bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Body image is associated with persistence. A study of the role of weight-related stigma
Authors: Styk Wojciech , Wojtowicz Ewa , Glibowski Paweł , Iłowiecka Katarzyna , Jędryszek-Geisler Aleksanda , Zmorzyński Szymon
Published: October 2024

The study replicates a preliminary report from 2019 on therelationship between body image and persistence.

Purpose

The aim of our study was to analyze the associations between body image, persistence, and body weight stereotypes.

Patients and methods

A total of 750 individuals were recruited for the study. The research was carried out in computer labs. The procedure consisted of psychological questionnaires (Persistence Scale, The Body Esteem Scale, Perceived Weight Stigma Questionnaire, Weight Bias Internalization Scale, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Formal Characteristics of Behavior – Temperament Inventory, and NEO-PI-R) and The Maze Test (a computer tool). After completing the Simple Maze Test, saliva samples were collected. Next, the subjects proceeded to the laboratory where anthropometric and body composition measurements were taken. The hormone levels (cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone) in the collected saliva samples were analyzed via ELISA to determine stress.

Results

Body image and persistence are related variables. They are associated with the internalization of stereotypes and perceived stigma related to body weight. These associations are differentially shaped according to sex and the regularity of body weight. In women, a stronger association of these variables with body image was observed, while in men, the relationship with body image was weaker, with a stronger association shown by perceived weight-related stigma. In the group of participants with a BMI<18.5, there was no significant association between the internalization of stereotypes and the analyzed variables. This relationship appeared in the group of subjects with a normal body weight and was strongest in the group of participants who were overweight or obese. Perceived weight-related stigma was most strongly associated with body image in the group with BMI<18.5 kg/m2 and with persistence in the group with BMI>25 kg/m2.

Conclusion

Body-related stigma affects not only overweight and obese individuals and its mechanisms may be shaped differently.
A brief reference to AI-driven audible reality (AuRa) in open world: potential, applications, and evaluation
Authors: Ates Ömer , Pandey Garima , Gousiopoulos Athanasios , Soldatos Theodoros G.
Published: October 2024

Recent developments on artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) techniques are expected to have significant impact on public health in several ways. Indeed, modern AI/ML methods have been applied on multiple occasions on topics ranging from drug discovery and disease diagnostics to personalized medicine, medical imaging, and healthcare operations. While such developments may improve several quality-of-life aspects (such as access to health services and education), it is important considering that some individuals may face more challenges, particularly in extreme or emergency situations. In this work, we focus on utilizing AI/ML components to support scenarios when visual impairment or other limitations hinder the ability to interpret the world in this way. Specifically, we discuss the potential and the feasibility of automatically transferring key visual information into audio communication, in different languages and in real-time—a setting which we name ‘audible reality’ (AuRa). We provide a short guide to practical options currently available for implementing similar solutions and summarize key aspects for evaluating their scope. Finally, we discuss diverse settings and functionalities that AuRA applications could have in terms of broader impact, from a social and public health context, and invite the community to further such digital solutions and perspectives soon.
Nature redux: interrogating biomorphism and soft robot aesthetics through generative AI
Authors: Christiansen Mads Bering , Rafsanjani Ahmad , Jørgensen Jonas
Published: October 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has rapidly become a widespread design aid through the recent proliferation of generative AI tools. In this work we use generative AI to explore soft robotics designs, specifically Soft Biomorphism, an aesthetic design paradigm emphasizing the inherent biomorphic qualities of soft robots to leverage them as affordances for interactions with humans. The work comprises two experiments aimed at uncovering how generative AI can articulate and expand the design space of soft biomorphic robotics using text-to-image (TTI) and image-to-image (ITI) generation techniques. Through TTI generation, Experiment 1 uncovered alternative interpretations of soft biomorphism, emphasizing the novel incorporation of, e.g., fur, which adds a new dimension to the material aesthetics of soft robotics. In Experiment 2, TTI and ITI generation were combined and a category of hybrid techno-organic robot designs discovered, which combined rigid and pliable materials. The work thus demonstrates in practice the specific ways in which AI image generation can contribute towards expanding the design space of soft robotics.
Development of a predictive model for assessing the risk factors associated with recurrence following surgical treatment of chronic subdural hematoma
Authors: Chen Min , Da Longbiao , Zhang Qingchao , Liu Jie , Tang Jian , Zha Zhengjiang
Published: October 2024

Background

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a common disease in neurosurgery. Although many studies have investigated the factors affecting the recurrence of CSDH, no comprehensive prediction model has been established for the risk effect of postoperative recurrence of the disease.

Objective

This study aims to collect and analyze the data of CSDH patients treated in our hospital to determine the influence of preoperative, postoperative and treatment factors on the recurrence of CSDH, and to establish a corresponding prediction model to provide neurosurgeons with more accurate basis for identifying high-risk patients and guiding treatment.

Methods

A total of 431 patients were collected in this study, including 323 patients who underwent traditional hematoma removal and 108 patients who underwent endoscopic hematoma removal. Relevant preoperative and postoperative data and medical history of patients were collected respectively to study the relevant factors affecting postoperative hematoma recurrence of patients, and to establish a prediction model.

Results

A total of 431 patients were enrolled in this study, 71 of whom had subdural blood recurrence. Possible relevant factors were included in univariate logistic regression, and the results showed that the preoperative GCS score, postoperative residual gas, preoperative CT hematoma thickness, coagulation function, unilateral and bilateral surgery, whether statin was taken after surgery, hematoma site, hematoma density and hematoma volume were all P < 0.2. It is a risk factor for recurrence of chronic subdural hematoma. The obtained data were further included in a multi-factor review. Six factors, including preoperative GCS score, postoperative gas residual, abnormal coagulation function, high-density hematoma, large hematoma volume, and irregular statin use after surgery, were independent risk factors for chronic subdural hematoma recurrence (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

This study confirmed that six factors, including preoperative GCS score, postoperative gas residual, abnormal coagulation function, high-density hematoma, large hematoma volume, and irregular statin use, were independent risk factors for recurrence of chronic subdural hematoma. At the same time, long-term use of statins can reduce the recurrence rate of hematoma to a certain extent. In addition, the predictive model in this study could help neurosurgeons accurately identify high-risk CSDH patients.
List-Based Threshold Accepting Algorithm with Improved Neighbor Operator for 0–1 Knapsack Problem
Authors: Wu Liangcheng , Lin Kai , Lin Xiaoyu , Lin Juan
Published: October 2024

The list-based threshold accepting (LBTA) algorithm is a sophisticated local search method that utilizes a threshold list to streamline the parameter tuning process in the traditional threshold accepting (TA) algorithm. This paper proposes an enhanced local search version of the LBTA algorithm specifically tailored for solving the 0–1 knapsack problem (0–1 KP). To maintain a dynamic threshold list, a feasible threshold updating strategy is designed to accept adaptive modifications during the search process. In addition, the algorithm incorporates an improved bit-flip operator designed to generate a neighboring solution with a controlled level of disturbance, thereby fostering exploration within the solution space. Each trial solution produced by this operator undergoes a repair phase using a hybrid greedy repair operator that incorporates both density-based and value-based add operator to facilitate optimization. The LBTA algorithm’s performance was evaluated against several state-of-the-art metaheuristic approaches on a series of large-scale instances. The simulation results demonstrate that the LBTA algorithm outperforms or is competitive with other leading metaheuristics in the field.
Indetermsoft-Set-Based D* Extra Lite Framework for Resource Provisioning in Cloud Computing
Authors: Krishnamurthy Bhargavi , Shiva Sajjan G.
Published: October 2024

Cloud computing is an immensely complex, huge-scale, and highly diverse computing platform that allows the deployment of highly resource-constrained scientific and personal applications. Resource provisioning in cloud computing is difficult because of the uncertainty associated with it in terms of dynamic elasticity, rapid performance change, large-scale virtualization, loosely coupled applications, the elastic escalation of user demands, etc. Hence, there is a need to develop an intelligent framework that allows effective resource provisioning under uncertainties. The Indetermsoft set is a promising mathematical model that is an extension of the traditional soft set that is designed to handle uncertain forms of data. The D* extra lite algorithm is a dynamic heuristic algorithm that makes use of the history of knowledge from past search experience to arrive at decisions. In this paper, the D* extra lite algorithm is enabled with the Indetermsoft set to perform proficient resource provisioning under uncertainty. The experimental results show that the performance of the proposed algorithm is found to be promising in performance metrics such as power consumption, resource utilization, total execution time, and learning rate. The expected value analysis also validated the experimental results obtained.
Evaluating the Impact and Perception of Influencer Marketing Among Romanian Consumers—Insights from Quantitative Research
Authors: Szakal Anita Cornelia , Brătucu Gabriel , Ciobanu Eliza , Chițu Ioana Bianca , Mocanu Ana Alexandra , Bălășescu Marius , Ialomițianu Gheorghe
Published: October 2024

Currently, one of the most widely used marketing techniques is influencer marketing, but is its true impact on Romanians truly understood? This article aims to establish the perception of influencer marketing activities by Romanian consumers. A quantitative study was conducted, gathering 618 responses through an online questionnaire. It was found that 92% of the respondents made at least one purchase based on content creator recommendations, with Instagram being perceived as the most impactful platform for such campaigns. However, the success of these campaigns relies on several strategic elements. These include selecting content creators who align with the product or service being promoted and ensuring that the influencer’s audience demographics match the target audience. Companies must also prioritize transparency and the seamless integration of products into influencers’ daily lives, as well as considering factors like content type, the frequency of posts, and budget. The results indicate that well-structured influencer partnerships, particularly on Instagram, enhance consumer trust and enhance marketing impact. These insights offer valuable guidance for developing effective digital marketing strategies emphasizing to specific business needs.
Study on the Dynamic Crushing Behaviors of Hourglass Honeycomb Sandwich Panels
Authors: Chen Xinhai , Wang Kai , Cao Lu , Guo Pengyu , Qin Jiangyi , Wu Hexiang
Published: October 2024

In response to the problem of enclosed internal spaces in existing honeycomb sandwich panels, the concept of an hourglass honeycomb sandwich panel model is proposed for the first time, which provides a breakthrough approach for achieving the multifunctional integration of honeycomb sandwich panels. Numerical simulation methods are employed to investigate the dynamic performance of the hourglass honeycomb sandwich panels. The focus is on discussing the influences of the geometric parameters on the deformation mode, dynamic response, load uniformity, and energy absorption capacity of the hourglass honeycomb sandwich panel under different impact velocity conditions. The research results indicate that under low-velocity-impact conditions, the influence of the geometric parameters is predominant. In contrast, under high-velocity-impact conditions, the influence of the impact velocity conditions is predominant. Hourglass honeycomb sandwich panels with low density, a large inclination angle of the honeycomb wall, and small contact distances between the hourglass honeycomb cell and the panel have excellent load uniformity, and the distances between the contact points of the hourglass honeycomb cell and the panel have a great influence on the energy absorption capacity of the sandwich panels. This study provides a theoretical basis for the application of honeycombs in aerospace and other engineering areas.
Water Relations and Physiological Traits Associated with the Yield Components of Winter Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Juzoń-Sikora Katarzyna , Laskoś Kamila , Warchoł Marzena , Czyczyło-Mysza Ilona Mieczysława , Dziurka Kinga , Grzesiak Maciej , Skrzypek Edyta
Published: October 2024

Water stress in agricultural systems may occur slowly or abruptly. Plant reactions to stress differ with regard to its level and duration. The level of plant susceptibility to water deprivation primarily depends on the management of the water content and metabolism adjustments. The aim of this study was to determine the correlation between water-based plant parameters and the yield components of 90 genotypes of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Since the loss of water is frequently used as a selection criterion to assess drought tolerance, the relationships between the yield and leaf water content, osmotic potential, and gas exchange characteristics were examined. Genotypes 1, 25, 34, 36, 42, 43, 46, 57, 66, 73, and 90 showed 33–45% larger numbers of grains/plant, 19–25% higher weights of grains/plant, and 4% higher thousand grain weights compared to other genotypes. The higher values of the yield components were accompanied by 20–30% lower leaf water content, 39–52% lower osmotic potential, and 4–39% lower water use efficiency. The principal component analysis revealed that the wheat genotypes had noticeable differences in a few physiological parameters that depended on the sowing date. Electrolyte leakage showed a substantial correlation with the sowing date, suggesting that it may not be a suitable factor for the prediction of drought tolerance. The factors that distinguished the examined genotypes the most were the leaf water content, osmotic potential, and water use efficiency. In addition, a significant correlation was observed between the mentioned parameters and yield components. As a result, these parameters may be helpful in genotype characterization in relation to water stress susceptibility, offering a trustworthy plant selection test.
Evaluating the Potential of Marine Algae as Sustainable Ingredients in Poultry Feed
Authors: Al-Khalaifah Hanan S. , Al-Nasser Afaf Y.
Published: October 2024

Algae are a complex source of crucial nutrients, including proteins, minerals, vitamins, and carbohydrates. The use of marine algae, specifically Sargassum species, Gracilaria species, and Spirulina species, as feed ingredients in poultry feed was examined in the current research. This study’s aims were to carry out lipid profiling, proximate analysis, and heavy metal toxicity testing, as well as to evaluate the presence of hazardous hydrocarbons in the algae and investigate the effect of the fatty acid profile of Sargassum species on broilers. The proximate analysis was conducted on the algae types containing considerable quantities of fats and proteins and a sizable quantity of omega-3 fatty acids. This research assessed the productive effectiveness of broilers with 2.5%, 6%, and 10% algal additions in their diet. Fatty acid profiling of Sargassum species was performed at 1% and 2% levels in the bursa, fat pads, heart, liver, spleen, thymus, thighs, and breast. The findings showed no significant differences in the development performance or feed utilization efficiency of broilers with 2.5%, 6%, and 10% algae supplementation in their diet. The results of fatty acid profiling showed changes in the heart, liver, and spleen at 1% and 2% supplementations levels. However, this research concludes that if algae partially replaces the imported feed proteins used in animal feed, then these can achieve maximum beneficial effects on poultry health and performance. Algae are sustainable, easy to produce, and cost-effective sources of nutrients and contain numerous bioactive compounds, which will contribute to sustainability and food safety.
Prediction of Carbon Dioxide Concentrations in Strawberry Greenhouse by Using Time Series Models
Authors: Shin Seung Hyun , Deb Nibas Chandra , Arulmozhi Elanchezhian , Tamrakar Niraj , Ogundele Oluwasegun Moses , Kook Junghoo , Kim Dae Hyun , Kim Hyeon Tae
Published: October 2024

Carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations play an important role in plant production, as they have a direct impact on both plant growth and yield. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to predict CO2 concentrations in the greenhouse by applying time series models using five datasets. To estimate the CO2 concentrations, this study was conducted over a four-month period from 1 December 2023 to 31 March 2024, in a strawberry-cultivating greenhouse. Fifteen sensors (MCH-383SD, Lutron, Taiwan) were installed inside the greenhouse to measure CO2 concentration at 1-min intervals. Finally, the dataset was transformed into intervals of 1, 5, 10, 30, and 60 min. The time-series data were analyzed using the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) and the Prophet Forecasting Model (PFM), with performance assessed through root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), and coefficient of determination (R2). The evaluation indicated that the best model performance was achieved with data collected at 1-min intervals, while model performance declined with longer intervals, with the lowest performance observed at 60-min intervals. Specifically, the ARIMA model outperformed across all data collection intervals while comparing with the PFM. The ARIMA model, with data collected at 1-min intervals, achieved an R2 of 0.928, RMSE of 7.359, and MAE of 2.832. However, both ARIMA and PFM exhibited poorer performances as the interval of data collection increased, with the lowest performance at 60-min intervals where ARIMA had an R2 of 0.762, RMSE of 19.469, and MAE of 11.48. This research underscores the importance of frequent data collection for precise environmental control in greenhouse agriculture, emphasizing the critical role of short-interval data collection for accurate predictive modeling.
The Grapevine MADS-Box Protein VvAGL11 Induces Early Flowering in Arabidopsis
Authors: Liu Huiping , Ding Tingting , Zhang Qingtian , Li Ke , Li Ao , Wang Fengxia , Mu Qian , Liu Lanshe , Yang Guowei , Zhang Ye , Wang Pengfei
Published: October 2024

Grapevine (Vitis vinifera) is an important and popular perennial fruit tree cultivated worldwide. Grapevine ripening is affected by flowering time, and although members of the MADS-box protein family play vital roles in regulating flowering in plants, the functions of MADS-box proteins in grapevine remain largely unknown. AGAMOUS-LIKE 11 (VvAGL11), a MADS-box gene in grapevine, was reported to be a regulator of seed morphogenesis. In this study, heterologous overexpression of VvAGL11 was found to significantly promote flowering in Arabidopsis, suggesting that its active expression in grapevine may induce early flowering and ripening. Transcriptome analysis showed that VvAGL11 overexpression affected the expression of genes involved in stress responses, hormonal signaling responses, and flowering regulation. Notably, VvAGL11 significantly increased the expression of key flowering genes such as FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT), APETALA3 (AP3), and SQUAMOSA PROMOTER BINDING PROTEIN-LIKE 5 (SPL5), which might have contributed to the early flowering in Arabidopsis. In summary, we characterized a novel flowering regulator, VvAGL11, which could be a potential target for early ripening breeding in grapevine.
Analysis of Alternative Splicing Events and Identification of Key Genes in Brassica napus Leaves Infected by Leptosphaeria biglobosa
Authors: Ma Xinning , Yuan Lin , Huangfu Jiuru , Yan Mengjiao , Guo Chen , Zhao Lili , Sun Hongxia , Jia Xiaoqing , Li Ziqin , Huangfu Haiyan
Published: October 2024

Alternative splicing (AS) is a prevalent post-transcriptional regulatory mechanism in eukaryotes and plays a crucial role in plant disease resistance. Here, we used the Illumina Novaseq sequencing platform to conduct transcriptome sequencing on canola (Brassica napus) leaves infected with the blackleg pathogen (Leptosphaeria biglobosa strain nm−1) at 0 h, 72 h, 120 h, and 168 h post-inoculation to investigate the mechanism of AS coordination with transcriptional regulation in canola’s response to blackleg disease. The rMATS software (4.1.0) was employed to analyze different AS events in samples taken at 72 h, 120 h, and 168 h. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis were performed to elucidate the biological functions of differentially spliced genes at various time points, while Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) was used to identify key modules and hub genes. As a result, our analysis reveals 16908 AS events across three time points, with 221 being differently spliced. Intron retention (RI) was the most common AS event, accounting for approximately 55% of all events, while alternative 5′ splice site events were least common, comprising only 2%. Furthermore, a total of 213 significantly differentially spliced genes were identified, which were enriched in functions related to protein kinase activity, transferase activity, and pathways such as MAPK signaling pathway—plant and plant hormone signal transduction. WGCNA identified three key modules and ten hub genes, including calcium-binding transcription activator 1, LRR class receptor serine/threonine protein kinase FEI 2, PLATZ transcription factor family proteins, serine/threonine protein kinase PRP4, and E3 ubiquitin ligase SUD1, all of which are associated with canola resistance to L. biglobosa. Thus, this study provides a theoretical basis for identifying disease-resistance genes involved in AS and for exploring the functions of AS gene isoforms in canola.
Comprehensive Analysis of Phenotypic Traits in Chinese Cabbage Using 3D Point Cloud Technology
Authors: Yang Chongchong , Sun Lei , Zhang Jun , Fan Xiaofei , Zhang Dongfang , Ren Tianyi , Liu Minggeng , Zhang Zhiming , Ma Wei
Published: October 2024

Studies on the phenotypic traits and their associations in Chinese cabbage lack precise and objective digital evaluation metrics. Traditional assessment methods often rely on subjective evaluations and experience, compromising accuracy and reliability. This study develops an innovative, comprehensive trait evaluation method based on 3D point cloud technology, with the aim of enhancing the precision, reliability, and standardization of the comprehensive phenotypic traits of Chinese cabbage. By using multi-view image sequences and structure-from-motion algorithms, 3D point clouds of 50 plants from each of the 17 Chinese cabbage varieties were reconstructed. Color-based region growing and 3D convex hull techniques were employed to measure 30 agronomic traits. Comparisons between 3D point cloud-based measurements of the plant spread, plant height, leaf area, and leaf ball volume and traditional methods yielded R2 values greater than 0.97, with root mean square errors of 1.27 cm, 1.16 cm, 839.77 cm3, and 59.15 cm2, respectively. Based on the plant spread and plant height, a linear regression prediction of Chinese cabbage weights was conducted, yielding an R2 value of 0.76. Integrated optimization algorithms were used to test the parameters, reducing the measurement time from 55 min when using traditional methods to 3.2 min. Furthermore, in-depth analyses including variation, correlation, principal component analysis, and clustering analyses were conducted. Variation analysis revealed significant trait variability, with correlation analysis indicating 21 pairs of traits with highly significant positive correlations and 2 pairs with highly significant negative correlations. The top six principal components accounted for 90% of the total variance. Using the elbow method, k-means clustering determined that the optimal number of clusters was four, thus classifying the 17 cabbage varieties into four distinct groups. This study provides new theoretical and methodological insights for exploring phenotypic trait associations in Chinese cabbage and facilitates the breeding and identification of high-quality varieties. Compared with traditional methods, this system provides significant advantages in terms of accuracy, speed, and comprehensiveness, with its low cost and ease of use making it an ideal replacement for manual methods, being particularly suited for large-scale monitoring and high-throughput phenotyping.
Radiation Limits the Yield Potential of Main Crops Under Selected Agrivoltaic Designs—A Case Study of a New Shading Simulation Method
Authors: Thaler Sabina , Berger Karl , Eitzinger Josef , Mahnaz Abdollahi , Shala-Mayrhofer Vitore , Zamini Shokufeh , Weihs Philipp
Published: October 2024

Agrivoltaics (APVs) represent a growing technology in Europe that enables the co-location of energy and food production in the same field. Photosynthesis requires photosynthetic active radiation, which is reduced by the shadows cast on crops by APV panels. The design of the module rows, material, and field orientation significantly influences the radiation distribution on the ground. In this context, we introduce an innovative approach for the effective simulation of the shading effects of various APV designs. We performed an extensive sensitivity analysis of the photovoltaic (PV) geometry influence on the ground-incident radiation and crop growth of selected cultivars. Simulations (2013–2021) for three representative arable crops in eastern Austria (winter wheat, spring barley, and maize) and seven different APV designs that only limited to the shading effect showed that maize and spring barley experienced the greatest annual above-ground biomass and grain yield reduction (up to 25%), with significant differences between the APV design and the weather conditions. While spring barley had similar decreases within the years, maize was characterized by high variability. Winter wheat had only up to a 10% reduction due to shading and a reduced photosynthetic performance. Cold/humid/cloudy weather during the growing season had more negative yield effects under APVs than dry/hot periods, particularly for summer crops such as maize. The lowest grain yield decline was achieved for all three crops in the APV design in which the modules were oriented to the east at a height of 5 m and mounted on trackers with an inclination of +/−50°. This scenario also resulted in the highest land equivalent ratios (LERs), with values above 1.06. The correct use of a tracker on APV fields is crucial for optimizing agricultural yields and electricity production.
Timing of Maternal Stress Differentially Affects Immune and Stress Phenotypes in Progeny
Authors: Reddout-Beam Cassidy , Hernandez Lily P. , Salak-Johnson Janeen L.
Published: October 2024

Maternal stress during gestation may affect the development and responsiveness of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis (HPA) and immune system in the progeny. Stressor type, duration and gestational stage at which the stressor occurs may all influence the short and long-term effects on the future progeny. The present study advances the characterization of the timing of gestational stress on the stress responsiveness and immune and behavioral phenotypes of the progeny. First, parity sows were hand-fed hydrocortisone acetate (stressed) or placebo (controls) during mid or late gestation. Colostrum and cord blood were collected. Blood samples were obtained from a subset of piglets (n = 36) born to these sows during lactation, pre- and post-weaning, and during an ACTH challenge. Stress and immune measures were assessed. Piglets born to sows stressed during mid-gestation had reduced measures of humoral immunity, including immunoglobulins and interleukin-4. Conversely, piglets born to late-stressed sows exhibited a delayed or dampened stress response to weaning and an ACTH challenge. They also had a skewed pro-inflammatory phenotype, as evidenced by increased interleukin-17 and tumor necrosis factor-α. Overall, these data suggest that the stage of gestation at which gestational stress occurs has differential effects on the HPA axis and immune development of the progeny, resulting in differential stress responsiveness and immune and behavioral phenotypes.
Transcriptional Rearrangements Associated with Thermal Stress and Preadaptation in Baikal Whitefish (Coregonus baicalensis)
Authors: Sapozhnikova Yulia P. , Koroleva Anastasiya G. , Sidorova Tuyana V. , Potapov Sergey A. , Epifantsev Alexander A. , Vakhteeva Evgenia A. , Tolstikova Lyubov I. , Glyzina Olga Yu. , Yakhnenko Vera M. , Cherezova Valeria M. , Sukhanova Lyubov V.
Published: October 2024

In this work, we describe the transcriptional profiles of preadapted and non-adapted one-month-old juvenile Baikal whitefish after heat shock exposure. Preadapted fish were exposed to a repeated thermal rise of 6 °C above the control temperature every three days throughout their embryonic development. One month after hatching, preadapted and non-adapted larvae were either kept at control temperatures (12 °C) or exposed to an acute thermal stress (TS) of 12 °C above the control temperature. In response to this acute stress, an increase in HSP gene expression (HSP-30, HSP-40, HSP-47, HSP-70, and HSP-90) and TRIM16 was detected, independent of preadaptation. The expression levels of genes responsible for the response to oxygen levels, growth factors and the immune response, HBA, HBB, Myosin VI, Myosin VII, MHC, Plumieribetin, TnI, CYP450, and LDB3 were higher in individuals that had previously undergone adaptation. Genes responsible for the regulation of metabolism, MtCK, aFGF, ARF, CRYGB, and D-DT, however, increased their activity in non-adapted individuals. This information on transcriptional profiles will contribute to further understanding of the mechanisms of adaptation of whitefish to their environment.
Roe Deer Reproduction in Western Poland: The Late Autumn Rut Phenomenon
Authors: Kamieniarz Robert , Szymański Michał , Woźna-Wysocka Magdalena , Jaśkowski Bartłomiej M. , Dyderski Marcin K. , Pers-Kamczyc Emilia , Skorupski Maciej
Published: October 2024

Roe deer (Capreolus capreolus L.) populations in Poland are characterized by low productivity, which is why their reproductive potential was investigated. The presence of corpora lutea (CL) on the ovaries of females hunted in autumn and winter in the years 2015 and 2016 was assessed. Most animals were post-rut and most often had multiple ovulations. However, in early autumn 2015, 60% of the females had no CL. Therefore, they did not participate in mating at the turn of July/August. Those that did ovulate were found to have one CL. In late autumn, 97% of the females were post-rut, mostly with twin ovulations. This confirmed the occurrence of a late autumn rut. This phenomenon had been suggested in studies but not confirmed. In contrast, almost 100% of roe deer ovulated in summer in 2016. It was hypothesized that the reason for the low mating activity of roe deer in the summer of 2015 was heat stress and limited food resources. The summer was exceptionally hot, with many days in July and August when temperatures exceeded 30 °C. The heat combined with low rainfall led to extreme drought. Meanwhile, July and August are the months of mating activity for roe deer. The late autumn rut allowed the roe deer—a monoestrous species—to limit the consequences of a decrease in mating activity or fertility during the hot summer. Global warming may affect roe deer reproduction, so climatic conditions should be considered in population studies, not only in terms of food availability.
In Vitro Susceptibility and Synergistic Effect of Bismuth Against Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Woo Jieun , Bang Chang Seok , Lee Jae Jun , Ahn Ji Yong , Kim Jung Mogg , Jung Hwoon-Yong , Gong Eun Jeong
Published: October 2024

Background/objectives: Bismuth is commonly used in Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication therapy. However, few studies have examined the in vitro susceptibility of H. pylori to bismuth. Moreover, the exact mechanism of action of bismuth on H. pylori remains unclear. The aim of this study was to identify the anti-bacterial effect of bismuth as well as to evaluate potential synergistic effects between bismuth and various antibiotics. Methods: The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of three bismuth preparations, bismuth subsalicylate, bismuth potassium citrate, and colloidal bismuth subcitrate (CBS, De-Nol) were determined for H. pylori strains using the agar dilution technique. Agar plates of varying pH values from 5.0 to 8.0 were used to investigate whether acidity influences the anti-bacterial effect of bismuth. A checkerboard assay was performed to assess the synergism between CBS and antibiotics (amoxicillin, clarithromycin, and metronidazole). Results: Twelve H. pylori strains, including three reference strains (H. pylori 26695, J99, and ATCC 43504), and nine clinically isolated strains were tested. The MICs for bismuth subsalicylate, bismuth potassium citrate, and CBS ranged from 4 to 32 μg/mL, 2 to 16 μg/mL, and 1 to 8 μg/mL, respectively. The bismuth MICs for the reference strains were similar at pH 5–8. In the checkerboard assay, no interactions between CBS and any of the antibiotics were observed in the reference H. pylori strains. Conclusions: Bismuth showed in vitro susceptibility against H. pylori. The enhanced eradication efficacy of bismuth-containing regimens appears to be due to mechanisms other than direct synergy with antibiotics.
ZnO NPs Impair the Viability and Function of Porcine Granulosa Cells Through Autophagy Regulated by ROS Production
Authors: Wang Yifan , Lv Jing , Liu Guangyu , Yao Qichun , Wang Ziqi , Liu Ning , He Yutao , Il Dmitry , Tusupovich Jakupov Isatay , Jiang Zhongliang
Published: October 2024

The zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) is one of the most extensively utilized metal oxide nanoparticles in biomedicine, human food, cosmetics and livestock farming. However, growing evidence suggests that there is a potential risk for humans and animals because of the accumulation of ZnO NPs in cells, which leads to cell death through several different pathways. Nevertheless, the effects of ZnO NPs on porcine granulosa cells (PGCs) and how ZnO NPs regulate the follicular cells are unknown. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the role of ZnO NPs in the porcine ovary by using PGCs. Firstly, we identified the characterization of ZnO NPs used in this study and the results showed that the size of ZnO NPs was 29.0 nm. The results also demonstrated that ZnO NPs impaired cell viability and decreased steroid hormone secretion in PGCs. In addition, ZnO NPs induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, leading to oxidative stress of PGCs. Meanwhile, ZnO NPs also triggered autophagy in PGCs by increasing the ratio of LC3-II/LC3-I, along with the expression of SQSTM1 and ATG7. Finally, the results from N-acetylcysteine (NAC) addition suggested that ZnO NPs promoted autophagy through the enhancement of ROS production. In summary, this study demonstrates that ZnO NPs impair the viability and function of PGCs through autophagy, which is regulated by ROS production.
Ellagic Acid Reduces Cadmium Exposure-Induced Apoptosis in HT22 Cells via Inhibiting Oxidative Stress and Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Activating Nrf2/HO-1 Pathway
Authors: Liu Yue , Chen Chunhong , Hao Zhihui , Shen Jianzhong , Tang Shusheng , Dai Chongshan
Published: October 2024

Exposure to cadmium sulfate (CdSO4) can lead to neurotoxicity. Nevertheless, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon remain unclear, and effective treatment strategies are scarce. This study explored the protective effects of ellagic acid (EA), a natural polyphenolic compound, against CdSO4 exposure-induced neurotoxicity in HT22 cells and the underlying molecular mechanisms. Our findings demonstrated that exposure of HT22 cells to CdSO4 resulted in apoptosis, which was effectively reversed by EA in a dose-dependent manner. EA supplementation also decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial ROS production, reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and restored the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT). Additionally, EA supplementation at 5–20 μM significantly counteracted Cd-induced the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and the decrease of ATP and reduced the ratio of Bax/Bcl-2 and cleaved-caspase-3 protein expression. Furthermore, EA supplementation resulted in the upregulation of Nrf2 and HO-1 protein and mRNAs while simultaneously downregulating the phosphorylation of JNK and p38 proteins. The pharmacological inhibition of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) partially attenuated the activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway induced by CdSO4 and exacerbated its cytotoxic effects. In conclusion, our findings suggest that ethyl acetate (EA) supplementation offers protective effects against CdSO4-induced apoptosis in HT22 cells by inhibiting oxidative stress and activating the Nrf2 signaling pathway. Furthermore, the activation of the JNK pathway appears to play a protective role in CdSO4-induced apoptosis in HT22 cells.
Application of Photo-Induced Chirality in Covert Authentication
Authors: Borisenko Konstantin B. , Shanmugam Janaki , Luers Andrew , Ewart Paul , Williams Benjamin A. O. , Hewak Daniel W. , Hussain Rohanah , Jávorfi Tamás , Siligardi Giuliano , Kirkland Angus I.
Published: October 2024

A new technology to write and read covert information in authentication labels is described. This technology uses the phenomenon of photo-induced chirality in Ge2Sb2Te5 thin films to encode the left- or right-circular or linear polarization of the laser beam used to write the label. The written polarization can be revealed by a simple reading device, which is demonstrated to provide the same qualitative information as reading based on cyclotron circular dichroism spectroscopy and imaging. The suggested method, while based on existing manufacturing approaches, offers a balance between technological complexity for writing and simplicity for reading, and may be advantageous as a new authentication technology.
Parallel Continuum Delta: On the Performance Analysis of Flexible Quasi-Translational Robots
Authors: Altuzarra Oscar , Urizar Mónica , Hernández Alfonso , Amezua Enrique
Published: October 2024

In the field of rigid parallel manipulators, the Delta parallel robot is one of the most popular choices in the industry due to its ability to adapt to a wide range of applications, particularly pick-and-place tasks. In this paper, the authors present novel designs of Delta-type continuum parallel manipulators with flexible bars, solving both their direct and inverse kinematics, as well as obtaining the associated workspace. The continuum parallel manipulators, unlike conventional robots, incorporate certain flexible elements, such as slender rods that make up the kinematic chains of the Delta manipulators proposed in this work. As a consequence of the flexibility of these rods, a purely translational movement will not be generated, since it is necessary to analyze the zones of the workspace where a parasitic motion related to the inclination of the moving platform compromises the task devised. In addition, an experimental prototype of the Keops-Delta continuum manipulator has been built, and several experimental tests have been carried out to validate the proposed theoretical model.
Integrated Machine Learning and Region Growing Algorithms for Enhanced Concrete Crack Detection: A Novel Approach
Authors: Yao Wenxuan , Li Hui , Li Yanlin
Published: October 2024

In the field of construction engineering, the cracking of concrete structures is a common engineering problem, which has a great impact on the overall stability and service life of the engineered structure. During structural repair, crack detection is the most critical step. Automatic detection significantly reduces the engineering cost and human factor error compared with manual detection. However, due to the changeable environment of the project site and different image specifications, using a single algorithm makes it difficult to balance high efficiency and high accuracy. In this study, we designed a combined recognition method including the region growth algorithm and machine learning regression that can achieve a tradeoff between accuracy and efficiency. Firstly, the regression method learns the image features of the dataset and the specific region growth threshold, and the regression function is trained by using the open-source dataset to determine the region growth threshold using the characteristics of the images included in the tests. The region growth algorithm is used to expand the threshold from the seed points of the image to obtain the crack recognition results. The results show that this method improves the accuracy of SSIM by 7% compared with the traditional region growth algorithm, and does not significantly increase the computational cost, with an increase of 0.78 s per photo process. Compared with the deep learning method, the recognition accuracy of SSIM is decreased by 5.96%, but it takes less resources and has high efficiency.
Challenge-Based Learning and Scrum as Enablers of 4.0 Technologies in Engineering Education
Authors: Coelho Pablo A. , Casanello Federico , Leal Naudy , Brintrup Katherine , Angulo Luis , Sanhueza Ignacio , Flores Felipe , Reyes Juan , Forcael Eric
Published: October 2024

Incorporating Industry 4.0 technologies in higher education is crucial for preparing future engineers in a digitalized industrial environment. A challenge-based educational model and the agile Scrum methodology were implemented to move in this direction, combined with the use of Industry 4.0 technologies. New physical and virtual laboratories were enabled with Industry 4.0 hardware/software equipment. The engineering academic programs at the second-largest university in Chile were modified, and all the academic staff involved were trained. Based on conducting challenges that Industry 4.0 technologies can address, this study presents the results of implementing a new educational model and students’ response to freely adopting new technology, such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and collaborative robotics. The results showed a high rate of acceptance and use of 4.0 technologies by the students, so the proposed methodology could be extrapolated to other engineering programs worldwide.
The Potential for the Use of Hydrogen Storage in Energy Cooperatives
Authors: Sołtysik Maciej , Kozakiewicz Mariusz , Jasiński Jakub
Published: October 2024

According to the European Hydrogen Strategy, hydrogen will solve many of the problems with energy storage for balancing variable renewable energy sources (RES) supply and demand. At the same time, we can see increasing popularity of the so-called energy communities (e.g., cooperatives) which (i) enable groups of entities to invest in, manage, and benefit from shared RES energy infrastructure; (ii) are expected to increase the energy independence of local communities from large energy corporations and increase the share of RES. Analyses were conducted on 2000 randomly selected energy cooperatives and four energy cooperatives formed on the basis of actual data. The hypotheses assumed in the research and positively verified in this paper are as follows: (i) there is a relationship between hydrogen storage capacity and the power of RES, which allows an energy community to build energy independence; (ii) the type of RES generating source is meaningful when optimizing hydrogen storage capacity. The paper proves it is possible to build “island energy independence” at the local level using hydrogen storage and the efficiency of the power-to-power chain. The results presented are based on simulations carried out using a dedicated optimization model implemented by mixed integer programming. The authors’ next research projects will focus on optimizing capital expenditures and operating costs using the Levelized Cost of Electricity and Levelized Cost of Hydrogen methodologies.
Experimental Study of the Mechanical Properties of Mortar with Biobío Region Clam Shells Used as a Partial Replacement for Cement
Authors: Valin Fernández Meylí , Muñoz Toro Benjamín Sebastián , Merino Quilodrán Luis Enrique , Valin Rivera José Luis , Salas Salgado Alexis Fidel , Palacio Daniel A.
Published: October 2024

The use of seashells as a partial substitute for cement in construction not only offers an innovative solution for marine waste management but also contributes to reducing the carbon footprint of the cement industry, decreasing the CO2 emissions associated with cement production and promoting more sustainable construction practices. This study addresses the mechanical behavior of mortar specimens with partial cement replacement using crushed Biobío region clam shells, both calcined and uncalcined, at substitution rates of 5% and 10%. This approach allows the analysis of their effect on the mechanical strength and properties of the mortar, which has not been widely investigated in the Chilean context or with this particular species of shell. For the mechanical characterization of the specimens, tensile flexural tests and compressive tests were were conducted at ages of 3, 7, 14, and 28 days. The compressive strengths of the samples that incorporated calcined residue with partial cement replacements of 5% and 10% were 83.69% and 78.27%, respectively, of the average strength of 20.97 MPa reached by the standard sample. In terms of their tensile flexural strength, these samples reached average strengths of 104.31% and 104.04% of the strength of 12.12 MPa obtained by the standard sample. In the case of the uncalcined samples, the 5% and 10% replacements reached 103.55% and 102.64% of the tensile strength of 15.54 MPa obtained by the standard sample, while they reached 92.32% and 80.07% of the compressive strength of 27.81 MPa achieved by the standard sample. From these results, it is determined that the calcined shells did not improve the mechanical resistance of the mortar, suggesting that the calcination process must be studied in depth.