bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Bacillus subtilis-fermented soybean meal replacing fish meal on antioxidant activity, immunity, endoplasmic reticulum stress and hepatopancreas histology in Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei)
Authors: Chen Songming , Dai Jieyu , Chen Yan , Chen Qiang , Dong Fen , Wang Congcong , Sun Yulong , Wang Jiteng , Han Tao
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Screening excellent bacterial strains for fermentation is the key to improving the nutritional value and bioavailability of soybean meal (SBM). This study investigated the application of Bacillus subtilis-fermented soybean meal (FSBM) on the feed of Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei).

Methods

FSBM was used to replace 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% fish meal, and the feeding trial was lasted for 8 weeks (initial weight: 0.9 g).

Results and discussion

The amino acid profile in the whole shrimp body was tested. FSBM substitution only significantly reduced the content lysine in whole shrimp body, but increased the content of arginine. Fatty acid data showed that the content of n-6 PUFAs in whole shrimp was significantly increased by FSBM substitution. In muscle, FSBM substitution significantly reduced the content of MUFAs, but increased the content of PUFAs including C18:3n-3, C18:2n-6 and C20:4n-6. No hepatopancreas structure modifications appeared in the 25% group compared with the control group. Subsequently, we investigated the response patterns of different organs to FSBM substitution from antioxidant, endoplasmic reticulum stress and immunity. A high proportion of FSBM significantly reduced the content of GSH in hemolymph and hepatopancreas, while increased the mRNA expression of cat. FSBM substitution did not affect the activities of antioxidant enzymes in the intestine. However, the mRNA expression level of hsp70 in the intestine was significantly reduced by FSBM. In terms of immunity, the mRNA expression levels of lgbp and penaeidin in the hepatopancreas showed a significant linear increase trend. In muscle, high proportion of FSBM significantly increased the mRNA expression of imd. FSBM substitution did not significantly affect the expression of immune genes in the intestine. In terms of endoplasmic reticulum stress, FSBM substitution significantly increased the mRNA expression of eif2α in the hepatopancreas. In muscle, FSBM substitution inhibited the mRNA expression of bip. In the intestine, FSBM replacing 75% of fish meal significantly increased the mRNA expression of bip and ire1. In summary, this study indicated that when the fish meal content account for 40% in diets (dry weight), the screened Bacillus subtilis-FSBM can replace 25% of fish meal protein without reducing the antioxidant and immune abilities of shrimp.
Illuminating immunotherapy response via precision T cell-targeted PET imaging
Authors: Glazer Sarah E. , Kummar Shivaani , Mittra Erik
Published: July 2024

Traditionally, immunotherapy agent selection and treatment strategies are guided by biopsy-based histological information. However, biopsies are limited in that they are invasive, provide static information regarding the tumor immune microenvironment, and only sample a small part of one tumor site. The tumor microenvironment is dynamic and heterogenous. As a result, the immune milieu at one site may be distinct from other metastatic sites. These factors make identifying which patients are likely to respond to different immunotherapies and which harbor intrinsic resistance mechanisms difficult to identify based on a biopsy alone. As such, there is significant interest in alternative methodologies that better characterize the tumor immune microenvironment and monitor immunotherapy response. PET imaging potentially offers a non-invasive way to characterize the tumor immune microenvironment at the primary tumor and metastases and allow for longitudinal characterization. Herein, we review pre-clinically and clinically tested T cell-targeted PET radiopharmaceuticals, as T cells have been the dominant immunotherapy target, and their utility in both evaluating response to immunotherapy and in understanding the systemic immune response to treatment with immunotherapeutics.
Exploring constructions of female surgeons’ intersecting identities and their impacts: a qualitative interview study with clinicians and patients in Ireland and Scotland
Authors: Offiah Gozie , Cable Stuart , Schofield Susie , Rees Charlotte E.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

While many studies have explored surgeons’ personal and professional identities separately, our study is the first to examine intersecting female surgical identities. We explore intersecting surgical identities constructed by self and others (colleagues and patients) within two healthcare systems and their perceived impacts answering the research question: How do female surgeons’ constructed identities intersect, and what influences do those intersections have on their surgical lives?

Methods

We employed qualitative methodology drawing on semi-structured biographical narrative interviews underpinned by social constructionism. We employed intersectionality theory as an analytical lens. We adopted maximum variation sampling to identify diverse participants, including 38 surgeons (29 female; 9 male), 9 non-surgical colleagues (8 female, 1 male), and 13 patients of female surgeons (7 female, 6 male). Our 29 female surgeons also included six who had transitioned out of surgery. We analyzed the dataset using a five-step Framework Analysis approach. We captured talkaboutidentities, as well as identity talk (constructions of identity through participants’ talk).

Findings

Multiple intersecting personal (not just gender) and professional identities were constructed and reported to have multiple impacts on female surgeons’ lives (including their education, training, and success). We present intersecting identities and their impacts relating to gender through four primary intersections: (a) gender + ethnic identities; (b) gender + parenthood identities; (c) gender + age identities; and (d) gender + professional identities (namely carer, competent, mentor/mentee, role model and leader). Our findings particularly highlight the challenges experienced by female surgeons of color, who are mothers, who are younger and/or who are leaders, illustrating diversity in women’s experiences beyond that of gender alone. Finally, we found unexpected insights into male surgeons and fatherhood.

Discussion

Intersectionality theory offered a novel analytical lens to extend existing knowledge on female surgical identities. Further research is warranted exploring intersecting identities of female surgeons of color, younger female surgeons, and male surgeons who are fathers, as well as identities unexplored in this study (e.g., diverse sexualities). We need to raise awareness of intersecting identities and their impacts in surgery, as well as providing training, allyship, and policy revision that is sensitive to intersectionality.
Development of Leptolyngbya sp. BL0902 into a model organism for synthetic biological research in filamentous cyanobacteria
Authors: Gao Hong , Wang Yali , Huang Ziling , Yu Feiqi , Hu Xi , Ning Degang , Xu Xudong
Published: July 2024

Cyanobacteria have great potential in CO2-based bio-manufacturing and synthetic biological studies. The filamentous cyanobacterium, Leptolyngbya sp. strain BL0902, is comparable to Arthrospira (Spirulina) platensis in commercial-scale cultivation while proving to be more genetically tractable. Here, we report the analyses of the whole genome sequence, gene inactivation/overexpression in the chromosome and deletion of non-essential chromosomal regions in this strain. The genetic manipulations were performed via homologous double recombination using either an antibiotic resistance marker or the CRISPR/Cpf1 editing system for positive selection. A desD-overexpressing strain produced γ-linolenic acid in an open raceway photobioreactor with the productivity of 0.36 g·m−2·d−1. Deletion mutants of predicted patX and hetR, two genes with opposite effects on cell differentiation in heterocyst-forming species, were used to demonstrate an analysis of the relationship between regulatory genes in the non-heterocystous species. Furthermore, a 50.8-kb chromosomal region was successfully deleted in BL0902 with the Cpf1 system. These results supported that BL0902 can be developed into a stable photosynthetic cell factory for synthesizing high value-added products, or used as a model strain for investigating the functions of genes that are unique to filamentous cyanobacteria, and could be systematically modified into a genome-streamlined chassis for synthetic biological purposes.
Exploring the distribution and co-occurrence of rpf-like genes and nitrogen-cycling genes in water reservoir sediments
Authors: Hou Aiqin , Fu Huayi , Liu Leilei , Su Xiaomei , Zhang Shusheng , Lai Jiahou , Sun Faqian
Published: July 2024

Water reservoir sediments represent a distinct habitat that harbors diverse microbial resources crucial for nitrogen cycling processes. The discovery of resuscitation promoting factor (Rpf) has been recognized as a crucial development in understanding the potential of microbial populations. However, our understanding of the relationship between microorganisms containing rpf-like genes and nitrogen-cycling functional populations remains limited. The present study explored the distribution patterns of rpf-like genes and nitrogen-cycling genes in various water reservoir sediments, along with their correlation with environmental factors. Additionally, the co-occurrence of rpf-like genes with genes associated with the nitrogen cycle and viable but non-culturable (VBNC) formation was investigated. The findings indicated the ubiquitous occurrence of Rpf-like domains and their related genes in the examined reservoir sediments. Notably, rpf-like genes were predominantly associated with Bradyrhizobium, Nitrospira, and Anaeromyxobacter, with pH emerging as the primary influencing factor for their distribution. Genera such as Nitrospira, Bradyrhizobium, Anaeromyxobacter, and Dechloromonas harbor the majority of nitrogen-cycling functional genes, particularly denitrification genes. The distribution of nitrogen-cycling microbial communities in the reservoir sediments was mainly influenced by pH and NH4+. Notably, correlation network analysis revealed close connections between microorganisms containing rpf-like genes and nitrogen-cycling functional populations, as well as VBNC bacteria. These findings offer new insights into the prevalence of rpf-like genes in the water reservoir sediments and their correlation with nitrogen-cycling microbial communities, enhancing our understanding of the significant potential of microbial nitrogen cycling.
Correlation between Tregs and ICOS-induced M2 macrophages polarization in colorectal cancer progression
Authors: Xu Jiaxin , Gao Yu , Ding Yuting , Feng Yunpeng , Chen Jie , Zhang Shenshen , Song Xiaoyu , Qiao Shifeng
Published: July 2024

Objective

To explore the mechanism by which Tregs promote the progression of colorectal cancer by inducing tumor-associated macrophages to polarize into M2 type via ICOS.

Methods

Postoperative pathological tissues and clinical pathological data of 268 colorectal cancer patients who underwent initial surgery were collected. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to detect the expression levels of ICOS, CD163 (a marker for M2 macrophages), and Foxp3 (a marker for Tregs) in cancerous, adjacent non-tumorous, and normal tissues. The relationship of ICOS, M2 macrophages, and Tregs in CRC with clinical pathological characteristics and pre-surgical tumor markers (such as CEA and CA199) was explored.

Results

The expression levels of M2 macrophages and Tregs increased with tumor progression, while ICOS expression showed a decreasing trend. Compared to adjacent and normal tissues, the expression levels of ICOS, M2 macrophages, and Tregs were higher in CRC tissues. The expression levels of M2 macrophages and Tregs were significantly positively correlated with tumor markers, while ICOS expression was significantly negatively correlated.

Conclusion

Tumor-associated m2 macrophages induced by Tregs and ICOS participate in the dynamic balance of the colorectal cancer tumor microenvironment, and their interaction affects colorectal carcinogenesis and progression. High levels of ICOS are associated with better long-term survival rates.
Adipose microenvironment promotes hypersialylation of ovarian cancer cells
Authors: Fox Alexandra , Leonard Garry D. , Adzibolosu Nicholas , Wong Terrence , Tedja Roslyn , Sharma Sapna , Gogoi Radhika , Morris Robert , Mor Gil , Fehl Charlie , Alvero Ayesha B.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Ovarian and other peritoneal cancers have a strong tendency to metastasize into the surrounding adipose tissue. This study describes an effect of the adipose microenvironment on upregulation of sialic acid-containing glycans in ovarian cancer (OC). Heterogeneous populations of glycosylated OC tumors converged to a highly sialylated cell state that regulates tumorigenesis in an immune-dependent manner.

Methods

We modeled the adipose microenvironment by conditioning growth media with human patient-derived adipose tissue. OC cell lines grown in the presence vs. absence of adipose conditioned media (ACM) were characterized by transcriptomics, western blotting, and chemical biology glycan labeling methods. Fluorescence-activated cell sorting was used to separate adipose-driven upregulation of hypersialylated (“SNA-high”) vs. hyposialylated (“SNA-low”) OC subpopulations. The two subpopulations were characterized by further transcriptomic and quantitative polymerase chain reaction analyses, then injected into a syngeneic mouse model. Immune system involvement was implicated using wild type and athymic nude mice with a primary endpoint of overall survival.

Results

Adipose conditioning resulted in upregulation of sialyltransferases ST3GAL1, ST6GAL1, ST6GALNAC3, and ST8Sia1. In culture, OC cells displayed two distinct sialylated subpopulations that were stable for up to 9 passages, suggesting inherent heterogeneity in sialylation that is maintained throughout cell division and media changes. OC tumors that implanted in the omental adipose tissue exclusively reprogrammed to the highly sialylated subpopulation. In wild type C57BL/6 mice, only the hypersialylated SNA-high subpopulation implanted in the adipose, whereas the hyposialylated SNA-low subpopulation failed to be tumorigenic (p=0.023, n=5). In the single case where SNA-low established a tumor, post-mortem analysis revealed reprogramming of the tumor to the SNA-high state in vivo. In athymic nude mice, both subpopulations rapidly formed tumors, implicating a role of the adaptive immune system.

Conclusions

These findings suggest a model of glycan-dependent tumor evolution wherein the adipose microenvironment reprograms OC to a tumorigenic state that resists the adaptive immune system. Mechanistically, adipose factors upregulate sialyltransferases. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of the effect of adipose microenvironment on OC tumor sialylation. Our results set the stage for translational applications targeting sialic acid pathways in OC and other peritoneal cancer tumorigenesis and metastasis.
Pan-cancer analyses reveal the molecular and clinical characteristics of TET family members and suggests that TET3 maybe a potential therapeutic target
Authors: Zhang Chunyan , Zheng Jie , Liu Jin , Li Yanxia , Xing Guoqiang , Zhang Shupeng , Chen Hekai , Wang Jian , Shao Zhijiang , Li Yongyuan , Jiang Zhongmin , Pan Yingzi , Liu Xiaozhi , Xu Ping , Wu Wenhan
Published: July 2024

The Ten-Eleven Translocation (TET) family genes are implicated in a wide array of biological functions across various human cancers. Nonetheless, there is a scarcity of studies that comprehensively analyze the correlation between TET family members and the molecular phenotypes and clinical characteristics of different cancers. Leveraging updated public databases and employing several bioinformatics analysis methods, we assessed the expression levels, somatic variations, methylation levels, and prognostic values of TET family genes. Additionally, we explored the association between the expression of TET family genes and pathway activity, tumor microenvironment (TME), stemness score, immune subtype, clinical staging, and drug sensitivity in pan-cancer. Molecular biology and cytology experiments were conducted to validate the potential role of TET3 in tumor progression. Each TET family gene displayed distinct expression patterns across at least ten detected tumors. The frequency of Single Nucleotide Variant (SNV) in TET genes was found to be 91.24%, primarily comprising missense mutation types, with the main types of copy number variant (CNV) being heterozygous amplifications and deletions. TET1 gene exhibited high methylation levels, whereas TET2 and TET3 genes displayed hypomethylation in most cancers, which correlated closely with patient prognosis. Pathway activity analysis revealed the involvement of TET family genes in multiple signaling pathways, including cell cycle, apoptosis, DNA damage response, hormone AR, PI3K/AKT, and RTK. Furthermore, the expression levels of TET family genes were shown to impact the clinical staging of tumor patients, modulate the sensitivity of chemotherapy drugs, and thereby influence patient prognosis by participating in the regulation of the tumor microenvironment, cellular stemness potential, and immune subtype. Notably, TET3 was identified to promote cancer progression across various tumors, and its silencing was found to inhibit tumor malignancy and enhance chemotherapy sensitivity. These findings shed light on the role of TET family genes in cancer progression and offer insights for further research on TET3 as a potential therapeutic target for pan-cancer.
Analyzing the defense response mechanism of Atractylodes macrocephala to Fusarium oxysporum through small RNA and degradome sequencing
Authors: Fan Sen , Tang Yunjia , Zhu Na , Meng Qingling , Zhou Yanguang , Zhao Yujin , Xu Jingyan , Gu Chenxian , Dai Shijie , Zhu Bo , Yuan Xiaofeng
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Fusarium oxysporum is a significant soil-borne fungal pathogen that affects over 100 plant species, including crucial crops like tomatoes, bananas, cotton, cucumbers, and watermelons, leading to wilting, yellowing, growth inhibition, and ultimately plant death. The root rot disease of A. macrocephala, caused by F. oxysporum, is one of the most serious diseases in continuous cropping, which seriously affects its sustainable development.

Methods

In this study, we explored the interaction between A. macrocephala and F. oxysporum through integrated small RNA (sRNA) and degradome sequencing to uncover the microRNA (miRNA)–mediated defense mechanisms.

Results

We identified colonization of F. oxysporum in A. macrocephala roots on day 6. Nine sRNA samples were sequenced to examine the dynamic changes in miRNA expression in A. macrocephala infected by F. oxysporum at 0, 6, and 12 days after inoculation. Furthermore, we using degradome sequencing and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), validated four miRNA/target regulatory units involved in A. macrocephala–F. oxysporum interactions.

Discussion

This study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying A. macrocephala's early defense against F. oxysporum infection, suggesting directions for enhancing resistance against this pathogen.
Machine learning-based analysis and prediction of meteorological factors and urban heatstroke diseases
Authors: Xu Hui , Guo Shufang , Shi Xiaojun , Wu Yanzhen , Pan Junyi , Gao Han , Tang Yan , Han Aiqing
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Heatstroke is a serious clinical condition caused by exposure to high temperature and high humidity environment, which leads to a rapid increase of the core temperature of the body to more than 40°C, accompanied by skin burning, consciousness disorders and other organ system damage. This study aims to analyze the effect of meteorological factors on the incidence of heatstroke using machine learning, and to construct a heatstroke forecasting model to provide reference for heatstroke prevention.

Methods

The data of heatstroke incidence and meteorological factors in a city in South China from May to September 2014–2019 were analyzed in this study. The lagged effect of meteorological factors on heatstroke incidence was analyzed based on the distributed lag non-linear model, and the prediction model was constructed by using regression decision tree, random forest, gradient boosting trees, linear SVRs, LSTMs, and ARIMA algorithm.

Results

The cumulative lagged effect found that heat index, dew-point temperature, daily maximum temperature and relative humidity had the greatest influence on heatstroke. When the heat index, dew-point temperature, and daily maximum temperature exceeded certain thresholds, the risk of heatstroke was significantly increased on the same day and within the following 5 days. The lagged effect of relative humidity on the occurrence of heatstroke was different with the change of relative humidity, and both excessively high and low environmental humidity levels exhibited a longer lagged effect on the occurrence of heatstroke. With regard to the prediction model, random forest model had the best performance of 5.28 on RMSE and dropped to 3.77 after being adjusted.

Discussion

The incidence of heatstroke in this city is significantly correlated with heat index, heatwave, dew-point temperature, air temperature and zhongfu, among which the heat index and dew-point temperature have a significant lagged effect on heatstroke incidence. Relevant departments need to closely monitor the data of the correlated factors, and adopt heat prevention measures before the temperature peaks, calling on citizens to reduce outdoor activities.
A rapid review of the barriers and facilitators of mental health service access among Veterans and their families
Authors: Ein Natalie , Gervasio Julia , St. Cyr Kate , Liu Jenny J. W. , Baker Clara , Nazarov Anthony , Richardson J. Don
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Transitioning to civilian life after military service can be challenging for both Veterans and their families. Accessible mental health services are crucial during this period to provide support. The objective of this review was to conduct a rapid review to capture the barriers and identify facilitators that influence access to mental health services for Veterans and their families during the post-service transition period.

Methods

This review was conducted using the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions as a methodological framework and followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses - Rapid Review (PRISMA-RR).

Results

A total of 60 articles and 67 independent samples were included in the final data analyses. Across the included articles, this review identified 23 barriers and 14 facilitator themes. Issues navigating the mental health care system was identified as the main challenge among Veterans and their families, and those who received support navigating the system identified this as a significant facilitator. Applying the Theoretical Domains Framework, most of the identified barriers and facilitators were categorized into environmental context and resources domain.

Discussion

The heterogeneity in Veterans' and Veteran families' experiences with mental health care-seeking may suggest that access to mental health care for Veterans and Veteran families cannot be solved by addressing one type of barrier alone. Instead, coordinated efforts to address prioritized systemic, logistical, social, and inter-/intrapersonal obstacles are essential for improving access and optimizing mental health care outcomes. These insights underscore the complexity of considerations for Veterans and families accessing mental health care.
Object Motion Manipulation and time perception in virtual reality
Authors: Landeck Maximilian , Unruh Fabian , Lugrin Jean-Luc , Latoschik Marc Erich
Published: July 2024

This paper presents a novel approach to altering how time is perceived in Virtual Reality (VR). It involves manipulating the speed and pattern of motion in objects associated with timekeeping, both directly (such as clocks) and indirectly (like pendulums). Objects influencing our perception of time are called ‘zeitgebers‘; for instance, observing a clock or pendulum tends to affect how we perceive the passage of time. The speed of motion of their internal parts (clock hands or pendulum rings) is explicitly or implicitly related to the perception of time. However, the perceptual effects of accelerating or decelerating the speed of a virtual clock or pendulum in VR is still an open question. We hypothesize that the acceleration of their internal motion will accelerate the passage of time and that the irregularity of the orbit pendulum’s motion will amplify this effect. We anticipate that the irregular movements of the pendulum will lower boredom and heighten attention, thereby making time seem to pass more quickly. Therefore, we conducted an experiment with 32 participants, exposing them to two types of virtual zeitgebers exhibiting both regular and irregular motions. These were a virtual clock and an orbit pendulum, each operating at slow, normal, and fast speeds. Our results revealed that time passed by faster when participants observed virtual zeitgebers in the fast speed condition than in the slow speed condition. The orbit pendulum significantly accelerated the perceived passage of time compared to the clock. We believe that the irregular motion requires a higher degree of attention, which is confirmed by the significantly longer gaze fixations of the participants. These findings are crucial for time perception manipulation in VR, offering potential for innovative treatments for conditions like depression and improving wellbeing. Yet, further clinical research is needed to confirm these applications.
Tracing field lines that are reconnecting, or expanding, or both
Authors: Qiu Jiong
Published: July 2024

The explosive release of energy in the solar atmosphere is driven magnetically, but the mechanisms that trigger the onset of the eruption remain controversial. In the case of flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs), ideal or non-ideal instabilities usually occur in the corona, but it is difficult to obtain direct observations and diagnostics there. To overcome this difficulty, we analyze observational signatures in the upper chromosphere or transition region, particularly brightening and dimming at the base of coronal magnetic structures. In this paper, we examine the time evolution of spatially resolved light curves in two eruptive flares and identify a variety of tempo-spatial sequences of brightening and dimming, such as dimming followed by brightening and dimming preceded by brightening. These brightening–dimming sequences are indicative of the configuration of energy release in the form of plasma heating or bulk motion. We demonstrate the potential of using these analyses to diagnose the properties of magnetic reconnection and plasma expansion in the corona during the early stages of the eruption.
Diverse PFAS produce unique transcriptomic changes linked to developmental toxicity in zebrafish
Authors: Rericha Yvonne , St. Mary Lindsey , Truong Lisa , McClure Ryan , Martin J. Kainalu , Leonard Scott W. , Thunga Preethi , Simonich Michael T. , Waters Katrina M. , Field Jennifer A. , Tanguay Robyn L.
Published: July 2024

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a widespread and persistent class of contaminants posing significant environmental and human health concerns. Comprehensive understanding of the modes of action underlying toxicity among structurally diverse PFAS is mostly lacking. To address this need, we recently reported on our application of developing zebrafish to evaluate a large library of PFAS for developmental toxicity. In the present study, we prioritized 15 bioactive PFAS that induced significant morphological effects and performed RNA-sequencing to characterize early transcriptional responses at a single timepoint (48 h post fertilization) after early developmental exposures (8 h post fertilization). Internal concentrations of 5 of the 15 PFAS were measured from pooled whole fish samples across multiple timepoints between 24–120 h post fertilization, and additional temporal transcriptomics at several timepoints (48–96 h post fertilization) were conducted for Nafion byproduct 2. A broad range of differentially expressed gene counts were identified across the PFAS exposures. Most PFAS that elicited robust transcriptomic changes affected biological processes of the brain and nervous system development. While PFAS disrupted unique processes, we also found that similarities in some functional head groups of PFAS were associated with the disruption in expression of similar gene sets. Body burdens after early developmental exposures to select sulfonic acid PFAS, including Nafion byproduct 2, increased from the 24–96 h post fertilization sampling timepoints and were greater than those of sulfonamide PFAS of similar chain lengths. In parallel, the Nafion byproduct 2-induced transcriptional responses increased between 48 and 96 h post fertilization. PFAS characteristics based on toxicity, transcriptomic effects, and modes of action will contribute to further prioritization of PFAS structures for testing and informed hazard assessment.
Supplementation of coated sodium butyrate relieved weaning stress and reshaped microbial flora in weaned lambs
Authors: Zhao Fangfang , He Wenhao , Wu Tianyou , Elmhadi Mawada , Jiang Ning , Zhang Aizhong , Guan Pengyu
Published: July 2024

Weaning is an important period in the growth and development of lambs. Thus, effectively reducing the occurrence of weaning stress is critical for maintaining lamb production. Coated sodium butyrate has been shown to reduce inflammation, promote intestinal health, and maintain homeostasis. However, the application and potential mechanism of coated sodium butyrate in alleviating weaning stress in lambs are still unclear. To evaluate the effects of coated sodium butyrate on the growth performance, antioxidant capacity, and gut microbiota of weaned lambs, 10 weaned lambs of 21-day-old were randomly divided into two groups: the CON group (basal diet) and the NaB group (basal diet +3 g/kg of coated sodium butyrate). The trial lasted 21 days. The experimental results showed that compared to the CON group, coated sodium butyrate supplementation in the diet significantly increased the average daily weight gain and daily feed intake of lambs (p < 0.05). In addition, compared to the CON group, the addition of coated sodium butyrate also significantly decreased the serum MDA level of lambs (p < 0.05). Notably, the addition of coated sodium butyrate did not have a significant effect on the cecal microbiota, while increasing the diversity of colonic microbiota and promoting the abundance of Lachnospiraceae, Verrucomicrobiota, Akkermansia, Roseburia, and Sinobacteraceae, which are associated with the nutrient absorption of lambs (p < 0.05). These results indicate that dietary supplementation with coated sodium butyrate could promote the growth and antioxidant capacity of weaned lambs and alleviate weaning stress.
The Impact of a Specialized Hernia Center and Standardized Practices on Surgical Outcomes in Hernia Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: da Silveira Carlos Andre Balthazar , Rasador Ana Caroline Dias , Lima Diego L. , Nogueira Raquel , Sanha Valberto , Kasakewitch João P. G. , Cavazzola Leandro T. , Sreeramoju Prashanth , Malcher Flavio
Published: July 2024

Aim: Hernia registries report that guidelines are not always implemented by general surgeons and suggest that the success rate of this procedure is higher in hernia specialty centers. There are many definitions of hernia centers, but their objectives consist of improving healthcare by homogenizing the clinical practice. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to analyze hernia centers’ definitions and compare hernia centers with non-specialized centers.

Material and Methods: Cochrane Central, Scopus, Scielo, and PubMed were systematically searched for studies defining a hernia center or comparing hernia centers and non-specialized centers. Outcomes assessed were recurrence, surgical site events, hospital length of stay (LOS), and operative time. We performed subgroup analyses of hernia type. Statistical analysis was performed with R Studio.

Results: 3,260 studies were screened and 88 were thoroughly reviewed. Thirteen studies were included. Five studies defined a hernia center and eight studies, comprising 141,366 patients, compared a hernia center with a non-specialized center. Generally, the definitions were similar in decision-making and educational requirements but differed in structural aspects and the steps required for the certification. We found lower recurrence rates for hernia centers for both inguinal (1.08% versus 5.11%; RR 0.21; 95% CI 0.19 to 0.23; p < 0.001) and ventral hernia (3.2% vs. 8.9%; RR 0.425; 95% CI 0.28 to 0.64; p < 0.001). Hernia centers also presented lower surgical site infection for both ventral (4.3% vs. 11.9%; RR 0.435; 95% CI 0.21 to 0.90; p = 0.026) and inguinal (0.1% vs. 0.52%; RR 0.15; 95% CI 0.02 to 0.99; p = 0.49) repair.

Conclusion: Our systematic review and meta-analysis support that a hernia center establishment improves postoperative outcomes data.

Systematic Review Registration:https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42024522263, PROSPERO CRD42024522263.
The SElf-Care After REnal Transplantation Study: A Retrospective Evaluation of a Home-Monitoring Program Implemented as Standard Care
Authors: Hezer B. , Reinders M. E. J. , van den Hoogen M. W. F. , Tielen M. , van de Wetering J. , Hesselink D. A. , Massey E. K.
Published: July 2024

After transplantation self-management is essential for graft survival and optimal quality of life. To address the need for home-based support in self-management, we implemented the “SelfCare after Renal Transplantation” (SeCReT) box, containing home-monitoring equipment combined with a smartphone application that was linked to the electronic patient records. This study investigated the uptake and continuation, protocol adherence, and subjective evaluation of this home-monitoring program. All “de novo” kidney recipients who received the SeCReT-box in the study period (Aug 2021–Dec 2022) were eligible for inclusion. Protocol adherence was defined as ≥75%. Subjective evaluation was assessed with a 5-item questionnaire. Of the 297 recipients transplanted, 178 participants (60%) were included in the analysis. Protocol adherence was 83%, 73%, 66%, and 57% respectively at 5, 10, 20, and 40 weeks of the protocol. With regard to continuation, 135 participants were still in the program at the end of the study period (75% retention rate). Regarding subjective evaluations, 82% evaluated the program positively, and 52% reported lower care needs due to home-monitoring. Results are positive among those who entered and continued the program. Qualitative research is needed on barriers to entering the program and facilitators of use in order to promote optimal implementation.
On the Generalization Capability of a Data-Driven Turbulence Model by Field Inversion and Machine Learning
Authors: Nishi Yasunari , Krumbein Andreas , Knopp Tobias , Probst Axel , Grabe Cornelia
Published: July 2024

This paper discusses the generalizability of a data-augmented turbulence model with a focus on the field inversion and machine learning approach. It is highlighted that the augmented model based on two-dimensional (2D) separated airfoil flows gives poor predictive capability for a different class of separated flows (NASA wall-mounted hump) compared to the baseline model due to extrapolation. We demonstrate a sensor-based approach to localize the data-driven model correction to tackle this generalizability issue. Furthermore, the applicability of the augmented model to a more complex aeronautical three-dimensional case, the NASA Common Research Model configuration, is studied. Observations on the pressure coefficient predictions and the model correction field suggest that the present 2D-based augmentation is to some extent applicable to a three-dimensional aircraft flow.
Analysis of the Effect of Sampling Probe Geometry on Measurement Accuracy in Supersonic Gas Flow
Authors: Zhang Wanlin , Chen Yingtao , Ai Yanting , Sha Pengpeng , Yang Xinlong
Published: July 2024

The accuracy of sampling of gas components has a significant impact on the measurement of various performance parameters in the combustion chamber of an aero-engine. In order to investigate the effect of the probe geometry of a six-point gas sampling probe on sampling accuracy in supersonic gas flow, a three-dimensional probe gas flow characteristic solution model is established through numerical simulation methods of components of transport and fluid–solid coupling. Probes with three angles of 28°, 30°, and 32° and an optimized conical probe are constructed. The sampling accuracy of the probes with different geometries is compared and evaluated by the deviation of the component volume fraction before and after sampling and the resulting combustion efficiency error. This paper presents a set of calculation methods for solving the relative deviation of volume fraction by an iterative method based on the ideal gas law and the Redlich–Kwong equation (R-K equation). The method is designed to solve the exact component volume fraction problem in the simulation calculation. The study results demonstrate that the 28° and optimized conical probes improve sampling accuracy more effectively than the original 30° structure. The deviation of the volume fractions of the two structures is less than 1.7%, and the combustion efficiency error is less than 0.09%. The developed iterative calculation method can significantly reduce the theoretical calculation error to less than 0.06%. The experimental data of the test bench are in good agreement with the simulation results, thereby demonstrating the reliability and accuracy of the sampling probe following structural optimization.
Integrated Waverider Forebody/Inlet Fusion Method Based on Discrete Point Cloud Reconstruction
Authors: Liu Zhiqi , Yin Geling , Luo Mingqiang , Zhang Jinrong , Heng Cheekeat
Published: July 2024

The integrated design of waverider forebodies and inlets is considered a critical challenge in high Mach number vehicle development. To facilitate the rapid construction of integrated geometrical models for waverider forebodies and inlets during the conceptual design phase, a method based on discrete point cloud reconstruction has been proposed. In this method, the geometries of the waverider body and inlet are used as inputs and decomposed into the point cloud under discrete rules. This point cloud is refitted to generate new section lines, which are then lofted into an integrated shape under the constraints of guide curves. By modifying the coordinates of the point cloud positions, the geometric configuration of the integrated shape can be rapidly adjusted, providing initial support for subsequent aerodynamic optimization and thermal protection. Using this method, an integrated approach was applied to a waverider forebody and inward-turning inlet in a tandem configuration. This achieved body-inlet matching and integration, resulting in a 15.6% improvement in the inlet’s total pressure recovery coefficient. The integration time was reduced to just 3.18% of the time required for traditional manual adjustments. Additionally, optimization based on the discrete point cloud enhanced the lift-to-drag ratio by 7.83%, demonstrating the feasibility of the proposed method.
ATC-SD Net: Radiotelephone Communications Speaker Diarization Network
Authors: Pan Weijun , Wang Yidi , Zhang Yumei , Han Boyuan
Published: July 2024

This study addresses the challenges that high-noise environments and complex multi-speaker scenarios present in civil aviation radio communications. A novel radiotelephone communications speaker diffraction network is developed specifically for these circumstances. To improve the precision of the speaker diarization network, three core modules are designed: voice activity detection (VAD), end-to-end speaker separation for air–ground communication (EESS), and probabilistic knowledge-based text clustering (PKTC). First, the VAD module uses attention mechanisms to separate silence from irrelevant noise, resulting in pure dialogue commands. Subsequently, the EESS module distinguishes between controllers and pilots by levying voice print differences, resulting in effective speaker segmentation. Finally, the PKTC module addresses the issue of pilot voice print ambiguity using text clustering, introducing a novel flight prior knowledge-based text-related clustering model. To achieve robust speaker diarization in multi-pilot scenarios, this model uses prior knowledge-based graph construction, radar data-based graph correction, and probabilistic optimization. This study also includes the development of the specialized ATCSPEECH dataset, which demonstrates significant performance improvements over both the AMI and ATCO2 PROJECT datasets.
Impact of Structural Parameters on the Collision Characteristics and Coefficient of Restitution of Soybean Particles on Harvester’s Cleaning Screens
Authors: Guo Xiaohu , Wang Shiguo , Chen Shuren , Li Bin , Tang Zhong , Hu Yifan
Published: July 2024

Inadequate parameter design of the cleaning device in soybean combine harvesters leads to elevated levels of machine harvesting losses and impurity rates. To provide fundamental data for the optimization of structural parameters of soybean cleaning sieves, it is of great significance to study the collision and bouncing characteristics of soybeans on the cleaning sieve surface and the impact of parameters on the coefficient of restitution (COR). The current study designed a collision platform, using soybeans at the harvest stage as the research subject. The experimental factors included drop height, wall inclination angle, wall movement speed, and wall material. Through single-factor experiments and orthogonal experiments, the effects of different collision parameters on the rebound trajectory and COR of soybeans were investigated. This study focuses on soybeans at the harvest stage as the test subjects. Experiments were conducted on a collision platform and recorded with a high-speed camera to capture the three-dimensional motion trajectories of the soybeans using the principle of specular reflection. Through single-factor experiments, the jumping characteristics of the soybeans on sieve surfaces with different motion characteristics were analyzed. The impact of drop height (400–650 mm), wall inclination angle (8–13°), wall movement speed (0.6–1.1 m/s), and wall material (stainless steel plates and polyurethane plates) on the coefficient of restitution (COR) was calculated and clarified. Multi-factor orthogonal experiments were conducted to determine the significance order of the different factors affecting the COR. Three-dimensional models of the soybeans and the collision platform were constructed using SolidWorks software, and the collision between the soybeans and the cleaning wall was simulated using EDEM software. The micro-forces and energy transfer during the soybean collision were analyzed. The results indicated that the COR of soybeans decreases as the drop height increases, but increases with wall inclination angle and wall movement speed. Additionally, the COR is higher when the soybeans collide with stainless steel plates compared to polyurethane plates. The order of influence of the four factors on the COR were: wall material > wall inclination angle > wall speed > drop height. This study provides important reference value for the efficient and low-loss design of cleaning devices.
Multidimensional Quality Characteristics of Sichuan South-Road Dark Tea and Its Chemical Prediction
Authors: Zou Yao , Li Xian , Han Deyang
Published: July 2024

The distinctive quality of Sichuan south-road dark tea (SSDT) is gradually disappearing with processing innovation. Here, near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy (NIRS) and spectrofluorometric techniques were utilized to determine the spectral characteristics of dried SSDT and its brew, respectively. Combined with chemical analysis, the multidimensional quality characteristics of SSDT will be presented. Finally, the NIR spectral fingerprint of dried SSDT was observed, with Kangzhuan (KZ) and Jinjian (JJ) showing a very similar NIR spectrum. The SiPLS models effectively predicted the levels of theabrownin, caffeine, and epigallocatechin gallate, based on the NIR spectrum, with root-mean-square errors of calibration of 0.15, 0.12, and 0.02 for each chemical compound, root-mean-square errors of prediction of 0.20, 0.09, and 0.03, and both corrected and predicted correlation coefficients greater than 0.90. Meanwhile, the fluorescence characteristics of the SSDT brew were identified based on the parallel factor analysis for the fluorescence excitation–emission matrix (EEM). The KZ and JJ brews could be classified with 100% accuracy using extreme-gradient-boosting discriminant analysis. The integration of NIRS and fluorometric EEM seems to be a powerful technique for characterizing SSDTs, and the results can greatly benefit the production and quality control of SSDTs.
Managing Residue Return Increases Soil Organic Carbon, Total Nitrogen in the Soil Aggregate, and the Grain Yield of Winter Wheat
Authors: Tang Yuhai , Cui Xiangju , Xu Haicheng , Peng Dianliang , Liang Bin
Published: July 2024

Soil tillage and maize residues return are important practices for tackling and promoting soil quality and improving crop yield in the North China Plain (NCP), where winter wheat production is threatened by soil deterioration. Although maize residues incorporation with rotary tillage (RS) or deep plowing tillage (DS) is widespread in this region, only few studies have focused on rotation tillage. Four practices, namely RT (continuous rotary tillage without maize residues return), RS, DS, and RS/DS (rotary tillage every year and deep plowing interval of 2 years), were evaluated under field conditions lasting a period of 5 years. After a 5-year field experiment, the mean soil bulk density of the 0–30 cm soil layer decreased significantly with RS, DS, and RS/DS, i.e., by 4.19%, 6.33%, and 6.71% compared with RT, respectively. The treatments greatly improved the total soil porosity, soil aggregate size distribution, soil aggregate stability, and the root length density in the 0–30 cm soil layers. Residues return with DS and RS/DS treatments significantly increased the soil organic carbon (SOC) and total nitrogen (TN) storage in the 0–30 cm soil layer, mainly owed to the increases in the SOC and TN pool associated with the macro-aggregate. A positive trend in the grain yield was noted under both DS and RS/DS conditions, whereas a decreasing tendency was presented in continuous rotary treatments. In summary, RS/DS treatment significantly increased the amount of SOC and TN, improved the particle size distribution of soil aggregates, and thus improved the soil’s physicochemical properties, which is beneficial for wheat to achieve high yields. Our results suggested that RS/DS was a highly efficient practice to improve soil quality and increase crop production in the NCP.