bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Designing a set of criteria for evaluating artificial neural networks trained with physics-based data to replicate molecular dynamics and other particle method trajectories
Authors: Alexiadis Alessio
Published: April 2024

This article presents an in-depth analysis and evaluation of artificial neural networks (ANNs) when applied to replicate trajectories in molecular dynamics (MD) simulations or other particle methods. This study focuses on several architectures—feedforward neural networks (FNNs), convolutional neural networks (CNNs), recurrent neural networks (RNNs), time convolutions (TCs), self-attention (SA), graph neural networks (GNNs), neural ordinary differential equation (ODENets), and an example of physics-informed machine learning (PIML) model—assessing their effectiveness and limitations in understanding and replicating the underlying physics of particle systems. Through this analysis, this paper introduces a comprehensive set of criteria designed to evaluate the capability of ANNs in this context. These criteria include the minimization of losses, the permutability of particle indices, the ability to predict trajectories recursively, the conservation of particles, the model’s handling of boundary conditions, and its scalability. Each network type is systematically examined to determine its strengths and weaknesses in adhering to these criteria. While, predictably, none of the networks fully meets all criteria, this study extends beyond the simple conclusion that only by integrating physics-based models into ANNs is it possible to fully replicate complex particle trajectories. Instead, it probes and delineates the extent to which various neural networks can “understand” and interpret aspects of the underlying physics, with each criterion targeting a distinct aspect of this understanding.
Clinical approaches for poststroke seizure: a review
Authors: Ryu Han Uk , Kim Hong Jin , Shin Byoung-Soo , Kang Hyun Goo
Published: April 2024

Poststroke seizure is a potential complication of stroke, which is the most frequent acute symptomatic seizure in adults. Patients with stroke may present with an abnormal or aggressive behavior accompanied by altered mental status and symptoms, such as hemiparesis, dysarthria, and sensory deficits. Although stroke manifestations that mimic seizures are rare, diagnosing poststroke seizures can be challenging when accompanied with negative postictal symptoms. Differential diagnoses of poststroke seizures include movement disorders, syncope, and functional (nonepileptic) seizures, which may present with symptoms similar to seizures. Furthermore, it is important to determine whether poststroke seizures occur early or late. Seizures occurring within and after 7 d of stroke onset were classified as early and late seizures, respectively. Early seizures have the same clinical course as acute symptomatic seizures; they rarely recur or require long-term antiseizure medication. Conversely, late seizures are associated with a risk of recurrence similar to that of unprovoked seizures in a patient with a focal lesion, thereby requiring long-term administration of antiseizure medication. After diagnosis, concerns regarding treatment strategies, treatment duration, and administration of primary and secondary prophylaxis often arise. Antiseizure medication decisions for the initiation of short-term primary and long-term secondary seizure prophylaxis should be considered for patients with stroke. Antiseizure drugs such as lamotrigine, carbamazepine, lacosamide, levetiracetam, phenytoin, and valproate may be administered. Poststroke seizures should be diagnosed systematically through history with differential diagnosis; in addition, classifying them as early or late seizures can help to determine treatment strategies.
Comparison of the efficacy of spinal cord stimulation and dorsal root ganglion stimulation in the treatment of painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy: a prospective, cohort-controlled study
Authors: Han Yu-Fei , Cong Xi
Published: April 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) and dorsal root ganglion stimulation (DRG-S) in the treatment of painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy (PDPN).

Methods

In this prospective cohort study, 55 patients received dorsal column spinal cord stimulation (SCS group) and 51 patients received dorsal root spinal cord stimulation (DRG-S group). The primary outcome was a Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) remission rate of ≥50%, and secondary outcomes included the effects of SCS and DRG-S on quality of life scores (EQ-5D-3L), nerve conduction velocity, and HbA1c, respectively.

Results

The percentage of NRS remission rate ≥ 50% at 6 months was 80.43 vs. 79.55%, OR (95% CI): 1.06 (0.38–2.97) in the SCS and DRG-S groups, respectively, and the percentage of VAS remission rate ≥ 50% at 12 months was 79.07 vs. 80.95%, OR (95% CI): 0.89 (0.31–2.58). Compared with baseline, there were significant improvements in EQ-5D and EQ-VAS at 6 and 12 months (p < 0.05), but there was no difference in improvement between the SCS and DRG-S groups (p > 0.05). Nerve conduction velocities of the common peroneal, peroneal, superficial peroneal, and tibial nerves were significantly improved at 6 and 12 months compared with the preoperative period in both the SCS and PND groups (p < 0.05). However, at 6 and 12 months, there was no difference in HbA1c between the two groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Both SCS and DRG-S significantly improved pain, quality of life, and lower extremity nerve conduction velocity in patients with PDPN, and there was no difference between the two treatments at 12 months.
Euterpe music therapy method for children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Liuzzi Tommaso , Bompard Sarah , Raponi Massimiliano , D’Arienzo Fiammetta , Staccioli Susanna , Napoli Eleonora , Diotallevi Martina Frascari , Piga Simone , Giuliani Roberto , Castelli Enrico
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The main purpose of our study was to evaluate whether involvement in a personalized music therapy program (Euterpe method), could improve the condition of children with cerebral palsy and their parents, compared to a control group. It investigated whether it could positively affect children’s sleep quality, temperament and quality of life, quality of family life, and parental stress.

Methods

A prospective single-center experimental study was conducted at “Bambino Gesù” Children’s Hospital (Rome, Italy). All subjects involved attended an intensive rehabilitation program in the Neurorehabilitation Unit. In a group of patients (n = 25), a music therapy treatment was applied to evaluate the effect before and after the intervention. This group was also compared with a control group (n = 10) undergoing a standard protocol without music therapy.

Results

In the experimental group, the analysis shows statistically significant effects in the Disorders of initiating and maintaining sleep (p = 0.050) and the Sleep wake transition disorders (p = 0.026) factors, and the total score (p = 0.031) of Sleep Disturbances Scale for Children; the Positive emotionality scale (p = 0.013) of Italian Questionnaires of Temperament (QUIT); the Emotional Functioning (p = 0.029), Social Functioning (p = 0.012), Worry (p = 0.032), Daily Activities (p = 0.032), Total Score (p = 0.039) and Parent HRQL Summary Score (p = 0.035) dimensions of Pediatric Quality of Life for family. While in the control group, only the Attention scale of QUIT (p = 0.003) reaches statistical significance.

Discussion

Our study suggests that music therapy with the Euterpe Method has beneficial effects on fundamental aspects of the child’s and his parents’ lives, such as sleep, emotion control, and quality of family life.
Clinical application of multicolor scanning laser ophthalmology in diagnosis and grading of central retinal artery occlusion
Authors: Wan Yuwei , Chen Ting , Li Ying , Yang Yang , Wang Yaqi , Wang Yuedan , Li Xuejie , Yang Anhuai , Xiao Xuan
Published: April 2024

Purpose

To characterize features of central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) using multicolor (MC) imaging and to assess the differences in CRAO grading between color fundus photography (CFP) and MC image qualitatively and quantitatively.

Methods

We conducted a prospective, cross-sectional study in the Department of Ophthalmology of Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University. In total, 86 acute CRAO patients were included. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), CFP, and MC examinations were taken at baseline. Based on the findings of these three examinations, CRAO was divided into three grades (incomplete, subtotal, and total). Based on OCT grading criteria, we qualitatively compared the ability of grading CRAO by CFP and MC. CRAO patient's visual acuity (VA) was obtained from the initial visit. The retinal thickness was measured by SD-OCT. Superficial capillary plexus (SCP) and deep capillary plexus (DCP) were obtained from optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) examinations. Quantitative data were compared across the three acute CRAO subgroups and against three examination findings.

Results

MC image had significantly higher power of acute CRAO detection than CFP (P = 0.03). In the same group of CRAO patients, there was no significant difference in VA when comparing OCT with the MC grading system or with the CFP grading system (all P > 0.05). Significant differences in VA were found between the three CRAO subgroups only under MC grading (P = 0.016). In incomplete CRAO patients, significant differences were found in central fovea thickness (CFT) when comparing OCT with the CFP grading system (P = 0.019). In the same group of CRAO patients, there was no significant difference in retinal thickness when comparing OCT with the MC grading system (All P > 0.05). Significance differences in CFT (P < 0.001), innermost retinal layer (IMRL; P < 0.01), middle retinal layer (MRL; P < 0.001), and outer retinal layer (ORL; P = 0.021) were found between the three CRAO subgroups by MC grading. Vessel density of SCP showed a statistically increased as the severity of three CRAO subgroups (P = 0.03), whereas DCP did not have significant differences (P = 0.745). Comparisons were made between the OCT grading method and the MC and CFP grading methods; there is no significant difference in vessel density of SCP and DCP (All P > 0.05).

Conclusion

The images obtained by MC are superior to those obtained by CFP in CRAO grading, retinal thickness, and vessel density measurement. MC imaging may be more capable of CRAO grading than OCT. We recommend MC imaging to determine CRAO severity to guide disease treatment and predict visual prognosis.
Deep learning-assisted diagnosis of large vessel occlusion in acute ischemic stroke based on four-dimensional computed tomography angiography
Authors: Peng Yuling , Liu Jiayang , Yao Rui , Wu Jiajing , Li Jing , Dai Linquan , Gu Sirun , Yao Yunzhuo , Li Yongmei , Chen Shanxiong , Wang Jingjie
Published: April 2024

Purpose

To develop deep learning models based on four-dimensional computed tomography angiography (4D-CTA) images for automatic detection of large vessel occlusion (LVO) in the anterior circulation that cause acute ischemic stroke.

Methods

This retrospective study included 104 LVO patients and 105 non-LVO patients for deep learning models development. Another 30 LVO patients and 31 non-LVO patients formed the time-independent validation set. Four phases of 4D-CTA (arterial phase P1, arterial–venous phase P2, venous phase P3 and late venous phase P4) were arranged and combined and two input methods was used: combined input and superimposed input. Totally 26 models were constructed using a modified HRNet network. Assessment metrics included the areas under the curve (AUC), accuracy, sensitivity, specificity and F1 score. Kappa analysis was performed to assess inter-rater agreement between the best model and radiologists of different seniority.

Results

The P1 + P2 model (combined input) had the best diagnostic performance. In the internal validation set, the AUC was 0.975 (95%CI: 0.878–0.999), accuracy was 0.911, sensitivity was 0.889, specificity was 0.944, and the F1 score was 0.909. In the time-independent validation set, the model demonstrated consistently high performance with an AUC of 0.942 (95%CI: 0.851–0.986), accuracy of 0.902, sensitivity of 0.867, specificity of 0.935, and an F1 score of 0.901. The best model showed strong consistency with the diagnostic efficacy of three radiologists of different seniority (k = 0.84, 0.80, 0.70, respectively).

Conclusion

The deep learning model, using combined arterial and arterial–venous phase, was highly effective in detecting LVO, alerting radiologists to speed up the diagnosis.
Neoadjuvant chemotherapy may be the best neoadjuvant therapy modality for non-metastatic pancreatic cancer: a population based study
Authors: Yang Jie , Qu Xiang , Jiang Fan , Qiao Hong-mei , Zhao Jie , Zhang Jin-ru , Yan Li-juan , Zheng An-jie , Ning Peng
Published: April 2024

Objective

Currently, there are no studies showing which neoadjuvant therapy modality can provide better prognosis for patients after pancreatic cancer surgery. This study explores the optimal neoadjuvant therapy model by comparing the survival differences between patients with non-metastatic pancreatic cancer (cT1-4N0-1M0) who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) and neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NARCT).

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 723 patients with cT1-4N0-1M0 pancreatic cancer who received neoadjuvant therapy before surgery from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. After propensity score matching (PSM), we compared the effects of NACT and NARCT on overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) in patients with non-metastatic pancreatic cancer, and then performed subgroup analyze. Finally, we used univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis to explore potential risk factors for OS and CSS in patients with non-metastatic pancreatic cancer treated with preoperative neoadjuvant therapy.

Result

Before PSM, mOS (30.0 months VS 26.0 months, P=0.122) and mCSS (30.0 months VS 26.0 months, P=0.117) were better in patients with non-metastatic pancreatic cancer treated with NACT compared with NARCT, but this was not statistically significant (P>0.05). After PSM, mOS (30.0 months VS 25.0 months, P=0.032) and mCSS (33.0 months VS 26.0 months, P=0.028) were better in patients with non-metastatic pancreatic cancer treated with NACT compared with NARCT, and this difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). Multivariate Cox regression analysis results showed that age, lymph node positivity, and NARCT were independent adverse prognostic factors for OS and CSS in patients with non-metastatic pancreatic cancer.

Conclusion

The study results show that compared with NARCT, NACT is the best preoperative neoadjuvant therapy mode for patients with non-metastatic pancreatic cancer. This result still needs to be confirmed by more prospective randomized controlled trials.
Automated contouring, treatment planning, and quality assurance for VMAT craniospinal irradiation (VMAT-CSI)
Authors: Simiele Eric , Romero Ignacio O. , Wang Jen-Yeu , Chen Yizheng , Lozko Yuliia , Severyn Yuliia , Skinner Lawrie , Yang Yong , Xing Lei , Gibbs Iris , Hiniker Susan M. , Kovalchuk Nataliya
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Create a comprehensive automated solution for pediatric and adult VMAT-CSI including contouring, planning, and plan check to reduce planning time and improve plan quality.

Methods

Seventy-seven previously treated CSI patients (age, 2-67 years) were used for creation of an auto-contouring model to segment 25 organs at risk (OARs). The auto-contoured OARs were evaluated using the Dice Similarity Coefficient (DSC), 95% Hausdorff Distance (HD95), and a qualitative ranking by one physician and one physicist (scale: 1-acceptable, 2-minor edits, 3-major edits). The auto-planning script was developed using the Varian Eclipse Scripting API and tested with 20 patients previously treated with either low-dose VMAT-CSI (12 Gy) or high-dose VMAT-CSI (36 Gy + 18 Gy boost). Clinically relevant metrics, planning time, and blinded physician review were used to evaluate significance of differences between the auto and manual plans. Finally, the plan preparation for treatment and plan check processes were automated to improve efficiency and safety of VMAT-CSI.

Results

The auto-contours achieved an average DSC of 0.71 ± 0.15, HD95 of 4.81 ± 4.68, and reviewers’ ranking of 1.22 ± 0.39, indicating close to “acceptable-as-is” contours. Compared to the manual CSI plans, the auto-plans for both dose regimens achieved statistically significant reductions in body V50% and Dmean for parotids, submandibular, and thyroid glands. The variance in the dosimetric parameters decreased for the auto-plans as compared to the manual plans indicating better plan consistency. From the blinded review, the auto-plans were marked as equivalent or superior to the manual-plans 88.3% of the time. The required time for the auto-contouring and planning was consistently between 1-2 hours compared to an estimated 5-6 hours for manual contouring and planning.

Conclusions

Reductions in contouring and planning time without sacrificing plan quality were obtained using the developed auto-planning process. The auto-planning scripts and documentation will be made freely available to other institutions and clinics.
Modeling the relationship between depression in people with cancer and perceived stress, with the mediating role of eating problems, sexual satisfaction, emotion regulation and self-compassion
Authors: Moniri Reihaneh , Gharraee Banafsheh , Zahedi Tajrishi Komeil
Published: April 2024

Aim

With the rising prevalence of cancer and the adverse physical and psychological experiences endured by affected individuals, this study aims to establish a model illustrating the relationship between depression in people with cancer and perceived stress. Additionally, it examines the mediating influence of eating problems, sexual satisfaction, emotional regulation, and self-compassion.

Method

This study employs a descriptive-correlational research method, utilizing structural equation analysis (modeling) to explore the role of mediators. The research sample comprised 200 individuals diagnosed with cancer, selected based on predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Participants completed Beck’s 13-item depression questionnaire, a 10-item perceived stress questionnaire, an 8-item appetite measurement questionnaire, a 25-item sexual satisfaction questionnaire, a 10-item emotion regulation questionnaire, and a 12-item compassion questionnaire. The data were subsequently analyzed using SPSS-24 and Lisrel 80/8 software.

Findings

The research findings indicate a significant positive relationship between perceived stress and depression in people with cancer. Furthermore, eating problems exhibited a mediating role in the relationship between perceived stress and depression, with a direct effect coefficient of (t = 0.28, ß = 0.02). However, the path from perceived stress to depression, mediated by sexual satisfaction, was found to be statistically insignificant, with a standard coefficient of 0.01 at the p < 0.05 level. Emotion regulation demonstrated a direct effect coefficient of (t = −3.52, ß = –0.33) on depression. Likewise, self-compassion exhibited a direct effect coefficient of (t = −3.08, ß = –0.28) on depression, while the path from perceived stress to depression was mediated by self-compassion, with a standard coefficient of 0.12 at the p < 0.05 level.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study sheds light on the interplay between depression and perceived stress in individuals with cancer, revealing a significant positive association. Eating problems emerged as a mediating factor, directly influencing the manifestation of depressive symptoms. However, the mediation pathway through sexual satisfaction was found to be statistically insignificant. Emotion regulation and self-compassion were identified as influential factors, with direct effects on depression and self-compassion also serving as a mediator in the relationship between perceived stress and depression. The findings emphasize the importance of targeted interventions addressing eating problems, enhancing emotion regulation, and fostering self-compassion to alleviate the impact of depression and perceived stress in individuals facing cancer-related challenges. Further research is encouraged to refine and expand upon these insights, advancing holistic care for this population.
Maternal immune activation induces sex-dependent behavioral differences in a rat model of schizophrenia
Authors: Liu Yunxia , Hang Xiaoyi , Zhang Yijie , Fang Yilin , Yuan Shanfang , Zhang Yi , Wu Bin , Kong Yan , Kuang Zihe , Sun Wenjun
Published: April 2024

Background

Maternal immune activation (MIA) is a mature means to construct a schizophrenia model. However, some preclinical studies have reported that a MIA-induced schizophrenia model seemed to have gender heterogeneity in behavioral phenotype. On the other hand, the MIA’s paradigms were diverse in different studies, and many details could affect the effect of MIA. To some extent, it is not credible and scientific to directly compare the gender differences of different MIA programs. Therefore, it is necessary to study whether the sex of the exposed offspring leads to behavioral differences on the premise of maintaining a consistent MIA mode.

Methods

An animal model of schizophrenia was established by the administration of 10 mg/kg Poly (I: C) when dams were on day 9 of gestation. Then, a number of female and male offspring completed a series of behavioral tests during postnatal days 61–75.

Results

Compared with the female control group (n = 14), female MIA offspring (n = 12) showed a longer movement distance (d = 1.07, p < 0.05) and higher average speed (d = 1.08, p < 0.05) in the open field test (OFT). In the Y maze test, the percentage of entering the novel arm of female MIA offspring was lower (d = 0.92, p < 0.05). Compared with the male control group (n = 14), male MIA offspring (n = 13) displayed less movement distance (d = 0.93, p < 0.05) and a lower average speed (d = 0.94, p < 0.05) in the OFT. In the Y maze test, the proportion of exploration time in the novel arm of male MIA offspring was lower (d = 0.96, p < 0.05). In the EPM, male MIA offspring showed less time (d = 0.85, p < 0.05) and a lower percentage of time spent in the open arms (d = 0.85, p < 0.05). Male MIA offspring also had a lower PPI index (76 dB + 120 dB, d = 0.81, p < 0.05; 80 dB + 120 dB, d = 1.45, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Our results showed that the behavioral phenotypes induced by prenatal immune activation were highly dependent on the sex of the offspring.
Utah Latina/o/x suicide decedents less likely to die by firearm, even in rural areas: examining population-wide data from the Utah Office of the Medical Examiner
Authors: Tharp Douglas , Goldstein Evan V. , Medina Richard M. , Brewer Simon C. , Bakian Amanda V. , Coon Hilary
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Suicide death remains a significantly rarer event among Latina/o/x populations compared to non-Latina/o/x populations. However, the reasons why Latina/o/x communities experience relatively lower suicide rates are not fully understood. Critical gaps exist in the examination of Latina/o/x suicide death, especially in rural settings, where suicide death by firearm is historically more common within non-Latina/o/x populations.

Method

We tested whether the prevalence of Latina/o/x firearm suicide was meaningfully different in urban and rural environments and from non-Latino/a/x decedents when controlling for age, sex, and a social deprivation metric, the Area Deprivation Index. Suicide death data used in this analysis encompasses 2,989 suicide decedents ascertained in Utah from 2016 to 2019. This included death certificate data from the Utah Office of the Medical Examiner on all Utah suicide deaths linked to information by staff at the Utah Population Database.

Results

Compared to non-Latina/o/x suicide decedents, Latina/o/x suicide decedents had 34.7% lower adjusted odds of dying by firearm. Additionally, among the firearm suicide decedents living only in rural counties, Latina/o/x decedents had 40.5% lower adjusted odds of dying by firearm compared to non-Latina/o/x suicide decedents.

Discussion

The likelihood of firearm suicide death in Utah differed by ethnicity, even in rural populations. Our findings may suggest underlying factors contributing to lower firearm suicide rates within Latina/o/x populations, e.g., aversion to firearms or less access to firearms, especially in rural areas, though additional research on these phenomena is needed.
Unreliability of clustering results in sensory studies and a strategy to address the issue
Authors: Kumar Rajesh , Chambers Edgar
Published: April 2024

Researchers commonly use hierarchical clustering (HC) or k-means (KM) for grouping products, attributes, or consumers. However, the results produced by these approaches can differ widely depending on the specific methods used or the initial “seed” aka “starting cluster centroid” chosen in clustering. Although recommendations for various clustering techniques have been made, the realities are that objects in groups can, and do, change their clusters. That can impact interpretation of the data. Researchers usually does not run the clustering algorithms multiple times to determine stability, nor do they often run multiple methods of clustering although that has been recommended previously. This study applied hierarchical agglomerative clustering (HAC), KM and fuzzy clustering (FC) to a large descriptive sensory data set and compared attribute clusters from the methods, including multiple iterations of same methods. Sensory attributes (objects) shuffled among clusters in varying ways, which could provide different interpretations of the data. That frequency was captured in the KM output and used to form the “best possible” clusters via manual clustering (MC). The HAC and FC results were studied and compared with KM results. Attribute correlation coefficients also were compared with clustering information. Using results from one clustering approach may not be reliable, and results should be confirmed using other clustering approaches. A strategy that combines multiple clustering approaches, including a MC process is suggested to determine consistent clusters in sensory data sets.
Doppler frequency analysis for sound-field sampling with moving microphones
Authors: Katzberg Fabrice , Maass Marco , Mertins Alfred
Published: April 2024

Moving microphones allow for the fast acquisition of sound-field data that encode acoustic impulse responses in time-invariant environments. Corresponding decoding algorithms use the knowledge of instantaneous microphone positions for relating the dynamic samples to a positional context and solving the involved spatio-temporal channel estimation problem subject to the particular parameterization model. Usually, the resulting parameter estimates are supposed to remain widely unaffected by the Doppler effect despite the continuously moving sensor. However, this assumption raises issues from the physical point of view. So far, mathematical investigations into the actual meaning of the Doppler effect for such dynamic sampling procedures have been barely provided. Therefore, in this paper, we propose a new generic concept for the dynamic sampling model, introducing a channel representation that is explicitly based on the instantaneous Doppler shift according to the microphone trajectory. Within this model, it can be clearly seen that exact trajectory tracking implies exact Doppler-shift rendering and, thus, enables unbiased parameter recovery. Further, we investigate the impact of non-perfect trajectory data and the resulting Doppler-shift mismatches. Also, we derive a general analysis scheme that decomposes the microphone signal along with the encoded parameters into particular subbands of Doppler-shifted frequency components. Finally, for periodic excitation, we exactly characterize the Doppler-shift influences in the sampled signal by convolution operations in the frequency domain with trajectory-dependent filters.
Oral delivery of Eimeria acervulina transfected sequentially with two copies of the VP2 gene induces immunity against infectious bursal disease virus in chickens
Authors: Guo Qingbin , Yu Ying , Suo Jingxia , Tang Xinming , Zhang Sixin , Crouch Colin , Bruton Beth , Tarpey Ian , Liu Xianyong , Zhao Guanghui , Suo Xun
Published: April 2024

Chicken coccidiosis caused by Eimeria spp. can occur on almost all poultry farms, causing huge economic losses to the industry. Genetically manipulated Eimeria parasites as a vaccine vector to deliver viral antigens have been reported. In our preliminary study, transgenic E. acervulina expressing a VP2 gene (Ea-VP2) of the infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) demonstrated partial protection against IBDV infection. To enhance immune responses, we aimed to increase the VP2 gene copy number in transgenic E. acervulina. In this study, we used a novel plasmid vector carrying a VP2 gene fused with three flag tags and a red fluorescent reporter gene (mCherry). The vector was introduced into Ea-VP2 sporozoites through nucleofection, leading to the generation of Ea-2VP2. Subsequent analysis revealed a notable escalation in the fluorescent rate, increasing from 0.11 to 95.1% following four consecutive passages facilitated by fluorescent-activated cell sorting. Verification via PCR, Western blot, and immunofluorescence confirmed the successful construction of the Ea-2VP2 population. Despite lower fecundity compared to wild-type E. acervulina, Ea-2VP2 maintained immunogenicity. Our research effectively created a transgenic E. acervulina strain transfected sequentially with two copies of the VP2 gene from IBDV. This modification resulted in an increased humoral immune response after primary immunization in chickens. Additionally, it demonstrated a degree of protection within the bursa against IBDV infection. Future studies will focus on further enhancing immune response levels.
Effects of tamoxifen on the immune response phenotype in equine peripheral blood mononuclear cells
Authors: Rodríguez Maksimiano , Quiroga John , Cortés Bayron , Morán Gabriel , Henríquez Claudio
Published: April 2024

Tamoxifen (TAM) is widely utilized in the prevention and treatment of human breast cancer and has demonstrated the potential to modulate the immune response. It has been proposed as a therapeutic tool for immune-mediated diseases. TAM has been investigated as a possible treatment for asthma-like conditions in horses, revealing specific impacts on the innate immune system. While the effects of TAM on equine neutrophils are well-documented, its influence on lymphocytes and the modulation of the immune response polarization remains unclear. This in vitro study employed peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from healthy horses, exposing them to varying concentrations of the TAM and assessing the expression of genes involved in the polarization of the immune response (TBX21, IFNG, GATA3, IL4, IL10, FOXP3, and CTLA4) in PBMC stimulated or not with PMA/ionomycin. Additionally, the effect of TAM over the proportion of regulatory T cells (Treg) was also assessed. TAM did not significantly affect the expression of these genes and Treg at low concentrations. However, at the highest concentration, there was an impact on the expression of GATA3, IL4, IL10, and CTLA4 genes. These alterations in genes associated with a Th2 and regulatory response coincided with a noteworthy increase in drug-associated cytotoxicity but only at concentrations far beyond those achieved in pharmacological therapy. These findings suggest that the effects of TAM, as described in preclinical studies on asthmatic horses, may not be attributed to the modification of the adaptive response.
Comparative analysis of reproductive tract microbiomes in modern and slower-growing broiler breeder lines
Authors: Shterzer Naama , Sbehat Yara , Poudel Binita , Rothschild Nir , Oloko Olanrewaju Eunice , Druyan Shelly , Mills Erez
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The reproductive tract microbiome in hens is of interest because bacteria in the reproductive tract could potentially affect fertilization and egg production, as well as integrate into the forming egg and vertically transmit to progeny.

Methods

The reproductive tract microbiome of 37-week-old modern commercial Cobb breeding dams was compared with that of dams from a broiler Legacy line which has not undergone selection since 1986. All animals were kept together under the same management protocol from day of hatch to avoid confounders.

Results

In regards to reproductive abilities, Cobb dams’ eggs weighed more and the magnum section of their reproductive tract was longer. In regards to microbiome composition, it was found that the reproductive tract microbiomes of the two lines had a lot in common but also that the two breeds have unique reproductive tract microbiomes. Specifically, the order Pseudomonadales was higher in the magnum of Legacy dams, while Verrucomicrobiales was lower. In the infundibulum, Lactobacillales were higher in the Legacy dams while Verrucomicrobiales, Bacteroidales, RF32 and YS2 were lower.

Discussion

our results show that breeding programs have modified not only the physiology of the reproductive tract but also the reproductive tract microbiome. Additional research is required to understand the implications of these changes in the reproductive tract microbiome on the chicken host.
Modern trends in the development of the tourism and hospitality industry in the southern resorts of the Russian Federation
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education ", Spiritual L. L. ,   Russian State University of Tourism and Service",   , dp. Cherkizovo, Moscow region, Russian Federation
Published: April 2024

In the article, the author analyzes the current state of the tourism and hospitality industry in the southern resorts of the Russian Federation. This analysis is carried out over the past three years. The presented statistical data make it possible to identify the current trends in increasing consumer demand for recreation and travel in the Krasnodar region, due to a number of objective political and economic factors.
Platforms for distance education
Authors:   Patrice Lumumba Russian People’s Friendship University, Moscow, RF, Grover K.
Published: April 2024

The article is devoted to the analysis of a thorough project of opening an online school in the field of tourism. This paper highlights the nuances of distance education, especially in the field of tourism. The need for a qualified approach to opening a school of this form is explained.
Online school in tourism field
Authors:   Patrice Lumumba Russian People’s Friendship University, Moscow, RF, Grover K.
Published: April 2024

The article is devoted to the analysis of a thorough project of opening an online school in the field of tourism. This paper highlights the nuances of distance education, especially in the field of tourism. The need for a qualified approach to opening a school of this form is explained
Hematological and biochemical indicators of steers of Hereford breed during the application of a growth stimulator
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “South Ural State Agrarian University”, Russia, Chelyabinsk region, Troitsk, Ulanova M. S. , Fatkullin R. R. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “South Ural State Agrarian University”, Russia, Chelyabinsk region, Troitsk
Published: April 2024

Modern livestock farming is actively applying the trend of accelerating the rate of milk and beef production through the use of various feed additives. In this regard, there was a need to study the adaptive abilities of the animal body against the background of the use of these additives. The purpose of the research was to study the hematological and biochemical indicators, of steers of Hereford bbreed against the background of the use of a growth stimulator. The experiment was carried out on steers of Hereford breed starting from 6 months of age, which were divided into 2 groups (control and experimental) of 10 animals in each group. The test animals of both groups were housed in free-ranging pens. The feeding rations were identical, except that the experimental group of steers was fed a growth stimulator, and the housing conditions were also the same throughout the experiment. The article contains information about the impact of stress-limiting environmental factors on the body of steers. The following indicators have been studied in depth: catalase activity, malondialdehyde, ceruloplasmin, and lipid peroxidation. The conducted studies allowed us to fully study the eff ect of a growth stimulant on lipid peroxidation in steers of Hereford breed under environmentally unfavorable conditions. This growth stimulator showed a positive effect on the animal body, as evidenced by the data obtained. In addition, we were able to reduce the concentration of lipid peroxidation by an average of 21 %. The studies conducted and the results obtained indicate the eff ectiveness of using a growth stimulator to increase the development and growth of steers. The study confirmed that the growth stimulator can reduce lipid peroxidation in the technology of rearing and fattening cattle in environmentally unfavorable areas of the Southern Urals, which confirms its antioxidant properties.
Development of approaches to risk management of factoring companies
Authors: Фролова В.Б.
Published: April 2024

В статье представлены некоторые аспекты исследования управления рисками компаний, оказывающих финансовые услуги, в частности, факторинговых компаний. Традиционно факторинг рассматривается как мера, направленная на снижение вероятности реализации риска неплатежей, а также как альтернатива кредита при недостаточности собственных ресурсов для осуществления текущей деятельности и дальнейшего развития поставщиков. Одновременно, компании, оказывающие факторинговые услуги подвержены рискам, управление которыми требует изучения и определения направлений развития на фоне быстро изменяющих условий внешней среды бизнеса. Результатом исследования является ряд рекомендаций по формированию элементов стратегии управления рисками факторинговой компании и оценке рисков взаимодействия с контрагентами.

The article presents some aspects of the risk management research of companies providing financial services, in particular, factoring companies. Traditionally, factoring is considered as a measure aimed at reducing the likelihood of realizing the risk of non-payments, as well as an alternative to credit if there are insufficient own resources to carry out current activities and further development of suppliers. At the same time, companies providing factoring services are exposed to risks, the management of which requires studying and determining development directions against the background of rapidly changing business environment conditions. The result of the study is a number of recommendations on the formation of elements of the risk management strategy of a factoring company and the assessment of risks of interaction with counterparties.
Raportowanie niefinansowe jako źródło informacji o działaniach największych europejskich grup ubezpieczeniowych na płaszczyźnie środowiskowej zrównoważonego rozwoju (część 2. – wyniki badania empirycznego)
Authors: Lemkowska Malwina
Published: April 2024

Artykuł stanowi drugą, empiryczną część opracowania dotyczącego raportów niefinansowych największych europejskich grup ubezpieczeniowych. Otoczenie instytucjonalne raportowania niefinansowego, wyniki kwerendy literatury przedmiotu, a także metodyczne założenia badania zostały opisane wczęści 1. Celem badania była identyfikacja i klasyfikacja działań środowiskowych największych europejskich grup ubezpieczeniowych. Zamierzenie to realizowano poprzez analizę treści skonsolidowanych sprawozdań niefinansowych. Zastosowana została metoda opracowania danych jakościowych: analiza szablonowa, wsparta przez techniki narracji. Zidentyfikowane aktywności ubezpieczycieli zostały zaprezentowane w trzech podstawowych grupach: działalność organizacyjna i zarządcza; działalność wewnętrzna oraz działalność zewnętrzna, w tym: świadczenie ochrony ubezpieczeniowej i działalność inwestycyjna. Badane raporty koncentrowały się na prezentacji celów, założeń i strategii zrównoważonego rozwoju grup w w/w podziale. Stawiane cele były często nieostre i pozostawiały możliwość odstępowania od wyznaczonej strategii. Ubezpieczyciele przedstawili również obszerny wykaz realizowanych działań we wszystkich trzech grupach. Badanie raportów ujawniło jednak brak możliwości oceny głębokości, jakości i skuteczności większości tych działań. Zidentyfikowano również problem wielości stosowanych metodyk oceny skuteczności działań, co potwierdziło – wcześniej przedstawiany w literaturze przedmiotu – problem porównywalności danych.
Health behaviours among school adolescents of a Public Educational Institution, Lima-Peru
Authors: Henriquez Luz Olinda Fernández , Cruz Flor Guicela Zorozabal de la , Godiño Jessica Carol Diaz , Pajares Adelaida Rosamaría López , Sandoval Segundo Ramos Leon
Published: April 2024

The stage of adolescence is one of the most complex, therefore it involves the adolescent in multiple risks that need to be evidenced and understood for their timely intervention to avoid complications for their state of integral well-being. To determine the health behaviors of adolescents in a state educational institution in Peru. The study was developed using a quantitative, observational, and cross-sectional approach in a population of 607 adolescent schoolchildren from 3rd to 5th grade of secondary school, to whom a survey was applied through the Global School-based Student Health Survey questionnaire (GSHS). Among the relevant findings in relation to nutritional behavior, physical activity, and hygiene, it was found that adolescents consumed soft drinks one or more times a week (44.5%), performed physical activity for more than one hour daily (12.2%) and used soap to wash their hands (44.2%). Regarding sexual behavior, they began their sexual relations before the age of 14 (14.3%) and talked with their parents or guardians about HIV (58.5%). Regarding mental health, violence, tobacco, and alcohol consumption, they stated that they considered the possibility of suicide (30.6%), were assaulted one or more times in the year (31.0%), used tobacco for the first time before of 14 years (17.5%) and alcohol in the same way (28.2%). Finally, in relation to protective factors, they indicated that their parents understood their problems (36.2%) and that their peers were kind and helped (39.5%).
Pace Carabelli and Dow, There is No Common Discourse Language Logic in Keynes’s A Treatise on Probability
Authors: Brady Michael Emmett
Published: April 2024

For 45 years, both A. Carabelli and S. Dow have been arguing that Keynes’s non demonstrative logic in the A Treatise on Probability is a common discourse logic (rhetoric). They provide no textual evidence anywhere in Keynes’s A Treatiseon Probability to support this claim. They have never supported, through the citation of specific pages or paragraphs in Keynes’s book, their claims that Keynes’s logic is NOT a formal logic. What is in the A Treatise on Probability is a version of Boole’s relational, propositional logic that Keynes combined with a first order (predicate) logic. These are mathematical, formal, symbolic logics. They have nothing to do with common discourse logics using the English language. A simultaneous reading of chapters I and II of Keynes’s book and chapters I, XI, and XII of Boole’s The Laws of Thought lead to one, and only one, conclusion- Keynes’s logic is a formal logic derived from G. Boole.
The only conclusion that follows from Keynes’s application of Boolean logics is that Carabelli and Dow have been severely confused for 45 years in what a formal logic is and what a common discourse logic is.
Approaches to the Professional Reflections of Argentine and Mexican Soldiers (1896-1911). The Cases of José E. Rodríguez and Miguel Ruelas
Authors: Velázquez Víctor Salazar
Published: April 2024

La profesionalización delos ejércitos argentino y mexicano, suscitada a mediados de los siglosXIX y parte del XX, se ha estudiado ampliamente desde la perspectiva política.1La formación de oficiales dedicados a la carrera de las armas también se caracterizó por el impulso de múltiples actividades intelectuales, cuyas huellas las encontramos reflejadas en revistas, libros, manuales, normativas y otros ejemplos de cultura escrita,2que los oficiales de ambos países dieron a las prensas, con el fin de que sus reflexiones o los esfuerzos de sus investigaciones circularan entre sus contemporáneos. De esta forma, pensaban contribuir en la mejora de sus respectivas instituciones.
Dicho con otras palabras, varios de los estudios vertidos a la letra impresa se enfocaban en incidir sobre la cultura organizacionalde las mencionadas fuerzas armadas. De acuerdo con Leonard Wong y Stephen J. Gerras, la expresada cultura analiza patrones de suposiciones compartidas, que las agrupaciones castrenses aprenden y sistematizan mientras resuelven problemas.
Cooperative, Collaborative, and Related Strategies’ Effect on Learning in Children with Autism
Authors: Boşnak Dr. Özge , Calleja Prof. Colin
Published: April 2024

When the right circumstances are met, children with autism can engage in settings for general education and have a successful educational career. A truly inclusive learning environment and research-based inclusion techniques must be in place for children with autism to be successfully included. The research studies that concentrate on cooperative and collaborative learning methodologies are reviewed in this article. The article concludes by outlining the need for additional study. This study examined 29 research studies using cooperative, collaborative, and related techniques with children with autism. Each article had to meet these requirements to be included: 1. describe the use of an evidence-based intervention for at least one participant with ASD. 2. Consist of at least one collaborative, cooperative, or related method. 3. Research needed to be conducted in an inclusive setting and finally, 4. The reviewed articles had to have been released in 2010 or later.
Reliability and Validity Evaluation of the ‘’CLOX: An Executive Clock Drawing Task’’ in a Greek Population with Neurological and Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Sideri Eleni , Tsantzali Ioanna , Kelly Claire , Papadimitropoulos George , Kitsos Dimitrios , Fanouraki Stella , Sterpi Angeliki , Tsivgoulis Georgios , Paraskevas George P. , Voumvourakis Konstantinos I.
Published: April 2024

Early and accurate detection of cognitive decline is a crucial factor for diagnosis, early interventions, and treatment strategies. The CLOX: an executive clock drawing task has emerged as a useful and frequent method for assessing cognitive abilities, especially in executive functioning domains. However, there are few normative data available for this tool. This protocol translates and validates the CLOX: an executive drawing task in the Greek population, also it tries to examine the use of CLOX in the Greek population. The study included a total number of participants 283 (76 males- 207 females) with mean ages 52,7 years, and a range of 19 to 90 years; the cohort consists of individuals with Dementia, Multiple Sclerosis, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, and Mild Cognitive Impairment; The Internal consistency with a Cronbach's alpha value was .798 for CLOX task 1, .785 for CLOX task 2, and .874 for the overall scale (combining both tasks).