bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reliability Associated with the Measurement of Continuous Variables in Veterinary Medicine: What the Different Possible Indicators Tell, and How to Use and Report Them
Authors: Buczinski Sébastien
Published: September 2023

Reliable indicators of health status (heart rate, rectal temperature, blood marker, etc.) are of cornerstone importance in the daily practice of veterinary medicine. The reliability of a measurement assesses the variability that is associated with the variable to be measured itself vs. other sources of variation (measurement device, person performing the measurement, etc.). Quantitative and continuous indicators are numerous in practice and the determination of their reliability is a complex issue. In the absence of a gold standard approach, several indicators of reliability have been described and can be used depending on several assumptions, study design, and type of measurement. The aim of this manuscript is, therefore, to determine the applicability of commonly described reliability indicators. After a description of the different sources of errors of a measurement, a review of the different indicators that are commonly used in the veterinary field as well as their applicability, limitations, and interpretations is performed.
Let Them Be the Judge of That: Bias Cascade in Elite Dressage Judging
Authors: Wolframm Inga
Published: September 2023

Sport performances judged subjectively often suffer from systematic errors due to biases, with the sport of equestrian dressage being no exception. This study examines whether international dressage judges display systematic errors while evaluating elite horse-rider combinations. Data from seven 5* Grand Prix dressage events between May 2022 and April 2023 were analyzed (510 judges’ scores) using Multivariable Linear Regression Analysis. Five predictor variables—Home, Same Nationality, Compatriot, FEI Ranking and Starting Order—were studied in relation to Total Dressage Score (TS). The model accounted for 44.1% of TS variance; FEI Ranking, Starting Order, Compatriot, Same Nationality, and Home were statistically significant (p < 0.001). Judges exhibited nationalistic and patriotism-by-proxy biases, awarding significantly higher scores to riders from their countries (p < 0.001). FEI Ranking and Starting Order also influenced scores significantly (p < 0.001). These biases, combined, created a cascade effect benefiting a specific group of riders. To address this, measures should be taken to develop a more objective judging system that is based on unequivocal, transparent and evidence-based criteria and supports the continuous development of a fair, sustainable, equine welfare orientated sport that fosters societal acceptance,
Prevalence and Diversity of Blood Parasites (Plasmodium, Leucocytozoon and Trypanosoma) in Backyard Chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus) Raised in Southern Thailand
Authors: Boonchuay Kanpapat , Thomrongsuwannakij Thotsapol , Chagas Carolina Romeiro Fernandes , Pornpanom Pornchai
Published: September 2023

Avian malaria and leucocytozoonosis can cause fatal diseases, whereas avian trypanosomiasis is reported to be harmless in chickens. Backyard chickens can be infected by several pathogens, including blood parasites, that may shed to industrial poultry production, with a consequently higher economic impact. This study aimed to investigate the presence of several blood parasites (Plasmodium, Leucocytozoon and Trypanosoma) in backyard chickens raised in Southern Thailand, using PCR-based detection and microscopic methods. From June 2021 to June 2022, 57 backyard chickens were sampled. Fresh thin blood smears were prepared from 11 individuals, and buffy coat smears were prepared from 55 of them. Both thin blood smears and buffy coat smears were used for microscopic analysis. Two nested PCR protocols that amplify a fragment of cytochrome b (cytb) and small subunit rRNA (SSU rRNA) genes were used to identify Haemosporida and Trypanosoma parasites, respectively. The number of positive samples was higher with the application of nested PCR than when buffy coat smears were used. Three new Plasmodium lineages (GALLUS47-49) and thirteen Leucocytozoon lineages (GALLUS50-62) were found. Trophozoites, meronts and gametocytes of Plasmodium gallinaceum (GALLUS01) were present in one thin blood smear. All thin blood smears revealed Leucocytozoon infections, but only three samples were a single infection. These three samples revealed the presence of fusiform host cell–parasite complexes, of which the morphological features resembled those of Leucocytozoon macleani (possible synonym is Leucocytozoon sabrazesi), while the cytb showed that this parasite is closely related to the lineage GALLUS06-07, described as Leucocytozoon schouteni. The Trypanosoma prevalence was 33.33%; it was present in only one of the thin blood smears, and it resembles Trypanosoma calmettei. This study showed the prevalence of a high diversity of Plasmodium (64.91%) and Leucocytozoon (89.47%) in Thai chickens. Both nested-PCR and buffy coat smear can be used as the diagnostic tool for the testing of Plasmodium, Leucocytozoon and Trypanosoma for parasitic control in backyard chickens and poultry farms. The information on the parasite species that can be found in chickens raised in Southern Thailand was also considered as the baseline information for further study.
Revision of the Subgenus Ochthomantis Frogs from Madagascar (Amphibia: Mantellidae) with the Description of Four Species and Resurrection of Mantidactylus catalai and M. poissoni
Authors: Rabibisoa Nirhy H. C. , Welt Rachel S. , Raxworthy Christopher J.
Published: September 2023

The subgenus Ochthomantis is an obligate forest and stream-dwelling group of mantellid frogs, endemic to Madagascar, with six species currently recognized. However, this group suffers from ongoing taxonomic confusion due to low numbers of examined specimens, and failure to consider morphological variation from development and sexual dimorphism. Here, we examined the morphology of 637 sexed adult specimens collected by us in the field and from other museum collections. We also sequenced a DNA fragment of the 16S mtDNA gene for each lineage to determine congruence between morphological and molecular data sets and to help delimit species. Our results demonstrate that the subgenus Ochthomantis includes eleven valid species: five already recognized, M. catalai and M. poissoni that we resurrect from synonymy, and four new species which we describe for the first time here. In some analyses, Mantidactylus majori groups with other Mantidactylus subgenera, so we do not consider it a member of the subgenus Ochthomantis in this study. All species have restricted distributions and elevational ranges in the humid forests of Madagascar. This study demonstrates the utility of assessing cryptic species using both diagnostic morphological characters and molecular data. The discovery of this new cryptic biodiversity, and the taxonomic revision herein, will likely require conservation activities for those species with the most restricted distributions.
Comparison of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone versus Estrogen-Based Fixed-Time Artificial Insemination Protocols in Grazing Bos taurus Suckled Beef Cows
Authors: Ferré Luis B. , Jaeschke Julian , Gatti Juliana , Baladón Gerardo , Bellocq Ezequiel , Fernández Gustavo , Rearte Ramiro , Kjelland Michael E. , Colazo Marcos G. , Thomas Jordan M.
Published: September 2023

Fixed-timed artificial insemination (FTAI) protocols for beef cattle in South America are primarily based on estradiol esters and intravaginal progesterone-releasing devices (IVPD). The objective of this study was to determine the optimal gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)-based protocol as an alternative to the use of estrogen-based protocols in grazing Bos taurus suckling beef cows. All cows received an IVPD on the day of protocol initiation and prostaglandin F2α (PG) plus equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) treatments at the time of IVPD removal. In Experiment 1, cows (n = 235) were randomly assigned to one of four treatments: (i) 7-day estradiol = 2 mg of estradiol benzoate (EB) at IVPD insertion on Day 9 and 1 mg of estradiol cypionate (ECP) at IVPD removal on Day 2; (ii) 7-day GnRH = 10 µg of GnRH at IVPD insertion on Day 10, IVPD removal on Day 3 and GnRH at FTAI; (iii) 7 & 7 estradiol = PG at IVPD insertion on Day 16, EB on Day 9 and ECP at IVPD removal on Day 2; (iv) 7 & 7 GnRH = PG at IVPD insertion on Day 17, GnRH on Day 10, IVPD removal on Day 3 and GnRH at FTAI. In Experiment 2, cows (n = 462) were randomly assigned to one of four treatments: (i) 6-day estradiol = EB at IVPD insertion on Day 9, IVPD removal on Day 3 and GnRH at FTAI; (ii) 7-day estradiol; (iii) 7-day GnRH; (iv) 7 & 7 GnRH. In Experiment 1, plasma progesterone concentrations and percentage of cows with a corpus luteum (CL) at IVPD removal, and pregnancy per AI (P/AI) were greater for cows subjected to GnRH-based protocols compared with cows subjected to estrogen-based protocols (p < 0.01). In Experiment 2, cows subjected to the 7 & 7 GnRH protocol had the greatest P/AI (p < 0.01). In summary, GnRH-based FTAI protocols resulted in similar or greater P/AI compared to estrogen-based FTAI protocols in grazing postpartum Bos taurus suckled beef cows. The greatest P/AI was attained with the 7 & 7 GnRH protocol.
Identification of the Keratin-Associated Protein 22-2 Gene in the Capra hircus and Association of Its Variation with Cashmere Traits
Authors: Chen Zhanzhao , Cao Jian , Zhao Fangfang , He Zhaohua , Sun Hongxian , Wang Jiqing , Liu Xiu , Li Shaobin
Published: September 2023

The Cashmere goat is an excellent local goat breed in Gansu Province of China, and it is expected to improve cashmere production and cashmere quality through selection and breeding to enhance its commercial value. Keratin-associated proteins (KAPs) play an important role in maintaining wool structure. The gene encoding the keratin-associated protein 22-2 (KAP22-2) gene has been identified in selected species other than goats, such as humans, mice, and sheep. In this study, the sequence of the sheep KAP22-2 gene (KRTAP22-2) was aligned into the goat genome, and the sequence with the highest homology was assumed to be the goat KRTAP22-2 sequence and used to design primers to amplify the goat gene sequence. A total of 356 Longdong Cashmere goats (Gansu Province, China) were used for screening of genetic variants. Four specific bands were detected by polymerase chain reaction-single-stranded conformational polymorphism (PCR-SSCP) analysis, and they formed a total of six band types individually or in combination. Four alleles were identified by DNA sequencing of PCR amplification products. A total of four single nucleotide polymorphic sites (SNPs) were detected in the four sequenced KRTAP22-2 alleles. Two of them are in the 5’UTR region and the other two are in the coding region, and the variants in the coding region are all non-synonymous mutations. In addition, there was a 6 bp length variation in allele C. The gene was expressed in the cortical layer of primary and secondary hair follicles, the inner root sheath, as well as hair papillae and hair maternal cells in goats. The results of the correlation analysis between genotypes and cashmere traits showed that after excluding genotypes with a gene frequency of less than 5%, the mean fiber diameter (MFD) of cashmere was significantly higher in the AB genotype than in the AA and AC genotypes. That is, the KRTAP22-2 gene variants are associated with mean fiber diameter in cashmere. The above results suggest that the goat KRTAP22-2 variant can be utilized as a molecular marker candidate gene for cashmere traits.
O-Band Grating Couplers Using Silicon Nitride Structures
Authors: Ohana Eli , Malka Dror
Published: September 2023

To test silicon photonics component performances, a silicon (Si) grating coupler (GC) is used to couple the light from a single-mode fiber (SMF) into the chip. However, silicon nitride (Si3N4) waveguides have recently become more popular for realizing photonic integrated circuits (PICs), which may be attributable to their exceptional characteristics, such as minimal absorption and low back reflection (BR) in the O-band spectrum. Thus, to test the photonic chip, a waveguide converter from Si3N4 to Si needs to be added to the photonic circuit, which can lead to more power losses and BR. To avoid this conversion, we propose in this manuscript a configuration of a GC based on Si3N4 structures, which can be employed to minimize the footprint size and obtain better performance. The achievement of high efficiency was possibly obtained by optimizing the structural properties of the waveguide and the coupling angle from the SMF. The results demonstrated high efficiency within the O-band spectrum by using a wavelength of 1310 nm. Notably, at this specific wavelength, the findings indicated a coupling efficiency of −5.52 db. The proposed design of the GC consists of a uniform grating that offers improvements regarding affordability and simplicity in manufacturing compared to other GC models. For instance, using a reflector or a GC with non-uniform grooved teeth introduces challenges in fabrication and incurs higher costs. Thus, the proposed design can be useful for improving the testing abilities of the Si3N4 photonic chips used in transceiver systems.
Modelling of Deep Street Canyon Air Pollution Chemistry and Transport: A Wintertime Naples Case Study
Authors: Dai Yuqing , Mazzeo Andrea , Zhong Jian , Cai Xiaoming , Mele Benedetto , Toscano Domenico , Murena Fabio , MacKenzie A. Rob
Published: September 2023

The impact of urban morphology on air quality, particularly within deep canyons with longer residence times for complex chemical processes, remains insufficiently addressed. A flexible multi-box framework was used to simulate air quality at different canyon heights (3 m and 12 m). This approach incorporated essential parameters, including ventilation rates, background concentrations, photochemical schemes, and reaction coefficients. A field campaign within a deep canyon with an aspect ratio of 3.7, in Naples, Italy was conducted and used for the model evaluation. The model performance demonstrated good agreement, especially at the street level, when employing a realistic light intensity profile and incorporating volatile organic compound (VOC) chemistry. Our findings indicate that peroxyl radical production affects NO2 and O3 levels by up to 9.5% in deep canyons and underscore the significance of vertical distribution (approximately 5% variance) in health assessments and urban air quality strategy development. The model response was sensitive to changes in emissions as expected, but also, somewhat more surprisingly, to background conditions, emphasizing that policies to remove pollution hotspots must include local and broader citywide action. This work advances the understanding of air quality dynamics in deep urban canyons and presents a valuable tool for effective air quality management in intricate urban environments.
Examining the Effects of Tree Canopy Coverage on Human Thermal Comfort and Heat Dynamics in Courtyards: A Case Study in Hot-Humid Regions
Authors: Lin Chang , Yang Jiahao , Huang Jun , Zhong Ruize
Published: September 2023

Providing thermal comfort in the courtyards of academic buildings is important and increasing tree canopy coverage (TCC) presents a convenient and feasible method to achieve this; however, few studies have comprehensively evaluated the cooling effects of TCC, considering both outdoor thermal comfort and heat dynamics. In this study, we selected two typical academic buildings at Guangzhou University, each with courtyards having different height-to-width ratios (H/W ratios). We employed both field measurements and ENVI-met-based numerical models to simulate scenarios with varying TCCs. The results demonstrated that the cooling effects caused by arranging trees increase with the TCC values. During the hottest hours of the day, trees arranged in courtyards with high H/W ratios exhibited a superior cooling effect compared to those in courtyards with low H/W ratios, with a difference of up to 0.6 °C in the PET (physiological equivalent temperature); however, over the entire daytime, the total sensible heat reduction achieved by trees in courtyards with low H/W ratios surpassed that of courtyards with high H/W ratios, with a difference of up to 0.25 × 104 J/m2. Our findings underscore the crucial role of TCC in enhancing cooling in the courtyard of academic buildings, with important implications for university planning and design.
Demographic Evaluation and Parametric Assessment of Air Pollutants over Delhi NCR
Authors: Khan Abul Amir , Garsa Kalpana , Jindal Prakhar , Devara Panuganti C. S. , Tiwari Shubhansh , Sharma P. B.
Published: September 2023

The impact of air pollution on people and the environment is a severe issue that has recently been the subject of extensive research. This study has looked at the factors that contribute to the seasonal and spatial variability of pollutant concentration over Delhi NCR from 2019 to 2021. Additionally, the causes of changes in air quality during the COVID-19’s lockdown period in 2020 have been discussed, along with comparisons to the pre-lockdown year (2019) and the post-lockdown year (2021). Seven pollutant parameters, viz., (PM2.5, PM10, NOx, CO, SO2, NH3, and O3) were retrieved from the air quality monitoring stations spread over Delhi NCR. The results show a significant temporal (seasonal) and spatial variability in the air pollutants’ concentration. The highest pollutant level was observed in winter and the lowest in summer seasons. The results suggest that the concentration of atmospheric pollutants was already lower (20–30%) before the implementation of the lockdown. Meteorology played an important role in emission reduction during the lockdown, in particular, and seasonal, in general. The results also suggest that Bhiwadi is not the most polluted city, as claimed in the World Air Quality Report 2022. The most polluted sites in terms of pollutant concentration were observed over Delhi in all the years considered.
Patterns and Influencing Factors of Air Pollution at a Southeast Chinese City
Authors: Jian Le , Gao Xiangjing , Zhao Yun , Zhang Meibian , Chen Qing , Zou Hua , Xing Mingluan
Published: September 2023

Ambient air pollution is a pressing global environmental problem. To identify the source of air pollution and manage air quality in urban areas, the patterns of air pollutants under different traffic conditions and the impact of weather on air quality were explored in Hangzhou, China, a city experiencing rapid growth in vehicles. Data for particulate matters (PM10, PM2.5, PM1.0, and UFP), gaseous pollutants (CO, SO2, O3, and NO), and weather parameters (temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and air pressure) were collected at two venues with different traffic conditions. An exploratory factor analysis was employed to identify the main factors contributing to air quality. The results showed that PMs, particularly PM1.0 and UFP, significantly contributed to air quality in monitoring venues, especially at Venue 2. As the leading factor, PMs contributed 40.85%, while gaseous pollutants and traffic (particularly fuel type) contributed 30.46% to air quality. The traffic was an independent contributor at Venue 2. Temperature and wind speed had negative influences on air pollutants. The outcomes of the study suggest that exhaust emissions from vehicles, particularly PM1.0 and UFP from heavy-duty vehicles, contributed significantly to ambient air quality. The contribution of meteorological factors to air quality varied at different venues and should not be ignored.
Combined Effects of Heat and Drought Stress on the Growth Process and Yield of Maize (Zea mays L.) in Liaoning Province, China
Authors: Yu Wenying , Ji Ruipeng , Wu Jinwen , Feng Rui , Mi Na , Chen Nina
Published: September 2023

A method was put forward to identify the combined heat and drought (CHD) events that occurred in summer and affected spring maize in Liaoning province. The spatial and temporal characteristics of CHD and its effects on maize were evaluated based on daily meteorological data at 52 meteorological stations in Liaoning from 1961 to 2020, as well as agricultural data including details of the maize development periods. The effects of CHD on the photosynthetic capacity of maize were evaluated using SIF remote sensing data from 2001 to 2020. The differences in maize photosynthetic capacity in the summers of 2009 and 2018 were compared in detail. The results show that from 1961 to 2020, the occurrence range, frequency, and severity of summer CHD events increased in Liaoning. CHD events were more frequent in June/July, and higher-intensity CHD events were more frequent in July/August. From 1961 to 2020, CHD events occurred in 69% of the years of reduced meteorological yield, and reduced meteorological yield occurred in 41% of the years with CHD events. Maize solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence (SIF), an index of photosynthesis, was sensitive to temperature (negatively correlated) and precipitation (positively correlated). The CHD events slowed the increasing SIF from the three-leaf stage to the jointing stage, and they stopped the increasing SIF or decreased it at the tasseling–flowering to silking stages. Therefore, maize photosynthesis may be most sensitive to CHD during the flowering to silking stages, and CHD during the silking to milk stages may have the greatest impact on maize yield. Understanding the effects of CHD on maize growth/yield provides a scientific basis for reducing its negative impacts on maize production.
Review of Blockchain Applications in Food Supply Chains
Authors: George William , Al-Ansari Tareq
Published: September 2023

Blockchain has found wide acceptance not just in the DeFi and Crypto space, but also in digital supply chains, non-monetary transactions, and governance. Amongst many, the food supply chain is riddled with lots of inefficiencies and untraceable corruption. Hence, many have investigated the integration of blockchain technology into the food system. This paper discusses the major advancement in blockchain technology from the aspect of food security and proposes roadmaps for future applications in businesses. We dive into the different pillars of food security and how blockchains can play a valuable role in the technology infrastructure of food security in a holistic sense. Next, the paper also discusses the organizational, economic, and management aspects of technology adoption. Finally, we end by discussing the nexus between Blockchain and Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAO), as well as Digital Twins, respectively.
Neuroimaging Study of Brain Functional Differences in Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Depressive Disorder
Authors: Qi Xuchen , Xu Wanxiu , Li Gang
Published: September 2023

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and depressive disorder (DD) are distinct mental disorders, which are characterized by complex and unique neuroelectrophysiological mechanisms in psychiatric neurosciences. The understanding of the brain functional differences between GAD and DD is crucial for the accurate diagnosis and clinical efficacy evaluation. The aim of this study was to reveal the differences in functional brain imaging between GAD and DD based on multidimensional electroencephalogram (EEG) characteristics. To this end, 10 min resting-state EEG signals were recorded from 38 GAD and 34 DD individuals. Multidimensional EEG features were subsequently extracted, which include power spectrum density (PSD), fuzzy entropy (FE), and phase lag index (PLI). Then, a direct statistical analysis (i.e., ANOVA) and three ensemble learning models (i.e., Random Forest (RF), Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM), eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost)) were used on these EEG features for the differential recognitions. Our results showed that DD has significantly higher PSD values in the alpha1 and beta band, and a higher FE in the beta band, in comparison with GAD, along with the aberrant functional connections in all four bands between GAD and DD. Moreover, machine learning analysis further revealed that the distinct features predominantly occurred in the beta band and functional connections. Here, we show that DD has higher power and more complex brain activity patterns in the beta band and reorganized brain functional network structures in all bands compared to GAD. In sum, these findings move towards the practical identification of brain functional differences between GAD and DD.
Moderate Hyperkalemia Regulates Autophagy to Reduce Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in a CA/CPR Rat Model
Authors: Wang Xiaoqin , Tian Xinyue , Shen Haiying , Zhang Xiaohua , Xie Lu , Chen Menghua
Published: September 2023

Background: Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI) can cause irreversible brain damage and autophagy has been implicated in the pathophysiology. Increasing serum potassium (K+) levels reduces CIRI, but the relationship between its protective mechanism and autophagy is unclear. In this study, we aimed to find the optimal degree of raising serum (K+) and to investigate the relationship between high (K+) and autophagy and the underlying mechanisms in a cardiac arrest/cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CA/CPR) rat model. Methods: Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were divided into four groups: S group, N group, P group, and Q group. The rats S group and N group were administered saline. The rats P group and Q group were administered 640 mg/kg of potassium chloride (KCl) continuously pumped at 4 mL/h (21.3 mg/(kg·min) and divided according to the electrocardiogram (ECG) changes during the administration of KCl. After 24-h of resuscitation, neural damage was assessed by measuring neurological deficit score (NDS), oxidative stress markers, and pathological staining of the cerebral cortex. The level of autophagy and the expression of mTOR-ULK1-Beclin1 pathway-related proteins were evaluated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), immunostaining, and western blotting. Results: Our results revealed that high (K+) improved NDS and decreased the oxidative stress markers. The autophagosomes, autolysosomes, and lysosomes were decreased following treatment KCl. Furthermore, the levels of micro-tubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3) Ⅱ/Ⅰ, Unc-51-like kinase 1 (ULK1), and Beclin1 were decreased, whereas mTOR expression was increased in the cortex. Conclusion: The results demonstrated that moderate hyperkalemia could alleviate autophagy after CIRI via regulating the mTOR-ULK1-Beclin1 pathway.
Blast-Resistance and Damage Behavior of Underwater Explosion for Concrete Gravity Dam Considering Concrete Strength Partition
Authors: Huo Wenlong
Published: September 2023

The consequences of dam damage caused by explosions, wars, and terrorist attacks are extremely serious, and they can cause casualties among downstream residents. Studying the damage behaviors of dams is a prerequisite for improving their anti-knock performance. Researchers view the dam as homogeneous for research; but in reality, the concrete strength of the dam decreases from bottom to top. The partitioning of dam concrete strength can meet the different functional and economic requirements of a concrete gravity dam (referred to as concrete strength partition gravity dam (CSPGD)). Therefore, CSPGD shows a more complex dynamic performance and failure characteristics under the impact load of an underwater explosion. First, by investigating the current status of anti-knock research on CSPGDs, a fully coupled finite element numerical model for an underwater explosion of CSPGD was established. Considering the initial stress such as the self-weight of the dam, the upstream reservoir hydrostatic pressure, and the uplift pressure of the dam foundation during the service period, the anti-knock performance of CSPGD was studied. The results showed that the interface of CSPGD had a strain rate effect under the action of blast load, and it was easy to produce tensile failure at a low strain rate. In addition, the dynamic response and damage characteristics under different explosion scenarios such as explosive charge weight (w), detonation depth (D), and standoff distance (R) were further studied. The dam crest was always a weak anti-knock part, and the foundation anti-sliding stability was also very important to dam safety. Therefore, it was proposed and suggested to use the crack length of the dam crest and dam foundation to evaluate the overall anti-knock capacity of CSPGD. The study also found that the detonation depth affected the response time of dam damage and had a significant impact on the anti-knock performance of CSPGD.
SPRY4 as a Potential Mediator of the Anti-Tumoral Role of Macrophages in Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer Cells
Authors: Pinto Ana Teresa , Pojo Marta , Rodrigues Ricardo , Sousa Diana Pacheco , Matthiesen Rune , Carvalho Ana Sofia , Beck Hans C. , Pires Carolina , Eduardo Rodrigo , Pereira Joana Simões , Leite Valeriano , Cavaco Branca Maria
Published: September 2023

Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) is the most lethal subtype of thyroid cancer, with high invasive and metastatic potential, not responding to conventional treatments. Its aggressiveness may be influenced by macrophages, which are abundant cells in the tumor microenvironment. To investigate the role of macrophages in ATC aggressiveness, indirect co-cultures were established between ATC cell lines and THP-1-derived macrophages. Macrophages significantly increased both the migration and invasion of T235 cells (p < 0.01; p < 0.01), contrasting with a decrease in C3948 (p < 0.001; p < 0.05), with mild effects in T238 migration (p < 0.01) and C643 invasion (p < 0.05). Flow cytometry showed upregulation of CD80 (pro-inflammatory, anti-tumoral) and downregulation of CD163 (anti-inflammatory, pro-tumoral) in macrophages from co-culture with T235 (p < 0.05) and C3948 (p < 0.05), respectively. Accordingly, we found an upregulation of secreted pro-inflammatory mediators (e.g., GM-CSF, IL-1α; p < 0.05) in C3948–macrophage co-cultures. Proteomic analysis showed the upregulation of SPRY4, an inhibitor of the MAPK pathway, in C3948 cells from co-culture. SPRY4 silencing promoted cancer cell invasion, reverting the reduced invasion of C3948 caused by macrophages. Our findings support that macrophages play a role in ATC cell aggressiveness. SPRY4 is a possible modulator of macrophage–ATC cell communication, with a tumor suppressor role relevant for therapeutic purposes.
Fertility Preservation in Children and Adolescents during Oncological Treatment—A Review of Healthcare System Factors and Attitudes of Patients and Their Caregivers
Authors: Pawłowski Piotr , Ziętara Karolina Joanna , Michalczyk Justyna , Fryze Magdalena , Buchacz Anna , Zaucha-Prażmo Agnieszka , Zawitkowska Joanna , Torres Anna , Samardakiewicz Marzena
Published: September 2023

Oncofertility is any therapeutic intervention to safeguard the fertility of cancer patients. Anti-cancer therapies (chemotherapy, radiation therapy, etc.) entail the risk of reproductive disorders through cytotoxic effects on gamete-building cells, especially those not yet fully developed. This literature review analyzes the available data on securing fertility in pediatric and adolescent populations to identify the methods used and describe aspects related to financing, ethics, and the perspective of patients and their parents. Topics related to oncofertility in this age group are relatively niche, with few peer-reviewed articles available and published studies mostly on adults. Compared to pubertal individuals, a limited number of fertility preservation methods are used for prepubertal patients. Funding for the procedures described varies from country to country, but only a few governments choose to reimburse them. Oncofertility of pediatric and adolescent patients raises many controversies related to the decision, parents’ beliefs, having a partner, ethics, as well as the knowledge and experience of healthcare professionals. As the fertility of young cancer patients is at risk, healthcare professionals should make every effort to provide them with an opportunity to fulfill their future reproductive plans and to have a family and offspring. Systemic solutions should form the basis for the development of oncofertility in pediatric and adolescent populations.
Genetic Regulation of Human isomiR Biogenesis
Authors: Jiang Guanglong , Reiter Jill L. , Dong Chuanpeng , Wang Yue , Fang Fang , Jiang Zhaoyang , Liu Yunlong
Published: September 2023

MicroRNAs play a critical role in regulating gene expression post-transcriptionally. Variations in mature microRNA sequences, known as isomiRs, arise from imprecise cleavage and nucleotide substitution or addition. These isomiRs can target different mRNAs or compete with their canonical counterparts, thereby expanding the scope of miRNA post-transcriptional regulation. Our study investigated the relationship between cis-acting single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in precursor miRNA regions and isomiR composition, represented by the ratio of a specific 5′-isomiR subtype to all isomiRs identified for a particular mature miRNA. Significant associations between 95 SNP–isomiR pairs were identified. Of note, rs6505162 was significantly associated with both the 5′-extension of hsa-miR-423-3p and the 5′-trimming of hsa-miR-423-5p. Comparison of breast cancer and normal samples revealed that the expression of both isomiRs was significantly higher in tumors than in normal tissues. This study sheds light on the genetic regulation of isomiR maturation and advances our understanding of post-transcriptional regulation by microRNAs.
Differences in the Clinical and Molecular Profiles of Subungual Melanoma and Acral Melanoma in Asian Patients
Authors: Ahn So-Young , Bae Go-Eun , Park Seung-Yeol , Yeo Min-Kyung
Published: September 2023

Subungual melanoma (SUM) is a rare type of malignant melanoma that arises beneath the nails. SUM is categorized as a type of acral melanoma (AM), which occurs on the hands and feet. SUM is an aggressive type of cutaneous melanoma that is most common among Asian patients. Recent studies reveal that SUM and AM might have different molecular characteristics. Treatment of melanoma relies on analysis of both clinical and molecular data. Therefore, the clinical and molecular characteristics of SUM need to be established, especially during metastasis. To define the mutation profiles of SUM and compare them with those of AM, we performed next-generation sequencing of primary and metastatic tumors of SUM and AM patients. Subungual location was a better independent prognostic factor than acral location for better overall survival (p = 0.001). Patients with SUM most commonly had the triple wild-type (75%) driven by GNAQ (58%) and KIT (25%) mutations, whereas patients with AM had BRAF (28.6%) and RAF (14.3%) molecular types of mutations. Single-nucleotide variations (SNVs) were more common in SUM than in AM, whereas copy number alterations (CNAs) were more common metastatic lesions of AM. Metastatic tumors in patients with SUM and AM showed increases in CNAs (43% and 80%, respectively), but not in SNVs. The number of CNAs increased during metastasis. When compared with AM, SUM has distinct clinical and molecular characteristics.
Human Aldehyde Dehydrogenases: A Superfamily of Similar Yet Different Proteins Highly Related to Cancer
Authors: Xanthis Vasileios , Mantso Theodora , Dimtsi Anna , Pappa Aglaia , Fadouloglou Vasiliki E.
Published: September 2023

The superfamily of human aldehyde dehydrogenases (hALDHs) consists of 19 isoenzymes which are critical for several physiological and biosynthetic processes and play a major role in the organism’s detoxification via the NAD(P) dependent oxidation of numerous endogenous and exogenous aldehyde substrates to their corresponding carboxylic acids. Over the last decades, ALDHs have been the subject of several studies as it was revealed that their differential expression patterns in various cancer types are associated either with carcinogenesis or promotion of cell survival. Here, we attempt to provide a thorough review of hALDHs’ diverse functions and 3D structures with particular emphasis on their role in cancer pathology and resistance to chemotherapy. We are especially interested in findings regarding the association of structural features and their changes with effects on enzymes’ functionalities. Moreover, we provide an updated outline of the hALDHs inhibitors utilized in experimental or clinical settings for cancer therapy. Overall, this review aims to provide a better understanding of the impact of ALDHs in cancer pathology and therapy from a structural perspective.
JNK Signalling Regulates Self-Renewal of Proliferative Urine-Derived Renal Progenitor Cells via Inhibition of Ferroptosis
Authors: Nguyen Lisa , Thewes Leonie , Westerhoff Michelle , Wruck Wasco , Reichert Andreas S. , Berndt Carsten , Adjaye James
Published: September 2023

With a global increase in chronic kidney disease patients, alternatives to dialysis and organ transplantation are needed. Stem cell-based therapies could be one possibility to treat chronic kidney disease. Here, we used multipotent urine-derived renal progenitor cells (UdRPCs) to study nephrogenesis. UdRPCs treated with the JNK inhibitor—AEG3482 displayed decreased proliferation and downregulated transcription of cell cycle-associated genes as well as the kidney progenitor markers—SIX2, SALL1 and VCAM1. In addition, levels of activated SMAD2/3, which is associated with the maintenance of self-renewal in UdRPCs, were decreased. JNK inhibition resulted in less efficient oxidative phosphorylation and more lipid peroxidation via ferroptosis, an iron-dependent non-apoptotic cell death pathway linked to various forms of kidney disease. Our study is the first to describe the importance of JNK signalling as a link between maintenance of self-renewal and protection against ferroptosis in SIX2-positive renal progenitor cells.
Contribution of Oligodendrocytes, Microglia, and Astrocytes to Myelin Debris Uptake in an Explant Model of Inflammatory Demyelination in Rats
Authors: Cammarota Mariarosaria , Boscia Francesca
Published: September 2023

The internalization and degradation of myelin in glia contributes to the resolution of neuroinflammation and influences disease progression. The identification of a three-dimensional experimental model to study myelin processing under neuroinflammation will offer a novel approach for studying treatment strategies favoring inflammation resolution and neuroprotection. Here, by using a model of neuroinflammation in hippocampal explants, we show that myelin debris accumulated immediately after insult and declined at 3 days, a time point at which tentative repair processes were observed. Olig2+ oligodendrocytes upregulated the LRP1 receptor and progressively increased MBP immunoreactivity both at peri-membrane sites and within the cytosol. Oligodendrocyte NG2+ precursors increased in number and immunoreactivity one day after insult, and moderately internalized MBP particles. Three days after insult MBP was intensely coexpressed by microglia and, to a much lesser extent, by astrocytes. The engulfment of both MBP+ debris and whole MBP+ cells contributed to the greatest microglia response. In addition to improving our understanding of the spatial-temporal contribution of glial scarring to myelin uptake under neuroinflammation, our findings suggest that the exposure of hippocampal explants to LPS + IFN-γ-induced neuroinflammation may represent a valuable demyelination model for studying both the extrinsic and intrinsic myelin processing by glia under neuroinflammation.
Nutrition, Behavior, and the Criminal Justice System: What Took so Long? An Interview with Dr. Stephen J. Schoenthaler
Authors: Logan Alan C. , Schoenthaler Stephen J.
Published: September 2023

In the ongoing series of interviews, Challenges Advisory Board member and Nova Institute for Health Fellow Alan C. Logan meets with thought leaders, scientists, scholars, healthcare professionals, artisans, and visionaries concerned about health at the scales of persons, places, and the planet. Here, Dr Stephen J. Schoenthaler of California State University, Stanislaus, responds to a set of questions posed by Challenges. For over forty years, Dr. Schoenthaler has been at the forefront of the research connecting nutrition to behavior and mental health. In particular, Dr. Schoenthaler’s work has examined relationships between dietary patterns, nutritional support, and behaviors that might otherwise be associated with criminality and aggression. Although the idea that nutrition is a factor in juvenile delinquency was popularized in the 1950s, the area received little scientific attention. In the 1970s, the idea that nutrition could influence behavior gained national attention in the US but was largely dismissed as “fringe”, especially by those connected to the ultra-processed food industries. Today, relationships between diet and behavior are part of the robust field called “nutritional psychiatry”; emerging studies demonstrate clear societal implications, including those within the criminal justice system. Here, Dr. Schoenthaler discusses how we got here and updates Challenges on where the field has moved, with an eye toward future possibilities. Dr. Schoenthaler reflects on the early influences that shaped his interest in the field and discusses the ways in which this research, especially in the context of criminal justice, is related to the many interconnected challenges of our time.
The Role of Period Modulation on the Structure, Composition and Mechanical Properties of Nanocomposite Multilayer TiAlSiN/AlSiN Coatings
Authors: Kolchev Stefan , Kolaklieva Lilyana , Chitanov Vasiliy , Cholakova Tetiana , Zlatareva Ekaterina , Kovacheva Daniela , Atanasova Genoveva , Kakanakov Roumen
Published: September 2023

This paper presents the results of the investigation of a multilayer TiAlSiN/AlSiN coating. A novel coating architecture with a period consisting of nanocomposite sublayers of TiAlSiN and AlSiN was developed. We discovered that the combination of a harder sublayer with a more elastic one allows for obtaining a suitable combination of superhardness and enhanced toughness. The coating was deposited by cathodic arc technology. The EDS, XRD, and XRS analyses revealed that the nanocomposite structure is composed of TiAlSiN and AlSiN nanocrystallites, with sizes of 12–13 nm and 4–5 nm, respectively. The nanograin phase is incorporated in an amorphous Si3N4 matrix. The achieved structure causes the presence of four factors contributing to the hardness increase: nanocomposition, solid solution, refinement hardening, and the formation of many interfaces. An instrumented indentation test was used to investigate the mechanical properties. The developed coating possesses a superhardness of 49.5 GPa and a low elastic modulus of 430 GPa, resulting in an improved elastic strain resistance of 0.11, a plastic deformation resistance of 0.58 GPa, and an elastic recovery of 68%. These results imply that the developed coating combines high stability with mechanical degradation under external influence and provides an improved ability to absorb energy at deformation before fracture, and high elastic recovery. The investigation of the effect of the period modulation on the structure, composition, and mechanical properties of the nanocomposite multilayer TiAlSiN/AlSiN coating showed that the superhardness was due to the nanocomposite and solid solution hardening rather than the increased number of interfaces. The demonstrated combination of superhardness with high elasticity and improved toughness determines the developed nanocomposite TiAlSiN/AlSiN coating as very suitable for industrial applications such as high speed and dry machining.
An Automated Particle Size Analysis Method for SEM Images of Powder Coating Particles
Authors: Liang Can , Jia Zijian , Chen Rui
Published: September 2023

The particle size of powder coatings is an important factor affecting flow and fluidization performance, which in turn determines the quality of the coating. Powder coating particles, such as boron nitride, titanium dioxide, barium titanate, niobium oxide, and tungsten oxide, can be seen in SEM images as circular or polygonal shapes, with irregular edges and sizes, as well as aggregation and stacking between them. This paper introduces a novel method of automatic particle identification and size analysis applied in SEM images for the investigation of coating quality. Firstly, a fast gradient segmentation algorithm (Split–Merge) is utilized to automatically generate samples through determining the adhesive particles and particle groups. The samples are then manually checked and corrected to further segment the particles in order to form the dataset. Finally, the YOLOv5, a mature target detection algorithm, is used to train the labeled data in order to produce a multi-target detection recognition model. The model can be applied to identify more pictures of the same substance, and the particles’ long and short axes are estimated using the elliptical coverage of the particles within the identified image boundary box. Experiment results from four kinds of powders suggest that this method can provide automatic particle size analysis for industrial SEM particle images.
Analysis of the Effect of Simultaneous Melt Shearing and Cooling on Grain Formation and Rheology of A356 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Ahmadein Mahmoud , Alsaleh Naser A. , Elsayed Mahmoud Ahmed , Ataya Sabbah
Published: September 2023

Despite the dozens of earlier research verifications, the contribution of shearing of molten metallic alloys during their solidification to grain formation is still ambiguous. Also, modeling of this phenomenon has received very little attention. Experiments were conducted in this study to investigate the effect of the shear rate on the density, size, and shape factor of the formed grains up to a solid fraction of 0.15 for the solidifying A356 aluminum alloy in the coaxial cylinder viscometer. The rheology of the formed semisolid slurry was studied as well. Results exhibited morphological evolution and grain refinement. The grain number density increased from 5 × 108 m−3 in the absence of melt shearing to reach 4 × 109 m−3 at the shear rate of 250 s−1. Also, the shape factor was improved to reach 0.78. Based on the experimental investigations, the grain number density under shearing was correlated to the shear rate and the grain number density in the absence of shearing via an empirical formula. A shear-dependent grain multiplication factor was deduced. The alloy exhibited a shear-thinning behavior where the viscosity obeyed the power law with a constant and an exponent of 0.9264 and 0.468, respectively. Moreover, the measured data were fitted to several proposed viscosity models and the model of Hirai et al. showed the best fit; therefore, it was recommended for predicting the viscosity of semisolid slurries.