bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of electrical impedance tomography and spirometry-based measures of airflow in healthy adult horses
Authors: Byrne David P. , Keeshan Ben , Hosgood Giselle , Adler Andy , Mosing Martina
Published: July 2023

Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) is a non-invasive diagnostic tool for evaluating lung function. The objective of this study was to compare respiratory flow variables calculated from thoracic EIT measurements with corresponding spirometry variables. Ten healthy research horses were sedated and instrumented with spirometry via facemask and a single-plane EIT electrode belt around the thorax. Horses were exposed to sequentially increasing volumes of apparatus dead space between 1,000 and 8,500 mL, in 5–7 steps, to induce carbon dioxide rebreathing, until clinical hyperpnea or a tidal volume of 150% baseline was reached. A 2-min stabilization period followed by 2 minutes of data collection occurred at each timepoint. Peak inspiratory and expiratory flow, inspiratory and expiratory time, and expiratory nadir flow, defined as the lowest expiratory flow between the deceleration of flow of the first passive phase of expiration and the acceleration of flow of the second active phase of expiration were evaluated with EIT and spirometry. Breathing pattern was assessed based on the total impedance curve. Bland-Altman analysis was used to evaluate the agreement where perfect agreement was indicated by a ratio of EIT:spirometry of 1.0. The mean ratio (bias; expressed as a percentage difference from perfect agreement) and the 95% confidence interval of the bias are reported. There was good agreement between EIT-derived and spirometry-derived peak inspiratory [−15% (−46–32)] and expiratory [10% (−32–20)] flows and inspiratory [−6% (−25–18)] and expiratory [5% (−9–20)] times. Agreement for nadir flows was poor [−22% (−87–369)]. Sedated horses intermittently exhibited Cheyne-Stokes variant respiration, and a breath pattern with incomplete expiration in between breaths (crown-likebreaths). Electrical impedance tomography can quantify airflow changes over increasing tidal volumes and changing breathing pattern when compared with spirometry in standing sedated horses.
Precipitation modulates the net effect of solar radiation on litter decomposition and CO2 emission - a meta-analysis
Authors: Liu YaLan , Li Lei , Wang ShiQi , Li Xiangyi
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Solar radiation plays a crucial role in the decomposition of litter and the cycling of nutrients. Previous studies have investigated that the net effect of solar radiation on litter decomposition depends on the balance of its facilitative and inhibitory effects on microbial activity; however, a gap in understanding the mechanism by which precipitation affects the net effect of solar radiation and the mechanism of litter decomposition on a global scale was observed.

Methods

In addressing this gap, a comprehensive meta-analysis of 351 data points from 37 published studies was conducted to estimate the sole radiation effect and interactive effect of solar radiation and precipitation on a global scale, as well as how they vary at different precipitation levels. In addition, the importance of influential factors regulating the net effect of solar radiation on litter decomposition was assessed to identify the key drivers of the response of mass loss to solar radiation at different precipitation levels.

Results

Our findings indicated that solar radiation largely regulates litter decomposition, and the direction and magnitude are potentially dependent on the precipitation regime. In addition, solar radiation significantly increased mass loss and decreased the nutrient remaining. Furthermore, the effects of solar radiation on mass loss, C remaining, and N remaining were found to be similar among areas with precipitation levels below 200 and above 800 mm and greater than in areas with precipitation levels between 200-400 mm and 400-800 mm. The effect of solar radiation on CO2emissions varied from 13.97% when precipitation was below 200 mm to −0.707% when precipitation was between 200 and 400 mm.

Conclusion

Climatic factors determine the response ratio of mass loss to solar radiation in arid lands, whereas the initial litter characteristics have a great influence on the response of mass loss to solar radiation in ecosystems that are not moisture limited. The effect of precipitation on the photodegradation mechanism of litter was primarily achieved by influencing the decomposition of lignin, and the main effect of solar radiation on litter decomposition will shift from the positive effect of “photopriming” to the negative effect of “microbial inhibition” with the increase of precipitation. Our findings can provide a comprehensive understanding of litter decomposition patterns on a global scale, and our results showed that CO2emissions from photodegradation will be lessened by precipitation, which is important in predicting CO2emission and separating sources of CO2under future increasing precipitation scenarios, particularly in arid lands.
Strain, loss of time, or even gain? A systematic review of technology-based work extending and its ambiguous impact on wellbeing, considering its frequency and duration
Authors: Schoellbauer Julia , Hartner-Tiefenthaler Martina , Kelliher Clare
Published: July 2023

Especially in knowledge-intensive professions, workers engage in work-related communication and access digital work content outside of working hours. Scientific research on technology-based work extending has flourished in recent decades, but yielded inconclusive results about its relationship with workers’ wellbeing and focused on different temporal characteristics of the behaviour. Consequently, in this article, we address the question of whether different temporal characteristics of technology-based work extending, such as the frequency and duration of the behaviour, may have different consequences for workers’ wellbeing. In the course of a systematic literature review, we analyzed 78 empirical studies published between 2007 and 2021 that investigate the relationship between the self-rated frequency and the self-rated duration of work extending behaviours and 14 wellbeing indicators. Whereas most studies examined the frequency of work extending behaviours and its consequences, only 19 studies examined the effects of its duration. Based on our findings, we propose three effects: The strain effect of frequent work extending, the gain effect of sustained work extending, and the loss-of-private-time effect inherent to work extending and independent from its frequency and duration. Our findings not only provide in-depth information on a widespread contemporary behaviour and its psychological implications, we also reveal research gaps and shed light on behaviours associated with role transitions and thus contribute to boundary theory.
Understanding the life experiences of elderly in social isolation from the social systems perspective: using Hong Kong as an illustrating example
Authors: Lo T. Wing , Chan Gloria Hongyee
Published: July 2023

Aim

The elderly in social isolation often referred to as older people who experience social alienation with little social support from their family, peers, and community suffer from a poor quality of life and well-being. Since their life experiences are affected by a range of factors from different levels, this study seeks to investigate their current life situations and experiences from a social systems perspective.

Methods

A qualitative study was conducted to enrich the understanding of their current life situations and experiences and to generate corresponding practice implications. In this study, there were 13 elderly participants in social isolation, which were users of a social service agency in Hong Kong. They took part in a semi-structured individual interview, sharing their life stories about their daily lives, social relationships, and sense of well-being. Qualitative results were analyzed based on these dimensions.

Results

Results showed that the elderly participants in social isolation had a low level of social support and participation in social activities. Their life experiences and situations were affected by multiple levels of factors that were interrelated.

Conclusion

The results support the application of the social systems perspective in investigating the living conditions of the elderly in social isolation. The corresponding practice implications were also discussed.
Analysis of complete blood count and derived inflammatory indicators for bipolar disorder patients with different states
Authors: Xu Fangming , Wang Xiaobo , Zhang Tianle , Xie Tingting , Xin Xiao , Zhao Yaxuan , Wang Yumei
Published: July 2023

Purposes

This study aimed to analyze the predictive ability of the complete blood count and derived inflammatory indicators for BD patients with different states to identify potential biomarkers.

Methods

We collected the data of BD in-patients from January 2021 to March 2023. The complete blood count and derived inflammatory indicators were computed by univariate analysis, logistic regression analysis, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.

Results

In terms of BD patients, the levels of MON (p<0.0001), hs-CRP (p = 0.018), and NLR (p = 0.002) were independent risk factors in logistic regression analysis, as well as the cut-off values were 0.405 109/L, 2.600 mg/L, and 2.321, respectively. Regarding BD-M patients, the levels of MON (p<0.0001), hs-CRP (p = 0.012), and NLR (p = 0.002) were predictors in logistic regression analysis, and the cut-off values were, respectively, 0.505 109/L, 2.600 mg/L, and 2.620. Additionally, the levels of NLR (p = 0.006) and MHR (p<0.0001) were important indicators for BD-D and the cut-off values were 1.735 and 0.487, respectively. Furthermore, our findings showed that the level of MON (p = 0.001) was related to BD-mixed and the cut-off value was 0.340 109/L. Notably, MON+hs-CRP + NLR, MON+hs-CRP + NLR, and NLR + MHR had the highest diagnostic accuracy to predict BD, BD-M, and BD-D patients, respectively.

Conclusion

Our findings showed that distinct inflammatory indicators were closely associated with BD and its different states. Additionally, we also identified their cut-off values and optimal combined predictive indicators in different states of BD, helping us improve diagnostic accuracy and better assess them to manage early targeted interventions.
Understanding a constellation of eight COVID-19 disease prevention behaviours using the COM-B model and the theoretical domains framework: a qualitative study using the behaviour change wheel
Authors: Chater Angel M. , Brook-Rowland Phoebe , Tolani Foyeke , Christopher Emily , Hart Jo , Byrne-Davis Lucie M. T. , Moffat Abby , Shorter Gillian W. , Epton Tracy , Kamal Atiya , O’Connor Daryl B. , Whittaker Eleanor , Lewis Lesley J. M. , McBride Emily , Swanson Vivien , Arden Madelynne A.
Published: July 2023

Background

The use of behavioural science and behaviour change within local authorities and public health has supported healthful change; as evidenced by its importance and contribution to reducing harm during the COVID-19 pandemic. It can provide valuable information to enable the creation of evidence-based intervention strategies, co-created with the people they are aimed at, in an effective and efficient manner.

Aim

This study aimed to use the COM-B model to understand the Capability, Opportunity and Motivation of performing a constellation of eight COVID-19 disease prevention behaviours related to the slogans of ‘Hands, Face, Space, Fresh Air’; ‘Find, Isolate, Test, (FIT), and Vaccinate’ in those employed in workplaces identified as high risk for transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) to support intervention development.

Methods

This qualitative study recruited twenty-three participants (16 female, 7 male), who were interviewed from three environments (schools, care homes, warehouses) across three local authorities. Semi-structured interviews were analysed using thematic analysis.

Findings

Ten core themes were identified inductively; (1) knowledge and skills, (2) regulating the behaviour, (3) willingness to act, (4) necessity and concerns, (5) emotional impact, (6) conducive environment, (7) societal influence, (8) no longer united against COVID-19, (9) credible leadership, and (10) inconsistent adherence to COVID-19 prevention behaviours. Themes were then deductively mapped to the COM-B model of behaviour change and the theoretical domains framework and a logic model using the behaviour change wheel (BCW) was produced to inform intervention design.

Conclusion

This study offers a novel approach to analysis that has included eight behaviours within a single thematic analysis and COM-B diagnosis. This will enable local authorities to direct limited resources to overarching priorities. Of key importance, was the need for supportive and credible leadership, alongside developing interventions collaboratively with the target audience. COVID-19 has had an emotional toll on those interviewed, however, promoting the value of disease prevention behaviours, over and above their costs, can facilitate behaviour. Developing knowledge and skills, through education, training, marketing and modelling can further facilitate behaviour. This supports guidance produced by the British Psychological Society COVID-19 behavioural science and disease prevention taskforce.
Assessing the effect of health status on multidimensional poverty among older adults: the Chinese longitudinal healthy longevity survey
Authors: Zhou Lulin , Zhu Change , Walsh Christine A. , Zhang Xinjie
Published: July 2023

Background

This study aimed to explore the association between health status (physical, mental, and self-rated health) and multidimensional poverty (subjective and objective poverty) in older adults.

Method

A panel binary logit regression approach was applied to four waves of CLHLS data (2008, 2011, 2014, and 2018). In total,1,445 individuals were included after data cleaning.

Results

The mean values and proportion of physical, mental, and self-rated health were 5.73 (87.42%), 0.93 (93.06%), and 3.46 (86.7%), respectively, and mean values and proportion of subjective and objective poverty were 0.19 (18.51%) and 0.21(21.4%). In addition, physical, mental, and self-rated health were all found to be associated with subjective poverty among older adults (r = −0.181, r = −0.630, r = −0.321, p < 0.05), that is, the better the physical, mental, and self-rated health, the lower the probability of subjective poverty. A comparable connection between self-rated health and objective poverty also exists (r = −0.157, p < 0.05). Furthermore, medical expenditure played a mediation role in the association between the health status and poverty of older adults.

Conclusion

In order to effectively alleviate the poverty of older adults, strategies should be taken to improve the health level of older adults, especially the physical and mental health of high-aged older adults, and the self-rated health of middle-aged older adults. Furthermore, social security and pensions should be further developed to adequately reimburse medical expenditures.
Frontiers in aging special issue: DNA repair and interventions in aging perspective on “loss of epigenetic information as a cause of mammalian aging”
Authors: Schaffer Ethan D. , Beerman Isabel , de Cabo Rafael , Brosh Robert M.
Published: July 2023

The recently published article in Cell by the Sinclair lab and collaborators entitled “Loss of Epigenetic Information as a Cause of Mammalian Aging” [1] implicates heritable changes in gene expression as the basis for aging, a postulate consistent with the emerging information theory of aging. Sinclair’s group and colleagues induced epigenetic changes, i.e., DNA and histone modifications, via double-strand breaks (DSBs) catalyzed by the I-Pol endonuclease at specific genomic loci. The genomic DNA breaks, introduced without inducing insertion or deletion mutations (indels) in a mouse model, were targeted to 19 non-coding regions and one region in ribosomal DNA (rDNA), the latter shown to not have a significant effect on the function or transcription of rDNA [1]. With that experimental model in place, the authors present experimental evidence supporting a model that epigenetic changes drive aging via this inducible DNA break mechanism. After demonstrating the phenotypic alterations of this accelerated aging, they attempt to reverse selective phenotypes by resetting the altered epigenetic landscape. Establishing a causal relationship between epigenetic changes and aging, and how this connection might be manipulated to overturn cellular features of aging, is provocative and merits further study.
Impact of non-Markovian evolution on characterizations of quantum thermodynamics
Authors: Tiwari Devvrat , Banerjee Subhashish
Published: July 2023

Here, we study the impact of non-Markovian evolution on prominent characteristics of quantum thermodynamics such as ergotropy and power. These are benchmarked by the behavior of the quantum speed limit time. We make use of both geometric-based, particularly the quantum Fisher and Wigner–Yanase information metric, and physical properties-based measures, particularly the relative purity measure and relative entropy of coherence measure, to compute the quantum speed limit time. A simple non-Markovian model of a qubit in a bosonic bath exhibiting non-Markovian amplitude damping evolution is considered, which, from the quantum thermodynamic perspective with finite initial ergotropy, can be envisaged as a quantum battery. To this end, we explore the connections between the physical properties-based measures of the quantum speed limit time and the coherent component of ergotropy. The non-Markovian evolution is shown to impact the recharging process of the quantum battery. Furthermore, a connection between the discharging–charging cycle of the quantum battery and the geometric measures of the quantum speed limit time is observed.
Measurement methods for gamma-ray bursts redshifts
Authors: Li Mengci , Kang Zhe , Wu Chao , Liu Chengzhi , Mao Jirong , Li Zhenwei , Deng Shiyu , Niu Bingli , Jiang Ping
Published: July 2023

In the era of multi-messenger astronomy, gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) with known redshifts, especially high-redshift GRBs, are a powerful tool for studying the structure and evolution of the early Universe. We review the background, the history, and the application of measurement methods of GRB redshifts in astronomy. Based on different observation targets, two measurement methods are mainly introduced. One is on GRB afterglow, the other is on GRB host galaxy. There are various processing methods belonging to measurement methods based on afterglow, including spectral measurement method of afterglow and afterglow spectral energy distribution fitting method with improved methods. There are also numerous measurement methods based on host galaxy, such as spectral measurement method of host galaxy, template matching method of host galaxy, some automatic spectroscopic redshift measurement methods, and machine learning methods. We subsequently introduce the principles, effects, and performance of these methods. We enumerate several detection and measurement instruments, which have been used in observation. The characteristics, advantages, disadvantages, and applicability of the GRB redshift measurement methods are summarized and analyzed. Furthermore, we provide a data set of 611 GRBs with measured redshift. The data set has been collected since 1997. Analysis and statistics are presented based on this data set. We summarize the characteristics of GRBs such as location, time, and accuracy. Finally, we introduce Space-based multi-band astronomical Variable Objects Monitor (SVOM) mission dedicated to searching high redshift GRBs. We also introduce the application prospect of various redshift measurement methods in SVOM mission.
How Students Define Success Differently for Classes They Like or Dislike
Authors: Urdan Tim , Teramoto Daniel
Published: July 2023

Most of the research examining student motivation, particularly achievement goals, has relied on experimental or survey methods that narrow the number and type of goals students can report. A few researchers have asked students open-ended questions, either using surveys or interviews, about what they want to accomplish and their reasons for studying or trying to achieve. These studies have generally found a larger number of goals across a broader set of categories (e.g., social-comparison, internal standard, social, work-avoidance, utilitarian) than is typically examined in research on achievement goals. In this study, we asked a sample of 152 undergraduate students at one university in California (USA) to describe how they defined success in two different classes: One they liked and one they disliked. Our objectives were to examine how students described their definitions for success, whether those definitions differed for liked and disliked classes, and to learn about students’ perceptions regarding the sources of their definitions of success. The results indicated that students’ definitions of success were more varied in classes they liked than in those they disliked. In addition, their definitions focused more on developing competence and positive relationships with the teacher in classes they liked, but they focused on getting a good grade, completing the class, and avoiding work in classes they disliked. The results also indicated that students perceived different sources of the same definitions of success for liked and disliked classes, with a greater emphasis on bad teaching and difficult course material in the disliked class. The implications for conceptualizing the methodology for studying achievement goals are discussed.
Parameter Calibration of Discrete Element Model for Cotton Rootstalk–Soil Mixture at Harvest Stage in Xinjiang Cotton Field
Authors: Jiang Deli , Chen Xuegeng , Yan Limin , Gou Haixiao , Yang Jiacheng , Li Ying
Published: July 2023

Due to the lack of accurate discrete element simulation model parameters in the design optimization process of key agricultural machinery components in the whole mechanization technology system of cotton generation, the optimization and improvement of the machine is restricted to a certain extent. Taking a cotton rootstalk–soil mixture at harvest stage in a Xinjiang cotton field as the research object, the discrete element simulation model of a cotton rootstalk–soil mixture was constructed, and the contact parameters of discrete element simulation were calibrated by combining simulation analysis with a physical test. The discrete element significant-influence parameters of cotton rootstalk–soil mixture were screened by Placket–Burman test, and the optimal range of significant-influence parameters was determined by the steepest climbing test. According to the principle of Box–Behnken test, the quadratic regression model of repose angle and significant parameters was established with repose angle as the response value. Taking the actual repose angle as the target, the Design-Expert software was used to optimize the parameters with significant influence and obtain the optimal combination of parameters. The optimal parameter combination was compared and verified by simulation experiments. The relative error between the simulated repose angle and the physical test was 2.36%. The results showed that the calibrated parameters were true and reliable, which could provide a theoretical reference for the discrete element simulation of cotton rootstalk–soil mixture in a Xinjiang cotton field.
The FC Algorithm to Estimate the Manning’s Roughness Coefficients of Irrigation Canals
Authors: Bonet Enrique , Russo Beniamino , González Ricard , Yubero Maria Teresa , Gómez Manuel , Sánchez-Juny Martí
Published: July 2023

Freshwater scarcity has driven the integration of technological advancements and automation systems in agriculture in order to attempt to improve water-use efficiency. For irrigation canals, water-use efficiency is, in great measure, limited by the performance of management systems responsible for controlling the flow and delivering water to the farmers. Recent studies show a significant sensitivity of the results obtained from irrigation canal control algorithms with respect to the Manning’s roughness coefficient value, thus, highlighting the importance of its correct estimation to ensure an accurate and efficient water delivery service. This is the reason why the friction coefficient algorithm was developed, to monitor the real behaviour of any irrigation canal by calculating the Manning’s roughness coefficient constantly. The friction coefficient algorithm was conceived as a powerful offline tool that is integrated in a control diagram of any irrigation canal, concretely in an optimization control algorithm, which can reconfigure canal gates according to the current crop water demand and the real Manning’s roughness coefficient values. The friction coefficient algorithm has been applied in several irrigation canals and different scenarios, with accurate results obtaining an average Manning coefficient deviation among 2 × 10−4 and 4.5 × 10−4.
Effects of Bicarbonate Addition and N:P Ratio on Microalgae Growth and Resource Recovery from Domestic Wastewater
Authors: Tango Mariana Daniel , Zanetoni Filho José Antônio , Daniel Luiz Antonio , Leite Luan de Souza , Hoffmann Maria Teresa , Moutinho Fellipe Henrique Martins
Published: July 2023

Nutrient availability plays a crucial role in microalgae growth in domestic wastewater. In this study, we investigated the impact of different nitrogen and phosphorus ratios (5:1, 10:1, and 20:1, m∙m−1), and the addition of inorganic carbon on microalgae growth and nutrient uptake from domestic wastewater. Microalgae biomass achieved values ranging from 0.54 to 1.41 g·L−1. The cultivation process had maximum removal efficiencies of 83.7% for soluble chemical oxygen demand (sCOD), 74.0% for total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN), and 100.0% for ammonia (NH3) and orthophosphate (PO43−). All the NH3 and PO43− concentrations from domestic wastewater without supplementation were completely removed on the fourth day of cultivation. Moreover, no significant differences in microalgae growth, and NH3 and PO43− removals were observed between the conditions with and without nutrient supplementation on the fourth day of cultivation. This study has shown the feasibility of growing microalgae in domestic wastewater without any nutritional supplementation. Further investigations are required to check the long-term performance, energy requirements, and economic viability of this system for wastewater treatment and the production of nutrient-rich biomass for agricultural applications.
Severity and Bothersomeness of Urinary Tract Infection Symptoms in Women before and after Menopause
Authors: Teglbrænder-Bjergkvist Signe , Siersma Volkert , Holm Anne
Published: July 2023

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common cause for prescription of antibiotics among women in general practice. Diagnosis is often established by inquiry into clinical history and symptoms, and these may be experienced differently depending on menopause status of the woman. The aim of this study was to assess differences in severity and bothersomeness of UTI symptoms between pre- and postmenopausal women. We used a convenience sample of 313 women with suspected UTIs and typical symptoms recruited in general practice. Each woman completed the Holm and Cordoba UTI score (HCUTI), measuring the severity and bothersomeness of the dimensions: dysuria, frequency, lower back, and general symptoms. The exposure was menopausal status. Differences in the various HCUTI dimensions between the menopause groups were investigated in linear regression models, adjusting for potential confounders. Premenopausal women had a significantly higher severity score for the item “feeling unwell” than postmenopausal women (mean difference −0.59, 95% CI −0.88 to −0.31). They also had a significantly higher bothersomeness score for the items “pain on urination” (mean difference −0.54, 95% CI −0.83 to −0.25), “feeling unwell” (mean difference −0.62, 95% CI −0.92 to −0.32), and for the dimension “dysuria” (mean difference −0.38, 95% CI −0.61 to −0.15) than postmenopausal women. This study found differences in some aspects of symptom severity and bothersomeness between pre- and postmenopausal women presenting in general practice with suspected UTIs. Menopausal status should be taken into account when using symptoms to diagnose and evaluate response to UTI treatment in both clinical practice and research.
Correction: Sainz et al. Analysis of Thioredoxins and Glutaredoxins in Soybean: Evidence of Translational Regulation under Water Restriction. Antioxidants 2022, 11, 1622
Authors: Sainz María Martha , Filippi Carla Valeria , Eastman Guillermo , Sotelo-Silveira José , Borsani Omar , Sotelo-Silveira Mariana
Published: July 2023

In the original publication [...]
Modeling Cardiotoxicity in Pediatric Oncology Patients Using Patient-Specific iPSC-Derived Cardiomyocytes Reveals Downregulation of Cardioprotective microRNAs
Authors: Reinal Ignacio , Ontoria-Oviedo Imelda , Selva Marta , Casini Marilù , Peiró-Molina Esteban , Fambuena-Santos Carlos , Climent Andreu M. , Balaguer Julia , Cañete Adela , Mora Jaume , Raya Ángel , Sepúlveda Pilar
Published: July 2023

Anthracyclines are widely used in the treatment of many solid cancers, but their efficacy is limited by cardiotoxicity. As the number of pediatric cancer survivors continues to rise, there has been a concomitant increase in people living with anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity. Accordingly, there is an ongoing need for new models to better understand the pathophysiological mechanisms of anthracycline-induced cardiac damage. Here we generated induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from two pediatric oncology patients with acute cardiotoxicity induced by anthracyclines and differentiated them to ventricular cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs). Comparative analysis of these cells (CTX hiPSC-CMs) and control hiPSC-CMs revealed that the former were significantly more sensitive to cell injury and death from the anthracycline doxorubicin (DOX), as measured by viability analysis, cleaved caspase 3 expression, oxidative stress, genomic and mitochondrial damage and sarcomeric disorganization. The expression of several mRNAs involved in structural integrity and inflammatory response were also differentially affected by DOX. Functionally, optical mapping analysis revealed higher arrythmia complexity after DOX treatment in CTX iPSC-CMs. Finally, using a panel of previously identified microRNAs associated with cardioprotection, we identified lower levels of miR-22-3p, miR-30b-5p, miR-90b-3p and miR-4732-3p in CTX iPSC-CMs under basal conditions. Our study provides valuable phenotype information for cellular models of cardiotoxicity and highlights the significance of using patient-derived cardiomyocytes for studying the associated pathogenic mechanisms.
Comparison of Fungal Thermophilic and Mesophilic Catalase–Peroxidases for Their Antioxidative Properties
Authors: Poljovka Andrej , Musil Miloš , Bednář David , Chovanová Katarína , Bauerová-Hlinková Vladena , Bellová Jana , Kohútová Lenka , Baráth Peter , Zámocký Marcel
Published: July 2023

Catalase–peroxidases (KatGs) are unique bifunctional oxidoreductases that contain heme in their active centers allowing both the peroxidatic and catalatic reaction modes. These originally bacterial enzymes are broadly distributed among various fungi allowing them to cope with reactive oxygen species present in the environment or inside the cells. We used various biophysical, biochemical, and bioinformatics methods to investigate differences between catalase–peroxidases originating in thermophilic and mesophilic fungi from different habitats. Our results indicate that the architecture of the active center with a specific post-translational modification is highly similar in mesophilic and thermophilic KatG and also the peroxidatic acitivity with ABTS, guaiacol, and L-DOPA. However, only the thermophilic variant CthedisKatG reveals increased manganese peroxidase activity at elevated temperatures. The catalatic activity releasing molecular oxygen is comparable between CthedisKatG and mesophilic MagKatG1 over a broad temperature range. Two constructed point mutations in the active center were performed selectively blocking the formation of described post-translational modification in the active center. They exhibited a total loss of catalatic activity and changes in the peroxidatic activity. Our results indicate the capacity of bifunctional heme enzymes in the variable reactivity for potential biotech applications.
Antioxidant and Wound Healing Bioactive Potential of Extracts Obtained from Bark and Needles of Softwood Species
Authors: Geana Elisabeta-Irina , Ciucure Corina Teodora , Tamaian Radu , Marinas Ioana Cristina , Gaboreanu Diana Mădălina , Stan Miruna , Chitescu Carmen Lidia
Published: July 2023

Interest in the extraction of phytochemical bioactive compounds, especially polyphenols from biomass, has recently increased due to their valuable biological potential as natural sources of antioxidants, which could be used in a wide range of applications, from foods and pharmaceuticals to green polymers and bio-based materials. The present research study aimed to provide a comprehensive chemical characterization of the phytochemical composition of forest biomass (bark and needles) of softwood species (Picea abies L., H. Karst., and Abies alba Mill.) and to investigate their in vitro antioxidant and antimicrobial activities to assess their potential in treating and healing infected chronic wounds. The DPPH radical-scavenging method and P–LD were used for a mechanistic explanation of the biomolecular effects of the investigated bioactive compounds. (+)-Catechin, epicatechin, rutin, myricetin, 4 hydroxybenzoic and p-cumaric acids, kaempherol, and apigenin were the main quantified polyphenols in coniferous biomass (in quantities around 100 µg/g). Also, numerous phenolic acids, flavonoids, stilbenes, terpenes, lignans, secoiridoids, and indanes with antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antihemolytic, and anti-carcinogenic potential were identified. The Abies alba needle extract was more toxic to microbial strains than the eukaryotic cells that provide its active wound healing principles. In this context, developing industrial upscaling strategies is imperative for the long-term success of biorefineries and incorporating them as part of a circular bio-economy.
Research on Roughness and Microhardness of C45 Material Using High-Speed Machining
Authors: Duplak Jan , Duplakova Darina , Zajac Jozef
Published: July 2023

From the point of view of production, it is of fundamental importance to know the cutting parameters at which the new surface of the component was created because only in this way is it possible to understand the nature and properties of the created surface. Based on the information obtained, it is then possible to improve the processes used or to create machined surfaces with, if not zero, at least a minimum number of flaws. The main purpose of the article is to create a comprehensive overview of the behavior and properties of the selected material with a focus on the prediction of roughness depending on the cutting speed and depth of cut, Vickers microhardness evaluation, assessment of cutting tool wear, and assessment of the shape and structure of the resulting chip. The achieved results are recorded in graphical and verbal form, from which the necessary conclusions are drawn. From the performed analyses, a mathematical prediction of determining the quality of the machined surface was created, which reflects changes in roughness depending on the cutting speed in the three modifications (700 m/min, 1400 m/min, and 2000 m/min). Conclusions were also drawn regarding the characteristics of the resulting chip and the wear of the cutting edges depending on the change in cutting speed. The fluctuating course of surface roughness when changing the cutting speed can be considered a significant finding—at 1400 m/min, the surface roughness was expected to have a decreasing tendency; however, it increased; a decreasing tendency was not recorded until at speeds of 1800 m/min, but during this process, the material already crept.
Underwater Target Recognition via Cayley-Klein Measure and Shape Prior Information in Hyperspectral Imaging
Authors: Zhang Bin , Zhang Fan , Sun Yansen , Li Xiaojie , Liu Pei , Liu Liang , Miao Zelang
Published: July 2023

Underwater target detection plays a vital role in various application scenarios, ranging from scientific research to military and industrial operations. In this paper, a detection method via the Cayley–Klein measure and a prior information of shape is proposed for the issue of hyperspectral underwater target identification. Firstly, by analyzing the data features of underwater targets and backgrounds, a background suppression algorithm based on Cayley–Klein measure is developed to enhance the differentiation between underwater targets and backgrounds. Then, a local peak-based algorithm is designed to discriminate potential underwater target points based on the local peak features of underwater targets. Finally, pseudo-target points are eliminated based on the priori shape information of underwater targets. Experiments show that the algorithm proposed is efficient and can effectively detect underwater targets from hyperspectral images.
Cooperative Jamming-Assisted Untrusted Relaying Based on Game Theory for Next-Generation Communication Systems
Authors: Zamir Nida , Ali Bakhtiar , Butt Muhammad Fasih Uddin , Javed Muhammad Awais , Lee Byung Moo , Ng Soon Xin
Published: July 2023

In this contribution, we investigate the performance of an untrusted relaying system when Cooperative Jammers (CJs) are available. We propose two scenarios, Untrusted Relaying-aided Multiple Cooperative-Jammers-based Simultaneous Transmission (UR-MCJST) and an Untrusted Relaying-aided Multiple Cooperative Jammers-based Time-Division Transmission (UR-MCJTDT). The performances of both UR-MCJST and UR-MCJTDT schemes are investigated. The source node is the primary user (PU) that has access to a transmission bandwidth. An untrusted relay is employed for improving the reliability of the PU transmission, while CJs are invoked for improving the secrecy rate of the PU transmission. The transmission strategy for the scheme proposed in this paper is split into three unique phases. The first phase is called the broadcast-and-jamming phase, while the second phase is called the relaying phase, and the final phase is called CJ’s secondary phase, which is used for transmitting the secondary user message. More explicitly, CJs transmit noise for impairing the untrusted relay node’s ability to decode the message during the broadcast-and-jamming phase. In compensation for their help, CJs are allocated part of the available spectrum by the PU for their transmission during the secondary transmission phase. A Stackelberg leader–follower game was considered between the PU and the CJs, while a power control game that is based on the well-known Nash equilibrium is employed by the CJs. Furthermore, an investigation into the effect of invoking simultaneous transmission and time-division-based transmission scenarios during the CJs’ secondary transmission phase was carried out. Finally, we evaluated the achievable secrecy rate of the PU and the utility rate of the CJs in our proposed scheme.
A Three-Phased Fuzzy Logic Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Model for Evaluating Operation Systems for Smart TVs
Authors: Lee Amy H. I. , Kang He-Yau
Published: July 2023

Within the competitive global market and fast-advancing technology environment, in order to survive and to succeed, firms need to spontaneously respond to market changes and the uncertainty of customer needs. Therefore, New Product Development (NPD) is extremely important for the success of firms. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has gradually entered people’s lives, and consumer demand for AI products is increasing. Firms need to understand the AI development trend and consider the preferences of consumers for AI-related products under social changes so that suitable consumer AI products can be properly developed. In this study, the evaluation and selection of operation systems for a commercially available AI product (smart TV) is studied, and a Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) model for facilitating the selection of the most suitable operation system for product development is constructed. The proposed model consists of three phases: Interpretative Structural Modelling (ISM) to construct a decision-making network, Fuzzy Analytic Network Process (FANP) to obtain the weights of factors, and Fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (fuzzy TOPSIS) to rank the operation systems. The proposed model is applied to select an operation system that companies can use to develop a smart TV. The results show that the proposed model can provide a systematic method that helps companies make appropriate operation system selection decisions.
Interaction between the Concentration of β-Hydroxybutyric Acid and the Content of Long-Chain Fatty Acids in the Early Stage of Lactation––Comparing Multiparous and Primiparous Cows
Authors: Solarczyk Paweł , Gołębiewski Marcin , Slósarz Jan , Puppel Kamila
Published: July 2023

The aim of the experiment was to study the relationship between the age of cows, blood BHBA content, and CLA isomer (C18:2 cis9,trans11, CLA9; C18:2 trans10,cis12, CLA10) content during the first three weeks post-partum. For the experiment, 105 cows were selected from the entire herd and assigned to one of four groups: healthy primiparous (PH), healthy multiparous (MH) or ketotic primiparous (PK), ketotic multiparous (MK) based on their symptoms, and blood serum BHBA concentrations at 5 ± 2 days post-partum. Milk and blood samples were taken from the animals for a period of three weeks at weekly intervals on the same day. High levels of ketone bodies inhibit the activity of acetyl-CoA, thus decreasing the transport of acetyl-CoA, which may result in a decrease in CLA9 and CLA10 synthesis. Studies have shown that the age of the cows was an additional factor in determining the formation of CLA isomer levels during the early stage of lactation. The CLA9 content in the milk of PH cows in the first week of lactation was 32.75% higher than that of PK milk, while in MH milk, it was 67.7% higher than that of MK milk. The CLA10 content in the milk PH, when compared to the healthy groups, was 319% lower for primiparous cows. In summary, different reference limits in CLA9 and CLA10 content should be considered in the diagnosis of ketosis, taking into account, among other things, parity.
Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) Rescues the Contractile Smooth Muscle Cell Phenotype in Popliteal Artery Aneurysm Disease
Authors: Pauli Jessica , Reisenauer Tessa , Winski Greg , Sachs Nadja , Chernogubova Ekaterina , Freytag Hannah , Otto Christoph , Reeps Christian , Eckstein Hans-Henning , Scholz Claus-Jürgen , Maegdefessel Lars , Busch Albert
Published: July 2023

Popliteal artery aneurysm (PAA) is the most frequent peripheral aneurysm, primarily seen in male smokers with a prevalence below 1%. This exploratory study aims to shed light on cellular mechanisms involved in PAA progression. Sixteen human PAA and eight non-aneurysmatic popliteal artery samples, partially from the same patients, were analyzed by immunohistochemistry, fluorescence imaging, Affymetrix mRNA expression profiling, qPCR and OLink proteomics, and compared to atherosclerotic (n = 6) and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) tissue (n = 19). Additionally, primary cell culture of PAA-derived vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) was established for modulation and growth analysis. Compared to non-aneurysmatic popliteal arteries, VSMCs lose the contractile phenotype and the cell proliferation rate increases significantly in PAA. Array analysis identified APOE higher expressed in PAA samples, co-localizing with VSMCs. APOE stimulation of primary human PAA VSMCs significantly reduced cell proliferation. Accordingly, contractile VSMC markers were significantly upregulated. A single case of osseous mechanically induced PAA with a non-diseased VSMC profile emphasizes these findings. Carefully concluded, PAA pathogenesis shows similar features to AAA, yet the mechanisms involved might differ. APOE is specifically higher expressed in PAA tissue and could be involved in VSMC phenotype rescue.
Serum Urate Levels and Ultrasound Characteristics of Carotid Atherosclerosis across Obesity Phenotypes
Authors: Efremova Daniela , Ciobanu Natalia , Glavan Danu , Leahu Pavel , Racila Renata , Bălănuță Tatiana , Matei Alexandru , Vasilieva Maria , Cheptea Cristina , Bîtcă Paula , Damian Cristina , Bondarciuc Ana , Bejenari Irina , Cojocaru Adelina , Manea Diana , Ciocanu Mihail , Zota Eremei , Ciolac Dumitru , Groppa Stanislav A.
Published: July 2023

Background: Existing evidence suggests a close link among high levels of serum urate (SU), obesity and carotid atherosclerosis. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the interrelations between SU levels and carotid atherosclerosis in subjects with different obesity phenotypes. Methods: In this study, a total of 2076 subjects (mean age 48.1 ± 13.1 years; 1307 women) were recruited: 59 with general obesity, 616 with central obesity, 715 with mixed (general–central) obesity and 686 non-obese. Anthropometric measurements, vascular risk factors, blood biochemistry analysis (including SU levels), and carotid ultrasound were performed. Ultrasound assessment included evaluation of intima-media thickness (IMT) and plaque characteristics, including number, total area and type (vulnerable vs. stable) of plaques. Results: After adjustment for potential confounders, the highest levels of SU were observed in subjects with mixed obesity, followed by subjects with central obesity, general obesity and the non-obese (309.4 ± 82.2 vs. 301.2 ± 73.1 vs. 272.9 ± 61.8 vs. 234.2 ± 59.8 μmol/L, respectively; F = 149.2, post hoc p < 0.001). Similarly, subjects with mixed and central obesity presented higher values of IMT compared to subjects with general obesity and the non-obese (0.68 ± 0.16 vs. 0.67 ± 0.16 vs. 0.62 ± 0.14 vs. 0.57 ± 0.13 mm, respectively; F = 54.2, post hoc p < 0.001). No difference in number, total area and type of plaques among obesity groups were attested (all p > 0.05). Significantly higher IMT values were observed in subjects with increased SU levels compared to subjects with normal SU levels (0.70 ± 0.10 vs. 0.62 ± 0.14 mm, p = 0.02) only within the central obesity group. Increasing levels of SU were associated with a higher frequency of increased IMT only in subjects with central obesity (OR 1.033, 95% CI 1.025–1.041). Similarly, SU levels yielded a satisfactory performance in detecting subjects with increased IMT (AUC 0.65, 95% CI 0.50–0.73, subjects with carotid plaques (0.62, 95% CI 0.55–0.68) and subjects with vulnerable plaque types (0.68, 0.59–0.76) only within the central obesity group. Conclusions: Among the studied obesity types, the association between SU levels and markers of carotid atherosclerosis was of particular significance in subjects with central obesity.