bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assignment of Natural Frequencies and Mode Shapes Based on FRFs
Authors: Ren Jun , Cao Qiuyu
Published: September 2021

This paper proposes a method of structural modification for the assignment of natural frequencies and mode shapes based on frequency response functions (FRFs). The method involves the addition of masses or stiffness (supporting stiffness or connection stiffness), the simultaneous addition of masses and stiffness, or the addition of mass-spring substructures to the original structure. Firstly, the proposed technique was formulated as an optimization problem based on the FRFs of the original structure and the masses or stiffness that needed to be added. Next, the required added masses and stiffness were obtained by solving the optimization problem using a genetic algorithm. Finally, numerical verification was performed for the different structural modification schemes. The results show that, compared to only adding either stiffness or masses, adding both simultaneously or adding spring-mass substructures obtained better optimization results. The advantage of this FRFs-based method is that the FRFs can be directly measured by modal testing, without knowledge of analytical or modal models. Furthermore, multiple structural modifications were considered in the assignment of natural frequencies and mode shapes, making the application of this method more applicable to engineering.
Effects of Long-Term Enclosing on Vertical Distributions of Soil Physical Properties and Nutrient Stocks in Grassland of Inner Mongolia
Authors: Hu Juan , Zhou Daowei , Li Qiang , Wang Qicun
Published: September 2021

Enclosing plays a crucial role in vegetation and soil quality in grassland. The biomass of green plants, litter, and vertical distributions of soil physical properties and nutrient stocks were evaluated at plot enclosed long term for 38 years inside a fence and a long-term grazing plot outside a fence in a semi-arid grassland of Inner Mongolia. The results showed that dry matter of green plants and litter during the 38-year enclosing treatment was higher than in the grazing treatment (p < 0.01). The soil silt (2–50 μm) in the 38-year enclosing treatment was 5.9% higher than in the grazing treatment (p < 0.01) in 0–10 cm soil, and the fine sand (100–250 μm) was 6.0% lower (p < 0.05). The 38-year enclosing treatment slightly decreased the bulk density and significantly decreased the electrical conductivity in each soil layer (0–100 cm). The 38-year enclosing treatment significantly increased the stocks of soil organic carbon (SOC), available phosphorus (AP), and available potassium (AK) on the surface soil, and obviously decreased the stocks of total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), sulfur (S), and available nitrogen (AN) in each soil layer (0–100 cm). In conclusion, long-term enclosing improved grassland production, but decreased most nutrient stocks in soil.
Genomic Evidence for Rare Hybridization and Large Demographic Changes in the Evolutionary Histories of Four North American Dove Species
Authors: Hernández Flor , Brown Joshua I. , Kaminski Marissa , Harvey Michael G. , Lavretsky Philip
Published: September 2021

Introductions and invasions provide opportunities for interaction and hybridization between colonists and closely related native species. We investigate this phenomenon using the mitochondrial DNA COI and 81,416 base-pairs of overlapping nuclear variation to examine the evolutionary histories and signatures of hybridization among introduced feral Rock Pigeon and Eurasian Collared-Dove and native White-winged and Mourning doves in southwestern North America. First, we report all four species to be highly divergent across loci (overall pair-wise species ΦST range = 0.17–0.70) and provide little evidence for gene flow at evolutionary timescales. Despite this, evidence from multiple population genetics analyses supports the presence of six putative contemporary late-stage hybrids among the 182 sampled individuals. These putative hybrids contain various ancestry combinations, but all involve the most populous species, the Mourning Dove. Next, we use a novel method to reconstruct demographic changes through time using partial genome sequence data. We identify recent, species-specific fluctuations in population size that are likely associated with changing environments since the Miocene and suggest that these fluctuations have influenced the genetic diversity of each dove species in ways that may impact their future persistence. Finally, we discuss the importance of using multiple marker types when attempting to infer complex evolutionary histories and propose important considerations when analyzing populations that were recently established or of domestic origins.
Early Weaning Affects Liver Antioxidant Function in Piglets
Authors: Yu Lihuai , Li Hongmin , Peng Zhong , Ge Yuzhu , Liu Jun , Wang Tianlong , Wang Hongrong , Dong Li
Published: September 2021

This study examined the impact of early weaning on antioxidant function in piglets. A total of 40 Duroc × Landrace × Large White, 21-day-old piglets (half male and half female) were divided into suckling groups (SG) and weaning groups (WG). Piglets in WG were weaned at the 21st day, while the piglets in SG continued to get breastfed. Eight piglets from each group were randomly selected and slaughtered at 24th-day (SG3, WG3) and 28th-day old (SG7, WG7). The body weight, liver index, hepatocyte morphology, antioxidant enzymes activity, gene expression of antioxidant enzymes, and Nrf2 signaling in the liver of piglets were measured. The results showed that weaning caused decreased body weight (p < 0.01), lower liver weight (p < 0.01), and decreased the liver organ index (p < 0.05) of piglets. The area and size of hepatocytes in the WG group was smaller than that in the SG group (p < 0.05). We also observed that weaning reduced the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) (p < 0.05) in the liver of piglets. Relative to the SG3 group, the gene expression of GSH-Px in liver of WG3 was significantly reduced (p < 0.05). The gene expression of Nrf2 in the SG3 group was higher than that in the WG3 group (p < 0.01). The gene expression of NQO1 in the SG7 group was higher than that in the WG7 group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, weaning resulted in lower weight, slowed liver development, and reduced antioxidant enzymes activity, thereby impairing liver antioxidant function and suppressing piglet growth.
Social Behaviour in Zoo Bachelor Groups: A Case Study of Related South American Fur Seals
Authors: Emmett Christa , Digby Mathilda , Pope Jemma , Williams Ellen
Published: September 2021

Appropriate management of social groups is one of the greatest challenges that face zoos and aquaria worldwide. To facilitate breeding programmes, particularly in polygynous species, there is a need to house surplus males in bachelor groups, yet for pinnipeds, the social impact of this management strategy is unknown. The aim of this research was to enhance understanding of sociality in South American fur seals (SAFSs), with a particular focus on social dynamics in a related bachelor group, and consider implications for evidence-based management of this species in zoos. The subjects were four related male seals housed at Bristol Zoo Gardens. Social interaction and nearest neighbour data were collected between February and July 2019. Individuals engaged in both positive and negative social interactions. Positive interactions were more frequent than negative interactions, and no excessive negative interactions were observed. Temporal dynamics were observed in social relationships, and negative interactions did not increase with the onset of the breeding season. Reciprocity in dyadic relationships was variable across the study months, and nearest neighbours were not necessarily reflective of social partners. This research highlights the importance of longitudinal monitoring of social relationships and establishment of baseline social behaviour profiles to support evidence-based species management. We advocate that this research is extended, to further develop our understanding of SAFS social needs within zoo environments, to understand the differences between single-sex and mixed-sex groups and to identify the degree to which the extensive research conducted in other polygynous species (e.g., gorillas) is applicable in the social management of South American fur seals moving forwards.
Do Livestock Injure and Kill Koalas? Insights from Wildlife Hospital and Rescue Group Admissions and an Online Survey of Livestock–Koala Conflicts
Authors: Jiang Alex , Tribe Andrew , Phillips Clive J. C. , Murray Peter J.
Published: September 2021

Koala populations in Australia are declining due to threats such as chlamydiosis, wild dog predation and vehicle collision. In the last decade, grazing livestock emerged anecdotally as a threat to koala survival in areas where koala habitat and livestock grazing land overlap. This is the first study investigating the significance of livestock-inflicted injuries and deaths in koala populations over a large spatial and temporal scale. We investigated the outcome, scale, and frequency of livestock–koala incidents via an online survey and analysed koala admission records in Queensland wildlife hospitals and a wildlife rescue group (Wildlife Victoria) in Victoria. The results provide evidence of both livestock-inflicted injuries and deaths to koalas, especially as these have been confirmed by witness statements. The outcomes for the koala victims of the incidents were severe with a 75% mortality rate. The reported frequency of livestock–koala incidents was low but increasing, with 72 cases (0.14% out of 50,873 admissions) in Queensland wildlife hospitals during 1997–2019, and 59 cases (0.8% of 7017 rescue records) in Wildlife Victoria during 2007–2019. These incidents were likely to be under-reported due to the remoteness of the incident location, possible mis-diagnoses by veterinarians and the possible reluctance of farmers to report them. Future research is encouraged to explore the mechanics and causes of livestock–koala incidents and to develop management strategies to minimise the livestock threat to koalas.
Health Status and Stress in Different Categories of Racing Pigeons
Authors: Kastelic Marjan , Pšeničnik Igor , Gregurić Gračner Gordana , Čebulj Kadunc Nina , Lindtner Knific Renata , Slavec Brigita , Krapež Uroš , Vergles Rataj Aleksandra , Zorman Rojs Olga , Pulko Barbara , Rajšp Maša , Mlakar Hrženjak Nina , Dovč Alenka
Published: September 2021

The influence of different stress parameters in racing pigeon flocks, such as the presence of diseases and environmental conditions at the time of the races, were described. A total of 96 racing pigeons from 4 pigeon flocks were examined, and health monitoring was carried out. No helminth eggs and coccidia were found. Trichomonas sp. was confirmed in subclinical form. Paramyxoviruses and avian influenza viruses were not confirmed, but circovirus infections were confirmed in all flocks. Chlamydia psittaci was confirmed in one flock. Blood samples were collected, and HI antibody titers against paramyxoviruses before and 25 days after vaccination were determined. To improve the conditions during racing and the welfare of the pigeons, critical points were studied with regard to stress factors during the active training season. Serum corticosterone levels were measured in the blood serum of four different categories of pigeons from each flock. Corticosterone levels were almost twice as high in pigeons from the category that were active throughout the racing season, including medium- and long-distance racing, compared to the other three categories that were not racing actively. Within five hours of the finish of a race, the average serum corticosterone level was 59.4 nmol/L in the most physically active category. The average serum corticosterone level in this category remained at 37.5 nmol/L one month after the last race.
Positive Effects of Highly Graphitized Porous Carbon Loaded with PbO on Cycle Performance of Negative Plates of Lead-Acid Batteries
Authors: Xie Jiaming , Hu Yitao , Wu Xiaoli , Ali Asad , Shen Peikang
Published: September 2021

Carbon materials are one of the most important additives used in lead-acid batteries (LABs) to solve irreversible sulfation. Being the next generation additive for LABs, they exhibit more excellent performance. The addition of carbon materials to negative active material (NAM) is used to enhance the performance of batteries. In this paper, the composite of lead oxide and carbon (LC) was prepared by the pyrolysis of a mixture of highly graphitized porous carbon (HPC) and PbCO3. Compared with the control cell, the initial specific discharge capacity was increased by 16.5% when LC material was added to NAM. Finally, a possible mechanism for the improvement of the cycle performance of LC cell was proposed. The adoption of LC material can eliminate the difference in density between Pb and C, and thus make them evenly mixed. The uniformly dispersed HPC can promote electrolyte circulation and effectively limit the overgrowth of irreversible PbSO4. At the same time, the presence of -Pb-COO chemical bond can strengthen the stability of lead-carbon electrodes.
Design Considerations for the Liquid Air Energy Storage System Integrated to Nuclear Steam Cycle
Authors: Song Seok-Ho , Heo Jin-Young , Lee Jeong-Ik
Published: September 2021

A nuclear power plant is one of the power sources that shares a large portion of base-load. However, as the proportion of renewable energy increases, nuclear power plants will be required to generate power more flexibly due to the intermittency of the renewable energy sources. This paper reviews a layout thermally integrating the liquid air energy storage system with a nuclear power plant. To evaluate the performance realistically while optimizing the layout, operating nuclear power plant conditions are used. After revisiting the analysis, the optimized performance of the proposed system is predicted to achieve 59.96% of the round-trip efficiency. However, it is further shown that external environmental conditions could deteriorate the performance. For the design of liquid air energy storage-nuclear power plant integrated systems, both the steam properties of the linked plants and external factors should be considered.
An Expository Lecture of María Jesús Chasco on Some Applications of Fubini’s Theorem
Authors: Castejón Alberto , Chasco María Jesús , Corbacho Eusebio , de Miguel Virgilio Rodríguez
Published: September 2021

The usefulness of Fubini’s theorem as a measurement instrument is clearly understood from its multiple applications in Analysis, Convex Geometry, Statistics or Number Theory. This article is an expository paper based on a master class given by the second author at the University of Vigo and is devoted to presenting some Applications of Fubini’s theorem. In the first part, we present Brunn–Minkowski’s and Isoperimetric inequalities. The second part is devoted to the estimations of volumes of sections of balls in Rn.
In Vitro Miniaturized Tuberculosis Spheroid Model
Authors: Mukundan Shilpaa , Singh Pooja , Shah Aditi , Kumar Ranjeet , O’Neill Kelly C. , Carter Claire L. , Russell David G. , Subbian Selvakumar , Parekkadan Biju
Published: September 2021

Tuberculosis (TB) is a public health concern that impacts 10 million people around the world. Current in vitro models are low throughput and/or lack caseation, which impairs drug effectiveness in humans. Here, we report the generation of THP-1 human monocyte/macrophage spheroids housing mycobacteria (TB spheroids). These TB spheroids have a central core of dead cells co-localized with mycobacteria and are hypoxic. TB spheroids exhibit higher levels of pro-inflammatory factor TNFα and growth factors G-CSF and VEGF when compared to non-infected control. TB spheroids show high levels of lipid deposition, characterized by MALDI mass spectrometry imaging. TB spheroids infected with strains of differential virulence, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) HN878 and CDC1551 vary in response to Isoniazid and Rifampicin. Finally, we adapt the spheroid model to form peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and lung fibroblasts (NHLF) 3D co-cultures. These results pave the way for the development of new strategies for disease modeling and therapeutic discovery.
Serum Perilipin 2 (PLIN2) Predicts Multiple Organ Dysfunction in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Kurt Berkan , Buendgens Lukas , Wirtz Theresa H. , Loosen Sven H. , Schulze-Hagen Maximilian , Truhn Daniel , Brozat Jonathan F. , Abu Jhaisha Samira , Hohlstein Philipp , Koek Ger , Weiskirchen Ralf , Trautwein Christian , Tacke Frank , Hamesch Karim , Koch Alexander
Published: September 2021

Perilipin 2 (PLIN2) is a lipid droplet protein with various metabolic functions. However, studies investigating PLIN2 in the context of inflammation, especially in systemic and acute inflammation, are lacking. Hence, we assessed the relevance of serum PLIN2 in critically ill patients. We measured serum PLIN2 serum in 259 critically ill patients (166 with sepsis) upon admission to a medical intensive care unit (ICU) compared to 12 healthy controls. A subset of 36 patients underwent computed tomography to quantify body composition. Compared to controls, serum PLIN2 concentrations were elevated in critically ill patients at ICU admission. Interestingly, PLIN2 independently indicated multiple organ dysfunction (MOD), defined as a SOFA score > 9 points, at ICU admission, and was also able to independently predict MOD after 48 h. Moreover, serum PLIN2 levels were associated with severe respiratory failure potentially reflecting a moribund state. However, PLIN2 was neither a predictor of ICU mortality nor did it reflect metabolic dysregulation. Conclusively, the first study assessing serum PLIN2 in critical illness proved that it may assist in risk stratification because it is capable of independently indicating MOD at admission and predicting MOD 48 h after PLIN2 measurement. Further evaluation regarding the underlying mechanisms is warranted.
Exploring Hyperoxia Effects in Cancer—From Perioperative Clinical Data to Potential Molecular Mechanisms
Authors: Ristescu Anca Irina , Tiron Crina Elena , Tiron Adrian , Grigoras Ioana
Published: September 2021

Increased inspiratory oxygen concentration is constantly used during the perioperative period of cancer patients to prevent the potential development of hypoxemia and to provide an adequate oxygen transport to the organs, tissues and cells. Although the primary tumours are surgically removed, the effects of perioperative hyperoxia exposure on distal micro-metastases and on circulating cancer cells can potentially play a role in cancer progression or recurrence. In clinical trials, hyperoxia seems to increase the rate of postoperative complications and, by delaying postoperative recovery, it can alter the return to intended oncological treatment. The effects of supplemental oxygen on the long-term mortality of surgical cancer patients offer, at this point, conflicting results. In experimental studies, hyperoxia effects on cancer biology were explored following multiple pathways. In cancer cell cultures and animal models, hyperoxia increases the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and increases the oxidative stress. These can be followed by the induction of the expression of Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and other molecules involved in angiogenesis and by the promotion of various degrees of epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT).
Computer Programming E-Learners’ Personality Traits, Self-Reported Cognitive Abilities, and Learning Motivating Factors
Authors: Dirzyte Aiste , Vijaikis Aivaras , Perminas Aidas , Rimasiute-Knabikiene Romualda , Kaminskis Lukas , Zebrauskas Giedrius
Published: September 2021

Educational systems around the world encourage students to engage in programming activities, but programming learning is one of the most challenging learning tasks. Thus, it was significant to explore the factors related to programming learning. This study aimed to identify computer programming e-learners’ personality traits, self-reported cognitive abilities and learning motivating factors in comparison with other e-learners. We applied a learning motivating factors questionnaire, the Big Five Inventory—2, and the SRMCA instruments. The sample consisted of 444 e-learners, including 189 computer programming e-learners, the mean age was 25.19 years. It was found that computer programming e-learners demonstrated significantly lower scores of extraversion, and significantly lower scores of motivating factors of individual attitude and expectation, reward and recognition, and punishment. No significant differences were found in the scores of self-reported cognitive abilities between the groups. In the group of computer programming e-learners, extraversion was a significant predictor of individual attitude and expectation; conscientiousness and extraversion were significant predictors of challenging goals; extraversion and agreeableness were significant predictors of clear direction; open-mindedness was a significant predictor of a diminished motivating factor of punishment; negative emotionality was a significant predictor of social pressure and competition; comprehension-knowledge was a significant predictor of individual attitude and expectation; fluid reasoning and comprehension-knowledge were significant predictors of challenging goals; comprehension-knowledge was a significant predictor of clear direction; and visual processing was a significant predictor of social pressure and competition. The SEM analysis demonstrated that personality traits (namely, extraversion, conscientiousness, and reverted negative emotionality) statistically significantly predict learning motivating factors (namely, individual attitude and expectation, and clear direction), but the impact of self-reported cognitive abilities in the model was negligible in both groups of participants and non-participants of e-learning based computer programming courses; χ² (34) = 51.992, p = 0.025; CFI = 0.982; TLI = 0.970; NFI = 0.950; RMSEA = 0.051 [0.019–0.078]; SRMR = 0.038. However, as this study applied self-reported measures, we strongly suggest applying neurocognitive methods in future research.
Evaluation for Low Temperature Performance of SBS Modified Asphalt by Dynamic Shear Rheometer Method
Authors: Wang Tao , Wei Xuelei , Zhang De , Shi Hai , Cheng Zhiqiang
Published: September 2021

Finding an alternative or supplementary test method to evaluating the low temperature performance of asphalt is an area of considerable interest. This paper tries to explore the possibility of using the dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) method for assessing the low temperature properties of styrenebutadienestyrene (SBS) modified asphalt. In the study, 60/80 and 80/100 pen grade asphalt binders, named binder A-70, binder B-70 and binder C-90, are used to produce the SBS modified asphalt samples. After that, the low temperature performance of the asphalt binders is characterized by using bending beam rheometer (BBR) test. The results indicate that the low temperature performance of the different binders is related to the source of the binder. The low temperature performance of asphalt could be improved with the addition of the SBS. The DSR test is used to develop the complex modulus master curves for binders. Based on the principle of time–temperature conversion, the glass transition temperature of asphalt is calculated by the Williams–Landel–Ferry (WLF) equation. The glass transition temperatures (Tg) of base asphalt and the SBS modified asphalt are determined by the viscoelastic parameters of the master curve and the WLF equation coefficients based on the time–temperature superposition principle. By establishing the relationship between the critical temperature and the Tg of the asphalt binder, the effectiveness of the method established in this paper is verified. The advantage of this method is the ability to use the DSR test for the rapid evaluation of the low temperature performance of asphalt, which is able to reduce testing materials and save testing time as well. The glass transition temperature of the SBS modified asphalt is closely associated with aging degree, asphalt source and the SBS content.
Sex and Gender Differences in Kidney Cancer: Clinical and Experimental Evidence
Authors: Peired Anna Julie , Campi Riccardo , Angelotti Maria Lucia , Antonelli Giulia , Conte Carolina , Lazzeri Elena , Becherucci Francesca , Calistri Linda , Serni Sergio , Romagnani Paola
Published: September 2021

Sex and gender disparities have been reported for different types of non-reproductive cancers. Males are two times more likely to develop kidney cancer than females and have a higher death rate. These differences can be explained by looking at genetics and genomics, as well as other risk factors such as hypertension and obesity, lifestyle, and female sex hormones. Examination of the hormonal signaling pathways bring further insights into sex-related differences. Sex and gender-based disparities can be observed at the diagnostic, histological and treatment levels, leading to significant outcome difference. This review summarizes the current knowledge about sex and gender-related differences in the clinical presentation of patients with kidney cancer and the possible biological mechanisms that could explain these observations. Underlying sex-based differences may contribute to the development of sex-specific prognostic and diagnostic tools and the improvement of personalized therapies.
Effect of Genetic Variation in CYP450 on Gonadal Impairment in a European Cohort of Female Childhood Cancer Survivors, Based on a Candidate Gene Approach: Results from the PanCareLIFE Study
Authors: van der Perk M. , Broer Linda , Yasui Yutaka , Robison Leslie , Hudson Melissa , Laven Joop , van der Pal Helena , Tissing Wim , Versluys Birgitta , Bresters Dorine , Kaspers Gertjan , de Vries Andrica , Lambalk Cornelis , Overbeek Annelies , Loonen Jacqueline , Beerendonk Catharina , Byrne Julianne , Berger Claire , Clemens Eva , Dirksen Uta , Winther Jeanette Falck , Fosså Sophie , Grabow Desiree , Muraca Monica , Kaiser Melanie , Kepák Tomáš , Kruseova Jarmila , Modan-Moses Dalit , Spix Claudia , Zolk Oliver , Kaatsch Peter , Krijthe Jesse , Kremer Leontien , Brooke Russell , Baedke Jessica , van Schaik Ron , van den Anker John , Uitterlinden André , Bos Annelies , van Leeuwen Flora , van Dulmen-den Broeder Eline , van der Kooi Anne-Lotte , van den Heuvel-Eibrink Marry ,   on behalf of the PanCareLIFE Consortium
Published: September 2021

Background: Female childhood cancer survivors (CCSs) carry a risk of therapy-related gonadal dysfunction. Alkylating agents (AA) are well-established risk factors, yet inter-individual variability in ovarian function is observed. Polymorphisms in CYP450 enzymes may explain this variability in AA-induced ovarian damage. We aimed to evaluate associations between previously identified genetic polymorphisms in CYP450 enzymes and AA-related ovarian function among adult CCSs. Methods: Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels served as a proxy for ovarian function in a discovery cohort of adult female CCSs, from the pan-European PanCareLIFE cohort (n = 743; age (years): median 25.8, interquartile range (IQR) 22.1–30.6). Using two additive genetic models in linear and logistic regression, nine genetic variants in three CYP450 enzymes were analyzed in relation to cyclophosphamide equivalent dose (CED) score and their impact on AMH levels. The main model evaluated the effect of the variant on AMH and the interaction model evaluated the modifying effect of the variant on the impact of CED score on log-transformed AMH levels. Results were validated, and meta-analysis performed, using the USA-based St. Jude Lifetime Cohort (n = 391; age (years): median 31.3, IQR 26.6–37.4). Results: CYP3A4*3 was significantly associated with AMH levels in the discovery and replication cohort. Meta-analysis revealed a significant main deleterious effect (Beta (95% CI): −0.706 (−1.11–−0.298), p-value = 7 × 10−4) of CYP3A4*3 (rs4986910) on log-transformed AMH levels. CYP2B6*2 (rs8192709) showed a significant protective interaction effect (Beta (95% CI): 0.527 (0.126–0.928), p-value = 0.01) on log-transformed AMH levels in CCSs receiving more than 8000 mg/m2 CED. Conclusions: Female CCSs CYP3A4*3 carriers had significantly lower AMH levels, and CYP2B6*2 may have a protective effect on AMH levels. Identification of risk-contributing variants may improve individualized counselling regarding the treatment-related risk of infertility and fertility preservation options.
Analysis of the Reversible Impact of the Chemodrug Busulfan on Mouse Testes
Authors: Thirouard Laura , Holota Hélène , Monrose Mélusine , Garcia Manon , De Haze Angélique , Saru Jean-Paul , Caira Françoise , Beaudoin Claude , Volle David H.
Published: September 2021

Spermatogenesis is a process within the testis that leads to the production of spermatozoa. It is based on a population of spermatogonial stem cells, which have the capacity to self-renew and to differentiate throughout life to ensure the functions of reproduction are maintained. Male fertility disorders are responsible for half of the cases of infertility in couples worldwide. It is well known that cancer treatments are associated with reversible or irreversible fertility disorders. Busulfan (Bu) is an alkylating agent that significantly inhibits spermatogenesis. The present study relied on a combination of in vivo and in vitro approaches as well as RNAseq analysis to characterize the effects of Bu, in which mouse testes were used as a model. An in silico analysis revealed that many of the Bu-modulated genes are potentially regulated by the SIN3 Transcription Regulator Family Member A (SIN3A) and E2F Transcription Factor (E2F) families of transcription factors. The results demonstrate that the deregulated genes function in processes related to the cell cycle, DNA repair, and cell death mechanisms, including the Tumor Protein 53 (TP53) pathway. This reinforces the role of the TP53 signaling pathway as a major player in Bu effects. In addition, Bu altered the patterns of mRNA accumulation for various genes in undifferentiated spermatogonia. This work provides significant insight into the kinetics and impacts of busulfan, which could pave the way for developing strategies to minimize the impact of chemodrugs and, thus, could lead to germ cell lineage regeneration following anticancer treatments.
Palliative Care in Pediatric Pulmonology
Authors: Baumann Taylor , Das Shailendra , Jarrell Jill Ann , Nakashima-Paniagua Yuriko , Benitez Edith Adriana , Gazzaneo Maria Carolina , Villafranco Natalie
Published: September 2021

Children with End Stage Lung Disease (ESLD) are part of the growing population of individuals with life-limiting conditions of childhood. These patients present with a diverse set of pulmonary, cardiovascular, neuromuscular, and developmental conditions. This paper first examines five cases of children with cystic fibrosis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, neuromuscular disease, pulmonary hypertension, and lung transplantation from Texas Children’s Hospital. We discuss the expected clinical course of each condition, then review the integration of primary and specialized palliative care into the management of each diagnosis. This paper then reviews the management of two children with end staged lung disease at Hospital Civil de Guadalajara, providing an additional perspective for approaching palliative care in low-income countries.
Texture and Microstructure Evolution of Ultra-High Purity Cu-0.1Al Alloy under Different Rolling Methods
Authors: Long Doudou , Liu Shifeng , Zhu Jialin , Zhang Jing , Yuan Xiaoli
Published: September 2021

The microstructure and texture distribution of ultra-high purity Cu-0.1Al alloy target play a key role in the quality of the sputtering film. The Cu-0.1Al alloy sheets were processed by unidirectional (UR) and cross rolling (CR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD), and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) technologies were adopted to observe the texture and microstructure evolution. XRD results reveal that the texture types vary greatly in UR and CR due to the change of strain path. As the strain increases to 90%, S texture occupies the most, followed by copper texture in the UR sample, while brass texture dominates the most in the CR sample. Additionally, the orientation density of texture does not increase significantly with the increase of strain but shows a downward trend both in UR and CR modes. EBSD analysis demonstrates that compared with UR, the deformation microstructure in CR is more uniform, and the layer spacing between the deformation bands is smaller, which can reduce the local-region stress concentration. After the completion of recrystallization, the difference in average grain size between the UR and CR-annealed samples is not significant, and the recrystallized grains become much finer with the increase of strain, while more equiaxed grains can be observed in CR-annealed samples.
Deep Learning for Caries Detection and Classification
Authors: Lian Luya , Zhu Tianer , Zhu Fudong , Zhu Haihua
Published: September 2021

Objectives: Deep learning methods have achieved impressive diagnostic performance in the field of radiology. The current study aimed to use deep learning methods to detect caries lesions, classify different radiographic extensions on panoramic films, and compare the classification results with those of expert dentists. Methods: A total of 1160 dental panoramic films were evaluated by three expert dentists. All caries lesions in the films were marked with circles, whose combination was defined as the reference dataset. A training and validation dataset (1071) and a test dataset (89) were then established from the reference dataset. A convolutional neural network, called nnU-Net, was applied to detect caries lesions, and DenseNet121 was applied to classify the lesions according to their depths (dentin lesions in the outer, middle, or inner third D1/2/3 of dentin). The performance of the test dataset in the trained nnU-Net and DenseNet121 models was compared with the results of six expert dentists in terms of the intersection over union (IoU), Dice coefficient, accuracy, precision, recall, negative predictive value (NPV), and F1-score metrics. Results: nnU-Net yielded caries lesion segmentation IoU and Dice coefficient values of 0.785 and 0.663, respectively, and the accuracy and recall rate of nnU-Net were 0.986 and 0.821, respectively. The results of the expert dentists and the neural network were shown to be no different in terms of accuracy, precision, recall, NPV, and F1-score. For caries depth classification, DenseNet121 showed an overall accuracy of 0.957 for D1 lesions, 0.832 for D2 lesions, and 0.863 for D3 lesions. The recall results of the D1/D2/D3 lesions were 0.765, 0.652, and 0.918, respectively. All metric values, including accuracy, precision, recall, NPV, and F1-score values, were proven to be no different from those of the experienced dentists. Conclusion: In detecting and classifying caries lesions on dental panoramic radiographs, the performance of deep learning methods was similar to that of expert dentists. The impact of applying these well-trained neural networks for disease diagnosis and treatment decision making should be explored.
MicroRNAs—The Heart of Post-Myocardial Infarction Remodeling
Authors: Maries Liana , Marian Cătălin , Sosdean Raluca , Goanta Flavia , Sirbu Ioan Ovidiu , Anghel Andrei
Published: September 2021

Myocardial infarction (MI) is one of the most frequent cardiac emergencies, with significant potential for mortality. One of the major challenges of the post-MI healing response is that replacement fibrosis could lead to left ventricular remodeling (LVR) and heart failure (HF). This process involves canonical and non-canonical transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling pathways translating into an intricate activation of cardiac fibroblasts and disproportionate collagen synthesis. Accumulating evidence has indicated that microRNAs (miRNAs) significantly contribute to the modulation of these signaling pathways. This review summarizes the recent updates regarding the molecular mechanisms underlying the role of the over 30 miRNAs involved in post-MI LVR. In addition, we compare the contradictory roles of several multifunctional miRNAs and highlight their potential use in pressure overload and ischemia-induced fibrosis. Finally, we discuss their attractive role as prognostic biomarkers for HF, highlighting the most relevant human trials involving these miRNAs.
Vision-Based Target Detection and Tracking for a Miniature Pan-Tilt Inertially Stabilized Platform
Authors: Guo Jianchuan , Yuan Chenhu , Zhang Xu , Chen Fan
Published: September 2021

This paper presents a novel visual servoing sheme for a miniature pan-tilt intertially stabilized platform (ISP). A fully customized ISP can be mounted on a miniature quadcopter to achieve stationary or moving target detection and tracking. The airborne pan-tilt ISP can effectively isolate a disturbing rotational motion of the carrier, ensuring the stabilization of the optical axis of the camera in order to obtain a clear video image. Meanwhile, the ISP guarantees that the target is always on the optical axis of the camera, so as to achieve the target detection and tracking. The vision-based tracking control design adopts a cascaded control structure based on the mathematical model, which can accurately reflect the dynamic characteristics of the ISP. The inner loop of the proposed controller employs a proportional lag compensator to improve the stability of the optical axis, and the outer loop adopts the feedback linearization-based sliding mode control method to achieve the target tracking. Numerical simulations and laboratory experiments demonstrate that the proposed controller can achieve satisfactory tracking performance.
Investigation on Bubble Diameter Distribution in Upward Flow by the Two-Fluid and Multi-Fluid Models
Authors: Zeng Yongzhong , Xu Weilin
Published: September 2021

Bubble flow can be simulated by the two-fluid model and the multi-fluid model based on the Eulerian method. In this paper, the gas phase was further divided into several groups of dispersed phases according to the diameter by using the Eulerian-Eulerian (E-E) multi-fluid model. The diameters of bubbles in each group were considered to be the same, and their distributions were reorganized according to a specific probability density function. The experimental data of two kinds of bubble flow with different characteristics were used to verify the model. With the help of the open-source CFD software, OpenFOAM-7.x (OpenFOAM-7.0, produced by OpenFOAM foundation, Reading, England), the influences of the group number, the probability distribution function, and the parameters of different bubble diameters on the calculation results were studied. Meanwhile, the numerical simulation results were compared with the two-fluid model and the experimental data. The results show that for the bubble flow with the unimodal distribution, both the multi-fluid model and the two-fluid model can obtain the distribution of gas volume fraction along the pipe radius. The calculation results of the multi-fluid model agree with the experimental data, while those of the two-fluid model differ greatly from the experimental data, which verifies the advantage of the multi-fluid model in calculating the distribution of gas volume fraction in the polydisperse bubble flow. Meanwhile, the multi-fluid model can be used to accurately predict the distribution of the parameters of each phase of the bubble flow if the reasonable bubble diameter distribution is provided and the appropriate interphase force calculation model is determined.
Years of Schooling Could Reduce Epigenetic Aging: A Study of a Mexican Cohort
Authors: Gomez-Verjan Juan Carlos , Esparza-Aguilar Marcelino , Martín-Martín Verónica , Salazar-Perez Cecilia , Cadena-Trejo Cinthya , Gutierrez-Robledo Luis Miguel , Martínez-Magaña José Jaime , Nicolini Humberto , Arroyo Pedro
Published: September 2021

Adverse conditions in early life, including environmental, biological and social influences, are risk factors for ill-health during aging and the onset of age-related disorders. In this context, the recent field of social epigenetics offers a valuable method for establishing the relationships among them However, current clinical studies on environmental changes and lifespan disorders are limited. In this sense, the Tlaltizapan (Mexico) cohort, who 52 years ago was exposed to infant malnutrition, low income and poor hygiene conditions, represents a vital source for exploring such factors. Therefore, in the present study, 52 years later, we aimed to explore differences in clinical/biochemical/anthropometric and epigenetic (DNA methylation) variables between individuals from such a cohort, in comparison with an urban-raised sample. Interestingly, only cholesterol levels showed significant differences between the cohorts. On the other hand, individuals from the Tlaltizapan cohort with more years of schooling had a lower epigenetic age in the Horvath (p-value = 0.0225) and PhenoAge (p-value = 0.0353) clocks, compared to those with lower-level schooling. Our analysis indicates 12 differentially methylated sites associated with the PI3-Akt signaling pathway and galactose metabolism in individuals with different durations of schooling. In conclusion, our results suggest that longer durations of schooling could promote DNA methylation changes that may reduce epigenetic age; nevertheless, further studies are needed.
Design of a Marine Sediments Resistivity Measurement System Based on a Circular Permutation Electrode
Authors: Zhou Peng , Chen Jiawang , Ruan Dongrui , Peng Xiaoqing , Wu Xiaocheng , Ren Ziqiang , Gao Qiaoling
Published: September 2021

Marine sediments are rich in mineral resources, organic resources, and microbial life. The study of marine sediments is of great significance for the development and utilization of marine resources and understanding the life process. Resistivity is the overall characteristic of the electrical conductivity of marine sediments. Measuring the resistivity of marine sediments is helpful to ascertain the marine geological structure, study the distribution of marine mineral resources, and evaluate the marine soil environment. Measuring the resistivity of marine sediments is of great significance to promote marine exploration. At present, the resistivity measurement device on the market can be directly used to measure soil and water on land, but if used to measure marine sediments, it will be disturbed by seawater temperature and pressure, resulting in large errors. In this paper, a high-precision pressure-maintaining transfer system of marine sediment resistivity measurement instrument based on circular permutation electrode is designed, which can measure the resistivity of marine sediment samples after pressure-maintaining transfer. At the same time, a new type of circular permutation electrode measurement method is proposed, which makes the resistivity value more accurate, reduces the length of the probe appropriately, and saves the cost. By measuring the resistivity of marine sediments, the type of sediments can be inverted, which provides a way of thinking about the promotion of the research and development and utilization of marine resources.
Application of a 72 h National Early Warning Score and Incorporation with Sequential Organ Failure Assessment for Predicting Sepsis Outcomes and Risk Stratification in an Intensive Care Unit: A Derivation and Validation Cohort Study
Authors: Hsu Chih-Yi , Tsai Yi-Hsuan , Lin Chiung-Yu , Chang Ya-Chun , Chen Hung-Cheng , Chang Yu-Ping , Chen Yu-Mu , Huang Kuo-Tung , Wang Yi-Hsi , Wang Chin-Chou , Lin Meng-Chih , Fang Wen-Feng
Published: September 2021

We investigated the best timing for using the National Early Warning Score 2 (NEWS2) for predicting sepsis outcomes and whether combining the NEWS2 and the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) was applicable for mortality risk stratification in intensive care unit (ICU) patients with severe sepsis. All adult patients who met the Third International Consensus Definitions for Sepsis and Septic Shock criteria between August 2013 and January 2017 with complete clinical parameters and laboratory data were enrolled as a derivation cohort. The primary outcomes were the 7-, 14-, 21-, and 28-day mortalities. Furthermore, another group of patients under the same setting between January 2020 and March 2020 were also enrolled as a validation cohort. In the derivation cohort, we included 699 consecutive adult patients. The 72 h NEWS2 had good discrimination for predicting 7-, 14-, 21-, and 28-day mortalities (AUC: 0.780, 0.724, 0.700, and 0.667, respectively) and was not inferior to the SOFA (AUC: 0.740, 0.680, 0.684, and 0.677, respectively). With the new combined NESO tool, the hazard ratio was 1.854 (1.203–2.950) for the intermediate-risk group and 6.810 (3.927–11.811) for the high-risk group relative to the low-risk group. This finding was confirmed in the validation cohort using a separated survival curve for 28-day mortality. The 72 h NEWS2 alone was non-inferior to the admission SOFA or day 3 SOFA for predicting sepsis outcomes. The NESO tool was found to be useful for 7-, 14-, 21-, and 28-day mortality risk stratification in patients with severe sepsis.
Lower Lean Mass Is Associated with Greater Arterial Stiffness in Patients with Lower Extremity Artery Disease
Authors: Muster Viktoria , Gütl Katharina , Pregartner Gudrun , Berghold Andrea , Schweiger Leyla , Jud Philipp , Brodmann Marianne , Seinost Gerald
Published: September 2021

Background: Arterial stiffness is independently associated with lower extremity artery disease (LEAD). Although obesity is already known as an independent cardiovascular risk factor, it was found that, paradoxically, in patients diagnosed with cardiovascular disease, an increase in body mass index (BMI) was associated with a decrease in mortality. However, the underlying mechanism of this paradoxical association remain uncertain. In this study, we firstly hypothesize that arterial stiffness correlates with body mass; secondly, the underlying mechanism of the association for patients with LEAD is individual body composition, in particular, lean mass. Methods: The present study was performed as a single-center, prospective, observational analysis. A total of 412 patients with current or previously diagnosed LEAD (Rutherford Classification 2–4) were included, the cfPWV and AIx were measured as indices of arterial stiffness, and a body composition assessment was performed. Results: In male patients, there was a significantly negative correlation between the AIx and lean mass coefficient (p = 0.004, 95% CI: −0.28 (−0.48–0.09)). Conclusion: For patients with peripheral arterial disease, our data show that lower lean mass in male patients is associated with increased arterial stiffness as measured by the AIx. Therefore, progressive resistance training may be beneficial for the reduction in arterial stiffness in PAD patients in secondary prevention.