bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and evaluation of a new luciferase immunosorbent assay to detect GII.6 norovirus-specific IgG in different domestic and wild animals
Authors: Liang Zhiyan , Zhang Minyi , Wang Yu , Koroma Mark Momoh , Yu Jingrong , Zhou Feiyuan , Jing Duona , Li Jiaheng , Tang Shixing , Chen Qing , Dai Ying-Chun
Published: July 2023

Noroviruses (NoVs) are the leading viral pathogens globally causing acute gastroenteritis (AGE) in humans, posing a significant global health threat and economic burden. Recent investigations revealed that human NoVs had been detected in different animals, which raises concerns about whether NoVs are potential zoonotic diseases. This study developed a novel luciferase immunosorbent assay (LISA) to detect GII.6 NoV IgG based on P protein of VP1. The LISA showed high specificity (99.20%) and sensitivity (92.00%) with 4–16 times more sensitivity compared with an ELISA. NoV-LISA was reproducible with human serum regarding the inter- and intra-assay coefficient of variance values. Potential cross-reactivity was also evaluated using mice serum immunized by other antigens, which showed that NoV-LISA could differentiate GII.6 NoV from rotavirus and various genotypes of NoV. Specific GII.6 NoV IgG was widely detected in different domestic and wild animals, including dogs, pigs, bats, rats, and home shrews, with various IgG-positive rates ranging from 2.5 to 74.4%. In conclusion, our newly developed NoV-LISA assay is suitable for NoV-specific IgG detection in humans and animals. The wide distribution of IgG antibodies against human NoV indicates potential zoonotic transmission between humans and animals.
Impact of in vitro HIV infection on human thymic regulatory T cell differentiation
Authors: Swaminathan Sharada , Scorza Tatiana , Yero Alexis , Farnos Omar , Burke Schinkel Stephanie C. , Angel Jonathan B. , Jenabian Mohammad-Ali
Published: July 2023

Background

The differentiation and function of immunosuppressive regulatory T cells (Tregs) is dictated by the master transcription factor FoxP3. During HIV infection, there is an increase in Treg frequencies in the peripheral blood and lymphoid tissues. This accentuates immune dysfunction and disease progression. Expression of FoxP3 by thymic Tregs (tTregs) is partially controlled by TGF-β. This cytokine also contributes to Treg development in the peripheral blood and lymphoid tissues. Although TGF-β mediates lymphoid tissue fibrosis and peripheral Treg differentiation in HIV-infected individuals, its role in the induction and maintenance of Tregs within the thymus during HIV infection remains unclear.

Methods

Thymocytes were isolated from fresh human thymic tissues obtained from pediatric patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Infection by both R5- and X4-tropic HIV-1 strains and TGF-β treatment of human thymocytes was performed in an in vitro co-culture model with OP9-DL1 cells expressing Notch ligand delta-like 1 without T cell receptor (TCR) activation.

Results

Despite high expression of CCR5 and CXCR4 by tTregs, FoxP3 +  CD3highCD8- thymocytes were much less prone to in vitro infection with R5- and X4-tropic HIV strains compared to FoxP3-CD3highCD8- thymocytes. As expected, CD3highCD4+ thymocytes, when treated with TGF-β1, upregulated CD127 and this treatment resulted in increased FoxP3 expression and Treg differentiation, but did not affect the rate of HIV infection. FoxP3 expression and Treg frequencies remained unchanged following in vitro HIV infection alone or in combination with TGF-β1.

Conclusion

FoxP3 expression and tTreg differentiation is not affected by in vitro HIV infection alone or the combination of in vitro HIV infection and TGF-β treatment.
The functional status of vestibular otolith and conductive pathway in patients with unilateral idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss
Authors: Shen Jiali , Ma Xiaobao , Zhang Qing , Chen Jianyong , Wang Lu , Wang Wei , He Kuan , Sun Jin , Zhang Qin , Chen Xiangping , Duan Maoli , Jin Yulian , Yang Jun
Published: July 2023

Background

The cause of idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (ISSNHL) remains unknown. It has been found that the functional status of the vestibular otolith is relevant to its prognosis; however, the evaluation of the vestibular otolith (intra-labyrinth) and superior and inferior vestibular nerve pathways (retro-labyrinth) in ISSNHL patients is not well-documented.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the functional status of the vestibular otolith and conductive pathway in patients with unilateral ISSNHL and analyze the correlations between vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (VEMPs) and hearing improvement after treatment.

Methods

A total of 50 patients with unilateral ISSNHL underwent a battery of audio-vestibular evaluations, including pure tone audiometry, middle ear function, air-conducted sound-cervical VEMP (ACS-cVEMP), ACS-ocular VEMP (ACS-oVEMP), galvanic vestibular stimulation-cervical VEMP (GVS-cVEMP), and GVS-ocular VEMP (GVS-oVEMP). The results of auditory and VEMPs were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

The abnormal rates of ACS-cVEMP, ACS-oVEMP, GVS-cVEMP, and GVS-oVEMP in affected ears were 30, 52, 8, and 16%, respectively. In affected ears, the abnormal rate of ACS-oVEMP was significantly higher than that of ACS-cVEMP (p = 0.025), while it was similar between GVS-cVEMP and GVS-oVEMP (p = 0.218). Compared with GVS-cVEMP, affected ears presented with a significantly higher abnormal rate of ACS-cVEMP (p = 0.005), and the abnormal rate of ACS-oVEMP was significantly higher than that of GVS-oVEMP (p < 0.001). No significant difference existed in latency and amplitude between affected and unaffected ears in ACS-VEMPs or GVS-VEMPs (p > 0.05). The abnormal rate of VEMPs in the poor recovery group was significantly higher than that of the good recovery group (p = 0.040). The abnormality percentages of ACS-oVEMP and GVS-oVEMP in the poor recovery group were significantly higher than that of the good recovery group (p = 0.004 and 0.039, respectively). The good hearing recovery rates were 76.47% in the normal VEMPs group, 58.33% in the intra-labyrinth lesion group, and 22.22% in the retro-labyrinth lesion group. Hearing recovery worsened as a greater number of abnormal VEMPs was presented.

Conclusion

Besides Corti's organ, the impairment of otolithic organs was prominent in patients with ISSNHL. The normal VEMPs group had the highest rate of good recovery, followed by the intra-labyrinth lesion group and the retro-labyrinth lesion group presented with the lowest recovery rate. Abnormalities in ACS-oVEMP and/or GVS-oVEMP were indicators of a poor prognosis.
An oxidative stress biomarkers predict prognosis in gastric cancer patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitor
Authors: Deng Guiming , Sun Hao , Huang Rong , Pan Hongming , Zuo Yanjiao , Zhao Ruihu , Du Zhongze , Xue Yingwei , Song Hongjiang
Published: July 2023

Objective

The development and advance of gastric cancer are inextricably linked to oxidative and antioxidant imbalance. Although immunotherapy has been shown to be clinically effective, the link between oxidative stress and gastric cancer patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICIs) remains unknown. This study aims at looking into the prognostic value of oxidative stress scores in gastric cancer patients treated with ICIs.

Methods

By taking the propagation to receiver operating characteristic (ROC) we got the best cut-off values, and divided 265 patients receiving ICIs and chemotherapy into high and low GC-Integrated Oxidative Stress Score (GIOSS) groups. We also used Kaplan-Meier and COX regression models to investigate the relationship between oxidative stress biomarkers and prognosis.

Results

Through both univariate and multivariate analyses, it’s shown that GIOSS severs as an independent prognostic factor for progression-free survival (PFS) and Overall survival (OS). Based on GIOSS cutoff values, patients with high GIOSS levels, compared to those with low levels exhibited shorter PFS and OS, both in the high GIOSS group, which performed poorly in the ICIs subgroup and other subgroup analyses.

Conclusion

GIOSS is a biomarker that responds to systemic oxidative stress in the body and can predict prognosis in patients with gastric cancer who are taking ICIs. Additionally, it might come to medical professionals’ aid in making more effective or more suitable treatment plans for gastric cancer.
Supportive parent-adolescent relationships as a foundation for adolescent emotion regulation and adjustment
Authors: Ratliff Erin L. , Morris Amanda S. , Cui Lixian , Jespersen Jens E. , Silk Jennifer S. , Criss Michael M.
Published: July 2023

Introduction

The purpose of this investigation was to examine the influence of supportive parent-adolescent relationships on adolescent adjustment (i.e., prosocial behavior, aggression, depressive symptoms) both directly and indirectly (via adolescent emotion regulation). Scholars have posited that adolescent emotion regulation (ER) may serve as an underlying mechanism in the link between parenting and adolescent adjustment. Supportive parent-adolescent relationships (i.e., openness, acceptance, emotional responsiveness) may be a key emotion socialization mechanism influencing adolescent ER.

Methods

The sample included 206 adolescents (Age Range= 10–18years; 51% female; 70.4% ethnic minorities) and one primary caregiver (83.3% biological mothers, 38.7% single parents). Structural equation modeling (SEM) was implemented to investigate the direct and indirect (via adolescent ER) effects of supportive parent-adolescent relationships on adolescent adjustment. We also explored whether these indirect and direct effects varied by adolescent sex and age.

Results

Results suggested direct and indirect (via adolescent ER) links between supportive parent-adolescent relationships and adolescent prosocial behavior, aggressive behavior, and depressive symptoms. Moreover, evidence indicated that many of these pathways were significant for boys but not girls. No evidence of youth age as a moderator was found.

Discussion

These findings highlight the important role supportive parent-adolescent relationships play in adolescent emotional and behavioral adjustment. Parenting programs could focus on facilitating a mutually responsive parent-adolescent relationship with a specific focus on the dynamic nature of emotion socialization during adolescence.
Receipt of COVID-19 vaccine in preterm-born children aged 3-7 in China
Authors: Wang Dan , Li Li , Ma Xiaofeng , Lin Yunfeng , Chen Liping , Arigonggaowa  , Peng Xianglian , Shi Jingyun , Yang Jie , Ju Rong , Li Zhankui , Cao Jingke , Liu Changgen , Feng Zhichun , Li Qiuping
Published: July 2023

Objectives

To determine the COVID-19 vaccination rate in preterm-born children aged 3–7 in China and influential factors, identify vaccination-related adverse reactions, and clarify reasons behind parental refusal of vaccination to their children.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted in parents of preterm-born children aged 3–7 in different regions of China through WeChat.

Results

Of 1,924 Chinese preterm-born children aged 3–7 included in this study, 1,552 (80.7%) had been vaccinated against COVID-19, with a higher vaccination rate in eastern China. Children older than 4 years, kids in kindergartens and primary schools, children living in eastern or western China, and children whose fathers had received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine tended to be vaccinated against COVID-19 after adjusting for other covariates. Conversely, children living in urban areas, children whose annual family income was < 50,000 CNY or more than 300,000 CNY, premature children who underwent hospital transfers, and children with underlying diseases were less likely to get vaccinated. Adverse reactions occurred in 59/1,552 (3.8%) vaccinated children. Parents of 118/372 (31.7%) children expressed their concerns over adverse reactions to COVID-19 vaccination. Other reasons like the absence of information about the place where they could get vaccination were mentioned as well.

Conclusions

COVID-19 vaccination-related adverse reactions rarely occurred and most of them were mild among preterm-born children aged 3–7. Higher vaccination coverage can be achieved as parents are provided with more scientific data about benefits of vaccination, vaccination contraindications and precautions, and more information about vaccination sites.
A Methodological Review of Fluorescence Imaging for Quality Assessment of Agricultural Products
Authors: Momin Abdul , Kondo Naoshi , Al Riza Dimas Firmanda , Ogawa Yuichi , Obenland David
Published: July 2023

Currently, optical imaging techniques are extensively employed to automatically sort agricultural products based on various quality parameters such as size, shape, color, ripeness, sugar content, and acidity. This methodological review article examined different machine vision techniques, with a specific focus on exploring the potential of fluorescence imaging for non-destructive assessment of agricultural product quality attributes. The article discussed the concepts and methodology of fluorescence, providing a comprehensive understanding of fluorescence spectroscopy and offering a logical approach to determine the optimal wavelength for constructing an optimized fluorescence imaging system. Furthermore, the article showcased the application of fluorescence imaging in detecting peel defects in a diverse range of citrus as an example of this imaging modality. Additionally, the article outlined potential areas for future investigation into fluorescence imaging applications for the quality assessment of agricultural products.
Agricultural Practices and Soil and Water Conservation in the Transboundary Region of Kenya and Uganda: Farmers’ Perspectives of Current Soil Erosion
Authors: Mwanake Hope , Mehdi-Schulz Bano , Schulz Karsten , Kitaka Nzula , Olang Luke O. , Lederer Jakob , Herrnegger Mathew
Published: July 2023

Poor agricultural practices among small-scale sub-Saharan African farmers can lead to soil erosion and reduce agricultural productivity. However, information on such practices is normally not well documented, making it challenging to design future mitigation strategies. We conducted a fine-scale agricultural survey on 200 farm households within the transboundary Sio Malaba Malakisi River Basin (SMMRB) between Kenya and Uganda to quantify the frequency and type of soil conservation practices (SWCPs) implemented. Information on farm sizes, ownership, crops grown, soil fertility, soil erosion, soil water conservation practices, and the decision-making processes was collected. Descriptive and chi-squared statistics were used to present trends in land use, decision-making processes and the extent of adoption of SWCPs, as well as to analyse the relationship between the SWCPs and the farmers’ perceptions on soil erosion. The region showed highly fragmented farms (mean area: 0.6 ha), primarily practising rain-fed subsistence farming. The principal decision-makers of each farm were mainly (63%) male. Various farmers (28%) lacked soil and water conservation practices (SWCPs). However, most farmers (35%) implemented one type of soil and water conservation practice, while 37% practised a combination of two to five soil and water conservation practices. Extensive soil and water conservation practices such as intercropping were widely practised as they were more affordable than intensive measures. Results on the farmers’ perceptions on soil erosion showed that most farmers in the SMMRB reported soil erosion (60%) and even more (92%) reported to have experienced a loss of soil fertility over the last 5 years. There was a significant positive correlation (X2 (2, n = 198) = 92.8, p = < 0.001) between the perception of soil erosion and the perception of the change in soil fertility, suggesting that reducing soil erosion could result in a reduction in the loss of soil fertility. Thus, there is still a need for strategies and measures to address the soil erosion risks currently faced by Sio Malaba Malakisi River Basin farmers. This study is a baseline study that shows the importance of farmers’ perceptions on the practice of soil and water conservation measures in the Sio Malaba Malakisi River Basin and therefore becomes an important avenue for improving the currently practised soil and water conservation measures as well as developing adoption programs as well as future studies that combine scientific and farmers’ perception/knowledge for sustainable agriculture. Further research into the efficiency of currently adopted SWCPs as well as the extent of the farmers’ knowledge and the accuracy of their perceptions is recommended.
A Practical Approach to Providing Environmental Enrichment to Pigs and Broiler Chickens Housed in Intensive Systems
Authors: Grandin Temple
Published: July 2023

In Europe, regulations contain guidance to maintain high standards of animal welfare. In many parts of the world, large buyers for supermarkets or restaurants are the main enforcers of basic animal welfare standards. They can have considerable influence on improving standards on large commercial farms. Research clearly shows that straw is one of the most effective environmental enrichment for pigs. On some large farms, there are concerns that straw will either clog waste management systems or bring in disease. This paper contains a review of both scientific research and practical experience with enrichment devices that are easy to implement. Pigs prefer enrichment objects that they can chew up and deform. Broiler chickens prefer to climb up on objects, hide under them or peck them. It is always essential to uphold basic welfare standards such as animal cleanliness and low levels of lameness (difficulty walking). It is also important to reduce lesions, and maintain body conditions of breeding animals. An environment enrichment device is never a substitute for poorly managed facilities. It should enhance animal welfare on well-managed farms.
Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Tabernaemontana ventricosa Extracts
Authors: Naidoo Clarissa Marcelle , Naidoo Yougasphree , Dewir Yaser Hassan , Singh Moganavelli , Daniels Aliscia Nicole , Lin Johnson
Published: July 2023

Nanoscience and nanotechnology have been rapidly developing due to the increased use of nanoparticles in several fields including health (antibacterial agents), medicine, chemistry, food, textiles, agricultural sectors, and nanofluids. The study aimed to biologically synthesize AgNPs using leaf and stem extracts of Tabernaemontana ventricosa. The AgNPs were successfully synthesized and verified using UV-visible spectroscopy; however, the synthesis of the AgNPs was more efficient using the leaf extracts rather than the stem extracts. The energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis showed that the elemental silver (Ag) content was much higher using leaf extracts compared to the stem extracts. The AgNPs synthesized using both leaf and stem extracts were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), and images displayed spherical, ovate, and triangular-shaped nanoparticles (NPs), which varied in particle size ranging from 16.06 ± 6.81 nm to 80.26 ± 24.93 nm across all treatments. However, nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) displayed much larger particle sizes ranging from 63.9 ± 63.9 nm to 147.4 ± 7.4 nm. The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectral analysis observed functional groups such as alcohols, phenolic compounds, aldehydes, alkanes, esters, amines, and carboxylic acids. Our study suggests that medicinal plant extracts can be used for the effective economical production of AgNPs due to their efficient capping; however, further studies are necessary to determine the possible function groups and phytochemicals within T. ventricosa that are responsible for the synthesis of AgNPs.
Flexural Behavior of Corroded High-Speed Railway Simply Supported Prestressed Concrete Box Girder
Authors: Kuang Yachuan , Yang Jiahui , Jing Haiquan , Tian Runan , Niu Kexiang , Yu Zhiwu
Published: July 2023

Simply supported prestressed concrete (PC) box girders have been widely adopted in high-speed railway bridges. In complex climatic environments, the corrosion of the prestressing strands always occurs and deteriorates the flexural behavior of PC box girders. In the present study, six T-shaped scaled beams were designed and fabricated according to the specifications for a high-speed railway PC box girder. The corrosion process of the prestressing strand in scaled beams was experimentally simulated by using the constant current accelerated corrosion method. The flexural behavior of corroded high-speed railway simply supported PC box girders was then investigated through four-point bending tests and theoretical investigation. The experimental results showed that strand corrosion significantly decreased the flexural behavior of the test beams. When the mass loss was 12.30%, the cracking load, ultimate load, and ductility decreased by 27.8%, 29.9%, and 11.5%, respectively. The effect of strand corrosion on flexural stiffness displayed a difference before and after concrete cracking. The failure mode changed when strand mass loss was above a critical value (7%). The flexural bearing capacity degradation law of corroded PC beams could be divided into two distinct stages. A strand mass loss of less than 7% could lead to a linear degradation law with a relatively slight reduction. As mass loss increased, it exhibited an exponential and sharp declining trend. An analytical model including the effects of strand cross-section reduction, strand property deterioration, and concrete cracking was also proposed to predict the flexural behavior of corroded PC beams. By comparison with the experimental data, it was found that the model could predict the cracking moment, flexural bearing capacity, and failure mode well.
Modeling and Control of Network Macroscopic Fundamental Diagram during Holidays: A Case Study of Qingming Festival in Tianjin
Authors: Niu Xiaojing , Zhao Xiaomei , Xie Dongfan , Bi Jun
Published: July 2023

In this paper, the macroscopic traffic states and network traffic dynamics during the Qingming Festival holiday are explored with the Macroscopic Fundament Diagram (MFD), including the weekday before the holiday (WBH), the day of Qingming Festival (DQF), and the ordinary weekday (OW). The network is heterogeneous on the densities’ distribution, and the congested areas are different in location and size. Normalized Cut (Ncut) algorithm is used to partition the heterogeneous network into multiple homogeneous subregions. The MFD of each subregion is distributed within the critical density on the WBH, and the high-density region moves from the city center to the periphery. On the DQF, high-density areas are on the central and west of the urban network. The congested branch appears on the MFD of the subregion. Then, two calibrated dynamic models, are applied to analyze the network evolution based on the partitioning results. On the basis of the calibrated model, several control strategies are proposed to relieve regional congestion on holidays. According to the simulation results, congestion on the DQF can be alleviated by controlling the external inflow ratio of subregion 2 or limiting the amount of traffic entering subregion 2 from the outside.
Altmetric Behaviour over a Two-Year Observation Period: A Longitudinal Cohort Study in Orthodontic Research
Authors: Garcovich Daniele , Zhou Wu Angel , Romero García Carolina Soledad , Alvarado Lorenzo Alfonso , Aiuto Riccardo , Adobes Martin Milagros
Published: July 2023

Background: Alternative metrics have been proposed to estimate the impact of research on the academic and social environment. The objective of the current study was to analyze the longitudinal behavior of Altmetric resources related to online engagement in orthodontic research and to explore their correlation with citations over time. Methods: The Dimensions App was searched in December 2019 and December 2021 for published items belonging to orthodontic journals listed in the Journal Citation Reports (JCR) from 2014 to 2018. Items with an AAS (Altmetric Attention Score) equal to or greater than one were selected and screened for data related to authorship and publication. The breakdown of the different Altmeric resources was collected in 2019 and updated in 2021. Citations were retrieved from Web of Science (WOS) and Scopus at the same time interval. Results: The best performing journals were Progress in Orthodontics and the European Journal of Orthodontics at both time points, with a mean AAS per published item of 1.74 and 1.63, respectively, in 2021. The topics with the highest online engagement display a change over time, while the study design remained randomized clinical trials (RCTs) in both observations. Tweets, Facebook posts, and blogs showed a very slight increase over time, while News Outlets, patent data, and policy sources longitudinally showed a significant increase. No or poor correlation was found between altmetrics and citation except for Mendeley reader count. Conclusions: Tweets, Facebook, and Blog mentions can be considered attention trackers. News Outlets, patents, and policy sources are time dependent data. Mendeley reader count, can help to identify the article with a future citation potential.
Discrete Element-Based Simulation Analysis and Research of Potato Soil Agglomerate Fragmentation and Separation
Authors: Yan Dong , Deng Weigang , Xie Shengshi , Liu Chenglong , Ren Zhiqi , Zhao Haohao , Cai Yansong , Zhao Zexin
Published: July 2023

To study the influence law of the overburden rotating plate mechanism on the fragmentation and separation of potato soil agglomerates, a single-factor test and a response surface test simulation analysis of the soil fragmentation process were conducted in EDEM 2022 software. The results of the single-factor test show that the triangular rack blade of the overburdened rotating plate mechanism has the best effect on soil fragmentation and separation. With the increase in the lower blade speed, the upper lift chain bar line speed, and the tilt angle of the mechanism, the effect on the fragmentation and separation of potato soil agglomerates decreases. The response surface test results show that the debris removal rate decreases with the increase in blade speed and tilt angle, the percentage of bond breakage between potato soil particles declines with the rise of blade speed and lift chain bar line speed, and the percentage of bond breakage between soil particles increases with the increase in blade speed and lift chain bar line speed. The optimal solution was obtained by using the optimization function in Design-Expert 13 software, which was adjusted as follows: the blade rack type was triangular, the lift chain bar line speed was 0.307 m/s, the blade speed was 0.4 m/s, and the tilt angle was 40°. The research methods and results provide a reference for the simulation of potato soil crushing and separation motion in a sandy loam soil cultivation area.
Technology-Enhanced Learning in Health Sciences: Improving the Motivation and Performance of Medical Students with Immersive Reality
Authors: Cabero-Almenara Julio , De-La-Portilla-De-Juan Fernando , Barroso-Osuna Julio , Palacios-Rodríguez Antonio
Published: July 2023

Numerous studies suggest that immersive reality (IR) is an educational technology with great potential in the field of health sciences. Its integration allows for an increase in the motivation and academic performance of students. In this sense, this research aims to study the self-perception of motivation and performance levels obtained by students who are completing their degree in medicine at the University of Seville after experiencing a session with IR. To achieve this, 136 student participants answered two questionnaires, the IMMS and the academic performance test. The results show high levels of motivation during the IR session, where the interaction with “hot spots” predominates. In the same way, the measured performance results are quite great. For this reason, it is concluded that the potential of using IR as an educational technology is evident, and new lines of related research are opened.
STDP-Driven Rewiring in Spiking Neural Networks under Stimulus-Induced and Spontaneous Activity
Authors: Lobov Sergey A. , Berdnikova Ekaterina S. , Zharinov Alexey I. , Kurganov Dmitry P. , Kazantsev Victor B.
Published: July 2023

Mathematical and computer simulation of learning in living neural networks have typically focused on changes in the efficiency of synaptic connections represented by synaptic weights in the models. Synaptic plasticity is believed to be the cellular basis for learning and memory. In spiking neural networks composed of dynamical spiking units, a biologically relevant learning rule is based on the so-called spike-timing-dependent plasticity or STDP. However, experimental data suggest that synaptic plasticity is only a part of brain circuit plasticity, which also includes homeostatic and structural plasticity. A model of structural plasticity proposed in this study is based on the activity-dependent appearance and disappearance of synaptic connections. The results of the research indicate that such adaptive rewiring enables the consolidation of the effects of STDP in response to a local external stimulation of a neural network. Subsequently, a vector field approach is used to demonstrate the successive “recording” of spike paths in both functional connectome and synaptic connectome, and finally in the anatomical connectome of the network. Moreover, the findings suggest that the adaptive rewiring could stabilize network dynamics over time in the context of activity patterns’ reproducibility. A universal measure of such reproducibility introduced in this article is based on similarity between time-consequent patterns of the special vector fields characterizing both functional and anatomical connectomes.
Cobalt–Nitrogen Co-Doped Carbon as Highly Efficient Oxidase Mimics for Colorimetric Assay of Nitrite
Authors: Lin Dalei , Wu Shuzhi , Chu Shushu , Lu Yizhong
Published: July 2023

Transition metal-N-doped carbon has been demonstrated to mimic natural enzyme activity; in this study, cobalt–nitrogen co-doped carbon (Co-N-C) nanomaterial was developed, and it could be an oxidase mimic. Firstly, Co-N-C with oxidase-like activity boosts the chromogenic reaction of 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) to produce the oxidized TMB (oxTMB). And the aromatic primary amino group of oxTMB reacts with nitrite (NO2−) to form diazo groups. Based on this background, we developed a cascade system of a Co-N-C-catalyzed oxidation reaction and a diazotization reaction for nitrite determination. The low detection limit (0.039 μM) indicates that Co-N-C is superior compared with the vast majority of previously reported nitrite assays. This study not only provides a novel nanozyme with sufficiently dispersed active sites, but it also further applies it to the determination of nitrite, which is expected to expand the application of nanozymes in colorimetric analysis.
Evaluation of the Chewing Pattern through an Electromyographic Device
Authors: Riente Alessia , Abeltino Alessio , Serantoni Cassandra , Bianchetti Giada , De Spirito Marco , Capezzone Stefano , Esposito Rosita , Maulucci Giuseppe
Published: July 2023

Chewing is essential in regulating metabolism and initiating digestion. Various methods have been used to examine chewing, including analyzing chewing sounds and using piezoelectric sensors to detect muscle contractions. However, these methods struggle to distinguish chewing from other movements. Electromyography (EMG) has proven to be an accurate solution, although it requires sensors attached to the skin. Existing EMG devices focus on detecting the act of chewing or classifying foods and do not provide self-awareness of chewing habits. We developed a non-invasive device that evaluates a personalized chewing style by analyzing various aspects, like chewing time, cycle time, work rate, number of chews and work. It was tested in a case study comparing the chewing pattern of smokers and non-smokers, as smoking can alter chewing habits. Previous studies have shown that smokers exhibit reduced chewing speed, but other aspects of chewing were overlooked. The goal of this study is to present the device and provide additional insights into the effects of smoking on chewing patterns by considering multiple chewing features. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences, as non-smokers had more chews and higher work values, indicating more efficient chewing. The device provides valuable insights into personalized chewing profiles and could modify unhealthy chewing habits.
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence Technology Stimuli on Sustainable Consumption Behavior: Evidence from Ant Forest Users in China
Authors: Cao Ping , Liu Shuailong
Published: July 2023

With the global economy and population growing rapidly, the problems of excessive resource consumption and environmental pollution have become increasingly serious. Thus, the need to promote sustainable development has become more urgent. Sustainable consumption behavior plays a crucial role in achieving sustainable development goals as it can significantly reduce both greenhouse gas emissions and resource consumption. Artificial intelligence technology has broken the limitations of time and space in environmental protection. For example, the Ant Forest leverages the design of “green energy” to inspire the public to engage in energy-saving and emission-reducing activities. To examine the impact mechanisms of customers’ sustainable consumption behavior, this study applies the stimulus-organism-response theory and the theory of planned behavior. The study conducts regression analysis and bootstrapping methods on a sample consisting of 280 Ant Forest users to explore the influence of artificial intelligence technology stimuli on sustainable consumption behavior and the mediating effects of customer-perceived value and customer stickiness. The results demonstrate a “linkage effect” between online green consumption habits and offline sustainable consumption behavior. Moreover, the study finds that passion and usability indirectly promote offline sustainable consumption behavior through customer-perceived value and customer stickiness. Specifically, the influence of customer-perceived emotional value (β = 0.121; β = 0.100) is stronger than that of customer-perceived social value (β = 0.043; β = 0.038). Due to the limitation of the sample size, future research should broaden its scope by incorporating additional variables, specifically customer-specific factors. Furthermore, more advanced research methods, such as big data analysis, should be employed to comprehensively explore the influencing factors of sustainable consumer behavior.
Experimental Study on the Flexural Behaviors of Prestressed Segmental Ultra–High–Performance Concrete Channels and Reinforced Conventional Concrete Deck Composite Girders
Authors: Chen Yicong , Zhou Jialiang , Guo Fangzhi , Chen Baochun , Nuti Camillo
Published: July 2023

Flexural testing on two prestressed segmental ultra–high–performance concrete channels and reinforced conventional concrete deck composite girders (PSUC–RCCD) was carried out. One was made up of four segments with dry joints, and the other was formed of one channel beam without a dry joint. Both of them poured a conventional concrete deck slab on site. The mechanical behaviors of the girders, including the whole loading process, the crack pattern, and the failure mode were investigated and compared. The effect of the number of segments and the steel fiber volume fraction of UHPC on the bending behavior of the PSUC–RCCD girder was explored using the finite element method. This study showed that the loading process of semi-segmental and integral girders is similar; the whole loading process of the girders can be divided into the elastic phase, crack development, and the failure phase. The only notable difference between the two girders was the stage of crack development; specifically, after cracking, the stiffness of the semi-segmental girder reduced rapidly, while the “bridging effect” of the steel fibers in the integrated girder caused a slow reduction in rigidity. The flexural cracks in the semi-segmental girder were significantly less than those in the integral girder in terms of the number of cracks, and were present only at the joints. The finite element analysis showed that the number of segments had little influence on the flexural capacity of the girders, but the girders with even numbers of segments cracked earlier than those with odd segments. Increasing the steel fiber volume fraction in UHPC (ultra–high–performance concrete) had a small effect on the cracking load of the semi-segmental girders but enhanced its ultimate flexural capacity. Based on this experiment, a calculated method for estimating the flexural capacity of semi-sectional girders was proposed. The calculated values were in good agreement with the experimental and finite element values. In the preliminary design, the flexural capacity of the semi-segmental section could be estimated by multiplying the flexural capacity of the integral section by a resistance factor of 0.95.
Clinical Outcomes of Radiation Therapy for Angiosarcoma of the Scalp and Face: A Multi-Institutional Observational Study
Authors: Niwa Masanari , Tomita Natsuo , Takaoka Taiki , Takano Hirota , Makita Chiyoko , Matsuo Masayuki , Adachi Sou , Oshima Yukihiko , Yamamoto Shintaro , Kuno Mayu , Miyakawa Akifumi , Okazaki Dai , Torii Akira , Kita Nozomi , Takano Seiya , Nakamura Motoki , Kato Hiroshi , Morita Akimichi , Hiwatashi Akio
Published: July 2023

Angiosarcoma of the scalp and face (ASF) is a rare, aggressive tumor often treated with multimodal therapy, including radiation therapy (RT). This study assessed RT outcomes for ASF and identified prognostic factors. Data from 68 non-metastatic ASF patients undergoing RT with or without other therapies were analyzed. Median radiation dose was 66 Gy in 33 fractions (interquartile range (IQR) 60–70 Gy in 28–35 fractions). Local control (LC), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) rates were calculated using Kaplan–Meier analysis. Multivariate analyses and adverse event evaluation were conducted. Median patient age was 75 years (IQR 71–80 years), with a median follow-up of 17 months (IQR 11–42 months). One-/three-year LC rates were 57/37%, PFS rates were 44/22%, and OS rates were 81/44%. Multivariate analyses showed that an equivalent dose in a 2 Gy fraction (EQD2) >66 Gy correlated with improved LC (HR 2.35, 95% CI 1.03–5.32, p = 0.041). Combining chemotherapy (HR 2.43, 95% CI 1.08–5.46, p = 0.032) or surgery (HR 2.41, 95% CI 1.03–5.59, p = 0.041) improved PFS. No factors influenced OS. Late grade 3+ toxicities occurred in 1%, with one patient developing a grade 4 skin ulcer. These findings suggest that EQD2 > 66 Gy and combining chemotherapy or surgery can enhance LC or PFS in ASF. Further prospective studies are needed to determine the optimal treatment strategy for this rare malignancy, particularly in elderly patients.
Cell Surface Vibrations Distinguish Malignant from Benign Cells
Authors: Wohl Ishay , Sajman Julia , Sherman Eilon
Published: July 2023

The mechanical properties of living cells, including their shape, rigidity, and internal dynamics play a crucial role in their physiology and pathology. Still, the relations between the physiological cell state and its rigidity and surface vibrations remain poorly understood. Here, we have employed AFM measurements on T cells and found a negative relation between cell surface stiffness and its vibrations. Blocking T-type Ca++-channels using Mibefradil reduced cortical actin tension in these cells and enhanced their membrane vibrations and dissipation of intracellular mechanical work to the cell surroundings. We also found increased vibrations of cell membranes in five different malignant cells lines derived from T cell leukemia, lung, prostate, bladder, and melanoma cancers, as compared to their corresponding benign cells. This was demonstrated by utilizing TIRF microscopy in single cells and dynamic laser speckles measurements in an in vitro model of multiple cells in a tissue. Our results show that cell membrane vibrations and dissipation of mechanical work are higher in malignant cells relative to benign cells. Accordingly, these properties may be used to detect and monitor cellular and tissue malignancies.
Development of Mosquito-Repellent Camouflage Fabric Using Eucalyptus Oil with Moringa oleifera Gum
Authors: Anwar Faiza , Abbas Mudassar , Malik Mumtaz Hasan , Cheema Amna Aziz , Tariq Suniya , Afzal Warda , Khan Asfandyar
Published: July 2023

Military personnel are exposed to several harsh conditions and mosquitos in mountains and wild forests. Mosquito-repellent textiles can help them to cope with such conditions. The present research work established a sustainable approach for fabricating microcapsules from Eucalyptus oil, Moringa oleifera, and Arabic gum via a complex coacervation method. Moringa oleifera and Arabic gums were utilized as the outer shell of the microcapsules, whereas the core part was made of Eucalyptus oil in different concentrations. The military camouflage-printed polyester/cotton (PC) blended fabric was coated with the as-prepared microcapsules using the pad–dry–cure technique. The surface morphology of the microcapsules was examined using an optical microscope and scanning electron microscope (SEM), and the coated fabric’s mosquito-repellent property was investigated using a specified cage test according to a standard testing protocol. The water absorbency and air permeability of the treated samples were also evaluated in order to learn about the comfort properties. The cage test results revealed that the coated fabric had a good tendency to repel the mosquitoes used in the cage test. In addition, the coated fabric showed significant durability even after several rigorous washing cycles. However, the application of microcapsules to the fabric slightly affected the water absorbency and air permeability of the fabric. This study presents a novel sustainable approach for fabricating microcapsules from the mentioned precursors and their application in the field of textiles, particularly for military purposes.
New Azo Dyes-Based Mg Complex Pigments for Optimizing the Anti-Corrosion Efficiency of Zinc-Pigmented Epoxy Ester Organic Coatings
Authors: Kohl Miroslav , Alafid Fouzy , Boštíková Karolína , Bouška Marek , Krejčová Anna , Svoboda Jan , Slang Stanislav , Michalíčková Ludmila , Kalendová Andréa , Hrdina Radim , Burgert Ladislav , Schmidová Eva , Deshpande Pravin P. , Bhopale Abhijit A.
Published: July 2023

This work addresses the possibilities of using synthesized novel magnesium complex dyes in zinc pigmented organic coatings based on epoxyester resin to reduce the zinc content in these coatings while maintaining or increasing the anticorrosive efficiency of them. The magnesium complexes Mg-Dye-I (C34H26MgN8O6), Mg-Dye-II (C26H19MgN3O5), Mg-Dye-III (C17H10MgN2O3), and Mg-Dye-IV (C25H18MgN4O6) with a series of azo carboxylate ligands were prepared from the diazo-coupling reaction of anthranilic acid with 5-methyl-2-phenyl-3-pyrazolone (Dye I; C17H14N4O3), anthranilic acid with naphthol AS-PH (Dye II; C26H21N3O5), anthranilic acid with 2-naphthol (Dye III; C17H12N2O3), and 2-amino-5-nitrophenol with naphthol AS-PH (Dye IV; C25H20N4O6). The synthesized novel magnesium complex dyes were characterized by analytical methods. Model coatings containing these dyes at pigment volume concentrations (PVCs) = 1, 3, 5 and 10% and zinc at a ratio of pigment volume concentration/critical pigment volume concentration (PVC/CPVC) = 0.60 were formulated to study the inhibitory properties of the individual synthesized magnesium complex dyes. Model coatings containing inorganic pigments (MgO and Ca-Mg-HPO4) at PVCs = 1%, 3%, 5% and 10% and zinc at PVC/CPVC = 0.60 were also formulated. The coating pigmented only by zinc at PVC/CPVC = 0.60 was prepared as a standard organic coating. Corrosion resistance was also evaluated by potentiodynamic polarization studies and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The properties of organic coatings were also tested using other standardized and derived corrosion tests. In addition, the mechanical properties of the studied organic coatings were determined using standard tests. The aim of the work was to verify the possible synergistic efficiency of novel magnesium complex dyes by improving the mechanical, anti-corrosion, and chemical properties of zinc pigmented organic coatings.
Development of the Forming Limit Diagram for AA6016-T4 at Room Temperature Using Uniaxial Tension of Notched Samples and a Biaxial Test
Authors: Elsayed Ahmed , Gonzalez Diego , Yakushina Evgenia
Published: July 2023

Within the framework of the formability limit assessment in sheet metal forming, testing of notched tensile samples coupled with digital image correlation (DIC) has been analysed as an alternative to overcome the implications of Nakajima testing in relation to times of test preparation, cost of the equipment, presence of friction, and amount of material required for the test. Additionally, the complications of the Nakajima testing at elevated temperatures need to also be considered. In this work, specific notched sample geometries have been investigated to accurately identify the forming limits of Aluminium alloy AA6016 in T4 condition. Once the notched geometry had been defined, experimental tensile testing of the samples coupled with DIC technology allowed us to identify the formability limits of interest. Finally, a comparison at room temperature with the conventional Nakajima testing was performed experimentally. Two different methodologies for strain limit evaluation in notched samples have been investigated in the present analysis. The first one is called a position-dependent method and is based on the inverse best-fit parabola of the “bell-shaped curve”, which is used in the conventional Nakajima test. The second approach referred to a time-dependent method and is based on the strain rate evaluation at the necking zone. This strain-rate-dependent method, which works in combination with DIC measurements, was found to be more accurate to determine the necking limits than the previous one; in addition, it also provides more accurate information for the safe zone of forming.
Recent Advances in Colorimetric Tests for the Detection of Infectious Diseases and Antimicrobial Resistance
Authors: Celik Cagla , Kalin Gamze , Cetinkaya Zekeriya , Ildiz Nilay , Ocsoy Ismail
Published: July 2023

Diagnosis of infection-causing microorganisms with sensitive, rapid, selective and economical diagnostic tests is critical to start the right treatment. With these tests, the spread of infections can be prevented. In addition to that, the detection of antimicrobial resistance also makes a significant contribution to public health. In recent years, different types of diagnostic tests have been developed as alternatives to traditional diagnostic tests used in clinics. In particular, colorimetric tests, which minimize the need for an instrument, have advantages owing to their cost effectiveness, rapid response and naked-eye detection and practical use. In this review, we especially focused on pH indicators and nanomaterial-based colorimetric tests in detection of infection-causing microorganisms and antimicrobial resistance.