bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of AR on Purchase Intentions of Cultural Heritage Products: The TAM and Flow-Based Study
Authors: Wang Siqin , Sun Weiqi , Liu Jing , Nah Ken , Yan Wenjun , Tan Suqin
Published: August 2024

AR integrates virtual elements with the real world in real-time to enhance interactivity and vividness, which may influence consumers’ perceptions and payment intentions. This study explores the impact of Augmented Reality (AR) on consumer willingness to pay for cultural heritage products, utilizing the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and flow theory. This study analyzes 603 responses (quantitative data) to understand consumer perceptions of AR in the purchasing process of cultural heritage products. The findings reveal that perceived usefulness, ease of use, and flow experience significantly enhance consumer purchase intentions, with ease of use also amplifying the effects of perceived usefulness and flow experience. Additionally, the immersive, interactive, and aesthetic aspects of AR contribute positively to ease of use and flow experiences, with immersion notably impacting perceived usefulness. The results support the research model with robust explanatory power, offering practical insights for employing AR to improve marketability and consumer engagement with cultural heritage products. This paper contributes to the existing literature by bridging the gap in understanding the role of AR in enhancing consumer experiences and financial outcomes in the cultural heritage domain.
Relationships between Anthropometric and Strength Profiles of Streetlifting Athletes
Authors: Rosaci Giuseppe , Latini Davide , Bartolomei Sandro , Nigro Federico
Published: August 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the anthropometric characteristics of streetlifting athletes in the different body weight categories and to develop specific equations to predict the individual performance in the different exercises included in competitive programs (chin-up, dip, muscle-up and squat). A total of 79 athletes (60 men and 19 women; age: 26.1 ± 6.4 y; body mass: 72.7 ± 13.2 kg; height: 171.7 ± 8.9 cm) were tested in accordance with the Italian National championships. Athletes were tested for anthropometry and body composition before the competition, and the performance in each lift was registered. A partial correlation of 0.47 and 0.60 was detected between arm girth and chin-up and dip performance, respectively. On the contrary, body fat was negatively correlated with the same exercises (r = −0.42). Squat performance appeared mainly determined by fat-free mass and thigh cross-sectional area, while body fat did not affect the performance in this exercise. The prediction equations developed were based on anthropometric and body composition parameters and showed near-perfect correlations with the participants’ competitive results (R2 between 0.66 and 0.90). The normative data presented in this investigation and the prediction equations developed may help coaches and practitioners in athlete evaluation and comprehension of the key factor of streetlifting performance.
An Investigation into the Effects of Primary School Building Forms on Campus Wind Environment and Classroom Ventilation Performance
Authors: Peng Zhen , Jiang Mingzhe , Liu Mingli , He Tong , Jiang Naibing , Huan Xiao
Published: August 2024

This study examines how different primary school campus layouts impact the wind environment and classroom ventilation in Xi’an, using simulations for winter and summer conditions. It evaluates four typical floorplans to find the best for outdoor wind quality and classroom ventilation. During winter, the outdoor wind speed at a height of 1.5 m remains below 5 m/s, adhering to the Green Building Evaluation Standard (GB/T50378-2019). Notably, Scenario 1 achieves higher wind speeds due to the canyon effect between buildings, facilitating effective air renewal. The wind speed amplification factors in all scenarios are within the permissible limit of 2, while Scenario 1 demonstrates superior outdoor wind performance. Wind pressure differences on building surfaces remain within the 5 Pa limit, with Scenario 3 exhibiting the lowest difference of 0.74 Pa, contributing to energy-efficient heating. In summer, Scenario 1 uniquely avoids vortex areas and windless zones, ensuring efficient airflow across the campus. Its open floor planning prevents the formation of stagnant air zones, in contrast to Scenarios 2, 3, and 4, which create enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces promoting vortex formation and windless areas. These findings underscore the benefits of Scenario 1’s design in optimizing both winter and summer wind environments for energy efficiency and occupant comfort. This study recommends including adequately sized spaces in zigzag, branched, or enclosed floor plans to provide airflow and prevent high wind speeds. These results are crucial for shaping upcoming architectural plans to improve the environmental quality of school grounds, leading to improved health and comfort for students and teachers.
An Adaptive Active Learning Method for Multiclass Imbalanced Data Streams with Concept Drift
Authors: Han Meng , Li Chunpeng , Meng Fanxing , He Feifei , Zhang Ruihua
Published: August 2024

Learning from multiclass imbalanced data streams with concept drift and variable class imbalance ratios under a limited label budget presents new challenges in the field of data mining. To address these challenges, this paper proposes an adaptive active learning method for multiclass imbalanced data streams with concept drift (AdaAL-MID). Firstly, a dynamic label budget strategy under concept drift scenarios is introduced, which allocates label budgets reasonably at different stages of the data stream to effectively handle concept drift. Secondly, an uncertainty-based label request strategy using a dual-margin dynamic threshold matrix is designed to enhance learning opportunities for minority class instances and those that are challenging to classify, and combined with a random strategy, it can estimate the current class imbalance distribution by accessing only a limited number of instance labels. Finally, an instance-adaptive sampling strategy is proposed, which comprehensively considers the imbalance ratio and classification difficulty of instances, and combined with a weighted ensemble strategy, improves the classification performance of the ensemble classifier in imbalanced data streams. Extensive experiments and analyses demonstrate that AdaAL-MID can handle various complex concept drifts and adapt to changes in class imbalance ratios, and it outperforms several state-of-the-art active learning algorithms.
Testing of Protective Gas Masks with an Emphasis on Subjective Opinions
Authors: Kubás Jozef , Kollár Boris , Tonhauser Michal , Ristvej Jozef , Petrlová Katarína , Blažková Kateřina
Published: August 2024

This article focuses on the testing and evaluation of gas protective masks based on subjective aspects, since most studies focus on objective indicators without ascertaining the opinions of those who use gas protective masks. Three types of modern anti-gas protective masks were selected for testing. Multi-criteria decision making and the expert method were used to develop the criteria. Mathematical relationships were used to evaluate the test results. For the purpose of testing, a methodological procedure was developed that integrates the established subjective criteria. The test results identified the key parameters in evaluating gas protection masks; at the same time, the results pointed out the possible shortcomings of the OM-90 anti-gas protective mask and its use in the civilian sector. By evaluating the data, the most appropriate gas protective mask was selected that best met the subjective criteria. The study provides insightful findings for decision support in the field of civil protection material but also protective equipment of rescue units. It is the subjective assessment that is essential in a comprehensive evaluation of the quality of gas protective masks, as the user himself often perceives the quality of the product differently from the manufacturer.
A Newly Isolated Stress-Resistant Bacterial Strain with Potential Use in Bioremediation of Dyeing Effluents
Authors: Yang Yuan-Hang , Zhong Han-Yang , Pan Bei , Wang Zi-Wen , Du Zong-Jun , Ye Meng-Qi
Published: August 2024

The issue of water pollution is one of the hot topics of global concern, which requires us to efficiently treat pollutants in water, especially printing and dyeing sewage. There are varieties of dyestuffs and intermediates, which are complex and difficult to degrade, and they even contain heavy metals. In this study, a bacterial strain named Q3-6 with potential for sewage treatment was isolated and its physiological, biochemical, and genomic characteristics, and potential application value, were further investigated. The genome sequence confirmed that it belongs to Bacillus thuringiensis. Strain Q3-6 has a significant decolorization effect on the dyes. The decolorization rate for Brilliant blue G-250 (0.1 g/L) and Congo Red (0.1 g/L) can reach 93.9% and 91.9%, respectively. In addition, strain Q3-6 is resistant to many kinds of antibiotics and heavy metals. Further, it has strong heat resistance, and heating at 80 °C can promote the biomass of the strain. Genomic analysis revealed the presence of genes related to heat shock proteins (GroES, GrpE, DnaJ, GroEL, DnaK, ClpB, and ClpA) in strain Q3-6. These results suggest the strain’s exceptional resilience and adaptability to intricate environments with heavy metals, antibiotics, or high-temperature environments, suggesting its pivotal role in the bioremediation of complex contaminated effluents.
Research on the Application of Pruning Algorithm Based on Local Linear Embedding Method in Traffic Sign Recognition
Authors: Wang Wei , Liu Xiaorui
Published: August 2024

Efficient traffic sign recognition is crucial to facilitating the intelligent driving of new energy vehicles. However, current approaches like the Vision Transformer (ViT) model often impose high storage and computational demands, escalating hardware costs. This paper presents a similarity filter pruning method based on locally linear embedding. Using the alternating direction multiplier method and the loss of the locally linear embedding method for the model training function, the proposed pruning method prunes the operation model mainly by evaluating the similarity of each layer in the network layer filters. According to the pre-set pruning threshold value, similar filters to be pruned are obtained, and the filter with a large cross-entropy value is retained. The results from the Belgium Traffic Sign (BelgiumTS) and German Traffic Sign Recognition Benchmark (GTSRB) datasets indicate that the proposed similarity filter pruning based on local linear embedding (SJ-LLE) pruning algorithm can reduce the number of parameters of the multi-head self-attention module and Multi-layer Perceptron (MLP) module of the ViT model by more than 60%, and the loss of model accuracy is acceptable. The scale of the ViT model is greatly reduced, which is conducive to applying this model in embedded traffic sign recognition equipment. Also, this paper proves the hypothesis through experiments that “using the LLE algorithm as the loss function for model training before pruning plays a positive role in reducing the loss of model performance in the pruning process”.
Embedding a Real-Time Strawberry Detection Model into a Pesticide-Spraying Mobile Robot for Greenhouse Operation
Authors: El Amraoui Khalid , El Ansari Mohamed , Lghoul Mouataz , El Alaoui Mustapha , Abanay Abdelkrim , Jabri Bouazza , Masmoudi Lhoussaine , Valente de Oliveira José
Published: August 2024

The real-time detection of fruits and plants is a crucial aspect of digital agriculture, enhancing farming efficiency and productivity. This study addresses the challenge of embedding a real-time strawberry detection system in a small mobile robot operating within a greenhouse environment. The embedded system is based on the YOLO architecture running in a single GPU card, with the Open Neural Network Exchange (ONNX) representation being employed to accelerate the detection process. The experiments conducted in this study demonstrate that the proposed model achieves a mean average precision (mAP) of over 97%, processing eight frames per second for 512 × 512 pixel images. These results affirm the utility of the proposed approach in detecting strawberry plants in order to optimize the spraying process and avoid inflicting any harm on the plants. The goal of this research is to highlight the potential of integrating advanced detection algorithms into small-scale robotics, providing a viable solution for enhancing precision agriculture practices.
High Frequency Electromagnetic Field Exposure in Paediatric and Female Patients with Implanted Cardiac Pacemaker
Authors: Bacova Frederika , Benova Mariana , Psenakova Zuzana , Smetana Milan , Pacek Miroslav , Ochodnicky Jan
Published: August 2024

This article investigates the effects of electromagnetic field (EMF) from mobile phones on human tissues and implanted medical devices. The intensity of the electric field (E) is evaluated based on simulations and measurements of various exposure scenarios. An area of interest is the case of a person with an implanted device (heart pacemaker) who may be affected by this exposure. Due to the rapid development of communication technologies and the growing awareness of the potential health risks of radio frequency (RF) EMF, the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) has established exposure limits within the European Union. Our study models and analyses EMF values in human tissues in an ideal environment, in a situation where a person uses a mobile phone in the DCS (Digital Cellular System) band, including the case of a person with an implanted pacemaker. Pilot simulations were verified by experimental measurements. Based on them, specific human models with the best matching results were selected for modelling other possible interactions of exogenous EMF and cardiac pacemaker in the same situations and locations.
3D-Printed Conductive Polymers as Alternative for Bioelectrochemical Systems Electrodes: Abiotic Study and Biotic Start-Up
Authors: Mur-Gorgas Alberto , Martínez-Pellitero Susana , Joglar Tamara , Escapa Adrián , Mateos Raúl
Published: August 2024

Despite over two decades of intense research into bioelectrochemical systems (BESs), their practical implementation remains unrealized, partly due to the low performance of bioelectrodes. With the introduction of additive manufacturing techniques, the development of a new generation of bioelectrodes with custom-shaped geometries using conductive composites has become feasible. This study examines the potential of using two conductive composites, Poly-lactic acid (PLA) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), for 3D-printed electrodes. Electrochemical characterization reveals that TPU has a charge transfer resistance approximately two orders of magnitude higher than PLA, rendering it unsuitable for bioelectrodes. The presence of triangular patterns enhances the performance of planar electrodes, with optimal results observed for PLA-based electrodes with surface pattern depths between 0.6 and 1.4 mm. Additionally, electrodeposition (ED) of graphene oxide (GO) further improves performance across all cases. During the subsequent biotic start-up, patterned PLA electrodes with a depth of 1.4 mm exhibit higher current. However, these 3D-printed electrodes exhibit degradation after 56 days of operation.
Response Surface Methodology for Ultrasound-Assisted Oil Extraction Optimization from Blackberry, Chokeberry, and Raspberry Waste Products
Authors: Piasecka Iga , Brzezińska Rita , Wiktor Artur , Górska Agata
Published: August 2024

Berry fruit seeds which are considered as a fruit industry waste product can be a source of oil with unique chemical, physical, and nutritional properties. The blackberry, chokeberry, and raspberry seeds can be perceived as an alternative source of oil. However, conventional oil extraction is merged with financial and environmental expanses. Therefore, alternative extraction methods, ultrasound-assisted, for example, are being gradually introduced to the common practice. The aim of the following study was to determine the optimal conditions of ultrasound-assisted extraction of oil from blackberry, chokeberry, and raspberry seeds in order to obtain oil with high yield and improved oxidative stability. The variables of the experiment were extraction time and ultrasound amplitude. Based on the results, the mathematical models were fit, and optimum conditions of time and amplitude were calculated: 8.20 min and 72.98%, 10.11 min and 59.18%, 8.43 min and 95.57% for blackberry, chokeberry, and raspberry seed oils, respectively. Additionally, oils obtained in the optimized conditions were assessed in differential scanning calorimetry study to evaluate their melting and crystallization characteristics. The results showed that ultrasound application affected thermal properties of oils only slightly. The evaluation of oxidation kinetics led to the conclusion that ultrasound may cause an activation energy increase. Also, the profile of fatty acids and their distribution in triacylglycerol molecules were studied. The output values of experiments were comparable between oils obtained from the same berry seeds. All of the oils were characterized with a high share of polyunsaturated fatty acids (over 70%) with predominant content of linoleic acid. Summarized results show that the ultrasound technique can be successfully applied in the oil extraction procedure. The benefits contain improved yield, longer oxidation induction time, and invariance of the specific oil chemical and physical properties.
Motion of Submerged Body in a Frozen Channel with Compressed Porous Ice
Authors: Sibiryakova Tatyana , Naydenova Kristina , Serykh Kirill , Khabakhpasheva Tatyana
Published: August 2024

The problem of submerged body motion in a frozen channel is considered. The fluid in the channel is assumed to be inviscid and incompressible. Fluid flow is the potential. The ice cover has non-uniform compression along the principal coordinates. The damping of hydroelastic waves generated by the motion of submerged body is modeled by taking into account porosity of ice. The submerged body is modeled as a dipole, the potential of which is determined using mirror images from the channel walls. The main problem of the submerged body motion at constant speed along the central line of the channel is considered. Two subproblems are addressed: comparison of damping effects of the porosity and viscosity of ice and investigation of effects of symmetrically variable ice thickness relative to the central line of the channel. It was found that the most important compressive stress is the stress in the direction of the motion of the submerged body. The speed of the body, which was subcritical for uncompressed ice, may become critical or supercritical. Compressive stresses perpendicular to the direction of motion do not qualitatively change the character of the ice response. These stresses, in combination with compressive stresses along the direction of motion, strengthen the effect of the latter, making the transition from subcritical to supercritical regime faster.
Statistical Cesàro Summability in Intuitionistic Fuzzy n-Normed Linear Spaces Leading towards Tauberian Theorems
Authors: Debnath Pradip
Published: August 2024

The concept of summability is crucial in deriving formal solutions to partial differential equations. This paper explores the connection between the methods of statistical convergence of sequences and statistical Cesàro summability in intuitionistic fuzzy n-normed linear space (IFnNLS). While the existing literature covers Cesàro summability and its statistical variant in fuzzy, intuitionistic fuzzy, and classical normed spaces, this study stands out not only for its methodology but also for its comprehensive approach, encompassing a broader range of spaces and detailing the pathway from the statistical Cesàro summability method to statistical convergence. These results will lead us to Tauberian theorems in IFnNLS.
State-of-Charge and State-of-Health Estimation in Li-Ion Batteries Using Cascade Electrochemical Model-Based Sliding-Mode Observers
Authors: Feng Yong , Xue Chen , Han Fengling , Cao Zhenwei , Yang Rebecca Jing
Published: August 2024

This paper proposes a cascade approach based on a sliding mode observer (SMO) for estimating the state of charge (SoC) and state of health (SoH) of lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries using a single particle model (SPM). After convergence, the observation error signal of the current node in the cascade observer is generated from the output injection signal of the previous node’s observer. The current node’s observer generates its output injection signal, leading to its convergence. This sequential process accurately determines the observed values of each node using only the battery’s current and voltage. Subsequently, the SoC and SoH are estimated using observations of lithium-ion concentrations on the surface and inside the battery anode. The accuracy of this approach is validated using Dynamic Stress Test (DST) and Federal Urban Driving Scheme (FUDS) experimental data. A comparative analysis with conventional SMO and Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) algorithms demonstrates the approach’s effectiveness and superior performance, confirming its practical applicability.
Comparison of Aerodynamic and Elastic Properties in Tissue and Synthetic Models of Vocal Fold Vibrations
Authors: Michaud-Dorko Jacob , Farbos de Luzan Charles , Dion Gregory R. , Gutmark Ephraim , Oren Liran
Published: August 2024

Three laryngeal models were used to investigate the aerodynamic and elastic properties of vocal fold vibration: cadaveric human, excised canine, and synthetic silicone vocal folds. The aim was to compare the characteristics of these models to enhance our understanding of phonatory mechanisms. Flow and medial glottal wall geometry were acquired via particle image velocimetry. Elastic properties were assessed from force–displacement tests. Relatively, the human larynges had higher fundamental frequency values, while canine and synthetic models exhibited greater flow rates. Canine models demonstrated the highest divergence angles and vertical stiffness gradients followed by the human model, both displaying flow separation vortices during closing. Synthetic models, whose advantage is their accessibility and repeatability, displayed the lowest glottal divergence angles and total circulation values compared to tissue models with no flow separation vortices. The elasticity tests revealed that tissue models showed significant hysteresis and vertical stiffness gradients, unlike the synthetic models. These results underscore the importance of model selection based on specific research needs and highlight the potential of canine and synthetic models for controlled experimental studies in phonation.
Cloning, Expression, and Characterization of a Metalloprotease from Thermophilic Bacterium Streptomyces thermovulgaris
Authors: Mushtaq Amna , Ahmed Sibtain , Mehmood Tahir , Cruz-Reyes Jorge , Jamil Amer , Nawaz Shafaq
Published: August 2024

Proteases hydrolyze proteins and reduce them to smaller peptides or amino acids. Besides many biological processes, proteases play a crucial in different industrial applications. A 792 bp protease gene (nprB) from the thermophilic bacterium Streptomyces thermovulgaris was cloned and expressed in E. coli BL21 using pET 50b (+). Optimal recombinant protease expression was observed at 1 mM IPTG, 37 °C for 4 h. The resulting protease was observed in soluble form. The molecular mass estimated by SDS-PAGE and Western blot analysis of the protease (NprB) fused with His and Nus tag is ~70 KDa. The protease protein was purified by Ammonium sulfate precipitation and immobilized metal ion affinity chromatography. The optimum pH and temperature for protease activity using casein as substrate were 7.2 and 70 °C, respectively. The mature protease was active and retained 80% of its activity in a broad spectrum of pH 6–8 after 4 h of incubation. Also, the half-life of the protease at 70 °C was 4 h. EDTA (5 mM) completely inhibited the enzyme, proving the isolated protease was a metalloprotease. NprB activity was enhanced in the presence of Zn2+, Mn2+, Fe2+ and Ca2+, while Hg2+ and Ni2+ decreased its activity. Exposure to organic solvents did not affect the protease activity. The recombinant protease was stable in the presence of 10% organic solvents and surfactants. Further characterization showed that zinc-metalloprotease is promising for the detergent, laundry, leather, and pharmaceutical industries.
Activation of P2X7 Receptor Mediates the Abnormal Ovulation Induced by Chronic Restraint Stress and Chronic Cold Stress
Authors: Fan Xiang , Wang Jing , Ma Yinyin , Chai Dandan , Han Suo , Xiao Chuyu , Huang Yingtong , Wang Xiaojie , Wang Jianming , Wang Shimeng , Xiao Li , Zhang Chunping
Published: August 2024

Chronic stress has become a major problem that endangers people’s physical and mental health. Studies have shown that chronic stress impairs female reproduction. However, the related mechanism is not fully understood. P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) is involved in a variety of pathological changes induced by chronic stress. Whether P2X7R is involved in the effect of chronic stress on female reproduction has not been studied. In this study, we established a chronic restraint stress mouse model and chronic cold stress mouse model. We found that the number of corpora lutea was significantly reduced in the two chronic stress models. The number of corpora lutea indirectly reflects the ovulation, suggesting that chronic stress influences ovulation. P2X7R expression was significantly increased in ovaries of the two chronic stress models. A superovulation experiment showed that P2X7R inhibitor A-438079 HCL partially rescued the ovulation rate of the two chronic stress models. Further studies showed that activation of P2X7R signaling inhibited the cumulus expansion and promoted the expression of NPPC in granulosa cells, one key negative factor of cumulus expansion. Moreover, sirius red staining showed that the ovarian fibrosis was increased in the two chronic stress models. For the fibrosis-related factors, TGF-β1 was increased and MMP2 was decreased. In vitro studies also showed that activation of P2X7R signaling upregulated the expression of TGF-β1 and downregulated the expression of MMP2 in granulosa cells. In conclusion, P2X7R expression was increased in the ovaries of the chronic restraint-stress and chronic cold-stress mouse models. Activation of P2X7R signaling promoted NPPC expression and cumulus expansion disorder, which contributed to the abnormal ovulation of the chronic stress model. Activation of P2X7R signaling is also associated with the ovarian fibrosis changes in the chronic stress model.
The Morphological and Molecular Characterization of the Avian Trematodes Harrahium obscurum and Morishitium dollfusi (Digenea: Cyclocoelidae) from the Middle Volga Region (European Russia)
Authors: Kirillov Alexander A. , Kirillova Nadezhda Yu. , Shchenkov Sergei V. , Knyazev Alexei E. , Vekhnik Victoria A.
Published: August 2024

The taxonomic status of many species of the family Cyclocoelidae is still unclear. Two species of cyclocoelids, Harrahium obscurum and Morishitium dollfusi, were collected from the air sacs of birds (Turdus merula and Tringa ochropus) inhabiting the Middle Volga region (European Russia). Here, we provide the first detailed morphological description of these cyclocoelids and combine it with the first molecular phylogenetic analysis of Cyclocoelidae from birds in Russia based on partial sequences of their 28s rDNA and coI mtDNA genes. Specimens of both flatworm species from different host individuals differ slightly in body shape and size, which probably reflects host-induced intraspecific variability. For the first time, we have shown that a stable morphological character such as the length of the vitelline fields in the studied digeneans is variable at the species level and cannot be used in their morphological diagnosis.
The Mechanism of the Development and Maintenance of Sexual Dimorphism in the Dioecious Mulberry Plant (Morus alba)
Authors: Shi Yisu , Ackah Michael , Amoako Frank Kwarteng , Zhao Mengdi , van der Puije Grace C. , Zhao Weiguo
Published: August 2024

Intersexual differentiation is crucial for the speciation and maintenance of dioecious plants, but the underlying mechanisms, including the genes involved, are still poorly understood. Here, we focused on a typical dioicous plant Morus alba, to explore the molecular footprints relevant to sex evolution by revealing the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between two sexes and the testing signals of selection for these DEGs. From the results, we found a total of 1543 DEGs. Interestingly, 333 and 66 genes expression were detected only in male and female inflorescences, respectively. Using comparative transcriptomics, the expression of 841 genes were found to be significantly higher in male than in female inflorescences and were mainly enriched in defense-related pathways including the biosynthesis of phenylpropanoids, cutin, suberine and waxes. Meanwhile, the expression of 702 genes was female-biased and largely enriched in pathways related to growth and development, such as carbohydrate metabolism, auxin signaling and cellular responses. In addition, 16.7% and 17.6% signals of selection were significantly detected in female- and male-biased genes, respectively, suggesting their non-negligible role in evolution. Our findings expanded the understanding of the molecular basis of intersexual differentiation and contribute to further research on sex evolution in dioecious plants.
High-Throughput Sequencing Analysis Revealed a Preference for Animal-Based Food in Purple Sea Urchins
Authors: Liu Zerui , Guo Yu , Qin Chuanxin , Mu Xiaohui , Zhang Jia
Published: August 2024

Sea urchins play an important role in marine ecosystems. Owing to limitations in previous research methods, there has been insufficient understanding of the food sources and ecological functional value of purple sea urchins, leading to considerable controversy regarding their functional positioning. We focused on Daya Bay as the research area, utilizing stable isotope technology and high-throughput sequencing of 16S rDNA and 18S rDNA to analyze sea urchins and their potential food sources in stone and algae areas. The results showed that the δ13C range of purple sea urchins in the stone area is −11.42~−8.17‰, and the δ15N range is 9.15~10.31‰. However, in the algal area, the δ13C range is −13.97~−12.44‰, and the δ15N range is 8.75~10.14‰. There was a significant difference in δ13C between the two areas (p < 0.05), but there was no significant difference in δ15N (p > 0.05). The main food source for purple sea urchins in both areas is sediment. The sequencing results of 18S rDNA revealed that, in the algal area, the highest proportion in the sea urchin gut was Molluska (57.37%). In the stone area, the highest proportion was Arthropoda (76.71%). The sequencing results of 16S rDNA revealed that, in the algal area, Bacteroidetes was the dominant group in the sea urchin gut (28.87%), whereas, in the stone area, Proteobacteria was the dominant group (37.83%). Diversity detection revealed a significant difference in the number of gut microbes and eukaryotes between the stone and algal areas (p < 0.05). The results revealed that the main food source of purple sea urchins in both areas is sediment, but the organic nutritional value is greater in the algal area, and the richness of microbiota and eukaryotes in the gut of purple sea urchins in the stone area is greater. These results indicated that purple sea urchins are likely omnivores and that the area where they occur impacts their growth and development. The results of this study provide a theoretical basis for the restoration of wild purple sea urchin resources and the selection of areas for restocking and release.
Bioactive Compounds and Probiotics Mitigate Mastitis by Targeting NF-κB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Khan Muhammad Zahoor , Li Liangliang , Wang Tongtong , Liu Xiaotong , Chen Wenting , Ma Qingshan , Zahoor Muhammad , Wang Changfa
Published: August 2024

Mastitis is a significant inflammatory condition of the mammary gland in dairy cows. It is caused by bacterial infections and leads to substantial economic losses worldwide. The disease can be either clinical or sub-clinical and presents challenges such as reduced milk yield, increased treatment costs, and the need to cull affected cows. The pathogenic mechanisms of mastitis involve the activation of Toll-like receptors (TLRs), specifically TLR2 and TLR4. These receptors play crucial roles in recognizing pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and initiating immune responses through the NF-κB signaling pathway. Recent in vitro studies have emphasized the importance of the TLR2/TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in the development of mastitis, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic target. This review summarizes recent research on the role of the TLR2/TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in mastitis. It focuses on how the activation of TLRs leads to the production of proinflammatory cytokines, which, in turn, exacerbate the inflammatory response by activating the NF-κB signaling pathway in mammary gland tissues. Additionally, the review discusses various bioactive compounds and probiotics that have been identified as potential therapeutic agents for preventing and treating mastitis by targeting TLR2/TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway. Overall, this review highlights the significance of targeting the TLR2/TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway to develop effective therapeutic strategies against mastitis, which can enhance dairy cow health and reduce economic losses in the dairy industry.
The Influence of Cecal Microbiota Transplantation on Chicken Injurious Behavior: Perspective in Human Neuropsychiatric Research
Authors: Fu Yuechi , Cheng Heng-Wei
Published: August 2024

Numerous studies have evidenced that neuropsychiatric disorders (mental illness and emotional disturbances) with aggression (or violence) pose a significant challenge to public health and contribute to a substantial economic burden worldwide. Especially, social disorganization (or social inequality) associated with childhood adversity has long-lasting effects on mental health, increasing the risk of developing neuropsychiatric disorders. Intestinal bacteria, functionally as an endocrine organ and a second brain, release various immunomodulators and bioactive compounds directly or indirectly regulating a host’s physiological and behavioral homeostasis. Under various social challenges, stress-induced dysbiosis increases gut permeability causes serial reactions: releasing neurotoxic compounds, leading to neuroinflammation and neuronal injury, and eventually neuropsychiatric disorders associated with aggressive, violent, or impulsive behavior in humans and various animals via a complex bidirectional communication of the microbiota–gut–brain (MGB) axis. The dysregulation of the MGB axis has also been recognized as one of the reasons for the prevalence of social stress-induced injurious behaviors (feather pecking, aggression, and cannibalistic pecking) in chickens. However, existing knowledge of preventing and treating these disorders in both humans and chickens is not well understood. In previous studies, we developed a non-mammal model in an abnormal behavioral investigation by rationalizing the effects of gut microbiota on injurious behaviors in chickens. Based on our earlier success, the perspective article outlines the possibility of reducing stress-induced injurious behaviors in chickens through modifying gut microbiota via cecal microbiota transplantation, with the potential for providing a biotherapeutic rationale for preventing injurious behaviors among individuals with mental disorders via restoring gut microbiota diversity and function.
Open Surgical Conversion of Popliteal Endograft Infection: Case Reports and Literature Review
Authors: Ascione Marta , Dajci Ada , Cangiano Rocco , Marzano Antonio , Molinari Andrea , Miceli Francesca , Di Girolamo Alessia , Leanza Cristiana , Oliva Alessandra , Di Marzo Luca , Mansour Wassim
Published: August 2024

Background: Endovascular treatment of popliteal aneurysms (PA) has increased in the last few years, quickly becoming the main treatment performed in many vascular centers, based on the acceptable and promising outcomes reported in the literature. However, endograft infections after endovascular popliteal aneurysm repair (EPAR) are the most dangerous complications to occur as they involve serious local compromise and usually require open surgical conversion and device explantation to preserve the affected extremity. Case report: We report two patients who were admitted to the emergency room of our hospital for pain and edema in the lower leg. Both patients had undergone exclusion of a ruptured PA a few years before by endovascular graft. CTA testing showed a significant volume of fluid-corpuscular collection related to perianeurysmal abscess collection in both cases. Blood cultures and drained material cultures were positive for Staphylococcus capitis in the first case and S. aureus in the second. Prophylactic antibiotics were administered for 10 days, then patients underwent an open surgical conversion with the complete explantation of endovascular material and a femoro-popliteal bypass using an autologous vein in the first case and a biological bovine pericardium prosthesis in the second case. The infective department of our hospital had defined a discharged specific antibiotic therapy for each patient, based on intraoperative microbiological samples. Furthermore, we have examined the literature and found six more cases described in case report articles that refer to popliteal graft infections by different microorganisms, mostly presenting acute limb ischemia as the first symptom and suggesting endograft explantation with open conversion and autologous vein bypass as the commonest therapeutic choice. Conclusions: The open surgical conversion of popliteal endograft infection is the best strategy to manage peripheral infection after an endovascular popliteal aneurysm repair procedure.
Deep Learning Radiomics Features of Mediastinal Fat and Pulmonary Nodules on Lung CT Images Distinguish Benignancy and Malignancy
Authors: Qi Hongzhuo , Xuan Qifan , Liu Pingping , An Yunfei , Huang Wenjuan , Miao Shidi , Wang Qiujun , Liu Zengyao , Wang Ruitao
Published: August 2024

This study investigated the relationship between mediastinal fat and pulmonary nodule status, aiming to develop a deep learning-based radiomics model for diagnosing benign and malignant pulmonary nodules. We proposed a combined model using CT images of both pulmonary nodules and the fat around the chest (mediastinal fat). Patients from three centers were divided into training, validation, internal testing, and external testing sets. Quantitative radiomics and deep learning features from CT images served as predictive factors. A logistic regression model was used to combine data from both pulmonary nodules and mediastinal adipose regions, and personalized nomograms were created to evaluate the predictive performance. The model incorporating mediastinal fat outperformed the nodule-only model, with C-indexes of 0.917 (training), 0.903 (internal testing), 0.942 (external testing set 1), and 0.880 (external testing set 2). The inclusion of mediastinal fat significantly improved predictive performance (NRI = 0.243, p < 0.05). A decision curve analysis indicated that incorporating mediastinal fat features provided greater patient benefits. Mediastinal fat offered complementary information for distinguishing benign from malignant nodules, enhancing the diagnostic capability of this deep learning-based radiomics model. This model demonstrated strong diagnostic ability for benign and malignant pulmonary nodules, providing a more accurate and beneficial approach for patient care.
Automated Uniform Spheroid Generation Platform for High Throughput Drug Screening Process
Authors: Pong Kelvin C. C. , Lai Yuen Sze , Wong Roy Chi Hang , Lee Alan Chun Kit , Chow Sam C. T. , Lam Jonathan C. W. , Ho Ho Pui , Wong Clarence T. T.
Published: August 2024

Three-dimensional (3D) spheroid models are crucial for cancer research, offering more accurate insights into tumour biology and drug responses than traditional 2D cell cultures. However, inconsistent and low-throughput spheroid production has hindered their application in drug screening. Here, we present an automated high-throughput platform for a spheroid selection, fabrication, and sorting system (SFSS) to produce uniform gelatine-encapsulated spheroids (GESs) with high efficiency. SFSS integrates advanced imaging, analysis, photo-triggered fabrication, and microfluidic sorting to precisely control spheroid size, shape, and viability. Our data demonstrate that our SFSS can produce over 50 GESs with consistent size and circularity in 30 min with over 97% sorting accuracy while maintaining cell viability and structural integrity. We demonstrated that the GESs can be used for drug screening and potentially for various assays. Thus, the SFSS could significantly enhance the efficiency of generating uniform spheroids, facilitating their application in drug development to investigate complex biological systems and drug responses in a more physiologically relevant context.
Aspects of Movement Ecology and Habitat Use of Migratory Raptors Using Satellite Telemetry from India to Central Asia
Authors: Ram Mohan , Gadhavi Devesh , Sahu Aradhana , Srivastava Nityanand , Rather Tahir Ali , Modi Vidhi , Patel Akshita , Jhala Lahar , Zala Yashpal , Jhala Dushyantsinh
Published: August 2024

Single individuals of the Greater Spotted Eagle (Clanga clanga), Indian Spotted Eagle (Clanga hastata), Tawny Eagle (Aquila rapax), Western Marsh Harrier (Circus aeruginosus), and two Pallid Harriers (Circus macrourus) were deployed with satellite transmitters in 2021 to study their home ranges, habitat associations, movement, and migration patterns. Data were collected for a combined number of 2291 days, providing 84,544 locations. Home ranges were calculated as kernel utilization distributions and expressed as 95% KDE and core areas as 50% KDE. Overall, eagles had larger home ranges (mean ± SD) of 942.70 ± 937.83 km2 compared to harriers, 43.84 ± 35.55 km2. Among eagles, the Greater Spotted Eagle had the largest home-range size of 2147.03 km2 calculated in Kazakhstan, while the female Pallid Harrier had the smallest home range of 5.74 km2 in Russia. Daily and monthly distances varied among eagles and harriers. The female Pallid Harrier covered the longest average monthly distance of 8585.43 ± 11,943.39 km, while the shortest monthly distance of 1338.22 ± 716.38 km was traveled by the Indian Spotted Eagle. All tagged birds migrated toward higher latitudes in the Northern hemisphere, except the Indian Spotted Eagle, which migrated to Pakistan. The male Western Marsh Harrier covered the longest migration distance in a shorter span of time, while the female Pallid Harrier took the longest to cover its migration distance. Overall, the daily distance covered during migration varied from 115.09 km traveled by the Indian Spotted Eagle to an overwhelming distance of 2035.85 km covered by the male Western Marsh Harrier. Scrubs, water bodies, croplands, and settlements were important habitat features associated with eagles, while croplands, open scrub, and built-up areas were associated with the female Pallid Harrier. The male Western Marsh Harrier was found to be primarily associated with saltpans and salt-affected areas having emergent vegetation. This study presents new insights into the movement and spatial ecology of long-distance migrant raptors that winter in Western India. We provide preliminary support for the use of the Western Circum–Himalayan Corridor as one of the important corridors of the Central Asian Flyway that warrants much appreciation among the current set of flyway corridors.
Impaired Face Feature-to-Location Statistical Learning and Single-Feature Discrimination in Developmental Prosopagnosia
Authors: Towler John R. , Morgan Daniel , Davies-Thompson Jodie
Published: August 2024

Individuals with developmental prosopagnosia (DP) experience severe face memory deficits that are often accompanied by impairments in face perception. Images of human facial features are better discriminated between when they are presented in the locations on the visual field that they typically appear in while viewing human faces in daily life, than in locations which they do not typically appear (i.e., better performance for eyes in the upper visual field, and better performance for mouths in the lower visual field). These feature-to-location tuning effects (FLEs) can be explained by a retinotopically organised visual statistical learning mechanism. We had a large group of DP participants (N = 64), a control group (N = 74) and a group of individuals with a mild form of DP (N = 58) complete a single-feature discrimination task to determine whether face perception deficits in DP can be accounted for by an impairment in face feature-to-location tuning. The results showed that individuals with DP did not have significant FLEs, suggesting a marked impairment in the underlying visual statistical learning mechanism. In contrast, the mild DP group showed normal FLE effects which did not differ from the control group. Both DP groups had impaired single-feature processing (SFP) as compared to the control group. We also examined the effects of age on FLEs and SFP.
Combined Microsurgical and Endovascular Intracranial Aneurysm Treatment: Interdisciplinary Experience Using a True Hybrid Approach and a Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Ulmer Sabrina , Gruber Philipp , Schubert Gerrit A. , Remonda Luca , Marbacher Serge , Grüter Basil E.
Published: August 2024

(1) Background: Most intracranial aneurysms (IAs) can be treated either with microsurgical clipping or endovascular techniques. In a few cases, simultaneous treatment utilizing both modalities in a hybrid operation room may be favorable. This study analyzes the indication and benefits of a true hybrid approach (tHA) that combines simultaneous endovascular and microsurgical procedures for treatment of IAs in one session. (2) Methods: All patients receiving a true hybrid procedure between 2010 and 2022 in our institution were included. Demographic characteristics, neurological symptoms, pre-interventional treatments, angiographic findings, and postoperative clinical and radiological outcomes were analyzed. Results are discussed in the light of a systematic literature review on reported true hybrid procedures for IA treatment. (3) Results: In total, 10 tHAs were performed. Of these, coiling and concomitant decompressive craniectomy or hematoma evacuation was performed on six occasions. In two patients, multiple IAs were treated with different modalities during the same procedure. In two patients, intraoperative conditions did not allow for complete IA clipping, and the remnant was coiled in the same session. The review of the literature revealed nine papers comprising 58 IAs treated with a tHA. (4) Conclusions: The need for a tHA for IA treatment is rare and limited to highly selective cases. In our experience, tHAs have been most valuable in an emergency setting concerning ruptured IAs. Furthermore, tHAs may also be considered in patients with multiple aneurysms in different vascular territories.