bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High genetic merit dairy heifers grazing low quality forage had similar weight gain and urinary nitrogen excretion to those of low genetic merit heifers
Authors: Cheng L. , Goulven C. L. , Cullen B. R. , Clark C. , Gregorini P. , Sun X. Z. , Talukder S.
Published: October 2023

Climate variability and increasing drought events have become significant concerns in recent years. However, there is limited published research on body weight (BW) change of dairy heifers with different genetic merit when grazing on drought impacted pastures in southern Australia. Achieving target body weight (BW) is vital for dairy heifers, especially during critical stages like mating and calving. This study aimed to assess dry matter (DM) intake, BW change, urinary nitrogen excretion, and grazing behaviours of high vs. low genetic dairy heifers grazing pasture during a 43-day experimental period in a drought season. Forty-eight Holstein Friesian heifers grazed on ryegrass-dominant pasture and were divided into two groups based on their high and low Balanced Performance Index (HBPI and LBPI, respectively). Each group was further stratified into six plots, with similar BW, resulting in four heifers per replication group. Data from the five measurement days were averaged for individual cows to analyse the dry matter intake, nitrogen intake and nitrogen excretion. The statistical model included the treatment effect of BPI (H and L) and means were analysed using ANOVA. The pasture quality was poor, with metabolizable energy 9.3 MJ/Kg DM and crude protein 5.9% on a DM basis. Nitrogen intake and urinary nitrogen excretion were significantly higher (p  <  0.05) in HBPI compared to the LBPI. However, despite these differences, the study did not find any advantages of having HBPI heifer grazing on low quality forage in terms of BW performance.
Mare stromal endometrial cells differentially modulate inflammation depending on oestrus cycle status: an in vitro study
Authors: Wong Yat S. , Mançanares Ana C. , Navarrete Felipe I. , Poblete Pamela M. , Méndez-Pérez Lídice , Ferreira-Dias Graça M. L. , Rodriguez-Alvarez Lleretny , Castro Fidel Ovidio
Published: October 2023

The modulation of inflammation is pivotal for uterine homeostasis. Here we evaluated the effect of the oestrus cycle on the expression of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory markers in a cellular model of induced fibrosis. Mare endometrial stromal cells isolated from follicular or mid-luteal phase were primed with 10 ng/mL of TGFβ alone or in combination with either IL1β, IL6, or TNFα (10 ng/mL each) or all together for 24 h. Control cells were not primed. Messenger and miRNA expression were analyzed using real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). Cells in the follicular phase primed with pro-inflammatory cytokines showed higher expression of collagen-related genes (CTGF, COL1A1, COL3A1, and TIMP1) and mesenchymal marker (SLUG, VIM, CDH2, and CDH11) genes; p < 0.05. Cells primed during the mid-luteal overexpressed genes associated with extracellular matrix, processing, and prostaglandin E synthase (MMP2, MMP9, PGR, TIMP2, and PTGES; p < 0.05). There was a notable upregulation of pro-fibrotic miRNAs (miR17, miR21, and miR433) in the follicular phase when the cells were exposed to TGFβ + IL1β, TGFβ + IL6 or TGFβ + IL1β + IL6 + TNFα. Conversely, in cells from the mid-luteal phase, the treatments either did not or diminished the expression of the same miRNAs. On the contrary, the anti-fibrotic miRNAs (miR26a, miR29b, miR29c, miR145, miR378, and mir488) were not upregulated with treatments in the follicular phase. Rather, they were overexpressed in cells from the mid-luteal phase, with the highest regulation observed in TGFβ + IL1β + IL6 + TNFα treatment groups. These miRNAs were also analyzed in the extracellular vesicles secreted by the cells. A similar trend as seen with cellular miRNAs was noted, where anti-fibrotic miRNAs were downregulated in the follicular phase, while notably elevated pro-fibrotic miRNAs were observed in extracellular vesicles originating from the follicular phase. Pro-inflammatory cytokines may amplify the TGFβ signal in the follicular phase resulting in significant upregulation of extracellular matrix-related genes, an imbalance in the metalloproteinases, downregulation of estrogen receptors, and upregulation of pro-fibrotic factors. Conversely, in the luteal phase, there is a protective role mediated primarily through an increase in anti-fibrotic miRNAs, a decrease in SMAD2 phosphorylation, and reduced expression of fibrosis-related genes.
3D Turbulent Boundary Layer Separation Control by Multi-Discharge Plasma Actuator
Authors: Chernyshev Sergey , Gadzhimagomedov Gadzhi , Kuryachiy Aleksandr , Sboev Dmitry , Tolkachev Stepan
Published: October 2023

In a subsonic wind tunnel, a three-dimensional separation of a developed turbulent boundary layer was simulated on a swept wing flap model. A multi-discharge plasma actuator operating on the basis of dielectric barrier discharge was used to overcome the positive pressure gradient, leading to a three-dimensional separation, when the ultimate streamline on the aerodynamic surface turns along the flap trailing edge. The actuator created an extended streamwise region of volume force, leading to flow acceleration near a streamlined surface. The influence of the force impact direction relative to the flap trailing edge was studied. The experiments demonstrated that the plasma actuator can significantly influence the flow structure in the separation region, leading to a decrease in both the transverse size of the viscous wake behind the flap and the total pressure losses within it.
Experimental and Numerical Flutter Analysis Using Local Piston Theory with Viscous Correction
Authors: Liu Chenyu , Xie Changchuan , Meng Yang , Bai Liuyue
Published: October 2023

Due to the maneuver and overload requirements of aircraft, it is inevitable that supersonic fins experience high angles of attack (AOAs) and viscous effects at high altitudes. The local piston theory with viscous correction (VLPT) is introduced and modified to account for the 3-dimensional effect. With the contribution of the explicit aerodynamic force expression and enhanced surface spline interpolation, a tightly coupled state-space equation of the aeroelastic system is derived, and a flutter analysis scheme of relatively small computational complexity and high precision is established with a mode tracking algorithm. A wind tunnel test conducted on a supersonic fin confirms the validity of our approach. Notably, the VLPT predicts a more accurate flutter boundary than the local piston theory (LPT), particularly regarding the decreasing trend in flutter speed as AOA increases. This is attributed to the VLPT’s ability to provide a richer and more detailed steady flow field. Specifically, as the AOA increases, the spanwise flow evolves into a gradually pronounced spanwise vortex, yielding an additional downwash and energizing the boundary layer, which is not captured by LPT. This indicates that the precision of LPT/VLPT significantly depends on the accuracy of steady flow results.
Importance of Compost, Bentonite, and Calcium Oxide in Reducing Trace Element Content in Maize on Agricultural Soil Contaminated with Diesel Oil
Authors: Wyszkowski Mirosław , Kordala Natalia
Published: October 2023

Soil contaminated with petroleum substances is classified as hazardous, i.e., particularly harmful to the proper functioning of environmental ecosystems. It is therefore necessary to take measures to restore the homeostasis and ecological potential of degraded areas. The study aim was to determine the impact of bentonite, compost, and calcium oxide (CaO) on trace element content in the maize grown on diesel oil (DO)-contaminated soil. Increasing doses of the petroleum substance increased the accumulation of chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), manganese (Mn), cobalt (Co), and cadmium (Cd) in maize. The largest increases were found for Cu (by 76%), Co (by 73%), and Pb (by 42%). All soil amendments proved useful for in situ stabilization of anthropogenically transformed soils. Bentonite reduced Cr (by 94%), Cu (by 84%), and Mn content (by 53%), while compost reduced the contents of Cu (by 75%), Mn (by 44%), and iron (Fe—by 29%) in maize. CaO significantly reduced the levels of Cr (by 94%), Cu (by 84%), Ni (by 66%), Mn (by 32%), Co (by 72%), zinc (Zn—by 30%), and Cd (by 22%) in maize. The effects of compost and bentonite on maize chemical composition were smaller than that achieved with CaO, and the direction of changes in elements content depended on the DO dose and the element type.
Homemade Nucleic Acid Preservation Buffer Proves Effective in Preserving the Equine Faecal Microbiota over Time at Ambient Temperatures
Authors: Ward Ashley B. , Harris Patricia A. , Argo Caroline McG. , Watson Christine , Neacsu Madalina , Russell Wendy R. , Ribeiro Antonio , Collie-Duguid Elaina , Heidari Zeynab , Morrison Philippa K.
Published: October 2023

The equine faecal microbiota is often assessed as a proxy of the microbial community in the distal colon, where the microbiome has been linked to states of health and disease in the horse. However, the microbial community structure may change over time if samples are not adequately preserved. This study stored equine faecal samples from n = 10 horses in four preservation treatments at room temperature for up to 150 h and assessed the resulting impact on microbial diversity and the differential abundance of taxa. Treatments included “COLD” (samples packaged with a cool pack), “CLX” (2% chlorhexidine digluconate solution), “NAP” (nucleic acid preservation buffer), and “FTA” (Whatman FTA™ cards). The samples were assessed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing after storage for 0, 24, 72, and 150 h at room temperature under the different treatments. The results showed effective preservation of diversity and community structure with NAP buffer but lower diversity (p = 0.001) and the under-representation of Fibrobacterota in the FTA card samples. The NAP treatment inhibited the overgrowth of bloom taxa that occurred by 72 h at room temperature. The COLD, CLX, and NAP treatments were effective in preserving the faecal microbiota for up to 24 h at room temperature, and the CLX and NAP treatments improved the yield of Patescibacteria and Fibrobacterota in some cases. The cold and CLX treatments were ineffective in preventing community shifts that occurred by 72 h at room temperature. These findings demonstrate the suitability of the COLD, NAP, and CLX treatments for the room temperature storage of equine faeces for up to 24 h and of NAP buffer for up to 150 h prior to processing.
Buffering Capacity Comparison of Tris Phosphate Carbonate and Buffered Peptone Water Salmonella Pre-Enrichments for Manufactured Feed and Feed Ingredients
Authors: Escobar Cesar , Munoz Luis R. , Bailey Matthew A. , Krehling James T. , Pacheco Wilmer J. , Hauck Rüdiger , Buhr Richard J. , Macklin Kenneth S.
Published: October 2023

Various culture-based methods to detect Salmonella in animal feed have been developed due to the impact of this bacterium on public and animal health. For this project, tris phosphate carbonate (TPC) and buffered peptone water (BPW) buffering capacities were compared as pre-enrichment mediums for the detection of Salmonella in feed ingredients. A total of 269 samples were collected from 6 feed mills and mixed with the pre-enrichments; pH was measured before and after a 24 h incubation. Differences were observed when comparing pH values by sample type; DDGS and poultry by-product meal presented lower initial pH values for TPC and BPW compared to the other samples. For both TPC and BPW, meat and bone meal presented higher final pH values, while soybean meal and peanut meal had lower final pH values. Furthermore, for BPW, post cooling, pellet loadout, and wheat middlings reported lower final pH values. Additionally, most feed ingredients presented significant differences in pH change after 24 h of incubation, except DDGS. From meat and bone meal samples, four Salmonella isolates were recovered and identified: three using BPW and one using TPC. TPC provided greater buffer capacity towards neutral pH compared to BPW, but BPW was more effective at recovering Salmonella.
NADPH Oxidases and Oxidative Stress in the Pathogenesis of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Ramos-Mondragón Roberto , Lozhkin Andrey , Vendrov Aleksandr E. , Runge Marschall S. , Isom Lori L. , Madamanchi Nageswara R.
Published: October 2023

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia and its prevalence increases with age. The irregular and rapid contraction of the atria can lead to ineffective blood pumping, local blood stasis, blood clots, ischemic stroke, and heart failure. NADPH oxidases (NOX) and mitochondria are the main sources of reactive oxygen species in the heart, and dysregulated activation of NOX and mitochondrial dysfunction are associated with AF pathogenesis. NOX- and mitochondria-derived oxidative stress contribute to the onset of paroxysmal AF by inducing electrophysiological changes in atrial myocytes and structural remodeling in the atria. Because high atrial activity causes cardiac myocytes to expend extremely high energy to maintain excitation-contraction coupling during persistent AF, mitochondria, the primary energy source, undergo metabolic stress, affecting their morphology, Ca2+ handling, and ATP generation. In this review, we discuss the role of oxidative stress in activating AF-triggered activities, regulating intracellular Ca2+ handling, and functional and anatomical reentry mechanisms, all of which are associated with AF initiation, perpetuation, and progression. Changes in the extracellular matrix, inflammation, ion channel expression and function, myofibril structure, and mitochondrial function occur during the early transitional stages of AF, opening a window of opportunity to target NOX and mitochondria-derived oxidative stress using isoform-specific NOX inhibitors and mitochondrial ROS scavengers, as well as drugs that improve mitochondrial dynamics and metabolism to treat persistent AF and its transition to permanent AF.
Estimation of Impact Loads Transmitted to Vibro-Ripper Housing Using Transfer Path Analysis
Authors: Kim Daeji , Park Hyune-Jun , Oh Joo-Young , Cho Jung-Woo , Chung Jintai , Song Changheon
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to estimate impact loads delivered to vibro-ripper housing through link modules, together with loads transmitted in various directions. Housing vibration resulting from impact loads generated during the operating condition and frequency response functions were assessed by vibration and modal experiments, respectively. Vibration data and transfer functions were applied in a transfer path analysis (TPA) model to analyze the quantified impact loads transmitted through the key components of the vibro-ripper to its housing. Impact loads derived by TPA for different housing parts were compared with those in the tooth derived from load-cell measurements, validating the TPA method. As a result of the verification, the impact load calculated by the TPA method was 193.7 kN, whereas that from the striking force measured by the load cell was 220 kN, a difference of 12.3%. The results of this study may be important input values for numerical analysis in equipment design and can be used as key data for structural safety evaluation and optimization. In summary, this paper introduces the vibration-based TPA method and considers its applicability to construction machinery exposed to impact vibration and loads.
The Dynamic Train–Track Interaction on a Bridge and in a Tunnel Compared with the Simultaneous Vehicle, Track and Ground Vibration Measurements on a Surface Line
Authors: Auersch Lutz
Published: October 2023

The vehicle–track interaction generates forces and consequently vibrations in the environment. The interaction has been analysed by the simultaneous measurements of vehicle, track and ground vibrations during test runs with varied train speeds. The special effects of the passage over a bridge and through a tunnel are studied and compared with the measurements on a conventional ballasted surface line. The maximum amplitudes, narrow band and one-third octave band spectra are presented for the axle-box accelerations and for the track, bridge and ground vibrations. The different frequencies and frequency bands are related to wheel out-of-roundness, track alignment errors, the sleeper passage and the wheelset–track resonance. An axle impulse component has been observed at the track, at the near-field soil and as a scattered version in the far field. Specific results can be found for the bridge track, where clearly speed-dependent bridge resonances occur due to the axle sequence of the train, and for the tunnel track where soft rail pads are responsible for a strong amplification around the wheelset–track resonance. On the other hand, the axle impulses are strongly reduced by the tunnel track, and the scattered axle impulse component is not as relevant as for the surface track. As a consequence, a strong mid-frequency amplitude reduction of the tunnel compared to the surface line has been measured for low and high train speeds by the Federal Institute of Material Research and Testing (BAM) and by other institutes.
Optical Particle Visualization Technique Using Red–Green–Blue and Core Storage Shed Flow Field Analysis
Authors: Cho Mok-Lyang , Ha Ji-Soo
Published: October 2023

This study uses a flow visualization method to analyze the flow field of a shed-type coal storage shed, comparing and verifying the findings through numerical calculation. Initially, a coal warehouse-scale model is created for flow visualization. Laser-based cross-sectional analysis yields essential flow data, from which red–green–blue values are extracted, and the flow object with the highest G value is selected. Subsequently, as the video frame changes, the moving object is tracked, and the direction is derived. The velocity vector of the moving object within the designated area is derived. Finally, we compare the results of the flow visualization experiment with the simulation outcome. Notably, the error rate in regions characterized by high flow velocity is found to be low, and a high implementation rate is observed in areas with many floating objects to track. Conversely, implementation accuracy is lower in low-velocity fields. Both methods result in a recirculation zone at the top of the inlet, and a flow stagnation region occurs on the upper part of the central wall.
Directional Core Drilling as an Approach to Reduce Uncertainty in Tunneling Construction
Authors: Rodríguez Rafael , Fernández Valentín , Bascompta Marc , Garcia-Gonzalez Hector
Published: October 2023

The definition of a rock mass’s characteristics is crucial in underground construction to avoid delays and cost overruns. This study proposes a system to quantify the economic uncertainty related to a lack of knowledge of a rock mass in the tunnel construction stage, either for tunnel boring machines or for drill and blast excavation techniques. Using a back-analysis of three actual tunnels completed in Spain (Burata, Lot 3 of the Pajares variant, and Bolaños), the study assessed the directional core drilling technique (DCD) for this purpose, comparing it with conventional boreholes. In this regard, the DCD approach reduced the uncertainty by between EUR 6.7 and EUR 12.7 for every EUR 1, while the total cost of the drilling campaign remained within a widely accepted proportion of the construction budget. Overall, the uncertainty was reduced by approximately EUR 6000 per meter of the tunnel.
Unsupervised Vehicle Re-Identification Method Based on Source-Free Knowledge Transfer
Authors: Song Zhigang , Li Daisong , Chen Zhongyou , Yang Wenqin
Published: October 2023

The unsupervised domain-adaptive vehicle re-identification approach aims to transfer knowledge from a labeled source domain to an unlabeled target domain; however, there are knowledge differences between the target domain and the source domain. To mitigate domain discrepancies, existing unsupervised domain-adaptive re-identification methods typically require access to source domain data to assist in retraining the target domain model. However, for security reasons, such as data privacy, data exchange between different domains is often infeasible in many scenarios. To this end, this paper proposes an unsupervised domain-adaptive vehicle re-identification method based on source-free knowledge transfer. First, by constructing a source-free domain knowledge migration module, the target domain is consistent with the source domain model output to train a generator to generate the “source-like samples”. Then, it can effectively reduce the model knowledge difference and improve the model’s generalization performance. In the experiment, two mainstream public datasets in this field, VeRi776 and VehicleID, are tested experimentally, and the obtained rank-k (the cumulative matching features) and mAP (the mean Average Precision) indicators are both improved, which are suitable for object re-identification tasks when data between domains cannot be interoperated.
Parameter Estimation of the Dirichlet Distribution Based on Entropy
Authors: Şahin Büşra , Evren Atıf Ahmet , Tuna Elif , Şahinbaşoğlu Zehra Zeynep , Ustaoğlu Erhan
Published: October 2023

The Dirichlet distribution as a multivariate generalization of the beta distribution is especially important for modeling categorical distributions. Hence, its applications vary within a wide range from modeling cell probabilities of contingency tables to modeling income inequalities. Thus, it is commonly used as the conjugate prior of the multinomial distribution in Bayesian statistics. In this study, the parameters of a bivariate Dirichlet distribution are estimated by entropy formalism. As an alternative to maximum likelihood and the method of moments, two methods based on the principle of maximum entropy are used, namely the ordinary entropy method and the parameter space expansion method. It is shown that in estimating the parameters of the bivariate Dirichlet distribution, the ordinary entropy method and the parameter space expansion method give the same results as the method of maximum likelihood. Thus, we emphasize that these two methods can be used alternatively in modeling bivariate and multinomial Dirichlet distributions.
Effects of Pulsed Electric Fields on the Physicochemical and Sensory Properties of Thompson Seedless Grapes
Authors: Scharf Sabrina , Sandmann Michael
Published: October 2023

While the treatment of red grapes with pulsed electric fields (PEFs) has been widely investigated, white grapes have been little studied to date. This work, therefore, investigates the PEF treatment of white grapes (Thompson Seedless) by applying different field strengths (2 to 6 kV/cm), resulting in different specific energy inputs (2.5 to 22.5 kJ/kg). Numerous parameters of the whole grapes and the extracted juice were analyzed, including the total phenolic index (TPI), reducing sugars, juice yields, and changes in color and texture. Changes in the aroma profile were investigated using instrument-based and sensory analysis. The most striking effect seen in the PEF-treated samples was the visual change in the grape skin, specifically browning. Depending on the field strength, the treated grapes showed a 26% to 50% reduction in crunchiness. No significant changes were measured in the juice yields compared with the control, although at E = 4.5 kV/cm there was an increase in reducing sugars of up to 11% (220.97 g/L) and a 30% higher TPI (398.90 mg/L). Aroma differences were not detected between the control and the treated grapes, meaning that consumers should not expect negative sensory effects in the juice of treated white grapes.
Atypical Hierarchical Connectivity Revealed by Stepwise Functional Connectivity in Aging
Authors: Li Hechun , Shi Hongru , Jiang Sisi , Hou Changyue , Wu Hanxi , Yao Gang , Yao Dezhong , Luo Cheng
Published: October 2023

Hierarchical functional structure plays a crucial role in brain function. We aimed to investigate how aging affects hierarchical functional structure and to evaluate the relationship between such effects and molecular, microvascular, and cognitive features. We used resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data from 95 older adults (66.94 ± 7.23 years) and 44 younger adults (21.8 ± 2.53 years) and employed an innovative graph-theory-based analysis (stepwise functional connectivity (SFC)) to reveal the effects of aging on hierarchical functional structure in the brain. In the older group, an SFC pattern converged on the primary sensory—motor network (PSN) rather than the default mode network (DMN). Moreover, SFC decreased in the DMN and increased in the PSN at longer link-steps in aging, indicating a reconfiguration of brain hub systems during aging. Subsequent correlation analyses were performed between SFC values and molecular, microvascular features, and behavioral performance. Altered SFC patterns were associated with dopamine and serotonin, suggesting that altered hierarchical functional structure in aging is linked to the molecular fundament with dopamine and serotonin. Furthermore, increased SFC in the PSN, decreased SFC in the DMN, and accelerated convergence rate were all linked to poorer microvascular features and lower executive function. Finally, a mediation analysis among SFC features, microvascular features, and behavioral performance indicated that the microvascular state may influence executive function through SFC features, highlighting the interactive effects of SFC features and microvascular state on cognition.
Characterization and Investigation of Novel Benzodioxol Derivatives as Antidiabetic Agents: An In Vitro and In Vivo Study in an Animal Model
Authors: Hawash Mohammed , Al-Smadi Derar , Kumar Anil , Olech Barbara , Dominiak Paulina Maria , Jaradat Nidal , Antari Sarah , Mohammed Sarah , Nasasrh Ala’a , Abualhasan Murad , Musa Ahmed , Suboh Shorooq , Çapan İrfan , Qneibi Mohammad , Natsheh Hiba
Published: October 2023

In this study, we synthesized benzodioxol carboxamide derivatives and investigated their antidiabetic potential. The synthesized compounds (Ia-Ic and IIa-IId) underwent characterization via HRMS, 1H-, 13CAPT-NMR, and MicroED. Their efficacy against α-amylase was assessed in vitro, while MTS assays were employed to gauge cytotoxicity across cancer and normal cell lines. Additionally, the antidiabetic impact of compound IIc was evaluated in vivo using a streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice model. Notably, IIa and IIc displayed potent α-amylase inhibition (IC50 values of 0.85 and 0.68 µM, respectively) while exhibiting a negligible effect on the Hek293t normal cell line (IC50 > 150 µM), suggesting their safety. Compound IId demonstrated significant activity against four cancer cell lines (26–65 µM). In vivo experiments revealed that five doses of IIc substantially reduced mice blood glucose levels from 252.2 mg/dL to 173.8 mg/dL in contrast to the control group. The compelling in vitro anticancer efficacy of IIc and its safety for normal cells underscores the need for further in vivo assessment of this promising compound. This research highlights the potential of benzodioxol derivatives as candidates for the future development of synthetic antidiabetic drugs.
Human Periapical Odontogenic Granulomas: Aspects of Microvessel Density (MVD), Heterogeneity of Blood Vessels and Mast Cells Density (MCD)
Authors: Roi Ciprian , Negruțiu Meda Lavinia , Roi Alexandra , Riviș Mircea , Luca Ruxandra Elena , Raica Marius , Ceaușu Raluca Amalia , Motofelea Alexandru Cătălin , Gaje Pușa Nela
Published: October 2023

Periapical odontogenic granulomas are among the most encountered pathology that involve the alveolar bone, with severe consequences such as bone resorption, the presence of inflammatory infiltrate and the formation of abnormal vascularization. The present study aimed to quantify the existence of the microvessel density (MVD), mast cell density (MCD) and heterogeneity of the encountered blood vessels. A total of 37 patients diagnosed with odontogenic periapical granulomas were included, and the gender distribution, age and localization of the pathological lesions was assessed. After the surgical removal of the periapical odontogenic granuloma, the collected tissue was fixed in 10% buffered formalin. Primary processing, morphological analysis and immunohistochemical staining was performed in order to characterize the altered tissue. The results outlined the presence of a high number of mast cells, especially in the area of the inflamed tissue; the high heterogeneity of the blood vessels; and increased MVD with positive CD34. The conclusions of the study focus on the key role of the mast cells and their implication in the initiation and development of the angiogenesis process, triggering the inflammatory response of the host. Nevertheless, periapical odontogenic granulomas develop as an inflammatory response to the interaction between the host’s immune system and microbial invasion.
Depressive Symptomatology as a Predictor of Cognitive Impairment: Evidence from the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging (KLOSA), 2006–2020
Authors: Baek Seong-Uk , Yoon Jin-Ha
Published: October 2023

Depressive symptoms are recognized as risk factors for cognitive impairment with intricate underlying biological mechanisms. We explored the link between depressive symptoms and cognitive impairment onset; we also assessed how this association is influenced by educational levels. This study included 5843 individuals aged ≥45 years, comprising 27,908 observations from 2006 to 2020. Based on repeated measurements of each participant, we estimated the association between depressive symptoms and cognitive impairment onset after a 2-year follow-up by using generalized estimating equations. The incidence rate was 9.4% among those individuals without depressive symptoms, which was in contrast with a rate of 21.0% among those individuals experiencing depressive symptoms. The odds ratio (OR) (95% confidence interval [CI]) for the association between depressive symptoms and cognitive impairment onset in the overall sample was 1.61 (1.47–1.76). This association was more pronounced among individuals with higher educational levels. Specifically, the OR (95% CI) of the association between depressive symptoms and cognitive impairment was highest among individuals with a college education (2.60 [1.78–3.81]), and the association was lowest among individuals with elementary or no education levels (1.45 [1.28–1.63]). Our findings highlight the idea that although individuals with higher educational backgrounds exhibit a diminished risk of cognitive impairment, the detrimental impacts of depressive symptoms on cognitive performance are particularly more pronounced within this group.
Understanding Intervertebral Disc Degeneration: Background Factors and the Role of Initial Injury
Authors: Karchevskaya Anna E. , Poluektov Yuri M. , Korolishin Vasiliy A.
Published: October 2023

The etiology of intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is complex and multifactorial, and it is still not fully understood. A better understanding of the pathogenesis of IVDD will help to improve treatment regimens and avoid unnecessary surgical aggression. In order to summarize recent research data on IVDD pathogenesis, including genetic and immune factors, a literature review was conducted. The pathogenesis of IVDD is a complex multifactorial process without an evident starting point. There are extensive data on the role of the different genetic factors affecting the course of the disease, such as mutations in structural proteins and enzymes involved in the immune response. However, these factors alone are not sufficient for the development of the disease. Nevertheless, like mechanical damage, they can also be considered risk factors for IVDD. In conclusion, currently, there is no consensus on a single concept for the pathogenesis of IVDD. We consider the intervertebral disc autoimmune damage hypothesis to be the most promising hypothesis for clinicians, because it can be extrapolated to all populations and does not counteract other factors. The genetic factors currently known do not allow for building effective predictive models; however, they can be used to stratify the risks of individual populations.
A Facile Method to Fabricate an Enclosed Paper-Based Analytical Device via Double-Sided Patterning for Ionic Contaminant Detection
Authors: Choi Jinsol , Lee Eun-Ho , Kang Sung-Min , Jeong Heon-Ho
Published: October 2023

Microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs) have been developed for use in a variety of diagnosis and analysis fields. However, conventional μPADs with an open-channel system have limitations for application as analytical platforms mainly because of the evaporation and contamination of the sample solution. This study demonstrates the design and fabrication of an enclosed three-dimensional(3D)-μPAD and its application as a primary early analysis platform for ionic contaminants. To generate the hydrophobic PDMS barrier, double-sided patterning is carried out using a PDMS blade-coated stamp mold that is fabricated using 3D printing. The selective PDMS patterning can be achieved with controlled PDMS permeation of the cellulose substrate using 3D-designed stamp molds. We find the optimal conditions enabling the formation of enclosed channels, including round shape pattern and inter-pattern distance of 10 mm of stamp design, contact time of 0.5 min, and spacer height of 300 µm of double-sided patterning procedure. As a proof of concept, this enclosed 3D-μPAD is used for the simultaneous colorimetric detection of heavy metal ions in a concentration range of 0.1–2000 ppm, including nickel (Ni2+), copper (Cu2+), mercury (Hg2+), and radioactive isotope cesium-137 ions (Cs+). We confirm that qualitative analysis and image-based quantitative analysis with high reliability are possible through rapid color changes within 3 min. The limits of detection (LOD) for 0.55 ppm of Ni2+, 5.05 ppm of Cu2+, 0.188 ppm of Hg2+, and 0.016 ppm of Cs+ are observed, respectively. In addition, we confirm that the analysis is highly reliable in a wide range of ion concentrations with CV values below 3% for Ni2+ (0.56%), Cu2+ (0.45%), Hg2+ (1.35%), and Cs+ (2.18%). This method could be a promising technique to develop a 3D-μPAD with various applications as a primary early analysis device in the environmental and biological industries.
Digital Intentions in the Fingers: I Know What You Are Doing with Your Smartphone
Authors: Craighero Laila , Granziol Umberto , Sartori Luisa
Published: October 2023

Every day, we make thousands of finger movements on the touchscreen of our smartphones. The same movements might be directed at various distal goals. We can type “What is the weather in Rome?” in Google to acquire information from a weather site, or we may type it on WhatsApp to decide whether to visit Rome with a friend. In this study, we show that by watching an agent’s typing hands, an observer can infer whether the agent is typing on the smartphone to obtain information or to share it with others. The probability of answering correctly varies with age and typing style. According to embodied cognition, we propose that the recognition process relies on detecting subtle differences in the agent’s movement, a skill that grows with sensorimotor competence. We expect that this preliminary work will serve as a starting point for further research on sensorimotor representations of digital actions.
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Its Management during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study with Thematic Analysis of Patients and Caregivers Who Participated in Self-Help Groups
Authors: Palazzo Lorenza , Pizzolato Laura , Rigo Matteo , Bondì Giuseppina
Published: October 2023

This study employs a qualitative methodology to explore the effects of the pandemic on the lives of ALS patients and their caregivers. It aims to understand whether and how online self-help groups have assisted families dealing with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients. ALS is a neurodegenerative disease with both physical and psychosocial implications. Consequently, it significantly affects the lives of patients’ caregivers. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated this situation. The results show that the pandemic has had a negative impact on the well-being of ALS caregivers and patients. Furthermore, bereavement and death were dealt with in different ways by the families involved. The pandemic aggravated the health of ALS patients and increased the workload of their caregivers; however, online psychological support was appreciated for its role in providing emotional help and diminishing social isolation.
Multiphoton In Vivo Microscopy of Embryonic Thrombopoiesis Reveals the Generation of Platelets through Budding
Authors: Liu Huan , Ishikawa-Ankerhold Hellen , Winterhalter Julia , Lorenz Michael , Vladymyrov Mykhailo , Massberg Steffen , Schulz Christian , Orban Mathias
Published: October 2023

Platelets are generated by specialized cells called megakaryocytes (MKs). However, MK’s origin and platelet release mode have remained incompletely understood. Here, we established direct visualization of embryonic thrombopoiesis in vivo by combining multiphoton intravital microscopy (MP-IVM) with a fluorescence switch reporter mouse model under control of the platelet factor 4 promoter (Pf4CreRosa26mTmG). Using this microscopy tool, we discovered that fetal liver MKs provide higher thrombopoietic activity than yolk sac MKs. Mechanistically, fetal platelets were released from MKs either by membrane buds or the formation of proplatelets, with the former constituting the key process. In E14.5 c-Myb-deficient embryos that lack definitive hematopoiesis, MK and platelet numbers were similar to wild-type embryos, indicating the independence of embryonic thrombopoiesis from definitive hematopoiesis at this stage of development. In summary, our novel MP-IVM protocol allows the characterization of thrombopoiesis with high spatio-temporal resolution in the mouse embryo and has identified membrane budding as the main mechanism of fetal platelet production.
Detection of ASD Children through Deep-Learning Application of fMRI
Authors: Feng Min , Xu Juncai
Published: October 2023

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) necessitates prompt diagnostic scrutiny to enable immediate, targeted interventions. This study unveils an advanced convolutional-neural-network (CNN) algorithm that was meticulously engineered to examine resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) for early ASD detection in pediatric cohorts. The CNN architecture amalgamates convolutional, pooling, batch-normalization, dropout, and fully connected layers, optimized for high-dimensional data interpretation. Rigorous preprocessing yielded 22,176 two-dimensional echo planar samples from 126 subjects (56 ASD, 70 controls) who were sourced from the Autism Brain Imaging Data Exchange (ABIDE I) repository. The model, trained on 17,740 samples across 50 epochs, demonstrated unparalleled diagnostic metrics—accuracy of 99.39%, recall of 98.80%, precision of 99.85%, and an F1 score of 99.32%—and thereby eclipsed extant computational methodologies. Feature map analyses substantiated the model’s hierarchical feature extraction capabilities. This research elucidates a deep learning framework for computer-assisted ASD screening via fMRI, with transformative implications for early diagnosis and intervention.
Adaptation of Agriculture to Climate Change: A Scoping Review
Authors: Grigorieva Elena , Livenets Alexandra , Stelmakh Elena
Published: October 2023

Since agricultural productivity is weather and climate-related and fundamentally depends on climate stability, climate change poses many diverse challenges to agricultural activities. The objective of this study is to review adaptation strategies and interventions in countries around the world proposed for implementation to reduce the impact of climate change on agricultural development and production at various spatial scales. A literature search was conducted in June–August 2023 using electronic databases Google Scholar and Scientific Electronic Library eLibrary.RU, seeking the key words “climate”, “climate change”, and “agriculture adaptation”. Sixty-five studies were identified and selected for the review. The negative impacts of climate change are expressed in terms of reduced crop yields and crop area, impacts on biotic and abiotic factors, economic losses, increased labor, and equipment costs. Strategies and actions for agricultural adaptation that can be emphasized at local and regional levels are: crop varieties and management, including land use change and innovative breeding techniques; water and soil management, including agronomic practices; farmer training and knowledge transfer; at regional and national levels: financial schemes, insurance, migration, and culture; agricultural and meteorological services; and R&D, including the development of early warning systems. Adaptation strategies depend on the local context, region, or country; limiting the discussion of options and measures to only one type of approach—"top-down” or “bottom-up”—may lead to unsatisfactory solutions for those areas most affected by climate change but with few resources to adapt to it. Biodiversity-based, or “ecologically intensive” agriculture, and climate-smart agriculture are low-impact strategies with strong ecological modernization of agriculture, aiming to sustainably increase agricultural productivity and incomes while addressing the interrelated challenges of climate change and food security. Some adaptation measures taken in response to climate change may not be sufficient and may even increase vulnerability to climate change. Future research should focus on adaptation options to explore the readiness of farmers and society to adopt new adaptation strategies and the constraints they face, as well as the main factors affecting them, in order to detect maladaptation before it occurs.
Classical Information and Collapse in Wigner’s Friend Setups
Authors: Baumann Veronika
Published: October 2023

The famous Wigner’s friend experiment considers an observer—the friend—and a superobserver—Wigner—who treats the friend as a quantum system and her interaction with other quantum systems as unitary dynamics. This is at odds with the friend describing this interaction via collapse dynamics, if she interacts with the quantum system in a way that she would consider a measurement. These different descriptions constitute the Wigner’s friend paradox. Extended Wigner’s friend experiments combine the original thought experiment with non-locality setups. This allows for deriving local friendliness inequalities, similar to Bell’s theorem, which can be violated for certain extended Wigner’s friend scenarios. A Wigner’s friend paradox and the violation of local friendliness inequalities require that no classical record exists, which reveals the result the friend observed during her measurement. Otherwise, Wigner agrees with his friend’s description and no local friendliness inequality can be violated. In this article, I introduce classical communication between Wigner and his friend and discuss its effects on the simple as well as extended Wigner’s friend experiments. By controlling the properties of a (quasi) classical communication channel between Wigner and the friend, one can regulate how much outcome information about the friend’s measurement is revealed. This gives a smooth transition between the paradoxical description and the possibility of violating local friendliness inequalities, on the one hand, and the effectively collapsed case, on the other hand.
A Heuristic-Driven Charging Strategy of Electric Vehicle for Grids with High EV Penetration
Authors: Ahmadi Bahman , Shirazi Elham
Published: October 2023

The widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) poses challenges associated with charging infrastructures and their impact on the electrical grid. To address these challenges, smart charging approaches have emerged as a key solution that optimizes charging processes and contributes to a smarter and more efficient grid. This paper presents an innovative multi-objective optimization framework for EV smart charging (EVSC) using the Dynamic Hunting Leadership (DHL) method. The framework aims to improve the voltage profile of the system in addition to eliminating voltage violations and energy not supplied (ENS) to EVs within the network. The proposed approach considers both residential EV chargers and parking stations, incorporating realistic EV charger behaviors based on constant current charging and addressing the problem as a mixed integer non-linear programming (MINLP) problem. The performance of the optimization method is evaluated on a distribution network with varying levels of EV penetration connected to the chargers in the grid. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the DHL algorithm in minimizing conflicting objectives and improving the grid’s voltage profile while considering operational constraints. This study provides a road map for EV aggregators and EV owners, guiding them on how to charge EVs based on preferences while minimizing adverse technical impacts on the grid.
Modeling Unpredictable Behavior of Energy Facilities to Ensure Reliable Operation in a Cyber-Physical System
Authors: Postnikov Ivan , Samarkina Ekaterina , Penkovskii Andrey , Kornev Vladimir , Sidorov Denis
Published: October 2023

This research focuses on exploring various techniques and models for simulating the random behavior of energy facilities or systems. These simulations are essential in identifying the likelihood of component failures within the studied facilities. By assessing the potential consequences of emergency scenarios, this analysis serves as a fundamental aspect of synthesizing and analyzing reliability in the cyber-physical system. Ultimately, the study aims to enhance the management and control of reliability and safety for these facilities. In this study, a unified heating source is considered as an energy facility (as part of district heating systems), for example, a combined heat and power plant. However, the developed methods and models have sufficient universality for their adaptation to other energy facilities without significant changes. The research methodology is based on the use of Markov random processes and laws of the probability theory. The basic model of the energy facilities is formulated for the conditions of the simplest events flow with appropriate assumptions and constraints, in particular, ordinary events and independence of events (failures and restorations). To take into account the non-ordinary events (failures) and dependences between some failures, corresponding modifications of the basic model are proposed. A computational experiment was carried out using the developed models, and graphical interpretations of the results are presented. The obtained results allow us to formulate some preliminary conclusions about the range of influence of the simulated factors on the reliability analysis of studied facilities and to outline conditions and areas of their admissible application.