bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding the visual search strategies of expert and novice coaches in futsal set pieces
Authors: Rodrigues Manuel , Leite Nuno , Ribeiro João N. , Sampaio Jaime , Araújo Duarte , Travassos Bruno
Published: July 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to describe the fixation location and the time of the longer fixation of expert and novice futsal coaches before the ball was in play in futsal set pieces.

Methods

A total of 10 experts (ages 48 ± 5) and 10 novice coaches (ages 40 ± 7) participated in the study. They observed that 38 video clips were created to mimic the attack and defensive set-piece moments of the game. Data were collected in a standardized video analysis task using the pupil invisible eye tracker and processed through the pupil cloud platform. The Mann–Whitney test was conducted to evaluate differences in gaze duration between game moments (attack and defense set pieces) and groups (expert vs. novice). Gaze duration was also compared for gaze location between groups. For further comparisons, the game moments (attack and defense set pieces) and the gaze location were summarized in two-dimensional graphics using correspondence analysis.

Results and discussion

The results revealed higher values of gaze duration for attack and defense set pieces for the group of experts than for novices. When considering gaze duration, expert coaches had higher values than novices for the attacker 3, defender 3, barrier 1st, and barrier 2nd gaze locations. The correspondence analysis showed different strategies of visual search and, consequently, gaze locations for attack and defense set pieces. In particular, there was different correspondence for free kicks between the level of expertise and gaze location, while corner and sideline kicks revealed some correspondence between the groups and the gaze location. In free kicks, coaches should be particularly concerned about the relationship between attacker and defender three and the barrier 1st and 2nd line positions. In corner and sideline kicks, coaches should be particularly aware of the relationship between attackers' and defenders' positions.
The impact of negative urgency on implicit mobile phone addiction tendency among college freshmen in the context of social exclusion
Authors: Liu Wei , Zhao Mengmeng , Wang Ruixin , Yang Manxi , Zhang Zhenqiang , Song Shaogang , Li Lina
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of negative urgency on implicit mobile phone addiction tendency among college freshmen, and to observe whether social exclusion situations affect the relationship between negative urgency and implicit mobile phone addiction tendency.

Methods

The UPPS-P Impulsive Behavior Scale was used to screen 575 freshmen from a certain university. The experiment utilized a GO/NO-GO paradigm. Experiment 1 employed a 2 (negative urgency group: high negative urgency group, low negative urgency group) × 2 (word type: phone related words, phone non-related words) two-factor mixed experimental design. Experiment 2 employed a 2 (negative urgency group: high negative urgency group, low negative urgency group) × 2 (social exclusion type: priming group, non-priming group) × 2 (word type: phone related words, phone non-related words) three-factor mixed experimental design.

Results

Experiment 1 results showed a significant main effect of negative urgency group and a significant interaction effect between negative urgency group and word type. Experiment 2 results demonstrated a significant main effect of negative urgency group and a significant main effect of social exclusion type. There was a significant interaction effect between word type and social exclusion type, as well as between word type and negative urgency group. The three-way interaction effect among negative urgency group, word type, and social exclusion type was significant.

Conclusion

College freshmen with high negative urgency exhibit a higher tendency toward implicit mobile phone addiction. In social exclusion situations, college freshmen show a higher tendency toward implicit smartphone addiction. Social exclusion situations and negative urgency jointly influence the implicit mobile phone addiction tendency of college freshmen.
Healthcare providers' perceptions and experiences of kangaroo mother care for preterm infants in four neonatal intensive care units in China: a qualitative descriptive study
Authors: Cai Qian , Zhou Yunxian , Hong Mengxia , Chen Danqi , Xu Xinfen
Published: July 2024

Background

Kangaroo mother care (KMC) is an evidence-based intervention that can effectively reduce morbidity and mortality in preterm infants, but it has yet to be widely implemented in health systems in China. Most qualitative studies on KMC for preterm infants focused on the experiences and influencing factors from the perspective of preterm infant parents, while neglecting the perspective of healthcare providers, who played a critical role in guiding KMC practice. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the perceptions and experiences of healthcare providers regarding their involvement in KMC implementation for preterm infants to promote the contextualized implementation of KMC.

Methods

A descriptive qualitative approach was adopted. A purposive sampling was used to select healthcare providers involved in KMC implementation in the neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) as participants from four tertiary hospitals across four cities in Zhejiang Province, China. Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect information. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the data.

Results

Seventeen healthcare professionals were recruited, including thirteen nurses and four doctors in the NICUs. Four themes and twelve subthemes emerged: different cognitions based on different perspectives (acknowledged effects and benefits, not profitable economically), ambivalent emotions regarding KMC implementation (gaining understanding, gratitude and trust from parents, not used to working under parental presence, and concerning nursing safety issues), barriers to KMC implementation (lack of unified norms and standards, lack of systematic training and communication platform, insufficient human resources, and inadequate parental compliance) and suggestions for KMC implementation (improving equipment and environment, strengthening collaboration between nurses and doctors, and support from hospital managers).

Conclusions

Despite acknowledging the clinical benefits of KMC, the lack of economic incentives, concerns about potential risks, and various barriers hindered healthcare providers' intrinsic motivation to implement KMC in NICUs in China. To facilitate the effective implementation of KMC, hospital managers should provide bonuses and training programs for healthcare providers, while giving them recognition and encouragement to enhance their motivation to implement KMC.
Specific ICF training is needed in clinical practice: ICF framework education is not enough
Authors: Paltamaa Jaana , van Lingen Ellen , Haumer Christine , Kidritsch Anita , Aerts Ingrid , Mutanen Laura
Published: July 2024

The use of a common language in interprofessional collaboration is essential. The World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) has been identified as a unifying framework for interprofessional collaboration and the identification of client needs. Higher education institutions (HEIs) offer ICF framework education to students but is it enough to enable graduated professionals to implement the ICF in clinical work? In our experience, the ICF education provided by HEIs does not meet the requirements of clinical practice, which might be due to gaps in teaching ICF to students (education) and specific requirements for teaching ICF to professionals already working in rehabilitation (training). This paper discusses the need for the ICF training in practice and ways to address it. Although many rehabilitation center professionals had previously received ICF education provided by the HEIs, the rehabilitation centers felt the need to develop their own practical training materials that could be applied to their own environment. Overall, 18 different ICF-based materials were developed during the Erasmus+ project called INPRO to promote person-centered and interprofessional practice in the rehabilitation centers. The practical training using real cases was considered valuable. It could be further developed in cooperation with HEIs and vice versa. It could also be used to teach students, i.e., future colleagues. To deepen and broaden the integration of the different materials based on the ICF, it is important to continue the interactive discussion between HEIs and clinical practice, and between management and its staff.
Delay in healthcare seeking and associated factors among patients presenting with sexually transmitted infection symptoms in the Horo Guduru Wollega Zone, Oromia, Western Ethiopia, 2022
Authors: Guddu Getachew Abebe , Getahun Ayantu , Yadesa Girma , Tolossa Tadesse
Published: July 2024

Background

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are the most prevalent communicable diseases that impact people's health and wellbeing. One of the main obstacles to successful prevention and control of STIs is the delay in seeking healthcare, which can result in significant personal and economic losses. However, there are limited studies on the delay in healthcare seeking among STI patients in resource-limited countries such as Ethiopia.

Objective

This study aims to assess delays in seeking healthcare and associated factors among patients presenting with STIs at public health facilities in the Horo Guduru Wollega Zone, Oromia, Western Ethiopia, 2022.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted at public health facilities in the Horo Guduru Wollega Zone from 15 March to 15 May 2022. The study included 507 participants and used a consecutive sampling method. The outcome variable of the study was the delay in seeking healthcare among STI patients. A binary logistic regression model was used to identify candidate variables with a p-value of less than 0.25 after analyzing each variable separately. Finally, a multivariable analysis was performed to determine statistically significant variables at a p-value of less than 0.05, and an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) was reported.

Results

The proportion of individuals with STIs who delayed seeking healthcare in the Horo Guduru Wollega Zone was 61.3% [95% confidence interval (CI): 57%–65.5%]. Factors such as age >35 years (AOR = 2.23, 95% CI: 1.26–3.95), higher educational level (AOR = 2.72, 95% CI: 1.55–4.74), lack of condom use (AOR = 1.63, 95% CI: 1.05–2.55), and travel time to health facilities of >1 h (AOR = 4.30, 95% CI: 1.70–10.89) were found to be significantly associated with delayed healthcare seeking.

Conclusion and recommendations

This study found that the magnitude of delay in seeking healthcare was higher than the national average and identified several contributing factors. Interventions such as developing educational programs and improving access to healthcare services are crucial for supporting patients with STIs. Enhancing healthcare accessibility in rural areas and promoting the use of condoms through targeted community outreach can reduce travel time and prevent delays in seeking healthcare for STIs.
The social evolution of COVID-19: pandemics as total social facts
Authors: Labora González Juan José , Fernández-Vilas Enrique
Published: July 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic was an unprecedented global event in recent history. Beginning with an initial outbreak in Wuhan, China, in December 2019, the virus spread rapidly across the globe, causing millions of deaths and triggering an unprecedented health, economic, and social crisis. The initial response to the outbreak in many countries was the implementation of social distancing measures, including the closure of schools and businesses, the cancellation of mass events, and the banning of travel. These measures were aimed at reducing the virus' spread and preventing health systems from being overwhelmed by the numerous severe COVID-19 cases. However, these measures also had a devastating economic impact, especially on precarious workers and freelancers, as well as those who were unable to work from home. As the pandemic (also considered a syndemic or synergistic epidemic) dragged on, countries adopted more flexible approaches to dealing with the virus, adopting mitigation measures rather than social distancing measures. These included the use of masks, testing and contact tracing, and the opening of businesses and schools with the implementation of additional safety measures. This paper highlights the social consequences of the pandemic, ultimately arguing that it is a total social fact (from the French fait social total), based on Marcel Mauss' categorization, since it encompassed and impacted all facets of human life.
Efficacy and safety of alfaxalone compared to propofol in canine refractory status epilepticus: a pilot study
Authors: Al Kafaji Tania , Corda Andrea , Charalambous Marios , Murgia Elsa , Tartari Ilaria , Puci Mariangela , Debidda Pasquale , Gallucci Antonella
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Refractory status epilepticus (RSE) is defined as seizure activity that is minimally responsive to first- or second-line antiseizure medications. Constant rate infusion (CRI) intravenous propofol (PPF) is commonly used to treat RSE in dogs and cats. The antiseizure activity of alfaxalone (ALF) in RSE has been demonstrated in various experimental studies. This study compared the clinical efficacy and safety of intramuscular administration followed by CRI infusion of ALF with intravenous administration followed by CRI infusion of PPF to treat canine RSE.

Materials and methods

This was a multicenter, prospective, randomized clinical trial of client-owned dogs referred for status epilepticus that did not respond to first- and second-line drugs. Animals with suspected or confirmed idiopathic or structural epilepsy were included. The dogs were randomly assigned to either the PPF or ALF treatment groups and each group received drug CRI infusions for 6 h. Drug dosages were progressively reduced by 25% every hour from the third hour until suspension after 6 h. Patients were classified as responders or non-responders based on the relapse of epileptic seizures during the 24 h therapy infusion or within 24 h of drug suspension. Univariate statistical analyses were performed.

Results

Twenty dogs were enrolled in the study. Ten (10/20) dogs were randomly allocated to the PPF group and 10 (10/20) to the ALF group. Successful outcomes were obtained in six (6/10) patients in the PPF group and five (5/10) patients in the ALF group. Adverse effects were recorded in six (6/10) and three (3/10) animals in the PPF and ALF groups, respectively. No statistically significant differences in outcomes or the presence of adverse effects were observed between the groups.

Discussion

The results of this preliminary study suggest that ALF can be considered a valid and safe alternative to PPF for the treatment of RSE in dogs, with the additional advantage of intramuscular administration. However, caution should be exercised when using these drugs to provide airway and hemodynamic support.
On Implementing a Two-Step Interior Point Method for Solving Linear Programs
Authors: Fathi Hafshejani Sajad , Gaur Daya , Benkoczi Robert
Published: July 2024

A new two-step interior point method for solving linear programs is presented. The technique uses a convex combination of the auxiliary and central points to compute the search direction. To update the central point, we find the best value for step size such that the feasibility condition is held. Since we use the information from the previous iteration to find the search direction, the inverse of the system is evaluated only once every iteration. A detailed empirical evaluation is performed on NETLIB instances, which compares two variants of the approach to the primal-dual log barrier interior point method. Results show that the proposed method is faster. The method reduces the number of iterations and CPU time(s) by 27% and 18%, respectively, on NETLIB instances tested compared to the classical interior point algorithm.
Social Behaviour in Lambs (Ovis aries) Reared under an Intensive System during the Prepuberty Period
Authors: Papadaki Kallirroi , Samaras Athanasios , Pavlidis Michail , Bizelis Iosif , Laliotis George P.
Published: July 2024

The social behaviour of twenty-one lambs of three sheep breeds (Chios, Karagouniki, and Synthetic) was observed from the age of 2.5–7 months, divided into three equal periods (A, B, C) of 1.5 months each. The frequency of the performed agonistic behaviours was higher (p < 0.01) before four months of age (period A: 11 × 10−4 ± 2 × 10−4) compared to the other periods (B: 5 × 10−4 ± 1 × 10−4; C: 8 × 10−4 ± 1 × 10−4). The same was noticed for affiliative behaviours performed (A: 21 × 10−4 ± 3 × 10−4; B: 8 × 10−4 ± 1 × 10−4; C: 5 × 10−4 ± 1 × 10−4), and for agonistic and affiliative behaviours received (p < 0.001). The lambs had higher levels of wool cortisol (23.398 ± 5.344 pg/mg; p < 0.01) at period C compared to A (7.899 ± 1.19 pg/mg). Breed affected the affiliative behaviours. Karagouniki showed higher frequencies than Synthetic (16 × 10−4 ± 3 × 10−4 vs. 6 × 10−4 ± 1 × 10−4). Blood cortisol was higher (p < 0.05) in the Synthetic (4.789 ± 0.928 ng/mL) compared to the Chios (1.805 ± 0.417 ng/mL) breed. Overall, lambs’ behaviour displayed changes upon time, with four months of age being a step to a next developmental stage with fewer social interactions and higher levels of cortisol.
Contributions of Soil Moisture and Vegetation on Surface-Air Temperature Difference during the Rapid Warming Period
Authors: Yu Yanru , Fang Shibo , Zhuo Wen , Han Jiahao
Published: July 2024

The difference (DIF) between land surface temperature (Ts) and near surface air temperature (Ta) is the key indicator of the energy budget of the land surface, which has a more complex process than the individual Ts or Ta. However, the spatiotemporal variations and influencing factors of DIF remain incomplete. The contribution of vegetation and soil moisture (SM) as key driving factors to DIF is not yet clear. Here, we analyzed the spatiotemporal variation patterns of DIF in China from 2011 to 2023 using in situ Ts and Ta data. A convergent cross-mapping method was employed to explore the causal relationship between SM, NDVI and DIF, and subsequently calculated the contribution of NDVI and SM variations to DIF under different climatic backgrounds. The results indicate that during the study period, DIF values were all above 0 °C and showed a significant increasing trend with a national mean slope of 0.02 °C/a. In general, vegetation and SM have a driving effect on DIF, with vegetation contributing more to DIF (0.11) than SM (0.08) under different surface properties. The background values of SM and temperature have a significant effect on the spatial and temporal distribution of DIF, as well as the correlation of vegetation and soil moisture to DIF. The study outcomes contribute to a better understanding of the coupling relationship between the land surface and atmosphere, which are also crucial for addressing climate change and ecological environmental management.
Green-Nano Manganese and Its Impact on the Growth, Yield, and Fruit Properties of Flame Seedless Grapes
Authors: Al-Saif Adel M. , Abdel-Hak Rasha S. , Saleh Mohamed M. S. , Farouk Mohammed H. , Hamed Shimaa R.
Published: July 2024

The present work aimed to evaluate green-nano manganese produced at the Microbial Biotechnology Department, National Research Centre, Egypt, and assess its impact on the growth, yield, and fruit properties of grapevines. To this end, two experiments were conducted. The first was microbiological, where several incorporation strategies were utilized to enrich the yeast with manganese, as follows: (1) manganese was added to the liquid medium (non-growth phase), and (2) manganese was added after 24 h of incubation (growth phase). The results showed that the non-growth phase had a reduced possibility of medium contamination. The manganese concentration in the yeast cells was increased due to manganese sulfate in the medium. The manganese incorporation in yeast cells was 99.93% (1.205 × 105) higher than that of the medium at 0.0195 g/L of manganese. Although the concentration of manganese in the medium raised the optical density (OD) of the yeast cell biomass, manganese sulfate had no passive influence on it. The second experiment was horticultural, where Flame Seedless grapevines were sprayed with frozen and active fresh yeast enriched with manganese that resulted from the microbiological experiment. Grapevines were sprayed twice a year at 10 or 20 cm3/L, and the results were compared with those for the mineral and chelate forms. The results demonstrated that yeast extracts in both forms showed positive effects on grapevine. The most effective treatment with regard to growth, yield, and fruit properties was frozen yeast enriched with manganese at 20 cm3/L, which yielded 10.14 and 12.6 kg/vine, compared with the control, which recorded 3.7 and 5.6 kg/vine in the two seasons, respectively.
Genome-Wide Methylation Landscape Uncovers the Role of DNA Methylation in Ramie (Boehmeria nivea L.) Bast Fiber Growth
Authors: Li Fu , Luo Bingbing , Wang Yanzhou , Rao Jing , Gao Song , Peng Qingzhong , Liu Touming , Yi Langbo
Published: July 2024

Ramie is one of the most important fiber crops in China, with fibers extracted from stem barks having been used as textile materials for thousands of years. DNA methylation is an important epigenetic modification involved in plant growth and development. However, the role of methylation in ramie fiber growth remains poorly understood. In the present study, we investigated the DNA methylation landscape of the nuclear genome in bark sections taken from the top (TPS) and the middle (MPS) of the stems of ramie plants, which represent different stages of fiber growth, using whole-genome bisulfite sequencing. We detected 7,709,555 and 8,508,326 5-methylcytosines in the TPS and MPS genomes, respectively. The distribution of methylation across three sequence contexts, CG, CHG, and CHH, varied greatly among gene elements, with methylation at CHH being the most prevalent. Comparison of methylation levels between the TPS and MPS genomes revealed 23.162 Mb of differentially methylated genomic regions, encompassing 9485 genes. Among these differentially methylated genes, 841 exhibited altered expression in the MPS genome. Notably, an SND2 ortholog Bni05G006779 showed a negative correlation between its expression and methylation levels. Overexpression of Bni05G006779 in Arabidopsis dramatically increased the number of xylem fibers and the secondary wall thickness of the fibers in the stems of transgenic plants. These findings provide important insights into the involvement of DNA methylation in regulating ramie fiber growth.
A Modeling Approach to Studying the Influence of Grafting on the Anatomical Features and SAUR Gene Expression in Watermelons
Authors: Márkus Rita , Kocsis Marianna , Farkas Ágnes , Nagy Dávid U. , Helfrich Paul , Kutyáncsánin Damir , Nyitray Gergely , Czigle Szilvia , Stranczinger Szilvia
Published: July 2024

Grafting alters the genetic and anatomical features of plants. Although grafting has been widely applied in plant propagation, the underlying processes that govern the effects of the procedure are not fully understood. Samples were collected to study the long-term influence of grafting on the leaf-shoot morphology, leaf-shoot anatomy, and genetic signature of the grafted plants. Citrulus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nakai (cv. Lady) was used as the scion, and Lagenaria siceraria (Molina) Standl (cv. Argentario) as a rootstock. In grafted plants, leaf blades and petioles were 20.92% and 12.82% longer, respectively, while the midrib collenchyma was 35.68% thicker, and the diameter of the vessel member was 11.17% larger than in ungrafted plants. In the stem, grafting affected the arrangement and number of vascular bundles (from 1 to 2 rings). The thickness of the epidermis decreased by 69.79%, and the size of the external fascicular phloem decreased by 23.56%. The diameter of the vessel member of the grafted plants increased by 28.94%. Eight out of ten evaluated primers met the requirements (stability in both watermelons and bottle gourd, tissue-specific). In the genetic tests, we examined whether this change in the gene expression pattern is due to the grafting and, if so, to what extent. Seven out of eight tested Small Auxin Up-Regulated RNA (SAUR) genes were expressed in the ungrafted and grafted C. lanatus lines in four cases; the expression increased by more than 10% after grafting. The morpho-anatomical changes and genetic variation reported in this study for grafted lines of C. lanatus contribute to the understanding of the underlying mechanisms of plant growth observations resulting from grafting.
Novel QTL Hotspots for Barley Flowering Time, Plant Architecture, and Grain Yield
Authors: Genievskaya Yuliya , Chudinov Vladimir , Abugalieva Saule , Turuspekov Yerlan
Published: July 2024

Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is one of the oldest cultivated grains and remains a significant crop globally. Barley breeders focus on developing high-yield cultivars resistant to biotic and abiotic stresses. Barley’s flowering time, regulated genetically and by environmental stimuli, significantly impacts all of its agronomic traits, including the grain yield and plant architecture. This study aimed to detect the quantitative trait loci (QTLs) affecting these traits in 273 two-row spring barley accessions from the USA, Kazakhstan, Europe, and the Middle East across two regions of Kazakhstan, evaluating their impact on grain yield. Genotypic data were obtained from 26,529 segregating single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), and field trial data for 273 accessions, which were obtained for six traits (heading time, maturity time, vegetation period, plant height, peduncle length, and grain yield) in two regions of Kazakhstan over three growth years. As a result of a genome-wide association study (GWAS), 95 QTLs were identified for 6 agronomic traits, including 58 QTLs linked with candidate genes and/or QTLs. The remaining 37 QTLs were putatively novel, with 13 of them forming 3 QTL hotspots on chromosomes 1H (5 QTLs in the interval of 13.4–41.4 Mbp), 3H (4 QTLs in 608.6–624.9 Mbp), and 6H (4 QTLs in 553.8–572.8 Mbp). These hotspots were pleiotropic, and targeting these regions would allow breeders to enhance multiple yield-associated traits.
Comparison of Butorphanol, Methadone, and Pethidine in Combination with Alfaxalone for Premedication in Isoflurane-Anesthetized Cats Undergoing Ovariectomy
Authors: Moretti Giulia , Mattiuzzi Irene , Garofanini Lisa , Monti Eleonora , Serni Benedetta , Bufalari Antonello , Nannarone Sara
Published: July 2024

The aim of this study was to compare three different anesthetic protocols administered intramuscularly (IM) in cats undergoing elective ovariectomy, while evaluating the quality of sedation, antinociceptive, isoflurane-sparing effect, and analgesia in the intra-operative and post-operative phases. A total of 71 female cats were sedated IM with alfaxalone (3 mg/kg) combined with either butorphanol (0.3 mg/kg), methadone (0.3 mg/kg), or pethidine (5 mg/kg). During surgery, vital parameters were constantly monitored; at the end of the procedure, the quality of recovery was assessed through a specific form and each cat was scored for perceived pain using the UNESP-Botucatu scale for 5 days, and rescue analgesia was provided with buprenorphine IM when indicated. Moreover, differences between two different post-operative resting regimens (hospital kennels vs. home) were also assessed. A significant difference emerged for the amount of IM dexmedetomidine required to achieve an adequate level of sedation for intravenous catheterization, highlighting a greater need in the pethidine group (p = 0.021). There was no significant difference between opioid groups for the requirement of intra-operative rescue analgesia, and the clinical parameters were kept within physiological ranges regardless of the opioid used in premedication. Lastly, differences between the UNESP-Botucatu scores were detected from day 3 to day 5 post-operatively, with lower scores in cats with home resting regimens compared to the hospitalized animals, likely due to the presence of an unfamiliar condition and the absence of a cat-friendly environment.
Screening of Reference Genes for Quantitative Real-Time PCR Analysis in Tissues and during Testis Development, and Application to Analyze the Expression of kifc1 in Hemibarbus labeo (Teleostei, Cypriniformes, Cyprinidae)
Authors: Gao Xinming , Liu Siqi , Lv Yaoping , Dai Qingmin , Zhu Ling , Hu Zehui , Lu Junkai , Zhou Haidong , Jin Jing
Published: July 2024

The selection of proper reference genes is vital for ensuring precise quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) assays. This study evaluates the stability of the expression of nine candidate reference genes in different tissues and during testicular development in H. labeo. The results show that eef1a is recommended as a reference gene for qPCR analysis in tissues and during testicular development. Furthermore, we evaluated the optimal number of reference genes needed when calculating gene expression levels using the geomean method, revealing that two reference genes are sufficient. Specifically, eef1a and rps27 are recommended for analysis of gene expression in tissues, whereas eef1a and actb are advised for evaluating gene expression during testicular development. In addition, we examined the expression pattern of kifc1, a kinesin involved in the reshaping of spermatids. We detected peak expression levels of kifc1 in testes, with its expression initially increasing before decreasing throughout testicular development. The highest expression of kifc1 was observed in stage IV testes, the active period of spermiogenesis, suggesting a possible role for kifc1 in the regulation of the reshaping of spermatids and hence testicular development. This study represents the first investigation of reference genes for H. labeo, providing a foundation for studying gene expression patterns and investigating gene expression regulation during testicular development.
Temperature-Dependent Sex Determination in Crocodilians and Climate Challenges
Authors: Schilling-Tóth Boglárka Mária , Belcher Scott M. , Knotz Josefine , Ondrašovičová Silvia , Bartha Tibor , Tóth István , Zsarnovszky Attila , Kiss Dávid Sándor
Published: July 2024

The sex of crocodilians is determined by the temperature to which the eggs, and hence the developing embryo are exposed during critical periods of development. Temperature-dependent sex determination is a process that occurs in all crocodilians and numerous other reptile taxa. The study of artificial incubation temperatures in different species of crocodiles and alligators has determined the specific temperature ranges that result in altered sex ratios. It has also revealed the precise temperature thresholds at which an equal number of males and females are generated, as well as the specific developmental period during which the sex of the hatchlings may be shifted. This review will examine the molecular basis of the sex-determination mechanism in crocodilians elucidated during recent decades. It will focus on the many patterns and theories associated with this process. Additionally, we will examine the consequences that arise after hatching due to changes in incubation temperatures, as well as the potential benefits and dangers of a changing climate for crocodilians who display sex determination based on temperature.
Mitigating Dietary Microplastic Accumulation and Oxidative Stress Response in European Seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) Juveniles Using a Natural Microencapsulated Antioxidant
Authors: Zarantoniello Matteo , Cattaneo Nico , Conti Federico , Carrino Margherita , Cardinaletti Gloriana , Şener İdris , Olivotto Ike
Published: July 2024

Aquafeed’s contamination by microplastics can pose a risk to fish health and quality since they can be absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract and translocate to different tissues. The liver acts as a retaining organ with the consequent triggering of oxidative stress response. The present study aimed to combine the use of natural astaxanthin with natural-based microcapsules to counteract these negative side effects. European seabass juveniles were fed diets containing commercially available fluorescent microplastic microbeads (1–5 μm; 50 mg/kg feed) alone or combined with microencapsulated astaxanthin (AX) (7 g/kg feed; tested for half or whole feeding trial—30 or 60 days, respectively). Fish from the different dietary treatments did not evidence variations in survival and growth performance and did not show pathological alterations at the intestinal level. However, the microplastics were absorbed at the intestinal level with a consequent translocation to the liver, leading, when provided solely, to sod1, sod2, and cat upregulation. Interestingly, the dietary implementation of microencapsulated AX led to a mitigation of oxidative stress. In addition, the microcapsules, due to their composition, promoted microplastic coagulation in the fish gut, limiting their absorption and accumulation in all the tissues analyzed. These results were supported by in vitro tests, which demonstrated that the microcapsules promoted microplastic coagula formation too large to be absorbed at the intestinal level and by the fact that the coagulated microplastics were released through the fish feces.
Ganoderma Microsporum Immunomodulatory Protein Alleviates Inflammaging and Oxidative Stress in Diabetes-Associated Periodontitis via Nrf2 Signaling Activation: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Su Ni-Yu , Ng Min Yee , Liao Heng-Yi , Liao Yi-Wen , Wu Movina , Chao Shih-Chi , Yu Cheng-Chia , Chang Yu-Chao
Published: July 2024

Periodontitis, characterized by inflammation and loss of periodontal tissue, is a significant health complication for individuals with diabetes mellitus (DM). Buildup of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) in DM poses an increased risk of periodontitis via inflammaging. Ganoderma immunomodulatory protein (GMI) shows promise in suppressing inflammaging by mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation via Nrf2 modulation. However, its specific protective effects are not fully understood. Thus, this study aimed to investigate GMI’s anti-inflammaging properties and its underlying mechanism in diabetic-associated periodontitis (DP). We first simulated DP by culturing human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) with AGEs and lipopolysaccharides from P. gingivalis (LPS). We then evaluated the impact of GMI on cell proliferation, migration and wound healing. Additionally, we assessed GMI’s effects on the components of inflammaging such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, cellular senescence expression, IL-6 and IL-8 secretions, and NF-κB phosphorylation. Next, we explored whether GMI’s anti-inflammaging effects are mediated through the Nrf2 pathway by evaluating Nrf2 and HO-1, followed by the assessment of IL-6 and IL-8 post-Nrf2 knockdown. Our findings revealed that GMI treatment suppressed ROS production, cell senescence, IL-6 and IL-8 and NF-κB phosphorylation. Furthermore, GMI upregulated Nrf2/HO-1 expression and its protective effects were reversed when Nrf2 was knocked down. In conclusion, GMI exerts its anti-inflammaging effect via the modulation of the Nrf2/NF-κB signaling axis in DP in vitro, highlighting its potential as an effective adjunct treatment for diabetes-related periodontitis.
Nrf2 Deficiency Accelerates IL-17-Dependent Neutrophilic Airway Inflammation in Asthmatic Mice
Authors: Kuramoto Kenya , Morishima Yuko , Yoshida Kazufumi , Ano Satoshi , Kawashima Kai , Yabuuchi Yuki , Sakai Chio , Matsumura Sosuke , Nishino Kengo , Yazaki Kai , Matsuyama Masashi , Kiwamoto Takumi , Ishii Yukio , Hizawa Nobuyuki
Published: July 2024

Asthma is a heterogeneous disease that can be broadly classified into type 2, which is primarily steroid-sensitive and eosinophilic, and non-type 2, which is primarily steroid-resistant and neutrophilic. While the mechanisms leading to the development of molecular-targeted therapies for type 2 asthma are being elucidated, much remains to be learned about non-type 2 asthma. To investigate the role of oxidative stress in refractory allergic airway inflammation, we compared asthma models generated by immunizing wild-type and nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-deficient mice with the house dust mite antigen. Both asthma models had similar levels of airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness, but the Nrf2-deficient mice had increased oxidative stress and exacerbated neutrophilic airway inflammation compared with the wild-type mice. Type 2 cytokines and the expression of GATA3, a transcription factor that is important for Th2 cell differentiation, had decreased in Nrf2-deficient mice compared with the wild-type mice, whereas helper T (Th) 17 cytokines and the expression of RORγt, which is important for Th17 cell differentiation, had increased. Furthermore, the neutrophilic airway inflammation caused by Nrf2 deficiency was ameliorated by interleukin (IL)-17 neutralization. We have concluded that the disruption of the Nrf2-mediated antioxidant defense system contributed to the induction of Th17 differentiation and exacerbated allergic neutrophilic airway inflammation.
Radon Dynamics in Granite and Calcareous Soils: Long-Term Experiments in a Semi-Arid Context
Authors: Gil-Oncina Sara , Pla Concepcion , Valdes-Abellan Javier , Fernandez-Cortes Angel , Benavente David
Published: July 2024

Radon in soil poses a significant health risk when it accumulates inside dwellings. The estimation of radon potential is a difficult task due to the complex dynamics of radon within soil and its relations with the weather. This research focuses on the variability of radon activity, driven by environmental changes, assessed in two loam soils (loamy sand–granite soil and silty clay loam-calcareous soil) with different radium contents. We conducted an experiment with teow soil columns in a semi-controlled outdoor laboratory, in a warm semi-arid climate. We also examined the consequences of abundant rainfall on radon activity through artificial soil water content (SWC) experiment conditions. Statistical analyses reveal that SWC is the most significant parameter influencing radon activity in these experiments. Radon is proportional to SWC and inversely proportional to temperature, evapotranspiration, and pressure in both soils, while wind is negatively related only in the loamy sand soil. Based on our findings, we modelled radon potential considering different soils and climatic contexts. SWC influences radon potential by changing radon emanation, activity, and permeability, depending on the local soil texture and radium concentration.
Risk Assessment of TBM Construction Based on a Matter-Element Extension Model with Optimized Weight Distribution
Authors: Fu Tao , Shi Kebin , Shi Renyi , Lu Zhipeng , Zhang Jianming
Published: July 2024

In order to effectively address the potential hazards associated with the construction of Phase II of the YE Water Supply Project’s KS tunnel in Xinjiang, this study employs the WBS-RBS (Work Breakdown Structure and Risk Breakdown Structure) method for risk identification. This approach aims to identify various risks that may arise during TBM (Tunnel Boring Machine) construction. To prevent incomplete risk factor identification resulting from subjective judgment, a risk index system is established based on the identification results. Subsequently, a matter-element extension model is utilized to quantify the risk factors within this index system, and comprehensive weights are determined using variable weight theory to assess construction risk levels. Importance analysis of each index is then conducted to identify those with significant impact on risk evaluation outcomes. Finally, by comparing actual engineering cases with other risk evaluation models, this paper verifies the reliability of its constructed risk assessment model and proposes measures for controlling potential risks based on these evaluations. The paper provides a clear definition of safety risks encountered during TBM construction and conducts comprehensive risk assessments as a valuable reference for research related to the tunnel boring machine construction period in tunnel engineering.
Time Trends and Geographic Patterns of Mortality Due to Tracheal, Bronchus, and Lung Cancer in Portugal
Authors: Teixeira Cristina , Fialho Cristiana , Cunha Joana , Oliveira Ana , Afonso Andrea F. , Nogueira António
Published: July 2024

Tracheal, bronchus, and lung cancer (TBLC) remains a major public health concern. Knowledge about geographic patterns and time trends in TBLC could give insights to better address this problem. This study aimed to evaluate the geographic patterns and time trends in mortality due to TBLC observed in Portugal. TBLC-related deaths and population estimates (2011–2021) were derived from the Instituto Nacional de Estatística. Age-standardized mortality rates for people aged 50 or more (ASMR_50+) per 100,000 were obtained. Analyses were stratified by gender, geographic region, and level of urbanization. The time trends in ASMR_50+ were evaluated using joinpoint regression models, and the values for the annual percentage change (APC) and the respective 95% confidence interval (95% CI) were obtained. Differences in mortality due to TBLC between regions and levels of urbanization (2017–2021) were assessed through a standardized mortality ratio (SMR) and the respective 95% CI. In 2021, the ASMR_50+ per 100,000 inhabitants observed in mainland Portugal was 158.0 and 40.4 among men and women, respectively. According to the time-trend analysis, ASMR_50+ due to TBLC remained stable or described a downward trend among men, but there was an upward trend among women in suburban and urban regions. Observed deaths were significantly higher than the expected for men in urban areas (SMR = 125%; 95% CI: 121–128 and SMR = 118%; 95% CI: 115–122 in Norte and Lisboa, respectively), and women in Urban Norte (SMR = 125%; 95%CI: 119–131). Lower mortality than expected was observed among men living in Rural Norte and Rural Centro, as well as, among women living in all the rural areas. In suburban areas, the observed deaths were lower, higher, or as expected depending on the geographic region and gender. A notable upward trend in mortality due to TBLC among women was observed. The geographic patterns observed suggest the effects of deleterious environmental factors and smoking habits, deserving attention from policymakers.
A Multi-Channel Data Simulator Based on the Time Unification System
Authors: Yu Jingyi , Dou Runjiang , Wang Xiuyu , Xu Jiangtao , Liu Jian , Wu Nanjian , Liu Liyuan
Published: July 2024

In satellite and airborne electro-optical tracking systems, there are numerous processing devices and complex data flows. To ensure the coordinated operation of the system, the multiple devices within the target system must operate under unified time control for data acquisition, computation, and output. This study introduces a multi-channel data simulator based on a time unification system. The complete simulation system includes the host computer, simulator, target system, and time reference generator. The simulator has programmable input and output interfaces for multi-channel protocols and has storage and real-time working modes. In the storage mode, the simulated data are pre-transmitted to the simulator’s storage and sent to the target system according to the time reference generator. The simulator simultaneously stores the target system results. In the real-time mode, the host computer generates simulated data based on the target system’s results and outputs the data through the simulator in real time. The main contribution of the simulator is that it achieves system-level closed-loop simulation and completes the functional and performance verification of the target system. Through experimental verification, it is found that the simulator can achieve 4.2 Gbps of simulated data transmission and 1.6 Gbps of data reception and storage, with a closed-loop delay of 39.9 µs.
Experimental Study on Prefabricated Steel Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Casing Arch Method for Strengthening Cracked Lining in Confined Spaces
Authors: Zhou Yu , Lin Zhi , Liu Lili , Zhou Jianghao
Published: July 2024

Increasingly, research indicates that steel fibers can significantly enhance the engineering properties of mortar and concrete; however, few studies have examined their impact on the reinforcement of in-service tunnel linings within sleeve arch structures. In this study, a series of 1:2 scale experiments were conducted using a specialized loading device to compare the reinforcement performance of steel fiber-reinforced concrete sleeve arches and traditional reinforced concrete sleeve arches on prefabricated cracks with depths of 1/3 and 2/3 of the lining thickness. The experimental results were validated using numerical simulations. The results indicate that under the same load, when reinforcing components with 2/3 prefabricated cracks, the maximum compressive strains for steel fiber-reinforced and reinforced concrete sleeve arches were −852 με and −985 με, respectively, and the maximum deflections were 3.57 mm and 5.48 mm. Composite sleeve arches of both materials provide a certain degree of reinforcement to linings with varying damage. The reinforcement performance of steel fiber-reinforced concrete sleeve arches is superior to that of traditional reinforced concrete sleeve arches, with particularly significant reinforcement for linings with 2/3 prefabricated cracks. Numerical simulations have shown that the stress in reinforced concrete at the concentrated stress regions is 16.15%, 6.01%, 12.68%, 36.62%, and 4.82% higher than that in steel fiber-reinforced concrete, respectively, thereby validating the reliability of the experimental results. Therefore, this study recommends the application of steel fiber materials in sleeve arches to achieve superior maintenance and reinforcement, addressing cracking issues in in-service tunnel linings and thereby improving the safety and durability of these structures.
A Parameter-Driven Methodology of Wheel Flat Modeling for Wheel–Rail Impact Dynamics
Authors: Zhao Guangwei , Li Nan , Sun Yuxin , Chi Changxin
Published: July 2024

A wheel flat is a typical wheel defect that significantly impacts the wheel–rail system, posing substantial challenges to vehicle operation safety. In the existing literature, the wheel flat plane model does not account for the contribution of the width direction to the impact response and thus cannot accurately reveal the wheel–rail contact state with a flat. This paper systematically proposes a three-dimensional analytical model that considers multiple worn stages and constructs a spatial complex surface reconstruction model for flats based on NURBS technology. A vehicle–track coupled dynamics model, considering the geometry of the flat, is established to investigate the effects of flat geometry on the wheel–rail impact response and contact relationship in detail. The results show that in the subcritical regime, the wear degree of the flat predominantly affects the impact force, while in the transcritical regime, both the wear degree and velocity together determine the magnitude of the wheel–rail impact force. As the wear degree increases, the moment of wheel lateral jump occurs earlier. The spatial modeling method for flats proposed in this paper offers a novel technical approach for accurately simulating the dynamic behavior of wheel–rail contact when a flat is present.