bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic and Molecular Characterization of a New EMS-Induced Mutant without the Third Glucose Moiety at the C-3 Sugar Chain of Saponin in Glycine max (L.) Merr.
Authors: Ko Jeongyun , Sundaramoorthy Jagadeesh , Tsukamoto Chigen , Park Junbeom , Lee Jinwon , Jo Hyun , Lee Jeong-Dong , Seo Hak Soo , Song Jong Tae
Published: July 2022

Saponin, a secondary metabolite, is produced by various plant species, including soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.). Soybeans synthesize triterpenoid saponins, which are classified by their aglycone structure and sugar chain composition. Here, we characterized an ethyl methanesulfonate-induced mutant, PE1539, without saponin and with a glucose moiety at the third position of the C-3 sugar chain. The saponin phenotype of PE1539 is described by the accumulation of Ab-γg saponin and deficiency of Ab-αg saponin and DDMP-αg saponin, similar to a previously reported sg-3 mutant in soybean. Genetic analysis showed that the saponin phenotype of PE1539 is controlled by a recessive mutation. We mapped the gene responsible for the phenotype of PE1539 and the mapped region included Sg-3 (Glyma.10G104700). Further analysis of Sg-3 in PE1539 using DNA sequencing revealed a single-nucleotide substitution in the exon (G804A), resulting in a premature stop codon; thus, PE1539 produced a PSPG box-truncated protein. Saponin phenotype analysis of the F2 population—from a cross between wild-type Uram and PE1539—showed that the phenotype of saponin was cosegregated with the genotype of Sg-3. Quantitative real-time PCR showed reduced expression of Sg-3 in PE1539 cells. Together, our data indicate that the saponin phenotype of PE1539 results from a mutation in Sg-3.
Seasonal Dynamics of CO2 Fluxes in Two Central-Russian Agroecosystems with Contrasting Ecological and Agronomic Conditions
Authors: Meshalkina Joulia , Yaroslavtsev Alexis , Vasenev Ivan , Valentini Riccardo
Published: July 2022

An eddy covariance (EC) GHG study was conducted at two comparable agroecosystems in the Central region of European Russia. The study was conducted in 2013 at the RTSAU Experimental Field with Umbric Albeluvisols (Moscow) and a private farm field with Chernozems in the Pristen area (Kursk region). Both studies involved barley crops, but the fields differed in climate, soil and technological conditions. Diurnal values of net ecosystem exchange (NEE) were two times higher in Kursk than in Moscow. The higher gross primary production (GPP) in Kursk was characterized by better climate and soil conditions and, partially, by the low intensity practices of semi-organic farming. GPP dynamics of the two agroecosystems were significantly different only during the first 50 days of vegetation; however, NEE seasonal differences persisted throughout the growing period, with the trends changing until the end of barley ripening. General trends for ecosystem respiration and GPP were determined by the crop phase. NEE seasonal dynamics showed that the Chernozem agroecosystem was characterized by an almost 2-fold increase in the range of CO2 fluxes, largely determined by hydrologic regime features. Since yield in Kursk was 50% lower than that in Moscow, it may be concluded that the use of modern fertilizing and crop protection systems converts a larger portion of GPP into yield mass.
In Vitro Evaluation of Wood Vinegar (Pyroligneous Acid) VOCs Inhibitory Effect against a Fungus-like Microorganism Ovatisporangium (Phytopythium) Isolate Recovered from Tomato Fields in Iran
Authors: Bouket Ali Chenari , Narmani Abolfazl , Tavasolee Alireza , Elyasi Ghorban , Abdi Akbar , Naeimi Shahram , Sharifi Kasra , Oszako Tomasz , Alenezi Faizah N. , Belbahri Lassaad
Published: July 2022

Crop diseases and agricultural pests and pathogens are causing huge economic losses. The actual means for dealing with them involve the use of damaging chemical pesticides that harm the environment, threaten biodiversity, and undermine human health. This research was aimed at developing an environmentally friendly means to cope with emerging oomycete disease from tomato fields in the province of East-Azerbaijan. The oomycete disease causal agent was isolated and identified as Ovatisporangium sp. using a combination of morphological features and molecular methods. Six wood vinegars (pyroligneous acid) belonging to pine, pomegranate, pistachio, almond, walnut, and cypress were produced during this study and examined against Ovatisporangium sp. Their inhibition of volatile metabolites (VOCs) using different dilutions (1, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, and 1/10) was assessed against the mycelial growth of Ovatisporangium sp. In vitro analysis demonstrated that pistachio, cypress, and almond dilution 1 (D 1) wood vinegar VOCs had the ability to stop the mycelial growth of Ovatisporangium sp. All other treatments including pine, walnut, and pomegranate with relevant dilutions significantly reduced the mycelial growth of Ovatisporangium sp. compared with the control (p ≤ 0.05). Wood vinegar is therefore a potent means to cope with pathogenic infections and allows plant protection against oomycete diseases.
Detailed Morphology of the Incisive or Nasopalatine Canal
Authors: Iamandoiu Andrei Valentin , Mureşan Alexandru Nicolae , Rusu Mugurel Constantin
Published: July 2022

(1) Background: The nasopalatine canal (NPC), or the incisive canal (IC) of maxilla, unites the anterior nasal floor with the anterior palatine region. Different morphological variables of the NPC were investigated, indicating it is either anatomically variable or constant. It was therefore decided to perform an additional study of the NPC. (2) Methods: A retrospective cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) study was performed on 89 patient files: 38 males and 51 females. The study documented the presence or absence of a well-defined NPC, the number of openings, and the anatomic variables of the canal (number, course, and secondary canaliculi). (3) Results: the NPC/IC in the coronal plane was classified into five types: (I) NPC present with two superior, nasopalatine foramina (NPFs) (66.29%); (II) NPC absent with two NPFs (2.25%); (III) NPC present and single NPF (17.98%); (IV) NPC present with three NPFs (3.37%); (V) both absent NPC and NPF (10.11%). (4) Conclusions: The anatomical possibilities of the NPC are numerous and diverse; they include the absence of the canal. Therefore, a standardized description of this canal could not be assumed and a radiological assessment is recommended before surgical treatment in the premaxilla area.
Signals of Potential Species Associations Offer Clues about Community Organisation of Stream Fish across Seasons
Authors: Zhang Chen , Zhang Yuzhou , García-Girón Jorge , Tan Kai , Wang Lei , Ge Yihao , Yan Yunzhi
Published: July 2022

Environmental filtering, spatial factors and species interactions are fundamental ecological mechanisms for community organisation, yet the role of such interactions across different environmental and spatial settings remains mostly unknown. In this study, we investigated fish community organisation scenarios and seasonal species-to-species associations potentially reflecting biotic associations along the Qiupu River (China). Based on a latent variable approach and a tree-based method, we compared the relative contribution of the abiotic environment, spatial covariates and potential species associations for variation in the community structure, and assessed whether different assembly scenarios were modulated by concomitant changes in the interaction network structure of fish communities across seasons. We found that potential species associations might have been underestimated in community-based assessments of stream fish. Omnivore species, since they have more associations with other species, were found to be key components sustaining fish interaction networks across different stream orders. Hence, we suggest that species interactions, such as predation and competition, likely played a key role in community structure. For instance, indices accounting for network structure, such as connectance and nestedness, were strongly correlated with the unexplained residuals from our latent variable approach, thereby re-emphasising that biotic signals, potentially reflecting species interactions, may be of primary importance in determining stream fish communities across seasons. Overall, our findings indicate that interaction network structures are a powerful tool to reflect the contribution of potential species associations to community assembly. From an applied perspective, this study should encourage freshwater ecologists to empirically capture and manage biotic constraints in stream ecosystems across different geographical and environmental settings, especially in the context of the ever-increasing impacts of human-induced local extinction debts and species invasions.
Establishment of the Primary Avian Gonadal Somatic Cell Lines for Cytogenetic Studies
Authors: Pristyazhnyuk Inna E. , Malinovskaya Lyubov P. , Borodin Pavel M.
Published: July 2022

The last decade was marked by a steep rise in avian studies at genomic and cellular levels. Cell lines are important tools for in vitro studies in cell biology and cytogenetics. We developed a simple method of primary somatic cell culture establishment from the ovaries of the great tits (Parus major) and testes of ten Passerine species, characterized the cellular composition of the ovary-derived lines using RT-PCR and immunolocalization of the tissue-specific markers and tested the efficiency of two methods of genetic transformation of the ovary-derived cell line. We found that the ovary-derived cell cultures of the great tit were composed of fibroblasts mainly, but also contained interstitial and granulosa cells. They were cultivated until the 10th passage without any noticeable decrease in their proliferative activity. The testis-derived cell cultures had lower proliferative potential. However, both ovary- and testis-derived cell cultures provided enough material for high quality mitotic metaphase chromosome preparations. The efficiency of its transduction with lentivirus containing a GFP reporter was very low, while electroporation with episomal vectors expressing GFP resulted in a high yield of GFP-positive cells. The proposed method could be used for the generation of high quality material for various cytogenetic and genomic studies.
Analysis of Movements and Behavior of Bighead Carps (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis) Considering Fish Passage Energetics in an Experimental Vertical Slot Fishway
Authors: Tan Junjun , Liu Zhenbiao , Wang Yu , Wang Yuanyang , Ke Senfan , Shi Xiaotao
Published: July 2022

An understanding of fish movement behavior in response to flow field variables is important for exploring the hydrodynamic strategies of fish in fish passages. In this paper, bighead carps were taken as an example. The fish movement behavior response to water flow field information by means of estimating the energetic expenditure using an IBM approach in an experimental fishway was investigated. Fish swimming velocity, drag force, and energy expenditure were analyzed in varied flow conditions related to hydraulic variables, including velocity (V), turbulent kinetic energy (TKE), and strain rate (SR). The result indicated that the fish will require more energy in high TKE zones. This study provides a reference for optimizing the design of fish passages and fisheries management. This method can be applied to assess the efficiency of fish bypass structures and conduct fish survival studies.
Carboxylated ε-Poly-L-Lysine Supplementation of the Freezing Extender Improves the Post-Thawing Boar Sperm Quality
Authors: Zhang Weijing , Li Yajing , Zhu Zhendong
Published: July 2022

Frozen boar sperm is used on a minimal scale in consequence of the cryo-injuries induced by biochemical and physical modifications during the freezing and thawing processes. The present study investigates whether the addition of carboxylated ε-poly-L-lysine (CPLL) to the freezing medium could improve post-thaw boar sperm quality or not. Boar sperm was diluted with freezing medium contained different doses of carboxylated ε-poly-L-lysine (0, 0.125%, 0.25%, 0.5%, and 1%; v/v). The motility patterns, membrane integrity, acrosome integrity, mitochondrial membrane potential, NADH-CoQ activity, ATP level, malondialdehyde (MDA) level, and antioxidant defense system, as well as apoptosis in post-thaw boar sperm, were measured. It was observed that 0.25% CPLL treatment significantly improved the post-thaw boar sperm total motility, progressive motility, straight-linear velocity (VSL), curvilinear velocity (VCL), average path velocity (VAP), linearity (LIN), straightness (STR), membrane integrity, and acrosome integrity. Interestingly, the addition of CPLL also significantly increased the post-thaw sperm mitochondrial membrane potential, NADH-CoQ activity, and ATP level. Moreover, post-thaw boar sperm catalase (CAT) activity, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity were increased with the addition of CPLL from 0.125% to 0.5% concentration levels. Furthermore, reduction of post-thaw sperm MDA level and apoptosis in 0.25% CPLL treatment was also observed. Those observations suggested that the addition of 0.25% CPLL to the freezing medium increased post-thaw boar sperm quality by protecting sperm mitochondrial function and antioxidant defense system. These findings provided novel insights that CPLL can be used as an efficient cryoprotectant to improve the post-thaw boar sperm quality during cryopreservation.
The Role of Dogs in the Relationship between Telework and Performance via Affect: A Moderated Moderated Mediation Analysis
Authors: Junça-Silva Ana , Almeida Margarida , Gomes Catarina
Published: July 2022

Although there is evidence that pets may help individuals facing significant daily stressors, and that they may enhance the well-being of their owners, little is known about the benefits of pets for job performance. Since the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, teleworking was a strategy implemented in many countries to reduce the virus widespread and to assure organizational productivity. Those who work from home and who own pets may work close to them. Based on the conservation of resources theory, this study aimed to analyze whether positive affect mediated the relationship between telecommuting and self-reported job performance and if psychological and physical closeness to the pet would moderate this relationship in such a way that it would be stronger for those who worked closer to their pet, and who were more emotionally attached to them. For this study, we collected data from 81 teleworkers who did not own pets, and from 320 teleworkers who owned pets. Both answered an online questionnaire. Findings: Results from the study showed the existence of significant differences between those who owned and who did not own pets regarding positive affect and performance, in which those who owned pets reported higher levels of positive affect and self-reported performance and perceived telework more positively. Moreover, positive affect mediated the relationship between telework and self-reported job performance. Furthermore, emotional and physical closeness moderated the mediating effect. This study contributes to a better understanding of the human-animal interaction and how pets can be a personal resource able to change their owners‘ affective experiences and job performance while they are working from home. The findings demonstrate that telework may be a suitable organizational strategy for pet-owners.
Is Pet Health Insurance Able to Improve Veterinary Care? Why Pet Health Insurance for Dogs and Cats Has Limits: An Ethical Consideration on Pet Health Insurance
Authors: Becker Michelle , Volk Holger , Kunzmann Peter
Published: July 2022

Background: Owners often feel the cost of veterinary care is too high, as there remains a limited understanding of the cost of health care in human and veterinary medicine alike. Pet health insurance is often seen as a universal solution. However, especially for patient owners with few financial resources, both the bill at the vet and the monthly premium for pet health insurance can become a challenge. Hypothesis: Pet health insurance can prevent or ease many price discussions at the vet, but it does not offer a solution for patient owners with little financial means. Methods: In order to verify for which patient owners pet health insurance can be a solution, four theoretical groups were formed depending on the patient owner’s willingness to pay and his/her dispensable funds based on a theoretical model. Results: Dispensable funds are a factor that cannot be influenced by the veterinary surgeon. However, low dispensable funds as a result of an insufficient willingness to save (whether due to a lack of financial education or a lack of will) can be solved by pet health insurance. Willingness to pay, on the other hand, can be influenced by empathetic communication from the veterinary surgeon and thus also from pet health insurance. Nevertheless, situations remain where pet health insurance is not a solution either, because owners can neither afford the veterinary costs nor a premium for a pet health insurance.
Aminoglycoside-Modifying Enzymes Are Sufficient to Make Pseudomonas aeruginosa Clinically Resistant to Key Antibiotics
Authors: Thacharodi Aswin , Lamont Iain L.
Published: July 2022

Aminoglycosides are widely used to treat infections of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Genes encoding aminoglycoside-modifying enzymes (AMEs), acquired by horizontal gene transfer, are commonly associated with aminoglycoside resistance, but their effects have not been quantified. The aim of this research was to determine the extent to which AMEs increase the antibiotic tolerance of P. aeruginosa. Bioinformatics analysis identified AME-encoding genes in 48 out of 619 clinical isolates of P. aeruginosa, with ant(2′)-Ia and aac(6′)-Ib3, which are associated with tobramcyin and gentamicin resistance, being the most common. These genes and aph(3′)-VIa (amikacin resistance) were deleted from antibiotic-resistant strains. Antibiotic minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were reduced by up to 64-fold, making the mutated bacteria antibiotic-sensitive in several cases. Introduction of the same genes into four antibiotic-susceptible P. aeruginosa strains increased the MIC by up to 128-fold, making the bacteria antibiotic-resistant in all cases. The cloned genes also increased the MIC in mutants lacking the MexXY-OprM efflux pump, which is an important contributor to aminoglycoside resistance, demonstrating that AMEs and this efflux pump act independently in determining levels of aminoglycoside tolerance. Quantification of the effects of AMEs on antibiotic susceptibility demonstrates the large effect that these enzymes have on antibiotic resistance.
Rectal and Tracheal Carriage of Carbapenemase Genes and Class 1 and 2 Integrons in Patients in Neurosurgery Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Kuzina Ekaterina S. , Novikova Tatiana S. , Astashkin Evgeny I. , Fedyukina Galina N. , Kislichkina Angelina A. , Kurdyumova Natalia V. , Savin Ivan A. , Ershova Olga N. , Fursova Nadezhda K.
Published: July 2022

The spread of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, which is associated with the distribution of beta-lactamase genes and class 1 and 2 integrons, is a global problem. In this study, in the Moscow neurosurgery intensive care unit (neuro-ICU), the high prevalence of the above-stated genes was found to be associated with intestinal and tracheal carriage. Seven-point prevalence surveys, which included 60 patients in the neuro-ICU, were conducted weekly in the period from Oct. to Nov. 2019. A total of 293 clinical samples were analyzed, including 146 rectal and 147 tracheal swabs; 344 Gram-negative bacteria isolates were collected. Beta-lactamase genes (n = 837) were detected in the isolates, including beta-lactamase blaTEM (n = 162), blaSHV (n = 145), cephalosporinase blaCTX–M (n = 228), carbapenemase blaNDM (n = 44), blaKPC (n = 25), blaOXA–48 (n = 126), blaOXA–51–like (n = 54), blaOXA–40-like (n = 43), blaOXA–23-like (n = 8), and blaVIM (n = 2), as well as class 1 (n = 189) and class 2 (n = 12) integrons. One extensively drug-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae strain (sequence type ST39 and capsular type K23), simultaneously carried beta-lactamase genes, blaSHV–40 and blaTEM–1B, three carbapenemase genes, blaNDM, blaKPC, and blaOXA–48, the cephalosporinase gene blaCTX–M, and two class 1 integrons. Before this study, such heavily armed strains have not been reported, suggesting the ongoing evolution of antibiotic resistance.
Evaluation of the Abilities of Three Kinds of Copper-Based Nanoparticles to Control Kiwifruit Bacterial Canker
Authors: Ren Ganggang , Ding Zhenghao , Pan Xin , Wei Guohai , Wang Peiyi , Liu Liwei
Published: July 2022

Kiwifruit bacterial canker caused by Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae reduces kiwifruit crop yield and quality, leading to economic losses. Unfortunately, few agents for its control are available. We prepared three kinds of copper-based nanoparticles and applied them to control kiwifruit bacterial canker. The successful synthesis of Cu(OH)2 nanowires, Cu3(PO4)2 nanosheets, and Cu4(OH)6Cl2 nanoparticles were confirmed by transmission and scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) of the three nanoparticles were 1.56 μg/mL, which exceeded that of the commercial agent thiodiazole copper (MBC > 100 μg/mL). The imaging results indicate that the nanoparticles could interact with bacterial surfaces and kill bacteria by inducing reactive oxygen species’ accumulation and disrupting cell walls. The protective activities of Cu(OH)2 nanowires and Cu3(PO4)2 nanosheets were 59.8% and 63.2%, respectively, similar to thiodiazole copper (64.4%) and better than the Cu4(OH)6Cl2 nanoparticles (40.2%). The therapeutic activity of Cu4(OH)6Cl2 nanoparticles (67.1%) bested that of Cu(OH)2 nanowires (43.9%), Cu3(PO4)2 nanosheets (56.1%), and thiodiazole copper (53.7%). Their therapeutic and protective activities for control of kiwifruit bacterial canker differed in vivo, which was related to their sizes and morphologies. This study suggests these copper-based nanoparticles as alternatives to conventional bactericides for controlling kiwifruit diseases.
Clinical Features and Outcomes of Monobacterial and Polybacterial Episodes of Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia Due to Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Adukauskiene Dalia , Ciginskiene Ausra , Adukauskaite Agne , Koulenti Despoina , Rello Jordi
Published: July 2022

Multidrug-resistant A. baumannii (MDRAB) VAP has high morbidity and mortality, and the rates are constantly increasing globally. Mono- and polybacterial MDRAB VAP might differ, including outcomes. We conducted a single-center, retrospective (January 2014–December 2016) study in the four ICUs (12–18–24 beds each) of a reference Lithuanian university hospital, aiming to compare the clinical features and the 30-day mortality of monobacterial and polybacterial MDRAB VAP episodes. A total of 156 MDRAB VAP episodes were analyzed: 105 (67.5%) were monomicrobial. The 30-day mortality was higher (p < 0.05) in monobacterial episodes: overall (57.1 vs. 37.3%), subgroup with appropriate antibiotic therapy (50.7 vs. 23.5%), and subgroup of XDR A. baumannii (57.3 vs. 36.4%). Monobacterial MDRAB VAP was associated (p < 0.05) with Charlson comorbidity index ≥3 (67.6 vs. 47.1%), respiratory comorbidities (19.0 vs. 5.9%), obesity (27.6 vs. 9.8%), prior hospitalization (58.1 vs. 31.4%), prior antibiotic therapy (99.0 vs. 92.2%), sepsis (88.6 vs. 76.5%), septic shock (51.9 vs. 34.6%), severe hypoxemia (23.8 vs. 7.8%), higher leukocyte count on VAP onset (median [IQR] 11.6 [8.4–16.6] vs. 10.9 [7.3–13.4]), and RRT need during ICU stay (37.1 vs. 17.6%). Patients with polybacterial VAP had a higher frequency of decreased level of consciousness (p < 0.05) on ICU admission (29.4 vs. 14.3%) and on VAP onset (29.4 vs. 11.4%). We concluded that monobacterial MDRAB VAP had different demographic/clinical characteristics compared to polybacterial and carried worse outcomes. These important findings need to be validated in a larger, prospective study, and the management implications to be further investigated.
Bacterial Co-Infection in Patients with COVID-19 Hospitalized (ICU and Not ICU): Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Santos Adailton P. , Gonçalves Lucas C. , Oliveira Ana C. C. , Queiroz Pedro H. P. , Ito Célia R. M. , Santos Mônica O. , Carneiro Lilian C.
Published: July 2022

The prevalence of patients hospitalized in ICUs with COVID-19 and co-infected by pathogenic bacteria is relevant in this study, considering the integrality of treatment. This systematic review assesses the prevalence of co-infection in patients admitted to ICUs with SARS-CoV-2 infection, using the PRISMA guidelines. We examined the results of the PubMed, Embase, and SciELO databases, searching for published English literature from December 2019 to December 2021. A total of 542 rec ords were identified, but only 38 were eligible and, and of these only 10 were included. The tabulated studies represented a sample group of 1394 co-infected patients. In total, 35%/138 of the patients were co-infected with Enterobacter spp., 27% (17/63) were co-infected with methicillin-sensitive Staphylococ cus aureus, 21% (84/404) were co-infected with Klebsiella spp., 16% (47/678) of patients were co-infected with coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, 13% (10/80) co-infected with Escherichia coli (ESBL), and 3% (30/1030) of patients were co-infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The most common co-infections were related to blood flow; although in the urinary and respiratory tracts of patients Streptococcus pneumoniae was found in 57% (12/21) of patients, coagulase negative Staphylococcus in 44% (7/16) of patients, and Escherichia coli was found in 37% (11/29) of patients. The present research demonstrated that co-infections caused by bacteria in patients with COVID-19 are a concern.
Total Phenolic Content, Biomass Composition, and Antioxidant Activity of Selected Marine Microalgal Species with Potential as Aquaculture Feed
Authors: Andriopoulos Vasilis , Gkioni Maria D. , Koutra Eleni , Mastropetros Savvas G. , Lamari Fotini N. , Hatziantoniou Sophia , Kornaros Michael
Published: July 2022

There has been growing interest in microalgal biomolecules for health and cosmetics, as well as in the use of microalgae as aquaculture feed due to the need to replace fishmeal and fish oil with sustainable yet equally nutritious alternatives. Aim of this study is to evaluate the potential of five marine microalgal species, namely Chlorella minutissima, Dunaliella salina, Isochrysis galbana, Nannochloropsis oculata and Tisochrysis lutea, for the co-production of antioxidants and aquaculture feed. Batch cultivation was performed under saturating light intensity and continuous aeration. Freeze-dried biomass was extracted sequentially with water and methanol and evaluated for phenolic content and antioxidant activity, as well as proximate composition and fatty acid profile. Methanolic extracts of C. minutissima presented the highest phenolic content, measured with the Folin–Ciocalteu assay, and antioxidant activity. However, HPLC and LC-MS showed the presence of non-pigment compounds only in T. lutea. Total phenolic content and antioxidant activity were correlated to chlorophyll content. N. oculata and T. lutea were rich in eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, respectively, as well as in protein. In conclusion, N. oculata and T. lutea are suitable candidates for further optimization, while the data presented suggest that pigment effects on the Folin–Ciocalteu method require reconsideration.
Optimization of the Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Bioactive Compounds from Cannabis sativa L. Leaves and Inflorescences Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Kobus Zbigniew , Pecyna Anna , Buczaj Agnieszka , Krzywicka Monika , Przywara Artur , Nadulski Rafał
Published: July 2022

This study investigated the effects of particle size and ultrasonic parameters on the yields of bioactive compounds extracted from the leaves and inflorescences of hemp. The total flavonoid and anthocyanin contents were determined using the spectrophotometric method. The response surface methodology (RMS) was employed to optimize the yield of bioactive substances. On the basis of the developed model, the highest flavonoid yield was obtained under the following extraction conditions: particle size, 0.59 mm; extraction time, 10.71 min; ultrasound intensity, 7.13 W∙cm−2; extraction yield, 9.28 mg QE∙g−1; determination coefficient, R2 = 0.97. The optimal conditions for extracting anthocyanins were as follows: particle size, 0.25 mm; extraction time, 15 min; ultrasound intensity, 8.60 W∙cm−2; extraction efficiency, 20.27 mg Cy-GE∙100 g−1; determination coefficient, R2 = 0.87. This study helped confirm the importance of pulsed ultrasound-assisted extraction in obtaining bioactive compounds from hemp.
Image Human Thorax Using Ultrasound Traveltime Tomography with Supervised Descent Method
Authors: Zhang Tong , Guo Rui , Zhang Haolin , Zhou Hongyu , Cao Yeyu , Li Maokun , Yang Fan , Xu Shenheng
Published: July 2022

The change of acoustic velocity in the human thorax reflects the functional status of the respiratory system. Imaging the thorax’s acoustic velocity distribution can be used to monitor the respiratory system. In this paper, the feasibility of imaging the human thorax using ultrasound traveltime tomography with a supervised descent method (SDM) is studied. The forward modeling is computed using the shortest path ray tracing (SPR) method. The training model is composed of homogeneous acoustic velocity background and a high-velocity rectangular block moving in the domain of interest (DoI). The average descent direction is learned from the training set. Numerical experiments are conducted to verify the method’s feasibility. Normal thorax model experiment proves that SDM traveltime tomography can efficiently reconstruct thorax acoustic velocity distribution. Numerical experiments based on synthetic thorax model of pleural effusion and pneumothorax show that SDM traveltime tomography has good generalization ability and can detect the change of acoustic velocity in human thorax. This method might be helpful for the diagnosis and evaluation of respiratory diseases.
Performance Analysis of the Multi-Stage Dew-Point Indirect Evaporative Air Cooler
Authors: Pacak Anna , Jurga Anna , Sierpowski Korneliusz , Panek Magdalena , Skołowska Agata , Pandelidis Demis
Published: July 2022

In this study, a multi-stage regenerative-cross-flow dew-point evaporative cooler performance is analyzed and compared to the performance of a regenerative dew-point evaporative cooler. The most beneficial configuration of the proposed exchanger was established on the basis of its geometry and performance analysis using validated numerical models. For specific outlet air parameters, it was found that the multi-stage cooler with a working-to-primary air-flow ratio equal to 0.3 reaches 5.6% lower outlet air temperatures and 10.2% higher cooling capacity when compared to the regenerative unit. The proposed cooler provides lower outlet air temperatures for all average outdoor air parameters in selected locations, for both dry and humid outdoor air parameters (e.g., Denver (USA) and Izmir (Turkey)).
Treatment of Necrotic Anterior and Posterior Teeth with Regenerative Endodontic Procedures Using PRF as a Scaffold: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Yoshpe Margarita , Ruparel Nikita , Einy Shmuel , Ganatra Shilpa , Kaufman Arieh Y.
Published: July 2022

We assessed the impact of regenerative endodontic procedures (REP) using a platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) scaffold on necrotic immature permanent anterior and posterior teeth based on the following parameters: periapical healing, changes in root development, and associations between increases in the radiographic root area (RRA), and degree of root to apical closure. The study included 50 teeth consisting of 57 roots (36 anterior and 21 posterior) treated between 2017 and 2019, with an average follow-up of two years. Complete periapical healing was achieved in 91.2% teeth, and uncertain healing was achieved in 8.8%. RRA increased in 95% of teeth and root lengthening was achieved in 86% teeth (without any mutual effect). Apical closure was significantly associated with tooth location (89% and 30% of the posterior and anterior roots, respectively). Trauma was the most common aetiology of necrotic anterior teeth, whereas caries was the only aetiology of necrotic posterior teeth. REP using PRF scaffold achieved a high success rate for periapical healing and root maturation in both anterior and posterior necrotic immature teeth. The favourable results obtained in posterior teeth may encourage the use of REP for treating necrotic immature permanent posterior teeth.
Effect of the Metro Train on the Smoke Back-Layering Length under Different Tunnel Cross-Sections
Authors: Wang Meng , Liu Henan , Wang Fei , Shen Linhan , Weng Miaocheng
Published: July 2022

Smoke back-layering length is an important aspect of tunnel fire research, and the influence of metro train blockage cannot be ignored. In previous studies, less attention has been paid to the phenomenon of back-layering caused by the same train blocked in tunnels with different cross-sections. This paper investigates this point through dimensionless analysis and fire dynamic simulator (FDS) numerical simulation. Several full-scale model tunnels (300 m in length), with different tunnel cross-sections, were constructed in FDS. According to the FDS simulation result, the smoke back-layering length was compared and analyzed. To investigate the effect of the tunnel cross-sections on smoke back-layering length under metro train blocking, the headroom ratio ε was proposed. Then, the influence of the tunnel cross-section on the smoke back-layering length was discussed in detail. Based on the dimensional analysis and FDS simulation results, a new model for predicting the smoke back-layering length was proposed. The prediction model obtained in this paper was compared with the FDS simulation results and the prediction model proposed by our predecessors. It is proven that the proposed model can better predict the length of smoke back-layering when metro trains are blocked in tunnels with different cross-sections. The outcomes of this work are expected to provide theoretical guidance for fire smoke control in metro tunnels with different cross-sections.
Structure of Triangular Numbers Modulo m
Authors: Ulness Darin J.
Published: July 2022

This work focuses on the structure and properties of the triangular numbers modulo m. The most important aspect of the structure of these numbers is their periodic nature. It is proven that the triangular numbers modulo m forms a 2m-cycle for any m. Additional structural features and properties of this system are presented and discussed. This discussion is aided by various representations of these sequences, such as network graphs, and through discrete Fourier transformation. The concept of saturation is developed and explored, as are monoid sets and the roles of perfect squares and nonsquares. The triangular numbers modulo m has self-similarity and scaling features which are discussed as well.
Baroclinic Instability of a Time-Dependent Zonal Shear Flow
Authors: Guo Chengzhen , Song Jian
Published: July 2022

In the real atmosphere, the development of large-scale motion is often related to the baroclinic properties of the atmosphere. So, it is necessary to discuss the stability condition of baroclinic flow. It is advantageous to use a layered model to discuss baroclinic instability, not only to apply the potential vortex equation directly, but also to deal with shear of basic flow. The stability and oscillatory shear ability of Rossby waves are studied based on the two-layer Phillips model in the β plane; then, we summarize the baroclinic instability of time-dependent zonal shear flows. The multiscale method is used to eliminate some terms of natural frequency oscillations of nonlinear operators in the third-order expansion, thus generating an equation about the amplitude of the lowest-order Rossby wave in the long-time variable. The large amplitude perturbation begins to decrease, which produces the desired behavior. After the amplitude decreases for some time, the amplitude of Rossby waves can still be found to oscillate periodically with the time variable.
Tropical Air Chemistry in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Odu-Onikosi Adebola , Herckes Pierre , Fraser Matthew , Hopke Philip , Ondov John , Solomon Paul A. , Popoola Olalekan , Hidy George M.
Published: July 2022

The Nigerian city of Lagos experiences severe air pollution as a result of emissions and subsequent atmospheric photochemistry and aerosol chemistry. A year-long study, between August 2020 and July 2021, included measurements of gas-phase and aerosol processes, with surface meteorology at six urban sites. The sites were selected to represent near seacoast conditions, urban sites, and inland locations near agricultural and grassland ecosystems. The observations included continuous concentrations for CO, SO2, NOx, O3, PM2.5, and PM10. Samples were collected and analyzed for speciated volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate chemical composition including inorganic and organic chemical species. The average diel variations in concentrations indicated well-known local photochemistry resulting from the presence of combustion sources, including motor vehicles, petroleum production and use, and open burning. The annual diel characteristics were emission-dependent and were modulated by meteorological variability, including the sea breeze and the seasonal changes associated with monsoons and Harmattan winds. Gases and particulate matter varied daily, consistent with the onset of source activities during the day. Fine particles less than 2.5 μm in diameter (PM2.5) included both primary particles from emission sources and secondary particles produced in the atmosphere by photochemical reactions. Importantly, particle sources included a large component of dust and carbonaceous material. For the latter, there was evidence that particle concentrations were dominated by primary sources, with little secondary material formed in the atmosphere. From complementary measurements, there were occasions when regional chemical processes affected the local conditions, including transportation, industry, commercial activity, and open waste burning.
Editorial for the Special Issue “Impacts of Transport Systems on Air Pollution and Human Health”
Authors: Khardi Salah , Bernoud-Hubac Nathalie
Published: July 2022

Transport systems (road, railway and aircraft traffic) are the main contributors to poor air quality in the major cities [...]
Ammonia Dispersion in the Closed Space of an Ammonia Engine Room with Forced Ventilation in an Industrial Plant
Authors: Salamonowicz Zdzislaw , Majder-Lopatka Malgorzata , Dmochowska Anna , Rogula-Kozlowska Wioletta , Piechota-Polanczyk Aleksandra , Polanczyk Andrzej
Published: July 2022

Air pollution is a global problem that is responsible for more than four million premature deaths each year. Air exchange in ammonia engine rooms is a priority for normal operating conditions, as well as in the event of an emergency release. A numerical approach with the use of computational fluid dynamics techniques can provide detailed data, such as spatial gas dispersion. Therefore, the objective of this study was to prepare a mathematical tool for the assessment of ammonia distribution in an engine room equipped with forced ventilation as a prediction tool for dangerous industrial setup working configurations. This study analyzed the uncontrolled release of ammonia during the production process in an engine room using Ansys Fluent software. It was observed that emergency ammonia leakage of 0.1 kg/s in the assumed air flow poses a great threat to the mechanics. In many simulated scenarios, ammonia spread to the entire building. Moreover, the mass fraction of ammonia was the highest in the gas stream right after its release. After being released, ammonia often accumulated in the ceiling zone, and in inactive exhaust chimneys, air inlets, and doors. It was observed that the effectiveness of the ventilation analyzed depended on the number of active air vents and exhausts, as well as their spatial distribution throughout the building.
Non-Stationarity of Aerosol Extinction Coefficient per Unit of Mass in Autumn and Winter in Chengdu, China
Authors: Yang Meng , Ni Changjian , Yang Yinshan , Fan Jin
Published: July 2022

Based on hourly observation data from the aethalometer and GRIMM180 environment particle monitor as well as the simultaneous data of visibility (V), relative humidity (RH) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) from October to December in 2017 in Chengdu, the corresponding time series of aerosol extinction coefficient per unit of mass is retrieved. The generalized additive models (GAMs) are adopted to analyze the non-stationarity of the time series of aerosol extinction coefficient per unit of mass and to explore the responses of the aerosol extinction coefficient per unit of mass to the aerosol component structure factors (ρBC/ρPM10, ρPM1/ρPM2.5, ρPM1~2.5/ρPM2.5 and ρPM2.5/ρPM10; ρ represents particle mass concentration) and RH. The results show that through the comparative analysis of stationary and non-stationary models, the time series of aerosol extinction coefficient per unit of mass in autumn and winter in Chengdu is non-stationary. In addition, the RH and aerosol component structure factors are all significant nonlinear covariates that affect the non-stationarity of the aerosol extinction coefficient per unit of mass. According to the influence of covariates, the sequence is as follows: RH > ρBC/ρPM10 > ρPM2.5/ρPM10 > ρPM1/ρPM2.5. At PM2.5 pollution concentration (ρPM2.5 > 75 μg m−3), according to the influence of covariates, the sequence is as follows: RH > ρPM1~2.5/ρPM2.5 > ρBC/ρPM10 > ρPM2.5/ρPM10. Moreover, the interaction between RH and aerosol component structure factors significantly affects the aerosol extinction coefficient per unit of mass. The condition of high RH, high ρPM2.5/ρPM10, high ρPM1/ρPM2.5 and low ρBC/ρPM10 has a synergistic amplification effect on the increase of the aerosol extinction coefficient per unit of mass. At PM2.5 pollution concentration, the synergistic effect of high RH, high ρPM2.5/ρPM10, high ρPM1~2.5/ρPM2.5 and low ρBC/ρPM10 is beneficial to the increase of the aerosol extinction coefficient per unit of mass.
Classification of Surfaces of Coordinate Finite Type in the Lorentz–Minkowski 3-Space
Authors: Al-Zoubi Hassan , Akbay Alev Kelleci , Hamadneh Tareq , Al-Sabbagh Mutaz
Published: July 2022

In this paper, we define surfaces of revolution without parabolic points in three-dimensional Lorentz–Minkowski space. Then, we classify this class of surfaces under the condition ΔIIIx=Ax, where ΔIII is the Laplace operator regarding the third fundamental form, and A is a real square matrix of order 3. We prove that such surfaces are either catenoids or surfaces of Enneper, or pseudo spheres or hyperbolic spaces centered at the origin.
Identification of Typical Sub-Health State of Traction Battery Based on a Data-Driven Approach
Authors: Wang Cheng , Yu Chengyang , Guo Weiwei , Wang Zhenpo , Tan Jiyuan
Published: July 2022

As the core component of an electric vehicle, the health of the traction battery closely affects the safety performance of the electric vehicle. If the sub-health state cannot be identified and dealt with in time, it may cause traction battery failure, pose a safety hazard, and cause property damage to the driver and passengers. This study used data-driven methods to identify the two typical types of sub-health state. For the first type of sub-health state, the interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) method was used to determine whether there was an inconsistency between the voltage of a single battery and the overall voltage of the battery pack. In order to determine the threshold, the ICC value of each vehicle under different working conditions was analyzed using box plots, and a statistical ICC threshold of 0.805 was used as the standard to determine the first sub-health type. For the second type of sub-health state, the Z-score and the differential area method were combined to determine whether the single cell voltage deviated from the overall battery pack voltage. A battery whose voltage differential area exceeds the range of u ± 3σ is regarded as having a sub-health state. The results show that both methods can accurately judge the sub-health state type of a single battery. Furthermore, combined with the one-month operation data of the vehicle, we could calculate the sub-health state frequency of each single battery and take single batteries with a high frequency as the key object of attention in future vehicle operations.
Bifunctional Role of Fe(II)/2OG-Dependent TET Family 5-Methylcytosine Dioxygenases and ALKBH2,3 in Modified Cytosine Demethylation
Authors: Dey Aninda Sundar
Published: July 2022

Three forms of methylated cytosines are present in the eukaryotic genome: 3-methylcytosine, 4-methylcytosine and 5-methylcytosine. 3-methylcytosines create methyl lesions, which impair local DNA function and flexibility, resulting in replication and transcription error. On the other hand, 5-methylcytosine is usually present at the gene promoter which blocks transcription and translation. Fe(II)/2OG-dependent nucleic acid-modifying enzymes are the class of enzymes responsible for the demethylation of these modified cytosines. ALKBH2 and 3 remove 3-methylcytosine via a one-step direct demethylation process. On the other hand, active demethylation of 5mC is initiated by Ten-Eleven Translocation (TET)-family dioxygenases. Via oxidative demethylation, TET1-3 converts 5mC into 5-hydroxymethylcytosine, 5-formylcytosine and 5-carboxylcytosine. Remarkably, recent findings demonstrate that ALKBH2,3 possess oxidative demethylation properties, along with direct demethylation. On the other hand, the TET family of enzymes possess direct demethylation properties along with oxidative demethylation. Here we review the importance of methylated cytosines in human DNA, their origin, function and removal. In addition, we discuss the recent findings of extraordinary flexibility of Fe(II)/2OG-dependent nucleic acid-modifying enzymes ALKBH2,3 and TET family of enzymes in cytosine demethylation, as well as their impact on epigenetics.
Reproductive Consequences of Electrolyte Disturbances in Domestic Animals
Authors: Gałęska Elżbieta , Wrzecińska Marcjanna , Kowalczyk Alicja , Araujo Jose P.
Published: July 2022

Electrolyte balance is essential to maintain homeostasis in the body. The most crucial electrolytes are sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), magnesium (Mg2+), chloride (Cl−), and calcium (Ca2+). These ions maintain the volume of body fluids, and blood pressure, participate in muscle contractions, and nerve conduction, and are important in enzymatic reactions. The balance is mainly ensured by the kidneys, which are an important organ that regulates the volume and composition of urine, together with which excess electrolytes are excreted. They are also important in the reproductive system, where they play a key role. In the male reproductive system, electrolytes are important in acrosomal reaction and sperm motility. Sodium, calcium, magnesium, and chloride are related to sperm capacitation. Moreover, Mg2+, Ca2+, and Na+ play a key role in spermatogenesis and the maintenance of morphologically normal spermatozoa. Infertility problems are becoming more common. It is known that disturbances in the electrolyte balance lead to reproductive dysfunction. In men, there is a decrease in sperm motility, loss of sperm capacitation, and male infertility. In the female reproductive system, sodium is associated with estrogen synthesis. In the contraction and relaxation of the uterus, there is sodium, potassium, and calcium. Calcium is associated with oocyte activation. In turn, in women, changes in the composition of the follicular fluid are observed, leading to a restriction of follicular growth. Imbalance of oocyte electrolytes, resulting in a lack of oocyte activation and, consequently, infertility.