bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aquatic Pollution and Risks to Biodiversity: The Example of Cocaine Effects on the Ovaries of Anguilla anguilla
Authors: Fontes Mayana Karoline , Rosati Luigi , Di Lorenzo Mariana , Pereira Camilo Dias Seabra , Maranho Luciane Alves , Laforgia Vincenza , Capaldo Anna
Published: July 2022

Pollution is one of the main causes of the loss of biodiversity, currently one of the most important environmental problems. Important sources of aquatic pollution are illicit drugs, whose presence in waters is closely related to human consumption; their psychoactive properties and biological activity suggest potential adverse effects on non-target organisms, such as aquatic biota. In this study, we evaluated the effect of an environmentally relevant concentration of cocaine (20 ng L−1), an illicit drug widely found in surface waters, on the ovaries of Anguilla anguilla, a species critically endangered and able to accumulate cocaine in its tissues following chronic exposure. The following parameters were evaluated: (1) the morphology of the ovaries; (2) the presence and distribution of enzymes involved in oogenesis; (3) serum cortisol, FSH, and LH levels. The eels exposed to cocaine showed a smaller follicular area and a higher percentage of connective tissue than controls (p < 0.05), as well as many previtellogenic oocytes compared with controls having numerous fully vitellogenic and early vitellogenic oocytes. In addition, the presence and location of 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, and P450 aromatase differed in the two groups. Finally, cocaine exposure decreased FSH and LH levels, while it increased cortisol levels. These findings show that even a low environmental concentration of cocaine affects the ovarian morphology and activity of A. anguilla, suggesting a potential impact on reproduction in this species.
Effects of Enrichment Type, Presentation and Social Status on Enrichment Use and Behavior of Sows—Part 2: Free Access Stall Feeding
Authors: Roy Cyril , Kyeiwaa Victoria , Mancera Karen F. , Seddon Yolande M. , Connor Laurie M. , Brown Jennifer A.
Published: July 2022

Continuing with previous research by our group in an ESF system, four types of enrichment treatments were assessed in gestating sows housed in Free Access Stalls: (1) Constant: constant provision of wood on chain; (2) Rotate: rotation of rope, straw and wood; (3) Stimulus: rotation of enrichments with an acoustic cue; and (4) Control: no enrichment. Treatments had a 12 day-duration. Four groups (28 ± 2 sows) were studied from weeks 6 to 14 of gestation. Groups received all treatments in random order. Three dominant and 3 subordinates per pen were selected using a feed competition test. Digital photos were collected at 10 min intervals for 8 h on days 1, 8, 10 and 12 to record interactions with enrichment. Skin lesions were assessed on days 1 and 12, and salivary cortisol was assessed in weeks 6, 10 and 14 of gestation. More enrichment use was observed in Rotate and Stimulus treatments compared to Constant, and more sows contacted enrichment when straw was provided in the Rotate and Stimulus treatments. There was no difference in the amount of enrichment use by dominants and subordinates, no cortisol concentration elevation in subordinate sows nor any difference in lesion scores. In conclusion, social status had little impact and feeding system is important to reduce stress and aggression.
Association between Antibiotic Consumption and Resistance in Mink Production
Authors: Nikolaisen Nanett Kvist , Fertner Mette , Lassen Desiree Corvera Kløve , Chehabi Chaza Nazih , Ronaghinia Amir Atabak , Chriél Mariann , Jensen Vibeke Frøkjær , Jensen Lars Bogø , Pedersen Karl , Struve Tina
Published: July 2022

Antibiotic consumption is considered to be a main driver of antibiotic resistant bacteria. Mink breeding follows a distinctive seasonal reproduction cycle, and all of the mink produced in the northern hemisphere are bred, born, and pelted around the same time of year. Some of the diseases are age-related, which is reflected in the seasonal variation of antibiotic consumption. The seasonality makes mink a good model for the investigation of the association between antibiotic consumption and resistance. The objectives of this study were (1) to monitor the farm level of antibiotic resistance during one production cycle and (2) to assess the potential associations between antibiotic consumption and resistance. Twenty-four farms were included in this study (Denmark n = 20, Iceland n = 2, and The Netherlands n = 2), following a cohort of animals born in 2018. Staphylococcus delphini and Escherichia coli were isolated from samples of the carcasses and faeces and were collected randomly. The isolates were susceptibility tested and subsequently divided into the sensitive wildtype (WT) and the resistant non-wildtype (NWT) populations. The antibiotic consumption relative to the sampling periods was assessed as having a short-term or a long-term impact, i.e., in two explanatory factors. For both S. delphini and E. coli, a large between-farm variation of NWT profiles was detected. In the final multivariable, generalized linear mixed models, significant associations between NWT isolates and the consumption of specific antibiotics were found: the short-term use of tetracyclines in the growth period was associated with the occurrence of tetracycline NWT E. coli in the growth period (OR: 11.94 [1.78; 89.28]), and the long-term use of macrolide and tetracyclines was associated with the occurrence of erythromycin NWT S. delphini in the weaning period (OR: 18.2 [2.26; 321.36]) and tetracycline NWT S. delphini in the growth period (OR: 8.2 [1.27; 63.31]), respectively. Farms with zero consumption in the study years prior to sampling also had a substantial proportion of NWT isolates, indicating that NWT isolates are persistent and/or widely spread in the environment. Generally, a high occurrence of tetracycline NWTs was observed. NWT isolates with resistance against the most commonly used antibiotics were found on all the farms, stressing the need for routine surveillance and the prudent use of antibiotics. The results offer a preview of the complex relationship between consumption and resistance, demonstrating some significant associations between use and resistance. Moreover, antibiotic-resistant bacteria are present even on farms with no antibiotic consumption over extended periods, and theoretical explanations supported by the data are offered.
Predictive Scores for Late-Onset Neonatal Sepsis as an Early Diagnostic and Antimicrobial Stewardship Tool: What Have We Done So Far?
Authors: Sofouli Georgia Anna , Kanellopoulou Aimilia , Vervenioti Aggeliki , Dimitriou Gabriel , Gkentzi Despoina
Published: July 2022

Background: Late-onset neonatal sepsis (LOS) represents a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and early diagnosis remains a challenge. Various ‘sepsis scores’ have been developed to improve early identification. The aim of the current review is to summarize the current knowledge on the utility of predictive scores in LOS as a tool for early sepsis recognition, as well as an antimicrobial stewardship tool. Methods: The following research question was developed: Can we diagnose LOS with accuracy in neonates using a predictive score? A systematic search was performed in the PubMed database from 1982 (first predictive score published) to December 2021. Results: Some (1352) articles were identified—out of which, 16 were included in the review. Eight were original scores, five were validations of already existing scores and two were mixed. Predictive models were developed by combining a variety of clinical, laboratory and other variables. The majority were found to assist in early diagnosis, but almost all had a limited diagnostic accuracy. Conclusions: There is an increasing need worldwide for a simple and accurate score to promptly predict LOS. Combinations of the selected parameters may be helpful, but until now, a single score has not been proven to be comprehensive.
Valorization of Pineapple Residues from the Colombian Agroindustry to Produce Cellulose Nanofibers
Authors: Guancha-Chalapud Marcelo A. , Serna-Cock Liliana , Tirado Diego F.
Published: July 2022

Cellulose nanofiber is the world’s most advanced biomass material. Most importantly, it is biodegradable. In this work, nanofibers were obtained from pineapple leaves, a large solid waste in Colombia, using a combined extraction method (chemical procedures and ultrasound). The native fibers were bleached, hydrolyzed, treated with ultrasound, and characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), infrared analysis (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). As a comparison, a commercial microcrystalline cellulose sample was analyzed, which demonstrated the efficiency of cellulose extraction. The nanofibers had a diameter and a length of 18 nm and 237 nm, respectively, with a maximum degradation temperature of 306 °C. The analysis showed the efficiency of acid treatment combined with ultrasound to obtain nanofibers and confirmed that pineapple residues can be valorized by this method. These results indicate that lignocellulosic matrices from pineapple leaves have potential application for obtaining polymeric-type composite materials. Due to their morphology and characteristic physical properties, the cellulose nanofibers obtained in this work could be a promising material for use in a wealth of fields and applications such as filter material, high gas barrier packaging material, electronic devices, foods, medicine, construction, cosmetics, pharmacy, and health care, among others.
A Novel Generative Model for Face Privacy Protection in Video Surveillance with Utility Maintenance
Authors: Qiu Yuying , Niu Zhiyi , Song Biao , Ma Tinghuai , Al-Dhelaan Abdullah , Al-Dhelaan Mohammed
Published: July 2022

In recent years, the security and privacy issues of face data in video surveillance have become one of the hotspots. How to protect privacy while maintaining the utility of monitored faces is a challenging problem. At present, most of the mainstream methods are suitable for maintaining data utility with respect to pre-defined criteria such as the structure similarity or shape of the face, which bears the criticism of poor versatility and adaptability. This paper proposes a novel generative framework called Quality Maintenance-Variational AutoEncoder (QM-VAE), which takes full advantage of existing privacy protection technologies. We innovatively add the loss of service quality to the loss function to ensure the generation of de-identified face images with guided quality preservation. The proposed model automatically adjusts the generated image according to the different service quality evaluators, so it is generic and efficient in different service scenarios, even some that have nothing to do with simple visual effects. We take facial expression recognition as an example to present experiments on the dataset CelebA to demonstrate the utility-preservation capabilities of QM-VAE. The experimental data show that QM-VAE has the highest quality retention rate of 86%. Compared with the existing method, QM-VAE generates de-identified face images with significantly improved utility and increases the effect by 6.7%.
Towards a Deep-Learning Approach for Prediction of Fractional Flow Reserve from Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Hatfaludi Cosmin-Andrei , Tache Irina-Andra , Ciușdel Costin Florian , Puiu Andrei , Stoian Diana , Itu Lucian Mihai , Calmac Lucian , Popa-Fotea Nicoleta-Monica , Bataila Vlad , Scafa-Udriste Alexandru
Published: July 2022

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the number one cause of death worldwide, and coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most prevalent CVD, accounting for 42% of these deaths. In view of the limitations of the anatomical evaluation of CAD, Fractional Flow Reserve (FFR) has been introduced as a functional diagnostic index. Herein, we evaluate the feasibility of using deep neural networks (DNN) in an ensemble approach to predict the invasively measured FFR from raw anatomical information that is extracted from optical coherence tomography (OCT). We evaluate the performance of various DNN architectures under different formulations: regression, classification—standard, and few-shot learning (FSL) on a dataset containing 102 intermediate lesions from 80 patients. The FSL approach that is based on a convolutional neural network leads to slightly better results compared to the standard classification: the per-lesion accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity were 77.5%, 72.9%, and 81.5%, respectively. However, since the 95% confidence intervals overlap, the differences are statistically not significant. The main findings of this study can be summarized as follows: (1) Deep-learning (DL)-based FFR prediction from reduced-order raw anatomical data is feasible in intermediate coronary artery lesions; (2) DL-based FFR prediction provides superior diagnostic performance compared to baseline approaches that are based on minimal lumen diameter and percentage diameter stenosis; and (3) the FFR prediction performance increases quasi-linearly with the dataset size, indicating that a larger train dataset will likely lead to superior diagnostic performance.
Effect of Observation Geometry on Short-Arc Angles-Only Initial Orbit Determination
Authors: Feng Zhao , Yan Changxiang , Qiao Yanfeng , Xu Anlin , Wang Haihong
Published: July 2022

Space-based optical sensors are attracting increasing research attention as they can measure the angle of space targets over large areas, facilitating low-cost, wide-area space target surveillance. Studying the effect of observation geometry on short-arc angles-only initial orbit determination is important for analysing the surveillance capability of systems that use optics as the main means for surveilling different areas of space. In this paper, the initial orbit is calculated based on the unit vector method (UVM); the geometric dilution of precision (GDOP)—derived under the condition that the approximate Lagrangian coefficient and distance are constant—is used as the parameter for the uncertainty distribution of the target orbit solution. A suitable coordinate system transformation is conducted and all possible observation geometry relationships between the target and the sensor are expressed in terms of the angle between orbital planes and the right ascension of the target and sensor in the transformed coordinate system. Simulation experiments show that the GDOP is approximately equal to that obtained statistically through Monte Carlo simulation experiments. The accuracy of the initial orbit solution is poor when the target and optical sensor are at the same right ascension and declination, or in the same orbital plane.
Weak Signal Processing Methods Based on Improved HHT and Filtering Techniques for Steel Wire Rope
Authors: Liu Shiwei , Sun Yanhua , He Lingsong , Kang Yihua
Published: July 2022

As one of the most important processes in steel wire rope inspection, defect signal processing is of great significance in guaranteeing safety and precision measurement. Aiming at the weak signal detection of steel wire rope with mixed strands and noise, a combined signal processing method based on magnetic flux leakage testing and multi-step filtering techniques are proposed in this paper. The experiments are first introduced and performed on three typical types of steel wire rope with diameters of 28 mm, 32 mm, 45 mm, and different wire broken defects detected under liftoff distances of 13 mm and 20 mm; the acquired signals are then analyzed both in time and frequency domain. According to the weak signal characterizations, the principle of the proposed methods and algorithm are given concretely. Afterwards, comparison of signal processing results between the traditional lowpass filtering, wavelet denoising, median filtering, and the proposed method are presented. Finally, the influence factors of smoothing types and moving average span of the proposed methods are investigated. The processing results of the proposed methods are shown through short-time Fourier transform and signal-to-noise ratio analysis, which not only demonstrates the validity and feasibility of the combined methods with the highest signal to noise ratio of 90.37 dB, but also exhibits a great potential of precision defect detection and practical application in steel wire rope inspection.
New On-Line MFL Testing Method and Apparatus for Winding Mine Hoist Wire Rope
Authors: Jiang Xiaoyuan , Sun Yanhua , Feng Bo , Liu Mengqi , Jiang Xiaotian , Li Ran , He Lingsong , Kang Yihua
Published: July 2022

Based on the introduction and analysis of difficulties encountered during technical inspection of the wire rope of a winding mine hoist (WMH) working at high speed, an open-loop permanent magnet magnetizer was used to simulate and analyze the effect of the structural dimensions of this magnetizer on the magnetic leakage field of a defect, and the results of the simulation analysis were initially verified by experiments. Additionally, in order to keep the axial position of the probe in line with the axial position of the wire rope, a rocker arm was proposed to act in coordination with a motor to drive the clutching open and closed probe, thereby creating an on-line nondestructive testing device to float and track the movement of the wire rope in different directions. Finally, the device was applied to testing of WMH wire rope on site to validate the effectiveness and feasibility of the method.
An Image-Encryption Algorithm Based on Stage-Merging Bit Scrambling
Authors: Chen Zhanfang , Yang Ya , Jiang Xiaoming
Published: July 2022

At present, the existing single-pixel position-scrambling technique is not sensitive to the chaotic sequence used, and adjacent-pixel position scrambling has difficulty ensuring a good scrambling effect and speed at the same time. In this paper, a stage-merging scrambling algorithm is proposed, which combines the two-stage scrambling process and can complete the dual scrambling of pixel position and pixel value at the same time. It not only improves the scrambling speed, but also greatly improves the scrambling effects. Then, a complete image encryption and decryption scheme was designed based on stage-merging bit scrambling combined with DNA coding. Security analysis shows that the algorithm can resist various means of attack such as exhaustive attack and differential attack. The research in this paper extends the existing bit-scrambling algorithms and is suitable for practical applications.
Assessment of Pain and External Load in Amputee Football Using Digital Pain Drawing and GNSS Tracking—A Pilot Study
Authors: Muracki Jarosław , Kawczyński Adam , Nowak Michał , Clemente Filipe Manuel , Makar Piotr , Kasińska Zofia , Boudreau Shellie Ann
Published: July 2022

Amputee Football (AF) players move using lofstrand crutches (LC) and a single leg during training and matches, which may expose them to excessive loads. Due to a lack of scientific articles describing these issues, this pilot study aims to gain insight into the assessment of pain experiences, as well as external loads during training and matches in AF. An observational study design was followed. Twelve male AF players (2 goalkeepers—GK and 10 field players—FP), 29.9 ± 8.7 years, stature 178.3 ± 6.5 cm, body mass 77.2 ± 8.9 kg were involved in the study. After stature and body mass measures, participants filled out the questionnaire for pain. The players were familiarized with digital pain drawing (DPD). Afterwards, they reported pain typically felt in relation to regular AF training and playing matches—recall pain (RP). During a two-day training camp (TC) with two training sessions each day and during a two-day international tournament (IT) with two matches each day, the players were monitored using DPD, rate of perceived exertion (RPE) and overall pain level (OPL) scales. In addition, during an international tournament (IT), match players were monitored using a GNSS tracking system for external load assessment. All of the participants reported multiple locations of pain after AF training or a match. The area of recall pain (RP) was the highest: +0.5% when compared to the end of TC and +43% when compared to end of IT. The pain area registered at the end of IT was significantly lower (p = 0.028) compared to RP and lower without statistical significance when compared to the end of TC. Average RPE was 3.31 ± 1.38 and average OPL was 2.86 ± 1.81 in 0–10 scale. Typical RPE was higher than that registered at the end of IT. Also typical OPL was higher compared to that registered after the end of TC, which was higher than after the end of IT. The average distance covered by a FP during a match ranged from 2483.14 ± 583.64 m to 2911.08 ± 828.90 m. AF field players suffered pain as a consequence of training and matches. The loads coming from playing and training, combined with pain, may lead to injuries. Further research directions should include assessments of the relationship of pain characteristics, injuries and GNSS tracking parameters.
Meat 4.0: Principles and Applications of Industry 4.0 Technologies in the Meat Industry
Authors: Echegaray Noemí , Hassoun Abdo , Jagtap Sandeep , Tetteh-Caesar Michelle , Kumar Manoj , Tomasevic Igor , Goksen Gulden , Lorenzo Jose Manuel
Published: July 2022

Meat 4.0 refers to the application the fourth industrial revolution (Industry 4.0) technologies in the meat sector. Industry 4.0 components, such as robotics, Internet of Things, Big Data, augmented reality, cybersecurity, and blockchain, have recently transformed many industrial and manufacturing sectors, including agri-food sectors, such as the meat industry. The need for digitalised and automated solutions throughout the whole food supply chain has increased remarkably during the COVID-19 pandemic. This review will introduce the concept of Meat 4.0, highlight its main enablers, and provide an updated overview of recent developments and applications of Industry 4.0 innovations and advanced techniques in digital transformation and process automation of the meat industry. A particular focus will be put on the role of Meat 4.0 enablers in meat processing, preservation and analyses of quality, safety and authenticity. Our literature review shows that Industry 4.0 has significant potential to improve the way meat is processed, preserved, and analysed, reduce food waste and loss, develop safe meat products of high quality, and prevent meat fraud. Despite the current challenges, growing literature shows that the meat sector can be highly automated using smart technologies, such as robots and smart sensors based on spectroscopy and imaging technology.
New Data on Paleogeography of Quaternary Coast Sediments of the Rivers of the European North of Russia Using Isotope-Geochemical Methods
Authors: Iglovsky Stanislav , Lubas Artem , Yakovlev Evgeny
Published: July 2022

(1) Background: The Quaternary river bank deposits of the European North of Russia contain several mollusk fossils that can give important past-climate information which is relevant to understand the evolution of climate in the Holocene period and predict future scenarios on climate change. (2) The purpose of the research: reconstruction of the main physical and chemical parameters of the habitat of mollusks based on the determination of the species of mollusks and the study of the isotope-geochemical composition of shells and their host deposits. (3) Object of study: Quaternary deposits of coastal outcrops of the rivers of the European North of Russia: Pechora Sula, Peza, bivalve shells, and their fragments. (4) Results: The revealed macrofauna complexes represented by bivalves (Arctica islandica, Hiatella arctica, Mytilus edulis, Tridonta borealis, Mya truncata, Neptunea despecta) were determined and the variations of δ13C and δ18O (‰) isotopes in the studied fossil bivalve shells were calculated. The data on the concentrations of chemical elements in fossil shells were determined and summarized. The content of elements in mollusk shells varied within the following limits: Fe 101.7−403.3 µg/g (Vastyansky Kon’, river Pechora), Mg 0.38–2.61 µg/g (Vastyansky Kon’, river Pechora), Ba 18.27–60.44 µg/g (village Oksino-River Sula), and Sr 1128.3–2275.34 µg/g (Vastyansky Kon’-village Oksino, river Pechora). The ratio between the elements varies within Ba/Sr 0.011–0.041 (village Oksino- River Sula) and Mg/Fe 0.01–0.15 (Vastyansky Kon’- village Oksino, river Pechora).
Impact of Climate-Driven Land-Use Change on O3 and PM Pollution by Driving BVOC Emissions in China in 2050
Authors: Liu Song , Sahu Shovan Kumar , Zhang Shuping , Liu Shuchang , Sun Yisheng , Liu Xiliang , Xing Jia , Zhao Bin , Zhang Hongliang , Wang Shuxiao
Published: July 2022

This study predicted three future land-use type scenarios in 2050 (including the Shared Socioeconomic Pathway SSP126, SSP585, and carbon scenario) based on the Land-Use Harmonization (LUH2) project and the future evolution of land-use types considering China’s carbon neutrality background. The contribution of land-use changes to terrestrial natural source biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs), as well as O3 and PM concentrations, were determined. Under the SSP126 pathway, meteorological changes would increase BVOC emissions in China by 1.0 TgC in 2050, compared with 2015, while land-use changes would increase them by 1.5–7.1 TgC. The impact of land-use changes on O3 and PM concentrations would be less than 3.6% in 2050 and greater in summer. Regional differences must be considered when calculating future environmental background concentrations of pollutants. Due to more afforestation measures under the SSP126 scenario, the impact of land-use change on pollutants was more obvious under the SSP126 pathway than under the SSP585 pathway. Under the carbon scenario, the increase in PM concentration caused by land-use changes would pose a risk to air quality compliance; thus, it is necessary to consider reducing or offsetting this potential risk through anthropogenic emission control measures.
Three-Dimensional Structural Anomalies of the Western Pacific Subtropical High Ridge and Its Relationship with Precipitation in China during August–September 2021
Authors: Zhang Fei , Yang Xianyu , Sun Qingfei , Yao Suxiang , Guo Qu
Published: July 2022

In August-September 2021, the western Pacific subtropical high (WPSH) showed significant anomalies, with some areas between the Yangtze and Yellow River basins in China suffering from heavy rainfall and flooding, while extreme heat occurred in Southern China. Using the 6 h reanalysis data of NCEP/NCAR and the daily precipitation observation data, this paper studied the abnormal characteristics and the thermal mechanism of the three-dimensional ridge of the WPSH during the seasonal transition from late summer to early autumn in August-September 2021, and explored its connection with the precipitation in the areas between the Yangtze and Yellow River basins in China during the same period. The results showed that, in August-September 2021, the three-dimensional ridge of the WPSH appeared to be southward at the lower troposphere and tilted northward with height. According to the diagnosis of the atmospheric heat source, it was found that the center of atmospheric cold source in the low latitudes at 850 hPa enhanced the surface high pressure, corresponding to the WPSH ridge shifting southward at the lower troposphere, which led to more water vapor convergence and more precipitation between the Yangtze and Yellow River basins. The latent heat of condensation released by the increased precipitation between the Yangtze and Yellow River basins in China heated the middle and upper troposphere, increasing the intensity of the high pressure in the upper troposphere, corresponding to the WPSH ridge northward at the upper troposphere. This anomalous tilt of the WPSH ridge in August-September 2021 and the intense precipitation processes between the Yangtze and Yellow River basins in China during the same period established a reciprocal feedback mechanism through diabatic heating. Further studies also showed that the anomalous tilt of the WPSH ridge is one of the important modes of its three-dimensional structural anomalies, and that, in years when the ridge tilts from south to north with height anomalously in August-September, the areas between the Yangtze and Yellow River basins are characterized by high precipitation.
Global Existence for Reaction-Diffusion Systems on Multiple Domains
Authors: Fitzgibbon William E. , Morgan Jeff , Ryan John
Published: July 2022

In this work, we study the global existence of solutions reaction-diffusion systems with control of mass on multiple domains. Some of these domains overlap, and as a result, an unknown defined on one subdomain can impact another unknown defined on a different domain that intersects with the first. The question addressed is related to the long standing question of global existence for reaction-diffusion systems with quasi-positive reaction vector fields that dissipate mass, in the setting of a single bounded spatial domain. The results extend recent work of the authors and others for systems on a single domain with L∞ diffusion and quasi-positive reaction vector fields that dissipate mass, in the setting of multiple domains.
Critical Role of Neuronal Vps35 in Blood Vessel Branching and Maturation in Developing Mouse Brain
Authors: Zhao Yang , Lee Daehoon , Zhu Xiao-Juan , Xiong Wen-Cheng
Published: July 2022

Vps35 (vacuolar protein sorting 35), a key component of retromer, plays a crucial role in selective retrieval of transmembrane proteins from endosomes to trans-Golgi networks. Dysfunctional Vps35/retromer is a risk factor for the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Vps35 is highly expressed in developing pyramidal neurons, both in the mouse neocortex and hippocampus, Although embryonic neuronal Vps35’s function in promoting neuronal terminal differentiation and survival is evident, it remains unclear whether and how neuronal Vps35 communicates with other types of brain cells, such as blood vessels (BVs), which are essential for supplying nutrients to neurons. Dysfunctional BVs contribute to the pathogenesis of various neurodegenerative disorders. Here, we provide evidence for embryonic neuronal Vps35 as critical for BV branching and maturation in the developing mouse brain. Selectively knocking out (KO) Vps35 in mouse embryonic, not postnatal, neurons results in reductions in BV branching and density, arteriole diameter, and BV-associated pericytes and microglia but an increase in BV-associated reactive astrocytes. Deletion of microglia by PLX3397 enhances these BV deficits in mutant mice. These results reveal the function of neuronal Vps35 in neurovascular coupling in the developing mouse brain and implicate BV-associated microglia as underlying this event.
Percutaneous Endoscopic Interbody Debridement and Fusion (PEIDF) Decreases Risk of Sepsis and Mortality in Treating Infectious Spondylodiscitis for Patients with Poor Physical Status, a Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Wang Sheng-Fen , Tsai Tsung-Ting , Li Yun-Da , Chiu Ping-Yeh , Hsieh Ming-Kai , Liao Jen-Chung , Lai Po-Liang , Kao Fu-Cheng
Published: July 2022

Background: Postoperative immunosuppression is associated with blood loss and surgical trauma during surgery and subsequently predisposes patients to increased morbidity. Spine endoscopic surgery has been accepted as an effective surgical technique with less surgical trauma and less blood loss for the complication of infectious spondylodiscitis. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate whether PEIDF could reduce the morbidity rates for patients with infectious spondylodiscitis. Methods: We launched a retrospective cohort study on the comparison of the perioperative prognosis between PEIDF and conventional open surgery for single-level lumbar infectious spondylodiscitis in patients with poor physical health (ASA ≥ 4) from 2014 to 2019. Results: Forty-four patients were included in this study. Fifteen of them underwent PEIDF, and the rest of the 29 patients were treated with open surgery. Less surgical blood loss (p < 0.001) and intraoperative transfusions (p < 0.001) with a better decline of CRP (p = 0.017) were statistically significant in patients receiving PEIDF. Patients undergoing conventional open surgery encountered more postoperative sepsis (p = 0.030), a higher qSOFA score (p = 0.044), and prolonged-time for CRP normalization (p = 0.001). Conclusions: PEIDF minimizes a poor postoperative outcome due to less surgical trauma, intraoperative blood loss, and the need for a blood transfusion.
The Unexpected Selectivity Switching from Mitochondria to Lysosome in a D-π-A Cyanine Dye
Authors: Abeywickrama Chathura S. , Baumann Hannah J. , Bertman Keti A. , Corbin Brian , Pang Yi
Published: July 2022

Two interesting benzothizolium-based D-π-A type hemicyanine dyes (3a–3b) with a diphenylamine (-NPh2) donor group were evaluated for fluorescence confocal microscopy imaging ability in live cells (MO3.13, NHLF). In sharp contrast to previously reported D-π-A dyes with alkyl amine donor (-NR2) groups (1), 3a and 3b exhibited significantly different photophysical properties and organelle selectivity. Probes 3a and 3b were nearly non-fluorescent in many polar and non-polar solvents but exhibited a bright red fluorescence (λem ≈ 630–640 nm) in stained MO3.13 and NHLF with very low probe concentrations (i.e., 200 nM). Fluorescence confocal microscopy-based co-localization studies revealed excellent lysosome selectivity from the probes 3a–3b, which is in sharp contrast to previously reported D-π-A type benzothiazolium dyes (1) with an alkyl amine donor group (-NR2) (exhibiting selectivity towards cellular mitochondria). The photostability of probe 3 was found to be dependent on the substituent (R’) attached to the quaternary nitrogen atom in the cyanine dye structure. The observed donor-dependent selectivity switching phenomenon can be highly useful in designing novel organelle-targeted fluorescent probes for live-cell imaging applications.
A Cross-Sectional Comparison of Arterial Stiffness and Cognitive Performances in Physically Active Late Pre- and Early Post-Menopausal Females
Authors: Debray Amélie , Bherer Louis , Gagnon Christine , Bosquet Laurent , Hay Eva , Bartlett Audrey-Ann , Gagnon Daniel , Enea Carina
Published: July 2022

Menopause accelerates increases in arterial stiffness and decreases cognitive performances. The objective of this study was to compare cognitive performances in physically active pre- and post-menopausal females and their relationship with arterial stiffness. We performed a cross-sectional comparison of blood pressure, carotid–femoral pulse wave velocity (cf-PWV) and cognitive performances between physically active late pre- and early post-menopausal females. Systolic (post-menopause—pre-menopause: +6 mmHg [95% CI −1; +13], p = 0.27; ŋ2 = 0.04) and diastolic (+6 mmHg [95% CI +2; +11], p = 0.06; ŋ2 = 0.12) blood pressures, and cf-PWV (+0.29 m/s [95% CI −1.03; 1.62], p = 0.48; ŋ2 = 0.02) did not differ between groups. Post-menopausal females performed as well as pre-menopausal females on tests evaluating executive functions, episodic memory and processing speed. Group differences were observed on the computerized working memory task. Post-menopausal females had lower accuracy (p = 0.02; ŋ2 = 0.25) but similar reaction time (p = 0.70; ŋ2 < 0.01). Moreover, this performance was inversely associated with the severity of menopausal symptoms (r = −0.38; p = 0.05). These results suggest that arterial stiffness and performance on tests assessing episodic memory and processing speed and executive functions assessing inhibition and switching abilities did not differ between physically active pre- and post-menopausal females. However, post-menopausal females had lower performance on a challenging condition of a working memory task, and this difference in working memory between groups cannot be explained by increased arterial stiffness.
Propagation Structure of Intrinsic Brain Activity in Migraine without Aura
Authors: Dai Lingling , Xu Qiang , Xiong Xing , Yu Yang , Wang Ximing , Dai Hui , Zhao Hongru , Ke Jun
Published: July 2022

Previous studies have revealed highly reproducible patterns of temporally lagged brain activity in healthy human adults. However, it is unknown whether temporal organization of intrinsic activity is altered in migraines or if it relates to migraine chronification. In this resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging study, temporal features of intrinsic activity were investigated using resting-state lag analysis, and 39 episodic migraine patients, 17 chronic migraine patients, and 35 healthy controls were assessed. Temporally earlier intrinsic activity in the hippocampal complex was revealed in the chronic migraine group relative to the other two groups. We also found earlier intrinsic activity in the medial prefrontal cortex in chronic compared with episodic migraines. Both migraine groups showed earlier intrinsic activity in the lateral temporal cortex and sensorimotor cortex compared with the healthy control group. Across all patients, headache frequency negatively correlated with temporal lag of the medial prefrontal cortex and hippocampal complex. Disrupted propagation of intrinsic activity in regions involved in sensory, cognitive and affective processing of pain may contribute to abnormal brain function during migraines. Decreased time latency in the lateral temporal cortex and sensorimotor cortex may be common manifestations in episodic and chronic migraines. The temporal features of the medial prefrontal cortex and hippocampal complex were associated with migraine chronification.
Research on the Mechanism of Influence of Game Competition Mode on Online Learning Performance
Authors: Xu Hailing , Ge Shilun , Yuan Feng
Published: July 2022

With the rapid development of information technology and the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic, online learning has become an important supplement to the teaching organization form of basic education and higher education. In order to increase user stickiness and improve learning performance, gamification elements are widely introduced into online learning situations. However, scholars have drawn different conclusions on the impact of game-based competition on online learning performance. This study is based on field theory and constructivist learning theory. Taking the online interaction of the curriculum platform as the situation, psychological capital as the intermediary variable and connected classroom atmosphere as the adjustment variable, this paper constructs an interaction model between game competition and online learning performance and discusses in depth the intermediary effect of psychological capital and the adjustment effect of a connected classroom atmosphere. The results show that game-based competition has a significant positive effect on learning performance, and the effect of direct competition is better than that of indirect competition; the self-efficacy dimension of psychological capital plays an intermediary role between direct competition and learning performance, and the resilience dimension plays an intermediary role between competition and learning performance; and a connected classroom atmosphere plays a regulating role in the dimensions of game competition, knowledge mastery and knowledge innovation.
Value Analysis and Rehabilitation Strategies for the Former Qingdao Exchange Building—A Case Study of a Typical Modern Architectural Heritage in the Early 20th Century in China
Authors: Chen Meng , Tong Hui , Xu Yabing , Zhou Qi , Hu Linhua
Published: July 2022

The Qingdao Exchange Building, built in the 1920s, is the largest products and stock exchange building in modern Shandong. In addition to being a historical witness to the economic development of Qingdao over the last 100 years, it has also been a historical scene of cultural exchanges between China and the West after the opening up of China in the early 20th century. After several changes in the building’s property rights, the building was out of use for a long period of time, with a large number of materials and structures being damaged. The present authors participated in a feasibility study project on the conservation and restoration of the Qingdao Exchange Building. The objective of the present study was achieved through several qualitative methods, including the collection and analysis of historical files, analysis of historical maps and photos, investigation and research of historical information, comparative analysis, and others. Through the value research and technical analysis of the Qingdao Exchange Building, the historical, artistic, and scientific values of architectural heritage were investigated in the present study, and rehabilitation strategies and methods were explored. Additionally, the spread of certain characteristics of Western architectural culture in China in the early modern times was investigated based on the present case.
Seismic Fragility Assessment of an Existing Multi-Span RC Bridge Equipped with Risk Mitigation Systems
Authors: Ghazal Homam , Mwafy Aman
Published: July 2022

The vulnerability of bridges and the effectiveness of suitable mitigation techniques in regions exposed to different seismic scenarios, while lacking reliable fragility assessment studies for existing bridge inventory, need focused attention. Further, while several retrofit techniques were proposed for improving the seismic performance of existing bridges, the limitations of such approaches need further investigation. Thus, this study assesses the seismic vulnerability of a benchmark structure representing pre-seismic code multi-span bridges in an earthquake-prone region before and after the retrofit to mitigate earthquake-related losses. The numerical modeling approaches of the selected bridge and retrofit systems were verified using the results of previous experimental studies. Detailed three-dimensional fiber-based (3DFB) simulation models were then developed to assess the seismic response of the benchmark bridge under the effects of diverse earthquake records representing far-field and near-source seismic scenarios in both longitudinal and transverse directions. The obtained results from several inelastic pushover analyses (IPAs) and incremental dynamic analyses (IDAs) confirmed the vulnerability of the benchmark bridge and the pressing need for mitigation actions to reduce the expected seismic losses under different seismic scenarios. Higher damage probabilities were observed under the effects of far-source events and at lower intensities than their near-field counterparts. Based on the probabilistic assessment study, it is concluded that retrofitting the bridge with buckling restrained braces (BRBs) is an effective mitigation measure to increase the lateral strength and overcome the high curvature ductility (CD) demands observed in bents, particularly under the most critical seismic scenario. The study provides insight into the impacts of contemporary retrofit techniques on improving the seismic performance of substandard bridges and presents a range of fragility functions for the assessment and mitigation of earthquake risks.
Artificial Intelligence for Thyroid Nodule Characterization: Where Are We Standing?
Authors: Sorrenti Salvatore , Dolcetti Vincenzo , Radzina Maija , Bellini Maria Irene , Frezza Fabrizio , Munir Khushboo , Grani Giorgio , Durante Cosimo , D’Andrea Vito , David Emanuele , Calò Pietro Giorgio , Lori Eleonora , Cantisani Vito
Published: July 2022

Machine learning (ML) is an interdisciplinary sector in the subset of artificial intelligence (AI) that creates systems to set up logical connections using algorithms, and thus offers predictions for complex data analysis. In the present review, an up-to-date summary of the current state of the art regarding ML and AI implementation for thyroid nodule ultrasound characterization and cancer is provided, highlighting controversies over AI application as well as possible benefits of ML, such as, for example, training purposes. There is evidence that AI increases diagnostic accuracy and significantly limits inter-observer variability by using standardized mathematical algorithms. It could also be of aid in practice settings with limited sub-specialty expertise, offering a second opinion by means of radiomics and computer-assisted diagnosis. The introduction of AI represents a revolutionary event in thyroid nodule evaluation, but key issues for further implementation include integration with radiologist expertise, impact on workflow and efficiency, and performance monitoring.
Does Robotic Liver Surgery Enhance R0 Results in Liver Malignancies during Minimally Invasive Liver Surgery?—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Rahimli Mirhasan , Perrakis Aristotelis , Andric Mihailo , Stockheim Jessica , Franz Mareike , Arend Joerg , Al-Madhi Sara , Abu Hilal Mohammed , Gumbs Andrew A. , Croner Roland S.
Published: July 2022

Background: Robotic procedures are an integral part of modern liver surgery. However, the advantages of a robotic approach in comparison to the conventional laparoscopic approach are the subject of controversial debate. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to compare robotic and laparoscopic liver resection with particular attention to the resection margin status in malignant cases. Methods: A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed and Cochrane Library in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Only studies comparing robotic and laparoscopic liver resections were considered for this meta-analysis. Furthermore, the rate of the positive resection margin or R0 rate in malignant cases had to be clearly identifiable. We used fixed or random effects models according to heterogeneity. Results: Fourteen studies with a total number of 1530 cases were included in qualitative and quantitative synthesis. Malignancies were identified in 71.1% (n = 1088) of these cases. These included hepatocellular carcinoma, cholangiocarcinoma, colorectal liver metastases and other malignancies of the liver. Positive resection margins were noted in 24 cases (5.3%) in the robotic group and in 54 cases (8.6%) in the laparoscopic group (OR = 0.71; 95% CI (0.42–1.18); p = 0.18). Tumor size was significantly larger in the robotic group (MD = 6.92; 95% CI (2.93–10.91); p = 0.0007). The operation time was significantly longer in the robotic procedure (MD = 28.12; 95% CI (3.66–52.57); p = 0.02). There were no significant differences between the robotic and laparoscopic approaches regarding the intra-operative blood loss, length of hospital stay, overall and severe complications and conversion rate. Conclusion: Our meta-analysis showed no significant difference between the robotic and laparoscopic procedures regarding the resection margin status. Tumor size was significantly larger in the robotic group. However, randomized controlled trials with long-term follow-up are needed to demonstrate the benefits of robotics in liver surgery.
Catalytic Oxidation of Toluene over Fe-Rich Palygorskite Supported Manganese Oxide: Characterization and Performance
Authors: Dong Shiwei , Chen Tianhu , Xu Fan , Liu Haibo , Wang Can , Zhang Yinsheng , Ji Minghao , Xu Chengrui , Zhu Chengzhu , Li Zhiguo , Zou Xuehua
Published: July 2022

A series of Fe–rich palygorskite supported manganese oxide (X%Mn–Pal) catalysts were prepared by co-precipitation method and used as catalysts for toluene oxidation. The components and structure of the as-prepared catalysts were characterized by XRD, Raman, TEM, XPS, and in situ DRIFTS. The results showed that the 15%Mn–Pal catalyst exhibited the highest catalytic activity (T90 = 227 °C) and excellent cycling stability for the oxidation of toluene compared with other catalysts. The characterization results indicated that remarkable activity of the 15%Mn–Pal catalyst for toluene oxidation should be ascribed to the abundant surface oxygen vacancies. In situ DRIFTS results elucidated that benzoate was the main intermediate, which can be further oxidized into H2O and CO2. The objectives of this study are to (i) investigate the synergistic effect between Fe and Mn for toluene oxidation, (ii) develop an efficient catalyst for toluene abatement with high activity and low–cost, and (iii) promote the application of natural Fe–rich palygorskite in the control of VOCs.