bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Drip Irrigation and Compost Applications Improved the Growth, Productivity, and Water Use Efficiency of Some Varieties of Bread Wheat
Authors: Alshallash Khalid S. , Makled Khaled M. , Saeed Khldoon F. , Shehab Abdesalam A. , Farouk Al Sayed M. , Hamdy Ashraf E.
Published: January 2023

In hyper-arid and arid zones, management of crop water requirements is considered a vital component for sustaining crop production. The efficiency of the irrigation method and the application of many kinds of organic matter are practices that should be followed in Egypt to maximize the use of irrigation water. Two field experiments were conducted during the two successive winter seasons of 2020/2021 and 2021/2022 to study the effect of drip irrigation systems and of several types of compost on yield and yield attributes of four cultivars of wheat in newly reclaimed sandy soils. Studied factors were irrigation levels based on the amount of water evapotranspiration (ET) (I1, I2, I3) and the application of compost types (Com1, Com2 and Com3) on four bread wheat cultivars. The parameters measured at each irrigation level were: heading date (day), plant height (cm2), number of spikes/m2, number of grains/spike, 1000-grain weight (g), grain yield (t/fed.), Biological yield (kg/fed.) and harvest index (%). The farmyard manure (Com3) gave the maximum values under irrigation shortages, reflected in producing the maximum values for traits measured in the 2020/2021 season as compared to (Com1) or (Com2) applications, which scored lower values for the traits for the different cultivars for wheat. The interaction (I1, I2) × Com3 × (Mis1, Mis2) led to a significant increase during both seasons for all the yield and yield components studied. A drip irrigation system at the level of 80% of ET and application of Com3 is recommended to optimize wheat productivity from the unit area. The savings in water irrigation would allow expansion of the cultivated area to decrease the gap between local crop production and local requirements.
Characterization and Analysis of the Full-Length Transcriptome Provide Insights into Fruit Quality Formation in Kiwifruit Cultivar Actinidia arguta cv. Qinziyu
Authors: Jia Yun , Zhang Ying , Zhang Lei , Wang Fengwei , Yu Gang , Wang Yaling , Kang Xiaoyan , Wu Yongpeng
Published: January 2023

Kiwifruit is an economically important horticultural crop with extremely high values in nutrition and health care. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying fruit quality formation remain largely limited for most kiwifruit varieties. Recently, a new kiwifruit cultivar with a high level of soluble solids, Actinidia arguta cv. Qinziyu (full-red flesh) was discovered through the introduction and propagation test. To provide new insights into fruit quality formation in a typical kiwifruit cultivar, we integrated full-length transcriptome surveys based on PacBio single-molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing, key enzyme genes expression involved in carbohydrate and amino acids metabolism pathways, and bHLH gene family analysis to enhance the understanding of soluble sugar, organic acid, and anthocyanin biosynthesis in A. arguta cv. Qinziyu. A total of 175,913 CCSs were generated, of which 124,789 were identified as FLNC transcripts. In total, 45,923 (86.99%) transcripts were successfully annotated, and more than 76.05% of the transcripts were longer than 1 Kb. KEGG pathway analysis showed that 630 candidate genes encoding 55 enzymes were mainly involved in carbohydrate and amino acid biosynthesis pathways. Further analysis verified the expression of 12 key enzyme genes (e.g., pyruvate kinase (PK), enolase (ENO), hexokinase (HK), and phosphoglycerate kinase (PGK)) in flowers using quantitative real-time PCR. Furthermore, we also screened 10 AabHLH proteins’ function in anthocyanin biosynthesis and characterized the AabHLH gene family in A. arguta cv. Qinziyu. Overall, our research data generated by SMRT technology provide the first set of gene isoforms from a full-length transcriptome in A. arguta cv. Qinziyu and more comprehensive insights into the molecular mechanism of fruit quality formation.
Novel Aspects of Regulation of Nitrogen Responses in the Tea Plant (Camellia sinensis (L.))
Authors: Xie Xueying , Sun Zilin , Zhang Xinjian , Han Xiaoyang
Published: January 2023

Tea brewed from leaves of Camellia sinensis (L.) is one of the most popular worldwide non-alcoholic beverages, and nitrogen is an essential nutrient that affects the growth and development of the tea plant. Inorganic nitrogen and organic nitrogen are major forms of nitrogen that are absorbed by the tea plant and also play an important role as a vital signaling molecule, which also affects the nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) of C. sinensis in its growth and development period. In addition, improving the NUE of C. sinensis is therefore important for the economic and environmental sustainability of the tea plantation industry. In this review, we discuss recently identified tea plant genes that have an essential role in the responses of different nitrogen forms in the short-term period and in the long-term nitrogen effect. We also focus in particular on how nitrogen regulates the growth and development of the tea plant, mainly on the aspects of root system architecture and leaf metabolism that are important parts of root development and leaf quality. Finally, this review concentrates recent research that has expanded the outline of the mechanisms underlying nitrogen responses and regulation in plants, focusing in particular on tea plants.
Grapevine Phenology of White Cultivars in Rueda Designation of Origin (Spain) in Response to Weather Conditions and Potential Shifts under Warmer Climate
Authors: Ramos María Concepción , Yuste Jesús
Published: January 2023

Grapevines are among the crops that could suffer stronger effects under climate change, although the effect can differ based on cultivars and location. The aim of this work was to analyse the phenological response of the Verdejo variety compared to other two white varieties (Viura and Sauvignon Blanc) cultivated in Rueda Designation of Origin (DO), Spain, under the present climate conditions, and their potential shifts under projected climate change scenarios. Phenological dates referring to budbreak, flowering, véraison and harvest were analyzed for the period 2008–2021 in 13 plots, together with the weather conditions at daily time scale recorded during the same period. The chill and heat units were evaluated to determine the starting date for heat accumulation, as well as the base temperature to reach each phenological stage. The influence of temperature (maximum and minimum) and water availability averaged for different periods between phenological events were evaluated, and the information was used to project potential changes in phenology by 2050 and 2070 under two Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) scenarios: RCP4.5 and RCP8.5. An advance of all phenological dates was projected, in particular for véraison and ripening. Verdejo could suffer slightly higher advance than Sauvignon Blanc, and, in any case, ripening will happen under warmer conditions. By 2050, flowering could be advanced between seven and nine days, depending on the emission scenario. However, véraison could be advanced about 13 or 14 days under the RCP4.5 scenario and between 16 and 19 days under the RCP8.5 scenario. Ripening could be reached by 2050 up to 20 days and 25 days earlier, respectively, under the RCP4.5 and the RCP8.5 emission scenarios, and up to 29 days earlier by 2070. These projections may imply further impacts on grapes and wines for the aforementioned cultivars associated to harvest under warmer conditions.
Fabrication and Characterization of ZnO Nanoparticles-Based Biocomposite Films Prepared Using Carboxymethyl Cellulose, Taro Mucilage, and Black Cumin Seed Oil for Evaluation of Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities
Authors: Biswas Abonti , Ahmed Tanvir , Rana Md Rahmatuzzaman , Hoque Md Mozammel , Ahmed Md Farid , Sharma Minaxi , Sridhar Kandi , Ara Rowshon , Stephen Inbaraj Baskaran
Published: January 2023

Food packaging is often made from plastic, which is usually obtained from non-renewable resources. The development of new technologies, like biocomposite films, has been driven in response to environmental concerns as well as consumer demands for eco-friendly, high-quality products derived from nature. Biocomposite films were prepared by incorporating taro mucilage, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), ZnO, glycerol, and black cumin seed (BCS) oil. The SEM results showed that the biocomposite films containing taro mucilage (TM), ZnO, and BCS oil had noticeably smoother surfaces. The FTIR analysis indicated the existence of a -OH group, N-H bond, alkaline group, C-C, C=N, C-H, C-O-H, and C-O-C bond formation, confirming the interaction of CMC, glycerol, BCS oil, ZnO nanoparticles, and TM. The results of TGA and DSC analysis suggest that incorporating ZnO nanoparticles, BCS oil, and TM into the CMC polymer matrix increased thermal stability. The addition of TM significantly increased water uptake capacity, antioxidative property, tensile strength, and elongation at break, with significantly decreased whiteness index and water solubility. The film inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli as foodborne pathogens. The results suggest that the films can be potentially used as environment-friendly antioxidative and antimicrobial packaging films with additional research.
Germination and Growth Improvement of Some Micro-Greens under the Influence of Reactive Species Produced in a Non-Thermal Plasma (NTP)
Authors: Motrescu Iuliana , Ciolan Mihai Alexandru , Calistru Anca Elena , Jitareanu Gerard
Published: January 2023

Micro-greens or sprouts are commonly used in the diet of many cultures owing to their health benefits. In this work we use a non-chemical solution method to stimulate the germination and growth of seeds used for sprouting, based on non-thermal plasma discharge (NTP). Such a technology could represent an alternative not only for reducing the production costs for growing micro-greens but also as a pre-sowing method for slow germinating species or those under draught stress. To evaluate the efficiency of the treatments, Brassica oleracea and Lepidium sativum seeds were exposed to a non-thermal plasma discharge produced in atmospheric air in different conditions. The strongest modifications were recorded when the discharge was produced in a closed environment when the reactive species produced in air remained in high concentrations near the seeds. The garden cress exhibited stronger modifications, with a decreasing of the water contact angle of the seeds by up to about 14%, which means an increase of the hydrophilicity of the surface of the seeds. The stimulation of the growth was evaluated as an increase of the average stem length of (9 ± 0.4)% and of the root length of (38 ± 0.5)% as compared to sprouts grown from untreated seeds. This indicated that the reactive species were not only interacting with the surface of the seeds as proved by electron microscopy imaging but also penetrated inside the seeds, activating biological pathways that lead to the stimulation of growth in this case. A noticeable influence produced by the reactive species was also reflected in the biochemical results, where the analysis of the chlorophyll pigments indicated strong modifications, especially under the intensified action of the reactive species. The results prove an important contribution from the reactive species and show the possibility of using this technology to improve the growth of these micro-greens, reducing production time and even presenting the possibility of treating packaged seeds.
Is the Lesser Khingan Suitable for the Amur Tiger Restoration? Perspectives with the Current State of the Habitat and Prey Base
Authors: Yachmennikova Anna , Zhu Shibing , Kotlov Ivan , Sandlersky Robert , Yi Qu , Rozhnov Viatcheslav
Published: January 2023

The Amur tiger (Panthera tigris) has a status of being endangered on the world’s IUCN red list. The northwestern part of its range is situated in Russia and China, where tigers were exterminated by humans in the 1950–1970s. To restore tiger population within a historical range, an estimation of the habitat suitability is firstly needed. The Lesser Khingan mountains (Heilongjiang) was analyzed. Habitat types were mapped by satellite images analysis and field proven. The potential habitats of the main tiger’s prey species (wild boar (Sus scrofa), roe deer (Capreolus pygargus), and red deer (Cervus elaphus xanthopygus) were also assessed. Maximum entropy and linear discriminant analysis methods were applied and compared for species distribution modeling (SDM). Species distribution maps were used to design an ecological network. The fragmentation of habitat patches was evaluated by spatial ecological metrics. The habitat patches with the best metrics were assigned as cores for the ecological network, which were connected by calculated corridors. The least cost distance method (based on distance to roads and settlements) was used. The recovery of the Amur tiger in habitats of China’s Lesser Khingan is shown to be possible. Types of habitats were calculated as natural corridors for moving tigers. They are mainly located at the forests’ edges and characterized with various canopy structures and high variability in the tree species composition. Three potential transboundary corridors are described: (a) foothills and low mountains of the northern Lesser Khingan; (b) connection between the southeast Lesser Khingan and the western part of the Wandashan mountain system; and (c) corridor within foothills and low mountains of the eastern part of Lesser Khingan. It is recommended to establish protected areas for the important tiger core habitats, and the main optimal ways for their migrations are described during the current investigation. Moreover, it is necessary to implement habitat recovery activities for key areas.
The Spritztube: A New Device for the Extraglottic Intubation of Rabbits
Authors: Lambertini Carlotta , Grandis Annamaria , De Silva Margherita , Cassano Ilaria Anna , Checcacci Carboni Stefano , Romagnoli Noemi
Published: January 2023

The Spritztube (ST) is an extraglottic airway device developed for humans. The aim of the study was to design an ST for rabbits and to evaluate its feasibility. The study was divided into two phases. Phase I: anatomical study on 12 rabbit cadavers to design 2 STs (8 and 10 Ch, external diameter) for rabbits. Phase II: fourteen privately owned rabbits were anaesthetised, and intubation was attempted using a ST. Tube size, the method for confirming the correct positioning, the number of attempts, the time needed for the correct positioning of the ST and complications were recorded. The ST placement was feasible in all rabbits. The positioning of the ST was completed in 2.1 ± 1 attempts in 43 ± 21.4 s. A correct placement was confirmed by the visualisation of the proximal cuff at visual inspection of the oral cavity (14/14), by the detection of the airflow (9/14 rabbits) and by the visualisation of a capnographic wave (14/14 rabbits). Only one rabbit developed respiratory distress after the ST placement. The results of the present study allowed designing a ST specific for rabbits which was used a supraglottic airway device for the maintenance of isoflurane anaesthesia in spontaneously breathing rabbits.
Healthcare System Distrust and Non-Prescription Antibiotic Use: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Adult Antibiotic Users
Authors: Hawkes Brooke A. , Khan Sana M. , Bell Melanie L. , Guernsey de Zapien Jill , Ernst Kacey C. , Ellingson Katherine D.
Published: January 2023

Antibiotic resistance is a major public health concern driven by antibiotic overuse. Antibiotic stewardship programs are often limited to clinical settings and do little to address non-prescription antibiotic use in community settings. This study investigates the association between non-prescription antibiotic use and healthcare system distrust in the United States and Mexico. An online survey was deployed in the United States and Mexico with enhanced sampling through in-person recruiting in the border region. Non-prescription antibiotic use was defined as having bought or borrowed non-prescription oral or injectable antibiotics within the last 3 years. The survey included a previously validated 10-item scale to measure healthcare system distrust. Logistic regression was used to model the use of non-prescription antibiotics by the level of healthcare system distrust, adjusted for demographic characteristics and antibiotic knowledge. In total, 568 survey participants were included in the analysis, 48.6% of whom had used non-prescription oral or injectable antibiotics in the last 3 years. In the fully adjusted regression model, the odds of using non-prescription antibiotics were 3.2 (95% CI: 1.8, 6.1) times higher for those in the highest distrust quartile versus the lowest. These findings underscore the importance of community-based antibiotic stewardship and suggest that these programs are particularly critical for communities with high levels of healthcare system distrust.
Correlation of Metabolic Syndrome with Redox Homeostasis Biomarkers: Evidence from High-Fat Diet Model in Wistar Rats
Authors: Di Majo Danila , Sardo Pierangelo , Giglia Giuseppe , Di Liberto Valentina , Zummo Francesco Paolo , Zizzo Maria Grazia , Caldara Gaetano Felice , Rappa Francesca , Intili Giorgia , van Dijk Roelof Maarten , Gallo Daniele , Ferraro Giuseppe , Gambino Giuditta
Published: January 2023

Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) is an extremely complex disease. A non-balanced diet such as high-fat diet (HFD) induces metabolic dysfunction that could modify redox homeostasis. We here aimed at exploring redox homeostasis in male Wistar rats, following 8 weeks of HFD, correlating the eventual modification of selected biomarkers that could be associated with the clinical manifestations of MetS. Therefore, we selected parameters relative to both the glucose tolerance and lipid altered metabolism, but also oxidative pattern. We assessed some biomarkers of oxidative stress i.e., thiols balance, lipid peroxidation and antioxidant barriers, via the use of specific biochemical assays, individuating eventual cross correlation with parameters relative to MetS through a Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The present study shows that 8 weeks of HFD induce MetS in rats, altering glucose and lipid homeostasis and increasing visceral adipose tissue, but also impairing the physiological antioxidant responses that could not counteract the oxidative stress condition. Crucially, cross-correlation analysis suggested that the assessment of specific oxidative stress parameters reported here can provide information comparable to the more widely acquired biomarkers of Mets such as glucose tolerance. Lastly, hepatic steatosis in association with the oxidative stress condition was also highlighted by histological analysis. This research will elucidate the fundamental impact of these oxidative stress parameters on MetS induced in the HFD rat model, tracing paths for developing prevention approaches.
Epilobium Species: From Optimization of the Extraction Process to Evaluation of Biological Properties
Authors: Vlase Ana-Maria , Toiu Anca , Tomuță Ioan , Vlase Laurian , Muntean Dana , Casian Tibor , Fizeșan Ionel , Nadăș George Cosmin , Novac Cristiana Ștefania , Tămaș Mircea , Crișan Gianina
Published: January 2023

Epilobium species are used in Romanian folk medicine as tinctures, tea, or tablets for ameliorating the symptoms of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), but scientific-based evidence is scarce for this species or other endemic plants of the same genus. Therefore, the aims of this research were to evaluate the phytochemical profile of five endemic Epilobium species (E. hirsutum L., E. parviflorum Schreb., E. palustre L. E. dodonaei Vill., and E. angustifolium L.) and to assess their in vitro biological activity. For enhanced recovery of polyphenols, a D-optimal experimental plan was developed using Modde software and the optimal working conditions were ultra-turrax-assisted extraction, for 8 min, with 30% ethanol in water. The optimized extracts were obtained from various plant parts and were further characterized by LC-MS analysis, with the major compound being oenothein B. All extracts demonstrated good antioxidant activity, evaluated by DPPH and TEAC assays. The most prominent antimicrobial potency of optimized extracts was displayed against Bacillus cereus, while against Gram-(+) bacteria, a moderate efficacy was observed. Furthermore, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant potential were assessed on normal fibroblasts and prostate carcinoma cell lines. From the evaluated optimized extracts, E. angustifolium aerial parts had the highest selectivity toward killing cancerous cells, followed by E. hirsutum aerial parts extract. For the antioxidant effect, E. hirsutum leaves and E. hirstum aerial parts extracts displayed the highest potency, decreasing ROS at the level observed for the positive control. The highest anti-inflammatory potential, based on the IL-6 and IL-8 levels, was displayed by E. dodonaei aerial parts and E. angustifolium leaves extracts. In conclusion, all five endemic species of Epilobium harvested from Romanian flora possess a diverse phytochemical composition, which supports complex biological activities.
Development of Green Banana Fruit Wines: Chemical Compositions and In Vitro Antioxidative Activities
Authors: Li Zhichun , Qin Cuina , He Xuemei , Chen Bojie , Tang Jie , Liu Guoming , Li Li , Yang Ying , Ye Dongqing , Li Jiemin , Ling Dongning , Li Changbao , Khoo Hock Eng , Sun Jian
Published: January 2023

This study aimed to develop functional fruit wines using whole fruit, pulp, and peels from green bananas. The boiled banana homogenates were mixed with cane sugar before wine fermentation. Quality parameters, phenolic compounds, flavor components, and antioxidative properties of the green banana peel wine (GBPW), green banana pulp wine (GBMW), and whole banana wine (GBW) were determined. High-performance liquid chromatography was used to determine the phytochemical compounds in three wines, and the flavor components were further analyzed using headspace solid-phase microextraction combined with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The flavor components and in vitro antioxidant activities were, respectively, determined using the relative odor activity value and the orthogonal projections on latent structure discrimination analysis (OPLS-DA). In vitro antioxidative capacities for these wines were evaluated using antioxidant chemical assays and cell culture methods. The total phenolic and total tannin content of the GBPW, GBMW, and GBW showed reducing trends with increasing fermentation days, whereas the total flavonoid content of the wine samples exhibited downward trends. The antioxidant capacities of the three wine samples were higher than those of the raw fruit samples, except for the metal chelation rate (%). Additionally, the main flavor component in the wine samples was 3-methyl-1-butanol. Its percentages in the GBPW, GBMW, and GBW were 72.02%, 54.04%, and 76.49%, respectively. The OPLS-DA results indicated that the three wines presented significantly different antioxidant activities. The cell-culture-based antioxidant analysis showed that these wine samples had protective effects against the oxidative stress of the 3T3-L1 preadipocytes induced by hydrogen peroxide. This study provided a theoretical basis for defining the antioxidant characteristics of banana wines and expanding novel channels for using banana peels to develop nutraceuticals.
Evolutionary Conserved Short Linear Motifs Provide Insights into the Cellular Response to Stress
Authors: Zavadskiy Sergey P. , Gruzdov Denis S. , Sologova Susanna S. , Terentiev Alexander A. , Moldogazieva Nurbubu T.
Published: January 2023

Short linear motifs (SLiMs) are evolutionarily conserved functional modules of proteins composed of 3 to 10 residues and involved in multiple cellular functions. Here, we performed a search for SLiMs that exert sequence similarity to two segments of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), a major mammalian embryonic and cancer-associated protein. Biological activities of the peptides, LDSYQCT (AFP14–20) and EMTPVNPGV (GIP-9), have been previously confirmed under in vitro and in vivo conditions. In our study, we retrieved a vast array of proteins that contain SLiMs of interest from both prokaryotic and eukaryotic species, including viruses, bacteria, archaea, invertebrates, and vertebrates. Comprehensive Gene Ontology enrichment analysis showed that proteins from multiple functional classes, including enzymes, transcription factors, as well as those involved in signaling, cell cycle, and quality control, and ribosomal proteins were implicated in cellular adaptation to environmental stress conditions. These include response to oxidative and metabolic stress, hypoxia, DNA and RNA damage, protein degradation, as well as antimicrobial, antiviral, and immune response. Thus, our data enabled insights into the common functions of SLiMs evolutionary conserved across all taxonomic categories. These SLiMs can serve as important players in cellular adaptation to stress, which is crucial for cell functioning.
Relationships between the Reversible Oxidation of the Single Cysteine Residue and the Physiological Function of the Mitochondrial Glutaredoxin S15 from Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Christ Loïck , Couturier Jérémy , Rouhier Nicolas
Published: January 2023

Glutaredoxins (GRXs) are widespread proteins catalyzing deglutathionylation or glutathionylation reactions or serving for iron-sulfur (Fe-S) protein maturation. Previous studies highlighted a role of the Arabidopsis thaliana mitochondrial class II GRXS15 in Fe-S cluster assembly, whereas only a weak glutathione-dependent oxidation activity was detected with the non-physiological roGFP2 substrate in vitro. Still, the protein must exist in a reduced form for both redox and Fe-S cluster binding functions. Therefore, this study aimed at examining the redox properties of AtGRXS15. The acidic pKa of the sole cysteine present in AtGRXS15 indicates that it should be almost totally under a thiolate form at mitochondrial pH and thus possibly subject to oxidation. Oxidizing treatments revealed that this cysteine reacts with H2O2 or with oxidized glutathione forms. This leads to the formation of disulfide-bridge dimers and glutathionylated monomers which have redox midpoint potentials of −304 mV and −280 mV, respectively. Both oxidized forms are reduced by glutathione and mitochondrial thioredoxins. In conclusion, it appears that AtGRXS15 is prone to oxidation, forming reversible oxidation forms that may be seen either as a catalytic intermediate of the oxidoreductase activity and/or as a protective mechanism preventing irreversible oxidation and allowing Fe-S cluster binding upon reduction.
Dietary Freeze-Dried Flaxseed and Alfalfa Sprouts as Additional Ingredients to Improve the Bioactive Compounds and Reduce the Cholesterol Content of Hen Eggs
Authors: Mattioli Simona , Cartoni Mancinelli Alice , Bravi Elisabetta , Angelucci Elisa , Falcinelli Beatrice , Benincasa Paolo , Castellini Cesare , Sileoni Valeria , Marconi Ombretta , Dal Bosco Alessandro
Published: January 2023

Eggs are a complete food with high-quality proteins; a 2:1 ratio of unsaturated to saturated fatty acid (SFA); and a good amount of minerals, as well as vitamins or antioxidant compounds. Seeds or mature plants were usually added to the feed to improve egg quality. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of alfalfa and flax freeze-dried sprouts supplementation in diets of laying hens on egg oxidative status and key bioactive compounds. Thirty Sassò hens were fed with three different diets: standard, standard + 3% freeze-dried alfalfa sprouts, or flaxseed sprouts. Ten pools of 10 egg yolks per group were collected at 0, 4, and 8 weeks and analyzed. Supplementation with sprouts enriched the phytosterols, phytoestrogens, tocols, carotenes, vitamin D, and n-3 fatty acid contents in the eggs. Cholesterol content was lower in both sprout-supplemented groups, and a decrease in its oxidative products was also observed. It was found that a 3% freeze-dried sprouts supplementation of approximately 56 days improves the egg quality. Further studies are necessary to verify higher supplementing doses and the applicability of this strategy in the commercial egg production chain.
Chemical Compositions, Extraction Optimizations, and In Vitro Bioactivities of Flavonoids from Perilla Leaves (Perillae folium) by Microwave-Assisted Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents
Authors: Shang Xianchao , Zhang Manman , Hu Jing , Zhang Yuqin , Yang Long , Hou Xin
Published: January 2023

Natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs) have been gradually applied to green extraction of active ingredients. In this study, microwave-assisted NADESs were applied to the extraction of flavonoid compounds from perilla leaves. Through comparative experiments, NADES-3 (choline chloride and malic acid at a molar ratio of 1:1) was found to have the highest extraction efficiency of total flavonoids, including apigenin 7-O-caffeoylglucoside, scutellarein 7-O-diglucuronide, luteolin 7-O-diglucuronide, and scutellarein 7-O-glucuronide by HPLC-MS. The following optimal extraction parameters were obtained based on response surface design: water content in NADES of 23%, extraction power of 410 W, extraction time of 31 min, and solid–liquid ratio of 75 mg/mL, leading to the extraction yield of total flavonoids of 72.54 mg/g. Additionally, the strong antimicrobial and antiallergic activity, inhibition of nitrosation, and antioxidant activity of total flavonoids by using NADESs were confirmed. This new extraction method provides a reference for the further exploration of NADES systems and may be widely used for the green extraction of natural active ingredients.
Yomogin, Isolated from Artemisia iwayomogi, Inhibits Neuroinflammation Stimulated by Lipopolysaccharide via Regulating MAPK Pathway
Authors: Kim Jin Hee , Ju In Gyoung , Kim Namkwon , Huh Eugene , Son So-Ri , Hong Joon Pyo , Choi Yujin , Jang Dae Sik , Oh Myung Sook
Published: January 2023

Neuroinflammation causes various neurological disorders, including depression and neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, regulation of neuroinflammation is a promising therapeutic strategy for inflammation-related neurological disorders. This study aimed to investigate whether yomogin, isolated from Artemisia iwayomogi, has anti-neuroinflammatory effects. First, we evaluated the effects of yomogin by assessing pro-inflammatory mediators and cytokines in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated BV2 microglial cells. The results showed that yomogin inhibited the increase in neuroinflammatory factors, including nitric oxide, inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase-2, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α, and suppressed phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase, extracellular signal-regulated kinase and p38, which participate in the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. To confirm these effects in vivo, we measured the activation of astrocyte and microglia in LPS-injected mouse brains. Results showed that yomogin treatment decreased astrocyte and microglia activations. Collectively, these results suggest that yomogin suppresses neuroinflammation by regulating the MAPK pathway and it could be a potential candidate for inflammation-mediated neurological diseases.
Intranasal Administration of KYCCSRK Peptide Rescues Brain Insulin Signaling Activation and Reduces Alzheimer’s Disease-like Neuropathology in a Mouse Model for Down Syndrome
Authors: Tramutola Antonella , Lanzillotta Simona , Aceto Giuseppe , Pagnotta Sara , Ruffolo Gabriele , Cifelli Pierangelo , Marini Federico , Ripoli Cristian , Palma Eleonora , Grassi Claudio , Di Domenico Fabio , Perluigi Marzia , Barone Eugenio
Published: January 2023

Down syndrome (DS) is the most frequent genetic cause of intellectual disability and is strongly associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Brain insulin resistance greatly contributes to AD development in the general population and previous studies from our group showed an early accumulation of insulin resistance markers in DS brain, already in childhood, and even before AD onset. Here we tested the effects promoted in Ts2Cje mice by the intranasal administration of the KYCCSRK peptide known to foster insulin signaling activation by directly interacting and activating the insulin receptor (IR) and the AKT protein. Therefore, the KYCCSRK peptide might represent a promising molecule to overcome insulin resistance. Our results show that KYCCSRK rescued insulin signaling activation, increased mitochondrial complexes levels (OXPHOS) and reduced oxidative stress levels in the brain of Ts2Cje mice. Moreover, we uncovered novel characteristics of the KYCCSRK peptide, including its efficacy in reducing DYRK1A (triplicated in DS) and BACE1 protein levels, which resulted in reduced AD-like neuropathology in Ts2Cje mice. Finally, the peptide elicited neuroprotective effects by ameliorating synaptic plasticity mechanisms that are altered in DS due to the imbalance between inhibitory vs. excitatory currents. Overall, our results represent a step forward in searching for new molecules useful to reduce intellectual disability and counteract AD development in DS.
Hybrid-Density Functional Calculations of Structural, Electronic, Magnetic, and Thermodynamic Properties of α-Cu2P2O7
Authors: Yang Xiaoyong , Zhang Ping , Korzhavyi Pavel
Published: January 2023

We present a comparative study (using PBE, PBE0, and HSE functionals) of electronic and atomic structure, magnetism, and phonon dispersion relations of α-Cu2P2O7. Four possible magnetic configurations are considered, FM, AFM-1, AFM-2, and AFM-3. The calculations reveal that α-Cu2P2O7 is mechanically and thermodynamically stable. The elastic moduli indicate a weak resistance of the compound to volume and shear deformations. The electronic structure at the valence band maximum is dominated by O, with a small admixture of Cu-dx2−y2 states. The conduction band results from the hybridization between Cu and O states which, in the case of AFM-2, produces the largest band gap of 3.966 eV and the smallest magnetic moment of ±0.785 μB on Cu. AFM-2 is found to be the lowest-energy structure that may be viewed as consisting of quasi-one-dimensional −Cu1−Cu2−Cu3−Cu4− chains along the b axis; the antiferromagnetism is due to two identical Cu−O−Cu paths with a bond angle of 100.301∘. The phonon spectra exhibit four distinct frequency ranges corresponding to different vibrational modes of ions and ionic groups. Thus, a quantitative description of the structural, electronic, and magnetic properties of α-Cu2P2O7 is possible using the HSE hybrid functional, which enables computational studies of transition metal pyro compounds.
A Robust Intelligent Controller for Autonomous Ground Vehicle Longitudinal Dynamics
Authors: El Hajjami Lhoussain , Mellouli El Mehdi , Žuraulis Vidas , Berrada Mohammed , Boumhidi Ismail
Published: January 2023

In this paper, a novel adaptive sliding mode controller (SMC) was designed based on a robust law considering disturbances and uncertainties for autonomous ground vehicle (AGV) longitudinal dynamics. The robust law was utilized in an innovative method involving the upper bounds of disturbances and uncertainties. Estimating this lumped uncertainty upper limit based on a neural network approach allowed its online knowledge. It guided the controller to withstand the disturbance and to compensate for the uncertainties. A stability analysis, according to Lyapunov, was completed to confirm the asymptotic convergence of the states to the desired state. The effectiveness and benefits of the planned approach were scrutinized by simulations and comparative studies.
Effects of Bilberry Extract on Hepatic Cholesterol Metabolism in HepG2 Cells
Authors: Hong Jimin , Bae Minkyung , Kim Bohkyung
Published: January 2023

Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.), rich in polyphenols, has been claimed to have lipid-lowering effects, but its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. The effects of bilberry extract (BE) with antioxidant properties on hepatic lipid metabolism were investigated by measuring the genes for cholesterol biosynthesis and flux in HepG2 cells. The mRNA and protein levels of genes involved in cholesterol biosynthesis such as sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2 and 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase were decreased in BE-treated cells. BE posttranscriptionally upregulated low-density lipoprotein receptor in HepG2 cells. There was a marked reduction in genes for very low-density lipoprotein assembly by BE treatment. Furthermore, the expression of canalicular transporter for cholesterol and bile acids, such as ABCG8 and ABCB11, was significantly elevated by BE treatment. Downregulation of lipogenic genes and upregulation of fatty acid oxidation-related genes were observed in BE-treated HepG2 cells. The expressions of sirtuins were altered by BE treatment. These results support that the effects of BE on hepatic cholesterol metabolism may be attributed to the regulation of genes for hepatic cholesterol biosynthesis, transport and efflux.
Activity Evaluation Methodology for the Disposed Medical Linear Accelerators
Authors: Kwon Na Hye , Jang Young Jae , Kim Kum Bae , Yu Ji Hyun , Kim Jinsung , Kim Dong Wook , Choi Sang Hyoun
Published: January 2023

For the medical linear accelerators (linac) that utilize more than 10 MV of photon energy, components inside the linac head become radioactivate during the 10–15-year operating cycle. Prior to disposal, radioactive waste must be evaluated for activity, and the same procedure should be followed for medical linacs. In the Republic of Korea, regulation and methodology for the radioactivity evaluation for the medical linac is not established yet. In this study, we employed gamma spectroscopy and a survey meter for evaluating the radioactivity of medical linac components. The components of the Siemens linac considered in this study were classified after decommissioning, and dose rates were measured to up to a 5 cm distance from the component surfaces by using a survey meter. Radionuclides from components were detected using an in situ HPGe detector. Based on the type of radionuclides and dose rate, we estimated the radioactivity of the components. We studied the feasibility of the methodology for disposing of radioactive components by using the in situ HPGe detector.
Networked Control System Based on PSO-RBF Neural Network Time-Delay Prediction Model
Authors: You Dazhang , Lei Yiming , Liu Shan , Zhang Yepeng , Zhang Min
Published: January 2023

To satisfy the requirement of real-time and accurate control of the system, a time-delay prediction control system based on the PSO-RBF neural network model is established to solve the effect of time delay on the control system’s performance. Firstly, a network control model with a time delay is established to predict the control system’s output to solve the uncertainty of the output time delay. Secondly, an improved offline prediction model of RBF networks is proposed to solve the problem of the low accuracy of time-delay prediction in PSO-RBF networks. To solve the problem that the PSO algorithm is prone to fall into local optimality, a nonlinear adjustment formula for the parameters of the PSO algorithm based on the number of iterations is proposed, and the TS algorithm is used to make the optimal global solution. Finally, in order to compensate for the problem of time delay, an online RBF network prediction controller is designed, the parameters of the online RBF network are adjusted by the gradient descent method, and a target function with the differential component is proposed to evaluate the optimization effect of the rolling optimization stage. The results from the true-time simulation platform show that the delay prediction control system based on the PSO-RBF network model proposed in this paper improves the IAE by 59.9% and 31.7%, respectively, compared to the traditional PID controller and fuzzy PID control under the influence of uncertainty disturbances. Therefore, the time-delay prediction control system proposed in this paper has good control capability for the time-delay compensation problem and system output.
Clinical Reliability of Complete-Arch Fixed Prostheses Supported by Narrow-Diameter Implants to Support Complete-Arch Restorations
Authors: Lorenzi Claudia , Lio Fabrizio , Papi Piero , Mazzetti Vincenzo , Laureti Andrea , Arcuri Claudio
Published: January 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical application of fixed screw-retained complete-arch rehabilitations supported by four narrow-diameter implants (NDIs). The records of patients treated with complete-arch prostheses screwed onto four NDIs treated with an immediate loading protocol between 2010 and 2020 with at least 1 year of follow-up after the positioning of the definitive restoration were reviewed. The implants were placed according to the final prosthetic design and were immediately loaded. The interim prostheses were replaced after the healing period by definitive acrylic resin titanium-supported prostheses. Patients were followed to evaluate treatment success, the implant survival rate (ISR), and the prosthetic survival rate (PSR). A total of 121 NDIs were positioned in 30 patients to restore 30 complete arches (18 maxilla and 12 mandible). One implant did not achieve osseointegration, resulting in an overall ISR of 99.2%. No prosthetic or implant failures occurred during the 1 to 11 years of follow-up. Three biological and four prosthetic complications occurred, resulting in a treatment rehabilitation survival of 94.1% and a PSR of 86.7%. Despite the limitations of the present retrospective study, such as the use of one single type of dental implant and patients treated in a single rehabilitation center, complete-arch rehabilitation with fixed prostheses supported by four NDIs seems to be a reliable treatment in the medium to long term.
Protection Impacts of Coix lachryma-jobi L. Seed Lactobacillus reuteri Fermentation Broth on Hydrogen Peroxide-Induced Oxidative Stress in Human Skin Fibroblasts
Authors: Fang Jiaxuan , You Shiquan , Sun Qianru , Wang Ziwen , Wang Changtao , Wang Dongdong , Li Meng
Published: January 2023

This study researches the active ingredients in the fermented and aqueous extracts of three types of Coix seed. The results show that the active contents of total sugars, total phenols and total proteins of Coix seed fermented with Lactobacillus reuteri, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Lactobacillus bulgaricus are significantly higher compared to unfermented Coix seed aqueous extract (CW), and the free radical scavenging ability of Coix seed Lactobacillus reuteri fermented extract (CLRF) is significant. The protective effects of CLRF on hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced oxidative stress in human skin fibroblasts (HSF) are investigated. The results show that cell viability, total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, catalase (CAT) activity, collagen type I (COL-I) content and synthesis of hyaluronic acid (HA) significantly increased, and reactive oxygen species (ROS), matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) content are decreased in CLRF-treated HSF compared to CW and damage model groups, providing effective protection to skin structure. The results show that CLRF can stimulate the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, inhibiting intracellular ROS levels, positively regulating COL-I genes and significantly reducing MMP-1 expression, with anti-oxidative damage effects. As such, this study provides a theoretical basis for applying CLRF as a novel anti-oxidative agent in the cosmetics industry.
Diatomaceous Soils and Advances in Geotechnical Engineering—Part I
Authors: Zuluaga-Astudillo Daniel , Ruge Juan Carlos , Camacho-Tauta Javier , Reyes-Ortiz Oscar , Caicedo-Hormaza Bernardo
Published: January 2023

Diatoms are microscopic algae with a skeleton called a frustule, formed chiefly of silica, and are found in almost all aquatic environments and climatic conditions. Diatomaceous soils (DSs) originate from frustule sedimentation. In civil works (design and construction), the uncommon values obtained from DSs are not completely understood. There needs to be more knowledge about the strength and compressibility of DSs. The stability of these deposits is still being determined. Definitions of substances such as diatoms, diatomaceous soils, diatomaceous earth, diatomaceous oozes, frustules, and diatomite need to be clarified. This document references construction processes that face problems such as differential settlements, pile rebounds, and irregular pore pressures due to frustules. This review analyzes multiple sets of results regarding the grain size distribution, specific gravity, consistency, plasticity, compressibility, and shear strength of DSs. It is concluded that the particle size distribution of DSs generally classifies them as silts. Particles are modified by the imposition of stresses (frustule breakage), which impacts compressibility. Microfossils take up stresses, restrict strains, and cause sudden increases in compressibility when their yield stress is exceeded. Currently, their strain mechanisms need to be better understood. The Gs decreases with increasing frustule content, given the high porosity of the skeletons. The intraparticle pores of the frustules explain the high liquid limit (LL) of DSs. DSs can have high shear strengths and large yield surfaces due to the “interlocking” phenomenon and the interparticle contacts’ high frictional component caused by their rough surface and high silica content.
Assessment of Carbon Emissions at the Logistics and Transportation Stage of Prefabricated Buildings
Authors: Zhang Yichen , Peng Tian , Yuan Chao , Ping Yang
Published: January 2023

As regards the carbon emission levels of the logistics stage of prefabricated buildings, this study aims to fill the gap in scientific and unified carbon emission calculation models and standards. Thus, the calculation boundary for carbon emissions was first defined in this study. Secondly, various carbon emission factors related to China’s energy consumption characteristics were summarized. Subsequently, a carbon emission calculation model for the logistics stage was established, based on the carbon emission factor method. Finally, taking a project as an example, the carbon emission level at the transportation stage was calculated using the proposed model. The effect of full-load rates on the carbon emission levels of prefabricated components was also evaluated. The results demonstrate that the full-load rate has a significant effect on carbon emissions during the transportation stage (54.32% reduction in carbon emissions at 100% full load). Therefore, increasing the full-load rate can reduce carbon emissions from transportation, as long as the loading requirements are met.