bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of continuous versus intermittent theta-burst TMS on fMRI connectivity
Authors: Hermiller Molly S.
Published: May 2024

Transcranial magnetic stimulation is a noninvasive technique that can be used to evoke distributed network-level effects. Previous work demonstrated that the Hippocampal-Cortical Network responds preferably (i.e., greater memory improvement and increases in hippocampal-network connectivity) to continuous theta-burst stimulation protocol relative to intermittent theta-burst and to 20-Hz rTMS. Here, these data were further analyzed to characterize effects of continuous versus intermittent theta-burst stimulation on network-level connectivity measures – as well as local connectedness – via resting-state fMRI. In contrast to theories that propose continuous and intermittent theta-burst cause local inhibitory versus excitatory effects, respectively, both protocols caused local decreases in fMRI connectivity around the stimulated parietal site. While iTBS caused decreases in connectivity across the hippocampal-cortical network, cTBS caused increases and decreases in connectivity across the network. cTBS had no effect on the parietal-cortical network, whereas iTBS caused decreases in the right parietal cortex (contralateral hemisphere to the stimulation target). These findings suggest that continuous theta-burst may have entrained the endogenous hippocampal-cortical network, whereas the intermittent train was unable to maintain entrainment that may have yielded the long-lasting effects measured in this study (i.e., within 20-min post-stimulation). Furthermore, these effects were specific to the hippocampal-cortical network, which has a putative endogenous functionally-relevant theta rhythm, and not to the parietal network. These results add to the growing body of evidence that suggests effects of theta-burst stimulation are not fully characterized by excitatory/inhibitory theories. Further work is required to understand local and network-level effects of noninvasive stimulation.
Culinary treatments impact the digestibility and protein quality of edible insects: a case study with Tenebrio molitor and Gryllus assimilis
Authors: Lampová Barbora , Doskočil Ivo , Kulma Martin , Kurečka Michal , Kouřimská Lenka
Published: May 2024

The escalating global population is anticipated to intensify the demand for high-quality proteins, necessitating the exploration of alternative protein sources. Edible insects are a promising solution, owing to their nutritional richness and sustainability. However, their digestibility and protein quality, particularly after culinary treatment, remains underexplored. In the present study, we investigated the effects of various culinary treatments on the protein digestibility of two insect species, Tenebrio molitor and Gryllus assimilis. Our findings revealed that culinary treatments such as boiling, roasting, drying, and microwave heating significantly influenced the digestibility of both insect species. Notably, drying emerged as the most effective method, leading to a substantial increase in digestibility. Furthermore, we assessed protein quality using the digestible indispensable amino acid score (DIAAS) and found that the choice of the calculation method significantly influenced the evaluation of protein quality. By including the sum of the anhydrous amino acids, we eliminated the potential overestimation of protein content and obtained a more reliable assessment of protein quality. Our results underscore the importance of culinary treatments and calculation methods in determining the suitability of insects as protein sources for human nutrition.
MR histology reveals tissue features beneath heterogeneous MRI signal in genetically engineered mouse models of sarcoma
Authors: Blocker Stephanie J. , Mowery Yvonne M. , Everitt Jeffrey I. , Cook James , Cofer Gary Price , Qi Yi , Bassil Alex M. , Xu Eric S. , Kirsch David G. , Badea Cristian T. , Johnson G. Allan
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To identify significant relationships between quantitative cytometric tissue features and quantitative MR (qMRI) intratumorally in preclinical undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcomas (UPS).

Materials and methods

In a prospective study of genetically engineered mouse models of UPS, we registered imaging libraries consisting of matched multi-contrast in vivo MRI, three-dimensional (3D) multi-contrast high-resolution ex vivo MR histology (MRH), and two-dimensional (2D) tissue slides. From digitized histology we generated quantitative cytometric feature maps from whole-slide automated nuclear segmentation. We automatically segmented intratumoral regions of distinct qMRI values and measured corresponding cytometric features. Linear regression analysis was performed to compare intratumoral qMRI and tissue cytometric features, and results were corrected for multiple comparisons. Linear correlations between qMRI and cytometric features with p values of <0.05 after correction for multiple comparisons were considered significant.

Results

Three features correlated with ex vivo apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), and no features correlated with in vivo ADC. Six features demonstrated significant linear relationships with ex vivo T2*, and fifteen features correlated significantly with in vivo T2*. In both cases, nuclear Haralick texture features were the most prevalent type of feature correlated with T2*. A small group of nuclear topology features also correlated with one or both T2* contrasts, and positive trends were seen between T2* and nuclear size metrics.

Conclusion

Registered multi-parametric imaging datasets can identify quantitative tissue features which contribute to UPS MR signal. T2* may provide quantitative information about nuclear morphology and pleomorphism, adding histological insights to radiological interpretation of UPS.
Case report: Ultrasound misdiagnoses atypical parathyroid adenoma as malignant thyroid tumor
Authors: Hou Yilin , Zhao Lei , Sun Jiayue , Zhang Yun-Fei
Published: May 2024

Atypical Parathyroid Adenoma (APA) is a type of tumor that lies somewhere between parathyroid adenoma and parathyroid carcinoma. It often affects adults over the age of 60, and the clinical symptoms are consistent with those of hyperparathyroidism. This condition has a low occurrence, and its ultrasonographic signs are strikingly similar to thyroid malignant tumors, making it easily misdiagnosed. As a result, a case of APA ultrasonography misdiagnosis admitted to our hospital was recorded in order to serve as a reference point for APA diagnosis.
Imaging response to immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with advanced melanoma: a retrospective observational cohort study
Authors: Gupta Mehul , Stukalin Igor , Meyers Daniel E. , Heng Daniel Y. C. , Monzon Jose , Cheng Tina , Navani Vishal
Published: May 2024

Background

The association between objective imaging response and first line immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy regimes in advanced melanoma remains uncharacterized in routine practice.

Methods

We conducted a multi-center retrospective cohort analysis of advanced melanoma patients receiving first line ICI therapy from August 2013-May 2020 in Alberta, Canada. The primary outcome was likelihood of RECIST v1.1 assessed objective imaging response between patients receiving anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (anti-PD1) monotherapy and those receiving combination ipilimumab-nivolumab. Secondary outcomes were identification of baseline characteristics associated with non-response and the association of imaging response with overall survival (OS) and time to next treatment (TTNT).

Results

198 patients were included, 41/198 (20.7%) had complete response, 86/198 (43.4%) had partial response, 23/198 (11.6%) had stable disease, and 48/198 (24.2%) had progressive disease. Median OS was not reached (NR) (95% CI 49.0-NR) months for complete responders, NR (95%CI 52.9-NR) months for partial responders, 33.7 (95%CI 15.8-NR) months for stable disease, and 6.4 (95%CI 5.2–10.1) months for progressive disease (log-rank p<0.001). Likelihood of objective imaging response remained similar between anti-PD1 monotherapy and ipilimumab-nivolumab groups (OR 1.95 95%CI 0.85–4.63, p=0.121). Elevated LDH level (OR 0.46; 95%CI 0.21–0.98, p=0.043), mucosal primary site (OR 0.14; 95%CI 0.03–0.48, p=0.003), and BRAF V600E mutation status (OR 0.31; 95%CI 0.13–0.72, p=0.007) were associated with decreased likelihood of response.

Conclusion

No significant difference in likelihood of imaging response between anti-PD1 monotherapy and combination ipilimumab-nivolumab was observed. Elevated LDH level, mucosal primary site, and BRAF V600E mutation status were associated with decreased likelihood of response. Given that pivotal clinical trials of ipilimumab-nivolumab did not formally compare ipilimumab-nivolumab with nivolumab monotherapy, this work adds context to differences in outcomes when these agents are used. These results may inform treatment selection, and aid in counseling of patients treated with first-line ICI therapy in routine clinical practice settings.
A life-threatening, massive subcutaneous hematoma caused by trauma in a patient with neurofibromatosis type 1: a case report and literature review
Authors: Zhang Lu , Wang Xingtong , Yin Huinan , Chu Wanli , Zhang Ming , Zhu Minhui , Shi Zhiyuan , Chen Zequn , Zhao Fan
Published: May 2024

Background

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is an autosomal dominant disease that can give rise to the formation of vascular lesions in affected individuals. These lesions, whether occurring spontaneously or as a result of trauma, have the potential to cause severe and even fatal hemorrhage.

Case description

We presented a case demonstrating the most extensive hematoma ever documented in a patient with NF1, resulting from a minor trauma. He experienced hemodynamic instability due to severe anemia. Arteriography revealed a rupture in the intercostal artery, which was successfully treated through interventional embolization to stop the hemorrhage. Additionally, we implemented a refined surgical approach, beginning with suturing, followed by the meticulous resection of necrotic and aberrant tissues, thereby markedly diminishing bleeding.

Conclusion

Minor trauma may cause severe bleeding in patients with NF1, which can be life-threatening. Timely diagnosis of NF1 and effective hemostatic techniques are key to successful treatment.
Anti-inflammatory and/or immunomodulatory activities of Uncaria tomentosa (cat’s claw) extracts: A systematic review and meta-analysis of in vivo studies
Authors: Arado Gustavo Marin , Amatto Pedro de Padua G. , Marins Mozart , Rizzi Elen Sanchez , França Suzelei de Castro , Coppede Juliana da Silva , Carmona Fábio , Pereira Ana Maria Soares
Published: May 2024

Background

Uncaria tomentosa (Willd. ex Schult.) DC. (Rubiaceae) is traditionally used by Amazonian indigenous groups to treat inflammatory diseases. To date, there are no systematic reviews and meta-analyses on the use of U. tomentosa for inflammation control in animals supporting the traditional knowledge about this species. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of U. tomentosa extracts in modulating inflammatory mediators and to determine which types of inflammatory diseases can be treated by this species.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical studies published before 26 July 2023, identified in PubMed, Embase, and Scopus. Four independent reviewers extracted the data and assessed the risks of bias. The effects of U. tomentosa on inflammatory diseases and the inflammatory mediators involved were extracted from the studies. Standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) of the outcomes were estimated. The meta-analyses were conducted using RevMan 5.4 (Cochrane Collaboration). This protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023450869).

Results

Twenty-four of 523 studies were included. U. tomentosa extracts decreased the cytokines interleukin (IL)-6 (SMD: −0.72, 95%CI: −1.15, −0.29, p = 0.001) and transcription factor nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) (SMD: −1.19, 95%CI: −1.89, −0.48, p = 0.001). However, the extracts did not significantly alter IL-1 (SMD: −0.16, 95%CI: −0.87, +0.56, p = 0.67), IL-10 (SMD: −0.05, 95%CI:–0.35, 0.45, p = 0.80), or tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels (SMD: 0.18, 95%CI: −0.25, 0.62, p = 0.41).

Conclusion

Many extracts of stem bark, roots, and leaves of U. tomentosa, mostly aqueous and hydroethanolic, exhibited anti-inflammatory and/or immunomodulatory activities and low toxicity. The extracts decreased NF-κB and IL-6. These findings suggest that this species has the potential to treat inflammatory diseases in which these markers are increased, according to the ethnopharmacological use. These activities are not related to a specific class of compounds.

Systematic Review Registration:

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=450869, Identifier CRD42023450869.
Utility of Faster R-CNN in methodological comparison and evaluation of reticulocytes
Authors: Sun Shengli , Wang Geng , Zhang Binyao , Wang Fei , Wu Wei
Published: May 2024

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the methodological comparison of reticulocytes by using the intelligent learning system Faster R-CNN, a set of reticulocyte image detection systems developed using deep neural networks.

Methods

We selected 59 EDTA-K2 anticoagulated whole blood samples and calculated the RET% using seven different Sysmex XN full-automatic hematology analyzers with Faster R-CNN in the laboratory. We compared and evaluated the methods and statistically analyzed the correlation between the various test results.

Results

The results indicated a high degree of consistency between the seven Sysmex XN full-automatic hematology analyzers and Faster R-CNN in detecting RET%. The correlation coefficients were 0.987, 0.984, 0.986, 0.987, 0.987, 0.988, and 0.986, respectively.

Conclusion

We found that the Sysmex XN full-automatic hematology analyzers in our laboratory using the Faster R-CNN system met the requirements of the methodological comparison of reticulocyte detection and this intelligent learning system can be a useful clinical tool.
Latitudinal patterns and their climate drivers of the δ13C, δ15N, δ34S isotope signatures of Spartina alterniflora across plant life-death status: a global analysis
Authors: Zhang Dongjie , Wang Hui , Liu Xuepeng , Ao Kang , He Wenjun , Wang Tongxin , Zhang Mingye , Tong Shouzheng
Published: May 2024

Isotopic signatures offer new methods, approaches, and perspectives for exploring the ecological adaptability and functions of plants. We examined pattern differences in the isotopic signatures (δ13C, δ15N, δ34S) of Spartina alterniflora across varying plant life-death status along geographic clines. We extracted 539 sets of isotopic data from 57 publications covering 267 sites across a latitude range of over 23.8° along coastal wetlands. Responses of isotopic signatures to climate drivers (MAT and MAP) and the internal relationships between isotopic signatures were also detected. Results showed that the δ13C, δ15N, and δ34S of S. alterniflora were -13.52 ± 0.83‰, 6.16 ± 0.14‰, and 4.01 ± 6.96‰, with a range of -17.44‰ to -11.00‰, -2.40‰ to 15.30‰, and -9.60‰ to 15.80‰, respectively. The latitudinal patterns of δ13C, δ15N, and δ34S in S. alterniflora were shaped as a convex curve, a concave curve, and an increasing straight line, respectively. A decreasing straight line for δ13C within the ranges of MAT was identified under plant life status. Plant life-death status shaped two nearly parallel decreasing straight lines for δ34S in response to MAT, resulting in a concave curve of δ34S for live S. alterniflora in response to MAP. The δ15N of S. alterniflora significantly decreased with increasing δ13C of S. alterniflora, except for plant death status. The δ13C, δ15N, and δ34S of S. alterniflora are consistent with plant height, stem diameter, leaf traits, etc, showing general latitudinal patterns closely related to MAT. Plant life-death status altered the δ15N (live: 6.55 ± 2.23‰; dead: -2.76 ± 2.72‰), latitudinal patterns of S. alterniflora and their responses to MAT, demonstrating strong ecological plasticity and adaptability across the geographic clines. The findings help in understanding the responses of latitudinal patterns of the δ13C, δ15N, and δ34S isotope signatures of S. alterniflora in response plant life-death status, and provide evidence of robust ecological plasticity and adaptability across geographic clines.
Regulating root structure of potted lettuce to magnify absorption from APP and UAN fertilizers
Authors: Li Changqing , Li Yahao , Yang Jungang , Lian Bingrui , Wang Jiqing , Zou Guoyuan
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Improvement of root architecture is crucial to increasing nutrient acquisition.

Methods

Two pot experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of different concentrations of urea ammonium nitrate solution (UAN) and ammonium polyphosphate (APP) on lettuce root architecture and the relationship between roots and nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) absorption.

Results

The results showed that lettuce yield, quality, and root architecture were superior in the APP4 treatment compared to other P fertilizer treatments. The N480 treatment (480 mg N kg-1 UAN) significantly outperformed other N treatments in terms of root length, root surface area, and root volume. There were significant quantitative relationships between root architecture indices and crop uptake of N and P. The relationships between P uptake and root length and root surface area followed power functions. Crop N uptake was significantly linearly related to the length of fine roots with a diameter of <0.5 mm.

Conclusion and discussion

The length of fine roots played a more prominent role in promoting N absorption, while overall root size was more important for P absorption. APP has a threshold of 9.3 mg P kg-1 for stimulating the root system. Above this threshold, a rapid increase in root absorption of P. UAN can promote extensive growth of fine roots with a diameter less than 0.5 mm. Applying appropriate rates of APP and limiting UAN application to less than 400 mg N kg-1 can improve root architecture to enhance N and P absorption by lettuce. These results highlight a new possibility to improve nutrients use efficiency while maintaining high yields.
Computational modeling of decision-making in substance abusers: testing Bechara’s hypotheses
Authors: Avila Chauvet Laurent , Mejía Cruz Diana
Published: May 2024

One of the cognitive abilities most affected by substance abuse is decision-making. Behavioral tasks such as the Iowa Gambling Task (IGT) provide a means to measure the learning process involved in decision-making. To comprehend this process, three hypotheses have emerged: (1) participants prioritize gains over losses, (2) they exhibit insensitivity to losses, and (3) the capacity of operational storage or working memory comes into play. A dynamic model was developed to examine these hypotheses, simulating sensitivity to gains and losses. The Linear Operator model served as the learning rule, wherein net gains depend on the ratio of gains to losses, weighted by the sensitivity to both. The study further proposes a comparison between the performance of simulated agents and that of substance abusers (n = 20) and control adults (n = 20). The findings indicate that as the memory factor increases, along with high sensitivity to losses and low sensitivity to gains, agents prefer advantageous alternatives, particularly those with a lower frequency of punishments. Conversely, when sensitivity to gains increases and the memory factor decreases, agents prefer disadvantageous alternatives, especially those that result in larger losses. Human participants confirmed the agents’ performance, particularly when contrasting optimal and sub-optimal outcomes. In conclusion, we emphasize the importance of evaluating the parameters of the linear operator model across diverse clinical and community samples.
Distinguishing fast change in social norms and slow change in personal norms in cooperative decision-making
Authors: Batzke Marlene C. L. , Ernst Andreas
Published: May 2024

Psychological research on norms has shown that norms are highly relevant for individuals’ decision-making. Yet, there is so far little understanding of how norms change over time. Knowledge about how norms change may help better understanding their potential for as well as limitations in guiding decision-making and changing behavior. The present work investigated change in individuals’ cooperation norms. As an indicator of different underlying processes of norm change, the temporal dynamics of different types of norms were examined. It was assumed that participants’ social norms are adapted quickly whenever the social situation changes, while personal norms change more slowly and gradually, abstracting part of the situational learning in interaction with one’s personality. In an experimental study, participants played a repeated prisoner’s dilemma game with artificial co-players representing a predominantly cooperative or uncooperative social setting, depending on the experimental condition. The condition was expected to affect slow learning of personal norms. Additionally, the cooperativeness of the social setting was varied repeatedly within conditions, expected to result in fast changes in social norms. Participants’ personal and social norms were assessed throughout the game. As predicted, the temporal dynamics differed between norms with social norms changing quickly and personal norms more slowly. Personal norms strongly predicted behavioral decision-making and were predicted by situational and personality factors. Potential qualitative differences of the underlying norm change processes are discussed.
Social networks use in the context of Schizophrenia: a review of the literature
Authors: Suárez-Llevat Carolina , Jiménez-Gómez Beatriz , Ruiz-Núñez Carlos , Fernández-Quijano Invención , Rodriguez-González Eva María , de la Torre-Domingo Carlos , Herrera-Peco Iván
Published: May 2024

Schizophrenia is a persistent mental health condition that, while presenting challenges, underscores the dynamic nature of cognitive functions and encourages a unique perspective on how individuals engage with their surroundings. Social networks, as a means of communication of great importance at the present time, are for this type of people a way of interacting with their environment with a high level of security. The aim is to find out how schizophrenia is dealt with in different social networks and to differentiate between different types of articles dealing with the use of Facebook, X (former Twitter), YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Weibo. A total of 45 articles to i) Social networks used, ii) Country of analyzed users, iii) age of the users analyzed, iv) focus of the analyzed manuscript (mental health literacy, stigmatization, detection of patterns associated with schizophrenia, and Harmful substance use). It was observed that 45.45% of the studies analyzed were conducted in the USA population, followed by UK and China (13.64%). The most analyzed social networks were those based on audiovisual communication (60%). Furthermore, the two main foci addressed in these articles were: stigmatization of schizophrenia with 16 articles (35.55%), following by the prediction of schizophrenia-detecting patterns with 15 articles (33.33%) and the use of social networks to stigmatize people with schizophrenia (38%) and only 14 articles (31.11%) were focused on mental health literacy. Likewise, it was found that there is great potential in the use of the analysis of the content generated, as possible predictors of the presence of this disease, which would allow rapid detection and intervention for psychosis and schizophrenia.
Military sexual trauma and lower relationship satisfaction are associated with suicide risk among male service members and veterans
Authors: Livingston Whitney S. , Blais Rebecca K.
Published: May 2024

Male service members/veterans die by suicide at increased rates relative to civilians and females in the military, with risk increasing following military sexual trauma (MST) exposure. Suicide theories emphasize the role of feeling connected to others, and in the context of romantic relationships, it is possible that higher relationship satisfaction buffers the effects of MST. That said, MST exposure is associated with higher relationship distress, so the potential buffering effects are unclear. The current brief report assessed the interaction of relationship satisfaction and MST exposure as correlates of suicide risk among a convenience sample of 290 partnered male service members/veterans. This secondary analysis utilized a survey to assess MST exposure, relationship satisfaction, suicide risk, and demographics. Using linear regression, suicide risk was regressed on MST exposure, relationship satisfaction, and their interaction, as well as demographic covariates. The average score for relationship satisfaction suggested distressed relationships (M=13.41, SD= 4.55) and 16.21% (n=47) reported MST. Suicide risk was elevated (M=5.95, SD=3.23). The linear regression revealed that MST exposure (B=1.21, p=.02) and lower relationship satisfaction (B=-0.97, p<.001) were individually associated with higher suicide risk; however, their interaction was non-significant (p>.05). MST exposure and satisfaction in one’s romantic relationship have unique and separate associations with suicide risk. Relationship satisfaction did not buffer the effects of MST on suicide, and this may be due to overall poor satisfaction scores. Notwithstanding, findings highlight the need to address both MST exposure and relationship satisfaction to reduce risk of suicide.
Deep transcranial magnetic stimulation for schizophrenia: a systematic review
Authors: Mo Yu , Shi Zhan-Ming , Yang Xin-Hu , Lan Xian-Jun , Deng Can-Jin , Huang Xing-Bing , Tan Xiao-Lin , Pridmore Saxby , Ungvari Gabor S. , Xiang Yu-Tao , Zheng Wei
Published: May 2024

Background

The efficacy and safety of deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS) as an intervention for schizophrenia remain unclear. This systematic review examined the efficacy and safety of dTMS for schizophrenia.

Methods

A systematic search of Chinese (WanFang and Chinese Journal Net) and English databases (PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and Cochrane Library) were conducted.

Results

Three randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comprising 80 patients were included in the analyses. Active dTMS was comparable to the sham treatment in improving total psychopathology, positive symptoms, negative symptoms, and auditory hallucinations measured by the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), the Scale for the Assessment of Positive Symptoms (SAPS), the Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms (SANS), and the Auditory Hallucinations Rating Scale (AHRS), respectively. Only one RCT reported the effects on neurocognitive function measured by the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB), suggesting that dTMS may only improve one Stockings of Cambridge measure (i.e., subsequent times for five move problems). All three studies reported overall discontinuation rates, which ranged from 16.7% to 44.4%. Adverse events were reported in only one RCT, the most common being tingling/twitching (30.0%, 3/10), head/facial discomfort (30.0%, 3/10), and back pain (20.0%, 2/10).

Conclusion

This systematic review suggests that dTMS does not reduce psychotic symptoms in schizophrenia, but it shows potential for improving executive functions. Future RCTs with larger sample sizes focusing on the effects of dTMS on psychotic symptoms and neurocognitive function in schizophrenia are warranted to further explore these findings.
Unveiling the occurrence of COVID-19 in a diverse Bangladeshi population during the pandemic
Authors: Hossain Mahmud , Mannan Rezowana , Islam Sohidul , Banu Laila A. , Jamee Ahsan Rahman , Hassan Zahid , Elias Sabrina Moriom , Das Sanjan K. , Azad Khan A. K.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

COVID-19 pandemic hit Bangladesh with relatively low intensity, unlike its neighbors India and European countries and USA.

Methods

The present report included data of 8,480 individuals tested for COVID-19 RT-PCR of the workers and officials from readymade garments (RMG) industry in Chandra area in Gazipur. The present data looked into the clinic-demographic factors associated with the susceptibility of the condition.

Result

The data elucidated the susceptibility of the individuals to SARS-CoV-2 based on age, gender, pre-existing health conditions, and the presence of symptoms. It was observed that individuals aged over 60 had the highest rate of COVID-19 positivity, and men exhibited a higher infection rate compared to women. Regardless of age, fever and cough were the most frequently reported symptoms. Two-thirds of the individuals included in this report appeared to be asymptomatic carriers. The prevalence of comorbidities among individuals who tested positive for COVID-19 was notably higher, and this exhibited a gender-specific pattern.

Discussion

Although our study provides important epidemiological insights into the initial year of the pandemic among Bangladeshi populations, it can also add value for future drug and vaccine development. However, it is essential to acknowledge the limitations like - restriction of public movement, unavailability of vehicle yielding a selection bias, due to the lockdown conditions imposed owing to the pandemic and the diverse characteristics of the participants. The report emphasizes the significance of figuring out how age, gender, and underlying health conditions impact susceptibility to and transmission of COVID-19, thereby providing valuable insights for public health strategies and future research initiatives.
Listening to the community: identifying obesity prevention strategies for rural preschool-aged children
Authors: Pope Katherine Jochim , Lightfoot Alexandra F. , Harrison Lisa Macon , Getz Deborah , Gittelsohn Joel , Ward Dianne , Hannon Tamara S. , Erinosho Temitope
Published: May 2024

Multi-level interventions promoting healthy weight in rural preschool children aged 2–5 years are limited. With the goal of developing a community-informed obesity prevention intervention for rural preschool-aged children, the purpose of this descriptive study was to identify: (1) community settings and intervention strategies to prioritize for an intervention; (2) potential implementation challenges and solutions; and (3) immediate interventions the study team and community partners could collaboratively implement. Workshops occurred in two rural communities in Indiana (2 workshops) and North Carolina (2 workshops), with high obesity rates. A guide was developed to moderate discussions and participants voted to rank community settings and intervention strategies. There were 9–15 participants per workshop, including parents, childcare providers, and representatives of community organizations. Community settings identified as priorities for child obesity prevention included the home, educational settings (preschools), food outlets, recreational facilities, and social media. Priority intervention strategies included providing nutrition and physical activity education, increasing access to healthy foods and physical activity in the built environment, and enhancing food security. Potential intervention implementation challenges centered on poor parental engagement; using personalized invitations and providing transportation support to families were proffered solutions. Immediate interventions to collaboratively implement focused on making playgrounds esthetically pleasing for physical activity using game stencils, and nutrition education for families via quarterly newsletters. This participatory approach with community partners provided insight into two rural communities’ needs for child obesity prevention, community assets (settings) to leverage, and potential intervention strategies to prioritize. Findings will guide the development of a multi-level community-based intervention.
Equipping AI-decision-support-systems with emotional capabilities? Ethical perspectives
Authors: Tretter Max
Published: May 2024

It is important to accompany the research on Emotional Artificial Intelligence with ethical oversight. Previous publications on the ethics of Emotional Artificial Intelligence emphasize the importance of subjecting every (possible) type of Emotional Artificial Intelligence to separate ethical considerations. That’s why, in this contribution I will focus on a particular subset of AI systems: AI-driven Decision-Support Systems (AI-DSS), and ask whether it would be advisable from an ethical perspective to equip these AI systems with emotional capacities. I will show, on one hand, equipping AI-DSS with emotional capabilities offers great opportunities, as they open the possibility to prevent emotionally biased decisions – but that it also amplifies the ethical challenges already posed by emotionally-incapable AI-DSS. Yet, if their introduction is accompanied by a broad social discourse and prepared by suitable measures to address these challenges, I argue, nothing should fundamentally stand in the way of equipping AI-DSS with emotional capabilities.
Characteristics of plasma boundaries with large density gradients and their effects on Kelvin–Helmholtz instability
Authors: Seki K. , Matsumoto Y. , Terada N. , Hara T. , Brain D. A. , Nakagawa H. , McFadden J. P. , Halekas J. S. , Ruhunusiri S. , Mitchell D. L. , Andersson L. , Espley J. R. , Baker D. N. , Luhmann J. G. , Jakosky B. M.
Published: May 2024

Boundaries between space plasmas occur in numerous contexts and scales, from astrophysical jets to planetary magnetospheres. Mass and momentum transport across boundaries poses a fundamental problem in magnetospheric physics. Kelvin–Helmholtz instability (KHI) is a promising mechanism to facilitate transport. Although previous studies have suggested KHI occurrence in various space plasmas, theory predicts that compressibility prevents KHI excitation at boundaries with large density gradients because of previously considered boundary structures where density varies with velocity. Based on the observations of a large density gradient boundary by MAVEN at Mars, where we can observe an extreme case, in this study, we show that it is the entropy, instead of the previously considered density, that varies with the velocity in the real velocity-sheared boundary. The entropy-based boundary structure places the velocity shear in a lower-density region than the traditional density-based structure and weakens the compressibility effect. This new boundary structure thus enables KHI excitation even at large density gradient boundaries, such as at the ionopause of unmagnetized planets and the plasmapause of magnetized planets. The result suggests the ubiquitous occurrence of KHI in the plasma universe and emphasizes its important role in planetary cold plasma escape from unmagnetized planets.
Examining sport tourism role in fostering social sustainability: Qatar youth perceptions
Authors: Ishac Wadih
Published: May 2024

This study examines the evolving perceptions of youth residents in Qatar, particularly university students, regarding the social impact of hosting major sport events from 2015 to 2022. It offers crucial insights into the contribution of sport tourism in fostering social sustainability, contrasting post-event perceptions of the 2015 Handball World Championship (HWC 2015), the 2019 IAAF World Athletics Championship (IAAF 2019), and the 2022 FIFA World Cup (FIFA 2022), using a cross sectional analysis. The impact is assessed across five dimensions: community pride, enhanced community attachment, event excitement, pride in community infrastructure, and community excitement. Participants are categorized based on nationality (Qatari nationals, Arabs excluding Qataris, and Non-Arabs) to capture cultural and demographic differences. Results reveal increasingly positive perceptions across events regarding the five dimensions. Significant multivariate effects are found on the combined dependent variables for event type and nationality. The study underscores the role of hosting sporting events in advancing social sustainability and community development in Qatar. Variations among national groups indicate a need to tailor policies and strategies to foster inclusivity. The work provides valuable baseline insights to inform future hosting bids and encourage regional collaboration.
Identification of specific recommendations for prehospital stroke care associated with shorter door-to-CT times – An analysis of Get with the Guidelines-Stroke registry and prehospital data
Authors: Dylla Layne , Higgins Hannah M. , Wham Courtney D. , Leppert Michelle , Ravare Brandy C. , Jeppson Kerri A. , Bina Heather T. , Monte Andrew A. , Poisson Sharon N.
Published: May 2024

Objective

Full compliance with American Heart Association (AHA) recommendations for prehospital care of stroke patients remains low. This study aims to identify components of prehospital care associated with shorter door-to-computed tomography (CT) times.

Methods

Data from a comprehensive stroke center's Get with the Guidelines-Stroke registry were supplemented by prehospital medical records for ischemic stroke patients between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2020. Descriptive statistics and multivariable linear regression modeling was used to evaluate door-to-CT times for encounters compliant with AHA recommendations.

Results

There were 621 ischemic stroke patients who presented via a prehospital provider, 452 of whom presented from the scene. Without adjusting for potential confounders, shorter door-to-CT times were observed with emergency medical services' documentation of a last-known well time, measurement of a blood glucose level, prenotification of a suspected stroke, or full compliance with AHA recommendations. Documentation of classic stroke signs, but not of a prehospital stroke scale, was also observed to have shorter door-to-CT times compared to encounters in which this did not occur.

Conclusion

During prehospital care of stroke, documentation of classic symptoms, obtaining a last-known well time or time of symptom onset, obtaining a blood glucose level, prenotifying the receiving hospital of suspected stroke, and complying fully with guidelines are associated with shorter door-to-CT times. Further studies are needed to understand if a shift in prehospital provider education, focusing on these key components of care, could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment of acute stroke.
Effects of different ages on frozen semen quality and in vitro fertilization efficiency in Wannan black pigs
Authors: Xu Changzhi , Yang Xianshu , Sui Heming , Tong Xu , Zhang Dandan , Zheng Xianrui , Jiao Jun , Wang Chonglong , Cao Zubing , Zhang Yunhai
Published: May 2024

According to previous studies, the quality and fertilization rate of fresh sperm from boars of different ages were significantly different. However, the difference of freeze–thaw sperm quality and fertility in boars of different ages is unclear. In this study, boars of a Chinese native breed were assigned into two groups. Each group consisted of five boars aged aged either 2–3 years (young boars = YB) or 5–6 years (aging boars = AB) A total of 60 ejaculates for each group were collected and cryopreserved. Semen quality and in vitro fertility of post-thaw sperm was evaluated. The results showed that the concentration and motility of fresh sperm collected from AB were similar to YB, but their semen volume was higher than that in YB (p < 0.05). Frozen–thawed sperm of AB had lower viability than YB, and higher abnormal rate and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels of YB (p < 0.05). There was no effect of the age on post-thaw sperm motility and time survival. Functional assessments indicated that increasing age markedly compromises the integrity of the sperm plasma membrane and acrosome, as well as mitochondrial functionality post-thaw, albeit without affecting DNA integrity. Furthermore, increasing age of boars reduces the ability of sperm to bind to the oocyte zona pellucida after thawing, delaying the time of the first embryo cleavage after fertilization. Finally, the early developmental efficiency of in vitro fertilized embryos progressing from 4-cell to blastocyst derived from post-thaw sperm in AB significantly decreased compared to those from YB (p < 0.05). Taken together, these results suggest that increasing age in boars impairs the quality and in vitro fertility of frozen thawed sperm.
Foliar Application of Selenium Enhances Drought Tolerance in Tomatoes by Modulating the Antioxidative System and Restoring Photosynthesis
Authors: Zhong Yuan , Cui Haixue , Li Huanhuan , Qiang Xiaoman , Han Qisheng , Liu Hao
Published: May 2024

Drought stress can impact the physiological and biochemical properties of crops. However, selenium (Se) can effectively alleviate the abiotic stress experienced by plants. This study aims to investigate how applying selenium to tomato leaves affects their antioxidant system and photosynthetic traits when subjected to drought conditions. The experiment used four different foliar selenium concentrations and three different irrigation levels. The investigation scrutinized the effects of foliar spraying employing different selenium concentrations on the antioxidant system, osmotic adjustment substances, photosynthetic performance, and growth indices of tomatoes under drought stress. The findings indicated that drought stress led to cellular oxidative damage, significantly elevating peroxide, MDA, proline, and soluble sugar content (p < 0.001). Under severe drought stress, malondialdehyde (MDA) and proline levels increased by 21.2% and 110.0% respectively, compared to well-watered conditions. Concurrently, the net photosynthetic rate exhibited a reduction of 26.0% and dry matter accumulation decreased by 35.5%. However, after spraying with a low concentration of selenium, selenium reduced oxidative damage and malondialdehyde content by reducing the content of peroxide in leaves, restoring photosynthesis, and promoting the normal growth of tomato. Compared to the control group, spraying with 2.5 mg·L−1 selenium resulted in a 21.5% reduction in MDA content, a 111.8% increase in net photosynthetic rate, and a 29.0% increase in dry matter accumulation. When subjected to drought stress conditions, foliar spraying of low concentrations of selenium (2.5 mg·L−1) can effectively reduce oxidative damage caused by drought stress and alleviate growth constraints in tomatoes. In addition, treatments with high selenium concentrations exhibited specific toxic effects. These findings offer valuable insights into the mechanisms governing selenium-induced drought tolerance in tomatoes, thus advancing our comprehension of standard tomato production practices.
Variability of Root and Shoot Traits under PEG-Induced Drought Stress at an Early Vegetative Growth Stage of Soybean
Authors: Bukan Miroslav , Kereša Snježana , Pejić Ivan , Sudarić Aleksandra , Lovrić Ana , Šarčević Hrvoje
Published: May 2024

The performance of a soybean genotype under water deficit stress at an early vegetative stage might be related to its general tolerance to drought. To investigate the plasticity of root and shoot seedling traits in response to drought at an early vegetative stage, a set of 32 soybean genotypes adapted to southeast European growing conditions was grown under polyethylene glycol (PEG) 8000-induced drought stress and well-watered control conditions. Under drought, mean tap root length (RL), shoot length (SL), root fresh weight (RFW) and shoot fresh weight (SFW) decreased significantly by 11, 17, 38 and 34%, respectively, while root dry matter (RDM) and shoot dry matter (SDM) increased significantly by 13 and 11%, respectively. Of the four derived traits, the ratios of RL/SL, RL/RFW and SL/SFW increased significantly by 8, 45 and 28%, respectively, under drought, while the ratio of RFW/SFW decreased significantly by 4%. However, a wide variation between genotypes was observed for all 10 studied seedling traits under both control and drought conditions. Broad sense heritability ranged from 0.53 (RL) to 0.97 (SL) under control conditions and from 0.56 (RL/RFW) to 0.96 (SL) under drought conditions. The correlation coefficients between the traits were either weak or moderate, indicating that the studied traits can be modified independently by selection.
Comparative Study of Vermicomposting: Apple Pomace Alone and in Combination with Wheat Straw and Manure
Authors: Kureljušić Jasna M. , Vesković Moračanin Slavica M. , Đukić Dragutin A. , Mandić Leka , Đurović Vesna , Kureljušić Branislav I. , Stojanova Marina T.
Published: May 2024

Considering the sporadic number of scientific studies on vermicomposting apple pomace waste, this research conducts a comparative analysis of vermicomposting processes using Eisenia fetida, focusing on apple pomace both independently and in combination with wheat straw and/or manure (experiment 1: 60% apple pomace and 40% cattle manure; experiment 2: 60% wheat straw and 40% cattle manure; experiment 3: 80% apple pomace, 10% wheat straw, and 10% cattle manure; and experiment 4: 100% apple pomace). After a 240-day substrate transformation period, all four variations of vermicompost produced demonstrated favorable sensory properties, along with high microbiological and physicochemical quality. Throughout the vermicomposting process, the pH of all vermicomposting mixtures changed, converging towards approximately neutral values by the process’s conclusion. There was an increase in dry matter content, as well as total N, P, K, Ca, and Mg, along with organic matter. Notably, the levels of heavy metals (Zn, Cu, Cd, and Pb) in both the vermicomposting materials and resulting vermicomposts remained significantly below the maximum permissible levels stipulated by Republic of Serbia and European Union legislation, which is directly linked to the ecological origin of the raw materials used. The microbiological quality of the final vermicomposts was deemed satisfactory. Over time, there was a decrease in the counts of aerobic mesophilic bacteria as well as Escherichia coli. The counts of sulfite-reducing clostridia in all substrates remained below 102 CFU/g, while Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes were not detected in either the composting materials or the resulting composts. The vermiculture of apple pulp exhibited advantageous characteristics, notably a shortened vermicomposting period (150 days) compared to other agricultural waste. This reduction in processing time contributes an additional layer of advantage to the overall quality and efficiency of the resulting vermicompost.
Findings and Prognosis in 149 Horses with Histological Changes Compatible with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Kranenburg Lieuwke Cecilia , Bouwmeester Bo F. , van den Boom Robin
Published: May 2024

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic disease characterized by different cell infiltrates in the intestine. The aims of this study were to report the clinical and clinicopathological findings in horses with histological changes compatible with IBD in the duodenum. Further, the clinical progression of IBD and survival were investigated. Patient records were reviewed for horses in which histological evidence of IBD was found in duodenal biopsies collected during endoscopy. The histological changes were classified as mild, moderate or severe and the predominant infiltrating cell type was recorded. Clinical improvement was assessed by the owner via a questionnaire at 6 weeks after biopsy, along with survival after one year. In total, 149 horses were included, and the most common clinical signs were weight loss, reduced performance and pain during abdominal palpation. Most horses showed partial malabsorption during an oral glucose absorption test, and the horses with severe IBD had lower serum protein concentrations. Lymphoplasmacytic enteritis was the most common type of IBD (78.5% of cases), while in six horses neutrophilic infiltration of the duodenum was present. Overall, 71% of the cases had improved clinically after six weeks, mostly following treatment with corticosteroids. The results of a second biopsy were a poor predictor of improvement, and the horses that improved after 6 weeks were more likely to be alive after one year.