bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is Tirzepatide the New Game Changer in Type 2 Diabetes?
Authors: Lisco Giuseppe , Disoteo Olga Eugenia , De Geronimo Vincenzo , De Tullio Anna , Giagulli Vito Angelo , Guastamacchia Edoardo , De Pergola Giovanni , Jirillo Emilio , Triggiani Vincenzo
Published: February 2024

Background: Tirzepatide (TZP) is a once-weekly glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent-insulinotropic-polypeptide (GIP) receptor co-agonist approved for T2D. TZP provides promising evidence in improving glucose control and weight loss in T2D and obesity across preclinical and human studies, including data from the SURPASS program. Aims: The goal of this paper was to review the evidence on TZP in terms of glucose control, body weight, and the progression of chronic diabetes-related complications and comorbidities. Results: The mean change in HbA1c ranged from −1.6% to −2.06% over placebo, from −0.29% to −0.92% over each GLP-1RAs, and from −0.7% to −1.09% over basal insulins. In SURPASS-6, TZP was more effective than insulin lispro U100 added to basal insulin in reducing HbA1c levels at the study end (−2.1% vs. −1.1%, respectively). Compared to placebo, TZP induces a significant weight loss: 7.5 (5 mg/week); 11 (10 mg/week); and 12 kg (15 mg/week). Compared to GLP-1RAs, TZP reduces body weight from −1.68 kg to −7.16 kg depending on the dose (5 to 15 mg, respectively). Compared to basal insulin alone rigorously titrated, TZP added onto basal-insulin results in the best strategy for the composite endpoint of improvement of glucose control and weight loss. In SURPASS-6, TZP compared to insulin lispro U100 in add-on to insulin glargine U100 reduced body weight by 9 kg in mean (versus weight gain in basal-bolus users: +3.2 kg). TZP has pleiotropic effects potentially dampening the individual cardiovascular risk, including a reduction in systolic arterial pressure by 4 to 6 mmHg and total cholesterol by 4–6% compared to baseline. A post hoc analysis of SURPASS-4 revealed that TZP, compared to glargine U100, delayed the rate of glomerular filtration decline (−1.4 mL/min vs. −3.6 mL/min, respectively), reduced the rate of urinary albumin excretion (−6.8% vs. +36.9%, respectively), and was associated with a lower occurrence of the composite renal endpoint (HR 0.58 [0.43; 0.80]). Conclusions: Consistent evidence indicates that TZP dramatically changes the clinical course of T2D in different clinical scenarios. The efficacy and safety of TZP on chronic diabetes-related comorbidities and complications seem promising, but ongoing trials will clarify the real benefits.
Optimizing Session-Aware Recommenders: A Deep Dive into GRU-Based Latent Interaction Integration
Authors: Lin Ming-Yen , Wu Ping-Chun , Hsueh Sue-Chen
Published: February 2024

This study introduces session-aware recommendation models, leveraging GRU (Gated Recurrent Unit) and attention mechanisms for advanced latent interaction data integration. A primary advancement is enhancing latent context, a critical factor for boosting recommendation accuracy. We address the existing models’ rigidity by dynamically blending short-term (most recent) and long-term (historical) preferences, moving beyond static period definitions. Our approaches, pre-combination (LCII-Pre) and post-combination (LCII-Post), with fixed (Fix) and flexible learning (LP) weight configurations, are thoroughly evaluated. We conducted extensive experiments to assess our models’ performance on public datasets such as Amazon and MovieLens 1M. Notably, on the MovieLens 1M dataset, LCII-PreFix achieved a 1.85% and 2.54% higher Recall@20 than II-RNN and BERT4Rec+st+TSA, respectively. On the Steam dataset, LCII-PostLP outperformed these models by 18.66% and 5.5%. Furthermore, on the Amazon dataset, LCII showed a 2.59% and 1.89% improvement in Recall@20 over II-RNN and CAII. These results affirm the significant enhancement our models bring to session-aware recommendation systems, showcasing their potential for both academic and practical applications in the field.
Evaluation of the Risk from Potentially Toxic Elements (PTEs) in Italy’s Most Consumed Processed Fish Products
Authors: Nobile Maria , Mosconi Giacomo , Arioli Francesco , Chiesa Luca , Peloso Mariantonietta , Accurso Damiano , Butovskaya Elena , Fedrizzi Giorgio , Curci Dalia , Panseri Sara
Published: February 2024

In a balanced diet, regular fish consumption provides positive outcomes for human health. On the other hand, the seafood supply chain faces a significant food safety risk due to the presence of potentially toxic elements (PTEs). In the present study, to assess the risk for Italian consumers, the concentrations of five PTEs, namely lead, chromium, cadmium, mercury, nickel, and aluminum, were determined in the three most consumed preserved fish in Italy: tuna (Thunnus albacares, Katsuwonus pelamis), mackerel (Scomber scombrus) and anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus). Samples were collected from the national market, and the instrumental analysis was performed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The analyzed PTEs were found in all the species that were investigated. However, after considering the target hazard quotient (THQ) and the hazard index (HI), it was observed that the three fish preserves did not pose any risk of chronic toxicity for the average consumer, even at the highest concentrations detected. However, for significant consumers, mercury detected in tuna samples represented almost 90% of the tolerable weekly intake (TWI) reported by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), representing a matter of concern for consumers, particularly regarding developmental neurotoxicity, whose HI exceeded 111%. The acute toxicity of nickel was also considered for significant consumers at the highest concentration detected, and the margin of exposure (MOE) calculated was above 7000, much higher than the value of 30 indicated by EFSA. Due to the lack of data on non-professional carcinogenicity or human intake through foods with low cancer risk, this toxicity was not considered in the analysis of PTEs.
Development of a Sensitive and Specific Quantitative RT-qPCR Method for the Detection of Hepatitis E Virus Genotype 3 in Porcine Liver and Foodstuff
Authors: Hinrichs Jan Bernd , Kreitlow Antonia , Plötz Madeleine , Schotte Ulrich , Becher Paul , Gremmel Nele , Stephan Roger , Kemper Nicole , Abdulmawjood Amir
Published: February 2024

As an international and zoonotic cause of hepatitis, hepatitis E virus (HEV) poses a significant risk to public health. However, the frequency of occurrence and the degree of contamination of food of animal origin require further research. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a highly sensitive quantitative RT-qPCR assay for the detection and quantification of HEV contamination in porcine liver and food. The focus was on genotype 3, which is most common as a food contaminant in developed countries and Europe. The selected assay has its target sequence in the open reading frame 1 (ORF1) of the HEV genome and showed good results in inclusivity testing, especially for HEV genotype 3. The developed assay seems to show high efficiency and a low intercept when compared to other assays, while having a comparable limit of detection (LOD). In addition, a standard curve was generated using artificially spiked liver to provide more accurate quantitative results for contamination assessment and tracking in this matrix. Application of the assay to test 67 pig livers from different origins resulted in a positivity rate of 7.5%, which is consistent with the results of numerous other prevalence studies. Quantitative detection of the viral genome in the food chain, particularly in pig livers, is essential for understanding the presence and evolution of HEV contamination and thus ensures consumer safety.
Biobanks: Archives or Resources? Their Secondary Use for Forensic Purposes—A Systematic Review
Authors: Sguazzi Giulia , Fasani Giulia , Renò Filippo , Gino Sarah
Published: February 2024

Since the biobanks’ inception in 1980, millions of human biological samples have been stored worldwide for medical research or treatment purposes. Today the secondary use of biobanks plays an increasingly important role in research projects because it allows large-scale research starting from professional collections of biospecimens and related clinical data. It would be limiting, in the “-omics” era, to not consider the enormous potential value to law enforcement of these biospecimens, where the availability of high-performance techniques makes it possible to obtain a large amount of data, even within a single session. Therefore, the quality of the sample, in addition to the associated clinical information, becomes of crucial importance to derive scientifically valid information, including for forensic research purposes. Proposing the introduction of the concept of “solidarity”, traditionally applied only to medical and research biobanks, led to public commitment to forensic medicine. Granting the forensic researcher this possibility certainly raises some questions regarding regulatory and ethical aspects of consent, privacy, confidentiality, transparency, and participant/donor trust. Since the debate has not stopped since the origin of biobanks, this review aims to explore the state of the art relating to the use of human biological material in medical biobanks for biomedical and forensic research.
Preparation and Mechano-Functional Characterization of PEGylated Fibrin Hydrogels: Impact of Thrombin Concentration
Authors: López-León Clara F. , Planet Ramon , Soriano Jordi
Published: February 2024

Three-dimensional (3D) neuronal cultures grown in hydrogels are promising platforms to design brain-like neuronal networks in vitro. However, the optimal properties of such cultures must be tuned to ensure a hydrogel matrix sufficiently porous to promote healthy development but also sufficiently rigid for structural support. Such an optimization is difficult since it implies the exploration of different hydrogel compositions and, at the same time, a functional analysis to validate neuronal culture viability. To advance in this quest, here we present a combination of a rheological protocol and a network-based functional analysis to investigate PEGylated fibrin hydrogel networks with gradually higher stiffness, achieved by increasing the concentration of thrombin. We observed that moderate thrombin concentrations of 10% and 25% in volume shaped healthy networks, although the functional traits depended on the hydrogel stiffness, which was much higher for the latter concentration. Thrombin concentrations of 65% or higher led to networks that did not survive. Our results illustrate the difficulties and limitations in preparing 3D neuronal networks, and stress the importance of combining a mechano-structural characterization of a biomaterial with a functional one.
Canadian Brides’-to-Be Surname Choice: Potential Evidence of Transmitted Bilateral Descent Reckoning
Authors: MacEacheron Melanie
Published: February 2024

Women’s marital surname change is important, in part, because it affects how often only husbands’ (fathers’) surnames are passed on to offspring: this, in turn, affects the frequency of these “family” names. Brides-to-be, novelly, from across especially western and central Canada (N = 184), were surveyed as to marital surname hyphenation/retention versus change intention, and attitude towards women’s such choices in general. Among women engaged to men, the hypothesized predictors of income and number of future children desired were positively predictive of marital surname retention/hyphenation under univariate analysis. Under multiple regression analysis using these and other predictors from the literature, previously found to be predictive of this DV under univariate analysis, only some of these other predictors were predictive. Of greatest predictiveness was the bride-to-be’s own mother’s marital surname choice (with brides-to-be, more often than would otherwise be predicted, following their mother’s such choice), thus suggesting a possible shift to a transmitted manner of bilateral descent reckoning, towards greater bilateral such reckoning, among a portion of the population. Reported, general attitude towards women’s marital surname retention was predictive of participant brides-to-be’s own reported (imminent) marital surname retention/hyphenation.
ENSO Impacts on Jamaican Rainfall Patterns: Insights from CHIRPS High-Resolution Data for Disaster Risk Management
Authors: Avalon-Cullen Cheila , Al Suhili Rafea , Newlands Nathaniel K. , Caudill Christy , Hill Harvey , Spence-Hemmings Jaqueline , Enenkel Markus
Published: February 2024

This study examines the influence of the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on Jamaica’s rainfall patterns, leveraging CHIRPS data from 1981 to 2021 in 370 locations. Our analysis reveals a distinct ENSO imprint on rainfall, with La Niña phases showing a consistently higher probability of exceeding various rainfall thresholds compared to El Niño. Notably, La Niña increases the likelihood of heavier rainfall, particularly in the wet seasons, with probabilities of exceeding 200 mm reaching up to 50% during wet season II. Spatially, the probability of total monthly rainfall (TMR) during La Niña is elevated in the northeastern regions, suggesting regional vulnerability to excess rainfall. Additionally, during El Niño, the correlation between TMR and the maximum air temperature (Tmax) is significantly stronger, indicating a positive and more pronounced relationship between higher temperatures and rainfall, with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.39 to 0.80. Wind speed and evapotranspiration show a negligible influence on TMR during both ENSO phases, maintaining stable correlation patterns with only slight variations. The results of this study underscore the necessity for differentiated regional strategies in water resource management and disaster preparedness, tailored to the unique climatic characteristics imposed by ENSO variability. These insights contribute to a refined understanding of climate impacts, essential for enhancing resilience and adaptive capacity in Jamaica and other small island developing states.
Comparative Analysis of Social Networks in Institutionalized Older Adults versus Aging-in-Place Scenarios
Authors: Ciucurel Constantin , Tudor Mariana Ionela , Ciucurel Manuela Mihaela , Boca Ioan-Cosmin , Iconaru Elena Ioana
Published: February 2024

(1) Background: This research aims to compare social networks among institutionalized and aging-in-place (AIP) older adults through the validation of a new questionnaire. (2) Methods: The cross-sectional study included 100 older adults (mean age: 73.53 ± 5.49 years; age range: 65–85 years), with 48 institutionalized subjects and 52 AIP subjects. We developed, validated, and administered a new questionnaire, the Social Network Assessment for Older People Questionnaire (SNAOPQ), to assess older adults’ social networks using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. (3) Results: The SNAOPQ demonstrated excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha of 0.91 and McDonald’s omega of 0.91). Statistical analysis revealed significant associations between variables, highlighting differences in social networks between institutionalized and AIP individuals (p ≤ 0.001). Sociodemographic factors like age, education, living arrangement status, and number of descendants significantly influenced SNAOPQ scores (p ≤ 0.001). Age and residence type notably impacted participants’ scores, indicating reduced social network size with age. Tertiary education and living in a couple were associated with more extensive social networks, while a higher number of descendants correlated with social network expansion. (4) Conclusions: Our study highlights significant differences in social networks among older adults based on residence type, emphasizing the impact of sociodemographic factors such as age, education, living arrangement, and the number of descendants.
Dante’s Philosophical World in the 21st Century: New Approaches in a Slovak Translation of the Third Canticle
Authors: Šavelová Monika
Published: February 2024

To completely understand Dante’s work, we would need to perfectly comprehend the foundations on which it is built, as well as Dante’s own “constructs” and reinterpretations of earlier texts—the transformations of these texts and the whole ideological superstructure of the work built on them. The goal of this essay is to introduce, for the first time in English-language scholarship, a discussion of Pavol Koprda’s Slovak translation of Dante’s Paradise (2020), the result of extensive Slovak academic research on this topic, based on key sections in which Dante’s philosophical background is revealed, and focusing on an interpretation of the third canticle and a reconciliation of the intellectual debates of Dante’s time.
A Comparative Study of Food Intake and Adipose Tissue Distribution in Saudi Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Authors: Hurayb Nujud H. , Alshammari Ghedeir M. , Al-Khalifa Abdulrahman S. , Alafif Nora , Aljaroudi Dania H. , Mohammed Mohammed A. , Yagoub Abu ElGasim Ahmed , Yahya Mohammed Abdo
Published: February 2024

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a frequent disorder that affects reproductive-aged women and has reproductive, metabolic, and psychosocial effects. This research was intended to investigate the comparison between food intake and adipose tissue distribution in Saudi women suffering from PCOS and a control group. To determine the sociodemographic variables, a case–control study was performed with patients from King Fahad Medical City’s Reproductive Endocrine and Infertility Medicine Department (REIMD). The case–control study comprised 42 PCOS patients (PCOS-Ps) and 63 as a control group, all aged 20–45 years. Three-day records were collected from participants to estimate the nutrient intake of cases and controls. A body composition analyzer was used to measure body mass index (BMI), body fat (BF), and visceral fat (VF). Biochemical measurements were taken to determine the lipid profile, total testosterone, and serum vitamin D-25-OH. The women’s frequency distribution based on sociodemographic characteristics revealed significant differences within and between the groups. The variations in dietary intake between the PCOS-P and control groups were primarily in terms of total calories, carbohydrates, niacin, and folate, all of which were significantly higher in the PCOS-P group. Dietary fiber, unsaturated fat, vitamin A, vitamin B12, calcium, phosphorus, and selenium, on the other hand, were significantly higher in the control group. A majority of both groups had significantly higher BMI (overweight or obese) and higher BF, but normal VF. According to the findings, testosterone levels in PCOS-Ps were significantly higher than in the control group, but vitamin D-25-OH and high-density-lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) were significantly lower. Age, monthly income, cholesterol, low-density-lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and testosterone were the fundamental causes impacting women’s anthropometric indices. In conclusion, although both groups were overweight or obese, and differences in calorie and nutrient intake, HDL-C, testosterone, and vitamin D-25-OH levels were observed. The study advises such population groups to limit their consumption of foods high in calories.
Pharmacovigilance in Brazil: The Government Monitoring of Adverse Events Reported from COVID-19 Vaccine—A Narrative Review
Authors: Moraes Mariana Carvalho de , Duarte Ivone , Nunes Rui
Published: February 2024

Background: Is pharmacovigilance at a moment of prominence for science, and in relation to governments’ responsibilities towards their nations, as the new coronavirus pandemic has surprised everyone in a negative and lethal way? Objective: Evaluate pharmacovigilance as a resource for controlling and understanding adverse events caused by vaccines in use. Methods: This is a narrative review of the literature. Scientific articles available in databases, government bulletins and similar bodies were used. The search was carried out using the descriptors: “Pharmacovigilance AND COVID-19 in Brazil”, “Vaccine Development AND COVID-19”, “Vaccination Hesitancy AND COVID-19”, “Public Health Surveillance AND COVID-19”. The period from May 2021 to June 2022 was covered. Results: The occurrence of some adverse events was observed, including cases of allergy, myocarditis and rheumatoid arthritis. It is important to highlight that these adverse events were identified as rare, occurring in a small percentage of the vaccinated population. Despite these adverse events, the benefits of vaccines proved to be essential for controlling the pandemic. Conclusions: The information presented highlights the importance of pharmacovigilance to continuously monitor and evaluate the safety of vaccines, identifying any potential adverse events early. This balance between risk and benefit emphasizes the need for a careful and informed approach when making decisions about vaccination policies, prioritizing public health and population safety.
The Effectiveness of Combined Exercise and Self-Determination Theory Programmes on Chronic Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review and Metanalysis
Authors: Navas-Otero Alba , Calvache-Mateo Andrés , Martín-Núñez Javier , Valenza-Peña Geraldine , Hernández-Hernández Sofía , Ortiz-Rubio Araceli , Valenza Marie Carmen
Published: February 2024

Low back pain is a pervasive issue worldwide, having considerable prevalence and a significant impact on disability. As low back pain is a complicated condition with many potential contributors, the use of therapeutic exercise, combined with other techniques such as self-determination theory programmes, has the potential to improve several outcomes. The aim of this systematic review was to explore the effectiveness of combined exercise and self-determination theory programmes on chronic low back pain. This study was designed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis guidelines. A systematic search in three databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Scopus) was conducted from September to November 2023. After screening, a total of five random control trials with patients with chronic low back pain were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The results showed significant differences in disability (SMD = −0.98; 95% CI = −1.86, −0.09; p = 0.03) and in quality of life (SMD = 0.23; 95% CI = 0.02, 0.44; p = 0.03) in favour of the intervention group versus the control group.
Haemostaseological Changes of VWF and FVIII during Pregnancy and the Oestrus Cycle in a Porcine Model of Von Willebrand Disease
Authors: Möller Rabea , Kaiser Katharina , Baulain Ulrich , Petersen Björn , Detering Carsten , Ekhlasi-Hundrieser Mahnaz , Zimmermann Richard , Mühlfeld Christian , von Depka Prondzinski Mario , Pfarrer Christiane , Lehner Stefanie
Published: February 2024

Pregnancy and the oestrus cycle are challenging for female patients suffering from von Willebrand disease (VWD). Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the changes in von Willebrand factor (VWF) and factor VIII (FVIII) during pregnancy and the oestrus cycle in our porcine model of von Willebrand disease compared with the wild-type. Plasma analyses regarding primary hemostasis, secondary hemostasis, and VWF multimers, as well as immunohistochemistry analyses of VWF in the uterus and ovary, were performed. For levels of VWF and FVIII activities, significant elevations were seen in the last trimester. Primary hemostasis improved towards the end of pregnancy. In the oestrus cycle, significantly lower VWF values can be seen in the immunohistochemistry of the ovaries during the oestrus, while values were highest in the metoestrus. VWF multimer patterns in pigs were similar to the ones in human VWD patients. In summary, the course of VWF and FVIII during pregnancy and the oestrus cycle in porcine VWD were investigated for the first time. The porcine model seems to be suitable for haemostaseological studies on VWD. This provides an advantage for investigating reproduction-related bleeding and understanding the underlying mechanisms of post-partum hemorrhage or miscarriage in women with VWD.
Comparative Response of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi versus Endophytic Fungi in Tangor Citrus: Photosynthetic Efficiency and P-Acquisition Traits
Authors: Lü Yang , Wu Wei-Jia , Zhu Ming-Yu , Rong Zi-Yi , Zhang Tian-Zhi , Tan Xin-Ping , He Ying , Alqahtani Mashael Daghash , Malhotra Suresh Kumar , Srivastava Anoop Kumar , Wu Qiang-Sheng
Published: February 2024

Citrus plants are prone to phosphorus (P) deficiency, especially in acidic soil, making them more dependent on root-associated endophytic fungi for growth and development. Beni-Madonna, a hybrid of Citrus nanko × C. amakusa, is a citrus known as “tangor” that is highly popular in China and other parts of the world due to its deep red color and jelly-like flesh. In this study, the inoculation response to two arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (Diversispora versiformis, Dv; Funneliformis mosseae, Fm) and an endophytic fungus (Serendipita indica, Si) with regard to the growth, leaf gas exchange, light energy efficiency, P levels, acid phosphatase activity, and expression of the purple acid phosphatase (PAP) and phosphate transporter (PT) genes through a potted experiment using Beni-Madonna (tangor) citrus plants grafted on trifoliate orange (Poncirus trifoliata) was studied. Two years following inoculation, the root fungal colonization rates of inoculated plants were significantly increased, accompanied by an increase in plant height and stem diameter, with Si presenting the best effect. Fungal inoculations also significantly increased the leaf chlorophyll index, nitrogen-balance index, photosynthesis rate, stomatal conductance, transpiration rate, photosynthetic efficiency, and quantum yield of PSII, while it reduced photoinhibition and heat dissipation, with Si having the best effect on light energy efficiency. Si significantly increased leaf and root P levels, as well as root CsPAP1‒3, CsPT2, CsPT3, and CsPT7 expression and soil acid phosphatase activity; Fm in mycorrhizal fungi significantly increased leaf and root P levels, as well as root CsPT1 and CsPT7 expression and root/soil acid phosphatase activity. These observations suggested an advantage of Si over the other two AMF in terms of improved plant growth and P acquisition, while Fm displayed prominent effects on increased photosynthetic efficiency.
A Conceptual Framework for Modeling Spatiotemporal Dynamics of Diesel Attenuation Capacity: A Case Study across Namyangju, South Korea
Authors: Saputra Livinia , Kim Sang Hyun , Lee Kyung-Jin , Ki Seo Jin , Jo Ho Young , Lee Seunghak , Chung Jaeshik
Published: February 2024

The vadose zone acts as a natural buffer against groundwater contamination, and thus, its attenuation capacity (AC) directly affects groundwater vulnerability to pollutants. A regression model from the previous study predicting the overall AC of soils against diesel was further expanded to the GIS-based overlay-index model. Among the six physicochemical parameters used in the regression model, saturation degree (SD) is notably susceptible to climatological and meteorological events. To accommodate the lack of soil SD historical data, a series of infiltration simulations were separately conducted using Phydrus code with moving boundary conditions (i.e., rainfall records). The temporal variation of SD and the resulting AC under transient conditions are captured by building a space–time cube using a temporal raster across the study area within the designated time frame (1997–2022). The emerging hot spot analysis (EHSA) tool, based on the Getis–Ord Gi* and Mann–Kendall statistics, is applied to further identify any existing pattern associated with both SD and AC in both space and time simultaneously. Under stationary conditions, AC decreases along depth and is relatively lower near water bodies. Similarly, AC cold spot trends also show up near water bodies under transient conditions. The result captures not only the trends across time but also shows the exact location where the changes happen. The proposed framework provides an efficient tool to look for locations that have a persistently low or a gradually decreasing ability to attenuate diesel over time, indicating the need for stricter management regulations from a long-term perspective.
Simulation and Application of Water Environment in Highly Urbanized Areas: A Case Study in Taihu Lake Basin
Authors: Zhao Pengxuan , Wang Chuanhai , Wu Jinning , Chen Gang , Zhang Tianshu , Li Youlin , Zhang Pingnan
Published: February 2024

In the wake of frequent and intensive human activities, highly urbanized areas consistently grapple with severe water environmental challenges. It becomes imperative to establish corresponding water environment models for simulating and forecasting regional water quality, addressing the associated environmental risks. The distributed framework water environment modeling system (DF-WEMS) incorporates fundamental principles, including the distributed concept and node concentration mass conservation. It adeptly merges point source and non-point source pollution load models with zero-dimensional, one-dimensional, and two-dimensional water quality models. This integration is specifically tailored for various Hydrological Feature Units (HFUs), encompassing lakes, reservoirs, floodplains, paddy fields, plain rivers, and hydraulic engineering structures. This holistic model enables the simulation and prediction of the water environment conditions within the watershed. In the Taihu Lake basin of China, a highly urbanized region featuring numerous rivers, lakes and gates, the DF-WEMS is meticulously constructed, calibrated, and validated based on 26 key water quality monitoring stations. The results indicate a strong alignment between the simulation of water quality indicators (WQIs) and real-world conditions, demonstrating the model’s reliability. This model proves applicable to the simulation, prediction, planning, and management of the water environment within the highly urbanized watershed.
Task Sharing and Remote Delivery of Brief Interpersonal Counseling for Venezuelan Migrants and Refugees Living in Peru during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Mixed-Methods Pilot Study
Authors: Greene M. Claire , Muro Mayra , Kane Jeremy C. , Young Erin , Paniagua-Avila Alejandra , Miller-Suchet Lucy , Nouel Maria , Bonz Annie G. , Cristobal Maria , Schojan Matthew , Ventevogel Peter , Cheng Bryan , Martins Silvia S. , Ponce de Leon Jose Carlos , Verdeli Helen
Published: February 2024

Refugees and migrants experience an elevated risk for mental health problems and face significant barriers to receiving services. Interpersonal counseling (IPC-3) is a three-session intervention that can be delivered by non-specialists to provide psychological support and facilitate referrals for individuals in need of specialized care. We piloted IPC-3 delivered remotely by eight Venezuelan refugee and migrant women living in Peru. These counselors provided IPC-3 to Venezuelan refugee and migrant clients in Peru (n = 32) who reported psychological distress. Clients completed assessments of mental health symptoms at baseline and one-month post-intervention. A subset of clients (n = 15) and providers (n = 8) completed post-implementation qualitative interviews. Results showed that IPC-3 filled a gap in the system of mental health care for refugees and migrants in Peru. Some adaptations were made to IPC-3 to promote its relevance to the population and context. Non-specialist providers developed the skills and confidence to provide IPC-3 competently. Clients displayed large reductions in symptoms of depression (d = 1.1), anxiety (d = 1.4), post-traumatic stress (d = 1.0), and functional impairment (d = 0.8). Remote delivery of IPC-3 by non-specialists appears to be a feasible, acceptable, and appropriate strategy to address gaps and improve efficiency within the mental health system and warrants testing in a fully powered effectiveness study.
The First Example of the Friedel–Crafts Cyclization Leading to (10-Hydroxy-9,10-dihydroanthr-9-yl)phosphonium Salts without the Expected Bradsher Dehydration
Authors: Owsianik Krzysztof , Różycka-Sokołowska Ewa , Koprowski Marek , Turek Marika , Knopik Łucja , Vivek Vivek , Dudziński Bogdan , Bałczewski Piotr
Published: February 2024

The reaction of (ortho-acetalaryl)arylmethanols with various phosphines PR1R2R3 (R1 = R2 = R3 = Ph; R1 = R2 = Ph, R3 = Me and R1 = R2 = Me, R3 = Ph) under acidic conditions (e.g., HCl, HBF4, TsOH) unexpectedly led to the formation of (10-hydroxy-9,10-dihydroanthr-9-yl)phosphonium salts instead of the corresponding anthryl phosphonium salts. The cyclization occurred according to the Friedel–Crafts mechanism but without the usually observed Bradsher dehydration, giving cyclic products in the form of cis/trans isomers and their conformers. In case of electron-rich and less-hindered dimethylphenylphosphine, all four stereoisomers were recorded in 31P{1H} NMR spectra, while for the other phosphines, only the two most stable cis/trans stereoisomers were detected. This study was supported by DFT and NCI calculations in combination with FT-IR analysis.
Interplay between Microbiota and γδ T Cells: Insights into Immune Homeostasis and Neuro-Immune Interactions
Authors: Mohamed Alaa A. , al-Ramadi Basel K. , Fernandez-Cabezudo Maria J.
Published: February 2024

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract of multicellular organisms, especially mammals, harbors a symbiotic commensal microbiota with diverse microorganisms including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microbial and eukaryotic species. This microbiota exerts an important role on intestinal function and contributes to host health. The microbiota, while benefiting from a nourishing environment, is involved in the development, metabolism and immunity of the host, contributing to the maintenance of homeostasis in the GI tract. The immune system orchestrates the maintenance of key features of host–microbe symbiosis via a unique immunological network that populates the intestinal wall with different immune cell populations. Intestinal epithelium contains lymphocytes in the intraepithelial (IEL) space between the tight junctions and the basal membrane of the gut epithelium. IELs are mostly CD8+ T cells, with the great majority of them expressing the CD8αα homodimer, and the γδ T cell receptor (TCR) instead of the αβ TCR expressed on conventional T cells. γδ T cells play a significant role in immune surveillance and tissue maintenance. This review provides an overview of how the microbiota regulates γδ T cells and the influence of microbiota-derived metabolites on γδ T cell responses, highlighting their impact on immune homeostasis. It also discusses intestinal neuro-immune regulation and how γδ T cells possess the ability to interact with both the microbiota and brain.
Comparison of Tepotinib, Paclitaxel, or Ramucirumab Efficacy According to the Copy Number or Phosphorylation Status of the MET Gene: Doublet Treatment versus Single Agent Treatment
Authors: Sohn Sung-Hwa , Sul Hee Jung , Kim Bum Jun , Zang Dae Young
Published: February 2024

Although conventional combination chemotherapies for advanced gastric cancer (GC) increase survival, such therapies are associated with major adverse effects; more effective and less toxic treatments are required. Combinations of different anti-cancer drugs, for example, paclitaxel plus ramucirumab, have recently been used as second-line treatments for advanced GC. This study evaluated how copy number variations of the MET gene, MET mutations, and MET gene and protein expression levels in human GC cells modulate the susceptibility of such cells to single-agent (tepotinib, ramucirumab, or paclitaxel) and doublet (tepotinib-plus-paclitaxel or ramucirumab-plus-paclitaxel treatment regimens. Compared with ramucirumab-plus-paclitaxel, tepotinib-plus-paclitaxel better inhibited the growth of GC cells with MET exon 14 skipping mutations and those lacking MET amplification but containing phosphorylated MET; such inhibition was dose-dependent and associated with cell death. Tepotinib-plus-paclitaxel and ramucirumab-plus-paclitaxel similarly inhibited the growth of GC cells lacking MET amplification or MET phosphorylation, again in a dose-dependent manner, but without induction of cell death. However, tepotinib alone or tepotinib-plus-ramucirumab was more effective against c-MET-positive GC cells (>30 copy number variations) than was ramucirumab or paclitaxel alone or ramucirumab-plus-paclitaxel. These in vitro findings suggest that compared with ramucirumab-plus-paclitaxel, tepotinib-plus-paclitaxel better inhibits the growth of c-MET-positive GC cells, cells lacking MET amplification but containing phosphorylated MET, and cells containing MET mutations. Clinical studies are required to confirm the therapeutic effects of these regimens.
Unregulated GmAGL82 due to Phosphorus Deficiency Positively Regulates Root Nodule Growth in Soybean
Authors: Song Jia , Liu Ying , Cai Wangxiao , Zhou Silin , Fan Xi , Hu Hanqiao , Ren Lei , Xue Yingbin
Published: February 2024

Nitrogen fixation, occurring through the symbiotic relationship between legumes and rhizobia in root nodules, is crucial in sustainable agriculture. Nodulation and soybean production are influenced by low levels of phosphorus stress. In this study, we discovered a MADS transcription factor, GmAGL82, which is preferentially expressed in nodules and displays significantly increased expression under conditions of phosphate (Pi) deficiency. The overexpression of GmAGL82 in composite transgenic plants resulted in an increased number of nodules, higher fresh weight, and enhanced soluble Pi concentration, which subsequently increased the nitrogen content, phosphorus content, and overall growth of soybean plants. Additionally, transcriptome analysis revealed that the overexpression of GmAGL82 significantly upregulated the expression of genes associated with nodule growth, such as GmENOD100, GmHSP17.1, GmHSP17.9, GmSPX5, and GmPIN9d. Based on these findings, we concluded that GmAGL82 likely participates in the phosphorus signaling pathway and positively regulates nodulation in soybeans. The findings of this research may lay the theoretical groundwork for further studies and candidate gene resources for the genetic improvement of nutrient-efficient soybean varieties in acidic soils.
Comparative Study of the Effect of Pollen Substitute Diets on Honey Bees during Early Spring
Authors: Kim Hyunjee , Frunze Olga , Maigoro Abdulkadir Yusif , Lee Myeong-Lyeol , Lee Jeong-Hyeon , Kwon Hyung-Wook
Published: February 2024

The nutritional quality of a colony significantly affects its health and strength, particularly because it is required for population growth in the early spring. We investigated the impact of various artificial pollen substitute diets on colony performance in the Republic of Korea during early spring, a critical period for colony health and growth. The colonies were provided with different diets, including the commercial product Megabee (positive control), our developed diet Test A, and four upgraded versions (Diet 1, Diet 2, Diet 3, and Diet 4) of Test A. The negative control group received no supplementary feed. Over 63 days, we observed 24 experimental colonies and assessed various parameters at the colony and individual levels. The results revealed that Diet 2 had the highest consumption and had the most positive impact on population growth, the capped brood area, colony weight, honey bees’ weight, and vitellogenin levels. These findings suggested that Diet 2 is most attractive to honey bees and thus holds great promise for improving colony maintenance and development during the crucial early spring period.
Development and Assessment of Internet of Things-Driven Smart Home Security and Automation with Voice Commands
Authors: Netinant Paniti , Utsanok Thitipong , Rukhiran Meennapa , Klongdee Suttipong
Published: February 2024

With the rapid rise of digitalization in the global economy, home security systems have become increasingly important for personal comfort and property protection. The collaboration between humans, the Internet of Things (IoT), and smart homes can be highly efficient. Interaction considers convenience, efficiency, security, responsiveness, and automation. This study aims to develop and assess IoT-based home security systems utilizing passive infrared (PIR) sensors to improve user interface, security, and automation controls using voice commands and buttons across different communication protocols. The proposed system incorporates controls for lighting and intrusion monitoring, as well as assessing both the functionality of voice commands and the precision of intruder detection via the PIR sensors. Intelligent light control and PIR intruder detection with a variable delay time for response detection are unified into the research methodology. The test outcomes examine the average effective response time in-depth, revealing performance distinctions among wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) and fourth- and fifth-generation mobile connections. The outcomes illustrate the reliability of voice-activated light control via Google Assistant, with response accuracy rates of 83 percent for Thai voice commands and 91.50 percent for English voice commands. Moreover, the Blynk mobile application provided exceptional precision regarding operating light-button commands. The PIR motion detectors have a one hundred percent detection accuracy, and a 2.5 s delay is advised for PIR detection. Extended PIR detection delays result in prolonged system response times. This study examines the intricacies of response times across various environmental conditions, considering different degrees of mobile communication quality. This study ultimately advances the field by developing an IoT system prepared for efficient integration into everyday life, holding the potential to provide improved convenience, time-saving effectiveness, cost-efficiency, and enhanced home security protocols.
Anomalous Arising of Right Coronary Artery from the Pulmonary Artery
Authors: Kolesár Adrián , Toporcer Tomáš , Čobejová Jana , Lukačin Štefan
Published: February 2024

Coronary artery anomalies are seen in less than 1% of the general population and in 1.6% of cardiac catheterization cases. The anomalous origin of the coronary artery from the pulmonary artery is one of four groups of coronary artery origin anomalies. The incidence of anomalous origin of the right coronary artery from the pulmonary artery is 1 in 500,000 and was first described in 1882 by John Brook. This case report reports on a 67-year-old man with a diagnosis of asymptomatic anomalous origin of the right coronary artery from the pulmonary artery. The patient underwent surgery of the aortic valve because of valve stenosis. A concomitant surgical procedure included repositioning of the right coronary artery origin to the aortic root sinus. The patient was discharged on the 12th postoperative day, in good condition. Anomalous origin of the right coronary artery from the pulmonary artery is commonly asymptomatic, and surgery is required only if myocardial ischemia is presented.
Interventricular Septal Hematoma Complicating Left Bundle Branch Area Pacing: A Case Report—The Devil Is Not So Black as He Is Painted
Authors: Pastori Paolo , De Rosa Fabrizio , Vitali Francesco , Fasulo Andrea , Tortorella Giovanni , Pastore Monica , Malagù Michele , Bertini Matteo
Published: February 2024

Background: This case report outlines the presentation of an emerging complication arising from left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP). Case summary: A 43-year-old male with no history of cardiac problems experienced recurrent episodes of syncope with no prodromal symptoms. During monitoring in the emergency department, the patient underwent an episode of asystole, leading to LBBAP implantation. The procedure encountered technical challenges, resulting in an interventricular septal hematoma and subsequent ventricular arrhythmias. Despite initial concerns, conservative management led to resolution, demonstrated through echocardiographic follow-ups. Discussion: This report underscores the significance of ventricular arrhythmias as indicators of interventricular septal hematoma, providing insights into its diagnosis, management, and implications for LBBAP procedures.
The Efficacy and Safety of Nivolumab Plus mFOLFOX6 in Gastric Cancer with Severe Peritoneal Metastasis
Authors: Nakayama Yurika , Ando Takayuki , Takahashi Naoki , Tsukada Kenichiro , Takagi Hiroaki , Goto Yuno , Nakaya Atsuko , Nakada Naokatsu , Yoshita Hiroki , Motoo Iori , Ueda Akira , Ueda Yuko , Sakumura Miho , Kajiura Shinya , Ogawa Kohei , Hosokawa Ayumu , Yasuda Ichiro
Published: February 2024

(1) Background: Nivolumab plus chemotherapy is established as a first-line treatment for advanced gastric cancer (AGC). While mFOLFOX6 is commonly used for AGC with severe peritoneal metastasis, the efficacy of nivolumab combined with it remains uncertain. We evaluated the outcomes of nivolumab plus mFOLFOX6 for AGC with severe peritoneal metastasis in clinical practice. (2) Methods: This multicenter retrospective study was conducted between December 2021 and June 2023. We investigated AGC patients with massive ascites or inadequate oral intake due to severe peritoneal metastasis and who received nivolumab plus mFOLFOX6. (3) Results: Among 106 patients treated with nivolumab plus chemotherapy, 21 (19.8%) had severe peritoneal metastasis, with 14 receiving nivolumab plus mFOLFOX6. The median progression-free survival was 7.4 months (95%CI 1.9-10.1), and the median overall survival was 10.7 months (95%CI 5.3-NA), with four patients (28.5%) surviving more than 12 months. Improved ascites and oral intake were observed in 6/14 patients (42.8%) and 10/11 patients (90.9%), respectively. The major grade 3 or more adverse events included leukopenia (28.5%) and neutropenia (21.4%), with no severe immune-related adverse events reported. (4) Conclusions: The safety and moderate efficacy of nivolumab plus mFOLFOX6 were suggested even in AGC patients with severe peritoneal metastasis.
Cholesteatoma Severity Determines the Risk of Recurrent Paediatric Cholesteatoma More Than the Surgical Approach
Authors: James Adrian L.
Published: February 2024

Objective: To evaluate factors that influence the rate of cholesteatoma recurrence (growth of new retraction cholesteatoma) in children. Methods: Review of children with primary acquired or congenital cholesteatoma. Severity was classified by extent and EAONO-JOS stage, and surgery by SAMEO-ATO. Primary outcome measure was 5-year recurrence rate using Kaplan–Meier or Cox regression analysis. Results: Median age was 10.7 years for 408 cholesteatomas from which 64 recurred. Median follow up was 4.6 years (0–13.5 years) with 5-year recurrence rate of 16% and 10-year of 29%. Congenital cholesteatoma (n = 51) had 15% 5-year recurrence. Of 216 pars tensa cholesteatomas, 5-year recurrence was similar at 14%, whereas recurrence from 100 pars flaccida cholesteatomas was more common at 23% (log-rank, p = 0.001). Sub-division of EAONO-JOS Stage 2 showed more recurrence in those with than without mastoid cholesteatoma (22.1% versus 10%), with more in Stage 3 (31.9%; p = 0.0003). Surgery without mastoidectomy, including totally endoscopic ear surgery, had 11% 5-year recurrence. Canal wall-up tympanomastoidectomy (CWU) and canal wall-down/mastoid obliteration both had 23% 5-year recurrence. Multivariate analysis showed increased recurrence for EAONO-JOS Stage 3 (HR 5.1; CI: 1.4–18.5) at risk syndromes (HR 2.88; 1.1–7.5) and age < 7 years (HR 1.9; 1.1–3.3), but not for surgical category or other factors. Conclusion: Young age and more extensive cholesteatoma increase the risk of recurrent cholesteatoma in children. When controlling for these factors, surgical approach does not have a significant effect on this outcome. Other objectives, such as lower post-operative morbidity and better hearing outcome, may prove to be more appropriate parameters for selecting optimal surgical approach in children.