bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combining multiomics to analyze the molecular mechanism of hair follicle cycle change in cashmere goats from Inner Mongolia
Authors: Zhang Chongyan , Qin Qing , Liu Zhichen , Wang Yichuan , Lan Mingxi , Zhao Dan , Zhang Jingwen , Wang Zhixin , Li Jinquan , Liu Zhihong
Published: July 2024

Sheep body size can directly reflect the growth rates and fattening rates of sheep and is also an important index for measuring the growth performance of meat sheep.Inner Mongolia Cashmere Goat is a local excellent breed of cashmere and meat dual-purpose, which is a typical heterogeneous indumentum. The hair follicles cycle through periods of vigorous growth (anagen), a regression caused by apoptosis (catagen), and relative rest (telogen). At present, it is not clear which genes affect the cycle transformation of hair follicles and unclear how proteins impact the creation and expansion of hair follicles.we using multi-omics joint analysis methodologies to investigated the possible pathways of transformation and apoptosis in goat hair follicles. The results showed that 917,1,187, and 716 proteins were specifically expressed in anagen, catagen andtelogen. The result of gene ontology (GO) annotation showed that differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) are in different growth cycle periods, and enriched GO items are mostly related to the transformation of cells and proteins. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment result indicated that the apoptosis process has a great impact on hair follicle’s growth cycle. The results of the protein interaction network of differential proteins showed that the ribosomal protein family (RPL4, RPL8, RPS16, RPS18, RPS2, RPS27A, RPS3) was the core protein in the network. The results of combined transcriptome and proteomics analysis showed that there were 16,34, and 26 overlapped DEGs and DEPs in the comparison of anagen VS catagen, catagen VS telogen and anagen VS telogen, of which API5 plays an important role in regulating protein and gene expression levels. We focused on API5 and Ribosomal protein and found that API5 affected the apoptosis process of hair follicles, and ribosomal protein was highly expressed in the resting stage of hair follicles. They are both useful as molecular marker candidate genes to study hair follicle growth and apoptosis,and they both have an essential function in the cycle transition process of hair follicles. The results of this study may provide a theoretical basis for further research on the growth and development of hair follicles in Inner Mongolian Cashmere goats.
Exogenous Melatonin Alleviates Selenium Stress and Promotes Its Uptake in Cyphomandra betacea Sendt. (Solanum betaceum Cav.)
Authors: Wang Xun , Du Ruimin , Dai Jingtong , Xiao Yunying , Dai Zhen , Zhang Dilian , Lin Lijin
Published: July 2024

An excess of selenium (Se) can cause toxicity to plants. Treatment with melatonin (MT) can alleviate the stress conditions in plants. Limited research exists on the impact of MT on Se stress and uptake in fruit trees. To address Se stress and enhance Se accumulation in Cyphomandra betacea Sendt. (Solanum betaceum Cav.), the effects of exogenous MT (50–200 µmol L−1) on C. betacea growth and Se accumulation under Se stress were studied. MT increased the biomass, photosynthetic pigments levels, and peroxidase activity of C. betacea under Se stress. Only at concentrations of 150 and 200 µmol L−1 did MT increase superoxide dismutase and catalase activities, as well as soluble protein content in C. betacea leaves. MT treatment also boosted the Se content and bioconcentration factor of C. betacea under Se stress while reducing the translocation factor. The dose of MT was directly related to the Se content, and the highest levels of Se in roots and shoots were observed at 150 µmol L−1, which was an increase of 114% and 60%, respectively, compared with the control. In addition, correlation, principal component, cluster, grey, and path analyses revealed a strong correlation between root Se content and shoot biomass with the shoot Se content. Therefore, MT treatment can mitigate Se stress and enhance Se uptake in C. betacea, and the most effective dose of MT is 150 µmol L−1.
Effects of Biochar on Gaseous Carbon and Nitrogen Emissions in Paddy Fields: A Review
Authors: Sun Yidi , Wang Xuetao , Yang Chenxia , Xin Xiaoping , Zheng Junlin , Zong Tao , Dou Chaoyin
Published: July 2024

The paddy field is a major source of gaseous carbon and nitrogen emissions, and reducing these emissions is of great significance for mitigating greenhouse effects and non-point source pollution in farmland. Biochar, derived from agricultural waste, possesses a stable structure, large specific surface area, abundant pore structures, and surface functional groups. These characteristics could enhance soil physicochemical properties and microbial activity, thereby facilitating the dual goals of increasing crop yield and reducing emissions. Based on numerous studies, this review summarizes the effects of biochar on the emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and ammonia volatilization (NH3), as well as on global warming potential (GWP) and greenhouse gas emission intensity (GHGI). It elucidates the mechanism of emission reduction by biochar amendment from the perspective of carbon and nitrogen conversion processes and soil physicochemical and biological properties. Numerous studies showed the application of 5~40 t ha−1 biochar reduced CO2, CH4, N2O, and NH3 emissions by 1.64~89.6%, 8.6~89.6%, 10~90%, and 12.27~53%, respectively. A small number of studies found that the application of 5~48 t ha−1 biochar increased CO2, CH4, N2O, and NH3 emissions by 12~37%, 19.85~176%, 13~84.23%, and 5.47~70.9%, respectively. Most scholars have found that biochar has varying degrees of emission reduction capabilities in different parts of the world. Therefore, future research directions have been suggested for utilizing biochar to reduce carbon and nitrogen emissions in paddy fields.
Investigation through Animal–Computer Interaction: A Proof-of-Concept Study for the Behavioural Experimentation of Colour Vision in Zoo-Housed Primates
Authors: Goulart Vinícius Donisete Lima Rodrigues , Young Robert John
Published: July 2024

Zoos are an important repository of animals, which have a wide range of visual systems, providing excellent opportunities to investigate many comparative questions in sensory ecology. However, behavioural testing must be carried out in an animal welfare-friendly manner, which is practical for zoo staff. Here, we present a proof-of-concept study to facilitate behavioural research on the sensory ecology of captive primates. A system consisting of a tablet computer and an automated feeder connected wirelessly was developed and presented to captive primate species to evaluate interactions with and without previous training. A colour stimulus, analogous to the Ishihara test, was used to check the level of interaction with the device, supporting future studies on sensory ecology with zoo animals. Animals were able to use the system successfully and displayed signs of learning to discriminate between the visual stimuli presented. We identified no risk for small primates in their interactions with the experimental setup without the presence of keepers. The use of electronic devices should be approached with caution to prevent accidents, as a standard practice for environmental enrichment for larger animals (e.g., spider monkeys). In the long term, the system developed here will allow us to address complex comparative questions about the functions of different visual systems in captive animals (i.e., dichromatic, trichromatic, etc.).
Surveillance of Antimicrobial Resistance in the ECOWAS Region: Setting the Scene for Critical Interventions Needed
Authors: Aboushady Ahmed Taha , Manigart Olivier , Sow Abdourahmane , Fuller Walter , Ouedraogo Abdoul-Salam , Ebruke Chinelo , Babin François-Xavier , Gahimbare Laetitia , Sombié Issiaka , Stelling John
Published: July 2024

Antimicrobial resistance poses a significant challenge to public health globally, leading to increased morbidity and mortality. AMR surveillance involves the systematic collection, analysis, and interpretation of data on the occurrence and distribution of AMR in humans, animals, and the environment for action. The West African Health Organization, part of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), is committed to addressing AMR in the region. This paper examines the status of AMR surveillance in ECOWAS countries using available WHO data from the TrACSS survey and GLASS enrollments. The analysis reveals that while progress has been made, significant challenges remain. Twelve of the fifteen ECOWAS countries are enrolled in GLASS, and ten have developed national action plans (NAPs) for AMR. However, there is a need to ensure all countries fully implement their NAPs, continue reporting to GLASS, and use the data for evidence-based actions and decision making. Surveillance systems for AMR and antimicrobial consumption/use vary across countries with some demonstrating limited capacity. All countries, except Cabo Verde, reported having a reference laboratory for AMR testing. Strengthening laboratory capabilities, data management and use, and multisectoral coordination are crucial for effective AMR surveillance and response. Based on the findings and the regional context, it is essential to prioritize capacity building, data utilization, and the adoption of standardized guidelines for AMR surveillance. Collaboration among ECOWAS countries, the WAHO, and international partners is essential to address AMR comprehensively. Ensuring a consistent supply of essential antimicrobial medications and reagents is vital.
Screening and Evaluation of Potential Efflux Pump Inhibitors with a Seaweed Compound Diphenylmethane-Scaffold against Drug-Resistant Escherichia coli
Authors: Lu Wen-Jung , Lian Yu-Wei , Chang Chun-Ju , Lin Hsuan-Ju , Huang Chian-Yun , Hsu Pang-Hung , Lin Hong-Ting
Published: July 2024

Drug-resistant efflux pumps play a crucial role in bacterial antibiotic resistance. In this study, potential efflux pump inhibitors (EPIs) with a diphenylmethane scaffold were screened and evaluated against drug-resistant Escherichia coli. Twenty-four compounds were docked against the drug-binding site of E. coli multidrug transporter AcrB, and 2,2-diphenylethanol (DPE), di-p-tolyl-methanol (DPT), and 4-(benzylphenyl) acetonitrile (BPA) were screened for their highest binding free energy. The modulation assay was further used for EPI evaluation, revealing that DPE, DPT, and BPA could reduce the drug IC50 value in E. coli strains overexpressing AcrB, indicating their modulation activity. Only DPE and BPA enhanced intracellular dye accumulation and inhibited the efflux of ethidium bromide and erythromycin. In addition, DPE and BPA showed an elevated post-antibiotic effect on drug-resistant E. coli, and they did not damage the permeability of the bacterial outer membrane. The cell toxicity test showed that DPE and BPA had limited human-cell toxicity. Therefore, DPE and BPA demonstrate efflux pump inhibitory activity, and they should be further explored as potential enhancers to improve the effectiveness of existing antibiotics against drug-resistant E. coli.
Application of Autonomous Mobile Robot as a Substitute for Human Factor in Order to Increase Efficiency and Safety in a Company
Authors: Kubasáková Iveta , Kubáňová Jaroslava , Benčo Dominik , Fábryová Nikola
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we will compare two solution options to determine whether the deployment of an autonomous mobile robot will be a beneficial investment for a company not only in terms of cost, time, and manpower savings, but also in terms of efficiency and reliability in the implementation of selected logistics processes to ensure the smooth running of production. In this paper, we would like to analyse the technology in terms of functions, carrying capacity, and interconnection within the infrastructure in the enterprise. The logistics processes from material order to export to the final customer will be analysed when an automatically controlled robot is deployed. One of the solutions discusses the use of personnel and material handling equipment (tractor with transport kit). The second solution discusses the deployment of the robot and selected logistics processes. The paper concludes with a summary of both options in terms of time, cost, and efficiency of the solution.
Method for Recognition of Communication Interference Signals under Small-Sample Conditions
Authors: Ge Rong , Li Yusheng , Zhu Yonggang , Zhang Xiuzai , Zhang Kai , Chen Minghu
Published: July 2024

To address the difficulty in obtaining a large number of labeled jamming signals in complex electromagnetic environments, this paper proposes a small-sample communication jamming signal recognition method based on WDCGAN-SA (Wasserstein Deep Convolution Generative Adversarial Network–Self Attention) and C-ResNet (Convolution Block Attention Module–Residual Network). Firstly, leveraging the DCGAN architecture, we integrate the Wasserstein distance measurement and gradient penalty mechanism to design the jamming signal generation model WDCGAN for data augmentation. Secondly, we introduce a self-attention mechanism to make the generation model focus on global correlation features in time–frequency maps while optimizing training strategies to enhance the quality of generated samples. Finally, real samples are mixed with generated samples and fed into the classification network, incorporating cross-channel and spatial information in the classification network to improve jamming signal recognition rates. The simulation results demonstrate that under small-sample conditions with a Jamming-to-Noise Ratio (JNR) ranging from −10 dB to 10 dB, the proposed algorithm significantly outperforms GAN, WGAN and DCGAN comparative algorithms in recognizing six types of communication jamming signals.
Study of the Mechanical Behavior of a Single-Cylinder Horizontal Steam Engine with a Crosshead Trunk Guide through the Finite-Element Method
Authors: Rojas-Sola José Ignacio , Barranco-Molina Juan Carlos
Published: July 2024

This article analyzes the mechanical behavior of a single-cylinder horizontal steam engine with a crosshead trunk guide designed by Henry Muncaster. This double-acting steam engine was incorporated as an engine in various means of locomotion, and its drawings were published in Model Engineer magazine in 1957. This historical invention, for which there is no detailed information about its operation, presents great complexity because of the large number of components (44) of which it consists, transforming the reciprocating movement into rotary movement. The research carried out consisted of carrying out a linear static analysis in two critical positions (lower dead center and upper dead center) and determining the optimal range of working pressures in order to achieve a safety factor located in the optimal design range with values between 2 and 4. This linear static analysis was carried out using the Stress Analysis module of the Autodesk Inventor Professional 2024 software, applying the finite-element method (FEM). The results obtained regarding the von Mises stresses, displacements, and safety factors confirm that the optimal range of working pressures (maximum admissible steam pressure during admission) is between the values of 0.165 and 0.320 MPa.
CNN-BiLSTM-DNN-Based Modulation Recognition Algorithm at Low SNR
Authors: Zhang Xueqin , Luo Zhongqiang , Xiao Wenshi
Published: July 2024

Radio spectrum resources are very limited and have become increasingly tight in recent years, and the exponential growth of various frequency-using devices has led to an increasingly complex and changeable electromagnetic environment. Wireless channel complexity and uncertainty have increased dramatically, and automated modulation recognition (AMR) performs poorly at low signal-to-noise ratios. It is proposed to use convolutional bidirectional long short-term memory deep neural networks (CNN-BiLSTM-DNNs) as a deep learning framework to extract features from single and mixed in-phase/orthogonal (I/Q) symbols in modulated data. The framework combines the capabilities of one- and two-dimensional convolution, a bidirectional long short-term memory network, and a deep neural network more efficiently, extracting characteristics from the perspective of time and space to enhance the accuracy of automatic modulation recognition. Modulation recognition experiments on the benchmark datasets RML2016.10b and RML2016.10a show that the average recognition accuracies of the proposed model from −20 dB to 18 dB are 64.76% and 62.73%, respectively, and the improvement ranges of modulation recognition accuracy are 0.29−5.56% and 0.32−4.23% when the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is −10 dB to 4 dB, respectively. The CNN-BiLSTM-DNN model outperforms classical models such as MCLDNN, MCNet, CGDNet, ResNet, and IC-AMCNet in terms of modulation type recognition accuracy.
Development Models of Stoichiometric Thermodynamic Equilibrium for Predicting Gas Composition from Biomass Gasification: Correction Factors for Reaction Equilibrium Constants
Authors: Suparmin Prayudi , Nelwan Leopold Oscar , Mardjan Sutrisno S. , Purwanti Nanik
Published: July 2024

A complex thermochemical process during biomass gasification includes many chemical reactions. Therefore, a stoichiometric model can be applied to predict the composition of the producer gas during gasification. However, the prediction of methane and hydrogen gas is still limited by a significant margin using the present stoichiometric models. The purpose of this research was to develop novel stoichiometric models that account for the reaction equilibrium constant with correction factors. The new models would enable forecasting of the composition of CO, CO2, CH4, H2, N2, tar, lower heating value (LHV), and cold gasification efficiency (CGE). Model development consisted of two stages, whereas the development of the models and their validation adopted an artificial neural network (ANN) approach. The first stage was calculating new correction factors and defining the new equilibrium constants. The results were six stoichiometric models (M1–M6) with four sets of correction factors (A–D) that built up the new equilibrium constants. The second stage was validating the models and evaluating their accuracy. Validation was performed by the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), whereas accuracy was evaluated using a paired t-test. The developed models predicted the composition of the producer gas with an RMSE of less than 3.5% and ΔH-value of less than 0. The models did not only predict the composition of the producer gas, but they also predicted the tar concentration. The maximum tar concentration was predicted by M2C with 98.733 g/Nm3 at O/C 0.644, H/C 1.446, ER 0.331, and T 923 K. The composition of producer gases (CO, CO2, H2, and N2) was accurately predicted by models M1D, M2C, and M3C. This research introduces new models with variables N/C, O/C, H/C, ER, and T to simulate the composition of CO, CO2, CH4, H2, N2, and LHV-gas, with R2 > 0.9354, tar (C6H6)-R2 of 0.8638, and CGE-R2 of 0.8423. This research also introduces correction factors and a new empirical correlation for the reaction equilibrium constants in new stoichiometric models using steam reforming.
Serum Tumor Necrosis Factor-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand and the Cardiovascular Disease Continuum: Insights from Hypertensive Urgencies and Acute Heart Failure Events
Authors: Vîlcea Anamaria , Borta Simona Maria , Pop Moldovan Adina , Osser Gyongyi , Dărăbanțiu Dan , Bănățean-Dunea Ioan , Pușchiță Maria
Published: July 2024

Background: Although TRAIL is a potent propapoptotic factor, its role in cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains unclear. This pilot exploratory study investigated serum TRAIL changes along the CVD continuum. We focused on two successive phases of this spectrum (systemic arterial hypertension and heart failure), with emphasis on acute cardiac events due to their immediate clinical significance. Methods: The study population included 90 age- and sex-matched patients hospitalized with hypertensive urgencies (HTUs) or acute decompensation episodes (ADHF). Key echocardiographic, endothelial, cardiometabolic, renal, and liver markers were assessed alongside TRAIL levels. Results: ADHF patients showed significantly elevated TRAIL concentrations, suggesting a progressive rise in TRAIL levels along the CVD continuum. They exhibited worse cardiac, hematologic, and renal profiles, with longer hospital stays and the cachexic phenotype. TRAIL correlated directly with asymmetric dimethylarginine, C-reactive protein, and admission potassium in ADHF patients. In hypertensive subjects, it correlated directly with asymmetric dimethylarginine and inversely with erythrocyte size variability. TRAIL may, thus, serve as a compensatory mechanism in HF, with potential as a biomarker for acute cardiovascular events. Conclusions: TRAIL dynamics provide valuable insights into CVD pathophysiology, particularly in acute settings, warranting further investigation to clarify its role in the broader context of apoptosis and cardiovascular health.
Influence of Improved Particle Breakage Index on Deformation Strength Characteristics of Soil-Rock Mixtures
Authors: Xu Ping , Chen Zeliang , Fang Lingyun , Xu Zengguang , Lin Qingwei , Liu Zhilong
Published: July 2024

A large-scale triaxial shear test was performed on a waste slag dam created from the accumulation of waste slag during the construction of a pumped-storage power station. By integrating previous experience, the particle breakage index was refined to study the relationship between particle breakage and the deformation strength characteristics of the soil-rock mixture under different dry densities and stress states. The results show that as the confining pressure increases, various dry densities enhance particle breakage, leading to a transition from initial dilatancy to shear shrinkage in the soil-rock mixture. This change results in a decrease in the nonlinear internal friction angle and a decrease in the shear strength. This research explores the shear failure mechanism caused by the breakage of soil-rock mixtures. Examination of the particle grade before and after shearing shows that the extent of particle breakage expands with higher confining pressure, especially within the 20~60 mm grain size range. The fractal dimension is calculated concurrently, showing a strong correlation with the breakage index. The concepts of the phase transition stress ratio and failure dilatancy ratio were applied to describe the deformation characteristics. Experimental results demonstrate that the influence of the phase transition stress ratio on the dilatancy becomes more significant with increased dry density, yet this effect diminishes with higher confining pressure. As the breakage index increases, the failure dilatancy rate decreases following a power function, resulting in a gradual reduction in the dilatancy phenomenon. Considering the substantial influence of clay particles on the cohesion of the soil-rock mixture and the negligible effect of breakage on fine particles, it is proposed that the cohesion remains unchanged for determining the friction parameter. With increasing breakage index, the internal friction angle decreases nonlinearly, weakening the shear strength. This analysis shows that the refined particle breakage index effectively captures the particle breakage characteristics of soil-rock mixtures, providing valuable insights into the deformation and strength characteristics of engineering structures affected by particle breakage.
Design and Application of High-Density Cold Plasma Devices Based on High Curvature Spiked Tungsten Structured Electrodes
Authors: Weng Haotian , Zhang Yaozhong , Huang Xiaolu , Yuan Hewei , Xu Yang , Li Kun , Tang Yunhui , Zhang Yafei
Published: July 2024

Advances in radar technology have driven efforts to develop effective countermeasures. Plasma is recognized as a highly effective medium for absorbing electromagnetic waves. Recent research has focused on enhancing plasma element performance. This paper achieved ultra-high-density, low-pressure cold plasma with a density of 1.15 × 1012 cm−3, surpassing similar studies by more than an order of magnitude. Tungsten electrodes with high-curvature spiked structures were invented to replace traditional iron–nickel alloy electrodes, increasing plasma density by 88.2% under the same conditions. Lightweight and cost-effective tubular and annular ultra-high-density, low-pressure cold plasma devices were developed, demonstrating exceptional performance in electromagnetic wave absorption, plasma transient antennas, and radar stealth technology. The influence of plasma on electromagnetic waves and its numerical relationship were analyzed. By measuring the radar cross-section (RCS), the reduction in radar detection rates was quantified. The results show that the ultra-high-density cold plasma devices exhibit very low intrinsic RCS values, suitable for plasma antenna applications. The array of plasma elements generates a large-area high-density low-pressure cold plasma. This plasma effectively reduces the radar cross-section (RCS) of metallic equipment in the S and C bands and shows attenuation in the X band. These effects highlight the superior characteristics of plasma technology in electronic warfare. This exploratory research lays the groundwork for further defense applications.
Perception and Effectiveness of Environmental Education for Tourists under Spatial Perspective: A Case Study of Wuyi Mountain National Park
Authors: Chi Mengwei , Lin Cuize , Liu Jiayi , Liao Lingyun , Lan Siren
Published: July 2024

National parks are important spatial places for environmental education. To improve the perception and effectiveness of environmental education, it is critical to facilitate the public’s spatial experience. To explore influencing factors of perception and effectiveness of environmental education from a spatial perspective is of great significance for stimulating the public’s pro-environmental behavior and promoting the high-quality development of environmental education in national parks. Educational mode plays an important role in environmental education space, and spatial element is also an important part of it. In this study, Wuyi Mountain National Park was selected as a sample to explore whether educational methods and spatial elements affect the perception and effectiveness of environmental education through questionnaires and statistical methods. The results show that: (1) tourists prefer guided education mode, open space and road with interactive facilities and characteristic paving; (2) both educational modes and spatial elements have positive influence on the perception and effectiveness of environmental education; (3) educational mode and environmental education effectiveness are affected by the demographic characteristics, of which educational background is the main influencing factor. After analysis, it is suggested that when environmental education space is designed, tourists’ preference should be considered and personalized environmental education program should be customized, so as to improve the readability of environmental education space, and provide reference and support for strengthening the environmental education function of national parks.
Optimization of Extraction Parameters to Enhance the Antioxidant Properties of Pyrus spinosa Fruit Extract
Authors: Kotsou Konstantina , Papagiannoula Anna , Chatzimitakos Theodoros , Athanasiadis Vassilis , Bozinou Eleni , Sfougaris Athanassios I. , Lalas Stavros I.
Published: July 2024

Pyrus spinosa (PS), also known as wild pear, is an indigenous species to the Mediterranean basin. It has attracted interest for its potential use in the food and beverage industries due to its antioxidant properties. This research aims to develop an antioxidant-rich PS fruit extract by optimizing the extraction parameters. More specifically, through a comprehensive study of the extraction parameters (including extraction duration, temperature, and ethanol concentration), the optimal conditions were determined that can achieve the highest antioxidant properties. High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) was employed for the identification and quantitation of the polyphenolic compounds present in PS fruits. The optimized extraction conditions significantly enhanced the antioxidant properties of the extract, with the total polyphenol content increasing by up to 345% (reaching a value of 50.97 mg gallic acid equivalents per g of dry weight in the optimum sample), total flavonoid content by up to 273%, and ascorbic acid content by up to 653%. Furthermore, the antioxidant capacity of the extracts increased by 2356% (by FRAP method) and 1622% (by the DPPH method), with varying extraction parameters. These findings highlight the importance and the effectiveness of optimizing the extraction parameters in order to increase the antioxidant properties of PS fruit extract. Based on these findings, PS extracts can be further utilized in the food and beverage industries to develop new products that will benefit from the antioxidant properties.
Handedness in Animals and Plants
Authors: Guerra Silvia , Castiello Umberto , Bonato Bianca , Dadda Marco
Published: July 2024

Structural and functional asymmetries are traceable in every form of life, and some lateralities are homologous. Functionally speaking, the division of labour between the two halves of the brain is a basic characteristic of the nervous system that arose even before the appearance of vertebrates. The most well-known expression of this specialisation in humans is hand dominance, also known as handedness. Even if hand/limb/paw dominance is far more commonly associated with the presence of a nervous system, it is also observed in its own form in aneural organisms, such as plants. To date, little is known regarding the possible functional significance of this dominance in plants, and many questions remain open (among them, whether it reflects a generalised behavioural asymmetry). Here, we propose a comparative approach to the study of handedness, including plants, by taking advantage of the experimental models and paradigms already used to study laterality in humans and various animal species. By taking this approach, we aim to enrich our knowledge of the concept of handedness across natural kingdoms.
Olfactory Function as a Potential Predictor of Cognitive Impairment in Men and Women
Authors: Masala Carla , Loy Francesco , Pinna Ilenia , Manis Nicoletta Aurora , Ercoli Tommaso , Solla Paolo
Published: July 2024

Background: Different previous studies indicated olfactory function as a predictor of several types of cognitive impairment, in particular related to neurodegenerative disease. However, scanty data are available on the role of odor threshold (OT), odor discrimination (OD), and odor identification (OI) as a predictor of cognitive impairment. The aim of this study was to evaluate potential correlations between each factor of the olfactory function versus each specific cognitive domain of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) test on healthy subjects in relation to gender and age. Methods: Sniffin’ Sticks and MoCA tests were used to determine olfactory function and cognitive abilities, respectively. Results: In men, significant correlations were found in OT versus language index score and OI versus language and executive index score, while in women, OD and OI were correlated to visuospatial index score. Conclusions: Our data suggested that olfactory function (OT, OD, and OI) may be considered a predictor for cognitive impairment in relation to gender and age.
Blood Plasma Markers in Depressed Mice under Chronic Social Defeat Stress
Authors: Smagin Dmitry A. , Bezryadnov Dmitry V. , Zavialova Maria G. , Abramova Anastasia Yu. , Pertsov Sergey S. , Kudryavtseva Natalia N.
Published: July 2024

It has previously been shown that, in mice, chronic social defeat stress in daily agonistic interactions leads to a depression-like state similar to that in depressive patients. With this model, it has become obvious that it is possible to study peripheral markers of the depression-like state in an experiment. This paper was aimed at searching for protein markers in the blood plasma of depressed mice in the chronic social conflict model, which allows for us to obtain male mice with repeated experiences of defeat. Proteomic analysis of blood plasma samples was conducted to identify proteins differentially expressed in this state. There were changes in the expression levels of the amyloid proteins SAA1, SAA4, and SAMP and apolipoproteins APOC3, APOD, and ADIPO in the blood plasma of depressed mice compared with controls (unstressed mice). Changes in the expression of serine protease inhibitors and/or proteins associated with lipid metabolism, inflammation, or immune function [ITIH4, SPA3, A1AT5, HTP (HP), CO9, and A2MG] were also found. Here, we showed that chronic social stress is accompanied by increased levels of amyloid proteins and apolipoproteins in blood plasma. A similarity was noted between the marker protein expression changes in the depressed mice and those in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. These data indicate a psychopathogenic role of chronic social stress, which can form a predisposition to neurodegenerative and/or psychoemotional disorders.
Personalizing Therapy Outcomes through Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Pathway Inhibition in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Alsharoh Hasan , Chiroi Paul , Isachesku Ekaterina , Tanasa Radu Andrei , Pop Ovidiu-Laurean , Pirlog Radu , Berindan-Neagoe Ioana
Published: July 2024

Lung cancer (LC) is a highly invasive malignancy and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths, with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) as its most prevalent histological subtype. Despite all breakthroughs achieved in drug development, the prognosis of NSCLC remains poor. The mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling cascade (MAPKC) is a complex network of interacting molecules that can drive oncogenesis, cancer progression, and drug resistance when dysregulated. Over the past decades, MAPKC components have been used to design MAPKC inhibitors (MAPKCIs), which have shown varying efficacy in treating NSCLC. Thus, recent studies support the potential clinical use of MAPKCIs, especially in combination with other therapeutic approaches. This article provides an overview of the MAPKC and its inhibitors in the clinical management of NSCLC. It addresses the gaps in the current literature on different combinations of selective inhibitors while suggesting two particular therapy approaches to be researched in NSCLC: parallel and aggregate targeting of the MAPKC. This work also provides suggestions that could serve as a potential guideline to aid future research in MAPKCIs to optimize clinical outcomes in NSCLC.
Antibody-Drug Conjugates to Promote Immune Surveillance: Lessons Learned from Breast Cancer
Authors: Nucera Sabrina , Conti Chiara , Martorana Federica , Wilson Brooke , Genta Sofia
Published: July 2024

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) represent an effective class of agents for the treatment of several tumor types, including breast cancer (BC), featuring approved molecules such as trastuzumab-emtansine, trastuzumab-deruxtecan, and sacituzumab-govitecan. Immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) also showed activity in selected BC subtypes, and two agents, pembrolizumab and atezolizumab, are currently approved for the treatment of triple-negative BC patients. The potential synergy between ADCs and immunotherapy in BC remains an area of active investigation. Preclinical studies suggest that ADCs promote immune surveillance, modulating tumor microenvironment, inducing immunogenic cell death, and enhancing antitumor immunity. Translational evidence has shown potential predictive biomarkers for ADCs alone or in combination with immunotherapy, including expression of target antigen, oncogenic pathways, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio. Given this background, several clinical trials evaluated ADC-ICI combinations in BC patients, demonstrating promising outcomes with an overall manageable toxicity profile, and many studies are currently ongoing to confirm the efficacy and feasibility of this therapeutic approach. In the present review, we summarized the available evidence about the integration of ADCs and immunotherapy for the management of BC, emphasizing the need for further translational and clinical investigations to optimize this treatment strategy and elucidate predictive biomarkers, eventually improving patient outcomes.
Recent Progress in Organic Electrochemical Transistor-Structured Biosensors
Authors: Hu Zhuotao , Hu Yingchao , Huang Lu , Zhong Wei , Zhang Jianfeng , Lei Dengyun , Chen Yayi , Ni Yao , Liu Yuan
Published: July 2024

The continued advancement of organic electronic technology will establish organic electrochemical transistors as pivotal instruments in the field of biological detection. Here, we present a comprehensive review of the state-of-the-art technology and advancements in the use of organic electrochemical transistors as biosensors. This review provides an in-depth analysis of the diverse modification materials, methods, and mechanisms utilized in organic electrochemical transistor-structured biosensors (OETBs) for the selective detection of a wide range of target analyte encompassing electroactive species, electro-inactive species, and cancer cells. Recent advances in OETBs for use in sensing systems and wearable and implantable applications are also briefly introduced. Finally, challenges and opportunities in the field are discussed.
The Anchoring Effect in Study Time Allocation: Labor-in-Vain versus Labor-and-Gain
Authors: Li Xiuya , Xu Hui , Chu Yue , Tang Weihai , Liu Xiping
Published: July 2024

How to allocate study time is an important decision-making problem learners face. Research on this problem can help improve the learning performance of learners and provide guidance for teaching activities. This research aimed to explore the potential of anchors (prior information that may influence individual decision-making and judgment under uncertainty) as clues for study time allocation and examine the effectiveness of study time allocation under the influence of anchors. Sixty-two Chinese university students (Mage = 21.21, SD = 1.74; 44 females) studied 20 word pairs under self-paced learning instructions. These instructions either set a high anchor (i.e., the typical participant spent 15 s learning each pair) or a low anchor (i.e., the typical participant spent 5 s learning each pair) for study time. After a brief distraction phase, participants took a cued recall test. The results showed that the higher the anchor value, the longer the corresponding study time, and the longer the study time, the better the memory performance. These results reveal that there is both an anchoring effect and a labor-and-gain effect in self-paced study time allocation. This study extends the range of observable anchoring effects and provides important information on allocating study time effectively.
Architectural Features and Soil Properties of Traditional Rammed Earth Houses: Eastern Croatia Case Study
Authors: Brkanić Mihić Ivana , Kraus Ivan , Kaluđer Jelena , Perić Fekete Ana
Published: July 2024

Rammed earth buildings constitute a large part of the housing stock in rural areas. Although these houses are recognized as a cultural heritage, detailed analyses of their architectural features, geometric parameters crucial for structural stability, and soil properties used for their construction have not yet been carried out in Croatia. The aim of this study is to collect basic data on the architectural features and material properties of rammed earth walls through field research in Croatia. These data are crucial for both numerical and experimental studies to improve the understanding of the structural behavior of rammed earth houses. Data were obtained through field research and a detailed survey of 22 houses. The houses were analyzed, samples of the rammed earth walls were collected, and their properties were tested in the laboratory. This study contributes to a better understanding of regional building practices and provides data that will enable us to identify the causes of damage in future studies and to select rehabilitation measures to preserve the authentic symbols of cultural heritage.
Limited Field Images Concrete Crack Identification Framework Using PCA and Optimized Deep Learning Model
Authors: Pan Yuan , Zhou Shuangxi , Guan Jingyuan , Wang Qing , Ding Yang
Published: July 2024

Concrete crack identification methods based on machine learning can greatly improve extraction efficiency and precision. However, in many cases, model training requires a large amount of sample data, and insufficient data makes it difficult to effectively obtain model parameters. This study introduces a deep learning framework that integrates filters, principal component analysis, and attention mechanisms suitable for small sample sizes. Firstly, the histogram equalization method is used for the raw images, which can effectively enhance image contrast. Then, to acquire effective images of the crack, different methods are employed for crack detection, which are subsequently handled by principal component analysis (PCA) for optimal feature choice. Att-Unet and Att-Mask R-cnn segmentation models are used to design the detection for concrete cracks. To raise the learning ability of the segmentation models, an attention mechanism is applied to each feature layer of the decoder, and the loss function is evaluated using a combination of the Focal function and Cross Entropy. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed method, Deep Crack datasets and 76 sets of concrete crack data were collected for testing. Experimental results have shown that the method proposed can significantly reduce the model’s demand for data volume and improve training speed, which provides a new direction for small-sample crack extraction.
Research on the Detection of Hg(II) in Seawater Using GR-MWCNTs/CeO2-Modified Electrodes
Authors: Hao Huili , Qiu Chengjun , Qu Wei , Zhuang Yuan , Han Xiaochun , Tao Wei , Gu Yang , Zhao Zizi , Liu Haozheng , Wang Wenhao
Published: July 2024

Hg(II), as an extremely hazardous heavy metal contaminant in the environment, poses a significant potential hazard to human health and ecosystems. A GR-MWCNTs-COOH/CeO2/Nafion composite film-modified glassy carbon electrode was prepared using the drop-casting method in this study. The GR-MWCNTs-COOH/CeO2/Nafion/GCE was electrochemically investigated through cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse stripping voltammetry (DPSV). Additionally, the surface morphologies of the composite film were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The conditions, such as buffer solution, pH, deposition potential, deposition time, modified film thickness, and Nafion content, were optimized. Under optimal experimental conditions, a good linear relationship between the peak current response of Hg(II) and its concentration in the range of 5–100 μg·L−1 was observed, with a detection limit of 0.389 μg·L−1. When it was used to detect Hg(II) in offshore seawater, the recovery rate ranged from 94.72% to 103.8%, with RSDs ≤ 5.79%.
Recent Development of Electrospun Nanostructured Fibers as Colorimetric Probes for Metal Ion Sensing: A Review
Authors: Jagannathan Mohanraj , Yohan Ravi Kumar , Cho Sungbo
Published: July 2024

The colorimetric detection of metal ions has witnessed a surge in advancements, with nanostructured fibers emerging as a powerful platform for environmental monitoring and remediation applications. These fibers offer several advantages, including a high surface area, enhanced sensitivity and selectivity, non-intrusive analysis, rapid response times, robustness under harsh conditions, and user-friendly handling. This unique combination makes them particularly suitable for visible eye detection of metal ions in remote or challenging environments. This review provides a concise overview of recent developments in nanostructured fibers, and their cutting-edge fabrication methods, for the colorimetric-based detection of various heavy metal ions in real-time samples. By exploiting the unique properties of these fibers, colorimetric detection offers a promising and cost-effective approach for heavy metal ion determination. This review delves into the design principles, functionalization strategies, and detection mechanisms employed in these innovative sensors. We highlight the potential of nanostructured fibers as a well-established and efficient platform for the colorimetric detection of heavy metals, paving the way for more sustainable and accessible environmental monitoring solutions.
Enhancing the Predictive Modeling of n-Value Surfaces in Various High Temperature Superconducting Materials Using a Feed-Forward Deep Neural Network Technique
Authors: Alipour Bonab Shahin , Song Wenjuan , Yazdani-Asrami Mohammad
Published: July 2024

In this study, the prediction of n-value (index-value) surfaces—a key indicator of the field and temperature dependence of critical current density in superconductors—across various high-temperature superconducting materials is addressed using a deep learning modeling approach. As superconductors play a crucial role in advanced technological applications in aerospace and fusion energy sectors, improving their performance model is essential for both practical and academic research purposes. The feed-forward deep learning network technique is employed for the predictive modeling of n-value surfaces, utilizing a comprehensive dataset that includes experimental data on material properties and operational conditions affecting superconductors’ behavior. The model demonstrates enhanced accuracy in predicting n-value surfaces when compared to traditional regression methods by a 99.62% goodness of fit to the experimental data for unseen data points. In this paper, we have demonstrated both the interpolation and extrapolation capabilities of our proposed DFFNN technique. This research advances intelligent modeling in the field of superconductivity and provides a foundation for further exploration into deep learning predictive models for different superconducting devices.
Microstructural Evolution and Strengthening of Dual-Phase Stainless Steel S32750 during Heavily Cold Drawing
Authors: Gao Hong , An Zhixun , Yao Liang , Wang Jianyong , Zhai Lili , Ding Binhua , Peng Jin , Zhou Lichu , Cao Xia
Published: July 2024

S32750 dual-phase stainless steel (DSS) wires were prepared by cold drawing with a strain of ε = 0~3.6. The mechanical behavior and microstructural evolution of these DSS wires at different strains were investigated. Specifically, the yield strength and ultimate tensile strength of a S32750 DSS wire at a strain of ε = 3.6 reached 1771 MPa and 1952 MPa, respectively. The microstructure of the wire was transformed into a heterogeneous microstructure, which consisted of ferrite fiber grains and a nanofibrous grain structure consisting of austenite and strain-induced martensite nanofiber grains. A sub-grain structure was observed inside the ferrite fiber. The austenitic phase followed the evolutionary steps of stacking faults, twinning, ε-martensite, α-martensite, and, finally, austenite, before transitioning into a nanofibrous grain structure. This nanofibrous grain structure significantly contributed to the strength compared with the relatively coarse ferrite phase.