bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment planning of intracranial lesions with VHEE: comparing conventional and FLASH irradiation potential with state-of-the-art photon and proton radiotherapy
Authors: Muscato A. , Arsini L. , Battistoni G. , Campana L. , Carlotti D. , De Felice F. , De Gregorio A. , De Simoni M. , Di Felice C. , Dong Y. , Franciosini G. , Marafini M. , Mattei I. , Mirabelli R. , Muraro S. , Pacilio M. , Palumbo L. , Patera V. , Schiavi A. , Sciubba A. , Schwarz M. , Sorbino S. , Tombolini V. , Toppi M. , Traini G. , Trigilio A. , Sarti A.
Published: July 2023

The treatment of deep-seated tumours with electrons of very high energies (VHEE, 70–150 MeV) has already been explored in the past, suggesting that a dosimetric coverage comparable with state-of-the-art proton (PT) or photon radiotherapy (RT) could be achieved with a large (> 10) number of fields and high electron energy. The technical and economical challenges posed by the deployment of such beams in treatment centres, together with the expected small therapeutic gain, prevented the development of such technique. This scenario could radically change in the light of recent developments that occurred in the compact, high-gradient, electron acceleration technology and, additionally, of the experimental evidence of the sparing of organs at risk achieved in ultra-high dose rate irradiation, also referred to as FLASH. Electrons with the energy required to treat intracranial lesions could be provided, at dose rates compatible with what is needed to trigger the FLASH effect, by accelerators that are a few metres long, and the organ sparing could be exploited to significantly simplify the irradiation geometry, decreasing the number of fields needed to treat a patient. In this paper, the case of two patients affected by a chordoma and a meningioma, respectively, treated with protons in Trento (IT) is presented. The proton plans have been compared with VHEE plans and X-ray intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) plans. The VHEE plans were first evaluated in terms of physical dose distribution and then assuming that the FLASH regimen can be achieved. VHEE beams demonstrated their potential in obtaining plans that have comparable tumour coverage and organs at risk sparing when benchmarked against current state-of-the-art IMRT and PT. These results were obtained with a number of explored fields that was in the range between 3 and 7, consistent with what is routinely performed in IMRT and PT conventional irradiations. The FLASH regimen, in all cases, showed its potential in reducing damage to the organs placed nearby the target volume, allowing, particularly in the chordoma case where the irradiation geometry is more challenging, a better tumour coverage with respect to the conventional treatments.
Analysis of infrared polarization imaging characteristics based on long wave infrared zoom system
Authors: Fu Qiang , Zhang Yue , Li Yingchao , Liu Yi , Yang Yining , Zhang Xuemin , Wang Longxiao , Tai Yang , Liu Jiazhuo , Liu Zhuang , Wang Chao
Published: July 2023

In order to meet the requirements of target detection at different distances in infrared polarization detection, a transmission-type long-wave infrared polarization zoom optical system is designed, can zoom in 18–90 mm and the wavelength range is 8–14 μm. The spatial resolution is 0.18–0.9 mrad, and the machining and assembly errors are analyzed. Based on BRDF and Stokes vector model, aluminum is spontaneous emission, and reflected emission characteristics under specific conditions are simulated and analyzed. Infrared polarization imaging and island imaging experiments verify the unique advantages of infrared polarization technology in distinguishing natural and manufactured objects, metal and non-metal, and high-temperature object recognition. The changing trend of contrast between infrared intensity image and polarization image with solar altitude angle is explored, providing theoretical support for developing an infrared photoelectric detection field.
A computational modeling framework for pre-clinical evaluation of cardiac mapping systems
Authors: Galappaththige Suran , Pathmanathan Pras , Gray Richard A.
Published: July 2023

There are a variety of difficulties in evaluating clinical cardiac mapping systems, most notably the inability to record the transmembrane potential throughout the entire heart during patient procedures which prevents the comparison to a relevant “gold standard”. Cardiac mapping systems are comprised of hardware and software elements including sophisticated mathematical algorithms, both of which continue to undergo rapid innovation. The purpose of this study is to develop a computational modeling framework to evaluate the performance of cardiac mapping systems. The framework enables rigorous evaluation of a mapping system’s ability to localize and characterize (i.e., focal or reentrant) arrhythmogenic sources in the heart. The main component of our tool is a library of computer simulations of various dynamic patterns throughout the entire heart in which the type and location of the arrhythmogenic sources are known. Our framework allows for performance evaluation for various electrode configurations, heart geometries, arrhythmias, and electrogram noise levels and involves blind comparison of mapping systems against a “silver standard” comprised of computer simulations in which the precise transmembrane potential patterns throughout the heart are known. A feasibility study was performed using simulations of patterns in the human left atria and three hypothetical virtual catheter electrode arrays. Activation times (AcT) and patterns (AcP) were computed for three virtual electrode arrays: two basket arrays with good and poor contact and one high-resolution grid with uniform spacing. The average root mean squared difference of AcTs of electrograms and those of the nearest endocardial action potential was less than 1 ms and therefore appears to be a poor performance metric. In an effort to standardize performance evaluation of mapping systems a novel performance metric is introduced based on the number of AcPs identified correctly and those considered spurious as well as misclassifications of arrhythmia type; spatial and temporal localization accuracy of correctly identified patterns was also quantified. This approach provides a rigorous quantitative analysis of cardiac mapping system performance. Proof of concept of this computational evaluation framework suggests that it could help safeguard that mapping systems perform as expected as well as provide estimates of system accuracy.
Numerical investigation of the effect of carotid bifurcation stenosis degree on pulsatility characteristics
Authors: Liu Chao , Wu Gao , Xu Jianxin , Xiao Qingtai , Wang Hua
Published: July 2023

Arterial bifurcations are regions that are susceptible to hemodynamic effects and thrombus formation. In the current study, the hemodynamic effects of a simplified 3D model of an arterial bifurcation were simulated using the commercial computational fluid dynamics software FLUENT. The non-Newtonian properties of blood were modeled using the Carreau model, and the pulsation dynamics and heat transfer characteristics of blood at different degrees of stenosis in the arterial bifurcation were analyzed. The results indicate that arterial stenosis caused by a thrombus when the pulsation velocity reaches its peak has an essential impact on blood transport. The stenosis of the bifurcation increases the peak pulsatile flow pressure drop, and each 0.5 mm stenosis of the arterial bifurcation increases the mean wall shear stress of the bifurcated segment by approximately 0.25 Pa. From the heat transfer perspective, arterial stenosis has little effect on the heat transfer coefficient. The heat transfer coefficient measured inside the bifurcation is much larger than that measured outside the bifurcation. The stenosis of the arterial bifurcation causes an increase in the mean velocity of the arterial cross-section, and the volume-averaged absolute vorticity is introduced to quantify the secondary flow effect during the pulsation cycle, where the arterial stenosis causes an increase in the mean absolute vorticity at pulsation velocity and accelerates the decay of the vorticity at uniform velocity. In this paper, the hemodynamics of carotid bifurcation pulsation is analyzed in conjunction with flow field properties to reveal the flow field dynamics factors and heat transfer characteristics of local stenosis of the carotid bifurcation and to conduct an exploratory study for the diagnosis and treatment of carotid bifurcation thrombosis.
Building blocks of microphysiological system to model physiology and pathophysiology of human heart
Authors: Vuorenpää Hanna , Björninen Miina , Välimäki Hannu , Ahola Antti , Kroon Mart , Honkamäki Laura , Koivumäki Jussi T. , Pekkanen-Mattila Mari
Published: July 2023

Microphysiological systems (MPS) are drawing increasing interest from academia and from biomedical industry due to their improved capability to capture human physiology. MPS offer an advanced in vitro platform that can be used to study human organ and tissue level functions in health and in diseased states more accurately than traditional single cell cultures or even animal models. Key features in MPS include microenvironmental control and monitoring as well as high biological complexity of the target tissue. To reach these qualities, cross-disciplinary collaboration from multiple fields of science is required to build MPS. Here, we review different areas of expertise and describe essential building blocks of heart MPS including relevant cardiac cell types, supporting matrix, mechanical stimulation, functional measurements, and computational modelling. The review presents current methods in cardiac MPS and provides insights for future MPS development with improved recapitulation of human physiology.
Effect of isolated lactic acid bacteria on the quality and bacterial diversity of native grass silage
Authors: Bao Jian , Ge Gentu , Wang Zhijun , Xiao Yanzi , Zhao Muqier , Sun Lin , Wang Yu , Zhang Jiawei , Jia Yushan , Du Shuai
Published: July 2023

Objective

The objective of this study was to isolate lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from native grasses and naturally fermented silages, determine their identity, and assess their effects on silage quality and bacterial communities of the native grasses of three steppe types fermented for 60 days.

Methods

Among the 58 isolated LAB strains, Limosilactobacillus fermentum (BL1) and Latilactobacillus graminis (BL5) were identified using 16S rRNA sequences. Both strains showed normal growth at 15- 45°C temperature, 3-6.5% NaCl concentration, and pH 4-9. Two isolated LAB strains (labeled L1 and L5) and two commercial additives (Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Lentilactobacillus buchneri; designated as LP and LB, respectively) were added individually to native grasses of three steppe types (meadow steppe, MS; typical steppe, TS; desert steppe, DS), and measured after 60 d of fermentation. The fresh material (FM) of different steppe types was treated with LAB (1 × 105 colony forming units/g fresh weight) or distilled water (control treatment [CK]).

Results

Compared with CK, the LAB treatment showed favorable effects on all three steppe types, i.e., reduced pH and increased water-soluble carbohydrate content, by modulating the microbiota. The lowest pH was found in the L5 treatment of three steppe types, at the same time, the markedly (p < 0.05) elevated acetic acid (AA) concentration was detected in the L1 and LB treatment. The composition of bacterial community in native grass silage shifted from Pantoea agglomerans and Rosenbergiella nectarea to Lentilactobacillus buchneri at the species level. The abundance of Lentilactobacillus buchneri and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum increased significantly in L1, L5, LP, and LB treatments, respectively, compared with CK (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

In summary, the addition of LAB led to the shifted of microbiota and modified the quality of silage, and L. fermentum and L. graminis improved the performance of native grass silage.
Structural optimization method of rice precision direct seed-metering device based on multi-index orthogonal experimental
Authors: Li Hanqing , Ling Lin , Wen Changkai , Liu Huaiyu , Wu Guangwei , An Xiaofei , Meng Zhijun , Yan Bingxin
Published: July 2023

Introduction

To improve the mechanization level of rice planting, a new type of direct seeding device for rice was designed. The device's structural properties will be crucial in determining its seeding performance. Structure optimization in the current seed metering device design process focuses on a single or few indexes, resulting in improved individual performance but imbalanced overall performance. Therefore, a structure optimization method of the direct seeding device based on a multi-index orthogonal experiment was proposed in this study.

Methods

First, the DEM-MBD coupling method observed the factors and levels that affected the performance overall. Second, a test platform based on the electric drive control model was constructed, and a multi-index orthogonal test was devised. Finally, the structural parameters of the seed metering devices were optimized based on matrix analysis.

Results

From the results, the primary and secondary levels of significance of factors were just as follows: hole diameter > hole number > adjustment angle. The following are the optimal parameters found by optimization analysis: the diameter of the hole was 12 mm, the number of holes was 10, and the adjustment angle was 80°. Validation tests were carried out and analyzed based on the optimal structural parameter combination. The qualification rate of seeds per hole, empty hole rate, average seed number, coefficient of variation of seed number, average hole spacing, and the variance coefficient of hole spacing are 93.07%, 0%, 9.39,14.04%, 22.84 cm, and 9.14%, respectively.

Discussion

In comparison to traditional design and structural parameter optimization methods for rice precision seed metering device, this study not just to provides an optimization scheme for improving the overall performance of rice precision seed metering device, but also serves as a technical reference for the development and design of new rice precision seed metering device.
Projecting future aboveground carbon sequestration rate of alpine forest on the eastern Tibetan Plateau in response to climate change
Authors: Lin Yang , Cong Nan , Xiao Jiangtao , Kou Yongping , Li Yuanyuan , Yu Xinran , Qi Gang , Gou Chaolong , Bai Yongping , Ren Ping
Published: July 2023

The aboveground carbon sequestration rate (ACSR) of forests serves as an indicator of their carbon sequestration capacity over time, providing insights into the potential carbon sequestration capacity of forest ecosystems. To explore the long-term Spatiotemporal variation of ACSR in the transitional ecotone of the eastern Tibetan Plateau under climate change scenarios, we utilized a forest landscape model that was parameterized with forest inventory data from the eastern Tibetan Plateau to simulate this ecological function changes. The study found that climate warming had significant effect on forests ACSR in different types of forests. ACSR was significantly reduced (p<0.05) in cold temperate coniferous and temperate coniferous forests, whereas it was significantly increased in deciduous broad-leaved forests. However, the impact of climate warming on evergreen broad-leaved forests was found to be negligible. At the species level, climate warming has mostly suppressed the ACSR of coniferous trees, except for Chinese hemlock. The main dominant species, spruce and fir, have been particularly affected. Conversely, the ACSR of most broad-leaved trees has increased due to climate warming. In addition, at the landscape scale, the ACSR within this region is expected to experience a steady decline after 2031s-2036s. Despite the effects of climate warming, this trend is projected to persist. In conclusion, the forests ACSR in this region will be significantly affected by future climate warming. Our research indicates that climate warming will have a noticeable suppressive effect on conifers. It is imperative that this factor be taken into account when devising forest management plans for the future in this region.
Emotional reactions to climate change: a comparison across France, Germany, Norway, and the United Kingdom
Authors: Böhm Gisela , Pfister Hans-Rüdiger , Doran Rouven , Ogunbode Charles A. , Poortinga Wouter , Tvinnereim Endre , Steentjes Katharine , Mays Claire , Bertoldo Raquel , Sonnberger Marco , Pidgeon Nicholas
Published: July 2023

We present a study of emotional reactions to climate change utilizing representative samples from France, Germany, Norway, and the United Kingdom (UK). Drawing on appraisal theories of emotion, we examine relations between appraisals, emotions, and behavioral intentions in the context of climate change. We compare the four countries concerning emotional differences and commonalities and relate our findings to pertinent models of cultural values. Five distinct emotions were measured: worry, hope, fear, outrage, and guilt. In addition, the survey asked respondents to appraise a set of climate-related statements, such as the causality of climate change, or the efficacy of mitigation efforts. Also, a set of climate-relevant actions, such as willingness to reduce energy consumption or support for climate policies, was assessed. Findings show that appraisals of human causation and moral concern were associated with worry and outrage, and appraisals of efficacy and technological solutions were associated with hope. Worry and outrage are associated with intentions to reduce one’s energy consumption, whereas hope and guilt are related to support for policies such as tax and price increases. A country comparison shows that French respondents score high on outrage and worry and tend to engage in individual behaviors to mitigate climate change, whereas Norwegian respondents score high on hope and show a tendency to support policies of cost increase. Generally, worry is the most and guilt the least intense emotion. Moral concerns and perceived collective efficacy of one’s country in addressing climate change are relatively strong in France, while beliefs in human causation and in negative impacts of climate change prevail in Germany, and confidence in technological solutions are prevalent in Norway. In sum, findings reveal typical patterns of emotional responses in the four countries and confirm systematic associations between emotions and appraisals as well as between emotions and behaviors. Relating these findings to models of cultural values reveals that Norway, endorsing secular and egalitarian values, is characterized by hope and confidence in technological solutions, whereas France and Germany, emphasizing relatively more hierarchical and traditional values, are rather characterized by fear, outrage, and support for behavioral restrictions imposed by climate change policies.
Narcissistic susceptibility to conspiracy beliefs exaggerated by education, reduced by cognitive reflection
Authors: Cosgrove Tylor J. , Murphy Christopher P.
Published: July 2023

Conspiracy theories are alternate viewpoints of provided explanations; sensational stories revolving around small groups exerting control for nefarious reasons. Recent events and research have outlined myriad negative social and personal outcomes for those who endorse them. Prior research suggests several predictors of susceptibility to conspiracy theories, including narcissistic personality traits (grandiosity, need for uniqueness), cognitive processes (critical thinking, confirmation bias) and lack of education. The aim of the current paper was to explore how facets of narcissism predict susceptibility to conspiracy theories. It was expected that narcissism would be a positive predictor, but education and cognitive reflection would act as protective factors, reducing this effect. Study one utilized an international survey (N = 323) to investigate the role of education as a protective tool in the relationship between narcissistic traits and conspiratorial beliefs. Support was found for the hypotheses that individuals with higher levels of grandiosity, vulnerable narcissism, a strive for uniqueness, and a strive for supremacy predicted higher levels of conspiracy endorsement. Higher education and STEM education were associated with lower levels of conspiracy endorsement, however all significant moderations indicated that for narcissistic individuals, education increased their likelihood of adopting conspiracy beliefs, contrary to expectation. To investigate this further, study two analyzed a large-scale publicly available dataset (N = 51,404) to assess the relationship between narcissism, critical thinking skills (specifically cognitive reflection) and conspiracy beliefs pertaining to the COVID-19 pandemic. As expected, analysis found narcissism and poor cognitive reflection (intuitive thinking) as predictors of conspiracy beliefs. Higher levels of cognitive reflection were found to be protective, moderating and reducing the impact of narcissism on endorsement of conspiracy theories. The findings suggest that cognitive reflection, but not education protect against narcissistic conspiracy belief. Moreover, that cognitive reflection may have a lessened effect against conspiracy theories adopted for social or ideological reasons. These findings improve understanding of both the role and limitations of education/critical thinking skills as protective factors against conspiracy theory endorsement.
Association between aerobic fitness and attentional functions in Egyptian preadolescent children
Authors: Abdelkarim Osama , Aly Mohamed , ElGyar Noha , Shalaby Amira M. , Kamijo Keita , Woll Alexander , Bös Klaus
Published: July 2023

Growing evidence indicates that culture and education can influence cognitive constructs. Studies targeting Western and Asian populations have shown a positive relationship between aerobic fitness and cognitive control in children; however, this association has yet to be explored in the Arab world. The current study aimed to investigate the relationship between aerobic fitness and attentional networks in Egyptian preadolescent children. In total, 103 preadolescent children (9.76 ± 0.11) completed an assessment of aerobic fitness using a 6-min running test and a computerized attention network test that allowed for assessing alerting, orienting, and executive networks. The results revealed that higher aerobic fitness was associated with shorter response time and higher response accuracy in a more cognitively demanding task condition (i.e., incongruent trials). Furthermore, higher aerobic fitness was associated with a more efficient executive network. No associations were observed for alerting and orienting networks. These findings corroborate growing evidence indicating the importance of aerobic fitness for cognitive development and extend the literature by suggesting that the positive association between aerobic fitness and cognitive control might be generalized to the Arab population and not significantly change across cultures.
Community-based counselling programme for pregnant women with alcohol problems in Cape Town, South Africa: a qualitative study of the views of pregnant women and healthcare professionals
Authors: Petersen Williams Petal , Erasmus Jodilee , Myers Bronwyn , Nadkarni Abhijit , Fuhr Daniela C.
Published: July 2023

Introduction

South Africa lacks services to detect and address alcohol use during pregnancy, particularly outside of health-care facilities. This study aimed to explore pregnant women and healthcare providers’ perceptions of the acceptability, feasibility and appeal of a community-based counselling programme for pregnant women with alcohol problems.

Methods

Twenty-eight in-depth interviews with pregnant women who drink, Community Health Workers (CHWs) and antenatal service providers were conducted. Transcribed interviews were analyzed thematically using a combined deductive and inductive approach.

Results

Women reported feeling uncomfortable seeking help for their alcohol use at antenatal clinics, limiting usefulness of current support services. All stakeholders perceived a community-based intervention to be acceptable and feasible as it could be integrated with other CHW-delivered services. Participants thought an intervention should facilitate early linkage to antenatal services and should include partners or family members. The feasibility of an intervention may depend on the relationship between CHWs and clinic-based antenatal staff, and their relationships with pregnant women. Clinic and community challenges to implementation were raised. Clinic-level challenges included shortage of space, staff capacity, high number of pregnant women, long waiting times, financial burden of having to travel to a clinic, lack of comfort and privacy and staff attitudes. Community-level challenges included crime, lack of privacy, lack of attention given competing interests in the home, fear due to abuse, and stigma and discrimination from other community members. Suggestions for overcoming these challenges were provided.

Conclusion

Findings provide essential information to facilitate the adaptation of a community-based alcohol counselling programme for greater acceptability, feasibility and cultural appropriateness for the South African context. Intensive training, supervision and support is required to ensure the programme is delivered as planned.
A spatiotemporal analysis of the association between carbon productivity, socioeconomics, medical resources and cardiovascular diseases in southeast rural China
Authors: Tang Xuwei , Zhan Zhi-Ying , Rao Zhixiang , Fang Haiyin , Jiang Jian , Hu Xiangju , Hu Zhijian
Published: July 2023

Introduction

With China’s rapid industrialization and urbanization, China has been increasing its carbon productivity annually. Understanding the association between carbon productivity, socioeconomics, and medical resources with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) may help reduce CVDs burden. However, relevant studies are limited.

Objectives

The study aimed to describe the temporal and spatial distribution pattern of CVDs hospitalization in southeast rural China and to explore its influencing factors.

Methods

In this study, 1,925,129 hospitalization records of rural residents in southeast China with CVDs were analyzed from the New Rural Cooperative Medical Scheme (NRCMS). The spatial distribution patterns were explored using Global Moran’s I and Local Indicators of Spatial Association (LISA). The relationships with influencing factors were detected using both a geographically and temporally weighted regression model (GTWR) and multiscale geographically weighted regression (MGWR).

Results

In southeast China, rural inpatients with CVDs increased by 95.29% from 2010 to 2016. The main groups affected were elderly and women, with essential hypertension (26.06%), cerebral infarction (17.97%), and chronic ischemic heart disease (13.81%) being the leading CVD subtypes. The results of LISA shows that central and midwestern counties, including Meilie, Sanyuan, Mingxi, Jiangle, and Shaxian, showed a high-high cluster pattern of CVDs hospitalization rates. Negative associations were observed between CVDs hospitalization rates and carbon productivity, and positive associations with per capita GDP and hospital beds in most counties (p < 0.05). The association between CVDs hospitalization rates and carbon productivity and per capita GDP was stronger in central and midwestern counties, while the relationship with hospital bed resources was stronger in northern counties.

Conclusion

Rural hospitalizations for CVDs have increased dramatically, with spatial heterogeneity observed in hospitalization rates. Negative associations were found with carbon productivity, and positive associations with socioeconomic status and medical resources. Based on our findings, we recommend low-carbon development, use of carbon productivity as an environmental health metric, and rational allocation of medical resources in rural China.
Intervertebral disc degeneration—Current therapeutic options and challenges
Authors: Samanta Ankita , Lufkin Thomas , Kraus Petra
Published: July 2023

Degeneration of the intervertebral disc (IVD) is a normal part of aging. Due to the spine's declining function and the development of pain, it may affect one's physical health, mental health, and socioeconomic status. Most of the intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) therapies today focus on the symptoms of low back pain rather than the underlying etiology or mechanical function of the disc. The deteriorated disc is typically not restored by conservative or surgical therapies that largely focus on correcting symptoms and structural abnormalities. To enhance the clinical outcome and the quality of life of a patient, several therapeutic modalities have been created. In this review, we discuss genetic and environmental causes of IVDD and describe promising modern endogenous and exogenous therapeutic approaches including their applicability and relevance to the degeneration process.
Specific challenges posed by artificial intelligence in research ethics
Authors: Bouhouita-Guermech Sarah , Gogognon Patrick , Bélisle-Pipon Jean-Christophe
Published: July 2023

Background

The twenty first century is often defined as the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI), which raises many questions regarding its impact on society. It is already significantly changing many practices in different fields. Research ethics (RE) is no exception. Many challenges, including responsibility, privacy, and transparency, are encountered. Research ethics boards (REB) have been established to ensure that ethical practices are adequately followed during research projects. This scoping review aims to bring out the challenges of AI in research ethics and to investigate if REBs are equipped to evaluate them.

Methods

Three electronic databases were selected to collect peer-reviewed articles that fit the inclusion criteria (English or French, published between 2016 and 2021, containing AI, RE, and REB). Two instigators independently reviewed each piece by screening with Covidence and then coding with NVivo.

Results

From having a total of 657 articles to review, we were left with a final sample of 28 relevant papers for our scoping review. The selected literature described AI in research ethics (i.e., views on current guidelines, key ethical concept and approaches, key issues of the current state of AI-specific RE guidelines) and REBs regarding AI (i.e., their roles, scope and approaches, key practices and processes, limitations and challenges, stakeholder perceptions). However, the literature often described REBs ethical assessment practices of projects in AI research as lacking knowledge and tools.

Conclusion

Ethical reflections are taking a step forward while normative guidelines adaptation to AI's reality is still dawdling. This impacts REBs and most stakeholders involved with AI. Indeed, REBs are not equipped enough to adequately evaluate AI research ethics and require standard guidelines to help them do so.
Case report: Paracorporeal lung assist device for 215 days as a bridge-to-lung transplantation in a patient with bronchopulmonary dysplasia and severe pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Michel Sebastian G. , Hanuna Maja , Pattathu Joseph , Pabst von Ohain Jelena , Schneider Christian , Kauke Theresa , Kneidinger Nikolaus , Behr Juergen , Milger Katrin , Barton Juergen , Veit Tobias , Kamla Christine , Mueller Christoph , Dzieciol Robert , Christen Lauren , Irlbeck Michael , Tomasi Roland , Abicht Jan , Scheiermann Patrick , Feuerecker Matthias , Dalla-Pozza Robert , Fischer Marcus , Jakob Andre , Hermann Matthias , Haas Nikolaus , Hagl Christian , Hörer Jürgen
Published: July 2023

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a known and life limiting complication of preterm born young adults with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), ultimately leading to progressive right ventricular (RV) failure. Prognosis remains poor, especially in patients unresponsive to modern vasoactive pharmacotherapy. Therefore, lung transplantation presents the treatment of choice to avert cardiac failure. With limited donor organ availability and long waiting times, the implantation of a paracorporeal lung assist device (PLAD) is a way to bridge the patient as an alternative to veno-arterial ECMO. Herein, we present the case of a prematurely born 23-year-old female, who developed severe PH due to BPD and consequently experienced therapy refractory RV failure. Urgent PLAD implantation was performed and the patient successfully underwent double-lung transplantation after 215 days of PLAD support. No major PLAD-associated complications occurred and full recovery of RV function could be observed after double-lung transplantation.
Modification of surface glycan by expression of beta-1,4-N-acetyl-galactosaminyltransferase (B4GALNT2) confers resistance to multiple viruses infection in chicken fibroblast cell
Authors: Park Jin Se , Woo Seung Je , Song Chang Seon , Han Jae Yong
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Infectious viruses in poultry, such as avian influenza virus (AIV) and Newcastle disease virus (NDV), are one of the most major threats to the poultry industry, resulting in enormous economic losses. AIVs and NDVs preferentially recognize α-2,3-linked sialic acid to bind to target cells. The human beta-1,4-N-acetyl-galactosaminyltransferase 2 (B4GALNT2) modifies α-2,3-linked sialic acid-containing glycan by transferring N-acetylgalactosamine to the sub-terminal galactose of the glycan, thus playing a pivotal role in preventing viruses from binding to cell surfaces. However, chickens lack a homolog of the B4GALNT2 gene.

Methods

Here, we precisely tagged the human B4GALNT2 gene downstream of the chicken GAPDH so that the engineered cells constitutively express the human B4GALNT2. We performed a lectin binding assay to analyze the modification of α-2,3-linked sialic acid-containing glycan by human B4GALNT2. Additionally, we infected the cells with AIV and NDV and compared cell survivability, viral gene transcription, and viral titer using the WST-1 assay, RT-qPCR and TCID50 assay, respectively.

Results

We validated human B4GALNT2 successfully modified α-2,3-linked sialic acid-containing glycan in chicken DF-1 cells. Following viral infection, we showed that human B4GALNT2 reduced infection of two AIV subtypes and NDV at 12-, 24-, and 36-hours post-infection. Moreover, cells expressing human B4GALNT2 showed significantly higher cell survivability compared to wild-type DF-1 cells, and viral gene expression was significantly reduced in the cells expressing human B4GALNT2.

Discussion

Collectively, these results suggest that artificially expressing human B4GALNT2 in chicken is a promising strategy to acquire broad resistance against infectious viruses with a preference for α-2,3-linked sialic acids such as AIV and NDV.
GATA-3 expression and its correlation with prognostic factors and survival in canine mammary tumors
Authors: Diniz-Gonçalves Gabriel Saraiva , Hielm-Björkman Anna , da Silva Vanessa Bonfim , Ribeiro Lorena Gabriela Rocha , da Costa Vieira-Filho Carlos Humberto , Silva Laís Pereira , Barrouin-Melo Stella Maria , Cassali Geovanni Dantas , Damasceno Karine Araújo , Estrela-Lima Alessandra
Published: July 2023

Introduction

The transcription factor GATA-3 plays a significant role in mammary gland development and differentiation. Recent studies on human oncology have demonstrated its association with favorable pathologic factors in breast cancer. Canine mammary tumours, proposed as comparative and translational study models, have epidemiological, clinical, biological, and genetic characteristics similar to those of human breast cancers.

Methods

Here, we evaluated the frequency of GATA-3 expression in mammary tumors of dogs and its relationship with prognostic factors and survival. Tumor samples were obtained from 40 female dogs and grouped according to histological type into benign tumors (n = 10), carcinoma in mixed tumors (CMTs) (n = 20), and aggressive tumors (n = 10). CMTs were further separated according to histological grade, and data on clinical staging and diagnosis, histopathological grading, and survival rate were collected.

Results

GATA-3 and estrogen receptor (ER) expression were higher in benign and well-differentiated carcinomas than in aggressive tumors, which showed greater Ki-67 expression. The expression rate of ER in the studied groups was equivalent to that of GATA-3. We identified a strong positive correlation between GATA-3 and ER expression frequencies and a negative correlation between those of GATA-3 and Ki-67. There were associations between GATA-3 (p < 0.001), Ki-67 (p = 0.003), tumor size (p < 0.001), clinical stage (p = 0.002), lymph node metastasis (p < 0.001), and histological grade (p < 0.001) by univariate survival analysis. The parameters ER (p = 0.015) and GATA-3 (p = 0.005) also influenced survival in a multifactorial manner.

Discussion

Kaplan–Meier analysis of survival curves validated our previous findings that dogs with GATA-3 expression in ≥79.4% of cells had significantly higher survival rates (p < 0.001). The performance analysis showed that the expression of GATA-3 in ≥79.4% of cells effectively predicted survival or death in dogs with mammary tumors. Collectively, these results suggest that GATA-3 can be a relevant marker in the study of mammary tumor progression and has potential as a prognosis marker for predicting outcomes in canine mammary tumors.
Influence of a Deflectable Leading-Edge on a Flapping Airfoil
Authors: Camacho Emanuel A. R. , Marques Flávio D. , Silva André R. R.
Published: July 2023

Flapping wing dynamics are of great interest in many research areas, such as bioinspired systems and aircraft aeroelasticity. The findings of the present study provide significant insight into the importance of the leading-edge dynamic incidence on the propulsive performance of flapping airfoils. The main objective is to improve the propulsive characteristics by adding a pitching leading-edge to a conventional NACA0012 airfoil at the lower spectrum of the Reynolds number. The problem is solved numerically at a Reynolds number of 104 under various flapping conditions. The results show that the leading-edge pitching amplitude has a great impact on the propulsive power and efficiency, providing meaningful improvements. The required power coefficient is reduced overall, although not as significantly as the propulsive power. The influence of the movable leading-edge on the pressure distribution is analyzed, showing that the enlargement of the frontal area is the root cause of propulsive augmentation. The proposed geometry provides an innovative way of flapping an airfoil with propulsive purposes, offering remarkable improvements that can defy conventional flapping.
Integrated Ecological Risk Assessment of the Agricultural Area under a High Anthropopressure Based on Chemical, Ecotoxicological and Ecological Indicators
Authors: Klimkowicz-Pawlas Agnieszka , Smreczak Bożena , Maliszewska-Kordybach Barbara
Published: July 2023

Agricultural land is often located close to highly urbanised/industrialised areas and is subject to continuous anthropogenic pressure associated with the emission of many pollutants, ultimately deposited in the soil. Most studies on ecological risk assessment have only analysed the total contaminants’ concentration, which does not reflect their bioavailability or toxicity and often leads to an overestimation of risk. Therefore, in our study, we used an interdisciplinary approach, whereby the final conclusions about the risk in a given area are based on the integration of detailed data from chemical, ecotoxicological and ecological analysis. The research was carried out on agricultural land exposed to high levels of anthropopression for more than 100 years. Chemical measurements comprised both the total and bioavailable PAH content. A battery of bio-assays describing effects on soil retention and habitat function was used for ecotoxicity testing, and ecological indicators included enzymatic activity, respiration, microbial biomass, carbon mineralisation and nitrification. The integrated IntRisk index ranged from 0.19 to 0.94, and this was mainly due to high values of the chemical risk index, while the ecotoxicological and ecological results indicated no or low risk. The majority of the area (almost 90%) had acceptable risk levels, no/low risk (IntRisk < 0.5) at 57% of the sites and medium risk at 28% of the area. Very high unacceptable risk (IntRisk 0.77–0.94) was only at three sampling sites. The integration of data from a set of 15 indicators allowed us to derive quantitative risk indexes and delineate the limited area which needs additional action.
Growth and Physiological Characteristics of Sour Jujube Seedlings in Different Substrate Formulations
Authors: Zhu Ying , Duan Yanjun , Liu Zhiguo , Liu Mengjun , Liu Ping
Published: July 2023

The raising of container seedlings with light substrates has become an important method of seedling raising, without delaying the seedling period. In order to reduce reliance on non-renewable peat and to promote the reuse of organic waste, this study compared the growth of sour jujube seedlings in different substrate formulations (i.e., different proportions of vermicompost instead of peat), using a semi-subterranean placement of root control bags, and explored the application of vermicompost in the raising of sour jujube seedlings. The results showed that there were significant differences in the growth and the physiological and photosynthetic characteristics of sour jujube seedlings treated with different substrates, among which substrates A2 (peat: vermicompost: vermiculite: garden soil = 0.5:0.5:1:1) and A3 (peat: vermiculite: garden soil = 1:2:1) were suitable for sour jujube seedling raising. The seedling height, the seedling ground diameter, the number of secondary branches, the length of the longest secondary branch, the total fresh weight, the aboveground fresh weight, the total root length, the root projection area, and the root surface area were all significantly greater than those of jujube seedlings grown on other substrates. Especially in A3, vermicompost can replace peat as the nursery substrate for sour jujube seedlings, removing dependence on non-renewable peat resources, reducing costs, and providing more prospects for application. The suitable substrate conditions for sour jujube seedlings were as follows: soil porosity 44.0–54.0%, electric conductivity (EC) value 0.2 mS/cm, organic matter 40.39~54.05 g·kg−1, total nitrogen and total phosphorus of 1.67~1.91 g·kg−1 and 0.95~1.20 g·kg−1, respectively, alkali-hydrolyzed nitrogen 139.75~154.69 mg·kg−1, and available phosphorus 137~224 mg·kg−1.
The Relationship between Signs of Medical Conditions and Cognitive Decline in Senior Dogs
Authors: Wrightson Rosalind , Albertini Mariangela , Pirrone Federica , McPeake Kevin , Piotti Patrizia
Published: July 2023

Canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CCDS) is a progressive age-related neurodegenerative disorder in dogs. Minimal research has been performed to investigate how clinical signs may be impacted by other medical conditions. A cross-sectional study was performed using the Canine Cognitive Assessment Scale (CCAS) to evaluate cognitive impairment as reported by owners. Owner-reported health-related measures included behaviour changes, the body condition score, and veterinary diagnoses of disease. The responses from 804 dogs in the last 25% of their expected lifespan were analysed. Factors were identified in the owner-reported behavioural signs of disease representing pathologies in four body systems: musculoskeletal–neurological, digestive, metabolic, and dermatological, with the items comprising these factors also compiled into a cumulative measure of health. The results showed a strong correlation between the CCAS score and both the musculoskeletal–neurological factor and the overall cumulative measure of health. Moderate correlations between the CCAS score and the digestive factor and metabolic factor were also observed. The correlation between the dermatological factor and the CCAS score was weak. This study highlights the need to screen dogs for concurrent diseases when using scales to assess cognitive impairment and to monitor dogs who have health conditions, particularly those that are painful, for the onset of cognitive impairment.
Association with Different Housing and Welfare Parameters on Results of a Novel Object Test in Laying Hen Flocks on Farm
Authors: Hüttner Jennifer , Clauß Annette , Klambeck Lea , Andersson Robby , Kemper Nicole , Spindler Birgit
Published: July 2023

The objective of this on-farm study was to determine if flocks showing feather damage and/or cannibalism would have a higher fear response to the novel object (NOT) and the association between different housing and welfare parameters on results of the NOT. Therefore, 16 flocks were observed during the laying period in Germany. In total, there were six barns, seven free-range, and three organic flocks. The plumage and integument condition of 50 birds of each flock were evaluated at 4 different times during the laying period (V1: 18th to 23rd week of life, V2: 26th to 35th week of life, V3: 49th to 57th week of life, V4: 61st to 73rd week of life). At the same observation times, the NOT was performed in the flocks (at four different locations per visit time). Based on the average number of hens gathered around the novel object (NO) within the period of two minutes, conclusions can be made about the fearfulness of the flock. The present study shows that the more fearful a flock was, the more frequent feather damage (p < 0.001) and cannibalism (p < 0.01) occurred. Age and flock size were associated with fearfulness. Fearfulness of hens increased with the increasing age of hens (p < 0.001) and with an increasing flock size (p < 0.001). Hens of white feather color appeared to be more fearful than brown hens (p < 0.001). Hens kept on barn farms showed significantly lower numbers of hens around the novel object (p < 0.001) than on free-range farms, which possibly indicates that having permanent access to outdoor space generally appears to be associated with the fearfulness of a flock.
Radiation Beam Width and Beam Direction Electronic Control of Transparent and Compact Vivaldi Antennas
Authors: Cherif Amani , Himdi Mohamed , Castel Xavier , Simon Quentin , Dakhli Saber , Choubani Fethi
Published: July 2023

In this paper, we present a study on a broadband transparent tapered slot antenna. In general, the objective of achieving optical transparency is to enable antennas to seamlessly integrate into windows, offering an aesthetically pleasing and inconspicuous appearance. The aim of our research is to develop antennas that possess the ability to adjust horizontal plane beams across a wide frequency range, from 24 to 28 GHz, for 5G applications. This structure combines three antennas into a single unit, providing an advantage in terms of saving space. Furthermore, this structure offers the possibility of choosing between using a single antenna to obtain a directional beam in the −90°, 0°, or +90° directions (depending on the activated antenna) corresponding to three states, or the combination between two states to obtain another three additional states. The combination of the three states also allows for the acquisition of another state. At this point, the total number of states is 23 − 1. Only three PIN diodes are employed to switch between all states. Additionally, by adjusting the bias values of the PIN diodes, which function as variable resistors, the antenna beamwidth can be adjusted in order to achieve a coverage of 300°, offering more radiation pattern reconfigurability. The proposed method offers several advantages, including simplicity and feasibility in controlling the beamwidth and the beam direction electronically. This structure can be easily integrated into the development of fifth-generation communication systems.