bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Air pollution and neurological diseases, current state highlights
Authors: Roy Raymond , D’Angiulli Amedeo
Published: March 2024

This paper delves into the increasingly recognized yet complex relationship between air pollution and Neurological Diseases. Although the detrimental effects of air pollution on respiratory and cardiovascular health are well-documented, its impact on neurological and cognitive disorders is an emerging area of concern. In this mini review, we explore the intricate mechanisms by which various air pollutants, such as particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, contribute to neurological pathologies. The focus lies on the role of oxidative stress and inflammation in exacerbating conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. By unraveling these connections, the paper sheds light on the broader implications of environmental factors on neurological health and underscores the urgent need for policy interventions to mitigate air pollution’s impact on the nervous system.
Covalent polyphenols-proteins interactions in food processing: formation mechanisms, quantification methods, bioactive effects, and applications
Authors: Zhang Kangyi , Huang Jinbao , Wang Dongxu , Wan Xiaochun , Wang Yijun
Published: March 2024

Proteins and polyphenols are abundant in the daily diet of humans and their interactions influence, among other things, the texture, flavor, and bioaccessibility of food. There are two types of interactions between them: non-covalent interactions and covalent interactions, the latter being irreversible and more powerful. In this review, we systematically summarized advances in the investigation of possible mechanism underlying covalent polyphenols-proteins interaction in food processing, effect of different processing methods on covalent interaction, methods for characterizing covalent complexes, and impacts of covalent interactions on protein structure, function and nutritional value, as well as potential bioavailability of polyphenols. In terms of health promotion of the prepared covalent complexes, health effects such as antioxidant, hypoglycemic, regulation of intestinal microbiota and regulation of allergic reactions have been summarized. Also, the possible applications in food industry, especially as foaming agents, emulsifiers and nanomaterials have also been discussed. In order to offer directions for novel research on their interactions in food systems, nutritional value, and health properties in vivo, we considered the present challenges and future perspectives of the topic.
Looking beyond year 1 in the molecular era of pediatric brain tumor diagnosis: confirmatory testing of germline variants found on tumor sequencing
Authors: Greene Brittany L. , Stasi Shannon M. , Ting Michelle A. , Waligorski Natalie , Cole Bonnie L. , Lockwood Christina M. , Paulson Vera A. , Buchan Jillian G. , Lee Amy , Ojemann Jeffrey G. , Ellenbogen Richard G. , Stevens Jeffrey , Leary Sarah E. S.
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Somatic molecular profiling of pediatric brain tumors aids with the diagnosis and treatment of patients with a variety of high- and low-grade central nervous system neoplasms. Here, we report follow-up targeted germline evaluation for patients with possible germline variants following tumor only testing in the initial year in which somatic molecular testing was implemented at a single institution.

Patients and Methods

Somatic testing was completed for all tumors of the central nervous system (CNS) undergoing diagnostic workup at Seattle Children’s Hospital during the study period of November 2015 to November 2016. Sequencing was performed in a College of American Pathologists-accredited, Clinical Laboratory Improvements Amendments-certified laboratory using UW-OncoPlex™ assay (version 5), a DNA-based targeted next generation sequencing panel validated to detect genetic alterations in 262 cancer-related genes. We tracked subsequent clinical evaluation and testing on a subgroup of this cohort found to have potential germline variants of interest.

Results

Molecular sequencing of 88 patients’ tumors identified 31 patients with variants that warranted consideration of germline testing. To date, 19 (61%) patients have been tested. Testing confirmed germline variants for ten patients (31% of those identified for testing), one with two germline variants (NF1 and mosaic TP53). Eight (26%) patients died before germline testing was sent. One patient (13%) has not yet had testing.

Conclusion

Clinically validated molecular profiling of pediatric brain tumors identifies patients who warrant further germline evaluation. Despite this, only a subset of these patients underwent the indicated confirmatory sequencing. Further work is needed to identify barriers and facilitators to this testing, including the role of genetic counseling and consideration of upfront paired somatic-germline testing.
Relationship between pectoralis major stiffness and shoulder extension range of motion
Authors: Konrad Andreas , Reiner Marina M. , Warneke Konstantin , Keiner Michael , Nakamura Masatoshi , Tilp Markus
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to investigate the correlation between the passive muscle stiffness of the pectoralis major muscle pars clavicularis (PMc) and shoulder extension range of motion (ROM) in both male and female participants. Thirty-nine (23 male/16 female) physically active and healthy participants volunteered in this study. After a standardized warm-up, the PMc stiffness was tested via shear wave elastography at a slightly stretched position (long muscle length) and in a non-stretched position (short muscle length). Additionally, a custom-made device and 3D motion capture assessed the active shoulder extension ROM. We found a significant moderate and negative relationship between shoulder extension ROM and PMc stiffness at long muscle length (rs = −0.33; p = 0.04) but not at short muscle length (r = −0.23; p = 0.17). Additionally, there was no significant difference between male and female participants in the correlation analyses at both elbow angles. The moderate correlation between PMc stiffness at a slightly stretched position and shoulder extension ROM suggests that additionally, other structures such as nerves/fascia stiffness or even stretch tolerance might be factors that can be related to shoulder extension ROM.
Locomotor-cognitive dual-tasking in children with developmental coordination disorder
Authors: Subara-Zukic Emily , McGuckian Thomas B. , Cole Michael H. , Steenbergen Bert , Wilson Peter Henry
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Children with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) demonstrate deficits in predictive motor control and aspects of cognitive control compared with their typically developing (TD) peers. Adjustment to dynamic environments depends on both aspects of control and the deficits for children with DCD may constrain their ability to perform daily actions that involve dual-tasking. Under the assumption that motor-cognitive integration is compromised in children with DCD, we examined proportional dual-task costs using a novel locomotor-cognitive dual-task paradigm that enlisted augmented reality. We expect proportional dual-task performance costs to be greater for children with DCD compared to their TD peers.

Methods

Participants were 34 children aged 6–12 years (16 TD, 18 DCD) who walked along a straight 12 m path under single- and dual-task conditions, the cognitive task being visual discrimination under simple or complex stimulus conditions presented via augmented reality. Dual-task performance was measured in two ways: first, proportional dual-task costs (pDTC) were computed for cognitive and gait outcomes and, second, within-trial costs (p-WTC) were measured as the difference on gait outcomes between pre- and post-stimulus presentation.

Results

On measures of pDTC, TD children increased their double-limb support time when walking in response to a dual-task, while the children with DCD increased their locomotor velocity. On p-WTC, both groups increased their gait variability (step length and step width) when walking in response to a dual-task, of which the TD group had a larger proportional change than the DCD group. Greater pDTCs on motor rather than cognitive outcomes were consistent across groups and method of dual-task performance measurement.

Discussion

Contrary to predictions, our results failed to support dramatic differences in locomotor-cognitive dual-task performance between children with DCD and TD, with both groups tending to priorities the cognitive over the motor task. Inclusion of a within-trial calculation of dual-task interference revealed an expectancy effect for both groups in relation to an impending visual stimulus. It is recommended that dual-task paradigms in the future continue to use augmented reality to present the cognitive task and consider motor tasks of sufficient complexity to probe the limits of performance in children with DCD.
Is the expression of different discrete emotions related to time? Evidence from online Chinese reviews using sentiment analysis and human behavior dynamics
Authors: Li-na Liu , Jia-yin Qi , Sheng-feng Wang , Zhen-ping Zhang , Qi-xing Qu
Published: March 2024

Objectives

The online behavior of online users has taken on complex and diverse characteristics, and posting product reviews on e-commerce platforms is no exception. In fact, reviews contain rich and multi-dimensional discrete emotional information, and whether there is a relationship between the expression of these different discrete emotions and the time interval between product purchase and review posting as well as their related characteristics are the issues that this study needs to analyze and solve in depth.

Methods

Based on the OCC model (named after three proposers) of psychological emotional cognitive evaluation theory as the basis for emotion classification, the study used the massive amounts of Chinese reviews of mobile phones on the Chinese e-commerce platform Jingdong Mall as the research object, applied supervised machine learning methods to classify discrete emotions, and constructed a large corpus containing satisfaction, disappointment, admiration, reproach, love, and hate; then the study delved into the distribution and behavioral dynamics characteristics of consumers’ comments containing the different discrete emotions at different “purchase-comment” time intervals.

Results

The results showed that the first peak of the distribution curves of the six discrete emotions at different “purchase-comment” time intervals occurs on the first day after purchase and then decreases gradually but at different rates. The three curves for satisfaction, love, and hate emotions also show a second peak on the eleventh day, which is more similar to the bimodal distribution, implying that the corresponding product reviews are more objective. In addition, the distribution of reviews containing the six discrete emotions at different “purchase-comment” time intervals follows a power-law distribution and has the temporal characteristics of human behavioral dynamics, that is, “strong paroxysms and weak memory“. However, the reviews containing the admiration and reproach emotions were most intensively written by consumers after the purchase, indicating that the service provided by the seller, logistics, and e-commerce platform stimulates more consumers to give quick responses and detailed reviews.

Conclusion

This study is not only of great significance for exploring the internal mechanisms of consumer discrete emotional expression but also provides important decision-making references for potential consumer purchasing decisions, product updates for developers, marketing strategy formulation for marketing teams, and service improvement for sellers, logistics companies, and e-commerce platforms.
Knowledge, attitude, and practices toward dengue fever among the public: a cross-sectional study in the Western region of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Hamed Munerah
Published: March 2024

Background

Dengue fever (DF) is a primary viral disease transmitted to humans by mosquitoes, imposing a significant economic and health burden in numerous regions globally. There is a lack of studies addressing the importance of health education regarding DF in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, this study aimed to assess predictors influencing knowledge, attitude, and practices of the Western region public in Saudi Arabia related to DF.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted as an online self-administered questionnaire collected from July 2023 until August 2023, included 695 participants from the Western region residents aged ≥18 years. Data collected involved sociodemographics, participants’ knowledge, attitude, and practices toward DF. We presented the descriptive data as mean ± standard deviations (SD) and medians [interquartile range (IQR)] for continuous variables, while categorical variables were presented as frequencies [percent (%)].

Results

Good participants’ knowledge and attitude toward DF were observed among participants [median score 21.0 (interquartile range 16.0–24.0)] out of 35 and [median score 4.00 (interquartile range 3.00–5.00)] out of 5, respectively. Limited practices toward DF were observed among participants [median score 3.0 (interquartile range 0.00–5.00)] out of 8. Participants’ knowledge and attitude were not correlated. Participants’ education level and employment status predicted participant’s knowledge of DF. Participants’ age, monthly income, employment status and marital status predicted participants’ attitude toward DF. Participants’ age, marital status, education levels and income predicted participants’ practices toward DF.

Conclusion

Knowledge, attitude, and practices toward DF among adults in Saudi Arabia can be predicted by specific sociodemographic characteristics. Implementing interferences that focus on improving public practices toward DF is imperative.
The effects of the first wave of COVID-19 restrictions on physical activity: a longitudinal study from “step into health” program in Qatar
Authors: Al-Mohannadi Abdulla S. , Farooq Abdulaziz , Salman Ahmad , Ghram Amine , Al-Harahsheh Sanaa T. , Majed Lina , Sayegh Suzan , Cardinale Marco
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic led to restrictions that prevented physical activity in public places. This study sought to conduct a comprehensive longitudinal analysis of how lockdown policies in an Arabian Gulf country influenced the patterns of physical activity during first wave.

Methods

In a longitudinal study design, members of the ongoing “Step into health” community-based health promotion program who provided valid pedometer data from January to August 2020, covering pre, during and post-covid first wave period met the inclusion criteria.

Results

420 (76.7% men, 13.8% ≤40 years) were included in the study. Overall, significant decline in daily step counts was recorded (−1,130 ± SE302) after the implementation of lockdown policies (p < 0.001). When the restrictions were removed, the steps per day were still lower compared to pre-covid for men (−910 ± SE610, p = 0.017) and among individuals with normal BMI (−1,304 ± SE409, p = 0.004). The lockdown in Qatar did not significantly affect women and individuals with obesity who already had lower daily steps pre-covid.

Discussion

The present study confirms immediate decline in daily steps imposed indirectly through the COVID-19 lockdown measures. Participants with higher physical activity levels pre-covid experienced significant decline in step count during and even after restrictions were uplifted.
Baseline data and associations between urinary biomarkers of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, blood pressure, hemogram, and lifestyle among wildland firefighters
Authors: Barros Bela , Paiva Ana Margarida , Oliveira Marta , Alves Sara , Esteves Filipa , Fernandes Adília , Vaz Josiana , Slezakova Klara , Costa Solange , Teixeira João Paulo , Morais Simone
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Available literature has found an association between firefighting and pathologic pathways leading to cardiorespiratory diseases, which have been linked with exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). PAHs are highlighted as priority pollutants by the European Human Biomonitoring Initiative in occupational and non-occupational contexts.

Methods

This cross-sectional study is the first to simultaneously characterize six creatinine-adjusted PAHs metabolites (OHPAHs) in urine, blood pressure, cardiac frequency, and hemogram parameters among wildland firefighters without occupational exposure to fire emissions (> 7 days), while exploring several variables retrieved via questionnaires.

Results

Overall, baseline levels for total OHPAHs levels were 2 to 23-times superior to the general population, whereas individual metabolites remained below the general population median range (except for 1-hydroxynaphthalene+1-hydroxyacenaphtene). Exposure to gaseous pollutants and/or particulate matter during work-shift was associated with a 3.5-fold increase in total OHPAHs levels. Firefighters who smoke presented 3-times higher total concentration of OHPAHs than non-smokers (p < 0.001); non-smoker females presented 2-fold lower total OHPAHs (p = 0.049) than males. 1-hydroxypyrene was below the recommended occupational biological exposure value (2.5 μg/L), and the metabolite of carcinogenic PAH (benzo(a)pyrene) was not detected. Blood pressure was above 120/80 mmHg in 71% of subjects. Firefighters from the permanent intervention team presented significantly increased systolic pressure than those who performed other functions (p = 0.034). Tobacco consumption was significantly associated with higher basophils (p = 0.01–0.02) and hematocrit (p = 0.03). No association between OHPAHs and blood pressure was found. OHPAHs concentrations were positively correlated with monocyte, basophils, large immune cells, atypical lymphocytes, and mean corpuscular volume, which were stronger among smokers. Nevertheless, inverse associations were observed between fluorene and pyrene metabolites with neutrophils and eosinophils, respectively, in non-smokers. Hemogram was negatively affected by overworking and lower physical activity.

Conclusion

This study suggests possible associations between urinary PAHs metabolites and health parameters in firefighters, that should be further assessed in larger groups.
Assessment of level of knowledge, attitude, and associated factors toward delirium among health professionals working in intensive care unit multicenter, cross-sectional study, Amhara region comprehensive specialized hospitals, Northwest Ethiopia, 2023
Authors: Ayanaw Eyayu Ruth , Gudayu Zeleke Tadael , Chekol Wubie Birlie , Yaregal Melesse Debas , Enyew Ashagrie Henos
Published: March 2024

Background

Patients in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) are at high risk of developing delirium. Lack of early detection and the inability to provide prompt management of delirium remain challenges of ICU patient care. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge, attitude, and associated factors toward delirium among healthcare providers working in ICU.

Methods

A multicenter, cross-sectional survey was conducted in comprehensive specialized hospitals from 15 April to 5 June 2023. Data were collected using a pretested, self-administered questionnaire. Ordinal logistic regression analysis was performed at p < 0.05 with a 95% confidence interval (CI). The odds ratio with 95% CI was calculated to determine the strength of the association between independent and outcome variables.

Results

A total of 202 health professionals were included in this study, with a response rate of 87%. The proportions of good, moderate, and poor knowledge about delirium in ICU were 29.21 (95% CI: 23–36), 52.48 (95% CI: 45.3–59.5) and 18.32 (95% CI:13.2–24.4), respectively. The overall proportion of negative, neutral and positive attitude were 13.9 (95% CI: 9.4–19.4), 65.8 (95% CI: 58.9–72.4) and 20.3 (95% CI: 15–26.5) respectively. Being an anesthetist and exposure to training were positively associated with a good knowledge while belief in screening tool to change care and reading, and using guidelines were positively associated with a positive attitude. However, believing the impossibility of changing the practice of delirium care, and negative attitudes were delaying factors for a good knowledge. Also, workload and poor knowledge were hindering factors for a positive attitude.

Conclusion

More than half of health professionals had moderate knowledge and neutral attitude toward delirium. However, some of them had poor knowledge and a negative attitude. We recommend stakeholders prepare regular training for delirium care. Also, we urge health professionals to update themselves by reading guidelines and to use screening protocols for delirium.
Assessing muscular power in older adults: evaluating the predictive capacity of the 30-second chair rise test
Authors: Mahato Niladri Kumar , Davis Alexandria , Simon Janet E. , Clark Brian C.
Published: March 2024

Background: Timed chair rise tests are frequently used as a substitute for assessing leg muscle strength or power. To determine if timed chair rise tests are an indicator of lower extremity muscle power, we examined the relationship between the repetitions completed in a 30-s chair rise test and the power generated during the test.

Methods: Seventy-five individuals participated in this study (n = 30 < 65 years and 45 ≥ 65 years). Participants underwent a 30-s chair rise test while instrumented with a power analyzer. Handgrip strength was also evaluated.

Results: The relationship between chair rise repetitions and average chair rise power was R2 = 0.32 (p < 0.001). Chair rise repetitions when regressed on a total (i.e., summed) chair rise power, it yielded R2 = 0.70 with data from all participants combined (p < 0.001). A mediation analysis indicated that anthropometrics partially mediates the relationship between chair rise repetitions and total chair rise power accounting for 2.8%–6.9% of the variance.

Conclusion: Our findings indicate that in older adults, the overall performance of chair rises offers limited information about the average power per rise but is more indicative of the cumulative power exerted. Thus, the total number of chair rises in a 30-s test is likely a more comprehensive metric of overall muscular power, reflecting endurance aspects as well. Additionally, we found that personal physical attributes, such as height and weight, partially influence the link between chair rise count and total power, highlighting the importance of factoring in individual body metrics in assessments of muscular performance.
A decision support system to recommend appropriate therapy protocol for AML patients
Authors: Castro Giovanna A. , Almeida Jade M. , Machado-Neto João A. , Almeida Tiago A.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is one of the most aggressive hematological neoplasms, emphasizing the critical need for early detection and strategic treatment planning. The association between prompt intervention and enhanced patient survival rates underscores the pivotal role of therapy decisions. To determine the treatment protocol, specialists heavily rely on prognostic predictions that consider the response to treatment and clinical outcomes. The existing risk classification system categorizes patients into favorable, intermediate, and adverse groups, forming the basis for personalized therapeutic choices. However, accurately assessing the intermediate-risk group poses significant challenges, potentially resulting in treatment delays and deterioration of patient conditions.

Methods

This study introduces a decision support system leveraging cutting-edge machine learning techniques to address these issues. The system automatically recommends tailored oncology therapy protocols based on outcome predictions.

Results

The proposed approach achieved a high performance close to 0.9 in F1-Score and AUC. The model generated with gene expression data exhibited superior performance.

Discussion

Our system can effectively support specialists in making well-informed decisions regarding the most suitable and safe therapy for individual patients. The proposed decision support system has the potential to not only streamline treatment initiation but also contribute to prolonged survival and improved quality of life for individuals diagnosed with AML. This marks a significant stride toward optimizing therapeutic interventions and patient outcomes.
Case report: Childhood erythrocytosis due to hypermanganesemia caused by homozygous SLC30A10 mutation
Authors: Coppola Tiziana , Hughes Hannah , Finch Paul T. , Hess Joshua A. , Wu Steve , Prada Carlos E. , Miethke Alexander G. , Zhang Wenying , Kalfa Theodosia A.
Published: March 2024

We present a rare case of erythrocytosis due to a homozygous SLC30A10 mutation, causative of Hypermanganesemia with Dystonia, Polycythemia, and Cirrhosis (HMDPC). The patient presented at 7 years of age with the incidental finding of hemoglobin up to 22.3 g/dL. Despite extensive phenotypic evaluation and genetic testing for common causes of erythrocytosis, etiology remained unknown for 1.5 years until whole exome sequencing revealed the genetic diagnosis. Upon neurological evaluation, the patient was found to have very mild dystonia due to manganese deposition in the basal ganglia, midbrain, and cerebellum, as seen in brain MRI. Chelation with trientine orally was initiated, which led to resolution of his erythrocytosis along with decrease of Mn deposition in brain tissues. Recurrence of erythrocytosis occurred after 4 years due to inappropriately stored trientine and iron deficiency. This required the temporary addition of intravenous calcium disodium edetate to his treatment regimen. This case illustrates the development of secondary erythrocytosis due to hypermanganesemia leading to manganese deposition in the hepatocytes, causing a sense of tissue hypoxia and stimulating erythropoietin production. It also shows the competition between manganese and iron for absorption in the body. Moreover, it demonstrates the importance of broad genetic evaluation for the diagnosis of ultra-rare diseases. In this case, timely diagnosis and initiation of appropriate treatment prevented irreversible damage to the brain and liver with a profound improvement on his prognosis.
Reframing the narrative: an analysis of print media reporting on Bihar floods
Authors: Priya Ritu
Published: March 2024

In modern ways of “knowing water,” some narratives have gained greater acceptance than others. Mass media is a major component of the complex cultural process through which such narratives are created and sustained. This article elucidates vernacular print media as the site of the construction of the dominant water meanings. Taking the case study of Hindustan, a popular Hindi newspaper from Bihar, India, this article analyzes patterns of media reporting and the resulting discourse development on water management. Newspaper articles reporting on water issues were collected for the three monsoon months of July, August, and September, 2019. The sample was taken for the monsoon season when floods and other water-related events are expected to be more heavily reported in the news. A total of 376 news items were found to report on water, in which seven major themes of reporting were identified. Second, discourse analysis was carried out on the 139 articles under the theme “monsoon floods.” These news items were analyzed according to five aspects: (i) spatial outlook; (ii) holistic approach; (iii) fact-based reporting; (iv) flood mitigation; and (v) gender-balanced reporting. Monsoon floods were the most frequently reported theme. Articles reported on both damage due to floods and the measures of flood management. It was found that news items present a spatially disconnected and parochial pattern of reporting. News stories focused more on the short-term impacts of floods than on the underlying policy problems. Fact-based reporting was limited. News items on flood mitigation were favorable to structural interventions, particularly, and embankments. The gender lens was completely absent from the study. Through this pattern of reporting, the news items created two narratives. Firstly, the news items frame floods as unwelcome disasters that are exacerbated by rainfall in the catchment areas of the upper riparian country Nepal and sluggish discharge from the Farakka Barrage. Secondly, news items also reported on the interlinking of rivers and the construction of embankments as favorable methods of flood control. This article problematizes these narratives and suggests a counter in terms of “living with floods.” Some suggestions for more nuanced and diversified reporting on the topic are discussed.
Meet BioSentinel: The First Biological Experiment In Deep Space
Authors: Rahmanian Shirin , Slaba Tony , Straume Tore , Bhattacharya Sharmila , Santa Maria Sergio R.
Published: March 2024

Recently, NASA launched a rocket called Artemis-I toward the Moon! The mission objective was to test the safety of the Space Launch System for future human travel into deep space. But vehicle safety is not the only concern for space travelers. Space radiation is an invisible danger to astronauts because it can damage the body’s cells and potentially lead to serious health problems. How do we study the effects of space radiation on cells? Meet BioSentinel! BioSentinel is a small satellite deployed from Artemis-I that carries yeast cells and a sensor to measure space radiation. The job of BioSentinel is to transmit data from the cells in deep space back to Earth. In this article, we will explore the BioSentinel mission, discuss how the data are obtained and transmitted, and give examples of how the data from BioSentinel will help scientists better understand the effects of space radiation on living things.
Generalization in de novo learning of virtual upper limb movements is influenced by motor exploration
Authors: Kawano Tomoya , Kouzaki Motoki , Hagio Shota
Published: March 2024

The acquisition of new motor skills from scratch, also known as de novo learning, is an essential aspect of motor development. In de novo learning, the ability to generalize skills acquired under one condition to others is crucial because of the inherently limited range of motor experiences available for learning. However, the presence of generalization in de novo learning and its influencing factors remain unclear. This study aimed to elucidate the generalization of de novo motor learning by examining the motor exploration process, which is the accumulation of motor experiences. To this end, we manipulated the exploration process during practice by changing the target shape using either a small circular target or a bar-shaped target. Our findings demonstrated that the amount of learning during practice was generalized across different conditions. Furthermore, the extent of generalization is influenced by movement variability in the control space, which is irrelevant to the task, rather than the target shapes themselves. These results confirmed the occurrence of generalization in de novo learning and suggest that the exploration process within the control space plays a significant role in facilitating this generalization.
Health and environmental effects to wildlife from radio telemetry and tracking devices—state of the science and best management practices
Authors: Manville Albert M. , Levitt B. Blake , Lai Henry C.
Published: March 2024

This paper discusses the potential health risks and benefits to tagged wildlife from the use of radio tracking, radio telemetry, and related microchip and data-logger technologies used to study, monitor and track mostly wildlife in their native habitats. Domestic pets, especially canids, are briefly discussed as radio-tagging devices are also used on/in them. Radio tracking uses very high frequency (VHF), ultra-high frequency (UHF), and global positioning system (GPS) technologies, including via satellites where platform terminal transmitters (PTTs) are used, as well as geo-locating capabilities using satellites, radio-frequency identification (RFID) chips, and passive integrated responder (PIT) tags, among others. Such tracking technologies have resulted in cutting-edge findings worldwide that have served to protect and better understand the behaviors of myriad wildlife species. As a result, scientists, field researchers, technicians, fish and wildlife biologists and managers, plus wildlife and other veterinarian specialists, frequently opt for its use without fully understanding the ramifications to target species and their behaviors. These include negative physiological effects from electromagnetic fields (EMF) to which many nonhuman species are exquisitely sensitive, as well as direct placement/use-attachment impacts from radio collars, transmitters, and implants themselves. This paper provides pertinent studies, suggests best management practices, and compares technologies currently available to those considering and/or using such technologies. The primary focus is on the health and environmental risk/benefit decisions that should come into play, including ethical considerations, along with recommendations for more caution in the wildlife and veterinarian communities before such technologies are used in the first place.
Efficacy of a multicomponent binding agent against combined exposure to zearalenone and ochratoxin A in weaned pigs
Authors: Tassis Panagiotis , Raj Jog , Floros Dimitrios , Mittas Nikolaos , Ntarampa Niki , Farkas Hunor , Polizopoulou Zoe , Vasilievic Marko
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a novel multicomponent substance against combined exposure to the mycotoxins zearalenone (ZEN) and ochratoxin A (OTA) in weaned piglets.

Methods

In total, 60 piglets at the age of 28 days were equally allocated to four experimental groups (A–D), consisting of eight female and seven male piglets each (15 animals per group, for a total trial duration of 42 days). Animals from group A received typical weaner feed without mycotoxins or the test product [multicomponent mycotoxin detoxifying agent (MMDA)]. Group B animals received the same weaner feed contaminated with 0.992 mg ZEN/kg feed and 0.531 mg OTA/kg feed without the addition of the MMDA. Animals in group C received the same contaminated feed as group B with the addition of 1.5 g MMDA/kg feed, whereas group D received the same feed as group B with the inclusion of 3 g MMDA/kg feed. Clinical signs and performance parameters [body weight (BW), average daily weight gain (ADWG), and feed conversion ratio (FCR)] were evaluated, while mycotoxin residues were also assessed in the liver and kidney tissues.

Results

Findings showed improved FCR in the group that received the greatest dose of the test product (3 g MMDA/kg feed) compared to the group that received the lower dose (1.5 g MMDA/kg feed). A few hematological and biochemical parameters were slightly altered, predominantly within normal limits. The residue analysis demonstrated a reduction of OTA in liver samples, a-ZEL in the liver and total tested samples, and a total of ZEN and metabolite contents in all samples of the group that received the greatest MMDA dose in comparison to the group that received the toxins without the addition of the test product.

Discussion

Therefore, a positive effect of the MMDA at the greatest dosage regime on reducing bioavailability and tissue deposition of ZEN and OTA, with a particularly positive effect on FCR in weaned pigs, is suggested under concurrent ZEN and OTA exposure in vivo.
Health Service Use Among Migrants in the German National Cohort—The Role of Birth Region and Language Skills
Authors: Wiessner Christian , Licaj Sara , Klein Jens , Bohn Barbara , Brand Tilman , Castell Stefanie , Führer Amand , Harth Volker , Heier Margit , Heise Jana-Kristin , Holleczek Bernd , Jaskulski Stefanie , Jochem Carmen , Koch-Gallenkamp Lena , Krist Lilian , Leitzmann Michael , Lieb Wolfgang , Meinke-Franze Claudia , Mikolajczyk Rafael , Moreno Velásquez Ilais , Obi Nadia , Pischon Tobias , Schipf Sabine , Thierry Sigrid , Willich Stefan N. , Zeeb Hajo , Becher Heiko
Published: March 2024

Objective: To compare health service use (HSU) between migrants and non-migrants in Germany.

Methods: Using data from the population-based German National Cohort (NAKO), we compared the HSU of general practitioners, medical specialists, and psychologists/psychiatrists between six migrant groups of different origins with the utilization of non-migrants. A latent profile analysis (LPA) with a subsequent multinomial regression analysis was conducted to characterize the HSU of different groups. Additionally, separate regression models were calculated. Both analyses aimed to estimate the direct effect of migration background on HSU.

Results: In the LPA, the migrant groups showed no relevant differences compared to non-migrants regarding HSU. In separate analyses, general practitioners and medical specialists were used comparably to slightly more often by first-generation migrants from Eastern Europe, Turkey, and resettlers. In contrast, the use of psychologists/psychiatrists was substantially lower among those groups. Second-generation migrants and migrants from Western countries showed no differences in their HSU compared to non-migrants.

Conclusion: We observed a low mental HSU among specific migrant groups in Germany. This indicates the existence of barriers among those groups that need to be addressed.
Design of Optimal Sound Absorbers Using Acoustic Diffusers for Multipurpose Auditoriums
Authors: Pardo-Quiles Domingo , Rodríguez-Rodríguez Ignacio , Rodríguez José-Víctor
Published: March 2024

The main goal of this research was to design and study the best structure, location, and shape of acoustic diffusers to be fitted on the ceilings of multipurpose auditoriums. Their absorbing properties can enhance the acoustics when installed on high ceilings, and behind suspended reflecting panels, by mitigating or nullifying specular reflections that could overcome the panels and, thus, avoiding time delay gaps exceeding 30–40 ms compared with the direct sound. For this purpose, a typical medium-sized room, with inclined floors, a stage, and 20 rows of seats, was considered. The allocation and height of the considered diffusers were based on the Schroeder quadratic residue sequence, and they were modeled as rectangles, wedges, cylinders, and Y-shaped elements. A standardized speech source spectrum was analyzed for up to five different receiver locations. In this way, the attenuation parameter as a function of frequency was evaluated and compared between the candidate diffusers in order to identify the best absorber. The simulations were undertaken with a software tool previously validated by the authors called PARDOS, which incorporates an innovative formulation based on the uniform theory of diffraction (UTD) to analyze multiple diffractions and reflections of acoustic waves. The results show that the new Y-shaped diffusers proposed, tuned for the hearing frequency band from 250 Hz up to 10,000 Hz, attained the best acoustic performance in terms of absorption.
Causes of Failure of Open Innovation Practices in Small- and Medium-Sized Enterprises
Authors: Almeida Fernando
Published: March 2024

The adoption of open innovation poses significant challenges that are important to explore. Studies in this field have mainly focused on exploring the causes of the failure of open innovation among large companies. This study addresses this research gap by employing a sample of 297 Portuguese small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to explore, through a quantitative study, whether the dimensions and causes of failure differ between large organizations and SMEs. A total of seven dimensions of causes of failure are considered, including strategy-related, organizational structure, organizational culture, knowledge and intellectual property management, management skill and action, resources, and interfirm collaboration. The findings reveal significant differences in four of these seven dimensions: the main causes of failure are related to the resources and management processes of open innovation in SMEs, while large companies face more challenges in the organizational structure and culture components. This study offers theoretical insights into the gaps in the literature to better understand the challenges facing open innovation. Furthermore, this study offers practical guidelines for SMEs to identify and mitigate these main obstacles, promoting better innovation management practices.
Prevalence of and Influential Factors for Waterpipe Smoking among School-Attending Adolescents in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau
Authors: Einarsdóttir Jónína , Baldé Aladje , Jandi Zeca , Boiro Hamadou , Gunnlaugsson Geir
Published: March 2024

The marketing of sweetened and flavoured tobacco in the early 1990s resulted in an upsurge in waterpipe smoking (WPS), mainly among young people and women. Here, we estimate prevalence rates among school-attending adolescents aged 14–19 (girls 52%) for a lifetime experience of WPS and within the last 30 days (WPS < 30 days) and identify influential factors for such smoking in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau. A random sample (N = 2039) was drawn from a class-based register created for 16 schools in Bissau; attending students in June 2017 were invited to respond to a locally adapted Planet Youth questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, odds ratio with 95% confidence interval, and multinomial logistic regression analysis were used to identify influential factors for WPS. The prevalence rates for a lifetime experience of WPS and within < 30 days were high, 17.7% and 15.0%, respectively, with no significant gender difference. For both groups, a multinomial logistic regression analysis identified attending higher grades in school, use of alcohol and being a victim of sexual violence as significant, influential factors. The overlapping of influential factors suggests preventive work against substance abuse should focus on less stigmatising behaviour, such as WPS and firmer implementation of the Framework Convention of Tobacco Control (FCTC).
Observer for Nonlinear Systems with Time-Varying Delays: Application to a Two-Degrees-of-Freedom Helicopter
Authors: Hernández-González Omar , Ramírez-Rasgado Felipe , Farza Mondher , Guerrero-Sánchez María-Eusebia , Astorga-Zaragoza Carlos-Manuel , M’Saad Mohammed , Valencia-Palomo Guillermo
Published: March 2024

This paper deals with the problem of the estimation of non-uniformly nonlinear systems with time-varying delays in the state and input. In addition, the problem of the sampled output measurement is also been addressed. Thus, an observer design for a class of uncertain, non-uniformly nonlinear systems in the presence of time-varying delay is proposed. A continuous–discrete observer based on a high-gain approach is designed to achieve undelayed estimation. Thus, sufficient conditions to ensure the convergence of the observer are obtained. The analysis is based on a Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional, which shows that the bounded observation error depends on the sizes of the known upper delay and the upper sampling rate. The performance of the proposed algorithm is evaluated by considering a control-based observer for a two-degrees-of-freedom helicopter system with a known time-varying delay and sampled output measurements.
Unveiling Drought-Tolerant Corn Hybrids for Early-Season Drought Resilience Using Morpho-Physiological Traits
Authors: Walne Charles Hunt , Thenveettil Naflath , Ramamoorthy Purushothaman , Bheemanahalli Raju , Reddy Krishna N. , Reddy Kambham Raja
Published: March 2024

The increasing severity of drought has become a significant threat to global crop production. Early season drought in corn produces poor plant stand and grain yield. Thus, identifying corn hybrids for drought tolerance during the early season is important. Nineteen corn hybrids commonly grown in the Midsouthern US were assessed for drought tolerance using mini-hoop structures. Plants grown under non-stress conditions were exposed to three moisture levels at 100% (0.17 m3 m−3 soil; control), 66% (mild drought; DS1), and 33% (moderate drought; DS2) of the control from one to five leaf stages (V1 to V5). The physiological and morphological traits of corn hybrids were measured to assess variability in drought tolerance. When averaged across the hybrids, shoot parameters declined by 51% and 59% under DS1 and DS2 conditions, respectively, compared to the control. A decline in root traits was noticed under drought stress (38% under DS1 and 48% under DS2) compared to the control, revealing the shoot system sensitivity under drought conditions. In the principal component analysis, the first two principal components accounted for 66% of the phenotypic variation among the corn hybrids under drought stress. Total, shoot, leaf dry weights, root surface area, and root volume captured most of the phenotypic variation among the corn hybrids under drought. The results of the principal component analysis and drought stress response indices complimented the identification of ‘A6659’ and ‘D57VP51’ as drought-tolerant hybrids during the early seedling stage. These hybrids can be used as source material in developing drought-tolerant cultivars. Also, the tolerant hybrids will perform best under rainfed environments prone to early-season drought.
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis Provides Insights into Fruit Trichome Development in Peach
Authors: Liu Yihua , Xu Meng , Guo Jian , Gan Yinbo
Published: March 2024

Fruit pubescence (trichome) is an important characteristic and is controlled by a single dominant gene (G/g), resulting in peaches and nectarines. The length and/or density of fruit fuzz varies greatly among different peach cultivars. However, little is known about fruit trichome development in peaches. In this study, significant differences in fruit trichome length and density were identified between ‘XT1’ and its bud mutation ‘BM’, showing much higher values for ‘BM’. Comparative transcriptome analysis was performed, and 987 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, which were confirmed by qRT-PCR. GO (Gene Ontology) and KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) analyses showed that genes involved in defense response, secondary metabolites and plant hormone signal transduction may also be related to the development of peach fruit trichomes. By integrating other transcriptome data, we finally determined 47 DEGs that might participate in peach trichome development, including five plant-hormone-related genes. The promoter analysis showed that one abscisic-acid-related gene, Prupe.6G072400 (abscisic acid 8′-hydroxylase 2), and one auxin-related gene, Prupe.3G074900 (auxin-responsive protein IAA1), have obvious differences in the cis-acting elements of the promoters between ‘XT1’ and ‘BM’. The results of this study will provide a valuable resource illustrating the mechanism of fruit trichome development in peaches and benefit future genomic research.