bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Harvest Maturity of Eragrostis tef ‘Moxie’ Hay and Supplemental Energy Source on Forage Utilization in Beef Heifers
Authors: Stevens Allison V. , Myers Cheyanne A. , Hall John B. , Chibisa Gwinyai E.
Published: January 2024

The phenological stage of maturity of grasses and supplementation program can impact forage utilization in grazing beef cattle. However, the potential interaction between harvest maturity of Eragrostis tef (teff) hay and energy supplement source was yet to be fully evaluated. Therefore, our objective was to determine the effects of harvest maturity of teff hay and supplemental energy sources on nutrient intake, apparent total-tract nutrient digestion, nitrogen (N) utilization, and ruminal fermentation characteristics in beef heifers. A split-plot design with teff hay harvest maturity as the whole plot and supplemental energy source as the subplot was administered in a three-period (21 d), three × three Latin square design. Six crossbred beef heifers (804 ± 53.6 kg of body weight; BW) were allocated to two harvest maturities (early- (EH]) or late-heading (LH)) and to two supplemental energy sources (no supplement (CON), or rolled corn grain or beet pulp pellet fed at 0.5% of BW). Data were analyzed using SAS. There was no harvest maturity × energy supplement interaction. Although harvest maturity had no impact on total dry matter intake (DMI), crude protein (CP) intake was greater (p < 0.01) for EH than LH heifers. Total intakes of dry (DM) and organic matter (OM) were also greater (p < 0.01) for supplemented than CON heifers, whereas acid detergent fiber (ADF) intake was greater for beet pulp heifers compared to heifers fed the CON diet and supplemental corn grain. Harvest maturity had no impact on ruminal pH. However, mean ruminal pH was lower (p = 0.04), duration pH < 6.2, and molar proportions of butyrate and branched-chain fatty acids were greater (p ≤ 0.049) for heifers fed corn grain compared to CON and beet pulp diets. Heifers fed EH hay had greater (p ≤ 0.02) apparent total-tract DM, OM, CP, NDF, and ADF digestibility than heifers fed LH hay. Although there was no supplemental energy effect on microbial nitrogen (N) flow, it was greater (p < 0.01) for EH than LH heifers. Apparent N retention, which did not differ, was negative across all diets. In summary, delaying the harvest of teff hay from the EH to LH stage of maturity compromised nutrient supply, which was not attenuated by feeding supplemental corn grain and beet pulp at 0.5% of diet DM. Because N retention was negative across harvest maturity, there might be a need to provide both energy and protein supplements to improve growth performance when feeding teff hay to beef cattle.
RNA-Seq Analysis Revealed circRNAs and Genes Associated with Abdominal Fat Deposition in Ducks
Authors: Yang Yunfeng , Yang Chunyan , Zhuang Zhong , Mao Jiaming , Chen Anqi , Zhou Tingting , Bai Hao , Jiang Yong , Chang Guobin , Wang Zhixiu
Published: January 2024

Fat deposition is an important factor affecting meat quality and feed conversion efficiency in meat ducks. This study aims to identify key circRNAs and genes affecting abdominal fat deposition. The correlations between abdominal fat and other growth performances were analyzed in 304 F2 generation of Cherry Valley duck Runzhou Crested White ducks, and an RNA-seq analysis of abdominal fat tissues from ducks with high and low rates of abdominal fat was performed. Growth performance results showed that Abdominal fat ratio and Intramuscular fat were significantly higher in the high rates of abdominal fat (HF)group than in the low rates of abdominal fat (LF) group for ducks. RNA-seq analysis of abdominal fat tissue unveiled 85 upregulated and 72 downregulated circRNAs among the differentially expressed ones. Notably, 74 circRNAs displayed more than four-fold differential expression, constituting 47.13% of the differentially expressed genes. Functional enrichment analysis of the differentially expressed circRNA source and target genes indicated that 17 circRNAs might partake in regulating duck abdominal fat production by influencing pathways like PPAR signaling, lipid droplets, and triglyceride metabolism. Lastly, multiple circRNA-microRNA-messenger RNA interaction networks were constructed. The results of this study establish the groundwork for understanding the molecular mechanisms that regulate abdominal fat deposition in ducks, offering a theoretical reference for the selective breeding of high-quality meat-producing ducks.
Effects of High-Concentrate-Induced SARA on Antioxidant Capacity, Immune Levels and Rumen Microbiota and Function in Goats
Authors: Fan Siqin , Zheng Mengli , Ren Ao , Mao Hongxiang , Long Donglei , Yang Lingyuan
Published: January 2024

This study aims to explore the antioxidant, immune, and enzyme metabolism aspects in goats experiencing subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA). Furthermore, we seek to elucidate the relationship between the symbiotic microbiota of goats and their metabolic function. Sixteen goats were equally divided into two groups and fed a normal-concentrate diet (NC, 55% concentrate) or a high-concentrate diet (HC, 90% concentrate) for five weeks. We found that the HC diet reduced the total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) (p = 0.022) and increased interleukin-1β (IL-1β) (p = 0.015), interleukin-4 (IL-4) (p = 0.008) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) (p = 0.002) concentration of goats. Simultaneously, the HC diet significantly increased the concentrations of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and amylase (AMY) in the blood and rumen fluid of goats (p < 0.05). Microbial analysis in the rumen of goats revealed that the HC diet decreased bacterial richness and diversity, as evidenced by the changed observed species, Chao 1, PD whole tree and Shannon when compared to the NC diet (p < 0.01). The proportion of Proteobacteria increased while that of Spirochaetes and Fibrobacteres significantly decreased with the HC diet (p < 0.05). The Christensenellaceae_R-7_group and Ruminococcaceae_UCG-010 in rumen was notably decreased when a diet was switched from 55% concentrate diet to 90% concentrate diet (p < 0.05). Additionally, microbial functional potentials deduced that the HC diet significantly increased the abundance of the citrate cycle (TCA cycle) (ko00020) associated with carbohydrate metabolism (p = 0.028). Furthermore, the HC diet significantly increased the glutathione metabolism (ko00480) associated with the metabolism of other amino acids (p = 0.008). Our findings suggested that SARA reduced the total antioxidant capacity and increased levels of inflammatory factors in goats, as well as decreased rumen bacterial species and abundance.
Evaluating the Presence of Disgust in Animals
Authors: Case Trevor I. , Stevenson Richard J.
Published: January 2024

The emotion of disgust in humans is widely considered to represent a continuation of the disease-avoidance behavior ubiquitous in animals. The extent to which analogs of human disgust are evident in nonhuman animals, however, remains unclear. The scant research explicitly investigating disgust in animals has predominantly focused on great apes and suggests that disgust might be present in a highly muted form. In this review, we outline the main approaches to disgust. We then briefly discuss disease-avoidance behavior in nonhuman animals, proposing a set of criteria against which evidence for the presence or absence of disgust in animals can be evaluated. The resultant decision tree takes into account other plausible causes of avoidance and aversion when evaluating whether it is likely that the behavior represents disgust. We apply this decision tree to evaluate evidence of disgust-like behavior (e.g., avoidance of carrion and avoidance of feces-contaminated food) in several examples, including nonhuman great apes. Finally, we consider the large disparity between disgust in humans compared to muted disgust in other great apes, examining the possibility that heightened disgust in humans is a relatively recent cultural acquisition.
Screening of Genes Related to Fat Deposition of Pekin Ducks Based on Transcriptome Analysis
Authors: Shi Bozhi , Zhang Ziyue , Lv Xueze , An Keying , Li Lei , Xia Zhaofei
Published: January 2024

Subcutaneous fat deposition is an important index with which to evaluate meat-producing ducks, and affects their meat quality and feed conversion rate. Studying the differentially expressed genes in subcutaneous fat will help to comprehensively understand the potential mechanisms regulating fat deposition in ducks. In this study, 72 Nankou 1 Pekin Ducks and 72 Jingdian Pekin Ducks (half male and half female) at 42 days of age were selected for slaughter performance and transcriptome analysis. The results showed that the breast-muscle yield of Nankou 1 ducks was significantly higher than that of Jingdian ducks, but that the abdominal fat yield and subcutaneous fat yield were higher than that of Jingdian ducks. Thousands of DEGs, including many important genes involved in fat metabolism regulation, were detected by transcriptome. KEGG enrichment analysis showed that the DEGs were significantly enriched on pathways such as regulation of lipolysis in adipocytes, primary bile acid biosynthesis, and biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids. SCD, FGF7, LTBP1, PNPLA3, ADCY2, and ACOT8 were selected as candidate genes for regulating subcutaneous fat deposition. The results indicated that Nankou 1 had superior fat deposition ability compared to Jingdian ducks, and that the candidate genes regulated fat deposition by regulating fat synthesis and decomposition.
Growth Performance, Blood Metabolites and Carcass Characteristics of Black Goat Kids Fed Diets Containing Olive Cake
Authors: Obeidat Belal S. , Thomas Milton G.
Published: January 2024

This study investigated the dietary effect of incorporating different levels of olive cake (OC) on the metabolic responses, growth performance, and carcass characteristics of black goat male kids. Thirty kids (body weight = 17.3 ± 0.40 kg) were randomly distributed into one of three equally sized dietary groups: a control diet (CON), OC at 75 g/kg (OC75), and OC at 150 g/kg (OC150) of dietary dry matter (DM). The results revealed that the intake of DM, crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) was similar (p ≥ 0.11) among the three treatment groups. However, the OC150 group had the greatest (p < 0.0001) ether extract (EE) intake compared to the OC75 and CON groups. The growth measurements were similar (p ≥ 0.13) among the three groups. Feed efficiency was not affected by the inclusion of OC. In contrast to the CON diet, the cost of gain was, however, reduced (p = 0.004) in the OC diets. All three treatment groups’ digestibility of DM, CP, and ADF was similar. However, when compared to the OC75 and CON groups, the digestibility of NDF was better (p < 0.05) in the OC150 group. The N intake did not differ among the three experimental groups. Nitrogen retained as g/d was higher (p = 0.04) in the OC150 and OC75 groups compared to the CON group, while retention as a percentage (g/100 g) was similar among the three groups. Except for intermuscular fat, total fat, leg fat depth, and tissue depth, the inclusion of OC did not result in any discernible treatment effects on the carcass and meat quality parameters. Only alanine aminotransferase enzyme activity was lower (p < 0.0001) in OC-treated groups compared to the CON group. In summary, incorporating OC at 75 g/kg and 150 g/kg levels into the diets of black goat kids had positive comparable effects on some parameters related to growth performance, carcass attributes, and meat quality. Importantly, utilizing olive cake led to cost savings in production and may serve as a viable alternative feed source in goat nutrition.
Brain Tumor Detection with Deep Learning Methods’ Classifier Optimization Using Medical Images
Authors: Güler Mustafa , Namlı Ersin
Published: January 2024

It is known that, with the development of artificial intelligence science in recent years, it has started to be used in all areas of life. Due to the increase in diseases that threaten human life, such as epidemics and cancer, more attention has been paid to research in this field. Especially in the field of biomedical image processing, very successful results have been obtained in recent years with the use of deep learning methods. For this study, MR images are utilized to diagnose brain tumors. To assist doctors and radiologists in automatic brain tumor diagnosis and to overcome the need for manual diagnosis, a brain MR image automated classification system is being developed. The data used in the study are open access data obtained from the Kaggle library. This paper presents a novel approach for classifying brain MR images utilizing a dataset of 7022 MR images. To give an unbiased evaluation of the dataset, it is divided into a 40% test and 60% training set. Respectively, VGG, ResNet, DenseNet and SqueezeNet architectures are trained and used for feature extraction from brain MRI images. In order to classify the extracted features, machine learning methods (Support Vector Machines, K-Nearest Neighbors, Naive Bayes, Decision Tree, Linear Regression Analysis) are applied first, then an ensemble learning method is applied and the best validation method is selected. In addition, parameter optimization is applied to the trained CNN algorithms. In order to develop the proposed methods, the Python software program was used in the training and testing phases of the models, and the classification success rates were mutually evaluated. Among the results found, it can see that the ResNet architecture reached 100% accuracy. The data obtained as a result of the study were compared with the results of similar studies. In conclusion, the techniques and methods applied highlight their effectiveness in accurately classifying brain MRI images and their potential to improve diagnostic capabilities.
Online Learning-Based Adaptive Device-Free Localization in Time-Varying Indoor Environment
Authors: Xue Jianqiang , Chen Xingcan , Chi Qingyun , Xiao Wendong
Published: January 2024

With the widespread use of WiFi devices and the availability of channel state information (CSI), CSI-based device-free localization (DFL) has attracted lots of attention. Fingerprint-based localization methods are the primary solutions for DFL, but they are faced with the fingerprint similarity problem due to the complex environment and low bandwidth of the commercial WiFi. Meanwhile, fingerprints may change unpredictably due to multipath WiFi signal propagation in time-varying environments. To tackle these problems, this paper proposes an adaptive online learning DFL method, which adaptively updates the localization model to ensure long-term accuracy and adaptability. Specifically, the CSI signals of the target located at different reference points are first collected and transformed to discriminable fingerprints using the weights of Multilayer Online Sequence Extreme Learning Machine (ML-OSELM). After that, an online learning DFL model is built to adapt to the changes of the environment. Experimental results in a time-varying indoor environment validate the adaptability of the proposed method against environmental changes and show that our method can achieve 10% improvement over other methods.
Empowering Eco-Friendly Choices: An Environmental Impact Assessment Decision Support System for Textiles and Clothing
Authors: Gomes Carolina , Pires Irina , Monteiro Letícia , Lima Tânia M. , Gaspar Pedro D.
Published: January 2024

The textile and clothing industry is one of the industries with the highest environmental impact, with a huge amount of waste during the product life cycle. However, there are few tools available for companies to assess the environmental impact of their production process. In this way, a decision support system was developed so that producers can calculate the environmental impact associated with the textile and clothing production process, with the main objective of helping producers and, consequently, consumers to make environmentally conscious decisions given the increasingly demanding market. The methodology of this study integrated the accounting of a set of indicators, allowing producers to calculate the environmental impact associated with the textile and clothing production process. The decision support system returns, depending on the results of the calculations of the indicators, different ecolabels that allow consumers to compare different products based on their environmental performance. In short, the study in question allows us to contribute to environmentally conscious decision making, both for the producer and the consumer, to promote sustainable practices in the textile and clothing industry. The decision support system is flexible and adaptable for different companies and industries in order to meet their needs and improve their environmental performance.
The Preliminary Development of a Friction-Based Lateral Screw-Retained Dental Crown—A Comparison between the Prototype Surface Treatment and the Retention Strength
Authors: Supriadi Sugeng , Whulanza Yudan , Mahendra Tri Ardi , Dewi Ratna Sari , Kusdhany Lindawati S. , Mathar Pelangi Raihan , Umas Rizki Aldila
Published: January 2024

This study aims to develop a novel retention method combining the retrievability of the screw retention method with the ideal occlusal table and the aesthetic capability of cement retention. Coping was developed to have lateral screw access, allowing the screw to lock the coping using lateral forces from screw tightening and friction between the tip of the screw and the sandblasted surface of an abutment. Sandblasting parameters varied based on particle size. The results show a positive correlation to surface roughness and indicate a positive correlation to retention force. The highest surface roughness and retention force result was shown by groups that were sandblasted using 686 μm of aluminum oxide. Experiments on the tightening strength of 48 subjects measured in simulated conditions similar to the assembly conditions of lateral screw retention implants resulted in a mean of 69.75 Nmm with the highest and lowest values of 120.67 Nmm and 34.67 Nmm. This result became the basis of tightening torque variation. Each group’s retention capability is measured and compared to cement-retained dental implants. The results show that the tightening torque correlates positively with retention force, with the highest average retention score showed by lateral screws retained under a tightening torque of 200 Nmm—317.87 N higher than cement-retained screws.
Harnessing Generative Pre-Trained Transformers for Construction Accident Prediction with Saliency Visualization
Authors: Yoo Byunghee , Kim Jinwoo , Park Seongeun , Ahn Changbum R. , Oh Taekeun
Published: January 2024

Leveraging natural language processing models using a large volume of text data in the construction safety domain offers a unique opportunity to improve understanding of safety accidents and the ability to learn from them. However, little effort has been made to date in regard to utilizing large language models for the prediction of accident types that can help to prevent and manage potential accidents. This research aims to develop a model for predicting the six types of accidents (caught-in-between, cuts, falls, struck-by, trips, and others) by employing transfer learning with a fine-tuned generative pre-trained transformer (GPT). Additionally, to enhance the interpretability of the fine-tuned GPT model, a method for saliency visualization of input text was developed to identify words that significantly impact prediction results. The models were evaluated using a comprehensive dataset comprising 15,000 actual accident records. The results indicate that the suggested model for detecting the six accident types achieves 82% accuracy. Furthermore, it was observed that the proposed saliency visualization method can identify accident precursors from unstructured free-text data of construction accident reports. These results highlight the advancement of the generalization performance of large language processing-based accident prediction models, thereby proactively preventing construction accidents.
Coniferous Honeydew Honey: Antibacterial Activity and Anti-Migration Properties against Breast Cancer Cell Line (MCF-7)
Authors: Dżugan Małgorzata , Ciszkowicz Ewa , Tomczyk Monika , Miłek Michał , Lecka-Szlachta Katarzyna
Published: January 2024

Four samples of fir honeydew honey from Podkarpackie labeled with a Protected Designation of Origin symbol were tested in terms of their physicochemical parameters, antioxidant, and antibacterial effects, as well as their anti-migration properties against a breast cancer cell line (MCF-7) and fibroblasts. The results confirmed the high quality of tested samples regarding the obligatory parameters, as well as the additional indicators used (antioxidant and enzymatic activity), compared to representative rapeseed honey. Among the tested bacterial strains, the greatest effectiveness was demonstrated against Klebsiella pneumoniae and Streptococcus spp. Moreover, the results obtained in the urease inhibition in vitro test suggested the potential use of honeydew honey in the treatment of urease-positive bacterial infections. For the first time, using a scratch test it was found that the Podkarpackie honeydew honey efficiently affected the migration of cancer breast cells, whereas it only slightly inhibited the movement of normal fibroblasts. It can be suggested that the quality of honey guaranteed by the Protected Designation of Origin label could be the key factor of honeydew honey’s bioactivity and its potential medicinal use.
Unmalted Cereals, Oenological Yeasts, and In-Bottle Sugar Addition as Synergic Strategies to Enhance the Quality of Craft Beers
Authors: Baiano Antonietta , Fiore Anna , Gatta Barbara la , Capozzi Vittorio , De Simone Nicola , Gerardi Carmela , Grieco Francesco
Published: January 2024

Craft beer quality is the result of the complex interactions among ingredients. The purpose of this work was to assess the influence of combinations of cereal mixtures, yeast strains, and sucrose added for the refermentation in bottle on the physico-chemical and sensory characteristics of the resulting beers in order to maximize their antioxidant content and overall quality. More in depth, brewing trials were carried out with 16 combinations of 2 cereal mixtures (made of 60% malted barley/40% unmalted durum or soft wheat), 4 oenological Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains (17290 and 14061 isolated from Negroamaro; 9502 and 9518 from Susumaniello musts), and 2 concentrations of sucrose for refermentation (6 and 9 g/L). If maximizing the total phenolic content is the goal, the best beers were those obtained from the mixtures containing durum wheat and fermented by S. cerevisiae 17290 and 14061. Instead, the best sensory results were obtained from brewing the mixture containing the unmalted common wheat and fermented by S. cerevisiae 9518 thanks to their persistent foam; high turbidity, alcohol content, effervescence, and body; and low saltiness and sourness. The physico-chemical and sensory quality of beers were mainly affected by the cereal mixtures and secondarily by yeasts. The quantity of sucrose added for refermentation affected only CO2, residual sugar, and foam.
Features of Vat-Photopolymerized Masters for Microfluidic Device Manufacturing
Authors: Gatto Maria Laura , Mengucci Paolo , Mattioli-Belmonte Monica , Munteanu Daniel , Nasini Roberto , Tognoli Emanuele , Denti Lucia , Gatto Andrea
Published: January 2024

The growing interest in advancing microfluidic devices for manipulating fluids within micrometer-scale channels has prompted a shift in manufacturing practices, moving from single-component production to medium-size batches. This transition arises due to the impracticality of lab-scale manufacturing methods in accommodating the increased demand. This experimental study focuses on the design of master benchmarks 1–5, taking into consideration critical parameters such as rib width, height, and the relative width-to-height ratio. Notably, benchmarks 4 and 5 featured ribs that were strategically connected to the inlet, outlet, and reaction chamber of the master, enhancing their utility for subsequent replica production. Vat photopolymerization was employed for the fabrication of benchmarks 1–5, while replicas of benchmarks 4 and 5 were generated through polydimethylsiloxane casting. Dimensional investigations of the ribs and channels in both the master benchmarks and replicas were conducted using an optical technique validated through readability analysis based on the Michelson global contrast index. The primary goal was to evaluate the potential applicability of vat photopolymerization technology for efficiently producing microfluidic devices through a streamlined production process. Results indicate that the combination of vat photopolymerization followed by replication is well suited for achieving a minimum rib size of 25 µm in width and an aspect ratio of 1:12 for the master benchmark.
Effects of Aquatic Plant Coverage on Diversity and Resource Use Efficiency of Phytoplankton in Urban Wetlands: A Case Study in Jinan, China
Authors: Jiang Hongjingzheng , Lu Aoran , Li Jiaxin , Ma Mengdi , Meng Ge , Chen Qi , Liu Gang , Yin Xuwang
Published: January 2024

With the acceleration of urbanization, biodiversity and ecosystem functions of urban wetlands are facing serious challenges. The loss of aquatic plants in urban wetlands is becoming more frequent and intense due to human activities; nevertheless, the effects of aquatic plants on wetland ecosystems have received less attention. Therefore, we conducted field investigations across 10 urban wetlands in Jinan, Shandong Province, as a case in North China to examine the relationships between aquatic plant coverage and phytoplankton diversity, as well as resource use efficiency (RUE) in urban wetlands. Multivariate regression and partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) were used to analyze the water quality, phytoplankton diversity, and RUE. The results demonstrate that the increase in aquatic plant coverage significantly reduced the concentration of total nitrogen and suspended solids’ concentrations and significantly increased the phytoplankton diversity (e.g., species richness and functional diversity). The aquatic plant coverage significantly affected the composition of phytoplankton functional groups; for example, functional groups that had adapted to still-water and low-light conditions became dominant. Furthermore, the increase in phytoplankton diversity improved phytoplankton RUE, highlighting the importance of aquatic plants in maintaining wetland ecosystem functions. This study may provide a scientific basis for the management strategy of aquatic plants in urban wetlands, emphasizing the key role of appropriate aquatic plant cover in maintaining the ecological stability and ecosystem service functions of wetlands.
Correction: Arias et al. An Introduction to Diopatra, the Amazing Ecosystem Engineering Polychaete. Biology 2023, 12, 1027
Authors: Arias Andrés , Woodin Sarah A. , Paxton Hannelore
Published: January 2024

The authors wish to make an erratum to the published version of the paper [...]
Biomarkers for Serious Bacterial Infections in Febrile Children
Authors: Bernardi Luca , Bossù Gianluca , Dal Canto Giulia , Giannì Giuliana , Esposito Susanna
Published: January 2024

Febrile infections in children are a common cause of presentation to the emergency department (ED). While viral infections are usually self-limiting, sometimes bacterial illnesses may lead to sepsis and severe complications. Inflammatory biomarkers such as C reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin are usually the first blood exams performed in the ED to differentiate bacterial and viral infections; nowadays, a better understanding of immunochemical pathways has led to the discovery of new and more specific biomarkers that could play a role in the emergency setting. The aim of this narrative review is to provide the most recent evidence on biomarkers and predictor models, combining them for serious bacterial infection (SBI) diagnosis in febrile children. Literature analysis shows that inflammatory response is a complex mechanism in which many biochemical and immunological factors contribute to the host response in SBI. CRP and procalcitonin still represent the most used biomarkers in the pediatric ED for the diagnosis of SBI. Their sensibility and sensitivity increase when combined, and for this reason, it is reasonable to take them both into consideration in the evaluation of febrile children. The potential of machine learning tools, which represent a real novelty in medical practice, in conjunction with routine clinical and biological information, may improve the accuracy of diagnosis and target therapeutic options in SBI. However, studies on this matter are not yet validated in younger populations, making their relevance in pediatric precision medicine still uncertain. More data from further research are needed to improve clinical practice and decision making using these new technologies.
Biomarkers in Peripartum Cardiomyopathy—What We Know and What Is Still to Be Found
Authors: Kryczka Karolina E. , Demkow Marcin , Dzielińska Zofia
Published: January 2024

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a form of heart failure, often severe, that occurs in previously healthy women at the end of their pregnancy or in the first few months after delivery. In PPCM, the recovery of heart function reaches 45–50%. However, the all-cause mortality in long-term observation remains high, reaching 20% irrespective of recovery status. The incidence of PPCM is increasing globally; therefore, effort is required to clarify the pathophysiological background of the disease, as well as to discover specific diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. The etiology of the disease remains unclear, including oxidative stress; inflammation; hormonal disturbances; endothelial, microcirculatory, cardiomyocyte and extracellular matrix dysfunction; fibrosis; and genetic mutations. Currently, antiangiogenic 16-kDa prolactin (PRL), cleaved from standard 23-kDa PRL in the case of unbalanced oxidative stress, is recognized as the main trigger of the disease. In addition, 16-kDa PRL causes damage to cardiomyocytes, acting via microRNA-146a secreted from endothelial cells as a cause of the NF-κβ pathway. Bromocriptine, which inhibits the secretion of PRL from the pituitary gland, is now the only specific treatment for PPCM. Many different phenotypes of the disease, as well as cases of non-responders to bromocriptine treatment, indicate other pathophysiological pathways that need further investigation. Biomarkers in PPCM are not well established. There is a deficiency in specific diagnostic biomarkers. Pro-brain-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N-terminal BNP are the best, however unspecific, diagnostic biomarkers of heart failure at the moment. Therefore, more efforts should be engaged in investigating more specific biomolecules of a diagnostic and prognostic manner such as 16-kDa PRL, galectin-3, myeloperoxidase, or soluble Fms-like tyrosine kinase-1/placental growth factor ratio. In this review, we present the current state of knowledge and future directions of exploring PPCM pathophysiology, including microRNA and heat shock proteins, which may improve diagnosis, treatment monitoring, and the development of specific treatment strategies, and consequently improve patients’ prognosis and outcome.
Association between the Use of Proton Pump Inhibitors and Cardiovascular Diseases: A Nested Case-Control Study Using a National Health Screening Cohort
Authors: Jang Sarang , Choi Hyo Geun , Kwon Mi Jung , Kim Ji Hee , Kim Joo-Hee , Kim Yoonjoong , Kim So Young
Published: January 2024

We investigated the association of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use with the risk of stroke and ischemic heart disease (IHD). The Korean National Health Insurance Service-Health Screening cohort from 2002 to 2003, the participants of which were followed up until 2019, was used. In study I, 45,905 participants who were diagnosed with stroke were matched with 91,810 control I participants. The history of PPI medication was examined. In study II, 40,928 participants who were diagnosed with IHD were matched with 81,856 control II participants. In both study I and study II, the previous history of PPI medication was examined. A propensity score overlap-weighted multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to estimate the overlap-weighted odds ratios (ORs) of PPI use for stroke (study I) and IHD (study II). Current PPI use was linked with higher odds for stroke in study I. The odds for stroke were higher in groups with a longer duration of PPI use (OR = 0.96 [95% CI = 0.92–1.00] < 1.55 [1.50–1.61] < 1.62 [1.57–1.68] for < 30 days, 30 to 180 days, and ≥180 days of PPI use). Previous PPI use was linked with higher odds for IHD in study II. The odds for stroke were higher in groups with a longer duration of PPI use (OR = 1.13 [95% CI = 1.08–1.18] < 2.12 [2.04–2.21] < 2.60 [2.51–2.69] for <30 days, 30 to 180 days, and ≥180 days of PPI use). Current PPI medication is associated with a high risk of stroke and IHD. A longer duration of PPI medication was related to a higher risk of stroke and IHD. However, a prior history of PPI medication was not linked with a high risk of stroke or IHD.
The Beneficial Role of Apigenin against Cognitive and Neurobehavioural Dysfunction: A Systematic Review of Preclinical Investigations
Authors: Olasehinde Tosin A. , Olaokun Oyinlola O.
Published: January 2024

Apigenin is a flavone widely present in different fruits and vegetables and has been suggested to possess neuroprotective effects against some neurological disorders. In this study, we systematically reviewed preclinical studies that investigated the effects of apigenin on learning and memory, locomotion activity, anxiety-like behaviour, depressive-like behaviour and sensorimotor and motor coordination in rats and mice with impaired memory and behaviour. We searched SCOPUS, Web of Science, PubMed and Google Scholar for relevant articles. A total of 34 studies were included in this review. The included studies revealed that apigenin enhanced learning and memory and locomotion activity, exhibited anxiolytic effects, attenuated depressive-like behaviour and improved sensorimotor and motor coordination in animals with cognitive impairment and neurobehavioural deficit. Some of the molecular and biochemical mechanisms of apigenin include activation of the ERK/CREB/BDNF signalling pathway; modulation of neurotransmitter levels and monoaminergic, cholinergic, dopaminergic and serotonergic systems; inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokine production; and attenuation of oxidative neuronal damage. These results revealed the necessity for further research using established doses and short or long durations to ascertain effective and safe doses of apigenin. These results also point to the need for a clinical experiment to ascertain the therapeutic effect of apigenin.
Autonomous Driving of Mobile Robots in Dynamic Environments Based on Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient: Reward Shaping and Hindsight Experience Replay
Authors: Park Minjae , Park Chaneun , Kwon Nam Kyu
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we propose a reinforcement learning-based end-to-end learning method for the autonomous driving of a mobile robot in a dynamic environment with obstacles. Applying two additional techniques for reinforcement learning simultaneously helps the mobile robot in finding an optimal policy to reach the destination without collisions. First, the multifunctional reward-shaping technique guides the agent toward the goal by utilizing information about the destination and obstacles. Next, employing the hindsight experience replay technique to address the experience imbalance caused by the sparse reward problem assists the agent in finding the optimal policy. We validated the proposed technique in both simulation and real-world environments. To assess the effectiveness of the proposed method, we compared experiments for five different cases.
Expressions of Arab Influence on the Brazilian Architecture: The Case of Solar Control Elements
Authors: Vettorazzi Egon , Rebelo Filipe , Figueiredo António , Vicente Romeu , Langner Marcelo , Feiertag Gabriel
Published: January 2024

Over the centuries, architects have distanced themselves from the accumulated architectural knowledge, which often provided constructive solutions highly connected to the climatic context and cultural characteristics. With utmost expression from the 20th century on, building designers have assumed a somewhat negligent attitude towards the architectural project, essentially relying on active mechanical systems, to achieve indoor environmental comfort conditions. This paper overviews the current knowledge of solar control elements adopted and developed by Brazilian architecture, tracing its origin to the influence of Arab and Moorish architecture, with the objective of valuing passive solutions. Arab influence in Brazilian architecture began in the 17th century when Portuguese settlers felt the need to adapt the colonial buildings to the climatic constraints, particularly with regard to excessive solar radiation, leading to indoor thermal discomfort and excess natural light. Arab influence in Brazilian architecture remains present until the current day with the same objectives; however, it has been reinterpreted and appropriated by the Brazilian architectural school. Among the most used construction elements during the colonial period were the muxarabis, rótulas, and gelosias. Throughout the 20th century, these elements were culturally appropriated and served as inspiration for the development of the cobogó and the pioneering use of brise-soleis in Brazilian architecture. These elements have spread throughout global architecture, accompanied by the adoption of computer-controlled dynamic solar protection systems. Therefore, it is important to promote traditional solutions and encourage new architects to adopt passive approaches, aiming for energy efficiency and reducing environmental impacts.
The Mechanical Behavior and Constitutive Model Study of Coarse-Grained Soil under Cyclic Loading–Unloading in Large-Scale Plane Strain Conditions
Authors: Wang Zhi , Shao Shuai , Shao Shengjun , Yang Liguo
Published: January 2024

To address loading and unloading issues in civil and hydraulic engineering projects that employ coarse-grained soil as fill material under plane strain conditions during construction and operation, cyclic loading–unloading large-scale plane strain tests were conducted on two types of coarse-grained soils. The effects of coarse-grained soil properties on shear behavior and various modulus relationships were analyzed. The research results showed that coarse-grained soils with better particle roundness exhibit significant shear dilation deformation; it was also found that low parent rock strength can lead to strain softening, and an increase in confining pressure suppresses shear dilation deformation. During the cyclic loading–unloading process, the initial unloading modulus (Eiu) > unloading–reloading modulus (Eur) > initial reloading modulus (Eir) > initial tangent modulus (Ei), with the unloading modulus considerably greater than the others. In finite element simulations and model calculations, it is essential to select appropriate modulus parameters based on the stress conditions of the soil to ensure calculation accuracy. In this work, an elastoplastic and nonlinear elastic theory was used to establish a cyclic loading–unloading constitutive model. By comparing the values obtained using this model with experimental measurements, it was found that the model can reasonably predict stress–strain variations during cyclic loading–unloading of coarse-grained soils under plane strain conditions.
Crack Resistance of Pre-Stressed Steel-Reinforced Concrete Composite Simple Supported Beams
Authors: Wu Dan , Wang Hongzhi , Wang Rui , Lv Chun
Published: January 2024

To study the normal section crack resistance of pre-stressed steel-reinforced concrete simply supported composite beams, the specific parameters such as the component steel content, the reinforcement ratio of non-pre-stressed and pre-stressed bars, and the section size of simply supported beams, are designed with different sections and reinforcement. Given the relatively poor bond property between steel and concrete, by introducing the bond property reduction coefficient, the formula for calculating the average crack spacing of pre-stressed steel-concrete simply supported composite beams is modified. Through the analysis of test data, the influence coefficient of concrete self-elongation between cracks on crack width is obtained, and the formula for calculating average crack width reflecting the characteristics of pre-stressed steel-concrete simply supported composite beams is obtained. The value of the expansion coefficient considering the uneven distribution of cracks is obtained by the crack distribution curve and the formula for calculating the crack width of pre-stressed steel concrete composite beams is given. The actual average crack spacing of the 5 pre-stressed steel-concrete simply supported beams in this test is 106.04 mm, which is calculated according to the above formula. The average value of the ratio between the calculated value and the measured value is 0.916, the standard deviation is 0.059, and the coefficient of variation is 0.064. The average value of calculated and measured crack widths of the beams is 0.927, the standard deviation is 0.194, and the coefficient of variation is 0.209.
Experimental and Analytical Investigations on Shear Performance of Ambient-Cured Reinforced Geopolymer Concrete Beams
Authors: Abdullah Muhammad , Qazi Asad Ullah , Khan Qasim S. , Kazmi Syed Minhaj Saleem , Munir Muhammad Junaid
Published: January 2024

Geopolymer concrete (GPC) has emerged as a sustainable alternative to ordinary Portland cement concrete (OPCC) as GPC significantly reduces embodied carbon dioxide emissions. This study compared the shear behavior of reinforced OPCC beams and GPC beams of the same cross-section and compressive strength. The study tested nine beams under three-point bending to evaluate the effects of concrete type and shear span on the shear strength. The results showed that OPCC and GPC beams exhibited relatively similar reduction rates in the shear strength with increasing a/d ratios, while the failure mode shifted from shear in OPCC beams to shear-flexure in GPC beams. The maximum deflection of GPC beams significantly increased with increasing a/d ratios. Moreover, empirical shear strength equations, intended for OPCC beams in various design codes, underestimated the shear strength of GPC beams by about 11.0-26.9% at the a/d ratio of 4.3 but significantly underestimated the shear strengths of GPC beams by 77% at lower a/d ratios of 1.6 and 2.9. Therefore, modifications are proposed to the existing design OPCC shear strength equations to significantly improve the prediction accuracy for the shear strength of GPC beams.
Simplified Simulation Method of Diffusers for Indoor Non-Uniform Temperature Distribution: A Case Study in Shanghai
Authors: Li Yuming , Pan Yiqun , Huang Zhizhong , Liang Yumin , Yuan Xiaolei
Published: January 2024

The specific air jet of a diffuser is formed by the complex internal structure, which affects the outlet airflow distribution of the diffuser directly and the indoor environment distribution indirectly. If the diffusers are developed based on their actual geometry structure and their boundary conditions are set as their inlet flowrate, the simulated indoor temperature distribution will be more accurate. However, it is noted that many problems may arise, such as model complexity, many grid cells, and slow convergence of calculations. Therefore, this paper focuses on a simplified method for four-way square diffusers in a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation of indoor non-uniform temperature distribution. Firstly, the airflow distribution is simulated on the outlet air supply cross-section of the diffuser. Then, according to the outflow characteristics of the diffuser, the diffuser model is simplified and simulated in an experimental room. Finally, the temperature distribution at the 1.2 m height plane is obtained from CFD simulation and compared with the experimental results. The results show that the 68-point air supply opening model can well simulate the effects of the outlet airflow distribution of the diffuser, and the simulated indoor temperature distribution meets the experiment results well. The deviations for three scenarios are between −7.4~1.7% and the average deviation is −3.0%, while the root mean square error of temperature for three scenarios is 0.7 °C, 0.7 °C, and 1.0 °C, respectively. The results also demonstrate the mutual influence of the airflow from different diffusers and the indoor non-uniform temperature distribution under the action of multiple diffusers. The proposed method can contribute to balancing the model complexity and the accuracy in CFD simulation, especially for multiple diffusers in the room.
Novel Morphology for NiWMo Carbides Obtained by Mechanical Alloying and Quenching
Authors: Rivera Olvera Jesús Noé , Hernández Maya Luis , Diaz Barriga Arceo Lucia Graciela
Published: January 2024

In the present work, the synthesis and decomposition of low-dimensional materials from a Ni15Mo25W10C50 system produced by mechanical alloying was reported. During the milling process, the resultant phases were WMoC and NiC, and after sintering and quenching, MoNi3, WMo, Ni4W, WC, MoNi and Mo2C were found. The samples were analyzed by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Nanotubes with the lengths ranging from 500 nm to 2 μm, spheres and novelty globular particles with sizes ranging from 40 to 600 nm as well as “petal-like” estructure were observed. The results revealed the formation of a microstructure with morphology similar to spinodal decomposition followed by a sequence of invariant reactions leading the production of modulated and novel branched structures. We proposes a theoretical mechanism of formation that is associated with the modulated structure observed after quenching.
Integration of Psychosocial Theory into Palliative Care: Implications for Care Planning and Early Palliative Care
Authors: Merluzzi Thomas V. , Salamanca-Balen Natalia , Philip Errol J. , Salsman John M. , Chirico Andrea
Published: January 2024

Palliative care improves patients’ symptoms, quality of life and family satisfaction with caregiving, reduces hospital admissions and promotes alignment of medical care with the patient’s needs and goals. This article proposes the utility of integrating three psychosocial theories into standard palliative care with implications for care planning, early palliative care and optimizing quality of life. First, Control Theory focuses on the complex juxtaposition of promoting agency/empowerment in patients and carers and coping with often highly uncertain outcomes. Second, Optimal Matching Theory accounts for the alignment of need and provision of care to potentiate the quality of life effects of supportive care in a complex social process involving health care providers, patients and carers. Third, Hope Theory represents a dynamic process, which is marked by variation in the qualities of hope as the patient and carer confront challenges during palliative care. Future work will be translational in nature to adapt both assessment and interventions based on this theoretically driven augmentation of palliative care as well as to evaluate whether it provides a conceptual framework that has incremental utility in palliative care planning.