bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anal dysplasia in adolescent and young adult men who have sex with men: a single-center retrospective and descriptive study (2010–2020)
Authors: Addison Jessica , Assefa Ida , Woods Elizabeth R. , Fitzgerald Susan
Published: June 2023

Objective

There are limited studies evaluating anal cytology results or the prevalence of anal human papiloma virus in adolescent and young adult (AYA) men who have sex with men (MSM). The purpose of this study was to review anal cytology screening results and determine whether abnormal findings resulted in completion of anoscopy in AYA MSM (13–26 years old).

Patients and Methods

This was a retrospective study evaluating 84 anal Papanicolaou screening results among 36 AYA MSM patients aged 13–26 years who had an anal Papanicolaou test completed at an outpatient Adolescent/Young Adult Medicine Practice at Boston Children's Hospital, an urban, nonprofit, academic, free-standing children's hospital, from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2020.

Results

The findings of anal Papanicolaou screening included atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS) (37%), negative for squamous intraepithelial lesion (31%), inability to read (21.3%), and low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (10.8%). Most patients who had ASCUS results were referred for anoscopy (n = 28, 90.3%), and of those referred only 6.5% (n = 2) completed an anoscopy. Of those with low-grade squamous cell intraepithelial lesion results, 88.9% (n = 8) were referred for anoscopy, and among those who were referred, only 3.3% (n = 3) had completed an anoscopy.

Conclusion

This study showed that there were abnormalities in cytology when anal Papanicolaou test screening was performed in this population, and the completion rates for anoscopy were low.
Curcumin alleviates 1-methyl- 4-phenyl- 1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine- induced Parkinson’s disease in mice via modulating gut microbiota and short-chain fatty acids
Authors: Cai Benchi , Zhong Lifan , Wang Qitong , Xu Wendi , Li Xi , Chen Tao
Published: June 2023

Background: The microbiota–gut–brain axis has been proposed as a potential therapeutic target of PD. The effects of curcumin against Parkinson’s disease have been demonstrated; however, its neuroprotective mechanisms remain unknown. Our study investigated the potential mechanisms through which curcumin ameliorates Parkinson’s disease via the microbiota–gut–brain axis.

Methods: Mice were randomly divided into four groups: control, Curcumin, MPTP, and MPTP + Curcumin. Motor deficits and gastrointestinal dysfunction were assessed using behavioral test, intestinal motility test, and fecal parameter measurement. The loss of dopaminergic neurons and intestinal barrier function was measured using Western blot and immunofluorescence. Shotgun metagenomic sequencing and LC-MS were parallelly performed on mice feces to investigate alterations in microbiota and metabolites.

Results: Curcumin alleviated motor deficits and the loss of dopaminergic neurons in MPTP-induced mice. Curcumin ameliorated gastrointestinal and intestinal barrier dysfunctions in MPTP-induced mice. Curcumin reduced gut microbial dysbiosis and modulated carbohydrate metabolism in MPTP-induced mice. Curcumin restored short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) profiles in MPTP-induced mice.

Conclusion: Concurrently, these results indicate that curcumin inhibits Parkinson’s disease by regulating the gut microbiota and short-chain fatty acids.
Effects of acid-sensing ion channel-1A (ASIC1A) on cocaine-induced synaptic adaptations
Authors: Gupta Subhash C. , Taugher-Hebl Rebecca J. , Hardie Jason B. , Fan Rong , LaLumiere Ryan T. , Wemmie John A.
Published: June 2023

Chronic drug abuse is thought to induce synaptic changes in nucleus accumbens medium spiny neurons (MSNs) that promote subsequent craving and drug-seeking behavior. Accumulating data suggest acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) may play a critical role. In drug naïve mice, disrupting the ASIC1A subunit produced a variety of synaptic changes reminiscent of wild-type mice following cocaine withdrawal, including increased AMPAR/NMDAR ratio, increased AMPAR rectification, and increased dendrite spine density. Importantly, these changes in Asic1a−/− mice were normalized by a single dose of cocaine. Here we sought to understand the temporal effects of cocaine exposure in Asic1a−/− mice and the cellular site of ASIC1A action. Six hours after cocaine exposure, there was no effect. However, 15 h, 24 h and 4 days after cocaine exposure there was a significant reduction in AMPAR/NMDAR ratio in Asic1a−/− mice. Within 7 days the AMPAR/NMDAR ratio had returned to baseline levels. Cocaine-evoked changes in AMPAR rectification and dendritic spine density followed a similar time course with significant reductions in rectification and dendritic spines 24 h after cocaine exposure in Asic1a−/− mice. To test the cellular site of ASIC1A action on these responses, we disrupted ASIC1A specifically in a subpopulation of MSNs. We found that effects of ASIC1A disruption were cell autonomous and restricted to neurons in which the channels are disrupted. We further tested whether ASIC1A disruption differentially affects MSNs subtypes and found AMPAR/NMDAR ratio was elevated in dopamine receptor 1-expressing MSNs, suggesting a preferential effect for these cells. Finally, we tested if protein synthesis was involved in synaptic adaptations that occurred after ASIC1A disruption, and found the protein synthesis inhibitor anisomycin normalized AMPAR-rectification and AMPAR/NMDAR ratio in drug-naïve Asic1a−/− mice to control levels, observed in wild-type mice. Together, these results provide valuable mechanistic insight into the effects of ASICs on synaptic plasticity and drug-induced effects and raise the possibility that ASIC1A might be therapeutically manipulated to oppose drug-induced synaptic changes and behavior.
The role of acid sensing ion channels in the cardiovascular function
Authors: López-Ramírez Omar , González-Garrido Antonia
Published: June 2023

Acid Sensing Ion Channels (ASIC) are proton sensors involved in several physiological and pathophysiological functions including synaptic plasticity, sensory systems and nociception. ASIC channels have been ubiquitously localized in neurons and play a role in their excitability. Information about ASIC channels in cardiomyocyte function is limited. Evidence indicates that ASIC subunits are expressed in both, plasma membrane and intracellular compartments of mammalian cardiomyocytes, suggesting unrevealing functions in the cardiomyocyte physiology. ASIC channels are expressed in neurons of the peripheral nervous system including the nodose and dorsal root ganglia (DRG), both innervating the heart, where they play a dual role as mechanosensors and chemosensors. In baroreceptor neurons from nodose ganglia, mechanosensation is directly associated with ASIC2a channels for detection of changes in arterial pressure. ASIC channels expressed in DRG neurons have several roles in the cardiovascular function. First, ASIC2a/3 channel has been proposed as the molecular sensor of cardiac ischemic pain for its pH range activation, kinetics and the sustained current. Second, ASIC1a seems to have a critical role in ischemia-induced injury. And third, ASIC1a, 2 and 3 are part of the metabolic component of the exercise pressure reflex (EPR). This review consists of a summary of several reports about the role of ASIC channels in the cardiovascular system and its innervation.
Fungicidal and plant growth-promoting traits of Lasiodiplodia pseudotheobromae, an endophyte from Andrographis paniculata
Authors: Segaran Gayathri , Sathiavelu Mythili
Published: June 2023

Introdution

Fungal endophytes are widespread and dwell inside plant cells for at least part of their life without producing any symptoms of infection. Distinct host plants may have different fungal endophyte rates and community compositions. Despite this, the endophytic fungi connected with the host plant and their hostile behaviors, remain unknown.

Methods

The objective of the current research was to isolate and identify endophytic fungal species from the root of Andrographis paniculata. The effects of fungal isolate APR5 on the mycelial growth of phytopathogens and the production of plant-promoting traits were assessed.

Results and discussion

Endophytic fungal isolate APR5 showed higher inhibitory efficacy in dual and double plate assay against the tested phytopathogenic fungi. The scanning electron microscope analysis demonstrated that the phytopathogenic fungal hyphae were coiled by endophytes which makes them shrink and disintegrate. Further, an ethyl acetate crude extract effectively suppressed the mycelium growth of Rhizoctonia solani by 75 ± 0.1% in an agar well diffusion assay. The fungal isolate APR5 was identified as Lasiodiplodia pseudotheobromae using the nuclear ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and qualitatively evaluated for their capacity to produce plant growth-promoting hormones. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was implemented to acquire a preliminary understanding of the secondary metabolic profile of ethyl acetate crude extract. 1-octadecene, erythritol, niacin, oleic acid, phenol, pantolactone, phenyl ethyl alcohol, p-cresol, and tbutyl hydroquinone are the metabolites analyzed in a crude extract of APR5 isolate and are reported to have antimicrobial properties.
A rule-based theoretical account of social stories to address the double empathy problem
Authors: Camilleri Louis John , Maras Katie , Brosnan Mark
Published: June 2023

Social Stories™ (SS) is one of the most popular and researched interventions for autistic children. To date, research that focuses on outcomes has been prioritized over the investigation of the psychological mechanisms that inform the intervention. In this article we consider theoretical accounts proposed thus far which could underpin SS. We argue that mechanisms that are based on social deficit theories lack validity, and propose a rule-based theoretical account to inform a strengths-based approach toward conceptualizing the mechanisms that underpin SS. We apply this account to the ‘double-empathy problem’ to propose that SS can be adapted to involve all parties in the development and delivery of SS support by adopting a rule-based perspective. We use the example of systemizing (the drive to analyze and explore systems in terms of ‘if-and-then’ rules), which is proposed to be a relative autistic strength, as a form of rule-based thinking that can provide a theoretical account of SS and a framework to address the double-empathy problem.
Stress phenotypes in epilepsy: impact on cognitive functioning and quality of life
Authors: Catalán-Aguilar Judit , González-Bono Esperanza , Lozano-García Alejandro , Tormos-Pons Paula , Hampel Kevin G. , Villanueva Vicente , Cano-López Irene
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Drug-resistant epilepsy has been proposed as a chronic stress model. Stress can be measured in terms of chronicity (epilepsy duration) and intensity (comorbidities), with depression and anxiety among the most important comorbidities in epilepsy due to its prevalence and its relationship with cognitive functioning and quality of life. This study aims to establish phenotypes according to how patients face a stressful condition (epilepsy) and examine differences in cognition and quality of life depending on these phenotypes. We hypothesize that there will be an interrelationship between epilepsy duration and negative affectivity, and these variables will influence cognition and quality of life.

Methods

170 patients (82 men and 88 women) underwent a neuropsychological evaluation in which trait anxiety, depression, attention and executive function, verbal and visual memory, language, emotional recognition, and quality of life were assessed. Hierarchical clustering was performed using z-scores for three variables: trait anxiety; depression; and epilepsy duration.

Results

Three clusters were found: vulnerable (high negative affectivity and short duration); resilient (moderate negative affectivity and long duration); and low-impact group (low negative affectivity and short duration). Results show that the vulnerable group had poorer cognitive functioning and quality of life than the other groups. Specifically, the vulnerable group had poorer scores than the low-impact group on verbal memory, visual confrontation naming, and quality of life (except seizure worry). Furthermore, resilient patients had better scores than the low-impact group on cognitive flexibility variables, but lower scores on some quality-of-life subscales (i.e., overall quality of life, emotional well-being, and energy). Finally, the vulnerable group had poorer scores than the resilient group in executive functioning, naming, and quality of life.

Discussion

These results suggest that dealing with stress in patients with epilepsy is related to cognitive performance and quality of life. These findings underline the relevance of considering comorbidities in epilepsy and may be useful for detecting vulnerable or resilient profiles as risk or protective factors for cognitive and quality of life decline.
Slowed alpha oscillations and percept formation in psychotic psychopathology
Authors: Sponheim Scott R. , Stim Joshua J. , Engel Stephen A. , Pokorny Victor J.
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Psychosis is in part defined by disturbances in perception. Recent investigations have implicated the speed of alpha oscillations observed in brain electrical activity as reflective of a sampling rate of the visual environment and perception. Although both slowed alpha oscillations and aberrant percept formation are evident in disorders of psychotic psychopathology such as schizophrenia it is unclear whether slow alpha accounts for abnormal visual perception in these disorders.

Methods

To examine the role of the speed of alpha oscillations in perception in psychotic psychopathology we gathered resting-state magneto-encephalography data from probands with psychotic psychopathology (i.e., schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and bipolar disorder with a history of psychosis), their biological siblings, and healthy controls. We appraised visual perceptual function without the confound of cognitive ability and effort through the use of a simple binocular rivalry task.

Results

We found a slowed pace of alpha oscillations in psychotic psychopathology that was associated with longer percept durations during binocular rivalry, consistent with the assertion that occipital alpha oscillations govern the rate of accumulation of visual information used to generate percepts. Alpha speed varied widely across individuals with psychotic psychopathology and was highly stable across several months indicating that it is likely a trait characteristic of neural function that is relevant to visual perception. Finally, a lower speed of alpha oscillation was associated with a lower IQ and greater disorder symptomatology implying that the effects of the endogenous neural oscillation on visual perception may have wider consequences for everyday functioning.

Discussion

Slowed alpha oscillations in individuals with psychotic psychopathology appear to reflect altered neural functions related to percept formation.
Examining standardized tools used for the evaluation of mobile health applications for cardiovascular disease
Authors: Kircher Jennifer , Swoboda Walter , Holl Felix
Published: June 2023

Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Scarce resources and rising costs are pushing healthcare systems to their limits. There is an urgency to develop, optimize and evaluate technologies that provide more effective care for patients. Modern technologies, such as mobile health (mHealth) applications, can provide relief as a key strategy. To integrate digital interventions into care structures, a detailed impact assessment of all professional mHealth applications is needed. The aim of this study is to analyze the standardized tools used in the field of cardiovascular disease. The results show that questionnaires, usage logs, and key indicators are predominantly used. Although the identified mHealth interventions are specific to cardiovascular disease and thus require particular questions to evaluate apps, the user readiness, usability, or quality of life criteria are non-specific. Therefore, the results contribute to understanding how different mHealth interventions can be assessed, categorized, evaluated, and accepted.
Variations of work engagement and psychological distress based on three working modalities during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Unda-López Alejandro , Paz Clara , Hidalgo-Andrade Paula , Hermosa-Bosano Carlos
Published: June 2023

With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the rapid spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus became a global health threat affecting people’s mental and physical health, as well as working conditions and modalities. The reorganization of the work environment also affected work engagement and psychological distress levels. This manuscript assesses how work engagement and distress vary according to gender and age across three working modalities. We used a voluntary response sampling strategy to collect data on psychological distress and work engagement between August 2021 and January 2022. Results are from 542 people working in Ecuador during the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, participants experienced psychological distress; women and younger participants presented higher psychological distress. Regarding engagement, the sample showed average levels of total engagement, average levels of vigor, and high levels of dedication and absorption. Men presented higher levels of total work engagement and vigor. Psychological distress was significantly and negatively correlated with total work engagement scores and its three factors. There were no differences in work engagement according to the different modalities. However, teleworkers reported significantly higher levels of psychological distress than hybrid workers. Findings are discussed considering ideas for decision-makers to explore the benefits of flexible working practices.
Microbial metabolites in the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases: a narrative review
Authors: Basic Amina , Dahlén Gunnar
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this narrative review is to highlight the importance of microbial metabolites in the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases. These diseases, involving gingivitis and periodontitis are inflammatory conditions initiated and maintained by the polymicrobial dental plaque/biofilm. Gingivitis is a reversible inflammatory condition while periodontitis involves also irreversible destruction of the periodontal tissues including the alveolar bone. The inflammatory response of the host is a natural reaction to the formation of plaque and the continuous release of metabolic waste products. The microorganisms grow in a nutritious and shielded niche in the periodontal pocket, protected from natural cleaning forces such as saliva. It is a paradox that the consequences of the enhanced inflammatory reaction also enable more slow-growing, fastidious, anaerobic bacteria, with often complex metabolic pathways, to colonize and thrive. Based on complex food chains, nutrient networks and bacterial interactions, a diverse microbial community is formed and established in the gingival pocket. This microbiota is dominated by anaerobic, often motile, Gram-negatives with proteolytic metabolism. Although this alternation in bacterial composition often is considered pathologic, it is a natural development that is promoted by ecological factors and not necessarily a true “dysbiosis”. Normal commensals are adapting to the gingival crevice when tooth cleaning procedures are absent. The proteolytic metabolism is highly complex and involves a number of metabolic pathways with production of a cascade of metabolites in an unspecific manner. The metabolites involve short chain fatty acids (SCFAs; formic, acetic, propionic, butyric, and valeric acid), amines (indole, scatole, cadaverine, putrescine, spermine, spermidine) and gases (NH3, CO, NO, H2S, H2). A homeostatic condition is often present between the colonizers and the host response, where continuous metabolic fluctuations are balanced by the inflammatory response. While it is well established that the effect of the dental biofilm on the host response and tissue repair is mediated by microbial metabolites, the mechanisms behind the tissue destruction (loss of clinical attachment and bone) are still poorly understood. Studies addressing the functions of the microbiota, the metabolites, and how they interplay with host tissues and cells, are therefore warranted.
Analysis of reliability and accuracy of lunar core detection based on Apollo moonquake observation
Authors: Yang Biao , Wang Yanbin
Published: June 2023

Introduction:In the 1960s, the Apollo missions deployed seismometers on the near side of the Moon, and the obtained moonquake data enabled the seismic study of internal structure of the Moon. The lunar seismic waveforms are dominated by strong coda waves caused by scattering in the near surface, which masks the reflected and converted waves from the discontinuities inside the Moon. The Double Array Stacking method is an important technique to enhance the reflected and converted waves. However, its performance would be affected by many factors including signal to noise ratio, arrival time errors, differences in amplitude and polarity of waveforms caused by different station azimuth, and source mechanisms, thus needs to be further analyzed.

Method:In this study, we use the pseudo-spectral and finite-difference hybrid method on staggered grid to simulate wave propagation of deep moonquakes, considering near surface scattering, to analyze the influence of the above factors on the stacking results of reflected and converted phases from outer core of the Moon.

Results and discussion:Our results indicate that coda and noises would greatly reduce the stacking energy but have no significant impact on the peak position of the stacked waveforms. The arrival time errors have a significant influence on the vertical component of ScP phase and the radial component of the ScS phase, but have little influence on the transverse component of ScS phase. The difference in amplitude also leads to differences in stacking energy, but the stacking image shows good consistency in the shape. When the polarities of seismic phases are relatively consistent, the peak of the stacking energy comes from reflected phases from the core mantle boundary of the Moon. This research may be helpful to improve the detection accuracy of the internal structure of the Moon and provide a solid reference for the deployment of future seismic stations, which is of great significance for understanding the formation and evolution process of the Moon.
What place does elite sport have for women? A scoping review of constraints
Authors: Fraser Kotryna K. , Kochanek Jill
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Despite increases in participation and raised attention for girls and women in sports, female sport is still based on male evidence that ignores gendered differences and experiences of unequal treatment and marginalization from grassroots to elite sport. This paper aimed to critically interrogate the place that women have in the male preserve of elite sport by conducting a two-part study.

Methods

First, we provided a brief sociohistorical analysis of gender in sport as a means to move away from a decontextualized and universalized approach dominating in sport science literature. We then conducted a scoping review following PRISMA-ScR guidelines to synthesize existing sport science literature that implemented Newell's constraints-led approach to examine elite performance.

Results

Ten studies were identified, none of which collected demographic data or centred on female athletes and the effects of sociocultural constraints on their performance. Instead, male-centred, masculine sports and physiological profiles dominated the identified studies.

Discussion

We discussed these results considering critical sport research and cultural sport psychology literature to offer an integrative, interdisciplinary approach to advocate for more culturally sensitive, context-specific interpretations of gender as a sociocultural constraint. We put forth a call to action for sport science researchers, practitioners, and decision-makers to move away from implementing male evidence in female sport and attend to the unique needs of female athletes. Practical suggestions aimed to help stakeholders reimagine elite sport by celebrating these [potential] differences as strengths for promoting gender equity in sport.
Whole-genome DNA methylation profiling reveals epigenetic signatures in developing muscle in Tan and Hu sheep and their offspring
Authors: Yue Caijuan , Wang Jiakang , Shen Yifei , Zhang Junli , Liu Jian , Xiao Aiping , Liu Yisha , Eer Hehua , Zhang Qiao-e
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The Tan sheep is a popular local breed in China because of its tenderness and flavor. The Hu sheep breed is also famous for its high litter size, and its muscle growth rate is faster than that of Tan sheep. However, the epigenetic mechanism behind these muscle-related phenotypes is unknown.

Methods

In this study, the longissimus dorsi tissue from 18 6 month-old Tan sheep, Hu sheep, and Tan-Hu F2 generation (6 sheep per population) were collected. After genomic DNA extraction, whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) and bioinformatics analysis were performed to construct genome-wide DNA methylome maps for the Tan sheep, Hu sheep and their Tan-Hu F2 generation.

Results

Distinct genome-wide DNA methylation patterns were observed between Tan sheep and Hu sheep. Moreover, DNA methylated regions were significantly increased in the skeletal muscle from Tan sheep vs. the F2 generation compared to the Hu sheep vs. F2 generation and the Tan sheep vs. Hu sheep. Compared with Hu sheep, the methylation levels of actin alpha 1 (ACTA1), myosin heavy chain 11 (MYH11), Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein (WAS), vav guanine nucleotide exchange factor 1 (VAV1), fibronectin 1 (FN1) and Rho-associated protein kinase 2 (ROCK2) genes were markedly distinct in the Tan sheep. Furthermore, Gene Ontology analysis indicated that these genes were involved in myotube differentiation, myotube cell development, smooth muscle cell differentiation and striated muscle cell differentiation.

Conclusion

The findings from this study, in addition to data from previous research, demonstrated that the ACTA1, MYH11, WAS, VAV1, FN1, and ROCK2 genes may exert regulatory effects on muscle development.
Animal Welfare during Transport and Slaughter of Cattle: A Systematic Review of Studies in the European Legal Framework
Authors: Nicolaisen Svea , Langkabel Nina , Thoene-Reineke Christa , Wiegard Mechthild
Published: June 2023

Literature related to European transport and slaughter processes were included in this systematic review. The publication period is limited to the past twelve years since the European Animal Welfare Transport Regulation was enacted in 2009. Three different databases were used. The final screening resulted in the inclusion of 19 articles in this review. When handling cattle during transport and slaughter, personnel have an important impact and may inflict stress on the animals. Other factors, such as the group composition and health status prior to transport, can have a strong negative effect on animal welfare. At the abattoir, constructional conditions and the resulting environmental influences can have a negative impact on welfare as well. These include increased noise levels due to the lack of noise dampening and changing light conditions. Stress in cattle can be assessed, e.g., by measuring stress hormones or heart rate. Effective stunning is an important welfare-relevant step in the slaughtering process. Some signs of unconsciousness, such as immediate body collapse or absence of the corneal reflex, can be easily assessed. Expertise and continuous training of all personnel involved are important measures in stress reduction.
Integrating Measures of Fecal Glucocorticoid Metabolites and Giving-Up Densities to Assess Adrenocortical Activity and Well-Being in Zoo-Housed Three-Banded Armadillos (Tolypeutes matacus)
Authors: Howell-Stephens Jennifer , Potratz Emily J. , Brown Joel S. , Bernier Dave , Santymire Rachel M.
Published: June 2023

To monitor adrenocortical activity in zoo-housed species, we propose using physiological and behavioral indicators that are non-invasive and practical to implement. We explore this model in the southern three-banded armadillo (Tolypeutes matacus; armadillo), which is a near-threatened species commonly found in zoos. We aimed to (1) deploy food patches to quantify foraging behavior (via giving-up densities, GUDs); (2) determine the effects of food patch and environmental modifications on individuals’ GUDs and adrenocortical activity (via fecal glucocorticoid metabolites, FGMs); and (3) examine the relationship between GUDs and FGMs. Three males and four females received food patches under varying experimental conditions at the Lincoln Park Zoo (Chicago, IL, USA). Fecal samples were collected before, during, and after foraging experiments to examine FGMs. Armadillos did not respond to patch modifications but did forage more when given increased cover. Individual mean FGMs and GUDs were highly variable, and individuals had consistent FGM and GUD ranks across experiments. FGMs and GUDs did not vary across the experiments nor did they relate to each other. Armadillos and species with a limited behavioral repertoire (i.e., constant movement) can benefit from this multi-trait model to determine the effect of environmental modifications on individuals and provide meaningful information about adrenocortical activity.
Morphological Description and Live Weight Prediction from Body Measurements of Socorro Island Merino Lambs
Authors: Castillo Paola Estefanía , Macedo Rafael Julio , Arredondo Victalina , Zepeda José Luis , Valencia-Posadas Mauricio , Haubi Carlos Urban
Published: June 2023

The aim of this study was to describe the morphology and estimate live weight from body measurements of Socorro Island Merino lambs. A group of Socorro Island Merino lambs was recorded from birth to year for live weight, rump width, rump length, withers height, body length, cannon bone perimeter, and chest girth, width, and depth. The effect of the lamb type on body measurements and live weight was analyzed using ANOVA, Pearson’s correlation analysis was performed to estimate the relationship between body measurements and live weight, multiple linear regressions were fitted to obtain prediction equations of live weight from the body measurements and finally, chest girth was used to generate prediction equations using linear and exponential models. At birth and at year, differences were observed in body measurements, especially those related to the thoracic region, with crossbred males showing the highest values. Live weight was correlated with almost all the body measurements, with the highest coefficients observed with chest girth, chest width, and chest depth. Live weight can be accurately predicted from multiple regression equations using several body measurements, but using only chest girth (CG) as a predictor, the exponential equation W0–365 = 0.9142 exp(0.0462 CG) showed the best accuracy.
Analysis of the Observation Results for Preferentially Oriented Particles in High-Level Clouds According to the EARLINET Lidar Network and MODIS Data
Authors: Skorokhodov Alexey , Konoshonkin Alexander
Published: June 2023

This analysis presents the results of observation episodes for high-level clouds consisting of ice crystals with different orientations in space, using the EARLINET lidar network and MODIS data over Europe from 2015 to 2022. The technique used involves identifying specular reflecting layers through ground-based laser soundings of the atmosphere and finding synchronous images from space, followed by the retrieval of cirrus cloud parameters. The study considers several properties of high-level clouds, including reflection ratio (ρ), effective emissivity (ε), optical thickness, effective particle radius, water path, and top height, according to MODIS data. The results of retrieving these properties for cirrus clouds with different orientations of ice crystals over individual EARLINET lidar stations and over Europe as a whole are discussed. The study indicates that high-level clouds with ρ ≥ 0.15 and ε ≥ 0.4 definitely contain specular reflecting layers.
Climate Suitability for Tourism in Romania Based on HCI: Urban Climate Index in the Near-Future Climate
Authors: Velea Liliana , Bojariu Roxana , Irimescu Anisoara , Craciunescu Vasile , Puiu Silvia , Gallo Alessandro
Published: June 2023

This study presents an assessment of climate suitability for outdoor leisure activities in Romania using the Holliday Climate Index (HCI) for the near future (2021–2040), focusing on unfavorable and good climate conditions. The analysis employs data from an ensemble of model simulations in the context of RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 climate change scenarios. The results indicate that the number of days with low weather suitability is decreasing in almost the entire country, especially during the warm season, while during the winter and spring, extended regions may be characterized by a higher number of days favorable for outdoor activities than during the current climate. An estimation of the impact of climate change on tourism flux in Romania is further carried out, suggesting that the increasing attractivity of climate conditions may lead to an increased number of tourist overnights in the near future, and this will be more pronounced in rural destinations.
A Novel Fine-Tuning Model Based on Transfer Learning for Future Capacity Prediction of Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Chou Jia-Hong , Wang Fu-Kwun , Lo Shih-Che
Published: June 2023

Future capacity prediction of lithium-ion batteries is a highly researched topic in the field of battery management systems, owing to the gradual degradation of battery capacity over time due to various factors such as chemical changes within the battery, usage patterns, and operating conditions. The accurate prediction of battery capacity can aid in optimizing its usage, extending its lifespan, and mitigating the risk of unforeseen failures. In this paper, we proposed a novel fine-tuning model based on a deep learning model with a transfer learning approach comprising of two key components: offline training and online prediction. Model weights and prediction parameters were transferred from offline training using source data to the online prediction stage. The transferred Bi-directional Long Short-Term Memory with an Attention Mechanism model weights and prediction parameters were utilized to fine-tune the model by partial target data in the online prediction phase. Three battery batches with different charging policy were used to evaluate the proposed approach’s robustness, reliability, usability, and accuracy for the three charging policy batteries’ real-world data. The experiment results show that the proposed method’s efficacy improved, with an increase in the cycle number of the starting point, exhibiting a linear relationship with the starting point. The proposed method yields relative error values of 8.70%, 6.38%, 9.52%, 7.58%, 1.94%, and 2.29%, respectively, for the six target batteries in online prediction. Thus, the proposed method is effective in predicting the future capacity of lithium-ion batteries and holds potential for use in predictive maintenance applications.
An Empirical Study of Social Loafing Behavior among Public Officers in South Korea: The Role of Trust in a Supervisor, Perceived Organizational Support, and Perceived Organizational Politics
Authors: Kim Jin Young , Jeung Wonho , Kang Seung-Wan , Paterson Ted A.
Published: June 2023

This study explored the effects of trust in a supervisor (TIS) on social loafing behaviors of employees. In addition, this study examined the mediating effect of perceived organizational support (POS) on the relationship between trust in a supervisor and employees’ social loafing behaviors. It also examined the moderating effects of perceived organizational politics (POP) on the relationship between TIS and POS, TIS and social loafing behaviors, and POS and social loafing behaviors. Data were collected from local government employees in Korea, and the final sample was 260. Our results indicate that trust in a supervisor has indirect negative effects on social loafing behaviors mediated by POS. In addition, it was found that the effects of TIS on POS and POS on social loafing behaviors were moderated by POP. The results of this study contribute to the extant literature on social loafing behaviors. Moreover, the findings imply that political behaviors in organizations might induce social loafing behaviors.
Experimental and Numerical Study of the Influence of Solar Radiation on the Surface Temperature Field of Low-Heat Concrete in a Pouring Block
Authors: Liang Zhipeng , Zhou Huawei , Zhao Chunju , Wang Fang , Zhou Yihong
Published: June 2023

With the influence of intense solar radiation heat and the greater temperature difference between day and night, surface concrete with a drastic temperature change can easily experience a great nonlinear temperature difference, which increases the risk of early-age concrete cracking. In this study, a distributed optical fiber temperature sensing (DTS) system is used to monitor the surface temperature gradient of concrete in real time, and a solar radiation heat monitoring test is also carried out based on the Baihetan project. Based on this, a solar radiation loading model and a finite element model of a typical pouring block considering solar radiation are established. Combined with the measured temperature data and different calculation conditions, the surface temperature changes of medium-heat and low-heat concrete experiencing solar radiation are analyzed, and the temperature control effect of surface concrete with different surface insulation measures is further analyzed. The results show that the temperature variation of medium-heat concrete at the same depth is more obvious than that of low-heat concrete. Additionally, the temperature variation of low-heat concrete is noticeable within 20 cm of the top surface. In addition, in an intense solar radiation environment, covering the concrete with a 4- or 5-centimeter-thick polyethylene coil can effectively control the surface temperature gradient and maximum daily amplitude of low-heat concrete, and surface concrete cured by running water has a significant temperature control effect. Therefore, it is suggested that 22–24 °C water temperatures be used for water curing during periods of intense solar radiation during the day and a 4-centimeter-thick polyethylene coil be used for coverage at night. These study results have been employed in the Baihetan project to optimize the temperature control scheme of the pouring blocks.
Resilience and Systems—A Building Structure Case Example
Authors: Mayar Khalilullah , Carmichael David G. , Shen Xuesong
Published: June 2023

The resilience of building structures—as plain technical/physical/engineering systems or complex sociotechnical systems exposed to perturbations and change—has become increasingly important as natural disasters are on the rise and the world is changing rapidly. Existing resilience frameworks are focused mainly on the responses of building systems to perturbation events and their functional recovery, while change appears to be left out. This study applies the resilience system interpretation framework, which defines resilience in a cross-disciplinary environment as adaptation and adaptive systems, to analyze actual and conceptual building structure systems. The system framework, using modern control systems theory, defines resilience as the ability of the system state and form to return to their initial or other suitable states or forms through passive and active feedback mechanisms. A sample SMRF office building structure system is utilized to simulate the system state and form return abilities that are demonstrated by the system functional recovery time and functional recovery curve shape, respectively. This novel understanding of resilience accommodates a holistic and systematic integration of both perturbation and change in the portfolios of various building structures. The framework also provides a practical roadmap for resilience design and building of structures that effectively respond to perturbation while dynamically adapting to change in order to avoid obsolescence, as well as to increase the building’s useful life.
Insight into the Mechanical Performance of the TRECC Repaired Cementitious Composite System after Exposure to Freezing and Thawing Cycle
Authors: Xu Fei , Li Qi , Ma Tongze , Zhang Yao , Li Junwei , Bai Tao
Published: June 2023

Concrete structures are subjected to various forms of damage in cold regions. However, the interfacial bonding properties of traditional concrete (NC) reinforced with textile-reinforced cementitious composite (TRECC) under freeze–thaw cycle damage have not been fully studied. In this paper, different control groups were obtained by adjusting the types and layers of Fiber Reinforced Plastics (FRP) in TRECC and the interfacial roughness level between TRECC and NC. After experiencing 0–300 freeze–thaw cycles, each group underwent the uniaxial tensile test, three-point bending test, and scanning electron microscope observation. The results show that FRP type in TRECC can determine the strength of specimens. After 100 freeze–thaw cycles, the ultimate tensile strength of TRECC with two different FRP types increased by 38.4% and 55.3%, respectively, compared with TRECC. Furthermore, the bond strength and resistance to freeze–thaw damage of TRECC-NC interface increased with the increase of roughness under the action of freeze–thaw cycles. After 100 freeze–thaw cycles, the bonding strength of the repair system reached the highest. Compared with 0 freeze–thaw cycles, the ultimate tensile strength of the TRECC-NC reinforcement system under low roughness and high roughness increased by 50.05% and 61.25%, respectively. Meanwhile, the internal cracks of TRECC gradually developed and penetrated, reducing the cooperative working ability between TRECC-NC.
Review of Methods for Seismic Strengthening of Masonry Piers and Walls
Authors: Hafner Ivan , Kišiček Tomislav , Gams Matija
Published: June 2023

The seismic strengthening of buildings in earthquake-prone areas has been a hot topic in recent years, especially for masonry structures. Because there are so many masonry structures and because most were built before seismic codes existed, their seismic vulnerability is an unavoidable issue. Over the years, several methods for seismic strengthening of masonry piers and walls have been developed that may roughly be classified as traditional or modern. In this paper, an overview of the most commonly used and effective methods will be presented with an emphasis on modern methods based on a Fabric-Reinforced Cementitious Matrix. The advantages and disadvantages will be discussed from the point of view of usability, feasibility, and effectiveness. Finally, a comparison will be drawn between traditional and new methods based on composite materials.
CAR-NK Cells Targeting HER1 (EGFR) Show Efficient Anti-Tumor Activity against Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC)
Authors: Nowak Juliette , Bentele Marco , Kutle Ivana , Zimmermann Katharina , Lühmann Jonathan Lukas , Steinemann Doris , Kloess Stephan , Koehl Ulrike , Roßberg Willi , Ahmed Amed , Schaudien Dirk , Neubert Lavinia , Kamp Jan-Christopher , Kuehnel Mark P. , Warnecke Athanasia , Schambach Axel , Morgan Michael
Published: June 2023

(1) Background: HNSCC is a highly heterogeneous and relapse-prone form of cancer. We aimed to expand the immunological tool kit against HNSCC by conducting a functional screen to generate chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-NK-92 cells that target HER1/epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). (2) Methods: Selected CAR-NK-92 cell candidates were tested for enhanced reduction of target cells, CD107a expression and IFNγ secretion in different co-culture models. For representative HNSCC models, patient-derived primary HNSCC (pHNSCC) cell lines were generated by employing an EpCAM-sorting approach to eliminate the high percentage of non-malignant cells found. (3) Results: 2D and 3D spheroid co-culture experiments showed that anti-HER1 CAR-NK-92 cells effectively eliminated SCC cell lines and primary HNSCC (pHNSCC) cells. Co-culture of tumor models with anti-HER1 CAR-NK-92 cells led to enhanced degranulation and IFNγ secretion of NK-92 cells and apoptosis of target cells. Furthermore, remaining pHNSCC cells showed upregulated expression of putative cancer stem cell marker CD44v6. (4) Conclusions: These results highlight the promising potential of CAR-NK cell therapy in HNSCC and the likely necessity to target multiple tumor-associated antigens to reduce currently high relapse rates.
Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Rechallenge in Renal Cell Carcinoma: Current Evidence and Future Directions
Authors: Sammarco Enrico , Manfredi Fiorella , Nuzzo Amedeo , Ferrari Marco , Bonato Adele , Salfi Alessia , Serafin Debora , Zatteri Luca , Antonuzzo Andrea , Galli Luca
Published: June 2023

Immune checkpoint inhibitor-based therapies represent the current standard of care in the first-line treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma. Despite a clear benefit in survival outcomes, a considerable proportion of patients experience disease progression; prospective data about second-line therapy after first-line treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors are limited to small phase II studies. As with other solid tumors (such as melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer), preliminary data about the clinical efficacy of rechallenge of immunotherapy (alone or in combination with other drugs) in renal cell carcinoma are beginning to emerge. Nevertheless, the role of rechallenge in immunotherapy in this setting of disease remains unclear and cannot be considered a standard of care; currently some randomized trials are exploring this approach in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma. The aim of our review is to summarize main evidence available in the literature concerning immunotherapy rechallenge in renal carcinoma, especially focusing on biological rationale of resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors, on the published data of clinical efficacy and on future perspectives.
Improving Localized Radiotherapy for Glioblastoma via Small Molecule Inhibition of KIF11
Authors: Tallman Miranda M. , Zalenski Abigail A. , Stabl Ian , Schrock Morgan S. , Kollin Luke , de Jong Eliane , De Kuntal , Grubb Treg M. , Summers Matthew K. , Venere Monica
Published: June 2023

Glioblastoma, IDH-wild type (GBM) is the most common and lethal malignant primary brain tumor. Standard of care includes surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy with the DNA alkylating agent temozolomide (TMZ). Despite these intensive efforts, current GBM therapy remains mainly palliative with only modest improvement achieved in overall survival. With regards to radiotherapy, GBM is ranked as one of the most radioresistant tumor types. In this study, we wanted to investigate if enriching cells in the most radiosensitive cell cycle phase, mitosis, could improve localized radiotherapy for GBM. To achieve cell cycle arrest in mitosis we used ispinesib, a small molecule inhibitor to the mitotic kinesin, KIF11. Cell culture studies validated that ispinesib radiosensitized patient-derived GBM cells. In vivo, we validated that ispinesib increased the fraction of tumor cells arrested in mitosis as well as increased apoptosis. Critical for the translation of this approach, we validated that combination therapy with ispinesib and irradiation led to the greatest increase in survival over either monotherapy alone. Our data highlight KIF11 inhibition in combination with radiotherapy as a new combinatorial approach that reduces the overall radioresistance of GBM and which can readily be moved into clinical trials.