bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heterogeneity and convergence across seven neuroimaging modalities: a review of the autism spectrum disorder literature
Authors: Halliday Amanda R. , Vucic Samuel N. , Georges Brianna , LaRoche Madison , Mendoza Pardo María Alejandra , Swiggard Liam O. , McDonald Kaylee , Olofsson Michelle , Menon Sahit N. , Francis Sunday M. , Oberman Lindsay M. , White Tonya , van der Velpen Isabelle F.
Published: October 2024

Background

A growing body of literature classifies autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as a heterogeneous, complex neurodevelopmental disorder that often is identified prior to three years of age. We aim to provide a narrative review of key structural and functional properties that differentiate the neuroimaging profile of autistic youth from their typically developing (TD) peers across different neuroimaging modalities.

Methods

Relevant studies were identified by searching for key terms in PubMed, with the most recent search conducted on September 1, 2023. Original research papers were included if they applied at least one of seven neuroimaging modalities (structural MRI, functional MRI, DTI, MRS, fNIRS, MEG, EEG) to compare autistic children or those with a family history of ASD to TD youth or those without ASD family history; included only participants <18 years; and were published from 2013 to 2023.

Results

In total, 172 papers were considered for qualitative synthesis. When comparing ASD to TD groups, structural MRI-based papers (n = 26) indicated larger subcortical gray matter volume in ASD groups. DTI-based papers (n = 14) reported higher mean and radial diffusivity in ASD participants. Functional MRI-based papers (n = 41) reported a substantial number of between-network functional connectivity findings in both directions. MRS-based papers (n = 19) demonstrated higher metabolite markers of excitatory neurotransmission and lower inhibitory markers in ASD groups. fNIRS-based papers (n = 20) reported lower oxygenated hemoglobin signals in ASD. Converging findings in MEG- (n = 20) and EEG-based (n = 32) papers indicated lower event-related potential and field amplitudes in ASD groups. Findings in the anterior cingulate cortex, insula, prefrontal cortex, amygdala, thalamus, cerebellum, corpus callosum, and default mode network appeared numerous times across modalities and provided opportunities for multimodal qualitative analysis.

Conclusions

Comparing across neuroimaging modalities, we found significant differences between the ASD and TD neuroimaging profile in addition to substantial heterogeneity. Inconsistent results are frequently seen within imaging modalities, comparable study populations and research designs. Still, converging patterns across imaging modalities support various existing theories on ASD.
Respiratory syncytial virus disease burden in children and adults from Latin America: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ciapponi Agustín , Palermo María Carolina , Sandoval María Macarena , Baumeister Elsa , Ruvinsky Silvina , Ulloa-Gutierrez Rolando , Stegelmann Katharina , Ruesjas Sofía Ardiles , Cantos Joaquín , LaRotta Jorge , de Almeida Rodrigo Sini , Bardach Ariel
Published: October 2024

Background

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common cause of lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) and hospitalization worldwide. The impact of RSV in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) including expensive treatment options, such as palivizumab, have been extensively discussed. However, publications on the impact of RSV disease burden in the region are scarce. This systematic review aimed to determine the incidence and prevalence of RSV in LAC by age and RSV subtype.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review following Cochrane methods to evaluate the disease burden of RSV in LAC countries. We searched studies from January 2012 to January 2023 in literature databases and grey literature without language restrictions. We included guidelines, observational, economic, and surveillance studies from LAC countries. Pairs of reviewers independently selected, and extracted data from included studies. The risk of bias was assessed using the Study Quality Assessment Tools (NHLBI) and AGREE-II. We performed proportion meta-analyses using methods to stabilize the variance. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023393731).

Results

We included 156 studies, mainly from Brazil (25%), Colombia (14.5%), and Argentina (13.8%), as well as four clinical practice guidelines. Most studies were cross-sectional (76.9%) and were classified as low risk of bias (52.6%). The majority included inpatients (85.6%), pediatric (73.7%), and normal-risk patients (67.1%). The highest pooled prevalence was estimated in patients <1 year old (58%), with type A and B prevalence of 52 and 34%, respectively. The RSV-LRTI incidence was 15/100 symptomatic infants aged <2 years old, and the ICU admission was 42%. The RSV-LRTI lethality was 0.6, 3% in patients aged <2 and 0–5 years old, respectively, and 23% among >65 years old high-risk patients. The identified guidelines lack methodological rigor and have limitations in their applicability. The seasonality was more evident in South America than in Central America and The Caribbean, with a clear gap during the pandemic.

Conclusion

This is the most exhaustive and updated body of evidence describing a significant burden of RSV in LAC, particularly at the extremes of life, and its seasonality patterns. Our findings could contribute could contribute facilitating effective prevention and treatment strategies for this significant public health problem.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO CRD UK (registration number: CRD42023393731).
Artificial intelligence for training and reporting infection prevention measures in critical wards
Authors: Simioli Francesca , Annunziata Anna , Coppola Antonietta , Iervolino Anna , Boccia Mariacristina , Fiorentino Giuseppe
Published: October 2024

Healthcare associated infections (HAI) are a major concern. Infections and sepsis are prevalent causes of prolonged hospitalization, healthcare resources consumption, and mortality. Infection prevention and control (IPC) measures need to be encouraged with the purpose to become standard protocol. Hand hygiene represents the most important measure to prevent the spread of infections. Poor hand hygiene is often due to: the belief that the use of gloves replaces hand hygiene, lack of good example from colleagues and superiors, sinks that are difficult to access or insufficient in number, staff often too busy / not enough time, poor knowledge of guidelines and protocols. Artificial intelligence was recently integrated in hand washing devices; this can implement training on a daily basis but also is an objective method to assess the efficacy of the IPC measures adopted. The benefit–cost ratio of this approach needs to be discussed.
Major air pollution and climate policies in NYC and trends in NYC air quality 1998–2021
Authors: Lau Kathleen , Guo Jia , Miao Yuqi , Ross Zev , Riley Kylie W. , Wang Shuang , Herbstman Julie , Perera Frederica
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Air pollution poses serious health risks to humans, with particular harm to children.

Objectives

To address the gap in understanding the efficacy of policies to reduce exposure to air pollution, we sought to assess the temporal relationship between the enactment of major air pollution and climate policies in NYC and trends in air quality during the period 1998–2021. We used previously available data from citywide monitoring and new data from the Columbia Center for Children’s Environmental Health (CCCEH) longitudinal cohort studies of mothers and children living in communities in Northern Manhattan and the South Bronx.

Methods

We utilized publicly available citywide air monitoring data for particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) from 2009 to 2021 from the New York City Community Air Survey (NYCCAS) database and CCCEH cohort data on residential exposure to PM2.5 and NO2 and personal exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) during pregnancies occurring from 1998–2016 and 1998–2021, respectively. We compared annual and overall reductions in PM2.5 and NO2 citywide and reductions in PAH concentrations in the cohort studies.

Results

As previously reported, annual average concentrations of pollutants in NYC dropped significantly over time. Between 1998 and 2021, PM2.5 and NO2 concentrations were reduced citywide by 37 and 31%, respectively. In our CCCEH cohorts, between 1998 and 2016, the annual average PM2.5 and NO2 concentrations also decreased significantly by 51 and 48%, respectively. Between 1998 and 2020, PAH concentrations decreased significantly by 66%.

Discussion/conclusion

While it is not possible to link improved air quality to a single policy, our analysis provides evidence of a cumulative beneficial effect of clean air and climate policies enacted between 1998 and 2021 both city-wide and in our cohorts residing in communities that have been disproportionately affected by air pollution. There are important implications for health benefits, particularly for children, who are known to be especially vulnerable to these exposures. The results support further environmental and social policy changes to prevent the serious health impacts of air pollution from fossil fuel emissions.
Evaluation of caries risk assessment practices among dental practitioners in Guangzhou, China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Nie Ermin , Jiang Rui , Islam Rafiqul , Li Xiang , Yu Jiali
Published: October 2024

Introduction

This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate dental practitioners’ knowledge and practices regarding Caries risk assessment (CRA) in routine clinical practice in Guangzhou, China.

Methods

An online questionnaire was disseminated to dental practitioners to gather socio-demographic information, factors associated with CRA, the implementation of preventive treatment, and the level of awareness regarding personalized preventive treatment in relation to CRA. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, ANOVA, MANCOVA, linear regression, and scatter plots.

Results and discussion

Out of the 695 dental practitioners who were contacted, 206 dentists participated in the online survey. However, out of the total number of dentists, 198 were successfully recruited, while the remaining 8 dentists had incomplete data in their questionnaires. 92.4% of dentists provided in-office fluoride treatments, and 73.2% held a strong belief in the correlation between current oral hygiene and tooth cavities. 23.7% of dentists evaluated caries risk on an individual basis, and a significant 41.9% never utilized a particular type of CRA. 53.5% of dentists recommended non-prescription fluoride rinses, whereas 51% advocated prescription fluoride treatments. Significant statistical relationships were found between the use of in-office fluoride and the effectiveness of restorative treatment (P < 0.05). Additionally, a significant association was discovered between the use of a specific form for CRA and the kind of dental school (P < 0.05). The study suggests that a significant number of dental practitioners in Guangzhou, China, do not utilize dedicated assessment forms for CRA in their routine professional activities. These findings highlight the im-portance of encouraging dentists to utilize CRA systems to effectively identify patients who are at risk of acquiring dental caries.
Back pain exercise therapy remodels human epigenetic profiles in buccal and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells: an exploratory study in young male participants
Authors: Burny Claire , Potočnjak Mia , Hestermann Annika , Gartemann Sophie , Hollmann Michael , Schifferdecker-Hoch Frank , Markanovic Nina , Di Sanzo Simone , Günsel Michael , Solis-Mezarino Victor , Voelker-Albert Moritz
Published: October 2024

Background

With its high and increasing lifetime prevalence, back pain represents a contemporary challenge for patients and healthcare providers. Monitored exercise therapy is a commonly prescribed treatment to relieve pain and functional limitations. However, the benefits of exercise are often gradual, subtle, and evaluated by subjective self-reported scores. Back pain pathogenesis is interlinked with epigenetically mediated processes that modify gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. Therefore, we hypothesize that therapy effects can be objectively evaluated by measurable epigenetic histone posttranslational modifications and proteome expression. Because epigenetic modifications are dynamic and responsive to environmental exposure, lifestyle choices—such as physical activity—can alter epigenetic profiles, subsequent gene expression, and health traits. Instead of invasive sampling (e.g., muscle biopsy), we collect easily accessible buccal swabs and plasma. The plasma proteome provides a systemic understanding of a person's current health state and is an ideal snapshot of downstream, epigenetically regulated, changes upon therapy. This study investigates how molecular profiles evolve in response to standardized sport therapy and non-controlled lifestyle choices.

Results

We report that the therapy improves agility, attenuates back pain, and triggers healthier habits. We find that a subset of participants' histone methylation and acetylation profiles cluster samples according to their therapy status, before or after therapy. Integrating epigenetic reprogramming of both buccal cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) reveals that these concomitant changes are concordant with higher levels of self-rated back pain improvement and agility gain. Additionally, epigenetic changes correlate with changes in immune response plasma factors, reflecting their comparable ability to rate therapy effects at the molecular level. We also performed an exploratory analysis to confirm the usability of molecular profiles in (1) mapping lifestyle choices and (2) evaluating the distance of a given participant to an optimal health state.

Conclusion

This pre-post cohort study highlights the potential of integrated molecular profiles to score therapy efficiency. Our findings reflect the complex interplay of an individual's background and lifestyle upon therapeutic exposure. Future studies are needed to provide mechanistic insights into back pain pathogenesis and lifestyle-based epigenetic reprogramming upon sport therapy intervention to maintain therapeutic effects in the long run.
Rural household resilience to food insecurity in Mekiet district, Ethiopia
Authors: Dessie Tadsual Asfaw , Demsie Birhan Sisay
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Food insecurity remains a global issue and a top national priority in Ethiopia. However, it continues to pose a serious challenge in rural areas. Therefore, this study investigated household resilience to food insecurity among rural residents in Mekiet district.

Methods

A cross-sectional research design was used, focusing on two agroecological zones of Mekiet district—lowland and midland—involving 228 respondents. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Multistage sampling techniques were employed to select the sample households, and factor analysis was employed to analyze the data.

Results and discussion

The results from the factor analysis using the TANGO approach showed that the latent variables of absorptive and adaptive capacities had factor loadings of 0.98 and 0.79, respectively. On the other hand, transformative capacity showed a negative loading (−0.78), with all variables being statistically significant. The mean household resilience capacity index was 0.51. The variables of absorptive and adaptive capacities were positively associated with household resilience capacity, while transformative capacity exhibited a strong negative association. All factor loadings were significant, exceeding the recommended absolute value of 0.364 for sample sizes of 200 or more. Additionally, these variables were also highly correlated with resilience capacity. The study recommends that resilience programs be implemented at district, community, and household levels to enhance resilience to food insecurity.
Combined cellular phenotyping and high-throughput sequencing analysis reveals the symbiotic relationships between different types of macadamia root systems and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi
Authors: Gong Lidan , Ning Ya , Chen Yuchun , He Xiyong , Wu Zhonghua , Yue Hai
Published: October 2024

Macadamia nuts, scientifically designated as Macadamia integrifolia, are a highly valuable crop that originated in Australia. This study provides a comprehensive examination of the symbiotic relationships between various macadamia root systems and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). The four principal macadamia-producing regions in Yunnan Province were selected for investigation on the basis of meticulous criteria. To determine the AMF infection rate, the roots were stained. Furthermore, high-throughput sequencing was employed to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the fungal diversity in the rhizosphere soil. The findings were definitive, indicating that both normal and cluster roots are capable of establishing a symbiotic relationship with AMF. Secondary forests exhibited significantly elevated fungal diversity relative to normal roots, while cluster roots demonstrated the lowest diversity and notable regional variation, indicating that the environment exerts a considerable influence on inter-root fungi and AMF. The analysis of the fungal community composition revealed that the predominant groups were Ascomycetes and Basidiomycetes. The FUNGuild function prediction clearly indicated distinct differences in the fungal functions of secondary forests, cluster roots, and normal roots. This study provides a scientific foundation for the sustainable development of macadamia nuts and significantly contributes to a deeper comprehension of the intricate interactions between macadamia and AMF, thereby fostering the long-term stable and healthy growth of the macadamia nut industry.
Evaluating robotic assistance on the learning curve and efficiency of mandibular angle ostectomy: an animal model study
Authors: Han Wenqing , Yan Yingjie , Sun Mengzhe , Zhang Ziwei , Lin Li , Zhang Yan , Chai Gang
Published: October 2024

Introduction

This study evaluated the efficacy and learning curve of a maxillofacial surgical robotic system (MSRS) guided by electromagnetic navigation for mandibular angle ostectomy (MAO), compared to traditional surgical methods.

Methods

The study utilized a controlled experiment involving thirty rabbits, paired divided into experimental and control groups. The experimental group underwent MAO using the MSRS, while the control group was treated with conventional surgical techniques. The surgeons performing the procedures were inexperienced in robotic surgery and MAO to assess the learning curve and the impact of robotic assistance. Key parameters measured included the accuracy of ostectomy, setup time, and ostectomy efficiency, with data analyzed through a paired-t test to compare the performance between the two groups.

Results

The study indicated a significant reduction in ostectomy time for the experimental group, with improved accuracy and efficiency in ostectomy. The study found that robotic assistance could decrease the risk of complications and enhance surgical outcomes. It also highlighted the presence of an initial learning curve when adopting new robotic technologies, which could be mitigated through adequate training and simulation practices.

Discussion

Using MSRS for MAO could lead to faster early learning curves and increased ostectomy efficiency compared to traditional surgical methods. It demonstrated the potential benefits of integrating robotic systems into craniofacial surgery, suggesting a promising direction for future surgical practices.
NK Cells: Not Just Followers But Also Initiators of Chronic Vascular Rejection
Authors: Chambon Mathilde , Koenig Alice
Published: October 2024

Chronic graft rejection represents a significant threat to long-term graft survival. Early diagnosis, understanding of the immunological mechanisms and appropriate therapeutic management are essential to improve graft survival and quality of life for transplant patients. Knowing which immune cells are responsible for chronic vascular rejection would allow us to provide effective and appropriate treatment for these patients. It is now widely accepted that natural killer (NK) cells play an important role in chronic vascular rejection. They can either initiate chronic vascular rejection by recognizing missing self on the graft or be recruited by donor-specific antibodies to destroy the graft during antibody-mediated rejection. Whatever the mechanisms of activation of NK cells, they need to be primed to become fully activated and damaging to the graft. A better understanding of the signaling pathways involved in NK cell priming and activation would pave the way for the development of new therapeutic strategies to cure chronic vascular rejection. This review examines the critical role of NK cells in the complex context of chronic vascular rejection.
Current Stress Minimization Based on Particle Swarm Optimization for Dual Active Bridge DC–DC Converter
Authors: Jia Dabin , Wang Dazhi
Published: October 2024

Under extended-phase-shift (ESP) control, the current stress of the dual active bridge converter (DAB) is relatively high, which reduces the efficiency of the converter. To solve this problem, a particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm based on minimizing the current stress is proposed in this paper. The optimal phase-shift ratio of the DAB converter with ESP control is obtained by using the algorithm’s optimization characteristic. This approach ensures that the converter achieves minimal current stress, thereby enhancing the steady-state performance of the DAB converter. Moreover, in terms of dynamic performance, traditional PI control has poor dynamic response ability when there are sudden changes in load and input voltage. To solve this problem, the voltage dynamic matrix control (DMC) algorithm is introduced to combine with the PSO algorithm to minimize the current stress of the DAB converter under EPS control while enhancing the dynamic response capability of the DAB converter. A simulation model was constructed for comparative validation on MATLAB/Simulink 2019, demonstrating the correctness and effectiveness of the improved control method.
Three-Dimensional Outdoor Object Detection in Quadrupedal Robots for Surveillance Navigations
Authors: Tanveer Muhammad Hassan , Fatima Zainab , Mariam Hira , Rehman Tanazzah , Voicu Razvan Cristian
Published: October 2024

Quadrupedal robots are confronted with the intricate challenge of navigating dynamic environments fraught with diverse and unpredictable scenarios. Effectively identifying and responding to obstacles is paramount for ensuring safe and reliable navigation. This paper introduces a pioneering method for 3D object detection, termed viewpoint feature histograms, which leverages the established paradigm of 2D detection in projection. By translating 2D bounding boxes into 3D object proposals, this approach not only enables the reuse of existing 2D detectors but also significantly increases the performance with less computation required, allowing for real-time detection. Our method is versatile, targeting both bird’s eye view objects (e.g., cars) and frontal view objects (e.g., pedestrians), accommodating various types of 2D object detectors. We showcase the efficacy of our approach through the integration of YOLO3D, utilizing LiDAR point clouds on the KITTI dataset, to achieve real-time efficiency aligned with the demands of autonomous vehicle navigation. Our model selection process, tailored to the specific needs of quadrupedal robots, emphasizes considerations such as model complexity, inference speed, and customization flexibility, achieving an accuracy of up to 99.93%. This research represents a significant advancement in enabling quadrupedal robots to navigate complex and dynamic environments with heightened precision and safety.
Crack Growth Analytical Model Considering the Crack Growth Resistance Parameter Due to the Unloading Process
Authors: Li Guo , Huang Shuchun , Li Zhenlei , Lu Wanqiu , Ding Shuiting , Chen Rong , Cao Fan
Published: October 2024

Crack growth analysis is essential for probabilistic damage tolerance assessment of aeroengine life-limited parts. Traditional crack growth models directly establish the stress ratio–crack growth rate or crack opening stress relationship and focus less on changes in the crack tip stress field and its influence, so the resolution and accuracy of maneuvering flight load spectral analysis are limited. To improve the accuracy and convenience of analysis, a parameter considering the effect of unloading amount on crack propagation resistance is proposed, and the corresponding analytical model is established. The corresponding process for acquiring the model parameters through the constant amplitude test data of a Ti-6AL-4V compact tension specimen is presented. Six kinds of flight load spectra with inserted load pairs with different stress ratios and repetition times are tested to verify the accuracy of the proposed model. All the deviations between the proposed model and test life results are less than 10%, which demonstrates the superiority of the proposed model over the crack closure and Walker-based models in addressing relevant loading spectra. The proposed analytical model provides new insights for the safety of aeroengine life-limited parts.
Optimal Selection of Active Jet Parameters for a Ducted Tail Wing Aimed at Improving Aerodynamic Performance
Authors: Jia Huayu , Zheng Huilong , Zhou Hong , Huo Shunbo
Published: October 2024

The foldable tail of the box-type launch vehicle poses a risk of mechanical jamming during the launch process, which is not conducive to the smooth completion of the flight mission. The integrated nonfolding ducted tail proposed in this article can solve the problem of storing the tail in the launch box. Moreover, traditional mechanical control surfaces have been eliminated, and active jet control has been adopted to control the pitch direction of the flight attitude, which can improve the structural reliability of the tail wing. By studying the effects of parameters such as momentum coefficient, jet hole position, jet hole height, and jet angle on improving the aerodynamic performance of ducted tail wing, relatively good jet parameters are selected. Research has found that compared with jet hole height and jet angle, momentum coefficient and jet hole position are more effective in improving the aerodynamic performance of ducted tail wings. Under a trailing edge jet, a relatively good jet condition occurs when the jet hole height is equal to0.25% of the aerodynamic chord length, and the jet angle is equal to 0°. At this time, with the increase of the jet momentum coefficient, the effect of increasing the lift of the ducted tail wing is the best. Finally, a comparative analysis is conducted on the lift and drag characteristics between the ducted tail wing and traditional tail wing, and it is found that the ducted tail wing can generate lift at a 0° attack angle and will not stall in the high attack angle range of 12°~22°, with broad application prospects.
Experimental Study on Ice Shedding Behaviors for Aero-Engine Fan Blade Icing during Ground Idle
Authors: Wang Liping , Yang Kun , Yu Fang , Wang Fuxin
Published: October 2024

Fan blade icing can affect efficiency and aerodynamic stability, and the shed ice may be sucked into the core of the engine, causing adverse effects or even damage to the compressor components. Ice accretion and shedding are among the key issues in engine design and tests. But they have not been clearly understood. In this work, ice shedding from rotating aero-engine fan blades during continuous icing is experimentally investigated under the relevant airworthiness requirements. The phenomena of icing and ice shedding under different ambient temperatures and engine speeds are recorded to obtain the ice-shedding time and the characteristic length of the residual ice. Force analysis is used to understand the corresponding behavior. The degree of ice-shedding balance Db is defined to explore the symmetry of ice shedding. The results show that the shedding time is significantly affected by the rotational speed, and the characteristic length will first shorten and then grow as the ambient temperature decreases. When the ice shedding is completed instantaneously, Db will show a violent shock. There is a critical ambient temperature, below which the ice accretion will worsen significantly as temperature decreases. For aero-engine fan blade icing tests during ground idle, the critical ambient temperature ranges from −5 ∘C to −9 ∘C. In order for the ice to shed faster, the engine speed has to reach a threshold. This study can shed light on the preliminary characteristics of ice shedding from rotating components and provide guidance and a data basis for the numerical simulation of fan blade icing and the design of an aero-engine.
From Outside to Inside: The Subtle Probing of Globular Fruits and Solanaceous Vegetables Using Machine Vision and Near-Infrared Methods
Authors: Lu Junhua , Zhang Mei , Hu Yongsong , Ma Wei , Tian Zhiwei , Liao Hongsen , Chen Jiawei , Yang Yuxin
Published: October 2024

Machine vision and near-infrared light technology are widely used in fruits and vegetable grading, as an important means of agricultural non-destructive testing. The characteristics of fruits and vegetables can easily be automatically distinguished by these two technologies, such as appearance, shape, color and texture. Nondestructive testing is reasonably used for image processing and pattern recognition, and can meet the identification and grading of single features and fusion features in production. Through the summary and analysis of the fruits and vegetable grading technology in the past five years, the results show that the accuracy of machine vision for fruits and vegetable size grading is 70–99.8%, the accuracy of external defect grading is 88–95%, and the accuracy of NIR and hyperspectral internal detection grading is 80.56–100%. Comprehensive research on multi-feature fusion technology in the future can provide comprehensive guidance for the construction of automatic integrated grading of fruits and vegetables, which is the main research direction of fruits and vegetable grading in the future.
Effect of Biostimulants and Glyphosate on Morphophysiological Parameters of Zea mays (L.) Seedlings under Controlled Conditions
Authors: Tandathu Tabisa , Kotzé Elmarie , Van Der Watt Elmarie , Khetsha Zenzile Peter
Published: October 2024

Maize (Zea mays L.) is the major produced crop in South Africa, but numerous abiotic/biotic stressors threaten its production. Herbicides are mainly in the agricultural sector to minimise crop yield losses caused by weed competition. However, with most weeds becoming resistant to glyphosate, South African farmers have used higher herbicide concentrations than typically recommended. This study was conducted to determine the effect of two biostimulants (brassinosteroids and KELPAK) and glyphosate on the morphophysiological parameters of maize seedlings. Experiments were carried out in the glasshouses of the Department of Soil, Crop, and Climate Sciences at the University of the Free State in Bloemfontein for eight weeks over two seasons, 2017/2018 and 2018/2019. The treatments did not significantly affect all maize morphological parameters except the plant dry mass. Compared to the control, plant dry mass was significantly (p < 0.05) increased by 15.72 g when glyphosate was applied in combination with brassinosteroids during the 2019 growing season. The application of glyphosate, brassinosteroids, and KELPAK differed significantly (p < 0.05) between weeks across the physiological parameters in the two seasons: an irrefutable significant increase was recorded in the rates of transpiration between the weeks. Although significant differences were recorded in the chlorophyll fluorescence, chlorophyll, and carotenoid content, these parameters were similar to the control, especially in the last week of data collection. During the early developmental stage of maize, farmers can administer biostimulants—brassinosteroid (5 g ai ha−1) and KELPAK (5% ai ha−1)—alone and in combination in glyphosate-resistant maize cultivars treated with glyphosate to aid maize seedlings.
Circulating Endocannabinoids in Canine Cutaneous Mast Cell Tumor
Authors: Rinaldi Valentina , Piscitelli Fabiana , Boari Andrea , Verde Roberta , Crisi Paolo Emidio , Bisogno Tiziana
Published: October 2024

A cutaneous mast cell tumor (cMCT) is among the most common tumors in dogs. Endocannabinoids (eCBs) belong to the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which involves also cannabinoid receptors and an enzymatic system of biosynthesis and degradation. In this study, plasma levels of N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA), 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), N-palmitoylethanolamine (PEA), and N-oleoylethanolamine (OEA) were evaluated in 17 dogs with MCTs of varying histological grades and clinical stages, as well as in a control group of 11 dogs. Dogs affected by cMCT had higher plasma levels of 2-AG (p = 0.0001) and lower levels of AEA (p = 0.0012) and PEA (p = 0.0075) compared to the control group, while no differences were observed at the OEA level between healthy and cMCT dogs (p = 0.9264). The ability of eCBs to help discriminate between healthy and cMCT dogs was interrogated through the area under the ROC curve (AUC). An accuracy of 0.98 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.94–1.02) was found for 2-AG, of 0.85 (95% CI, 0.71–0.99) for AEA, and of 0.81% for PEA (95% CI, 0.64–0.69). Values > 52.75 pmol/mL for 2-AG showed 94% sensitivity and 90% specificity in distinguishing cMCT. This is the first study to demonstrate alterations in plasmatic levels of eCBs in dogs affected by MCTs, suggesting the significance of these biomarkers in the tumorigenic process and their potential use as biomarkers in the future.
Molecular Factors Involved in the Pathogenesis of Pyometra in Domestic Cats (Felis catus)
Authors: Nascimento Acácia Eduarda de Jesus , Santos Luciano Cardoso , Silva Juneo Freitas
Published: October 2024

Pyometra is a major reproductive disorder affecting female cats. Characterized by the accumulation of purulent exudate in the uterus, it can lead to severe and potentially fatal complications. This pathology primarily occurs in adult cats during diestrus, but can also affect younger felines, often due to inappropriate administration of hormonal medications. While the etiopathogenesis of pyometra is better understood in bitches, few studies have addressed the molecular factors involved in feline pyometra. Therefore, this review aims to provide an up-to-date and comprehensive discussion of pyometra in cats, focusing on the regulation of molecular factors described in this species, including hormonal, redox, immunological, and growth factors. Understanding the regulation of these factors in pyometra is crucial for elucidating its pathogenesis in domestic cats and for improving diagnosis and identifying novel therapeutic approaches.
Dietary Thymol Supplementation Promotes Antioxidant Responses and Thermal Stress Resistance in Rainbow Trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss
Authors: Yousefi Morteza , Hoseini Seyyed Morteza , Vatnikov Yury Anatolyevich , Karamyan Arfenya , Kulikov Evgeny Vladimirovich
Published: October 2024

Rainbow trout fingerlings were fed, in triplicate, diets supplemented with 0 (CTL), 50 (50 TM), 100 (100 TM), 200 (200 TM), 400 (400 TM) and 800 (800 TM) mg/kg of thymol, followed by 48 h of thermal stress. Growth performance and humoral immunological parameters showed no significant responses to dietary thymol concentrations. Fish fed 50–400 mg/kg thymol diets had significantly higher survival after heat stress. Plasma cortisol, glucose, hepatic glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and erythrocyte catalase significantly increased after thermal stress, whereas total plasma antioxidant capacity, ascorbate, and hepatic/erythrocyte reduced-glutathione significantly decreased. There were significant elevations in plasma ascorbate and hepatic glutathione reductase in the 50 TM, 100 TM and 200 TM groups; plasma total antioxidant capacity in the 100 TM and 200 TM groups; hepatic glutathione peroxidase in the 200 TM group; and hepatic-reduced glutathione in the 100 TM, 200 TM and 400 TM groups, compared to CTL. The highest hepatic superoxide dismutase and lowest hepatic malondialdehyde were observed in the 100 TM group before heat stress. These parameters significantly increased after thermal stress in the treatment groups, except in the 100 TM and 200 TM groups. Hepatic catalase showed no significant difference among the treatment groups before thermal stress. Hepatic catalase significantly increased after heat stress in all treatment groups, except in the 100 TM group. Erythrocyte superoxide dismutase significantly increased in the 100 TM group before heat stress, whereas erythrocyte malondialdehyde significantly decreased in the 100 TM and 200 TM groups after thermal stress. Based on the results, 100 mg/kg of thymol can promote antioxidant power and thermal stress resistance in rainbow trout.
Relationship between the Reliability of Tennis-Specific Change of Direction (77COD) Test and Squat Jump–Countermovement Jump in Adolescent Tennis Players
Authors: Kaya Selman , Önal Aysu , Deliceoğlu Gökhan
Published: October 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the reliability of the tennis-specific change of direction (77COD) test with vertical jump tests (Squat Jump and Countermovement Jump) in adolescent tennis players. A total of 58 athletes (31 girls, 27 boys) actively playing tennis, with an average age of 10.57 ± 2.54 years, participated in the study. Tests and retests were completed within 2 weeks. Bland–Altman (B&A) plots were established and Pearson’s correlation analysis was conducted on the 77COD, CMJ, and SJ tests. Simple linear regression analysis (enter method) was used to determine the significant predictors of the 77COD variable from the SJ-CMJ variables. The SJ and CMJ were found to be highly negatively correlated with the 77COD test (−0.72 ≤ r ≤ −0.74). The test–retest reliability of the 77COD test was found to be very high, with an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.95. Our findings showed that the 77COD test is suitable for determining COD ability in adolescent tennis players. In addition, vertical jump heights are an informative and practical performance indicator for 77COD. In conclusion, the 77COD test is a COD test that can be used in coaching practices without the need for complex testing materials.
Trimodal Watch-Type Wearable Health Monitoring Device
Authors: Lakshminarayana Shanthala , Ranganatha Mrudula , Park Hyusim , Jung Sungyong
Published: October 2024

In the domain of healthcare, wearable health monitoring devices have emerged as essential tools for the advancement of patient health tracking. These devices facilitate the provision of real-time medical data to clinicians, enabling early diagnosis, timely intervention, and enhanced management of individual health. This study introduces an innovative trimodal wearable health monitoring device in the form of a wristwatch. The device integrates a breath analyzer for the assessment of gaseous phase biomarkers, a sweat analyzer for the evaluation of aqueous-phase biomarkers, and an infrared sensor for the measurement of body temperature in the optical phase. Engineered on a compact 3 cm × 3 cm printed circuit board, the device has been optimized for wearability, power efficiency, and seamless integration with both wired and wireless charging and communication systems. Furthermore, custom software applications, designed for both Windows and Android platforms, have been developed to facilitate intuitive data visualization and storage on personal computers and smartphones. Empirical results from real-time chemical testing substantiate the device’s efficacy and potential as an advanced solution for wearable health monitoring.
Bifurcation of a Leslie–Gower Predator–Prey Model with Nonlinear Harvesting and a Generalist Predator
Authors: He Mengxin , Li Zhong
Published: October 2024

A Leslie–Gower predator–prey model with nonlinear harvesting and a generalist predator is considered in this paper. It is shown that the degenerate positive equilibrium of the system is a cusp of codimension up to 4, and the system admits the cusp-type degenerate Bogdanov–Takens bifurcation of codimension 4. Moreover, the system has a weak focus of at least order 3 and can undergo degenerate Hopf bifurcation of codimension 3. We verify, through numerical simulations, that the system admits three different stable states, such as a stable fixed point and three limit cycles (the middle one is unstable), or two stable fixed points and two limit cycles. Our results reveal that nonlinear harvesting and a generalist predator can lead to richer dynamics and bifurcations (such as three limit cycles or tristability); specifically, harvesting can cause the extinction of prey, but a generalist predator provides some protection for the predator in the absence of prey.
Fredholm Determinant and Wronskian Representations of the Solutions to the Schrödinger Equation with a KdV-Potential
Authors: Gaillard Pierre
Published: October 2024

From the finite gap solutions of the KdV equation expressed in terms of abelian functions we construct solutions to the Schrödinger equation with a KdV potential in terms of fourfold Fredholm determinants. For this we establish a connection between Riemann theta functions and Fredholm determinants and we obtain multi-parametric solutions to this equation. As a consequence, a double Wronskian representation of the solutions to this equation is constructed. We also give quasi-rational solutions to this Schrödinger equation with rational KdV potentials.
Characterization of Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Emissions—Part 2: Particle Size Distributions and Emission Factors
Authors: Claassen Matthew , Bingham Bjoern , Chow Judith C. , Watson John G. , Chu Pengbo , Wang Yan , Wang Xiaoliang
Published: October 2024

The lithium-ion battery (LIB) thermal runaway (TR) emits a wide size range of particles with diverse chemical compositions. When inhaled, these particles can cause serious adverse health effects. This study measured the size distributions of particles with diameters less than 10 µm released throughout the TR-driven combustion of cylindrical lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and pouch-style lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) LIB cells. The chemical composition of fine particles (PM2.5) and some acidic gases were also characterized from filter samples. The emission factors of particle number and mass as well as chemical components were calculated. Particle number concentrations were dominated by those smaller than 500 nm with geometric number mean diameters below 130 nm. Mass concentrations were also dominated by smaller particles, with PM1 particles making up 81–95% of the measured PM10 mass. A significant amount of organic and elemental carbon, phosphate, and fluoride was released as PM2.5 constituents. The emission factor of gaseous hydrogen fluoride was 10–81 mg/Wh, posing the most immediate danger to human health. The tested LFP cells had higher emission factors of particles and HF than the LCO cells.
Amphiregulin Upregulation in Visfatin-Stimulated Colorectal Cancer Cells Reduces Sensitivity to 5-Fluororacil Cytotoxicity
Authors: Huang Wen-Shih , Wu Kuen-Lin , Chen Cheng-Nan , Chang Shun-Fu , Lee Ding-Yu , Lee Ko-Chao
Published: October 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) has become a prevalent and deadly malignancy over the years. Drug resistance remains a major challenge in CRC treatment, significantly affecting patient survival rates. Obesity is a key risk factor for CRC development, and accumulating evidence indicates that increased secretion of adipokines, including Visfatin, under obese conditions contributes to the development of resistance in CRC to various therapeutic methods. Amphiregulin (AREG) is a member of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) family, which activates the EGF receptor (EGFR), influencing multiple tumorigenic characteristics of cancers. Abnormal expression levels of AREG in cancer cells have been associated with resistance to anti-EGFR therapy in patients. However, it remains unclear whether this abnormal expression also impacts CRC resistance to other chemotherapeutic drugs. The aim of this study is to examine whether AREG expression levels could be affected in CRC cells under Visfatin stimulation, thereby initiating the development of resistance to 5-fluororacil (5-FU). Through our results, we found that Visfatin indeed increases AREG expression, reducing the sensitivity of HCT-116 CRC cells to 5-FU cytotoxicity. Moreover, AREG upregulation is regulated by STAT3-CREB transcription factors activated by JNK1/2 and p38 signaling. This study highlights the significant role of AREG upregulation in CRC cells in initiating chemotherapeutic resistance to 5-FU under Visfatin stimulation. These findings provide a deeper understanding of drug resistance development in CRC under obese conditions and offer new insights into the correlation between an abnormal increase in AREG levels and the development of 5-FU-resistance in CRC cells, which should be considered in future clinical applications.
Effect of Dietary Digestible Protein Levels on Muscle Growth and Oxidative Stress in Amazonian Pintado (Pseudoplatystoma reticulatum × Leiarius marmoratus)
Authors: Leandro Stephane Vasconcelos , Ituassú Daniel Rabello , Sinhorin Valéria Dornelles Gindri , Aguiar Danilo Henrique , Moreira Paula Sueli Andrade , Ferneda Ana Julia Lopes Braga , Marques Soraia Andressa Dall’Agnol , Sinhorin Adilson Paulo , Corassa Anderson , Ton Ana Paula Silva , Freitas Leonardo Willian de , Sbardella Maicon
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary digestible protein levels on the growth dynamics and oxidative stress status of white muscle fibers in Amazonian Pintado (Pseudoplatystoma reticulatum × Leiarius marmoratus). Four hundred and fifty-five juveniles of Amazonian Pintado were fed diets containing varying digestible protein levels (225, 250, 275, 300, 325, 350, or 375 g kg−1) for 75 days. At the end of the experiment, the fish were fasted for 24 h, anesthetized, and euthanized to obtain muscle samples. The linear and quadratic effects of dietary digestible protein levels on white muscle fiber diameter, metabolite concentrations, and oxidative stress were assessed. The results revealed that increasing dietary digestible protein levels linearly raised the concentrations of free amino acids and total proteins in muscle tissue but also led to elevated levels of TBARS, indicating increased oxidative stress. Notably, the average area of muscle fibers with a cell area greater than 1133 µm2 decreased, reflecting restricted muscle hypertrophy, whereas glycogen and glucose levels also declined. These findings suggest that although high dietary digestible protein enhances protein and free amino acid concentrations in muscle tissue, it may compromise muscle hypertrophy and increase oxidative damage in Amazonian Pintado, underscoring the complexity of optimizing diet formulation.