bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of a steroid delivery system to mitigate the severity of proliferative vitreoretinopathy in a minipig model
Authors: Wong Chee Wai , Cheung Ning , Howden James S. , Busoy Joanna Marie Fianza , Sim Shaun , Lim Joshua , Ho Candice , Veluchamy Amutha Barathi , Storm Gert , Wong Tina T.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To investigate the efficacy of liposomal prednisolone phosphate to mitigate the severity of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) in a minipig model of PVR.

Methods

A total of 18 eyes of 9 minipigs underwent PVR induction surgically. Eyes were randomized equally into three groups: intravitreal injection of liposomal prednisolone phosphate (LPP), triamcinolone acetonide (TA), and controls. PVR severity was graded on fundoscopic examination using a modified version of the Silicon Study Classification System. Severe PVR was defined as grade 2-5 on this classification, and the proportion of eyes with retinal detachment from severe PVR, defined as retinal re-detachment, i.e., PVR grade 2-5, was compared between treatment and control groups.

Results

On day 28, five eyes (83.3%) in the control group were observed to have severe PVR. Within the LPP group, one (16.7%) eye developed retinal detachment due to severe PVR. Grade 0 PVR was observed in four (66.7%) eyes, grade 1 in one (16.7%) eye, and grade 5 in one (16.7%) eye. Within the TA group, grade 0 PVR was observed in four eyes (66.7%), grade 1 in two eyes (16.6%), and grade 5 in one (16.7%) eye. The difference in the proportion of eyes with severe PVR was significantly lower in the LPP group compared to controls at day 28 (16.7% vs 83.3%, p=0.02). There was no significant difference in the rate of severe PVR or median PVR grade between the liposomal prednisolone phosphate and triamcinolone acetonide groups.

Conclusion

Liposomal prednisolone phosphate reduces the severity of PVR in a minipig model of PVR.
Ophthalmological impairment in patients with congenital cytomegalovirus infection
Authors: Salomè Serena , Ciampa Nicola , Giordano Mariapaola , Raimondi Raffaele , Capone Eleonora , Grieco Claudia , Coppola Clara , Capasso Letizia , Raimondi Francesco
Published: November 2023

Background

Congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) infection is a frequent cause of neurosensory impairment. Ocular abnormalities and visual impairment have been reported in a high percentage of symptomatic infants, whereas they are considered uncommon in asymptomatic ones. The paucity of data has made difficult to reach clear recommendations on the ophthalmological follow-up that should be provided.

Methods

250 patients with cCMV infection (123 symptomatic) were enrolled and underwent a series of age-appropriate ophthalmologic, audiologic, and neurodevelopmental examinations from 2002 to 2022.

Results

Funduscopic abnormalities were identified at onset in 16/123 (13%) symptomatic infants and in none of the asymptomatic ones (p < 0.001). Chorioretinitis lesions were the most common findings (10/16 cases), while the others showed retinal scars. Lesions were bilateral in 4 patients. No later onset retinal lesions were detected, nor in symptomatic or in asymptomatic children. Five of the 16 (31.5%) symptomatic and none of the asymptomatic subjects showed visual impairment al the last evaluation (p < 0.001). All patients with unfavorable outcome had also neurological impairment. Among symptomatic patients, ocular lesions were associated with central nervous system (CNS) pathological findings in prenatal ultrasonography (p 0.05) and with clinical signs of CNS involvement at birth (p 0.046). No correlation was found with the type of maternal infection and pathological neuroimaging.

Conclusions

Chorioretinal lesions are a fairly common finding at birth in neonates with symptomatic cCMV, often associated with long term visual impairment. Asymptomatic infants do not show ophthalmological abnormalities in the short or long term. This information is relevant both to parental counseling and to cost-effective patient management.
Preterm infants with positive conjunctival swab culture: risk factors and association with late-onset sepsis–a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Gad Ashraf , Khalil Amr , Halil Muhammed , Chandra Prem , Soliman Aly , Rahman E’mar Abdel , Ibrahim Marwa , Al Khzzam Fadi , AlHendawi Talal , Hamed Manal , Bayoumi Mohammad A. A. , Petkar Hawabibee
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Purulent conjunctival discharge in hospitalized preterm infants may indicate conjunctivitis and warrant treatment. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between positive conjunctival swab (CS) culture and late-onset sepsis (LOS) in preterm infants.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted to determine the relationship between positive CS culture growth results (CSP) obtained in preterm infants ≤34 weeks' gestation and the development of LOS within 120 h of obtaining CS compared with those who had negative CS culture results (CSN). Electronic medical records were reviewed from January 2015 until December 2019 for preterm infants presenting with purulent conjunctival discharge and underwent CS culture testing due to suspected conjunctivitis.

Results

Of the 234 CS cultures obtained during the study period, 145 (61.9%) were CSP compared to 89 (38.1%) CSN cultures. Gram-negative organisms accounted for 70% of all CSP cultures, with the remaining 30% being Gram-positive. Patients with CSP were smaller, younger, had lower 1-minute APGAR scores, and required respiratory support more frequently than those with CSN. Infants with CSP received antibiotics for longer periods, both topically and systemically. Infants who developed LOS were more likely to require invasive ventilation (adjusted odds ratio, 33.5; 95% CI, 2.52–446.5, p = 0.008). The incidence of LOS between the two groups was similar, with 6.2% observed in the CSP group compared to 3.4% in the CSN group (p = 0.543). Similarly, the rates of bacteremia were similar in both groups. Of the CSP patients who were presented with bacteremia, four out of seven (57%) exhibited bacteremia caused by the same organism found in their CS cultures. Similarly, within the entire cohort, respiratory cultures were performed on nine intubated patients within two weeks of obtaining CS cultures. Of these, in the CSP group, five out of six (83%) showed an organism identical to that found in the CS cultures.

Conclusion

The study found a significant proportion of positive CS cultures in preterm infants, with distinct patient characteristics and treatment compared to negative cultures. While the incidence of LOS was not significantly different between the two groups, some CSP patients demonstrated bacteremia with the same CS organism, suggesting a possible connection between conjunctival or respiratory colonization and bacteremia.
A review on the mechanisms underlying the antitumor effects of natural products by targeting the endoplasmic reticulum stress apoptosis pathway
Authors: Zhang Jie-Xiang , Yuan Wei-Chen , Li Cheng-Gang , Zhang Hai-Yan , Han Shu-Yan , Li Xiao-Hong
Published: November 2023

Cancer poses a substantial risk to human life and wellbeing as a result of its elevated incidence and fatality rates. Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) is an important pathway that regulates cellular homeostasis. When ERS is under- or overexpressed, it activates the protein kinase R (PKR)-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK)-, inositol-requiring enzyme 1 (IRE1)- and activating transcription Factor 6 (ATF6)-related apoptotic pathways to induce apoptosis. Tumor cells and microenvironment are susceptible to ERS, making the modulation of ERS a potential therapeutic approach for treating tumors. The use of natural products to treat tumors has substantially progressed, with various extracts demonstrating antitumor effects. Nevertheless, there are few reports on the effectiveness of natural products in inducing apoptosis by specifically targeting and regulating the ERS pathway. Further investigation and elaboration of its mechanism of action are still needed. This paper examines the antitumor mechanism of action by which natural products exert antitumor effects from the perspective of ERS regulation to provide a theoretical basis and new research directions for tumor therapy.
Combined analysis of inorganic elements and flavonoid metabolites reveals the relationship between flower quality and maturity of Sophora japonica L.
Authors: Wang Tian-Wang , Tan Jun , Li Long-Yun , Yang Yong , Zhang Xiao-Mei , Wang Ji-Rui
Published: November 2023

Flos Sophorae (FS), or the dried flower buds of Sophora japonica L., is widely used as a food and medicinal material in China. The quality of S. japonica flowers varies with the developmental stages (S1–S5) of the plant. However, the relationship between FS quality and maturity remains unclear. Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) and ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization-triple quadrupole-linear ion trap mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-Q TRAP-MS/MS) were used to analyze inorganic elements and flavonoid metabolites, respectively. A combined analysis of the inorganic elements and flavonoid metabolites in FS was conducted to determine the patterns of FS quality formation. Sixteen inorganic elements and 173 flavonoid metabolites that accumulated at different developmental stages were identified. Notably, 54 flavonoid metabolites associated with the amelioration of major human diseases were identified, and Ca, P, K, Fe, and Cu were postulated to influence flavonoid metabolism and synthesis. This study offers a novel perspective and foundation for the further exploration of the rules governing the quality of plant materials.
Verbal-analytical rather than visuo-spatial Raven's puzzle solving favors Raven's-like puzzle generation
Authors: Srivastava Priyanka , Jaarsveld Saskia , Sangani Kishan
Published: November 2023

Raven's advanced progressive matrices (APM) comprise two types of representational codes, namely visuo-spatial and verbal-analytical, that are used to solve APM puzzles. Studies using analytical, behavioral, and imaging methods have supported the multidimensional perspectives of APM puzzles. The visuo-spatial code is expected to recruit operations more responsive to the visual perception tasks. In contrast, the verbal-analytical code is expected to use operations more responsive to the logical reasoning task and may entail different cognitive strategies. Acknowledging different representational codes used in APM puzzle-solving is critical for a better understanding of APM's performance and their relationship with other tasks, especially creative reasoning. We used the eye-tracking method to investigate the role of two representational codes, visuo-spatial and verbal-analytical, in strategies involved in solving APM puzzles and in generating an APM-like puzzle by using a creative-reasoning task (CRT). Participants took longer time to complete the verbal-analytical than visuo-spatial puzzles. In addition, visuo-analytical than visual-spatial puzzles showed higher progressive and regressive saccade counts, suggesting the use of more response elimination than constructive matching strategies employed while solving verbal-analytical than visuo-spatial puzzles. We observed higher CRT scores when it followed verbal-analytical (Mdn = 84) than visuo-spatial (Mdn = 73) APM puzzles, suggesting puzzle-solving specific strategies affect puzzle-creating task performance. The advantage of verbal-analytical over visuo-spatial puzzle-solving has been discussed in light of shared cognitive processing between APM puzzle-solving and APM-like puzzle-creating task performance.
The relationship between tolerance for uncertainty and academic adjustment: the mediating role of students’ psychological flexibility during COVID-19
Authors: Daşcı Esma , Salihoğlu Kübra , Daşcı Esra
Published: November 2023

Introduction

University students are among the groups most adversely affected by COVID-19 in terms of their psychological and academic wellbeing, particularly given the pandemic’s uncertainty. However, little is known about their psychological flexibility to deal with this uncertain nature of pandemic. This study aimed to examine the mediating role of psychological flexibility (PF) in the relationship between university students’ intolerance of uncertainty (IU) and their academic adjustment to the online learning process during COVID-19.

Methods

Data was collected from 388 university students from Türkiye (18–34 (Mage = 21.43, SD = 2.04) who completed five questionnaires – Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale, Acceptance and Action Questionnaire II, Academic Self Efficacy Scale, Educational Stress Scale, and Online Self-Regulatory Learning Scale. Additionally, as indicators of students’ academic adjustment, perceived academic performance – ranging 1 to 10, and their last academic grade point average before and during the pandemic were also collected.

Results

The results indicated that PF and IU had a significant effect on the academic adjustment of students during the pandemic. PF had a complete mediating role between the IU and academic adjustment. Results also revealed that online self-regulation, a sub-dimension of academic adjustment, did not show a significant relationship with any other variable in the model.

Discussion

Research findings showed that psychological flexibility is a very important strength for university students to maintain their academic adjustment in stressful times. The results were discussed in light of the relevant research, and recommendations for further research and implications were provided.
Relationships between COVID-19 healthcare outcomes and county characteristics in the U.S. for Delta (B.1.617.2) and Omicron (B.1.1.529 and BA.1.1) variants
Authors: Bruckhaus Alexander A. , Zhang Yujia , Salehi Sana , Abedi Aidin , Duncan Dominique
Published: November 2023

Background

COVID-19 is constantly evolving, and highly populated communities consist of many different characteristics that may contribute to COVID-19 health outcomes. Therefore, we aimed to (1) quantify the relationships between county characteristics and severe and non-severe county-level health outcomes related to COVID-19. We also aimed to (2) compare these relationships across time periods where the Delta (B.1.617.2) and Omicron (B.1.1.529 and BA.1.1) variants were dominant in the U.S.

Methods

We used multiple regression to measure the strength of relationships between healthcare outcomes and county characteristics in the 50 most populous U.S. counties.

Results

We found many different significant predictors including the proportion of a population vaccinated, median household income, population density, and the proportion of residents aged 65+, but mainly found that socioeconomic factors and the proportion of a population vaccinated play a large role in the dynamics of the spread and severity of COVID-19 in communities with high populations.

Discussion

The present study shines light on the associations between public health outcomes and county characteristics and how these relationships change throughout Delta and Omicron’s dominance. It is important to understand factors underlying COVID-19 health outcomes to prepare for future health crises.
Examining the relationship between sleep quality and depressive symptoms in Korean women engaged in soccer during the coronavirus pandemic
Authors: Kim Young-Jae , Lee Da-Som , Kim E-Sack
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused sudden changes to daily lives, such as self-isolation and social distancing, and has negatively affected sleep quality and patterns. The resulting psychological discomfort has caused many Korean women to experience depressive moods. Vigorous physical activity is considered effective in improving sleep quality and alleviating depressive symptoms. As a form of vigorous physical activity, soccer could be used to improve women's mental health. This study aimed to ascertain the effects of playing soccer on sleep quality and depressive symptoms in women.

Methods

Non-face-to-face questionnaires were administered using Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index to measure sleep quality and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 to measure depressive symptoms, targeting 200 of 297 soccer-playing Korean women aged 20–50 years, from October 13, 2022, to January 15, 2023. A total of 172 questionnaires administered to soccer participants were used, while 28 with insincere and double or no-responses were excluded. Additionally, 124 samples of non-exercise participants were collected, with the help of “EMBRAIN,” a Korean research and survey company. This study analyzed differences in sleep quality and depressive symptoms, and correlations and multiple regression analysis were performed.

Results

The soccer group was shown to have a high quality of sleep. In relation to the effect of sleep quality on depressive symptoms, subjective sleep quality, sleep latency, sleep disturbance, use of sleeping pills, and daytime functional disorder had a significant effect. In the relation to the effect of sleep quality on depressive symptoms, significant effect was found in subjective sleep quality, sleep latency, sleep disturbance, and daytime functional disorder of soccer participants, and non-exercise participants displayed significant effect in subjective sleep quality, sleep disturbance, and the use of sleeping pills.

Discussion

This study examined the effect of soccer participation on sleep quality and depressive symptoms among women. Soccer, which requires high activity and teamwork levels, improves sociability in women by enhancing their sense of belonging, self-confidence, and team spirit.
Setting up and managing the largest COVID-19 mass vaccination center in Lombardy, Italy
Authors: Calegari Jessica Graziella , Bisesti Alberto , Pazzaglia Silvia , Gambazza Simone , Binda Filippo , Bruno Martina , Chiappa Laura , Piatti Alessandra , Tiwana Navpreet , Letzgus Matteo , Castaldi Silvana , Sottocorno Marcello , Laquintana Dario
Published: November 2023

Background

The rapid global spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) was met with the rollout of vaccination campaigns at mass vaccination centers. The Palazzo delle Scintille, Milan, was designated by the Lombardy regional administration as a vaccination site with the target of processing about 9,000 users daily.

Methods

For this observational study, we compared data on vaccinations delivered at the Palazzo delle Scintille with coronavirus disease (COVID-19)-related regional data.

Results

Between 25 April 2021 and 28 February 2023, a total of 1,885,822 COVID-19 doses were administered; the mean hourly rate was 289 (247.2), the mean daily rate was 3185.5 (3104.5), the mean user age was 49.5 years (10.7). The Comirnaty vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech) was most often given (1,072,030/1,885,822; 56.8%). Between 4 December 2021 and 15 January 2022, the daily dose rate was above the maximum daily capacity set by the regional administration.

Conclusion

The trend for daily dose rates administered at the Palazzo delle Scintille center was in line with COVID-19-related regional data. The center played a major role in the regional mass vaccination campaign.
Daytime napping, biological aging and cognitive function among middle-aged and older Chinese: insights from the China health and retirement longitudinal study
Authors: Wu Huiyi , Huang Lei , Zhang Shushan , Zhang Yang , Lan Yajia
Published: November 2023

Objective

The complicated association of daytime napping, biological aging and cognitive function remains inconclusive. We aimed to evaluate the cross-sectional and longitudinal associations of daytime napping and two aging measures with cognition and to examine whether napping affects cognition through a more advanced state of aging.

Methods

Data was collected from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. Napping was self-reported. We calculated two published biological aging measures: Klemera and Doubal biological age (KDM-BA) and physiological dysregulation (PD), which derived information from clinical biomarkers. Cognitive z-scores were calculated at each wave. Linear mixed models were used to explore the longitudinal association between napping, two aging measures, and cognitive decline. Mediation analyses were performed to assess the mediating effects of biological age acceleration on the association between napping and cognition.

Results

Participants aged over 45 years were included in the analyses. Non-nappers had greater KDM-BA and PD [LS means (LSM) = 0.255, p = 0.007; LSM = 0.085, p = 0.011] and faster cognitive decline (LSM = −0.061, p = 0.005)compared to moderate nappers (30–90 min/nap). KDM-BA (β = −0.007, p = 0.018) and PD (β = −0.034, p < 0.001) showed a negative association with overall cognitive z scores. KDM-BA and PD partially mediated the effect of napping on cognition.

Conclusion

In middle-aged and older Chinese, compared to moderate nappers, non-nappers seem to experience a more advanced state of aging and increased rates of cognitive decline. The aging status possibly mediates the association between napping and cognition. Moderate napping shows promise in promoting healthy aging and reducing the burden of cognitive decline in Chinese middle-aged and older adults.
Does artificial intelligence kill employment growth: the missing link of corporate AI posture
Authors: Bughin Jacques
Published: November 2023

Introduction

An intense debate has been on-going about how artificial intelligence (AI) technology investments have an impact on employment. The debate has often focused on the potential of AI for human task automation, omitting the strategic incentive for firms to cooperate with their workers as to exploit AI technologies for the most relevant benefit of new product and service innovation.

Method

We calibrate an empirical probit regression model of how changes in employment relate to AI diffusion, based on formalizing a game-theoretical model of a firm exploiting the twin role of AI innovation and AI automation for both absolute and competitive advantage.

Results

The theoretical game-theory prediction is that employment following AI technology adoption is not negative, and ultimately depends on how AI leads to new success in innovation, competition which defines the competitive reward of innovation and profit sharing between workers and firms. Our estimation, is based on a global survey of 3,000 large companies across 10 countries, demonstrates that a firm employment growth depends on two strategic postures, that is, the firm relative maturity of AI adoption as well as its relative bias toward AI-based product innovation.

Discussion

The contribution of this research is to highlight the twin role of firm and workers in shaping how technology will affect employment. AI in particular marries the potential of task automation with even more potential for expansion.
Association of parental social support and dental caries in hispanic children
Authors: Lally Casey , Maliq Nihmath Nasiha , Schreiber Madysen , Wilson Anne , Tiwari Tamanna
Published: November 2023

This study describes social support of Hispanic parents and the correlation with dental caries in their children. A cross-sectional study design was utilized to assess the 157 parent-child triads recruited from the Children's Hospital Colorado Dental Clinic. The Basic Research Factors Questionnaire (BRFQ) survey was utilized to assess parents' oral health knowledge, attitudes, behavior, and other psychosocial measures with social support as the main predictor variable. Bivariate associations between the independent variables and dmfs were conducted. Independent variables with a bivariate association of p ≤ 0.2 for the outcome variable were included in the multivariable linear regression model. Dental caries in children was significantly associated with less overall parental social support (β = −10.10, p = 0.03). Overall social support was divided into four sub-categories: errand help, money help, childcare help, and transportation help. Dental caries decreased by 7.70 units for every 1-unit increase in transportation help (β = −7.70, p = 0.03). A significant association was observed between parental knowledge on dental utilization and dmfs (β = −2.70, p = 0.04). In the multivariable linear regression model, caries was significantly associated with social support (β = −11.18, p = 0.02) and knowledge on dental utilization (β = −3.84, p = 0.01). The study concludes that a higher level of social support and knowledge on dental utilization for Hispanic parents is correlated with lower rates of dental caries in their children.
Hypoxia within subcutaneously implanted macroencapsulation devices limits the viability and functionality of densely loaded islets
Authors: Einstein Samuel A. , Steyn Leah V. , Weegman Bradley P. , Suszynski Thomas M. , Sambanis Athanassios , O’Brien Timothy D. , Avgoustiniatos Efstathios S. , Firpo Meri T. , Graham Melanie L. , Janecek Jody , Eberly Lynn E. , Garwood Michael , Putnam Charles W. , Papas Klearchos K.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Subcutaneous macroencapsulation devices circumvent disadvantages of intraportal islet therapy. However, a curative dose of islets within reasonably sized devices requires dense cell packing. We measured internal PO2 of implanted devices, mathematically modeled oxygen availability within devices and tested the predictions with implanted devices containing densely packed human islets.

Methods

Partial pressure of oxygen (PO2) within implanted empty devices was measured by noninvasive 19F-MRS. A mathematical model was constructed, predicting internal PO2, viability and functionality of densely packed islets as a function of external PO2. Finally, viability was measured by oxygen consumption rate (OCR) in day 7 explants loaded at various islet densities.

Results

In empty devices, PO2 was 12 mmHg or lower, despite successful external vascularization. Devices loaded with human islets implanted for 7 days, then explanted and assessed by OCR confirmed trends proffered by the model but viability was substantially lower than predicted. Co-localization of insulin and caspase-3 immunostaining suggested that apoptosis contributed to loss of beta cells.

Discussion

Measured PO2 within empty devices declined during the first few days post-transplant then modestly increased with neovascularization around the device. Viability of islets is inversely related to islet density within devices.
Extended soil surface drying triggered by subsurface drip irrigation decouples carbon and nitrogen cycles and alters microbiome composition
Authors: Griffin-LaHue Deirdre , Wang Daoyuan , Gaudin Amélie C. M. , Durbin-Johnson Blythe , Settles Matthew L. , Scow Kate M.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Irrigation management dramatically alters soil water availability and distribution and could impact soil microbial communities and carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) cycling to an even greater degree than observed in rainfed systems. Adoption of subsurface drip irrigation (SDI) in California’s Mediterranean agroecosystems provides agronomic benefits but wets only a portion of the soil volume near the root zone, leaving the rest dry throughout the growing season. In contrast, traditional furrow irrigation (FI) has periodic wetting events with more homogenous moisture distribution. With conversion to precision irrigation methods, how will the microbiome respond to changes moisture availability, and how is their response influenced by soil C and N resource levels?

Methods

In a field experiment in California, we compared SDI and FI’s effects on microbial communities and evaluated how long-term organic and conventional management systems impact outcomes. Throughout the growing season, soil samples were collected at two depths (0-15, 15-30 cm) and three distances from bed center (10, 25, 45 cm) where the drip tape is located.

Results

At harvest, soils irrigated using SDI had lower microbial biomass C (MBC) than under FI at the surface and showed a build-up of soluble C and N relative to MBC at the bed edge, indicating reduced microbial uptake. Community composition at the bed edge also diverged between SDI and FI, favoring Actinobacteria in the former and Acidobacteria and Gemmatimonadetes in the latter. Regardless of irrigation type, dry areas of the bed had the highest alpha diversity indices. Response to SDI was similar in organic and conventional systems, though organic had higher MBC, DOC, and relative abundance of Proteobacteria and fungal lipids, regardless of irrigation.

Discussion

Prolonged dry conditions in SDI appeared to limit microbial access to resources and changed community composition. As seen in non-agricultural systems, the severity and frequency of moisture changes, adaptation of the communities, and resource availability affect microbial response. Decoupling of C and N pools in dry surface soils under SDI may increase the potential for losses of DOC and nitrate with the first winter rains in this Mediterranean climate.
Mining toxicogenomic data for dose-responsive pathways: implications in advancing next-generation risk assessment
Authors: Barutcu A. Rasim , Black Michael B. , Nong Andy
Published: November 2023

Introduction: While targeted investigation of key toxicity pathways has been instrumental for biomarker discovery, unbiased and holistic analysis of transcriptomic data provides a complementary systems-level perspective. However, in a systematic context, this approach has yet to receive comprehensive and methodical implementation.

Methods: Here, we took an integrated bioinformatic approach by re-analyzing publicly available MCF7 cell TempO-seq data for 44 ToxCast chemicals using an alternative pipeline to demonstrate the power of this approach. The original study has focused on analyzing the gene signature approach and comparing them to in vitro biological pathway altering concentrations determined from ToxCast HTS assays. Our workflow, in comparison, involves sequential differential expression, gene set enrichment, benchmark dose modeling, and identification of commonly perturbed pathways by network visualization.

Results: Using this approach, we identified dose-responsive molecular changes, biological pathways, and points of departure in an untargeted manner. Critically, benchmark dose modeling based on pathways recapitulated points of departure for apical endpoints, while also revealing additional perturbed mechanisms missed by single endpoint analyses.

Discussion: This systems-toxicology approach provides multifaceted insights into the complex effects of chemical exposures. Our work highlights the importance of unbiased data-driven techniques, alongside targeted methods, for comprehensively evaluating molecular initiating events, dose-response relationships, and toxicity pathways. Overall, integrating omics assays with robust bioinformatics holds promise for improving chemical risk assessment and advancing new approach methodologies (NAMs).
Period Cycle Optimization of Integrated Energy Systems with Long-Term Scheduling Consideration
Authors: Ye Daoyu , Deng Shengxiang
Published: November 2023

The economy and energy saving effects of integrated energy system dispatch plans are influenced by the coupling of different energy devices. In order to consider the impact of changes in equipment load rates on the optimization and scheduling of the system under long-term operation, a method for energy and component cycle optimization considering energy device capacity and load has been proposed. By improving the initial parameters of the components, energy economic parameters, and operational optimization parameters, the system is subjected to long-term scheduling and multi-cycle operational optimization analysis to evaluate the energy saving and emission reduction potential as well as the economic feasibility of the system. Finally, through numerical analysis, the effectiveness of this optimization approach in achieving energy savings, emission reductions, and cost benefits for the system is validated. Furthermore, compared to existing optimization methods, this approach also assesses the economic feasibility of the system. The case study resulted in a pre-tax IRR of 23.14% and a pre-tax NPV of 66.38 million. It is inferred that the system could generate profits over a 10-year operation period, thereby offering a more rational and cost-effective scheduling scheme for the integrated energy system.
Introducing Autochthonous Bacterium and Fungus Composition to Enhance the Phytopathogen-Suppressive Capacity of Composts against Clonostachys rosea, Penicillium solitum and Alternaria alternata In Vitro
Authors: Mironov Vladimir , Shchelushkina Anna , Selitskaya Olga , Nikolaev Yury , Merkel Alexander , Zhang Shenghua
Published: November 2023

Given their numerous positive characteristics, composts are widely used agriculturally in sustainable development and resource-saving technologies. The management of phytopathogen-suppressive potential and the fertilizing capacity of composts are of great interest. This study examines the impact of introducing the autochthonous compost species Bacillus subtilis, B. amyloliquefaciens, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Aspergillus corrugatus, both individually and in combination, to composts containing dry matter comprising 36% solid compost and 7% compost suspensions to study their phytopathogen-suppressive and phytostimulation activity. The test phytopathogens were Clonostachys rosea, Penicillium solitum, and Alternaria alternata. This is the first report on compost’s potential to biologically control C. rosea and P. solitum. Classical microbiological and molecular biological methods were used to evaluate the survival rate of microorganisms in compost and validate these results. Test plant (Raphanus sativus) germination indexes were determined to evaluate the phytotoxic/phytostimulation effects of the substrates. To assess the effectiveness of biocontrol, mycelial growth inhibition was measured using in vitro tests. The introduction of composition increased the composts’ fertilizing properties by up to 35% and improved antagonistic activity by up to 91.7%. Autochthonous bacterial–fungal composition can promote resistance to fungal root and foliar phytopathogens and raise the fertilizing quality of compost.
Hemoparasites Do Not Affect Life-History Traits and Cellular Immune Response in Treefrog Hosts Boana cordobae
Authors: Pollo Favio , Salinas Zulma , Baraquet Mariana , Otero Manuel A. , Grenat Pablo R. , Salas Nancy , Martino Adolfo L. , Sinsch Ulrich
Published: November 2023

We provide the first evidence for hemoparasites in the endemic Cordoba treefrog Boana cordobae. We collected 37 adult frogs at 1200 m a.s.l. in the Comechingones Mountains in the Córdoba province (Argentina). Each individual was sexed, then snout–vent length and body mass were recorded, a toe was collected for skeletochronological age determination, and a slide with a blood smear was prepared for hemoparasite screening, before releasing the frogs in situ. A total of 81% (n = 30) of the frogs were infected by hemogregarines and trypanosomes with a high intensity of infections. Dactylosoma was found for the first time in Argentina. Hemoparasites had no significant effect on the leukocyte profile, which we assessed from the May–Grünwald–Giemsa-stained blood smears. The neutrophils/lymphocytes ratio, indicative of stress, was insignificantly higher (0.06) in parasitized frogs than in parasite-free individuals (0.04). Infected frogs were larger than the controls, but this effect vanished when correcting size data for age. Young frogs (first-breeders) dominated the age distribution of parasite-free individuals, suggesting that infection of frogs takes usually place after sexual maturation. Vectors transmitting hemoparasites to B. cordobae remain to be identified. We demonstrate that moderate to high intensities of hemoparasites do not significantly affect the cellular immune response of B. cordobae, or any of the life-history traits studied, nor did they show any external sign of disease.
Reactive Oxygen Species and Strategies for Antioxidant Intervention in Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Lim Eun Yeong , Lee So-Young , Shin Hee Soon , Kim Gun-Dong
Published: November 2023

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening pulmonary condition characterized by the sudden onset of respiratory failure, pulmonary edema, dysfunction of endothelial and epithelial barriers, and the activation of inflammatory cascades. Despite the increasing number of deaths attributed to ARDS, a comprehensive therapeutic approach for managing patients with ARDS remains elusive. To elucidate the pathological mechanisms underlying ARDS, numerous studies have employed various preclinical models, often utilizing lipopolysaccharide as the ARDS inducer. Accumulating evidence emphasizes the pivotal role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the pathophysiology of ARDS. Both preclinical and clinical investigations have asserted the potential of antioxidants in ameliorating ARDS. This review focuses on various sources of ROS, including NADPH oxidase, uncoupled endothelial nitric oxide synthase, cytochrome P450, and xanthine oxidase, and provides a comprehensive overview of their roles in ARDS. Additionally, we discuss the potential of using antioxidants as a strategy for treating ARDS.
Design and Test of a Tree-Whitening Machine Based on a Multi-Nozzle Holder
Authors: Teng Shaomin , Cao Yangfan , Zhao Ying , Qiu Liqi , Zhang Xieliang , Yao Penghui , Wang Decheng
Published: November 2023

In this study, a tree-whitening machine was designed based on the collaborative operation of multiple spray nozzles. This research utilized infrared ranging, ultrasonic detection, and spraying devices in order to realize the accurate spraying of trees and improve the efficiency and quality of spraying. The test results show that the working efficiency of the machine is 300 trees/h, the spraying coverage is up to 96.5%, and the applicable trunk circumference range is 500–1250 mm, which is more advantageous than the American UltraMaxII695 high-pressure electric spraying machine, the domestic HT20 machine, etc. Furthermore, it improves the working efficiency by 7.1%, the spraying coverage by 6.7%, and the expansion of the adaptable trunk circumference range by 20%, as well as having further advantages.
A Data-Driven Approach to Predict the ROP of Deep Wells in Fukang Sag
Authors: Wang Yingjie , Tan Qiang , Wu Desheng , Chen Hao , Hu Naikun , Zhao Yuxuan
Published: November 2023

In the deep well drilling process in the Fukang Depression of the Eastern Junggar Basin, rock fracturing issues and low rate of penetration (ROP) have posed significant challenges to drilling efficiency. Accurate predictions of ROP prior to drilling are of considerable value in this context. Precise predictions enable on-site engineering teams to proactively identify drilling difficulties and anticipate potential complex scenarios, facilitating them in designing preventive measures in advance, such as selecting appropriate drill bits, adjusting drilling parameters, or employing specific drilling techniques to address these issues. This, in turn, enhances drilling efficiency and greatly reduces drilling risks. Traditional mechanical-specific energy drilling rate models, despite their widespread use, exhibit significant disparities with actual results when predicting ROP. These models only consider the influence of drill bits, drilling tools, and some drilling parameters on ROP, failing to adequately account for the variations caused by engineering factors and failing to capture the interrelationships between various parameters, especially when dealing with complex subsurface formations in the Fukang Depression. Random forest is a non-parametric algorithm in the field of machine learning that is suitable for analyzing and predicting ROP affected by various complex and non-linear drilling parameters. This paper establishes a Random forest model based on a dataset containing multiple variables of logging parameters and the actual ROP. The model ranks and assesses the important feature parameters of ROP to reveal their impact. Additionally, the model uses bootstrap sampling and feature random selection to construct multiple decision trees, reducing the risk of overfitting and endowing the model with a high generalization capability. Evaluation metrics indicate that the model exhibits a high prediction accuracy and performs well, significantly improving the accuracy of mechanical drilling rate predictions in the deep wells of the Fukang Depression. This model provides robust support and serves as a positive demonstration for addressing mechanical drilling rate issues in complex subsurface formations in the future.
Evaluation of Factors Affecting the MgO–C Refractory Lining Degradation in a Basic Oxygen Furnace
Authors: Demeter Jaroslav , Buľko Branislav , Demeter Peter , Hrubovčáková Martina
Published: November 2023

Identification of the factors influencing refractory lining wear and its residual thickness in the basic oxygen furnace (BOF) is a prerequisite for optimizing the steelmaking process. In this study, the factors that contribute significantly to the wear of the refractory lining in the most stressed areas of the banded lining (i.e., the trunnion ring area and slag line area) are identified. Knowledge of the rate at which a given factor acts on refractory wear is closely related to the development of technological procedures aimed at limiting its influence. This research evaluates the technological causes and describes the lining wear mechanism and the thermodynamic parameters of the reactions between the MgO–C metal, slag, and gunning material phases. In researching the topic, real operational data were processed using statistical methods and data analysis, which were supported by thermodynamic modeling of chemical reactions. The results show that the combination of technological factors, mechanical action of the raw materials, blowing and free oxygen in the metal, silicon from the pig iron, and slag viscosity have the greatest influence on the residual thickness of the MgO–C refractory lining in BOFs. Refractory gunning material consumption, its effect on campaign length, and the cost-effectiveness of repair work were also analyzed.
Optimizing Two-Dimensional Irregular Packing: A Hybrid Approach of Genetic Algorithm and Linear Programming
Authors: Liu Cheng , Si Zhujun , Hua Jun , Jia Na
Published: November 2023

The problem of two-dimensional irregular packing involves the arrangement of objects with diverse shapes and sizes within a given area. This challenge arises across various industrial sectors, where effective packing optimization can yield cost savings, enhanced productivity, and reduced material waste. Existing methods for addressing the two-dimensional irregular packing problem encounter several challenges, such as limited computing resources, a prolonged solving time, and the propensity to converge to local optima. To address this issue, this study proposes a hybrid algorithm called the GA-LP algorithm to optimize the two-dimensional irregular packing problem in the manufacturing industry. The algorithm combines the global search capability of a genetic algorithm with the precise solving characteristics of linear programming. Matheuristics merges the advantages of metaheuristics, such as genetic algorithms, and mathematical programming, such as linear programming. The algorithm employs the no-fit-polygon technique along with the bottom-left and lowest-gravity center mixing placement strategies to acquire an initial solution via the utilization of a genetic algorithm. The algorithm then optimizes the solution obtained by the genetic algorithm using linear programming to obtain the final packing result. Experimental results, drawn from a real case involving the European Special Interest Group on Cutting and Packing (ESICUP) demonstrate that the GA-LP algorithm outperforms two hybrid algorithms from the relevant literature. Compared with recent methods, this algorithm can increase the best and average utilization rates by up to 5.89% and 4.02%, respectively, with important implications for improving work quality in areas such as packing and cutting.
Electrospinning of High-Performance Nanofibres: State of the Art and Insights into the Path Forward
Authors: Forgie Jemma R. P. , Leclinche Floriane , Dréan Emilie , Dolez Patricia I.
Published: November 2023

Nanofibrous membranes have gained interest for their small pore size, light weight, and excellent filtration. When produced from high-performance polymers, nanofibrous membranes also benefit from excellent mechanical properties, thermal resistance, and chemical resistance. Electrospinning is a common method of producing high-performance nanofibres. However, there are still major challenges with the dissolution and electrospinning of these polymers, as well as in the performance of the resulting nanofibres, which is often less than what would be expected from a conventional high-performance fibre. This review assesses the state of progress in the electrospinning of five high-performance fibres: meta-aramid (m-aramid), para-aramid (p-aramid), polyamide-imide (PAI), polybenzoxazole (PBO), and polybenzimidazole (PBI). Polymers that can be readily dissolved in organic solvents, such as m-aramid, PAI, and PBI, have been more widely researched for electrospinning compared to those that can only be spun from precursors or dissolved in non-volatile solvents. Major focuses within the literature include optimizing the electrospinning process and improving the mechanical performance of the nanofibres. This review demonstrates a clear need for more standardized characterization methods and consideration for the longevity of the nanofibrous membranes. Future research should also focus on scale-up methods of electrospinning so that the benefits of nanofibres made from high-performance polymers can be leveraged by the industry.
Enhancing the Performance of XR Environments Using Fog and Cloud Computing
Authors: Lee Eun-Seok , Shin Byeong-Seok
Published: November 2023

The extended reality (XR) environment demands high-performance computing and data processing capabilities, while requiring continuous technological development to enable a real-time integration between the physical and virtual worlds for user interactions. XR systems have traditionally been deployed in local environments primarily because of the need for the real-time collection of user behavioral patterns. On the other hand, these XR systems face limitations in local deployments, such as latency issues arising from factors, such as network bandwidth and GPU performance. Consequently, several studies have examined cloud-based XR solutions. While offering centralized management advantages, these solutions present bandwidth, data transmission, and real-time processing challenges. Addressing these challenges necessitates reconfiguring the XR environment and adopting new approaches and strategies focusing on network bandwidth and real-time processing optimization. This paper examines the computational complexities, latency issues, and real-time user interaction challenges of XR. A system architecture that leverages edge and fog computing is proposed to overcome these challenges and enhance the XR experience by efficiently processing input data, rendering output content, and minimizing latency for real-time user interactions.