bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Imaging Study of Pseudo-CT Synthesized From Cone-Beam CT Based on 3D CycleGAN in Radiotherapy
Authors: Sun Hongfei , Fan Rongbo , Li Chunying , Lu Zhengda , Xie Kai , Ni Xinye , Yang Jianhua
Published: March 2021

Purpose

To propose a synthesis method of pseudo-CT (CTCycleGAN) images based on an improved 3D cycle generative adversarial network (CycleGAN) to solve the limitations of cone-beam CT (CBCT), which cannot be directly applied to the correction of radiotherapy plans.

Methods

The improved U-Net with residual connection and attention gates was used as the generator, and the discriminator was a full convolutional neural network (FCN). The imaging quality of pseudo-CT images is improved by adding a 3D gradient loss function. Fivefold cross-validation was performed to validate our model. Each pseudo CT generated is compared against the real CT image (ground truth CT, CTgt) of the same patient based on mean absolute error (MAE) and structural similarity index (SSIM). The dice similarity coefficient (DSC) coefficient was used to evaluate the segmentation results of pseudo CT and real CT. 3D CycleGAN performance was compared to 2D CycleGAN based on normalized mutual information (NMI) and peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) metrics between the pseudo-CT and CTgt images. The dosimetric accuracy of pseudo-CT images was evaluated by gamma analysis.

Results

The MAE metric values between the CTCycleGAN and the real CT in fivefold cross-validation are 52.03 ± 4.26HU, 50.69 ± 5.25HU, 52.48 ± 4.42HU, 51.27 ± 4.56HU, and 51.65 ± 3.97HU, respectively, and the SSIM values are 0.87 ± 0.02, 0.86 ± 0.03, 0.85 ± 0.02, 0.85 ± 0.03, and 0.87 ± 0.03 respectively. The DSC values of the segmentation of bladder, cervix, rectum, and bone between CTCycleGAN and real CT images are 91.58 ± 0.45, 88.14 ± 1.26, 87.23 ± 2.01, and 92.59 ± 0.33, respectively. Compared with 2D CycleGAN, the 3D CycleGAN based pseudo-CT image is closer to the real image, with NMI values of 0.90 ± 0.01 and PSNR values of 30.70 ± 0.78. The gamma pass rate of the dose distribution between CTCycleGAN and CTgt is 97.0% (2%/2 mm).

Conclusion

The pseudo-CT images obtained based on the improved 3D CycleGAN have more accurate electronic density and anatomical structure.
Steroid Hormone Receptors: Links With Cell Cycle Machinery and Breast Cancer Progression
Authors: Saha Suryendu , Dey Samya , Nath Somsubhra
Published: March 2021

Progression of cells through cell cycle consists of a series of events orchestrated in a regulated fashion. Such processes are influenced by cell cycle regulated expression of various proteins where multiple families of transcription factors take integral parts. Among these, the steroid hormone receptors (SHRs) represent a connection between the external hormone milieu and genes that control cellular proliferation. Therefore, understanding the molecular connection between the transcriptional role of steroid hormone receptors and cell cycle deserves importance in dissecting cellular proliferation in normal as well as malignant conditions. Deregulation of cell cycle promotes malignancies of various origins, including breast cancer. Indeed, SHR members play crucial role in breast cancer progression as well as management. This review focuses on SHR-driven cell cycle regulation and moving forward, attempts to discuss the role of SHR-driven crosstalk between cell cycle anomalies and breast cancer.
Visceral Obesity, Metabolic Syndrome, and Esophageal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Elliott Jessie A. , Reynolds John V.
Published: March 2021

Esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) represents an exemplar of obesity-associated carcinogenesis, with a progressive increase in EAC risk with increased body mass index. In this context, there is increased focus on visceral adipose tissue and associated metabolic dysfunction, including hypertension, diabetes mellitus and hyperlipidemia, or combinations of these in the metabolic syndrome. Visceral obesity (VO) may promote EAC via both directly impacting on gastro-esophageal reflux disease and Barrett's esophagus, as well as via reflux-independent effects, involving adipokines, growth factors, insulin resistance, and the microbiome. In this review these pathways are explored, including the impact of VO on the tumor microenvironment, and on cancer outcomes. The current evidence-based literature regarding the role of dietary, lifestyle, pharmacologic and surgical interventions to modulate the risk of EAC is explored.
Intratumoral Injection of Anlotinib Hydrogel Combined With Radiotherapy Reduces Hypoxia in Lewis Lung Carcinoma Xenografts: Assessment by Micro Fluorine-18-fluoromisonidazole Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography Hypoxia Imaging
Authors: Gao Qin , Jiang YiQing , Li XiaoJie , Chen Hui , Tang Shan , Chen Han , Shi XiangXiang , Chen Yue , Fu ShaoZhi , Lin Sheng
Published: March 2021

Hypoxia is a common feature of solid tumors that increases tumor invasiveness and resistance to radiotherapy (RT) and chemotherapy. Local application of anlotinib (AL) might increase the regulation of new blood vessel growth and improve tumor hypoxia in RT. Therefore, it is essential to fully understand the drug delivery system of AL. Herein, we applied hypoxia imaging using micro fluorine-18-fluoromisonidazole positron emission tomography/computed tomography (micro 18F-FMISO PET/CT) to assess responses to intratumoral injections of an AL hydrogel (AL-HA-Tyr) combined with RT in mice bearing Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC). We formed AL-HA-Tyr by encapsulating AL with hyaluronic acid-tyramine (HA-Tyr) conjugates via the oxidative coupling of tyramine moieties catalyzed by H2O2 and horseradish peroxidase. AL-HA-Tyr restrained the proliferation of human umbilical endothelial cells (HUVECs) in colony formation assays in vitro (p < 0.001). We established a subcutaneous LLC xenograft model using C57BL/6J mice that were randomly assigned to six groups that were treated with AL, HA-Tyr, AL-HA-Tyr, RT, and RT+AL-HA-Tyr, or untreated (controls). Tumor volume and weight were dynamically measured. Post treatment changes in hypoxia were assessed in some mice using micro 18F-FMISO PET/CT, and survival was assessed in others. We histopathologically examined toxicity in visceral tissues and Ki-67, VEGF-A, γ-H2AX, and HIF-1α expression using immunohistochemistry. Direct intratumoral injections of AL-HA-Tyr exerted anti-tumor effects and improved hypoxia like orally administered AL (p > 0.05), but reduced visceral toxicity and prolonged survival. The uptake of 18F-FMISO did not significantly differ among the AL, AL-HA-Tyr, and RT+AL-HA-Tyr treated groups. Compared with the other agents, RT+AL-HA-Tyr decreased HIF-1α, Ki67, and VEGF-A expression, and increased γ-H2AX levels in tumor cells. Overall, compared with AL and AL-HA-Tyr, RT+AL-HA-Tyr improved tumor hypoxia, enhanced anti-tumor effects, and prolonged the survival of mice bearing LLC.
Defining the Optimal Method for Measuring Metabolic Tumor Volume on Preoperative 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose-Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography as a Prognostic Predictor in Patients With Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Tatewaki Yasuko , Terao Chiaki Maeda , Ariake Kyohei , Saito Ryoko , Mutoh Tatsushi , Shimomura Hideo , Motoi Fuyuhiko , Mizuma Masamichi , Odagiri Hayato , Unno Michiaki , Taki Yasuyuki
Published: March 2021

Objectives

Metabolic tumor volume (MTV) on 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT) is a promising prognostic predictor in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). However, the optimal segmentation method and threshold value to determine MTV for PDAC are still unclear. We explored the optimal method and threshold value for the prognostic value of MTV measured on pre-treatment 18F-FDG-PET/CT.

Methods

Seventy-three patients with resected PDAC who underwent 18F FDG-PET/CT before surgical resection were enrolled. MTV values of the tumor were measured on FDG-PET/CT by the two fixed-threshold methods using threshold values as 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, and 3.5 for the absolute method and 35%, 40%, 42%, 45%, and 50% for the relative method. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis for prediction of 1-year survival rates was conducted for determining the optimal threshold values, and we selected the optimal method and threshold value considering area under the curve. The prognostic values of each FDG-PET/CT parameter for disease-specific survival and recurrence-free survival were assessed with Kaplan–Meier method and Cox proportional hazard models.

Results

In receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, MTV by the fixed-absolute threshold method based on a threshold value of 3.5 (MTV3.5) performed best in our study with area under the curve 0.724, sensitivity of 65%, and specificity of 75%. In univariate and multivariate analyses, MTV3.5 was significantly associated with disease-specific and recurrence-free survival.

Conclusions

MTV3.5 by absolute threshold on pre-treatment FDG-PET/CT was the best independent prognostic predictor in resectable PDAC compared with other absolute threshold values and relative threshold values.
Effects of Sodium-Glucose Co-transporter 2 Inhibitors on Hemoglobin Levels: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Qu Wei , Yao Li , Liu Xiaodan , Xu Tianhua , Tian Binyao
Published: March 2021

Background: This study aimed to explore the effects of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) on hemoglobin levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and chronic kidney disease.

Methods: PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, the China National Knowledge Infrastructure database, Wanfang Digital Periodicals Database (WFDP) and the Chinese Biological and Medical database (CBM) were searched for randomized trials of SGLT2 inhibitors in patients with T2DM and chronic kidney disease up to July 25, 2020. A total of four studies that included 19,259 patients were identified.

Results: Compared to control patients, SGLT2 inhibitors were shown to increase hemoglobin levels in patients with T2DM and chronic kidney disease (standard mean difference = 0.70, 95% CI, 0.59–0.82, p < 0.0001).

Conclusion: SGLT2 inhibitors may bring additional benefits to patients with T2DM and chronic kidney disease.
The Arabidopsis SMALL AUXIN UP RNA32 Protein Regulates ABA-Mediated Responses to Drought Stress
Authors: He Yanjun , Liu Yue , Li Mengzhuo , Lamin-Samu Anthony Tumbeh , Yang Dandan , Yu Xiaolin , Izhar Muhammad , Jan Ibadullah , Ali Muhammad , Lu Gang
Published: March 2021

SMALL AUXIN UP-REGULATED RNAs (SAURs) are recognized as auxin-responsive genes involved in the regulation of abiotic stress adaptive growth. Among the growth-limiting factors, water-deficit condition significantly affects plant growth and development. The putative function of SAUR family member AtSAUR32 has the potential to diminish the negative impact of drought stress, but the exact function and mode of action remain unclear in Arabidopsis. In the current study, AtSAUR32 gene was cloned and functionally analyzed. AtSAUR32 localized to the plasma membrane and nucleus was dominantly expressed in roots and highly induced by abscisic acid and drought treatment at certain time points. The stomatal closure and seed germination of saur32 were less sensitive to ABA relative to AtSAUR32-overexpressed line (OE32-5) and wild type (WT). Moreover, the saur32 mutant under drought stress showed increased ion leakage while quantum yield of photosystem II (ΦPSII) and endogenous ABA accumulation were reduced, along with the expression pattern of ABA/stress-responsive genes compared with WT and the OE32-5 transgenic line. Additionally, yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) and bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) assays showed that AtSAUR32 interacted with clade-A PP2C proteins (AtHAI1 and AtAIP1) to regulate ABA sensitivity in Arabidopsis. Taken together, these results indicate that AtSAUR32 plays an important role in drought stress adaptation via mediating ABA signal transduction.
New Insights Into the Biology of Protein O-GlcNAcylation: Approaches and Observations
Authors: Mueller Toni , Ouyang Xiaosen , Johnson Michelle S. , Qian Wei-Jun , Chatham John C. , Darley-Usmar Victor , Zhang Jianhua
Published: March 2021

O-GlcNAcylation is a protein posttranslational modification that results in the addition of O-GlcNAc to Ser/Thr residues. Since its discovery in the 1980s, it has been shown to play an important role in a broad range of cellular functions by modifying nuclear, cytosolic, and mitochondrial proteins. The addition of O-GlcNAc is catalyzed by O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT), and its removal is catalyzed by O-GlcNAcase (OGA). Levels of protein O-GlcNAcylation change in response to nutrient availability and metabolic, oxidative, and proteotoxic stress. OGT and OGA levels, activity, and target engagement are also regulated. Together, this results in adaptive and, on occasions, detrimental responses that affect cellular function and survival, which impact a broad range of pathologies and aging. Over the past several decades, approaches and tools to aid the investigation of the regulation and consequences of protein O-GlcNAcylation have been developed and enhanced. This review is divided into two sections: 1) We will first focus on current standard and advanced technical approaches for assessing enzymatic activities of OGT and OGT, assessing the global and specific protein O-GlcNAcylation and 2) we will summarize in vivo findings of functional consequences of changing protein O-GlcNAcylation, using genetic and pharmacological approaches.
Tooth Loss Condition and Social Discrimination in Brazilian Healthcare Services
Authors: Bulgarelli Alexandre F. , dos Santos Camila M. , Rech Rafaela S. , Baumgarten Alexandre , Goulart Bárbara N.
Published: March 2021

Objective: To explore factors associated with social discrimination against users of health services regarding dental aesthetic conditions.

Methods: Based on a Brazilian National Survey, multivariate Poisson regressions with robust variance were used to explore the association of outcome discrimination related to different motivations in health services and exposure to sociodemographic and dental variables. Effect modification by complete prosthesis wearing was assessed.

Results: Among the 60,200 people interviewed, 11.5% reported being discriminated against in health services. For women, a higher prevalence of discrimination was found among those in the age group of 30–44 years. For both sexes, discrimination was associated with black and brown skin color. Regarding dental characteristics, the higher the tooth loss was, the higher the prevalence of discrimination; however, complete prosthesis wearing presented as a protective factor. Social discrimination was the major motivation for reported discrimination and presented higher prevalence in edentulous individuals who did not wear prosthesis.

Conclusion: Dental loss may lead to self-reported discrimination in health care services. The prevalence of discrimination increases when tooth loss increases, and the major reason associated is social discrimination.
Soybean Nutrition in a Novel Single-Nutrient Source Hydroponic Solution
Authors: Cole David L. , Kobza Savannah J. , Fahning Savannah R. , Stapley Samuel H. , Bonsrah Dicken K. A. , Buck Rachel L. , Hopkins Bryan G.
Published: March 2021

Hydroponic systems are efficient for studying plant nutrition. It is often desirable to adjust individual nutrients for unique species’ needs and/or to create multiple nutrient deficiencies within the same study. However, this is challenging to do with traditional solutions as nutrients are generally added as dual nutrient salts, such as when varying phosphorus (P) concentration also affects nitrogen concentration; potentially, the chemical form of the nutrient taken up when ammonium phosphate is the source for P. This can create unintended consequences with nutrients other than those intended for adjustment. A new hydroponic system has been created to allow for nutrient deficiencies using single-nutrient sources, including ammonium nitrate; phosphoric, sulfuric, hydrochloric, and boric acids; potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and copper carbonates; manganese acetate; sodium molybdate; iron EDDHA; with HEDTA as an additional chelate. This nutrient solution was compared to a traditional “Hoagland” hydroponic solution to grow soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr). Additional treatments included alteration of pH in the new solution as well as evaluating varying levels of calcium, magnesium, and manganese. This new solution proved effective, as soybean was grown to maturity and performed as well as the traditional Hoagland solution. Adjusting pH downward with hydrochloric acid resulted in healthy plants, but solution pH was not adequately buffered. Adjusting pH with acetic acid resulted in toxicity. Further work is required to provide better pH buffering and approximately align tissue nutrient concentrations with field-grown soybean.
Thermomagnesium: A By-Product of Ni Ore Mining as a Clean Fertilizer Source for Maize
Authors: Bossolani João William , Moretti Luiz Gustavo , Portugal José Roberto , Rossi Ricardo , Crusciol Carlos Alexandre Costa
Published: March 2021

This study explores whether Thermomagnesium (TM), a by-product of Ni ore mining, is an efficient fertilizer for maize. The effects of TM on soil pH, the supply of Si and Mg to the soil and plants, carbohydrate metabolism, grain filling, and yield were assessed in two simultaneous experiments performed in greenhouse conditions. Five TM doses were applied to two soil textures—clayey (0, 55, 273, 709, and 2018 mg kg−1) and sandy (0, 293, 410, 645, and 1260 mg kg−1). In general, the best results in soil and maize plants occurred at the highest TM dose for both soil textures (clayey 2018 mg kg−1 and sandy 1260 mg kg−1). The results demonstrated that in both soils, the concentrations of Mg and Si in the maize leaves increased with the dose of TM, similarly to that which occurred in the soil. Interestingly, in clayey soil, the soil pH increased linearly, whereas in sandy soil, the pH reached its maximum value between the two largest TM doses. The concentration of reducing sugars increased at the highest TM dose, whereas the concentrations of sucrose and starch decreased. The enhancement of carbohydrate partitioning led to higher maize growth, grain filling, and yield. Overall, the results clearly demonstrate that TM is a sustainable alternative fertilizer for maize and can be used for countless other crops and soil classifications, thus providing a suitable destination for this by-product of Ni ore mining.
Impact of 2 Versus 1 Colostrum Meals on Failure of Transfer of Passive Immunity, Pre-Weaning Morbidity and Mortality, and Performance of Dairy Calves in a Large Dairy Herd
Authors: Abuelo Angel , Cullens Faith , Hanes Amanda , Brester Jill L.
Published: March 2021

Failure of transfer of passive immunity (FTPI) due to inadequate ingestion of colostral immunoglobulins by calves is associated with increased mortality and morbidity risks. Feeding calves a sufficient amount of quality-tested colostrum within the first hours of life is essential for successfully transferring passive immunity. Many farms have implemented a second meal of colostrum to maximize the opportunities for passive immunity transfer. However, excellent passive immunity can be achieved with a single feeding of sufficient quality-tested colostrum. Moreover, there is currently no evidence demonstrating the impact of a second colostrum feeding within 24 h of life in calves receiving adequate volumes of quality-tested colostrum in an initial feeding. Hence, the objective of this retrospective cohort study was to compare the risks of FPTI, pre-weaning morbidity and mortality, and growth and performance between dairy calves that received one or two feedings of colostrum. For this, the health and production records of a large dairy herd were analyzed. At this farm, newborn calves receive 3 L of quality-tested colostrum soon after birth, followed by another 2 L 5–6 h later. However, at times of shortages of colostrum, calves only receive the initial 3 L meal. The records of 2064 male and 2272 female calves were analyzed, where 4156 and 180 calves received 2 and 1 colostrum meals, respectively. Data from both sexes were included in the analysis of the risks of FTPI, morbidity, and mortality; however, only data from heifer calves were utilized for growth and performance analysis. Survival analysis, and logistic and linear regression models were used to investigate the impact of receiving two feedings of colostrum on calf FTPI status, morbidity, mortality, reproductive indices, pre-weaning average daily gain (ADG), and first lactation 305-d Mature Equivalent milk production (305ME). Calves that received two feedings of colostrum had lower odds of FTPI, a lower probability of being treated for respiratory disease, diarrhea, or any disease, and a greater pre-weaning ADG. However, there was no association between the number of colostrum feedings and pre-weaning mortality, and the probabilities of first insemination and first calving, although heifers receiving two colostrum feedings tended to receive fewer inseminations and to have a greater first lactation 305ME. Collectively, our results suggest that feeding calves a second feeding of colostrum 5–6 h after the initial feeding soon after birth could be an effective strategy to decrease FTPI and morbidity and optimize ADG in dairy calves pre-weaning.
Housing, Husbandry and Welfare of a “Classic” Fish Model, the Paradise Fish (Macropodus opercularis)
Authors: Rácz Anita , Adorján Gábor , Fodor Erika , Sellyei Boglárka , Tolba Mohammed , Miklósi Ádám , Varga Máté
Published: March 2021

Thanks to its small size, external fertilization and fecundity, over the past four decades, zebrafish (Danio rerio) has become the dominant fish model species in biological and biomedical research. Multiple lines of evidence, however, suggest that the reliance on only a handful of genetic model organisms is problematic, as their unique evolutionary histories makes them less than ideal to study biological questions unrelated to their historically contingent adaptations. Therefore, a need has emerged to develop novel model species, better suited for studying particular problems. The paradise fish (Macropodus opercularis) has a much more complex behavioral repertoire than zebrafish and has been a favored model animal in ethological research during the last decades of the previous century. We believe that with currently available, easily adaptable genetic toolkits, this species could be easily developed into a popular model of behavioral genetics. Despite its earlier popularity, however, the description of a detailed housing and husbandry protocol for this species is still missing from scientific literature. We present here a detailed description of how to raise and breed paradise fish successfully under laboratory conditions, and also discuss some of the challenges we faced while creating a stable breeding population for this species in our facility.
Short-Term Variations of C18:1 Trans Fatty Acids in Plasma Lipoproteins and Ruminal Fermentation Parameters of Non-Lactating Cows Subjected to Ruminal Pulses of Oils
Authors: Vargas-Bello-Pérez Einar , Loor Juan J. , Garnsworthy Philip C.
Published: March 2021

The objective of this study was to evaluate short-term variations of trans fatty acids (TFA) in plasma lipoproteins and ruminal fermentation parameters of non-lactating cows subjected to ruminal pulses of vegetable oils. Three non-lactating, non-pregnant Holstein cows, each with a ruminal cannula, were arranged in a 3 × 3 Latin square design with three-day pulsing periods and four-day washout intervals between treatments. Cows were treated with single ruminal pulses of: (1) control (skimmed milk (SM); 500 mL); (2) soybean oil (SO; 250 g/d in 500 mL of SM) and (3) partially-hydrogenated vegetable oil (PHVO; 250 g/d in 500 mL of SM). Time changes after infusion in TFA contents were only observed for plasma C18:1 trans-4, trans-5 and trans-12, and high-density lipoprotein fraction C18:1 trans-9. After ruminal pulses, concentration of acetate decreased linearly; molar concentrations of propionate and valerate increased linearly; molar concentrations of butyrate and isovalerate changed quadratically and were greater at 1 h than at other times. There was an accumulation of several C18:1 TFA in plasma and lipoproteins, especially on the third day of pulsing. Overall, naturally occurring C18:1 TFA isomers (produced during ruminal biohydrogenation of SO) and preformed TFA (supplied by PHVO) elicited differential TFA partitioning and transport in plasma and lipoproteins.
Risk and Mitigation of African Swine Fever Virus in Feed
Authors: Niederwerder Megan
Published: March 2021

Since the 2013 introduction of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus into the United States (U.S.), feed and feed ingredients have been recognized as potential routes for the introduction and transmission of foreign animal diseases of swine. Feed ingredients for swine diets are commodities traded worldwide, and the U.S. imports thousands of metric tons of feed ingredients each year from countries with circulating foreign animal diseases. African swine fever (ASF) is the most significant foreign animal disease threat to U.S. swine production, and the recent introduction of ASF into historically negative countries has heightened the risk for further spread. Laboratory investigations have characterized the stability of the ASF virus (ASFV) in feed ingredients subjected to transoceanic shipment conditions, ASFV transmissibility through the natural consumption of plant-based feed, and the mitigation potential of certain feed additives to inactivate ASFV in feed. This review describes the current knowledge of feed as a risk for swine viruses and the opportunities for mitigating the risk to protect U.S. pork production and the global swine population from ASF and other foreign animal diseases.
The Use of Platelet-Rich Plasma for Treatment of Tenodesmic Lesions in Horses: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical and Experimental Data
Authors: Montano Chiara , Auletta Luigi , Greco Adelaide , Costanza Dario , Coluccia Pierpaolo , Del Prete Chiara , Meomartino Leonardo , Pasolini Maria Pia
Published: March 2021

The use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to enhance tenodesmic lesion healing has been questioned over the years. The aim of this study was to evaluate current literature to establish the effectiveness of PRP for treating tenodesmic lesions through a systematic review, in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines, and a meta-analysis. Studies comparing PRP with placebo or other treatments for horses with tenodesmic injuries or evaluated PRP effect on tendon and ligament explants were included. Outcomes were clinical, ultrasound, histologic, molecular evaluation, and adverse effects. Two authors independently extracted data and assessed each study’s risk of bias. Treatment effects were evaluated using risk ratios for dichotomous data, together with 95% CI. Data were pooled using the random-effects model. The quality of the evidence for each outcome was assessed using GRADE criteria. Twenty-four trials met inclusion criteria for systematic review, while fifteen studies were included in the meta-analysis. Results showed no significant differences in the outcomes between PRP and control groups. Finally, there is no definitive evidence that PRP enhances tendons and ligaments healing. Therefore, there is a need for more controlled trials to draw a firmer conclusion about the efficacy of PRP as a treatment for tenodesmic lesions in the horse.
Interacting Proteins, Polymorphisms and the Susceptibility of Animals to SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Hancock John T. , Rouse Ros C. , Stone Emma , Greenhough Alexander
Published: March 2021

COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, is a world-wide problem for the human population. It is known that some animal species, such as mink, can become infected and transmit the virus. However, the susceptibility of most animals is not known. Here, we review the use of sequence analysis of the proteins which are known to interact with SARS-CoV-2 as a way to estimate an animal’s susceptibility. Although most such work concentrates on the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor (ACE2), here TMPRSS2 (Transmembrane Serine Protease 2), neuropilin-1 and furin are also considered. Polymorphisms, especially ones which are known to alter viral/host interactions are also discussed. Analysis of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 protein sequences across species suggests this approach may be of some utility in predicting susceptibility; however, this analysis fails to highlight some susceptible animals such as mink. However, combined with observational data which emerges over time about which animals actually become infected, this may, in the future, be a useful tool to assist the management of risks associated with human/animal contact and support conservation and animal welfare measures.
gbt-HIPS: Explaining the Classifications of Gradient Boosted Tree Ensembles
Authors: Hatwell Julian , Gaber Mohamed Medhat , Azad R. Muhammad Atif
Published: March 2021

This research presents Gradient Boosted Tree High Importance Path Snippets (gbt-HIPS), a novel, heuristic method for explaining gradient boosted tree (GBT) classification models by extracting a single classification rule (CR) from the ensemble of decision trees that make up the GBT model. This CR contains the most statistically important boundary values of the input space as antecedent terms. The CR represents a hyper-rectangle of the input space inside which the GBT model is, very reliably, classifying all instances with the same class label as the explanandum instance. In a benchmark test using nine data sets and five competing state-of-the-art methods, gbt-HIPS offered the best trade-off between coverage (0.16–0.75) and precision (0.85–0.98). Unlike competing methods, gbt-HIPS is also demonstrably guarded against under- and over-fitting. A further distinguishing feature of our method is that, unlike much prior work, our explanations also provide counterfactual detail in accordance with widely accepted recommendations for what makes a good explanation.
Holographic Interferometry for Measuring the Effect of Thermal Modification on Wood Thermal Properties
Authors: Hortobágyi Áron , Pivarčiová Elena , Koleda Pavol
Published: March 2021

The paper focuses on the use of holographic interferometry in the research of thermal modification and its effect on the heat transfer from the wood surface to the surrounding air. In the experiment, spruce wood samples modified at 160 °C, 180 °C, 200 °C, 220 °C and an unmodified control sample were used. A radiant heat source was placed under the sample. The top of the sample represented the boundary where the observed heat transfer occurred. The temperature fields above the sample were visualized by real-time holographic interferometry and the heat transfer coefficient α was calculated from the obtained interferograms. During the heating of the samples, a decrease of the heat transfer coefficient was observed. The heat transfer coefficient of the control unmodified sample decreased from a maximum of α = 22.66 Wm–2K–1 to a minimum of α = 8.6 Wm–2K–1. In comparison with these values, the heat transfer coefficients of the modified samples treated at 160, 180, 200 and 220 °C, respectively, decreased to 99%, 93%, 68% and 51% of the maximal control value at the beginning of experiment and to 95%, 86%, 80% and 64% of the minimal control value by the end of the experiment. Moreover, an analysis of variance was used to determine the significance of the heat treatment effect on the heat transfer coefficient. A high significance (p < 5%) was observed between the control sample and the modified samples treated at 200 °C and 220 °C. Experiments with the use of holographic interferometry produced results consistent with previous studies conducted by different methods.
Bayes Conditional Probability of Fuzzy Damage and Technical Wear of Residential Buildings
Authors: Konior Jarosław , Stachoń Tomasz
Published: March 2021

The purpose of the research presented in the article is to identify the impact of the processes associated with the broadly understood maintenance of old residential buildings with a traditional construction on the size and intensity of the wear of their elements. The goal was achieved by analyzing the symptoms of the technical wear process, which involved the understanding of the mechanism of the occurrence of the phenomenon of damage, and the identification of the size and intensity of the damage to the elements of the evaluated buildings. The consequence of systematizing the most important processes that influence the loss of functional properties of residential buildings was the creation of the authors’ own qualitative model and its transformation into a quantitative model. This, in turn, enabled a multi-criteria quantitative analysis of the cause and effect phenomena—“damage-technical wear”—of the most important elements of downtown tenement buildings to be carried out in fuzzy conditions, i.e., uncertainty concerning the occurrence of damage and the wear process. The following key question was answered in the subjective expert assessment of the technical condition of an evaluated residential building: what is the probability of the wear of an element, which may be more or less correlated with its average maintenance conditions, or more simply, what is the probability that the element is more or less (approximately) worn? It has been proven that the conditional probability of the technical wear of an element in relation to its damage increases with the deterioration of the maintenance conditions of the building, and this increase is very regular, even in the case of different building elements. This probability is characterized by a low standard deviation and a narrow range of the dispersion of results in the case of various elements with regards to each of the considered building maintenance conditions.
State Estimation of Over-Sensored Systems Applied to a Low-Cost Robotic Manipulator
Authors: Moreira João , Pinto Vítor H. , Gonçalves José , Costa Paulo
Published: March 2021

There is an increasing demand for robotic manipulators to perform more complex and versatile tasks. In order to fulfill this need, expeditious calibration and estimation techniques are required as a first step for the correct usage of the manipulator. This article aims at finding a subset of these algorithms that could be used in a generic manipulator and should allow for its prompt use. Two models for the representation of the pose of the manipulator are described and used in the state estimation problem. The results of the implementation are tested, and some performance metrics are obtained.
Experimental Study on Delaying the Failure Time of In-Service Cables in Trays by Using Fire-Retardant Coatings
Authors: Jiang Feng , Liu Jianyong , Yuan Wei , Yan Jianbo , Wang Lin , Liang Dong
Published: March 2021

Improving the fire resistance of the key cables connected to firefighting and safety equipment is of great importance. Based on the engineering practice of an oil storage company, this study proposes a modification scheme that entails spraying fire-retardant coatings on the outer surface of a cable tray to delay the failure times of the cables in the tray. To verify the effect, 12 specimens were processed using five kinds of fire-retardant coatings and two kinds of fire-resistant cotton to coat the cable tray. The specimens were installed in the vertical fire resistance test furnace. For the ISO 834 standard fire condition, a fire resistance test was carried out on the specimens. The data for the surface temperature and the insulation resistance of the cables in trays were collected, and the fireproof effect was analyzed. The results showed that compared with the control group, the failure time of the cable could be delayed by 1.57–14.86 times, and the thicker the fire-retardant coatings were, the better the fireproof effect was. In general, the fire protection effect of the fire-retardant coating was better than that of the fire-resistant cotton.
Single-Shot Phase Measuring Profilometry Based on Quaternary Grating Projection
Authors: Yang Chaozhi , Cao Yiping , Huang Xiuzhang
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we propose a new single-shot three-dimensional (3D) measuring method based on quaternary grating projection. In traditional binary grating phase measuring profilometry (PMP), a multi-step or color fringe pattern are usually used to extract the sinusoidal fringes. In our proposed method, by using the DLP4500’s 2-bit gray coding mode, the grayscale is quaternary. The three non-zero grayscales cyclically arranged in equal width, and the fourth grey value is 0 which is not encoded in the fringe pattern but represents the shadow information in the deformed pattern, where a quaternary grating is encoded. When the DLP4500 projects the quaternary grating onto the measured object, the charge coupled device (CCD) captures the corresponding deformed pattern synchronously. Three frames of binary deformed patterns with 1/3 duty cycle and a relative displacement of 1/3 period can be decomposed by the segmentation algorithm proposed in this paper. Three sinusoidal deformed patterns with a 2π/3 shift-phase can be obtained by extracting the fundamental frequency of the three binary deformed patterns correspondingly, and the 3D shape of the object can be reconstructed by PMP. Experimental results show the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed method. Because the DLP4500 only needs 2-bit coded grating for projection, the refresh rate of the projected grating is as high as 1428 Hz, which will have a broad application prospect in real time and fast online measurement.
Pigment and Fatty Acid Production under Different Light Qualities in the Diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum
Authors: Duarte Bernardo , Feijão Eduardo , Goessling Johannes W. , Caçador Isabel , Matos Ana Rita
Published: March 2021

Diatoms are microscopic biorefineries producing value-added molecules, including unique pigments, triglycerides (TAGs) and long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs), with potential implications in aquaculture feeding and the food or biofuel industries. These molecules are utilized in vivo for energy harvesting from sunlight to drive photosynthesis and as photosynthetic storage products, respectively. In the present paper, we evaluate the effect of narrow-band spectral illumination on carotenoid, LC-PUFAs and TAG contents in the model diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum. Shorter wavelengths in the blue spectral range resulted in higher production of total fatty acids, namely saturated TAGs. Longer wavelengths in the red spectral range increased the cell’s content in Hexadecatrienoic acid (HTA) and Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Red wavelengths induced higher production of photoprotective carotenoids, namely fucoxanthin. In combination, the results demonstrate how diatom value-added molecule production can be modulated by spectral light control during the growth. How diatoms could use such mechanisms to regulate efficient light absorption and cell buoyancy in the open ocean is discussed.
Numerical Simulation of EPB Shield Tunnelling with TBM Operational Condition Control Using Coupled DEM–FDM
Authors: Lee Hyobum , Choi Hangseok , Choi Soon-Wook , Chang Soo-Ho , Kang Tae-Ho , Lee Chulho
Published: March 2021

This study demonstrates a three-dimensional numerical simulation of earth pressure balance (EPB) shield tunnelling using a coupled discrete element method (DEM) and a finite difference method (FDM). The analysis adopted the actual size of a spoke-type EPB shield tunnel boring machine (TBM) consisting of a cutter head with cutting tools, working chamber, screw conveyor, and shield. For the coupled model to reproduce the in situ ground condition, the ground formation was generated partially using the DEM (for the limited domain influenced by excavation), with the rest of the domain being composed of FDM grids. In the DEM domain, contact parameters of particles were calibrated via a series of large-scale triaxial test analyses. The model simulated tunnelling as the TBM operational conditions were controlled. The penetration rate and the rotational speed of the screw conveyor were automatically adjusted as the TBM advanced to prevent the generation of excessive or insufficient torque, thrust force, or chamber pressure. Accordingly, these parameters were maintained consistently around their set operational ranges during excavation. The simulation results show that the proposed numerical model based on DEM–FDM coupling could reasonably simulate EPB driving while considering the TBM operational conditions.
Textile-Based Pressure Sensing Matrix for In-Bed Monitoring of Subject Sleeping Posture and Breathing Activity
Authors: Carbonaro Nicola , Laurino Marco , Arcarisi Lucia , Menicucci Danilo , Gemignani Angelo , Tognetti Alessandro
Published: March 2021

According to current trends in healthcare sensing technologies, we describe a textile-based pressure sensing matrix that can be integrated in the mattress of a smart bed to characterize sleeping posture/movement of a subject and to extract breathing activity. The pressure mapping layer is developed as a matrix of 195 piezoresistive sensors, it is entirely made of textile materials, and it is the basic component of a smart bed that can perform sleep analysis, can extract physiological parameters, and can detect environmental data related to subject’s health. In this paper, we show the principle of the pressure mapping layer and the architecture of the dedicated electronic system that we developed for signal acquisition. In addition, we describe the algorithms for posture/movement classification (dedicated artificial neural network) and for extraction of the breathing rate (frequency domain analysis). We also perform validation of the system to quantify the accuracy/precision of the posture classification and the statistical analysis to compare our breathing rate estimation with the gold standard.
Learn-CIAM: A Model-Driven Approach for the Development of Collaborative Learning Tools
Authors: Arroyo Yoel , Molina Ana I. , Redondo Miguel A. , Gallardo Jesús
Published: March 2021

This paper introduces Learn-CIAM, a new model-based methodological approach for the design of flows and for the semi-automatic generation of tools in order to support collaborative learning tasks. The main objective of this work is to help professors by establishing a series of steps for the specification of their learning courses and the obtaining of collaborative tools to support certain learning activities (in particular, for in-group editing, searching and modeling). This paper presents a complete methodological framework, how it is supported conceptually and technologically, and an application example. So to guarantee the validity of the proposal, we also present some validation processes with potential designers and users from different profiles such as Education and Computer Science. The results seem to demonstrate a positive reception and acceptance, concluding that its application would facilitate the design of learning courses and the generation of collaborative learning tools for professionals of both profiles.
The Clinical Role of Serum Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 3 in Hepatitis C Virus-Infected Patients with Early Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Caviglia Gian Paolo , Abate Maria Lorena , Rolle Emanuela , Carucci Patrizia , Armandi Angelo , Rosso Chiara , Olivero Antonella , Ribaldone Davide Giuseppe , Tandoi Francesco , Saracco Giorgio Maria , Ciancio Alessia , Bugianesi Elisabetta , Gaia Silvia
Published: March 2021

Epidermal growth factor receptor 3 (ERBB3) is a surface tyrosine kinase receptor belonging to the EGFR/ERBB family, involved in tumor development and progression. We evaluated the diagnostic and prognostic value of serum ERBB3 measurement in hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected patients with early hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). A total of 164 HCV-infected patients (82 with cirrhosis and 82 with early HCC) were included in the study. HCC was classified according to the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) staging system. Among patients with HCC, 23 (28%) had a diagnosis of very early tumor (BCLC = 0), while 59 (62%) had a diagnosis of early HCC (BCLC = A). Median overall survival (OS) in patients with HCC was 79.2 (95% CI 51.6–124.8) months. While ERBB3 serum values were similar between patients with cirrhosis and those with HCC (p = 0.993), in the latter, serum ERBB3 ≥ 2860 RU resulted significantly and independently associated with OS (Hazard Ratio = 2.24, 95% CI 1.16–4.35, p = 0.017). Consistently, the 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS rates in patients with serum ERBB3 ≥ 2860 RU were 90% (36/40), 53% (19/36), and 28% (8/29) in comparison to patients with serum ERBB3 < 2860 RU, which were 98% (40/41), 80% (32/40), and 74% (26/35) (Log-rank test; p = 0.014). In conclusion, serum ERBB3 values resulted an independent prognostic factor of patients with early HCC and might be useful to tailor more personalized treatment strategies.
Perseverative Cognition and Snack Choice: An Online Pilot Investigation
Authors: Eschle Timothy M. , McCarrick Dane
Published: March 2021

Perseverative cognition (PC), consisting of worry and rumination, has been consistently linked to a variety of poorer health outcomes, namely via the worsening of stress-induced health risk behaviours. However, research into PC and unhealthy food choice, a key health behaviour, still remains relatively unexplored. In the current pilot investigation, 284 participants were recruited to take part in an online food choice paradigm before completing the Perseverative Thinking Questionnaire (PTQ) and the Brief State Rumination Inventory (BSRI). As a reduced availability of unhealthy snacks has been shown to improve snack choice, participants were randomly allocated to either an even condition (a 3:3 ratio of ≤99 kcal and ≥199 kcal snacks) or an uneven condition (a 4:2 ratio in favour of ≤99 kcal snacks). It was hypothesized that higher levels of PC may predict greater instances of poorer snack choices across, or even within, this paradigm. Despite an increase availability of lower calorie snacks leading to a healthier snack choice, both state and trait PC measures did not significantly influence snack choice irrespective of this varying availability. Although, marginal trends were found for higher state PC and higher calorie crisp selections. The current pilot therefore adds to the growing literature advocating for the use of behavioural economic tactics to engender healthier food choices, yet further work is needed to unpick the mediating role of PC (and its components) in snack consumption paradigms.
Progression of Metastasis through Lymphatic System
Authors: Zhou Hengbo , Lei Pin-ji , Padera Timothy P.
Published: March 2021

Lymph nodes are the most common sites of metastasis in cancer patients. Nodal disease status provides great prognostic power, but how lymph node metastases should be treated is under debate. Thus, it is important to understand the mechanisms by which lymph node metastases progress and how they can be targeted to provide therapeutic benefits. In this review, we focus on delineating the process of cancer cell migration to and through lymphatic vessels, survival in draining lymph nodes and further spread to other distant organs. In addition, emerging molecular targets and potential strategies to inhibit lymph node metastasis are discussed.