bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do people with ME/CFS and joint hypermobility represent a disease subgroup? An analysis using registry data
Authors: Mudie Kathleen , Ramiller Allison , Whittaker Sadie , Phillips Leslie E.
Published: March 2024

Background

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is a chronic, multifaceted disease that affects millions globally. Despite its significant impact, the disease's etiology remains poorly understood, and symptom heterogeneity poses challenges for diagnosis and treatment. Joint hypermobility, commonly seen in hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS), has been observed in ME/CFS patients but its prevalence and clinical significance within this population are not well-characterized.

Objective

To compare the characteristics of ME/CFS patients with and without joint hypermobility (JH+ and JH-) as assessed using the Beighton scoring system, and to explore whether JH+ ME/CFS patients exhibit distinct disease characteristics, comorbidities, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL).

Methods

The study used cross-sectional, self-reported data from 815 participants of the You + ME Registry. Participants were categorized as JH+ or JH- based on self–assessed Beighton scores and compared across demographics, comorbidities, family history, and symptoms. HRQOL was assessed using the Short Form-36 RAND survey and Karnofsky Performance Status.

Results

15.5% (N = 126) of participants were classified as JH+. JH+ participants were more likely to be female, report Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), and a family history of EDS. They experienced worse HRQOL, particularly in physical functioning and pain, and a higher number of autonomic, neurocognitive, headache, gut, and musculoskeletal symptoms. Sensitivity analysis suggested that ME/CFS with concurrent JH+ and EDS was associated with more severe symptoms and greater functional impairment.

Conclusion

ME/CFS patients with joint hypermobility, particularly those with EDS, demonstrate distinct clinical characteristics, including more severe symptomatology and reduced HRQOL. These findings highlight the need for comprehensive clinical assessments of ME/CFS patients with joint hypermobility. Understanding these relationships could aid in subgroup identification, improving diagnosis, and informing targeted therapeutic approaches. Further research is warranted to explore these associations and their implications for clinical practice.
Patient-reported outcomes in Hodgkin lymphoma trials: a systematic review
Authors: Oliva Esther Natalie , Ionova Tatyana , Laane Edward , Csenar Mario , Schroer Julia , Behringer Karolin , Monsef Ina , Oeser Annika , Skoetz Nicole , Salek Sam
Published: March 2024

Background

Lymphoma treatment can lead to long-term consequences such as fatigue, infertility and organ damage. In clinical trials, survival outcomes, clinical response and toxicity are extensively reported while the assessment of treatment on quality of life (QoL) and symptoms is often lacking.

Objective

We evaluated the use and frequency of patient-reported outcome (PRO) instruments used in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) for Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) and their consistency of reporting.

Methods

MEDLINE, CENTRAL and trial registries for RCTs investigating HL were systematically searched from 01/01/2016 to 31/05/2022. Following trial selection, trial, patient characteristics and outcome data on the use of PRO measures (PROMs) and reporting of PROs using a pre-defined extraction form were extracted. To assess reporting consistency, trial registries, protocols and publications were compared.

Results

We identified 4,222 records. Following screening, a total of 317 reports were eligible for full-text evaluation. One hundred sixty-six reports of 51 ongoing/completed trials were included, of which 41% of trials were completed and 49% were ongoing based on registry entries. Full-text or abstract were available for 33 trials. Seventy percent of trials were conducted in the newly diagnosed disease setting, the majority with advanced HL. In 32 trials with published follow-up data, the median follow-up was 5.2 years. Eighteen (35%) completed/ongoing trials had mentioned PRO assessment in registry entries, protocol or publications. Twelve trials (67%) had published results and only 6 trials (50%) reported on PROs in part with the exception of 1 trial where PROs were evaluated as secondary/exploratory outcome. The most referenced global PROM was the EORTC-QLQ-C30 (12 studies), the EQ-5D (3 studies) and the FACT-Neurotoxicity (3 studies). FACT-Lymphoma, a disease-specific PROM for non-HL was mentioned in one ongoing trial. None of the trials referenced the EORTC QLQ-HL27, another disease-specific PROM developed specifically for HL patient’s QoL assessment.

Discussions

Only one-third of RCTs in HL report PROs as an outcome and only half present the outcome in subsequent publications, showcasing the underreporting of PROs in trials. Disease-specific PROMs are underutilized in the assessment of QoL in HL patients. Guidance on the assessment of PROs is needed to inform on comprehensive outcomes important to patients.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=391552, identifier CRD42023391552.
The protective effect of traditional Chinese medicine Jinteng Qingbi granules on rats with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Wan Yingying , Sun Wenting , Yang Jiaxi , Wang Haonan , Wang Wenqian , Ye Wanting , Cheng Guoliang , Li Bing , Ren Jianxun , Kou Qiuai
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Jinteng Qingbi granules (JTQBG), a traditional Chinese medicine formulation, are widely used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) due to their satisfactory therapeutic efficacy. However, the underlying mechanism of action remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the protective effects of JTQBG against RA and elucidates its potential molecular mechanisms.

Methods: A collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rat model was utilized, and JTQBG (1.25, 2.5, 5 g/kg/day) or methotrexate (MTX, 1 mg/kg/week) was orally administered. The rats’ weight, arthritis index (AI), and paw volume were measured weekly. Synovial hyperplasia of the joints was detected using a small animal ultrasound imaging system. Joint destruction was assessed using an X-ray imaging system. Histopathological examinations were performed using hematoxylin-eosin (H&E), Saffron-O and fast green staining. Serum inflammatory cytokines were detected using ELISA. Furthermore, 4D label-free quantitative proteomics of synovial tissues and non-targeted metabolomics of blood serum were conducted to analyze the molecular mechanisms.

Results: JTQBG exerted a significant therapeutic effect on CIA rats by reducing inflammatory cell infiltration, synovial hyperplasia, cartilage erosion, and bone destruction. It also decreased the spleen index, inhibited hyperplasia of the white pulp, and decreased the serum levels of IL-1β and IL-18. Proteomics analysis identified 367 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) between the Model and Normal groups, and 71 DEPs between the JTQBG and Model groups. These DEPs were significantly enriched in the NF-κB pathway. 11 DEPs were significantly reversed after treatment with JTQBG. Western blot results further validated the expression levels of Nfkb1, Pdk1, and Pecam1, and analyzed the expression levels of p-IKK, p-IκBα, and IκBα. The therapeutic efficacy of JTQBG was partly attributed to the suppression of the NF-κB pathway in synovial tissues. Serum metabolomics identified 17 potential biomarkers for JTQBG treatment of CIA rats, which were closely related to Alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, Tryptophan metabolism, Ascorbate and aldarate metabolism, Arginine metabolism, and Inositol phosphate metabolism.

Conclusion: Our findings demonstrated that JTQBG was effective against RA by alleviating synovial inflammation, synovial hyperplasia, and joint destruction. The anti-RA properties of JTQBG were likely attributed to the inhibition of the NF-κB pathway and the regulation of serum metabolite disorders.
Aiming the magic bullet: targeted delivery of imaging and therapeutic agents to solid tumors by pHLIP peptides
Authors: Reshetnyak Yana K. , Andreev Oleg A. , Engelman Donald M.
Published: March 2024

The family of pH (Low) Insertion Peptides (pHLIP) comprises a tumor-agnostic technology that uses the low pH (or high acidity) at the surfaces of cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME) as a targeted biomarker. pHLIPs can be used for extracellular and intracellular delivery of a variety of imaging and therapeutic payloads. Unlike therapeutic delivery targeted to specific receptors on the surfaces of particular cells, pHLIP targets cancer, stromal and some immune cells all at once. Since the TME exhibits complex cellular crosstalk interactions, simultaneous targeting and delivery to different cell types leads to a significant synergistic effect for many agents. pHLIPs can also be positioned on the surfaces of various nanoparticles (NPs) for the targeted intracellular delivery of encapsulated payloads. The pHLIP technology is currently advancing in pre-clinical and clinical applications for tumor imaging and treatment.
Hydrogen sulfide signaling in plant response to temperature stress
Authors: Li Zhong-Guang , Fang Jue-Rui , Bai Su-Jie
Published: March 2024

For the past 300 years, hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has been considered a toxic gas. Nowadays, it has been found to be a novel signaling molecule in plants involved in the regulation of cellular metabolism, seed germination, plant growth, development, and response to environmental stresses, including high temperature (HT) and low temperature (LT). As a signaling molecule, H2S can be actively synthesized and degraded in the cytosol, chloroplasts, and mitochondria of plant cells by enzymatic and non-enzymatic pathways to maintain homeostasis. To date, plant receptors for H2S have not been found. It usually exerts physiological functions through the persulfidation of target proteins. In the past 10 years, H2S signaling in plants has gained much attention. Therefore, in this review, based on that same attention, H2S homeostasis, protein persulfidation, and the signaling role of H2S in plant response to HT and LT stress were summarized. Also, the common mechanisms of H2S-induced HT and LT tolerance in plants were updated. These mechanisms involve restoration of biomembrane integrity, synthesis of stress proteins, enhancement of the antioxidant system and methylglyoxal (MG) detoxification system, improvement of the water homeostasis system, and reestablishment of Ca2+ homeostasis and acid-base balance. These updates lay the foundation for further understanding the physiological functions of H2S and acquiring temperature-stress-resistant crops to develop sustainable food and agriculture.
Dual RNA-seq of maize and H. seropedicae ZAE94 association, in different doses of nitrate, reveals novel insights into Plant-PGPB-environment relationship
Authors: Rosman Aline Cardozo , Urquiaga Maria Clara de Oliveira , Thiebaut Flávia , Ballesteros Helkin Giovani Forero , de Oliveira Eduardo Alves Gamosa , Hemerly Adriana Silva
Published: March 2024

The interactions between plants, beneficial bacteria and their environment are profoundly shaped by various environmental factors, including light, temperature, water availability, and soil quality. Despite efforts to elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved in the association between plants and beneficial bacteria, like Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria (PGPB), with many studies focusing on the transcriptional reprogramming in the plant, there is no report on the modulation of genetic controls from both plant and associated bacteria standpoints, in response to environment. The main goal of this study was to investigate the relationship between plant-bacteria-environment signaling, using as a model maize plants inoculated with H. seropedicae ZAE94 and cultivated with different doses of N (0.3 and 3 mM). For this purpose, we performed rRNA-depleted RNA-seq to determine the global gene expression of both maize roots and associated H. seropedicae ZAE94. Our results revealed a differential modulation of maize nitrogen metabolism, phytohormone and cell wall responses when associated with H. seropedicae ZAE94 at different N concentrations. In parallel, a modulation of the bacterial metabolism could be observed, by regulating genes involved in transport, secretion system, cell mobility, oxidoreductases, and chemotaxis, when bacteria were associated with maize roots and cultivated at different doses of N. The molecular and phenotypic data of maize plantlets suggested that different doses of N fertilization differentially regulated the beneficial effects of bacterial inoculation, as higher doses (3 mM) favored shoot elongation and lower doses (0.3 mM) favored increase in plant biomass. Our results provide a valuable integrated overview of differentially expressed genes in both maize and associated H. seropedicae ZAE94 in response to different N availability, revealing new insights into pathways involved in grass-PGPB associations.
Chromosome-level genome of Thymus mandschuricus reveals molecular mechanism of aroma compounds biosynthesis
Authors: Jia Lin , Xu Ning , Xia Bin , Gao Wenjie , Meng Qingran , Li Qiang , Sun Ying , Xu Shoubin , He Miao , Gu Huiyan
Published: March 2024

Background

Thymus mandschuricus is an aromatic and medicinal plant with notable antibacterial and antioxidant properties. However, traditional breeding methods rely on phenotypic selection due to a lack of molecular resources. A high-quality reference genome is crucial for marker-assisted breeding, genome editing, and molecular genetics.

Results

We utilized PacBio and Hi-C technologies to generate a high-quality chromosome-level reference genome for T. mandschuricus, with a size of 587.05 Mb and an N50 contig size of 8.41 Mb. The assembled genome contained 29,343 predicted protein-coding genes, and evidence of two distinct whole-genome duplications in T. mandschuricus was discovered. Comparative genomic analysis revealed rapid evolution of genes involved in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and the CYP450 gene family in T. mandschuricus. Additionally, we reconstructed the gene families of terpenoid biosynthesis structural genes, such as TPS, BAHD, and CYP, and identified regulatory networks controlling the expression of aroma-synthesis genes by integrating transcriptome data from various organs and developmental stages. We discovered that hormones and transcription factors may collaborate in controlling aroma-synthesis gene expression.

Conclusion

This study provides the first high-quality genome sequence and gene annotation for T. mandschuricus, an indigenous thyme species unique to China. The genome assembly and the comprehension of the genetic basis of fragrance synthesis acquired from this research could potentially serve as targets for future breeding programs and functional studies.
Social media and anti-immigrant prejudice: a multi-method analysis of the role of social media use, threat perceptions, and cognitive ability
Authors: Ahmed Saifuddin , Jaidka Kokil , Chen Vivian Hsueh Hua , Cai Mengxuan , Chen Anfan , Emes Claire Stravato , Yu Valerie , Chib Arul
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The discourse on immigration and immigrants is central to contemporary political and public discussions. Analyzing online conversations about immigrants provides valuable insights into public opinion, complemented by data from questionnaires on how attitudes are formed.

Methods

The research includes two studies examining the expressive and informational use of social media. Study 1 conducted a computational text analysis of comments on Singaporean Facebook pages and forums, focusing on how social media is used to discuss immigrants. Study 2 utilized survey data to examine the use of social media at the individual level, testing the relationships between cognitive ability, perceptions of threat, negative emotions towards immigrants, and social media usage within the Integrated Threat Theory framework.

Results

Study 1 found that discussions about immigrants on social media often involved negative emotions and concerns about economic impact, such as competition for jobs and crime. Complementing these findings about perceived economic threats, Study 2 showed that individuals with higher social media usage and greater perceptions of threat were more likely to have negative emotions towards immigrants. These relationships were mediated by perceptions of threat and were stronger in individuals with lower cognitive abilities.

Discussion

The findings from both studies demonstrate the role of social media in shaping public attitudes towards immigrants, highlighting how perceived threats influence these attitudes. This research suggests the importance of considering how digital platforms contribute to public opinion on immigration, with implications for understanding the dynamics of attitude formation in the digital age.
Moral identity in relation to emotional well-being: a meta-analysis
Authors: Goering Marlon , Espinoza Carlos N. , Mercier Alecia , Eason Emma K. , Johnson Charles W. , Richter Caroline G.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

This meta-analytic review surveyed previous empirical studies that examined links between moral identity and indicators of emotional well-being. Additionally, this meta-analysis examined cultural origin as a moderator, testing if links between moral identity and emotional well-being differ in collectivistic vs. individualistic countries.

Methods

A systematic literature review was conducted through ProQuest’s 65 databases and PubMed. A random-effect meta-analysis and subgroup analyses were conducted using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis 4.0 (CMA) software.

Results

Drawing on 27 eligible studies, moral identity was associated with greater emotional well-being (r= 0.27,p< 0.001). Follow up analyses on individual dimensions showed medium effect sizes in links between moral identity and greater happiness or positive affect (r= 0.28,p< 0.001), greater sense of purpose or meaning in life (r= 0.29,p< 0.001), and higher self-esteem (r= 0.25,p< 0.001). Moreover, moral identity was associated with greater life satisfaction showing a small effect size (r= 0.15,p= 0.011). Results showed that effect sizes of links between moral identity and overall emotional well-being did not significantly differ by cultural origin. However, effect sizes tended to be larger in the nine studies that were conducted in collectivistic countries (r= 0.30,p< 0.001) as compared to the 15 studies that were conducted in individualistic countries (r= 0.27,p< 0.001).

Discussion

The results of this meta-analysis indicate a robust empirical relationship between moral identity and emotional well-being that is present across various dimensions of emotional well-being and in both individualistic and collectivistic cultures.

Systematic review registration

https://osf.io/94f8b/?view_only=6db54da0fa304c83993d0438ecb5c637
Self-reported symptom occurrence and distress, and psychological well-being after liver transplantation – a descriptive cross-sectional study of Danish recipients
Authors: Dengsø Kristine Elberg , Knudsen Andreas Dehlbæk , Møller Dina Leth , Forsberg Anna , Nielsen Susanne Dam , Hillingsø Jens
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Symptom distress and impaired psychological well-being after liver transplantation may lead to limitations in everyday activities and lowered health-related quality of life. The aim of this nationwide, descriptive, and cross-sectional study was to explore self-reported symptom occurrence and distress, among Danish liver transplant recipients, and their association with self-reported psychological well-being as well as demographic, and clinical characteristics.

Methods

Liver transplant recipients transplanted from 1990 to 2022 were included. All recipients were asked to complete the Organ Transplant Symptom and Wellbeing instruments consisting of two instruments measuring self-reported symptom occurrence and distress, respectively, as well as self-reported psychological well-being by the Psychological General well-being instrument.

Results

Of 511 invited recipients 238 responded: 116 women and 122 men with a median post-transplant follow-up of 7.5 years (IQR 3.6–14.2 years). The most common single symptoms reported were decreased libido (18%), diarrhea (10%), and headache (8%). Sleep problems were the most common transplant-specific domain. 41% of the recipients reported poor psychological well-being, especially those who had undergone transplantation within the last 5 years, women, and younger recipients.

Discussion

In the interest of equity, the fact that women reported a higher level of symptom distress than men requires attention. Research on symptom management support is warranted with interventions focusing on how to alleviate symptom distress, which might increase long-term survival, which has not improved in recent decades.
Science for behavioral health systems change: evolving research-policy-public partnerships
Authors: Southam-Gerow Michael A. , Sale Rafaella , Robinson Ashley , Sanborn Victoria , Wu Juliet , Boggs Brianna , Riso Alana , Scalone Marrin , Sandman Ashley
Published: March 2024

Potent partnerships among researchers, policymakers, and community members have potential to produce positive changes in communities on a range of topics, including behavioral health. The paper provides a brief illustrative review of such partnerships and then describes the development and evolution of one partnership in particular in Virginia. The origin of the partnership is traced, along with its founding vision, mission, and values. Some of its several projects are described, including (a) needs assessment for implementation of evidence-based programs (EBPs) pursuant to the Family First Prevention Services Act; (b) statewide fidelity monitoring of key EBPs; and (c) projects to synergize state investments in specific EBPs, like multisystemic therapy, functional family therapy, and high fidelity wraparound. The paper concludes with some themes around which the center has evolved to serve the state and its citizens more effectively.
Family shapes microbiome differences in Oklahoma salamanders
Authors: Kirsch Madelyn R. , Smith Sierra N. , Becker Daniel J. , Watters Jessa L. , Marske Katharine A. , Siler Cameron D. , Lanier Hayley C.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Given the role of microbiomes in promoting host health and homeostasis, understanding the factors shaping skin microbial communities in wild vertebrates has become increasingly important in conservation. This goal is even more pressing for amphibians, for which the skin has multiple critical functions, and pathogens currently decimating populations are linked to significant changes in skin microbiomes. However, because microbiomes are also shaped by environmental and ecological influences, as well as by host phylogeny, it is important to quantify these contributions to microbiome structure in the presence of infection.

Methods

To understand the joint influence of these diverse factors shaping microbiomes, we used 16S rRNA sequencing to characterize the skin microbial communities of six salamander species (families Plethodontidae and Salamandridae) found in Oklahoma and contrasted the effects of infection status, phylogeny, host ecology, and host environment (i.e., climate) on skin microbiomes.

Results

Differences at the level of host family were the main factor influencing microbiome diversity; however, we did not detect a substantial phylogenetic signal. Instead, host ecology and environment were more important in driving microbiome differences among species and genera. Salamanders that tested positive for the skin fungal parasiteBatrachochytrium dendrobatidis(Bd) also had slightly less diverse microbiomes thanBd-freeanimals, but no such differences were associated with the systemic pathogen ranavirus (RV).

Discussion

Together, these results indicate a nuanced relationship between the number and type of microbes present on salamander skin and the factors influencing them. By developing a baseline assessment of the microbiome diversity and richness present on the skin of these focal species, this work also provides a foundation for monitoring and evaluating changes in skin microbiomes as populations continue to experience stressors and diseases.
Effect of Bacillus subtilis BS-Z15 metabolite mycosubtilin on body weight gain in mice
Authors: Yang Jun , Zhao Jing-Jing , Yue Jun-Qi , Ma Ming-Yue , Liu Huan , Chen Jia-Yi , Cao Xi-Yuan , Li Hao-Ran , Zhao He-Ping , Yang Yi , Zhao Hui-Xin
Published: March 2024

Our previous study reported that the metabolite of Bacillus subtilis BS-Z15 n-butanol site could reduce body weight gain in mice, showing anti-obesity effects. This study further demonstrated the effects of purified mycosubtilin on the body weight gain and gut microbiota of Kunming mice. 30 male Kunming white mice were randomly selected into three groups at four weeks of age: Control (group A), gavage-administered with saline daily; n-butanol site treated (group B), gavage-administered with n-butanol site metabolites (90 mg/kg); and mycosubtilin treated (group C), gavage-administered with mycosubtilin (6 mg/kg). Different groups’ gut microbiota compositions were analyzed using high-throughput sequencing technology. The results showed that the effects of mycosubtilin and n-butanol sites were consistent; the treatment groups showed a significant reduction in body weight gain as well as triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein contents as compared to the control group (P <0.05). Moreover, the size and contents of epididymal adipocytes were also significantly reduced (P <0.05), and the gavage administration of mycosubtilin could significantly increase the expression levels of lipolysis gene adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) in the mice liver. Mycosubtilin and n-butanol site treatments could significantly alter the composition of the gut microbiota as compared to the physiologic saline treatment. B. subtilis BS-Z15 metabolites may regulate weight gain primarily by mycosubtilin, according to these findings. The mycosubtilin might reduce weight gain in mice by regulating lipid metabolism, thereby reducing fat accumulation and altering the composition of gut microbiota.
Cooperative planning for physically interacting heterogeneous robots
Authors: Sebok Michael A. , Tanner Herbert G.
Published: March 2024

Heterogeneous multi-agent systems can be deployed to complete a variety of tasks, including some that are impossible using a single generic modality. This paper introduces an approach to solving the problem of cooperative behavior planning in small heterogeneous robot teams where members can both function independently as well as physically interact with each other in ways that give rise to additional functionality. This approach enables, for the first time, the cooperative completion of tasks that are infeasible when using any single modality from those agents comprising the team.
General value functions for fault detection in multivariate time series data
Authors: Wong Andy , Taghian Jazi Mehran , Takeuchi Tomoharu , Günther Johannes , Zaïane Osmar
Published: March 2024

One of the greatest challenges to the automated production of goods is equipment malfunction. Ideally, machines should be able to automatically predict and detect operational faults in order to minimize downtime and plan for timely maintenance. While traditional condition-based maintenance (CBM) involves costly sensor additions and engineering, machine learning approaches offer the potential to learn from already existing sensors. Implementations of data-driven CBM typically use supervised and semi-supervised learning to classify faults. In addition to a large collection of operation data, records of faulty operation are also necessary, which are often costly to obtain. Instead of classifying faults, we use an approach to detect abnormal behaviour within the machine’s operation. This approach is analogous to semi-supervised anomaly detection in machine learning (ML), with important distinctions in experimental design and evaluation specific to the problem of industrial fault detection. We present a novel method of machine fault detection using temporal-difference learning and General Value Functions (GVFs). Using GVFs, we form a predictive model of sensor data to detect faulty behaviour. As sensor data from machines is not i.i.d. but closer to Markovian sampling, temporal-difference learning methods should be well suited for this data. We compare our GVF outlier detection (GVFOD) algorithm to a broad selection of multivariate and temporal outlier detection methods, using datasets collected from a tabletop robot emulating the movement of an industrial actuator. We find that not only does GVFOD achieve the same recall score as other multivariate OD algorithms, it attains significantly higher precision. Furthermore, GVFOD has intuitive hyperparameters which can be selected based upon expert knowledge of the application. Together, these findings allow for a more reliable detection of abnormal machine behaviour to allow ideal timing of maintenance; saving resources, time and cost.
Case report: the addition of olfaction to virtual reality enhanced exposure therapy for PTSD
Authors: Freedman Sara A. , Dayan Ehud , Senitsky Michal , Bellin Elisheva , Attias Yossi , Richman Tzvi , Eitan Renana , Tatsa-Laur Lucian
Published: March 2024

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) occurs in approximately 20% of individuals following exposure to a potentially traumatic event. Re-experiencing in the form of intrusive memories is a hallmark feature, and often includes sensory elements, including odor. A small body of studies have examined the relationship between PTSD and odor evoked memories. Patients avoid smells that remind them of their traumatic event, and odors are known triggers for intrusive memories and distress. PTSD is associated with higher ratings of odor intensity and unpleasantness however accuracy of odor detection is often impaired. It has been suggested that adding trauma-related odors will enhance treatment, however little data exists. This case study illustrates the addition of trauma specific olfaction in Virtual Reality (VR) enhanced exposure therapy for combat related PTSD. Treatment was successful, the patient no longer met criteria for PTSD at the end of treatment, and self-report symptoms scores indicated clinically significant reductions. The patient indicated at the end of treatment that he would not have been helped had the therapy not used VR, and the addition of odors helped him process the traumatic memories. Future research should assess the addition of olfaction in a systematic way, in order to assess its specific impact in the effectiveness of PTSD treatment.
Slipping Through the Gap: Exploring the Influence of Social Health Insurance on Access to Healthcare for Older Migrant Workers
Authors: Long Chengxu , Yang Wei , Tang Shangfeng
Published: March 2024

Objectives: Older migrant workers (OMWs) frequently confront barriers to accessing care, as their Social Health Insurance (SHI) coverage may not extend beyond their hometown. This study seeks to investigate whether Chinese OMWs can still derive benefits from SHI in accessing healthcare services, even when their SHI is not registered in the same location as their current residence.

Methods: This study used data from 2015 China Migrants Dynamic Survey and focused on OMWs aged 60 years and older (N = 3,050). Logistic regression models were employed to investigate the factors influencing healthcare use.

Results: Having SHI registered in current place of residence and interprovincial migration were significantly associated with increased likelihoods of doctor visits among OMWs. However, inpatient services use did not appear to be associated with the SHI registration place and migration range.

Conclusion: Chinese OMWs derive fewer benefits from SHI in accessing healthcare services when their SHI is not registered in current residence. Governments in Low- and Middle-Income Countries should consider implementing targeted policies to provide adequate protection for OMWs and expand the coverage of direct reimbursement for cross-province healthcare services.
Experimental and Numerical Investigation of a Novel Vortex Reducer in a Co-Rotating Cavity of Aeroengines
Authors: Shen Wenjie , Wang Suofang , Wang Mengyuan , Suo Jia , Zhang Zhao
Published: March 2024

Improving airflow pressure is of great significance for the cooling and sealing of aeroengines. In a co-rotating cavity with radial inflow, vortex reducers are used to decrease the pressure drop. However, the performance of traditional vortex reducers is limited by their drag reduction mechanism and cannot meet the needs of next-generation aeroengines. In this study, a novel vortex reducer (NVR) consisting of de-swirl shroud orifices and fins is proposed. Meanwhile, a design strategy is developed to ensure the NVR provides steady airflow and excellent drag reduction performance. Furthermore, experiments and numerical simulations are utilized to investigate the flow characteristics and drag reduction mechanism of the NVR. The results reveal that the de-swirl jets created by the de-swirl shroud orifices limit the enhancement of the Ekman layers at large radii, while the fins break down the high-speed vortices at small radii. Compared to a traditional finned vortex reducer with identical fins, the pressure drop of the NVR is relatively reduced by 28.52%. Specifically, the pressure drop of the NVR is monotonous in the operating range, indicating its suitability for engineering. Finally, a surrogate model and particle swarm optimization (PSO) are utilized to identify the optimal parameters of the de-swirl shroud orifices in the design range. This study provides a potential solution for the design of next-generation vortex reducers.
Optimal Pumping Flow Algorithm to Improve Pumping Station Operations in Irrigation Systems
Authors: Bonet Enrique , Yubero María Teresa
Published: March 2024

In Spain, irrigated agriculture is the most water-intensive sector, consuming around of 80% of water resources. Moreover, irrigation water distribution systems are the infrastructure by which one-third of water resource losses take place. Monitoring and controlling operations in irrigation canals are essential for mitigating leakages and water waste in operational actions. On the other hand, energy consumption by agriculture is around 5% of usage in developed countries and even higher in undeveloped countries. Although it is a small part of the total energy supply for a country, energy waste reduces the competitiveness of the agriculture sector, which continually reduces profit margins in an economic sector with very low profit margins already. The tool developed in this paper aims to increase the efficiency of water and energy management in the agricultural sector and is included in an overall control diagram for scheduled irrigation management. This tool, the optimal pumping flow (OPF algorithm), optimizes the pumping flow from the irrigation canal to the irrigation reservoir in terms of water level at the canal and reservoir, crop flow demand, system constraints, and energy prices. Regarding the results, the OPF algorithm can calculate the optimum pumping operations, being able to optimize water resource usage and energy expenses by ensuring that the water level at reservoirs remains within a specified range and that pump flow never exceeds a threshold. Further, it allows for the management of pump operations outside of peak hours. On the other hand, the OPF algorithm is also integrated into the overall control diagram in a second test. Here, the OPF algorithm collaborates with a control canal algorithm such as the GoRoSo algorithm to optimize canal gates and pump operations, respectively. In this scenario, OPF reduces cumulative energy expenses by 58% compared to the scenario where the pump station operates only when the reservoir water level is below a certain threshold.
Robotic Multi-Boll Cotton Harvester System Integration and Performance Evaluation
Authors: Thapa Shekhar , Rains Glen C. , Porter Wesley M. , Lu Guoyu , Wang Xianqiao , Mwitta Canicius , Virk Simerjeet S.
Published: March 2024

Several studies on robotic cotton harvesters have designed their end-effectors and harvesting algorithms based on the approach of harvesting a single cotton boll at a time. These robotic cotton harvesting systems often have slow harvesting times per boll due to limited computational speed and the extended time taken by actuators to approach and retract for picking individual cotton bolls. This study modified the design of the previous version of the end-effector with the aim of improving the picking ratio and picking time per boll. This study designed and fabricated a pullback reel to pull the cotton plants backward while the rover harvested and moved down the row. Additionally, a YOLOv4 cotton detection model and hierarchical agglomerative clustering algorithm were implemented to detect cotton bolls and cluster them. A harvesting algorithm was then developed to harvest the cotton bolls in clusters. The modified end-effector, pullback reel, vacuum conveying system, cotton detection model, clustering algorithm, and straight-line path planning algorithm were integrated into a small red rover, and both lab and field tests were conducted. In lab tests, the robot achieved a picking ratio of 57.1% with an average picking time of 2.5 s per boll. In field tests, picking ratio was 56.0%, and it took an average of 3.0 s per boll. Although there was no improvement in the lab setting over the previous design, the robot’s field performance was significantly better, with a 16% higher picking ratio and a 46% reduction in picking time per boll compared to the previous end-effector version tested in 2022.
Allelopathic Activity of Three Wild Mediterranean Asteraceae: Silybum marianum, Cynara cardunculus var. sylvestris, Galactites tomentosus
Authors: La Iacona Mirko , Lombardo Sara , Mauromicale Giovanni , Scavo Aurelio , Pandino Gaetano
Published: March 2024

The manipulation of allelopathic mechanisms, such as the isolation of plant allelochemicals for bioherbicide production, is currently providing a new tool for weed management methods of reducing or potentially eliminating the use of synthetic herbicides. In Mediterranean agroecosystems, wild Asteraceae are the prevalent taxa, likely due to their allelopathic activity. Hence, the objective of this study was to evaluate the allelopathic effects of the aqueous extracts obtained from milk thistle [Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn], wild cardoon (Cynara cardunculus L. var. sylvestris) and purple milk thistle (Galactites tomentosus Moench) on the seed germination, mean germination time, and seedling growth of three target weeds: Portulaca oleracea L., Taraxacum officinale (Weber) ex Wiggers and Anagallis arvensis L. The total polyphenol (TP), flavonoid (TF), flavonol (TFL), and phenolic acid (TPA) content in the aqueous extracts was also evaluated. Overall, the allelopathic effects were species-dependent and root length was the most affected parameter. All extracts completely inhibited root development in P. oleracea. Averaged over target weeds, C. cardunculus extract had the greatest allelopathic activity, followed by G. tomentosus and by S. marianum. In particular, C. cardunculus reduced seed germination by over 50% and increased the mean germination time by 154%, likely due to the highest TP (13.2 g kg−1 DM) and TPA (11.4 g kg−1 DM) content, compared to the other Asteraceae species. These results provide evidence of the phytotoxic activity of the three wild Asteraceae members and suggest their possible future exploitation as potential bioherbicides for sustainable weed management.
Emission of Particulate Inorganic Substances from Prescribed Open Grassland Burning in Hirado, Akiyoshidai, and Aso, Japan
Authors: Irei Satoshi , Yonemura Seiichiro , Kameyama Satoshi , Sakuma Asahi , Shimazaki Hiroto
Published: March 2024

Biomass burning is one of the largest sources of particulate matter emissions globally. However, the emission of particulate inorganic species from prescribed grassland burning in Japan has not yet been characterized. In this study, we collected total suspended particulate matter from prescribed grassland burning in Hirado, Akiyoshidai, and Aso, Japan. The collected filter samples were brought to the laboratory, and water-soluble inorganic components were analyzed via ion chromatography. The measurement results showed high excess concentrations of potassium, calcium, and magnesium, and these substances were highly correlated, which agreed with previously reported findings. In contrast, the concentrations of sodium, chloride, nitrate, and sulfate were insignificant, even though their high concentrations were reported in other biomass burning studies. Among these low concentration substances, a high correlation was still observed between sulfate and nitrate. It is possible that the low concentrations of those species could have been biased in the measurements, particularly as a result of subtracting blank and background values from the observed concentrations. Building up more data in this area may allow us to characterize the significance of domestic biomass burning’s contribution to inorganic particulate components in Japanese air, which may consequently contributes to better understanding of adverse health effect of airborne particulate matter.
Surgical Excision of an Extratesticular Anaplastic Carcinoma in a Variable Kingsnake (Lampropeltis mexicana)
Authors: Zappone Viola , Rifici Claudia , Marino Matteo , Morici Manuel , Giambrone Giada , Spadola Filippo
Published: March 2024

An adult male variable kingsnake (Lampropeltis mexicana) was presented for examination due to a three-week history of anorexia and obvious body deformities. On objective examination the animal was in poor condition, and on palpation, an intracoelomic mass was noted approximately in the distal third of the body, cranial to the cloaca. In agreement with the owner, an exploratory celiotomy was planned and performed and the mass was surgically removed. Modified Wright–Giemsa stain impression smears were taken, which were consistent with an undifferentiated tumour. Histological examination revealed the presence of a solid proliferation composed of highly tubular anaplastic cells and abundant multinucleated cells. The neoplastic cells were positive for cytokeratin (AE1/AE3), but not for vimentin. Periodic acid–Schiff (PAS) staining revealed the presence of large granular cells, which can be identified as the characteristic cells of the efferent ducts. Based on the morphological and immunohistochemical findings, the diagnosis of extratesticular anaplastic carcinoma was made. To the authors’ knowledge, this type of neoplasm has never been reported in the male genital apparatus of snakes.
Effect of Day Length on Growth and Gonadal Development in Meishan Male Pigs
Authors: Lu Naisheng , Yuan Hao , Jiang Xueyuan , Lei Hulong , Yao Wen , Jia Peng , Xia Dong
Published: March 2024

Day length is a critical environmental factor for regulating animal growth and development. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different day lengths on the developmental changes of growth parameters, testicular sizes, testosterone secretion in Meishan male pigs, and steroidogenesis proteins and melatonin receptors. Fourteen Meishan male pigs (10 weeks (wks) of age) with the same parity, paired in litter and body weight (BW), were evenly allocated into a short-day-length group (SDL, 10 light/14 dark) and long-day-length group (LDL, 14 light/10 dark). After 12 wks of the experiment, the LDL-treated boars had more lying time and less exploring time. The LDL treatment led to significant increases in body height, chest circumference, testicular length, testicular weight, crude protein digestibility, and fecal testosterone at the 10th and 12th wks of the experiment, and cortisol at the 10th wk, compared to the SDL treatment, with no differences in the final BW, testicular width, and epididymis weight. Furthermore, the LDL treatment significantly increased the protein levels of melatonin receptor 1b (MT2), aromatase (CYP19), and steroidogenic factor 1 (SF1) in the testis, with no differences in the protein levels of melatonin receptor 1a (MT1), steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR), 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD), and cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc). The present study suggests that day length has an effect on the growth and gonadal development in male pigs maybe via MT2 and influences steroid synthesis and secretion in the testis. Therefore, proper day length should be considered in male pig breeding.
Circoviridae Survey in Captive Non-Human Primates, Italy
Authors: Sarchese Vittorio , Di Profio Federica , Palombieri Andrea , Friedrich Klaus Gunther , Robetto Serena , Banyai Krisztian , Marsilio Fulvio , Martella Vito , Di Martino Barbara
Published: March 2024

Circoviruses (CVs) and cycloviruses (CyVs), members of the family Circoviridae, have been identified only occasionally in non-human primates (NHPs). In this study, we investigated the presence and genetic features of these viruses in 48 NHPs housed in the Bioparco—Rome Zoological Garden (Italy) and in the Anima Natura Wild Sanctuary Semproniano (Grosseto, Italy), testing fecal, saliva, and serum samples with a broadly reactive consensus nested PCR able of amplifying a partial region of the replicase (Rep) gene of members of the family Circoviridae. Viral DNA was detected in a total of 10 samples, including a saliva swab and 9 fecal samples collected, respectively from five Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata) and four mandrills (Mandrillus sphinx), with an overall prevalence of 18.7% (9/48). On genome sequencing, five strains revealed the highest nucleotide identity (98.3–98.6%) to a CyV strain (RI196/ITA) detected in the intestinal content of a Maltese wall lizard (Podarcis filfolensis) in Italy. Although the origin of the Italian NHP strains, genetically distant from previously detected NHP CyVs, is uncertain, our results also highlight that the virome of captive animals is modulated by the different dietary and environmental sources of exposure.
Seroprevalence Assessment and Risk Factor Analysis of Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Goats from Northeastern Algeria
Authors: Dahmane Abdeldjalil , Almeida Daniela , Reghaissia Nassiba , Baroudi Djamel , Samari Houssem , Abdelli Amine , Laatamna AbdElkarim , Mesquita João R.
Published: March 2024

T. gondii is the causal agent of toxoplasmosis, a worldwide zoonotic disease relevant in human and veterinary medicine. In Algeria, few reports focused on the presence and circulation of this parasite in the local goat population. The aim of the survey was to evaluate toxoplasmosis seroprevalence and associated risk factors. Sera from 460 goats reared on 72 farms in northeastern Algeria were collected and tested for IgG antibodies to T. gondii by an indirect ELISA. To identify risk factors, a linear regression analysis of the variables was performed. Anti-T. gondii antibodies were found in 94.44% (68/72; 95% CI: 73.34–119.73) of goat farms and in 53.26% (245/460; 95% CI: 46.80–60.36) at the individual level. The multivariable analysis showed that seasonal pasture (OR = 3.804; 95% CI: 3.321–4.358; p = 0.003), presence of water source in pasture area (OR = 4.844; 95% CI: 1.942–7.789; p = 0.0004), use of anthelminthics (OR = 2.640; 95% CI: 1.592–3.146; p = 0.036), number of cats, hygiene, proportion of abortions, number of abortions in the last year, year of sampling, region, and season were the variables significantly associated with T. gondii seropositivity. Abortions in goat herds seem to be related to T. gondii exposure, thus it is crucial to undertake measures and strategies to reduce, control, and prevent toxoplasmosis infection in goats, and thereby in humans, from Algeria.