bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of threat of concurrent SARS-CoV-2 and DENV infection in the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil in 2020: diagnostic and immunological findings
Authors: Rodrigues Joyce Carnevale , Familiar-Macedo Débora , Medeiros Thalia , Carvalho Fabiana Rabe , Almeida Jorge Reis , Silva Andrea Alice , dos Santos Flávia Barreto , de Souza Luiz José , Damasco Paulo Vieira , Azeredo Elzinandes Leal , de-Oliveira-Pinto Luzia Maria
Published: October 2023

Introduction

The first peak of COVID-19 in Brazil was between April and May 2020, at a time of the year when outbreaks of other tropical diseases, such as dengue, would be expected. COVID-19 and dengue have similar pathogenesis. In general, both may lead to mild symptoms but may also cause severe and even fatal symptoms, especially in patients with comorbidities and probably in cases of overlapping infections. The general objective of this study was to assess whether, during the 2020 pandemic, there were cases of concomitant infection between SARS-CoV-2 and DENV.

Methods

For this, we evaluated the specificity and sensitivity of commercial serological anti-SARS-CoV-2 kits using plasma samples from patients with dengue and healthy donors recruited before COVID-19. In the case of confirmed cases of COVID-19/dengue, we evaluated the clinical evolution of these coinfected patients, compared with mono-infected patients; and quantified chemokines CCL2 and CXCL8 by ELISA in COVID-19 patients in order to correlate them with COVID-19/dengue severity and cases.

Results and Discussion

Our results showed that commercial IgA and IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 kits presented high sensitivity and specificity. This allowed us to see a low rate of co-detection or coinfection between SARS-CoV-2 and DENV in Rio de Janeiro. Among the 57 COVID-19 patients, anti-DENV IgM was detected in five (8.8%). COVID-19/dengue coinfected patients showed no clinical worsening of COVID-19 and cases in which COVID-19 patients had previous exposure to DENV did not influence the clinical severity of COVID-19. Lastly, CCL2 and CXCL8 appeared to be good markers of COVID-19 severity and did not show increased levels in COVID-19/dengue cases.
Assessment of sea ice thickness simulations in the CMIP6 models with CICE components
Authors: Xu Mengliu , Li Junde
Published: October 2023

Arctic sea ice plays a critical role in modulating our global climate system and the exchange of heat fluxes in the polar region, but its impact on climate varies across different sea ice thickness (SIT) categories. Compared to sea ice cover, the performance of ice models in simulating SIT has been less evaluated, particularly in the sixth Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase (CMIP6). Here, we chose 12 CMIP6 models with the Community Ice Code model (CICE) components and compared their SIT simulations with the satellite observations and the Pan-Arctic Ice Ocean Modeling and Assimilation System (PIOMAS) model between 1980 and 2014. Our results show that the seasonal cycle of the PIOMAS SIT is consistent with satellite observations. Compared to the PIOMAS reanalysis, the multi-model ensemble mean (MME) well represents the sea ice extent in both the thin ice (<0.6 m) and thick ice (> 3.6 m). However, the MME SIT has larger biases in the Chukchi Sea, the Beaufort Sea, the central Arctic, and the Greenland Sea during winter and mainly in the central Arctic during summer. Both the MME and PIOMAS show decreasing trends in SIT over the entire Arctic Ocean in all seasons, but the interannual variability of SIT in MME is smaller than that in PIOMAS. Among the 12 CMIP6 models, the FIO-ESM-2.0 model shows the best simulation of the annual mean SIT, but the SAM0-UNICON and NESM3 models have the largest biases in the climatological mean SIT over the Arctic Ocean. We also demonstrate that the FIO-ESM-2.0 performs the best in the seasonal cycles of SIT. Our study suggests that more attention should be paid to the coupling of the CICE model with ocean and atmosphere models, which is vital to improving the SIT simulation in CMIP6 models and to better understanding the impact of Arctic sea ice on our climate system.
Successful treatment of peritoneal dialysis for two patients with refractory nephrotic syndrome and acute kidney injury: a case report
Authors: Yu Le , Cheng Shuiqin , Zhang Man , Zhou Tingting , Chen Yunmin , Zhang Zhihong , Yu Yusheng
Published: October 2023

Two patients with refractory nephrotic syndrome were treated with peritoneal dialysis (PD) for diuretic resistance, anasarca and acute kidney injury. Following PD, their fluid overload was promptly alleviated, accompanied by an increase in urine volume and an improvement in renal function. PD as an adjuvant approach enabled them to resume corticosteroids and immunosuppressive agents. Eventually, both patients could be withdrawn from PD and achieved remission of proteinuria.
Systematic analysis of cuproptosis-related genes in immunological characterization and predictive drugs in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Nie Bin , Duan Yefen , Xie Xuelong , Qiu Lihua , Shi Shaorui , Fan Zhili , Zheng Xuxiang , Jiang Ling
Published: October 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to make a systematic analysis of cuproptosis-related genes (CRGs) in immunological characterization and predictive drugs in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) through bioinformatics and biological experiments.

Methods

The molecular clusters related to CRGs and associated immune cell infiltrations in AD were investigated. The diagnostic models were constructed for AD and different AD subtypes. Moreover, drug prediction and molecular docking were also performed. Subsequently, a molecular dynamics (MD) simulation was conducted to further verify the findings. Finally, RT-qPCR validation was performed.

Results

The characterization of 12 AD-related CRGs was evaluated in AD, and a diagnostic model for AD showed a satisfying discrimination power based on five CRGs by LASSO regression analysis. The dysregulated CRGs and activated immune responses partially differed between patients with AD and healthy subjects. Furthermore, two molecular subtypes (clusters A and B) with different immune infiltration characteristics in AD were identified. Similarly, a diagnostic model for different AD subtypes was built with nine CRGs, which achieved a good performance. Molecular docking revealed the optimum conformation of CHEMBL261454 and its target gene CSNK1D, which was further validated by MD simulation. The RT-qPCR results were consistent with those of the comprehensive analysis.

Conclusion

This study systematically elucidated the complex relationship between cuproptosis and AD, providing novel molecular targets for treatment and diagnosis biomarkers of AD.
The treatment of persistent spinal pain syndrome with epidural pulsed radiofrequency: improvement of the technique
Authors: Dario Alessandro , Capelli Sergio
Published: October 2023

Background

In Persistent Spinal Pain Syndrome (PSPS), Pulsed Radiofrequency (PRF) is a used procedure. The results of PRF in PSPS performed with an electrode placed through the sacral hiatus were reported to be successful on pain in only 32% of patients. We have tried to improve the results by applying a new system to PRF.

Methods

Ten patients were treated with PRF application through a steerable epidural catheter with a reference electrode outside the foramen. This method was named “Optimization Current Flow” (OCF). The duty cycle of PRF was 2 × 10 msec and total exposure time was 150 s. Follow up was planned for 1, 3, and 6 months. The NRS score was considered to be the primary outcome.

Results

In the first 10 patients treatment was successful (69% of the patients) at 6 months follow-up.

Conclusion

This new modality of PRF in patients with PSPS seems to be superior to procedures done with a needle. Further prospective double-blind randomized long-term studies with a significant number of patients are required to validate this technique as there is a need to improve PRF results in PSPS.
Optimized miR-124 reporters uncover differences in miR-124 expression among neuronal populations in vitro
Authors: Lepolard Catherine , Rombaut Cynthia , Jaouen Florence , Borges Ana , Caccomo-Garcia Elodie , Popa Natalia , Gascon Eduardo
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Although intensively studied in the last decades, how microRNAs (miRNAs) are expressed across different cell types in the brain remains largely unknown.

Materials

To address this issue, we sought to develop optimized fluorescence reporters that could be expressed in precise cellular subsets and used to accurately quantify miR contents in vivo.

Results

Focusing on miR-124, we tested different reporter designs whose efficiency was confirmed in different in vitro settings including cell lines and primary neuronal cultures from different brain structures. Unlike previous reporters, we provide experimental evidence that our optimized designs can faithfully translate miR levels in vitro.

Discussion

Tools developed here would enable assessing miRNA expression at the single cell resolution and are expected to significantly contribute to future miRNA research in vivo.
A competition framework for fixation-preference in strabismus
Authors: Ramachandran Santoshi , Das Vallabh E.
Published: October 2023

Strabismic subjects often develop the ability to fixate on a target with either eye. Previous studies have shown that fixation-preference behavior varies systematically depending on spatial location of the target. We hypothesized that, when an eccentric target is presented, oculomotor fixation-preference in strabismus may be accounted for in a competitive decision framework wherein the brain must choose between two possible retinal errors to prepare a conjugate saccade that results in one of the eyes acquiring the eccentric target. We tested this framework by recording from visuo-motor neurons in the superior colliculus (SC) of two strabismic rhesus macaque monkeys as they performed a delayed saccade task under binocular viewing conditions. In one experiment, visual targets were presented at one of two locations corresponding to the neuronal receptive field location with respect to either the viewing or the deviated eye. Robust visual sensory responses were observed when targets were presented at either location indicating the presence of competing sensory signals for eye-choice. In a second experiment, a single visual target was placed at the neuronal receptive field location where the animal switched fixation on some trials and did not on other trials. At such target locations where either eye could acquire the target, both visual and build-up activity was greater in trials when the saccade encoded by the neuron “won.” These findings provide evidence for the influence of visual suppression within SC sensory activity and support the possible utilization of a competition framework, one that has been previously described for when a binocularly aligned animal chooses from among multiple targets, to drive fixation-preference behavior in strabismus.
Sweetness preference and its impact on energy intake and body weight – a review of evidence
Authors: Prinz Philip
Published: October 2023

In the last few years, several approaches have been postulated for tackling the global increase in overweight and obesity rates, including different dietary macronutrient compositions or the timing of meals. Recently, taste modulation has come into focus as a possible approach for influencing dietary behavior. The perception of sweet taste is innate and an evolutionary protection mechanism to prevent primates from eating poisonous plants. It is hypothesized that this innate sweetness preference could be modulated by dietary sweetness, including sweet foods and beverages, which results in a learned sweetness preference that affects energy intake and body weight. However, this hypothesis is not supported by unanimous scientific evidence. This review provides an update of the current literature, regarding the modulation of sweetness preference as a possible new approach in the prevention of overweight and obesity. In general, results from observation as well as interventional studies in all age groups are heterogeneous. The majority showed no effect of dietary sweetness modulation on sweetness preference, energy intake or anthropometric measures. Therefore, the modulation of sweetness preference due to diet, foods or beverages is still a hypothesis and not scientifically proven. However, due to the lack of data, more research is necessary.
Clinical study of renal artery cold perfusion combined with laparoscopic nephron retention in the treatment of complex renal angiomyolipoma
Authors: Zhu ChaoShuai , Yin HuaQi , Zhao ShiMing , Ma YongKang , Sun ZhengHui , Zhu MingKai , Du Zheng , Yang Tiejun
Published: October 2023

Objective

The aim of this study is to summarize the surgical experience of renal artery cold perfusion combined with laparoscopic nephron preserving surgery for the treatment of complex renal angiomyolipoma and to evaluate the safety and feasibility of this surgical protocol.

Materials and methods

Clinical data of nine patients who received renal artery cold perfusion combined with laparoscopic nephron preserving surgery for complex renal angiomyolipoma in our hospital from February 2017 to August 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. The study parameters included imaging findings, total renal function before and after surgery, glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of affected kidney before and after surgery, and related complications.

Results

Eight of the nine patients successfully completed the operation, one patient was intolerant to renal artery balloon implantation, and the success rate of the operation was 88.89%. The mean maximum tumor diameter was 6.8 cm, and RENAL score was 7 points. Postoperative total renal function and GFR of the affected kidney had no significant changes compared with that before surgery, and imaging examination showed no tumor residue or recurrence

Conclusion

This surgical procedure is safe and feasible for complex renal angiomyolipoma and can be used as a surgical option for renal hamartoma. The long-term effect needs to be confirmed by further studies.
Successes and challenges in modeling heterogeneous BRAFV600E mutated central nervous system neoplasms
Authors: Xing Yao Lulu , Panovska Dena , Petritsch Claudia K.
Published: October 2023

Central nervous system (CNS) neoplasms are difficult to treat due to their sensitive location. Over the past two decades, the availability of patient tumor materials facilitated large scale genomic and epigenomic profiling studies, which have resulted in detailed insights into the molecular underpinnings of CNS tumorigenesis. Based on results from these studies, CNS tumors have high molecular and cellular intra-tumoral and inter-tumoral heterogeneity. CNS cancer models have yet to reflect the broad diversity of CNS tumors and patients and the lack of such faithful cancer models represents a major bottleneck to urgently needed innovations in CNS cancer treatment. Pediatric cancer model development is lagging behind adult tumor model development, which is why we focus this review on CNS tumors mutated for BRAFV600E which are more prevalent in the pediatric patient population. BRAFV600E-mutated CNS tumors exhibit high inter-tumoral heterogeneity, encompassing clinically and histopathological diverse tumor types. Moreover, BRAFV600E is the second most common alteration in pediatric low-grade CNS tumors, and low-grade tumors are notoriously difficult to recapitulate in vitro and in vivo. Although the mutation predominates in low-grade CNS tumors, when combined with other mutations, most commonly CDKN2A deletion, BRAFV600E-mutated CNS tumors are prone to develop high-grade features, and therefore BRAFV600E-mutated CNS are a paradigm for tumor progression. Here, we describe existing in vitro and in vivo models of BRAFV600E-mutated CNS tumors, including patient-derived cell lines, patient-derived xenografts, syngeneic models, and genetically engineered mouse models, along with their advantages and shortcomings. We discuss which research gaps each model might be best suited to answer, and identify those areas in model development that need to be strengthened further. We highlight areas of potential research focus that will lead to the heightened predictive capacity of preclinical studies, allow for appropriate validation, and ultimately improve the success of “bench to bedside” translational research.
Immunohistochemistry combined with NGS to assist the differential diagnosis of multiple primary lung cancer with lymph node metastasis: a case report
Authors: Liu Chang , Zhang Shuai , Yang Hong , Bai Yu , Shen Yanru , Ren Yi
Published: October 2023

In recent years, the incidence of synchronous multiple primary lung cancers (MPLCs) has gradually increased. Surgery is the preferred treatment for these patients. There are great differences in the driving genes between individual tumors in patients with MPLC, and tumors with targeted mutations do not represent other tumors, which challenges the selection of targeted therapies for patients with MPLC. Driving mutations in each lesion after surgery are crucial for establishing accurate pathological staging and subsequent treatment strategies. There are some mutated genes in the lymph nodes of postoperative metastatic MPLCs, and the tumor cell count/DNA concentration is low, which limits the next-generation sequencing (NGS) detection effect. A combination with immunohistochemistry to determine the source of metastasis may be a better choice. This study reports a rare case of lung cancer with double primary adenocarcinomas of the lung combined with 10 groups of lymph node metastases. The source of metastasis was identified using immunohistochemistry combined with NGS to guide postoperative adjuvant treatment. We hope that this case report can provide new ideas for the identification of MPLCs and assist in their diagnosis and individualized treatment. In addition, the combination specific immunohistochemistry and NGS seems to be an effective identification method. This approach can provide clinical benefits; however, this still requires further exploration through studies with large sample sizes.
Cause of death during nasopharyngeal carcinoma survivorship: a population-based analysis
Authors: Zhou Jie , Jiang Zhenyu , Li Yunhao , Shao Xuwen , Liao Haihong
Published: October 2023

Background

Recently, the survival rate of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients has improved greatly due to developments in NPC treatments. But cause-specific mortality in NPC patients remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the common causes of death in NPC patients.

Methods

Eligible patients with NPC were included from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Standardized mortality ratios(SMRs) were calculated to compare death rates in NPC patients with those in the general population.

Results

A total of 3475 patients with NPC were included, of whom 1696 patients died during the follow-up period. 52.83% of deaths were caused by NPC, followed by other cancers (28.13%) and non-cancer causes (18.46%). The proportion of patients who died of NPC decreased over survival time. Moreover, non-cancer causes of death increase from 12.94% to 51.22% over time after 10 years of diagnosis. Heart diseases was the most common non-cancer cause of death in NPC patients.

Conclusions

Although NPC remains the leading cause of death after NPC diagnosis, other non-NPC causes of death represent an increased number of death in NPC patients. These findings support the involvement of multidisciplinary care for follow-up strategy in NPC patients.
Protocol for a 20-year follow-up after a randomized controlled trial of a Mediterranean diet in pregnancy: maternal and offspring risk factors for cardiovascular disease
Authors: Troensegaard Hannibal , Khoury Janette , Westerberg Ane C. , Tonstad Serena , Roeters van Lennep Jeanine , Veierød Marit B. , Iversen Per Ole , Holven Kirsten B. , Retterstøl Kjetil
Published: October 2023

Background

An inadequate maternal diet during pregnancy can impair offspring health and may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease later in life. The purpose of the proposed study is to assess the risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease in both mothers and their offspring 20 years following their participation in a Mediterranean diet intervention trial during pregnancy.

Methods

The “Cardiovascular Risk Reduction Diet In Pregnancy” (CARRDIP) study was a randomized controlled trial performed between 1999 and 2001. The participants were randomized to adhere to either a Mediterranean diet or their regular diet during pregnancy. An extensive amount of data such as diet information, ultrasound measurements, anthropometry, and biomarkers from these mothers during pregnancy and their offspring in the neonatal period were collected. The mother–offspring pairs (n = 269) from the CARRDIP study will be invited to participate in a clinical examination and blood sample collection. This follow-up study, conducted 20 years after the original CARRDIP study, will investigate cardiovascular risk factors in mothers and offspring. The primary outcome will be the blood pressure of the offspring. In addition, the study will explore various aspects of cardiovascular health, including metabolic and inflammatory status, clinical history, and body composition of the participants.

Discussion

Previous studies investigating the effects of nutrition during pregnancy on maternal and offspring health have been either observational studies, animal studies, or randomized controlled trials with a follow-up period of less than 5 years. This project aims to study the long-term effects of dietary intervention during pregnancy on maternal and offspring cardiovascular risk markers.

Clinical Trial Registration

Clinicaltrials.gov, identifier (NCT05030922).
From imbalance to impairment: the central role of reactive oxygen species in oxidative stress-induced disorders and therapeutic exploration
Authors: Afzal Sheryar , Abdul Manap Aimi Syamima , Attiq Ali , Albokhadaim Ibrahim , Kandeel Mahmoud , Alhojaily Sameer M.
Published: October 2023

Increased production and buildup of reactive oxygen species (ROS) can lead to various health issues, including metabolic problems, cancers, and neurological conditions. Our bodies counteract ROS with biological antioxidants such as SOD, CAT, and GPx, which help prevent cellular damage. However, if there is an imbalance between ROS and these antioxidants, it can result in oxidative stress. This can cause genetic and epigenetic changes at the molecular level. This review delves into how ROS plays a role in disorders caused by oxidative stress. We also look at animal models used for researching ROS pathways. This study offers insights into the mechanism, pathology, epigenetic changes, and animal models to assist in drug development and disease understanding.
The regulatory role of adipocyte mitochondrial homeostasis in metabolism-related diseases
Authors: Song Hongbing , Zhang Xiaohan , Wang Jing , Wu Yanling , Xiong Taimin , Shen Jieqiong , Lin Ruiyi , Xiao Tianfang , Lin Weimin
Published: October 2023

Adipose tissue is the most important energy storage organ in the body, maintaining its normal energy metabolism function and playing a vital role in keeping the energy balance of the body to avoid the harm caused by obesity and a series of related diseases resulting from abnormal energy metabolism. The dysfunction of adipose tissue is closely related to the occurrence of diseases related to obesity metabolism. Among various organelles, mitochondria are the main site of energy metabolism, and mitochondria maintain their quality through autophagy, biogenesis, transfer, and dynamics, which play an important role in maintaining metabolic homeostasis of adipocytes. On the other hand, mitochondria have mitochondrial genomes which are vulnerable to damage due to the lack of protective structures and their proximity to sites of reactive oxygen species generation, thus affecting mitochondrial function. Notably, mitochondria are closely related to other organelles in adipocytes, such as lipid droplets and the endoplasmic reticulum, which enhances the function of mitochondria and other organelles and regulates energy metabolism processes, thus reducing the occurrence of obesity-related diseases. This article introduces the structure and quality control of mitochondria in adipocytes and their interactions with other organelles in adipocytes, aiming to provide a new perspective on the regulation of mitochondrial homeostasis in adipocytes on the occurrence of obesity-related diseases, and to provide theoretical reference for further revealing the molecular mechanism of mitochondrial homeostasis in adipocytes on the occurrence of obesity-related diseases.
Propyrisulfuron plus cyhalofop butyl as one-shot herbicides provide high weed control efficiency and net economic performance in mechanically transplanted rice
Authors: Zhang Zichang , Wang Hongchun , Gu Tao , Cao Jingjing , Lou Yuanlai , Li Gui
Published: October 2023

Propyrisulfuron is a novel pyrimidinylsulfonylurea herbicide with good activity for controlling annual weed in rice fields. To evaluate the economic performance of propyrisulfuron, a field study was conducted in 2021 and 2022 on a farm of the Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, China. Eight different herbicide treatments were employed, including CB (cyhalofop butyl), Py (propyrisulfuron), CBPy (cyhalofop butyl plus propyrisulfuron), PrBe 3, PrBe 10, and PrBe 3+PrBe 10 (pretilachlor plus bensulfuron applied at different times [at 3 (PrBe 3) and 10 (PrBe 10) d] or sequentially, respectively), 2PrBe+PeCBBz (pretilachlor plus bensulfuron [applied sequentially] followed by penoxsulam plus cyhalofop butyl plus bentazone), 2PrBe+MeCBBz (pretilachlor plus bensulfuron [applied sequentially] followed by metamifop plus cyhalofop butyl plus bentazone), along with weed-free and nontreated weedy check treatments. Herbicide treatments did not cause visual phytotoxicity to rice, and bending and leaf rolling were not observed. Only the two propyrisulfuron treatments had temporary negative effects on rice height, but rice recovered quickly. Compared with the weed-free treatment, CBPy did not affect rice tiller number or dry matter accumulation. Compared with the nontreated weedy check, herbicide treatments reduced total weed density by 29.4% to 99.1% and dry biomass by 32.2% to 98.7%. The CBPy treatment provided the best weed control, reducing weed density and biomass by 96.7% and 95.9% in 2021 and 97.4% and 95.6% in 2022, respectively. Rice grain yield was not significantly different between CBPy and the weed-free treatment in either year. Economic analysis showed that CBPy provided the highest net profit, followed by that in 2PrBe+PeCBBz and 2PrBe+MeCBBz, with the lowest net profit in the nontreated weedy check. Thus, CBPy provides good weed control and could be promoted in mechanically transplanted rice fields in China.
Psychological impact of COVID-19 and determinants among Spanish university students
Authors: Cebrino Jesús , Portero de la Cruz Silvia
Published: October 2023

Background

University students are a vulnerable population and faced a significant psychological impact from the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the level of fear of COVID-19 among university students and to evaluate the possible relationship between fear of COVID-19 and socio-demographic, health-related determinants, variables related to the COVID-19 and variables related to the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study between December 2020 and December 2021 on a sample of 950 university students from two universities in southern Spain. Participants completed a form that collected socio-demographic, health-related and COVID-related variables, a validated questionnaire related to the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the fear of COVID Scale (FCV-19S). Descriptive, inferential, and multivariable linear regression analyzes were conducted.

Results

The mean FCV-19S score was 14.86 ± 5.16 points. The factors identified as predictors of FCV-19S were being female (p < 0.001), holding religious beliefs (p = 0.04), living in towns with over 10,000 inhabitants (p < 0.01), living with someone vulnerable to COVID-19 (p = 0.02), watching TV to keep informed about COVID-19 (p < 0.01), believing in a low probability of surviving if infected with COVID-19 (p < 0.001), having a higher level of death anxiety (p < 0.001) and suffering from insomnia (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

An average fear of COVID-19 score of 14.86 ± 5.16 points has been found among university students in Spain. These findings can aid in identifying specific factors contributing to fear of COVID-19 and in developing coping strategies to alleviate the stress of the pandemic.
Mapping crop evapotranspiration with high-resolution imagery and meteorological data: insights into sustainable agriculture in Prince Edward Island
Authors: Imtiaz Fatima , Farooque Aitazaz , Wang Xander , Abbas Farhat , Afzaal Hassan , Esau Travis , Acharya Bishnu , Zaman Qamar
Published: October 2023

Soil moisture variability caused by soil erosion, weather extremes, and spatial variations in soil health is a limiting factor for crop growth and productivity. Crop evapotranspiration (ET) is significant for irrigation water management systems. The variability in crop water requirements at various growth stages is a common concern at a global level. In Canada’s Prince Edward Island (PEI), where agriculture is particularly prominent, this concern is predominantly evident. The island’s most prominent business, agriculture, finds it challenging to predict agricultural water needs due to shifting climate extremes, weather patterns, and precipitation patterns. Thus, accurate estimations for irrigation water requirements are essential for water conservation and precision farming. This work used a satellite-based normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) technique to simulate the crop coefficient (Kc) and crop evapotranspiration (ETc) for field-scale potato cultivation at various crop growth stages for the growing seasons of 2021 and 2022. The standard FAO Penman–Monteith equation was used to estimate the reference evapotranspiration (ETr) using weather data from the nearest weather stations. The findings showed a statistically significant (p < 0.05) positive association between NDVI and tabulated Kc values extracted from all three satellites (Landsat 8, Sentinel-2A, and Planet) for the 2021 season. However, the correlation weakened in the subsequent year, particularly for Sentinel-2A and Planet data, while the association with Landsat 8 data became statistically insignificant (p > 0.05). Sentinel-2A outperformed Landsat 8 and Planet overall. The Kc values peaked at the halfway stage, fell before the maturity period, and were at their lowest at the start of the season. A similar pattern was observed for ETc (mm/day), which peaked at midseason and decreased with each developmental stage of the potato crop. Similar trends were observed for ETc (mm/day), which peaked at the mid-stage with mean values of 4.0 (2021) and 3.7 (2022), was the lowest in the initial phase with mean values of 1.8 (2021) and 1.5 (2022), and grew with each developmental stage of the potato crop. The study’s ET maps show how agricultural water use varies throughout a growing season. Farmers in Prince Edward Island may find the applied technique helpful in creating sustainable growth plans at different phases of crop development. Integrating high-resolution imagery with soil health, yield mapping, and crop growth parameters can help develop a decision support system to tailor sustainable management practices to improve profit margins, crop yield, and quality.
Medium-Energy Proton Detector Onboard the FY-4B Satellite
Authors: Zhang Huanxin , Zhang Shenyi , Shen Guohong , Zhang Xin , Zong Weiguo , Guo Jianguang , Chen Anqin , Zhang Liguo , Zhang Ruyi
Published: October 2023

This work introduces the instrument design of the medium-energy proton detector (MEPD, detection range: 30 keV–5 MeV) mounted on the Chinese Fengyun-4B (FY-4B) satellite. Compared to a similar detector on the Fengyun-3E (FY-3E) satellite, this instrument has undergone significant changes due to the different orbital radiation environment and solar lighting conditions. Based on the calculation of the radiation model AP8, the geometrical factor is reduced to 0.002 cm2sr, while that of the MEPD on the FY-3E satellite is 0.005 cm2sr. Another difference is that the sensors in some directions are exposed to direct sunlight for 80 min every day on this orbit, depending on the attitude angle of the satellite, which is much worse than that on the FY-3E satellite. According to the calculation results of transmittance of photons through different materials, a 100 nm thickness nickel film is added in front of the sensors to eliminate light pollution completely. The test using a solar simulator shows that the measure is effective and the detector has no error count when the solar irradiance coefficient is 1.0. In addition, the Geant4 software is applied to simulate the particle transportation process under complete machine condition to check the contamination of electrons in the sensors in all directions after magnetic deflection. The data obtained in orbit show that the instrument works properly, and the data are in good agreement with the AP8 model. The observations of the MEPD on board the FY-4B satellite can provide important support for the safety of spacecraft and theoretical research related to space weather.
Concentration of Phenolic Compounds and Phenolic Acids of Various Spelt Cultivars in Response to Growing Years
Authors: Lacko-Bartošová Magdaléna , Kaur Amandeep , Lacko-Bartošová Lucia , Kobida Ľubomír , Hudec Matej , Moudrý Jan
Published: October 2023

The aims of this study were to evaluate and compare the radical scavenging activities (DPPH), phenolic concentrations and concentrations of selected phenolic acids (PAs) of spelt cultivars and breeding lines with common wheat in a three-year controlled field experiment under conditions of organic farming. No significant variations were observed in the total and free DPPH of Altgold, Ebners Rotkorn, Ostro and PN-1-36 with common wheat. The total DPPH ranged from 52.13% to the lowest value of 44.01% in Franckenkorn. Total, free and bound phenolic concentrations were the highest for common wheat (1902.55 µg FAE g−1 DM of total), while all spelt cultivars achieved significantly lower values (from 1434.94 µg FAE g−1 DM in Franckenkorn to 1650.22 µg FAE g−1 DM in Ebners Rotkorn). Bound phenolic compounds represented 86.3% of the total ones. An extremely dry and warm ripening period had a negative impact on the synthesis of phenolic compounds. The highest concentration of total PAs was observed in spelt Ebners Rotkorn (681.75 µg g−1 DM) and the lowest in common wheat (396.05 µg g−1 DM). The total share of free and bound PAs was 5.7% and 74.8%, respectively. The extremely dry and very warm grain filling period had a more evident negative impact on the concentration of free PAs compared to bound forms. The dominant free PA was ferulic (70.48%), followed by syringic (9.30%), p-HBA (5.59%), sinapic acid (5.40%), salicylic (4.18%), p-coumaric acid (3.22%) and caffeic acid (1.93%). Spelt cultivar Ebners Rotkorn was distinguished by the highest concentration of free and bound forms of PAs.
Comparative Analysis of Redox Homeostasis Biomarkers in Patients with Psoriasis and Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Klisic Aleksandra , Bakic Mirjana , Karanikolic Vesna
Published: October 2023

Aim: There are no studies regarding comparative analysis of serum biomarkers of oxidative stress in patients with psoriasis (PsO) and atopic dermatitis (AD). We aimed to compare the serum redox homeostasis parameters in patients with PsO vs. AD in an attempt to find the sensitive and specific oxidative stress biomarker that could best reflect the existence of one of these disease entities. Methods: Forty patients with PsO and forty patients with AD were consecutively included in this cross-sectional study. Parameters of redox homeostasis, i.e., pro-oxidants [malondialdehyde (MDA) and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP)] and antioxidants [catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD)] were determined. Results: There was no difference in oxidative stress biomarkers between the PsO and AD group, except for higher CAT activity in the AD group (p < 0.001). Among all examined redox homeostasis biomarkers, ROC analysis showed that only CAT exhibited good diagnostic accuracy (AUC = 0.719) in the discrimination of patients with PsO vs. AD, with 0.436 U/L as the cut-off value of CAT activity. Conclusions: The CAT exhibited good diagnostic accuracy in the discrimination of patients with AD from those with PsO. The obtained results could suggest the importance of the use of antioxidants as a potential therapeutic strategy in the treatment of these two skin inflammatory diseases.
Classification of Skin Lesion Images Using Artificial Intelligence Methodologies through Radial Fourier–Mellin and Hilbert Transform Signatures
Authors: Guerra-Rosas Esperanza , López-Ávila Luis Felipe , Garza-Flores Esbanyely , Vidales-Basurto Claudia Andrea , Álvarez-Borrego Josué
Published: October 2023

This manuscript proposes the possibility of concatenated signatures (instead of images) obtained from different integral transforms, such as Fourier, Mellin, and Hilbert, to classify skin lesions. Eight lesions were analyzed using some algorithms of artificial intelligence: basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), melanoma (MEL), actinic keratosis (AK), benign keratosis (BKL), dermatofibromas (DF), melanocytic nevi (NV), and vascular lesions (VASCs). Eleven artificial intelligence models were applied so that eight skin lesions could be classified by analyzing the signatures of each lesion. The database was randomly divided into 80% and 20% for the training and test dataset images, respectively. The metrics that are reported are accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and precision. Each process was repeated 30 times to avoid bias, according to the central limit theorem in this work, and the averages and ± standard deviations were reported for each metric. Although all the results were very satisfactory, the highest average score for the eight lesions analyzed was obtained using the subspace k-NN model, where the test metrics were 99.98% accuracy, 99.96% sensitivity, 99.99% specificity, and 99.95% precision.
Special Issue on Mechanics, Dynamics and Acoustics of Musical Instruments
Authors: Stanciu Mariana Domnica , Mihalcica Mircea , Bucur Voichita
Published: October 2023

The mechanics, dynamics and acoustics of musical instruments concern scientists from different fields, such as physics, mechanics, acoustics, psychology, and music, as well as musical instrument manufacturers, who use these factors to not only understand and explain the phenomena that take place inside and outside of musical instruments as a result of the propagation of sounds, but also those related to the perception of the sounds produced by them [...]
Winding Loss Suppression in Inverter-Fed Traction Motors via Hybrid Coil Materials and Configurations
Authors: Selema Ahmed , Tawfiq Kotb B. , Ibrahim Mohamed N. , Sergeant Peter
Published: October 2023

In a typical inverter-fed AC drive system, the stator windings carry a current with a large harmonics content, resulting in an increased AC loss. In this paper, the additional copper losses caused by non-sinusoidal currents are investigated for different magnet wire topologies, including the flat conductor, stranded, and litz wires. Also, a two-slot simplified model is introduced for accurate prediction of the AC losses at high frequency. It is found that one of the major issues of the conventional copper coil is that the losses are not uniformly distributed across the slot, and over 70% of the losses are concentrated near the slot opening. Moreover, using the transient finite element method, different winding topologies and arrangements are simulated at the stranded level to evaluate the losses and current density for each strand under highly distorted currents. Furthermore, different coil samples are prototyped for the same slot geometries to compare their performance under the same pulse-width modulation (PWM) waveforms for a wide range of frequencies. Finally, new hybrid coil topologies are proposed, which employ different magnet wires or materials within the same slot. The results demonstrate that utilizing a mixed wire configuration can effectively mitigate the adverse effects of eddy current losses. This approach can yield up to 16–41% lower losses while also achieving a weight savings of 36–70%.
Multi-Object Deep-Field Digital Holographic Imaging Based on Inverse Cross-Correlation
Authors: Zhao Jieming , Gao Zhan , Wang Shengjia , Niu Yuhao , Deng Lin , Sa Ye
Published: October 2023

To address the complexity of small or unique reconstruction distances in digital holography, we propose an inverse cross-correlation-based algorithm for the digital holographic imaging of multiplanar objects with a large depth of field. In this method, a planar output mapping is closely around the objects, and it is established by calculating the image inverse cross-correlation matrix of the reconstructed image at similar reconstruction distances, whereby the object edges serve as the result guide. Combining the search for edge planes with the depth estimation operator, the depth of field of digital holography is improved, thus allowing for a digital holography that is capable of meeting the requirements of the holographic imaging of multiplanar objects. Compared with the traditional depth estimation operator method, the proposed method solves the reconstruction ambiguity problem in multiple planes with a simple optical path, and no additional optical or mechanical devices need to be added, thus greatly improving the reconstruction quality. The numerical calculation results and the experimental results with multiplanar samples validate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
The Design of a System for the Induction Hardening of Steels Using Simulation Parameters
Authors: Stević Zoran , Dimitrijević Stevan P. , Stević Miša , Stolić Predrag , Petrović Sanja J. , Radivojević Milan , Radovanović Ilija
Published: October 2023

This paper presents the development of a piece of induction hardening equipment based on the foundations of the design, starting from zero. It was intended for steels in general, and was tested on unalloyed low- and medium-carbon steels, whereas the results for EN 1C60 steel are shown in this study. The EN 1C60 steel showed average results, and was chosen as a representative of a wider group of engineering steels. The main objective of this work was to develop a flexible system for mild steel hardening that can be used for various hardening depths and steel types. The system design’s priorities were the use of standard electronic components to avoid supply chain disruptions and to achieve high energy efficiency. The construction of the prototype in full detail is also presented. The optimal process parameters are listed, as well as the procedure of their obtaining by using the appropriate simulation method. The key parameters were adjusted in consecutive steps. This study resulted in high matching between the model predictions and experimental results. The basic goal of this research was achieved, with the system having a minimum energy efficiency of 75.3%, a most frequent energy efficiency of 90% and a maximum energy efficiency of 95.1%.
Asymptotical Stability Criteria for Exact Solutions and Numerical Solutions of Nonlinear Impulsive Neutral Delay Differential Equations
Authors: Zhang Gui-Lai , Wang Zhi-Wei , Sun Yang , Liu Tao
Published: October 2023

In this paper, the idea of two transformations is first proposed and applied. Some new different sufficient conditions for the asymptotical stability of the exact solutions of nonlinear impulsive neutral delay differential equations (INDDEs) are obtained. A new numerical scheme for INDDEs is also constructed based on the idea. The numerical methods that can preserve the stability and asymptotical stability of the exact solutions are provided. Two numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the theoretical results.
Development of a Novel H-Shaped Electrochemical Aptasensor for Detection of Hg2+ Based on Graphene Aerogels–Au Nanoparticles Composite
Authors: Peng Gang , Guo Mengxue , Liu Yuting , Yang Han , Wen Zuorui , Chen Xiaojun
Published: October 2023

Hg2+, a highly toxic heavy metal, poses significant environmental and health risks, necessitating rapid detection methods. In this study, we employed an electrochemical aptasensor for rapid and sensitive detection of Hg2+ based on DNA strands (H2 and H3) immobilized graphene aerogels-Au nanoparticles (GAs-AuNPs) hybrid recognition interface and exonuclease III (Exo III)-mediated cyclic amplification. Firstly, Gas-AuNPs were modified on the surface of the ITO electrode to form a sensing interface to increase DNA loading and accelerate electron transfer. Then, DNA helper was generated with the addition of Hg2+ via Exo III-mediated cycling. Finally, the hairpin structures of H2 and H3 were opened with the DNA helper, and then the methylene blue (MB) functionalized DNA (A1 and A2) combined with the H2 and H3 to form an H-shaped structure. The current response of MB as an electrochemical probe was proportional to the concentration of Hg2+. Under optimal conditions, the aptasensor showed excellent performance for Hg2+, achieving a linear range from 1 fM to 10 nM and a detection limit of 0.16 fM. Furthermore, the aptasensor was used to detect Hg2+ in spiked milk samples, achieving a high recovery rate and demonstrating promising application prospects.
Hardiness and Expectations for Future Life: The Roles of Perceived Stress, Music Listening for Negative Emotion Regulation, and Life Satisfaction
Authors: Park Alexander , Suh Kyung-Hyun
Published: October 2023

This study investigated the relationship between hardiness and Korean adults’ expectations for future life, and verified the multiple mediating effects of perceived stress, music listening for negative emotion regulation, and life satisfaction on that relationship. The participants were 412 Korean adults aged 20–65 years. PROCESS Macro 3.5 Model 80 was used to examine the multiple mediating effects. Correlational analysis showed that hardiness was positively correlated with music listening for negative emotion regulation, life satisfaction, and expectations for future life, whereas it was negatively correlated with perceived stress. Perceived stress was negatively correlated with life satisfaction and expectations for future life, whereas music listening for negative emotion regulation was positively correlated with life satisfaction and expectations for future life. In the multiple mediation model, the relationships between hardiness and expectations for future life, the sequential mediating effect of perceived stress and life satisfaction, and the sequential mediating effect of music listening for negative emotion regulation and life satisfaction were significant. The direct effect of hardiness on expectations for future life was also significant, indicating that perceived stress, music listening for negative emotion regulation, and life satisfaction only partially mediated the relationship between hardiness and expectations for future life. It seems, thus, that perceived stress, music listening for negative emotion regulation, and life satisfaction play an important role in Korean adults’ expectations for future life.