bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Halotolerant Rhizobacteria Promote Plant Growth and Decrease Salt Stress in Carya illinoinensis (Wangenh.) K. Koch
Authors: Palacio-Rodríguez Rubén , Sáenz-Mata Jorge , Trejo-Calzada Ricardo , Ochoa-García Perla Patricia , Arreola-Ávila Jesús G.
Published: December 2023

Pecan cultivation holds significant global importance. Salinity negatively affects the physiology and metabolism of the plant. However, certain plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) have the ability to reduce salt stress in plants. The objective was to analyze the effects of the rhizobacteria Bacillus paralicheniformis strain LBEndo1 on the development of pecan seedlings under salinity stress conditions. Two factors were analyzed: the presence of saline stress and the bacterial inoculation. The bacterial application was conducted at a concentration of 1 × 108 CFU/mL, and irrigation was administered every third day with 80 mL of water containing 50 mM NaCl. The results show that the rhizobacteria has a maximum tolerance of 15% salinity. Furthermore, the inoculation of PGPR significantly increased the biomass of the seedlings, including the dry weight of leaves, stem, and roots, as well as the stem diameter and height. Furthermore, seedlings that interacted with the rhizobacteria exhibited superior development under saline conditions, with significant increases of 105.5% in chlorophyll concentration and 112% in proline accumulation compared to non-inoculated seedlings. Additionally, a remarkable reduction in leaf damage caused by salt stress was observed. In conclusion, the LBEndo1 rhizobacteria, being a strain resistant to salinity and possessing multiple mechanisms to promote growth while mitigating salt stress, has the potential to be utilized in pecan seedlings to alleviate stress caused by salinity and increases biomass.
The Grapevine Transcription Factor VvTGA8 Enhances Resistance to White Rot via the Salicylic Acid Signaling Pathway in Tomato
Authors: Li Tinggang , Yuan Lifang , Yin Xiangtian , Jiang Xilong , Wei Yanfeng , Tang Xiaoning , Li Nanyang , Liu Qibao
Published: December 2023

White rot, caused by Coniella vitis, is a devastating disease in grapevine (Vitis vinifera) that seriously affects yield and quality. Breeding resistant grapevine varieties is a highly economical, environmentally friendly, and effective strategy to protect against the disease; however, this strategy requires a comprehensive understanding of the genes and pathways related to resistance. In this study, we sequenced the transcriptome of V. vinifera L. cv. GF, a highly resistant variety, at six time points after C. vitis inoculation. A transcriptome analysis showed that the salicylic acid (SA) signaling pathway was activated in response to C. vitis. Transient silencing of the VvTGA8 gene in the cv. GF greatly increased susceptibility to C. vitis. Subcellular localization studies showed that the VvTGA8 gene is localized in the nucleus. Heterologous expression of VvTGA8 in Solanum lycopersicum improved resistance to C. vitis and increased levels of the SA signaling pathway marker genes SlPR1 and SlPR2 significantly. To explore the mechanism by which VvTGA8 mediates disease resistance, we silenced SlICS1, a key gene in the SA synthesis pathway, through virus-induced gene silencing to inhibit SA synthesis in a VvTGA8 overexpression line, resulting in significantly weakened resistance to C. vitis and decreased expression levels of SlPR1 and SlPR2. We conclude that VvTGA8 is involved in SA signaling pathway, which activates the expression of pathogenesis-related genes in the nucleus, thereby mediating resistance to C. vitis in grapevine. This study provides an excellent target gene for disease-resistant breeding and gene editing in grapevine.
Cloning and Characterization of Yak DHODH Gene and Its Functional Studies in a Bisphenol S-Induced Ferroptosis Model of Fetal Fibroblasts
Authors: Xu Hongmei , Li Yueyue , Li Qiao , Ma Zifeng , Yin Shi , He Honghong , Xiong Yan , Xiong Xianrong , Lan Daoliang , Li Jian , Fu Wei
Published: December 2023

Dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH) is a rate-limiting enzyme of de novo biosynthesis of pyrimidine. Although the involvement of DHODH in resisting ferroptosis has been successively reported in recent years, which greatly advanced the understanding of the mechanism of programmed cell death (PCD), the genetic sequence of the yak DHODH gene and its roles in ferroptosis are still unknown. For this purpose, we firstly cloned the coding region sequence of DHODH (1188 bp) from yak liver and conducted a characterization analysis of its predictive protein that consists of 395 amino acids. We found that the coding region of the yak DHODH gene presented high conservation among species. Second, the expression profile of the DHODH gene in various yak tissues was investigated using RT-qPCR. The results demonstrated that DHODH was widely expressed in different yak tissues, with particularly high levels in the spleen, heart, and liver. Third, to investigate the involvement of DHODH in regulating ferroptosis in cells, yak skin fibroblasts (YSFs) were isolated from fetuses. And then, bisphenol S (BPS) was used to induce the in vitro ferroptosis model of YSFs. We observed that BPS decreased the cell viability (CCK8) and membrane potential (JC-1) of YSFs in a dose-dependent manner and induced oxidative stress by elevating reactive oxygen species (ROS). Simultaneously, it was evident that BPS effectively augmented the indicators associated with ferroptosis (MDA and BODIPY staining) and reduced GSH levels. Importantly, the co-administration of Ferrostatin-1 (Fer), a potent inhibitor of ferroptosis, significantly alleviated the aforementioned markers, thereby confirming the successful induction of ferroptosis in YSFs by BPS. Finally, overexpression plasmids and siRNAs of the yak DHODH gene were designed and transfected respectively into BPS-cultured YSFs to modulate DHODH expression. The findings revealed that DHODH overexpression alleviated the occurrence of BPS-induced ferroptosis, while interference of DHODH intensified the ferroptosis process in YSFs. In summary, we successfully cloned the coding region of the yak DHODH gene, demonstrating its remarkable conservation across species. Moreover, using BPS-induced ferroptosis in YSFs as the model, the study confirmed the role of the DHODH gene in resisting ferroptosis in yaks. These results offer valuable theoretical foundations for future investigations into the functionality of the yak DHODH gene and the underlying mechanisms of ferroptosis in this species.
Radiographic Left Atrial Size Measurement of Dogs in Different Mitral Valve Disease Stages with Four Different Methods
Authors: Marbella Fernández David , Montoya-Alonso Jose Alberto
Published: December 2023

The left atrial size increases (LAS) in patients with mitral valve disease (MVD) as the disease progresses. The vertebral left atrial size (VLAS), the modified-vertebral left atrial size (M-VLAS), and the radiographic left atrial dimension (RLAD) are methods reported to assess LAS on dogs’ radiographs. All these methods transform the LAS into vertebral units. The thoracic inlet (TI) has been used as a reliable reference point to measure the cardiac silhouette of dogs with MVD in different stages. The objective of this study was to assess the clinical utility of measuring a dog LAS on right thoracic X-rays using the TI as a reference and determine whether it could differentiate dogs in different MVD stages. LAS was divided by the TI to obtain the thoracic inlet left atrial score (TILAS). This was a retrospective observational study including 135 apparently healthy dogs performed to assess their LAS with four different methods: VLAS, M-VLAS, RLAD, and TILAS. Thirty-six dogs from the general population were selected and compared to 100 dogs in different MVD stages. The TILAS was significantly different between the control dogs and MVD dogs, increasing with the disease stage: control dogs 0.51 ± 0.08, B1 0.57 ± 0.14, B2 0.75 ± 0.13, and C 0.84 ± 0.18. VLAS, M-VLAS, and RLAD also increased as the disease progressed, as shown in previous studies. The TILAS accuracy to distinguish MVD dogs with cardiac enlargement was comparable to VLAS, M-VLAS, and RLAD (AUC 0.91 vs. 0.93, 0.90, and 0.94 respectively). A TILAS > 0.8 can identify dogs with cardiac enlargement secondary to MVD.
Outcome and Predictors of Treatment Failure in Chronic Osteomyelitis Using Bioactive Glass Granules and Putty Formulations
Authors: Dell’Aquila Adriana Macedo , Reis Gabriela Nagy Baldy dos , Cuba Gabriel Trova , Targa Walter Hamilton de Castro , Bongiovanni José Carlos , Durigon Thomas Stravinskas , Salles Mauro José , Reis Fernando Baldy dos
Published: December 2023

Background: The aim of this study is to evaluate the outcome of patients with cavitary chronic osteomyelitis undergoing adjuvant treatment with bioactive glass (BAG) S53P4 and identify the independent risk factors (RFs) for recurrence in 6- and 12-month patient follow-up. Methods: A retrospective, multicentre observational study conducted in tertiary specialised hospitals among patients undergoing the surgical treatment of chronic cavitary osteomyelitis using BAG-S53P4 in a granule and/or putty formulation to assess the clinical outcome and RFs for failure in 6- and 12-month patient follow-up. Results: Of the 92 and 78 patients with 6-month and 12-month follow-ups, infection was eradicated in 85.9% and 87.2%, respectively. In the 6-month follow-up, BAG-S53P4 in the granule formulation presented a greater risk of recurrence compared to the bioactive glass putty formulation or combined granules and putty (prevalence ratio (PR) = 3.04; confidence interval 95% [CI95%]: 1.13–10.52) and neoplasia (PR = 5.26; CI95%: 1.17–15.52). In the 12-month follow-up cohort of 78 patients, smoking (PR = 4.0; 95% CI: 1.03–15.52) and nonfermenting GNB infection (PR = 3.87; CI95%: 1.09–13.73) presented a greater risk of recurrence. Conclusions: BAG-S53P4 is a viable option for bone-void filling and the treatment of chronic cavitary osteomyelitis. Formulations of BAG with putty or in combination with granules showed better results.
Improving the Antibacterial Properties of Dental Bonding Materials Loaded with Silver Compounds
Authors: Ferrando-Magraner Elena , García-Sanz Verónica , Bellot-Arcís Carlos , Marín-Gozalbo Anna , Cabedo-Mas Luís , Mínguez-Vega Gladys , Paredes-Gallardo Vanessa
Published: December 2023

Biofilm accumulation, the appearance of white spot lesions and the development of secondary caries are the main complications in orthodontic patients. A promising approach to fight this situation is the development of adhesive cements with improved antibacterial properties. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the possibility of improving the antibacterial properties of glass ionomer cements by incorporating different types of antimicrobial compounds without altering their physical and mechanical properties. Different concentrations of silver carbonate (SC) and an inorganic glass with encapsulated silver were added to the glass ionomer cement, as well as chitosan, to achieve synergistic antibacterial activity. Variations in the antibacterial capacity were evaluated using the agar diffusion test; the potential alteration of the physical and mechanical properties of the material was analyzed by the shear bond strength test. SEM characterization and colorimetric evaluation were also conducted. Samples of SC up to 1% and inorganic glass with encapsulated silver up to 5% showed significant improvement in their antibacterial ability without compromising shear strength. The highest antimicrobial activity was observed for Lactobacillus acidophilus, with inhibition zones of 3.8 and 3.1 mm for SC and inorganic glass, respectively. The characterization of the samples did not detect any major structural changes between the different samples. The only group that underwent a noticeable color change was the group with SC. The results show that the incorporation of silver carbonate and inorganic glass with encapsulated silver provided the glass ionomer cement with an antibacterial capacity without compromising the bond strength and without modifying the structure of the material.
The Etiology, Antibiotic Therapy and Outcomes of Bacteremic Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections in Onco-Hematological Patients
Authors: Castelli Valeria , Sastre-Escolà Enric , Puerta-Alcalde Pedro , Huete-Álava Leyre , Laporte-Amargós Júlia , Bergas Alba , Chumbita Mariana , Marín Mar , Domingo-Domenech Eva , Badia-Tejero Ana María , Pons-Oltra Paula , García-Vidal Carolina , Carratalà Jordi , Gudiol Carlota
Published: December 2023

Objectives: to assess the current epidemiology, antibiotic therapy and outcomes of onco- hematological patients with bacteremic skin and soft-tissue infections (SSTIs), and to identify the risk factors for Gram-negative bacilli (GNB) infection and for early and overall mortality. Methods: episodes of bacteremic SSTIs occurring in cancer patients at two hospitals were prospectively recorded and retrospectively analyzed. Results: Of 164 episodes of bacteremic SSTIs, 53% occurred in patients with solid tumors and 47% with hematological malignancies. GNB represented 45.5% of all episodes, led by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (37.8%). Multidrug resistance rate was 16%. Inadequate empirical antibiotic therapy (IEAT) occurred in 17.7% of episodes, rising to 34.6% in those due to resistant bacteria. Independent risk factors for GNB infection were corticosteroid therapy and skin necrosis. Early and overall case-fatality rates were 12% and 21%, respectively. Risk factors for early mortality were older age, septic shock, and IEAT, and for overall mortality were older age, septic shock and resistant bacteria. Conclusions: GNB bacteremic SSTI was common, particularly if corticosteroid therapy or skin necrosis. IEAT was frequent in resistant bacteria infections. Mortality occurred mainly in older patients with septic shock, resistant bacteria and IEAT. These results might guide empirical antibiotic therapy in this high-risk population.
Bloodstream Infections by Pantoea Species: Clinical and Microbiological Findings from a Retrospective Study, Italy, 2018–2023
Authors: Casale Roberto , Boattini Matteo , Bianco Gabriele , Comini Sara , Corcione Silvia , Garazzino Silvia , Silvestro Erika , De Rosa Francesco Giuseppe , Cavallo Rossana , Costa Cristina
Published: December 2023

(1) Background: The widespread use of MALDI-TOF coupled to mass spectrometry has improved diagnostic accuracy by identifying uncommon bacteria. Among Enterobacterales, Pantoea species have been seen to be implicated in several human infections, but their clinical and microbiological framework is currently based on a few anecdotal reports. (2) Methods: We conducted this five-year (2018–2023) single-center study aimed at investigating the prevalence and clinical and microbiological findings of Pantoea species bloodstream infections. (3) Results: Among the 4996 bloodstream infection Gram-negative isolates collected during the study period, Pantoea species accounted for 0.4% (n = 19) of isolates from 19 different patients, 5 of them being pediatric cases. Among Pantoea species isolates, P. agglomerans was the most frequently detected (45%; n = 9) followed by P. eucrina (30%; n = 6) and P. septica (15%; n = 3). Malignancy (35.7%) in adults and malignancy (40%) and cerebrovascular disease following meconium aspiration (40%) in pediatric patients as comorbidities and shivering and/or fever following parenteral infusion (36.8%) as a symptom/sign of Pantoea species bloodstream infection onset were the most frequently observed clinical features. Among adults, primary bloodstream infection was the most frequent (50%), whereas among pediatric patients, the most commonly identified sources of infection were catheter-related (40%) and the respiratory tract (40%). Overall, Pantoea species bloodstream infection isolates displayed high susceptibility to all the antibiotics except for ampicillin (63.2%), fosfomycin (73.7%), and piperacillin/tazobactam (84.2%). Targeted antibiotic treatment was prescribed as monotherapy for adults (71.4%) and combination therapy for pediatric patients (60%). The most prescribed antibiotic regimens were piperacillin/tazobactam (21.4%) in adults and meropenem- (40%) and aminoglycoside-containing (40%) antibiotics in pediatric patients. The overall 28-day all-cause mortality rate was 5.3% (n = 1). (4) Conclusions: The prevalence and 28-day mortality rate of Pantoea species bloodstream infections were low. The prescription of targeted therapy including broad-spectrum antibiotics could indicate an underestimation of the specific involvement of the Pantoea species in the onset of the disease, warranting further studies defining their pathogenic potential.
Application of Octenidine into Nasal Vestibules Does Not Influence SARS-CoV-2 Detection via PCR or Antigen Test Methods
Authors: Assadian Ojan , Sigmund Fabiola , Herzog Daniela , Riedl Karin , Klaus Christoph
Published: December 2023

The targeted or universal decolonization of patients through octenidine for nasal treatment and antiseptic body wash for 3 to 5 days prior elective surgery has been implemented in several surgical disciplines in order to significantly reduce surgical site infections (SSIs) caused by Staphylococcus aureus carriage. However, as most healthcare facilities also screen patients on admission for pilot infection, it is imperative that a prophylactic nasal decolonization procedure not yield a false negative SARS-CoV-2 status in otherwise positive patients. We assessed the effect of a commercially available octenidine-containing nasal gel on two different screening methods—antigen (Ag) detection based on colloidal gold immunochromatography and RT-PCR—in a prospective-type accuracy pilot study in asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2-positive inpatients. All patients still showed a positive test result after using the octenidine-containing nasal gel for about 3 days; therefore, its application did not influence SARS-CoV-2 screening, which is of high clinical relevance. Of note is that Ag detection was less sensitive, regardless of the presence of octenidine. From an infection prevention perspective, these results favor octenidine-based decolonization strategies, even during seasonal SARS-CoV-2 periods. As only asymptomatic patients are considered for elective interventions, screening programs based on RT-PCR technology should be preferred.
Mitochondrial Stress Links Environmental Triggers with Pro-Inflammatory Signaling in Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Martín-Reyes Flores , Bernal Manuel , Rodríguez-Díaz Cristina , Rodríguez-de los Reyes Damaris , Ho-Plagaro Ailec , Rodríguez-Pacheco Francisca , Camacho-Martel Laura , Camargo-Camero Raquel , Rodríguez-González Francisco J. , Alcain-Martínez Guillermo , Martín-Masot Rafael , Navas-López Víctor M. , Villanueva-Paz Marina , Lucena María Isabel , García-Fuentes Eduardo , López-Gómez Carlos
Published: December 2023

Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) are a group of chronic, inflammatory disorders of the gut. The incidence and activity of IBD are determined by both genetic and environmental factors. Among these factors, polymorphisms in genes related to autophagy and the consumption of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been consistently associated with IBD. We show that NSAIDs induce mitochondrial stress and mitophagy in intestinal epithelial cells. In an altered mitophagy context simulating that observed in IBD patients, NSAID-induced mitochondrial stress leads to the release of mitochondrial components, which act as Danger Associated Molecular Patterns with pro-inflammatory potential. Furthermore, colonic organoids from Crohn’s disease patients and healthy donors show activation of the mitochondrial Unfolded Protein Response (UPRmt) upon treatment with ibuprofen. Finally, colon biopsies from Crohn’s disease patients in remission or with low-to-moderate activity also show expression of genes involved in UPRmt, while patients with severe activity show no increase compared to healthy donors. Our results suggest the involvement of mitochondria in the mechanisms triggering inflammation in IBD after NSAID use. Moreover, our results highlight the clinical relevance of mitochondrial stress and activation of the UPRmt pathway in the pathophysiology of Crohn’s disease.
Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BPL1™ and Its Lipoteichoic Acid Modulate Longevity and Improve Age/Stress-Related Behaviors in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Balaguer Ferran , Barrena Marta , Enrique María , Maicas Miren , Álvarez Beatriz , Tortajada Marta , Chenoll Empar , Ramón Daniel , Martorell Patricia
Published: December 2023

Life expectancy has increased globally in recent decades, driving interest in maintaining a healthy life that includes preservation of physical and mental abilities, particularly in elderly people. The gut microbiome becomes increasingly perturbed with aging so the use of probiotics can be a strategy for maintaining a balanced gut microbiome. A previous report showed that Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BPL1™ induces through its lipoteichoic acid (LTA) fat reduction activities via the insulin/IGF-1 signaling pathway. Here, we have delved into the mechanism of action, eliminating alternative pathways as putative mechanisms. Furthermore, we have identified that BPL1™, its heat treated form (BPL1™ HT) and its LTA prolong longevity in Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) in an insulin/IGF-1-dependent mechanism, and its consumption improves the oxidative stress response, gut permeability and protection against pathogenic infections. Furthermore, positive effects on C. elegans stress-related behaviors and in the Alzheimer’s Disease model were found, highlighting the potential of the strain in improving the cognitive functions and proteotoxicity in the nematode. These results indicate the pivotal role of the IGF-1 pathway in the activity of the strain and pave the way for potential applications of BPL1™, BPL1™ HT and its LTA in the field of longevity and age-related markers.
Betula pendula Leaf Extract Targets the Interplay between Brain Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and NFkB Pathways in Amyloid Aβ1-42-Treated Rats
Authors: Sevastre-Berghian Alexandra-Cristina , Ielciu Irina , Bab Timea , Olah Neli-Kinga , Neculicioiu Vlad Sever , Toma Vlad Alexandru , Sevastre Bogdan , Mocan Teodora , Hanganu Daniela , Bodoki Andreea Elena , Roman Ioana , Lucaciu Roxana Liana , Hangan Adriana Corina , Hașaș Alina-Diana , Decea Roxana Maria , Băldea Ioana
Published: December 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is known as the primary and most common cause of dementia in the middle-aged and elderly population worldwide. Chemical analyses of B. pendula leaf extract (BPE), performed using spectrophotometric and chromatographic methods (LC/MS), revealed high amounts of polyphenol carboxylic acids (gallic, chlorogenic, caffeic, trans-p-coumaric, ferulic, and salicylic acids), as well as flavonoids (apigenin, luteolin, luteolin-7-O-glucoside, naringenin, hyperoside, quercetin, and quercitrin). Four groups of Wistar rats were used in this experiment (n = 7/group): control (untreated), Aβ1-42 (2 μg/rat intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.), Aβ1-42 + BPE (200 mg/Kg b.w.), and DMSO (10 μL/rat). On the first day, one dose of Aβ1-42 was intracerebroventricularly administered to animals in groups 2 and 3. Subsequently, BPE was orally administered for the next 15 days to group 3. On the 16th day, behavioral tests were performed. Biomarkers of brain oxidative stress Malondialdehyde (MDA), (Peroxidase (PRx), Catalase (CAT), and Superoxid dismutase (SOD) and inflammation (cytokines: tumor necrosis factor -α (TNF-α), Interleukin 1β (IL-1β), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX 2)) in plasma and hippocampus homogenates were assessed. Various protein expressions (Phospho-Tau (Ser404) (pTau Ser 404), Phospho-Tau (Ser396) (pTau Ser 396), synaptophysin, and the Nuclear factor kappa B (NFkB) signaling pathway) were analyzed using Western blot and immunohistochemistry in the hippocampus. The results show that BPE diminished lipid peroxidation and neuroinflammation, modulated specific protein expression, enhanced the antioxidant capacity, and improved spontaneous alternation behavior, suggesting that it has beneficial effects in AD.
A High-Precision Planar NURBS Interpolation System Based on Segmentation Method for Industrial Robot
Authors: Liu Xun , Xu Yan , Cao Jiabin , Liu Jinyu , Zhao Yanzheng
Published: December 2023

NURBS curve parameter interpolation is extensively employed in precision trajectory tasks for industrial robots due to its smoother performance compared to traditional linear or circular interpolation methods. The trajectory planning systems for industrial robots necessitate four essential functional modules: first, the spline curve discretization technique ensuring chord error compliance; second, the contour scanning technique for determining the maximum feasible feed rate for multi-constraint and multi-segment paths; third, the technique for achieving a smooth feed rate profile; and fourth, the continuous curve parameter interpolation technique. Therefore, this paper proposes a high-precision planar NURBS interpolation system for industrial robots. Firstly, a segmentation method for NURBS curves based on a closed-loop chord error constraint is proposed, which segments the original global NURBS curve into a collection of Bezier curves that strictly meet the chord error constraint. Secondly, a bidirectional scanning technique is presented to meet the joint space constraint, establishing an analytical mapping between the tool tip kinematic constraint and the joint kinematic constraint. Then, based on the traditional S-shaped feed rate profile, an adaptive algorithm with a displacement constraint is introduced, considering the real-time speed adjustment requirements of robots. Finally, a compensation interpolation strategy based on arc length parameterization is adopted to solve the accumulated error problem in parameter interpolation. The effectiveness of and potential for enhancing the quality of planar machining of the proposed planar NURBS interpolation system for industrial robots are validated through simulations and experiments. The results demonstrate the system’s applicability and accuracy, and its ability to improve planar machining quality.
Effect of Finely Ground Coal Bottom Ash as Replacement for Portland Cement on the Properties of Ordinary Concrete
Authors: Chuang Chun-Wei , Chen Tai-An , Huang Ran
Published: December 2023

This study investigates the use of finely ground coal bottom ash (FGCBA) as a substitute for Portland cement in concrete, comparing it with coal fly ash from the same power plant. The incorporation of this ash necessitates the addition of a superplasticizer to achieve the desired slump at the same replacement rate. The results demonstrate that at an optimal 20% replacement rate, as determined by 91-day compressive strength tests, the maximum strength achieved by FGCBA is 97.7% of the control group with pure cement, whereas coal fly ash reaches 114.0%. Drying shrinkage tests indicate for both materials have similar volume stability, while rapid chloride permeability tests show their effectiveness in reducing chloride ion permeability, with superior performance from FGCBA. Under optimal conditions, the result of the RCPT test was only 559 coulombs, which is significantly better compared to the 4108 coulombs when using fly ash from coal combustion. Our results demonstrate that utilizing low-cost bottom ash by finely grinding it to replace Portland cement in concrete is feasible, achieving both carbon reduction and economic viability.
Mitigating Risks in Coal Mining: Simulation-Based Strategy for Oxidation Zone Control Using Inorganic Paste Backfill at the Working Face Corners
Authors: Sun Lei , Li Chong , Xu Zhijun , Tai Lianhai , Cao Yue , Zhang Xiaowu
Published: December 2023

Insufficient stability of the top plate at the corner of an easily combustible coal seam comprehensive mining face may lead to a natural fire within the goaf. While corner sealing is crucial for minimizing air leakage, current sealing methods struggle to effectively prevent such leakage. Additionally, the distribution characteristics of the oxidation zone in the goaf after sealing are unclear, making it difficult to control the extent of the oxidation zone. To address these issues, a new type of inorganic paste filling material was developed, taking into account the conditions of the Cuncaota II Mine. Various corner-filling schemes were developed, and numerical simulations were used to study the effects of different corner-filling strategies and varying filling interval distances on the width of the oxidation zone in the goaf. Based on these findings, a working face corner-filling technology was proposed and applied to the 22,122 working face. The research results indicate that the mountain sand-based paste filling material, using mountain sand as the filling aggregate and cement and fly ash as the binding materials, not only meets the pumping requirements but also exhibits excellent self-supporting characteristics, thereby addressing the corner filling needs of the working face. The width variation in the oxidation zone in the goaf is influenced by the position and interval distance of the corner filling, showing a pattern of initially decreasing and then increasing with the rise in the filling interval distance, reaching a minimum at a filling interval of 50 m. Field observation data demonstrate that, following the application of the aforementioned filling technology, the width of the oxidation zone in the goaf of the 22,122 working face is reduced by 37.5%, and air leakage decreases by 66.7% compared to the unfilled condition. This technology effectively narrows the range of the oxidation zone in the goaf, ensuring the safety of working face production.
Numerical and Experimental Investigations of Particle Dampers Attached to a Pipeline System
Authors: Ma Rui , Shi Fuqiang , Juan Mingxin , Wang Jiao , Jin Jie , Yu Tao
Published: December 2023

The structure of pipeline systems is complex, and the working environment is harsh. Under the excitation of the engine equipment foundation and pump fluid, it is easy to generate excessive vibration, which seriously affects the safe operation of the equipment. Particle damping achieves structural vibration suppression through the principle of particle collision dissipation. Due to the drawbacks of traditional pipeline vibration reduction methods, this article introduces a particle damping technology for pipeline system vibration suppression and designs particle dampers based on the structural characteristics of pipelines. We analyzed the energy dissipation mechanism of particle damping, revealed the influence of the materials, structure, external excitation, and other parameters of the pipeline particle dampers on the energy dissipation characteristics of the particle damping, established a pipeline vibration reduction test system with particle damping, and verified its effectiveness in pipeline system vibration reduction. This study can provide a technical reference for vibration reduction in pipeline systems.
Effect of Microwave and Conventional Heat Treatment on Total Phenolic Compounds, HPLC Phenolic Profile, and Antioxidant Activity of Leptadenia pyrotechnica (Forssk.) Decne Stem
Authors: Alkaltham Mohammed Saeed , Hayat Khizar , Salamatullah Ahmad Mohammad , Ahmed Mohammed Asif , Hassan Amro B.
Published: December 2023

Leptadenia pyrotechnica is considered a wild herb used to enhance the palatability of food, particularly in the Gulf region. The effect of microwave (5, 8, and 10 min at 900 W) and hot-air heating (60, 120, and 180 min at 100 °C) on the phenolic compounds and antioxidants of L. pyrotechnica stems was investigated. The results showed that microwave heating gave high values of the total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant properties, while the control sample was inferior in all these attributes. Moreover, microwave heating, particularly for 8 min, produced the highest TPC, TFC, and DPPH values (significant at p < 0.05) and reduced power in the L. pyrotechnica stem. However, prolonging the heating time caused adverse effects on the bioactive potential of the samples. The HPLC analysis indicates that both processes caused a significant increment in the phenolic compounds of the sample. Tannic acid, vanillin, and acetyl salicylic acid were found to be higher in the microwaved-treated samples than in those heated with hot air. The tannic acid was found to be high after microwave heating for 8 min at 116.06 mg/100 g, while the higher value of acetylsalicylic acid 119.08 mg/100 g was observed after microwave heating for 5 min. The partial least regression (PLS) validation model revealed that microwave heating, particularly at an 8 min application time, offered better results, and owing to its short processing time, which might be adopted for heating the L. pyrotechnica stems in the food industry, and it can be useful for preparing functional foods.
Innovative Optimal Control Path Planning for PMCU in Cruise Ship Construction: A Kinematic and Obstacle Avoidance Model
Authors: Li Jinghua , Dong Ruipu , Huang Wenhao
Published: December 2023

In cruise ship manufacturing, it is common practice for prefabricated modular cabin units (PMCU) to be assembled in the workshop and transported to a designated installation location on board the ship. This paper proposed a Radau pseudospectral method based on a probabilistic roadmap (PRM) for PMCU path planning in complex deck environments. Firstly, a kinematic model is constructed, and the continuous-time optimal control path planning problem is established. Among them, an area-based obstacle avoidance constraint is applied to the approach. Then, the continuous-time optimal control problem is discretized into a nonlinear programming (NLP) problem using the orthogonal collocation method. For the initial value-sensitive NLP problem solving, a strategy using PRM combined with a heuristic rule is used to obtain a high-quality initial guess. Finally, experiments under two operating scenarios of PMCU pushing demonstrate that the method is capable of generating a better path while ensuring that the whole process is collision-free. The results show that the algorithm proposed in this paper can effectively solve the PMCU pushing path planning problem in the complex deck environment, and the path considering kinematic characteristics can be used for cabin installation, which has strong operability and applicability.
Swin-APT: An Enhancing Swin-Transformer Adaptor for Intelligent Transportation
Authors: Liu Yunzhuo , Wu Chunjiang , Zeng Yuting , Chen Keyu , Zhou Shijie
Published: December 2023

Artificial Intelligence has been widely applied in intelligent transportation systems. In this work, Swin-APT, a deep learning-based approach for semantic segmentation and object detection in intelligent transportation systems is presented. Swin-APT includes a lightweight network and a multiscale adapter network designed for image semantic segmentation and object detection tasks. An inter-frame consistency module is proposed to extract more accurate road information from images. Experimental results on four datasets: BDD100K, CamVid, SYNTHIA, and CeyMo, demonstrate that Swin-APT outperforms the baseline by 13.1%. Furthermore, experiments on the road marking detection benchmark show an improvement of 1.85% of mAcc.
Campylobacter Bacteriophage Infection at Refrigeration Temperatures
Authors: Hu Yang , Al Shaaer Bader , Liang Lu , Connerton Ian F.
Published: December 2023

The application of bacteriophages to control foodborne bacterial pathogens in foods has gained traction in recent years. Poultry meat is a major source of Campylobacter jejuni, and a target for the application of bacteriophages. To offer the prospect of a post-harvest control measure, the bacteriophage must function at refrigeration temperatures, where C. jejuni does not grow but can survive. Here, we report actions of three classes of Campylobacter bacteriophage at 4 °C. The pre-incubation of broth cultures at 4 °C before a shift to 42 °C under conditions that support the growth of the host bacteria revealed differences in the time to lysis compared with cultures incubated at 42 °C. The pre-adsorption of the bacteriophage to a sub-population of bacteria is consistent with the observation of asynchronous infection. To ascertain whether the bacteriophages adsorb and infect (the commitment to replicate), we investigated bacteriophage transcription at 4 °C. RNA transcripts for all the bacteriophage host combinations were detected after 15 min, indicating that the interaction is not merely passive. Bacteriophages can infect C. jejuni at refrigeration temperatures, but the infection does not proceed to lysis in the absence of host cell division.
The Body of Christ and the Embodied Viewer in Rubens’s Rockox Epitaph
Authors: Grimmett Kendra
Published: December 2023

On behalf of the Catholic Church, the Council of Trent (1545–1563) confirmed the usefulness of religious images and multisensory worship practices for engaging the bodies and the minds of congregants, and for moving pious devotees to empathize with Christ. In the center panel of the Rockox Epitaph (c. 1613–1615), a funerary triptych commissioned by the Antwerp mayor Nicolaas Rockox (1560–1640) and his wife Adriana Perez (1568–1619) to hang over their tomb, Peter Paul Rubens (1577–1640) paints an awe-inspiring, hopeful image of the Risen Lord that alludes to the promise of humankind’s corporeal resurrection at the Last Judgment. In the wings, Rockox and Perez demonstrate affective worship with prayer aids and welcome onlookers to gaze upon Christ’s renewed body. Rubens’s juxtaposition of the eternal, incorruptible body of Jesus alongside five mortal figures—the two patrons and the three apostles, Peter, Paul, and John—prompted living viewers to meditate on their relationship with God, to compare their bodies with those depicted, and to contemplate their own embodiment and mortality. Ultimately, the idealized body of Christ reminds faithful audiences of both the corporeal renewal and the spiritual salvation made possible through Jesus’s death and resurrection.
Developing Constrained Interval Operators for Fuzzy Logic with Interval Values
Authors: Pinheiro Jocivania , Santiago Regivan H. N. , Bedregal Benjamin , Bergamaschi Flaulles
Published: December 2023

A well-known problem in the interval analysis literature is the overestimation and loss of information. In this article, we define new interval operators, called constrained interval operators, that preserve information and mitigate overestimation. These operators are investigated in terms of correction, algebraic properties, and orders. It is shown that a large part of the properties studied is preserved by this operator, while others remain preserved with the condition of continuity, as is the case of the exchange principle. In addition, a comparative study is carried out between this operator g¨ and the best interval representation: g^. Although g¨⊆g^ and g¨ do not preserve the Moore correction, we do not have a loss of relevant information since everything that is lost is irrelevant, mitigating the overestimation.
A Hybrid DEMATEL and Bayesian Best–Worst Method Approach for Inland Port Development Evaluation
Authors: Ma Junchi , Wiegmans Bart , Wang Xifu , Yang Kai , Jiang Lijun
Published: December 2023

Inland ports are gaining more and more attention as important hubs for inland cities to promote foreign trade. However, studies on the evaluation of inland ports are lacking. In this work, we aim to construct an index system and propose a multi-criteria group decision-making method to comprehensively evaluate the development of inland ports. Unlike previous studies, using pressure–state–response model as a reference, we built up a demand–risk–power–potential framework for the index system proposed in this study. To determine the different weights for each indicator, which is a typical multi-criteria decision-making problem, we innovatively combined the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) and the Bayesian best–worst method (BBWM) based on their distinct advantages in dealing with data coupling and group decision-making. In addition, this work introduces a case study of inland ports in the Huaihai Economy Zone to validate the efficacy of the proposed evaluation model and method. After calculating and obtaining the comprehensive scores and rankings of each inland port in this case, we compared the evaluation results with those under the BBWM, TOPSIS, and CRITIC methodologies, and found that the results under the DEMATEL–BBWM methodology can provide better differentiation for inland port evaluation results. Moreover, based on the evaluation results, a performance–importance matrix is formulated to identify the areas requiring attention in the development process of each inland port. Subsequently, rational managerial insights are put forward to achieve the sustainable development of inland ports in the Huaihai Economy Zone.
Some Connectivity Parameters of Interval-Valued Intuitionistic Fuzzy Graphs with Applications
Authors: Guan Hao , Khan Waheed Ahmad , Saleem Shazia , Arif Waqar , Shafi Jana , Khan Aysha
Published: December 2023

Connectivity in graphs is useful in describing different types of communication systems like neural networks, computer networks, etc. In the design of any network, it is essential to evaluate the connections based on their strengths. In this manuscript, we comprehensively describe various connectivity parameters related to interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy graphs (IVIFGs). These are the generalizations of the parameters defined for fuzzy graphs, interval-valued fuzzy graphs, and intuitionistic fuzzy graphs. First, we introduce interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy bridges (IVIF bridges) and interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy cut-nodes (IVIF cut-nodes). We discuss the many characteristics of these terms as well as establish the necessary and sufficient conditions for an arc to become an IVIF-bridge and a vertex to be an IVIF-cutnode. Furthermore, we initiate the concepts of interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy cycles (IVIFCs) and interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy trees (IVIFTs) and explore few relationships among them. In addition, we introduce the notions of fuzzy blocks and fuzzy block graphs and extend these terms as interval-valued fuzzy blocks (IVF-blocks) and interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy block graphs (IVIF-block graphs). Finally, we provide the application of interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy trees (IVIFTs) in a road transport network.
High-Speed and Accurate Diagnosis of Gastrointestinal Disease: Learning on Endoscopy Images Using Lightweight Transformer with Local Feature Attention
Authors: Wu Shibin , Zhang Ruxin , Yan Jiayi , Li Chengquan , Liu Qicai , Wang Liyang , Wang Haoqian
Published: December 2023

In response to the pressing need for robust disease diagnosis from gastrointestinal tract (GIT) endoscopic images, we proposed FLATer, a fast, lightweight, and highly accurate transformer-based model. FLATer consists of a residual block, a vision transformer module, and a spatial attention block, which concurrently focuses on local features and global attention. It can leverage the capabilities of both convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and vision transformers (ViT). We decomposed the classification of endoscopic images into two subtasks: a binary classification to discern between normal and pathological images and a further multi-class classification to categorize images into specific diseases, namely ulcerative colitis, polyps, and esophagitis. FLATer has exhibited exceptional prowess in these tasks, achieving 96.4% accuracy in binary classification and 99.7% accuracy in ternary classification, surpassing most existing models. Notably, FLATer could maintain impressive performance when trained from scratch, underscoring its robustness. In addition to the high precision, FLATer boasted remarkable efficiency, reaching a notable throughput of 16.4k images per second, which positions FLATer as a compelling candidate for rapid disease identification in clinical practice.
Role of NMDA Receptor in High-Pressure Neurological Syndrome and Hyperbaric Oxygen Toxicity
Authors: Bliznyuk Alice , Grossman Yoram
Published: December 2023

Professional divers exposed to pressures greater than 11 ATA (1.1 MPa) may suffer from high-pressure neurological syndrome (HPNS). Divers who use closed-circuit breathing apparatus and patients and medical attendants undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) face the risk of CNS hyperbaric oxygen toxicity (HBOTx) at oxygen pressure above 2 ATA (0.2 MPa). Both syndromes are characterized by reversible CNS hyperexcitability, accompanied by cognitive and motor deficits, and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) plays a crucial role in provoking them. Various NMDAR subtypes respond differently under hyperbaric conditions. The augmented currents observed only in NMDAR containing GluN2A subunit increase glutamatergic synaptic activity and cause dendritic hyperexcitability and abnormal neuronal activity. Removal of the resting Zn2+ voltage-independent inhibition exerted by GluN2A present in the NMDAR is the major candidate for the mechanism underlying the increase in receptor conductance. Therefore, this process should be the main target for future research aiming at developing neuroprotection against HPNS and HBOTx.
Mitochondrial Quality Control via Mitochondrial Unfolded Protein Response (mtUPR) in Ageing and Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Cilleros-Holgado Paula , Gómez-Fernández David , Piñero-Pérez Rocío , Romero-Domínguez Jose Manuel , Reche-López Diana , López-Cabrera Alejandra , Álvarez-Córdoba Mónica , Munuera-Cabeza Manuel , Talaverón-Rey Marta , Suárez-Carrillo Alejandra , Romero-González Ana , Sánchez-Alcázar Jose Antonio
Published: December 2023

Mitochondria play a key role in cellular functions, including energy production and oxidative stress regulation. For this reason, maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis and proteostasis (homeostasis of the proteome) is essential for cellular health. Therefore, there are different mitochondrial quality control mechanisms, such as mitochondrial biogenesis, mitochondrial dynamics, mitochondrial-derived vesicles (MDVs), mitophagy, or mitochondrial unfolded protein response (mtUPR). The last item is a stress response that occurs when stress is present within mitochondria and, especially, when the accumulation of unfolded and misfolded proteins in the mitochondrial matrix surpasses the folding capacity of the mitochondrion. In response to this, molecular chaperones and proteases as well as the mitochondrial antioxidant system are activated to restore mitochondrial proteostasis and cellular function. In disease contexts, mtUPR modulation holds therapeutic potential by mitigating mitochondrial dysfunction. In particular, in the case of neurodegenerative diseases, such as primary mitochondrial diseases, Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), Huntington’s disease (HD), Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), or Friedreich’s Ataxia (FA), there is a wealth of evidence demonstrating that the modulation of mtUPR helps to reduce neurodegeneration and its associated symptoms in various cellular and animal models. These findings underscore mtUPR’s role as a promising therapeutic target in combating these devastating disorders.