bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Pre-Injection Strategy on Combustion Characteristics of Ammonia/Diesel Dual-Fuel Compression Ignition Mode
Authors: Guo Lianmei , Zhu Jianjun , Fu Laibin , Li Zhixin , Liu Fanfan , Wang Zilin , Liu Xiangyang , Dong Qinqiang
Published: November 2023

As a zero-carbon clean fuel, the use of ammonia in internal combustion engines is of great significance to achieve the “two-carbon” goal. This paper investigates the effect of the ammonia energy ratio and diesel injection timing on combustion and emissions. Based on Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and the simulation analysis software, Converge, three-dimensional modeling is carried out for a direct injection diesel engine with a Compression Ignition (CI) mode. Under the initial full-load conditions of 1200 r/min, the engine simulation was calculated. The results show that the peak cylinder pressure increases and then decreases as the ammonia energy ratio increases, the ignition delay time increases, and the CO2 and N2O emissions decrease. With pre-injection, the peak cylinder pressure increases at the same energy ratio and the combustion stage advances, resulting in improved indicated thermal efficiency. In comparison to the pure diesel mode, the pre-injection strategy shows an obvious reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions with a decrease of 40.9% by adjusting the injection timing, while the single injection strategy shows a reduction of 36.5%. The soot emission peak occurs in the diesel-only mode with 98.13% and 99.6% reductions in emissions under single and pre-injection, respectively. The ammonia–diesel dual-fuel (ADDF) engine with an ammonia-to-energy ratio of 70% and optimized ammonia and diesel injection timing significantly reduces the NH3 emissions and GHG emissions by 69.34%.
The Effects of Using a Trombe Wall Modified with a Phase Change Material, from the Perspective of a Building’s Life Cycle
Authors: Żelazna Agnieszka , Lichołai Lech , Krasoń Joanna , Miąsik Przemysław , Mikušová Dominika
Published: November 2023

The increasing costs related to the use of primary energy carriers, and greater social awareness related to the need for energy saving, necessitate the use of renewable energy sources, including solar radiation. The Trombe wall (thermal storage wall—TSW) is an indirect passive solar energy system solution, aimed at obtaining, storing, and transferring thermal energy into buildings. However, there is no comprehensive information on the impact of the use of such solutions on environmental performance in the life cycle of buildings, especially those located in temperate climates. The aim of this paper is therefore to determine the environmental impact of the construction of barriers using phase change materials (PCM) from the perspective of the life cycle of a model building conforming to the current Polish energy standard (EP < 70 kWh/(m2∙yr)). The subject of the research is the structure of a TSW using phase change materials and a reference wall with a maximum overall heat transfer coefficient of 0.2 W/m2K. A comprehensive computational model of a residential building located in Rzeszów, Poland, was created, taking into account the thermal parameters of the analyzed structure of the wall and its operation under real, specific climatic conditions, as well as the environmental characteristics. High-quality input data (based on real, long-term measurements) were used to conduct a Life Cycle Assessment of the analyzed variants. As a result, the energetic and environmental efficiency of the analyzed thermal storage wall, from the perspective of the whole building’s life cycle, were assessed. According to the analyzed data, a TSW modified with paraffin enables the reduction of the energy requirements for heating by 11.3%, and the payback period of the environmental load does not exceed 1 (GWP) and 5 (IMPACT2002+) years, which were lower than the monitored period of operation.
Two-Dimensional Geothermal Model of the Peruvian Andes above the Nazca Ridge Subduction
Authors: Ciattoni Sara , Mazzoli Stefano , Megna Antonella , Basilici Matteo , Santini Stefano
Published: November 2023

The aseismic Nazca Ridge produces localized flat-slab subduction beneath the South American margin at latitudes 10° to 15° S. The geological evolution and the spatio-temporal pattern of deformation of the upper plate have been strongly influenced by the presence of the flat slab. In this study, we investigated the lithospheric thermal structure of this region by elaborating a 2D geothermal model along a section across the top of the Nazca Ridge, the Peru–Chile trench, the Andean Cordillera, and the Amazonian Basin, for a total length of 1000 km. For the sake of modelling, the crust of the overriding plate was subdivided into two parts, i.e., a sedimentary cover (including the entire lithostratigraphic sequence) and a crystalline basement. Applying an analytical methodology, we calculated geotherms and isotherms by setting (i) thickness, (ii) density, (iii) heat production, and (iv) thermal conductivity for each geological unit and considering (v) heat flux at the Moho, (vi) frictional heating produced by faults, and (vii) plate convergence rate. The resulting model could make a significant advance in our understanding of how flat slab geometry associated with the Nazca Ridge subduction affects the thermal structure and hence the tectonic evolution of the region.
Responses of Growth and Root Vitality of Fokienia hodginsii Seedling to the Neighbor Competition in Different Heterogeneous Nutrient Environments
Authors: Li Bingjun , Deng Mi , Pan Yanmei , Chen Wenchen , Rong Jundong , He Tianyou , Chen Liguang , Zheng Yushan
Published: November 2023

Fokienia hodginsii is characterized by shallow and developed lateral roots with no obvious taproot. It can be used as a pioneer tree species for opening up barren land and as a mixed species for creating plantation forests. During the growth process of F. hodginsii seedlings, they are often exposed to heterogeneous nutrient environments and competition for nutrients, water, and space from neighboring plants, which have significant impacts on the growth of F. hodginsii. These impacts are most directly reflected in the root vitality of F. hodginsii, whose physiological changes embody the plant’s adaptability to different heterogeneous nutrient environments and neighbor competition. Herein, high-quality one-year-old F. hodginsii seedlings were subjected to three planting patterns to simulate different competition patterns. The three planting patterns were also exposed to three heterogeneous nutrient environments and a homogeneous nutrient environment (control) to determine the differences in the F. hodginsii seedling growth and root vitality under different heterogeneous nutrient environments and planting patterns. The F. hodginsii seedling height, ground diameter (root neck diameter), and root biomass under the heterospecific neighbor condition were significantly higher than under the single-plant condition. Across heterogeneous nutrient environments, the average seedling height in the N heterogeneous environments was higher than in the P and K heterogeneous environments. The root biomass in the P heterogeneous environment was slightly higher than in the N heterogeneous environment and significantly higher than in the homogeneous and the K heterogeneous environments. Moreover, the average F. hodginsii seedling root vitality under the heterospecific neighbor was the highest, and the root vitality in the N heterogeneous environment was the highest under each planting pattern. The F. hodginsii root catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POD) activities under the competition patterns were significantly higher than under the single-plant condition. Additionally, the superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity under single-plant was higher than under the competition patterns. At the same time, the F. hodginsii root malondialdehyde (MDA) content was the highest under the conspecific neighbor. Relative to the homogeneous environment, the root CAT, SOD, and POD activities were increased in the N and P heterogeneous environments. The CAT, SOD, and POD activities were highest in the P heterogeneous environment, while the K heterogeneous environment had the highest average MDA content. From the results of principal component analysis, when F. hodginsii seedlings were in N and P heterogeneous nutrient environments and heterospecific neighbor, their growth, root biomass accumulation, and root activity indexes reached better levels.
Heat Mitigation Benefits of Urban Trees: A Review of Mechanisms, Modeling, Validation and Simulation
Authors: Zheng Senlin , He Caiwei , Guldmann Jean-Michel , Xu Haodong , Liu Xiao
Published: November 2023

Modeling, validating, and simulating are three essential parts in investigating the heat mitigation benefits of urban trees (BUT). Therefore, 81 relevant studies from the last ten years are reviewed, analyzed, and summarized in this study. Three main ways for urban trees to adjust the environment are summarized, including shade creation and radiation modification, cooling effects of transpiration, and airflow blocking and modification effects. Research works are analyzed with regard to four categories: (1) heat and moisture exchange mechanisms and their mathematical modeling; (2) verification of modeling predictions based on measurements; (3) thermal performance simulation and prediction; and (4) environmental assessment and human thermal comfort analyses. Future research opportunities are discussed: (1) conduct real-time and in-depth measurements to analyze the mechanisms of heat and moisture transfer of trees in different areas; (2) develop tree radiation attenuation, airflow resistance, and transpiration models to accurately describe heat and moisture transfer processes in the urban environment; and (3) establish a three-dimensional numerical simulation method that can accurately simulate the urban thermal environment with trees. This review provides researchers with an overview and potential research opportunities on the thermal effects of urban trees.
Effects of Adding Native Annual Seeds to South Korea Native Perennial Seed Mixture on Early Stage Vegetation Recovery, Soil Enzymes, and Nutrient Dynamics in Post-Fire Soils
Authors: Min Hyun-Gi , Wee June , Koo Namin , Kim Jeong-Gyu
Published: November 2023

Forests are degraded from various factors, and the first step in restoration frequently involves revegetation. One of the degradations is wildfires, which damage vegetation, affect soils, and lead to the loss of ecosystem functions. Using seed mixtures is a viable method for restoring the ecosystems. This research investigated the impacts of six perennial plant seed mixtures derived from native plants in South Korea and the addition of two types of annual plant seeds to these mixtures, both separately and combined. Cultivation of the seed mixtures was conducted by pot cultivation in a greenhouse for the early stage of vegetation (16 weeks). The seed mixture treatment enhanced plant species diversity, number, and biomass. The seed mixture treatment elevated the urease activity from 14.42 to values between 33.88 and 55.74 μg NH4-N g−1 2 h−1. A seed mixture integrated with two annual plants heightened the phosphomonoesterase activity from 482.79 to 543.75 μg p-nitrophenol g−1 h−1. Nitrogen leaching was reduced across all seed mixture treatments, while phosphorus leaching diminished with the addition of the annual legume. These findings illustrate the influence of seed mixture treatments and the inclusion of annual seeds on the beginning stage of revegetation, offering a basis for further ecosystem restoration.
Anaerobic Co-Digestion of Cattle Manure and Brewer’s Residual Yeast: Process Stability and Methane and Hydrogen Sulfide Production
Authors: Akamine Luana , Passini Roberta , Sousa João , Fernandes Aline , Moraes Maria
Published: November 2023

Anaerobic co-digestion (AcoD) of animal waste and agro-industrial by-products has been widely studied and employed to increase biogas production potential and enhance process stability. This study evaluated the AcoD of cattle manure (CM) and brewer’s residual yeast (RY) in semi-continuous biodigesters, focusing on energy potential (biogas and methane yields) and process stability. Four treatments were assessed, each with different proportions (% of volatile solids) of CM and RY: 100:0, 88:12, 78:22, and 68:32. Trials were conducted in 30-L tubular reactors at room temperature with a hydraulic retention time of 30 days. The inclusion of RY led to a gradual rise in biogas and methane production, with more significant reductions in solid content than mono-digestion of CM. The addition of RY resulted in daily CH4 production increases of 18.5, 32.3, and 51.9% for treatments with 12, 22, and 32% of RY, respectively, compared to the control treatment. Therefore, AcoD demonstrated a higher potential for energy recovery. However, RY introduced elevated H2S levels in the biogas. Caution is advised when adding this co-substrate to AcoD due to potential process influence and biogas application restrictions.
IoT-Based Object-Detection System to Safeguard Endangered Animals and Bolster Agricultural Farm Security
Authors: Raiaan Mohaimenul Azam Khan , Fahad Nur Mohammad , Chowdhury Shovan , Sutradhar Debopom , Mihad Saadman Sakib , Islam Md. Motaharul
Published: November 2023

Significant threats to ecological equilibrium and sustainable agriculture are posed by the extinction of animal species and the subsequent effects on farms. Farmers face difficult decisions, such as installing electric fences to protect their farms, although these measures can harm animals essential for maintaining ecological equilibrium. To tackle these essential issues, our research introduces an innovative solution in the form of an object-detection system. In this research, we designed and implemented a system that leverages the ESP32-CAM platform in conjunction with the YOLOv8 object-detection model. Our proposed system aims to identify endangered species and harmful animals within farming environments, providing real-time alerts to farmers and endangered wildlife by integrating a cloud-based alert system. To train the YOLOv8 model effectively, we meticulously compiled diverse image datasets featuring these animals in agricultural settings, subsequently annotating them. After that, we tuned the hyperparameter of the YOLOv8 model to enhance the performance of the model. The results from our optimized YOLOv8 model are auspicious. It achieves a remarkable mean average precision (mAP) of 92.44% and an impressive sensitivity rate of 96.65% on an unseen test dataset, firmly establishing its efficacy. After achieving an optimal result, we employed the model in our IoT system and when the system detects the presence of these animals, it immediately activates an audible buzzer. Additionally, a cloud-based system was utilized to notify neighboring farmers effectively and alert animals to potential danger. This research’s significance lies in its potential to drive the conservation of endangered species while simultaneously mitigating the agricultural damage inflicted by these animals.
Preparation, Characterization and Application of the Delivery System for Food Products
Authors: Chen Shuai , Guo Qing
Published: November 2023

In the dynamic and evolving landscape of food science and technology, the quest to develop innovative and effective delivery systems for bioactive compounds remains a focal point of research and development [...]
Effect of Red Light on the Expression of the Phytochrome Gene Family and the Accumulation of Glycoside Alkaloids in Potatoes
Authors: Zhang Xiaolu , Jiang Hong , Liu Weigang , Wang Ya , Zeng Fankui
Published: November 2023

Potatoes are the fourth major food crop in the world. Higher levels of glycoside alkaloids (GAs) lead to detrimental effects on the edibility and processing qualities. GAs are largely influenced by light; however, the mechanisms of this regulation by light are not well understood. By analyzing the bioinformatics of the phytochrome genes (PHYs) in potatoes, its expression level, the content of GAs and the correlation between them under different lights, this study aims to reveal the specific mechanism of light-regulated GAs accumulation and provide a theoretical basis for improved potato processing. Results based on high-performance liquid chromatography and imaging mass microscopy showed that red light induced a significant increase in α-chaconine and α-solanine accumulation compared to white light, but there was almost no accumulation in the dark within 12 days. Meanwhile, a bioinformatic analysis of PHY gene family members was performed, and the results showed that the five StPHYs were distributed on chromosomes 1, 2, 5, 7 and 10, with amino acid counts ranging from 704 to 1130. StPHYs genes have abundant light-responsive elements. Also, the expression patterns of StPHYs were dramatically induced by red light. Additionally, a correlation analysis showed that the GAs accumulation was significantly correlated with StPHYs expression. This research is useful for comprehending the metabolism of GAs regulated by light and monitoring food safety in potatoes.
The Determination of Triacylglycerols and Tocopherols Using UHPLC–CAD/FLD Methods for Assessing the Authenticity of Coffee Beans
Authors: Ismaiel Lama , Fanesi Benedetta , Kuhalskaya Anastasiya , Barp Laura , Moret Sabrina , Pacetti Deborah , Lucci Paolo
Published: November 2023

The authenticity of coffee beans was addressed in this study using an analytical method with minimal sample preparation to achieve simple oil extraction and through the implementation of cost-effective equipment. For this purpose, methods using UHPLC with CAD and FLD detectors were applied to detect triglycerides and tocopherols in coffee, respectively. The coffee samples included two main varieties: Arabica from Brazil, Colombia, Ethiopia, and Uganda, as well as the Robusta variety from Cambodia, Guatemala, India, and Vietnam. The samples were either in their green state or subjected to different roasting levels. The used methods successfully distinguished the Arabica and Robusta variants targeted in this study based on their tocopherols and TAG profiles, with the latter being particularly effective for discriminating the origins of the Arabica coffee, while tocopherols excelled at differentiating the origin of the Robusta coffee. TAGs and tocopherols were not affected by the type of roasting, from medium to very dark, suggesting it is possible to distinguish between coffee varieties independently from their degree of roasting. The obtained results hold valuable implications for future research regarding coffee fraud and authenticity.
Dietary Marine Hydrolysate Improves Memory Performance and Social Behavior through Gut Microbiota Remodeling during Aging
Authors: Mougin Camille , Chataigner Mathilde , Lucas Céline , Leyrolle Quentin , Pallet Véronique , Layé Sophie , Bouvret Elodie , Dinel Anne-Laure , Joffre Corinne
Published: November 2023

Aging is characterized by a decline in social behavior and cognitive functions leading to a decrease in life quality. In a previous study, we show that a fish hydrolysate supplementation prevents age-related decline in spatial short-term memory and long-term memory and anxiety-like behavior and improves the stress response in aged mice. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of a fish hydrolysate enriched with EPA/DHA or not on the cognitive ability and social interaction during aging and the biological mechanisms involved. We showed for the first time that a fish hydrolysate enriched with EPA/DHA or not improved memory performance and preference for social novelty that were diminished by aging. These changes were associated with the modulation of the gut microbiota, normalization of corticosterone, and modulation of the expression of genes involved in the mitochondrial respiratory chain, circadian clock, neuroprotection, and antioxidant activity. Thus, these changes may contribute to the observed improvements in social behavior and memory and reinforced the innovative character of fish hydrolysate in the prevention of age-related impairments.
On the Maximum Energy Release from Formation of Static Compact Objects
Authors: Mitra Abhas , Singh Krishna Kumar
Published: November 2023

Type II Supernova 1987A (SN 1987A), observed in 1987, released an energy of Q≈3×1053 erg. This huge energy is essentially the magnitude of gravitational potential or self-gravitational energy (PE) of a new born cold neutron star having a gravitational compactness or redshift zb≈0.15. One may wonder what could be the upper limit on the amount of energy that might be released with the formation of a cold Ultra Compact Object (UCO) with an arbitrary high zb. Accordingly, here, for the first time, we obtain an analytical expression for the PE of a homogeneous general relativistic UCO assuming it to be cold and static. It is found that the PE of a homogeneous UCO of mass M may exceed Mc2 and be as large as 1.34 Mc2. This result, though surprising, follows from an exact and correct analytical calculation based on the standard General Theory of Relativity (GTR). Further, UCOs supported by tangential stresses may be inhomogeneous and much more massive than neutron stars with PE ∼ 2.1 Mc2 Thus, in principle, formation of an UCO of a few solar masses (M⊙) might release an energy Q∼1055 erg.
Recent Advances in the Management of Anal Cancer
Authors: Upadhyay Laxmi , Hartzell Michelle , Parikh Aparna R. , Strickland Matthew R. , Klempner Samuel , Malla Midhun
Published: November 2023

The incidence and mortality of squamous cell carcinoma of the anus (SCCA) is on the rise, which highlights the unmet need for advances in treatment options. The landscape of treatment for this cancer is rapidly evolving with novel combination strategies including immunotherapy, radiation therapy and biomarker-guided therapy. This review article features an overview of recent advancements in both locoregional and metastatic SCCA. The recent focus on locoregional SCCA management is to tailor treatment according to tumor burden and minimize treatment-related toxicities. Mitomycin plus either infusional 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) or capecitabine is used for first-line chemoradiotherapy (CRT), and intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) is the preferred modality for radiation for locoregional anal cancer. Locally recurrent disease is managed with surgical resection. Systemic treatment is first-line for metastatic SCCA and immunotherapy with nivolumab and pembrolizumab being included as second-line agents. Current and future clinical trials are evaluating treatments for SCCA including immunotherapy alone or in combination regimens, radiotherapies, targeted treatments and novel agents. Another critical aspect of current research in SCCA is the personalization of CRT and immunotherapies based on molecular characterization and biomarkers such as the programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and circulating tumor DNA.
Sustainable Water Resources Management under Climate Change: A Case Study with Potato Irrigation in an Insular Mediterranean Environment
Authors: Litskas Vassilis , Vourlioti Paraskevi , Mamouka Theano , Kotsopoulos Stylianos , Paraskevas Charalampos
Published: November 2023

Potato cultivation is a significant agricultural activity worldwide. As a staple food in many countries, potatoes provide essential nutrients and are a significant source of income for farmers. This paper investigates current and future net irrigation requirements for potatoes in combination with LCA (life cycle assessment) to assess the GHG emissions due to irrigation. Potato cultivation in Cyprus is used as a model for insular environments, which are often neglected from such studies. The models suggest that an increase in net irrigation requirements is expected but there is a large variability among locations and between years. The increase in rainfall that some of the models predict does not mean that this water will be effectively stored in the soil (and reduce irrigation requirements). The GHG emissions due to potato irrigation in Cyprus are estimated to be 1369.41 tons CO2eq and expected to decrease after 2030 by 35%, mainly due to changes in the electricity mix (from heavy fuel to renewable energy). Further research including other important (irrigated) crops in the island will support the development of strategies towards sustainable resources management under climate change.
Comparison of Single and Combined Treatment with Exercise Therapy and Collagen Supplementation on Early Knee Arthritis among Athletes—A Quasi-Randomized Trial
Authors: Thomas Dias Tina , Prabhakar Ashish John , Eapen Charu , Patel Vivek D. , Palaniswamy Vijayakumar , Dsouza Molly Cynthia , R Shruthi , Kamat Yogeesh Dattakumar
Published: November 2023

Athletic injuries are commonly implicated in the development of early osteoarthritic (EOA) changes in the knee. These changes have a significant impact on athletic performance, and therefore the early detection of EOA is paramount. The objective of the study is to assess the impact of different interventions on individuals with EOA, particularly focusing on recreational athletes. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of three treatment groups in improving various aspects related to knee EOA, including pain, range of motion, strength, and function. A study was undertaken with 48 recreational athletes with EOA who were assigned to one of three groups by the referring orthopedic surgeon: collagen (Col), exercise (Ex), or collagen and exercise (ColEx) groups. All the participants received their respective group-based intervention for 12 weeks. Visual analog scale (VAS), knee flexion range of motion (ROM) knee flexors and extensors strength, and KOOS were assessed at baseline, and after 4 weeks, 8 weeks, and 12 weeks of intervention. VAS for activity improved in all treatment groups, with no difference between groups. The between-group analysis for knee ROM revealed a significant difference (p = 0.022) in the Col vs. Ex group at 12 weeks. The knee flexor and extensor strength and the KOOS scores improved considerably in the Ex and the ColEx group (p < 0.05) at 12 weeks. Exercise therapy improved pain, strength and function in subjects with EOA, whereas the association of collagen seems to have accentuated the effects of exercise in bringing about clinical improvements.
Diagnostic Performance of the Measurement of Skinfold Thickness for Abdominal and Overall Obesity in the Peruvian Population: A 5-Year Cohort Analysis
Authors: Rios-Escalante Cristian , Albán-Fernández Silvia , Espinoza-Rojas Rubén , Saavedra-Garcia Lorena , Barengo Noël C. , Guerra Valencia Jamee
Published: November 2023

The escalating prevalence of overall and abdominal obesity, particularly affecting Latin America, underscores the urgent need for accessible and cost-effective predictive methods to address the growing disease burden. This study assessed skinfold thicknesses’ predictive capacity for overall and abdominal obesity in Peruvian adults aged 30 or older over 5 years. Data from the PERU MIGRANT 5-year cohort study were analyzed, defining obesity using BMI and waist circumference. Receiver operating characteristic curves and area under the curve (AUC) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. Adults aged ≥ 30 (n = 988) completed the study at baseline, with 47% male. A total of 682 participants were included for overall and abdominal obesity analysis. The 5-year prevalence values for overall and abdominal obesity were 26.7% and 26.6%, respectively. Subscapular skinfold (SS) best predicted overall obesity in men (AUC = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.75–0.88) and women (AUC = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.67–0.88). Regarding abdominal obesity, SS exhibited the highest AUC in men (AUC = 0.83, 95% CI: 0.77–0.89), while SS and the sum of trunk skinfolds showed the highest AUC in women. In secondary analysis excluding participants with type-2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) at baseline, SS significantly predicted DM2 development in men (AUC = 0.70, 95% CI: 0.58–0.83) and bicipital skinfold (BS) did in women (AUC = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.62–0.84). The findings highlight SS significance as an indicator of overall and abdominal obesity in both sexes among Peruvian adults. Additionally, SS, and BS offer robust predictive indicators for DM2.
Association of Public Works Disasters with Substance Use Difficulties: Evidence from Flint, Michigan, Five Years after the Water Crisis Onset
Authors: Onookome-Okome Tuviere , Hsu Angel , Kilpatrick Dean G. , Moreland Angela , Reuben Aaron
Published: November 2023

Public works environmental disasters such as the Flint water crisis typically occur in disenfranchised communities with municipal disinvestment and co-occurring risks for poor mental health (poverty, social disconnection). We evaluated the long-term interplay of the crisis and these factors with substance use difficulties five years after the crisis onset. A household probability sample of 1970 adults living in Flint during the crisis was surveyed about their crisis experiences, use of substances since the crisis, and risk/resilience factors, including prior potentially traumatic event exposure and current social support. Analyses were weighted to produce population-representative estimates. Of the survey respondents, 17.0% reported that substance use since the crisis contributed to problems with their home, work, or social lives, including 11.2% who used despite a doctor’s warnings that it would harm their health, 12.3% who used while working or going to school, and 10.7% who experienced blackouts after heavy use. A total of 61.6% of respondents reported using alcohol since the crisis, 32.4% using cannabis, and 5.2% using heroin, methamphetamine, or non-prescribed prescription opioids. Respondents who believed that exposure to contaminated water harmed their physical health were more likely to use substances to the detriment of their daily lives (RR = 1.32, 95%CI: 1.03–1.70), as were respondents with prior potentially traumatic exposure (RR = 2.99, 95%CI: 1.90–4.71), low social support (RR = 1.94, 95%CI: 1.41–2.66), and PTSD and depression (RR’s of 1.78 and 1.49, respectively, p-values < 0.01). Public works disasters occurring in disenfranchised communities may have complex, long-term associations with substance use difficulties.
A Novel Method of Modeling Grassland Wildfire Dynamics Based on Cellular Automata: A Case Study in Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Li Yan , Wu Guozhou , Zhang Shuai , Li Manchun , Nie Beidou , Chen Zhenjie
Published: November 2023

Wildfires spread rapidly and cause considerable ecological and socioeconomic losses. Inner Mongolia is among the regions in China that suffer the most from wildfires. A simple, effective model that uses fewer parameters to simulate wildfire spread is crucial for rapid decision-making. This study presents a region-specific technological process that requires a few meteorological parameters and limited grassland vegetation data to predict fire spreading dynamics in Inner Mongolia, based on cellular automata that emphasize the numeric evaluation of both heat sinks and sources. The proposed method considers a case that occurred in 2021 near the East Ujimqin Banner border between China and Mongolia. Three hypothetical grassland wildfires were developed using GIS technology to test and demonstrate the proposed model. The simulation results suggest that the model agrees well with real-world experience and can facilitate real-time decision-making to enhance the effectiveness of firefighting, fire control, and simulation-based training for firefighters.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of Malate Dehydrogenase Gene Family in Sweet Potato and Its Two Diploid Relatives
Authors: Li Zhenqin , Shi Lei , Lin Xiongjian , Tang Binquan , Xing Meng , Zhu Hongbo
Published: November 2023

Malate dehydrogenase (MDH; EC 1.1.1.37) plays a vital role in plant growth and development as well as abiotic stress responses, and it is widely present in plants. However, the MDH family genes have not been explored in sweet potato. In this study, nine, ten, and ten MDH genes in sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) and its two diploid wild relatives, Ipomoea trifida and Ipomoea triloba, respectively, were identified. These MDH genes were unevenly distributed on seven different chromosomes among the three species. The gene duplications and nucleotide substitution analysis (Ka/Ks) revealed that the MDH genes went through segmental duplications during their evolution under purifying selection. A phylogenetic and conserved structure divided these MDH genes into five subgroups. An expression analysis indicated that the MDH genes were omni-presently expressed in distinct tissues and responded to various abiotic stresses. A transcription factor prediction analysis proved that Dof, MADS-box, and MYB were the main transcription factors of sweet potato MDH genes. These findings provide molecular features of the MDH family in sweet potato and its two diploid wild relatives, which further supports functional characterizations.
The Effect of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein RBD-Epitope on Immunometabolic State and Functional Performance of Cultured Primary Cardiomyocytes Subjected to Hypoxia and Reoxygenation
Authors: Keturakis Vytenis , Narauskaitė Deimantė , Balion Zbigniev , Gečys Dovydas , Kulkovienė Gabrielė , Kairytė Milda , Žukauskaitė Ineta , Benetis Rimantas , Stankevičius Edgaras , Jekabsone Aistė
Published: November 2023

Cardio complications such as arrhythmias and myocardial damage are common in COVID-19 patients. SARS-CoV-2 interacts with the cardiovascular system primarily via the ACE2 receptor. Cardiomyocyte damage in SARS-CoV-2 infection may stem from inflammation, hypoxia–reoxygenation injury, and direct toxicity; however, the precise mechanisms are unclear. In this study, we simulated hypoxia–reoxygenation conditions commonly seen in SARS-CoV-2-infected patients and studied the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein RBD-epitope on primary rat cardiomyocytes to gain insight into the potential mechanisms underlying COVID-19-related cardiac complications. Cell metabolic activity was evaluated with PrestoBlueTM. Gene expression of proinflammatory markers was measured by qRT-PCR and their secretion was quantified by Luminex assay. Cardiomyocyte contractility was analysed using the Myocyter plugin of ImageJ. Mitochondrial respiration was determined through Seahorse Mito Stress Test. In hypoxia–reoxygenation conditions, treatment of the SARS-CoV-2 spike RBD-epitope reduced the metabolic activity of primary cardiomyocytes, upregulated Il1β and Cxcl1 expression, and elevated GM-CSF and CCL2 cytokines secretion. Contraction time increased, while amplitude and beating frequency decreased. Acute treatment with a virus RBD-epitope inhibited mitochondrial respiration and lowered ATP production. Under ischaemia-reperfusion, the SARS-CoV-2 RBD-epitope induces cardiomyocyte injury linked to impaired mitochondrial activity.
NLRP3 Inflammasome Involvement in Heart, Liver, and Lung Diseases—A Lesson from Cytokine Storm Syndrome
Authors: Napodano Cecilia , Carnazzo Valeria , Basile Valerio , Pocino Krizia , Stefanile Annunziata , Gallucci Stefania , Natali Patrizia , Basile Umberto , Marino Mariapaola
Published: November 2023

Inflammation and inflammasomes have been proposed as important regulators of the host–microorganism interaction, playing a key role in morbidity and mortality due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in subjects with chronic conditions and compromised immune system. The inflammasome consists of a multiprotein complex that finely regulates the activation of caspase-1 and the production and secretion of potent pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β and IL-18. The pyrin containing NOD (nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain) like receptor (NLRP) is a family of intracellular receptors, sensing patterns associated to pathogens or danger signals and NLRP3 inflammasome is the most deeply analyzed for its involvement in the innate and adaptive immune system as well as its contribution to several autoinflammatory and autoimmune diseases. It is highly expressed in leukocytes and up-regulated in sentinel cells upon inflammatory stimuli. NLRP3 expression has also been reported in B and T lymphocytes, in epithelial cells of oral and genital mucosa, in specific parenchymal cells as cardiomyocytes, and keratinocytes, and chondrocytes. It is well known that a dysregulated activation of the inflammasome is involved in the pathogenesis of different disorders that share the common red line of inflammation in their pathogenetic fingerprint. Here, we review the potential roles of the NLRP3 inflammasome in cardiovascular events, liver damage, pulmonary diseases, and in that wide range of systemic inflammatory syndromes named as a cytokine storm.
Exploring Major Flavonoid Phytochemicals from Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. as Potential Skin Anti-Aging Agents: In Silico and In Vitro Evaluations
Authors: Nutho Bodee , Tungmunnithum Duangjai
Published: November 2023

Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn., an aquatic medicinal plant (Nelumbonaceae family), has a history of use in traditional medicine across various regions. Our previous study demonstrated the skin anti-aging potential of its stamen ethanolic extract by effectively inhibiting collagenase and tyrosinase enzymes. While the major constituents of this extract are well documented, there is a lack of research on the individual compounds’ abilities to inhibit skin aging enzymes. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the anti-aging potential of the primary flavonoids found in N. nucifera using both in silico and in vitro approaches. Our initial step involved molecular docking to identify compounds with the potential to inhibit collagenase, elastase, and tyrosinase. Among the seven flavonoids studied, kaempferol-3-O-robinobioside (Kae-3-Rob) emerged as the most promising candidate, exhibiting the highest docking scores for three skin aging-related enzymes. Subsequent enzyme-based inhibition assays confirmed that Kae-3-Rob displayed robust inhibitory activity against collagenase (58.24 ± 8.27%), elastase (26.29 ± 7.16%), and tyrosinase (69.84 ± 6.07%). Furthermore, we conducted extensive 200-ns molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, revealing the stability of the complexes formed between Kae-3-Rob and each enzyme along the MD simulation time. MM/PBSA-based binding free energy calculations indicated the considerably stronger binding affinity of Kae-3-Rob for collagenase and tyrosinase compared to elastase, which was related to the greater percentage of hydrogen bond occupations. These computational findings were consistent with the relatively high inhibitory activity of Kae-3-Rob against collagenase and tyrosinase observed in our in vitro experiment. In conclusion, the results obtained from this comprehensive study suggest that Kae-3-Rob, a key flavonoid from N. nucifera, holds significant potential as a source of bioactive compounds for anti-aging cosmeceutical and other phytopharmaceutical application.
Ion Channel Disturbances in Migraine Headache: Exploring the Potential Role of the Kynurenine System in the Context of the Trigeminovascular System
Authors: Spekker Eleonóra , Nagy-Grócz Gábor , Vécsei László
Published: November 2023

Migraine is a primary headache disorder, which is an enormous burden to the healthcare system. While some aspects of the pathomechanism of migraines remain unknown, the most accepted theory is that activation and sensitization of the trigeminovascular system are essential during migraine attacks. In recent decades, it has been suggested that ion channels may be important participants in the pathogenesis of migraine. Numerous ion channels are expressed in the peripheral and central nervous systems, including the trigeminovascular system, affecting neuron excitability, synaptic energy homeostasis, inflammatory signaling, and pain sensation. Dysfunction of ion channels could result in neuronal excitability and peripheral or central sensitization. This narrative review covers the current understanding of the biological mechanisms leading to activation and sensitization of the trigeminovascular pain pathway, with a focus on recent findings on ion channel activation and modulation. Furthermore, we focus on the kynurenine pathway since this system contains kynurenic acid, which is an endogenous glutamate receptor antagonist substance, and it has a role in migraine pathophysiology.
Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha Induces Proangiogenic Profiling of Cardiosphere-Derived Cell Secretome and Increases Its Ability to Stimulate Angiogenic Properties of Endothelial Cells
Authors: Dergilev Konstantin , Zubkova Ekaterina , Guseva Alika , Tsokolaeva Zoya , Goltseva Yulia , Beloglazova Irina , Ratner Elizaveta , Andreev Alexander , Partigulov Stanislav , Lepilin Mikhail , Menshikov Mikhail , Parfyonova Yelena
Published: November 2023

Ischemic heart disease and its complications, such as myocardial infarction and heart failure, are the leading causes of death in modern society. The adult heart innately lacks the capacity to regenerate the damaged myocardium after ischemic injury. Multiple lines of evidence indicated that stem-cell-based transplantation is one of the most promising treatments for damaged myocardial tissue. Different kinds of stem cells have their advantages for treating ischemic heart disease. One facet of their mechanism is the paracrine effect of the transplanted cells. Particularly promising are stem cells derived from cardiac tissue per se, referred to as cardiosphere-derived cells (CDCs), whose therapeutic effect is mediated by the paracrine mechanism through secretion of multiple bioactive molecules providing immunomodulatory, angiogenic, anti-fibrotic, and anti-inflammatory effects. Although secretome-based therapies are increasingly being used to treat various cardiac pathologies, many obstacles remain because of population heterogeneity, insufficient understanding of potential modulating compounds, and the principles of secretome regulation, which greatly limit the feasibility of this technology. In addition, components of the inflammatory microenvironment in ischemic myocardium may influence the secretome content of transplanted CDCs, thus altering the efficacy of cell therapy. In this work, we studied how Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFa), as a key component of the pro-inflammatory microenvironment in damaged myocardium from ischemic injury and heart failure, may affect the secretome content of CDCs and their angiogenic properties. We have shown for the first time that TNFa may act as a promising compound modulating the CDC secretome, which induces its profiling to enhance proangiogenic effects on endothelial cells. These results allow us to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of the impact of the inflammatory microenvironment on transplanted CDCs and may contribute to the optimization of CDC efficiency and the development of the technology for producing the CDC secretome with enhanced proangiogenic properties for cell-free therapy.
Astroglial S100B Secretion Is Mediated by Ca2+ Mobilization from Endoplasmic Reticulum: A Study Using Forskolin and DMSO as Secretagogues
Authors: Leite Marina C. , Galland Fabiana , Guerra Maria Cristina , Rodrigues Letícia , Taday Jéssica , Monteforte Priscila T. , Hirata Hanko , Gottfried Carmem , Donato Rosario , Smaili Soraya , Gonçalves Carlos-Alberto
Published: November 2023

S100B, a homodimeric Ca2+-binding protein, is produced and secreted by astrocytes, and its extracellular levels have been used as a glial marker in brain damage and neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases; however, its mechanism of secretion is elusive. We used primary astrocyte cultures and calcium measurements from real-time fluorescence microscopy to investigate the role of intracellular calcium in S100B secretion. In addition, the dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) effect on S100B was investigated in vitro and in vivo using Wistar rats. We found that DMSO, a widely used vehicle in biological assays, is a powerful S100B secretagogue, which caused a biphasic response of Ca2+ mobilization. Our data show that astroglial S100B secretion is triggered by the increase in intracellular Ca2+ and indicate that this increase is due to Ca2+ mobilization from the endoplasmic reticulum. Also, blocking plasma membrane Ca2+ channels involved in the Ca2+ replenishment of internal stores decreased S100B secretion. The DMSO-induced S100B secretion was confirmed in vivo and in ex vivo hippocampal slices. Our data support a nonclassic vesicular export of S100B modulated by Ca2+, and the results might contribute to understanding the mechanism underlying the astroglial release of S100B.
Tumor-Agnostic Circulating Tumor DNA Testing for Monitoring Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer
Authors: Carrasco Raquel , Ingelmo-Torres Mercedes , Trullas Ramón , Roldán Fiorella L. , Rodríguez-Carunchio Leonardo , Juez Lourdes , Sureda Joan , Alcaraz Antonio , Mengual Lourdes , Izquierdo Laura
Published: November 2023

Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) has recently emerged as a real-time prognostic and predictive biomarker for monitoring cancer patients. Here, we aimed to ascertain whether tumor-agnostic ctDNA testing would be a feasible strategy to monitor disease progression and therapeutic response in muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) patients after radical cystectomy (RC). Forty-two MIBC patients who underwent RC were prospectively included. Blood samples from these patients were collected at different follow-up time points. Two specific mutations (TERT c.1-124C>T and ATM c.1236-2A>T) were analyzed in the patients’ plasma samples by droplet digital PCR to determine their ctDNA status. During a median follow-up of 21 months, 24% of patients progressed in a median of six months. ctDNA status was identified as a prognostic biomarker of tumor progression before RC and 4 and 12 months later (HR 6.774, HR 3.673, and HR 30.865, respectively; p < 0.05). Lastly, dynamic changes in ctDNA status between baseline and four months later were significantly associated with patient outcomes (p = 0.045). In conclusion, longitudinal ctDNA analysis using a tumor-agnostic approach is a potential tool for monitoring MIBC patients after RC. The implementation of this testing in a clinical setting could improve disease management and patients’ outcomes.
Impact of Mechanical Strain and Nicotinamide on RUNX2-Deficient Osteoblast Mimicking Cleidocranial Dysplasia
Authors: Schröder Agnes , Örs Talia , Byeon Ye-Oun , Cieplik Fabian , Proff Peter , Kirschneck Christian , Paddenberg Eva
Published: November 2023

Cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD) is a rare genetic defect caused by a heterozygous mutation of runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), which is important for osteoblast and skeletal development. RUNX2-deficiency causes extra- and intra-oral malformations that often require orthodontic treatment. Nicotinamide (NAM) affects bone remodelling processes. As these are crucial for orthodontic therapy, NAM could improve orthodontic treatment in CCD patients. This study investigates the effect of NAM in control and RUNX2-deficient osteoblasts under mechanical strain mimicking orthodontic treatment. First, the optimal NAM concentration and the differences in the expression profile of control and RUNX2-deficient osteoblasts were determined. Subsequently, osteoblasts were exposed to tensile and compressive strain with and without NAM, and the expression of genes critically involved in bone remodelling was investigated. NAM increased the expression of bone remodelling genes. RUNX2-deficient osteoblasts expressed more receptor activator of NFkB ligand (RANKL) and interleukin-6 (IL6), but less colony-stimulating factor-1 (CSF1). Most of the positive effects of NAM on bone remodelling genes were impaired by mechanical loading. In conclusion, NAM stimulated osteoblast differentiation by increasing the expression of RUNX2 and regulated the expression of osteoclastogenic factors. However, the positive effects of NAM on bone metabolism were impaired by mechanical loading and RUNX2 deficiency.