bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fixed-Point Landing Method for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Using Multi-Sensor Pattern Detection
Authors: Zou Cheng , Li Lingfeng , Cai Guowei , Lin Ruoyin
Published: March 2023

Conventional autonomous landing systems for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) mainly rely on global positioning systems (GPS) or a single visual sensor, which identifies specific markers and uses them to guide the UAV landing. However, such methods have low positioning accuracies and weak range recognition abilities, which limit their applicability. This report proposes a fixed-point landing method combining light detection and ranging (LIDAR) technology with a vision camera; the developed approach can be used to locate the landing area and enable a completely autonomous landing, without being affected by distance, weather, or time. First, we establish the mathematical relationship between the color of the mark and the reflection intensity of the laser point cloud. According to this relationship, UAVs can confirm their position relative to the landing point starting from a greater distance without being disturbed by the environmental light intensity. Meanwhile, the method uses the camera to detect the corners of the landing target, even obtaining the relative position at a close distance. Finally, the LIDAR and camera data are combined to detect the corner points of the markers, determine the position of the UAV relative to the center of the landing target in real time, and guide the landing.
The use of a multi-sensor core scanner workflow as the backbone of a digital core repository
Authors: Shreeve James William
Published: March 2023

A core repository is a physical record of a country's or commercial organization's subsurface wealth. Some of the largest core repositories hold thousands of kilometres of core material and it is a challenge to turn this physical archive into an accessible digital resource for all. Non-destructive multi-sensor core logger, hyperspectral and X-ray imaging techniques offer a unique chance to rescue valuable data trapped within core samples, improving the way that a core repository delivers data to academic or industrial end users. Here we present a case study of an archived petroleum core acquired in 1985 at the Osprey Field, UK Continental Shelf. Data from the UK National Data Repository are augmented by a multi-sensor core logger, hyperspectral and X-ray dataset that is uploaded into a cloud-based digital repository. The data were analysed using a multi-variant analysis to reclassify the original lithological interpretations, uncovering a greater proportion of clay and cemented horizons than was previously interpreted. A workflow is established to optimize the use of legacy cores and exploit the abundance of data trapped within the core repository using continuous multi-sensor core scanning and imaging data, which are stored within the virtual environment for visualization and access to all.
The Problem of Introduction of Digital Technologies in the Performing Arts
Authors: Sovhyra Tetiana , Ivashchenko Iryna , Strelchuk Viktoriia , Pyvovarova Kateryna , Tykhomyrov Anatolii
Published: March 2023

Modern society features digital and communication technologies, such as the Internet and social networks. The purpose of this article is to determine the wide-ranging and specific uses of digital technologies in the modern performing arts. Various approaches to study and analyze information technologies and their connection with the arts are given. The introduction of three-dimensional technologies in stage productions in Ukraine are examined, and the use of modern digital technologies in the context of the development of theater of the 21st century are determined. The process of integrating digital technologies into stage productions are demonstrated. Recommendations and requirements for increasing the effectiveness of digital transformation in the performing arts are revealed. The results presented are of practical and theoretical value for art critics, cultural researchers, actors, directors, and producers of the theater, who can successfully integrate innovative technologies into their creative projects.
SERPINB4 Promotes Keratinocyte Inflammation via p38MAPK Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhang Yanan , Wang Luling , Sun Xiaoying , Li Fulun
Published: March 2023

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by infiltration of inflammatory cells and excessive proliferation of epidermal keratinocytes. SERPINB4, as a serine protease inhibitor, has been clearly expressed in the skin lesions and serum of patients with psoriasis, but the specific mechanism of action is not yet clear. Here, we showed that SERPINB4 expression was increased in skin lesions from the imiquimod (IMQ)-treated mice and M5-(a mixture of five proinflammatory cytokines: IL-17A, IL-22, IL-1α, oncostatin M, and TNF-α) treated human immortalized keratinocyte (HaCaT). Knockdown of SERPINB4 by short hairpin RNA attenuated the M5-induced keratinocyte inflammation. Conversely, lentiviral expression of SERPINB4 promoted keratinocyte inflammation. Finally, we observed that SERPINB4 stimulation activated the p38MAPK signaling pathway. Taken together, these results suggest that SERPINB4 has a critical role in psoriasis pathogenesis.
Physical and Rheological Studies of Biscuits Developed with Different Replacement Levels of Pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima) Peel, Flesh, and Seed Powders
Authors: Hussain Ashiq , Kausar Tusneem , Aslam Jawed , Quddoos Muhammad Yousaf , Ali Atif , Kauser Samina , Zerlasht Mehwish , Rafique Ayesha , Noreen Saima , Iftikhar Khansa , Waheed Iqbal Muhammad , Shoaib Muhammad , Refai Mohammed Y. , Aqlan Faisal , Korma Sameh A.
Published: March 2023

Several studies have been found in the literature about the phytochemistry, nutritional profiles, and pharmacological potential of pumpkin and pumpkin-based food products but a very few data have been found about the impact of the addition of pumpkin powders on physical and rheological behaviors of bakery products. The present research work was conducted to investigate that powder of which part of pumpkin and in what percentage could prove the most acceptable to develop good quality biscuits with optimum rheological and physical characteristics, which will be very useful to utilize pumpkin waste streams with effective and efficient mechanism for benefit of mankind in terms of development of new variety of bakery items. Peel, flesh, and seeds of pumpkin were utilized in the form of dried powder at 0, 5, 10, and 15% replacement levels to develop biscuits. Farinographic studies revealed that water absorption and dough development time were significantly increased to 65.69 ± 0.60% and 5.80 ± 0.012 min, respectively, at 15% pumpkin peel powder replacement, whereas dough stability was significantly decreased for 15% replacement level of pumpkin peel, flesh, and seed powders. Mixing tolerance index was significantly increased by these replacements. Mixographic studies revealed that mixing time of control dough was 3.55 ± 0.029 min, which was significantly decreased to 3.03 ± 0.015, 2.94 ± 0.023, and 3.23 ± 0.017 min for 15% replacement level of pumpkin peel, flesh, and seed powders, respectively. Similarly, peak height values were significantly decreased as replacement levels of pumpkin powders were increased up to 15%. Width and spread factor were significantly decreased, whereas thickness was significantly increased by these replacements. These replacements of pumpkin powders with white flour did not pose negative impact on rheological behavior of composite flours, which ultimately resulted in the development of improved quality biscuits.
Integrated the Medical Procedure Analyze Seismic Resilience of Healthcare System: A Critical Review from the Resilience of Healthcare System vs. Medical Demand Perspective
Authors: Liang Bin , Tao Qian , Gao Wuping , Ren Quanchang , Yao Xinqiang
Published: March 2023

The healthcare system is the bearer of treating the wounded and the victims of earthquakes. The functional integrity of the healthcare system is critical to the process of postearthquake medical rescue. Thus, the requirements for seismic resilience of the medical functions of the healthcare systems are increasing. Many studies have applied resilience research to address critical issues in the medical rescue of postearthquake casualties, such as medical diagnosis, emergency surgery, and intensive care. However, systematic construction is still lacking. System resilience is one of the most promising systemic management theories with great potential to address the abovementioned challenges. This article puts forward a scientific concept that system resilience can improve the efficiency of earthquake relief in medical rescue. Firstly, a scientific review of medical demand and medical resilience was conducted, summarizing resilience and resilience of healthcare system concepts. In addition, the postearthquake medical demand was reviewed, and the classification and distribution probability of postearthquake injuries were summarized. Furthermore, by reviewing the postearthquake medical rescue process, the weak points of each medical link were summarized. Combined with the key points in the medical rescue process, the application of resilience studies in the medical system is reviewed, and the progress of medical resilience is illustrated. In summary, combined with medical demand, the article provides some guidance for the deep integration between medical rescue processes and medical resilience and identifies the challenges of system resilience to reduce the waiting time of the injured future medical rescue in the earthquake.
Analysis of the Shock Wave/Boundary Layer Interaction considering a Compression Corner Model Using the MacCormack Method
Authors: Pereira Lara Ana Maria , Cavalcanti Rolim Tiago
Published: March 2023

The objective of this paper is to numerically study the shock wave/boundary layer interaction and boundary layer separation. The first stage of this research is the development of methodology, flow simulations, and data analysis. When comparing the plots, it can be seen that the results of the check of the methodology were similar. Following, methodologies were developed and simulations were carried out considering the compression corner model. It was noticed that the shock wave could be identified by the jump on the pressure profile near the leading edge and by analyzing the thermodynamic properties of the plate. An increase in pressure, flow inversion, and boundary layer separation through negative values of the friction coefficient was observed, and negative speed at the wall was observed due to the presence of a plateau on the pressure curves. Flow expansion and further reattachment of the boundary layer were also seen. It is possible to observe type VI shock-shock interference and the triple point T, causing a series of expansion waves to form. Finally, an increase in the Mach number, a decrease in the corner compression angle, and a decrease in the wall temperature interfere and reduce the possibility of separating the boundary layer.
Frequency Scanning Multibeamforming Method Based on CFBG Photonic Microwave Oscillation
Authors: Mu Ning , Guo Hongxia , Gao Wanrong
Published: March 2023

In this paper, a two-loop photoelectric oscillator based on chirped fiber Bragg grating (CFBG) is used to construct a swept source, which acts on the frequency scanning array antenna to realise multibeamforming. The simulation results of the designed beamforming system have shown that it can realise wide-range beam scanning and has ultralow phase noise.
Accuracy of Distributed Strain Sensing with Single-Mode Fibre in Composite Laminates under Thermal and Vibration Loads
Authors: Li Yingwu , Sharif-Khodaei Zahra
Published: March 2023

In this work, the strain measurement accuracy of single-mode fibre (SMF) under thermal and vibration loads is investigated by strain-frequency shift coefficient analyses. This research allows for the application of SMF sensors for structural health monitoring in real operational conditions. The strain measurement accuracy under combined static and thermal load is investigated experimentally, which demonstrated that temperature fluctuations induce non-negligible errors in the strain measurement, even with temperature compensation applied. The temperature fluctuation range which can induce measurement errors is quantified as less than −20°C or higher than 55°C. In addition, a fatigue experiment is conducted to investigate the measurement accuracy under low-frequency vibration load. The results of the fatigue experiment demonstrate that the vibrations mainly increase the ratio of null values in strain measurements. Findings from experiments can be applied to enhance structural health monitoring accuracy and reduce false positives. This study has important implications for the service application of distributed optical fibre sensing for composite structure health monitoring.
Prenatal Diagnosis of Skeletal Dysplasias: What Can CT Do for You?
Authors: Snyder Elizabeth J. , Moldenhauer Julie S. , Victoria Teresa
Published: March 2023

Skeletal dysplasias (SDs) are a heterogeneous group of heritable disorders that affect development of bone and cartilage. Because each SD is individually rare and because of the heterogeneity within and among disorders, prenatal diagnosis of a specific SD remains challenging. Molecular genetic diagnosis involves invasive testing, which some patients are not amenable to. Further, genetic analysis is time consuming, and results may not become available in time to make pregnancy management decisions. Low-dose fetal CT can aid in the prenatal evaluation of SDs. The main downside is the low but true risk of fetal radiation exposure. As such, fetal CT should only be performed when there is concern for a severe skeletal dysplasia and the diagnosis is in question after a detailed ultrasound or if molecular genetic testing is unavailable and when prenatal diagnosis may affect management or counseling. Fetal CT should be obtained after consultation with geneticists, maternal-fetal medicine specialists, and fetal radiologists, and sometimes orthopedic surgeons or neonatologists. The purpose of this study was to review the technique of and indications for fetal CT, as well as discuss fetal radiation risk. Illustrative cases will demonstrate when and how CT may be helpful in the diagnosis of SDs.
Characteristics of Gastric Stasis due to Deformation after Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection in the Lower Part of the Stomach
Authors: Takayama Hiroshi , Toyonaga Takashi , Yoshizaki Tetsuya , Abe Hirofumi , Nakai Tatsuya , Ueda Chise , Urakami Satoshi , Kaku Hidetoshi , Shimamoto Yusaku , Matsumoto Kei , Tsuda Kazunori , Sakaguchi Hiroya , Baba Shinichi , Takihara Hiroshi , Ikezawa Nobuaki , Tanaka Shinwa , Takao Madoka , Takao Toshitatsu , Morita Yoshinori , Kodama Yuzo
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Gastric stasis due to deformation occurs after endoscopic submucosal dissection in the lower part of the stomach. Endoscopic balloon dilation can improve gastric stasis due to stenosis; however, endoscopic balloon dilation cannot improve gastric stasis due to deformation. Furthermore, the characteristics of gastric stasis due to deformation are unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the characteristics of gastric stasis due to deformation after endoscopic submucosal dissection in the lower part of the stomach, focusing on the differences between stenosis and deformation. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 41 patients with gastric stasis after endoscopic submucosal dissection in the lower part of the stomach. We evaluated the characteristics of cases with gastric stasis due to deformation, such as the risk factors of deformation and the rate of deformation in each group with risk factors. Results: Deformation was observed in 12% (5/41) of the patients with gastric stasis. All cases of deformation had a circumferential extent of the mucosal defect greater than 3/4. The number of cases with pyloric dissection was significantly lower in the deformation group than in the non-deformation group (0% vs. 72%; p = 0.004). The deformation group also had a significantly higher number of cases with angular dissection than the non-deformation group (100% vs. 17%; p < 0.001). Moreover, the deformation cases had a significantly larger specimen diameter (p < 0.001). Deformation was observed only in cases with angular and non-pyloric dissections. Deformation was not observed in cases with angular and pyloric dissections. Conclusions: All cases of gastric stasis due to deformation had a circumferential extent of the mucosal defect greater than 3/4. Deformation was also likely to occur in cases with a larger dissection that exceeded the angular region without pyloric dissection.
Monodactylous Longitudinal Melanonychia in Pediatric Skin of Color: A Case Series and Review
Authors: Andrade Luis F. , Mashoudy Kayla D. , Morrison Brian , Tosti Antonella
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Longitudinal melanonychia, a pigmented longitudinal streak on the nail, is a common clinical finding that may be associated with subungual melanoma with varying presentation depending on race and skin tone. It has been long reported that darker skinned ethnicities have a higher prevalence of longitudinal melanonychia in the US population (e.g., African Americans with 77% prevalence) [Indian J Dermatol. 2021;66(4):445], but unfortunately, there are limited studies exclusively looking at longitudinal melanonychia in pediatric patients of color. Case Presentation: In this case series, we review the current literature and report the findings of 8 cases of longitudinal melanonychia in children with skin types IV or greater. Out of the 8 cases identified, only 4 returned to the clinic for monitoring (n = 4), and there was an average of 20.8 months between the initial and final visits. Of the patients that returned for follow-up, 2 showed no relevant changes in the nail pigmentation, 1 showed fading of the band, and 1 patient showed enlargement of the band to involve the whole nail. Conclusion: Although many sources recommend a conservative approach to treatment that involves monitoring and follow-up, our findings indicate that a wait-and-see method cannot be applied to all cases in the pediatric population due to disruptions in continuity of care. An individualized approach considering such factors should be employed for each patient, and certain high-risk features of the ABCDEF nail melanoma model may be relevant in pediatric cases.
The Frequency of CYP2C19 Loss-of-Function Variants in Patients with Non-Cardioembolic Ischemic Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack in the Dutch Population
Authors: van den Heuvel Lotte , Vermeer Henricus J. , Kerkhoff Henk , Roozenbeek Bob , Zock Elles
Published: March 2023

Introduction: The CYP2C19 enzyme converts clopidogrel into an active metabolite. Carriers of CYP2C19 loss-of-function (LOF) variants with a history of ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) using clopidogrel may have a higher risk of recurrent stroke. To study the implications of genetic CYP2C19 heterogeneity in treatment of cerebral ischemia, knowledge about the prevalence of CYP2C19 LOF variants within the population is important. We investigated the frequency of CYP2C19 LOF variants in patients with non-cardioembolic ischemic stroke or TIA in the Dutch population. Methods: We performed a single-center observational study with a cross-sectional design in a Dutch thrombectomy-capable stroke center. We included all patients presenting with non-cardioembolic ischemic stroke or TIA. We determined the frequency of CYP2C19 LOF variants in the full cohort. Additionally, we compared the frequency of CYP2C19 LOF variants in two subgroups: patients with first-ever non-cardioembolic ischemic stroke or TIA versus patients with recurrent ischemic stroke or TIA using clopidogrel because of a history of ischemic stroke or TIA. Results: We enrolled 410 patients between January 1, 2021, and July 1, 2021. 109 (26.6%) patients were carriers of CYP2C19 LOF variants. We found no difference in the frequency of CYP2C19 LOF variants between patients with first-ever ischemic stroke or TIA versus patients with recurrent ischemic stroke or TIA using clopidogrel (25.9 vs. 31.9%, respectively, p = 0.31). Discussion and Conclusion: About a quarter of patients with non-cardioembolic ischemic stroke or TIA in the Dutch population carry a CYP2C19 LOF variant. This is lower than estimates found in studies with Asian populations but similar to estimates found among Caucasian patients in other parts of the world.
Approaches to Incidental Intradural Tumors of the Spine in the Pediatric Population
Authors: Hersh Andrew M. , Lubelski Daniel , Theodore Nicholas , Sciubba Daniel M. , Jallo George , Shimony Nir
Published: March 2023

Background: Incidental intradural tumors of the spine in the pediatric population are rare lesions whose management remains unclear. Surgeons must balance the risks of iatrogenic deficits and complications after surgical resection against the risks from progressive growth of the tumor. Moreover, the natural history of an incidental finding can be difficult to predict. Here, we review the literature on incidental intradural tumors of the spine and present considerations for their management. Summary: Growth of the tumor or changes in radiographic features are usually indications for resection. Asymptomatic lesions can be found in patients with genetic syndromes that predispose to tumor formation, such as neurofibromatosis type 1 and 2, schwannomatosis, and Von-Hippel-Lindau syndrome, and careful workup of a genetic cause is warranted in any patient presenting with multiple tumors and/or cutaneous features. Close follow-up is generally favored given the heavy tumor burden; however, some recommend pre-emptive resection to prevent permanent neurological deficits. Incidental intradural tumors can also occur in association with hydrocephalus, significant syringomyelia, and cord compression, and surgical treatment is usually warranted. Tumors may also be discovered as part of the workup for scoliosis, where they are not truly incidental to the scoliosis but rather are contributing to curve deformation. Key Messages: Thorough workup of patients for associated genetic syndromes or comorbidities should be undertaken in pediatric patients with incidental intradural tumors. Further research is needed into the natural history of these incidental lesions. Incidental tumors can often be managed conservatively with close follow-up, with surgical intervention warranted for expanding tumors or new-onset symptoms.
Laryngeal Diadochokinesis in the Mandarin Population
Authors: Fu Zhen , Xu TianEn , Lang Xiao , Kim HaKyung , Ma WenLin , Shao Jie , Kang XiaoXi
Published: March 2023

Introduction: This study identifies the most suitable syllable for laryngeal diadochokinesis (LDDK) in Mandarin speakers. Methods: One hundred and ten Mandarin speakers aged 18–83 years were used in the study. LDDK was assessed using quick repetitions of /ʔe/, /ʔi/, /ʔa/, /he/, /ha/, and /hi/. The observation index included the average rate (syllable/s) and regularity (%). Results: In the various age groups, there was no significant difference in LDDK rate and regularity of adducted syllables (p > 0.05), and only the regularity of /ʔi/ is significantly different between aged 18–40 and 41–64 years (p = 0.040). When vocal fold adduction was compared between various syllables, there was no significant difference in LDDK rate and regularity (p > 0.05). In various age groups, the LDDK rate of abduction syllables is different (p < 0.05) compared with the LDDK regularity of abduction syllables (p > 0.05). In various abduction syllables, there is no difference in LDDK rate (p > 0.05); however, /ha/ and /hi/ have significant differences in LDDK regularity (p = 0.007). Conclusion: According to the preliminary data, /ʔa/ and /ha/ can be used as suitable indicators to analyse the coordination ability of the laryngeal movement of Mandarin speakers.
The Forgotten Legacy of Schön: From Materials to “Mediums” in the Design Activity
Authors: Gentes Annie , Marcocchia Giulia
Published: March 2023

This article elaborates on Schön's model of design to address the material part of the “design conversation.” Bringing in media and mediality studies, our research aims to support a broader understanding of the production of meanings and forms by addressing the difference between materials and mediums. While Schön used both concepts, we show that Dewey's influence on Schön can explain why speaking of mediums as a “system of formation” can better describe the multilayered semiotic working of the material conversation either foregrounding the support and allowing for a bodily experience or foregrounding the message and supporting an interpreting experience.
Revisiting the Experience Machine: A Philosophical Note on the Limits of Experience Design
Authors: Christensen Bo A.
Published: March 2023

This study explores the notion of experience, as used in “experience design,” based on American philosopher Robert Nozick's idea of an experience machine and Marc Hassenzahl's notion of experience design. Hassenzahl epitomizes experience as pleasure or fulfillment of needs—an idea that Nozick challenges as he claims that the world people engage with matters in a way that is not reducible to pleasure alone. Nozick's observation, I argue, indicates a sense of care in the broader concept of experience design. I explore this sense of care using John Haugeland's conception of existential commitment, which then necessitates a deepening of the notion of Hassenzahl's experience by connecting it with a sense of commitment and responsibility. This connection makes experience design, then, a concern and care for the normative powers of design.
Industrial Designers in UX Practice: Motivations, Professionalization, and the Construction of Designer Identity
Authors: Süner-Pla-Cerdà Sedef , Töre-Yargin Gülşen , Günay Asli
Published: March 2023

Our article discusses the insights from original research conducted with design practitioners to better understand the experiences of industrial design graduates as they are adopting new professional roles in user experience (UX) affiliated positions. We utilize narrative identity work as the theoretical frame to interpret the legitimation strategies of industrial designers while grounding their motivations, perceived competence, and fitness to a UX position. Such narratives support our arguments on the conscious efforts of designers toward the construction of a professional designer identity, which is stimulated by this role change.
Let's Argue! Designing Satire in Digital Games
Authors: Conway Steven , Britton Shaun
Published: March 2023

This article presents an overview of the design of our digital game, Let's Argue. The project is an immanent critique of digital media, particularly the conventions of social and game applications as affording productive discourse between people, groups, and organizations. Focusing upon the concept of dialogue and its importance to society, we employ satire as a style, lampooning “social games” such as FarmVille and Candy Crush Saga. In aping, disrupting, and toying with these applications’ representational and ludic facets, we provoke our users into considering how the medium, far from being neutral, shapes behavior and motivation.
Learning from “The Sounding Object”: Sound Design in the Critical Reimagining of Museum Object Narratives
Authors: Candela Emily , de Visscher Eric
Published: March 2023

This article focuses on an expanded critical sound design practice drawing on the qualities of sound associated with embodiment, vocality, and memory. We argue for sound design as a critical tool in communicating design histories in museums, highlighting the case of a research-based pedagogical project between the Royal College of Art and the Victoria & Albert Museum, “The Sounding Object,” which united sound design, history, and critical museology. The project reveals links between sound design practice, history writing, and critical curatorship, demonstrating how sound enhances museums’ capacity to embrace the contingency of history, communicate in inclusive ways, and truly become “polyphonic.”
Hypervernacular Design: Rethinking the Vernacular Design Paradigm
Authors: Kosten Niek , Huybrechts Liesbeth
Published: March 2023

Contemporary design discourse needs words to discuss its role in everyday life. Therefore, this article rethinks the meaning and value of the term “vernacular design” in contemporary society, with a focus on vernacular graphic design. We argue that the domain needs an interpretation that is more attuned to novel approaches around hybridity and plurality in design. We frame this development from a theoretical perspective by introducing the concept of hypervernacular as a relational and plural approach. We ground our conceptual argument through a case study description that explores the everyday, ubiquitous, and more-than-human position of the plant species Japanese knotweed through collaboration.
Comparative analysis of the organelle genomes of three Rhodiola species provide insights into their structural dynamics and sequence divergences
Authors: Yu Xiaolei , Wei Pei , Chen Zhuyifu , Li Xinzhong , Zhang Wencai , Yang Yujiao , Liu Chenlai , Zhao Shuqi , Li Xiaoyan , Liu Xing
Published: March 2023

Background

Plant organelle genomes are a valuable resource for evolutionary biology research, yet their genome architectures, evolutionary patterns and environmental adaptations are poorly understood in many lineages. Rhodiola species is a type of flora mainly distributed in highland habitats, with high medicinal value. Here, we assembled the organelle genomes of three Rhodiola species (R. wallichiana, R. crenulata and R. sacra) collected from the Qinghai-Tibet plateau (QTP), and compared their genome structure, gene content, structural rearrangements, sequence transfer and sequence evolution rates.

Results

The results demonstrated the contrasting evolutionary pattern between plastomes and mitogenomes in three Rhodiola species, with the former possessing more conserved genome structure but faster evolutionary rates of sequence, while the latter exhibiting structural diversity but slower rates of sequence evolution. Some lineage-specific features were observed in Rhodiola mitogenomes, including chromosome fission, gene loss and structural rearrangement. Repeat element analysis shows that the repeats occurring between the two chromosomes may mediate the formation of multichromosomal structure in the mitogenomes of Rhodiola, and this multichromosomal structure may have recently formed. The identification of homologous sequences between plastomes and mitogenomes reveals several unidirectional protein-coding gene transfer events from chloroplasts to mitochondria. Moreover, we found that their organelle genomes contained multiple fragments of nuclear transposable elements (TEs) and exhibited different preferences for TEs insertion type. Genome-wide scans of positive selection identified one gene matR from the mitogenome. Since the matR is crucial for plant growth and development, as well as for respiration and stress responses, our findings suggest that matR may participate in the adaptive response of Rhodiola species to environmental stress of QTP.

Conclusion

The study analyzed the organelle genomes of three Rhodiola species and demonstrated the contrasting evolutionary pattern between plastomes and mitogenomes. Signals of positive selection were detected in the matR gene of Rhodiola mitogenomes, suggesting the potential role of this gene in Rhodiola adaptation to QTP. Together, the study is expected to enrich the genomic resources and provide valuable insights into the structural dynamics and sequence divergences of Rhodiola species.
Creativity across the lifespan: changes with age and with dementia
Authors: Ross Sabrina D. , Lachmann Thomas , Jaarsveld Saskia , Riedel-Heller Steffi G. , Rodriguez Francisca S.
Published: March 2023

Background

It is well known that older age is associated with losses in cognitive functioning. Less is known about the extent to which creativity is changing with age or dementia. Aim of the current study was to gain more insights into psychometric aspects of creativity in younger and older people as well as people with dementia.

Method

Our sample comprised three groups, (1) participants between age 18—30 years (n = 24), (2) participants 65 + years without cognitive impairment (n = 24), and (3) participants 65 + years with cognitive impairment / dementia (n = 23). Cognitive abilities were assessed via the Standard Progressive Matrices Test (SPM), Montreal Cognitive Assessment Test (MoCa), and Trail Making Test (TMT). Creativity was assessed via the Creative Reasoning Task (CRT), Test of Creative Thinking-Drawing Production (TCT-DP), and Alternate Uses Task (AUT).

Results

Compared to younger people, older people scored significantly lower in only two out of eleven creativity sub-scores (one in the CRT and one in the TCT-DP). Performance in the SPM was significantly associated with these two sub-scores and age. Cognitively impaired older people had significantly lower scores in the creativity task AUT compared to cognitively healthy older people and younger people. The associations between MoCa and AUT scores were also significant.

Conclusion

Creativity appears relatively stable in older age, with exception of those creativity skills that are affected by abstract reasoning (SPM), which appear susceptible to aging. As our findings suggest, cognitive impairment in older age might impair only some aspects of creativity with other creativity aspects being comparable to cognitively healthy people. The age-related and the cognitive status-related effects seem to be independent. The preserved creative abilities can be used in dementia care programs.
Tile-based microscopic image processing for malaria screening using a deep learning approach
Authors: Shewajo Fetulhak Abdurahman , Fante Kinde Anlay
Published: March 2023

Background

Manual microscopic examination remains the golden standard for malaria diagnosis. But it is laborious, and pathologists with experience are needed for accurate diagnosis. The need for computer-aided diagnosis methods is driven by the enormous workload and difficulties associated with manual microscopy based examination. While the importance of computer-aided diagnosis is increasing at an enormous pace, fostered by the advancement of deep learning algorithms, there are still challenges in detecting small objects such as malaria parasites in microscopic images of blood films. The state-of-the-art (SOTA) deep learning-based object detection models are inefficient in detecting small objects accurately because they are underrepresented on benchmark datasets. The performance of these models is affected by the loss of detailed spatial information due to in-network feature map downscaling. This is due to the fact that the SOTA models cannot directly process high-resolution images due to their low-resolution network input layer.

Methods

In this study, an efficient and robust tile-based image processing method is proposed to enhance the performance of malaria parasites detection SOTA models. Three variants of YOLOV4-based object detectors are adopted considering their detection accuracy and speed. These models were trained using tiles generated from 1780 high-resolution P. falciparum-infected thick smear microscopic images. The tiling of high-resolution images improves the performance of the object detection models. The detection accuracy and the generalization capability of these models have been evaluated using three datasets acquired from different regions.

Results

The best-performing model using the proposed tile-based approach outperforms the baseline method significantly (Recall, [95.3%] vs [57%] and Average Precision, [87.1%] vs [76%]). Furthermore, the proposed method has outperformed the existing approaches that used different machine learning techniques evaluated on similar datasets.

Conclusions

The experimental results show that the proposed method significantly improves P. falciparum detection from thick smear microscopic images while maintaining real-time detection speed. Furthermore, the proposed method has the potential to assist and reduce the workload of laboratory technicians in malaria-endemic remote areas of developing countries where there is a critical skill gap and a shortage of experts.
Selection tests and their predictive value in university nursing students’ success in the first year of study
Authors: Bruce Judith , Mabizela Sfiso Emmanuel , Tshabalala Amme Mardulate
Published: March 2023

Background

Academic performance factors, such as school-leaving grades and other academic indicators for selection, play a significant role in student success. The study aimed to determine the best predictors of academic success in the first year of study for nursing studies at a South African university using three National Benchmark Test (NBT) domains and four National Senior Certificate (NSC) subjects.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of the admission data of first-time students (n = 317), enrolled on the Bachelor of Nursing between 2012 and 2018. Hierarchical regression was used to explore important variables predicting success in the first year of study. Cross tabulations were used to determine the association between progression outcome, proficiency levels of the NBT and school quintiles.

Results

All predicting variables explained 35% of the variance in the first year of the study. The NBT MAT (Mathematics), Academic literacy (AL), and NSC’s Life Sciences were statistically significant predictors for passing the first year. Analysis of progression outcomes by the NBT proficiency levels suggests that most students begin studies with lower entry-level skills than required, which hinders academic progress. No major differences in academic performance were observed for the students who attended different quintiles.

Conclusion

Selection test results predict areas where students are likely to encounter difficulties and inform the interventions needed to achieve academic success. There may be serious implications for students admitted with low entry-level skills in variables predicting academic success and they would need tailored academic interventions to improve their grasp of mathematical and biological concepts and their ability to read, think and reason.
A mixed-reality stimulator for lumbar puncture training: a pilot study
Authors: Huang Xiaojing , Yan Zhaoxia , Gong Chao , Zhou Zheliang , Xu Hua , Qin Chunhui , Wang Zhenwei
Published: March 2023

Background

The simulation is one of the basic methods of medical education, which is often used for procedural skills training. However, the existing simulator lacks internal anatomical landmarks. The study developed a mixed-reality stimulator and evaluated its usability and feasibility in lumbar puncture training.

Methods

The study recruited 40 subjects, including medical students, residents and faulty with varied levels of experience. Before training, participants completed the questionnaire about the basic information and watched a presentation about mixed reality. After practicing on mixed-reality stimulator, which provided internal anatomical structure, the examination was carried out and the results were documented. At the end of the training, trainees completed a survey of MR technology.

Results

In this study, participants generally believed that the MR technology was very realistic (90%), and that the presentation of internal anatomy could help the operation (95%). Moreover, 72.5% and 75%, respectively, strongly agreed that the MR technology promoted learning and should be used in medical training. After this training, the success rate of puncture and the puncture time were significantly improved in experienced and non-experienced participants.

Conclusion

The existing simulator was easy to be transformed into MR simulator. This study showed the usability and feasibility of MR simulator in lumbar puncture training. As a potentially good tool to simulated medical skills training, next, MR technology would be developed and evaluated in more clinical skills teaching scenarios.
Trans-olecranon fracture posterior dislocation: a novel type of elbow injury
Authors: Tao Fulin , Zhou Dongsheng , Song Wenhao
Published: March 2023

Background

Based on our experiences, we found that a kind of elbow injury is characterized by an olecranon fracture accompanied by elbow joint posterior dislocation with the proximal radioulnar joint intact. The aim of this study was to better define this kind of severe elbow instability, which has not been previously reported.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed all patients with olecranon fractures who were treated at our institution from January 2013 to April 2021. Data on these patient demographics, injury characteristics, preoperative and postoperative imaging, surgical management, and outcomes were recorded and analyzed. We also made the inclusion criteria and exclusion criteria.

Results

A total of 309 patients were diagnosed olecranon fractures in our institution, and ten patients met the inclusion criteria, 9 males and 1 female, with an average age of 40.6 ± 12.7 years (26–68 years). Eight patients (80%) were comminuted, and two were oblique olecranon fracture. Nine patients (90%) suffered coronoid process fractures, eight fractures were type III, and one was type II. Eight patients (80%) suffered radial head fractures, seven fractures were type II, and one was type III. All patients suffered lateral collateral ligament complex injury. All patients underwent surgical management and were followed up on average for 15.8 ± 3.2 months (12–20 months). The motion of the elbow and functional outcome were evaluated with several methods. The mean arc of the elbow movement was 131.6° ± 6.0° (124°–140°), and the mean arc of the forearm rotation was 158.5° ± 17.8° (128°–180°). Nine patients’ functional results according to the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) were excellent with a mean score of 96.5 ± 5.3 points (85–100 points), and another was good. The mean score according to the Broberg and Morrey functional rating index was 98.8 ± 2.5 points (92–100 points), nine patients were excellent, and another was good. The mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score was 0.75 ± 1.2 points (0–3.3 points).

Conclusions

Trans-olecranon fracture posterior dislocation is a rare injury and has unique characteristics, and it is a kind of complex elbow instability involving the coronoid process and radial head fractures. After bony structure is restored, the repairment of lateral collateral ligament complex is also important to the stability of the elbow joint. Correct understanding of this kind of injury and reasonable treatment plan can achieve good function.
Aspirin prevents estrogen deficiency-induced bone loss by inhibiting osteoclastogenesis and promoting osteogenesis
Authors: Chang Yongyun , Kong Keyu , Tong Zhicheng , Qiao Hua , Hu Yi , Xia Runzhi , Zhang Jingwei , Zhai Zanjing , Li Huiwu
Published: March 2023

Background

Aspirin is a commonly used antipyretic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory drug. Numerous researches have demonstrated that aspirin exerts multiple biological effects on bone metabolism. However, its spatiotemporal roles remain controversial according to the specific therapeutic doses used for different clinical conditions, and the detailed mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. Hence, in the present study, we aimed to identify the dual effects of different aspirin dosages on osteoclastic activity and osteoblastic bone formation in vitro and in vivo.

Methods

The effects of varying doses of aspirin on osteoclast and osteoblast differentiation were evaluated in vitro. The underlying molecular mechanisms were detected using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, and immunofluorescence techniques. An ovariectomized rat osteoporosis model was used to assess the bone-protective effects of aspirin in vivo.

Results

Aspirin dose-dependently suppressed RANKL-induced osteoclasts differentiation and bone resorption in vitro and reduced the expression of osteoclastic marker genes, including TRAP, cathepsin K, and CTR. Further molecular analysis revealed that aspirin impaired the RANKL-induced NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways and prevented the nuclear translocation of the NF-κB p65 subunit. Low-dose aspirin promoted osteogenic differentiation, whereas these effects were attenuated when high-dose aspirin was administered. Both low and high doses of aspirin prevented bone loss in an ovariectomized rat osteoporosis model in vivo.

Conclusion

Aspirin inhibits RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis and promotes osteogenesis in a dual regulatory manner, thus preventing bone loss in vivo. These data indicate that aspirin has potential applications in the prevention and treatment of osteopenia.
ALDOC- and ENO2- driven glucose metabolism sustains 3D tumor spheroids growth regardless of nutrient environmental conditions: a multi-omics analysis
Authors: De Vitis Claudia , Battaglia Anna Martina , Pallocca Matteo , Santamaria Gianluca , Mimmi Maria Chiara , Sacco Alessandro , De Nicola Francesca , Gaspari Marco , Salvati Valentina , Ascenzi Francesca , Bruschini Sara , Esposito Antonella , Ricci Giulia , Sperandio Eleonora , Massacci Alice , Prestagiacomo Licia Elvira , Vecchione Andrea , Ricci Alberto , Sciacchitano Salvatore , Salerno Gerardo , French Deborah , Aversa Ilenia , Cereda Cristina , Fanciulli Maurizio , Chiaradonna Ferdinando , Solito Egle , Cuda Giovanni , Costanzo Francesco , Ciliberto Gennaro , Mancini Rita , Biamonte Flavia
Published: March 2023

Background

Metastases are the major cause of cancer-related morbidity and mortality. By the time cancer cells detach from their primary site to eventually spread to distant sites, they need to acquire the ability to survive in non-adherent conditions and to proliferate within a new microenvironment in spite of stressing conditions that may severely constrain the metastatic process. In this study, we gained insight into the molecular mechanisms allowing cancer cells to survive and proliferate in an anchorage-independent manner, regardless of both tumor-intrinsic variables and nutrient culture conditions.

Methods

3D spheroids derived from lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and breast cancer cells were cultured in either nutrient-rich or -restricted culture conditions. A multi-omics approach, including transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, was used to explore the molecular changes underlying the transition from 2 to 3D cultures. Small interfering RNA-mediated loss of function assays were used to validate the role of the identified differentially expressed genes and proteins in H460 and HCC827 LUAD as well as in MCF7 and T47D breast cancer cell lines.

Results

We found that the transition from 2 to 3D cultures of H460 and MCF7 cells is associated with significant changes in the expression of genes and proteins involved in metabolic reprogramming. In particular, we observed that 3D tumor spheroid growth implies the overexpression of ALDOC and ENO2 glycolytic enzymes concomitant with the enhanced consumption of glucose and fructose and the enhanced production of lactate. Transfection with siRNA against both ALDOC and ENO2 determined a significant reduction in lactate production, viability and size of 3D tumor spheroids produced by H460, HCC827, MCF7, and T47D cell lines.

Conclusions

Our results show that anchorage-independent survival and growth of cancer cells are supported by changes in genes and proteins that drive glucose metabolism towards an enhanced lactate production. Notably, this finding is valid for all lung and breast cancer cell lines we have analyzed in different nutrient environmental conditions. broader Validation of this mechanism in other cancer cells of different origin will be necessary to broaden the role of ALDOC and ENO2 to other tumor types. Future in vivo studies will be necessary to assess the role of ALDOC and ENO2 in cancer metastasis.