bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptional responses of Metarhizium pingshaense blastospores after UV-B irradiation
Authors: Corval Amanda Rocha da Costa , Carvalho Lucas Amoroso Lopes de , Mesquita Emily , Fiorotti Jéssica , Corrêa Thaís Almeida , Bório Victória Silvestre , Carneiro Adriani da Silva , Pinheiro Daniel Guariz , Coelho Irene da Silva , Santos Huarrisson Azevedo , Fernandes Everton Kort Kamp , Angelo Isabele da Costa , Bittencourt Vânia R. E. P. , Golo Patrícia Silva
Published: December 2024

Metarhizium is widely known for its role as an arthropod biocontrol agent and plant bioinoculant. By using mass-production industrial methods, it is possible to produce large amounts of fungal single-celled propagules (including blastospores) to be applied in the field. However, in the environment, the solar ultraviolet components (particularly UV-B) can harm the fungus, negatively impacting its pathogenicity toward the arthropod pest. The present study is the first to use comparative genome-wide transcriptome analyses to unveil changes in gene expression between Metarhizium pingshaense blastospores exposed or not to UV-B. Relative blastospores culturability was calculated 72 h after UV-B exposure and exhibited 100% culturability. In total, 6.57% (n = 728) out of 11,076 predicted genes in M. pingshaense were differentially expressed after UV-B exposure: 320 genes (44%; 320/728) were upregulated and 408 (56%; 408/720) were downregulated in the UV-B exposed blastospores. Results unveiled differentially expressed gene sets related to fungal virulence, production of secondary metabolites, and DNA repair associated with UV damage; genes related to virulence factors were downregulated, and genes associated with nucleotide excision repair were upregulated. These findings illustrate critical aspects of Metarhizium blastospores strategies to overcome UV-B damage and survive solar radiation exposures in insulated fields.
Therapeutic targeting potential of the protein lysine and arginine methyltransferases to reverse cancer chemoresistance
Authors: Micallef Isaac , Fenech Kimberly , Baron Byron
Published: December 2024

Cancer treatments have continued to improve tremendously over the past decade, but therapy resistance is still a common, major factor encountered by patients diagnosed with cancer. Chemoresistance arises due to various circumstances and among these causes, increasing evidence has shown that enzymes referred to as protein methyltransferases (PMTs) play a significant role in the development of chemoresistance in various cancers. These enzymes are responsible for the methylation of different amino acids, particularly lysine and arginine, via protein lysine methyltransferases (PKMTs) and protein arginine methyltransferases (PRMTs), respectively. Various PMTs have been identified to be dysregulated in the development of cancer and chemoresistance. Nonetheless, the functional role of these PMTs in the development of chemoresistance is poorly characterised. This advocates the need for innovative approaches and technologies suitable for better characterisation of these PMTs and their potential clinical inhibitors. In the case of a handful of PMTs, inhibitory small molecules which can function as anticancer drugs have been developed and have also entered clinical trials. Considering all this, PMTs have become a promising and valuable target in cancer chemoresistance related research. This review will give a small introduction on the different PKMTs and PRMTs families which are dysregulated in different cancers and the known proteins targeted by the respective enzymes. The focus will then shift towards PMTs known to be involved in chemoresistance development and the inhibitors developed against these, together with their mode of action. Lastly, the current obstacles and future perspectives of PMT inhibitors in cancer chemoresistance will be discussed.
An integrated transcriptomic analysis of brain aging and strategies for healthy aging
Authors: Liu Haiying , Nie Xin , Wang Fengwei , Chen Dandan , Zeng Zhuo , Shu Peng , Huang Junjiu
Published: December 2024

Background

It is been noted that the expression levels of numerous genes undergo changes as individuals age, and aging stands as a primary factor contributing to age-related diseases. Nevertheless, it remains uncertain whether there are common aging genes across organs or tissues, and whether these aging genes play a pivotal role in the development of age-related diseases.

Methods

In this study, we screened for aging genes using RNAseq data of 32 human tissues from GTEx. RNAseq datasets from GEO were used to study whether aging genes drives age-related diseases, or whether anti-aging solutions could reverse aging gene expression.

Results

Aging transcriptome alterations showed that brain aging differ significantly from the rest of the body, furthermore, brain tissues were divided into four group according to their aging transcriptome alterations. Numerous genes were downregulated during brain aging, with functions enriched in synaptic function, ubiquitination, mitochondrial translation and autophagy. Transcriptome analysis of age-related diseases and retarding aging solutions showed that downregulated aging genes in the hippocampus further downregulation in Alzheimer’s disease but were effectively reversed by high physical activity. Furthermore, the neuron loss observed during aging was reversed by high physical activity.

Conclusion

The downregulation of many genes is a major contributor to brain aging and neurodegeneration. High levels of physical activity have been shown to effectively reactivate these genes, making it a promising strategy to slow brain aging.
SARTAB, a scalable system for automated real-time behavior detection based on animal tracking and Region Of Interest analysis: validation on fish courtship behavior
Authors: Lancaster Tucker J. , Leatherbury Kathryn N. , Shilova Kseniia , Streelman Jeffrey T. , McGrath Patrick T.
Published: December 2024

Methods from Machine Learning (ML) and Computer Vision (CV) have proven powerful tools for quickly and accurately analyzing behavioral recordings. The computational complexity of these techniques, however, often precludes applications that require real-time analysis: for example, experiments where a stimulus must be applied in response to a particular behavior or samples must be collected soon after the behavior occurs. Here, we describe SARTAB (Scalable Automated Real-Time Analysis of Behavior), a system that achieves automated real-time behavior detection by continuously monitoring animal positions relative to behaviorally relevant Regions Of Interest (ROIs). We then show how we used this system to detect infrequent courtship behaviors in Pseudotropheus demasoni (a species of Lake Malawi African cichlid fish) to collect neural tissue samples from actively behaving individuals for multiomic profiling at single nucleus resolution. Within this experimental context, we achieve high ROI and animal detection accuracies (mAP@[.5 : .95] of 0.969 and 0.718, respectively) and 100% classification accuracy on a set of 32 manually selected behavioral clips. SARTAB is unique in that all analysis runs on low-cost, edge-deployed hardware, making it a highly scalable and energy-efficient solution for real-time experimental feedback. Although our solution was developed specifically to study cichlid courtship behavior, the intrinsic flexibility of neural network analysis ensures that our approach can be adapted to novel species, behaviors, and environments.
GPR139 agonist and antagonist differentially regulate retrieval and consolidation of fear memory in the zebrafish
Authors: Roy Nisa , Ogawa Satoshi , Tsuda Sachiko , Parhar Ishwar S.
Published: December 2024

G protein-coupled receptor 139 (GPR139), a highly conserved orphan receptor, is predominantly expressed in the habenula of vertebrate species. Habenula is an ancient epithalamic structure, which is critical to comprehending adaptive behaviors in vertebrates. We have previously demonstrated the role of GPR139 agonists in fear-associated decision-making processes in zebrafish. However, how GPR139 signaling in the habenula modulates such adaptive behavioral responses remains unsolved. Fish centrally administered with a synthetic antagonist for human GPR139 (NCRW0005-F05) exhibited significant suppression of odorant cue (alarm substance, AS)-induced fear learning in the conditioned place avoidance paradigm. On the other hand, co-treatment with a GPR139 antagonist and a synthetic agonist for human GPR139 (JNJ-63533054) interrupted the fear conditioning process by significantly reducing locomotion during post-conditioning. Calcium imaging of acute brain slices showed a significant increase in peak amplitude of calcium transients in the habenula upon bath application of either a GPR139 antagonist or agonist. Furthermore, KCl-evoked calcium transients were reduced by the GPR139 antagonist and co-treatment of the GPR139 antagonist–agonist. These results suggest that the GPR139 antagonist did not block the inhibitory action of the GPR139 agonist in the decision-making process during the fear-retrieval phase; however, solitarily, it functions in governing the fear consolidation process via activation of the ventral habenula neurons in zebrafish.
Treating early-stage centrally-located non-small cell lung cancer with DCAT-SBRT in centers lacking the VMAT technique: a comprehensive study
Authors: Huang Yangyang , Yang Jun , Song Rui , Qin Tingting , Yang Menglin , Liu Yibao
Published: December 2024

Background

Volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) may have the highest overall performance for stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) treatment of inoperable early-stage NSCLC. However, in centers lacking the VMAT technique, the dynamic conformal arc therapy (DCAT) technique is potentially the best option for small and rounded NSCLC-SBRT. Therefore, we will comprehensively analyze the advantages of the DCAT versus the other techniques except VMAT in terms of dosimetry, plan complexity, delivery time, γ-passing rates and the interplay effect.

Methods

36 patients with early-stage centrally located NSCLC with PTV volumes < 65 cc were enrolled. All patients were redesigned with 50Gy/5f, and 100% of the prescribed dose was normalized to cover 95% of the PTV. The other two delivery techniques compared to the DCAT technique include 3-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3DCRT) and intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), which use the same parameters for all three techniques.

Results

The dosimetric parameters of the 3-group plans all met the RTOG 0813 protocol. Unsurprisingly, plan complexity parameters such as segments and MUs were significantly reduced in the DCAT plans by 159.56 and 925.90 compared to the IMRT plans, respectively (all P < 0.001). The delivery time of the DCAT plans was the least of 164.51 s (all P < 0.05). Compared to the IMRT plans, the γ-passing rates were higher in the DCAT plans (P < 0.001), with the most significant difference of 6.01% in the (2%, 1 mm) criteria. As for the interplay effect, the mean dose difference (MDD) in the DCAT plans was as good as the 3DCRT plans at different respiratory amplitudes but better than the IMRT plans (all P < 0.05), and the MDD of DCAT plans did not exceed 3% in all respiratory amplitude.

Conclusion

In centers lacking the VMAT technique, implementing SBRT treatment based on the DCAT technique for inoperable early-stage centrally-located NSCLC patients with PTV volumes < 65 cc achieves better treatment efficiency and delivery accuracy while maintaining the plan quality.
Clinical perspectives on the value of testing for STK11 and KEAP1 mutations in advanced NSCLC
Authors: Shiller Michelle , Johnson Melissa , Auber Robert , Patel Sandip Pravin
Published: December 2024

Standard first-line therapy for patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (mNSCLC) without identified actionable mutations consists of regimens comprising immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), alone or in combination with platinum-based chemotherapy (CTx). However, approximately 20–30% of patients with mNSCLC (including some patients with high tumor programmed cell death ligand-1 expression) display primary resistance to ICIs, either alone or in combination with CTx. Mutations in tumor suppressor genes serine/threonine kinase 11 (STK11), and Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1) often detected in patients with Kirsten rat sarcoma virus mutations, are associated with an aggressive disease phenotype and resistance to standard ICI regimens. Consequently, there is an important need for effective treatments for patients with NSCLC with STK11 or KEAP1 mutations. In this article, we describe new data on the prevalence of STK11 and KEAP1 mutations in a large clinical population, consider practicalities around the detection of these mutations using available biomarker testing methodologies, and describe experiences of managing some of these difficult-to-treat patients in our clinical practice.
Impact on parasitemia, survival time and pro-inflammatory immune response in mice infected with Plasmodium berghei treated with Eleutherine plicata
Authors: Quadros Gomes Antônio Rafael , Castro Ana Laura Gadelha , Ferreira Gleison Gonçalves , Brígido Heliton Patrick Cordovil , Varela Everton Luiz Pompeu , Vale Valdicley Vieira , Carneiro Liliane Almeida , Dolabela Maria Fâni , Percario Sandro
Published: December 2024

In vitro studies with Plasmodium falciparum have demonstrated the antiparasitic activity of E. plicata, attributed to its naphthoquinones. This study reports on pro-inflammatory changes in mice infected with P. berghei and correlates these changes with parasitemia and survival. The ethanol extract of Eleutherine plicata (EEEp) was fractionated under reflux to obtain the dichloromethane fraction (FDMEp) and isolated compounds from E. plicata, relating these to survival time and parasitemia. Antimalarial activity was evaluated using the Peters suppressive test, with mice infected with Plasmodium berghei and treated with E. plicata, assessing parasitemia and survival over 30 days. The pro-inflammatory profile was determined by measuring interleukin-10, interferon-γ (IFN-γ), and nitric oxide levels. EEEp, FDMEp, and eleutherol showed activity on the 5th day of infection, with only FDMEp being active on the 8th day. Treatment with EEEp and FDMEp extended animal survival, reduced IFN-γ and NO levels, and increased IL-10 levels. Eleutherol significantly altered the response, with eleutherol glucuronide seemingly active by binding to lactate dehydrogenase, inhibiting hemozoin metabolism, leading to parasite death. Pro-inflammatory changes did not appear to correlate with survival and reduced parasitemia. In summary, FDMEp and eleutherol reduced parasitemia, extended survival, and modulated the inflammatory response. FDMEp and eleutherol are promising candidates for developing new antimalarial drugs.
Identification of osmotic stress resistance mediated by MdKAI2 in apple
Authors: Guo Hongyang , Chen Aoxing , Yang Zhifeng , Yang Wenmao , Wang Xianpu , Xu Lili
Published: December 2024

KAR (Karrikin), a novel plant growth regulator, can be recognized specifically by plants and can activate resistance responses. MdKAI2 is the natural receptor of KARs in apple. Here, we report the identification of osmotic stress resistance in MdKAI2 via the method of genetic transformation. The phenotypic traits, resistance indicators, and transcriptional and metabolic regulation of MdKAI2 were identified. KAR1, a highly active form of KAR, markedly promoted the root growth of Gala cultivar tissue culture‒generated plants, possibly through increases in ABA and TZR contents and decreases in the GA3 content. MdKAI2 was markedly upregulated by PEG stress and significantly promoted the growth of apple calli under nonstress conditions, whereas it was significantly inhibited under 20% PEG stress, as was cell death. MdKAI2 significantly increased the content of total flavonoids, the activity of reactive oxygen species (ROS)‒scavenging enzymes (SOD, POD and CAT), and the content of osmoregulatory substances (soluble protein, soluble sugars and proline). It also inhibited the MDA content and conductivity under osmotic stress. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs), including multiple transcription factors (TFs), such as MYB, bHLH and AP2‒EREBP, are significantly regulated by MdKAI2, and genes involved in the mitogen‒activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway play crucial roles in the regulation of plant resistance. In addition, pathways such as brassinosteroid (BR) biosynthesis and ABC transporters were downregulated, and the MAPK signaling pathway; plant‒pathogen interaction; cutin, suberin and wax biosynthesis; alpha‒linolenic acid metabolism; and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis were upregulated by MdKAI2. MdKAI2 significantly regulates the levels of lipids, amino acids, terpenoids, benzene, organic acids, carbohydrates, and alkaloids and is involved in the metabolic processes of amino acids, carbohydrates, nucleotides, lipids and secondary metabolites. Furthermore, MdKAI2 positively regulates fatty acids, esters, and terpenoids and negatively regulates metabolites of amino acids, amides and alcohols, and the MAPK signaling pathway may mediate this process. The study has provided a new direction for the industrial application of KAR1 in apples and resistance breeding based on the gene of MdKAI2.
Experimental investigation on modes of spray formation, droplet size and size distribution in a spinning disc atomizer
Authors: Chen Jian , Hu Wei , Dong Xiaoya , Lin Jinlong , Gao Zhouming , Qiu Baijing
Published: December 2024

The spinning disc atomizer is extensively utilized in agricultural spraying, with optimized operating conditions significantly enhancing atomization performance. In this paper, the atomization characteristics of a spinning disc were studied using photographs taken by a high-speed camera. Ethanol-water solutions were used at various flow rates and the disc speed was varied in a wide range. The influence of disc speed, flow rate, and surface tension on modes of spray formation, droplet size, and size distribution were investigated. The correlations for Reynolds number (Re), Stability number (St), and dimensionless droplet size (d*) were proposed in a wide range of operational conditions. The Rosin-Rammler (RR) and modified Rosin-Rammler (MRR) distributions appropriately represented the droplet size distribution. It was found that the increase in flow rate resulted in modes of spray formation translation under the same disc speed and ethanol-water solution. The predicted droplet sizes showed good agreement with the experiment values. Most of the predicted droplet sizes were within the band of ±15% of the experiment values. The droplet size decreased with increasing Re or St, but was hardly affected by q. Besides, the droplet size decreased with increasing disc speed and decreasing surface tension. The RR and MRR distribution matched with the calculated cumulative volume fraction from the experimental data reasonably well for the entire range. It was recommended to appropriately elevate Re during the spinning disc atomization process to narrow the range of droplet sizes and enhance uniformity.
Organelle genome assembly, annotation, and comparative analyses of Typha latifolia and T. domingensis: two keystone species for wetlands worldwide
Authors: Soe Thida , Kong Jiali , Nie Liyun , Wang Jie , Peng Dan , Tembrock Luke R. , Wu Zhiqiang
Published: December 2024

Typha is a cosmopolitan aquatic plant genus that includes species with widespread global distributions. In previous studies, a revised molecular phylogeny was inferred using seven plastid loci from nine Typha species across different geographic regions. By utilizing complete organellar genomes, we aim to provide a more comprehensive dataset that offers a robust phylogenetic signal for resolving Typha species evolutionary relationships. Here, we assembled T. latifolia and T. domingensis mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) using a combination of short-read and long-read data (PacBio, ONT). The mitogenomes of both species are assembled into single circular molecules of 395,136 bp and 395,140 bp in length, respectively, with a similar GC content of 46.7%. A total of 39 protein-coding genes, 17 tRNA genes, and 3 rRNA genes were annotated in both mitogenomes. The plastid genomes (plastomes) of both species possess typical quadripartite structures observed across most plants, with sizes of 161,545 bp and 161,230 bp. The overall average GC content of the plastomes of both species was 36.6%. The comparative analysis of the plastome and mitogenome revealed that 12 mitogenome DNA fragments share similar sequences with in the repeat regions of the corresponding plastomes, suggesting a past transfer of repeat regions into the mitogenome. Additionally, the mitogenomes of the two Typha species exhibited high sequence conservation with several syntenic blocks. Phylogenetic analysis of the organellar genomes of the two Typha species and 10 related species produced congruent phylogenetic trees. The availability of these organellar genomes from two Typha species provide valuable genetic resources for studying the evolution of Typhaceae and will improve taxonomic classifications within the family.
Using iVR to deliver optimal psychotherapy experience—current perspectives on VRET for acrophobia
Authors: Kvapil Varšová Kristína , Juřík Vojtěch
Published: December 2024

Immersive Virtual Reality (iVR) presents a promising avenue for treating acrophobia through Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy (VRET). This paper explores the current state of VRET for acrophobia, identifying significant technological and practical barriers that limit its effectiveness and hinder widespread adoption. Key challenges include the need for more advanced and realistic user experiences, and for the integration of biofeedback mechanisms. Additionally, the role of therapists remains crucial, as therapist-led VRET sessions demonstrate better outcomes compared to automated interventions. The potential of Collaborative Immersive Virtual Environments (CIVEs) to enhance VRET by simulating real-life interactions and improving patient-therapist engagement is also discussed. Future research should focus on developing comprehensive guidelines for CIVE design and evaluating integrated VRET and CIVE systems for treating phobias, including acrophobia. Addressing these issues will enhance the therapeutic experience, making VRET a more effective and accessible tool for treating acrophobia.
Data-driven vs. psychological personality temperaments: theoretical and clinical utility of personality measures in psychiatry
Authors: Sawalma Abdelrahman S. , Sehwail Mahmud A. , Dammers Jürgen , Herzallah Mohammad M.
Published: December 2024

Decades of research on personality identified dissociable psychological temperaments. Cloninger’s temperament and character theory used a psychobiological approach to differentiate three major dimensions of personality: harm avoidance, novelty seeking, and reward dependence. Previous studies, heretofore, did not examine the correspondence between Cloninger’s psychological temperaments and statistically independent data-driven components and how that could enhance the clinical utility of personality temperaments. In this study, we validated an Arabic version of the tri-dimensional personality questionnaire (TPQ) to construct data-driven personality temperaments using independent component analysis (ICA). Using SVM, we contrasted the clinical utility of data-driven personality vs. Cloninger’s psychological temperaments in differentiating medication-naïve patients with major depressive disorder (N=244) and healthy subjects (N=1109). Data-driven personality components based on ICA showed very little overlap with Cloninger’s original temperaments. Both Cloninger’s temperaments and data-driven components revealed low internal consistency (for subscales) but high test-retest reliability. Cloninger’s temperaments, however, showed a poor goodness-of-fit for the structure of the TPQ. Data-driven components significantly outperformed psychological TPQ temperaments with higher accuracy and recall but not precision. To our knowledge, this is the first study to examine the clinical utility of data-driven vs. psychological personality metrics using a sizeable sample of patients and healthy individuals. Our results could have wide implications for reexamining psychometric data to extract data-driven latent structures that can improve replicability, clinical utility, and cross-disciplinary inference.
Combination of traditional Chinese bone setting and NMES technique for treating lumbar disc herniation: a case report
Authors: Bao Yimei , Wang ZhiJin
Published: December 2024

Objective

To analyze and study the causes and treatment approaches for lumbar disc herniation, focusing on office workers.

Methods

The concept of spinal internal balance disorder as a foundation for treating traumatic spinal diseases was introduced. Pathological changes occurring with single (or multiple) vertebral displacement were considered. For the first time, the “spinal (point) rotation repositioning method” from traditional Chinese bone setting was combined with NMES (neuromuscular electrical stimulation) technology to treat low back pain.

Results

The patient's symptoms of low back pain were cured within a short period, allowing a quick return to work and daily life, with no recurrence of the disease observed during long-term follow-up.

Conclusion

The combination of traditional Chinese bone setting and NMES provides a more effective and quicker resolution to low back pain in office workers with lumbar disc herniation. This integrated approach not only relieves pain but also restores lumbar function, ensuring long-term stability and reducing recurrence.
Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy reduced postoperative pain than three-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy in patients with large gallstone, a retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Zhiheng , Xu Jiawei , Yu Decai , Lin Nacheng , Peng Jin
Published: December 2024

Aim

To compare the short-term outcomes between SILC and TILC depending on gallstone size.

Material and methods

Data from 114 patients with gallstones who underwent cholecystectomy hospitalized in Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital between June 2022 and October 2023 were collected. The gallstone diameter, the operation time, estimated blood loss, post-operative pain, complications post-operation, and length of hospital stay were all collected and examined.

Results

Of the 114 patients included in this study, 61 underwent SILC, and 53 underwent TILC. The pain score 6 h, 24 h post-operation was higher in the TILC group compared with the SILC group. Patients were divided into large (diameter > 2 cm) and small groups (diameter < 2 cm), larger gallstones significantly increased operation duration in the SILC group. For the TILC group, large gallstones significantly increased blood loss during the operation. The blood loss and pain scores were higher in the TILC group compared with the SILC group for patients with large gallstones.

Conclusion

In this study, SILC and TILC both had comparable postoperative outcomes, while SILC significantly reduced postoperative pain than TILC. Moreover, SILC might be a suitable option for patients with larger gallstones (diameter > 2 cm) and helps reduce blood loss and postoperative pain.
Case Report: Treatment of a complex hand disfigurement injury by fully shaped reconstruction of a severed finger combined with ectopic banking
Authors: Jia Zhengfeng , Shi Longbao , Gao Weilu , Li Han , Zhang Jianzheng , Shi Weidong , Li Jiantao , Zhao Jianwen
Published: December 2024

One of the primary challenges in hand microsurgical reconstruction lies in addressing severe hand injuries, particularly those involving multiple finger amputations, as autologous replantation might not fully restore hand functionality. In such scenarios, fully shaped reconstruction of a severed finger combined with Ectopic banking could yield superior reconstructive outcomes and enhance the amputated limb's function. This case report presents a unique approach that combines ectopic replantation of an amputated finger with interphalangeal reconstruction methods to restore both the form and function of the hand. A 43-year-old female patient suffered an injury to her left hand, leading to ischaemic amputation of all four fingers. Our treatment strategy involved a blend of allograft reimplantation, interdigital reconstruction, iliac bone grafting, and metacarpophalangeal joint fusion to revive the hand's functionality. A year post-surgery, the toe-to-finger reconstructions of the left thumb and middle finger exhibited excellent survival, although the ring and little fingers were lost. The flap located on the dorsum of the left foot healed seamlessly, with uninterrupted blood flow to the toe tips and no complications. As a result, the patient retained three fingers and regained functional activity. Our study underscores that the synergistic approach of fully shaped reconstruction of a severed finger combined with Ectopic banking not only elevates surgical efficiency but also significantly bolsters hand morphology and function. This case report underscores the significance of the Treatment of a complex hand disfigurement injury by fully shaped reconstruction of a severed finger combined with Ectopic banking in the realm of finger reconstruction, highlighting their transformative potential in restoring hand function and appearance.
First metagenomic sequencing for the analysis of microbial community populations of adults and pupae of Melophagus ovinus in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Huang Kaijun , Zhang Xing , Xiong Na , Sun Lu , Zhao Xiaoqing , Zhou Kun , Wu Junyuan
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Melophagus ovinus, a parasite on the body surface of sheep, directly attacks the host through biting and sucking blood and may also transmit pathogens in the process. There are currently only a few studies on the microbial composition of M. ovinus, while there are no such studies on pupae.

Methods

In this study, samples AT-1 to AT-4 each contained four M. ovinus individuals, while sample AT-5 comprised four M. ovinus pupae, all used for metagenomic sequencing and analysis. Melophagus ovinus adults and pupae were collected from four regions in Xinjiang, China. DNA was extracted from the samples, amplified, and sequenced using the Illumina Novaseq 6000 System; finally, the sequencing data were analyzed using molecular biology software.

Results and discussion

From all samples, a total of 32 phyla, comprising 372 genera and 1,037 species, were detected. The highest microbial diversity was observed in Kuqa City (AT-2) and Qira County (AT-4). Pupae exhibited 40 unique microbial genera (AT-5) but did not have the highest microbial diversity. Proteobacteria was the dominant phylum in all samples. The dominant genera included Bartonella, Wolbachia, Pseudomonas, and Arsenophonus. This is the first study to report most of the bacteria (e.g., Pseudomonas versuta and Arsenophonus nasoniae), fungi (e.g., Saitoella complicata), viruses (e.g., Orf virus and Wolbachia phage WO), and protozoa (e.g., Trypanosoma theileri and Babesia bigemina) in M. ovinus. This study has enriched the microbial diversity data of M. ovinus, and the pathogens it carries may pose a threat to public health safety and the economy of related industries, necessitating further research to develop effective biological control strategies.
Stochastic simulation modeling of the economics of providing additional living space for housed dairy cows
Authors: Thompson Jake S. , Hudson Chris D. , Huxley Jon N. , Kaler Jasmeet , Green Martin J.
Published: December 2024

The housed environment for dairy cattle is of critical importance to their health, wellbeing, and productivity. Lack of space is an important factor for housing quality assessment due to links with increased likelihood of disease. A recently published randomized controlled trial identified that greater living space provision increased lying time, milk volume production, and also increased time to conception. However, despite probable improvements in cow welfare, the question remains as to whether offering increased living space is a cost-effective option for farmers. The costs associated with financing new housing facilities are escalating, and the industry urgently requires an evidence base for ensuring these investments are financially sustainable. This research used stochastic simulation modeling to explore theoretical net returns on infrastructure investment differences between two living space scenarios (3 m2 vs. 6.5 m2). A cow entered a simulation at the point of first calving, and milk production, reproductive performance, and points of exit were stochastically determined over the cow’s lifetime simultaneously based on living space scenario. This allowed for direct financial comparison over specified sets of parameter inputs. Where cows exited the herd within their second to fourth lactation, the median difference in financial return was observed to be +£87.61 per cow per year (mean + £86.74). The estimated return on investment to provide extra living space access varied dependent on provision method, interest rates, and loan repayment duration. Under the circumstances and contexts investigated, the results suggest that building for increased living space would be cost-effective. When building a new shed with a high living space versus control at a 4.00% interest rate, a median net return on infrastructure investment of +£23.00 per cow per year was identified (range –£25.91 to +£64.16 for 10th to 90th percentile). Since decreased living space is likely to lead to poorer welfare, it can be considered a negative production externality associated with current production systems, the cost of which should also be accounted for when analyzing the economics of housing. Further research is essential to gain a complete understanding of the cost-effectiveness of providing increased living space per cow under different management scenarios.
Prostaglandin pathways in equine myometrium regulations: endometrosis progression
Authors: Piotrowska-Tomala Katarzyna K. , Szóstek-Mioduchowska Anna Z. , Drzewiecka Ewa M. , Jonczyk Agnieszka W. , Wójtowicz Anna , Wrobel Michał H. , Ferreira-Dias Graca , Skarzynski Dariusz J.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Prostaglandins (PG) are important regulators of the myometrial contractility in mammals. Endometrosis, a condition characterized by morphological changes in the equine endometrium, also affects endometrial secretory function. However, it remains unclear whether and how endometrosis affects myometrial function.

Methods

This study investigated: (i) mRNA transcription of genes encoding specific enzymes responsible for PG synthesis, such as prostaglandin—endoperoxide synthase (PTGS2), PGE2 synthase (PTGES), PGF2α synthase (PTGFS) and PG receptors: PGE2 receptors (PTGER1- 4), and PGF2α receptor (PTGFS) in equine myometrium and, (ii) the effects of PGE2 and PGF2α on myometrial contractile activity, during endometrosis in mares. The myometria used in experiments 1 and 2 were collected from mares in the mid-luteal (n = 23) and follicular (n = 20) phases of the estrous cycle, according to the histological classification of the endometrium (Kenney and Doig categories I, IIA, IIB, and III).

Results

In experiment 1, changes in mRNA transcription of PG synthase or PG receptors in the myometrium during the course of endometrosis were determined using qPCR. During the mid-luteal phase, myometrial mRNA transcription of PTGES increased in mares with endometrial category IIB compared to category I. However, myometrial mRNA transcription of PTGER1 decreased during the progression of endometrosis compared to category I. During the follicular phase, mRNA transcription of PTGER1 and PTGER2 increased in mares with endometrial categories III or IIA, respectively. In addition, mRNA transcription of PTGFS increased in mares with endometrium category IIA compared to category I. In experiment 2, the force of myometrial contractions was measured using an isometric concentration transducer. In the follicular phase, PGE2 decreased the force of contractions in mares with endometrial categories IIA, IIB, and III compared to the respective control groups. Prostaglandin F2α increased the force of myometrial contractions in mares with category IIA endometrium, whereas it decreased in category IIB compared to the respective control groups.

Discussion

We concluded that in the progression of endometrosis there are changes in the myometrial transcription of mRNA encoding PG synthases and receptors, particularly PTGER1 and PTGER2. Mares with endometrosis had abnormal myometrial contractile responses to PG. These findings suggest that myometrial function may be compromised during the progression of endometrosis.
Convergence Time Measurement Method of Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
Authors: Zatorska Agata , Łuczyński Michał , Bartnik Wojciech
Published: December 2024

The aim of this paper is to develop and describe an objective method for measuring the performance of headphones with active noise cancellation (ANC). The focus was on measuring both passive and active sound attenuation and determining the convergence time of the ANC system. A new parameter was introduced—the reaction speed, expressed in dB/ms, allowing an accurate correlation of the active attenuation values with the time needed to achieve them. A series of tests were conducted using three active noise cancelling headphone models of different prices and specifications. The response times were recorded and analyzed. Measurements were performed on two different dummy head models and under two different measurement conditions (reverberation chamber and acoustically adapted room). The results revealed differences between the models, with some headphones consistently providing a better reaction speed. Remarkably, the headphone associated with the lower reaction speed were also the cheapest. This justifies the need for the reaction speed to be a parameter provided by the manufacturer in the datasheet.
Diversity and the Influence of Social Enterprises in South Korea
Authors: Jeon Jongmin , Choi Jinhee , Vaquero Ivan Ureta
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to examine the growth of social enterprises, their operational diversity and impact, and their characteristics from the stakeholders’ perspective focusing on the diversity and influence of social enterprises in the Republic of Korea. Based on data from periodical reports, newspaper articles, and the existing academic literature, this study provides insights into the diversity and influence of social enterprises in Korea. This study suggests that the growth of Korean social enterprises is rooted in extensive government support, including financial subsidies, tax benefits, and technological innovation incentives. We found that the landscape includes officially recognized social enterprises and other entities that, while not formally certified, fulfill similar roles by embodying social values within diverse institutional frameworks. These enterprises have diversified to engage various social issues, from job creation for marginalized groups to environmental sustainability and community development. Effective stakeholder engagement fostered diversity and inclusiveness within these organizations. A limitation of this study is the use of secondary sources. Future research should use more diverse data collection methods and examine a broader range of social enterprises, including non-certified ones. This study contributes to the discourse on social enterprise by highlighting the trajectory of social enterprise development, the critical role of government support, and the importance of stakeholder engagement to promote diversity. It also provides insights into the diversity and role of social enterprises in Korea and their potential to address socio-economic issues.
The Rural Economy and Family Firms: A Bibliometric Analysis Through Scientific Maps
Authors: Alcázar-Blanco Antonio , Paule-Vianez Jessica , Rangel-Preciado José Francisco
Published: December 2024

Since the beginning of the research on the family business and rural economy, there has been a problem with the delimitation of the concepts. Given this problem, this study’s main objective was to identify and visualize the intellectual structure of these two issues through scientific maps. To meet this objective, an evaluation of scientific performance and production was carried out with bibliometric indicators to extract the main research topics around these two areas through an analysis of the co-occurrence of keywords with scientific maps. The results show that research on family businesses and rural economy is booming, especially on family businesses that have higher productivity and performance. Regarding the main topics studied regarding family businesses and the rural economy, a total of 16 main themes were detected, highlighting the topic of entrepreneurship. The study of land management in transboundary environments is a potential line of future research.
The Influence of Agrotechnical Factors on the Yield and Quality Parameters of Winter Triticale Grain
Authors: Jańczak-Pieniążek Marta , Kaszuba Joanna
Published: December 2024

Due to the high yield potential, suitable agrotechnical properties, and nutritional value of the grain, the interest in growing triticale is increasing due to the high yield potential, suitable agrotechnical properties, and nutritional value. This species is primarily grown for fodder purposes, but numerous studies suggest its potential for human consumption, including bread production. Additionally, triticale is known for its greater resistance to adverse environmental conditions compared to other crops, even under varying agronomic practices. A field experiment was conducted in southeastern Poland from 2019 to 2022. The study involved two cultivation systems (conventional and integrated) as one factor and three winter triticale cultivars (Belcanto, Meloman, and Panteon) as the other. The conventional system is based on the intensive cultivation of plants through the use of large amounts of fertilizers and crop protection products. The integrated system of cultivation is an alternative to the conventional system. This system aims to reduce the use of industrial inputs and, as a result, minimize the negative impact of agriculture on the natural environment. Cultivation under the conventional system resulted in higher grain yields and improved physiological parameter values. There was an increase in the leaf area index (LAI), relative chlorophyll content, chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, and gas exchange parameters (photosynthetic rate (Pn) and transpiration rate (E)). The highest yields were achieved with the cv-Panteon and cv-Belcanto under the conventional system. The yields of these cultivars in the integrated system did not differ significantly from those of cv-Meloman under the conventional system. In the 2021/2022 season, the weather conditions were the most favorable during the triticale vegetation period, which resulted in the highest grain yield. The conventional system also resulted in higher thousand-grain weight (TGW), crude protein content, and grain test weight while lowering the falling number (FN) value. However, the cultivation systems did not significantly affect the grain uniformity, crude fat, fiber, or ash content, as well as wet gluten and gluten index (GI). The cv-Panteon exhibited the highest level of crude protein, crude fiber, and crude ash in its grain, suggesting its strong nutritional value and potential for use in human consumption. The cultivation of triticale in the integrated system, although associated with lower yields, causes less environmental pollution than cultivation in the conventional system. The appropriate selection of efficient cultivars grown in the integrated system allows for high grain yields with good quality parameters.
Biomechanical Analysis of Camellia oleifera Branches for Optimized Vibratory Harvesting
Authors: Pan Rui , Wan Ziping , Wu Mingliang , Lu Shikui , Tang Lewei
Published: December 2024

To investigate the biomechanical properties of Camellia oleifera branches under two loading speeds within a specific diameter range, three-point bending tests were conducted using a universal material–testing machine. The tests were performed at loading speeds of 10 mm/min and 20 mm/min on branches with diameters ranging from 5 mm to 40 mm. This study aims to provide insights into the design of a manipulator gripper used in a vibrating harvester for Camellia oleifera fruit. Four main varieties of Camellia oleifera were tested to determine their elastic modulus. The nonlinear least squares method, based on the hyperbolic tangent function, was employed to fit the bending load–deflection curves of the branches. This process constructed multi-parameter transcendental equations involving elastic modulus, diameter, and loading speed. Results indicated that the branches of four Camellia oleifera varieties exhibited significant differences in their biomechanical properties, with their modulus of elasticity ranging from 459.01 MPa to 983.33 MPa. This suggests variability in the bending performance among different varieties. For instance, Huaxin branches demonstrated the highest rigidity, while Huashuo branches were softer in general. For the proposed empirical fitting equations, when the fitting parameter k is 168 ± 20 and the parameter c is 3.102 ± 0.421, the bending load–deflection relationship of the branches can be predicted more accurately. This study provides a theoretical basis for enhancing the efficiency of mechanized vibratory picking of Camellia oleifera and optimising the design of the gripper.
Multisensor Analysis for Biostimulants Effect Detection in Sustainable Viticulture
Authors: Sassu Alberto , Deidda Alessandro , Mercenaro Luca , Virgillito Beatrice , Gambella Filippo
Published: December 2024

Biostimulants are organic agents employed for crop yield enhancement, quality improvement, and environmental stress mitigation, reducing, at the same time, reliance on inorganic inputs. With advancements in sustainable agriculture, data acquisition technologies have become crucial for monitoring the effects of such inputs. This study evaluates the impact of four increasing rates of Biopromoter biostimulant application on grapevines: 0, 100 g plant−1, 100 g plant−1 with additional foliar fertilizers, and 150 g plant−1 with additional foliar fertilizers. The biostimulant was applied via foliar or ground methods, and its effects were assessed using vegetation indices derived from unmanned aerial systems (UAS), as well as proximal and manual sensing tools, alongside qualitative and quantitative production metrics. The research was conducted over two seasons in a Malvasia Bianca vineyard in Sardinia, Italy. Results indicated that UAS-derived vegetation indices, consistent with traditional ground-based measurements, effectively monitored vegetative growth over time but revealed no significant differences between treatments, suggesting either an insufficient vegetative indices sensitivity or that the applied biostimulant rates were insufficient to elicit a measurable response in the cultivar. Among the tools employed, only the SPAD 502 m demonstrated the sensitivity required to detect treatment differences, primarily reflected in grape production outcomes, especially in the second year and in the two groups managed with the highest amounts of biostimulants distributed by foliar and soil application. The use of biostimulants promoted, although only in the second year, a greener canopy and higher productivity in treatments where it was delivered to the soil. Further agronomic experiments are required to improve knowledge about biostimulants’ composition and mode of action, which are essential to increasing their effectiveness against specific abiotic stresses. Future research will focus on validating these technologies for precision viticulture, particularly concerning the long-term benefits.