bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Qfhb.yzu.3B.1 and Qfhb.yzu.6B.3 Are Stable Quantitative Trait Loci for Wheat Resistance to Fusarium Head Blight with Diverse Genetic Backgrounds
Authors: Sun Zhengxi , Ye Hongyan , Chen Xiang , Cheng Jiale , Zhu Fanfan , Yang Dapeng , Hu Sijia , Li Lei , Li Tao
Published: June 2024

Fusarium head blight (FHB) can cause serious yield loss and significant mycotoxin contamination, which seriously threaten global food security and safety. Breeding stable and durable cultivars that are resistant to FHB is one of the most effective approaches to controlling this disease. Fhb1 is a well-known genetic locus for FHB resistance, but its resistance is not always effective across diverse wheat genetic backgrounds. To achieve a high and durable level of resistance, the discovery and use of additional quantitative trait loci (QTL) for FHB resistance are essentially needed in breeding programs. In this study, two independent wheat natural populations of different origins were used for mining resistance QTL with a major and stable effect. Using genome-wide association analysis (GWAS), a total of 58 marker–trait associations (MTAs) on chromosomes 1A, 2B, 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, 4D, 5A, 5B, 5D, 6A, 6B, 6D, 7A and 7B were found to be significant for type II resistance to FHB. These 58 MTAs represent 24 putative QTL. Among these QTL, Qfhb.yzu.3B.1 and Qfhb.yzu.6B.3 were stably detected in the two natural populations across three consecutive experimental years. The favorable haplotypes at the two QTL could significantly reduce the disease severity, either individually or in combination. These two QTL are also additive to Fhb1 in cultivars with different genetic backgrounds. Breeder-friendly markers were designed to differentiate the contrasting alleles at these two loci, thus proving very useful for improving FHB resistance in wheat by marker-assisted selection.
Regulation of Different Lights on Energy Acquisitions, Microtuber Formation, and Growth of In Vitro-Grown Solanum tuberosum L.
Authors: Long Jiahuan , Yu Fan , Wu Yinyue , Xu Zhigang , Liu Xiaoying
Published: June 2024

Limited research has been conducted on the regulation of light quality on heterotrophy in in vitro-grown potato plantlets. Here, we investigated the effect of light quality on photosynthetic and heterotrophic abilities as well as microtuber formation and growth of potato plantlets (Solanum tuberosum L. cv. Shepody). Potato plantlets pre-cultivated under white light for 30 days were then transferred to grow under blue (B), green (G), red (R), yellow (Y), and white (W) lights, and parameters including dry weight, photosynthetic pigment, medium solute consumption, δ13C value, root activity, and sucrose transport (SUT) gene expression of these plantlets were measured. The results showed that B, G, and W were conducive to the rapid induction of microtubers, while R, and especially Y, delayed microtuber formation. Higher photosynthetic ability was observed in the W treatment, whereas the opposite effect was seen in the monochromatic light treatments. Microtuber growth was primarily dependent on heterotrophy, and B was conducive to microtuber growth. The delay in microtuber formation was related to the high expression of StSUT4 in the root, and better microtuber growth was associated with higher root activity, more medium solute consumption, and a higher expression level of StSUT1 in the roots.
Mathematical Modelling of Gonorrhoea Spread in Northern Ireland between 2012 and 2022
Authors: Kiss Gabor , Corken Daniel , Hall Rebecca , Ibrahim Alhassan , Moutari Salissou , Kee Frank , Armstrong Gillian , Bradley Declan , Middleton Maeve , Patterson Lynsey , Lamrock Felicity
Published: June 2024

The number of confirmed positive tests of various sexually transmitted infections has grown recently in the United Kingdom. The objective of this study is to propose a deterministic compartmental model to investigate gonorrhoea spread in Northern Ireland between 2012 and 2022. The differential equation based model includes both symptomatic and asymptomatic spread, spontaneous recovery and treatment compartments. After fitting our model to the monthly number of new positive tests, we found that the basic reproduction number is approximately 1.0030. In addition, we derive the endemic equilibrium of the model, which exists if and only if R0>1. The sensitivity analyses of the basic reproduction number and the endemic values of the compartments of treated individuals indicate that infection spreading time can have a significant impact on gonorrhoea spread.
Comparative Cytogenetics of the Malagasy Ground Geckos of the Paroedura bastardi and Paroedura picta Species Groups
Authors: Mezzasalma Marcello , Odierna Gaetano , Macirella Rachele , Brunelli Elvira
Published: June 2024

We present a comparative chromosome study of several taxa of the Malagasy ground geckos of the Paroedura bastardi and P. picta species groups. We employed a preliminary molecular analysis using a trait of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene (of about 570 bp) to assess the taxonomic status of the samples studied and a cytogenetic analysis with standard karyotyping (5% Giemsa solution), silver staining (Ag–NOR staining) and sequential C-banding (C-banding + Giemsa and + fluorochromes). Our results show that all the taxa studied of the P. bastardi group (P. ibityensis, P. rennerae and P. cf. guibeae) have a similar karyotype composed of 2n = 34 chromosomes, with two metacentric pairs (1 and 3) and all other pairs being acrocentric. Chromosome diversification in the P. bastardi group was mainly linked to the diversification of heteromorphic sex chromosome systems (ZZ/ZW) in P. ibityensis and P. rennerae, while no heteromorphic sex chromosome pair was found in P. cf. guibeae. The two taxa investigated of the P. picta species group (here named P. picta and P. cf. picta based on molecular data) showed the same chromosome number of 2n = 36, mostly acrocentric elements, but differed in the number of metacentric elements, probably as a result of an inversion at chromosome pair 2. We highlight that the genus Paroedura is characterized by the independent diversification of heterogametic sex chromosomes in different evolutionary lineages and, similarly to other phylogenetically related gecko genera, by a progressive formation of a biarmed element by means of tandem fusions and inversions of distinct pairs.
The Effects of Slaughter Methods and Drying Temperatures on the Protein Hydrolysis of Black Soldier Fly Larvae Meal
Authors: Rodríguez-Rodríguez María , Sánchez-Muros María José , Vargas-García María del Carmen , Varga Ágnes Timea , Fabrikov Dmitri , Barroso Fernando García
Published: June 2024

In recent years, the potential of insects as a sustainable protein alternative to feed the growing world population has been explored. Differences in the ways insects are processed can affect their proximate composition and digestibility. This work studied the effects of the combination of different types of slaughter methods and drying temperatures on the proximate composition, organic matter digestibility (OMd), hydrolysis degree (DH/NH2 and DH/100 g DM), total hydrolysis (TH), and hygienic and sanitary characteristics of BSFL (black soldier fly larvae) meal. Four types of slaughter methods were used including freezing (F), blanching + freezing (B), Melacide® + freezing (M), and liquid nitrogen slaughter (N). Each of these was used with three drying temperatures (50, 70, and 90 °C). A negative correlation between the acid detergent fiber (ADF) and protein digestibility parameters was obtained. The most suitable drying temperature was 70 °C, as it produced higher values of protein digestibility (DH and TH), resulting in hygienic and sanitary conditions suitable for food use. Slaughtering with liquid nitrogen and blanching was more conducive to achieving high protein digestibility results than traditional freezing or the use of Melacide®.
Development of a Rapid Method for Simultaneous Determination of Pesticides in Plant Oil Using GC-MS/MS
Authors: Wenio Iwona , Derewiaka Dorota , Majewska Ewa , Bartosiewicz Iwona , Ryszkowska Edyta
Published: June 2024

Multi-residue methodologies necessitate a tailored and precise approach across all areas of analysis. Analyte extraction must be closely correlated with the sample matrix to ensure the optimal recovery for the maximal array of analytes, thereby fulfilling all legal requirements concerning analytical determination. Although the QuEChERS method offers undeniable advantages, it proves unsuitable for pesticide residue determination in matrices with high oil contents. A pivotal component of the method involves employing n-hexane as the extraction solvent and utilizing solvent exchange in obtaining the final extract. The analytical method developed by our laboratory, as presented here, enabled the determination of all requisite pesticides in accordance with European Union (EU) Regulation 396/2005. The linearity, limits of detection and quantification, matrix effects, accuracy, and precision of the method were evaluated in line with the aforementioned regulation. Of the analyzed pesticide residues, 273 exhibited expanded uncertainty with an RSDr ≤ 20%, with recoveries falling within the range of 70–120%, meeting all the requirements of document SANTE/11312/2021 V2. For 9 pesticides, the recovery was below 30%, and the precision of the obtained content for 21 compounds surpassed 20%, necessitating the removal of these compounds from the analytical method.
Influence of Technological Parameters on Sourdough Starter Obtained from Different Flours
Authors: Dobre Alina Alexandra , Cucu Elena Mirela , Belc Nastasia
Published: June 2024

One of the oldest biotechnological processes used in bread manufacture is sourdough production which relies on wild yeast and lactobacillus cultures naturally present in flour. The aim of this paper was to evaluate the influence of selected flours of different cereal grains (ancient wheat, corn, and rye), different dough variations, and temperature of fermentation on the quality of spontaneous sourdough. Two values of fermentation temperatures were tested (25 °C and 35 °C), and for each temperature analyzed, three backslopping steps were carried out to obtain mature doughs according to the traditional type I sourdough scheme. In total, 14 different sourdoughs were produced, and microbiology, pH, and total titration acidity for 96 h were determined. Optimal pH values for the samples determined that the optimal fermentation period was 48 h. The acidification rate of the dough was faster at 35 °C than at 25 °C. This fact became evident via the pH values obtained in the first 24 h. However, from this point, the pH values were lower in the samples kept at 25 °C, showing that a cooler fermentation temperature allows the acidification activity of the microorganisms to be prolonged for a longer time. In the study carried out, the ideal fermentation time for the population of LAB and yeasts is 72 h at a temperature of 25 °C, and the most productive sourdoughs were the dough with 100% Einkorn wheat flour and the dough obtained from the 1:1 combination of flour rye and corn flours.
From Primal Matter to Surrogate Veneer: Wood and Faux Bois in Picasso’s Cubism
Authors: Poggi Christine
Published: June 2024

In the spring and summer of 1906, while visiting the rural village of Gósol in the Spanish Pyrenees, Picasso executed his first woodcut, made two sculptures out of boxwood, and began to focus on the topoi of wood and the forest as avatars of primal matter and of that which lies beyond civilization. In a subsequent series of paintings, he used wooden supports for images that depict male and female heads that look as if they had been chiseled out of wood. Others represent nude figures in forest settings, with explicitly sexual gestures and poses connoting a range of attitudes. These little studied works provide an optic into Picasso’s early exploration of the emergence of sexual identity as an inner psychic state, but one whose signs can be read through the body. Later, responding to the proliferation of cheap, industrially produced materials, including trompe l’oeil woodgrain wallpaper, Picasso began to treat woodgrain as a mere surrogate, one that marks its distance from actual wood through a variety of painterly and mechanical effects. No longer associated with “primitive” authenticity and the primordial forces of the forest, woodgrain now appears as a false sign open to conceptual play and metamorphosis.
Battery Modeling for Emulators in Vehicle Test Cell
Authors: Roberts Chris , Petrovich Simon , Ebrahimi Kambiz
Published: June 2024

This paper investigates modeling techniques for the mathematical representation of HV (high-voltage) Li-ion batteries to be used in conjunction with battery emulators for the test cell environment. To enable the impact of the battery response to be assessed in conjunction with other electrified systems, battery emulators are used with advanced mathematical models describing the expected voltage output with respect to current load. This paper conducted research into different modeling types: electrochemical, thermal, and electronic equivalent circuit models (EECMs). EECMs were identified as the most suitable to be used in conjunction with emulation techniques. A foundation EECM was created in conjunction with a thermal part to simulate thermal dependency. Hybrid Pulse Power Characterization (HPPC) tests were conducted on an NMC Li-ion cell across a range of temperatures from −20 °C to 25 °C. Using parameter optimization techniques, the HPPC test data were used to identify the resistance, capacitance, and the open-circuit voltage of the cell across a range of state of charge bounds and across a temperature range of 0 °C to 25 °C. The foundation model was assessed using identified parameters on two current profiles derived from drive cycles across a temperature range of 0 °C to 10 °C. The FMU (Functional Mockup Unit) model format was determined as the required interface for an AVL battery emulator.
Alterations in Neurotrophins in Alcohol-Addicted Patients during Alcohol Withdrawal
Authors: Malewska-Kasprzak Magda , Skibińska Maria , Dmitrzak-Węglarz Monika
Published: June 2024

Background: Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is related to mental and somatic disorders that result in alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS), with 30% of AWS cases leading to life-threatening delirium tremens (DTs). Currently, studies do not support using any one biomarker in DTs. Neurotrophins affect neuromodulation, playing a role in the pathogenesis of AUD, AWS, and DTs. Methods: This review aims to summarize experimental and clinical data related to neurotrophins and S100B in neuroplasticity, as well as neurodegeneration in the context of AUD, AWS, and DTs. This work used publications that were selected based on the protocol consistent with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement. Results: The BDNF level could be a good candidate biomarker for relapse susceptibility, as it is significantly reduced during consumption and gradually increases during abstinence. GDNF influences AUD through its integral role in the function of dopaminergic neurons and ablates the return to alcohol-drinking behavior. NGF protects neurons from ethanol-induced cytotoxic damage and affects recovery from cognitive deficits after brain damage. The NT-3 level is decreased after alcohol exposure and is involved in compensatory mechanisms for cognitive decline in AUD. NT-4 affects oxidative stress, which is associated with chronic alcohol consumption. S100B is used as a biomarker of brain damage, with elevated levels in serum in AUD, and can protect 5-HT neurons from the damage caused by alcohol. Conclusions: BDNF, GDNF, NT-3, NT-4, NGF, and S100B may be valuable markers for withdrawal syndrome. In particular, the most relevant is their association with the development of delirium complications. However, there are few data concerning some neurotrophins in AWS and DTs, suggesting the need for further research.
Modeling Schemes and Performance Comparisons of Unbonded and Partially Bonded Tendon in Post-Tensioned Concrete Beam
Authors: Chen Shangzhi , Jiang Fangxin , Sun Yue , Yan Wutong
Published: June 2024

The modeling method of unbonded effects is a challenging and hot topic for the structural performance analysis of unbonded and partially bonded post-tensioned concrete beams. The main concerns accounting for the unbonded effects are the longitudinal free-slip behaviors and the vertical deformation compatibility relationship between the unbonded tendon and concrete beam. Three modeling schemes, namely, the beam–truss element model, the slipping cable element model, and the slack spring model, are presented in this paper. These modeling schemes are, for the first time, systematically compared regarding applicability, convenience, and accuracy. Then, these modeling schemes are applied to experimental beams with different tendon layouts and bonding conditions, including external tendons, internal unbonded tendons, and partially bonded tendons. The beam–truss element model and the slipping cable element model are only applicable to the fully bonded and unbonded members, respectively. The slack spring model is recommended as the generally applicable model for analyzing post-tensioned concrete beams with different bonding conditions. Crucial suggestions are put forward as to the zero-length slack spring element, which have the potential to improve the prediction accuracy for tendon stress. In addition, parametrical analysis is conducted to determine the influence of unbonded length on flexural performance. With the increase of unbonded length, the flexural capacity of the beam will decrease, but the self-centering performance can be improved. Interestingly, the effects of unbonded length on the structural deformability are not monotonic, and the reasons for this are clarified.
Evaluation of the Nonlinear Seismic Responses of High-Rise Reinforced Concrete Buildings with Different Foundations and Structural Plans—Considering Soil-Structure Interactions
Authors: Doğan Talha Polat , Erkan Ibrahim Hakkı
Published: June 2024

Regarding the behavior of reinforced concrete structures under seismic loads, the interaction between structure and soil is as important as the load-bearing system and foundation type. This study was designed to assess the effect of structural types and soil–structure interactions (SSIs) on the responses of reinforced concrete (RC) buildings to earthquakes. Therefore, nonlinear time history analyses were performed on 20-storey RC buildings. In this analysis, three different structural system types and three different foundation types were considered for the parametric study. The numerical results obtained from the nonlinear dynamic analysis were criticized in terms of base shear force and roof displacement. Based on the obtained numerical results, utilizing SSI in the nonlinear time history analysis of the RC buildings improved the overall structural integrity by delaying plastic hinge formation and preventing the total failure of structural elements. Base shear forces increased up to 20% for the same structural system and different SSI situations, and up to 60% for different structural systems and the same SSI situation. Roof displacements increased up to 17% for the same structural system and different SSI situations, and up to 24% for different structural systems and the same SSI situation. All of the behavioral differences showed the importance of considering the SSI in the design stage of the buildings.
Research on the Scale Fire Test and Fire Resistance of the One-Way Slab of a Metro
Authors: Qiu Peiyun , Duan Jintao , Yang Zhan , Liu Jianyong , Lu Weitian
Published: June 2024

To address the difficulty in conducting fire tests to verify the fire-resistance limit of large one-way slabs with heavy loads in a metro, a scale fire test method is proposed based on the bearing capacity calculation of the one-way slab under fire. The scale fire test method adapted the hypothesis that the deflection of the one-way slab under fire is close to a half-sine function and the plane section hypothesis. The validity of this hypothesis is verified through fire tests and finite element simulations. The scale fire test method achieves a similar temperature field and mechanical behavior between the scaled model and full-scale model of the one-way slab. The results of the fire tests showed that the temperature field and mechanical behavior of the scaled model were consistent with those of the full-scale model, with an error in fire resistance of 4.7%. The calculation results and fire test results are essentially consistent, with an error of 6.5%, and according to the calculation of the one-way slab fire-resistance limit, the key factor affecting the fire resistance of the one-way slab under fire is the temperature of the bottom rebars. Using the scale fire test method, the size effect of the one-way slab under fire still exists, and larger slabs have a greater deformation capacity.
Therapeutic Parent–Child Communication and Health Outcomes in the Childhood Cancer Context: A Scoping Review
Authors: Son Heeyeon , Kim Nani
Published: June 2024

Family communication has been thought to be an important area to support children’s adjustment to a cancer diagnosis. However, the characteristics of therapeutic parent–child communication that contribute to better patient outcomes and the specific patient health outcomes have been less explored. This current review explored the characteristics of therapeutic parent–child communication and its physical and psychological health outcomes. A total of 5034 articles were initially identified, and only 10 articles remained for inclusion in this review after application of the exclusion criteria. Most studies used a cross-sectional design and measured verbal communication characteristics and its psychological outcomes, but no physical outcomes. The characteristics of therapeutic verbal communication (openness, maternal validation, quality of information shared, etc.) and nonverbal communication (eye contact, close physical distance, and acknowledging behaviors) were identified. The psychological health outcomes included less distress, a lower level of PTSS, less internalizing and externalizing of symptoms, increased levels of social emotional competencies, better peer relationships, and more cooperation during the procedure at the individual level. Increased family cohesion and family adaptation were family-level outcomes. Longitudinal studies are needed to identify what qualities of communication predict better psychological outcomes so that interventions can be developed and tested. In addition, physical outcomes should be evaluated.
Novel Transcriptional and DNA Methylation Abnormalities of SORT1 Gene in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Acha-Sagredo Amelia , Wilson Cornelia M. , Garcia Bediaga Naiara , Kalirai Helen , Davies Michael P. A. , Coupland Sarah E. , Field John K. , Liloglou Triantafillos
Published: June 2024

Sortilin is an important regulator with potential tumour-suppressor function by limiting EGFR signalling. In this study, we undertook a comprehensive expression analysis of sortilin transcript variants and the DNA methylation status of their corresponding promoters in human non-small cell carcinomas (NSCLCs). RNA/DNA was extracted from 81 NSCLC samples and paired normal tissue. mRNA expression was measured by qPCR and DNA methylation determined by pyrosequencing. BigDye-terminator sequencing was used to confirm exon-8 alternative splicing. Results demonstrated that both SORT1A and SORT1B variants were downregulated in lung tumours. The SORT1A/SORT1B expression ratio was higher in tumours compared to normal tissue. SORT1B promoter hypermethylation was detected in lung tumours compared to normal lung (median difference 14%, Mann–Whitney test p = 10−6). Interestingly, SORT1B is hypermethylated in white blood cells, but a small and very consistent drop in methylation (6%, p = 10−15) was observed in the lung cancer cases compared to control subjects. We demonstrate that the SORT1B exon-8 splice variation, reported in sequence databases, is also a feature of SORT1A. The significantly altered quantitative and qualitative characteristics of sortilin mRNA in NSCLC indicate a significant involvement in tumour pathogenesis and may have significant impact for its utility as a predictive marker in lung cancer management.
Non-Syndromic and Syndromic Defects in Children with Extracranial Germ Cell Tumors: Data of 2610 Children Registered with the German MAKEI 96/MAHO 98 Registry Compared to the General Population
Authors: Schultewolter Judit H. , Rissmann Anke , von Schweinitz Dietrich , Frühwald Michael , Blattmann Claudia , Fischer Lars , Lange Björn Sönke , Wessalowski Rüdiger , Fröhlich Birgit , Behnisch Wolfgang , Schmid Irene , Reinhard Harald , Dürken Matthias , Hundsdörfer Patrick , Heimbrodt Martin , Vokuhl Christian , Schönberger Stefan , Schneider Dominik T. , Seitz Guido , Looijenga Leendert , Göbel Ulrich , von Kries Rüdiger , Reutter Heiko , Calaminus Gabriele
Published: June 2024

GCTs are developmental tumors and are likely to reflect ontogenetic and teratogenetic determinants. The objective of this study was to identify syndromes with or without congenital anomalies and non-syndromic defects as potential risk factors. Patients with extracranial GCTs (eGCTs) registered in MAKEI 96/MAHO 98 between 1996 and 2017 were included. According to Teilum’s holistic concept, malignant and benign teratomas were registered. We used a case–control study design with Orphanet as a reference group for syndromic defects and the Mainz birth registry (EUROCAT) for congenital anomalies at birth. Co-occurring genetic syndromes and/or congenital anomalies were assessed accordingly. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated and p-values for Fisher’s exact test with Bonferroni correction if needed. A strong association was confirmed for Swyer (OR 338.6, 95% CI 43.7–2623.6) and Currarino syndrome (OR 34.2, 95% CI 13.2–88.6). We additionally found 16 isolated cases of eGCT with a wide range of syndromes. However, these were not found to be significantly associated following Bonferroni correction. Most of these cases pertained to girls. Regarding non-syndromic defects, no association with eGCTs could be identified. In our study, we confirmed a strong association for Swyer and Currarino syndromes with additional congenital anomalies.
Evolution of Three-Dimensional Computed Tomography Imaging in Thoracic Surgery
Authors: Chen-Yoshikawa Toyofumi Fengshi
Published: June 2024

Radiologic reconstruction technology allows the wide use of three-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) images in thoracic surgery. A minimally invasive surgery has become one of the standard therapies in thoracic surgery, and therefore, the need for preoperative and intraoperative simulations has increased. Three-dimensional CT images have been extensively used, and various types of software have been developed to reconstruct 3D-CT images for surgical simulation worldwide. Several software types have been commercialized and widely used by not only radiologists and technicians, but also thoracic surgeons. Three-dimensional CT images are helpful surgical guides; however, in almost all cases, they provide only static images, different from the intraoperative views. Lungs are soft and variable organs that can easily change shape by intraoperative inflation/deflation and surgical procedures. To address this issue, we have developed a novel software called the Resection Process Map (RPM), which creates variable virtual 3D images. Herein, we introduce the RPM and its development by tracking the history of 3D CT imaging in thoracic surgery. The RPM could help develop a real-time and accurate surgical navigation system for thoracic surgery.
WISP-1 Regulates Cardiac Fibrosis by Promoting Cardiac Fibroblasts’ Activation and Collagen Processing
Authors: Li Ze , Williams Helen , Jackson Molly L. , Johnson Jason L. , George Sarah J.
Published: June 2024

Hypertension induces cardiac fibrotic remodelling characterised by the phenotypic switching of cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) and collagen deposition. We tested the hypothesis that Wnt1-inducible signalling pathway protein-1 (WISP-1) promotes CFs’ phenotypic switch, type I collagen synthesis, and in vivo fibrotic remodelling. The treatment of human CFs (HCFs, n = 16) with WISP-1 (500 ng/mL) induced a phenotypic switch (α-smooth muscle actin-positive) and type I procollagen cleavage to an intermediate form of collagen (pC-collagen) in conditioned media after 24h, facilitating collagen maturation. WISP-1-induced collagen processing was mediated by Akt phosphorylation via integrin β1, and disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 2 (ADAMTS-2). WISP-1 wild-type (WISP-1+/+) mice and WISP-1 knockout (WISP-1−/−) mice (n = 5–7) were subcutaneously infused with angiotensin II (AngII, 1000 ng/kg/min) for 28 days. Immunohistochemistry revealed the deletion of WISP-1 attenuated type I collagen deposition in the coronary artery perivascular area compared to WISP-1+/+ mice after a 28-day AngII infusion, and therefore, the deletion of WISP-1 attenuated AngII-induced cardiac fibrosis in vivo. Collectively, our findings demonstrated WISP-1 is a critical mediator in cardiac fibrotic remodelling, by promoting CFs’ activation via the integrin β1-Akt signalling pathway, and induced collagen processing and maturation via ADAMTS-2. Thereby, the modulation of WISP-1 levels could provide potential therapeutic targets in clinical treatment.
Automated Crack Detection in 2D Hexagonal Boron Nitride Coatings Using Machine Learning
Authors: Rahman Md Hasan-Ur , Shrestha Gurung Bichar Dip , Jasthi Bharat K. , Gnimpieba Etienne Z. , Gadhamshetty Venkataramana
Published: June 2024

Characterizing defects in 2D materials, such as cracks in chemical vapor deposited (CVD)-grown hexagonal boron nitride (hBN), is essential for evaluating material quality and reliability. Traditional characterization methods are often time-consuming and subjective and can be hindered by the limited optical contrast of hBN. To address this, we utilized a YOLOv8n deep learning model for automated crack detection in transferred CVD-grown hBN films, using MATLAB’s Image Labeler and Supervisely for meticulous annotation and training. The model demonstrates promising crack-detection capabilities, accurately identifying cracks of varying sizes and complexities, with loss curve analysis revealing progressive learning. However, a trade-off between precision and recall highlights the need for further refinement, particularly in distinguishing fine cracks from multilayer hBN regions. This study demonstrates the potential of ML-based approaches to streamline 2D material characterization and accelerate their integration into advanced devices.
Organic–Inorganic Hybrids: A Class of Material with Infinite Opportunities
Authors: Lin Haoran , Liu Wei , Wu Xin
Published: June 2024

The continuous research interest in organic–inorganic hybrid materials can be attributed to the synergistic or complementary interactions between their organic and inorganic components, which, in turn, opens up a wide array of potential applications [...]
Tardigrades of North America: Additions to Montana’s Biodiversity Including a New Species, Platicrista loloensis nov. sp. (Parachela, Hypsibioidea, Itaquasconinae)
Authors: Scheirer Chelsea N. , Miller William R. , Miller Jeffrey D.
Published: June 2024

A total of 205 tardigrades representing two orders, five families, nine genera and ten species were extracted from a moss sample (104 tardigrades) and a lichen sample (101 tardigrades) collected near Missoula, Montana, in 2016. Three of the species are new to Montana and one is new to science, Platicrista loloensis nov. sp., which is distinguished by its smooth cuticle, the presence of internal cuticular bars at the base of the claws of legs II and III and a median cuticular bar between the claws of leg IV.
Prevention of Occupational Skin Cancer Caused by Solar Ultraviolet Radiation Exposure: Recent Achievements and Perspectives
Authors: Symanzik Cara , John Swen M.
Published: June 2024

In fair-skinned populations worldwide, skin cancer is a serious public health threat. A significant percentage of all reported occupational diseases fall back on skin cancer. Over the past few decades, there has been a rise in the frequency of skin cancer diagnoses among outdoor workers. The main cause of non-melanoma skin cancer is solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR), which is also the most common occupational carcinogenic exposure in terms of the number of exposed workers (i.e., outdoor workers). Sun protection—and concomitantly the prevention of occupational skin cancer—is a component of workplace safety. The risks of solar UVR exposure at work are often disregarded in practice, despite the recent recognition of the need for measures to support outdoor workers’ sun protection behavior. It is anticipated that occupational dermatology will become increasingly focused on sun safety in the coming decades. To handle current hurdles in a sustainable manner, the full range of preventive measures should be utilized. Existing strategies for the prevention of occupational skin cancer might be evolved and enriched by new (educational) concepts, methods, and/or technologies. In this, not only components of general prevention and individual prevention but also setting-based prevention and behavior-based prevention might be freshly thought through.
CXCR4 Expression as a Prognostic Biomarker in Soft Tissue Sarcomas
Authors: Virgili Anna C. , Salazar Juliana , Gallardo Alberto , López-Pousa Antonio , Terés Raúl , Bagué Silvia , Orellana Ruth , Fumagalli Caterina , Mangues Ramon , Alba-Castellón Lorena , Unzueta Ugutz , Casanova Isolda , Sebio Ana
Published: June 2024

Poor long-term survival in localized high-risk soft tissue sarcomas (STSs) of the extremities and trunk highlights the need to identify new prognostic factors. CXCR4 is a chemokine receptor involved in tumor progression, angiogenesis, and metastasis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between CXCR4 expression in tumor tissue and survival in STSs patients treated with neoadjuvant therapy. CXCR4 expression was retrospectively determined by immunohistochemical analysis in serial specimens including initial biopsies, tumors post-neoadjuvant treatment, and tumors after relapse. We found that a positive cytoplasmatic expression of CXCR4 in tumors after neoadjuvant treatment was a predictor of poor recurrence-free survival (RFS) (p = 0.003) and overall survival (p = 0.019) in synovial sarcomas. We also found that positive nuclear CXCR4 expression in the initial biopsies was associated with poor RFS (p = 0.022) in undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcomas. In conclusion, our study adds to the evidence that CXCR4 expression in tumor tissue is a promising prognostic factor for STSs.
Myocardial Work Indices Predict Hospitalization in Patients with Advanced Heart Failure
Authors: Mandoli Giulia Elena , Landra Federico , Chiantini Benedetta , Bonadiman Lorenzo , Pastore Maria Concetta , Focardi Marta , D’Ascenzi Flavio , Lisi Matteo , Diviggiano Enrico Emilio , Martini Luca , Bernazzali Sonia , Valente Serafina , Maccherini Massimo , Cameli Matteo , Henein Michael Y.
Published: June 2024

Background: An increasing proportion of heart failure (HF) patients progress to the advanced stage (AdHF) with high event rates and limited treatment options. Echocardiography, particularly Speckle Tracking-derived myocardial work (MW), is useful for HF diagnosis and prognosis. We aimed to assess MW’s feasibility in the prognostic stratification of AdHF. Methods: We retrospectively screened patients with AdHF who accessed our hospital in 2018–2022. We excluded subjects with inadequate acoustic windows; unavailable brachial artery cuff pressure at the time of the echocardiography; atrial fibrillation; and mitral or aortic regurgitation. We measured standard parameters and left ventricular (LV) strain (LS) and MW. The population was followed up to determine the composite outcomes of all-cause mortality, left ventricular assist device implantation and heart transplantation (primary endpoint), as well as unplanned HF hospitalization (secondary endpoint). Results: We enrolled 138 patients, prevalently males (79.7%), with a median age of 58 years (IQR 50–62). AdHF etiology was predominantly non-ischemic (65.9%). Thirty-five patients developed a composite event during a median follow-up of 636 days (IQR 323–868). Diastolic function, pulmonary pressures, and LV GLS and LV MW indices were not associated with major events. Contrarily, for the secondary endpoint, the hazard ratio for each increase in global work index (GWI) by 50 mmHg% was 0.90 (p = 0.025) and for each increase in global constructive work (GCW) by 50 mmHg% was 0.90 (p = 0.022). Kaplan–Meier demonstrated better endpoint-free survival, with an LV GWI ≥ 369 mmHg%. Conclusions: GWI and GCW, with good feasibility, can help in the better characterization of patients with AdHF at higher risk of HF hospitalization and adverse events, identifying the need for closer follow-up or additional HF therapy.
Management and Rehabilitative Treatment in Osteoarthritis with a Novel Physical Therapy Approach: A Randomized Control Study
Authors: Paolucci Teresa , Tommasi Marco , Pozzato Giannantonio , Pozzato Alessandro , Pezzi Letizia , Zuccarini Mariachiara , Di Lanzo Alessio , Palumbo Rocco , Porto Daniele , Messeri Riccardo , Pesce Mirko , Pantalone Andrea , Buda Roberto , Patruno Antonia
Published: June 2024

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a chronic degenerative disease characterized by progressive joint damage leading to significant disability. Although rehabilitative treatment methods for KOA have been widely implemented, the optimal integrated instrumental physical therapy approach remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the effect of Quantum Molecular Resonance (QMR) on pain reduction as the primary outcome and the functional improvement in activity daily living (ADL) as a secondary outcome. The study was designed as a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial in an outpatient setting. Fifty-four (N = 54) patients were enrolled and then randomized into three groups according to a simple randomization list: Group 1 (intensive protocol, N = 22), Group 2 (extensive protocol, N = 21), and a Sham group (N = 11). Patients were evaluated over time with scales assessing pain and function. Treatment was performed with the QMR model electro-medical device, which generates alternating electric currents characterized by high frequency (4–64 MHz). The results showed that QMR had a positive effect with respect to the Sham group in terms of pain and function (p < 0.01), and intensive treatment was more effective than the extensive treatment in terms of “speed of response” to the treatment (p < 0.05). In conclusion, QMR in KOA could be effective in slowing the progression of clinical symptoms and improving patients’ pain and functionality and thus quality of life. Future studies will be necessary to investigate further treatment algorithms and therapeutic associations with rehabilitative exercise.
IL-6 Polymorphism as a Predisposing Genetic Factor for Gestational Diabetes or Preeclampsia Development in Pregnancy with Obesity in Relation to VEGF and VEGFF Receptor Gene Expression Modalities
Authors: Halvatsiotis Panagiotis , Tsokaki Theodora , Tsitsis Vasileios , Palaiodimou Lina , Tsivgoulis Georgios , Tsangaris Iraklis , Panagiotou Maria Ourania , Houhoula Dimitra
Published: June 2024

The increased prevalence of obesity worldwide has been implicated in the alarming rise of the incidence of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, which are both considered threatening conditions for both mother and fetus. We studied gene polymorphisms of the proinflammatory cytokine Interleukin 6 (IL-6) and the gene expression levels of VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) and VEGF-R (endothelial growth factor receptor), all known to be involved in pregnancy complications, aiming to identify possible predisposing risk factors in pregnancies with obesity. The G allele of IL-6 was found to correspond with an increased risk for gestational diabetes and preeclampsia occurrence. Furthermore, in obese pregnant mothers with either gestational diabetes or pre-existing type 2 diabetes and those who developed preeclampsia, it was confirmed that gene expression levels of VEGF were reduced while they were increased for VEGF receptors. We conclude that the genetic profile of an obese pregnant woman shares a common background with that of a patient with pre-existing type 2 diabetes mellitus, and therefore predisposes them to complications in pregnancy.
How to Circumvent and Beat the Ransomware in Android Operating System—A Case Study of Locker.CB!tr
Authors: Drabent Kornel , Janowski Robert , Mongay Batalla Jordi
Published: June 2024

Ransomware is one of the most extended cyberattacks. It consists of encrypting a user’s files or locking the smartphone in order to blackmail a victim. The attacking software is ordered on the infected device from the attacker’s remote server, known as command and control. In this work, we propose a method to recover from a Locker.CB!tr ransomware attack after it has infected and hit a smartphone. The novelty of our approach lies on exploiting the communication between the ransomware on the infected device and the attacker’s command and control server as a point to reverse disruptive actions like screen locking or file encryption. For this purpose, we carried out both a dynamic and a static analysis of decompiled Locker.CB!tr ransomware source code to understand its operation principles and exploited communication patterns from the IP layer to the application layer to fully impersonate the command and control server. This way, we gained full control over the Locker.CB!tr ransomware instance. From that moment, we were able to command the Locker.CB!tr ransomware instance on the infected device to unlock the smartphone or decrypt the files. The contributions of this work are a novel method to recover the mobile phone after ransomware attack based on the analysis of the ransomware communication with the C&C server; and a mechanism for impersonating the ransomware C&C server and thus gaining full control over the ransomware instance.
Faster Intra-Prediction of Versatile Video Coding Using a Concatenate-Designed CNN via DCT Coefficients
Authors: Im Sio-Kei , Chan Ka-Hou
Published: June 2024

As the next generation video coding standard, Versatile Video Coding (VVC) significantly improves coding efficiency over the current High-Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC) standard. In practice, this improvement comes at the cost of increased pre-processing complexity. This increased complexity faces the challenge of implementing VVC for time-consuming encoding. This work presents a technique to simplify VVC intra-prediction using Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT) feature analysis and a concatenate-designed CNN. The coefficients of the (DTC-)transformed CUs reflect the complexity of the original texture, and the proposed CNN employs multiple classifiers to predict whether they should be split. This approach can determine whether to split Coding Units (CUs) of different sizes according to the Versatile Video Coding (VVC) standard. This helps to simplify the intra-prediction process. The experimental results indicate that our approach can reduce the encoding time by 52.77% with a minimal increase of 1.48%. We use the Bjøntegaard Delta Bit Rate (BDBR) compared to the original algorithm, demonstrating a competitive result with other state-of-the-art methods in terms of coding efficiency with video quality.
Distributed High-Density Anchor (Cable) Support Force Monitoring System Research
Authors: Wang Lei , Sun Kai , Qi Junyan , Yuan Ruifu
Published: June 2024

In shaft mining, monitoring the deformation of the roadway due to mining pressure is of great significance to the safe production of coal mines. For this reason, a distributed high-density anchor (cable) support force monitoring system was designed by developing a low-cost anchor (cable) stress monitoring device, which consists of an anchor (cable) stress sensor and a data acquisition device. The whole system consists of an anchor bar (cable) stress monitoring device and a mine roadway deformation monitoring substation. The signals collected by the anchor force sensors are processed by the data acquisition device and sent to the self-developed mine roadway deformation monitoring substation through Long Range Radio (LoRa) wireless communication. All data from the monitoring substation are transmitted to the ground control center in real time via the Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) network transmission protocol. The distributed high-density arrangement of monitoring nodes reflects the deformation trend of the whole section of the roadway by monitoring the anchor bar (cable) support force data of multiple sections, which effectively ensures the safety of the roadway.
Prediction of Machine-Generated Financial Tweets Using Advanced Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers
Authors: Arshed Muhammad Asad , Gherghina Ștefan Cristian , Dur-E-Zahra  , Manzoor Mahnoor
Published: June 2024

With the rise of Large Language Models (LLMs), distinguishing between genuine and AI-generated content, particularly in finance, has become challenging. Previous studies have focused on binary identification of ChatGPT-generated content, overlooking other AI tools used for text regeneration. This study addresses this gap by examining various AI-regenerated content types in the finance domain. Objective: The study aims to differentiate between human-generated financial content and AI-regenerated content, specifically focusing on ChatGPT, QuillBot, and SpinBot. It constructs a dataset comprising real text and AI-regenerated text for this purpose. Contribution: This research contributes to the field by providing a dataset that includes various types of AI-regenerated financial content. It also evaluates the performance of different models, particularly highlighting the effectiveness of the Bidirectional Encoder Representations from the Transformers Base Cased model in distinguishing between these content types. Methods: The dataset is meticulously preprocessed to ensure quality and reliability. Various models, including Bidirectional Encoder Representations Base Cased, are fine-tuned and compared with traditional machine learning models using TFIDF and Word2Vec approaches. Results: The Bidirectional Encoder Representations Base Cased model outperforms other models, achieving an accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score of 0.73, 0.73, 0.73, and 0.72 respectively, in distinguishing between real and AI-regenerated financial content. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the effectiveness of the Bidirectional Encoder Representations base model in differentiating between human-generated financial content and AI-regenerated content. It highlights the importance of considering various AI tools in identifying synthetic content, particularly in the finance domain in Pakistan.