bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pore structure expansion and evolution in sandstone with prefabricated crack under freeze-thaw cycles based on CT scanning
Authors: Zhang Xinting , Luo Xuedong , He Xu , Niu Shuaishuai
Published: May 2024

In cold regions, rocks undergo periodic temperature fluctuations, resulting in deterioration in pore structure and mechanical behavior. This degradation can lead to instability in rock masses and contribute to landslides. While many studies have investigated the effects of freeze-thaw (F-T) cycles on the mechanical behavior of rocks, the micro-level mechanisms of deterioration remain less understood. In this study, the evolution of the pore structure of a prefabricated sandstone with 30 freeze-thaw cycles ranging from −20°C to 20°C is explored using CT scanning. The influence of the prefabricated crack is highlighted. The results indicate a significant impact of freeze-thaw cycles on large pores, with their proportion increasing from 15.28% to 38.72% after 30 F-T cycles. Within the initial 10 F-T cycles, pore structure changes occur without the expansion of prefabricated crack. However, after 15 F-T cycles, prefabricated crack begins extending downward, eventually becoming nearly continuous after 30 F-T cycles. Prefabricated crack notably influences pore distribution during freeze-thaw cycles, with higher porosity near the fracture, where pores initially expand and connect. These findings provide insights into the damage mechanism in sandstone under F-T cycles.
Effectiveness of intervention programs in reducing plagiarism by university students: a systematic review
Authors: Miranda-Rodríguez Rubén Andrés , Sánchez-Nieto José Miguel , Ruiz-Rodríguez Ana Karen
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Plagiarism in universities is a problem with potential academic, social, ethical, and legal implications. Systematic review research on academic integrity programs, including plagiarism, has been conducted, but few studies have assessed plagiarism. Therefore, this review synthesizes knowledge on the effect of educational interventions designed to prevent or reduce plagiarism by university students.

Method

A systematic review was performed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) criteria to analyze experimental or quasi-experimental studies aimed at reducing plagiarism through objective assessments. The search strategy was implemented in Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, PsycArticles, ProQuest, ERIC, Redalyc, SciELO, and Tesiunam.

Results

Six interventions were evaluated, and 1,631 undergraduate students were included pursuing different majors from different universities. The intervention and assessment strategies varied considerably between studies, 5 of which reported a lower plagiarism frequency in the intervention group than in the control group.

Conclusion

The results suggest that interventions with practical elements, such as plagiarism detection, paraphrasing, citation skills, in addition to using software to identify similarities, may reduce plagiarism. However, few studies include an objective evaluation, so more research is needed.

Systematic review registration

https://inplasy.com/inplasy-2023-7-0104/.
Bridging the gap: bioinspired robotics as catalyst for interdisciplinary education
Authors: Cayetano-Jiménez Israel Ulises , Bustamante-Bello Rogelio , Ramírez-Cadena Miguel
Published: May 2024

Introduction

In contemporary educational philosophy, constructivist and constructionist theories emphasize active knowledge construction among learners. These paradigms advocate for learners as active participants, engaging in knowledge creation through interaction and experience. Problem-Based Learning (PBL) exemplifies these principles by placing students at the center of hands-on challenges that foster critical thinking and collaborative problem-solving. This study explores the integration of these educational theories through an innovative pedagogical framework, focusing on the development of bioinspired robotics.

Methods

In a six-stage educational process at Tecnológico de Monterrey, 24 undergraduates were immersed in bioinspired robotics through workshops on animal biomechanics, soft robotics, and neuroscience. Organized into four teams, students designed robots for wildlife observation and search and rescue. The curriculum integrated theoretical lectures, hands-on training, and practical applications, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration and real-world problem-solving. This approach blended traditional education with innovative, project-based learning tailored to local and ecological challenges.

Results

The culmination of this initiative was marked by the creation of functional robotic prototypes, underscoring the effectiveness of the interdisciplinary approach. Post-project evaluations revealed marked enhancements in students' proficiency in both sciences and engineering. Furthermore, there was a pronounced strengthening of students' conviction regarding the importance of integrating bioinspired principles into engineering education.

Discussion

The study advocates merging traditional knowledge with modern technological innovation and bioinspiration to enhance learning outcomes. This integrated approach boosts analytical reasoning and scientific skills while also fostering empathy and emotional literacy, preparing students as holistic thinkers and versatile innovators. Combining biology, robotics, and education offers significant benefits, providing insights for educators and policymakers to equip students for future challenges. There is a strong consensus on the value of incorporating biological principles into engineering education, signaling a shift toward innovative, interdisciplinary curricula that enhance technical and broader cognitive skills.
Changes of serum cortisol during pregnancy and labor initiation: an onsite cross-sectional study
Authors: Chai Yujuan , Wang Hairong , Tang Daiyu , Wu Yi , Sun Zhonghao , Zeng Yuping , Zhang Binmao , Niu Ben , Dong Xiaojing
Published: May 2024

Background

Increased maternal cortisol secretion has been observed during pregnancy and labor. However, due to the limitations in diagnostic methods, the dynamic change of cortisol during the short period between threatened labor and labor is unknown. In this study, we aim to evaluate the changes in serum cortisol during late pregnancy and full-term labor initiation, verifying if cortisol could serve as a biomarker for the diagnosis of labor initiation from threatened labor.

Methods

This cross-sectional onsite study involved 564 participants of 6 different gestational stages (C: Control; T1: Trimester 1; T3: Trimester 3; E: expectant; TL: threatened labor; L: labor), all patients in the E, TL, and L groups were at full term. The serum cortisol concentration was quantified with a point-of-care test (POCT), and the gestation, age, parity, and BMI of participants were documented. Morning serum cortisol was collected between 8:00 and 10:00 a.m., except for the TL and L group women who were tested upon arrival or during latent labor. With cortisol levels or all five variables, L was distinguished from TL using machine learning algorithms.

Results

Significant elevation of cortisol concentration was observed between T1 and T3, or TL and L group (P< 0.001). Women belonging to the E and TL group showed similar gestation week and cortisol levels. Diagnosis of labor initiation using cortisol levels (cutoff = 21.46 μg/dL) yielded sensitivity, specificity, and AUC of 86.50%, 88.60%, and 0.934. With additional variables, a higher specificity (89.29%) was achieved. The diagnostic accuracy of all methods ranged from 85.93% to 87.90%.

Conclusion

Serum cortisol could serve as a potential biomarker for diagnosis of L form TL. The rapid onsite detection of serum cortisol with POCT could facilitate medical decision-making for admission and special treatments, either as an additional parameter or when other technical platforms are not available.
Are comorbidities of patients with adrenal incidentaloma tied to sex?
Authors: Puglisi Soraya , Barač Nekić Anja , Morelli Valentina , Alessi Ylenia , Fosci Michele , Pani Angelo , Zibar Tomsic Karin , Palmieri Serena , Ferraù Francesco , Pia Anna , Chiodini Iacopo , Kastelan Darko , Reimondo Giuseppe , Terzolo Massimo
Published: May 2024

Background

A recent cross-sectional study showed that both comorbidities and mortality in patients with adrenal incidentaloma (AI) are tied to sex. However, few longitudinal studies evaluated the development of arterial hypertension, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia and bone impairment in patients with AI. The aim of this study is to analyze the impact of sex in the development of these comorbidities during long-term follow-up.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 189 patients (120 females, 69 males) with AI, from four referral centers in Italy and Croatia. Clinical characteristics, comorbidities and cortisol after 1-mg dexamethasone suppression test (1-mg DST) were assessed at baseline and at last follow-up visit (LFUV). Median follow-up was 52 (Interquartile Range 25-86) months.

Results

The rates of arterial hypertension and hyperglycemia increased over time both in females (65.8% at baseline versus 77.8% at LFUV, p=0.002; 23.7% at baseline versus 39.6% at LFUV, p<0.001; respectively) and males (58.0% at baseline versus 69.1% at LFUV, p=0.035; 33.8% at baseline versus 54.0% at LFUV, p<0.001; respectively). Patients were stratified in two groups using 1.8 µg/dl as cut-off of cortisol following 1-mg DST: non-functional adrenal tumors (NFAT) and tumors with mild autonomous cortisol secretion (MACS). In the NFAT group (99 patients, females 62.6%), at baseline, we did not observe any difference in clinical characteristics and comorbidities between males and females. At LFUV, males showed a higher frequency of hyperglycemia than females (57.6% versus 33.9%, p=0.03). In the MACS group (89 patients, females 64.0%), at baseline, the prevalence of hypertension, hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia was similar between sexes, despite females were younger (60, IQR 55-69 versus 67.5, IQR 61-73, years; p=0.01). Moreover, females presented higher rates of bone impairment (89.3% versus 54.5%, p=0.02) than males. At LFUV, a similar sex-related pattern was observed.

Conclusion

Patients with AI frequently develop arterial hypertension and hyperglycemia and should be periodically checked for these comorbidities, regardless of sex. In patients with MACS, the lack of difference between sexes in the frequency of cardiometabolic comorbidities despite that females are younger, and the higher frequency of bone impairment in females, suggest a sex-specific effect of cortisol.
Student psychology-based optimization-tuned cascaded controller for frequency regulation of a microgrid
Authors: Gupta Sindhura , Mukhopadhyay Susovan , Banerji Ambarnath , Sanki Prasun , Sinha Pampa , Biswas Sujit K. , Khan Baseem , Ali Ahmed , Bokoro Pitshou
Published: May 2024

This paper presents a student psychology-based optimization (SPBO)-tuned cascaded control scheme for an interconnected microgrid scenario. Generally, the different distributed energy sources are assembled to form the microgrid architecture, and the majority of the sources are environment-dependent. Furthermore, the intermittent power output from these sources causes a generation–load power mismatch, resulting in power and frequency oscillations. In this regard, the proposed student psychology-based optimization-tuned cascaded controller tackles the power-frequency mismatch issues under an interconnected microgrid scenario. Additionally, an improved power tie-line model is introduced considering the effect of line resistance in the microgrid scenario, as line resistance plays a significant role in power flow between the control areas. In addition, numerous case studies are investigated to examine the effectiveness of the proposed design methodology under the suggested control scheme. Furthermore, a detailed performance analysis is carried out considering the proposed model operation under a 12-node radial distribution network in order to examine the system compatibility in a practical distribution network. The obtained results ensure superior performances in terms of the system’s overall peak over/undershoots, oscillations, and settling time utilizing the proposed controller under the improved microgrid scenario.
Case report: Durable complete response of a mucosal melanoma of the rectum after neoadjuvant immunotherapy with ipilimumab plus nivolumab
Authors: Krueger Oskar , Eisenburger Robin , Tasdogan Alpaslan , Zimmer Lisa , Livingstone Elisabeth , Hadaschik Eva , Theurer Sarah , Brodin Berthold , Schadendorf Dirk , Ugurel Selma
Published: May 2024

Melanoma causes the majority of skin cancer-related deaths. Despite novel therapy options, metastatic melanoma still has a poor prognosis. Immune checkpoint inhibition (ICI) therapy has been shown to prolong overall survival in patients with advanced melanoma, but mucosal melanomas respond less favorably compared to melanomas of cutaneous origin. We report on a patient with a mucosal melanoma of the rectum diagnosed in June 2020. Since a surgical intervention in order to achieve a tumor-free situation would have required an amputation of the rectum, a neo-adjuvant systemic immunotherapy with ipilimumab and nivolumab was initiated. As restaging and colonoscopy after four doses of this combination immunotherapy showed a partial response, the patient decided against the pre-planned surgery and a maintenance therapy with nivolumab was started. Repeated colonoscopy showed a complete response after four doses of nivolumab. After ongoing ICI therapy with nivolumab and no evidence of tumor relapse, immunotherapy was stopped in July 2022 after nearly 2 years of continuous treatment. The patient remained tumor-free during further follow-up. Neo-adjuvant immunotherapy is getting more explored in advanced melanoma. By administering ICI therapy before surgical resection of an essentially operable tumor, a stronger and more diverse immunological response is supposed to be achieved. Our reported case demonstrates that this approach could also be effective in mucosal melanoma despite of its generally lower response to immunotherapy.
Two new and effective food-extracted immunomodulatory agents exhibit anti-inflammatory response activity in the hACE2 acute lung injury murine model of COVID-19
Authors: Liu Shasha , Wang Baiqiao , Chen Tianran , Wang Hui , Liu Jinbo , Zhao Xuan , Zhang Yi
Published: May 2024

Objective

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) spread rapidly and claimed millions of lives worldwide. Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is the major cause of COVID-19-associated deaths. Due to the limitations of current drugs, developing effective therapeutic options that can be used rapidly and safely in clinics for treating severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections is necessary. This study aims to investigate the effects of two food-extracted immunomodulatory agents, ajoene-enriched garlic extract (AGE) and cruciferous vegetables-extracted sulforaphane (SFN), on anti-inflammatory and immune responses in a SARS-CoV-2 acute lung injury mouse model.

Methods

In this study, we established a mouse model to mimic the SARS-CoV-2 infection acute lung injury model via intratracheal injection of polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (poly[I:C]) and SARS-CoV-2 recombinant spike protein (SP). After the different agents treatment, lung sections, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and fresh faeces were harvested. Then, H&E staining was used to examine symptoms of interstitial pneumonia. Flow cytometry was used to examine the change of immune cell populations. Multiplex cytokines assay was used to examine the inflammatory cytokines.16S rDNA high-throughput sequencing was used to examine the change of gut microbiome.

Results

Our results showed that AGE and SFN significantly suppressed the symptoms of interstitial pneumonia, effectively inhibited the production of inflammatory cytokines, decreased the percentage of inflammatory cell populations, and elevated T cell populations in the mouse model. Furthermore, we also observed that the gut microbiome of genus Paramuribaculum were enriched in the AGE-treated group.

Conclusion

Here, for the first time, we observed that these two novel, safe, and relatively inexpensive immunomodulatory agents exhibited the same effects on anti-inflammatory and immune responses as neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against interleukin 6 receptor (IL-6R), which have been suggested for treating COVID-19 patients. Our results revealed the therapeutic ability of these two immunomodulatory agents in a mouse model of SARS-CoV-2 acute lung injury by promoting anti-inflammatory and immune responses. These results suggest that AGE and SFN are promising candidates for the COVID-19 treatment.
Identification of the hybrid gene LILRB5-3 by long-read sequencing and implication of its novel signaling function
Authors: Hirayasu Kouyuki , Khor Seik-Soon , Kawai Yosuke , Shimada Mihoko , Omae Yosuke , Hasegawa Gen , Hashikawa Yuko , Tanimoto Hiromu , Ohashi Jun , Hosomichi Kazuyoshi , Tajima Atsushi , Nakamura Hiroyuki , Nakamura Minoru , Tokunaga Katsushi , Hanayama Rikinari , Nagasaki Masao
Published: May 2024

Leukocyte immunoglobulin (Ig)-like receptors (LILRs) on human chromosome 19q13.4 encode 11 immunoglobulin superfamily receptors, exhibiting genetic diversity within and between human populations. Among the LILR genes, the genomic region surrounding LILRB3 and LILRA6 has yet to be fully characterized due to their significant sequence homology, which makes it difficult to differentiate between them. To examine the LILRB3 and LILRA6 genomic region, a tool named JoGo-LILR CN Caller, which can call copy number from short-read whole genome sequencing (srWGS) data, was applied to an extensive international srWGS dataset comprising 2,504 samples. During this process, a previously unreported loss of both LILRB3 and LILRA6 was detected in three samples. Using long-read sequencing of these samples, we have discovered a novel large deletion (33,692 bp) in the LILRB3 and LILRA6 genomic regions in the Japanese population. This deletion spanned three genes, LILRB3, LILRA6, and LILRB5, resulting in LILRB3 exons 12-13 being located immediately downstream of LILRB5 exons 1-12 with the loss of LILRA6, suggesting the potential expression of a hybrid gene between LILRB5 and LILRB3 (LILRB5-3). Transcription and subsequent translation of the LILRB5-3 hybrid gene were also verified. The hybrid junction was located within the intracellular domain, resulting in an LILRB5 extracellular domain fused to a partial LILRB3 intracellular domain with three immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motifs (ITIMs), suggesting that LILRB5-3 acquired a novel signaling function. Further application of the JoGo-LILR tool to srWGS samples suggested the presence of the LILRB5-3 hybrid gene in the CEU population. Our findings provide insight into the genetic and functional diversity of the LILR family.
Vertical distributions of lipid biomarkers in spring and summer in coastal regions of the East China Sea
Authors: Gao Jiawei , Xu Shulan , Bi Rong , Wang Yaoyao , Ding Yang , Che Hong , Zhang Jing , Yao Peng , Shi Jie , Zhao Meixun
Published: May 2024

Lipid biomarkers are amongst the most widely used proxies in studies of the structure and functioning of marine food webs. However, vertical distributions of lipid biomarkers and their controlling mechanisms remain unclear, especially in highly dynamic coastal ecosystems. Here we tested vertical profiles of key lipid biomarkers (sterols and fatty acids) in suspended particles and their correlations with water masses in spring of 2017 and summer of 2018 in the Zhejiang coasts of the East China Sea. The Changjiang Diluted Water, the Taiwan Strait Water and the Kuroshio Subsurface Water showed strong contributions in the surface layer in spring, the surface layer in summer, and the deep layer in both seasons, respectively. Accordingly, lipid biomarker composition also varied between different water layers. Overall, lipid biomarker concentrations in the surface layer were around 2 ~ 7 times higher than those in the deep layer, indicating high phytoplankton biomass in the surface layer. The ratio of docosahexaenoic acid to eicosapentaenoic acid was also higher in the surface layer, especially in the south of our study region, suggesting high nutritional quality of particulate organic matters in the surface layer. Significant correlations between the depth profiles of lipid biomarkers and water masses suggested the control of water masses on lipid biomarker production. The distribution patterns of lipid biomarkers in our study are consistent with previous findings on zooplankton grazing and fish larvae, highlighting the significance of lipid biomarkers as trophic markers to study food web structure and functioning in highly dynamic coasts.
Attribution analysis and forecast of salinity intrusion in the Modaomen estuary of the Pearl River Delta
Authors: Tian Qingqing , Gao Hang , Tian Yu , Wang Qiongyao , Guo Lei , Chai Qihui
Published: May 2024

Under the influence of climate change and human activities, the intensification of salinity intrusion in the Modaomen (MDM) estuary poses a significant threat to the water supply security of the Greater Bay Area of Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao. Based on the daily exceedance time data from six stations in the MDM waterway for the years 2016-2020, this study conducted Empirical Orthogonal Function (EOF) and decision tree analyses with runoff, maximum tidal range, and wind. It investigated the variation characteristics and key factors influencing salinity intrusion. Additionally, Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks and Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) were employed to predict the severity of salinity intrusion. The results indicated that: (1) the first mode (PC1) obtained from EOF decomposition explained 89% of the variation in daily chlorine exceedance time, effectively reflecting the temporal changes in salinity intrusion; (2) the largest contributor to salinity intrusion was runoff (40%), followed by maximum tidal range, wind speed, and wind direction, contributing 25%, 20%, and 15%, respectively. Salinity intrusion lagged behind runoff by 1-day, tidal range by 3 days, and wind by 2 days; North Pacific Index (NPI) has the strongest positive correlation with saltwater intrusion among the 9 atmospheric circulation factors. (3) LSTM achieved the highest accuracy with an R2 of 0.89 for a horizon of 1 day. For horizons of 2 days and 3 days, CNN exhibited the highest accuracy with R2 values of 0.73 and 0.68, respectively. This study provides theoretical support for basin scheduling and salinity intrusion prediction and serves as a reference for ensuring water supply security in coastal areas.
Validating a theory of planned behavior questionnaire for assessing changes in professional behaviors of medical students
Authors: Guraya Shaista Salman , Clarke Eric , Sadeq Asil , Smith Mary , Hand Sinead , Doyle Frank , Kearney Grainne , Harbinson Mark , Ryan Aine , Boland Fiona , Bensaaud Abdelsalam , Guraya Salman Yousuf , Harkin Denis W.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Teaching professionalism is a fundamental aspect of medical undergraduate education, delivering important domains of professional attitudes, ethics, and behaviors. The effects of educational interventions can be assessed by measuring the change in such domains, but validated assessment tools for these professionalism domains are lacking. In this study, we constructed and conducted expert validation of a modified theory of planned behavior (TPB) questionnaire to assess changes in professional behaviors (PBs) in medical students.

Methods

To validate that, we modified an existing TPB questionnaire, and an 18-item questionnaire was subjected to expert panel evaluation using the content validation method. The clarity and relevance of items were assessed using a four-point rating scale (i.e., 1 = not relevant to 4 = highly relevant). Ratings of experts and free-text comments were analyzed. Quantitative evaluation of relevance and clarity was undertaken through analyses of the Item-level Content Validity Index (I-CVI) and Scale-level Content Validity Index (S-CVI). A qualitative assessment of the comments of experts was conducted to refine items, any disagreements were discussed, and a consensus decision was developed among authors for item changes.

Results

Quantitative evaluation of the Item-level Content Validity Index (I-CVI) scored 0.9–1 for relevance and 0.7–1 for clarity. Qualitative evaluation resulted in (i) changes to the wording of items (e.g., choices such as “worthless/worthwhile” were replaced with “not important/important”); and (ii) suggestion of the addition of social media in the construct of subjective norms.

Discussion

The proposed tool exhibits content validity and can assess TPB constructs in professionalism education. This study of content validity may help to ensure the modified TPB questionnaire accurately measures the TPB constructs, ensuring its effectiveness in accurately measuring the TPB constructs for PB in diversified educational medical institutions.
Nitrification inhibitor chlorate and nitrogen substrates differentially affect comammox Nitrospira in a grassland soil
Authors: Shah Anish S. , Hsu Pei-Chun , Chisholm Chris , Podolyan Andriy , Cameron Keith , Luo Jiafa , Stenger Roland , Carrick Sam , Hu Wei , Ferguson Scott A. , Wei Wenhua , Shen Jupei , Zhang Limei , Liu Hongbin , Zhao Tongke , Wei Wenxue , Ding Weixin , Pan Hong , Liu Yimeng , Li Bowen , Du Jianjun , Di Hong J.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Through the combined use of two nitrification inhibitors, Dicyandiamide (DCD) and chlorate with nitrogen amendment, this study aimed to investigate the contribution of comammox Nitrospira clade B, ammonia oxidizing bacteria (AOB) and archaea (AOA) to nitrification in a high fertility grassland soil, in a 90-day incubation study.

Methods

The soil was treated with nitrogen (N) at three levels: 0 mg-N kg-1 soil, 50 mg-N kg-1 soil, and 700 mg-N kg-1 soil, with or without the two nitrification inhibitors. The abundance of comammox Nitrospira, AOA, AOB, and nitrite oxidising bacteria (NOB) was measured using qPCR. The comammox Nitrospira community structure was assessed using Illumina sequencing.

Results and Discussion

The results showed that the application of chlorate inhibited the oxidation of both NH4+ and NO2- in all three nitrogen treatments. The application of chlorate significantly reduced the abundance of comammox Nitrospira amoA and nxrB genes across the 90-day experimental period. Chlorate also had a significant effect on the beta diversity (Bray-Curtis dissimilarity) of the comammox Nitrospira clade B community. Whilst AOB grew in response to the N substrate additions and were inhibited by both inhibitors, AOA showed litle or no response to either the N substrate or inhibitor treatments. In contrast, comammox Nitrospira clade B were inhibited by the high ammonium concentrations released from the urine substrates. These results demonstrate the differential and niche responses of the three ammonia oxidising communities to N substrate additions and nitrification inhibitor treatments. Further research is needed to investigate the specificity of the two inhibitors on the different ammonia oxidising communities.
Improvements of weaned pigs barn hygiene to reduce the spread of antimicrobial resistance
Authors: Jaleta Megarsa , Junker Vera , Kolte Baban , Börger Maria , Werner Doreen , Dolsdorf Claudia , Schwenker Julia , Hölzel Christina , Zentek Jürgen , Amon Thomas , Nübel Ulrich , Kabelitz Tina
Published: May 2024

The spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in animal husbandry is usually attributed to the use of antibiotics and poor hygiene and biosecurity. We therefore conducted experimental trials to improve hygiene management in weaned pig houses and assessed the impact on the spread. For each of the two groups examined, the experimental group (EG) and the control group (CG), three replicate batches of piglets from the same pig breeder, kept in pre-cleaned flat decks, were analyzed. In the flat decks of the experimental groups, the hygiene conditions (cleaning, disinfection, dust removal and fly control) were improved, while regular hygiene measures were carried out in the control groups. The occurrence and spread of AMR were determined in Escherichia coli (E. coli; resistance indicator) using cultivation-dependent (CFU) and -independent (qPCR) methods as well as whole genome sequencing of isolates in samples of various origins, including feces, flies, feed, dust and swabs. Surprisingly, there were no significant differences (p > 0.05) in the prevalence of resistant E. coli between the flat decks managed with conventional techniques and those managed with improved techniques. Selective cultivation delivered ampicillin- and sulfonamide-resistant E. coli proportions of up to 100% and 1.2%, respectively. While 0.5% E. coli resistant to cefotaxime and no ciprofloxacin resistance were detected. There was a significant difference (p < 0.01) in the abundance of the blaTEM-1 gene in fecal samples between EG and CG groups. The colonization of piglets with resistant pathogens before arrival, the movement of flies in the barn and the treatment of bacterial infections with antibiotics obscured the effects of hygiene improvement. Biocide tolerance tests showed no development of resistance to the farm regular disinfectant. Managing hygiene alone was insufficient for reducing antimicrobial resistances in piglet rearing. We conclude that the complex factors contributing to the presence and distribution of AMR in piglet barns underscore the necessity for a comprehensive management strategy.
Characterization of Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteriophages and control hemorrhagic pneumonia on a mice model
Authors: Zhang Yanjie , Wang Ruiqing , Hu Qingxia , Lv Ni , Zhang Likun , Yang Zengqi , Zhou Yefei , Wang Xinglong
Published: May 2024

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most common pathogens causing hemorrhagic pneumonia in Chinese forest musk deer. Multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa is frequently isolated from the lungs of affected musk deer in Shaanxi Province, China. With the increasing bacterial drug resistance, commonly used antibiotics have shown limited efficacy against drug-resistant P. aeruginosa. Therefore, phages have garnered attention as a promising alternative to antibiotics among researchers. In this study, phages vB_PaeP_YL1 and vB_PaeP_YL2 (respectively referred to as YL1 and YL2) were isolated from mixed sewage samples from a farm. YL1 and YL2 exhibit an icosahedral head and a non-contractile short tail, belonging to the Podoviridae family. Identification results demonstrate good tolerance to low temperatures and pH levels, with minimal variation in potency within 30 min of UV irradiation. The MOI for both YL1 and YL2 was 0.1, and their one-step growth curve latent periods were 10 min and 20 min, respectively. Moreover, both single phage and phage cocktail effectively inhibited the growth of the host bacteria in vitro, with the phage cocktail showing superior inhibitory effects compared to the single phage. YL1 and YL2 possess double-stranded DNA genomes, with YL1 having a genome size of 72,187 bp and a total G + C content of 55.02%, while YL2 has a genome size of 72,060 bp and a total G + C content of 54.98%. YL1 and YL2 are predicted to have 93 and 92 open reading frames (ORFs), respectively, and no ORFs related to drug resistance or lysogeny were found in both phages. Genome annotation and phylogenetic analysis revealed that YL1 is closely related to vB_PaeP_FBPa1 (ON857943), while YL2 is closely related to vB_PaeP_FBPa1 (ON857943) and Phage26 (NC041907). In a mouse model of hemorrhagic pneumonia, phage cocktail treatment showed better control of the disease and significantly reduced lung bacterial load compared to single phage treatment. Therefore, YL1 and YL2 have the potential for the prevention and treatment of multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa infections.
Sex differences in hippocampal β-adrenergic receptor subtypes drive retrieval, retention, and learning of cocaine-associated memories
Authors: Berry Melanie M. , Miller Beau , Kelsen Silvia , Cockrell Carlee , Kohtz Amy Stave
Published: May 2024

Background

Drug seeking behavior occurs in response to environmental contexts and drug-associated cues. The presence of these pervasive stimuli impedes abstinence success. β-adrenergic receptors (β-ARs) have a long-standing historical implication in driving processes associated with contextual memories, including drug-associated memories in substance use disorders. However, sex differences in the role of β-adrenergic receptors in drug memories remain unknown.

Hypothesis

Prior reports indicate a selective role for β2-ARs in retrieval and retention of contextual drug memories in males, and substantial sex differences exist in the expression of β-ARs of male and female rats. Therefore, we hypothesized that there are sex differences in selective recruitment of β-ARs during different stages of memory encoding and retrieval.

Methods

The role of β-ARs in driving retrieval and learning of contextual cocaine memories was investigated using cocaine conditioned place preference (CPP) in adult male and female Sprague–Dawley rats. Rats were infused directly to the dorsal hippocampus with Propranolol (β1 and β2) or ICI-118,551 (β1) and/or Betaxolol (β2), immediately prior to testing (retrieval), or paired to each cocaine (10 mg/kp, IP) conditioning session (learning).

Results

In males, administration of either β1, β2, or combined β1 and β2-ARs before the initial CPP testing reduced the expression of a CPP compared to vehicle administration. In females, β2-ARs transiently decreased CPP memories, whereas β1 had long lasting but not immediate effects to decrease CPP memories. Additionally, β1 and combined β1 and β2-ARs had immediate and persistent effects to decrease CPP memory expression. DG Fos + neurons predicted cocaine CPP expression in males, whereas CA1 and CA3 Fos + neurons predicted cocaine CPP expression in females.

Conclusion

There are significant sex differences in the role of dorsal hippocampus β-ARs in the encoding and expression of cocaine conditioned place preference. Furthermore, sub regions of the dorsal hippocampus appear to activate differently between male and female rats during CPP. Therefore DG, CA3, and CA1 may have separate region- and sex-specific impacts on driving drug- associated, or context-associated cues.
Wishes, beliefs, and jealousy: use of mental state terms in Cinderella retells after traumatic brain injury
Authors: Greenslade Kathryn J. , Honan Cynthia , Harrington Lauren , Kenealy Laura , Ramage Amy E. , Bogart Elise
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) negatively impacts social communication in part due to social cognitive difficulties, which may include reduced mental state term (MST) use in some discourse genres. As social cognitive difficulties can negatively impact relationships, employment, and meaningful everyday activities, assessing and treating these difficulties post-TBI is crucial. To address knowledge gaps, the present study examined MST use in the narrative retells of adults with and without severe TBI to compare between-group performance, evaluate changes over the first two years post-TBI, and investigate the impact of participant and injury-related variables.

Methods

The total number of MSTs, ratio of MSTs to total utterances, and diversity of MSTs were identified in the Cinderella narratives of 57 participants with no brain injury and 57 with TBI at 3, 6, 9, 12, and 24-months post-TBI.

Results

Reduced MST use in participants with TBI was found at 3, 6, 9, and 12-months post-TBI, but these reductions disappeared when story length (total utterances) was accounted for. Further, MST diversity did not differ between groups. Similarly, although the total number of MSTs increased over time post-TBI, no changes were observed in the ratio of MSTs to total utterances or MST diversity over time. Injury severity (post-traumatic amnesia duration), years of education, and verbal reasoning abilities were all related to MST use.

Discussion

Overall, although individuals used fewer MSTs in complex story retells across the first year following severe TBI, this reduction reflected impoverished story content, rather than the use of a lower ratio of MSTs. Further, key prognostic factors related to MST use included injury severity, educational attainment, and verbal reasoning ability. These findings have important implications for social communication assessment and treatment targeting social cognition post-TBI.
Differential transcriptional profiles of vagal sensory neurons in female and male mice
Authors: Jo Young-Hwan
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Differences in metabolic homeostasis, diabetes, and obesity between males and females are evident in rodents and humans. Vagal sensory neurons in the vagus nerve ganglia innervate a variety of visceral organs and use specialized nerve endings to sense interoceptive signals. This visceral organ-brain axis plays a role in relaying interoceptive signals to higher brain centers, as well as in regulating the vago-vagal reflex. I hypothesized that molecularly distinct populations of vagal sensory neurons would play a role in causing differences in metabolic homeostasis between the sexes.

Methods

SnRNA-Seq was conducted on dissociated cells from the vagus nerve ganglia using the 10X Genomics Chromium platform.

Results

Single-nucleus RNA sequencing analysis of vagal sensory neurons from female and male mice revealed differences in the transcriptional profiles of cells in the vagus nerve ganglia. These differences are linked to the expression of sex-specific genes such as Xist, Tsix, and Ddx3y. Among the 13 neuronal clusters, one-fourth of the neurons in male mice were located in the Ddx3y-enriched VN1 and VN8 clusters, which displayed higher enrichment of Trpv1, Piezo2, Htr3a, and Vip genes. In contrast, 70% of the neurons in females were found in Xist-enriched clusters VN4, 6, 7, 10, 11, and 13, which showed enriched genes such as Fgfr1, Lpar1, Cpe, Esr1, Nrg1, Egfr, and Oprm1. Two clusters of satellite cells were identified, one of which contained oligodendrocyte precursor cells in male mice. A small population of cells expressed Ucp1 and Plin1, indicating that they are epineural adipocytes.

Discussion

Understanding the physiological implications of distinct transcriptomic profiles in vagal sensory neurons on energy balance and metabolic homeostasis would help develop sex-specific treatments for obesity and metabolic dysregulation.
Association of composite dietary antioxidant index with mortality in adults with hypertension: evidence from NHANES
Authors: Qin Huali , Shen Li , Xu Danyan
Published: May 2024

Objective

The objective of this study is to assess the correlation between composite dietary antioxidant index (CDAI) with all-cause mortality and cause-specific mortality in adults with hypertension.

Methods

The cohort study comprised adult participants with hypertension from the NHANES database, spanning 9 cycles from 2001 to 2018. Follow-up was conducted until December 31, 2019. Multi-variable Cox regression analysis was utilized to ascertain hazard ratios (HR) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals, evaluating the relationship between CDAI and the risks of all-cause and cause-specific mortality. To further investigate the association between CDAI and mortality rates in adults with hypertension, Kaplan–Meier survival curves, restricted cubic splines (RCS), subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses were employed.

Results

The analysis included 16,713 adults with hypertension (mean age 56.93 ± 0.23 years, 8,327 [49.61%] male). During the mean follow-up time 102.11 ± 1.22 months, with 3,908 (18.08%) all-cause mortality occurred, 1,082 (4.84%) cardiovascular mortality and 833 (3.80%) cancer mortality. Compared to the lowest quartile of CDAI, the weighted multivariate hazard ratios of participants in the highest quartile was 0.77 (95% CI, 0.68–0.87) for all-cause mortality, 0.83 (95% CI, 0.67–1.04) for cardiovascular mortality, and 0.64 (95% CI, 0.50–0.82) for cancer mortality. RCS analysis demonstrated a nonlinear association of CDAI with all-cause and cancer mortality, and a linear association between CDAI and cardiovascular mortality. The results were robust in subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion

Higher CDAI is associated with reduced all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, and cancer mortality in hypertensive adults. Our findings highlight the importance of an antioxidant diet in improving outcomes in adults with hypertension.
Complete remission of depression and anxiety using a ketogenic diet: case series
Authors: Calabrese Lori , Frase Rachel , Ghaloo Mariam
Published: May 2024

Background

There is little data that describe the use of ketogenic metabolic therapy to achieve full remission of major depression and generalized anxiety disorder in clinical practice. We present a retrospective case series of three adults with major depression and generalized anxiety disorder with complex comorbidity, treated with personalized ketogenic metabolic therapy, who achieved complete remission of major depression and generalized anxiety disorder and improvements in flourishing, self-compassion, and metabolic health.

Methods

Three adults, ages 32–36, with major depression, generalized anxiety, other anxiety disorders, and comorbid psychiatric conditions were treated for 12–16 weeks with personalized whole food animal-based ketogenic metabolic therapy (1.5:1 ratio) in a specialized metabolic psychiatry practice. Interventions included twice-weekly visits with an experienced ketogenic registered dietitian; daily photo journaling and capillary blood BHB/glucose/GKI monitoring; virtual groups; family/friends support; nature walks and talks several times per week, and community building. Successful adoption of the ketogenic diet was defined as the achievement and maintenance of capillary BHB ≥ 0.8 mmol/L and GKI < 6. Remission was assessed by GAD-7 and PHQ-9, and quality of life was assessed subjectively and with validated scales for flourishing and self-compassion. Metabolic health was assessed by laboratories/biometric measures.

Results

Two patients achieved remission of major depression (PHQ-9 ≤ 4) and generalized anxiety (GAD-7 ≤ 4) within 7 weeks of therapeutic nutritional ketosis; one required 12 weeks. Anxiety responded and remitted more quickly than major depression. Flourishing and self-compassion increased steadily. Patients lost 10.9 to 14.8% of their initial body weight within 12 weeks and improved metabolically; one achieved optimal metabolic health.

Conclusion

Complete remission of major depression and generalized anxiety disorder occurred within 7–12 weeks of therapeutic nutritional ketosis during treatment with a personalized animal-based ketogenic diet (ratio 1.5:1) in adults with complex comorbid depression and anxiety engaged in a specialized metabolic psychiatry program.
Primary hepatic neuroendocrine neoplasms: imaging characteristics and misdiagnosis analysis
Authors: Yang Xiu-Rong , Li Ying-Li , Li Zi-Yan , Chai Xiao-Ming
Published: May 2024

Objective

To analyze the CT and MR features of Primary hepatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (PHNENs) in order to enhance the diagnostic accuracy of this disease.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients diagnosed with hepatic neuroendocrine neoplasms, excluding other sites of origin through general examination and postoperative follow-up. The CT and MR signs were analyzed according to the 2018 version of Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS), along with causes of misdiagnosis.

Results

Twelve patients, including 6 males and 6 females, were enrolled in this study. There was no significant increase in liver tumor markers among all cases. Most masses were multiple (9/12), exhibiting low attenuation on pre-contrast CT scans, T1-hypointense signal, T2-hyperintense signal, and restricted diffusion. The majority of these masses (7/10) demonstrated similar rim arterial phase hyper-enhancement as well as peripheral “washout” during venous portal phase and delayed phase imaging. Three cases had incomplete capsules while one case had a complete capsule. Cyst/necrosis was observed in 7 out of all cases following administration of contrast agent, with 5 mainly distributed in the periphery. All masses lacked fat, calcification, vascular or bile duct tumor thrombus formation.

Conclusion

The imaging findings associated with PHNENs possess certain specificity, often presenting as multiple masses within the liver accompanied by peripheral cyst/necrosis, similar rim arterial phase hyper-enhancement during venous portal phase and delayed phase imaging.
Epidemiological characteristics, treatment, and outcomes of 586 cases of intussusception: a 4-year retrospective study in China
Authors: Zhang Lianzhi , Chen Xiaotong , Huang Yajun , Wang Guimei , Zhang Zhongxi , Song Zai
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study aims to retrospectively analyze the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of acute intussusception in a tertiary-care pediatric hospital in China over 4 years and evaluate the effectiveness and recurrence of fluoroscopy-guided pneumatic reduction (FGPR) and ultrasound-guided hydrostatic reduction (UGHR).

Methods

This retrospective study was conducted from January 2019 to December 2022 involving children admitted and managed for acute intussusception in a tertiary-care pediatric hospital in China. The epidemiology, clinical features, and therapeutic effects were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics 20.0.

Results

The study included 401 boys (68.43%) and 185 girls (31.57%) aged from 2 months to 12 years. The most common symptoms reported were abdominal pain or paroxysmal crying (95.73%), vomiting (45.39%), and bloody stool (7.34%). Vomiting and bloody stool became atypical with increasing age (P < 0.001). The total success cases of reduction accounted for 563 cases (96.08%), and the recurrent cases accounted for 71 cases (12.12%). No significant difference was observed in the success or recurrence rates between FGPR and UGHR (P > 0.05). Abdominal pain was an independent protective factor for successful enema (P < 0.01, OR = 72.46), while bloody stool (P < 0.01, OR = 0.06) and older age were independent risk factors (P < 0.001, OR = 0.51). Of the 71 patients with recurrent intussusception, 29 were successfully reduced by enema, and the other 23 required surgical reduction. Twelve of the surgical cases were secondary intussusception, including three cases of Meckel's diverticulum, five cases of polyps, and four cases of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Conclusion

The epidemiological characteristics of children with intussusception in Xiamen showed peculiarity with a higher male-to-female ratio, older age at diagnosis, and no significant seasonality. Both FGPR and UGHR were effective and safe for intussusception, and surgical reduction was essential for patients with failed enema reduction.
Applying the bronchopulmonary dysplasia framework to necrotizing enterocolitis
Authors: O’Connell Amy E.
Published: May 2024

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a devastating disease of the neonatal intestine, causing widespread intestinal necrosis as well systemic illness that frequently results in death. Because the clinical onset of NEC is sudden and difficult to predict, NEC is considered an acute event. However, NEC does not occur in utero, meaning that postnatal exposures are required, and it does not typically occur right after birth, suggesting that longitudinal changes may be occurring before NEC can develop. In this perspective, the author considers whether NEC should be re-considered as a problem of disordered intestinal epithelial development, with required maladaptation over time prior to the onset of the necrotic event. This framework is similar to how bronchopulmonary dysplasia is currently conceptualized. They also advocate that NEC researchers incorporate this possibility into future studies on NEC susceptibility and pathogenesis.