bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the Use of Singleplex and Duplex CerTest VIASURE Real-Time PCR Assays to Detect Common Intestinal Protist Parasites
Authors: Dashti Alejandro , Alonso Henar , Escolar-Miñana Cristina , Köster Pamela C. , Bailo Begoña , Carmena David , González-Barrio David
Published: February 2024

Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis and Entamoeba histolytica are species of protozoa- causing diarrhoea that are common worldwide, while Entamoeba dispar, Dientamoeba fragilis and Blastocystis sp. appear to be commensal parasites whose role in pathogenicity remains controversial. We conducted the clinical evaluation of five singleplex and one duplex CerTest VIASURE Real-Time PCR Assays against a large panel of positive DNA samples (n = 358), and specifically to Cryptosporidium spp. (n = 96), G. duodenalis (n = 115), E. histolytica (n = 25) E. dispar (n = 11), Blastocystis sp. (n = 42), D. fragilis (n = 37), and related parasitic phylum species such as Apicomplexa, Euglenozoa, Microsporidia and Nematoda. DNA samples were obtained from clinical stool specimens or cultured isolates in a national reference centre. Estimated diagnostic sensitivity and specificity values were 0.94–1 for Cryptosporidium spp., 0.96–0.99 for G. duodenalis, 0.96–1 for E. histolytica, 1–1 for E. dispar, and 1–0.99 for D. fragilis in the evaluated singleplex assays. In the duplex assay for the simultaneous detection of Blastocystis sp. and D. fragilis these values were 1–0.98 and 1–0.99, respectively. Measures of diagnostic precision for repeatability and reproducibility were found to be under acceptable ranges. The assays identified six Cryptosporidium species (C. hominis, C. parvum, C. canis, C. felis, C. scrofarum, and C. ryanae), four G. duodenalis assemblages (A, B, C, and F), and six Blastocystis subtypes (ST1-ST5, and ST8). The evaluated singleplex and duplex VIASURE Real-Time PCR assays provide sensitive, practical, and cost-effective choices to the molecular diagnosis of the main diarrhoea-causing intestinal protists in clinical microbiology and research laboratories.
Effects of Mechanical Stress on the Life and Insulation Performance of DC-Link Capacitors
Authors: Sun Xiaowu , Qiao Ying , Li Yinda , Guo Xiangming , Cao Chongfeng
Published: February 2024

Mechanical stress is a crucial factor affecting the life and insulation performance of DC-link capacitors (DCLCs). However, at present, there is a lack of long-term experimental observations on the effects of mechanical stress on the life and insulation performance of DCLCs. The element-winding process for DCLCs is carried out by winding metalized film on a reel and adjusting the various winding tensions and pressures according to performance requirements, usually with a winding tension coefficient (WTC) of kT = 1.5. The pull pressure of the winding machine on the film produces tension during the elements’ winding process, and the tension in the film grows after the heat-setting process. In this study, by adjusting the four tension coefficients of the elements in the winding process, which were 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, and 1.7, various winding tensions of the DCLC components were changed. Additionally, various heat-setting shrinkage tensions were appropriately generated by setting different heat-setting temperatures (HSTs). Relevant test platforms were established, and a life aging test, insulation resistance measurement, and withstand voltage test were performed on these DCLCs at different tension coefficients and HSTs. The obtained results reveal that the mechanical stress of DCLCs is affected by the parameters of the material itself, including the tension coefficient during the winding process and the HST. The winding tension affects the life of DCLCs, such that those with the highest tension (kT = 1.7) demonstrate the longest life at an HST of 105 °C, whereas samples with the lowest tension (kT = 1.4) exhibit the longest life at an HST of 110 °C. HSTs are capable of improving the lifetime of DCLCs. HSTs are also able to improve the withstand voltage capability of DCLCs, but the tension is not proportional to the withstand voltage capability of DCLCs. This research provides a suitable basis for further explorations of the life and insulation performance of DCLCs.
On SINDy Approach to Measure-Based Detection of Nonlinear Energy Flows in Power Grids with High Penetration Inverter-Based Renewables
Authors: Saeed Kandezy Reza , Jiang John , Wu Di
Published: February 2024

The complexity of modern power grids, caused by integrating renewable energy sources, especially inverter-based resources, presents a significant challenge to grid operation and planning, since linear models are unable to capture the complex nonlinear dynamics of power systems with coupled muti-scale dynamics, and it necessitate an alternative approach utilizing more advanced and data-driven algorithms to improve modeling accuracy and system optimization. This study employs the sparse identification of nonlinear dynamics method by leveraging compressed sensing and sparse modeling principles, offering robustness and the potential for generalization, allowing for identifying key dynamical features with relatively few measurements, and providing deeper theoretical understanding in the field of power system analysis. Taking advantage of the this method in recognizing the active terms (first and high order) in the system’s governing equation, this paper also introduces the novel Volterra-based nonlinearity index to characterize system-level nonlinearity. The distinction of dynamics into first-order linearizable terms, second-order nonlinear dynamics, and third-order noise is adopted to clearly show the intricacy of power systems. The findings demonstrate a fundamental shift in system dynamics as power sources transit to inverter-based resources, revealing system-level (second-order) nonlinearity compared to module-level (first order) nonlinearity in conventional synchronous generators. The proposed index quantifies nonlinear-to-linear relationships, enriching our comprehension of power system behavior and offering a tool for distinguishing between different nonlinearities and visualizing their distinct patterns through the profile of the proposed index.
Modeling the Spatial Distribution of Acacia decurrens Plantation Forests Using PlanetScope Images and Environmental Variables in the Northwestern Highlands of Ethiopia
Authors: Alemayehu Bireda , Suarez-Minguez Juan , Rosette Jacqueline
Published: February 2024

Small-scale Acacia decurrens plantation forests, established by farmers on degraded lands, have become increasingly prevalent in the Northwestern Highlands of Ethiopia. This trend has been particularly notable in Fagita Lekoma District over the past few decades. Such plantations play a significant role in addressing concerns related to sustainable agricultural land use, mitigating the adverse effects of deforestation, and meeting the livelihood and energy requirements of a growing population. However, the spatial distribution of Acacia decurrens and the essential remote sensing and environmental variables that determine its distribution are not well understood. This study aimed to model the spatial distribution of Acacia decurrens plantation forests using PlanetScope data and environmental variables combined with a species distribution model (SDM). Employing 557 presence/absence points, noncollinear variables were identified and utilized as input for six SDM algorithms, with a 70:30 split between training and test data, and 10-fold bootstrap replication. The model performance was evaluated using the receiver operation characteristic curve (AUC) and true skill statics (TSS). The ensemble model, which combined results from six individual algorithms, was implemented to predict the spatial distribution of Acacia decurrens. The highest accuracy with the values of 0.93 (AUC) and 0.82 (TSS) was observed using random forest (RF), followed by SVM with values of 0.89 (AUC) and 0.71 (TSS), and BRT with values of 0.89 (AUC) and 0.7 (TSS). According to the ensemble model result, Acacia decurrens plantation forests cover 22.44% of the district, with the spatial distribution decreasing towards lower elevation areas in the northeastern and western parts of the district. The major determinant variables for identifying the species were vegetation indices, specifically CVI, ARVI, and GI, with AUC metric values of 39.3%, 16%, and 7.1%, respectively. The findings of this study indicate that the combination of high-resolution remote sensing-derived vegetation indices and environmental variables using SDM could play a vital role in identifying Acacia decurrens plantations, offering valuable insights for land use planning and management strategies. Moreover, comprehending the spatial distribution’s extent is crucial baseline information for assessing its environmental implications at a local scale.
Enhancing Smart City Safety and Utilizing AI Expert Systems for Violence Detection
Authors: Kumar Pradeep , Shih Guo-Liang , Guo Bo-Lin , Nagi Siva Kumar , Manie Yibeltal Chanie , Yao Cheng-Kai , Arockiyadoss Michael Augustine , Peng Peng-Chun
Published: February 2024

Violent attacks have been one of the hot issues in recent years. In the presence of closed-circuit televisions (CCTVs) in smart cities, there is an emerging challenge in apprehending criminals, leading to a need for innovative solutions. In this paper, the propose a model aimed at enhancing real-time emergency response capabilities and swiftly identifying criminals. This initiative aims to foster a safer environment and better manage criminal activity within smart cities. The proposed architecture combines an image-to-image stable diffusion model with violence detection and pose estimation approaches. The diffusion model generates synthetic data while the object detection approach uses YOLO v7 to identify violent objects like baseball bats, knives, and pistols, complemented by MediaPipe for action detection. Further, a long short-term memory (LSTM) network classifies the action attacks involving violent objects. Subsequently, an ensemble consisting of an edge device and the entire proposed model is deployed onto the edge device for real-time data testing using a dash camera. Thus, this study can handle violent attacks and send alerts in emergencies. As a result, our proposed YOLO model achieves a mean average precision (MAP) of 89.5% for violent attack detection, and the LSTM classifier model achieves an accuracy of 88.33% for violent action classification. The results highlight the model’s enhanced capability to accurately detect violent objects, particularly in effectively identifying violence through the implemented artificial intelligence system.
A Machine Learning-Assisted Three-Dimensional Image Analysis for Weight Estimation of Radish
Authors: Kamiwaki Yuto , Fukuda Shinji
Published: February 2024

The quality of radish roots depends largely on its cultivar, production environment, and postharvest management along the supply chain. Quality monitoring of fresh products is of utmost importance during the postharvest period. The purpose of this study is to nondestructively estimate the weight of a radish using random forests based on color and shape information obtained from images, as well as volumetric information obtained by analyzing a point cloud obtained by combining multiple forms of shape information. The explanatory variables were color and shape information obtained through an image analysis of still images of radishes captured in a constructed photographic environment. The volume information was calculated from the bounding box and convex hull applied to the point cloud by combining the shape information obtained from the image analysis. We then applied random forests to relate the radish weight to the explanatory variables. The experimental results showed that the models using color, shape, or volume information all exhibited good performance with a Pearson’s correlation coefficient (COR) ≥ 0.80, suggesting the potential of nondestructive monitoring of radish weight based on color, shape, and volume information. Specifically, the model using volume information showed very high performance, with a COR of 0.95 or higher.
A Community Waterborne Salmonella Bovismorbificans Outbreak in Greece
Authors: Politi Lida , Mellou Kassiani , Chrysostomou Anthi , Mandilara Georgia , Spiliopoulou Ioanna , Theofilou Antonia , Polemis Michalis , Tryfinopoulou Kyriaki , Sideroglou Theologia
Published: February 2024

Background: In August 2022, the Hellenic National Public Health Organisation was notified about a gastroenteritis outbreak in town A in Southern Greece. Investigations aimed to identify the source and implement control measures. Methods: Case definition categories were used in a 1:3 case–control study. Cases and controls were interviewed about various exposures. Cases’ stool samples were cultured on agar plates and characterised by serotyping, antimicrobial susceptibility testing and Pulse Field Gel Electrophoresis (PFGE). Environmental investigations included tap water sampling for microbiological and chemical analysis in town A and inspection of the water supply system. Results: We identified 33 cases (median age: 17 years). Tap water consumption was the only significant risk factor for gastroenteritis (OR = 5.46, 95% CI = 1.02–53.95). Salmonella (S.) Bovismorbificans isolated from eight stool and one tap water samples had identical PFGE profiles. No resistant isolates were identified. Residual chlorine levels were lower than the acceptable limits before and during the outbreak. We advised consumption of bottled water and adherence to strict hand hygiene rules until tap water was declared suitable for drinking. Conclusions: Epidemiological and molecular data revealed a waterborne S. Bovismorbificans outbreak in town A. We recommend local water safety authorities to ensure that residual chlorine levels comply with the legislation towards water safety planning, to mitigate risks.
Sugar-Sweetened Beverages, Foods of Low Nutritional Value, and Child Undernutrition in Cambodia
Authors: Brown Akemi , Trimble Margaret , Sokal-Gutierrez Karen , Fernald Lia , Madsen Kristine , Turton Bathsheba
Published: February 2024

Child undernutrition persists in Cambodia despite recent progress. As Cambodia undergoes a shift in dietary consumption that coincides with economic, demographic, and epidemiologic changes, there is risk of ultra-processed foods and sugar-sweetened beverages displacing nutrient-dense foods during the critical period of infant growth in the first 24 months. The aim of this study was to assess the introduction and intake of foods of low nutritional value and sugar-sweetened beverages and their association with undernutrition among children 24 months of age in rural and semi-urban Cambodia. Cross-sectional analyses of a 24-h dietary recall from a sample (n = 377) of 24-month-olds found that the majority of infants had been introduced to packaged salty snacks and sweets by 12 months of age and to sugar-sweetened beverages by 15 months. By 24 months of age, 78% of children had consumed foods of low nutritional value and 57% consumed a sugar-sweetened beverage on the previous day. Multivariate logistic regression analyses demonstrated that infant intake of a flavored sugary drink on the previous day was associated with over two times the odds of both stunting and wasting, and consumption of packaged sweets on the previous day was associated with over two times the odds of wasting, but no association was found with stunting. These findings underscore the need to improve educational and policy interventions to support healthy feeding practices for infants and young children.
The Urinary Microbiome in Health and Disease: Relevance for Bladder Cancer
Authors: Kustrimovic Natasa , Bilato Giorgia , Mortara Lorenzo , Baci Denisa
Published: February 2024

Bladder cancer (BC) constitutes one of the most diagnosed types of cancer worldwide. Advancements in and new methodologies for DNA sequencing, leading to high-throughput microbiota testing, have pinpointed discrepancies in urinary microbial fingerprints between healthy individuals and patients with BC. Although several studies suggest an involvement of microbiota dysbiosis in the pathogenesis, progression, and therapeutic response to bladder cancer, an established direct causal relationship remains to be elucidated due to the lack of standardized methodologies associated with such studies. This review compiles an overview of the microbiota of the human urinary tract in healthy and diseased individuals and discusses the evidence to date on microbiome involvement and potential mechanisms by which the microbiota may contribute to the development of BC. We also explore the potential profiling of urinary microbiota as a biomarker for risk stratification, as well as the prediction of the response to intravesical therapies and immunotherapy in BC patients. Further investigation into the urinary microbiome of BC patients is imperative to unravel the complexities of the role played by host–microbe interactions in shaping wellness or disease and yield valuable insights into and strategies for the prevention and personalized treatment of BC.
In-Depth Genomic Analysis: The New Challenge in Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Nappi Francesco
Published: February 2024

The use of next-generation sequencing has provided new insights into the causes and mechanisms of congenital heart disease (CHD). Examinations of the whole exome sequence have detected detrimental gene variations modifying single or contiguous nucleotides, which are characterised as pathogenic based on statistical assessments of families and correlations with congenital heart disease, elevated expression during heart development, and reductions in harmful protein-coding mutations in the general population. Patients with CHD and extracardiac abnormalities are enriched for gene classes meeting these criteria, supporting a common set of pathways in the organogenesis of CHDs. Single-cell transcriptomics data have revealed the expression of genes associated with CHD in specific cell types, and emerging evidence suggests that genetic mutations disrupt multicellular genes essential for cardiogenesis. Metrics and units are being tracked in whole-genome sequencing studies.
Estrogen Signaling Inhibits the Expression of anti-Müllerian hormone (amh) and gonadal-soma-derived factor (gsdf) during the Critical Time of Sexual Fate Determination in Zebrafish
Authors: Ruan Yonglin , Li Xuehui , Zhai Gang , Lou Qiyong , Jin Xia , He Jiangyan , Yin Zhan
Published: February 2024

The mechanism of fish gonadal sex differentiation is complex and regulated by multiple factors. It has been widely known that proper steroidogenesis in Leydig cells and sex-related genes in Sertoli cells play important roles in gonadal sex differentiation. In teleosts, the precise interaction of these signals during the sexual fate determination remains elusive, especially their effect on the bi-potential gonad during the critical stage of sexual fate determination. Recently, all-testis phenotypes have been observed in the cyp17a1-deficient zebrafish and common carp, as well as in cyp19a1a-deficient zebrafish. By mating cyp17a1-deficient fish with transgenic zebrafish Tg(piwil1:EGFP-nanos3UTR), germ cells in the gonads were labelled with enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP). We classified the cyp17a1-deficient zebrafish and their control siblings into primordial germ cell (PGC)-rich and -less groups according to the fluorescence area of the EGFP labelling. Intriguingly, the EGFP-labelled bi-potential gonads in cyp17a1+/+ fish from the PGC-rich group were significantly larger than those of the cyp17a1−/− fish at 23 days post-fertilization (dpf). Based on the transcriptome analysis, we observed that the cyp17a1-deficient fish of the PGC-rich group displayed a significantly upregulated expression of amh and gsdf compared to that of control fish. Likewise, the upregulated expressions of amh and gsdf were observed in cyp19a1a-deficient fish as examined at 23 dpf. This upregulation of amh and gsdf could be repressed by treatment with an exogenous supplement of estradiol. Moreover, tamoxifen, an effective antagonist of both estrogen receptor α and β (ERα and Erβ), upregulates the expression of amh and gsdf in wild-type (WT) fish. Using the cyp17a1- and cyp19a1a-deficient zebrafish, we provide evidence to show that the upregulated expression of amh and gsdf due to the compromised estrogen signaling probably determines their sexual fate towards testis differentiation. Collectively, our data suggest that estrogen signaling inhibits the expression of amh and gsdf during the critical time of sexual fate determination, which may broaden the scope of sex steroid hormones in regulating gonadal sex differentiation in fish.
Hypoxia Sensing and Responses in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Burtscher Johannes , Duderstadt Yves , Gatterer Hannes , Burtscher Martin , Vozdek Roman , Millet Grégoire P. , Hicks Andrew A. , Ehrenreich Hannelore , Kopp Martin
Published: February 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is associated with various deficits in sensing and responding to reductions in oxygen availability (hypoxia). Here we summarize the evidence pointing to a central role of hypoxia in PD, discuss the relation of hypoxia and oxygen dependence with pathological hallmarks of PD, including mitochondrial dysfunction, dopaminergic vulnerability, and alpha-synuclein-related pathology, and highlight the link with cellular and systemic oxygen sensing. We describe cases suggesting that hypoxia may trigger Parkinsonian symptoms but also emphasize that the endogenous systems that protect from hypoxia can be harnessed to protect from PD. Finally, we provide examples of preclinical and clinical research substantiating this potential.
Annulus Fibrosus Injury Induces Acute Neuroinflammation and Chronic Glial Response in Dorsal Root Ganglion and Spinal Cord—An In Vivo Rat Discogenic Pain Model
Authors: Lai Alon , Iliff Denise , Zaheer Kashaf , Gansau Jennifer , Laudier Damien M. , Zachariou Venetia , Iatridis James C.
Published: February 2024

Chronic painful intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration (i.e., discogenic pain) is a major source of global disability needing improved knowledge on multiple-tissue interactions and how they progress in order improve treatment strategies. This study used an in vivo rat annulus fibrosus (AF) injury-driven discogenic pain model to investigate the acute and chronic changes in IVD degeneration and spinal inflammation, as well as sensitization, inflammation, and remodeling in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) and spinal cord (SC) dorsal horn. AF injury induced moderate IVD degeneration with acute and broad spinal inflammation that progressed to DRG to SC changes within days and weeks, respectively. Specifically, AF injury elevated macrophages in the spine (CD68) and DRGs (Iba1) that peaked at 3 days post-injury, and increased microglia (Iba1) in SC that peaked at 2 weeks post-injury. AF injury also triggered glial responses with elevated GFAP in DRGs and SC at least 8 weeks post-injury. Spinal CD68 and SC neuropeptide Substance P both remained elevated at 8 weeks, suggesting that slow and incomplete IVD healing provides a chronic source of inflammation with continued SC sensitization. We conclude that AF injury-driven IVD degeneration induces acute spinal, DRG, and SC inflammatory crosstalk with sustained glial responses in both DRGs and SC, leading to chronic SC sensitization and neural plasticity. The known association of these markers with neuropathic pain suggests that therapeutic strategies for discogenic pain need to target both spinal and nervous systems, with early strategies managing acute inflammatory processes, and late strategies targeting chronic IVD inflammation, SC sensitization, and remodeling.
Transcriptome Analysis of White- and Red-Fleshed Apple Fruits Uncovered Novel Genes Related to the Regulation of Anthocyanin Biosynthesis
Authors: Keller-Przybylkowicz Sylwia , Oskiera Michal , Liu Xueqing , Song Laiqing , Zhao Lingling , Du Xiaoyun , Kruczynska Dorota , Walencik Agnieszka , Kowara Norbert , Bartoszewski Grzegorz
Published: February 2024

The red flesh coloration of apples is a result of a biochemical pathway involved in the biosynthesis of anthocyanins and anthocyanidins. Based on apple genome analysis, a high number of regulatory genes, mainly transcription factors such as MYB, which are components of regulatory complex MYB-bHLH-WD40, and several structural genes (PAL, 4CL, CHS, CHI, F3H, DFR, ANS, UFGT) involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis, have been identified. In this study, we investigated novel genes related to the red-flesh apple phenotype. These genes could be deemed molecular markers for the early selection of new apple cultivars. Based on a comparative transcriptome analysis of apples with different fruit-flesh coloration, we successfully identified and characterized ten potential genes from the plant hormone transduction pathway of auxin (GH3); cytokinins (B-ARR); gibberellins (DELLA); abscisic acid (SnRK2 and ABF); brassinosteroids (BRI1, BZR1 and TCH4); jasmonic acid (MYC2); and salicylic acid (NPR1). An analysis of expression profiles was performed in immature and ripe fruits of red-fleshed cultivars. We have uncovered genes mediating the regulation of abscisic acid, salicylic acid, cytokinin, and jasmonic acid signaling and described their role in anthocyanin biosynthesis, accumulation, and degradation. The presented results underline the relationship between genes from the hormone signal transduction pathway and UFGT genes, which are directly responsible for anthocyanin color transformation as well as anthocyanin accumulation during apple-fruit ripening.
Zingiber officinale Root Capsule Extract Synergistically Enhance the Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Diclofenac Sodium in Experimental Acute Inflammation
Authors: Boarescu Ioana , Boarescu Paul-Mihai , Pop Raluca Maria , Bocșan Ioana Corina , Gheban Dan , Bulboacă Adriana Elena , Buzoianu Anca Dana , Bolboacă Sorana D.
Published: February 2024

The present study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of ginger (Zingiber officinale) root capsule extract (GRCE) in doses of 100 mg/kg b.w. (body weight) and 200 mg/kg b.w. alone and in combination with a low dose (5 mg/kg b.w.) of diclofenac sodium (D) on carrageenan-induced acute inflammation (AI). The association of GRCE in a dose of 200 mg/kg b.w. with D offered the highest inhibition percentage for edema, reaching the maximum level of inhibition (95%) after 24 h. The association of GRCE in a dose of 200 mg/kg b.w. with D showed the ability to reduce tissue inflammatory changes when compared to D alone, while GRCE alone did not exhibit such properties. The association of both doses of GRCE with D showed significantly lower plasma and tissue levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) by up to 55% (p ≤ 0.0317), with the best results obtained by the group who received GRCE in the higher dose. These associations reduced the serum and tissue levels of prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (COX-2) by up to 71% (p ≤ 0.0371). In conclusion, the association of GRCE with a low dose of D could be an appropriate combination to decrease the dose used to reduce serum and tissue levels of inflammatory molecules, edema, and histological changes in acute inflammation. Further research will be necessary to achieve clinical evaluation.
Sortilin Expression Levels and Peripheral Immunity: A Potential Biomarker for Segregation between Parkinson’s Disease Patients and Healthy Controls
Authors: Georgoula Maria , Ntavaroukas Panagiotis , Androutsopoulou Anastasia , Xiromerisiou Georgia , Kalala Fani , Speletas Matthaios , Asprodini Eftihia , Vasilaki Anna , Papoutsopoulou Stamatia
Published: February 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is characterized by substantial phenotypic heterogeneity that limits the disease prognosis and patient’s counseling, and complicates the design of further clinical trials. There is an unmet need for the development and validation of biomarkers for the prediction of the disease course. In this study, we utilized flow cytometry and in vitro approaches on peripheral blood cells and isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC)-derived macrophages to characterize specific innate immune populations in PD patients versus healthy donors. We found a significantly lower percentage of B lymphocytes and monocyte populations in PD patients. Monocytes in PD patients were characterized by a higher CD40 expression and on-surface expression of the type I membrane glycoprotein sortilin, which showed a trend of negative correlation with the age of the patients. These results were further investigated in vitro on PBMC-derived macrophages, which, in PD patients, showed higher sortilin expression levels compared to cells from healthy donors. The treatment of PD-derived macrophages with oxLDL led to higher foam cell formation compared to healthy donors. In conclusion, our results support the hypothesis that surface sortilin expression levels on human peripheral monocytes may potentially be utilized as a marker of Parkinson’s disease and may segregate the sporadic versus the genetically induced forms of the disease.
Experimental Evidences on Magnetism-Covalent Bonding Interplay in Structural Properties of Solids and during Chemisorption
Authors: Biz Chiara , Gracia Jose , Fianchini Mauro
Published: February 2024

Valence electrons are one of the main players in solid catalysts and in catalytic reactions, since they are involved in several correlated phenomena like chemical bonding, magnetism, chemisorption, and bond activation. This is particularly true in the case of solid catalysts containing d-transition metals, which exhibit a wide range of magnetic phenomena, from paramagnetism to collective behaviour. Indeed, the electrons of the outer d-shells are, on one hand, involved in the formation of bonds within the structure of a catalyst and on its surface, and, on the other, they are accountable for the magnetic properties of the material. For this reason, the relationship between magnetism and heterogeneous catalysis has been a source of great interest since the mid-20th century. The subject has gained a lot of attention in the last decade, thanks to the orbital engineering of quantum spin–exchange interactions and to the widespread application of external magnetic fields as boosting tools in several catalytic reactions. The topic is discussed here through experimental examples and evidences of the interplay between magnetism and covalent bonding in the structure of solids and during the chemisorption process. Covalent bonding is discussed since it represents one of the strongest contributions to bonds encountered in materials.
Analysis of Mutational Status of IGHV, and Cytokine Polymorphisms as Prognostic Factors in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: The Romanian Experience
Authors: Balla Beata , Tripon Florin , Lazar Erzsebet , Bănescu Claudia
Published: February 2024

The aim of the current study was to assess the associations between genetic risk factors (such as the mutational status of the IGHV gene and polymorphisms of the IL-10 and TNF-α genes) and CLL risk, prognosis, and overall survival. Another goal of this study was to evaluate the multivariate effect of the combination of multiple genetic risk factors (mutational status of the IGHV gene, somatic mutations, DNA CNVs, and cytokine SNPs) on the clinical characteristics and survival of patients. A total of 125 CLL patients and 239 healthy controls were included for comparative SNP analysis. IL-10 (rs1800896 and rs1800872) and TNF-α (rs361525 and rs1800750) SNPs and haplotypes were not associated with CLL risk. The absence of hypermutation in the IGHV gene was shown to be of important prognostic value, being associated with short OS. Further individual risk factors for short OS were an age above 65 years at diagnosis and the presence of somatic mutations and/or CNVs. In our multivariable analysis, the presence of somatic mutations and the IL-10 rs1800872 variant allele, and the association of CNVs with the IL-10 rs1800896 variant allele, were identified as risk factors for short OS. Moreover, the OS in unmutated IGHV patients was additionally affected (decreased) by the presence of CNVs and/or somatic mutations. Similarly, IL-10 rs1800896 modulated the OS in unmutated IGHV patients with CNVs.
Associative Learning of Quantitative Mechanosensory Stimuli in Honeybees
Authors: Strelevitz Heather , Tiraboschi Ettore , Haase Albrecht
Published: February 2024

The proboscis extension response (PER) has been widely used to evaluate honeybees’ (Apis mellifera) learning and memory abilities, typically by using odors and visual cues for the conditioned stimuli. Here we asked whether honeybees could learn to distinguish between different magnitudes of the same type of stimulus, given as two speeds of air flux. By taking advantage of a novel automated system for administering PER experiments, we determined that the bees were highly successful when the lower air flux was rewarded and less successful when the higher flux was rewarded. Importantly, since our method includes AI-assisted analysis, we were able to consider subthreshold responses at a high temporal resolution; this analysis revealed patterns of rapid generalization and slowly acquired discrimination between the rewarded and unrewarded stimuli, as well as indications that the high air flux may have been mildly aversive. The learning curve for these mechanosensory stimuli, at least when the lower flux is rewarded, more closely mimics prior data from olfactory PER studies rather than visual ones, possibly in agreement with recent findings that the insect olfactory system is also sensitive to mechanosensory information. This work demonstrates a new modality to be used in PER experiments and lays the foundation for deeper exploration of honeybee cognitive processes when posed with complex learning challenges.
Breaking the Law: Is It Correct to Use the Converse Bergmann Rule in Ceroglossus chilensis? An Overview Using Geometric Morphometrics
Authors: Benítez Hugo A. , Muñoz-Ramírez Carlos , Correa Margarita , Acuña-Rodríguez Ian S. , Villalobos-Leiva Amado , Contador Tamara , Velásquez Nelson A. , Suazo Manuel J.
Published: February 2024

The converse Bergmann’s rule is a pattern of body size variation observed in many ectothermic organisms that contradicts the classic Bergmann’s rule and suggests that individuals inhabiting warmer climates tend to exhibit larger body sizes compared to those inhabiting colder environments. Due to the thermoregulatory nature of Bergmann’s rule, its application among ectotherms might prove to be more complicated, given that these organisms obtain heat by absorbing it from their habitat. The existence of this inverse pattern therefore challenges the prevailing notion that larger body size is universally advantageous in colder climates. Ceroglossus chilensis is a native Chilean beetle that has the largest latitudinal range of any species in the genus, from 34.3° S to 47.8° S. Within Chile, it continuously inhabits regions extending from Maule to Aysen, thriving on both native and non-native forest species. Beyond their remarkable color variation, populations of C. chilensis show minimal morphological disparity, noticeable only through advanced morphological techniques (geometric morphometrics). Based on both (1) the “temperature–size rule”, which suggests that body size decreases with increasing temperature, and (2) the reduced resource availability in high-latitude environments that may lead to smaller body sizes, we predict that C. chilensis populations will follow the converse Bergmann’s rule. Our results show a clear converse pattern to the normal Bergmann rule, where smaller centroid sizes were found to be measured in the specimens inhabiting the southern areas of Chile. Understanding the prevalence of the converse Bergmann’s rule for ectotherm animals and how often this rule is broken is of utmost importance to understand the underlying mechanisms allowing organisms to adapt to different environments and the selective pressures they face.
Control Effects of Short-Term Heatwaves on a Holocyclic Aphid
Authors: Wu Cirui , Liu Dailin , Gu Chengxu , Tian Zhenqi , Zhang Xinxin , Liu Jian
Published: February 2024

The soybean aphid, A. glycines, is an important soybean pest. Harbin, in the Heilongjiang Province, is an area with increasing temperatures in China that faces frequent short-term heatwaves. In this study, the development, reproduction, and morph differentiation of A. glycines have been studied when they were exposed to diurnal at 35 °C for seven days, beginning at different developmental stages. The nymph stage duration of A. glycines was longer, the adult lifespans and total lifespans were shorter, and their bodies were smaller when exposed to a diurnal of 35 °C beginning at the 1st to 4th stadium. The adult reproduction period was shorter, and the adult fecundity and intrinsic rate of increase were smaller than those of aphids reared at a diurnal of 25 °C. A higher and lower proportion of gynoparae and males were deposited as offspring on day 13 by adults when exposed to diurnal at 35 °C, beginning at the 1st to 4th stadium, respectively, than those of aphids reared at a constant of 20 °C. These results are important for predicting the dynamics of A. glycines in Harbin soybeans. This provides evidence that short-term heatwaves are probably useful for controlling A. glycines, by inhibiting development and male morphogenesis.
The Multivariate Regression Models Suggested as Standardising Tools for Categorising Solitarious and Gregarious Groups of the Main Pest Locust, Schistocerca gregaria, Produce Reproducible Results
Authors: Saadi Somia , Bakkali Noureddine , Martín-Blázquez Rubén , Badih Abdelmounim , Bakkali Mohammed
Published: February 2024

Outbreaks of the desert locust Schistocerca gregaria affect some of the poorest parts of Africa, with devastating outcomes. The key to understanding and dealing with this problematic adaptation to environmental changes is comparing gregarious and solitarious locusts, either in nature or in laboratories. Categorising locusts and detecting changes in their phase status is key to such comparisons, which have been hitherto based on applying mathematical models that use behavioural parameters and that each laboratory has to build anew for each experiment. All the models used thus far are different from one another. This implies differences in the tools used for the different experiments and by the different laboratories and, thus, potential noise in the results and interpretations. Standardising the way locusts are categorised is necessary if we want to reduce noise and errors. It is crucial if we seek to make the results and interpretations transferable and comparable between experiments and laboratories for such an important research area. To tackle this problem, we suggested two models as possible standardising tools. However, the problem of a lack of standardised tools re-emerged due to the doubts cast on the validity of those models. Here, we use samples from independent S. gregaria populations in order to test and validate those models. We discuss how successful the two models were at categorising solitarious, intermediate (transient), and gregarious nymph and adult S. gregaria samples. We highlight shortcomings and make more specific recommendations on the use of those models based on the precision differences they show when categorising solitarious and gregarious S. gregaria nymph and adult samples. Overall, both models have proven to be valid since their results were largely replicated and seem reproducible.
A Two-Stage Nonlinear User Satisfaction Decision Model Based on Online Review Mining: Considering Non-Compensatory and Compensatory Stages
Authors: Li Shugang , Zhu Boyi , Zhang Yuqi , Liu Fang , Yu Zhaoxu
Published: February 2024

Mining user satisfaction decision stages from online reviews is helpful for understanding user preferences and conducting user-centered product improvements. Therefore, this study develops a two-stage nonlinear user satisfaction decision model (USDM). First, we use word2vec technology and lexicon-based sentiment analysis to mine the sentiment polarity of each product attribute in the reviews. Then, we develop KANO mapping rules using utility functions to classify consumer preferences based on attribute importance. Based on this, a two-stage nonlinear USDM is developed to describe post-purchase evaluation behavior. In the first non-compensatory stage, consumers determine their initial satisfaction level based on the performance of basic attributes. If the performance of these attributes is poor, it is almost impossible for users to be satisfied. In the compensatory stage, the performance of the remaining attributes collectively affects final satisfaction through participation in user utility calculation. With the use of reviews from JD.com, we develop a genetic algorithm to determine feasible solutions for the USDM and verify its validity and robustness. The USDM is proven to be effective in predicting user satisfaction compared to other classic models and machine learning algorithms. This study provides a universal pattern for user satisfaction decisions and extends the study on preference analysis.
Portuguese and German Intonation Contours in a Two-Way Immersion School
Authors: Torres Catalina
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the intonation contours of neutral yes–no interrogatives produced by simultaneous bilingual children in their two native languages. Previous studies have shown prosodic transfer from one language to another, either from the dominant into the non-dominant language or vice versa, but little is known about what specifically triggers this behaviour. This study explores how bilingual children make use of phonetic–phonological resources while interacting with peers. Three child speakers of German (ambient language) and Portuguese (heritage language) were recorded as they performed a modified version of a map task. Natural and spontaneous data were collected and the speech was analysed. The results indicate that to some degree, bilingual children produce all intonational contours specific to their language variety. When speaking German, they produced the syntax and contour consistent with the structure of yes–no interrogatives in German. When speaking Portuguese, the children displayed variation in their choice of tune, depending on the variety of Portuguese and the language proficiency of their interlocutor. This behaviour is interpreted as prosodic convergence resulting from the high variability of prosodic structures in the different varieties of Portuguese present in the classroom.
Synthesis of a Novel Tetracyclic Isoxazole by Intramolecular Nitrile Oxide Cycloaddition
Authors: Hoffman Gavin R. , Schoffstall Allen M.
Published: February 2024

Intramolecular cycloadditions have the great advantage of forming two rings simultaneously. We report the use of intramolecular [3 + 2] cycloaddition of the nitrile oxide derived from an N-propargylbenzimidazole oxime in the synthesis of a hitherto unreported tetracyclic isoxazole-containing ring system bearing “6-5-5-5”-membered ring fusions. The initial condensation was achieved through reaction of o-phenylenediamine with ethyl diethoxyacetate, followed by alkylation with propargyl bromide, deprotection of the acetal to the aldehyde, formation of an aldoxime, and intramolecular nitrile oxide cycloaddition (INOC). Characterization of the aldoxime and tetracyclic isoxazole is included herein.
Fabrication of (Ge0.42Sn0.58)S Thin Films via Co-Evaporation and Their Solar Cell Applications
Authors: Motai Daiki , Araki Hideaki
Published: February 2024

In this study, as a novel approach to thin-film solar cells based on tin sulfide, an environmentally friendly material, we attempted to fabricate (Ge, Sn)S thin films for application in multi-junction solar cells. A (Ge0.42 Sn0.58)S thin film was prepared via co-evaporation. The (Ge0.42 Sn0.58)S thin film formed a (Ge, Sn)S solid solution, as confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy analyses. The open circuit voltage (Voc), short circuit current density (Jsc), fill factor (FF), and power conversion efficiency (PCE) of (Ge0.42 Sn0.58)S thin-film solar cells were 0.29 V, 6.92 mA/cm2, 0.34, and 0.67%, respectively; moreover, the device showed a band gap of 1.42–1.52 eV. We showed that solar cells can be realized even in a composition range with a relatively higher Ge concentration than the (Ge, Sn)S solar cells reported to date. This result enhances the feasibility of multi-junction SnS-system thin-film solar cells.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of IN690 Ni-Based Alloy/316LN Stainless-Steel Dissimilar Ring Joint Welded by Inertia Friction Welding
Authors: Tong Yiqi , Zhang Liangliang , Li Chao , Ma Yueting , Li Peng , Dong Honggang
Published: February 2024

Inertia friction welding (IFW) was used to join large-diameter hollow bars made of Inconel 690 and 316LN successfully. The interfacial characteristics, microstructure, mechanical properties and fracture mechanism of welded joints under different process parameters were investigated. The results indicated that a joining mechanism with mechanical interlocking and metallurgical bonding was found in IFW joints. There was a significant mechanical mixing zone at the welding interface. The elemental diffusion layer was found in the “wrinkles” of the mechanical mixing zone. A tiny quantity of C elements accumulated on the friction and secondary friction surfaces. The tensile strength and impact toughness of the joints increased with the total welding energy input. Increasing the friction pressure could make the grain in all parts of the joint uniformly refined, thus enhancing the mechanical properties of welded joints. The maximum tensile strength and impact toughness of the welded joint were 639 MPa and 146 J/cm2, reaching 94% and 68% of that for Inconel 690, respectively, when the flywheel was initially set at 760 rpm, 200 MPa for friction pressure, and 388 kg/m2 for rotary inertia. Due to the Kirkendall effect in the welded joint, superior metallurgical bonding was at the welding interface close to the Inconel 690 side compared to the 316LN side.
Sustainable Polypropylene-Based Composites with Agro-Waste Fillers: Thermal, Morphological, Mechanical Properties and Dimensional Stability
Authors: Zhiltsova Tatiana , Campos Jéssica , Costa Andreia , Oliveira Mónica S. A.
Published: February 2024

Natural fiber composites (NFC) are eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic polymers. However, some intrinsic natural fillers’ properties hinder their widespread implementation as reinforcement in polymeric matrices and require further investigation. In the scope of this study, the thermal, rheologic, mechanical (tension and flexural modes), and morphological properties, as well as the water absorption and dimensional stability of the NF polypropylene (PP)-based injection molded composites reinforced with rice husk (rh) and olive pits (op) of 20 wt.% and 30% wt.%, respectively, were investigated. The results suggest that the higher content of the rice husk and olive pits led to a similar reduction in the melt flow index (MFI), independent of the additive type compared to virgin polypropylene (PPv). The melting and crystallization temperatures of the PPrh and PPop composites did not change with statistical significance. The composites are stiffer than the PP matrix by up to 49% and possess higher mechanical strength in the tension mode at the expense of decreased ductility. PPrh and PPop have a superior flexural modulus in the bending mode, while the flexural strength improvement was accomplished for the PP30%rh. The influence of the fibers’ distribution in the bulk of the parts on their mechanical performance was confirmed based on a non-localized morphology evaluation, which constitutes a novelty of the presented research. The dimensional stability of the composites was improved as the linear shrinkage in the flow direction was decreased by 49% for PPrh and 30% for PPop, positively correlating with an increase in the filler content and stiffness. PPop was less susceptible to water sorption than PPrh due to fibers’ composition and larger surface-to-area volume ratios.