bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Well Does Australian Animal Welfare Policy Reflect Scientific Evidence: A Case Study Approach Based on Lamb Marking
Authors: Johnston Charlotte H. , Richardson Vicki L. , Whittaker Alexandra L.
Published: April 2023

The development and substance of animal welfare policy is subject to a range of social, cultural, economic, and scientific influences that commonly vary within and between countries. Discrepancies in policy can create confusion and mistrust among stakeholders and consumers and limit the ability to create a uniform minimum level of requirements to safeguard animal welfare, as well as create a level ‘playing field’ for farmers when trading with other jurisdictions. The livestock sector is receiving growing scrutiny globally for real and perceived violations of animal welfare, for example, the practice of mulesing in Australia. This article explores animal welfare legislation within Australia and how it reflects the scientific evidence surrounding routine husbandry practices in sheep, including tail docking, castration, and mulesing. While there is some variation between state and territory legislation, the most notable concern is the lack of enforceable recommendations surrounding the evidence-based use of analgesia and anaesthesia for painful husbandry procedures. The age at which these procedures are recommended to be performed is relatively consistent across Australian jurisdictions, but there is a marked difference compared to international legislation. The global context of animal welfare legislation, public perception, and producer perception of these procedures are also discussed, highlighting the difficulty of creating robust animal welfare legislation that promotes a good standard of welfare that is respected worldwide whilst being practical in an Australian setting given our unique geography and climatic conditions.
Postmortem Collection of Gametes for the Conservation of Endangered Mammals: A Review of the Current State-of-the-Art
Authors: Huijsmans Tim E. R. G. , Hassan Hiba Ali , Smits Katrien , Van Soom Ann
Published: April 2023

The collection of gametes from recently deceased domestic and wildlife mammals has been well documented in the literature. Through the utilization of gametes recovered postmortem, scientists have successfully produced embryos in 10 different wildlife species, while in 2 of those, offspring have also been born. Thus, the collection of gametes from recently deceased animals represents a valuable opportunity to increase genetic resource banks, obviating the requirement for invasive procedures. Despite the development of several protocols for gamete collection, the refinement of these techniques and the establishment of species–specific protocols are still required, taking into account both the limitations and the opportunities. In the case of wildlife, the optimization of such protocols is impeded by the scarcity of available animals, many of which have a high genetic value that must be protected rather than utilized for research purposes. Therefore, optimizing protocols for wildlife species by using domestic species as a model is crucial. In this review, we focused on the current advancements in the collection, preservation, and utilization of gametes, postmortem, in selected species belonging to Equidae, Bovidae, and Felidae, both domestic and wildlife.
Masculinization of Red Tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) Using 17α-Methyltestosterone-Loaded Alkyl Polyglucosides Integrated into Nanostructured Lipid Carriers
Authors: Yostawonkul Jakarwan , Kitiyodom Sirikorn , Supchukun Kittipat , Thumrongsiri Nutthanit , Saengkrit Nattika , Pinpimai Komkiew , Hajitou Amin , Thompson Kim D. , Rattanapinyopituk Kasem , Maita Masashi , Kamble Manoj Tukaram , Yata Teerapong , Pirarat Nopadon
Published: April 2023

The aim of the present study was to optimize a masculinization platform for the production of all-male red tilapia fry by oral administration of 30 and 60 ppm of MT and alkyl polyglucoside nanostructured lipid carriers (APG-NLC) loaded with MT, respectively, for 14 and 21 days. The characterization, encapsulation efficiency and release kinetics of MT in lipid-based nanoparticles were assessed in vitro. The results showed that the MT-loaded nanoparticles were spherical, ranging from 80 to 125 nm in size, and had a negative charge with a narrow particle distribution. The APG-NLC loaded with MT provided higher physical stability and encapsulation efficacy than the NLC. The release rate constants of MT from MT-NLC and MT-APG-NLC were higher than those of free MT, which is insoluble in aqueous media. There was no significant difference in survival between the fish administered MT or the those fed orally with MT-APG-NLC fish. According to the logistic regression analysis, the sex reversal efficacy of MT-APG-NLC (30 ppm) and MT (60 ppm), resulted in significantly higher numbers of males after 21 days of treatment compared with the controls. The production cost of MT-APG-NLC (30 ppm) after 21 days of treatment was reduced by 32.9% compared with the conventional MT treatment group (60 ppm). In all the treatments, the length–weight relationship (LWR) showed negatively allomeric growth behavior (b < 3), with a relative condition factor (Kn) of more than 1. Therefore, MT-APG-NLC (30 ppm) would seem to be a promising, cost-effective way to reduce the dose of MT used for the masculinization of farmed red tilapia.
Point for Enrichment, Point for Welfare—Testing Use of a Laser Pointer with Arapaima gigas
Authors: Matrai Eszter , Chan Hau Yin Alfred , Leung Fung Ming , Kwok Shaw Ting , Lin Xiao , Martelli Paolo
Published: April 2023

The arapaima (Arapaima gigas) is one of the largest freshwater fish species, known to exceed 3 m in total length. It is listed as Data Deficient by the IUCN. A. gigas is native to the Amazon River basin where they are an important food source. Arapaimas are also farmed for meat and for live specimens in various South American and Asian countries. Despite decades of keeping the species in public aquariums, little is known of its behaviour and cognitive abilities. This pilot study provides baseline data on using a green laser pointer as environmental enrichment for this species under human care. The data collection included 18 observations before the use of the laser pointer (baseline) and 18 observations during the use of the laser pointer (test). Ten behaviours were monitored, investigating physical contact, activity pattern and habitat use by the fish. During the test, the fish significantly increased their presence in the tank, their level of activity and their use of the habitat. This pilot study provides valuable baseline data for further investigations demonstrating the value of a laser pointer as environmental enrichment for A. gigas under human care.
Estimates of Genetic Parameters for Milk, the Occurrence of and Susceptibility to Clinical Lameness and Claw Disorders in Dairy Goats
Authors: Jaques Natasha , Turner Sally-Anne , Vallée Emilie , Heuer Cord , Lopez-Villalobos Nicolas
Published: April 2023

The New Zealand goat industry accesses niche markets for high-value products, mainly formula for infants and young children. This study aimed to estimate the genetic parameters of occurrence and susceptibility of clinical lameness and selected claw disorders and establish their genetic associations with milk production traits. Information on pedigree, lameness, claw disorders, and milk production was collected on three farms between June 2019 and July 2020. The dataset contained 1637 does from 174 sires and 1231 dams. Estimates of genetic and residual (co)variances, heritabilities, and genetic and phenotypic correlations were obtained with uni- and bi-variate animal models. The models included the fixed effects of farm and parity, deviation from the median kidding date as a covariate, and the random effects of animal and residual error. The heritability (h2) estimates for lameness occurrence and susceptibility were 0.07 and 0.13, respectively. The h2 estimates for claw disorder susceptibilities ranged from 0.02 to 0.23. The genotypic correlations ranged from weak to very strong between lameness and milk production traits (−0.94 to 0.84) and weak to moderate (0.23 to 0.84) between claw disorder and milk production traits.
Impact of Inflammation on Voriconazole Exposure in Critically ill Patients Affected by Probable COVID-19-Associated Pulmonary Aspergillosis
Authors: Gatti Milo , Fornaro Giacomo , Pasquini Zeno , Zanoni Andrea , Bartoletti Michele , Viale Pierluigi , Pea Federico
Published: April 2023

(1) Background: To explore the impact of the degree of inflammation on voriconazole exposure in critically ill patients affected by COVID-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA); (2) Methods: Critically ill patients receiving TDM-guided voriconazole for the management of proven or probable CAPA between January 2021 and December 2022 were included. The concentration/dose ratio (C/D) was used as a surrogate marker of voriconazole total clearance. A receiving operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed by using C-reactive protein (CRP) or procalcitonin (PCT) values as the test variable and voriconazole C/D ratio > 0.375 (equivalent to a trough concentration [Cmin] value of 3 mg/L normalized to the maintenance dose of 8 mg/kg/day) as the state variable. Area under the curve (AUC) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated; (3) Results: Overall, 50 patients were included. The median average voriconazole Cmin was 2.47 (1.75–3.33) mg/L. The median (IQR) voriconazole concentration/dose ratio (C/D) was 0.29 (0.14–0.46). A CRP value > 11.46 mg/dL was associated with the achievement of voriconazole Cmin > 3 mg/L, with an AUC of 0.667 (95% CI 0.593–0.735; p < 0.001). A PCT value > 0.3 ng/mL was associated with the attainment of voriconazole Cmin > 3 mg/L (AUC 0.651; 95% CI 0.572–0.725; p = 0.0015). (4) Conclusions: Our findings suggest that in critically ill patients with CAPA, CRP and PCT values above the identified thresholds may cause the downregulation of voriconazole metabolism and favor voriconazole overexposure, leading to potentially toxic concentrations.
The Influence of Helicobacter pylori on Human Gastric and Gut Microbiota
Authors: Fiorani Marcello , Tohumcu Ege , Del Vecchio Livio Enrico , Porcari Serena , Cammarota Giovanni , Gasbarrini Antonio , Ianiro Gianluca
Published: April 2023

Helicobacter pylori is a Gram-negative bacterium that is able to colonize the human stomach, whose high prevalence has a major impact on human health, due to its association with several gastric and extra-gastric disorders, including gastric cancer. The gastric microenvironment is deeply affected by H. pylori colonization, with consequent effects on the gastrointestinal microbiota, exerted via the regulation of various factors, including gastric acidity, host immune responses, antimicrobial peptides, and virulence factors. The eradication therapy required to treat H. pylori infection can also have detrimental consequences for the gut microbiota, leading to a decreased alpha diversity. Notably, therapy regimens integrated with probiotics have been shown to reduce the negative effects of antibiotic therapy on the gut microbiota. These eradication therapies combined with probiotics have also higher rates of eradication, when compared to standard treatments, and are associated with reduced side effects, improving the patient’s compliance. In light of the deep impact of gut microbiota alterations on human health, the present article aims to provide an overview of the complex interaction between H. pylori and the gastrointestinal microbiota, focusing also on the consequences of eradication therapies and the effects of probiotic supplementation.
Bacterial Aetiology of Neonatal Sepsis and Antimicrobial Resistance Pattern at the Regional Referral Hospital, Dar es Salam, Tanzania; A Call to Strengthening Antibiotic Stewardship Program
Authors: Majigo Mtebe , Makupa Jackline , Mwazyunga Zivonishe , Luoga Anna , Kisinga Julius , Mwamkoa Bertha , Kim Sukyung , Joachim Agricola
Published: April 2023

The diagnosis of neonatal sepsis in lower-income countries is mainly based on clinical presentation. The practice necessitates empirical treatment with limited aetiology and antibiotic susceptibility profile knowledge, prompting the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance. We conducted a cross-sectional study to determine the aetiology of neonatal sepsis and antimicrobial resistance patterns. We recruited 658 neonates admitted to the neonatal ward with signs and symptoms of sepsis and performed 639 automated blood cultures and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Around 72% of the samples were culture positive; Gram-positive bacteria were predominantly isolated, contributing to 81%. Coagulase-negative Staphylococci were the most isolates, followed by Streptococcus agalactiae. Overall, antibiotic resistance among Gram-positive pathogens ranged from 23% (Chloramphenicol) to 93% (Penicillin) and from 24.7% (amikacin) to 91% (ampicillin) for Gram-negative bacteria. Moreover, about 69% of Gram-positive and 75% of Gram-negative bacteria were multidrug-resistant (MDR). We observed about 70% overall proportion of MDR strains, non-significantly more in Gram-negative than Gram-positive pathogens (p = 0.334). In conclusion, the pathogen causing neonatal sepsis in our setting exhibited a high resistance rate to commonly used antibiotics. The high rate of MDR pathogens calls for strengthening antibiotic stewardship programs.
Phenotypic and Genotypic Characteristics of Antimicrobial Resistance in Citrobacter freundii Isolated from Domestic Ducks (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus) in Bangladesh
Authors: Ahmed Tarana , Islam Md. Saiful , Haider Najmul , Elton Linzy , Hasan Badrul , Nuruzzaman Mohammad , Rahman Md. Tanvir , Kabir S. M. Lutful , Khan Md. Shahidur Rahman
Published: April 2023

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Citrobacter freundii poses a serious challenge as this species is one of the sources of nosocomial infection and causes diarrheal infections in humans. Ducks could be the potential source of multidrug-resistant (MDR) C. freundii; however, AMR profiles in C. freundii from non-human sources in Bangladesh have remained elusive. This study aimed to detect C. freundii in domestic ducks (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus) in Bangladesh and to determine their phenotypic and genotypic antibiotic susceptibility patterns. A total of 150 cloacal swabs of diseased domestic ducks were screened using culturing, staining, biochemical, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) to detect C. freundii. Phenotypic and genotypic antibiotic susceptibility patterns were done by the disk diffusion method and PCR, respectively. In total, 16.67% (25/150) of the samples were positive for C. freundii. C. freundii isolates showed a range of 20% to 96% resistance to cefotaxime, gentamicin, levofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, cotrimoxazole, tetracycline, ampicillin, and cephalexin. More than 60% of the isolates were phenotypically MDR, and the index of multiple antibiotic resistance ranged from 0.07 to 0.79. Genes encoding resistance to beta-lactams [blaTEM-1-88% (22/25), blaCMY-2-56% (14/25), blaCMY-9-8% (2/25), and blaCTX-M-14-20% (5/25)], sulfonamides [sul1-52% (13/25), sul2-24% (6/25)], tetracyclines [tetA-32% (8/25) and tetB-4% (1/25)], aminoglycosides [aacC4-16% (4/25)], and fluoroquinolones [qnrA-4% (1/25), qnrB-12% (3/25), and qnrS-4% (1/25)] were detected in the isolated C. freundii. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study in Bangladesh to detect MDR C. freundii with their associated resistance genes from duck samples. We suggest addressing the burden of diseases in ducks and humans and associated AMR issues using the One Health approach.
Targeting Mitochondrial Oxidative Stress as a Strategy to Treat Aging and Age-Related Diseases
Authors: Lee Yun Haeng , Kuk Myeong Uk , So Moon Kyoung , Song Eun Seon , Lee Haneur , Ahn Soon Kil , Kwon Hyung Wook , Park Joon Tae , Park Sang Chul
Published: April 2023

Mitochondria are one of the organelles undergoing rapid alteration during the senescence process. Senescent cells show an increase in mitochondrial size, which is attributed to the accumulation of defective mitochondria, which causes mitochondrial oxidative stress. Defective mitochondria are also targets of mitochondrial oxidative stress, and the vicious cycle between defective mitochondria and mitochondrial oxidative stress contributes to the onset and development of aging and age-related diseases. Based on the findings, strategies to reduce mitochondrial oxidative stress have been suggested for the effective treatment of aging and age-related diseases. In this article, we discuss mitochondrial alterations and the consequent increase in mitochondrial oxidative stress. Then, the causal role of mitochondrial oxidative stress on aging is investigated by examining how aging and age-related diseases are exacerbated by induced stress. Furthermore, we assess the importance of targeting mitochondrial oxidative stress for the regulation of aging and suggest different therapeutic strategies to reduce mitochondrial oxidative stress. Therefore, this review will not only shed light on a new perspective on the role of mitochondrial oxidative stress in aging but also provide effective therapeutic strategies for the treatment of aging and age-related diseases through the regulation of mitochondrial oxidative stress.
Concrete Crack Width Measurement Using a Laser Beam and Image Processing Algorithms
Authors: Nyathi Mthabisi Adriano , Bai Jiping , Wilson Ian David
Published: April 2023

The presence of concrete cracks in structures indicates possible structural deterioration, but it is quite difficult to measure crack width accurately. While much research has been conducted on crack detection using image processing, there is a gap in the accurate quantification of crack width in millimeters. Current methods either measure in pixels or require the attachment of scales or markers onto a measured surface, which can pose safety hazards in hard-to-reach areas. This paper addresses these issues by proposing a novel image-based method for measuring concrete crack width in millimeters using a laser beam and image processing. The proposed method was validated in the laboratory by capturing images of concrete cracks with two cameras of different resolutions, each attached with lasers. The lasers projected a circular laser beam onto the surface of the concrete under inspection. The images were then pre-processed, segmented, and skeletonized for crack width measurement in pixels. The relationship between the laser diameter and camera distance from the surface was used to convert the measured crack width from pixels to millimeters. The method was performed with high accuracy, as indicated by the absolute error. The largest absolute error was 0.57 mm, while the smallest absolute error was 0.02 mm. The proposed method allows real-world interpretation of results in millimeters. As a result, measured crack widths can easily be compared to allowable limits in international standards, which are typically expressed in metric or SI units. The proposed method can also promote safer inspections in areas of low accessibility by attaching the laser to devices such as drones.
On the Use of Microstructure Characteristics to Predict Metal Matrix Composites’ Macroscopic Mechanical Behavior
Authors: Markopoulos Ioannis , Kouris Leonidas-Alexandros , Konstantinidis Avraam
Published: April 2023

In recent decades, the construction of statistically similar representative volume elements (SSRVEs) of materials for use in numerical analyses has been accomplished utilizing various methods, tools, and frameworks. Such a framework is introduced in this work, where the creation of 3D SSRVEs of metal matrix composites was investigated to assess their mechanical properties with reference to the material’s microstructure. The material studied was a composite based on AA7075 alloy reinforced with carbon fibers, with volume fractions of 0%, 4%, 8%, and 12%. The statistics of the alloy’s microstructure were extracted by segmenting an SEM image and fitting the precipitate particles’ sizes with respect to a lognormal distribution. The open-source software DREAM.3D was used to construct 3D ensembles and the Abaqus FEA software was employed for the mechanical testing simulations. By plotting the tensile stress–strain curves for the composites, it was found that the elastic modulus increased with the fibers’ volume fraction, obeying the rule of mixtures for discontinuous fibrous composites. The fiber efficiency factors were also calculated. The yield stresses of the composites were found and compared to the ones expected according to the shear-lag model, indicating major differences.
A Time-Series Model for Varying Worker Ability in Heterogeneous Distributed Computing Systems
Authors: Kim Daejin , Lee Suji , Jung Hohyun
Published: April 2023

In this paper, we consider the problem of estimating the time-dependent ability of workers participating in distributed matrix-vector multiplication over heterogeneous clusters. Specifically, we model the workers’ ability as a latent variable and introduce a log-normally distributed working rate as a function of the latent variable with parameters so that the working rate increases as the latent ability of workers increases, and takes positive values only. This modeling is motivated by the need to reflect the impact of time-dependent external factors on the workers’ performance. We estimate the latent variable and parameters using the expectation-maximization (EM) algorithm combined with the particle method. The proposed estimation and inference on the working rates are used to allocate tasks to the workers to reduce expected latency. From simulations, we observe that our estimation and inference on the working rates are effective in reducing expected latency.
Radiological Features of B3 Lesions in Mutation Carrier Patients: A Single-Center Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Piccolo Claudia Lucia , Mallio Carlo Augusto , Messina Laura , Tommasiello Manuela , Orsaria Paolo , Altomare Vittorio , Sammarra Matteo , Zobel Bruno Beomonte
Published: April 2023

Background. To evaluate the radiological features of B3 lesions in patients with genetic mutations to establish an anatomo-radiological correlation. Methods. A total of 227 women with a histological diagnosis of B3 breast lesion were enrolled. Breast images of 21 patients with genetic test positivity for mutations in genes associated with breast cancer were analyzed. Results. BRCA1 was the most frequent mutation (n = 12) followed by ATM (n = 6) and BRCA2 (n = 3). The histological findings showed nine atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH), six lobular neoplasia (LN) including lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS), three flat epithelial atypia (FEA) and three radial scar (RS) lesions. The results showed a significance difference between B3 lesion distribution in the three subgroups of mutations. LN and FEA showed the highest malignancy correlation. Patient age and risk anamnesis were factors that significantly influenced the malignancy rate. By mammography, 90.5% of lesions appeared as microcalcifications. By ultrasound, 13 lesions were observed as hypoechoic lesions. On breast MRI, 16 lesions were detected as a mass enhancement in all groups. DWI and kinetic curves significantly correlated with the risk of cancer. Conclusions. The radiological features of B3 lesions may help in the diagnosis of breast cancer malignancy. The high malignancy rate of cancer in our sample suggests they should always be surgically excised.
A Channel Correction and Spatial Attention Framework for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tear with Ordinal Loss
Authors: Lin Weilun , Miao Kehua
Published: April 2023

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is critical for controlling the motion of the knee joint, but it is prone to injury during sports activities and physical work. If left untreated, ACL injuries can lead to various pathologies such as meniscal damage and osteoarthritis. While previous studies have used deep learning to diagnose ACL tears, there has been a lack of standardization in human unit classification, leading to mismatches between their findings and actual clinical diagnoses. To address this, we perform a triple classification task based on various tear classes using an ordinal loss on the KneeMRI dataset. We utilize a channel correction module to address image distribution issues across multiple patients, along with a spatial attention module, and test its effectiveness with various backbone networks. Our results show that the modules are effective on various backbone networks, achieving an accuracy of 83.3% on ResNet-18, a 6.65% improvement compared to the baseline. Additionally, we carry out an ablation experiment to verify the effectiveness of the three modules and present our findings with figures and tables. Overall, our study demonstrates the potential of deep learning in diagnosing ACL tear and provides insights into improving the accuracy and standardization of such diagnoses.
Controllable Image Captioning with Feature Refinement and Multilayer Fusion
Authors: Du Sen , Zhu Hong , Zhang Yujia , Wang Dong , Shi Jing , Xing Nan , Lin Guangfeng , Zhou Huiyu
Published: April 2023

Image captioning is the task of automatically generating a description of an image. Traditional image captioning models tend to generate a sentence describing the most conspicuous objects, but fail to describe a desired region or object as human. In order to generate sentences based on a given target, understanding the relationships between particular objects and describing them accurately is central to this task. In detail, information-augmented embedding is used to add prior information to each object, and a new Multi-Relational Weighted Graph Convolutional Network (MR-WGCN) is designed for fusing the information of adjacent objects. Then, a dynamic attention decoder module selectively focuses on particular objects or semantic contents. Finally, the model is optimized by similarity loss. The experiment on MSCOCO Entities demonstrates that IANR obtains, to date, the best published CIDEr performance of 124.52% on the Karpathy test split. Extensive experiments and ablations on both the MSCOCO Entities and the Flickr30k Entities demonstrate the effectiveness of each module. Meanwhile, IANR achieves better accuracy and controllability than the state-of-the-art models under the widely used evaluation metric.
Effect of Nebulized BromAc on Rheology of Artificial Sputum: Relevance to Muco-Obstructive Respiratory Diseases
Authors: Pillai Krishna , Mekkawy Ahmed H. , Akhter Javed , Morris David L.
Published: April 2023

Respiratory diseases such as cystic fibrosis, COPD, and COVID-19 are difficult to treat owing to viscous secretions in the airways that evade mucocilliary clearance. Earlier studies have shown success with BromAc as a mucolytic agent. Hence, we tested the formulation on two gelatinous airway representative sputa models, to determine whether similar efficacy exist. Sputum lodged in an endotracheal tube was treated to aerosol N-acetylcysteine, bromelain, or their combination (BromAc). After measuring the particle size of aerosolized BromAc, the apparent viscosity was measured using a capillary tube method, whilst the sputum flow was assessed using a 0.5 mL pipette. Further, the concentration of the agents in the sputa after treatment were quantified using chromogenic assays. The interaction index of the different formulations was also determined. Results indicated that the mean particle size of BromAc was suitable for aerosol delivery. Bromelain and N-acetylcysteine affected both the viscosities and pipette flow in the two sputa models. BromAc showed a greater rheological effect on both the sputa models compared to individual agents. Further, a correlation was found between the rheological effects and the concentration of agents in the sputa. The combination index using viscosity measurements showed synergy only with 250 µg/mL bromelain + 20 mg/mL NAC whilst flow speed showed synergy for both combinations of bromelain (125 and 250 µg/mL) with 20 mg/mL NAC. Hence, this study indicates that BromAc may be used as a successful mucolytic for clearing airway congestion caused by thick mucinous immobile secretions.
Quantifying the Source Attribution of PM10 Measured Downwind of the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area
Authors: Wang Xiaoliang , Gillies John A. , Kohl Steven , Furtak-Cole Eden , Tupper Karl A. , Cardiel David A.
Published: April 2023

A measurement campaign was undertaken April–October 2021 using PM10 filter samplers to collect 24 h samples downwind of the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (ODSVRA), an area that allows off-highway driving on its coastal dunes. The PM10 samples were analyzed and these data were used to identify the sources that contributed to the PM10 under varying meteorological conditions. Exposed filters were weighed to calculate mass concentration and analyzed using X-ray fluorescence to quantify elemental composition, ion chromatography to quantify water-soluble ions, and thermal/optical reflectance to quantify organic carbon and elemental carbon in the particulate matter. These speciated data were used to attribute the sources of PM10 for eight days that exceeded the California state 24 h mean PM10 standard and 39 days that were below the standard. The mean attribution of sources for the eight identified exceedance days was mineral dust (43.1%), followed by sea salt (25.0%) and the unidentified category (20.4%). The simultaneous increase in the mineral dust and unidentified categories with increasing levels of PM10 arriving from the direction of the ODSVRA suggests that the unidentified components were unmeasured oxides of minerals and carbonate. This increases the attribution of mineral dust for a mean exceedance day to 63.5%. The source of the mineral dust component of the PM10 is attributable to wind-driven saltation and dust emission processes within the ODSVRA.
An Expanded Sensitivity Study of Simulated Storm Life Span to Ventilation Parameterization in a Cloud Resolving Model
Authors: Chou Yen-Liang , Wang Pao-Kuan
Published: April 2023

We performed a sensitivity study on the life span of a numerically simulated storm using the parameterization of the ventilation coefficient. This is an expanded sequel to our previous study, where the ventilation effect of precipitation particles (snow, rain, and hail) was either halved or doubled as a whole. In this study, we tested the sensitivity of the ventilation coefficient for different precipitation particles and compared that with the previous results. In the present study, we changed the ventilation coefficient in two scenarios: (1) only the rain category was changed; (2) only the snow and hail categories were changed. The results show that these different scenarios lead to different evolution paths for the storm. In general, reducing the ventilation effect of rain leads to quick dissipation, whereas enhancing the ventilation of either rain or snow/hail leads to the development of multicellular storms. An analysis of the physical mechanisms leading to such results is provided. This study shows yet another example of how a change in a cloud’s microphysical parameterization can lead to a profound change in its larger-scale dynamical process.
Application of the Optimal Homotopy Asymptotic Approach for Solving Two-Point Fuzzy Ordinary Differential Equations of Fractional Order Arising in Physics
Authors: Jameel Ali Fareed , Jawad Hashim Dulfikar , Anakira Nidal , Ababneh Osama , Qazza Ahmad , Alomari Abedel-Karrem , Al Kalbani Khamis S.
Published: April 2023

This work focuses on solving and analyzing two-point fuzzy boundary value problems in the form of fractional ordinary differential equations (FFOBVPs) using a new version of the approximation analytical approach. FFOBVPs are useful in describing complex scientific phenomena that include heritable characteristics and uncertainty, and obtaining exact or close analytical solutions for these equations can be challenging, especially in the case of nonlinear problems. To address these difficulties, the optimal homotopy asymptotic method (OHAM) was studied and extended in a new form to solve FFOBVPs. The OHAM is known for its ability to solve both linear and nonlinear fractional models and provides a straightforward methodology that uses multiple convergence control parameters to optimally manage the convergence of approximate series solutions. The new form of the OHAM presented in this work incorporates the concepts of fuzzy sets theory and some fractional calculus principles to include fuzzy analysis in the method. The steps of fuzzification and defuzzification are used to transform the fuzzy problem into a crisp problem that can be solved using the OHAM. The method is demonstrated by solving and analyzing linear and nonlinear FFOBVPs at different values of fractional derivatives. The results obtained using the new form of the fuzzy OHAM are analyzed and compared to those found in the literature to demonstrate the method’s efficiency and high accuracy in the fuzzy domain. Overall, this work presents a feasible and efficient approach for solving FFOBVPs using a new form of the OHAM with fuzzy analysis.
National Payment Switches and the Power of Cognitive Computing against Fintech Fraud
Authors: Faccia Alessio
Published: April 2023

National Payment Switches (NPSs) and International Payment Switches (IPSs), including major players such as SWIFT, Mastercard, and CHIPS, have become vital to the financial infrastructure, facilitating secure and efficient transactions among local financial institutions. Nonetheless, the growing adoption of digital payments has heightened the risk of financial fraud. Consequently, NPSs, under the direct ownership of Central Banks (CBs), are increasingly adopting advanced technologies, such as cognitive computing, to bolster their fraud detection capabilities in their respective countries. This article delves into the role of cognitive computing in detecting financial fraud within NPSs. It examines the advantages of cognitive computing in recognising patterns of fraudulent behaviour and analysing vast amounts of data. Additionally, the study highlights the importance of focusing on how cognitive computing can augment traditional fraud detection methods, such as rule-based systems and data analytics. Nineteen real-world cases from eighteen countries are analysed, exploring the cognitive computing tools employed by NPSs to identify fraudulent transactions. The challenges and limitations of implementing cognitive computing in fraud detection and potential solutions to address these issues are identified. The primary assumption that cognitive computing is crucial for detecting financial fraud in NPSs is substantiated. Its ability to analyse large datasets and pinpoint patterns of fraudulent behaviour proves invaluable for financial institutions seeking to protect themselves against financial fraud in a progressively digital world. The conclusions drawn from the overview of the cases aim to identify best practices, potentially trigger new benchmarking standards, and facilitate the development of integrated cross-border solutions to combat financial fraud on a global scale effectively. The purpose of this research is to examine the role of cognitive computing in detecting financial fraud within NPSs, identify its advantages, challenges and limitations, and provide real-world case examples.
Testing the Level of Agreement between Two Methodological Approaches of the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) for Occupational Health Practice—An Exemplary Application in the Field of Dentistry
Authors: Nowara Ramona , Holzgreve Fabian , Golbach Rejane , Wanke Eileen M. , Maurer-Grubinger Christian , Erbe Christina , Brueggmann Doerthe , Nienhaus Albert , Groneberg David A. , Ohlendorf Daniela
Published: April 2023

Background: The Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) is used for the risk assessment of workplace-related activities. Thus far, the paper and pen method (RULA-PP) has been predominantly used for this purpose. In the present study, this method was compared with an RULA evaluation based on kinematic data using inertial measurement units (RULA-IMU). The aim of this study was, on the one hand, to work out the differences between these two measurement methods and, on the other, to make recommendations for the future use of the respective method on the basis of the available findings. Methods: For this purpose, 130 (dentists + dental assistants, paired as teams) subjects from the dental profession were photographed in an initial situation of dental treatment and simultaneously recorded with the IMU system (Xsens). In order to compare both methods statistically, the median value of the difference of both methods, the weighted Cohen’s Kappa, and the agreement chart (mosaic plot) were applied. Results: In Arm and Wrist Analysis—area A—here were differences in risk scores; here, the median difference was 1, and the agreement in the weighted Cohen’s kappa test also remained between 0.07 and 0.16 (no agreement to poor agreement). In area B—Neck, Trunk, and Leg Analysis—the median difference was 0, with at least one poor agreement in the Cohen’s Kappa test of 0.23–0.39. The final score has a median of 0 and a Cohen’s Kappa value of 0.21–0.28. In the mosaic plot, it can be seen that RULA-IMU had a higher discriminatory power overall and more often reached a value of 7 than RULA-PP. Conclusion: The results indicate a systematic difference between the methods. Thus, in the RULA risk assessment, RULA-IMU is mostly one assessment point above RULA-PP. Therefore, future study results of RULA by RULA-IMU can be compared with literature results obtained by RULA-PP to further improve the risk assessment of musculoskeletal diseases.
The Corneal Ectasia Model of Rabbit: A Validity and Stability Study
Authors: Wei Junchao , He Rui , Wang Xiaogang , Song Yaowen , Yao Jinhan , Liu Xiaona , Yang Xin , Chen Weiyi , Li Xiaona
Published: April 2023

Keratoconus is a bilateral progressive degenerative corneal disease characterized by localized corneal thinning and dilatation. The pathogenesis of keratoconus is not fully elucidated. To gain a better understanding of the pathophysiology of this disease and to explore potential treatments, animal models are essential for basic research. Several attempts have been made to establish animal models of corneal ectasia by using collagenase. However, continuous changes of the cornea have not been well-tracked for the model. In this study, corneal morphology and biomechanical behavior in vivo were determined before and after collagenase Ⅱ treatment at 2, 4, and 8 weeks. The elastic modulus and histology of cornea tissues ex vivo were measured at 8 weeks postoperatively. The results showed that the posterior corneal curvature (Km B) increased and central corneal thickness (CCT) decreased after collagenase treatment. The mechanical properties of ectatic corneas weakened significantly and the collagen fiber interval in the stromal layer was increased and disorganized. This study provides insights into the changes of corneal morphology and biomechanical properties in a rabbit model of corneal ectasia. Changes observed at 8 weeks indicated that the cornea was still undergoing remodeling.
MicroRNA Signatures in Cartilage Ageing and Osteoarthritis
Authors: Balaskas Panagiotis , Goljanek-Whysall Katarzyna , Clegg Peter D. , Fang Yongxiang , Cremers Andy , Smagul Aibek , Welting Tim J. M. , Peffers Mandy J.
Published: April 2023

Osteoarthritis is the most common degenerative joint disorder. MicroRNAs are gene expression regulators that act post-transcriptionally to control tissue homeostasis. Microarray analysis was undertaken in osteoarthritic intact, lesioned and young intact cartilage. Principal component analysis showed that young intact cartilage samples were clustered together; osteoarthritic samples had a wider distribution; and osteoarthritic intact samples were separated into two subgroups, osteoarthritic-Intact-1 and osteoarthritic-Intact-2. We identified 318 differentially expressed microRNAs between young intact and osteoarthritic lesioned cartilage, 477 between young intact and osteoarthritic-Intact-1 cartilage and 332 between young intact and osteoarthritic-Intact-2 cartilage samples. For a selected list of differentially expressed microRNAs, results were verified in additional cartilage samples using qPCR. Of the validated DE microRNAs, four—miR-107, miR-143-3p, miR-361-5p and miR-379-5p—were selected for further experiments in human primary chondrocytes treated with IL-1β. Expression of these microRNAs decreased in human primary chondrocytes treated with IL-1β. For miR-107 and miR-143-3p, gain- and loss-of-function approaches were undertaken and associated target genes and molecular pathways were investigated using qPCR and mass spectrometry proteomics. Analyses showed that WNT4 and IHH, predicted targets of miR-107, had increased expression in osteoarthritic cartilage compared to young intact cartilage and in primary chondrocytes treated with miR-107 inhibitor, and decreased expression in primary chondrocytes treated with miR-107 mimic, suggesting a role of miR-107 in chondrocyte survival and proliferation. In addition, we identified an association between miR-143-3p and EIF2 signalling and cell survival. Our work supports the role of miR-107 and miR-143-3p in important chondrocyte mechanisms regulating proliferation, hypertrophy and protein translation.
Recent Progress in the Application of Metal Organic Frameworks in Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Detection
Authors: Qin Haojia , Zhao Shuai , Gong Huaping , Yu Zhi , Chen Qiang , Liang Pei , Zhang De
Published: April 2023

Metal–organic framework (MOF) compounds are centered on metal ions or metal ion clusters, forming lattices with a highly ordered periodic porous network structure by connecting organic ligands. As MOFs have the advantages of high porosity, large specific surface area, controllable pore size, etc., they are widely used in gas storage, catalysis, adsorption, separation and other fields. SERS substrate based on MOFs can not only improve the sensitivity of SERS analysis but also solve the problem of easy aggregation of substrate nanoparticles. By combining MOFs with SERS, SERS performance is further improved, and tremendous research progress has been made in recent years. In this review, three methods of preparing MOF-based SERS substrates are introduced, and the latest applications of MOF-based SERS substrates in biosensors, the environment, gases and medical treatments are discussed. Finally, the current status and prospects of MOF-based SERS analysis are summarized.
In Search of a Feedback Signal for Closed-Loop Deep Brain Stimulation: Stimulation of the Subthalamic Nucleus Reveals Altered Glutamate Dynamics in the Globus Pallidus in Anesthetized, 6-Hydroxydopamine-Treated Rats
Authors: Chernov Mykyta M. , Swan Christina B. , Leiter James C.
Published: April 2023

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) is a surgical procedure for alleviating motor symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease (PD). The pattern of DBS (e.g., the electrode pairs used and the intensity of stimulation) is usually optimized by trial and error based on a subjective evaluation of motor function. We tested the hypotheses that DBS releases glutamate in selected basal ganglia nuclei and that the creation of 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-induced nigrostriatal lesions alters glutamate release during DBS in those basal ganglia nuclei. We studied the relationship between a pseudo-random binary sequence of DBS and glutamate levels in the STN itself or in the globus pallidus (GP) in anesthetized, control, and 6-OHDA-treated rats. We characterized the stimulus–response relationships between DBS and glutamate levels using a transfer function estimated using System Identification. Stimulation of the STN elevated glutamate levels in the GP and in the STN. Although the 6-OHDA treatment did not affect glutamate dynamics in the STN during DBS in the STN, the transfer function between DBS in the STN and glutamate levels in the GP was significantly altered by the presence or absence of 6-OHDA-induced lesions. Thus, glutamate responses in the GP in the 6-OHDA-treated animals (but not in the STN) depended on dopaminergic inputs. For this reason, measuring glutamate levels in the GP may provide a useful feedback target in a closed-loop DBS device in patients with PD since the dynamics of glutamate release in the GP during DBS seem to reflect the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the SNc.
The Leading Role of Brain and Abdominal Radiological Features in the Work-Up of Anti-NMDAR Encephalitis in Children: An Up-To-Date Review
Authors: Guarino Miriana , La Bella Saverio , Santoro Marco , Caposiena Daniele , Di Lembo Enza , Chiarelli Francesco , Iannetti Giovanni
Published: April 2023

Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis (NMDARe) is the most common cause of nonviral encephalitis, mostly affecting young women and adolescents with a strong female predominance (F/M ratio of around 4:1). NMDARe is characterized by the presence of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) antibodies against NMDARs, even though its pathophysiological mechanisms have not totally been clarified. The clinical phenotype of NMDARe is composed of both severe neurological and neuropsychiatric symptoms, including generalized seizures with desaturations, behavioral abnormalities, and movement disorders. NMDARe is often a paraneoplastic illness, mainly due to the common presence of concomitant ovarian teratomas in young women. Abdominal ultrasonography (US) is a key imaging technique that should always be performed in suspected patients. The timely use of abdominal US and the peculiar radiological features observed in NMDARe may allow for a quick diagnosis and a good prognosis, with rapid improvement after the resection of the tumor and the correct drug therapy.
Improved Biomagnetic Signal-To-Noise Ratio and Source Localization Using Optically Pumped Magnetometers with Synthetic Gradiometers
Authors: Xiang Jing , Yu Xiaoqian , Bonnette Scott , Anand Manish , Riehm Christopher D. , Schlink Bryan , Diekfuss Jed A. , Myer Gregory D. , Jiang Yang
Published: April 2023

Optically pumped magnetometers (OPMs) can capture brain activity but are susceptible to magnetic noise. The objective of this study was to evaluate a novel methodology used to reduce magnetic noise in OPM measurements. A portable magnetoencephalography (MEG) prototype was developed with OPMs. The OPMs were divided into primary sensors and reference sensors. For each primary sensor, a synthetic gradiometer (SG) was constructed by computing a secondary sensor that simulated noise with signals from the reference sensors. MEG data from a phantom with known source signals and six human participants were used to assess the efficacy of the SGs. Magnetic noise in the OPM data appeared predominantly in a low frequency range (<4 Hz) and varied among OPMs. The SGs significantly reduced magnetic noise (p < 0.01), enhanced the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) (p < 0.001) and improved the accuracy of source localization (p < 0.02). The SGs precisely revealed movement-evoked magnetic fields in MEG data recorded from human participants. SGs provided an effective method to enhance SNR and improve the accuracy of source localization by suppressing noise. Software-simulated SGs may provide new opportunities regarding the use of OPM measurements in various clinical and research applications, especially those in which movement is relevant.