bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Intensive 2-days Training on Perfused Human Placenta for Microvascular Anastomoses
Authors: Colombo Elisa , Wolf Fabian , Helg Fiona , Höbner Lara Maria , Watson Jennifer Ashley , Sebök Martina , Haslinger Christian , Doormaal Tristan van , Regli Luca , Esposito Giuseppe 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background and Purpose: We report on an intensive two-day training program on microanastomoses performed on perfused human placenta models. A specific scoring system was elaborated to evaluate the participants’ microsurgical skills and report the participants’ results.
Materials and Methods: Trainees who attended the Zurich Microsurgery Courses in 2023 were included in the study. Before performing the microanastomoses, each participant received a visual didactic training. Training was made on perfused human placenta models. To perform the microvascular anastomoses, vessels of different diameters were chosen, and 9-0 and 10-0 microsutures were used. The course was structured in two days. On day one, participants practiced microvascular dissection, microsuturing and end-to-end anastomoses, while the second day was dedicated to end-to-side and to repeat the most useful microanastomosis depending on the specialty. A score system for the evaluation of a successful microanastomosis was developed and applied to assess the participants’ anastomoses. User satisfaction was measured by means of a survey-based questionnaire.
Results: Fifty-two participants from different institutions, specializations and levels of experience were included. A significant improvement in the overall microsurgical skills of the included cohort was documented (p < 0.005). The initial average score per anastomosis of 3.56 points (SD 0.71) increased to an average of 3.8 points (SD 0.87) at the end of the course. The steepest learning curve was observed in the placement of knots (Δ 0.48 points, p = 0.003) and microvascular dissection (Δ 0.44 points, p = 0.002). Most participants rated the fidelity and importance of the placental microsuturing course as extremely high.
Conclusion: The two-day training program is efficient to teach microvascular dissection and microanastomosis techniques. A significant improvement of participants’ microsurgical skills was reported. The human placenta model proved to be a high-fidelity simulator with great user satisfaction.
Ethical concerns in the provision of in vitro fertilization treatment in Ghana: A qualitative study.
Authors: Appiah David , Ganle John K 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
Infertility presents both medical and public health challenges, with in vitro fertilization (IVF) emerging as a prominent solution, particularly when other alternatives are exhausted. However, IVF treatment raises significant ethical questions that have been under explored in the Ghanaian context. This study aimed to explore ethical concerns regarding the provision of in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment in Ghana.
Methods
A phenomenological descriptive qualitative design was employed. Purposive sampling techniques were used to recruit 12 participants from three in vitro fertilization (IVF) centres. In-depth face-to-face interviews guided by an open-ended interview guide were conducted. Thematic analysis of the interviews was performed to identify major themes.
Results
Providing IVF in Ghana raises several ethical issues, including inequitable access due to high costs and limited availability, which favour wealthier individuals and leave marginalized populations with fewer options. There are significant ethical considerations in balancing the potential benefits of successful IVF outcomes against the health risks and emotional tolls on patients. Decisions about the fate of surplus embryos present moral dilemmas, including whether to preserve, donate, or discard them. Differing personal beliefs about the moral status of the embryo further complicate the ethical landscape. Ensuring informed consent is challenging due to the complex medical, ethical, and emotional implications of IVF, potentially leading to compromised consent. Additionally, there are ongoing risks of breaches in confidentiality, given the sensitive nature of reproductive health data and the importance of protecting patient privacy.
Conclusion
This study revealed that several ethical dilemmas confront both healthcare providers and couples in the process of IVF. There is an urgent need for the development of clear and uniform regulations to govern the practice of IVF treatment in Ghana, with further attention given to mitigating financial barriers and enhancing support systems for couples considering IVF.
Production of Antimicrobial Nonwoven Fabrics Based on Polyamide-6 (PA-6) Fibers on Industrial Scale
Authors: Shalaby Samy E , Beliakova Margaretia K , Al-Balakocy Naser G , Elshakankery Mahmoud H 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The ultimate goal of this article is to produce antimicrobial PA-6 nonwoven fabrics on industrial scale. Therefore, the adaptation and development of pilot conditions for imparting PA textile materials antimicrobial properties is highly needed. This will pave the way for establishment a technological package for the production of antimicrobial PA nonwoven fabrics on industrial scale. The effect of semi-industrial scale finishing conditions, mainly antimicrobial substrate (AS) concentration, duration and temperature on the (%) colony forming unit (CFU) reduction after treatment with aqueous solutions of AS was examined. The antimicrobial activity of PA treated with AS fibers against S. areus, E. Coli and C. albicans was investigated using the shake flask method. All PA-6 fibers bounded with AS showed outstanding antimicrobial activities against the previously mentioned three microorganisms. In fact the % of CFU reduction for all PA-6 samples are significant, whereas it is null for the parent fibers.
Effect of oxygen mass transfer coefficient (kLa) on surfactin production by Bacillus subtilis ATCC 21332
Authors: Martins Taise , Debon Janaina , Schmidell Willibaldo , Soares Hugo M. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Surfactin is one of the most effective biosurfactants available and has several interesting properties. However, the high cost and low yield associated with surfactin production have been major drawbacks preventing its wider industrial application. The use of intensive stirring and aeration, in order to increase surfactin synthesis, can cause excessive foaming, resulting in low levels of biosurfactant production inside the bioreactor. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the oxygen mass transfer coefficient (kLa) on surfactin productivity in a bioreactor integrated with a foam collector using low aeration rates. The experiments were carried out at 32°C, using a mineral salts medium containing 10 g/L of glucose, at constant pH 7.0. The results showed that the best surfactin production performance was achieved at kLa = 21.88 h− 1 (with 0.3 vvm aeration and 250 rpm stirring), which resulted in a maximum productivity of 14.1 mg/L.h and a maximum surfactin concentration of 443.1 mg/L in the foam. Despite loss of the culture broth through the exhaust air line, a very high surfactin concentration was reached in the foam phase, which can facilitate downstream processing and purification of the product. Besides, the best results regarding surfactin enrichment and recovery were obtained by using low aeration rate combined with high agitation rate.
Cytosolic delivery of monobodies using the bacterial type III secretion system inhibits oncogenic BCR::ABL1 signaling
Authors: Lebon Chiara , Grossmann Sebastian , Mann Greg , Lindner Florian , Koide Akiko , Koide Shohei , Diepold Andreas , Hantschel Oliver 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Background
The inability of biologics to pass the plasma membrane prevents their development as therapeutics for intracellular targets. To address the lack of methods for cytosolic protein delivery, we used the type III secretion system (T3SS) of Y. enterocolitica, which naturally injects bacterial proteins into eukaryotic host cells, to deliver monobody proteins into cancer cells. Monobodies are small synthetic binding proteins that can inhibit oncogene signaling in cancer cells with high selectivity upon intracellular expression. Here, we engineered monobodies targeting the BCR::ABL1 tyrosine kinase for efficient delivery by the T3SS, quantified cytosolic delivery and target engagement in cancer cells and monitored inhibition of BCR::ABL1 signaling.
Methods
In vitro assays were performed to characterize destabilized monobodies (thermal shift assay and isothermal titration calorimetry) and to assess their secretion by the T3SS. Immunoblot assays were used to study the translocation of monobodies into different cell lines and to determine the intracellular concentration after translocation. Split-Nanoluc assays were performed to understand translocation and degradation kinetics and to evaluate target engagement after translocation. Phospho flow cytometry and apoptosis assays were performed to assess the functional effects of monobody translocation into BCR:ABL1-expressing leukemia cells.
Results
To enable efficient translocation of the stable monobody proteins by the T3SS, we engineered destabilized mutant monobodies that retained high affinity target binding and were efficiently injected into different cell lines. After injection, the cytosolic monobody concentrations reached mid-micromolar concentrations considerably exceeding their binding affinity. We found that injected monobodies targeting the BCR::ABL1 tyrosine kinase selectively engaged their target in the cytosol. The translocation resulted in inhibition of oncogenic signaling and specifically induced apoptosis in BCR::ABL1-dependent cells, consistent with the phenotype when the same monobody was intracellularly expressed.
Conclusion
Hence, we establish the T3SS of Y. enterocolitica as a highly efficient protein translocation method for monobody delivery, enabling the selective targeting of different oncogenic signaling pathways and providing a foundation for future therapeutic application against intracellular targets.
Lightweight YOLOv7 for bushing surface defects detection
Authors: Cheng Wenjun , Zeng Pengfei , Hao Yongping 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Bushings as metal structure parts because of their good welding performance, good plasticity strength, and other advantages in the engineering field are widely used. However, because the performance of the internal microstructure of the metal material is not uniform, there is an electrode potential difference between the micro area leading to surface corrosion; and the production process will inevitably produce defective surfaces with defective products, thus seriously affecting the subsequent use. Therefore, it is essential to accurately detect the defects on the surface of the bushing.At present, the inspection method based on machine vision has replaced the manual inspection method with low efficiency and a high false detection rate. However,due to the large amount of computation brought about by the complex network model, the efficiency can not meet the production needs of real-time detection; the simple network model is due to the limited ability to extract features and thus can not meet the requirements of the accuracy of the detection. To ensure the detection accuracy of the surface defects of the bushing and at the same time reduce the volume of the model, a bushing defect detection model based on the improved YOLOv7 is proposed. The backbone network of the model uses MobileNetv3 to replace the backbone network of the original YOLOv7, which improves the detection speed while guaranteeing the detection accuracy, and realizes the lightweight model at the same time; the CBAM (Convolutional Block Attention Module) attention mechanism is introduced into the residual edges of each layer of the backbone network, which pays more attention to the small-size target to get more important feature information; BiFPN feature pyramid is used to optimize the detection effect by weighted fusion of multi-scale feature information. The experimental results show that the improved algorithm in this paper reduces the mAP by only 0.7 percent compared with the traditional YOLOv7 algorithm; however, the detection speed is increased by 29.4 percent, and the model volume is reduced by 29.9 percent, which effectively improves the detection accuracy and speed of all kinds of defects on the surface of the bushings, and it can be better adapted to the industrial detecting environment.
Mathematics Subject Classification (2020) 5206050
Ultra-High Performance Spherical Symmetrical Line Scanning Optical See-through Glasses
Authors: Weiqi Liu , Yang Jianming , Fan Qunwen , Lv Bo , Zhang Senfu , Jiao Jiannan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In the development of optical see-through (OST) glasses, the interdependence among field of view (FOV), Eyebox, and optical resolution has significantly constrained progress over the past decades. This paper proposes a groundbreaking solution that combines spherical symmetric optical design with rotating micro-display technology, successfully overcoming these limitations. This transformative approach markedly enhances the display performance of AR glasses, achieving an FOV of over 90°, supporting single-eye 8K resolution, an Eyebox greater than 10 mm, and distortion-free display effects. Since spherical symmetry represents the limit of symmetry in a three-dimensional space, fully utilizing the optical performance of this structure reaches the theoretical maximum. This paper will comprehensively verify the feasibility of this technical route through theoretical analysis and experimental validation.
Allelic variation of TaABI5-A4 Significantly Affects Seed Dormancy in Bread Wheat
Authors: Han Yang , Wang Zeng , Han Bing , Zhang Yingjun , Liu Jindong , Yang Yan 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

ABI5 is a critical transcription factor in regulation of crop seed maturation, dormancy, germination and post-germination. Sixteen copies of homologous sequences of ABI5 were identified in Chinese wheat line Zhou 8425B. Cultivars of two haplotypes TaABI5-A4a and TaABI5-A4bshowed significantly different seed dormancy. Based on two SNPs between the sequences of TaABI5-A4a and TaABI5-A4b, two complementary dominant sequence-tagged site (STS) markers were developed and validated in a natural population of 103 Chinese wheat cultivars and advanced lines and 200 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from the Yangxiaomai/Zhongyou 9507 cross; the STS markers can be used efficiently and reliably to evaluate the dormancy of wheat seeds. The transcription level of TaABI5-A4b was significantly increased in TaABI5-A4a-GFPtransgenic rice lines compared with that in TaABI5-A4b-GFP. The average seed germination index of TaABI5-A4a-GFP transgenic rice lines were significantly lower than those of TaABI5-A4b-GFP. In addition, seeds of TaABI5-A4a-GFP transgenic lines had higher ABA sensitivity and endogenous ABA content, lower endogenous GA content and plant height, and thicker stem internodes than those of TaABI5-A4b-GFP. Allelic variation of TaABI5-A4 affected wheat seed dormancy and the gene function was confirmed in transgenic rice. The transgenic rice lines of TaABI5-A4a and TaABI5-A4b had significantly different sensitivities to ABA and contents of endogenous ABA and GA in mature seeds, thereby influencing the seed dormancy, plant height and stem internode length and diameter.
Comparison of Preprocessing Methods Impact on Detection of Soldering Splashes Using Different YOLOv8 Versions
Authors: Klčo Peter , Koniar Dušan , Hargaš Libor , Paškala Marek 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Quality inspection of electronic boards during manufacturing process is crucial step especially in the case of specific and expensive power electronics modules. Soldering splashes occurrence decreases the reliability and electric properties of final products. The aim of this paper is to compare different YOLOv8 models (small, medium, large) with the combination of basic image preprocessing techniques to achieve the best possible performance of designed algorithm. As preprocessing methods contrast limited adaptive histogram equalization (CLAHE) and image color channels manipulation are used. Results show that suitable combination of YOLOv8 model and preprocessing methods leads to increase the recall parameter. In our inspection task, the recall can be considered as the most important metric. The results are supported by the standard two-way ANOVA test.
Overexpression of microRNA-126 in Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Alleviate the Alcoholic Liver Injury
Authors: Du Qianjing , Pan TongTong , Xia Yuanhang , Yang Weijian , Zeng Shiyi , Jin Ru , Shao Rongrong , Jin Xiaozhi , Wang Xiaodong , Chen Yongping , Chen Dazhi 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a major global health issue. This study explores the therapeutic efficacy of microRNA-126 (miR-126)-engineered adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) in ALD, particularly focusing on their impact on the intestinal barrier. Male mice was used to establish an ALD model. Subsequently, both unmodified and miR-126-engineered ADMSCs were transplanted into these ALD models. A variety of techniques were then employed to assess liver injury, the integrity of the intestinal epithelial barrier (IEB), and the gut vascular barrier (GVB) across different intervention groups. ADMSCs effectively mitigated liver injury in the ALD model, as evidenced by improving liver function (serum ALT and AST levels) and injury, and reversing the serum LPS translocation. Furthermore, miR-126-overexpressing engineered ADMSCs demonstrated the most potent effects compared to other groups. ALD-induced damage to the intestinal epithelium and vascular barriers was not only ameliorated by ADMSCs but also further enhanced by ADMSCsmiR−126(+) treatment. Additionally, the expression levels of PV-1 (a positive marker for GVB injury) and ZO-1 (a negative marker for IEB injury) were most markedly reduced and elevated following treatment with ADMSCsmiR−126(+), respectively. Further analyses revealed that ADMSCs treatment actives PI3K/Akt/eNOS pathway and subsequently repressing the expression of caspase-3, thereby repairing IEB and GVB, in which miR-126 can improve the above effect. ADMSCs can alleviate ALD by regulating the IEB and GVB, and miR-126-engineered ADMSCs offer enhanced therapeutic benefits. These findings unveil a novel therapeutic mechanism for ALD that involves protection against damage to the IEB and GVB.
Spatiotemporal analysis of West Nile virus infection in the human population based on arboviral detection testing of blood donations
Authors: Talbot Benoit , Ludwig Antoinette , O’Brien Sheila F. , Drews Steven J. , Ogden Nicholas H. , Kulkarni Manisha A. 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

West Nile virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne zoonotic flavivirus which often causes asymptomatic infection in humans but may develop into a deadly neuroinvasive disease. In this study, we aimed to investigate variables potentially associated with human WNV infection using human and mosquito WNV surveillance and monitoring datasets, established over 20 years, from 2003 to 2022, across the province of Ontario, Canada. We combined climatic and geographic data, mosquito surveillance data (n=3,010 sites), blood donation arboviral detection testing data in the human population, and demographic and socio-economic data from Canadian population censuses. We hypothesized that spatio-temporal indices related to mosquito vector habitat and phenology, in addition to human demographic and socio-economic factors, were associated with WNV infection in the human population. Our results show that habitat suitability of the main WNV vector in this region, Cx. pipiens/restuans (IRR = 2.0), and variables related to lower income (IRR = 2.8), and shelter infrastructure spending (IRR = 0.7), were key risk factors associated with WNV infection among blood donors from 2003 to 2022 across Ontario (R2 = 0.67). These results may inform points of entry for practical intervention aimed at reducing risk of mosquito-borne pathogens in Canada.
Psychological Needs and Social Comparison: A Dual Analysis of the Life Satisfaction of Local Workers with Agricultural Hukou
Authors: He Li , Wang Jiangyin , Chen Hang , Lu Jinmiao 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Backgrounds: Research shows that although local workers with agricultural hukou(LWAH) often find themselves at a disadvantage in terms of labor income and access to public services, the significant growth of this group in recent years has drawn attention to their choice of workplace and the factors influencing it. Guided by the theories of self-determination and social comparison, this study aims to explore the impact of the differences betweenocal workers with agricultural hukou and migrant workers with agricultural hukou (MWAH) in psychological needs and social comparisons on life satisfaction, as well as the underlying mechanisms.Methods Utilizing data from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) from 2014 to 2020 and employing a fixed effects model for analysis, the results indicate that local workers with agricultural hukouhave significantly higher life satisfaction than migrant workers with agricultural hukou.Results Perceived social status plays a mediating role in this difference, whereas job satisfaction does not. Heterogeneity analysis reveals that differences in generation, region, and work conditions have varying impacts on the life satisfaction of ocal workers with agricultural hukou.Conclusions This study provides important insights into understanding the workplace choices and quality of life of Chinese workers with agricultural hukou. Finally, to effectively promote rural revitalization and new urbanization processes, local governments must strive not only to improve residents' income and public service levels but also to enhance the autonomy, competency, and social status of WAH. This would improve their perceived social status, attracting more laborers to return to their hometowns for work and entrepreneurship.
Discovering Dominant Dynamics for Nonlinear Continuum Robot Control
Authors: Alora John Irvin , Cenedese Mattia , Haller George , Pavone Marco 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Continuum robots, which emulate biological organisms’ dexterity and flexibility, hold transformative potential for terrestrial and extraterrestrial applications. While these capabilities present significant modeling and control challenges, these robots’ highly dissipative nature allows their behavior to be explained by low-dimensional, dominant dynamics. Despite extensive research to uncover these dynamics, existing methodologies often fail to produce models that accurately capture them, hindering precise control in diverse and safety-critical tasks. This work addresses this gap by discovering these dynamics and leveraging them in a control methodology that substantially outperforms existing methods. Our approach, grounded in Spectral Submanifold theory, enhances accuracy up to sixfold and improves tracking performance by up to 150 times across a diverse set of control tasks, achieving Pareto dominance in precision and computational efficiency. These advances enable the development of simple yet robust models suitable for real-time control, moving us closer to deploying highly adaptive, efficient, and safe continuum robots.