bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation between component alignment and short-term clinical outcomes after total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Luan Yichao , Zhang Min , Ran Tianfei , Wang Huizhi , Fang Chaohua , Nie Maodan , Wang Min , Cheng Cheng-Kung
Published: October 2022

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the correlation between component alignment and short-term clinical outcomes after total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

50 TKA patients from a regional hospital were enrolled in the study. The following component alignments were measured from radiological data acquired within 1 week after surgery: hip-knee-ankle angle (HKA), medial distal femoral angle (MDFA), medial proximal tibial angle (MPTA), femoral flexion-extension angle (FEA), tibial slope angle (TSA), femoral rotational angle (FRA) and tibial rotational angle (TRA). The Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) knee scoring system was used to assess clinical outcomes after 1 year, with patients being divided into three groups (excellent, good and not good) according to the HSS scores. Difference analysis and linear correlation analysis were used for the statistical analysis.

Results

The results showed significant differences in MDFA (p = 0.050) and FEA (p = 0.001) among the three patient groups. It was also found that the total HSS had only a moderate correlation with FEA (r = 0.572, p < 0.001), but FEA had a positive linear correlation with pain scores (r = 0.347, p = 0.013), function scores (r = 0.535, p = 0.000), ROM scores (r = 0.368, p = 0.009), muscle scores (r = 0.354, p = 0.012) and stability scores (r = 0.312, p = 0.028). A larger MDFA was associated with lower FE deformity scores (r = −0.289, p = 0.042) and the TSA had a positive influence on the ROM (r = 0.436, p = 0.002). Also, changes in FRA produced a consequent change in the FE deformity score (r = 0.312, p = 0.027), and the muscle strength scores increased as TRA increased (r = 0.402, p = 0.004).

Conclusion

The results show that the FEA plays a significant role in clinical outcomes after TKA. Surgical techniques and tools may need to be improved to accurately adjust the FEA to improve joint functionality and patient satisfaction.
Modelling oncolytic virus diffusion in collagen-dense tumours
Authors: Pooladvand Pantea , Kim Peter S.
Published: October 2022

Solid tumours develop much like a fortress, acquiring characteristics that protect them against invasion. A common trait observed in solid tumours is the synthesis of excess collagen which traps therapeutic agents, resulting in a lack of dispersion of treatment within the tumour mass. In most tumours, this results in only a localised treatment. Often the tumour quickly recovers and continues to invade surrounding regions. Anti-tumour viral therapy is no exception to this rule. Experimental results show collagen density affects virus diffusion and inhibits cell infection; therefore, accurately modelling virus dispersion is an important aspect of modelling virotherapy. To understand the underlying dynamics of viral diffusion in collagen, we derive a novel non-Fickian diffusion term from first principles. We demonstrate that this diffusion term captures experimentally observed virus dispersion in cancer-associated collagen, unlike the standard diffusion term, commonly used in virotherapy models. Then, using a system of partial differential equations, we explore virotherapy in relation to collagen density. We show that our model can predict therapy outcome in relation to collagen density. The results also suggest that modifications in virus performance, such as increased virus infectivity, is not effective in dense collagen; therefore, reducing collagen, might be the best approach when dealing with collagen-rich tumours. We also investigate virotherapy in relation to collagen structures and find that size of collagen deposits are as important to outcome as collagen density. Together, these results demonstrate that understanding virus diffusion in oncolytic virotherapy is a crucial step in capturing tumour response to treatment.
Analyzing the interactions of mRNAs, miRNAs and lncRNAs to predict ceRNA networks in bovine cystic follicular granulosa cells
Authors: Wang Kai , Cheng Ying , Guo Tong , Guo Xiangqian , Zhang Hongzhi , Ma Xiaoyan , Pan Yangyang , Kebreab Ermias , Wang Dong , Lyu Lihua
Published: October 2022

Cross-talk between competitive endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) may play a critical role in revealing potential mechanism of bovine follicular cysts. Ovarian cyst has always been an intractable scientific problem and has led to considerable economic losses to bovine breeding industry. However, its pathogenesis and molecular mechanisms are still not well understood. Here, this study aimed to investigate the role of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) and the ceRNA networks in bovine follicular cyst. Whole transcriptome sequencing of bovine follicular granulosa cells (GCs) was conducted to obtain the expression profiles of mRNAs, lncRNAs and miRNAs. The results for the identified expressions of 8,003 mRNAs, 579 lncRNAs and 205 miRNAs were often altered between cystic and normal follicular GCs. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses were performed on these differentially expressed mRNAs. Furthermore, the ceRNA network combining mRNAs, miRNAs, and lncRNAs using several bioinformatics methods based on co-expression analysis between the differentially expressed RNAs was conducted. Finally, the lncRNA NONBTAT027373.1-miR-664b-HSD17B7 pathway was verified by dual-luciferase reporting assay and RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay. LncRNA NONBTAT027373.1 sponged miR-664b in GCs and prevented miR-664b from binding to the HSD17B7 3′-UTR. These results indicated that genes and lncRNAs related to steroid hormone synthesis and energy metabolism could play important roles in the formation of bovine cystic follicles through the ceRNA mechanism and represent candidate targets for further research. This can be used as a practical guideline for promoting healthy and highly efficient development in the bovine industry.
Immunomagnetic separation of Toxoplasma gondii and Hammondia spp. tissue cysts generated in cell culture
Authors: Rezende-Gondim Mariana M. , da Silva Aristeu V. , Dubey Jitender P. , Schares Gereon R. M. , Gondim Luís F. P.
Published: October 2022

Toxoplasma gondii is commonly transmitted among animals and humans by ingestion of infected animal tissues or by consumption of food and water contaminated with environmentally-resistant oocysts excreted by cats. Tissue cysts and oocysts have different walls, whose structures and compositions are poorly known. Herein, we describe an immunomagnetic separation (IMS) method that was successfully used for purification of T. gondii tissue cysts generated in cell culture. We used an IgG monoclonal antibody (mAb) that reacts against antigens in tissue cyst walls. Many in vitro produced cysts were obtained by this IMS; >2,000 T. gondii cysts were isolated from a single culture flask of 25 cm2. Tissue cysts from two Hammondia spp., H. hammondi, and H. heydorni, produced in cell culture were also separated using this method. As a reference, purification of tissue cysts by Percoll gradients was used. Percoll was able to separate T. gondii tissue cysts produced in mice but was not suitable for purifying T. gondii tissue cysts produced in vitro. The IMS described here should favor proteomic studies involving tissue cysts of T. gondii.
Population, biomass, and economic value of small ruminants in Ethiopia
Authors: Jemberu Wudu T. , Li Yin , Asfaw Wondwosen , Mayberry Dianne , Schrobback Peggy , Rushton Jonathan , Knight-Jones Theodore J. D.
Published: October 2022

Ethiopia has a large population of small ruminants (sheep and goats) which are mostly kept in traditional subsistence production systems that are poorly described. Understanding these different systems, their population structure, biomass, production, and economic value is essential for further analysis and effective policy making. The objective of this study was to quantify these parameters for small ruminant production systems in Ethiopia to use them as a basis for analysis of disease burden within the Global Burden of Animal Diseases program. Population structure and trends of small ruminants were analyzed using data from ten annual national agriculture surveys. A stochastic herd model was used to simulate the small ruminant population, biomass, and economic value. The model was parameterised stochastically using data from statistical databases and the literature, and sensitivity analysis of main model outputs to the stochastic inputs was done. Small ruminants are held across the country mainly managed under two major production systems: the crop-livestock mixed system and the pastoral system. The small ruminant population has grown in the past 10 years with an average annual growth rate of 4.6% for sheep and 6.7% for goats. The national average small ruminant population for 2021 was projected at 96.4 (range 95.3–97.7) million heads and the mean stock biomass was about 2,129 (range 1,680–2,686) million kilograms. The monetary value of the small ruminant population was estimated at USD 5,953 (range 4,369–7,765) million. The annual monetary value of small ruminant production outputs was estimated at USD 1,969 (range 1,245–2,857) million. Although the small ruminant population is large and rapidly growing, contributing about 2% of national annual GDP, the sub-sector is characterized by low productivity, low offtake rates, and a limited range of production outputs with no signs of intensification. Efforts should be made to reduce small ruminant mortality, improve fertility, and better utilize products such as milk to improve the livelihoods of rural households and to benefit the national economy. The approaches developed in this study can be replicated in other systems and countries to reveal trends in the size and value of livestock systems, providing a better understanding of its economic importance and performance.
Comparison of thoracic ultrasonography and thoracic radiography between healthy adult horses and horses with bacterial pneumonia using a novel, objective ultrasonographic scoring system
Authors: Hepworth-Warren Kate L. , Nelson Nathan , Dembek Katarzyna A. , Young Kimberly A. S.
Published: October 2022

Background

Thoracic ultrasonography (TUS) is widely used in equine practice but comparison to radiography is limited in horses.

Objectives

To validate a novel, objective scoring system for TUS in adult horses and to compare ultrasonographic and radiographic findings.

Animals

13 healthy horses and 9 with confirmed bacterial pneumonia

Methods

Prospective study in which TUS and radiography were performed on healthy horses and those with bacterial pneumonia confirmed by clinical signs and results of transtracheal wash analysis. Ultrasonography was scored utilizing a novel scoring system evaluating number of comet tail lesions, the presence or absence of pleural effusion and/or pulmonary consolidation in each intercostal space. Eighteen horses had thoracic radiographs taken that were scored by a board-certified radiologist utilizing a previously described system. Total scores were recorded and compared between control and diseased patients.

Results/Findings

Ultrasonographic scores were significantly higher in the diseased group (median= 126) than in the control group (median = 20, p = 0.01). Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis identified a sensitivity of 66.7% (95% CI 0.417–1) and specificity of 92.3% (95% CI 0.462–1) for the ability of ultrasonography to identify bacterial pneumonia utilizing a TUS score cutoff of 37.

Conclusions and clinical importance

TUS had moderate sensitivity and high specificity for identification of bacterial pneumonia in adult horses. TUS appears to be an acceptable stand-alone imaging modality for diagnosis of bacterial pneumonia in horses when radiography is not practical.
Differential Quadrature Method for Fully Intrinsic Equations of Geometrically Exact Beams
Authors: Chen Lidao , Liu Yong
Published: October 2022

In this paper, a differential quadrature method of high-order precision (DQ−Pade), which is equivalent to the generalized Pade approximation for approximating the end of a time or spatial interval, is used to solve nonlinear fully intrinsic equations of beams. The equations are a set of first-order differential equations with respect to time and space, and the explicit unknowns of the equations involve only forces, moments, velocity and angular velocity, without displacements and rotations. Based on the DQ−Pade method, the spatial and temporal discrete forms of fully intrinsic equations were derived. To verify the effectiveness and applicability of the proposed method for discretizing the fully intrinsic equations, different examples available in the literatures were considered. It was found that when using the DQ−Pade method, the solutions of the intrinsic beam equations are obviously superior to those found by some other usual algorithms in efficiency and computational accuracy.
Impact of Cultivation Practices and Varieties on Productivity, Profitability, and Nutrient Uptake of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) and Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Cropping System in India
Authors: Saini Ankit , Manuja Sandeep , Kumar Suresh , Hafeez Aqsa , Ali Baber , Poczai Peter
Published: October 2022

Interest in conservation measures, including reduced tillage, zero tillage, and crop residue retention, is growing in major rice growing areas of the world; particularly in the Indo-Gangetic plains. Of late, research interest is increasing in India for a specialised method of cultivation known as natural farming, which aims at maintain the functional biodiversity of the farm with little or no use of external inputs. With the increasing water crisis at a global level, it became imperative to develop technologies that can reduce the water use, particularly in water-guzzling low land paddy, by developing alternate cultivation methods; direct seeded rice is one such technology. A two-year field experiment was carried out at two locations during 2019–2020 and 2020–2021 to find out the impact of different cultivation and varieties on the productivity and profitability of the rice–wheat cropping system. The experiments were conducted in split plot design, replicated thrice, with cultivation practices in the main plot and varieties of both wheat and rice in the sub plot. The results so obtained reveal that conventional tillage significantly out yielded other methods of cultivation in both the crops at both the locations, while significantly lower grain yield in both crops was observed from natural farming. Adoption of reduced tillage, zero tillage and natural farming reduced the grain yield of wheat by 4.6%, 10.9%, and 59.4% over conventional tillage, while the corresponding decline in grain yield of rice was 10.8%, 16.1%, and 34.0% with reduced tillage, zero tillage, and natural farming, respectively. Among the varieties tested, HPW 368 and Him Palam Lal Dhan 1 (HPR 2795) produced significantly higher grain yield of wheat and rice, respectively, at both the locations during both years. Conventional tillage among cultivation practices and HPW 368 and Him Palam Lal Dhan 1 (HPR 2795) among wheat and rice varieties also proved to be better in terms of various economic indicators, including gross return, net return, and ratio benefit cost ratio (B:C ratio).
Shedding Light on the Origin of Egyptian Sheep Breeds by Evolutionary Comparison of Mitochondrial D-Loop
Authors: Germot Agnès , Khodary Muhammad Gamal , Othman Othman El-Mahdy , Petit Daniel
Published: October 2022

(1) Background: It has been recognized that the origin of fat-tailed sheep occurred within coarse wool breeds and that this character was introgressed several times into thin-tailed populations. However, no study has investigated this idea for Egyptian breeds using mtDNA analyses. (2) Methods: Using new sequences of the control region, we constructed a database of 467 sequences representing 37 breeds including fat- and thin-tailed ones with 80 Egyptian individuals belonging to six local breeds (Barki, Fallahi, Ossimi, Rahmani, Saidi, Sohagi). The phylogenetic tree obtained with the maximum likelihood method was submitted to the Newick Extra program to count the direct and indirect links between the individuals of each breed. (3) Results: Several Egyptian breeds were strongly connected to “primitive” thin-tailed breeds from Europe, indicating a clear genetic background of the “thin tail” breed type that supports the view of archeologists. In several cases, we suspected Western Asian breeds to be involved in the introgression of the fat tail character. In contrast, the Ossimi breed showed a high affinity to a fat-tailed breed of Western Asia, suggesting a direct migration and no thin tail ancestors. The Saidi is unique as our analyses revealed its strong connection with thin-tailed Sudanese breeds.
Health Status of the Eastern Grey Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) Population in Umbria: Results of the LIFE Project ‘U-SAVEREDS’
Authors: Cruciani Deborah , Crotti Silvia , Paoloni Daniele , La Morgia Valentina , Felici Andrea , Papa Paola , Cosseddu Gian Mario , Moscati Livia , Gobbi Paola
Published: October 2022

The introduction of the Eastern grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) in Europe is one of the best-known cases of invasive alien species (IAS) colonisation, that poses a severe risk to the conservation of biodiversity. In 2003, it was released in a private wildlife park near the city of Perugia (Italy), where it is replacing the native Eurasian red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris). The LIFE13 BIO/IT/000204 Project (U-SAVEREDS) was set up for the Sciurus vulgaris conservation in Umbria through an eradication campaign of grey squirrels. One hundred and fifty-four animals were analysed for bacteriological, mycological, virological, and serological investigations (C4 action). Sanitary screening showed that Sciurus carolinensis is a dermatophyte carrier, and therefore, it could cause public health issues for humans, considering its confident behaviour. Moreover, it has been marginally responsible for the spreading of Candida albicans, Coxiella burnetii, and Borrelia lusitaniae. Health status evaluation conducted on the Sciurus carolinensis population indicated that it is necessary to raise awareness of its impacts on biodiversity and human health. Moreover, the health status and behaviours of the IAS must be considered when control or eradication campaigns are planned.
Highly Stable Core-Shell Nanocolloids: Synergy between Nano-Silver and Natural Polymers to Prevent Biofilm Formation
Authors: Kukushkina Ekaterina A. , Mateos Helena , Altun Nazan , Sportelli Maria Chiara , Gonzalez Pelayo , Picca Rosaria Anna , Cioffi Nicola
Published: October 2022

Active investment in research time in the development and study of novel unconventional antimicrobials is trending for several reasons. First, it is one of the ways which might help to fight antimicrobial resistance and bacterial contamination due to uncontrolled biofilm growth. Second, minimizing harmful environmental outcomes due to the overuse of toxic chemicals is one of the highest priorities nowadays. We propose the application of two common natural compounds, chitosan and tannic acid, for the creation of a highly crosslinked polymer blend with not only intrinsic antimicrobial properties but also reducing and stabilizing powers. Thus, the fast and green synthesis of fine spherically shaped Ag nanoparticles and further study of the composition and properties of the colloids took place. A positively charged core-shell nanocomposition, with an average size in terms of the metal core of 17 ± 4 nm, was developed. Nanoantimicrobials were characterized by several spectroscopic (UV-vis and FTIR) and microscopic (transmission and scanning electron microscopies) techniques. The use of AgNPs as a core and an organic polymer blend as a shell potentially enable a synergistic long-lasting antipathogen effect. The antibiofilm potential was studied against the food-borne pathogens Salmonella enterica and Listeria monocytogenes. The antibiofilm protocol efficiency was evaluated by performing crystal violet assay and optical density measurements, direct visualization by confocal laser scanning microscopy and morphological studies by SEM. It was found that the complex nanocomposite has the ability to prevent the growth of biofilm. Further investigation for the potential application of this stable composition in food packaging will be carried out.
Robust Quadratic Optimal Control for Discrete-Time Linear Systems with Non-Stochastic Noises
Authors: Huang Jiaoru , Chen Chaobo , Gao Song , Zhang Xiaoyan , Xie Guo
Published: October 2022

In this paper, the quadratic optimal control problem is investigated for the discrete-time linear systems with process and measurement noises which belong to specified ellipsoidal sets. As the noises are non-stochastic, the traditional Kalman filtering and Dynamic Bellman Equation are not applicable for the proposed control problem. To obtain the optimal control, we firstly converted the multi-step quadratic global optimal control problem to multiple one-step quadratic local approximate optimal control problems. For each one-step quadratic optimal control problem, considering that the system states are not fully available, the set-membership filtering is applied to estimate the true state feasible set. Then based on robust optimization, a robust state feedback control strategy can be obtained by solving a certain semidefinite programming (SDP) problem. The method can not only achieve the optimal control, but also estimate the system states more accurately. Finally, the simulation results verify the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Dual-Hormone Insulin-and-Pramlintide Artificial Pancreas for Type 1 Diabetes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Torres-Castaño Alezandra , Rivero-Santana Amado , Perestelo-Pérez Lilisbeth , Duarte-Díaz Andrea , Abt-Sacks Analia , Ramos-García Vanesa , Álvarez-Pérez Yolanda , Wäagner Ana M. , Rigla Mercedes , Serrano-Aguilar Pedro
Published: October 2022

The artificial pancreas (AP) is equipped with a glucose monitoring sensor, an insulin pump and an integrated mathematical algorithm that determines insulin infusion based on the glucose levels detected by the sensor. Research has shown that AP can help patients with type-1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) to improve the control of their glucose levels, but the occurrence of postprandial hyperglycemia is still considerable. The addition of pramlintide (a synthetic derivative analog of amylin) in a dual-hormone AP could improve postprandial glycemic control. This systematic review aims to evaluate and synthesize the evidence on the safety, efficacy and cost-effectiveness of the dual insulin- and pramlintide-releasing AP. The electronic databases MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science and ClinicalTrials.gov were consulted up to 6 June 2021. We identified four small crossover studies (n = 59) and two ongoing crossover trials, all of them carried out by the same research group. The four studies observed more gastrointestinal adverse effects with the dual system. One study found that the dual system improved outcomes compared to insulin alone, with precise carbohydrate counting (CC) in both groups. Another study showed that a fully closed-loop system (without CC) was equivalent to an insulin-alone AP (with CC) on time in the target range but performed worse in hyperglycemia during the daytime. These preliminary results suggest that the control of postprandial hyperglycemia remains a challenge.
Target Classification Using Frontal Images Measured by 77 GHz FMCW Radar through DCNN
Authors: Elbeialy Mohamed , You Sungjin , Jeong Byung Jang , Kim Youngwook
Published: October 2022

This paper proposes a target classification method using radar frontal imaging measured by millimeter-wave multiple-input multiple-output (MW-MIMO) radar through deep convolutional neural networks. Autonomous vehicles must classify targets in front of the vehicle to attain better situational awareness. We use 2D sparse array radar to capture the frontal images of objects on the road, such as sedans, vans, trucks, humans, poles, and trees. The frontal image includes information regarding not only the shape of a target but also the reflection characteristics of each part of the target. The measured frontal images are classified by deep convolutional neural networks, and the classification rate yielded 87.1% for six classes and 92.6% for three classes.
A Novel Approach to Classify Telescopic Sensors Data Using Bidirectional-Gated Recurrent Neural Networks
Authors: Raza Ali , Munir Kashif , Almutairi Mubarak , Younas Faizan , Fareed Mian Muhammad Sadiq , Ahmed Gulnaz
Published: October 2022

Asteroseismology studies the physical structure of stars by analyzing their solar-type oscillations as seismic waves and frequency spectra. The physical processes in stars and oscillations are similar to the Sun, which is more evolved to the red-giant branch (RGB), representing the Sun’s future. In stellar astrophysics, the RGB is a crucial problem to determine. An RGB is formed when a star expands and fuses all the hydrogen in its core into helium which starts burning, resulting in helium burning (HeB). According to a recent state by NASA Kepler mission, 7000 HeB and RGB were observed. A study based on an advanced system needs to be implemented to classify RGB and HeB, which helps astronomers. The main aim of this research study is to classify the RGB and HeB in asteroseismology using a deep learning approach. Novel bidirectional-gated recurrent units and a recurrent neural network (BiGR)-based deep learning approach are proposed. The proposed model achieved a 93% accuracy score for asteroseismology classification. The proposed technique outperforms other state-of-the-art studies. The analyzed fundamental properties of RGB and HeB are based on the frequency separation of modes in consecutive order with the same degree, maximum oscillation power frequency, and mode location. Asteroseismology Exploratory Data Analysis (AEDA) is applied to find critical fundamental parameters and patterns that accurately infer from the asteroseismology dataset. Our key findings from the research are based on a novel classification model and analysis of root causes for the formation of HeB and RGB. The study analysis identified that the cause of HeB increases when the value of feature Numax is high and feature Epsilon is low. Our research study helps astronomers and space star oscillations analyzers meet their astronomy findings.
The Research of Complex Product Design Process Model under the Concept of Self-Recovery
Authors: Zhang Peng , Su Yunpeng , Niu Hanrui , Wang Yaru , Zhang Yuchen , Zhang Chuankai
Published: October 2022

The working environment of contemporary mechanical products is becoming more complex, and the working conditions are becoming more extreme. This has led to a significant increase in the frequency of problems in mechanical products. In order to reduce the frequency of human repair after problems, the application of the self-recovery concept has become a hot research topic in the area of smart design. However, the current application of the self-recovery concept is mostly limited to the structural and parametric levels, with less research at the functional level, which may lead to a waste of resources within products. To solve this problem, this research combines the functional-level product research method with the self-recovery concept and establishes a design process model of complex products under functional self-recovery. This model extends the application scope of the self-recovery concept and improves the efficiency of resource utilization in the product. The design process model has six steps. First, according to the user requirements and the existing product, the initial function solving is carried out, and the initial function model of the product is established. Next, the main functions of the product are determined based on the initial function model of the product. Then, according to the determined main functions of the product, combined with the parameters marked in the function structure, the self-diagnosis function is designed. After that, the LT matrix and effect library are used to design the self-regulation function corresponding to the main functions, and the parameters are used to screen the self-regulation function design scheme. Finally, according to the design scheme of the self-diagnosis function and self-regulation function, the functional period oriented to self-recovery is constructed to ensure the realization of the main functions of the product. The effectiveness of the design process model is proved through the design process of an intelligent photovoltaic power generation system at the end of the paper.
Study of Drilled Holes after a Cryogenic Machining in Glass Fiber-Reinforced Composites
Authors: Domingo Rosario , de Agustina Beatriz , Ayllón Jorge
Published: October 2022

Glass fiber-reinforced composites are widely used in industry, with machining operations frequently performed, drilling, in particular, for later assembly. Although there is a smaller increase in temperature during drilling in composites than in metals, further cooling of the tool can produce improvements in some variables, such as thrust force, diameter, or surface roughness. This has been seen in studies where lower temperatures were achieved by cooling compressed air, reaching around −20 °C in plates of polyether-ether-ketone and polyamide, reinforced with glass fiber at 30% (PEEK-GF30 and PA-GF30, respectively). This paper analyzes the results of cryogenic drilling in plates of PEEK-GF30 and PA-GF30, specifically assessing thrust forces, diameter, and average surface roughness. The experimental methodology was carried out by monitoring thrust forces during cryogenic drilling using a piezoelectric dynamometer, measuring diameters with a coordinate measurement machine, and assessing surface quality with a roughness profilometer. During the cutting, the temperature of the cutting tool achieved a temperature near −120 °C from cooling with liquid nitrogen. Conducting an analytical and statistical study allowed us to determine the relationships between the measured variables and cutting conditions. Our results showed that cooling the tool during the drilling processes improved results of the cutting process.
Health Impact Assessment from Rice Straw Production in Cambodia
Authors: Lorn Sokles , Ket Pinnara , Or Chanmoly , Kong Sela , Um Dalin , Aun Srean , Taing Chanreaksmey , Hang Leakhena
Published: October 2022

Rice is a staple crop best known for its crucial role in feeding humans. In Cambodia, the human population depends on rice as its staple food. Increased rice production results in an increase in straw residue. The extensive residue caused by straw burning significantly contributes to high concentrations of air pollution, which are associated with critical health issues. As such, our objective in this study was to assess the human health impact of rice straw production in Cambodia. In this assessment, we focused on primary and secondary fine particulate matter formation (PM2.5, NH3, NOx, and SO2) from fertilizer, combustion of fuel in rice production processing, and burning of straw. We assessed endpoint impact by the following methods: (1) We estimated the proportion of rice straw from the annual rice production of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (MAFF) of Cambodia subjected to open burning in all 25 Cambodian provinces. (2) We calculated air pollutants emissions in terms of kilograms of pollutants per ton of rice produced by following the air pollutant emission inventory (EI) in the EMEP/EEA Guidebook for 2019, using data for fertilizer and fuel combustion that was applied in the field, based on a face-to-face survey of farmers. (3) We analyzed health impact in terms of DALYs using the characterization factor (CF) adapted from the ReCiPe 2016 v1.1 method. The results showed that the total health impact of rice straw production was 13,093.50 DALYs. Our analysis showed that open burning alone contributed 98.55% of the total health impact considered in this study, while fertilizers and combustion contributed only 0.12% and 1.33%, respectively. As the major of the total health impact arose from open burning, a policy of zero open burnings should be an effective way to reduce health impacts. These findings provide information for policymakers on how to alleviate air quality issues caused by the practice of open straw burning by adopting alternative techniques of rice straw management.
Sim–Real Mapping of an Image-Based Robot Arm Controller Using Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Sasaki Minoru , Muguro Joseph , Kitano Fumiya , Njeri Waweru , Matsushita Kojiro
Published: October 2022

Models trained with Deep Reinforcement learning (DRL) have been deployed in various areas of robotics with varying degree of success. To overcome the limitations of data gathering in the real world, DRL training utilizes simulated environments and transfers the learned policy to real-world scenarios, i.e., sim–real transfer. Simulators fail to accurately capture the entire dynamics of the real world, so simulation-trained policies often fail when applied to reality, termed a reality gap (RG). In this paper, we propose a search (mapping) algorithm that takes in real-world observation (images) and maps them to the policy-equivalent images in the simulated environment using a convolution neural network (CNN) model. The two-step training process, DRL policy and a mapping model, overcomes the RG problem with simulated data only. We evaluated the proposed system with a gripping task of a custom-made robot arm in the real world and compared the performance against a conventional DRL sim–real transfer system. The conventional system achieved a 15–57% success rate in gripping operation depending on the position of the target object while the mapping-based sim–real system achieved 100%. The experimental results demonstrated that the proposed DRL with mapping method appropriately corresponded the real world to the simulated environment, confirming that the scheme can achieve high sim–real generalization at significantly low training costs.
Utilization of Microwaves: A Novel Approach to SARS-CoV-2 Genome Extraction
Authors: Álvarez-Argüelles Marta Elena , Rojo-Alba Susana , Martín Gabriel , Pérez-Martínez Zulema , Castelló-Abietar Cristian , Boga Jose Antonio , Melón Santiago
Published: October 2022

In this study, an innovative approach to the heat extraction method has been tested: the use of microwaves, which can dramatically decrease the time that is needed to do the genome extraction. The method can obtain the virus with enough quality to assure the identification by RT-qPCR and minimize procedures and contaminations.
On Holomorphic Contractibility of Teichmüller Spaces
Authors: Krushkal Samuel L.
Published: October 2022

The problem of the holomorphic contractibility of Teichmüller spaces T(0,n) of the punctured spheres (n>4) arose in the 1970s in connection with solving algebraic equations in Banach algebras. Recently it was solved by the author. In the present paper, we give a refined proof of the holomorphic contractibility for all spaces T(0,n), n>4 and provide two independent proofs of holomorphic contractibility for low-dimensional Teichmüller spaces, which has intrinsic interest.
Genome-Wide Identification, Expression Profiling, and Characterization of Cyclin-like Genes Reveal Their Role in the Fertility of the Diamondback Moth
Authors: Asad Muhammad , Chen Jing , Liao Jianying , Liu Dan , Yu Jiajing , Yang Guang
Published: October 2022

Cyclin-like genes are primarily considered as cell cycle regulators and have shown to be crucial for insect growth, development, reproduction, and fertility. However, no research has been performed on the cyclin-like genes in the diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella). Here, we identified the 21 cyclin genes in the genome of P. xylostella and clustered them into four groups. Most cyclin genes showed a well-maintained gene structure and motif distribution within the same group. The putative promoter regions of cyclin genes contained several transcription binding factors related to reproduction, along with growth and development. Furthermore, 16 miRNAs were identified targeting the 13 cyclin genes. Transcriptome and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR)-based expression profiling of cyclin-like genes at different stages and tissues were evaluated, revealing that 16 out of 21 cyclin genes were highly expressed in reproductive tissues of adult females and males. The Cyclin B1 gene (PxCyc B1) was only expressed in the ovary of the adult female and selected for the subsequent analysis. RNAi-mediated suppression of PxCyc B1 interrupted the external genitalia and length of the ovariole of female adults. Furthermore, the egg-laying capacity and hatching rate were also significantly decreased by suppressing the PxCyc B1, indicating the importance of cyclin genes in the reproduction and fertility of P. xylostella. The current study explained the detailed genome-wide analysis of cyclin-like genes in P. xylostella, which provided a basis for subsequent research to assess the roles of cyclin genes in reproduction, and the cyclin gene may be considered an effective target site to control this pest.
A Bibliometric Analysis of Research on the Role of BDNF in Depression and Treatment
Authors: He Teng , Wu Zifeng , Zhang Xinying , Liu Hanyu , Wang Yuanyuan , Jiang Riyue , Liu Cunming , Hashimoto Kenji , Yang Chun
Published: October 2022

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), as the most widely distributed and widely studied neurotrophic factor in the mammalian brain, plays a key role in depression and the mechanisms of action for antidepressants. Currently, there is a large number of studies on the role of BDNF in the pathogenesis and therapeutic mechanism of depression. The quantity and quality of these studies, however, are unknown. To give beginners a quicker introduction to this research topic, we therefore performed a bibliometric analysis. A total of 5300 publications were included. We obtained the publications on this topic from the Web of Science database, and a variety of bibliographic elements were collected, including annual publications, authors, countries/regions, institutions, journals, and keywords. Moreover, we found that oxidative stress and neuroinflammation are the hotspots in the field in very recent years. Collectively, this study provides a comprehensive summary and analysis on the role of BDNF in depression and its treatment and offers meaningful values for beginners on this topic.
OGG1 Inhibition Reduces Acinar Cell Injury in a Mouse Model of Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Hajnády Zoltán , Nagy-Pénzes Máté , Demény Máté A. , Kovács Katalin , El-Hamoly Tarek , Maléth József , Hegyi Péter , Polgár Zsuzsanna , Hegedűs Csaba , Virág László
Published: October 2022

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a potentially life-threatening gastrointestinal disease with a complex pathology including oxidative stress. Oxidative stress triggers oxidative DNA lesions such as formation of 7,8-dihydro-8-oxo-2′-oxoguanine (8-oxoG) and also causes DNA strand breaks. DNA breaks can activate the nuclear enzyme poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) which contributes to AP pathology. 8-oxoG is recognized by 8-oxoG glycosylase 1 (OGG1) resulting in the removal of 8-oxoG from DNA as an initial step of base excision repair. Since OGG1 also possesses a DNA nicking activity, OGG1 activation may also trigger PARP1 activation. In the present study we investigated the role played by OGG1 in AP. We found that the OGG1 inhibitor compound TH5487 reduced edema formation, inflammatory cell migration and necrosis in a cerulein-induced AP model in mice. Moreover, TH5487 caused 8-oxoG accumulation and reduced tissue poly(ADP-ribose) levels. Consistent with the indirect PARP inhibitory effect, TH5487 shifted necrotic cell death (LDH release and Sytox green uptake) towards apoptosis (caspase activity) in isolated pancreatic acinar cells. In the in vivo AP model, TH5487 treatment suppressed the expression of various cytokine and chemokine mRNAs such as those of TNF, IL-1β, IL1ra, IL6, IL16, IL23, CSF, CCL2, CCL4, CCL12, IL10 and TREM as measured with a cytokine array and verified by RT-qPCR. As a potential mechanism underlying the transcriptional inhibitory effect of the OGG1 inhibitor we showed that while 8-oxoG accumulation in the DNA facilitates NF-κB binding to its consensus sequence, when OGG1 is inhibited, target site occupancy of NF-κB is impaired. In summary, OGG1 inhibition provides protection from tissue injury in AP and these effects are likely due to interference with the PARP1 and NF-κB activation pathways.
Association of SLC22A1, SLC22A2, SLC47A1, and SLC47A2 Polymorphisms with Metformin Efficacy in Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Chen Peixian , Cao Yumin , Chen Shenren , Liu Zhike , Chen Shiyi , Guo Yali
Published: October 2022

Response to metformin, first-line therapy for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), exists interindividual variation. Considering that transporters belonging to the solute carrier (SLC) superfamily are determinants of metformin pharmacokinetics, we evaluated the effects of promoter variants in organic cation transporter 1 (OCT1) (SLC22A1 rs628031), OCT2 (SLC22A2 rs316019), multidrug and toxin extrusion protein 1 (MATE1) (SLC47A1 rs2289669), and MATE2 (SLC47A2 rs12943590) on the variation in metformin response. The glucose-lowering effects and improvement of insulin resistance of metformin were assessed in newly diagnosed, treatment-naive type 2 diabetic patients of Han nationality in Chaoshan China (n = 93) receiving metformin. Fasting plasma glucose (FPG), fasting insulin (FINS), glycated hemoglobin A1 (HbA1C), homeostasis model assessment-insulin sensitivity (HOMA-IS), and homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were the main metformin efficacy measurements. There were significant correlations between both SLC47A1 rs2289669 and SLC47A2 rs12943590 and the efficacy of metformin in individuals with T2DM. In normal weight T2DM patients, significant associations between the AA and GG genotypes of the rs2289669 variant of SLC47A1 and a greater reduction in FINS and HOMA-IR were detected. A significant correlation was observed between the AG genotype of the rs12943590 polymorphism of SLC47A2 and a greater reduction in HOMA-IR. Gene–environment interaction analysis showed that in the FINS interaction model, the second-order of dose30_g-SLC47A2 rs12943590 was statistically significant. The variants of SLC47A1 rs2289669 and SLC47A2 rs12943590 could be predictors of insulin resistance in type 2 diabetic patients treated with metformin. The second-order interaction of dose30_g-SLC47A2 rs12943590 may have a significant effect on FINS in patients with T2DM on metformin treatment. These findings suggest that promoter variants of SLC47A1 and SLC47A2 are important determinants of metformin transport and response in type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Combinations of Cannabidiol and Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol in Reducing Chemotherapeutic Induced Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Sepulveda Diana E. , Vrana Kent E. , Graziane Nicholas M. , Raup-Konsavage Wesley M.
Published: October 2022

Neuropathic pain is a condition that impacts a substantial portion of the population and is expected to affect a larger percentage in the future. This type of pain is poorly managed by current therapies, including opioids and NSAIDS, and novel approaches are needed. We used a cisplatin-induced model of neuropathic pain in mice to assess the effects of the cannabinoids THC and CBD alone or in varying ratios as anti-nociceptive agents. In addition to testing pure compounds, we also tested extracts containing high THC or CBD at the same ratios. We found that pure CBD had little impact on mechanical hypersensitivity, whereas THC reduced mechanical hypersensitivity in both male and female mice (as has been reported in the literature). Interestingly, we found that high CBD cannabis extract, at the same CBD dose as pure CBD, was able to reduce mechanical hypersensitivity, although not to the same level as high THC extract. These data suggest that, at least for CBD-dominant cannabis extracts, there is an increase in the anti-nociceptive activity that may be attributed to other constitutes of the plant. We also found that high THC extract or pure THC is the most efficacious treatment for reducing neuropathic pain in this model.
Study on the Effect of Non-Symmetrical Current Distribution Controlled by Capacitor Placement in Radio-Frequency Coils for 7T MRI
Authors: Hernandez Daniel , Nam Taewoo , Jeong Yonghwa , Kim Donghyuk , Kim Kyoung-Nam
Published: October 2022

In this paper, we present a study on the effects of varying the position of a single tuning capacitor in a circular loop coil as a mechanism to control and produce non-symmetric current distribution, such that could be used for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) operating at ultra-high frequency (UHF). This study aims to demonstrate that the position of the tuning capacitor of a circular loop could improve the coupling between adjacent coils, used to optimize transmission field uniformity or intensity, improve signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) or specific absorption rate (SAR). A typical loop coil used in MRI consists of symmetrically distributed capacitors along the coil; this design is able to produce uniform current distributions inside the coil. However, in UHF conditions, the magnetic flux density (|B1+|) field produced by this setup may exhibit field distortion, requiring a method of controlling the field distribution and improving the field intensity of the circular loop coil. The control mechanism investigated in this study is based on the position of the tuning capacitor in the circular coil, the capacitor position was varied from 15° to 345°, in steps of 15°. We performed electromagnetic (EM) simulations, fabricated the coils, and performed MRI experiments at 7T, with each of the coils with capacitor position from 15° to 345° to determine the effects on field intensity, coupling between adjacent coils, SAR, and applications for field uniformity optimization. For the case of free space, a coil with capacitor position at 15° showed higher field intensity compared to the reference coil; while an improved decoupling was achieved when a coil had the capacitor placed at 180° and the other coil at 90°; in a similar matter, we discuss the results for SAR, field uniformity and an application with an array coil for the spinal cord.
Is Hippocampal Resection Necessary for Low-Grade Epilepsy-Associated Tumors in the Temporal Lobe?
Authors: Takayama Yutaro , Ikegaya Naoki , Iijima Keiya , Kimura Yuiko , Kosugi Kenzo , Yokosako Suguru , Kaneko Yuu , Yamamoto Tetsuya , Iwasaki Masaki
Published: October 2022

Low-grade epilepsy-associated tumors (LEATs) are common in the temporal lobe and can cause drug-resistant epilepsy. Complete resection of LEATs is sufficient for seizure relief. However, hippocampal resection might result in postoperative cognitive impairment. This study aimed to clarify the necessity of hippocampal resection for seizure and cognitive outcomes in patients with temporal lobe LEATs and a normal hippocampus. The study included 32 patients with temporal lobe LEATs and without hippocampal abnormalities. All patients underwent gross total resection as treatment for drug-resistant epilepsy at our tertiary epilepsy center from 2005 to 2020, followed by at least a 12-month follow-up period. Seizure and cognitive outcomes were compared between patients who underwent additional hippocampal resection (Resected group) and those who did not (Preserved group). Among the participants, 14 underwent additional hippocampal resection and 28 (87.5%) achieved seizure freedom irrespective of hippocampal resection. The seizure-free periods were not different between the two groups. Additional hippocampal resection resulted in a significantly negative impact on the postoperative verbal index. In conclusion, additional hippocampal resection in patients with temporal lobe LEATs without hippocampal abnormalities is unnecessary because lesionectomy alone results in good seizure control. Additional hippocampal resection may instead adversely affect the postoperative language function.