bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neural effects of dopaminergic compounds revealed by multi-site electrophysiology and interpretable machine-learning
Authors: Kapanaiah Sampath K. T. , Rosenbrock Holger , Hengerer Bastian , Kätzel Dennis
Published: July 2024

Background

Neuropsychopharmacological compounds may exert complex brain-wide effects due to an anatomically and genetically broad expression of their molecular targets and indirect effects via interconnected brain circuits. Electrophysiological measurements in multiple brain regions using electroencephalography (EEG) or local field potential (LFP) depth-electrodes may record fingerprints of such pharmacologically-induced changes in local activity and interregional connectivity (pEEG/pLFP). However, in order to reveal such patterns comprehensively and potentially derive mechanisms of therapeutic pharmacological effects, both activity and connectivity have to be estimated for many brain regions. This entails the problem that hundreds of electrophysiological parameters are derived from a typically small number of subjects, making frequentist statistics ill-suited for their analysis.

Methods

We here present an optimized interpretable machine-learning (ML) approach which relies on predictive power in individual recording sequences to extract and quantify the robustness of compound-induced neural changes from multi-site recordings using Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) values. To evaluate this approach, we recorded LFPs in mediodorsal thalamus (MD), prefrontal cortex (PFC), dorsal hippocampus (CA1 and CA3), and ventral hippocampus (vHC) of mice after application of amphetamine or of the dopaminergic antagonists clozapine, raclopride, or SCH23390, for which effects on directed neural communication between those brain structures were so far unknown.

Results

Our approach identified complex patterns of neurophysiological changes induced by each of these compounds, which were reproducible across time intervals, doses (where tested), and ML algorithms. We found, for example, that the action of clozapine in the analysed cortico-thalamo-hippocampal network entails a larger share of D1—as opposed to D2-receptor induced effects, and that the D2-antagonist raclopride reconfigures connectivity in the delta-frequency band. Furthermore, the effects of amphetamine and clozapine were surprisingly similar in terms of decreasing thalamic input to PFC and vHC, and vHC activity, whereas an increase of dorsal-hippocampal communication and of thalamic activity distinguished amphetamine from all tested anti-dopaminergic drugs.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that communication from the dorsal hippocampus scales proportionally with dopamine receptor activation and demonstrates, more generally, the high complexity of neuropharmacological effects on the circuit level. We envision that the presented approach can aid in the standardization and improved data extraction in pEEG/pLFP-studies.
Erythrocyte membrane biomimetic EGCG nanoparticles attenuate renal injury induced by diquat through the NF-κB/NLRP3 inflammasome pathway
Authors: Qu Jie , Pei Hui , Li Xin-Ze , Li Yan , Chen Jian-Ming , Zhang Min , Lu Zhong-Qiu
Published: July 2024

Diquat (DQ) poisoning can cause multiple organ damage, and the kidney is considered to be the main target organ. Increasing evidence shows that alleviating oxidative stress and inflammatory response has promising application prospects. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, red blood cell membrane (RBCm)-camouflaged polylactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized to deliver EGCG (EGCG-RBCm/NPs) for renal injury induced by DQ. Human renal tubular epithelial cells (HK-2 cells) were stimulated with 600 μM DQ for 12 h and mice were intraperitoneally injected with 50 mg/kg b.w. DQ, followed by 20 mg/kg b.w./day EGCG or EGCG-RBCM/NPs for 3 days. The assessment of cellular vitality was carried out using the CCK-8 assay, while the quantification of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was performed through ROS specific probes. Apoptosis analysis was conducted by both flow cytometry and TUNEL staining methods. Pathological changes in renal tissue were observed. The expressions of NLRP3, IL-1β, IL-18, NFκB and Caspase1 were detected by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and Western blot. The results showed that the DQ group had increased ROS expression, increased the level of oxidative stress, and increased apoptosis rate compared with the control group. Histopathological analysis of mice in the DQ group showed renal tubular injury and elevated levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine (SCr), kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1), and cystatin C (Cys C). Furthermore, the DQ group exhibited heightened expression of NLRP3, p-NFκB p65, Caspase1 p20, IL-1β, and IL-18. However, EGCG-RBCm/NPs treatment mitigated DQ-induced increases in ROS, apoptosis, and oxidative stress, as well as renal toxicity and decreases in renal biomarker levels. Meanwhile, the expression of the above proteins were significantly decreased, and the survival rate of mice was ultimately improved, with an effect better than that of the EGCG treatment group. In conclusion, EGCG-RBCm/NPs can improve oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis induced by DQ. This effect is related to the NF-κB/NLRP3 inflammasome pathway. Overall, this study provides a new approach for treating renal injury induced by DQ.
Mast seeding is stronger in taller plants
Authors: Qin Haiming , Yi Xianfeng
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Two economies of scale, predator satiation and pollination efficiency, have been proposed to explain the evolutionary mechanisms of mast seeding adopted by some long-lived plants. Plant height is strongly selected by pollination vectors and may also provide economies of scale; however, it remains unknown whether there is a close relationship between adult plant height and mast seeding intensity.

Methods

Here, we analyzed mast seeding intensity of 158 plant species to test if adult plant height can select for mast seeding.

Results

We show that mast seeding intensities are higher in taller plant species irrespective of phylogeny, life form, pollination vector, and type of Spermatophytes. We also show that anemophily rather than entomophily selects for taller plant species and higher mast seeding intensities.

Discussion

The linear correlations and evolutionary links between adult plant height and mast seeding intensity provide evidence that mast seeding could have evolved as an adaptation to taller strategy of perennial plant species.
Caregiver and child question types during a museum interaction
Authors: Thorson Jill C. , Trumbell Jill M. , Nesbitt Kimberly
Published: July 2024

Children museums provide an engaging learning environment for families with exhibits designed to stimulate caregiver-child interactions. Specific types of questions have been shown to support child language learning by scaffolding more elaborative responses. This study analyzed the use of question form types during caregiver-child interactions in a children’s museum, aiming to discern their correlation with child language proficiency. We examined and transcribed two exhibit explorations by 43 caregiver-child dyads (3- to 6-year-old children). Our analysis encompasses various syntactic question types (e.g., yes-no, wh-) and measures of child language proficiency, including lexical diversity, morphosyntactic complexity, and overall language ability. Findings reveal disparities in question form usage among caregivers and children, with caregivers predominantly employing closed questions and children balancing closed and open-ended types. Children of caregivers who predominantly posed closed questions exhibited shorter utterances and lower overall language scores. Details on other question forms are presented (sub-types of polar, wh-, alternative, and echo). These findings contribute to our understanding of how question form influences language development and caregiver–child interactions.
Idealism, materialism, and Vygotsky’s cultural historical theory
Authors: von Schulz Gustav A.
Published: July 2024

Vygotsky straddled the period of the Russian Revolution and found himself facing the Marxist materialist ideology of the Soviet Union with the need for a new method of psychology. Ironically, the Soviet Union’s need for a Marxist based method of psychology coincided with Vygotsky’s prior research on methods of interpretation which were inspired by Hegel and primarily based on the role of consciousness and culture. As a result of Vygotsky’s pre-revolutionary work and inspiration from Hegel clashing with the post-revolutionary need for a new methodology for psychology, Vygotsky developed his Cultural Historical Theory. In presenting his new theory, Vygotsky attempted to resolve a fundamental ideological conflict between idealism and materialism. Furthermore, Vygotsky worked to create an effective new research method by drawing inspiration from Gestalt psychology, Hegel, Marx, and Engels. The result of Vygotsky’s efforts was a theory based on psychology of consciousness and mind rather than a biology-based psychology focused entirely on analysis of stimuli and responses. In analyzing Vygotsky’s theory, it is useful to draw inspiration from Vygotsky’s criticism of pure empiricism, and to be inspired by Vygotsky’s demonstration on how deeply rooted differences between societies may be bridged by finding unexpected commonalities within opposing ideologies.
Case report: Tremor in the placebo condition of a blinded clinical trial of intermittent theta-burst stimulation for cocaine use disorder
Authors: Steele Vaughn R. , Rotenberg Alexander , Philip Noah S. , Hallett Mark , Stein Elliot A. , Salmeron Betty Jo
Published: July 2024

We report a case of a new-onset, persistent tremor that developed during a clinical trial (NCT02927236) of intermittent theta burst stimulation [iTBS, a form of repetitive magnetic transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS)] for cocaine use disorder. Although the participant exhibited an exceptionally strong clinical response, subsequent unblinding revealed that they received sham iTBS. This case highlights the potential for strong functional neurological placebo responses in rTMS trials, and functional disorders might be a marker of a placebo response. Additionally, we note the possibility that the weak e-fields produced by some sham rTMS systems may induce clinically relevant effects.
Climate adaptive solution for artificial turf in cities: integrated rainwater storage and evaporative cooling
Authors: van Huijgevoort Marjolein H. J. , Cirkel Dirk Gijsbert , Voeten Joris G. W. F.
Published: July 2024

The number of artificial turf fields in cities has increased due to increased pressure on outside sport facilities caused by a higher population density. Downsides of these fields are changes in thermal conditions and decreased infiltration of rain. Artificial turf can reach very high surface temperatures leading to unfavourable playing conditions and contributing to the urban heat island effect. In this study the possibilities of a subsurface water storage and capillary irrigation system for evaporative cooling of artificial turf based on rainwater capture, storage and reuse are investigated. The system consists of an 85 mm water-retention subbase with capillary columns, a capillary shockpad and a natural infill. First, a laboratory experiment was conducted to test the evaporative potential of the system with different types of infill and artificial turf. Next, four research plots were designed in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, which consisted of natural grass, conventional artificial turf and two versions of the cooled artificial turf system (non-infill and standard). Evaporation from the cooled artificial turf reached maximum values around 4 mm/d during summer and surface temperatures were significantly lower than at the conventional artificial turf. Rainwater was stored below the fields. By combining these functions, these fields can help cities adapt to climate change.
Integrative rehabilitation in the treatment of lumbosacral muscle strain in elite trampoline athletes: a pilot study
Authors: Ma Jia-Yin , Wu Jia-Jia , Zhang Jing , Zhao Qing , Shen Feng-Tao , Feng Ling , Zhang Guo-Hui , Zhu Yi , Xu Jian-Guang
Published: July 2024

Background

Lumbosacral muscle strain (LMS) is common in Chinese elite trampoline athletes. Advanced lumbar muscle activation is necessary for postural control before upper extremity voluntary movements, called anticipatory postural adjustment to reduce internal postural interference (IPI). The potential of delayed lumbar muscle activation has been reported in patients with non-specific LBP (NLBP) in response to IPI. However, it remains unknown whether this effect exists in elite trampoline athletes. There is also limited literature reporting the rehabilitation of LMS in this population. This study first aimed to explore whether elite trampoline athletes with LMS experience delayed activation of lumbar muscles under IPI. The secondary aim was to preliminarily evaluate an integrative rehabilitation program's effectiveness.

Materials and methods

Ten elite trampoline athletes with LMS were recruited and received 10 sessions of integrative rehabilitation, including extracorporeal shock wave therapy, acupuncture, Tui-na, and spine function exercises. At baseline and after all sessions, the relative activation time of the lumbar muscles under IPI in a modified rapid arm-rise test was used as a primary outcome measure. The secondary measures included a visual analog scale (VAS) and a questionnaire to assess low back pain (LBP) and athletic training performance.

Results

The relative activation time of the lumbar muscles under IPI was delayed at baseline, but significantly decreased after the intervention (P < 0.05). The VAS was significantly decreased after the intervention (P < 0.05). There was no significant correlation between the difference in VAS and in activation time of the lumbar muscles before and after the intervention (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Elite trampoline athletes with LMS had delayed activation in their lumbar muscles under IPI. Integrative rehabilitation was effective in LBP relief and neuromuscular control of the lumbar muscles, and impacted positively on training performance. Future studies with a larger sample size, a control group, and long-term follow-ups are needed to further examine the efficacy of integrative rehabilitation in elite trampoline athletes with LMS. Additionally, the application of this approach in athletes with LMS or LBP in other sports, particularly those involving IPI, should be explored.
Historical newspapers unlock new insights into the evolution of seafood value chains in Brazil
Authors: Herbst Dannieli Firme , Gerhardinger Leopoldo Cavaleri , Brugere Cecile , Macedo Thais Peixoto , Silva Luiz Geraldo , Colonese André Carlo
Published: July 2024

Introduction

This study examines the understudied historical evolution of the seafood value chain in southern Brazil by analysing newspaper articles from Santa Catarina state, published between 1855 and 2019.

Methods

Through a meticulous review of 598 selected articles, we reconstruct the development and transformation of small-scale fisheries (SSF) and their interaction with the emerging industrial fishing sector.

Results and discussion

Our findings highlight the central role of SSF in the seafood value chain, contributing significantly to production, processing, retail, and trade, despite increasing competition and challenges from industrial fishing and aquaculture. The analysis reveals shifts in fish species targeted, processing methods employed, market dynamics, and consumption patterns over time. Notably, the study uncovers the resilience and adaptability of SSF in maintaining their importance to local economies and food security, amidst technological, economic, and regulatory changes. Furthermore, it underscores the often-overlooked contributions of women in seafood value chains, advocating for their equitable recognition. By providing a comprehensive and multi-faceted historical perspective, this research can inform contemporary policy-making, aiming to foster more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable seafood value chains in Brazil.
L1 Adaptive Fault-Tolerant Control for Nonlinear Systems Subject to Input Constraint and Multiple Faults
Authors: Zhou Yan , Liu Huiying , Guo Huijuan
Published: July 2024

This paper investigates an L1 adaptive fault-tolerant control scheme for nonlinear systems with input constraint, external disturbances, and multiple faults, which include actuator faults and sensor faults. Faults and input constraint are important factors that affect the stability and performance of a control system. Actuators and sensors are the most vulnerable components, with the former receiving more attention in comparison. In this paper, sensor faults are first transformed into pseudo-actuator faults through the augmented matrix approach, which facilitates their handling together with actuator faults. Saturation constraints on the control signal are not conducive to the design of the controller. The conversion of an input-saturated function to a time-varying linear system is completed based on function approximation and Lagrange’s mean value theorem. Moreover, a nonlinear system with unknown input gain and uncertainties is constructed using these methods. Next, an L1 adaptive fault-tolerant controller is designed to cope with uncertainties, including system uncertainties, external disturbances, faults, and approximation errors. In the L1 adaptive controller, the online estimation of the time-varying parameters allows for updating of the system state, while the combination of the two is transmitted to the control law such that it can compensate for the effects of the uncertainties. The stability and performance boundaries are further derived using the Lyapunov theory and the L1 reference system. Finally, simulations are carried out to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed controller.
Dietary Crude Protein Reduction with Addition of Crystalline Amino Acids in Growing Pekin Ducks Housed in Cascading Cages: Influence on Growth Performance, Carcass Traits, and Apparent Nutrient Digestibility
Authors: Wu Yongbao , Feng Yulong , Cao Junting , Jiang Yong , Wang Qimeng , Hou Shuisheng , Wen Zhiguo
Published: July 2024

The intensive raising model for meat duck production has widely adopted cascading cages. However, investigations on low-protein diets for Pekin ducks under this model are scarce. Thus, a 3 × 6 factorial experiment was conducted using six dietary crude protein (CP) levels (17.61%, 16.25%, 15.34%, 14.55%, 13.38%, and 12.64%, analyzed) and three cage layers (lower, middle, and upper). The study aimed to examine the effects of dietary CP reduction with crystalline amino acid supplementation on growth performance, carcass traits, and apparent nutrient digestibility in growing Pekin ducks from 21 to 42 days of age housed at different cage layers. A total of 1620 21-day-old Pekin ducks were randomly divided into 18 groups, each with six replicates of 15 ducks per replicate. Ducks were distributed across different cage layers and were fed one of six experimental diets, respectively, each varying in dietary CP levels but maintaining similar dietary energy and amino acid profiles. The results showed that the reduction in dietary CP levels affected growth performance (p < 0.05), while weight gain, feed intake, and feed/gain of Pekin ducks had no difference among 17.61%, 16.25%, and 15.34% CP groups (p > 0.05). As dietary CP decreased, abdominal fat yield increased (p < 0.05), but breast and leg meat yields were unaffected (p > 0.05). CP intake, nitrogen intake, and nitrogen excretion decreased linearly (p < 0.05) with decreasing dietary CP levels, while apparent nutrient digestibility in Pekin ducks increased proportionally (p < 0.05). Additionally, body weight, weight gain, feed intake, CP intake, nitrogen intake, and nitrogen excretion of Pekin ducks decreased (p < 0.05) due to different cage layers, while carcass characteristics remained unaffected by cage layer (p > 0.05). In summary, it is feasible to reduce the dietary CP level with crystalline amino acid supplementation in growing Pekin ducks from 21 to 42 days of age housed in cascading cages, while the cage layers affected growth performance of ducks. Based on broken-line models, it was determined that the optimal dietary CP requirement for achieving maximum weight gain and feed efficiency in growing Pekin ducks is approximately 15%.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicle-Measured Multispectral Vegetation Indices for Predicting LAI, SPAD Chlorophyll, and Yield of Maize
Authors: Parida Pradosh Kumar , Somasundaram Eagan , Krishnan Ramanujam , Radhamani Sengodan , Sivakumar Uthandi , Parameswari Ettiyagounder , Raja Rajagounder , Shri Rangasami Silambiah Ramasamy , Sangeetha Sundapalayam Palanisamy , Gangai Selvi Ramalingam
Published: July 2024

Predicting crop yield at preharvest is pivotal for agricultural policy and strategic decision making. Despite global agricultural targets, labour-intensive surveys for yield estimation pose challenges. Using unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-based multispectral sensors, this study assessed crop phenology and biotic stress conditions using various spectral vegetation indices. The goal was to enhance the accuracy of predicting key agricultural parameters, such as leaf area index (LAI), soil and plant analyser development (SPAD) chlorophyll, and grain yield of maize. The study’s findings demonstrate that during the kharif season, the wide dynamic range vegetation index (WDRVI) showcased superior correlation coefficients (R), coefficients of determination (R2), and the lowest root mean square errors (RMSEs) of 0.92, 0.86, and 0.14, respectively. However, during the rabi season, the atmospherically resistant vegetation index (ARVI) achieved the highest R and R2 and the lowest RMSEs of 0.83, 0.79, and 0.15, respectively, indicating better accuracy in predicting LAI. Conversely, the normalised difference red-edge index (NDRE) during the kharif season and the modified chlorophyll absorption ratio index (MCARI) during the rabi season were identified as the predictors with the highest accuracy for SPAD chlorophyll prediction. Specifically, R values of 0.91 and 0.94, R2 values of 0.83 and 0.82, and RMSE values of 2.07 and 3.10 were obtained, respectively. The most effective indices for LAI prediction during the kharif season (WDRVI and NDRE) and for SPAD chlorophyll prediction during the rabi season (ARVI and MCARI) were further utilised to construct a yield model using stepwise regression analysis. Integrating the predicted LAI and SPAD chlorophyll values into the model resulted in higher accuracy compared to individual predictions. More exactly, the R2 values were 0.51 and 0.74, while the RMSE values were 9.25 and 6.72, during the kharif and rabi seasons, respectively. These findings underscore the utility of UAV-based multispectral imaging in predicting crop yields, thereby aiding in sustainable crop management practices and benefiting farmers and policymakers alike.
Climate Change Impacts on Future Wheat (Triticum aestivum) Yield, Growth Periods and Irrigation Requirements: A SALTMED Model Simulations Analysis
Authors: Chauhdary Junaid Nawaz , Li Hong , Ragab Ragab , Rakibuzzaman Md , Khan Azeem Iqbal , Zhao Jing , Akbar Nadeem
Published: July 2024

Climate change poses emerging threats to wheat growth in coming future. These threats need to be explored to ensure sustainable wheat production. To do this, the SALTMED model was calibrated using data from experiments conducted on different levels of irrigation and nitrogen doses. The performance of the SALTMED model was assessed based on values of the root mean square error (RMSE), normalized root mean square error (NRMSE), coefficient of determination (R2) and coefficient of residual mass (CRM) that ranged from 0.23–1.82, 0.09–0.17, 0.91–0.93 and −0.01–0.02, respectively for calibration and 0.31–1.89, 0.11–0.31, 0.87–0.90 and −0.02–0.01, respectively for validation. Projections for future climate scenarios for wheat growth indicated that by the end of the century, sowing dates advanced by nine days under the RCP4.5 scenario and eleven days under the RCP8.5 scenario, while harvesting dates shifted earlier by twenty-four days under RCP4.5 and twenty-eight days under RCP8.5. Consequently, the overall crop duration was shortened by fifteen days under RCP4.5 and eighteen days under RCP8.5. Further simulations revealed that the wheat yield was reduced by 14.2% under RCP4.5 and 21.0% under RCP8.5; the dry matter was reduced by 14.9% under RCP4.5 and 23.3% under RCP8.5; the irrigation amount was expected to increase by 14.9% under RCP4.5 and 18.0% under RCP8.5; and water productivity was expected to be reduced by 25.3% under RCP4.5 and 33.0% under RCP8.5 until the end of century. The hypothetical scenarios showed that adding an extra 20–40% more nitrogen can enhance wheat yield and dry matter by 10.2–23.0% and 11.5–24.6%, respectively, under RCP4.5, and by 12.0–23.4% and 12.9–29.6%, respectively, under RCP8.5. This study offers valuable insights into the effects of climate change on future wheat production so that effective contingency plans could be made by policymakers and adopted by stakeholders for higher wheat productivity.
The Isolation and Identification of a New Pathogen Causing Sunflower Disk Rot in China
Authors: Yang Jianfeng , Wang Yujie , Shi Shenghua , Li Haoyu , Zhang Wenbing , Addrah Mandela Elorm , Zhang Jian , Zhao Jun
Published: July 2024

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) is an important oil crop, ranking behind soybean, peanut, and rapeseed in terms of planting area in China. Throughout its cultivation, sunflower is susceptible to various diseases that can significantly reduce its seed yield. Among them, Fusarium species pose a major threat to numerous crops. The accurate identification of Fusarium species responsible for specific diseases is crucial for developing effective control measures. In Inner Mongolia, sunflower disk rot (SDR) has been observed in various sunflower fields, with an average infection rate of approximately 8.50%. The infection rate can reach up to 11.67% in certain highly susceptible cultivars. Samples of diseased sunflower receptacles were collected from different locations, and Koch’s postulates were employed to identify the causal agent. The results confirmed Fusarium verticillioides as the pathogen responsible for SDR. Fungicide toxicity tests were conducted, screening six fungicides for efficacy against F. verticillioides. Fludioxonil and Flutolanil were identified as the most effective, with EC50 values of 0.05 µg/mL (R = 0.9825) and 0.96 µg/mL (R = 0.9964), respectively. This is the first report of SDR caused by F. verticillioides, and it will alert sunflower researchers to include SDR in the disease list, so as to control sunflower diseases with integrated management strategies successfully.
Metabolic Control of Sugarcane Internode Elongation and Sucrose Accumulation
Authors: Botha Frederik C. , Marquardt Annelie
Published: July 2024

The relationship between metabolic changes occurring in the developing internodes of sugarcane and the final yield and sugar characteristics is poorly understood due to the lack of integration between phenotypic and metabolic data. To address this issue, a study was conducted where sugarcane metabolism was modeled based on the measurement of cellular components in the top internodes, at two stages of crop development. The study also looked at the effects of Trinexapac-ethyl (Moddus®) on growth inhibition. The metabolome was measured using GC-analysis, while LC-MS/MS was used to measure proteome changes in the developing internodes. These data were then integrated with the metabolic rates. Regardless of the growth rate, internode elongation was restricted to the top five internodes. In contrast, sucrose and lignin accumulation was sensitive to the growth rate. Crossover plots showed that sucrose accumulation only occurred once the cell wall synthesis had slowed down. These data suggest that sucrose accumulation controlled a reduction in sucrose breakdown for metabolic activity and a reduction in demand for carbon for cell wall polysaccharide synthesis. This study also found that nucleotide sugar metabolism appears to be a key regulator in regulating carbon flow during internode development.
Setosphaeria turcica, the Maize Leaf Blast Pathogen: Current Status and Infection Mechanisms
Authors: Li Pan , Sohail Aamir , Zeng Fanli , Hao Zhimin , Dong Jingao
Published: July 2024

The fungal pathogen Setosphaeria turcica causes northern corn leaf blight (NCLB) in maize, sorghum, and related grasses. NCLB is a serious fungal foliar disease of cultivated maize that causes devastating yield losses. S. turcica infects maize leaves by means of a specialized cell, the appressorium, but the regulatory mechanisms that underlie appressorium-mediated infection remain largely unknown. Many regulatory pathways and a large number of genes have been described in S. turcica, and many of these genes have been cloned. Characterization of such disease-related genes is important for understanding the biological mechanisms of interaction between pathogen and host and can guide the development of strategies for disease control. There is a significant level of concern regarding the possible dissemination of the S. turcica pathogen to regions where NCLB is not presently prevalent. This scenario is of considerable concern and necessitates immediate research intervention. The present review brings together information on the epidemiology and infection mechanisms of S. turcica.
From Herd Health to Public Health: Digital Tools for Combating Antibiotic Resistance in Dairy Farms
Authors: Neculai-Valeanu Andra-Sabina , Ariton Adina-Mirela , Radu Ciprian , Porosnicu Ioana , Sanduleanu Catalina , Amariții Gabriela
Published: July 2024

The emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant threat to global food security, human health, and the future of livestock production. Higher rates of antimicrobial use in dairy farming and the sheer lack of new antimicrobials available for use focused attention on the question of how the dairy production sector contributed to the development of AMR and paved the path toward taking action to curtail it on the targeted type of farms. This paper aims to provide an introduction to a phenomenon that has gained considerable attention in the recent past due to its ever-increasing impact, the use of antimicrobial drugs, the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) on dairy farms, and seeks to discuss the possibilities of approaches such as digital health monitoring and precision livestock farming. Using sensors, data, knowledge, automation, etc., digital health monitoring, as well as Precision Livestock Farming (PLF), is expected to enhance health control and minimize disease and antimicrobial usage. The work presents a literature review on the current status and trends of AMR in dairy farms, an understanding of the concept of digital health monitoring and PLF, and the presentation and usefulness of digital health monitoring and PLF in preventing AMR. The study also analyses the strengths and weaknesses of adopting and incorporating digital technologies and artificial intelligence for dairy farming and presents areas for further study and level of use.
Applying a Specific Warm-Up on Basketball Performance: The Basket-Up Approach
Authors: Cerrillo-Sanchis Julia , Muñoz-Criado Ignacio , Pérez-Puchades Víctor , Palmero-Martín Ignacio , Galcerán-Ruiz Julio , Portes-Sanchez Rubén , Chulvi-Medrano Iván , Domínguez-Navarro Fernando , Morales-Hilario Eva , Mur-Gomar Blanca , Calvache-Castillo Sergio , Sebastiá-Alcácer Vicente , Tortosa-Soriano Guillem , Alcácer-Arraiza Pau , Bayarri-Melchor Javier , Martínez-Ortí Joan , Valverde-García Adrián , Girbés-Melià Agustin , Galán-Lliri Josep , Encarnación-Ramirez Marta , Ferrando-Porro César , Cotolí-Suarez Pedro , Ricart-Luna Borja
Published: July 2024

This research aims to evaluate whether a basketball-specific warm-up (Basket-Up) provides immediate benefits in terms of the essential physical performance requirements of basketball and to compare these effects to those obtained from FIFA 11+. In total, 95 highly trained basketball athletes (49 women, 46 men), aged between 13 and 17, were randomly divided to either perform the FIFA 11+ program (n = 48) or the Basket-Up program (n = 47). Immediate evaluation encompassed the assessment of vertical jump (countermovement jump), agility (Lane Agility Test), and 20 m sprint. A two-way mixed analysis of variance was conducted with time (preintervention and postintervention), sex (men and women), and training group (FIFA 11+ and Basket-Up) as the within- and between-participant factors, respectively. Agility (p < 0.001, F = 66.759) and jumping (p < 0.001, F = 78.062) outcomes exhibited significant differences between pre- and postintervention values in both groups. Basket-Up agility values were significantly higher than those from FIFA 11+ (p = 0.001, F = 12.998). The implementation of a specific basketball warm-up program (Basket-Up) appears to be both safe and effective in enhancing immediate athletic performance among highly trained young basketball athletes. Moreover, the effects of this program are comparable to those obtained by a nonspecific basketball warm-up (FIFA 11+) in terms of sprint and jumping performance but demonstrate superiority in agility outcomes, favoring the Basket-Up program.
Modeling and Prediction of Surface Roughness in Hybrid Manufacturing–Milling after FDM Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Djurović Strahinja , Lazarević Dragan , Ćirković Bogdan , Mišić Milan , Ivković Milan , Stojčetović Bojan , Petković Martina , Ašonja Aleksandar
Published: July 2024

Three-dimensional printing, or additive manufacturing, represents one of the fastest growing branches of the industry, and fused deposition modeling (FDM) is one of most frequently used technologies. Three-dimensional printing does not provide high-quality surfaces, so finishing is required, and milling is one of the best methods for improving surface quality. The combination of 3D printing and traditional manufacturing technologies is known as hybrid manufacturing. In order to improve quality and determine optimal machining parameters, researchers increasingly use artificial intelligence methods. In the context of manufacturing technologies, both multiple regression analysis (MRA) and artificial neural networks (ANNs) have proven to be highly reliable in predicting and optimizing machining processes. This study focuses on the use of MRA and an ANN to analyze the influence of machining parameters such as feed rate, depth of cut, and spindle speed on the surface roughness of a 3D-printed part in a milling process. The study compares the measured results with the outcomes obtained through MRA and the ANN to assess their effectiveness in predicting and optimizing surface roughness. The results show that higher accuracy was obtained from the ANN method.
An Efficient Immersive Self-Training System for Hip-Hop Dance Performance with Automatic Evaluation Features
Authors: Esaki Kazuhiro , Nagao Katashi
Published: July 2024

As a significant form of physical expression, dance demands ongoing training for skill enhancement, particularly in expressiveness. However, such training often faces restrictions related to location and time. Moreover, the evaluation of dance performance tends to be subjective, which necessitates the development of effective training methods and objective evaluation techniques. In this research, we introduce a self-training system for dance that employs VR technology to create an immersive training environment that facilitates a comprehensive understanding of three-dimensional dance movements. Furthermore, the system incorporates markerless motion capture technology to accurately record dancers’ movements in real time and translate them into the VR avatar. Additionally, the use of deep learning enables multi-perspective dance performance assessment, providing feedback to users to aid their repetitive practice. To enable deep learning-based dance evaluations, we established a dataset that incorporates data from beginner-level dances along with expert evaluations of those dances. This dataset was specifically curated for practitioners in a dance studio setting by using a total of four cameras to record dances. Expert annotations were obtained from various perspectives to provide a comprehensive evaluation. This study also proposes three unique automatic evaluation models. A comparative analysis of the models, particularly contrastive learning (and autoencoder)-based expression learning and a reference-guided model (where a model dancer’s performance serves as a reference), revealed that the reference-guided model achieved superior accuracy. The proposed method was able to predict dance performance ratings with an accuracy of approximately ±1 point on a 10-point scale, compared to ratings by professional coaches. Our findings open up novel possibilities for future dance training and evaluation systems.
Real-Time SLAM and Faster Object Detection on a Wheeled Lifting Robot with Mobile-ROS Interaction
Authors: Lei Xiang , Chen Yang , Zhang Lin
Published: July 2024

Wheeled lifting robots have found widespread applications in various industrial and logistical environments. However, traditional robots are far from adequate in terms of visual perception capabilities. Additionally, their remote control methods suffer from inefficiencies, which tend to bring safety concerns. To address these issues, this work proposes an autonomous multi-sensor-enabled wheeled lifting robot system, i.e., AMSeWL-R, to facilitate remote autonomous operations. Specifically, AMSeWL-R integrates real-time simultaneous localization and mapping with object detection on a wheeled lifting robot. Additionally, a novel mobile-ROS interaction method is proposed to achieve real-time communication and control between a mobile device and a ROS host. Furthermore, a lightweight object detection algorithm based on YOLOv8, i.e., YOLOv8-R, is proposed to achieve faster detection. Experimental results validate the effectiveness of the AMSeWL-R system for accurately detecting objects and mapping its surroundings. Furthermore, TensorRT acceleration is employed during practical testing on a Jetson Nano to achieve real-time detection using the proposed YOLOv8-R, demonstrating its efficacy in real-world scenarios.
Robotic Delivery Worker in the Dark: Assessment of Perceived Safety from Sidewalk Autonomous Delivery Robots’ Lighting Colors
Authors: Xu Fan , Liu Duanduan , Zhou Chao , Hu Jing
Published: July 2024

Sidewalk autonomous delivery robots (SADRs) share sidewalks with pedestrians and may affect their perceived safety. In outdoor nighttime environments, the color of the lights on SADRs serves as a noticeable form of communication that can influence human emotions. Therefore, this study investigated whether the perceived safety of SADRs varied with the colors of their lighting. In this study, an experiment (n = 30) was conducted where participants walked towards a robot from opposite directions to interact. The perceived safety of five different lighting colors (red, yellow, blue, green, and white) on SADRs was measured before and after the interaction using two perceived safety scales. The results showed significant differences in participants’ perceived safety for the robot’s red, green, blue, and yellow lighting before and after the interaction. Red lighting was rated the least perceived safe, while white and yellow lighting were rated the most perceived safe. Additionally, gender significantly influenced the perceived safety assessments, with females reporting lower perceived safety than males. These findings are valuable when designing SADRs that enhance pedestrians’ perceived safety, thereby facilitating their integration into broader environments in the future.
Exploring the Complexities of Urban Forms and Urban Heat Islands: Insights from the Literature, Methodologies, and Current Status in Morocco
Authors: Benaomar Khaoula , Outzourhit Abdelkader
Published: July 2024

The Urban Heat Island phenomenon (UHI), characterized by elevated temperatures in urban areas compared to their rural surroundings, is highly exacerbated by urbanization and climate change. Understanding the complex relationship between UHI effect and urban form is crucial for effective urban planning and climate mitigation strategies. This paper examines the multifaceted connection between UHIs and urban forms, exploring various methods used to study this relationship. Through a review of the existing literature, we analyze the influence of various urban characteristics on the intensity and spatial distribution of UHIs. Furthermore, we discuss the key methods and technologies, such as remote sensing and modeling, used in advancing our understanding of UHI–urban form interactions. This study then delves into the literature on UHIs within the specific context of Morocco, identifying research gaps and emphasizing the need for more comprehensive research to address them. By translating study findings into actionable urban solutions, this paper suggests contextual mitigation strategies based on the research outcomes. Finally, by synthesizing current research findings and methodologies, this paper seeks to provide insights into the complexities of UHI dynamics and their implications for climate resilience, highlighting the potential of research for forging sustainable and climate-conscious planning strategies in Morocco and across the broader MENA region.
Protein Thermal Stability Changes Induced by the Global Methylation Inhibitor 3-Deazaneplanocin A (DZNep)
Authors: Berryhill Christine A. , Doud Emma H. , Hanquier Jocelyne N. , Smith-Kinnaman Whitney R. , McCourry Devon L. , Mosley Amber L. , Cornett Evan M.
Published: July 2024

DZNep (3-deazaneplanocin A) is commonly used to reduce lysine methylation. DZNep inhibits S-adenosyl-l-homocysteine hydrolase (AHCY), preventing the conversion of S-adenosyl-l-homocysteine (SAH) into L-homocysteine. As a result, the SAM-to-SAH ratio decreases, an indicator of the methylation potential within a cell. Many studies have characterized the impact of DZNep on histone lysine methylation or in specific cell or disease contexts, but there has yet to be a study looking at the potential downstream impact of DZNep treatment on proteins other than histones. Recently, protein thermal stability has provided a new dimension for studying the mechanism of action of small-molecule inhibitors. In addition to ligand binding, post-translational modifications and protein–protein interactions impact thermal stability. Here, we sought to characterize the protein thermal stability changes induced by DZNep treatment in HEK293T cells using the Protein Integral Solubility Alteration (PISA) assay. DZNep treatment altered the thermal stability of 135 proteins, with over half previously reported to be methylated at lysine residues. In addition to thermal stability, we identify changes in transcript and protein abundance after DZNep treatment to distinguish between direct and indirect impacts on thermal stability. Nearly one-third of the proteins with altered thermal stability had no changes at the transcript or protein level. Of these thermally altered proteins, CDK6 had a stabilized methylated peptide, while its unmethylated counterpart was unaltered. Multiple methyltransferases were among the proteins with thermal stability alteration, including DNMT1, potentially due to changes in the SAM/SAH levels. This study systematically evaluates DZNep’s impact on the transcriptome, the proteome, and the thermal stability of proteins.
A Gold Nanoparticle-Based Cortisol Aptasensor for Non-Invasive Detection of Fish Stress
Authors: Tanaka Yuki , Salleh Nur Asinah binte Mohamed , Tan Marie Ruoyun , Vij Shubha , Wee Caroline Lei , Sutarlie Laura , Su Xiaodi
Published: July 2024

Cortisol is a key stress biomarker in humans and animals, including fishes. In aquafarming, stress monitoring using cortisol quantification can help to optimize aquaculture practices for welfare and productivity enhancement. However, most current methods for cortisol detection rely on invasive tissue sampling. In this work, we developed a gold nanoparticle (AuNP)-based cortisol sensor to address the demand of detecting picomolar ranges of cortisol from complex fish tank water matrices as a non-invasive alternative for more effective stress monitoring. We first identified a DNA aptamer with effective binding to cortisol and then conjugated the thiol-labelled aptamer to AuNPs together with a blocker molecule (CALNN) to form an Au-Apt-CALNN conjugate that is stable in fish tank water. The cortisol detection principle is based on magnesium chloride (MgCl2)-induced particle aggregation, where the cortisol-bound aptamer on the AuNPs folds into a tertiary structure and provides greater protection for Au-Apt-CALNN against MgCl2-induced aggregation due to steric stabilization. At an optimum MgCl2 concentration, the differential stability of particles with and without cortisol binding offers a limit of detection (LOD) of 100 pM for cortisol within a 35 min reaction. The aptasensor has been validated on recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) fish tank water samples by the HPLC method and was able to detect changes in water cortisol induced by two different stress paradigms. This on-site deployable and non-invasive sensor offers opportunities for more efficient and real-time fish stress monitoring for the optimization of aquaculture practices.
Effect of Antiseizure Medication on the Salience Network in Patients with Epilepsy with Generalized Tonic-Clonic Seizures Alone
Authors: Bistriceanu Cătălina Elena , Vulpoi Georgiana-Anca , Stoleriu Iulian , Cuciureanu Dan Iulian
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to investigate the effects of antiepileptic drugs on salience network regions in patients with epilepsy with generalized tonic-clonic seizures alone (EGTCSa). A retrospective observational case-control study was performed on 40 patients diagnosed with epilepsy with EGTCSa and 40 healthy age-matched controls. In LORETA, a voxel-by-voxel analysis between regions from the salience network was performed for both hemispheres, specifically between the anterior cingulate (BA 32 and BA 24) and the sublobar insula (BA 13). Subsequently, a Wilcoxon rank-sum test (the Mann-Whitney U test) was conducted for the equality of medians in the transformation matrix. A comparison was then made between each region of interest as defined by the salience network and the controls. Marked differences were found in the brain regions assessed in patients with EGTCSa treated with valproic acid and carbamazepine compared to the control group; few differences in patients treated with levetiracetam; and no difference was found in the group without treatment compared with those in the control group. These results suggest that ASMs can influence cognitive processes, which provide novel insights toward understanding the neural mechanisms underlying the effects of ASMs administration.