bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Depot-specific adaption of adipose tissue for different exercise approaches in high-fat diet/streptozocin-induced diabetic mice
Authors: Guo Yifan , Zhang Qilong , Zheng Lifang , Shou Jian , Zhuang Shuzhao , Xiao Weihua , Chen Peijie
Published: July 2023

Background: Adipose tissue pathology plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Understanding the impact of exercise training on adipose tissue adaptation is of paramount importance in enhancing metabolic health. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of various exercise modalities on three distinct adipose tissue depots, namely, interscapular brown adipose tissue (iBAT), subcutaneous white adipose tissue (sWAT), and epididymal white adipose tissue (eWAT), in a murine model of diabetes.

Methods: Male C57BL/6J mice received a 12-week high-fat diet and a single injection of streptozotocin, followed by an 8-week exercise intervention. The exercise intervention included swimming, resistance training, aerobic exercise, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT).

Results: We found that exercise training reduced body weight and body fat percentage, diminished adipocyte size and increased the expression of mitochondria-related genes (PGC1, COX4, and COX8B) in three adipose tissue depots. The effects of exercise on inflammatory status include a reduction in crown-like structures and the expression of inflammatory factors, mainly in eWAT. Besides, exercise only induces the browning of sWAT, which may be related to the expression of the sympathetic marker tyrosine hydroxylase. Among the four forms of exercise, HIIT was the most effective in reducing body fat percentage, increasing muscle mass and reducing eWAT adipocyte size. The expression of oxidative phosphorylation and thermogenesis-related genes in sWAT and eWAT was highest in the HIIT group.

Conclusion: When targeting adipose tissue to improve diabetes, HIIT may offer superior benefits and thus represents a more advantageous choice.
A latent scale model to minimize subjectivity in the analysis of visual rating data for the National Turfgrass Evaluation Program
Authors: Qu Yuanshuo , Kne Len , Graham Steve , Watkins Eric , Morris Kevin
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Traditional evaluation procedure in National Turfgrass Evaluation Program (NTEP) relies on visually assessing replicated turf plots at multiple testing locations. This process yields ordinal data; however, statistical models that falsely assume these to be interval or ratio data have almost exclusively been applied in the subsequent analysis. This practice raises concerns about procedural subjectivity, preventing objective comparisons of cultivars across different test locations. It may also lead to serious errors, such as increased false alarms, failures to detect effects, and even inversions of differences among groups.

Methods

We reviewed this problem, identified sources of subjectivity, and presented a model-based approach to minimize subjectivity, allowing objective comparisons of cultivars across different locations and better monitoring of the evaluation procedure. We demonstrate how to fit the described model in a Bayesian framework with Stan, using datasets on overall turf quality ratings from the 2017 NTEP Kentucky bluegrass trials at seven testing locations.

Results

Compared with the existing method, ours allows the estimation of additional parameters, i.e., category thresholds, rating severity, and within-field spatial variations, and provides better separation of cultivar means and more realistic standard deviations.

Discussion

To implement the proposed model, additional information on rater identification, trial layout, rating date is needed. Given the model assumptions, we recommend small trials to reduce rater fatigue. For large trials, ratings can be conducted for each replication on multiple occasions instead of all at once. To minimize subjectivity, multiple raters are required. We also proposed new ideas on temporal analysis, incorporating existing knowledge of turfgrass.
The association between COVID-19 preventive strategies, virtual reality exercise, use of fitness apps, physical, and psychological health: testing a structural equation moderation model
Authors: Menhas Rashid , Qin Luo , Saqib Zulkaif Ahmed , Younas Muhammad
Published: July 2023

Background

Directly or indirectly, individual psychosocial characteristics, motivation, and health consciousness factors help to maintain physical and psychological health through maintaining physical activity.

Objective

In the current study, we investigated how fitness apps moderate the links among COVID-19 preventive strategies, virtual reality exercise, physical health, and psychological health in Chinese society.

Method

A nationwide online survey across China was conducted under a snowball sampling design from February to June 2022. A total of 3,000 questionnaires were distributed across China via online platforms. A total of 2,795 complete detailed replies were included in the final analysis. Structural equation modeling techniques were employed to analyze the collected data through Smart-PLS 3.0.

Results

It has been statically proved that all the scales used in this inquiry to determine the mean scores, standard deviation, excess kurtosis, and skewness values were reliable and produced satisfactory results. The overall results (H1: β = 0.385, t = 15.699, p = 0.000; H2: β = 0.159, t = 7.405, p = 0.000; H3: β = 0.122, t = 5.435, p = 0.000; H4: β = 0.143, t = 6.493, p = 0.000; H5: β = 0.157, t = 6.444, p = 0.000; H6: β = 0.184, t = 9.071, p = 0.000; H7: β = 0.192, t = 9.319, p = 0.000; H8: β = 0.235, t = 11.899, p = 0.000; H9: β = −0.114, t = 4.872, p = 0.000; H10: β = 0.042, t = 2.872, p = 0.004; H11: β = 0.041, t = 2.699, p = 0.007) supported our hypothetical model and explained that using fitness apps and virtual reality exercise benefits physical and psychological health.

Conclusion

The fitness app’s primary purpose during and after the pandemic is to motivate users to keep up with their regular at-home workouts. Exercise and active living are helpful in the prevention of risk factors associated with physical inactivity.
Relationship between baseline and changed serum uric acid and the incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus: a national cohort study
Authors: Wang Congzhi , Wang Jiazhi , Wan Rui , Yuan Ting , Yang Liu , Zhang Dongmei , Li Xiaoping , Wang Min , Liu Haiyang , Lei Yunxiao , Wei Huanhuan , Li Jing , Liu Mingming , Hua Ying , Sun Lu , Zhang Lin
Published: July 2023

Objective

To explore the correlation between baseline serum uric acid (SUA) and SUA changes with the incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) among middle-aged and older individuals.

Method

Binary logistic regression was used to calculate the odds ratio (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of the effects of baseline and changes in SUA on the incidence of T2DM. Stratified analysis was conducted based on sex, and the SUA levels were classified into four quartiles to assess the effect of baseline and relative changes in SUA on the incidence of T2DM. Furthermore, interaction analysis was performed between body mass index (BMI) and SUA, age and SUA, and sex and SUA.

Results

In the cohort study, the highest quartiles of SUA were significantly correlated with an increased incidence of T2DM among females in model 1 [OR = 2.231 (1.631, 3.050)], model 2 [OR = 2.090 (1.523, 2.867)], model 3 [OR = 2.075 (1.511, 2.849)], and model 4 [OR = 1.707 (1.234, 2.362)]. The highest quartiles of SUA had a statistically significant effect on the incidence of T2DM among all participants in model 1 [OR = 1.601 (1.277, 2.008)], model 2 [OR = 1.519 (1.204, 1.915)], model 3 [OR = 1.597 (1.257, 2.027)], and model 4 [OR = 1.380 (1.083, 1.760)]. Regarding the relative change of SUA, the highest quantiles of SUA were significantly correlated with an increased incidence of T2DM among females in model 1 [OR = 1.409 (1.050, 1.890)], model 2 [OR = 1.433 (1.067, 1.926)], and model 3 [OR = 1.420 (1.056, 1.910)], and there was a statistically significant correlation with incident T2DM among all participants in model 4 [OR = 1.346 (1.079, 1.680)] after adjusting for all covariates. However, there was no significant correlation between baseline, relative, and absolute changes in SUA and the incidence of T2DM among males. The interaction analysis demonstrated that sex, BMI, and the relative changes in SUA had a combined effect on the incidence of T2DM, while age and the changes in SUA had a joint effect on the incidence of T2DM only in females.

Conclusion

There was a positive association between SUA and the incidence of T2DM for all participants. However, significant sex differences in incidence were observed only in women, not men.
Impact of ambient temperature on adverse pregnancy outcomes: a birth cohort study in Fuzhou, China
Authors: Lin Jinfeng , Yang Yan , Nuermaimaiti Ayinasaer , Ye Tingting , Liu Jingwen , Zhang Zitong , Chen Yifeng , Li Qingyu , Wu Chuancheng , Liu Baoying , Xu Rongxian , Xia Yong , Xiang Jianjun
Published: July 2023

Background

Previous studies have identified a series of specific adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs) linked with temperature extremes. Most of them focus on preterm birth, low birth weight, and stillbirth. Other possible adverse outcomes were under-researched. This study aimed to investigate the impact of ambient temperature on maternal complications, white blood cell count (WBC), newborn hearing, and neonatal jaundice.

Methods

A total of 418 participants were recruited from Fuzhou Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital in 2016. Participants were invited to fill out a structured questionnaire. The gridded near-surface air temperatures at a resolution of 0.1°* 0.1° for Fuzhou were extracted from a published dataset. Meteorological data and PM2.5 were extracted based on participants’ residential addresses using R packages “ncdf4” and “raster.” Multivariate logistic regression models were used to quantify the effects of ambient temperature on APOs after controlling for confounders.

Results

Overall, there were 107 APOs, accounting for 25.6% of all participants. Every 1°C increase in mean temperature was associated with a 10.0% increase in APOs (aOR = 1.100, 95%CI 1.006–1.203) during the period of early pregnancy. However, negative associations were observed in the middle pregnancy period, and a 1°C increase in mean temperature was associated 8.8% decrease in APOs (aOR = 0.912, 95%CI 0.846–0.982). Diurnal temperature variation had a significant impact on APOs in the third trimester. Infant jaundice was negatively associated with temperature exposure in the middle and late pregnancy periods. The risk of neonatal jaundice increased at lag weeks 2–9 in the first trimester, with the greatest lagged effect (aOR = 1.201, 95%CI 1.020–1.413) observed at lag week 3. A 1°C increase in mean temperature led to a 29.6% (aOR = 1.296, 95%CI 1.019–1.649) increase in high WBC. A 1°C increase in temperature variation was associated with more than two times (aOR = 2.469, 95%CI 1.001–6.089) increase of high WBC in the first trimester and about five times (aOR = 4.724, 95%CI 1.548–14.409) increase in the third trimester.

Conclusion

Ambient temperature affects neonatal jaundice, newborn hearing loss, and infections during pregnancy. In addition to the identified epidemiologic link and susceptible exposure windows, there is a need to understand the underlying biological mechanisms for better recommendations for climate change adaptation policies.
A glimpse of academic staff health behavior on diet type and physical activity at Austrian universities: first findings from the “Sustainably Healthy – From Science 2 Highschool & University” study
Authors: Wirnitzer Katharina C. , Motevalli Mohamad , Tanous Derrick R. , Wirnitzer Gerold , Wagner Karl-Heinz , Schätzer Manuel , Drenowatz Clemens , Cocca Armando , Ruedl Gerhard , Kirschner Werner
Published: July 2023

Background

The association between lifestyle and health status highlights the importance of assessing health-related behavior in different populations. This multidisciplinary study aimed to examine the health behavior of academic staff of Austrian colleges and universities, with a specific focus on diet types (vegan, vegetarian, omnivorous) and physical activity (PA) reports.

Methods

Following a cross-sectional study design incorporating an online survey, a sample of 1,041 academics from 52 institutes (mean age: 46.4 years) provided data on sociodemographic characteristics, dietary patterns, PA behavior, and other lifestyle behaviors (smoking, alcohol intake, etc.).

Results

The prevalence of vegetarian and vegan diets was 13.2 and 2.0%, respectively, and 33.2% of participants had excess body weight (BMI ≥ 25). The majority of participants (88.5%) reported regularly engaging in leisure-time PA, but 18.6% were active members of sports clubs. No difference between females and males was observed in diet type and the type of sport participation (p > 0.05). Participants with a mixed diet had a higher BMI than vegetarians and vegans (p < 0.05). Leisure-time PA participation was associated with more frequent fruit and vegetable intake (p < 0.05). The prevalence of smoking and alcohol intake was 13.1 and 73.5%, respectively, without any difference between dietary or sports participation subgroups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

The present study provides an overview of the social trends in vegan and vegetarian diets linked to health behaviors in tertiary educational settings. Findings can be used by health scientists, decision-makers, and multipliers in health and education to improve public health.
Simulation as a key training method for inculcating public health leadership skills: a mixed methods study
Authors: Dopelt Keren , Shevach Itamar , Vardimon Ofek Eliad , Czabanowska Katarzyna , De Nooijer Jascha , Otok Robert , Leighton Lore , Bashkin Osnat , Duplaga Mariusz , Levine Hagai , MacLeod Fiona , Malowany Maureen , Okenwa-Emegwa Leah , Zelber-Sagi Shira , Davidovitch Nadav , Barach Paul
Published: July 2023

Background

Successful management of public health challenges requires developing and nurturing leadership competencies. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of training simulations to assess public health leadership and decision-making competencies during emergencies as an effective learning and training method.

Methods

We examined the effects of two simulation scenarios on public health school students in terms of their experience (compared to face-to-face learning) and new skills acquired for dealing with similar emergent situations in the future. A mixed-methods design included developing a validated and pre-tested questionnaire with open-and closed-ended questions that examined the simulation impact and the degree of student satisfaction with the conditions in which it was conducted. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with the students after going through the simulations. The questionnaire results were evaluated using descriptive analytics. The interviews were analyzed using thematic analyses. All data were collected during June 2022.

Results

The questionnaire results indicate that students strengthened their interpersonal communication skills and learned about the importance of listening to the opinions of others before formulating their positions. Four themes emerged from 16 in-depth interviews, according to Kolb’s experimental learning cycle. Students emphasized the effectiveness of experiential learning versus traditional classroom learning. The simulation scenarios were felt to realistically convey critical issues regarding leadership, decision-making, and teamwork challenges. They effectively conveyed the importance of building a culture of conducting substantive and respectful discussions.

Conclusion

Simulation is a powerful pedagogical training tool for public health leadership competencies. Simulations were seen to be advantageous over face-to-face learning in imparting a range of leadership skills and hands-on practice. We recommend integrating simulations in all public health leadership training programs.
Pertussis immunization during pregnancy: results of a cross-sectional study among Italian healthcare workers
Authors: Licata Francesca , Romeo Marika , Di Gennaro Gianfranco , Citrino Emma Antonia , Bianco Aida
Published: July 2023

Background

This study aimed to assess whether Italian healthcare workers (HCWs) recommend the reduced antigen content tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis vaccination (Tdap) to pregnant people, as well as what variables could predict their decision to advise and recommend immunization to pregnant people.

Methods

This cross-sectional study took place between August 2021 and June 2022 in a sample of obstetricians-gynecologists, midwives, and primary-care physicians in two regions of Southern Italy. A self-administered questionnaire was used to gather the data.

Results

The results showed 91.3% (379) of participants knew that receiving the Tdap vaccine during pregnancy protects against pertussis in both the expectant person and the newborn before active immunization. Only 68.9% (286) knew that the Tdap vaccination has to be administered during the third trimester of gestation. A small but still significant proportion of participants (14.7%) (61) believed that the potential risks of vaccines administered during pregnancy outweighed the benefits. An improvable proportion of HCWs regularly provided information [71.8% (298)] and recommended [81% (336)] Tdap vaccination to pregnant people. The strongest factors that drove HCWs to inform pregnant people about the Tdap vaccination were to be aware that vaccinating those in close contact with newborns is an effective strategy to prevent pertussis (OR: 2.38; 95% CI: 1.11–5.13) and that the Tdap vaccine is provided only in the third trimester of pregnancy (OR: 1.74; 95% CI: 1.06–2.86). Informing pregnant people about the possibility of receiving the Tdap vaccine during pregnancy (OR: 60.13; 95% CI: 23.50–153.8) was the strongest predictor of having recommended the Tdap vaccination during pregnancy.

Conclusion

Educational and informative interventions to improve HCWs’ knowledge about the importance of the Tdap vaccine and their communication skills to properly counsel pregnant people are needed. Beyond vaccine recommendations, how well immunization strategies are implemented in real-world situations impacts vaccination uptake. Therefore, during regular care visits, expecting people must have easy access to vaccines. Prenatal immunizations should become common practice, and there should be no conceptual doubt about vaccinations among HCWs to safeguard pregnant people and their unborn children from vaccine-preventable diseases.
Image concerns and the dynamics of prosocial behavior
Authors: Hofmeier Jana , Strang Louis
Published: July 2023

Past experimental studies have documented a positive effect of observability on prosocial behavior. However, little is known about spillover effects on subsequent, unobserved prosocial actions. This paper studies the dynamic effect of observability on prosocial behavior. We hypothesize a twofold positive effect. First, in accordance with previous literature, people should act more prosocially when being observed. Second, this increased level of prosociality should motivate an ongoing elevated altruistic attitude, in accordance with the concept of altruistic capital formation. We test our predictions by running two experiments in which subjects make a first donation decision either observably or anonymously. Subsequently, all subjects face a second anonymous donation decision. In general, we observe high rates of altruistic behavior. However, we find only weak positive effects of observability on first-stage prosocial behavior and no effects on second-stage prosocial behavior.
Integrating PrEP in maternal and child health clinics in Kenya: analysis of a service availability and readiness assessment (SARA) survey
Authors: Hicks Sarah , Abuna Felix , Odhiambo Ben , Dettinger Julia C. , Sila Joseph , Oketch George , Sifuna Enock , Ngumbau Nancy , Gómez Laurén , John-Stewart Grace C. , Kinuthia John , Wagner Anjuli D.
Published: July 2023

Background

Risk of HIV acquisition is high during pregnancy and postpartum, and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is recommended for peripartum populations. Integrating PrEP into maternal and child health (MCH) clinics is feasible and acceptable. Understanding clinics' service availability and readiness is essential for effective scale up.

Methods

The PrEP in Pregnancy, Accelerating Reach and Efficiency study (PrEPARE; NCT04712994) engaged PrEP-experienced facilities previously linked to a programmatic or research study in Western Kenya to document available services and commodities via a modified service availability and readiness assessment (SARA) survey with 20 PrEP tracer items covering: staffing/guidelines, services/equipment, and medicines/commodities. Facilities' prior study engagement occurred between 2017 and 2019; SARA survey data was collected between April 2020 and June 2021. Descriptive statistics were stratified by prior study engagement. ANOVA tests assessed associations between facility characteristics and gaps. Fisher's tests assessed differences in commodity availability and stockouts.

Results

Of the 55 facilities surveyed, 60% had received PrEP training in the last two years, 95% offered PrEP integrated into MCH, and 64% and 78% had both auditory and visual privacy in PrEP and HIV testing service (HTS) delivery spaces, respectively. Supervision frequency was heterogeneous, but 82% had received a supervision visit within 3 months. Availability of commodities was variable and the most commonly unavailable commodities were PrEP in MCH (71% available) and risk assessment screening tool (RAST) and PrEP cards (60% and 75% available, respectively). The number of service and commodity gaps per facility ranged from zero to eight (median: 3; IQR: 2, 5). The most frequent gaps were: PrEP training and risk assessment cards (40% each), lack of privacy in PrEP (36%) and HIV testing services (31%) spaces, PrEP pills in MCH (29%), and PrEP cards (25%). There were no differences in mean number of gaps by county, previous study engagement, or public vs. private status. Level 4 facilities had fewer gaps (mean 2.2) than level 2, 3, and 5 facilities (mean 5.7, 4.5, and 5.3 respectively; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

PrEP service availability and readiness was generally high across MCH facilities. However, there is a need for increased frequency of provider training and supportive supervision focused on fidelity. To address key commodity stockouts such as PrEP pills, implementation of electronic logistics management information systems may be needed. Targeting these gaps is essential to effectively scale up integrated PrEP delivery, especially among facilities with limited infrastructure.
Improvement of post-thaw quality and fertilizing ability of bull spermatozoa using Rho kinase inhibitor in freezing extender
Authors: Behnam Mina , Asadpour Reza , Topraggaleh Tohid Rezaei , Hamali Hossein
Published: July 2023

In this study, it was hypothesized that the addition of an appropriate concentration of Y-27632 (a ROCK inhibitor) to the freezing extender prevents cryopreservation-induced apoptosis and improves embryonic development after in vitro fertilization (IVF). Semen samples were collected from five fertile Simmental bulls using an artificial vagina twice a week for 4 weeks. Selected samples were pooled and diluted with Tris-egg-yolk-glycerol (TEYG) extender containing different concentrations of Y-27632 (0, 10, 20, 30, and 40 μM) and then frozen in liquid nitrogen. After thawing, computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA), plasma membrane integrity, and acrosome intactness were evaluated in terms of morphological abnormalities, intracellular generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), DNA fragmentation, phosphatidylserine (PS) externalization, and apoptotic-related gene expression. Finally, groups of frozen and thawed spermatozoa were used for bovine oocyte IVF. The results show that the semen extender at a concentration of 20 μM Y-27632 effectively improved total motility (TM), curvilinear velocity (VCL), as well as the plasma membrane and acrosome integrity compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Intracellular ROS levels were significantly (p < 0.05) lower in samples treated with 30 μM Y-27632 compared to the control specimen. Furthermore, supplementation of the semen extender with 20 μM Y-27632 resulted in more viable spermatozoa compared with the control group (p < 0.05). According to qRT-PCR results, the expression levels of BAX and CASPASE-9 genes in samples treated with 30 μM Y-27632 were significantly downregulated, while the expression of BCL2 was increased compared to the control (p < 0.05). The results of IVF demonstrated that the treatment of frozen–thawed spermatozoa with 20 μM Y-27632 increased blastocyst rates compared to the control group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the addition of 20 μM Y-27632 into the freezing extender can improve the functionality and the fertilizing capacity of frozen spermatozoa due to its antioxidative and anti-apoptotic properties.
Avoidance-related behavioral and blood-based physiological responses of Nguni and Boran cattle subjected to routine handling activities post relocation
Authors: Slayi Mhlangabezi
Published: July 2023

Introduction

This study aimed to investigate the avoidance-related behavioral and blood-based physiological responses of Nguni and Boran cattle during routine handling activities post-relocation, with a particular focus on the effect of breed, week, and waiting time.

Methods

A total of 20 animals, 10 from each breed, were subjected to handling activities at fortnight intervals post-relocation. The animals were observed for entry time (ES), chute score (CS), kicking score (KS), blood sampling time, cortisol, and glucose concentrations. The data were analyzed using ANOVA and regression analysis.

Results and Discussion

Results showed that breed had a significant effect on avoidance-related behavioral responses (ES: p = 0.0032; CS: p = 0.0071; and EX: p = 0.0320), with Nguni cattle displaying more active avoidance behaviors compared to Boran cattle. Additionally, breed differences were observed in physiological responses, with Nguni cattle exhibiting higher cortisol and glucose levels compared to Boran cattle. Waiting time in the race had a greater impact on chute score (CS: p = 0.0037) and cortisol release (p = 0.0375) in the two breeds. Regression analysis revealed that the amount of time spent in the handling facility prior to sampling and the duration of blood collection significantly increased from week 3 to 15. Steers that waited in the race for more than 10 min had higher cortisol levels (p = 0.0031). These findings suggest that breed-specific management practices may be necessary to reduce stress-related responses and improve animal welfare during routine handling activities post-relocation. Overall, this study highlights the importance of considering the effects of breed, week, and waiting time when evaluating the avoidance-related behavioral and blood-based physiological responses of cattle during routine handling activities. These factors play a significant role in understanding and addressing the stress and welfare concerns associated with handling procedures, particularly after relocation.
The H protein of attenuated canine distemper virus is degraded via endoplasmic reticulum-associated protein degradation
Authors: Wang Wenjie , Bi Zhenwei , Liu Yakun , Xia Xingxia , Qian Jing , Tan Yeping , Zhao Jianjun , Song Suquan
Published: July 2023

Canine distemper (CD) caused by canine distemper virus (CDV) is considered a highly contagious and acutely febrile disease in various animals around the world. Endoplasmic reticulum-associated protein degradation (ERAD) is an important biological effect induced by endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress (ERS) for the degradation of unfolded/misfolded proteins in the ER of cells. CDV H glycoprotein is translocated into the ER for post-translational modifications. The effects of CDV H and ER on each other are unclear. In this study, we found that CDV H protein induced ERS through the PERK-mediated signaling pathway. The inhibition of ERS by 4-Phenylbutyric acid (4-PBA) increased the H protein amounts of an attenuated CDV, which was reduced by dithiothreitol (DTT)-induced ERS. Further, the H protein levels were increased when ERAD was inhibited by using Eeyarestatin I or interfering E3 ligase Hrd1 in ERAD, suggesting that the attenuated CDV H protein is degraded via ERAD. ERAD involved ubiquitin-dependent proteasome degradation (UPD) and/or autophagic-lysosome degradation (ALD). The attenuated CDV H protein was ubiquitinated and significantly increased after treatment with UPD inhibitor MG132 but not ALD inhibitor chloroquine (CQ), suggesting that ERAD degrading the attenuated CDV H protein selectively depends on UPD. Moreover, the inhibition of the degradation of CDV H protein with 4-PBA or MG132 treatment increased viral replication, whereas treatment with DTT promoting degradation of H protein was found to reduce viral replication. These findings suggest that the degradation of CDV H protein via ERAD negatively affects viral replication and provide a new idea for developing CDV prevention and control strategies.
Vitiligo-like lesions induced by cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 inhibitor Palbociclib: a case report and literature review
Authors: Gao Shan , Wei Guanjing , Hao Yanrong
Published: July 2023

Endocrine therapy has played an essential role in hormone receptor-positive (HR+), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HER2−) breast cancer. With the continuous development of endocrine targeting drugs, especially the emergence of selective cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK4/6) inhibitors, the overall survival time in patients with HR+HER2− advanced breast cancer has been greatly improved. Their adverse reactions also need more attention in response to the climbing number of CDK4/6 inhibitors. The common side effects of CDK4/6 inhibitors were hematological toxicity, diarrhea, and liver function damage. Skin toxicity related to CDK4/6 inhibitors was rare. We describe herein our preliminary observation of one HR+HER2− advanced metastatic breast cancer patient diagnosed with vitiligo-like lesions after 10 months of taking Palbociclib. Hoping to share our experience to increase the clinician awareness of this unusual adverse and contribute to the information in the literature.
A Comparison of Ambient Air Ethylene Oxide Modeling Estimates from Facility Stack and Fugitive Emissions to Canister-Based Ambient Air Measurements in Salt Lake City
Authors: Spooner Skyler , Handy Rod , Daher Nancy , Edie Rachel , Henry Trent , Sleeth Darrah
Published: July 2023

Ethylene oxide (EtO) is a colorless, flammable gas at room temperature produced by the catalytic oxidation of ethylene. EtO is widely used by medical sterilization facilities to clean medical supplies and equipment. Recent epidemiological studies showed that EtO is a more potent carcinogen than previously documented, leading the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to update, in December 2016, the inhalation unit risk estimate for EtO. This resulted in the identification of EtO as a potential health concern in several areas across the US, including the state of Utah. The geography surrounding Salt Lake Valley creates a bowl, which is ideal for collecting air pollution emissions. The region often experiences inversion episodes which inhibit vertical mixing and cause an accumulation of air pollutants, leading to unhealthy pollution levels. Using the EPA’s dispersion modeling software, AERMOD, this study estimated EtO concentrations through facility stack and fugitive emissions modeling results. These values were compared with those of canister-based concentrations from ambient air samples taken near a medical device sterilization facility in Salt Lake Valley. Stainless steel whole-air passivated canisters were used to collect 24 h ambient concentration samples of EtO. Eight locations surrounding a Salt Lake Valley medical device sterilization facility and four background sites were chosen to measure the ambient concentrations. Accounting for potential atmospheric impacts on EtO, measurements were sampled in winter 2022 (January–March) and summer 2022 (July–September). The modeled EtO concentrations were adjusted to account for background values associated with the winter or summer data. Then, the two methodologies were compared using a Wilcoxon signed-ranked paired test. The statistical analysis resulted in six of the eight sample locations surrounding the sterilization facility being significantly different when comparing the canister-based measurements of ambient EtO to modeled estimates. Canister-based measurements taken at sites one, three, and four were statistically greater than the modeled estimates, while sites two, five, and seven were statistically less than the modeled estimates. Also, the summer background value calculated was almost 2.5 times greater than the winter one. The results do not suggest whether one method is more or less conservative than the other. In conclusion, the five of the closest sites and site seven were statistically different when comparing measured and modeled ambient concentrations of EtO. The comparison results do not clearly indicate if a correction factor could be derived for future human exposure to cancer risk assessment modeling. However, it is reasonable that the closer to the sterilization facility, the more total EtO exposure will be realized.
Lost Connections: Why the Growing Crisis of Loneliness Matters for Planetary Health
Authors: Prescott Susan L.
Published: July 2023

Healthy social connections—belongingness and relatedness to others—are considered to be basic human needs [...]
Respiratory Syncytial Virus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Tomographic Findings (2000–2022)
Authors: Riccò Matteo , Corrado Silvia , Palmieri Sara , Marchesi Federico
Published: July 2023

Human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a main cause of medical referrals and hospitalizations in all infants, particularly among newborns. Nevertheless, relatively limited evidence on chest tomography (CT) findings has been collected. According to the PRISMA statement, Pubmed, Embase, and medRxiv were searched for eligible observational studies published up to 31 December 2022. Cases were categorized in children and adolescents (age < 18 years), adults and elderly (age ≥ 18 years), and immunocompromised patients, and then pooled in a random-effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistics, while reporting bias was assessed by means of funnel plots and regression analysis. A total of 10 studies (217 RSV cases) were retrieved (children, 37.3%; immunocompromised, 41.0%; adults, 21.7%). The most common features were signs of organizing pneumonia (33.65%, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 22.39–47.27), followed by septal thickening (33.19%, 95% CI 21.76–47.03), ground glass opacities (GGOs; 28.03%, 95% CI 14.69–46.82), and tree-in-bud (TIB, 27.44%, 95% CI 15.04–44.68). Interestingly, up to 16.23% (95% CI 8.17–29.69) showed normal findings, while the large majority (76.06%, 95% CI 64.81–84.56) were characterized by bilateral involvement. Studies were highly heterogeneous without substantial reporting bias. Assuming children and adolescents as reference groups, healthy adults were characterized by a higher risk ratio [RR] for septal thickening (RR 3.878, 95% CI 1.253–12.000), nodular lesions (RR 20.197, 95% CI 1.286–317.082), and GGOs (RR 2.121, 95% CI 1.121–4.013). RSV cases are rarely assessed in terms of CT characteristics. Our study identified some specificities, suggesting that RSV infections evolve heterogeneous CT features in children/adolescents and adults, but the paucity of studies recommends a cautious appraisal.
Combination of Immunotherapy and Radiation Therapy in Gastrointestinal Cancers: An Appraisal of the Current Literature and Ongoing Research
Authors: Kumar Ritesh , Kim Jongmyung , Deek Matthew P. , Eskander Mariam F. , Gulhati Prateek , In Haejin , Kennedy Timothy , Shah Mihir M. , Grandhi Miral S. , Berim Lyudmyla , Spencer Kristen R. , Langan Russell C. , Hochster Howard S. , Boland Patrick M. , Jabbour Salma K.
Published: July 2023

Oncological outcomes are improving in gastrointestinal cancer with advancements in systemic therapies, and there is notable potential in combining immunotherapy and radiation therapy (RT) to allow for further improvements. Various preclinical and early phase II studies have shown promising synergy with immunotherapy and RT in gastrointestinal cancer. A few recent phase III studies have shown improved survival with the addition of immunotherapy to standard treatment for gastrointestinal cancer. The timing, duration, sequencing, and integration with other anti-cancer treatments are still areas of ongoing research. We have reviewed the published and ongoing studies of the combinations of immunotherapy and RT in gastrointestinal cancers.
The Acoustic Characteristics of Tectonically Deformed Coal in Huaibei Coalfield
Authors: Song Xiong , Chen Tongjun , Zhang Dengliang
Published: July 2023

Tectonically deformed coal (TDC) is closely related to gas outbursts. Since TDC exploration is an essential objective for coalfield exploration, it is of great significance to study the petrophysical properties of TDCs and explore their differences. This study collected 17 TDCs and undeformed coal samples from the Huaibei coalfield and ultrasonically tested their petrophysical parameters, including densities, P- and S-wave velocities, and their derived petrophysical parameters (VP/VS ratio, P- and S-wave impedances). Undeformed coal and TDCs with different deformation types (brittle, shear, and plastic deformations) show significant differences in their petrophysical parameters, and cross-plot analysis can directly differentiate them. As with traditional geological methods, acoustically measured petrophysical parameters are good indicators to determine the type of coal deformation. However, the TDCs with the same deformation type have similar petrophysical parameters; it is not easy to distinguish them directly. Instead, the proposed method incorporating principal component analysis and clustering can accurately distinguish up to five classes of TDCs. Different types of tectonic deformation environments and their intensities are highly correlated with the clustering results. This paper also provides essential petrophysical parameters for undeformed coal and TDCs in the Huaibei coalfield, and these parameters can help interpret undeformed coal and TDCs using wireline logs and seismic data.
Optimum Scenarios of EV Charging Infrastructure: A Case Study for the Saudi Arabia Market
Authors: Azab Mohamed
Published: July 2023

The lack of an EV charging infrastructure is of the top five barriers preventing the adoption of EVs on a large scale. A long charging time is also one of the five barriers, according to the latest survey published by the IEA in 2021. The estimated increase in demand for EVs is a big challenge in many countries all around the world. This challenge exists in many EU and Middle East countries. The main reason for this problem is the requirement of huge funds to install enough public charging points that result in satisfactory charging services. Hence, the phase-out plans of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles can be carried out successfully and smoothly. Unfortunately, there is a trade-off between the cost of installing charging points and EV charging time. Therefore, it is important to optimize both factors simultaneously. This way, the charging services can be provided at the minimum possible cost and at a satisfactory level of quality. This study determines the optimum ratio of the number of chargers to the number of EVs in a certain province. The optimal number of chargers that are necessary to optimally serve a certain number of EVs has been determined. Two well-known evolutionary search techniques have solved the optimization problem: particle swarm optimization (PSO) and genetic algorithms (GA). Both algorithms have succeeded in providing many optimal charging infrastructure scenarios. Hence, the decision maker can select the most convenient scenario from several alternatives based on the available budgets and the most convenient charging time.
Food, Climate Change, and the Challenge of Innovation
Authors: Durán-Sandoval Daniel , Uleri Francesca , Durán-Romero Gemma , López Ana M.
Published: July 2023

Climate change is a shift in the climate’s condition that lasts for an extended period, usually decades or longer, and that may be detected by changes in the mean and variability of its parameters. The full spectrum of players and their related value-adding activities, that are a part of the food supply chain, including the disposal of food items derived from agriculture, forestry, or fisheries, are collectively called food systems. Food systems are a component of their larger economic, social, and environmental contexts. Finally, food security is the condition in which all individuals consistently have physical and financial access to adequate safe, nutritious food that satisfies their dietary needs and food choices for an active and healthy life. Climate change and its relationships with food systems and security are complex since food systems significantly contribute to climate change. However, climate change impacts food systems unpredictably, leading to food insecurity through adverse impacts on the four dimensions of food security: utilization, access, food availability, and stability. Climate change adaptation plans are urgent and include measures such as flood and climate protection, waste management and recycling, climate-smart agriculture, and analytical climatic conditions innovation equipment on agricultural processes and activities. Nevertheless, addressing the climate crisis and its adverse impacts on food security through the activation and promotion of innovation needs reliable information and intervention in many different but interconnected fields, such as institutional design, philanthropy, novel partnerships, finance, and international cooperation. In this context, this paper analyses the relationship between climate change, agriculture, and global–local strategies to ensure food security and also discusses policies’ role in fostering innovation for supporting local agro-food systems and their capacity to sustain societal needs.
The Impact of Earlywood and Latewood on the Compressive Stress of Thermally Modified Douglas Fir
Authors: Wang Junfeng , Yang Kai , Li Wanzhao , Wang Xinzhou , Van den Bulcke Jan , Van Acker Joris
Published: July 2023

Thermal modification can increase the physical stability and impact the mechanical strength of wood. It is necessary to understand the effects of modifications on the compressive stress of wood. In this study, Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziessi) blocks were modified at 180 °C (TM-180 °C) and 210 °C (TM-210 °C). The compressive stress of pure earlywood (EW), pure latewood (LW), and combined earlywood and latewood (ELW) specimens was measured. The specimens were compressed at 30% of their original thickness, and during the compression test the strain distribution of the ELW was recorded. In addition, the microstructures before and after compression were investigated, complemented with SEM to understand the structural changes taking place. The results showed that the compressive stress of the TM-180 °C specimens was the highest because the thermal modification increased the stiffness of cell walls and the homogenized strain distribution in the ELW specimens. The control specimens had a higher compression set recovery rate than the thermally modified specimens. The tracheid cell walls in the EW and LW specimens were flattened and buckled, respectively, due to compression. In the thermally modified materials, cell wall fissures and wood ray fractures in the EW and LW specimens, respectively, were observed. For the ELW specimens, the structural changes in the latewood were not obvious and the structural changes in the earlywood were less significant than in the full EW specimens. Compared to the EW specimens, the earlywood in the ELW specimens showed higher compression set recovery rates. It seems that structural failure in earlywood is limited when used in combination with latewood, resulting from the homogenized strain distribution in earlywood.
Approximate Solution to Fractional Order Models Using a New Fractional Analytical Scheme
Authors: Nadeem Muhammad , Iambor Loredana Florentina
Published: July 2023

In the present work, a new fractional analytical scheme (NFAS) is developed to obtain the approximate results of fourth-order parabolic fractional partial differential equations (FPDEs). The fractional derivatives are considered in the Caputo sense. In this scheme, we show that a Taylor series destructs the recurrence relation and minimizes the heavy computational work. This approach presents the results in the sense of convergent series. In addition, we provide the convergence theorem that shows the authenticity of this scheme. The proposed strategy is very simple and straightforward for obtaining the series solution of the fractional models. We take some differential problems of fractional orders to present the robustness and effectiveness of this developed scheme. The significance of NFAS is also shown by graphical and tabular expressions.
The Effect of Hormonal Therapy on the Behavioral Outcomes in 47,XXY (Klinefelter Syndrome) between 7 and 12 Years of Age
Authors: Hamzik Mary P. , Gropman Andrea L. , Brooks Michaela R. , Powell Sherida , Sadeghin Teresa , Samango-Sprouse Carole A.
Published: July 2023

47,XXY, also known as Klinefelter syndrome, is the most commonly occurring sex chromosomal aneuploidy (SCA). Hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) has been associated with improved neurodevelopmental capabilities in boys with 47,XXY, although studies investigating HRT’s possible positive effect on behavioral outcomes are scarce. This study explores the association between behavioral outcomes and HRT in boys ages 7–12. Patients were divided into 4 groups based on HRT status: untreated, early hormonal treatment (EHT), hormonal booster therapy (HBT), and both EHT and HBT. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Kruskal–Wallis tests were conducted to determine group differences on the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF). The treated groups were found to have better scores in emotional control, initiative, organization of materials, behavioral rating index, metacognition index, and global executive composite than the untreated group on the BRIEF. On the CBCL, the treated groups presented better scores for somatic complaints, social problems, thought problems, attention problems, aggressive behavior, internalizing problems, total problems, affective problems, somatic problems, ADHD problems, oppositional defiant problems, and sluggish problems in comparison to the untreated group. These results offer evidence that HRT, specifically the combination of both EHT and HBT, may be successful in mitigating some undesirable behavioral outcomes. Further research is necessary to determine the efficacy of the combination of EHT and HBT regarding dosage, specific ages, and long-term benefits.
A Contemporary Review of Antiplatelet Therapies in Current Clinical Practice
Authors: Arockiam Sacchin , Staniforth Brittany , Kepreotis Sacha , Maznyczka Annette , Bulluck Heerajnarain
Published: July 2023

Antiplatelet therapy plays a crucial role in a number of cardiovascular disorders. We currently have a range of antiplatelet agents in our armamentarium. In this review, we aim to summarise the common antiplatelet agents currently available, and their use in clinic practice. We not only highlight recent trials exploring antiplatelet therapy in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, but also in trials related to transcatheter aortic valve implantation and coronavirus disease 2019. Inevitably, the antithrombotic benefits of these drugs are accompanied by an increase in bleeding complications. Therefore, an individualised approach to weighing each patient’s thrombotic risk versus bleeding risk is imperative, in order to improve clinical outcomes.