bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LOCAL TOURS IN ACHIEVING COMPETITIVE SUPERIORITY IN MEDICAL TOURISM: THE CASE OF AKSARAY
Authors: Karasu Emre , Karasu Lale
Published: July 2023

The main purpose of this research is to examine the importance of local tours in order to gain competitive advantage in the medical tourism sector. Medical tourism is a sector that involves patients who have difficult access to health services or who face high costs, traveling across international borders for the purpose of receiving health care. Medical tourists generally prefer destinations that offer quality health services, affordable prices, specialist doctors and modern facilities. Local tours are package tours that offer medical tourists local culture, natural beauties, traditional tastes and other touristic experiences. Such tours enrich the medical tourism experience and provide tourists with an unforgettable holiday experience.
This study was carried out to test the hypothesis that competitiveness in medical tourism can be achieved through local tours. At the same time, it aimed to answer the question of whether Aksaray province is adequately equipped as a medical tourism destination. In-depth interview technique, one of the qualitative research methods, was used in the data collection process. The research was carried out on the entire Aksaray province universe and the interviews were held in Aksaray province center. Data were collected in April 2019. Within the scope of the study, interviews were held with Aksaray University officials, Aksaray Training and Research Hospital officials, Aksaray Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Aksaray Provincial Tourism Directorate, Aksaray Provincial Health Directorate, representatives of private hospitals throughout the province and travel agencies with a total of 20 participants. Interviews were conducted in the form of one-on-one interviews lasting approximately 45 minutes. 55% of the participants are represented by public institutions and organizations, 40% by private institutions and organizations and 5% by non-governmental organizations.
According to the data obtained, it was concluded that Aksaray province has health tourism potential and local tours are an attractive option in medical tourism. Aksaray's tourism potential is supported by its historical and cultural elements. However, the lack of development of medical tourism is due to reasons such as lack of projects, unconsciousness, lack of investment and funding. Aksaray has the equipment that can provide competitive power in the field of medical tourism and is suitable for development. Aksaray's tourism potential needs to be integrated with health tourism, coordination among stakeholders and a strategic plan should be created. It is obvious that Aksaray will develop more economically and socially if it fully utilizes its potential in the field of medical tourism.
Nanoporous Metal Foam: Efficient and Reusable Submicron Filtration Media
Authors: Malloy James , Liu Kai , Quintana Alberto , Jensen Christopher J.
Published: July 2023

A new type of material based on nanoporous copper foams using metallic nanowires as building blocks has promising applications in filtration media, smart masks, and air cleaners.
Características físicas, fisicoquímicas y sensoriales de granos de cacao (Theobroma cacao) variedad FTA-4 cosechado en el departamento de Arauca evaluado en condiciones de fermentación y secado variables.
Authors: Armenta Roncancio Jhon Esteban , Olarte Lopez Davinson Fabian , Rincon Jhon Alexander , Rodriguez Maria Patricia
Published: July 2023

The new varieties of cocoa, such as the FTA-4 clone from the department of Arauca - Colombia, have an incipient scientific review, so it could evaluate the behavior of the benefit of beans. In the fermentation phase, the residence time of the grain was analyzed (4 days or 6 days) and during the drying operation the behavior against natural solar drying and assisted convective drying was observed, the response variables that were analyzed physical as % of well-fermented grains, grain index, variables of a physicochemical nature such as % of fat,  of protein and total ashes, finally the sensory characteristics of flavor and aroma were evaluated allowed to generate the evaluation. An increased approval rate was obtained in grains that fermented for 6 days and whose drying was artificial (< 94% of well-fermented grains), in addition to the relationship between the factors is decisive to increase or decrease this parameter. The grain index was not significantly affected by the factors, it was constant at 1.96±0.013 g/grain. In the physicochemical section, statistical evidence was reported of the incidence of the type of drying and the fermentation time, in the concentration of both proteins and fat, being the best artificial drying for fermented cocoas for 4 days to increase the fat content (54.6 % w / w). The amount of cocoa bean protein increased in naturally dried beans from 6 days (11.51±0.071%) of fermentation without having a significant incidence of independent factors.  Through a sensory analysis it was possible to identify the profile of the FTA-4 cocoa of Arauca, and evaluated in the variations of the different factors identifying that naturally dried and fermented beans for 6 days I highlight in the panel highlight less sensation of acid and bitter flavors and aromas that reduce the quality of cocoa in the production of chocolate.
Prácticas de seguridad de la información en estudiantes de escuela secundaria en Colombia
Authors: Bahamón Magda Julissa Rojas , Pulido Jiménez Alejandro , Serrato Rodríguez Yenny Isabel
Published: July 2023

The objective of this article is to identify the cybersecurity practices of high school students based on their social representations. This research was carried out with the participation of students from state and private institutions in the cities of Bogotá D.C. and Florencia-Caquetá in Colombia. The data was collected through a semi-structured interview. The analysis of the information was carried out using the qualitative software NVIVO v12. The study determines that the lack of cybereducation of high school students becomes an important vulnerable condition that deteriorate the trust and digital security in the country.
IMPLEMENTASI KEBIJAKAN PENDAFTARAN TANAH SISTEMATIS LENGKAP (PTSL) BADAN PERTANAHAN NASIONAL (BPN) KABUPATEN TEGAL PADA MASA PANDEMI COVID-19 TAHUN 2020-2021
Authors: Suharto Suharto , Firdian Zidane Yusuf
Published: July 2023

This study aims to determine the implementation of the Complete Systematic Land Registration (PTSL) program at the Tegal Regency Land Agency. The type of research used is qualitative research. The collection of data used is observation, literature study and interviews. The data analysis technique used is descriptive analysis, namely by collecting data related to data collection techniques carried out and obtained by the author. Then the data is processed with the aim of getting a clear picture related to the research focus and the writer performs a descriptive analysis in writing the results of his study.The results of this study indicate that the implementation of policies carried out by the Tegal Regency Land Agency in the PTSL program has been carried out well, but with a note that there must be an increase in debriefing, effective coordination and communication to the field committee, as well as more active outreach to the community, especially for those who living in another area or migrating. In terms of the contents of the policy providing a beneficial impact on the community, from the support of the community in this program to being involved in the process of implementing the PTSL program, the distribution of potential is carried out by giving responsibility and authority to the Village Office and the community involved in the PTSL program. As for the inhibiting factors, namely the existence of some people who lack the socialized PTSL program, incomplete files owned by the community, issues of inheritance rights that have not been resolved, boundary disputes, difficult terrain at several measurement points and field coordination which often results in misunderstandings in communication.
Strategi Customer Relation PT. Panah Perdana Logisindo Dalam Upaya Peningkatan Kualitas Pelayanan Jasa Freight Forwarding
Authors: Ramadhan Ghama Fadhila , Kusumaningrum Rastri , Lubis Flori Mardiani
Published: July 2023

Penelitian ini menggunakan metode deskriptif kualitatif, yang meneliti bagaimana proses PT Panah Perdana Logisindo berhubungan dengan pelanggan. Pengambilan data dilakukan dengan cara observasi langsung pada kantor PT Panah Perdana Logisindo serta mewawancara informan yang sesuai dengan karateristik yang ditentukan, karakteristik yang dimaksud adalah karyawan atau direksi yang terlibat dalam proses perancangan customer relation. Penelitian ini didasarkan oleh konsep CRM dari Anton dan Goldenberry yang menyebutkan 3 konsep utama dalam CRM yakni, Karyawan (People), Teknologi (Technology), dan Proses (Process).Hasil dari penelitian ini menunjukan, PT Panah Perdana Logisindo mencari sumber daya manusia yang sesuai dengan kualifikasi perusahaan, membangun interaksi sosial yang baik antar karyawan, dan meningkatkan kemampuan dasar yang telah dimiliki oleh karyawannya dalam pengoptimalannya di bidang karyawan (People). PT Panah Perdana Logisindo dalam pengoptimalannya pada bidang teknologi (Technology) juga melakukan penyimpanan database dari konsumen, selalu mendengarkan dan menyesuaikan kepentingan konsumen serta kemampuan perusahaan, dan tetap mengawasi proses penerapan CRM. Dan yang terakhir dalam proses-nya (Process) PT Panah Perdana Logisindo selalu memulai dengan pengenalan terhadap konsumen, lalu penentuan pesan yang akan disampaikan, serta menetapkan metode penyampaian pesan tersebut.This research uses a qualitative descriptive method, which examines how the process of PT Panah Perdana Logisindo relates to customers. Data collection was carried out by direct observation at the PT Panah Perdana Logisindo office and interviewing informants according to the specified characteristics, the characteristics in question were employees or directors who were involved in the customer relations design process. This research is based on the CRM concept from Anton and Goldenberry which mentions 3 main concepts in CRM namely, Employees (People), Technology (Technology), and Process (Process). The results of this study indicate, PT Panah Perdana Logisindo is looking for human resources who in accordance with the company's qualifications, building good social interaction between employees, and improving the basic capabilities that employees already have in optimizing them in the field of employees (People). PT Panah Perdana Logisindo in its optimization in the field of technology (Technology) also keeps databases from consumers, always listens to and adjusts to consumer interests and company capabilities, and keeps an eye on the CRM implementation process. And finally, in the process, PT Panah Perdana Logisindo always starts with an introduction to the consumer, then determines the message to be conveyed, and determines the method of delivering the message
Thrombotic Events and Risk Factors for Thrombosis in Polycythemia in Senegal, West Africa
Authors: Seck Moussa , Bousso Elimane Seydi , Touré Sokhna Aissatou , Sall Abibatou , Ndao Maryama , Guèye Sérigne Mourtalla , Faye Blaise Félix , Diallo Alioune Badara , Keita Mohamed , Touré Awa Oumar , Diop Saliou
Published: July 2023

Objectives: We aim to identify thrombotic events and risk factors for thrombosis (RFT) comparing polycythemia vera (PV) and secondary polycythemia (SP) patients.

Methods: We carried out a retrospective study of a cohort of 59 patients with PV (n=34) and SP (n=25) followed for a period of 14 years. Variables studied were the frequency and type of thrombosis, sociodemographic, clinical, and biological RFT. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software version 18. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify RFT.

Results: Mean age in PV was 53 years (33 - 79) and 44.5 years (5 - 78) in SP (p=0.74). The sex ratio in PV was 1.12 and 2.57 in PS (p=0.52). Sixteen patients had thrombotic events (27.1%) including 12 PV (35.3%) versus 4 SP (16%) (p=0.09). Twenty-two thrombotic events were identified; 14 (63.7%) of arterial thrombosis and 8 (36.3%) of venous thrombosis. There were 18 thrombotic events (81.8%) in PV versus 4 (18.2%) in SP (p=0.02). Arterial thrombosis was more frequent in PV (55.6%). Thrombosis events were more frequent in female patients (59.1%). RFT in PV were age (40-59 years), hematocrit >45% and thrombocytosis ≥ 600 G/L and in SP, RFT were hematocrit >45% and hypercholesterolemia. After multivariate analysis, hematocrit >45% was the only RFT independently associated with thrombosis occurrence.

Conclusion: We show through this study, a frequent occurrence of arterial thrombosis in polycythemia. Main RFT is the high hematocrit level (>45%). We insist on the interest of therapeutic bloodletting, sometimes associated with cytoreductive treatment in order to maintain a hematocrit level <45%.
Role of extracellular vesicles in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Jiang Wei , Xu Youhui , Chen Jou-Chen , Lee Yi-Hung , Hu Yushin , Liu Chang-Hai , Chen Enqiang , Tang Hong , Zhang Hua , Wu Dongbo
Published: July 2023

Background

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common chronic liver disease that affects approximately one-quarter of the global population and is becoming increasingly prevalent worldwide. The lack of current noninvasive tools and efficient treatment is recognized as a significant barrier to the clinical management of these conditions. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanoscale vesicles released by various cells and deliver bioactive molecules to target cells, thereby mediating various processes, including the development of NAFLD.

Scope of review

There is still a long way to actualize the application of EVs in NAFLD diagnosis and treatment. Herein, we summarize the roles of EVs in NAFLD and highlight their prospects for clinical application as a novel noninvasive diagnostic tool as well as a promising therapy for NAFLD, owing to their unique physiochemical characteristics. We summarize the literatures on the mechanisms by which EVs act as mediators of intercellular communication by regulating metabolism, insulin resistance, inflammation, immune response, intestinal microecology, and fibrosis in NAFLD. We also discuss future challenges that must be resolved to improve the therapeutic potential of EVs.

Major conclusions

The levels and contents of EVs change dynamically at different stages of diseases and this phenomenon may be exploited for establishing sensitive stage-specific markers. EVs also have high application potential as drug delivery systems with low immunogenicity and high biocompatibility and can be easily engineered. Research on the mechanisms and clinical applications of EVs in NAFLD is in its initial phase and the applicability of EVs in NAFLD diagnosis and treatment is expected to grow with technological progress.
Research progress on the role and mechanism of DNA damage repair in germ cell development
Authors: Wang Yan , Su Mengrong , Chen Yujie , Huang Xinyu , Ruan Lian , Lv Qizhuang , Li Li
Published: July 2023

In the complex and dynamic processes of replication, transcription, and translation of DNA molecules, a large number of replication errors or damage can occur which lead to obstacles in the development process of germ cells and result in a decreased reproductive rate. DNA damage repair has attracted widespread attention due to its important role in the maintenance and regulation of germ cells. This study reports on a systematic review of the role and mechanism of DNA damage repair in germline development. First, the causes, detection methods, and repair methods of DNA damage, and the mechanism of DNA damage repair are summarized. Second, a summary of the causes of abnormal DNA damage repair in germ cells is introduced along with common examples, and the relevant effects of germ cell damage. Third, we introduce the application of drugs related to DNA damage repair in the treatment of reproductive diseases and related surgical treatment of abnormal DNA damage, and summarize various applications of DNA damage repair in germ cells. Finally, a summary and discussion is given of the current deficiencies in DNA damage repair during germ cell development and future research development. The purpose of this paper is to provide researchers engaged in relevant fields with a further systematic understanding of the relevant applications of DNA damage repair in germ cells and to gain inspiration from it to provide new research ideas for related fields.
DNA metabarcoding analysis of three material types to reveal Joro spider (Trichonephila clavata) trophic interactions and web capture
Authors: Grabarczyk Erin E. , Querejeta Marina , Tillman P. Glynn , Wallace Rebekah D. , Barnes Brittany F. , Meinecke Colton D. , Villari Caterina , Gandhi Kamal J. K. , LaForest Joseph , Elliott Matt , Schmidt Jason M.
Published: July 2023

Introduced species alter established trophic interactions and molecular analysis can resolve changes in community structure and associated foraging links. Joro spiders (Trichonephila clavata) were recently introduced to the United States and their range is rapidly expanding across the east coast. Here, we used DNA metabarcoding of fecal samples, prey remains from webs, and dissected guts to compare diet composition of female Joro spiders in the southeastern United States. We amplified DNA from three material types using arthropod-targeted COI primers and sequenced with IIlumina MiSeq. Prey remains from webs had the highest diversity, richness, as well as the highest proportion of prey reads relative to Joro spider reads. Recovery of prey reads from fecal samples and dissected gut content was low and both were overwhelmed by Joro spider DNA. Although fecal samples and gut content had high proportions of Joro spider reads, fecal samples had higher prey diversity and richness. Moreover, we detected prey DNA from fecal samples several days after capture from the field, which reveals initial gut retention time estimates for fecal samples collected from web-building spiders. Combined, our results offer a first glimpse at the complexity of trophic associations for an introduced web-building spider and identify a viable material, prey remains from webs, as a source of prey DNA for estimates of biodiversity associated with web-building spiders.
Mapping the tumor microenvironment in clear cell renal carcinoma by single-cell transcriptome analysis
Authors: Wang Yuxiong , Wang Yishu , Liu Bin , Gao Xin , Li Yunkuo , Li Faping , Zhou Honglan
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is associated with unfavorable clinical outcomes. To identify viable therapeutic targets, a comprehensive understanding of intratumoral heterogeneity is crucial. In this study, we conducted bioinformatic analysis to scrutinize single-cell RNA sequencing data of ccRCC tumor and para-tumor samples, aiming to elucidate the intratumoral heterogeneity in the ccRCC tumor microenvironment (TME).

Methods: A total of 51,780 single cells from seven ccRCC tumors and five para-tumor samples were identified and grouped into 11 cell lineages using bioinformatic analysis. These lineages included tumor cells, myeloid cells, T-cells, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells, indicating a high degree of heterogeneity in the TME. Copy number variation (CNV) analysis was performed to compare CNV frequencies between tumor and normal cells. The myeloid cell population was further re-clustered into three major subgroups: monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells. Differential expression analysis, gene ontology, and gene set enrichment analysis were employed to assess inter-cluster and intra-cluster functional heterogeneity within the ccRCC TME.

Results: Our findings revealed that immune cells in the TME predominantly adopted an inflammatory suppression state, promoting tumor cell growth and immune evasion. Additionally, tumor cells exhibited higher CNV frequencies compared to normal cells. The myeloid cell subgroups demonstrated distinct functional properties, with monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells displaying diverse roles in the TME. Certain immune cells exhibited pro-tumor and immunosuppressive effects, while others demonstrated antitumor and immunostimulatory properties.

Conclusion: This study contributes to the understanding of intratumoral heterogeneity in the ccRCC TME and provides potential therapeutic targets for ccRCC treatment. The findings emphasize the importance of considering the diverse functional roles of immune cells in the TME for effective therapeutic interventions.
COVID, complement, and the brain
Authors: Vlaicu Sonia I. , Tatomir Alexandru , Cuevas Jacob , Rus Violeta , Rus Horea
Published: July 2023

The brains of COVID-19 patients are affected by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, and these effects may contribute to several COVID-19 sequelae, including cognitive dysfunction (termed “long COVID” by some researchers). Recent advances concerning the role of neuroinflammation and the consequences for brain function are reviewed in this manuscript. Studies have shown that respiratory SARS-CoV-2 infection in mice and humans is associated with selective microglial reactivity in the white matter, persistently impaired hippocampal neurogenesis, a decrease in the number of oligodendrocytes, and myelin loss. Brain MRI studies have revealed a greater reduction in grey matter thickness in the orbitofrontal cortex and parahippocampal gyrus, associated with a greater reduction in global brain size, in those with SARS-CoV-2 and a greater cognitive decline. COVID-19 can directly infect endothelial cells of the brain, potentially promoting clot formation and stroke; complement C3 seems to play a major role in this process. As compared to controls, the brain tissue of patients who died from COVID-19 have shown a significant increase in the extravasation of fibrinogen, indicating leakage in the blood–brain barrier; furthermore, recent studies have documented the presence of IgG, IgM, C1q, C4d, and C5b-9 deposits in the brain tissue of COVID-19 patients. These data suggest an activation of the classical complement pathway and an immune-mediated injury to the endothelial cells. These findings implicate both the classical and alternative complement pathways, and they indicate that C3b and the C5b-9 terminal complement complex (membrane attack complex, MAC) are acting in concert with neuroinflammatory and immune factors to contribute to the neurological sequelae seen in patients with COVID.
CETP inhibitor evacetrapib enters mouse brain tissue
Authors: Phénix Jasmine , Côté Jonathan , Dieme Denis , Recinto Sherilyn J. , Oestereich Felix , Efrem Sasen , Haddad Sami , Bouchard Michèle , Munter Lisa Marie
Published: July 2023

High levels of plasma cholesterol, especially high levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), have been associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease. The cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) in plasma distributes cholesteryl esters between lipoproteins and increases LDL-C in plasma. Epidemiologically, decreased CETP activity has been associated with sustained cognitive performance during aging, longevity, and a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Thus, pharmacological CETP inhibitors could be repurposed for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease as they are safe and effective at lowering CETP activity and LDL-C. Although CETP is mostly expressed by the liver and secreted into the bloodstream, it is also expressed by astrocytes in the brain. Therefore, it is important to determine whether CETP inhibitors can enter the brain. Here, we describe the pharmacokinetic parameters of the CETP inhibitor evacetrapib in the plasma, liver, and brain tissues of CETP transgenic mice. We show that evacetrapib crosses the blood–brain barrier and is detectable in brain tissue 0.5 h after a 40 mg/kg i.v. injection in a non-linear function. We conclude that evacetrapib may prove to be a good candidate to treat CETP-mediated cholesterol dysregulation in Alzheimer’s disease.
Paediatric medicine issues and gaps from healthcare workers point of view: survey results and a narrative review from the global accelerator for paediatric formulations project
Authors: Barbieri Elisa , Minotti Chiara , Cavagnis Sara , Giaquinto Carlo , Cappello Bernadette , Penazzato Martina , Lallemant Marc
Published: July 2023

The WHO Model List of Essential Medicines for Children (EMLc) has not been systematically revised in the last few years. We conducted a survey addressed to healthcare professionals prescribing, preparing, or administering medicines to children and a narrative review to identify problematic paediatric formulations or missing medicines in all therapeutic fields to inform the review of the EMLc in 2023. A total of 285 physicians (63%), 28 nurses (6%) and 142 pharmacists (31%), mostly working in the hospital setting, reported at least one problematic medicine. 290 medicines were reported as missing (completely or the child-appropriate formulation). The top three most mentioned were ciprofloxacin together with phenobarbital and omeprazole. 387 medicines were reported as problematic (34% were oral liquid formulations, 34% tablets, 18% parenteral preparations. Mostly of the products were antibacterials (27%), cardiovascular medicines (11%) and antivirals (11%). The obtained responses show the perspective of healthcare workers working around the world, particularly in the European region (25%), in the African region (24%), and in the Region of the Americas (19%), with limited representation from Northern Africa and the Middle East. Our results need to be analysed with the outputs of other ongoing works before specific products can enter the WHO-hosted Global Accelerator for Paediatric formulations network prioritisation process. Efforts to develop appropriate formulations for children should be accelerated so that the uncertainties associated with off-label drug preparation and use are minimised, and therapeutic benefits are optimised.
Sex differences in pituitary corticotroph excitability
Authors: Duncan Peter J. , Romanò Nicola , Nair Sooraj V. , Murray Joanne F. , Le Tissier Paul , Shipston Michael J.
Published: July 2023

Stress-related illness represents a major burden on health and society. Sex differences in stress-related disorders are well documented, with women having twice the lifetime rate of depression compared to men and most anxiety disorders. Anterior pituitary corticotrophs are central components of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, receiving input from hypothalamic neuropeptides corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH) and arginine vasopressin (AVP), while regulating glucocorticoid output from the adrenal cortex. The dynamic control of electrical excitability by CRH/AVP and glucocorticoids is critical for corticotroph function; however, whether corticotrophs contribute to sexually differential responses of the HPA axis, which might underlie differences in stress-related disorders, is very poorly understood. Using perforated patch clamp electrophysiology in corticotrophs from mice expressing green fluorescent protein under the control of the Pomc promoter, we characterized basal and secretagogue-evoked excitability. Both male and female corticotrophs show predominantly single-spike action potentials under basal conditions; however, males predominantly display spikes with small-amplitude (<20 mV) afterhyperpolarizations (B-type), whereas females displayed a mixture of B-type spikes and spikes with a large-amplitude (>25 mV) afterhyperpolarization (A-type). In response to CRH, or CRH/AVP, male cells almost exclusively transition to a predominantly pseudo-plateau bursting, whereas only female B-type cells display bursting in response to CRH±AVP. Treatment of male or female corticotrophs with 1 nM estradiol (E2) for 24–72 h has no effect on the proportion of cells with A- or B-type spikes in either sex. However, E2 results in the cessation of CRH-induced bursting in both male and female corticotrophs, which can be partially reversed by adding a BK current using a dynamic clamp. RNA-seq analysis of purified corticotrophs reveals extensive differential gene expression at the transcriptional level, including more than 71 mRNAs encoding ion channel subunits. Interestingly, there is a two-fold lower level (p < 0.01) of BK channel pore-forming subunit (Kcnma1) expression in females compared to males, which may partially explain the decrease in CRH-induced bursting. This study identified sex differences at the level of the anterior pituitary corticotroph ion channel landscape and control of both spontaneous and CRH-evoked excitability. Determining the mechanisms of sex differences of corticotroph and HPA activity at the cellular level could be an important step for better understanding, diagnosing, and treating stress-related disorders.
Non-destructive monitoring method for leaf area of Brassica napus based on image processing and deep learning
Authors: Li Mengcheng , Liao Yitao , Lu Zhifeng , Sun Mai , Lai Hongyu
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Leaves are important organs for photosynthesis in plants, and the restriction of leaf growth is among the earliest visible effects under abiotic stress such as nutrient deficiency. Rapidly and accurately monitoring plant leaf area is of great importance in understanding plant growth status in modern agricultural production.

Method

In this paper, an image processing-based non-destructive monitoring device that includes an image acquisition device and image process deep learning net for acquiring Brassica napus (rapeseed) leaf area is proposed. A total of 1,080 rapeseed leaf image areas from five nutrient amendment treatments were continuously collected using the automatic leaf acquisition device and the commonly used area measurement methods (manual and stretching methods).

Results

The average error rate of the manual method is 12.12%, the average error rate of the stretching method is 5.63%, and the average error rate of the splint method is 0.65%. The accuracy of the automatic leaf acquisition device was improved by 11.47% and 4.98% compared with the manual and stretching methods, respectively, and had the advantages of speed and automation. Experiments on the effects of the manual method, stretching method, and splinting method on the growth of rapeseed are conducted, and the growth rate of rapeseed leaves under the stretching method treatment is considerably greater than that of the normal treatment rapeseed.

Discussion

The growth rate of leaves under the splinting method treatment was less than that of the normal rapeseed treatment. The mean intersection over union (mIoU) of the UNet-Attention model reached 90%, and the splint method had higher prediction accuracy with little influence on rapeseed.
Digital transformation in the agri-food industry: recent applications and the role of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Hassoun Abdo , Marvin Hans J. P. , Bouzembrak Yamine , Barba Francisco J. , Castagnini Juan Manuel , Pallarés Noelia , Rabail Roshina , Aadil Rana Muhammad , Bangar Sneh Punia , Bhat Rajeev , Cropotova Janna , Maqsood Sajid , Regenstein Joe M.
Published: July 2023

Providing food has become more complex because of climate change and other environmental and societal stressors, such as political instability, the growth in the world population, and outbreaks of new diseases, especially the COVID-19 pandemic. In response to these challenges, the agri-food industry has increased its efforts to shift to using more digital tools and other advanced technologies. The transition toward digital has been part of the fourth industrial revolution (called Industry 4.0) innovations that have and are reshaping most industries. This literature review discusses the potential of implementing digital technologies in the agri-food industry, focusing heavily on the role of the COVID-19 pandemic in fostering the adoption of greater digitalization of food supply chains. Examples of the use of these digital innovations for various food applications, and the barriers and challenges will be highlighted. The trend toward digital solutions has gained momentum since the advent of Industry 4.0 and implementations of these solutions have been accelerated by the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Important digital technology enablers that have high potential for mitigating the negative effects of both the current global health pandemic and the environmental crisis on food systems include artificial intelligence, big data, the Internet of Things, blockchain, smart sensors, robotics, digital twins, and virtual and augmented reality. However, much remains to be done to fully harness the power of Industry 4.0 technologies and achieve widespread implementation of digitalization in the agriculture and food industries.
Establishing a Sequencing Method for the Whole Mitochondrial DNA of Domestic Dogs
Authors: Sugasawa Takehito , Matsumoto Yuki , Fang Hui , Takemasa Tohru , Komine Ritsuko , Tamai Shinsuke , Gu Wenchao , Tanaka Kei , Kanki Yasuharu , Takahashi Yoichiro
Published: July 2023

In human beings, whole mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequencing has been widely used in many research fields, including medicine, forensics, and genetics. With respect to the domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris), which is commonly recognized as being an additional member of the traditional human family structure, research studies on mtDNA should be developed to expand and improve our collective knowledge of dog medicine and welfare as it seems that there is still room for further development in these areas. Moreover, a simple and robust method for sequencing whole mtDNA that can be applied to various dog breeds has not yet been described in the literature. In the present study, we aim to establish such a method for the whole mtDNA sequencing of the domestic dog. In the experiments we conducted, oral mucosa DNA samples obtained from six Japanese domestic dogs were used as a template. We designed four primer pairs that could amplify approximately 5 kbp from each region of the mtDNA and validated several PCR conditions. Subsequently, the PCR amplicons were pooled and subjected to library preparation. The sequencing of the libraries was performed using next-generation sequencing (NGS), followed by bioinformatics analysis. Our results demonstrate that the proposed method can be used to perform highly accurate resequencing. We believe that this method may be useful for future research conducted to better understand dog medicine and welfare.
Early Brain Injury and Neuroprotective Treatment after Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A Literature Review
Authors: Li Xiaopeng , Zeng Lang , Lu Xuanzhen , Chen Kun , Yu Maling , Wang Baofeng , Zhao Min
Published: July 2023

Early brain injury (EBI) subsequent to subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is strongly associated with delayed cerebral ischemia and poor patient prognosis. Based on investigations into the molecular mechanisms underlying EBI, neurovascular dysfunction resulting from SAH can be attributed to a range of pathological processes, such as microvascular alterations in brain tissue, ionic imbalances, blood–brain barrier disruption, immune–inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, and activation of cell death pathways. Research progress presents a variety of promising therapeutic approaches for the preservation of neurological function following SAH, including calcium channel antagonists, endothelin-1 receptor blockers, antiplatelet agents, anti-inflammatory agents, and anti-oxidative stress agents. EBI can be mitigated following SAH through neuroprotective measures. To enhance our comprehension of the relevant molecular pathways involved in brain injury, including brain ischemia–hypoxic injury, neuroimmune inflammation activation, and the activation of various cell-signaling pathways, following SAH, it is essential to investigate the evolution of these multifaceted pathophysiological processes. Facilitating neural repair following a brain injury is critical for improving patient survival rates and quality of life.
Disruption of the Mammalian Ccr4–Not Complex Contributes to Transcription-Mediated Genome Instability
Authors: Hagkarim Nafiseh Chalabi , Hajkarim Morteza Chalabi , Suzuki Toru , Fujiwara Toshinobu , Winkler G. Sebastiaan , Stewart Grant S. , Grand Roger J.
Published: July 2023

The mammalian Ccr4–Not complex, carbon catabolite repression 4 (Ccr4)-negative on TATA-less (Not), is a large, highly conserved, multifunctional assembly of proteins that acts at different cellular levels to regulate gene expression. It is involved in the control of the cell cycle, chromatin modification, activation and inhibition of transcription initiation, control of transcription elongation, RNA export, and nuclear RNA surveillance; the Ccr4–Not complex also plays a central role in the regulation of mRNA decay. Growing evidence suggests that gene transcription has a vital role in shaping the landscape of genome replication and is also a potent source of replication stress and genome instability. Here, we have examined the effects of the inactivation of the Ccr4–Not complex, via the depletion of the scaffold subunit CNOT1, on DNA replication and genome integrity in mammalian cells. In CNOT1-depleted cells, the elevated expression of the general transcription factor TATA-box binding protein (TBP) leads to increased RNA synthesis, which, together with R-loop accumulation, results in replication fork slowing, DNA damage, and senescence. Furthermore, we have shown that the stability of TBP mRNA increases in the absence of CNOT1, which may explain its elevated protein expression in CNOT1-depleted cells. Finally, we have shown the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase signalling as evidenced by ERK1/2 phosphorylation in the absence of CNOT1, which may be responsible for the observed cell cycle arrest at the border of G1/S.
Prox1 Suppresses the Proliferation of Breast Cancer Cells via Direct Inhibition of c-Myc Gene Expression
Authors: Michail Artemis , Gkikas Dimitrios , Stellas Dimitris , Kaltezioti Valeria , Politis Panagiotis K.
Published: July 2023

Breast cancer is one of the most lethal malignancies in women worldwide and is characterized by rapid growth and low survival rates, despite advances in tumor biology and therapies. Novel therapeutic approaches require new insights into the molecular mechanisms of malignant transformation and progression. To this end, here, we identified Prox1 as a negative regulator of proliferation and tumor-related metabolism in breast cancer. In particular, we showed that breast tumors from human patients exhibited reduced levels of Prox1 expression, while high expression levels of Prox1 were associated with a favorable prognosis in breast cancer patients. Moreover, we experimentally demonstrated that Prox1 was sufficient to strongly suppress proliferation, migration, and the Warburg effect in human breast cancer cells without inducing apoptosis. Most importantly, over-expression of Prox1 inhibited breast tumor growth in vivo in both heterotopic and orthotopic xenograft mouse models. The anti-tumorigenic effect of Prox1 was mediated by the direct repression of c-Myc transcription and its downstream target genes. Consistently, c-Myc over-expression from an artificial promoter that was not targeted by Prox1 reversed Prox1’s anti-tumor effects. These findings suggest that Prox1 has a tumor suppressive role via direct transcriptional regulation of c-Myc, making it a promising therapeutic gene for breast cancer.
Flow-Assisted Corrosion of Carbon Steel in Simulated Nuclear Plant Steam Generator Conditions
Authors: Betova Iva , Bojinov Martin , Karastoyanov Vasil
Published: July 2023

Flow-assisted corrosion occurs via increased dissolution and/or mechanical degradation of protective oxide formed on the surface of construction materials in direct contact with coolant liquids. In the present paper, this phenomenon is studied on carbon steel in an ammonia-ethanolamine-hydrazine electrolyte by in situ electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in conditions that closely simulate those that prevail in nuclear plant steam generators. Based on the obtained results, a quantitative kinetic model of the process is proposed and parameterized by nonlinear regression of experimental data to the respective transfer function. On the basis of the experimental and calculational results, it is concluded that flow-assisted corrosion of carbon steel is limited by oxide dissolution and cation ejection processes and the protective layer–coolant interface. Expressions for the film growth and corrosion release processes are proposed and successfully compared to operational data.
Habitat Loss and Biotic Velocity Response to Climate Change for Alpine Plant Species in Atlantic Oceanic Islands
Authors: Bello-Rodríguez Víctor , Hamann Andreas , Martín-Esquivel Jose Luis , Cubas Jonay , Del Arco Marcelino J. , González-Mancebo Juana María
Published: July 2023

Climate change may shift species outside of their current climatic tolerances, which can be problematic for oceanic islands with limited options for species migration. Their alpine habitats, which represent islands within islands, are a special concern due to high endemism rates. The Canary Islands have two examples for such fragile ecosystems above 2000 m, on La Palma and Tenerife. This study contributes an assessment of the Canary Islands’ climatic habitat for 47 alpine plant species under observed climate change (1959–1989 versus 1990–2019 periods) as well as for future projections (2041–2060 and 2061–2080 periods). We analyzed the contraction of climatic habitats and migration requirements (biotic velocity) for each species to compensate for observed and predicted climate change. Our results suggest that temporary climate refugia exist on Tenerife but are insufficient on La Palma, where habitat loss due to historical climate change has already created an area of significant concern: the Cumbre Vieja Natural Park. On Tenerife, current alpine species can find suitable climate habitats in the caldera area and on the Teide-Pico Viejo volcano. That said, migration paths toward these refugia are long and complex, and human-assisted migration may be required. Species-specific statistics to support such management interventions are provided in this study.
Infrared Thermal Profiles in Silvopastoral and Full-Sun Pastures in the Eastern Amazon, Brazil
Authors: Cândido Aureane Cristina Teixeira Ferreira , Guerreiro Martorano Lucieta , Cândido Bruno Uéslei Ferreira , Nascimento Werlleson , Dias Carlos Tadeu dos Santos , Lisboa Leila Sheila Silva , Fernandes Paulo Campos Christo , Silva Arystides Resende , Dias-Filho Moacyr Bernardino , Beldini Troy Patrick
Published: July 2023

There is a great need to identify interactions among silvopastoral systems and microclimatic indicators that describe the effect of trees compared to conventional pasture systems without trees. The objective of this study was to evaluate thermal conditions in a silvopastoral system and a pasture area exposed to full sunlight in the eastern Amazon, Brazil. The silvopastoral system was composed of the forest tree species Bertholletia excelsa H.B.K., Dipteryx odorata (Aubl.) Willd, and Khaya grandifoliola C.DC.. During the monitoring period, a forest inventory was carried out that included 30 trees from each species for which thermal profiles were created using a high-precision thermographic camera. Near-infrared thermography showed a positive and direct correlation with dendrometric variables. Silvopastoral systems with K. grandifoliola reduced the heat profile the most compared to conditions in a pasture fully exposed to sunlight, which demonstrates the ecosystem service provided by trees for thermal regulation in these systems. The microclimatic conditions explain the greater presence of bovines in the silvopastoral system as they were most likely in search of the thermal comfort provided by the trees during the period of the highest daytime temperatures. The silvopastoral system benefits the caloric balance and thermal comfort of pasture animals.
Organic Matter Content in Mangrove Soils from a Karstic Environment: Comparison between Thermogravimetric and Loss-on-Ignition Analytical Techniques
Authors: Cortés-Esquivel José Luis , Herrera-Silveira Jorge , Quintana-Owen Patricia
Published: July 2023

Mangroves represent one of the most important carbon sinks on the planet due to their ability to store a high organic matter (OM) concentration in their soils. Therefore, OM analysis is important for generating inventories that do not underestimate or overestimate carbon stocks and for reducing uncertainties. Accordingly, we propose the use of thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) against the classical ignition method to determine the OM content in mangrove soils from a karstic region of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. Therefore, fifty-five soil profiles from El Playón in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve were analyzed and divided according to the condition of the mangrove: conserved, under restoration, or degraded. TGA analysis of mangrove soils, which are in direct contact with water bodies, can be used to accurately identify the thermal decomposition of hydrated calcium sulfates, which cannot be detected using the loss-on-ignition (LOI) method. Using TGA, it was determined that the water content in the internal structure of hydrated calcium sulfates was between 8 and 16% in the preserved mangrove soils, between 2 and 5% in the mangrove soils under restoration, and between 0.5 and 1% in the degraded mangrove soils. The OM content obtained using both techniques was similar; however, using TGA, the amount of water evaporated from calcium sulfates could be measured, and this was not possible with the LOI method. Therefore, the TGA technique can be used as a proxy analysis to determine the OM content in soils, including the amount of water from hydrated calcium sulfates that are found naturally.
Molecular Regulation of Differential Lipid Molecule Accumulation in the Intramuscular Fat and Abdominal Fat of Chickens
Authors: Li Jingjing , Huang Qinke , Yang Chaowu , Yu Chunlin , Zhang Zengrong , Chen Meiying , Ren Peng , Qiu Mohan
Published: July 2023

Reducing abdominal fat (AF) accumulation and increasing the level of intramuscular fat (IMF) simultaneously is a major breeding goal in the poultry industry. To explore the different molecular mechanisms underlying AF and IMF, gene expression profiles in the breast muscle (BM) and AF from three chicken breeds were analyzed. A total of 4737 shared DEGs were identified between BM and AF, of which 2602 DEGs were upregulated and 2135 DEGs were downregulated in the BM groups compared with the AF groups. DEGs involved in glycerophospholipid metabolism and glycerolipid metabolism were potential regulators, resulting in the difference in lipid metabolite accumulation between IMF and AF. The PPAR signaling pathway was the most important pathway involved in tissue-specific lipid deposition. Correlation analysis showed that most representative DEGs enriched in the PPAR signaling pathway, such as FABP5, PPARG, ACOX1, and GK2, were negatively correlated with PUFA-enriched glycerophospholipid molecules. Most DEGs related to glycerophospholipid metabolism, such as GPD2, GPD1, PEMT, CRLS1, and GBGT1, were positively correlated with glycerophospholipid molecules, especially DHA- and arachidonic acid (ARA)-containing glycerophospholipid molecules. This study elucidated the molecular mechanism underlying tissue-specific lipid deposition and poultry meat quality.