bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying the ideal weekly training load for in-game performance in an elite Brazilian soccer team
Authors: Branquinho Luís , de França Elias , Teixeira José E. , Titton Adriano , Leite de Barros Luís Fernando , Campos Pedro , Marinho Daniel A. , Forte Pedro , Caperuto Erico Chagas , Thomatieli dos Santos Ronaldo Vagner , Ferraz Ricardo
Published: March 2024

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to investigate the ideal training load to be applied during periods of fixture congestion to ensure an adequate dose-response effect for performance maintenance.

Methods: Match performance data and corresponding pre-match training load sessions (both N = 498 match performance cases and training-block session cases) were collected (with the catapult system, VECTOR7) from 36 male professional soccer players (23.5 ± 5.2 years; 178 ± 4 cm; 75.5 ± 6.0 kg) belonging to the Brazilian First Division team during the 2022 season. The following data were collected in match and training sessions: jump, acceleration, deceleration, and change of direction (COD); running distance producing metabolic power at different intensities (>20, >20–35, >35–45, >45–55, and >55 W kg−1), total distance (m), relative distance (m/min), running distance at different speeds (>20, >25, and >30 km/h), number of sprints (running >25 km/h), and maximum speed (km/h). Mixed linear model (MLM), decision tree regression (DTR), and cluster K means model (SPSS v.26) approach were performed to identify the most critical variables (and their respective load) in the training sessions that could explain the athlete’s match performance.

Results: MLM and DTR regression show that training load significantly affects game performance in a specific way. According to the present data, an interference phenomenon can occur when a high load of two different skills (running in a straight line vs COD, deceleration, and jumping) is applied in the same training block of the week. The cluster approach, followed by a chi-squared test, identified significant associations between training load and athlete match performance in a dose-dependent manner.

Discussion: The high load values described here have a beneficial effect on match performance, despite the interference between stimuli discussed above. We present a positive training load from a congested season from the Brazilian First Division team. The study suggests that an interference effect occurs when high physical training loads are applied to different specific physical skills throughout the season.
Muscular performance analysis in “cross” modalities: comparison between “AMRAP,” “EMOM” and “RFT” configurations
Authors: Barba-Ruíz Manuel , Hermosilla-Perona Francisco , Heredia-Elvar Juan Ramon , Gómez-González Noelia , Da Silva-Grigoletto Marzo Edir , Muriarte-Solana Diego
Published: March 2024

Introduction: In recent years, a surge of interest in high-intensity training methods, associated with “cross” modalities has emerged as a promising approach for improving performance and overall health. Therefore, the main aim of this study was to compare the acute effects on heart rate, mean propulsive velocity and intra and inter-set velocity loss in “Cross” modalities.

Materials and methods: Twelve athletes, 10 men’s and 2 women’s (age: 31.5 ± 6.74 years; height: 174.17 ± 6.05 cm; weight: 75.34 ± 7.16 kg) with at least 1 year of experience in “cross” training. The participants performed three different “cross” modalities, Rounds for Time (RFT), Every Minute on the Minute (EMOM) and As Many Rounds As Possible (AMRAP) across three separate days. In each modality participants carried out 10 repetitions of squat, pull-ups, and shoulder press with difference rates of work-rest. Mean propulsive velocity (MPV) and heart rate (HR) were recorded and analysed for each athlete. Repeated measures one-way ANOVA and repeated measures two-way ANOVA were performed to analyse the differences between modalities and subjects. Besides, a Bonferroni post hoc analysis was carried out to assess the differences between modalities in each subject.

Results: Significant differences in MPV were observed among the modalities. The comparisons between RFT and AMRAP, as well as EMOM and AMRAP, revealed lower MPV in the AMRAP modality (p < 0.01). RFT exhibited the greatest intra-set velocity loss, while EMOM showed the least, with significant distinctions (p < 0.01) between them. Furthermore, significant differences in the HR results were noted among all modalities (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Findings consistently identify the AMRAP modality as having the lowest MPV values due to its prolonged duration, promoting self-regulated tempo for optimal performance and technique, while the RFT modality exhibits higher fatigue and intra-set MPV losses. These insights into propulsive velocity, intensity, fatigue, and pacing across various “Cross” modalities provide valuable guidance for athletes and trainers seeking to enhance their exercise programs.
Optimizing the manure substitution rate based on phosphorus fertilizer to enhance soil phosphorus turnover and root uptake in pepper (Capsicum)
Authors: Sun Kai , Cui Yutao , Sun Linglulu , Wei Bingli , Wang Yuan , Li Shunjin , Zhou Chengxiang , Wang Yixia , Zhang Wei
Published: March 2024

Introduction

In contemporary agriculture, the substitution of manure for chemical fertilizer based on phosphorus (P) input in vegetable production has led to a significant reduction in P fertilizer application rates, while, the effect of manure substitution rates on soil P transformation and uptake by root remain unclear.

Methods

This research conducts a pot experiment with varying manure substitution rates (0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 75% and 100%) based on P nutrient content to elucidate the mechanisms through which manure substitution affects P uptake in pepper.

Results and discussion

The result showed that shoot and root biomass of pepper gradually increased as manure substitution rate from 10% to 40%, and then gradually decreased with further increases in the substitution rate. Soil alkaline phosphatase activity and arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) colonization gradually increased with manure substitution rates improvement. Specifically, when the substitution rate reached 30%–40%, the alkaline phosphatase activity increased by 24.5%–33.8% compared to the fertilizer treatment. In contrast, phytase activity and the relative expression of phosphate transporter protein genes in the root system was declined after peaking at 30% manure substitution. Additionally, soil available P remained moderate under 30%–40% substitution rate, which was reduced by 8.6%–10.2% compared to that in chemical fertilizer treatment, while microbial biomass P was comparable. In the current study, soil labile P similar to or even higher than that in chemical fertilizer treatment when the substitution rate was ≤40%. Correlation heatmaps demonstrated a significant and positive relationship between soil available P and factors related to labile P and moderately labile P.

Conclusion

This finding suggested that substituting 30%–40% of chemical P with manure can effectively enhance root length, AM colonization, soil enzyme activity, soil labile P, and consequently improve P uptake in pepper. These findings provide valuable insights for future organic agricultural practices that prioritize P supply, aiming to standardize organic P management in farmland and achieve high crop yields and maintain soil health.
Variations in epidermal trichomes of a mystic weed Parthenium hysterophorus L. from semi-arid regions of Barmer, Rajasthan (India)
Authors: Vimala  , Hans Dinesh
Published: March 2024

The Asteraceae family of plants, which has 16,000–17,000 genera and 24,000–30000 species, is diverse and widely spread, notably in the tropics and subtropics. Asteraceae has capitula head bracket traits that are unique to this genus of plants. This study’s goal was to identify the micro-morphological makeup of the trichomes in Parthenium hysterophorus L. Invasive weed Parthenium hysterophorus L. is erect, short-lived fast-growing plant is found in hot areas and is known for its luxuriant growth. As the stem attains maturity, becomes harder. Mature stems are greenish and coated in tiny, soft hairs called hirustles. Later leaves are simple and deeply pinnatifid, while early leaves create a rosette habitat. Hundreds of tiny flower heads, or capitulum, are arranged in clusters at the apex of the branches. Trichomes are epidermal appendages that are frequently seen on the leaves, stems, and fruits of plants. There are two types of trichomes: glandular and non-glandular. The immature leaves and stem of Parthenium hysterophorus L. were cut into slices, the layers were removed, and the specimen was examined at X4, X10, X40, and X100 magnifications under light microscope. The sample was taken from the stem, which was located one to three centimeters from the tip. 14 different types of trichomes, including cylindrical, moniliform, simple uniseriate, non-glandular sessile, and palate types of glandular trichomes, are observed on the leaves, petiole, and stem of Parthenium hysterophorus L. These trichomes are primarily identified based on their structural differences. Trichomes are an important taxonomic tool for differentiating between species and genera. In respect to aridity, the study presents several new features that give future taxonomists a basic understanding of trichome diversity.
Bovine Peripheral Blood-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (PB-MSCs) and Spermatogonial Stem Cells (SSCs) Display Contrasting Expression Patterns of Pluripotency and Germ Cell Markers under the Effect of Sertoli Cell Conditioned Medium
Authors: Segunda Moisés N. , Díaz Carlos , Torres Cristian G. , Parraguez Víctor H. , De los Reyes Mónica , Peralta Oscar A.
Published: March 2024

In vitro gamete derivation has been proposed as an interesting strategy for treatment of infertility, improvement of genetic traits, and conservation of endangered animals. Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are primary candidates for in vitro gamete derivation; however, recently, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have also been proposed as candidates for germ cell (GCs) differentiation mainly due to their transdifferentiating capacity. The objective of the present study was to compare the potential for GC differentiation of bovine peripheral blood-derived MSCs (PB-MSCs) and SSCs under the effect of conditioned medium (CM) derived from Sertoli cells (SCs/CM). Samples were collected every 7 days for 21 days and analyzed for pluripotent, GC, and MSC marker expression. The absence of OCT4 and the increased (p < 0.05) expression of NANOG seems to play a role in SSC differentiation, whereas the absence of NANOG and the increased expression (p < 0.05) of OCT4 may be required for PB-MSC differentiation into GCs. SSCs cultured with SCs/CM increased (p < 0.05) the expression of PIWIL2 and DAZL, while PB-MSCs cultured under the same condition only increased (p < 0.05) the expression of DAZL. Overall, the patterns of markers expression suggest that PB-MSCs and SSCs activate different signaling pathways after exposure to SCs/CM and during differentiation into GCs.
Serum Biochemistry Parameters of the Endangered Miranda’s Donkey Breed: Reference Intervals and the Influence of Gender and Age
Authors: Silva Grasiene , Silvestre-Ferreira Ana C. , Leiva Belen , Queiroga Felisbina L.
Published: March 2024

Miranda’s donkey is an endangered, autochthone breed from Northern Portugal. Understanding the physiological and pathological conditions of Miranda’s donkey is crucial for the conservation of the breed. Our study aimed to establish reference intervals (RIs) for blood biochemistry parameters and to evaluate the influence of gender and age on these parameters. Blood samples from 75 clinically healthy animals were analyzed for 21 blood biochemistry parameters using Respons® 920 and Start® 4-Diagnostica-Stago. RIs were calculated according to the ASVCP guidelines, utilizing Reference Advisor software V. 2.1 and the statistical program SPSS version 29 to analyze the effects of gender and age. Significant gender-related differences (p < 0.05) were observed in cholesterol, chlorine, creatinine (CREA), glucose (GLU), sodium, and triglycerides (with higher values in females) and in aspartate aminotransferase, creatine phosphokinase (CK), gamma-glutamyl transferase, potassium, magnesium (Mg), and urea (with higher values in males). Age-related differences (p < 0.05) were noted for alkaline phosphatase, CK, fibrinogen, GLU, and phosphorus (higher in young animals) and for globulin, Mg, and total protein (higher in adults). The RIs described here are invaluable for assessing and monitoring the health status of individual animals and herds. Our study highlights the importance of considering gender and age in the interpretation of biochemical parameters, providing critical insights for the conservation and management of this endangered breed.
The Influence of Vegetation on Climate Elements in Northwestern China
Authors: Huang Bicheng , Huang Yu , Wu Dan , Bao Xinyue , Wu Yongping , Feng Guolin , Li Li
Published: March 2024

Vegetation plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance between nature, water and soil resources. However, understanding its impact mechanisms in arid and semi-arid areas remains limited. This study aims to analyze the spatial–temporal characteristics of the vegetation leaf area index (LAI) and climate elements in typical regions of northwest China and the correlations between LAI and climate elements; it also aims to explore the influence of regional vegetation growth on climate change. The results reveal significant correlations between LAI and various climate elements. Specifically, within the same region, surface temperature, precipitation, vegetation transpiration, and total evaporation show positive correlations with the LAI, whereas surface albedo shows a negative correlation. Vegetation may affect climate through both heat and water exchange between the land and atmosphere. Increased vegetation leads to the enhanced absorption of solar radiation by the land surface, elevating surface temperature. Increased levels of vegetation also increase vegetation transpiration and total evaporation, increasing the water vapor content in the atmosphere and thus leading to increased surface precipitation. Therefore, vegetation distribution plays a role in climate change, and ecological restoration projects in the northwest region hold significant potential for addressing ecological challenges in its arid and semi-arid areas.
A Class of Fractional Viscoelastic Kirchhoff Equations Involving Two Nonlinear Source Terms of Different Signs
Authors: Zhang Li , Liu Yang
Published: March 2024

A class of fractional viscoelastic Kirchhoff equations involving two nonlinear source terms of different signs are studied. Under suitable assumptions on the exponents of nonlinear source terms and the memory kernel, the existence of global solutions in an appropriate functional space is established by a combination of the theory of potential wells and the Galerkin approximations. Furthermore, the asymptotic behavior of global solutions is obtained by a combination of the theory of potential wells and the perturbed energy method.
Does Motor Imagery Training Improve Service Performance in Tennis Players? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Deng Nuannuan , Soh Kim Geok , Abdullah Borhannudin Bin , Huang Dandan
Published: March 2024

Motor imagery training is a common mental strategy used by tennis players and coaches to improve learning and performance; however, the effect of motor imagery training on service performance in tennis players is questionable. This review aims to consolidate existing research regarding the effects of motor imagery training on the service performance of tennis players. A systematic search was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines, using PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and SPORTDiscus to identify articles published until December 2023. Eligible studies comprised controlled trials that investigated the impact of motor imagery on service performance outcomes in tennis players. The methodological quality of individual studies was assessed using the Cochrane RoB-2 and ROBINS-I tools. GRADE was applied to assess the certainty of the evidence. Nine trials including 548 participants met the inclusion criteria. The results indicated that motor imagery training improved service accuracy and technique but did not affect service speed or return accuracy in tennis players. In conclusion, the certainty of the evidence that motor imagery training may be effective in improving service accuracy and technique in tennis players is low to very low. However, more experimental work is needed to obtain stronger conclusions.
New Natural Frequency Studies of Orthotropic Plates by Adopting a Two-Dimensional Modified Fourier Series Method
Authors: Wu Zhaoying , Li An , Wu Yu , Yin Zhiming , Ullah Salamat
Published: March 2024

The free vibration behavior of orthotropic thin plates, which are clamped at three edges and free at one edge, is a matter of great concern in the engineering field. Various numerical/approximate approaches have been proposed for the present problem; however, lack precise analytic benchmark solutions are lacking in the literature. In the present study, we propose a modified two-dimensional Fourier series method to effectively handle free vibration problems of plates under various edge conditions. In the given solution, the adopted trial function automatically satisfies several boundary conditions. After imposing Stoke’s transformation in the trial function and letting it satisfy the remaining boundary conditions, we can change the present plate problem into calculating several systems of linear algebra equations which are easily handled. The present method can be regarded as an easily implemented, rational, and rigorous approach, as it can exactly satisfy both the governing equation and the associated edge conditions. Another advantage of the present method over other analytical approaches is that it has general applicability to various boundary conditions through the utilization of different types of Fourier series, and it can be extended for the further dynamic/static analysis of plates under different shear deformation theories. Finally, all the novel analytical solutions are confirmed to be sufficiently accurate since they match well with the FEM results. The new analytic solution obtained may serve as a benchmark for validating other numerical and approximate methods.
The Rehabilitation of the Historical Bridge of Konitsa, Epirus, Greece: A Documentation-Based Methodology of Structural Analysis and Rehabilitation Strategy
Authors: Giannelos Christos , Palieraki Vasiliki , Oikonomopoulou Erato , Vintzileou Elizabeth
Published: March 2024

The bridge of Konitsa over the Aoos river, in Epirus, Greece, was built in 1869. It is one of the most important stone arched bridges in the Balkans, listed by the Hellenic Ministry of Culture (1982). The bridge, damaged by the Ottoman Army in 1913, was restored the same year by French engineers using reinforced concrete. Structural deterioration, located mainly in the area damaged by the explosion and subsequently repaired, led to the study of the bridge by the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA), in the framework of a Contract among the Prefecture of Epirus, the Municipality of Konitsa (owner of the bridge), the Ministry of Culture and NTUA. The entire study includes the exhaustive documentation of the bridge, its numerical modelling and assessment at its current state, the selection of adequate interventions and the numerical investigation of the efficiency of the proposed interventions. During this process, one of the main issues was the treatment of the concrete intervention of 1913. For the choice and for the design of the restoration measures, a calculation methodology was adopted, based on the findings of the documentation of the bridge, while taking into account the critical phases (construction, damage and repair) over its lifetime. This work has proven the available safety of the bridge under its self-weight, as well as the need for reconstruction of the RC jacket at the intrados of the arch, which was applied as a repair measure to the bridge in 1913.
Preliminary Geospatial and In Situ Reconnaissance of the 8 September 2023 Moroccan Atlas Earthquake Damage
Authors: González-Rodrigo Beatriz , Navas-Sánchez Laura , Rejas-Ayuga Juan Gregorio , Hernández-Rubio Orlando , Benito María Belén
Published: March 2024

This research investigates the post-earthquake performances of structures in four rural villages in the Moroccan Atlas, emphasizing common construction system characteristics and design flaws that render buildings susceptible to seismic events. Village selection was based on a prior multispectral satellite-image study, proving effective for planning high-impact, post-earthquake field campaigns. The significance of this research resides in on-site data collection, facilitating the physical assessment of earthquake-induced damage and identification of inherent vulnerabilities in construction systems. The constructions in the study area exhibited structural design deficiencies, inadequate construction techniques, and urban modifiers, leading to damage extensively documented in the literature, as well as less-documented unique damage. Predominant seismic-design shortcomings in the study area included subpar material quality, insufficient earthquake-resistant design, and unskilled labor. In situ data were complemented by a global geospatial approach using differential synthetic aperture radar interferometry with Copernicus Sentinel 1 data. Once calibrated the proposed methodology with field data, the analysis of remote sensing processing results, allow assessing the damages in other earthquake-affected areas, including those not visited in the field but also impacted by the seismic event.
Monoclonal Antibodies for Targeted Fluorescence-Guided Surgery: A Review of Applicability across Multiple Solid Tumors
Authors: Giuliani Stefano , Paraboschi Irene , McNair Angus , Smith Myles , Rankin Kenneth S. , Elson Daniel S. , Paleri Vinidh , Leff Daniel , Stasiuk Graeme , Anderson John
Published: March 2024

This study aims to review the status of the clinical use of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that have completed or are in ongoing clinical trials for targeted fluorescence-guided surgery (T-FGS) for the intraoperative identification of the tumor margins of extra-hematological solid tumors. For each of them, the targeted antigen, the mAb generic/commercial name and format, and clinical indications are presented, together with utility, doses, and the timing of administration. Based on the current scientific evidence in humans, the top three mAbs that could be prepared in a GMP-compliant bank ready to be delivered for surgical purposes are proposed to speed up the translation to the operating room and produce a few readily available “off-the-shelf” injectable fluorescent probes for safer and more effective solid tumor resection.
Pancreatic Cancer Treatment Targeting the HGF/c-MET Pathway: The MEK Inhibitor Trametinib
Authors: Kim Junyeol , Lee Tae Seung , Lee Myeong Hwan , Cho In Rae , Ryu Ji Kon , Kim Yong-Tae , Lee Sang Hyub , Paik Woo Hyun
Published: March 2024

Pancreatic cancer is characterized by fibrosis/desmoplasia in the tumor microenvironment, which is primarily mediated by pancreatic stellate cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts. HGF/c-MET signaling, which is instrumental in embryonic development and wound healing, is also implicated for its mitogenic and motogenic properties. In pancreatic cancer, this pathway, along with its downstream signaling pathways, is associated with disease progression, prognosis, metastasis, chemoresistance, and other tumor-related factors. Other features of the microenvironment in pancreatic cancer with the HGF/c-MET pathway include hypoxia, angiogenesis, metastasis, and the urokinase plasminogen activator positive feed-forward loop. All these attributes critically influence the initiation, progression, and metastasis of pancreatic cancer. Therefore, targeting the HGF/c-MET signaling pathway appears promising for the development of innovative drugs for pancreatic cancer treatment. One of the primary downstream effects of c-MET activation is the MAPK/ERK (Ras, Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK) signaling cascade, and MEK (Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase) inhibitors have demonstrated therapeutic value in RAS-mutant melanoma and lung cancer. Trametinib is a selective MEK1 and MEK2 inhibitor, and it has evolved as a pivotal therapeutic agent targeting the MAPK/ERK pathway in various malignancies, including BRAF-mutated melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer and thyroid cancer. The drug’s effectiveness increases when combined with agents like BRAF inhibitors. However, resistance remains a challenge, necessitating ongoing research to counteract the resistance mechanisms. This review offers an in-depth exploration of the HGF/c-MET signaling pathway, trametinib’s mechanism, clinical applications, combination strategies, and future directions in the context of pancreatic cancer.
High HER2 Intratumoral Heterogeneity Is a Predictive Factor for Poor Prognosis in Early-Stage and Locally Advanced HER2-Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Tanei Tomonori , Seno Shigeto , Sota Yoshiaki , Hatano Takaaki , Kitahara Yuri , Abe Kaori , Masunaga Nanae , Tsukabe Masami , Yoshinami Tetsuhiro , Miyake Tomohiro , Shimoda Masafumi , Matsuda Hideo , Shimazu Kenzo
Published: March 2024

Purpose: Breast cancer tumors frequently have intratumoral heterogeneity (ITH). Tumors with high ITH cause therapeutic resistance and have human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) heterogeneity in response to HER2-targeted therapies. This study aimed to investigate whether high HER2 heterogeneity levels were clinically related to a poor prognosis for HER2-targeted adjuvant therapy resistance in primary breast cancers. Methods: This study included patients with primary breast cancer (n = 251) treated with adjuvant HER2-targeted therapies. HER2 heterogeneity was manifested by the shape of HER2 fluorescence in situ hybridization amplification (FISH) distributed histograms with the HER2 gene copy number within a tumor sample. Each tumor was classified into a biphasic grade graph (high heterogeneity [HH]) group or a monophasic grade graph (low heterogeneity [LH]) group based on heterogeneity. Both groups were evaluated for disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) for a median of ten years of annual follow-up. Results: Of 251 patients with HER2-positive breast cancer, 46 (18.3%) and 205 (81.7%) were classified into the HH and LH groups, respectively. The HH group had more distant metastases and a poorer prognosis than the LH group (DFS: p < 0.001 (HH:63% vs. LH:91% at 10 years) and for the OS: p = 0.012 (HH:78% vs. LH:95% at 10 years). Conclusions: High HER2 heterogeneity is a poor prognostic factor in patients with HER2-positive breast cancer. A novel approach to heterogeneity, which is manifested by the shape of HER2 FISH distributions, might be clinically useful in the prognosis prediction of patients after HER2 adjuvant therapy.
Artificial-Intelligence-Assisted Detection of Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Cells in Ascitic Fluid
Authors: Kim Hyung Kyung , Han Eunkyung , Lee Jeonghyo , Yim Kwangil , Abdul-Ghafar Jamshid , Seo Kyung Jin , Seo Jang Won , Gong Gyungyub , Cho Nam Hoon , Kim Milim , Yoo Chong Woo , Chong Yosep
Published: March 2024

Ascites cytology is a cost-effective test for metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) in the abdominal cavity. However, metastatic carcinoma of the peritoneum is difficult to diagnose based on biopsy findings, and ascitic aspiration cytology has a low sensitivity and specificity and a high inter-observer variability. The aim of the present study was to apply artificial intelligence (AI) to classify benign and malignant cells in ascites cytology patch images of metastatic CRC using a deep convolutional neural network. Datasets were collected from The OPEN AI Dataset Project, a nationwide cytology dataset for AI research. The numbers of patch images used for training, validation, and testing were 56,560, 7068, and 6534, respectively. We evaluated 1041 patch images of benign and metastatic CRC in the ascitic fluid to compare the performance of pathologists and an AI algorithm, and to examine whether the diagnostic accuracy of pathologists improved with the assistance of AI. This AI method showed an accuracy, a sensitivity, and a specificity of 93.74%, 87.76%, and 99.75%, respectively, for the differential diagnosis of malignant and benign ascites. The diagnostic accuracy and sensitivity of the pathologist with the assistance of the proposed AI method increased from 86.8% to 90.5% and from 73.3% to 79.3%, respectively. The proposed deep learning method may assist pathologists with different levels of experience in diagnosing metastatic CRC cells of ascites.
A Review on the Role and Function of Cinnabarinic Acid, a “Forgotten” Metabolite of the Kynurenine Pathway
Authors: Gawel Kinga
Published: March 2024

In the human body, the majority of tryptophan is metabolized through the kynurenine pathway. This consists of several metabolites collectively called the kynurenines and includes, among others, kynurenic acid, L-kynurenine, or quinolinic acid. The wealth of metabolites, as well as the associated molecular targets and biological pathways, bring about a situation wherein even a slight imbalance in the kynurenine levels, both in the periphery and central nervous system, have broad consequences regarding general health. Cinnabarinic acid (CA) is the least known trace kynurenine, and its physiological and pathological roles are not widely understood. Some studies, however, indicate that it might be neuroprotective. Information on its hepatoprotective properties have also emerged, although these are pioneering studies and need to be replicated. Therefore, in this review, I aim to present and critically discuss the current knowledge on CA and its role in physiological and pathological settings to guide future studies.
Lysosomes in Cancer—At the Crossroad of Good and Evil
Authors: Eriksson Ida , Öllinger Karin
Published: March 2024

Although it has been known for decades that lysosomes are central for degradation and recycling in the cell, their pivotal role as nutrient sensing signaling hubs has recently become of central interest. Since lysosomes are highly dynamic and in constant change regarding content and intracellular position, fusion/fission events allow communication between organelles in the cell, as well as cell-to-cell communication via exocytosis of lysosomal content and release of extracellular vesicles. Lysosomes also mediate different forms of regulated cell death by permeabilization of the lysosomal membrane and release of their content to the cytosol. In cancer cells, lysosomal biogenesis and autophagy are increased to support the increased metabolism and allow growth even under nutrient- and oxygen-poor conditions. Tumor cells also induce exocytosis of lysosomal content to the extracellular space to promote invasion and metastasis. However, due to the enhanced lysosomal function, cancer cells are often more susceptible to lysosomal membrane permeabilization, providing an alternative strategy to induce cell death. This review summarizes the current knowledge of cancer-associated alterations in lysosomal structure and function and illustrates how lysosomal exocytosis and release of extracellular vesicles affect disease progression. We focus on functional differences depending on lysosomal localization and the regulation of intracellular transport, and lastly provide insight how new therapeutic strategies can exploit the power of the lysosome and improve cancer treatment.
An Edge Detection Algorithm for SEM Images of Multilayer Thin Films
Authors: Sun Wei , Duan Fang , Zhu Jianpeng , Yang Minglai , Wang Ying
Published: March 2024

In processing multilayer thin film materials, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is commonly employed for observation. In images of SEM, backscattered electron (BSE) images is particularly suitable for distinguishing different components and layers of the films. However, at high magnification levels, BSE images often have blurriness and noise, leading to low edge sharpness. This study proposes a method for improving the integrity and accuracy of the edges. First, we segment the image into different contrast regions using the masking algorithm. Second, we enhance the images in separate regions by the enhancement algorithm. Finally, we combine the regions by logical operations. In instantiation, we implement our approach on SEM-BSE images. It was found that the edges are significantly sharpened through the assessment of the edge evaluation algorithm.
Characterization and Formation Mechanism of Ag2MoO4 Crystals via Precipitation Method: Influence of Experimental Parameters and Crystal Morphology
Authors: Calistri Sara , Gessi Alessandro , Marghella Giuseppe , Bruni Stefania , Ubaldini Alberto
Published: March 2024

Ag2MoO4 crystals were prepared by a precipitation method by mixing parent solutions of silver nitrate and sodium molybdate. The effects of experimental parameters such as temperature, concentration, and pH were studied. The samples were found to be crystalline, pure, and monophasic in all cases, except in the case of very low pH. The precipitation leads to the formation of the cubic phase β and no secondary phase is present within the limits of detection of XRD and Raman spectroscopy. However, in some cases, at high temperature and high pH, silver oxide nanoparticles form on the surfaces of the crystals, which create a fluorescence background in the Raman spectra, which is otherwise absent. Analyses with the electron microscope have highlighted that the most common crystalline shape is octahedral, which is the most prevalent at low temperatures and pH around 7, but others are also possible, in particular at high temperatures. No growth occurs after precipitation, so crystals with different appearances form at the same time.
Scheduled and Breakthrough Opioid Use for Cancer Pain in an Inpatient Setting at a Tertiary Cancer Hospital
Authors: Rozman de Moraes Aline , Erdogan Elif , Azhar Ahsan , Reddy Suresh K. , Lu Zhanni , Geller Joshua A. , Graves David Mill , Kubiak Michal J. , Williams Janet L. , Wu Jimin , Bruera Eduardo , Yennurajalingam Sriram
Published: March 2024

Background: Our aim was to examine the frequency and prescription pattern of breakthrough (BTO) and scheduled (SCH) opioids and their ratio (BTO/SCH ratio) of use, prior to and after referral to an inpatient supportive care consult (SCC) for cancer pain management (CPM). Methods and Materials: Patients admitted at the MD Anderson Cancer Center and referred to a SCC were retrospectively reviewed. Cancer patients receiving SCH and BTO opioids for ≥24 h were eligible for inclusion. Patient demographics and clinical characteristics, including the type and route of SCH and BTO opioids, daily opioid doses (MEDDs) of SCH and BTO, and BTO/SCH ratios were reviewed in patients seen prior to a SCC (pre-SCC) and during a SCC. A normal BTO ratio was defined as 0.5–0.2. Results: A total of 665/728 (91%) patients were evaluable. Median pain scores (p < 0.001), BTO MEDDs (p < 0.001), scheduled opioid MEDDs (p < 0.0001), and total MEDDs (p < 0.0001) were higher, but the median number of BTO doses was fewer (2 vs. 4, p < 0.001), among patients seen at SCC compared to pre-SCC. A BTO/SCH ratio over the recommended ratio (>0.2) was seen in 37.5% of patients. The BTO/SCH ratios in the pre-SCC and SCC groups were 0.10 (0.04, 0.21) and 0.17 (0.10, 0.30), respectively, p < 0.001. Hydromorphone and Morphine were the most common BTO and SCH opioids prescribed, respectively. Patients in the early supportive care group had higher pain scores and MEDDs. Conclusions: BTO/SCH ratios are frequently prescribed higher than the recommended dose. Daily pain scores, BTO MEDDs, scheduled opioid MEDDs, and total MEDDs were higher among the SCC group than the pre-SCC group, but the number of BTO doses/day was lower.
Diversity and Composition of Belowground Fungal Communities Associated with Picea abies L. (H.) Karst. and Larix sp. Mill.: A Comparative Study
Authors: Lynikienė Jūratė , Marčiulynas Adas , Marčiulynienė Diana , Gedminas Artūras , Mishcherikova Valeriia , Menkis Audrius
Published: March 2024

The aim of the presented study was to compare the diversity and composition of fungal communities associated with the roots and the rhizosphere soil of P. abies and Larix sp. in mid-age and mature managed forest stands in Lithuania. We also aimed to assess the presence of fungi–host-specific associations, i.e., whether Larix sp. stands could provide habitats for soil fungi currently associated with P. abies. The study sites were 10 Larix sp. and 10 P. abies forest stands in Lithuania. For the study, 100 root samples and 10 organic and 10 mineral soil samples were collected in P. abies stands as well as the same number in Larix sp. stands, and DNA was isolated, amplified using ITS2 rDNA as a marker and subjected to high-throughput sequencing. The results showed that the Shannon diversity index of fungal communities was similar between the two tree species when compared either between root (H = 4.26 P. abies and H = 3.82 Larix sp.), organic soil (H = 5.12 P. abies and H = 5.13 Larix sp.) or mineral soil (H = 4.71 P. abies and H = 4.29 Larix sp.) samples. Multivariate analysis showed that the fungal community composition in the organic and mineral soil samples of both P. abies and Larix sp. were similar, and thus, overlapping. The analysis also showed that the distribution of fungal species was denser in the roots and organic soil but more scattered in mineral soil. However, several fungi in the roots of either P. abies or Larix sp. showed a certain host specificity.
Sturgeon Parasites: A Review of Their Diversity and Distribution
Authors: Deák György , Holban Elena , Sadîca Isabela , Jawdhari Abdulhusein
Published: March 2024

Sturgeon species have inhabited the world’s seas and rivers for more than 200 million years and hold significant taxonomic significance, representing a strong conservation interest in aquatic biodiversity as well as in the economic sector, as their meat and eggs (caviar) are highly valuable goods. Currently, sturgeon products and byproducts can be legally obtained from aquaculture as a sustainable source. Intensive farming practices are accompanied by parasitic infestations, while several groups of parasites have a significant impact on both wild and farmed sturgeons. The present article is a review of common sturgeon parasites from the genus: Protozoa, Trematoda, Crustacea, Nematodes, Monogenea, Hirudinea, Copepoda, Acanthocephala, Cestoda, Polypodiozoa, and Hyperoartia, while also addressing their pathology and statistical distribution.
Clinicopathologic and Endosonographic Characteristics of Colon Subepithelial Tumors Discovered Incidentally
Authors: Kim Aryoung , Hong Sung Noh , Chang Dong Kyung , Kim Young-Ho , Kim Ji Eun , Kim Eun Ran
Published: March 2024

Background/Aims: Colonoscopy is commonly used for colorectal cancer screening; therefore, the detection of colon subepithelial tumors (SETs) has also increased. Several research studies have been undertaken to diagnose and treat stomach and rectal SETs. The purpose of this study was to determine a diagnostic point for colon SETs by comparing histological findings with the endoscopic characteristics of colon SETs discovered by chance. Methods: A total 194 patients underwent an endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) for suspicious colon SETs during a colonoscopy from May 2014 to December 2021. A total of 105 colon SETs, which were histologically diagnosed, were finally included. Fisher’s exact test was used to determine the factors associated with malignant SETs. Results: Colon SETs were predominantly present in the right colon (n = 73, 69.5%), particularly in the transverse colon (n = 32, 30.5%). The majority were smaller than 10 mm (n = 88, 83.8%), and they had hard consistencies (n = 84, 80%) and exhibited no surface changes (n = 96, 91.4%). Most of them were found in the submucosal layers (n = 54, 51.4%) and had a hypoechoic pattern (n = 56, 53.3%) in the EUS. Of the histologically confirmed cases, only three (3/105, 2.9%) were malignant. Most benign lesions were lipomas, suspected parasitic infections, or lesions caused by various inflammatory reactions, including fibrous/fibrocalcific lesions and necrotic nodules. All soft lesions were benign. Two of the three malignant lesions were adenocarcinomas, and the other was lymphoma. For the malignant SETs, there was a statistically significant alteration in the surface of the tumors (p < 0.001), and they were located where the muscularis mucosa layer was included (p = 0.008). The potential malignant SETs, granular cell tumors, and neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) had similar features, such as yellowish hypoechoic masses. Colon NETs were only found in the rectosigmoid junction. Parasitic infections and lesions, resulting in various inflammatory reactions, were observed as pale and hard SETs and mostly revealed as mixed echogenic masses located in the muscularis mucosa, submucosa, or multi-layers in the EUS. Conclusion: This study showed that small colon SETs were mostly benign lesions. Despite its rarity, pathological confirmation is crucial in cases where the SET has surface changes and has been located in a position where the muscularis mucosa layer was included on the EUS, due to the risk of malignancy.
Computational Investigation of the Influence of Combustion Chamber Characteristics on a Heavy-Duty Ammonia Diesel Dual Fuel Engine
Authors: Sehili Youcef , Loubar Khaled , Tarabet Lyes , Cerdoun Mahfoudh , Lacroix Clément
Published: March 2024

In response to increasingly stringent emissions regulations and the depletion of conventional fuel sources, integrating carbon-free fuels into the transport sector has become imperative. While hydrogen (H2) presents significant technical challenges, ammonia (NH3) could present a better alternative offering ease of transport, storage, and distribution, with both ecological and economic advantages. However, ammonia substitution leads to high emissions of unburned NH3, particularly at high loads. Combustion chamber retrofitting has proven to be an effective approach to remedy this problem. In order to overcome the problems associated with the difficult combustion of ammonia in engines, this study aims to investigate the effect of the piston bowl shape of an ammonia/diesel dual fuel engine on the combustion process. The primary objective is to determine the optimal configuration that offers superior engine performance under high load conditions and with high ammonia rates. In this study, a multi-objective optimization approach is used to control the creation of geometries and the swirl rate under the CONVERGETM 3.1 code. To maximize indicated thermal efficiency and demonstrate the influence of hydrogen enrichment on ammonia combustion in ammonia/diesel dual fuel engines, a synergistic approach incorporating hydrogen enrichment of the primary fuel was implemented. Notably, the optimum configuration, featuring an 85% energy contribution from ammonia, outperforms others in terms of combustion efficiency and pollutant reduction. It achieves over 43% reduction in unburned NH3 emissions and a substantial 31% improvement in indicated thermal efficiency.
Solution of the Simultaneous Routing and Bandwidth Allocation Problem in Energy-Aware Networks Using Augmented Lagrangian-Based Algorithms and Decomposition
Authors: Nwachukwu Anthony Chukwuemeka , Karbowski Andrzej
Published: March 2024

We discuss several algorithms for solving a network optimization problem of simultaneous routing and bandwidth allocation in green networks in a decomposed way, based on the augmented Lagrangian. The problem is difficult due to the nonconvexity caused by binary routing variables. The chosen algorithms, which are several versions of the Multiplier Method, including the Alternating Direction Method of Multipliers (ADMM), have been implemented in Python and tested on several networks’ data. We derive theoretical formulations for the inequality constraints of the Bertsekas, Tatjewski and SALA methods, formulated originally for problems with equality constraints. We also introduce some modifications to the Bertsekas and Tatjewski methods, without which they do not work for an MINLP problem. The final comparison of the performance of these algorithms shows a significant advantage of the augmented Lagrangian algorithms, using decomposition for big problems. In our particular case of the simultaneous routing and bandwidth allocation problem, these algorithms seem to be the best choice.
A Diagnostic Curve for Online Fault Detection in AC Drives
Authors: Koteleva Natalia , Korolev Nikolai
Published: March 2024

The AC drive is an important component and the most common element of any manufacturing process. A particularly serious task is the proper assessment of the AC drive’s technical condition, as its failure can cause problems for entire units and complexes of industrial enterprises. At present, there are several approaches either to determine electric drives’ condition or to find certain defects. Frequently, these methods require the installation of additional equipment that exceeds the price of the electric drive by several times. In this work, a simple approach is proposed. It includes the use of a diagnostic curve to assess the condition. This diagnostic curve is produced from the measurement results of the current sensors on the drive. Based on the Park vector modification, this is a simple and affordable way to obtain real-time information. The obtained curve can be used for the following purposes: directly for condition assessment by visual monitoring, as a sign for diagnostic systems built on artificial intelligence methods, for dynamic tuning of the drive control system. The article gives the algorithm for obtaining the diagnostic curve, showing its efficiency for model and field experiments. In model experiments, the faults in the rotor and stator of the drive were simulated; in field experiments, the state was analyzed by changing the load on the motor.
Systematic Design and Implementation Method of Battery-Energy Comprehensive Management Platform in Charging and Swapping Scenarios
Authors: Ren Lianling , Liao Wei , Chen Jun
Published: March 2024

Batteries are one of the most crucial energy storage devices today, and battery-energy management technology has an extremely significant impact on the performance and lifespan of batteries. The traditional design approach for battery-energy management platforms often neglects considerations for charging and discharging scenarios. Additionally, functional modules are designed independently, leading to incompatibility issues between hardware and control units, thereby limiting the system’s performance. To address these challenges and enhance system coordination, this paper proposes a systematic design and implementation method for a battery-energy comprehensive management platform applied in charging and swapping scenarios. The method consists of four parts: hardware design, a dynamic load charging-balance control strategy, a composite micro-source hierarchical coordination control strategy, and a system emergency-response and protection strategy. The proposed method has been successfully applied to a design and has been used to build a battery-energy comprehensive management platform. Finally, through experiments, it has been demonstrated that this system can achieve energy scheduling, battery-energy balance, mode switching, and fault protection in a stable and reliable manner.