bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monitoring the Effects of Land Use Land Cover Change on Forest Biomass Carbon” in the Western Himalayan of Pakistan, a Study of Ayubia National Park
Authors: Aftab Basit , Wang Zhichao , Zhongke Feng
Published: June 2024

Land use land cover change(LULCC) plays a significant role in understanding the global change. Particularly in regions with high population growth and climate change, anthropogenic activities have drastically altered land use and land cover (LULC). The geographic information system (GIS) and remote sensing are prominent tools for monitoring LULC changes. The land use land cover(LULC) analysis and carbon loss assessment were carried out in Ayubia national park. The area was classified into five major LULC classes, namely grassland, built-up areas, mixed forests, conifer forests and bare land. Landsat temporal satellite data of Ayubia national park acquired on 1992,2002,2012 and 2022 were analysed to access land use change and Markov’s Chain Model was used to predict the land use land cover changes for 2040. The accuracy of the images were assessed using Kappa matrix. Our results showed that a total of 371.94 ha forest land has been converted into other land uses from 1992 to 2022 and Indicating the increasing scale of anthropogenic pressure on forest resources of the Park. The carbon pool was assessed in two forest types including temperate coniferous forest and Mixed forest. The estimated carbon value recorded in TCF is 135.19 ±9.74 MgC ha-1, whereas it is in 86.43 ±8.25 MgC ha-1 in MF. Using satellite data, a thorough examination of the forest inventory was conducted to determine the LULCC, the rate of biomass carbon loss, and the factors that influenced these trends.
Dangerous Items Detection in Surveillance Camera Images Using Faster R-CNN
Authors: Omiotek Zbigniew , Zhunissova Ulzhalgas
Published: June 2024

Recently, a significant number of tools for detecting dangerous objects have been developed. Unfortunately, the performance offered by them is overestimated due to the poor quality of the datasets used (insufficiently numerous, contain items not strictly related to dangerous objects, insufficient range of presentation conditions). To fill in a gap in this area we have built an extensive dataset dedicated to detecting the objects most often used in various acts of breaching public security (baseball bat, gun, knife, machete, rifle). This collection contains images presenting the detected objects with different quality and under different environmental conditions. We believe that the results obtained from it are more reliable and give a better idea of the detection accuracy that can be achieved under real conditions. We used the Faster R-CNN with different backbone networks in the study. The best results were obtained for the ResNet152 backbone. The mAP value was 85%, while the AP level ranged from 80% to 91%, depending on the item detected. An average real-time detection speed was 11-13 FPS. Both the accuracy and speed of the Faster R-CNN model allow it to be recommended for use in public security monitoring systems aimed at detecting potentially dangerous objects.
Pregnant Women: A Global Perspective of the Scientific Literature
Authors: Lima Gabrielle Gimenes , De Gaspari Elizabeth
Published: June 2024

For the World Health Organization, and specifically for the International Coordination Committee, the need to bring forward discussions on non-clinical trials in human models, such as vaccine trials in pregnant women, with the aim of demonstrating immunity in newborns, has been addressed. This literature review seeks to investigate the relationship between mothers and newborns in terms of the transfer of IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2. Most of the literary evidence shows that the substantial transfer of transplacental and lactational antibodies to infants confers protection even when the baby is exposed to the disease. However, accurate and conclusive evidence on the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines during pregnancy will be a key factor in facilitating the decision-making process for pregnant women to ensure the safety of mother and baby.
Candida albicans Mannosidases, Dfg5 and Dcw1, Are Required for Pathogenesis
Authors: Razmi Maryam , Kim Jaewon , Chinnici Jennifer , Busarajan Sujay , Vuppalapaty Hema , Lankipalli Deepika , Li Rui , Maddi Abhiram
Published: June 2024

C. albicans Dfg5 and Dcw1 are homologous cell wall alpha-1,6-mannosidases with important functions. Our past studies have shown that Dfg5 and Dcw1 function in cell wall biogenesis via cross-linking of glycoproteins into the cell wall, thus playing a key role in cell wall integrity. Additionally, Dfg5 and Dcw1 are required for hyphal morphogenesis. However, the exact functions of Dfg5 and Dcw1 in cell wall integrity, hyphal morphogenesis, and pathogenesis were not known. In this study, we determined the relation of Dfg5 and Dcw1 with Hog1 MAPK, that plays a key role in cell wall integrity via regulation of chitin synthesis in C. albicans. Additionally, we also determined the effect of dfg5 and dcw1 mutations on gene expression of transcriptional regulators of hyphal morphogenesis. Furthermore, we determined the effects of dfg5 and dcw1 mutations on pathogenesis in a mouse model of oral candidiasis. Our results demonstrate that dfg5 and dcw1 mutations, as well as hog1 knock-out mutation result in dysregulation of chitin synthesis resulting in a cell separation defect. The heterozygous and conditional mutations of dfg5 and dcw1 result in decreased levels of Cst20, a positive regulator of hyphal morphogenesis. However, mutations of dfg5 and dcw1 mutations resulted in increased levels of all the five negative regulators of hyphal morphogenesis – Tup1, Nrg1, Mig1, Rbf1 and Rfg1. However, Tup1 levels were significantly higher than other negative regulators indicating that Dfg5 and Dcw1 function in hyphal morphogenesis by repression of Tup1. Finally, dfg5 and dcw1 mutations affected the ability of C. albicans to cause oral candidiasis in mice. Thus, cell wall glycosidases, Dfg5 and Dcw1, are required for virulence and pathogenesis and represent novel drug targets.
Enhancing Natural Language to Code Generation in the SantaCoder Model through In-Context Learning
Authors: Nirmal Joshua Kapu , Sreejith Mihit
Published: June 2024

Generating executable code from natural language instructions using Large Language Models (LLMs) presents challenges such as semantic understanding and handling ambiguous input. This study focuses on the SantaCoder model and explores the impact of in-context learning on code generation using the MBPP and HumanEval datasets for evaluation. Our results demonstrate significant improvements in three key metrics (defined in the paper): correctness@k, similarity@k and pass@k. To address the problem of selecting optimal demonstrations to maximize correctness and pass rates, we investigate two methods: latent concept selection and random selection in this paper. These findings highlight the effectiveness of in-context learning and the critical role of demonstration selection in enhancing the accuracy, efficiency, and versatility of the SantaCoder model in code generation.
Advancements and Perspectives in Additive Manufacturing of Tungsten Alloys and Composites: Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Zarinejad Mehrdad , Tong Yunxiang , Salehi Mojtaba , Mu Chengfa , Wang Nian , Xu Yonglong , Rimaz Sajjad , Tian Lintao , Kuah Kai Xiang , Chen Xiaotong
Published: June 2024

This review examines additive manufacturing for refractory tungsten (W) and its alloys. It emphasizes the primary challenges and determining factors involved in additive manufacturing pure W, W alloys, and composites. Our focus in this regard extends to both process and alloying strategies designed to address critical issues such as densification, micro-cracking, and mechanical properties in tungsten-based components produced through additive techniques. Throughout the review, we organize existing knowledge and insights into convenient tables, serving as valuable resources for researchers embarking on a deeper exploration of these topics.
Optimizing Spring Maize Growth and Yield through Balanced Irrigation and Nitrogen Application: A TOPSIS Method Approach
Authors: Liu Yongqi , Gu Jian , Ma Ningning , Li Xue , Yin Guanghua , Sun Shijun
Published: June 2024

The current design of irrigation and fertilization systems often depends on a single index, leading to irrational systems due to the lack of a comprehensive multi-index evaluation. The aim of this study is to optimize the irrigation and nitrogen fertilizer application levels of spring maize using the TOPSIS method, in order to achieve a balance between growth characteristics, yield, water use efficiency, and soil nitrogen content. In the typical semi-arid region of Northeast China, through precise control experiments from 2022 to 2023, we adopted a two factor quadratic saturation D-optimal design method to study the effects of different irrigation amounts (145.40, 271.70, 348.20, 436.20 mm) and nitrogen fertilizer application amounts (34.80, 185.90, 277.40, 382.80 kg·hm-2) on spring maize. Results indicate that increasing both irrigation and nitrogen application rates can enhance dry matter accumulation by 15.17% to 32.70%. The impact of irrigation and fertilization on the net photosynthetic rate (Pn) of spring maize was found to be greater for irrigation amount than nitrogen application, particularly at 9:00 am and 13:00 pm, and slightly less so at 11:00 am and 15:00 pm. Concurrently, there was a significant increase in total nitrogen (TN1 by 20.85% for 0-20 cm soil layer, TN2 by 33.33% for 20-40 cm soil layer) and alkali-hydrolyzed nitrogen (AHN1 by 14.65% for 0-20 cm, AHN2 by 28.86% for 20-40 cm). Yields improved by 12.02% to 44.09%, and water use efficiency (WUE) saw an increase ranging from 20.08% to 140.07%. The optimal water and fertilizer management mode for spring maize SBDI (shallow buried drip irrigation) in semi-arid areas was determined through comprehensive analysis using TOPSIS entropy weight method. When the irrigation amount is 436.20 mm and the nitrogen fertilizer application amount is 277.40 kg·hm-2, it can significantly promote the accumulation of dry matter, yield, water use efficiency, photosynthetic characteristics, and soil nitrogen content of spring maize. This study provides a theoretical basis for the practical application of SBDI water fertilizer coupling technology for spring maize.
A Regularized Physics-Informed Neural Network to support Data-Driven Nonlinear Constrained Optimization
Authors: Perez-Rosero Diego Armando , Álvarez-Meza Andrés Marino , Castellanos-Dominguez Germán
Published: June 2024

Nonlinear optimization (NOPT) is a meaningful tool for solving complex tasks in fields like engineering, economics, and operations research, among others. However, NOPT has problems when it comes to dealing with data variability and noisy input measurements that lead to incorrect solutions. Furthermore, nonlinear constraints may result in outcomes that are either infeasible or suboptimal, such as non-convex optimization. This paper introduces a novel regularized physics-informed neural network (RPINN) framework as a new NOPT tool for both supervised and unsupervised data-driven scenarios. By using custom activation functions and regularization penalties in an artificial neural network (ANN), RPINN can handle data variability and noisy inputs. Besides, it uses physics principles to build the network architecture, computing the optimization variables based on network weights and learned features. In addition, it uses automatic differentiation training to make the system scalable and cut down on computation time through batch-based back-propagation. The test results for both supervised and unsupervised NOPT tasks show that our RPINN can provide solutions that are competitive compared to state-of-the-art solvers. In turn, RPINN’s robustness against noisy input measurements makes it particularly valuable in environments with fluctuating information. Additionally, RPINN’s ANN-based foundation offers significant flexibility and scalability.
Narratives of Transparency: How Supply Chain Communication Shapes Brand Image in Marketing
Authors: Holloway Samuel
Published: June 2024

In contemporary marketing and consumer behavior research, supply chain transparency has emerged as a critical determinant of brand image and consumer trust. This qualitative study explores how transparency in supply chain communication shapes brand perception and influences consumer behavior. Through in-depth interviews with marketing professionals, consumers, and supply chain managers, this research examines the impact of transparent practices on consumer trust, brand loyalty, and market differentiation. Findings reveal that transparent disclosure of sourcing, production methods, and sustainability initiatives enhances consumer perception of brand authenticity and ethical responsibility. Effective communication strategies such as detailed product labeling, interactive digital content, and third-party certifications play a pivotal role in educating consumers and reinforcing brand credibility. Despite the benefits, the study identifies challenges including global supply chain complexity, lack of standardized metrics, and economic considerations associated with transparency implementation. Technological advancements like blockchain and data analytics offer solutions to improve supply chain visibility and traceability, supporting brands in meeting ethical standards and consumer expectations. Moreover, transparency facilitates effective crisis management and reputation recovery by enabling brands to promptly address supply chain issues and maintain consumer trust during disruptions. The research highlights cultural and regional variations in consumer expectations regarding transparency, underscoring the need for brands to tailor communication strategies to local values and preferences. As brands navigate these complexities, prioritizing transparency not only strengthens consumer relationships but also positions them as leaders in ethical business practices. Ultimately, this study contributes to understanding the strategic importance of supply chain transparency in fostering sustainable brand growth and resilience in a competitive global market.
Brain-Inspired Sparse Training in MLP and Transformers with Network Science Modeling via Cannistraci-Hebb Soft Rule
Authors: Zhang Yingtao , Zhao Jialin , Liao Ziheng , Wu Wenjing , Michieli Umberto , Cannistraci Carlo Vittorio
Published: June 2024

Dynamic sparse training is an effective strategy to alleviate the training and inference demands of artificial neural networks. However, current sparse training methods face a challenge in achieving high levels of sparsity while maintaining performance comparable to that of their fully connected counterparts. The Cannistraci-Hebb training (CHT) method produces an ultra-sparse advantage compared to fully connected training in various tasks by using a gradient-free link regrowth method, which relies solely on the network topology. However, its rigid selection based on link prediction scores may lead to epitopological local minima, especially at the beginning of the training process when the network topology might be noisy and unreliable. In this article, we introduce the Cannistraci-Hebb training soft rule (CHTs), which applies a flexible approach to both the removal and regrowth of links during training, fostering a balance between exploring and exploiting network topology. Additionally, we investigate the network topology initialization using several approaches, including the bipartite scale-free and bipartite small-world network models. Empirical results show that CHTs can surpass the performance of fully connected networks with MLP architecture by using only 1% of the connections (99% sparsity) on the MNIST, EMNIST, and Fashion MNIST datasets and can provide remarkable results with only 0.1% of the links (99.9% sparsity). In some MLPs for image classification tasks, CHTs can reduce the active neuron network size to 20% of the original nodes (neurons), demonstrating a remarkable ability to generalize better than fully connected architectures, reducing the entire model size. This represents a relevant result for dynamic sparse training. Finally, we present evidence from larger network models such as Transformers, with 10% of the connections (90% sparsity), where CHTs outperform other prevalent dynamic sparse training methods in machine translation tasks.
Exact sequences in Hν – (R - S) -hyper-bi-modules
Authors: Nooranian Maryan , Davvaz Bijan
Published: June 2024

The largest class of multi-valued systems satisfying the module-like axioms are the hyper modules. The main tools concerning the class of Hν – (R – S) - bi-modules are fundamental relations. First we define Hν – (R – S)-hyper-bi-modules and investigate exact secqenses in this field and find equivalent conditions of exactness.
COMPARISON OF CUTTING TOOL GEOMETRIES BASED ON CUTTING FORCES AND ROUGHNESS OF HARD TURNED SURFACES
Authors: Molnár Viktor , Szabo Gergely
Published: June 2024

Surface quality and energy consumption are two widely studied topics of hard machining. Due to the increasing need of companies for new, more efficient materials, tools and procedures, their manufacturers or suppliers have to deliver innovative solutions from time to time. In this study the latest development of a hard turning insert manufacturer is used in comprehensive machining experiments to show how the new tool (a wiper insert) behaves compared to its standard counterpart. Based on surface roughness and machining force measurement and analysis, this efficiency is proved by quantitative results: the wiper geometry ensures significantly better surface quality, while the energy consumption of the used machine tool is considerably lower.
FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS OF CHANGING OF STRESS CONDITION CAUSED BY DIAMOND BURNISHING
Authors: Ferencsik Viktoria
Published: June 2024

The article is aspected to the finite element modelling of stress in subsurface layer of aluminium alloy workpiece during diamond burnishing process. This cold forming process is a simple, cost-effective finishing method that can be used to improve surface integrity and provide compressive residual stress. Available with these, durability and quality enhancement of the components can be reached, but improperly chosen burnishing parameters can distort the efficiency of the plastic deformation process. In order to optimize this, a 2D FEM model is created including the real surface integrity of the workpiece which was measured with AltiSurf 520 surface roughness measuring device. The method is simulated using DEFORM-2D software, corresponding to the numerical values of burnishing parameters implemented in practice as well, thereby allowing a comparative analysis with the results of X-ray diffraction measurement.
DETERMINATION OF THE SIZE OF MEDIUM GRANULES IN FREE ABRASIVE PROCESSING TECHNOLOGY AND THE SIZE OF THE RESERVOIR OF A MACHINE FOR VIBRATION PROCESSING OF PARTS
Authors: Mitsyk Andrii , Fedorovich Vladimir , Kozakova Natalia
Published: June 2024

It is noted that the process of vibration processing of parts is carried out by the relative movement and mutual pressure of granules of the medium and the parts being processed circulating in the oscillating reservoir. It is noted that the removal of defects from the surface of a part is carried out by the processes of microcutting and elastoplastic deformation. It is indicated that despite the effectiveness of vibration processing, its capabilities are limited to performing simple operations and have not been sufficiently studied. The effectiveness of vibration processing depends on a number of factors, among which the size of the medium granules and the size of the machine reservoir play a significant role. To determine these factors, the kinematics of the finishing and grinding process was considered, and the joint movement of the medium granule and the part was taken into account. The removal of microchips along the entire length of the machined surface during one period of oscillation of the machine reservoir and the damping properties of the material of the working medium used were also taken into account. It has been established that, depending on the shape of the part, its position and direction of movement in the reservoir, the angle of contact with the granules can vary from 0 to 90º. In this regard, cases of encounters between granules and parts are considered. It has been established that the unfavorable case of a meeting occurs at the right angle of their collision. It is concluded that the removal of microchips from the surface of parts is theoretically inversely proportional to the size of the medium granules. It has been determined that the increase in damping of the medium caused by a decrease in the size of the granules can be compensated by increasing the amplitude of the oscillations of the reservoir and the use of granules with a large specific gravity. The choice of granule size is also limited by the conditions of their access to the surfaces being treated, while the conditions for eliminating the possibility of granules jamming are met. It has been experimentally confirmed that the reservoir with a “U” – shaped cross-section turned out to be the best, due to the absence of stagnant zones in it. It has been established that as the cross-section of the reservoir increases, the productivity of the machine will decrease. Intensifying the process by increasing the amplitude is unacceptable, since this causes the appearance of deep defects on the treated surfaces. To increase processing efficiency, it is necessary to increase the volume of the reservoir by lengthening it, rather than increasing its cross-section.
Education Forum: Restrictive Covenants (Non-competes) in Orthopaedic Fellowships: What Every Resident Should Know Before Applying to Fellowship
Authors: Hustedt Joshua W. , Spangehl Mark J.
Published: June 2024

Introduction:

More than 90% of orthopaedic surgery residents in the United States complete a fellowship program. While there is significant oversight of the educational process and rights of residents during residency, there is little standardization in fellowships in the United States. Applicants to fellowship need to be aware that they may be required to sign restrictive covenants (“non-competes”) as part of the fellowship application or acceptance process. These restrictive covenants may be designed to protect the business interests of the host institution but may affect the fellow's ability to obtain employment in a geographic region.

Methods:

A review of society websites designed to education fellowship applicants was reviewed. Information was gathered on whether the society provided information on restrictive covenants in fellowship programs.

Results:

There is little standardization of restrictive covenants in orthopedic fellowships in the United States. Only accredited fellowships prohibit restrictive covenants in orthopedic fellowships. Pediatrics is the only sub-specialty society that provides information to applicants on restrictive covenants for fellowship applicants.

Conclusion:

The current lack of standardization in the fellowship process means applicants need to be well versed in these restrictive covenants before applying. In turn, fellowships themselves, as well as subspecialty societies, should seek to be transparent in providing information on restrictive covenant requirements of their respective fellowships.
Enhanced Effluent Degradation with Zinc Oxide, Carbon Nitride, and Carbon Xerogel Trifecta on brass monoliths
Authors: Silva Émerson Felipe Mendonça da , Garcia Ramón Raudel Peña , Rodrigues Liana Alvares , Sanz Oihane , Napoleão Daniella Carla , Almeida Luciano Costa
Published: June 2024

In recent years, heterogeneous photocatalysis has emerged as an alternative for the treatment of organic pollutants. This technique presents advantages such as low cost and ease of operation. However, finding a semiconductor material with operational viability and high activity under solar irradiation is a challenge, almost always in nanometric sizes. Furthermore, in many processes, the photocatalysts are suspended in the solution, which means that additional steps are required to remove them, which can make the technique economically unviable, especially when the catalysts are in nanometric size. This work aims to demonstrate the feasibility of using structured photocatalyst (ZnO, g-C3N4, and carbon xerogel), optimized for this photodegradation process. The synthesized materials were characterized by nitrogen adsorption and desorption techniques, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS). Adhesion testing demonstrated the efficiency of the deposition technique, with film adhesion exceeding 90%. The photocatalytic evaluation was performed with a mixture of three textile dyes in a recycle photoreactor, varying pH (4.7 and 10), recycle flow rate (2, 4, and 6 L h− 1), immobilized mass (1, 2, and 3 mg cm− 2), monolith height (1.5, 3.0, and 4.5 cm), and type of radiation (solar and visible artificials; and natural solar). The structured photocatalyst was able to degrade over 99% of the dye mixture using artificial radiation. The results obtained using solar energy were highly promising, achieving a degradation efficiency of approximately 74%. Furthermore, it was possible to regenerate the structured photocatalyst up to seven consecutive times using exclusively natural solar light and maintain a degradation rate of around 70%. These results reinforce the feasibility and potential application of this system in photocatalytic reactions, highlighting its effectiveness and sustainability.
Amyloidogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 Delta Plus and Omicron Variants Receptor-Binding Domain (RBD): Impact of SUMO Fusion Tag
Authors: Zargan Sadegh , Jalili Hasan , Dabirmanesh Bahareh , Mesdaghinia Saba , Khajeh Khosro
Published: June 2024

Objectives
The RBD of SARS-CoV-2 mediates viral entry into host cells by binding to the host receptor ACE2. SARS-CoV-2 infection is linked to various health issues resembling amyloid-related problems, persuading us to investigate the amyloidogenicity of the SARS-CoV-2 spike RBD.
The FoldAmyloid program was used to assess the amyloidogenic propensities in the RBD of Delta Plus and RBD of the Omicron variant, with and without the SUMO tag. After the expression of RBDs, purification, and dialysis steps were performed. Subsequently, the ThT assay, FTIR, and TEM were employed to check the RBD's ability to form fibrils.
Results
The ThT assay, TEM, and FTIR revealed the ability of RBD to self-assemble into β-sheet-rich aggregates (48.4% β-sheet content). Additionally, the presence of the SUMO tag reduced the formation of RBD amyloid-like fibrils. The amyloidogenic potential of Omicron RBD was higher than Delta Plus, according to both in silico and experimental analyses.
Conclusions
The SARS-CoV-2 RBD can assemble itself by forming aggregates containing amyloid-like fibrils and the presence of a SUMO tag can significantly decrease the formation of RBD amyloid-like fibrils. In silico analysis suggested that variation in the ThT fluorescence intensity of amyloid accumulations in the two SARS-CoV-2 strains arises from specific mutations in their RBD regions.
Radon Release at a Rehabilitated Uranium Mine Site and Dose Assessment (Case of the Former Beshtaugorskiy Mine, North Caucasus)
Authors: Miklyaev Petr , Petrova Tatiana , Sidyakin Pavel , Shshitov Dmitriy , Murzabekov Murat , Tsebro Dmitriy , Gavriliev Sakhayaan , Mikliaeva Elizaveta , Klimshin Aleksey
Published: June 2024

The article presents the results of the radon release studies at the rehabilitated uranium mine and an assessment of doses received by the population when using the territory for recreational purposes (the case of the former Beshtaugorsky uranium mine). The measurements of radon flux density from the ground surface, radon concentration in the atmospheric air and groundwater, as well as the gamma dose rate and content of natural radionuclides in soils and bedrocks were performed. It is established that abnormally high radon release associated with both a former uranium adits and natural factors such as tectonic faults. The abnormally high radon release is due to advective radon transport, mainly associated with convective thermally induced air convection in permeable zones of mountain massif; radon transport by groundwater does not affect radon emissions from the surface. The most significant source of radiation risk is the incompletely blocked adit mouths, from which mine air is periodically blown out. Radon concentration and gamma dose rate values many times exceed permissible levels in these locations. A person resting in such an area for 4 hours can lead to a dose exceeding 2 mSv. This is advisable to take measures to prevent or reduce the time people spend in the areas of former adit mouths.
Examining the evolving patterns of recent droughts and climate categorization's impact on groundwater reserves through the utilization of GRI and SPI indices in the southern plain of the Sefidroud Basin, Iran
Authors: Mobarhan Ebrahim Yousefi , Khaleghi Ali , Zandifar Samira
Published: June 2024

Groundwater reservoirs are acknowledged as a vital and cost-effective water source, and comprehending their significance and efficient utilization can foster sustainable development of social and economic activities in a region, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. This study aimed to explore the correlation between the GRI index and standard rainfall, followed by the classification of the region's climate using the De Martonne method. The research focused on analyzing the temporal variations in recent droughts and climate classification concerning underground water resources in the Qorveh-Dehgolan plain. The GRI calculation method was employed to assess groundwater depletion over periods ranging from 1 to 48 months in the Qorveh-Dehgolan plain. Additionally, ArcGIS software was utilized to zone the groundwater levels and drought severity. The study conducted a correlation analysis between GRI and SPI indicators through linear regression in Excel, revealing a lack of significant correlation between the two indicators (P-value = 0.053 and R2 value = 0.003), despite their distinctiveness. Furthermore, the drought classification based on SPI indicated that the region fell into the normal drought category. The climatic classification derived from three nearby stations was established as semi-arid using the De Martonne method.
Involvement of NEK7 in the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in macrophages of rheumatoid arthritis and the intervention of Er Miao San
Authors: Wang Jin , Su Wenrui , Chen Simeng , Meng Xiangwen , Wang Jiayu , Qin Zhifang , Tang Ran , Yin Jiahua , Liang Juan , Jia Xiaoyi
Published: June 2024

Introduction:
Er Miao San (EMS) has a historical usage in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). The aim of this study is to explore whether EMS can target NEK7 for inhibiting activation of NEK7/NLRP3 inflammasome pathway to protect rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Methods
The EMS ethyl acetate part was concentrated to the required experimental doses and EMS-containing serum was prepared. DBA/1 mice were used to establish the collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) model, and the general indicators of the mice were evaluated. The extent of inflammation in mice ankle joint tissues were detected using HE staining, radiography. Anti-tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (Trap) staining was used to observe osteoclasts in the ankle joint of mice. Changes in the immune system of the mice were determined via thymus/spleen index and the ability of T/B cell proliferation. NEK7 small interfering RNA (NEK7 siRNA) and Mus NEK7 were transfected into RAW264.7 cells, respectively. The formation of NEK7-NLRP3 complex in RAW264.7 cells was detected by immunoprecipitation. The protein expressions of NLRP3, NEK7 and caspase-1 in peritoneal macrophages (PMs), ankle joint tissues of CIA mice and RAW264.7 cells were examined using Western blot and immunohistochemistry. The immunofluorescence was used to investigate the formation of ASC spots in PMs and RAW264.7 cells. Elisa was employed to quantify the amounts of IL-1β and IL-18 in the serum of CIA mice, PMs and RAW264.7 cells supernatants.
Results
The results indicated that EMS decreased arthritis index, joint swelling score and pathological changes of the ankle joint in CIA mice. EMS decreased the expression levels of NEK7, Caspase-1 and NLRP3 in the ankle joint tissues and PMs of CIA mice and reduced the formation of ASC spots in PMs. Additionally, EMS also decreased the levels of IL-1β and IL-18 in the serum and supernatants of PMs in CIA mice. Finally, it was discovered that EMS-containing serum decreased the expression proteins of NEK7, Caspase-1, NLRP3, and ASC in RAW264.7 cells. It also decreased the formation of ASC spots and reduced the IL-1β and IL-18 levels in the cell supernatants of RAW264.7.
Conclusion
EMS protects CIA mice by inhibiting the NEK7/NLRP3 inflammasome pathway, which suggests a potential application of EMS in the treatment of RA.
Breast organoid suspension cultures maintain long-term estrogen receptor expression and responsiveness
Authors: Brugge Joan , Chang Kung-Chi , Silvestri Francesca , Olipant Michael , Martinez-Gakidis M. Angie , Orgill Dennis , Garber Judy , Dillon Deborah
Published: June 2024

Organoid cultures offer a powerful technology to investigate many different aspects of development, physiology, and pathology of diverse tissues. Unlike standard tissue culture of primary breast epithelial cells, breast organoids preserve the epithelial lineages and architecture of the normal tissue. However, existing organoid culture methods are tedious, difficult to scale, and do not robustly retain estrogen receptor (ER) expression and responsiveness in long-term culture. Here, we describe a modified culture method to generate and maintain organoids as suspension cultures in reconstituted basement membrane (™Matrigel). This method improves organoid growth and uniformity compared to the conventional Matrigel dome embedding method, while maintaining the fidelity of the three major epithelial lineages. Using this adopted method, we are able to culture and passage purified hormone sensing (HS) cells that retain ER responsiveness upon estrogen stimulation in long-term culture. This culture system presents a valuable platform to study the events involved in initiation and evolution of ER-positive breast cancer.
The Causal Effect of Digestive System Diseases on Risk of Erectile Dysfunction : A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: zhang xiansheng , Yang Peng , Yang Tianle , Ma Yukuai , Cao Zhi , Gao Pan , jiang hui
Published: June 2024

Digestive system diseases are common in the population and may have a potential relationship with erectile dysfunction (ED), however, there are few studies on the effect of digestive system diseases on ED, and its relationship is not clear. This study aims to investigate the causal relationship between digestive system diseases and ED, and assesses their potential mechanisms and effect sizes. Our study included the genome-wide association studies (GWAS) datasets for 23 digestive system diseases to retrieve single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), employing the univariable Mendelian randomization (MR) approach for analysis. Additionally, we utilized multivariable Mendelian randomization (MVMR) to investigate the direct causal effects between exposure and ED. Through MR analysis, we found that celiac disease (OR: 1.08, 95% CI: 1.01–1.16, p = 0.03), Crohn's disease (OR: 1.06, 95% CI: 1.01–1.12, p = 0.04), colorectal cancer (OR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.03–1.35, p = 0.02), and primary sclerosing cholangitis (OR: 1.10, 95% CI: 1.04–1.18, p = 0.003) are positively associated with the risk of ED. Gastric cancer (OR: 0.91, 95% CI: 0.84–0.99, p = 0.03) is negatively associated with the risk of ED. After adjusting for BMI, alcohol consumption, and smoking by MVMR, we found that only Crohn's disease and colorectal cancer had a direct causal effect on ED. Based on MR analysis of the association between 23 digestive system diseases and ED, we identified 5 digestive system diseases causally related to ED. These identified digestive diseases can be used as early warning factors for future clinical monitoring of patients' erectile function status. This provides a theoretical basis for attending to the sexual health of male patients concerned with digestive system diseases.
Influence of an Inspiratory Muscle Fatigue Protocol on Healthy Youths on Respiratory Muscle Strength, Vertical Jump Performance and Muscle Oxygen Saturation. A randomized controlled trial.
Authors: Maestro Arturo Ladriñán , Gómez-Escalonilla Jorge Sánchez-Infante , Vera Daniel Martín , Sierra Alberto Sánchez
Published: June 2024

Background: Inspiratory muscle fatigue has been shown to have effects on limbs blood flow and physical performance. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of an inspiratory muscle fatigue protocol on respiratory muscle strength, vertical jump performance and muscle oxygen saturation in healthy youths.
Methods: A randomized controlled clinical trial, employing double-blinding, was conducted with twenty-four participants aged 18-45 years, non-smokers and engaged in sports activity at least three times a week for a minimum of one year. Participants were randomly assigned to three groups: Inspiratory Muscle Fatigue (IMFG), Activation, and Control. Measurements of vertical jump, diaphragmatic ultrasound, muscle oxygen saturation, and maximum inspiratory pressure were taken at two stages: before the intervention (T1) and immediately after treatment (T2).
Results: Results: The IMFG showed lower scores in muscle oxygen saturation and cardiorespiratory variables after undergoing the diaphragmatic fatigue intervention compared to the activation and control groups (p < 0.05). As for the vertical jump variables, intragroup differences were found (p < 0.01), but no differences were found between the three groups analyzed (p > 0.05).
Conclusions: Inspiratory muscle fatigue appears to negatively impact vertical jump performance, muscle oxygen saturation and inspiratory muscle strength in healthy youths.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT06271876. Date of registration 02/21/2024. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06271876
Electroencephalography based Delirium Detection in Acute Stroke
Authors: Hermann Gesine , Baumgarte Friederike , Welzel Julius , Nydahl Peter , Kuhlenbäumer Gregor , Margraf Nils Gerd
Published: June 2024

Background
Up to 25 percent of patients suffering from an acute stroke are diagnosed with delirium during the hospital stay, with older age increasing the risk. Generalized slowing in the electroencephalogram (EEG) supports the diagnosis of delirium. We examined the potential of single-channel EEG (DeltaScan®) as an easy-to-use device on intensive care units for detecting delirium. Our aim was to compare clinically established delirium diagnoses with bihemispheric EEG recordings and single-channel EEG to analyze the diagnostic accuracy of EEG-based diagnoses.
Methods
Within the first five days after stroke onset, patients received single-channel EEG DeltaScan® and a routine 21-channel EEG. The DeltaScan® analyzes right sided fronto-parietal EEG using a proprietary algorithm focusing on polymorphic delta activity (PDA). In routine EEG the power spectral density (PSD) in predefined frequency bands was analyzed based on 2-minute eyes-closed resting state segments. EEG-analyses were conducted in MNE (v1.3.1) in Python (3.10) and RStudio (v4.2.1).
Results
In 9 of 53 patients (52–90 years) delirium was diagnosed according to DSM-V criteria. Sensitivity of DeltaScan® was 44% (95% CI = 15.3–77.3%), while specificity was 71% (95% CI = 57–83%). We found patients with right hemispheric stroke having a higher probability to be false positive in DeltaScan® (p = 0.01). The 21-channel EEG based power analysis revealed frontal delta (sensitivity 0.89, 95% CI = 0.67-1; specificity 0.68, 95% CI = 0.54–0.8) as the best predictor of diagnosed delirium.
Conclusions
When EEG is used in clinical practice to support a delirium diagnosis in stroke patients, bihemispheric recordings are likely preferable over unilateral recordings. Slowing in the delta- or theta-frequency spectrum over the site of stroke may lead to false-positive results in single channel EEG based delirium scoring.
NRF2-mediated persistent adaptation of oesophageal adenocarcinoma cells to HER2 inhibition
Authors: Tournier Cathy , Zhang Wei , Chattrakarn Sorayut , Wong Chun Wai , Li Shiyang , Kan Karmern , Liu Hongcai , GU WENCHAO , Zhang Jingwei , Whitmarsh Alan J. , Sharrocks Andrew
Published: June 2024

The human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2, also known as ERBB2) is a commonly over-expressed oncoprotein in oesophageal adenocarcinoma (OAC). Nonetheless, HER2-blocking agents failed short in improving the outcome of OAC patients, despite achieving striking clinical successes in breast cancer. To address this conundrum, we investigated how resistance progressively emerges when HER2 is targeted. We found subpopulations of drug-tolerant persister cells capable of surviving in the presence of the dual HER1/HER2 tyrosine kinase inhibitor lapatinib through elevated expression of nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2). Activation of NRF2-mediated transcription associated with the evolution of drug-resistance coincided with a subsequent increase in glutathione metabolism. Accordingly, lapatinib resistant OAC xenografts became exquisitely sensitive to pharmacological inhibition of the NRF2 pathway, while increased NRF2 expression in OAC cells reduced sensitivity to lapatinib treatment. Collectively, these findings constitute a promising new therapeutic opportunity to tackle incurable OAC by targeting the NRF2 pathway alongside receptor tyrosine kinase inhibition.
Study of intelligent home environment system based on big data and improved k-means algorithm
Authors: Yu Shaopeng , Liu Chenyu , Li Mingmei
Published: June 2024

The Embedded operating system based on STC12C5A MCU is designed to facilitate real-time monitoring and control of the home environment, in order to solve some problems such as low acquisition frequency, poor real-time performance, lack of feedback and adaptation. The Kalman filter and improved k-means algorithm are used to analyze the big data which is processed by BP neural network, and then the most comfortable living environment parameters can be obtained. The independent monitoring mechanism and feedback adjustment are designed to achieve efficient collaboration and stable operation of system hardware and software. The test results show that the system has high acquisition accuracy, fast response speed, good reliability performance, as well as good real-time and adaptive capabilities.
Independent origins of vertebral complexity in tetrapods
Authors: Roberts Lucy , Head Jason
Published: June 2024

The axial skeleton is the central anatomical structure uniting vertebrates, varying across the clade in the total number of constituent elements and morphological complexity, associated with changes in regulatory genetic mechanisms, respiratory efficiency, and locomotory adaptation. The evolution of this morphological complexity has historically been interpreted as a linear increase from relatively simple, homogeneous anatomies in tetrapods and stem mammals to uniquely high complexity in crown mammals. However, axial skeletal complexity remains poorly understood in stem taxa beyond Pan-Mammalia, restricting the ability to infer the evolutionary history of the vertebral column outside of this clade. Here we combine 3D geometric morphometrics with maximum likelihood model testing in a comprehensive phylogenetic framework of tetrapods, including crown and stem taxa, to reveal the independent acquisition of equally high degrees of regionalization across Pan-Mammalia and every major reptile clade. We reject the traditional view of linear increases in vertebral complexity leading to mammals. We demonstrate divergent evolutionary histories across amniote clades, associated with the differential presence or absence of functional constraint on the axial skeleton. In most reptiles, morphological heterogeneity within the column is associated with body size and segment count, unlike Pan-Mammalia, across which heterogeneity is a component of functional regionalization associated with the evolution of endothermy. Intracolumnar heterogeneity is constrained in mammals and birds by anatomical complexity required for respiratory and locomotory function regardless of body size. The absence of such physiological or metabolic constraints on axial skeletal evolution across non-avian reptiles has facilitated the morphological plasticity that has contributed to their remarkable diversity of function and form.
Variation in diet concentration and bacterial inoculum size in larval habitat shapes the performance of the Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus
Authors: Raquin Vincent , Martin Edwige , Minard Guillaume , Moro Claire Valiente
Published: June 2024

Background
Ecological niches present unique environmental and biological trademarks such as abiotic conditions, nutrient availability and trophic interactions that may impact ecology of living organisms. Female mosquitoes deposit their eggs in aquatic niches with fluctuating diet sources and microbial communities. However, how niche’s diet and microbial composition impact mosquitoperformance (i.e. traits that maximizes the mosquito fitness) are not well understood. In this study, we focused on the Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, one of the most invasive species in the world and a competent vector for human pathogens. To remove any external microbes, Ae. albopictus eggs were surface sterilized then hatching larvae were exposed to a gradient of bacterial inoculum (i.e. initial microbial load) and diet concentrations while their impact on mosquito performance traits during juvenile development was measured.
Results
Our results showed that Ae. albopictus larvae develop faster and give larger adults when exposed to microbiota in rearing water. However, mosquito performance, up to the adult stage, depends on both bacterial inoculum size and diet concentration in the aquatic habitat. Upon low inoculum size, larvae survived better if diet is in sufficient amount whereas a higher inoculum size was associated with an optimal larvae survival only in presence of lower amount of diet. Inoculum size, and to a lesser extent diet concentration, shaped bacterial community structure and composition of larval rearing water allowing the identification of bacterial taxa for which their abundance in larvae rearing water correlated with niche parameters and/or larval traits.
Conclusions
Our work demonstrates that both diet concentration and bacterial inoculum size impact mosquito performance possibly by shaping bacterial community structure in the larval habitat, which account for a large part of the juvenile’s microbiota. Host-microbe interactions influence several mosquito life-history traits, and our work reveals that niche parameters such as inoculum size and diet concentration could have numerous implications on the microbiota assembly and host evolutionary trajectory. This underlies that host-microbe-environment interactions are an important yet overlooked factor of mosquito adaptation to its local environment, with potential future implications for vector control and vector ecology.