bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brain functional network changes associated with psychological symptoms in emergency psychological responding professionals after the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Hu Ying , Hu Hao , Sun Yawen , Zhang Yiming , Wang Yao , Han Xu , Su Shanshan , Zhuo Kaiming , Wang Zhen , Zhou Yan
Published: April 2023

Background

Emergency psychological responding professionals are recruited to help deal with psychological issues as the Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) continues. We aimed to study the neural correlates of psychological states in these emergency psychological responding professionals after exposure to COVID-19 related trauma at baseline and after 1-year self-adjustment.

Methods

Resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI) and multiscale network approaches were utilized to evaluate the functional brain activities in emergency psychological professionals after trauma. Temporal (baseline vs. follow-up) and cross-sectional (emergency psychological professionals vs. healthy controls) differences were studied using appropriate t-tests. The brain functional network correlates of psychological symptoms were explored.

Results

At either time-point, significant changes in the ventral attention (VEN) and the default mode network (DMN) were associated with psychological symptoms in emergency psychological professionals. In addition, the emergency psychological professionals whose mental states improved after 1 year demonstrated altered intermodular connectivity strength between several modules in the functional network, mainly linking the DMN, VEN, limbic, and frontoparietal control modules.

Conclusion

Brain functional network alterations and their longitudinal changes varied across groups of EPRT with distinctive clinical features. Exposure to emergent trauma does cause psychological professionals to produce DMN and VEN network changes related to psychological symptoms. About 65% of them will gradually adjust mental states, and the network tends to be rebalanced after a year.
A spectrum of non-spore-forming fermentative and non-fermentative Gram-negative bacteria: multi-drug resistance, extended-spectrum beta-lactamase, and carbapenemase production
Authors: Desalegn Yasin , Bitew Adane , Adane Amanuel
Published: April 2023

Background

In developing countries, the co-existence of a high burden of infectious diseases caused by Gram-negative bacteria and the rapid increase and spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria have become a serious health threat.

Objective

Profiling of Gram-negative bacteria and determining the magnitude of their antimicrobial resistance among patients.

Results

A total of 175 non-spore-forming Gram-negative bacteria were isolated from 873 different clinical samples. Of a total of 175 bacteria, 154 (88%) were fermentative Gram-negative bacteria, while 21 (12%) were non-fermentative Gram-negative bacteria. E. coliwith a frequency of 58.3% andK. pneumoniaewith a frequency of 18.3% were the predominant fermentative Gram-negative bacteria, whileP. aeruginosa9 (5.1%) andA. baumannii6 (3.4%) were the predominant non-fermentative Gram-negative bacteria. The highest percentage level of antibiotic resistance was seen against ampicillin (86%), and the lowest against meropenem (9.8). About 49 (28%) Gram-negative bacilli were positive for ESBLase. The overall prevalence rate of MDR bacteria was 80.5%, of which 100% of A.baumannii, 90.6%of K. pneumonia.Sixteen isolates were resistant to meropenem, out of which 11 tested for carbapenemase production. Five of the nine were metallo-lactamase producers, with the remaining four being serine carbapenemase producers.

Conclusion

The prevalence of Gram-negative bacterial infection was found to be 20%, with a significant proportion (80.0%) due to fermentative Gram-negative bacteria and the remaining 20% due to non-fermentative Gram-negative bacteria. The study has also demonstrated a high prevalence rate of MDR, ESBLase, and carbapenemase-producing Gram-negative bacteria. Antimicrobial resistance of Gram-negative bacteria should be monitored on a regular basis, and an effective infection control program should be implemented.
The relationship of personality and executive functions in high-level soccer athletes: expertise-and gender-specific differences
Authors: Spielmann Jan , Beavan Adam , Mayer Jan
Published: April 2023

Background

Psycho-cognitive factors such as personality and executive functions (EFs) are influential parameters when it comes to examining expertise in high-level soccer. Therefore, the profiles of those athletes are relevant both from a practical and scientific point of view. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between personality traits and executive functions with age group as an influential factor in high-level male and female soccer players.

Methods

Personality traits and executive functions of 138 high-level male and female soccer athletes from the U17—Pros teams were assessed using the big-five paradigm. A series of linear regressions investigated contributions of personality on EF assessments and team, respectively.

Results

Linear regression models showed both negative and positive relationships between various personality traits, executive function performance and the influence of expertise and gender. Together, a maximum of 23% (R2 = 6%–23%) of the variance between EFs with personality and various teams, demonstrating that many unaccounted-for variables remain at play.

Conclusion

The results of this study demonstrate the inconsistent relationship between personality traits and executive functions. The study calls for more replication studies to help strengthen the understanding of relationships between psycho-cognitive factors in high-level team sport athletes.
Araceae root and citrus fibers tend to decrease Escherichia coli adhesion and myeloperoxidase levels in weaned piglets
Authors: Tanghe Sofie , De Vos Maartje , Degroote Jeroen , Lannoo Kobe , Vande Ginste Jan , D'Inca Romain , Michiels Joris
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Weaning is a stressful experience in the piglet's life, and it often coincides with impaired gut health. Post-weaning diarrhea in piglets is frequently caused by enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (E. coli). The first step of an E. coli infection is the adhesion to host-specific receptors present on enterocytes, leading to pro-inflammatory immune responses. The aim of this study was to examine if specific fiber fractions in the piglet diet can prevent E. coli adhesion and subsequent immune responses.

Methods

The trial included 200 piglets (Danbred × Piétrain): 10 piglets/pen × 10 pens/dietary treatment × 2 dietary treatments. From weaning until 14 days (d14) post-weaning, piglets were fed a control diet or test diet with 2 kg/ton of a mixture of specific fiber fractions derived from Araceae root and citrus. Afterwards, 1 piglet per pen was euthanized, a section was taken at 75% of small intestinal length and E. coli colonization on the mucosal epithelium was quantified by scraping and conventional plating. From the same small intestinal section, histo-morphological indices were assessed, and mucosal scrapings were analyzed for gene expression of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, and NF-kB. Analyses of specific intestinal bacteria and SCFA were performed on samples of intestinal content (small intestine, caecum, colon). Fecal samples were taken to measure myeloperoxidase (MPO), calprotectin and PAP/RAG3A as biomarkers for intestinal inflammation.

Results and discussion

Piglets fed the fiber mixture tended to have decreased E. coli colonization to the mucosal epithelium (5.65 vs. 4.84 log10 CFU/g; P = 0.07), less E. coli in the caecum (8.91 vs. 7.72 log10 CFU/g; P = 0.03) and more Lachnospiraceae in the colon (11.3 vs. 11.6 log10 CFU/g; P = 0.03). Additionally, the fiber mixture tended to increase cecal butyric acid (10.4 vs. 19.1 mmol/kg; P = 0.07). No significant effect on histo-morphological indices and on gene expression of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines and NF-kB was observed. The fecal MPO concentration tended to decrease (20.2 vs. 10.4 ng/g; P = 0.07), indicating less intestinal inflammation. In conclusion, this study showed that specific fiber fractions from Araceae root and citrus in piglet weaner diets may decrease the risk of pathogen overgrowth by reducing E. coli adhesion and intestinal inflammation.
Rice protein concentrate is a well-accepted, highly digestible protein source for adult cats
Authors: Morris Elizabeth , Perumalla Sunil , Stiers Cheryl , Gross Kathy
Published: April 2023

Introduction

The use of rice protein concentrate (RPC) as a protein source in cat food is uncommon. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the acceptability and digestibility of foods formulated to contain increasing levels of RPC to support its inclusion in foods for adult (non-gravid, non-lactating) cats.

Methods

Increasing levels of RPC (0, 7, 14, and 28%) were formulated into test foods fed to 24 cats in a Latin square design with 15-day periods and no washout between periods. Food intake and fecal scores were measured to determine the acceptability of test foods. Fecal output was measured on days 11–15. Food and fecal samples from day 15 of each period were analyzed for nutrient composition to calculate the macronutrient digestibility of the test foods. Analysis of variance and orthogonal contrasts were used to assess the effects of RPC inclusion on food intake, fecal output, fecal scores, and macronutrient digestibility.

Results

The results showed that as-fed (AF), dry matter (DM), and gross energy (GE) intake increased with increasing RPC levels (p > 0.05). Fecal output, both as-is and DM, was unaffected by RPC inclusion (p > 0.05); however, fecal scores increased linearly with increasing RPC inclusion (p < 0.001). Furthermore, true protein and apparent DM, GE, and carbohydrate (NFE) digestibility increased linearly with RPC inclusion (p < 0.05). Apparent fat digestibility was high for all test foods but was unaffected by RPC inclusion (p = 0.690).

Discussion

Overall, the inclusion of RPC was well-accepted, improved fecal characteristics, and increased the apparent and true macronutrient digestibility compared to the control. Therefore, this study demonstrated that RPC can serve as a high-quality and acceptable protein source for adult cats.
An Efficient Approach to Manage Natural Noises in Recommender Systems
Authors: Luo Chenhong , Wang Yong , Li Bo , Liu Hanyang , Wang Pengyu , Zhang Leo Yu
Published: April 2023

Recommender systems search the underlying preferences of users according to their historical ratings and recommend a list of items that may be of interest to them. Rating information plays an important role in revealing the true tastes of users. However, previous research indicates that natural noises may exist in the historical ratings and mislead the recommendation results. To deal with natural noises, different methods have been proposed, such as directly removing noises, correcting noise by re-predicting, or using additional information. However, these methods introduce some new problems, such as data sparsity and introducing new sources of noise. To address the problems, we present a new approach to managing natural noises in recommendation systems. Firstly, we provide the detection criteria for natural noises based on the classifications of users and items. After the noises are detected, we correct them with threshold values weighted by probabilities. Experimental results show that the proposed method can effectively correct natural noise and greatly improve the quality of recommendations.
A Robust Fixed-Time Sliding Mode Control for Quadrotor UAV
Authors: Olguin-Roque Jairo , Salazar Sergio , González-Hernandez Iván , Lozano Rogelio
Published: April 2023

This paper proposes a robust algorithm based on a fixed-time sliding mode controller (FTSMC) for a Quadrotor aircraft. This approach is based on Lyapunov theory, which guarantees system stability. Nonlinear error dynamics techniques are used to achieve accurate trajectory tracking in the presence of disturbances. The performance of the FTSMC is compared with the typical non-singular terminal sliding mode controller (NTSMC) to evaluate its effectiveness. The numerical results show that FTSMC is more efficient than the typical NTSMC in disturbance reduction.
An Automatic Motion-Based Artifact Reduction Algorithm for fNIRS in Concurrent Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Studies (AMARA–fMRI)
Authors: Hocke Lia Maria , Tong Yunjie , Frederick Blaise deBonneval
Published: April 2023

Multimodal functional near-infrared spectroscopy–functional magnetic resonance imaging (fNIRS–fMRI) studies have been highly beneficial for both the fNIRS and fMRI field as, for example, they shed light on the underlying mechanism of each method. However, several noise sources exist in both methods. Motion artifact removal is an important preprocessing step in fNIRS analysis. Several manual motion–artifact removal methods have been developed which require time and are highly dependent on expertise. Only a few automatic methods have been proposed. AMARA (acceleration-based movement artifact reduction algorithm) is one of the most promising automatic methods and was originally tested in an fNIRS sleep study with long acquisition times (~8 h). However, it relies on accelerometry data, which is problematic when performing concurrent fNIRS–fMIRI experiments. Most accelerometers are not MR compatible, and in any case, existing datasets do not have this data. Here, we propose a new way to retrospectively determine acceleration data for motion correction methods, such as AMARA in multimodal fNIRS–fMRI studies. We do so by considering the individual slice stack acquisition times of simultaneous multislice (SMS) acquisition and reconstructing high-resolution motion traces from each slice stack time. We validated our method on 10 participants during a memory task (2- and 3-back) with 6 fNIRS channels over the prefrontal cortex (limited field of view with fMRI). We found that this motion correction significantly improved the detection of activation in deoxyhemoglobin and outperformed up-sampled motion traces. However, we found no improvement in oxyhemoglobin. Furthermore, our data show a high overlap with fMRI activation when considering activation in channels according to both deoxyhemoglobin and oxyhemoglobin.
Order-Based Schedule of Dynamic Topology for Recurrent Neural Network
Authors: Sanchez Narvaez Diego , Villaseñor Carlos , Lopez-Franco Carlos , Arana-Daniel Nancy
Published: April 2023

It is well-known that part of the neural networks capacity is determined by their topology and the employed training process. How a neural network should be designed and how it should be updated every time that new data is acquired, is an issue that remains open since it its usually limited to a process of trial and error, based mainly on the experience of the designer. To address this issue, an algorithm that provides plasticity to recurrent neural networks (RNN) applied to time series forecasting is proposed. A decision-making grow and prune paradigm is created, based on the calculation of the data’s order, indicating in which situations during the re-training process (when new data is received), should the network increase or decrease its connections, giving as a result a dynamic architecture that can facilitate the design and implementation of the network, as well as improve its behavior. The proposed algorithm was tested with some time series of the M4 forecasting competition, using Long-Short Term Memory (LSTM) models. Better results were obtained for most of the tests, with new models both larger and smaller than their static versions, showing an average improvement of up to 18%.
A Bayesian Multi-Armed Bandit Algorithm for Dynamic End-to-End Routing in SDN-Based Networks with Piecewise-Stationary Rewards
Authors: Santana Pedro , Moura José
Published: April 2023

To handle the exponential growth of data-intensive network edge services and automatically solve new challenges in routing management, machine learning is steadily being incorporated into software-defined networking solutions. In this line, the article presents the design of a piecewise-stationary Bayesian multi-armed bandit approach for the online optimum end-to-end dynamic routing of data flows in the context of programmable networking systems. This learning-based approach has been analyzed with simulated and emulated data, showing the proposal’s ability to sequentially and proactively self-discover the end-to-end routing path with minimal delay among a considerable number of alternatives, even when facing abrupt changes in transmission delay distributions due to both variable congestion levels on path network devices and dynamic delays to transmission links.
Sectional Leading Edge Vortex Lift and Drag Coefficients of Autorotating Samaras
Authors: Jung Byung Kwon , Rezgui Djamel
Published: April 2023

Autorotating samaras such as Sycamore seeds are capable of descending at exceptionally slow speeds and the secret behind this characteristic is attributed to a flow mechanism known as the leading edge vortex (LEV). A stable LEV is known to increase the maximum lift coefficient attainable at high angles of attack and recent studies of revolving and flapping wings have proposed suitable lift and drag coefficient models to characterise the aerodynamic forces of the LEV. For the samara, however, little has been explored to properly test the suitability of these low-order lift and drag coefficient models in describing the aerodynamic forces produced by the samara. Thus, in this paper, we aim to analyse the use of two proposed aerodynamic models, namely, the normal force and Polhamus models, in describing the sectional aerodynamic lift of a samara that is producing a LEV. Additionally, we aim to quantify the aerodynamic parameters that can describe the lift and drag of the samara for a range of wind speed conditions. To achieve this, the study first examined the samara flight data available in the literature, and from it, the profiles of the lift coefficient curves were investigated. Subsequently, a numerical Blade Element-Momentum model (BEM) of the autorotating samara encompassing different lift profiles was developed and validated against a comprehensive set of samara flight data, which were measured from wind tunnel experiments conducted at the University of Bristol for three different Sycamores. The results indicated that both the normal force and Polhamus lift models combined with the normal force drag can be used to describe the two-dimensional lift characteristics of a samara exhibiting an LEV. However, the normal force model appeared to be more suitable, since the Polhamus relied on many assumptions. The results also revealed that the aerodynamic force parameters can vary with windspeed and with the samara wing characteristics, as well as along the span of the samara wing. Values of the lift curve slope, zero-lift drag coefficient, and maximum lift coefficient are predicted and presented for different samaras. The study also showed that the low-order BEM model was able to generate a good agreement with the experimental measurements in the prediction of both rotational speed and thrust. Such a validated BEM model can be used for the initial design of bio-inspired rotors for micro-air vehicles.
Effect of Li Content on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of as-Homogenized Mg-Li-Al-Zn-Zr Alloys
Authors: Sun Yuehua , Zhang Fan , Ren Jian , Song Guangsheng
Published: April 2023

The microstructure and mechanical properties of as-homogenized Mg-xLi-3Al-2Zn-0.2Zr alloys (x = 5, 7, 8, 9, 11 wt.%) were studied. As the Li content increased from 5 wt.% to 11 wt.%, the alloy matrix changed from the α-Mg single-phase to α-Mg+β-Li dual-phase and then to the β-Li single-phase. Homogenized With the increase in Li content, the alloy strength decreased while the elongation increased, and the corresponding fracture mechanism changed from cleavage fracture to microvoid coalescence fracture. This is mainly attributed to the matrix changing from α-Mg with hcp structure to β-Li with bcc structure. Additionally, the increase in the AlLi softening phase led to the reduction of Al and Zn dissolved in the alloy matrix with increasing Li content, which is one of the reasons for the decrease in alloy strength.
Influences of Glyphosate Contaminations and Concentrate Feed on Performance, Blood Parameters, Blood Cell Functionality and DNA Damage Properties in Fattening Bulls
Authors: Heymann Ann-Katrin , Schnabel Karina , Billenkamp Fabian , Bühler Susanne , Frahm Jana , Kersten Susanne , Meyer Ulrich , von Soosten Dirk , Dänicke Sven
Published: April 2023

Glyphosate (GLY), the active substance in non-selective herbicides, is often found in ruminant feed. The present feeding study aimed to investigate the effects of GLY-contaminated rations and different concentrate feed proportions (CFP) on the health of fattening German Holstein bulls. Bulls were grouped by low (LC) or high (HC) CFP with (GLYLC, GLYHC) or without GLY-contaminations (CONLC, CONHC) in their rations. Intakes (dry matter, water) and body weight were documented continuously lasting over an average range from 392.2 ± 60.4 kg to 541.2 ± 67.4 kg (mean ± SD). Blood samples collected at the trial’s beginning, and after 7 and 15 weeks, were analyzed for hematological and clinical-chemical traits, functional properties of leukocytes, redox parameters and DNA damage. The average GLY exposures of 128.6 (GLYHC), 213.7 (GLYLC), 1.3 (CONHC) and 2.0 µg/kg body weight/d (CONLC) did not lead to GLY effects for most of the assessed parameters relating to animal health and performance. CFP and time displayed marked influences on most of the experimental parameters such as higher dry matter intake and average daily gain in HC compared with the LC groups. GLY effects were rather weak. However, the observed interactive effects between GLY and CFP and/or time occurring in an inconsistent manner are likely not reproducible. Finally, all animals remained clinically inconspicuous, which brings into question the physiological relevance of putative GLY effects.
Taurine Supplementation to Plant-Based Diets Improves Lipid Metabolism in Senegalese Sole
Authors: Aragão Cláudia , Teodósio Rita , Colen Rita , Richard Nadège , Rønnestad Ivar , Dias Jorge , Conceição Luís E. C. , Ribeiro Laura
Published: April 2023

Taurine is a sulphur-containing amino acid with important physiological roles and a key compound for the synthesis of bile salts, which are essential for the emulsion and absorption of dietary lipids. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of taurine supplementation to low-fishmeal diets on the metabolism of taurine, bile acids, and lipids of Senegalese sole. A fishmeal (FM) and a plant-protein-based (PP0) diet were formulated, and the latter was supplemented with taurine at 0.5 and 1.5% (diets PP0.5 and PP1.5). Diets were assigned to triplicate tanks containing 35 fish (initial weight ~14 g) for 6 weeks. Fish from the PP0 treatment presented lower taurine and bile-acid concentrations compared with the FM treatment, and a downregulation of cyp7a1 and abcb11 was observed. Triolein catabolism decreased in PP0-fed fish, resulting in increased hepatic fat content and plasma triglycerides, while no effects on plasma cholesterol were observed. Taurine supplementation to plant-based diets resulted in a higher taurine accumulation in fish tissues, increased bile-acid concentration, and upregulation of cyp7a1 and abcb11. Hepatic fat content and plasma triglycerides decreased with increasing dietary taurine supplementation. Taurine supplementation mitigated part of the negative effects of plant-based diets, leading to better lipid utilisation.
Renewal of Lead Battery Electrodes Using a Plasma—Chemical Processing Method
Authors: Kavaliauskas Žydrūnas , Šajev Igor , Blažiūnas Giedrius , Gecevičius Giedrius
Published: April 2023

The increasing use of renewable energy sources increases the need for electricity storage systems. In this work, the possibility of renewing worn-out battery Pb electrodes by applying Ar and O2 gas plasma in a magnetron vacuum system was investigated. As shown by the SEM results of the surface of Pb electrodes, after exposure to O2 plasma, the surface of Pb electrodes consists of irregularly shaped microstructures. Analyzing the XRD results revealed that the spectrum peaks of the Pb4O3SO4 compound are more pronounced in the case of the electrodes of the worn battery than those electrodes that were exposed to Ar and O2 gas plasma. It was observed that the process of renewing Pb electrodes in Ar and O2 plasma has a positive effect. This effect is also confirmed by the results of EDS studies, as the chemical compounds that inhibit the charge/discharge process are reduced, and the percentage of pure lead increases from 68.2% (in the case of worn electrodes) to 81–82% (when the worn electrodes were processed using Ar and O2 plasma).
Enhancing Occupants’ Thermal Comfort in Buildings by Applying Solar-Powered Techniques
Authors: Irfeey Abdul Munaf Mohamed , Jamei Elmira , Chau Hing-Wah , Ramasubramanian Brindha
Published: April 2023

As most people spend their days indoors, it is indeed important that buildings provide residents with a higher standard of health, convenience, and safety. As a result, many practices are implemented into buildings to improve the comfort of occupants, particularly thermal comfort; nevertheless, the energy required to run and maintain these applications is a significant constraint. Renewable energy sources offer alternative solutions to energy demand problems, and selecting the best renewable energy sources is crucial. In this article, we examine the health and well-being advantages to the occupants, as well as the surrounding environment, of a variety of novel strategies that may be integrated into buildings to increase occupants’ thermal comfort for conventional practices using solar power. The key discoveries explored in this article include daylighting, passive ventilation, thermal applications, cooling applications, and power generation. For this, the information was gathered by a systematic review of the relevant prior literature. In addition, the detrimental effects of existing practices on the health and well-being of residents and the environment are included. While there are still some practical obstacles to overcome in the extraction of solar energy, the technology exists. Potential future obstacles to the broad acceptance and usage of solar energy systems in buildings are highlighted, as well as possible solutions.
Dynamic Prediction and Driving Factors of Carbon Emission in Beijing, China, under Carbon Neutrality Targets
Authors: Li Yunyan , Dai Jian , Zhang Shuo , Cui Hua
Published: April 2023

China has made remarkable achievements in reducing carbon emissions in recent years. However, there is still much reduction room before achieving carbon neutrality. In Beijing, the capital of China, it is a strategic choice to respond to global climate change by promoting green and low-carbon development. This paper calculates the carbon dioxide emissions of key industries in Beijing and analyzes the temporal evolution trend of carbon emissions. Carbon dioxide emissions in Beijing before 2030 are predicted based on the grey prediction GM (1,1) and BP neural network model. The effects of factors of carbon dioxide emissions are discussed using the threshold regression model under different economic conditions. The results show that energy consumption intensity, GDP per capita, and the ownership of civil cars have a positive impact on carbon dioxide emissions, while the number of permanent residents and urban green space areas have a negative impact on carbon dioxide emissions. These findings of carbon emission prediction and influencing factors contribute to carbon reduction path design. Related policy implications on carbon emission reduction are put forward from the aspects of promoting industrial upgrading, accelerating the construction of advanced economic structures, optimizing transportation structures, and strengthening green building development.
Characteristics of Airborne Pollutants in the Area of an Agricultural–Industrial Complex near a Petrochemical Industry Facility
Authors: Tsai Jiun-Horng , How Vivien , Wang Wei-Chi , Chiang Hung-Lung
Published: April 2023

In the area of a petrochemical industrial site, ten monitoring stations are established to determine the airborne pollutants that are emitted, which include criteria air pollutants and 54 species of ozone formation precursors of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The hourly pollutants are increased by human activities, such as traffic flow after 7:00 a.m., and ozone becomes more abundant as solar radiation increases in intensity. Monthly air pollutants are present in low concentrations during the rainy season from May to September and in high concentrations from October to April. Results show that VOC concentrations are low in the summer (average concentration 5.7–5.9 ppb) and more than double in the winter (11–12 ppb), with 52–63% alkanes, 18–24% aromatics, 11–22% alkenes and 4.7–7.1% alkynes. Ethane, toluene, propane, n-butane, ethylene and acetylene are the major VOCs, with an annual average concentration exceeding 0.50 ppb. In 2016–2020, the VOC concentration is decreased from 10.1 to 7.73 ppb, corresponding to the ozone formation potential (OFP) decrease from 84 to 61 μg-O3 m−3, with toluene, m,p-xylene, ethylene and propene being the most abundant species. The primary VOC sources are petrochemical industry sites, fuel combustion, vehicle exhaust emissions and evaporation, solvent application, industrial facilities and emission from farming vegetation.
Precipitation Nowcasting Based on Deep Learning over Guizhou, China
Authors: Kong Dexuan , Zhi Xiefei , Ji Yan , Yang Chunyan , Wang Yuhong , Tian Yuntao , Li Gang , Zeng Xiaotuan
Published: April 2023

Accurate precipitation nowcasting (lead time: 0–2 h), which requires high spatiotemporal resolution data, is of great relevance in many weather-dependent social and operational activities. In this study, we are aiming to construct highly accurate deep learning (DL) models to directly obtain precipitation nowcasting at 6-min intervals for the lead time of 0–2 h. The Convolutional Long Short-Term Memory (ConvLSTM) and Predictive Recurrent Neural Network (PredRNN) models were used as comparative DL models, and the Lucas–Kanade (LK) Optical Flow method was selected as a traditional extrapolation baseline. The models were trained with high-quality datasets (resolution: 1 min) created from precipitation observations recorded by automatic weather stations in Guizhou Province (China). A comprehensive evaluation of the precipitation nowcasting was performed, which included consideration of the root mean square error, equitable threat score (ETS), and probability of detection (POD). The evaluation indicated that the reduction of the number of missing values and data normalization boosted training efficiency and improved the forecasting skill of the DL models. Increasing the time series length of the training set and the number of training samples both improved the POD and ETS of the DL models and enhanced nowcasting stability with time. Training with the Hea-P dataset further improved the forecasting skill of the DL models and sharply increased the ETS for thresholds of 2.5, 8, and 15 mm, especially for the 1-h lead time. The PredRNN model trained with the Hea-P dataset (time series length: 8 years) outperformed the traditional LK Optical Flow method for all thresholds (0.1, 1, 2.5, 8, and 15 mm) and obtained the best performance of all the models considered in this study in terms of ETS. Moreover, the Method for Object-Based Diagnostic Evaluation on a rainstorm case revealed that the PredRNN model, trained well with high-quality observation data, could both capture complex nonlinear characteristics of precipitation more accurately than achievable using the LK Optical Flow method and establish a reasonable mapping network during drastic changes in precipitation. Thus, its results more closely matched the observations, and its forecasting skill for thresholds exceeding 8 mm was improved substantially.
Analysis of the Triggering and Maintenance Mechanisms of a Record-Breaking Warm-Sector Extreme-Rainfall Process in Front of an Upper-Level Trough in Tianjin, China
Authors: Chen Hong , Wang Yanchun , Wei Yinghua , Zhang Nan , Lin Xiaomeng , Yang Yang , Zhang Yuqing
Published: April 2023

A short-time rainstorm exceeding the extreme historical rainfall occurred in the Jinnan District of Tianjin, China, on 3 July 2022. Due to the concentrated time period of precipitation, it caused serious water accumulation in the Jinnan District. The purpose of this paper is to study the weather mechanism of this extreme rainstorm in the Jinan District of Tianjin. By analyzing the fine observation facts, we can obtain the mesoscale weather characteristics and environmental conditions of the process. The results provide a reference for similar weather forecasting and warning in the future. Based on the 1 min interval precipitation observation data, the ERA5 reanalysis data, the CINRAD-SA radar reflectivity data of Tanggu, the cloud-top brightness temperature data of the Fengyun-4A satellite, and the Variational Doppler Radar Analysis System data, we comprehensively analyzed a record-breaking extreme rainfall process in Tianjin on 3 July 2022. The results show that the extreme rainfall process presents prominent mesoscale weather characteristics, with high precipitation intensity in a short-term period. This process is influenced by multi-scale weather systems, including the 500 hPa upper-level trough and the long-distance water vapor transport by Typhoon Chaba. The rainstorm event is caused by the combined actions of cold pool outflow produced by the upstream precipitation, the easterly disturbance in the boundary layer, the mesoscale temperature front, and the ground convergence line. Specifically, the ground convergence line is formed by the northerly wind of the cold pool outflow and the warm and moist southerly airflow from the ocean, and the temperature front is caused by the horizontal thermal difference of the underlying surface. Both the ground convergence line and temperature front contribute considerably to the triggering of mesoscale convection. The mesoscale secondary circulation is formed in the meridional direction by the meso-γ-scale convergence and its interaction with strong velocity in front of the trough, contributing to the development and maintenance of vertical motion in the Jinnan region of Tianjin and thereby leading to the occurrence and development of this extreme heavy rainfall process.
3D-Printed Bioactive Scaffold Loaded with GW9508 Promotes Critical-Size Bone Defect Repair by Regulating Intracellular Metabolism
Authors: Huang Fangli , Liu Xiao , Fu Xihong , Chen Yan , Jiang Dong , Wang Tingxuan , Hu Rongcheng , Zou Xuenong , Hu Hao , Liu Chun
Published: April 2023

The process of bone regeneration is complicated, and it is still a major clinical challenge to regenerate critical-size bone defects caused by severe trauma, infection, and tumor resection. Intracellular metabolism has been found to play an important role in the cell fate decision of skeletal progenitor cells. GW9508, a potent agonist of the free fatty acid receptors GPR40 and GPR120, appears to have a dual effect of inhibiting osteoclastogenesis and promoting osteogenesis by regulating intracellular metabolism. Hence, in this study, GW9508 was loaded on a scaffold based on biomimetic construction principles to facilitate the bone regeneration process. Through 3D printing and ion crosslinking, hybrid inorganic-organic implantation scaffolds were obtained after integrating 3D-printed β-TCP/CaSiO3 scaffolds with a Col/Alg/HA hydrogel. The 3D-printed β-TCP/CaSiO3 scaffolds had an interconnected porous structure that simulated the porous structure and mineral microenvironment of bone, and the hydrogel network shared similar physicochemical properties with the extracellular matrix. The final osteogenic complex was obtained after GW9508 was loaded into the hybrid inorganic-organic scaffold. To investigate the biological effects of the obtained osteogenic complex, in vitro studies and a rat cranial critical-size bone defect model were utilized. Metabolomics analysis was conducted to explore the preliminary mechanism. The results showed that 50 μM GW9508 facilitated osteogenic differentiation by upregulating osteogenic genes, including Alp, Runx2, Osterix, and Spp1 in vitro. The GW9508-loaded osteogenic complex enhanced osteogenic protein secretion and facilitated new bone formation in vivo. Finally, the results from metabolomics analysis suggested that GW9508 promoted stem cell differentiation and bone formation through multiple intracellular metabolism pathways, including purine and pyrimidine metabolism, amino acid metabolism, glutathione metabolism, and taurine and hypotaurine metabolism. This study provides a new approach to address the challenge of critical-size bone defects.
CVAM: CNA Profile Inference of the Spatial Transcriptome Based on the VGAE and HMM
Authors: Ma Jian , Guo Jingjing , Fan Zhiwei , Zhao Weiling , Zhou Xiaobo
Published: April 2023

Tumors are often polyclonal due to copy number alteration (CNA) events. Through the CNA profile, we can understand the tumor heterogeneity and consistency. CNA information is usually obtained through DNA sequencing. However, many existing studies have shown a positive correlation between the gene expression and gene copy number identified from DNA sequencing. With the development of spatial transcriptome technologies, it is urgent to develop new tools to identify genomic variation from the spatial transcriptome. Therefore, in this study, we developed CVAM, a tool to infer the CNA profile from spatial transcriptome data. Compared with existing tools, CVAM integrates the spatial information with the spot’s gene expression information together and the spatial information is indirectly introduced into the CNA inference. By applying CVAM to simulated and real spatial transcriptome data, we found that CVAM performed better in identifying CNA events. In addition, we analyzed the potential co-occurrence and mutual exclusion between CNA events in tumor clusters, which is helpful to analyze the potential interaction between genes in mutation. Last but not least, Ripley’s K-function is also applied to CNA multi-distance spatial pattern analysis so that we can figure out the differences of different gene CNA events in spatial distribution, which is helpful for tumor analysis and implementing more effective treatment measures based on spatial characteristics of genes.
Development of Levo-Lansoprazole Chiral Molecularly Imprinted Polymer Sensor Based on the Polylysine–Phenylalanine Complex Framework Conformational Separation
Authors: Zhang Lianming , Wang Zian , Li Dan , Yuan Yali , Ouyang Huixiang , Li Jianping
Published: April 2023

The efficacies and toxicities of chiral drug enantiomers are often dissimilar, necessitating chiral recognition methods. Herein, a polylysine–phenylalanine complex framework was used to prepare molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) as sensors with enhanced specific recognition capabilities for levo-lansoprazole. The properties of the MIP sensor were investigated using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and electrochemical methods. The optimal sensor performance was achieved by applying self-assembly times of 30.0 and 25.0 min for the complex framework and levo-lansoprazole, respectively, eight electropolymerization cycles with o-phenylenediamine as the functional monomer, an elution time of 5.0 min using an ethanol/acetic acid/H2O mixture (2/3/8, V/V/V) as the eluent, and a rebound time of 10.0 min. A linear relationship was observed between the sensor response intensity (ΔI) and logarithm of the levo-lansoprazole concentration (l-g C) in the range of 1.0 × 10−13–3.0 × 10−11 mol/L. Compared with a conventional MIP sensor, the proposed sensor showed more efficient enantiomeric recognition, with high selectivity and specificity for levo-lansoprazole. The sensor was successfully applied to levo-lansoprazole detection in enteric-coated lansoprazole tablets, thus demonstrating its suitability for practical applications.
Assessment of Gliomas’ Grade of Malignancy and Extent of Resection Using Intraoperative Flow Cytometry
Authors: Vartholomatos George , Markopoulos Georgios S. , Vartholomatos Eyrysthenis , Goussia Anna C. , Dova Lefkothea , Dimitriadis Savvas , Mantziou Stefania , Zoi Vaso , Nasios Anastasios , Sioka Chrissa , Kyritsis Athanasios P. , Voulgaris Spyridon , Alexiou George A.
Published: April 2023

Background: Intraoperative Flow Cytometry (iFC) is a novel technique for the assessment of the grade of malignancy and the diagnosis of tumor type and resection margins during solid tumor surgery. Herein, we set out to analyze the role of iFC in the grading of gliomas and the evaluation of resection margins. Material and Methods: iFC uses a fast cell cycle analysis protocol (Ioannina Protocol) that permits the analysis of tissue samples within 5–6 min. Cell cycle analysis evaluated the G0/G1 phase, S-phase, mitosis, and tumor index (S + mitosis phase fraction) and ploidy status. In the current study, we evaluated tumor samples and samples from the peripheral borders from patients with gliomas who underwent surgery over an 8-year period. Results: Eighty-one patients were included in the study. There were sixty-eight glioblastoma cases, five anaplastic astrocytomas, two anaplastic oligodendrogliomas, one pilocytic astrocytoma, three oligodendrogliomas and two diffuse astrocytomas. High-grade gliomas had a significantly higher tumor index than low grade gliomas (median value 22 vs. 7.5, respectively, p = 0.002). Using ROC curve analysis, a cut-off value of 17% in the tumor index could differentiate low- from high-grade gliomas with a 61.4% sensitivity and 100% specificity. All low-grade gliomas were diploid. From the high-grade gliomas, 22 tumors were aneuploid. In glioblastomas, aneuploid tumors had a significantly higher tumor index (p = 0.0018). Twenty-three samples from glioma margins were evaluated. iFC verified the presence of malignant tissue in every case, using histology as the gold standard. Conclusion: iFC constitutes a promising intraoperative technique for glioma grading and resection margin assessment. Comparative studies with additional intraoperative adjuncts are necessary.
Thyroid Hormone Withdrawal versus Recombinant Human TSH as Preparation for I-131 Therapy in Patients with Metastatic Thyroid Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Giovanella Luca , Garo Maria Luisa , Campenní Alfredo , Petranović Ovčariček Petra , Görges Rainer
Published: April 2023

Background. Differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) is characterized by an excellent prognosis with a 10-year survival rate > 90%. However, when DTC develops in a metastatic form, it has been shown to significantly impact patient survival and quality of life. Although I-131 has been shown to be an effective therapy in patients with metastatic DTC, whether its efficacy after recombinant human TSH (rhTSH) is comparable to endogenous TSH stimulation by thyroid hormone deprivation (THW) is still debated. Our present study was prompted to compare clinical results obtained in metastatic DTC by I-131 administered after rhTSH and THW stimulation protocols, respectively. Methods. A systematic search on PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus was performed from January to February 2023. Pooled risk ratios with 95% CI were determined for evaluating the initial response after to I-131 therapy after preparation with rhTSH or THW and the disease progression. To track the accumulation of evidence and reduce type I errors because of small data, a cumulative meta-analysis was performed. A sensitivity analysis was also performed to examine the impact of individual studies on overall prevalence results. Results. Ten studies were included with a total of 1929 patients pre-treated with rhTSH (n = 953) and THW (n = 976), respectively. The cumulative data of our systematic review and meta-analysis showed an increase in the risk ratio over the years without any change in favour of a pre-treatment or the other on the effectiveness of I-131 therapy of metastatic DTC. Conclusions. Our data suggest that pretreatment with rhTSH or THW has no significant impact on the effectiveness of I-131 therapy for metastatic DTC. This implies that concerns about the use of one or the other pretreatment should be deferred to clinical evaluations made considering patient characteristics and reduction in side effects.
Marine Cyanobacterial Peptides in Neuroblastoma: Search for Better Therapeutic Options
Authors: Ahmed Salman , Alam Waqas , Aschner Michael , Filosa Rosanna , Cheang Wai San , Jeandet Philippe , Saso Luciano , Khan Haroon
Published: April 2023

Neuroblastoma is the most prevalent extracranial solid tumor in pediatric patients, originating from sympathetic nervous system cells. Metastasis can be observed in approximately 70% of individuals after diagnosis, and the prognosis is poor. The current care methods used, which include surgical removal as well as radio and chemotherapy, are largely unsuccessful, with high mortality and relapse rates. Therefore, attempts have been made to incorporate natural compounds as new alternative treatments. Marine cyanobacteria are a key source of physiologically active metabolites, which have recently received attention owing to their anticancer potential. This review addresses cyanobacterial peptides’ anticancer efficacy against neuroblastoma. Numerous prospective studies have been carried out with marine peptides for pharmaceutical development including in research for anticancer potential. Marine peptides possess several advantages over proteins or antibodies, including small size, simple manufacturing, cell membrane crossing capabilities, minimal drug–drug interactions, minimal changes in blood–brain barrier (BBB) integrity, selective targeting, chemical and biological diversities, and effects on liver and kidney functions. We discussed the significance of cyanobacterial peptides in generating cytotoxic effects and their potential to prevent cancer cell proliferation via apoptosis, the activation of caspases, cell cycle arrest, sodium channel blocking, autophagy, and anti-metastasis behavior.
Cannabidiol as a Promising Adjuvant Therapy for Estrogen Receptor-Positive Breast Tumors: Unveiling Its Benefits with Aromatase Inhibitors
Authors: Almeida Cristina Ferreira , Teixeira Natércia , Valente Maria João , Vinggaard Anne Marie , Correia-da-Silva Georgina , Amaral Cristina
Published: April 2023

Background: Estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer is the most diagnosed subtype, with aromatase inhibitors (AIs) being one of the therapeutic drug types used in the clinic. However, endocrine resistance may develop after prolonged treatment, and different approaches, such as combining endocrine and targeted therapies, have been applied. Recently, we demonstrated that cannabidiol (CBD) induces anti-tumor actions in ER+ breast cancer cells by targeting aromatase and ERs. Considering this, we studied, in vitro, whether CBD when combined with AIs could improve their effectiveness. Methods: MCF-7aro cells were used and the effects on cell viability and on the modulation of specific targets were investigated. Results: CBD when combined with anastrozole (Ana) and letrozole (Let) caused no beneficial effect in comparison to the isolated AIs. In contrast, when combined with the AI exemestane (Exe), CBD potentiated its pro-cell death effects, abolished its estrogen-like effect, impaired ERα activation, and prevented its oncogenic role on the androgen receptor (AR). Moreover, this combination inhibited ERK1/2 activation, promoting apoptosis. The study of the hormonal microenvironment suggests that this combination should not be applied in early stages of ER+ breast tumors. Conclusions: Contrary to Ana and Let, this study highlights the potential benefits of combining CBD with Exe to improve breast cancer treatment and opens up the possibility of new therapeutic approaches comprising the use of cannabinoids.