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Biology May 2024Artificial insemination (AI) with liquid-preserved semen has recently become common in pig breeding. The semen doses are produced in a centralized manner at the boar...
Artificial insemination (AI) with liquid-preserved semen has recently become common in pig breeding. The semen doses are produced in a centralized manner at the boar stud and then subsequently distributed and transported to sow farms. However, vibration emissions during transportation by logistic vehicles may adversely affect the quality of boar sperm. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the impact of vibration-induced emissions on sperm quality and function under simulated transportation conditions. Each time, ejaculates from all 15 boars were collected and then pooled together to minimize individual variations, and the sample was split using an extender for dilution. Different rotational speeds (0 rpm, 80 rpm, 140 rpm, 200 rpm) were utilized to simulate varying intensities of vibration exposure using an orbital shaker, considering different transportation times (0 h, 3 h, and 6 h). Subsequently, evaluations were conducted regarding sperm motility, plasma membrane integrity, acrosome integrity, mitochondrial function, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels, mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, pH, glycolytic pathway enzyme activities, and capacitation following exposure to vibration emissions. Both vibration time and intensity impact sperm motility, plasma membrane integrity, and acrosomal integrity. Vibration exposure significantly reduced sperm ATP levels, mitochondrial membrane potential, and the levels of mitochondria-encoded proteins (MT-ND1, MT-ND6) ( < 0.05). After vibration emission treatment, the pH value and mitochondrial ROS levels significantly increased ( < 0.05). Inhibition of sperm glycolysis was observed, with reduced activities of hexokinase (HK), pyruvate kinase (PK), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), along with decreased lactate levels ( < 0.05). Additionally, sperm tyrosine phosphorylation levels were significantly reduced by vibration emissions compared to the control group ( < 0.05). After the vibration emission treatment, the number of sperm bound to each square millimeter of oviduct explants decreased significantly compared to the control group ( < 0.05). Similarly, compared to the control group, using semen subjected to vibration stress for AI results in significantly reduced pregnancy rates, total born litter size, live-born litter size, and healthy born litter size ( < 0.05).
PubMed: 38927250
DOI: 10.3390/biology13060370 -
Nature Jun 2024Despite being the dominant force of nature on large scales, gravity remains relatively elusive to precision laboratory experiments. Atom interferometers are powerful...
Despite being the dominant force of nature on large scales, gravity remains relatively elusive to precision laboratory experiments. Atom interferometers are powerful tools for investigating, for example, Earth's gravity, the gravitational constant, deviations from Newtonian gravity and general relativity. However, using atoms in free fall limits measurement time to a few seconds, and much less when measuring interactions with a small source mass. Recently, interferometers with atoms suspended for 70 s in an optical-lattice mode filtered by an optical cavity have been demonstrated. However, the optical lattice must balance Earth's gravity by applying forces that are a billionfold stronger than the putative signals, so even tiny imperfections may generate complex systematic effects. Thus, lattice interferometers have yet to be used for precision tests of gravity. Here we optimize the gravitational sensitivity of a lattice interferometer and use a system of signal inversions to suppress and quantify systematic effects. We measure the attraction of a miniature source mass to be a = 33.3 ± 5.6 ± 2.7 nm s, consistent with Newtonian gravity, ruling out 'screened fifth force' theories over their natural parameter space. The overall accuracy of 6.2 nm s surpasses by more than a factor of four the best similar measurements with atoms in free fall. Improved atom cooling and tilt-noise suppression may further increase sensitivity for investigating forces at sub-millimetre ranges, compact gravimetry, measuring the gravitational Aharonov-Bohm effect and the gravitational constant, and testing whether the gravitational field has quantum properties.
PubMed: 38926574
DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07561-3 -
Small (Weinheim An Der Bergstrasse,... Jun 2024As demand for higher integration density and smaller devices grows, silicon-based complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) devices will soon reach their ultimate...
As demand for higher integration density and smaller devices grows, silicon-based complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) devices will soon reach their ultimate limits. 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) semiconductors, known for excellent electrical performance and stable atomic structure, are seen as promising materials for future integrated circuits. However, controlled and reliable doping of 2D TMDs, a key step for creating homogeneous CMOS logic components, remains a challenge. In this study, a continuous electrical polarity modulation of monolayer WS from intrinsic n-type to ambipolar, then to p-type, and ultimately to a quasi-metallic state is achieved simply by introducing controllable amounts of vanadium (V) atoms into the WS lattice as p-type dopants during chemical vapor deposition (CVD). The achievement of purely p-type field-effect transistors (FETs) is particularly noteworthy based on the 4.7 at% V-doped monolayer WS, demonstrating a remarkable on/off current ratio of 10. Expanding on this triumph, the first initial prototype of ultrathin homogeneous CMOS inverters based on monolayer WS is being constructed. These outcomes validate the feasibility of constructing homogeneous CMOS devices through the atomic doping process of 2D materials, marking a significant milestone for the future development of integrated circuits.
PubMed: 38924273
DOI: 10.1002/smll.202402217 -
Biomedical Physics & Engineering Express Jun 2024: To summarize our institutional prostate stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) experience using auto beam hold (ABH) technique for intrafractional prostate motion...
: To summarize our institutional prostate stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) experience using auto beam hold (ABH) technique for intrafractional prostate motion and assess ABH tolerance of 10-millimeter (mm) diameter.: Thirty-two patients (160 fractions) treated using ABH technique between 01/2018 and 03/2021 were analyzed. During treatment, kV images were acquired every 20-degree gantry rotation to visualize 3-4 gold fiducials within prostate to track target motion. If the fiducial center fell outside the tolerance circle (diameter = 10 mm), beam was automatically turned off for reimaging and repositioning. Number of beam holds and couch translational movement magnitudes were recorded. Dosimetric differences from intrafractional motion were calculated by shifting planned isocenter.: Couch movement magnitude (mean ± SD) in vertical, longitudinal and lateral directions were -0.7 ± 2.5, 1.4 ± 2.9 and -0.1 ± 0.9 mm, respectively. For most fractions (77.5%), no correction was necessary. Number of fractions requiring one, two, or three corrections were 15.6%, 5.6% and 1.3%, respectively. Of the 49 corrections, couch shifts greater than 3 mm were seen primarily in the vertical (31%) and longitudinal (39%) directions; corresponding couch shifts greater than 5 mm occurred in 2% and 6% of cases. Dosimetrically, 100% coverage decreased less than 2% for clinical target volume (CTV) (-1 ± 2%) and less than 10% for PTV (-10 ± 6%). Dose to bladder, bowel and urethra tended to increase (Bladder: ΔD10%:184 ± 466 cGy, ΔD40%:139 ± 241 cGy, Bowel: ΔD1 cm:54 ± 129 cGy; ΔD5 cm:44 ± 116 cGy, Urethra: ΔD0.03 cm:1 ± 1%). Doses to the rectum tended to decrease (Rectum: ΔD1 cm:-206 ± 564 cGy, ΔD10%:-97 ± 426 cGy; ΔD20%:-50 ± 251 cGy).: With the transition from conventionally fractionated intensity modulated radiation therapy to SBRT for localized prostate cancer treatment, it is imperative to ensure that dose delivery is spatially accurate for appropriate coverage to target volumes and limiting dose to surrounding organs. Intrafractional motion monitoring can be achieved using triggered imaging to image fiducial markers and ABH to allow for reimaging and repositioning for excessive motion.
Topics: Humans; Male; Prostatic Neoplasms; Radiosurgery; Prostate; Radiotherapy Dosage; Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted; Radiometry; Movement; Fiducial Markers; Motion; Dose Fractionation, Radiation; Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated; Urinary Bladder; Rectum; Organs at Risk
PubMed: 38923907
DOI: 10.1088/2057-1976/ad4b1d -
Clinical and Experimental Dental... Aug 2024Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a particular type of temporomandibular joint disorder. Research findings comparing various treatment approaches are scarce and... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study
Effectiveness of Ultrasound Therapy, TheraBite Device, Masticatory Muscle Exercises, and Stabilization Splint for the Treatment of Masticatory Myofascial Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
BACKGROUND
Myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a particular type of temporomandibular joint disorder. Research findings comparing various treatment approaches are scarce and controversial. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the effectiveness of ultrasound therapy, stabilization splint, TheraBite device, and masticatory muscle exercises in reducing pain intensity and improving mandibular mobility in patients with MPS.
METHODS
It was a single-blind, randomized, parallel-group, active-controlled trial that took place between April 2023 and October 2023 at the Department of Fixed Prosthodontics, Damascus University. Patients older than 18 years old with myofascial pain accompanied by limited jaw opening and pain lasting for at least 6 months were included. Eighty patients were randomly assigned into four groups using online randomization software: ultrasound therapy, stabilization splint, TheraBite device, and masticatory muscle exercises. Only outcome assessors were masked to treatment allocation. The exercise regimen was the exercise program for patients with TMD. The following primary outcome measures were considered at the baseline (t), at the first (t), second (t), and fourth (t) week of treatment, and at the second (t) and fifth (t) month of follow-up: pain intensity using the visual analogue scale, maximum interincisal opening, right lateral movement, and left lateral movement measured in millimeters.
RESULTS
The pain level changed from severe to mild at t in ultrasound therapy, stabilization splint, and TheraBite device groups. In the masticatory muscle exercises group, it changed to moderate, with a significant difference between ultrasound therapy (p = 0.012) and stabilization splint (p = 0.013) groups. In addition, the mandibular mobility continued to improve at the subsequent follow-up periods (t and t).
CONCLUSIONS
All therapies are equally effective after 5-month follow-up. However, ultrasound therapy and stabilization splints have the benefit of achieving rapid improvement.
TRIAL REGISTRATION
ISRCTN20833186.
Topics: Humans; Female; Male; Single-Blind Method; Adult; Exercise Therapy; Ultrasonic Therapy; Occlusal Splints; Masticatory Muscles; Treatment Outcome; Middle Aged; Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Syndrome; Pain Measurement; Young Adult
PubMed: 38923288
DOI: 10.1002/cre2.921 -
Advanced Materials (Deerfield Beach,... Jun 2024Releasing epitaxial perovskite oxide films from their native oxide substrates produces high quality, two-dimensional-material-like monocrystalline freestanding oxide...
Releasing epitaxial perovskite oxide films from their native oxide substrates produces high quality, two-dimensional-material-like monocrystalline freestanding oxide membranes, as potential key components for the next-generation electronic devices. Two major obstacles still limit their practical applications: macroscopic material defects (mainly cracks) that lowers uniformity and yield, and the high cost of the consumed oxide substrates. Here, a two-step film transfer method and a substrate recycling method enable repetitive fabrication of millimeter-scale, fully-connected freestanding oxide films of various chemical compositions from the same substrates; arrays of capacitor and resistor devices based on these oxides transferred on silicon indicate high uniformity, low sample-to-sample variation and satisfactory electrical connectivity. The two-step transfer suppresses crack formation by avoiding buckling-delamination-type relaxation of epitaxial strain, and the key point to achieve substrate reuse is to remove the residual Al species bonded to the substrate surfaces. The mitigation of such long-lasting issues in freestanding oxide fabrication techniques may eventually pave roads towards future industrial-grade devices, as well as enabling many research opportunities in fundamental physics. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
PubMed: 38923058
DOI: 10.1002/adma.202402419 -
Nature Communications Jun 2024Fluorescence imaging is widely used for the mesoscopic mapping of neuronal connectivity. However, neurite reconstruction is challenging, especially when neurons are...
Fluorescence imaging is widely used for the mesoscopic mapping of neuronal connectivity. However, neurite reconstruction is challenging, especially when neurons are densely labelled. Here, we report a strategy for the fully automated reconstruction of densely labelled neuronal circuits. Firstly, we establish stochastic super-multicolour labelling with up to seven different fluorescent proteins using the Tetbow method. With this method, each neuron is labelled with a unique combination of fluorescent proteins, which are then imaged and separated by linear unmixing. We also establish an automated neurite reconstruction pipeline based on the quantitative analysis of multiple dyes (QDyeFinder), which identifies neurite fragments with similar colour combinations. To classify colour combinations, we develop unsupervised clustering algorithm, dCrawler, in which data points in multi-dimensional space are clustered based on a given threshold distance. Our strategy allows the reconstruction of neurites for up to hundreds of neurons at the millimetre scale without using their physical continuity.
Topics: Animals; Neurons; Neurites; Color; Algorithms; Cluster Analysis; Mice; Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; Luminescent Proteins; Staining and Labeling; Optical Imaging
PubMed: 38918382
DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49455-y -
European Journal of Radiology Jun 2024To evaluate the diagnostic performance of simplified post-processing approaches for quantitative wrist 4D-CT in the assessment of scapholunate instability (SLI).
OBJECTIVES
To evaluate the diagnostic performance of simplified post-processing approaches for quantitative wrist 4D-CT in the assessment of scapholunate instability (SLI).
METHODS
A prospective monocentric case-control study included 60 patients with suspected post-traumatic scapholunate ligament (SLL) tears and persistent pain. Of these, 40 patients exhibited SLL tears, subdivided into two groups of 20 each: one group with completely torn ligaments and the other with partially torn ligaments. The remaining 20 patients, whose SLLs were intact, served as controls. 4D-CT and CT arthrography were performed, and post-processed by two readers using three approaches: the standard method with full data assessment and dedicated software, partial data assessment with post-processing software (bone locking), and partial data assessment without post-processing software (no bone locking). The scapholunate gap (SLG) parameter was measured in millimeters to evaluate scapholunate diastasis during radioulnar deviation (RUD). The scapholunate ligament status on CT arthrography was considered the gold standard.
RESULTS
The SLG-derived parameters (range, mean, and maximal values) were significantly increased in patients with both intact and torn scapholunate ligaments across all post-processing approaches (P values ranging from 0.001 to 0.004). SLG range was the best parameter for diagnosing SLL tears, with ROC AUC values ranging from 0.7 to 0.88 across the three post-processing methods. The interobserver reproducibility was better with the alternative approaches (ICC values 0.93-0.96) compared to the standard approach (ICC values 0.65-0.72). Additionally, post-processing time was shorter with the alternative approaches, especially when specific software was not used (reduced from 10 to three minutes).
CONCLUSION
Simpler approaches to wrist 4D-CT data analysis yielded acceptable diagnostic performances and improved interobserver reproducibility compared to the standard approach.
PubMed: 38917580
DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2024.111544 -
The Journal of Physical Chemistry. A Jun 2024The rotational spectrum of 3-furonitrile has been collected from 85 to 500 GHz, spanning the most intense rotational transitions observable at room temperature. The...
The rotational spectrum of 3-furonitrile has been collected from 85 to 500 GHz, spanning the most intense rotational transitions observable at room temperature. The large dipole moment imparted by the nitrile substituent confers substantial intensity to the rotational spectrum, enabling the observation of over 5600 new rotational transitions. Combined with previously published transitions, the available data set was least-squares fit to partial-octic, distorted-rotor A- and S-reduced Hamiltonian models with low statistical uncertainty (σ < 0.031 MHz) for the ground vibrational state. Similar to its isomer 2-furonitrile, the two lowest-energy vibrationally excited states of 3-furonitrile (ν, ν), which correspond to the in-plane and out-of-plane nitrile bending vibrations, form an and axis Coriolis-coupled dyad. Rotationally resolved infrared transitions (30-600 cm) and over 4200 pure rotational transitions for both ν and ν were fit to a partial-octic, Coriolis-coupled, two-state Hamiltonian with low statistical uncertainty (σ rot < 0.045 MHz, σ IR < 6.1 MHz). The least-squares fitting of these vibrationally excited states provides their accurate and precise vibrational frequencies (ν = 168.193 164 8 (67) cm and ν = 169.635 831 5 (77) cm) and seven Coriolis-coupling terms (, , , , , , and ). The two fundamental states exhibit a notably small energy gap (1.442 667 (10) cm) and an inversion of the relative energies of ν and ν compared to those of the isomer 2-furonitrile. The rotational frequencies and spectroscopic constants of 3-furonitrile that we present herein provide a sufficient basis for conducting radioastronomical searches for this molecule across the majority of the frequency range available to current radiotelescopes.
PubMed: 38916202
DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpca.4c03093 -
Scientific Reports Jun 2024This study presents the design of four (mm) wideband, high gain, highly efficient metasurface-based 4T4R MIMO (Multiple-Input Multiple-Output) antennas with highly...
This study presents the design of four (mm) wideband, high gain, highly efficient metasurface-based 4T4R MIMO (Multiple-Input Multiple-Output) antennas with highly isolated ports, covering the middle and a portion of the upper bands of the sub 6 GHz 5G frequency spectrum for 5G-based systems, such as IoT (Internet of Things) applications, vehicular communications (e.g., rooftop antennas of cars or trains), smart industries (e.g., farms and factories). The radiating elements of these antennas use the aperture-coupled feeding technique with a dumbbell-shaped slot, a truncated square patch with two U-shaped slots, and a metasurface layer. The proposed MIMO structures place four identical radiating elements like a matrix with successive rotations to produce orthogonal electromagnetic waves, improving the isolation between ports. Six-millimeter spaces are added between these elements, and two vertical and horizontal strip slots are carved on the ground as the decoupling structure to decrease the mutual coupling. Simulation results show that Antenna_1, Antenna_2, and Antenna_3 achieve gain values of 6.2 to 9.4 dBi, 8.2 to 11.6 dBi, 6.2 to 9.5 dBi, below - 35, - 25, and - 33 isolation and almost 10 dB diversity gain from 2.8 to 4.7 GHz, 2.8 to 4.5 GHz, and 2.7 to 4.9 GHz, respectively. As a prototype, Antenna_4 is manufactured, and measurements are performed. It achieves 6.28 to 10.45 dBi gain values, below - 23 dB isolation, and 0.001 envelope correlation coefficient over 2.7 to 4.3 GHz. The results confirm that the proposed MIMO antennas are compatible with the 5G essential requisites.
PubMed: 38914613
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-65135-9