 Prediction Leveraging Sparse Autoencoding of Multi-Site Meteorological Features in Urban Areas
Authors: Wang Hongqing , Zhang Lifu , Wu Rong
Published: August 2023

The accurate prediction of PM2.5 concentration, a matter of paramount importance in environmental science and public health, has remained a substantial challenge. Conventional methodologies for predicting PM2.5 concentration often grapple with capturing complex dynamics and nonlinear relationships inherent in multi-station meteorological data. To address this issue, we have devised a novel deep learning model, named the Meteorological Sparse Autoencoding Transformer (MSAFormer). The MSAFormer leverages the strengths of the Transformer architecture, effectively incorporating a Meteorological Sparse Autoencoding module, a Meteorological Positional Embedding Module, and a PM2.5 Prediction Transformer Module. The Sparse Autoencoding Module serves to extract salient features from high-dimensional, multi-station meteorological data. Subsequently, the Positional Embedding Module applies a one-dimensional Convolutional Neural Network to flatten the sparse-encoded features, facilitating data processing in the subsequent Transformer module. Finally, the PM2.5 Prediction Transformer Module utilizes a self-attention mechanism to handle temporal dependencies in the input data, predicting future PM2.5 concentrations. Experimental results underscore that the MSAFormer model achieves a significant improvement in predicting PM2.5 concentrations in the Haidian district compared to traditional methods. This research offers a novel predictive tool for the field of environmental science and illustrates the potential of deep learning in the analysis of environmental meteorological data.
Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles: An Emerging Diagnostic and Therapeutic Biomolecules for Neurodegenerative Disabilities
Authors: Kandeel Mahmoud , Morsy Mohamed A. , Alkhodair Khalid M. , Alhojaily Sameer
Published: August 2023

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a type of versatile adult stem cells present in various organs. These cells give rise to extracellular vesicles (EVs) containing a diverse array of biologically active elements, making them a promising approach for therapeutics and diagnostics. This article examines the potential therapeutic applications of MSC-derived EVs in addressing neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease (PD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and Huntington’s disease (HD). Furthermore, the present state-of-the-art for MSC-EV-based therapy in AD, HD, PD, ALS, and MS is discussed. Significant progress has been made in understanding the etiology and potential treatments for a range of neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) over the last few decades. The contents of EVs are carried across cells for intercellular contact, which often results in the control of the recipient cell’s homeostasis. Since EVs represent the therapeutically beneficial cargo of parent cells and are devoid of many ethical problems connected with cell-based treatments, they offer a viable cell-free therapy alternative for tissue regeneration and repair. Developing innovative EV-dependent medicines has proven difficult due to the lack of standardized procedures in EV extraction processes as well as their pharmacological characteristics and mechanisms of action. However, recent biotechnology and engineering research has greatly enhanced the content and applicability of MSC-EVs.
Divergent Survival Outcomes Associated with Elevated Branched-Chain Amino Acid Levels among Older Adults with or without Hypertension and Diabetes: A Validated, Prospective, Longitudinal Follow-Up Study
Authors: Fung Erik , Ng Kwan Hung , Kwok Timothy , Lui Leong-Ting , Palaniswamy Saranya , Chan Queenie , Lim Lee-Ling , Wiklund Petri , Xie Suyi , Turner Cheryl , Elshorbagy Amany K. , Refsum Helga , Leung Jason C. S. , Kong Alice P. S. , Chan Juliana C. N. , Järvelin Marjo-Riitta , Woo Jean
Published: August 2023

Branched-chain amino acids are critical metabolic intermediates that can indicate increased risk of cardiometabolic disease when levels are elevated or, alternatively, suggest sufficient mitochondrial energy metabolism and reserve in old age. The interpretation of BCAA levels can be context-dependent, and it remains unclear whether abnormal levels can inform prognosis. This prospective longitudinal study aimed to determine the interrelationship between mortality hazard and fasting serum BCAA levels among older men and women aged ≥65 years with or without hypertension and diabetes mellitus. At baseline (0Y), fasting serum BCAA concentration in 2997 community-living older men and women were measured. Approximately 14 years later (14Y), 860 study participants returned for repeat measurements. Deaths were analysed and classified into cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular causes using International Classification of Diseases codes. Survival analysis and multivariable Cox regression were performed. During a median follow-up of 17Y, 971 (78.6%) non-cardiovascular and 263 (21.4%) cardiovascular deaths occurred among 1235 (41.2%) deceased (median age, 85.8 years [IQR 81.7–89.7]). From 0Y to 14Y, BCAA levels declined in both sexes, whereas serum creatinine concentration increased (both p < 0.0001). In older adults without hypertension or diabetes mellitus, the relationship between mortality hazard and BCAA level was linear and above-median BCAA levels were associated with improved survival, whereas in the presence of cardiometabolic disease the relationship was U-shaped. Overall, adjusted Cox regression determined that each 10% increment in BCAA concentration was associated with a 7% (p = 0.0002) and 16% (p = 0.0057) reduction in mortality hazard estimated at 0Y and 14Y, respectively. Our findings suggested that abnormally high or low (dyshomeostatic) BCAA levels among older adults with hypertension and/or diabetes mellitus were associated with increased mortality, whereas in those with neither disease, increased BCAA levels was associated with improved survival, particularly in the oldest-old.
Enhanced Cerebroprotection of Xenon-Loaded Liposomes in Combination with rtPA Thrombolysis for Embolic Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Peng Tao , Booher Keith , Moody Melanie R. , Yin Xing , Aronowski Jaroslaw , McPherson David D. , Savitz Sean I. , Kim Hyunggun , Huang Shao-Ling
Published: August 2023

Xenon (Xe) has shown great potential as a stroke treatment due to its exceptional ability to protect brain tissue without inducing side effects. We have previously developed Xe-loaded liposomes for the ultrasound-activated delivery of Xe into the cerebral region and demonstrated their therapeutic efficacy. At present, the sole FDA-approved thrombolytic agent for stroke treatment is recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA). In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential of combining Xe-liposomes with an intravenous rtPA treatment in a clinically relevant embolic rat stroke model. We evaluated the combinational effect using an in vitro clot lysis model and an in vivo embolic middle cerebral artery occlusion (eMCAO) rat model. The treatment groups received intravenous administration of Xe-liposomes (20 mg/kg) at 2 h post-stroke onset, followed by the administration of rtPA (10 mg/kg) at either 2 or 4 h after the onset. Three days after the stroke, behavioral tests were conducted, and brain sections were collected for triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) and TUNEL staining. Infarct size was determined as normalized infarct volume (%). Both in vitro and in vivo clot lysis experiments demonstrated that Xe-liposomes in combination with rtPA resulted in effective clot lysis comparable to the treatment with free rtPA alone. Animals treated with Xe-liposomes in combination with rtPA showed reduced TUNEL-positive cells and demonstrated improved neurological recovery. Importantly, Xe-liposomes in combination with late rtPA treatment reduced rtPA-induced hemorrhage, attributing to the reduction of MMP9 immunoreactivity. This study demonstrates that the combined therapy of Xe-liposomes and rtPA provides enhanced therapeutic efficacy, leading to decreased neuronal cell death and a potential to mitigate hemorrhagic side effects associated with late rtPA treatment.