bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aberrant salience in cannabis-induced psychosis: a comparative study
Authors: Ricci Valerio , Di Muzio Ilenia , Ceci Franca , Di Carlo Francesco , Mancusi Gianluca , Piro Tommaso , Paggi Andrea , Pettorruso Mauro , Vellante Federica , De Berardis Domenico , Martinotti Giovanni , Maina Giuseppe
Published: January 2024

Background

Natural Cannabis (NC) and Synthetic Cannabinoids (SCs) use can increase the risk and exacerbate the course of psychotic disorders. These could be influenced by the Aberrant Salience (AS) construct. It refers to an excess of attribution of meaning to stimuli that are otherwise regarded as neutral, thereby transform them into adverse, dangerous, or mysterious entities. This leads the patient to engage in aberrant and consequently incorrect interpretative efforts concerning the normal perception of reality and its relationship with our analytical abilities. AS appears to play a significant role in the onset and perpetuation of psychotic disorders. The internal conflict arising from aberrant attributions of significance leads to delusional thoughts, ultimately culminating in the establishment of a self-sustaining psychosis.

Aims

To examine the differences between psychoses course not associated with cannabis use and those associated with NC-use and SCs-use, in terms of psychotic and dissociative symptoms, AS, global functioning and suicidal ideation.

Methods

A sample of 62 patients with First Episode Psychosis (FEP) was divided into 3 groups: non cannabis users (non-users, N = 20); NC-users or rather Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) users (THC-users, N = 21); SCs-users, commonly referred to as SPICE-users (SPICE-users, N = 20). Each group underwent assessments at the onset of psychotic symptoms, as well as at the 3 months and 6 months marks, utilizing a range of psychopathological scales. These included the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) for investigating psychotic symptoms, the Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) scale for assessing overall functioning, the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES-II) for measuring dissociative symptoms, the Scale for Suicide Ideation (SSI) for evaluating suicidal ideation and the Aberrant Salience Inventory (ASI) scale for gauging AS.

Results

SPICE-users showed more severe and persistent positive symptoms, while negative symptoms were mostly represented among non-users. Non-users showed better recovery than SPICE-users in global functioning. All groups showed a decrease in both ASI scores and subscale scores. SPICE-users exhibited higher global AS scores and less improvement in this aspect compared to other groups.

Conclusion

This study may help understanding the role of AS in both non-substance-related and substance-induced psychosis. This knowledge may lead clinician to a better diagnosis and identify patient-tailored psychopharmacological treatment.
The relationship between education attainment and gout, and the mediating role of modifiable risk factors: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Huang Xin , Chen Xin , Liu Qixi , Zhang Zhiwei , Miao Juan , Lai Yuchan , Wu Jinqing
Published: January 2024

Objective

To investigate the causal relationship between educational attainment (EA) and gout, as well as the potential mediating effects of individual physical status (IPS) such as body mass index (BMI) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) and lifestyle habits (LH) including alcohol intake frequency (drinking), current tobacco smoking (smoking), and time spent watching television (TV).

Methods

Utilizing two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR), we analyzed the causal effects of EA on gout risk, and of IPS (BMI and SBP) and LH (smoking, drinking, and TV time) on gout risk. Multivariable MR (MVMR) was employed to explore and quantify the mediating effects of IPS and LH on the causal relationship between EA and gout risk.

Results

An elevation of educational attainment by one standard deviation (4.2 years) exhibited a protective effect against gout (odds ratio 0.724, 95% confidence interval 0.552–0.950; p = 0.020). We did not observe a causal relationship between smoking and gout, but BMI, SBP, drinking, and TV time were found to be causal risk factors for gout. Moreover, BMI, SBP, drinking, and TV time acted as mediating factors in the causal relationship between EA and gout risk, explaining 27.17, 14.83, 51.33, and 1.10% of the causal effects, respectively.

Conclusion

Our study indicates that having a genetically predicted higher level of EA may provide protection against gout. We found that this relationship is influenced by IPS factors such as BMI and SBP, as well as LH including drinking and TV time.
Acute malnutrition relapse and associated factors among 6–59 months old children treated in the community-based management of acute malnutrition in Dessie, Kombolcha, and Haik towns, Northeast Ethiopia
Authors: Yitayew Yibeltal Asmamaw , Yalew Zemen Mengesha , Nebiyu Samuel , Jember Desalegn Abebaw
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Undernutrition is a major health concern in many developing countries, and is one of the main health problems affecting children in Ethiopia. Although many children experience multiple relapses following the management of severe acute malnutrition, it is scarcely studied in Ethiopia.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Dessie, Kombolcha, and Haik towns among 6-59-month-old children enrolled and discharged from community-based acute malnutrition management (CMAM). The total sample size was 318 children, and data were collected from April 15, 2021, to May 14, 2021. The data were entered into EPI data version 4.4.1 before being exported and analyzed with SPSS version 25 software. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed, and a 95% confidence interval and p-value <0.05 were used to identify significantly associated variables. Additionally, the weight-for-height z-score (WHZ) was generated using the WHO Anthro 3.2.2 software.

Result

The overall acute malnutrition relapse after discharge from CMAM was 35.2% (6.6% relapsed to severe acute malnutrition and 28.6% relapsed to moderate acute malnutrition). The following variables were significantly associated with the relapse of acute malnutrition: child age (AOR: 3.08, 95% CI; 1.76, 5.39), diarrhea after discharge (AOR: 2.93, 95%CI; 1.51, 5.69), have not immunized (AOR: 3.05, 95% CI; 1.14, 8.23), MUAC at discharge (AOR: 3.16, 95% CI; 1.56, 6.40), and poorest and poor wealth index (AOR: 3.65, 95% CI; 1.45, 9.18) and (AOR: 2.73, 95% CI; 1.13, 6.59), respectively.

Conclusion

Over one-third of children treated with the CMAM program reverted to SAM or MAM. The age of the child, diarrhea after discharge, lack of immunization, MUAC at discharge (<13 cm), and poor and poorest wealth index were significantly associated with acute malnutrition relapse. Therefore, adequate health education and counseling services are essential for mothers to improve child immunization coverage and maintain adequate hygiene to prevent diarrhea. In addition, further experimental research is needed to investigate the effect of MUAC at discharge on the risk of acute malnutrition relapse.
Bidirectional associations between sensorineural hearing loss and depression and anxiety: a meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Zhi-qiang , Li Jing-yang , Ge Si-tong , Ma Tian-yi , Li Fu-yao , Lu Jun-liang , Si Shu-rui , Cui Zhe-zhu , Jin Yu-lian , Jin Xiang-hua
Published: January 2024

Background

Recently, the prevalence of sensorineural hearing loss (SNL) has been increasing, and several studies have suggested that depression, anxiety, and SNL may be associated with each other, however, individual findings still have discrepancies. To the best of our knowledge, no scholars have systematically elucidated the bidirectional associations between SNL, depression, and anxiety disorders from the perspective of meta-analysis. In this study, we aimed to systematically evaluate the bidirectional associations between SHL and depressive and anxiety symptoms, and to provide evidence-based medical evidence for reducing SNL, depression, and anxiety disorders.

Methods

We performed systematic review based on priori protocol that was registered with PROSPERO (No. CRD42022365963). Systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases identified articles published as of June 1, 2023, on the relationship between SNL and depression and anxiety. Meta-analysis was performed to calculate the odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the outcome metrics, and the results were combined to assess bivariate associations between the disorders with fixed or random effects. Sensitivity and subgroup analyzes were conducted to analyze sources of heterogeneity, and Egger’s and Begg’s tests combined with funnel plots were applied to assess publication bias.

Results

Summary analysis of the results of 20 studies covering 675,291 individuals showed that the bidirectional association between SNL and depression and anxiety disorders. The incidence (OR = 0.17, 95% CI: 0.09–0.28) and risk (OR = 1.43, 95% CI: 1.32–1.55) of depression and morbidity were higher in SNL patients than the general population. Elevated prevalence (OR = 0.46, 95% CI: 0.28–0.65) and risk (OR = 1.30, 95% CI: 1.11–1.48) of SNL were also observed in depressed patients. The prevalence of anxiety disorders among SNL patients was about 40% (OR = 0.40, 95% CI: 0.24%-0.57), which was associated with higher risk (OR = 1.83, 95% CI: 1.42–2.24) of development than the general population. Incidence of SNL in patients with anxiety disorders was approximately 31% (OR = 0.31, 95% CI: 0.29–0.33). Additionally, subgroup analyzes showed that the bidirectional associations between SNL, depression, and anxiety disorders was influenced by age, region, and mode of diagnosis of the disorders (SNL, depression, anxiety).

Conclusion

There are bidirectional associations between SNL and depression and anxiety disorders, which was influenced by age and region and the method the disorders (SNL, depression, anxiety) were diagnosed.
The impact of urban spatial environment on COVID-19: a case study in Beijing
Authors: Yang Zhen , Li Jiaxuan , Li Yu , Huang Xiaowen , Zhang Anran , Lu Yue , Zhao Xu , Yang Xueyan
Published: January 2024

Epidemics are dangerous and difficult to prevent and control, especially in urban areas. Clarifying the correlation between the COVID-19 Outbreak Frequency and the urban spatial environment may help improve cities’ ability to respond to such public health emergencies. In this study, we firstly analyzed the spatial distribution characteristics of COVID-19 Outbreak Frequency by correlating the geographic locations of COVID-19 epidemic-affected neighborhoods in the city of Beijing with the time point of onset. Secondly, we created a geographically weighted regression model combining the COVID-19 Outbreak Frequency with the external spatial environmental elements of the city. Thirdly, different grades of epidemic-affected neighborhoods in the study area were classified according to the clustering analysis results. Finally, the correlation between the COVID-19 Outbreak Frequency and the internal spatial environmental elements of different grades of neighborhoods was investigated using a binomial logistic regression model. The study yielded the following results. (i) Epidemic outbreak frequency was evidently correlated with the urban external spatial environment, among building density, volume ratio, density of commercial facilities, density of service facilities, and density of transportation facilities were positively correlated with COVID-19 Outbreak Frequency, while water and greenery coverage was negatively correlated with it. (ii) The correlation between COVID-19 Outbreak Frequency and the internal spatial environmental elements of neighborhoods of different grades differed. House price and the number of households were positively correlated with the COVID-19 Outbreak Frequency in low-end neighborhoods, while the number of households was positively correlated with the COVID-19 Outbreak Frequency in mid-end neighborhoods. In order to achieve spatial justice, society should strive to address the inequality phenomena of income gaps and residential differentiation, and promote fair distribution of spatial environments.
Risk of newly diagnosed interstitial lung disease after COVID-19 and impact of vaccination: a nationwide population-based cohort study
Authors: Kim Bo-Guen , Lee Hyun , Jeong Cho Yun , Yeom Sang Woo , Park Dong Won , Park Tai Sun , Moon Ji-Yong , Kim Tae-Hyung , Sohn Jang Won , Yoon Ho Joo , Kim Jong Seung , Kim Sang-Heon
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Previous studies suggested that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) could lead to pulmonary fibrosis, but the incidence of newly diagnosed interstitial lung disease (ILD) after COVID-19 is unclear. We aimed to determine whether COVID-19 increases the risk of newly diagnosed ILD and whether vaccination against COVID-19 can reduce this risk.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study used data from the Korean National Health Insurance claim-based database. Two study groups and propensity score (PS)-matched control groups were constructed: Study 1: participants diagnosed with COVID-19 (COVID-19 cohort) and their PS-matched controls; Study 2: COVID-19 vaccinated participants (vaccination cohort) and their PS-matched controls.

Results

In Study 1, during a median 6 months of follow-up, 0.50% of the COVID-19 cohort (300/60,518) and 0.04% of controls (27/60,518) developed newly diagnosed ILD, with an incidence of 9.76 and 0.88 per 1,000 person-years, respectively. The COVID-19 cohort had a higher risk of ILD [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR), 11.01; 95% confidence interval (CI), 7.42–16.32] than controls. In Study 2, the vaccination cohort had a lower risk of newly diagnosed ILD than controls (aHR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.34–0.57).

Conclusion

Using nationwide data, we demonstrated that COVID-19 was associated with a higher incidence rate of newly diagnosed ILD, but that this risk could be mitigated by COVID-19 vaccination.
Continuity of care for patients with dementia during COVID-19 pandemic: flexibility and integration between in-person and remote visits
Authors: Emedoli Daniele , Houdayer Elise , Della Rosa Pasquale Anthony , Zito Alice , Brugliera Luigia , Cimino Paolo , Padul Jeffrey David , Tettamanti Andrea , Iannaccone Sandro , Alemanno Federica
Published: January 2024

Introduction

During the pandemic, the Cognitive Disorders Unit of San Raffaele Hospital (Milan, Italy) offered patients the opportunity to undergo neuropsychological evaluations and cognitive training through telemedicine.

Method

We conducted an investigation to assess how patients responded to this option and to determine if telemedicine could ensure continuity of care.

Results

Between October 2019 and May 2022, a total of 5,768 telemedicine appointments and 8,190 in-person outpatient appointments were conducted, resulting in an increase in the rate of telemedicine activity from 16.81% in January 2020 to 23.21% in May 2022. Peaks in telemedicine activity reached 85.64% in May 2020 and 83.65% in February 2021, both representing a significant portion of the total activity. Interestingly, there was a notable positive correlation between telemedicine activity and the worsening of the Italian pandemic (r = 0.433, p = 0.027).

Discussion

During the peaks of contagion, the total number of visits remained stable, highlighting that telemedicine effectively served as a valuable and efficient tool to ensure continuity of care for vulnerable patients. This was evident from the integration of remote visits with in-person appointments.
Employee investigation and contact tracing program in a pediatric cancer hospital to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 among the workforce, patients, and caregivers
Authors: Hijano Diego R. , Dennis Sandra R. , Hoffman James M. , Tang Li , Hayden Randall T. ,   St. Jude COVID-19 Case Investigation and Contact Tracing Team, Gaur Aditya H. , Hakim Hana
Published: January 2024

Background

Case investigations and contact tracing are essential disease control measures used by health departments. Early in the pandemic, they were seen as a key strategy to stop COVID-19 spread. The CDC urged rapid action to scale up and train a large workforce and collaborate across public and private agencies to halt COVID-19 transmission.

Methods

We developed a program for case investigation and contact tracing that followed CDC and local health guidelines, compliant with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations and tailored to the needs and resources of our institution. Program staff were trained and assessed for competency before joining the program.

Results

From March 2020 to May 2021, we performed 838 COVID-19 case investigations, which led to 136 contacts. Most employees reported a known SARS-CoV-2 exposure from the community (n = 435) or household (n = 343). Only seven (5.1%) employees were determined as more likely than not to have SARS-CoV-2 infection related to workplace exposure, and when so, lapses in following the masking recommendations were identified. Between June 2021–February 2022, our program adjusted to the demand of the different waves, particularly omicron, by significantly reducing the amount of data collected. No transmission from employees to patients or caregivers was observed during this period.

Conclusion

Prompt implementation of case investigation and contact tracing is possible, and it effectively reduces workplace exposures. This approach can be adapted to suit the specific needs and requirements of various healthcare settings, particularly those serving the most vulnerable patient populations.
Effect of a lifestyle-integrated functional exercise (LiFE) group intervention (sLiFE) to falls prevention in non-institutionalized older adults. Protocol of a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Llamas-Ramos Inés , Llamas-Ramos Rocío , Lugones-Sánchez Cristina , González-García Susana , Tamayo-Morales Olaya , Alvarado-Omenat Jorge Juan , Pablos-Hernández Carmen , Gómez-Marcos Manuel A. , García-Ortiz Luis , Rodríguez-Sánchez Emiliano
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Personalized programs of integrated strength and balance activities have been shown their effectiveness in falls reduction in the older adults.

Objective

To measure whether a group intervention with the strength and balance principles of the sLiFE program is more effective than standard health advice in reducing the incidence of falls.

Methods

The study will comprise 650 participants with more than 65 years who live at home, observing established inclusion and exclusion criteria. Participants will be randomly assigned in two groups: group intervention (n = 325) and standard health advice (n = 325). The intervention group will follow the balance and strength activities described in the LiFE program manual. The group intervention will be carried out in groups of 12–14 and will consist of seven one-hour sessions over 12 weeks in health centres. Incidence of falls and quality of life will be assessed as primary outcome variables. Fear of falling and exercise adherence will be analysed as secondary outcome variables.

Discussion

Physical activity has been put forward as an effective treatment technique for these patients; however, long-term adherence to these programs remains a challenge. Group interventions could reduce dropout rates.

Conclusion

Falls represent a major health problem globally due to the disability they cause in older people. Prevention would help reduce not only their incidence but also the health costs derived from their treatment. Group intervention helps clinicians to save resources and time, being able to attend more people with the same quality of care.

Clinical trial registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05912088?distance=50&term=NCT05912088&rank=1, identifier NCT05912088.
A conceptual analysis of SBIRT implementation alongside the continuum of PrEP awareness: domains of fit and feasibility
Authors: Harris Lesley M. , Kerr Jelani C. , Skidmore Blake D. , Ghare Smita , Reyes-Vega Andrea , Remenik-Zarauz Vania , Samanapally Harideep , Anwar Rana Usman , Rijal Rishikesh , Bryant Kendall , Hall Martin T. , Barve Shirish
Published: January 2024

Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) is a supplementary intervention that can be incorporated into the Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Care Continuum, complementing initiatives and endeavors focused on Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) prevention in clinical care and community-based work. Referencing the Transtheoretical Model of Change and the PrEP Awareness Continuum, this conceptual analysis highlights how SBIRT amplifies ongoing HIV prevention initiatives and presents a distinct chance to address identified gaps. SBIRT's mechanisms show promise of fit and feasibility through (a) implementing universal Screening (S), (b) administering a Brief Intervention (BI) grounded in motivational interviewing aimed at assisting individuals in recognizing the significance of PrEP in their lives, (c) providing an affirming and supportive Referral to Treatment (RT) to access clinical PrEP care, and (d) employing client-centered and destigmatized approaches. SBIRT is uniquely positioned to help address the complex challenges facing PrEP awareness and initiation efforts. Adapting the SBIRT model to integrate and amplify HIV prevention efforts merits further examination.
Wear-resistant nickel-matrix composite coatings incorporating hard chromium carbide particles
Authors: Isern Luis , Impey Sue , Milosevic Danijela , Clouser Sidney J. , Endrino Jose Luis
Published: January 2024

This work evaluates the influence of plating variables on the morphology, composition homogeneity, and abrasive wear resistance of metal matrix composite coatings. A set of Ni/Cr3C2 coatings were brush plated onto steel coupons modifying two key variables: particle size and brush material. Compositional maps of unprecedented detail have been produced and analysed statistically to enhance understanding of composition distribution. The use of Abbott-Firestone curves to analyse surface morphology enabled the evaluation of valley and peak features. The coating differences highlighted by previous analyses have been compared with their behaviour in abrasive environments, simulated using Taber testing. Moreover, coupling Taber testing with partial compositional maps at different wear stages enabled monitoring of coating wear evolution. This methodology has revealed the importance of particle sedimentation during plating, which increased particle incorporation in the composite coating but also increased composition heterogeneity. The smaller 1.7 μm carbides and abrasive brushes produced coatings with more homogeneous morphologies, higher particle content, and increased resistance against abrasive wear, with a 60% reduction in material loss in comparison to the standard nickel coatings.
Barriers and facilitators of public transport use among people with disabilities: a scoping review
Authors: Mwaka C. R. , Best K. L. , Cunningham C. , Gagnon M. , Routhier F.
Published: January 2024

Barriers to public transport use may be experienced differently by people with various types of disabilities (e.g., physical, intellectual, cognitive, sensory). Thus, it is important to identify the variable needs within each element of the travel chain. For example, the unavailability or low volume of auditory announcements in a stop or station or on the public transport vehicle may be a barrier to people with visual disability who rely on hearing the information. Consequently, this could provoke negative emotions and unpleasant experiences, which may not be the case for people with physical disabilities. The primary objective was to describe the barriers and facilitators to using public transport experienced by people with disabilities (PWD). The secondary aim was to explore experiences in terms of self-efficacy and satisfaction, when using public transport among people with disabilities. A scoping review was conducted. The search was performed in MEDLINE, TRANSPORT DATABASE, PsycINFO, EMBASE, and WEB OF SCIENCE from 1995 to 2023. Of 6,820 citations identified, 34 articles were included in the review for extraction. The main physical and social barriers included lack of ramp, long walking distance, long waiting time, unavailability of information at bus stop or station, and drivers' negative attitudes towards PWD. Personal factors that prevented the use of public transport included lack of confidence, and decreased satisfaction with public transport use. Strategies such as providing ramps on public transport vehicles, availability of kneeling buses and courtesy of bus drivers, and travel training were considered as enablers to the use of public transport that can lead the improved self-efficacy and satisfaction. In conclusion, this review identified the physical and social barriers and facilitators in travel chain, and highlighted issues related to lack of confidence or self-efficacy and decreased satisfaction when PWD and older adults are using public transport. Identifying and understanding the barriers and facilitators to the use of public transport by PWD is a milestone that may help policy makers and transport operators around the world to develop and implement interventions enabling access, use and inclusion of this mode of transport, as the experiences of PWD when using this mode of transport have an impact on their well-being.
Tracking down the rare ciliate biosphere
Authors: Weiss James , Esteban Genoveva F.
Published: January 2024

In protists, rare species include dormant organisms and those that do not reach high population abundance, and therefore, are not detected in the samples. These rare microorganisms are part of the so-called ‘rare microbial biosphere’. Although some may occasionally become abundant or dominant under particular environmental conditions, others do have a very rare occurrence, characterized by always having very low populations. The rare protist biosphere represents a significant component of microbial communities, and it is crucial for maintaining ecosystem biodiversity and function. In this study, we aim to demonstrate the richness of the rare ciliate biosphere and hypothesize on the reasons of rarity by combining morphological and ecological details on some exceedingly rare ciliates. The study includes the first report of different morphotypes of Dactylochlamys since 1928, first report of Penardiella undulata since 1930, second report of Penardiella interrupta since 1930, and an undescribed Penardiella species. The first report of Bryophyllum caudatum since 1933, microscopical observations and taxonomical discussion of the rare Legendrea bellerophon and of and undescribed Legendrea species. A new Apertospathula sp. with prokaryotic endosymbionts is described. The rarity of these species is explored and explained by their anaerobic metabolism combined with their prey selection.
Engaging children's voices for tourism and marine futures through drawing in Gili Trawangan, Indonesia
Authors: Kwong Yim Ming Connie
Published: January 2024

Ocean tourism is a primary source of income for many small-island and coastal communities. Participatory processes have been advocated to develop and implement community-based management plans to address various problems induced from tourism development and achieve the desired and sustainable futures. One debate over such processes is the under-representation of children. Using drawing workshops with children, this paper aims to explore children's representations and temporal orientations toward the future of the marine environment of a tourist destination – Gili Trawangan in Indonesia. A total of 91 children participated in four drawing workshops in January 2023. They were asked to make two drawings based on the following broad questions: (1) What do you see/do at the sea and coast now? and (2) What do you want to see/do at the sea and coast 5 years later? They also attended a short interview to describe and explain what they had drawn. The children have represented uses of the sea and coast by themselves, other users as well as the marine animals. They have also expressed various temporal orientations through their drawings and interview, including anticipation, hope, expectation, concern, anxiety and despair. These temporal orientations offer a very strong set of information to be included in decision-making workshops and policy recommendations. This paper has reiterated that children do have a stake in such decision-making processes for their sustainable futures and thus their voices need to be heard. This paper is one of the attempts to provide opportunities for children to actively engage in research and have their voices heard through innovative methodologies. It is also the first attempt to explore children's orientations toward the marine futures with the intent to include such information in the subsequent decision-making process. It adds to the existing literature by engaging children's voices to promote inter-generational justice, and calls for increased efforts in the realization of such component in sustainable development.
Characterization of sewage quality and its spatiotemporal variations in a small town in Eastern Guangdong, China
Authors: Song Ping , Li Yiwei , Chen Huiru , Li Likai , Xia Haibo , Xiao Yeyuan , Fang Bingjie , Guo Yue , Bai Zhongrui , Ma Lu , Wang Jiawen , Yang Lei , Le Yanxia
Published: January 2024

The domestic sewage in rural areas of South China is characterized by a relatively low concentration of organic pollutants; however, the factors causing this have not been carefully examined. This study conducted a comprehensive survey on two sewer networks in a small town of Eastern Guangdong, China, via grab water sampling at a frequency of once every 2 weeks lasting for 1 year. The sewage quality showed significant variations across the systems, while a gradual decrease in the concentrations of chemical oxygen demand (COD), total nitrogen (TN) and phosphorus (TP) from the upper to lower reaches of sewers could be observed. Storm events could have a flushing effect on TP in the upper reach of sewers, but a dilution effect on COD and TN in flat terrains. The diurnal pattern of sewage was largely impacted by the position of the manholes and water consumption difference between holidays and normal days. Both COD/TN and TN/TP ratios of the sewage showed a lognormal distribution dominating in the range of 2.0–3.0 and ~10.0, respectively. The low ratio of COD/TN in the morning discharge peak could be attributed to the wide use of septic tanks in the area, while groundwater infiltration played more important roles in the basal flow conditions. This study could serve as a basic reference for designing and managing sewage infrastructure in rural areas of South China and highlights that prevention of groundwater infiltration is crucial to improve the efficiency of sewage infrastructure in high water table areas.
River-floodplain connectivity and residence times controlled by topographic bluffs along a backwater transition
Authors: Tull Nelson , Moodie Andrew J. , Passalacqua Paola
Published: January 2024

The morphology of river levees and floodplains is an important control on river-floodplain connectivity within a river system under sub-bankfull conditions, and this morphology changes as a river approaches the coast due to backwater influence. Floodplain width can also vary along a river, and floodplain constrictions in the form of bluffs adjacent to the river can influence inundation extent. However, the relative controls of backwater-influenced floodplain topography and bluff topography on river-floodplain connectivity have not been studied. We measure discharge along the lower Trinity River (Texas, USA) during high flow to determine which floodplain features are associated with major river-floodplain flow exchanges. We develop a numerical model representing the transition to backwater-dominated river hydraulics, and quantify downstream changes in levee channelization, inundation, and fluxes along the river-floodplain boundary. We model passive particle transport through the floodplain, and compute residence times as a function of location where particles enter the floodplain. We find that bluff topography controls flow from the floodplain back to the river, whereas levee topography facilitates flow to the floodplain through floodplain channels. Return flow to the river is limited to locations just upstream of bluffs, even under receding flood conditions, whereas outflow locations are numerous and occur all along the river. Residence times for particles entering the floodplain far upstream of bluffs are as much as two orders of magnitude longer than those for particles entering short distances upstream of bluffs. This study can benefit floodplain ecosystem management and restoration plans by informing on the key locations of lateral exchange and variable residence time distributions in river-floodplain systems.
Sun-as-a-star variability of Hα and Ca II 854.2 nm lines
Authors: Zills Garrett , Criscuoli Serena , Bertello Luca , Pevtsov Alexei
Published: January 2024

Studies of stellar magnetic fields mostly rely on proxies derived from chromospheric lines, typically forming in the UV and shorter wavelengths and therefore accessible only from space based observatories. Even Ca II K or H observations, forming in regions accessible from the ground, are not always available. As a result, there is a crucial need to explore alternative activity proxies to overcome the limitations posed by observational constraints. Using sun-as-a-star observations acquired with the ISS at SOLIS we investigated the correlation between the Ca II K emission index and indices derived from the Hα 656.3 nm and Ca II 854.2 nm lines, which are well known chromospheric diagnostics. We found that both the core intensities and widths of the two lines are positively correlated with the Ca II K emission index (ρ ≳ 0.8), indicating their suitability as reliable indicators of magnetic activity, the width of the Hα line showing the highest correlation (ρ = 0.9). We also found that such correlations vary with the activity cycle. Specifically, during the analyzed cycle 24, the correlations with the Ca II K index varied 14% for the Hα width, 33% for the Hα core intensity, and doubled for the two Ca II 854.2 nm line indices. These results suggest that, among the investigated indices, the Hα width best traces magnetic activity. Results are discussed at the light of current knowledge of the formation heights of the two lines, and of spatially resolved solar observations.
Coherence of Elsässer Variables in the slow solar wind from 0.1 au to 0.3 au
Authors: Wu Honghong , Yang Liping , Huang Shiyong
Published: January 2024

The highly Alfvénic fluctuations (AF) and magnetic-velocity alignment structures (MVAS) are two distinguished components in the near-Sun slow solar wind observed by Parker Solar Probe. The amplitudes of the Elsässer Variables z± of AF and MVAS show distinct features. However, how these fluctuations contribute to the slow solar wind turbulence remains unknown. Here we investigate the coherence between z+ and z− for the first time using the Parker Solar Probe measurements with a high resolution 0.8738 s in the slow solar wind from 0.1–0.3 au. We find that the coherence spectra of z+ and z− in the perpendicular directions for MVAS are remarkable higher than that for AF, in particular at large scale. There exists a break around 10 di (di is the ion inertial length) where the coherence decreases to a lower level for MVAS. A bump around 10 di appears on the coherence spectra of all three components for AF. The coherence of z+ and z− may relate to the possible nonlinear interactions reflected by the time series, the power spectra, and the self-correlation functions. These results help to understand the roles of AF and MVAS in the slow solar wind turbulence.
Impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on food systems in Manitoba, Canada and ways forward for resilience: a scoping review
Authors: Lowitt Kristen , Slater Joyce , Rutta Evodius
Published: January 2024

Various studies over the past 3 years have synthesized trends and impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on Canada’s national food system. However, less research has characterized the effects of COVID-19 within regional and provincial food system contexts. This article presents results from a scoping review of peer-reviewed and grey literature published from March 2020 until end of March 2023 examining the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on food systems in the province of Manitoba, Canada. Findings are presented according to the categories of food security funding, policy, and programming; individual and household food security; and food systems. In each area we synthesize key findings and discuss their significance in relation to existing food systems scholarship and national trends. Using review results, we propose priority areas for research and practice to support equitable and resilient food systems in Manitoba, including: (1) undertaking evaluation of food system policies, programs, and funding implemented during the pandemic (2) enhancing food security monitoring for vulnerable populations (3) further exploring community experiences and responses to food security, and (4) examining opportunities for local food systems development.
Structural, physicochemical and functional properties of dietary fibers from tea residue modified by steam explosion
Authors: Xing Yunhao , Zhou Yunmeng , Kuang Chuyu , Luo Kaiyun , Cheng Yunhui , Wang Xufeng , Wang Shaoyun
Published: January 2024

Effects of steam explosion (SE) treatment (0.3–1.0 MPa, 30–90s) on the physicochemical and functional properties of dietary fiber (DF) extracted from tea residue were investigated. Results showed that SE led to the formation of porous and less compact microstructures of tea residues. Compared with the control sample (12.41 g/100 g), the content of soluble dietary fiber (SDF) was markedly increased by SE, reaching the maximum of 23.03 g/100 g when steam explored at 0.5 MPa for 90 s, due to the degradation of insoluble dietary fiber (IDF). The physicochemical and functional properties were significantly influenced by SE treatments. IDF exhibited decreased water holding capacity (WHC), swelling capacity (SC), oil holding capacity (OHC) after SE, whereas the physicochemical properties of SDF from SE-treated tea residues (0.3 MPa, 90s) were greatly improved. The glucose absorption capacity (GAC), cholesterol adsorption capacity (CAC), and nitrite ion adsorption capacity (NIAC) of both IDF and SDF showed trends of first increasing and then decreasing, indicating that excessive SE treatment resulted in poor properties of DF. These findings are of great value for the high-value utilization of agricultural by-product and development of functional foods.
Application of carbon nanoparticles in endoscopic thyroid cancer surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: He Jiaxi , Sun Pengfei , Lin Jianhuang , Shen Jiali , Lin Huihui , Jiang Hongzhan , Qiu Rongliang , Lin Ende , Lu Yizhuo
Published: January 2024

Background

There has been a substantial increase in incidence of thyroid cancer globally over the past three decades, emphasizing the necessity for efficient surgical management. Surgical intervention requires meticulous lymphatic dissection; however, it is challenging to both accurately identify lymph nodes and preserve the surrounding structures. We investigated the role of carbon nanoparticles in endoscopic thyroid cancer surgery to improve surgical effects and reduce postoperative complications.

Methods

Chinese and English literature databases from inception to May 2023 were searched based on inclusion criteria, and data were extracted independently by two investigators. STATA software was used for data analysis.

Results

A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted with 13 publications (9 randomized and 4 non-randomized controlled trials). The results demonstrated that the application of carbon nanoparticles in thyroid surgery led to an increase in the number of retrieved lymph nodes and identification of metastatic lymph nodes. Furthermore, it considerably reduced the rate of improper parathyroidectomy and the incidence of postoperative hypocalcemia.

Conclusion

The application of carbon nanoparticles can effectively improve the effects of surgical treatment, can enhance the identification of intraoperative lymph nodes, reduce postoperative complications, and protect the integrity and function of the parathyroid gland.

Systematic Review Registration

www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO, identifier, CRD42023420504.
Correlation of temperature-sensing microchip and rectal temperature measurements in cats
Authors: Goig Marta , Godino Javier , Tejedor Maria Teresa , Burgio Federica
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Rectal temperature (RT) is the reference standard for clinical evaluation of body temperature in mammals. However, the use of a rectal thermometer to measure temperature can cause stress and other problems, especially in cats. There is a need for clinical techniques that reduce both stress and defensive behavior as part of the provision of better medical care. Subcutaneous temperature-sensing identification microchips fulfil the current legal requirements and provide a reading of subcutaneous temperature (MT).

Methods

The clinical study tried to determine whether there is agreement between MT and RT in normal (n = 58), hospitalized (n = 26) and sedated/anesthetized (n = 36) cats. Three measurements were taken using both methods (MT and RT) in each cat. Correlation between MT and RT, and differences between MT and RT, were estimated for pairs of data-points from the same individual, and all data pairs in each group were considered overall.

Results

There was a strong positive correlation between MT and RT (r = 0.7 to 1.0) (p < 0.0005). The mean differences (d) were always negative and although statistically significant, these d values are likely of no biological importance. The overall d was ‑0.1°C in normal cats (p < 0.0005), -0.1°C in hospitalized cats (p = 0.001) and -0.1°C in sedated/anesthetized cats (p = 0.001). The limits of agreement between MT and RT appear narrow enough for MT to be acceptable estimate of RT. The overall limits of agreement (95%) were ‑0.71°C and 0.53°C (in normal cats); ‑0.51°C and 0.34°C (in hospitalized cats) and ‑0.60°C and 0.42°C (in sedated/anesthetized cats).

Discussion

MT may provide a good alternative to RT measurement in cats. However, this study was mostly performed in animals that were normothermic. Therefore, further studies in larger groups of cats under different conditions are needed to compare trends and assess variation with time.
Genome stability assessment of PRRS vaccine strain with new ARTIC-style sequencing protocol
Authors: Jakab Szilvia , Bálint Ádám , Cseri Karolina , Bali Krisztina , Kaszab Eszter , Domán Marianna , Halas Máté , Szarka Krisztina , Bányai Krisztián
Published: January 2024

A tiling amplicon sequencing protocol was developed to analyse the genome sequence stability of the modified live PRRSV vaccine strain, Porcilis MLV. The backbone of the ARTIC-style protocol was formed by 34 individual primer pairs, which were divided into two primer pools. Primer pairs were designed to amplify 532 to 588 bp fragments of the corresponding genomic region. The amplicons are suitable for sequencing on Illumina DNA sequencers with available 600-cycle sequencing kits. The concentration of primer pairs in the pools was optimized to obtain a balanced sequencing depth along the genome. Deep sequencing data of three vaccine batches were also analysed. All three vaccine batches were very similar to each other, although they also showed single nucleotide variations (SNVs) affecting less than 1 % of the genome. In the three vaccine strains, 113 to 122 SNV sites were identified; at these sites, the minority variants represented a frequency range of 1 to 48.7 percent. Additionally, the strains within the batches contained well-known length polymorphisms; the genomes of these minority deletion mutants were 135 to 222 bp shorter than the variant with the complete genome. Our results show the usefulness of ARTIC-style protocols in the evaluation of the genomic stability of PRRS MLV strains.
Comparison of the effects of propofol and alfaxalone on the electrocardiogram of dogs, with particular reference to QT interval
Authors: Casoria Vincenzo , Greet Victoria , Auckburally Adam , Murphy Steve , Flaherty Derek
Published: January 2024

Cardiac electrical activity is often altered by administration of anesthetic drugs. While the effects of propofol in this regard have previously been described in dogs, to date, there are no reports of the effect of alfaxalone. This study investigated the impact of both propofol and alfaxalone on the ECG of 60 dogs, after premedication with acepromazine and methadone. Heart rate increased significantly in both groups. The PR and QRS intervals were significantly increased following propofol while with alfaxalone the QRS duration was significantly increased and ST segment depression was observed. The QT and JT interval were significantly shorter following induction with alfaxalone, but, when corrected (c) for heart rate, QTc and JTc in both groups were significantly greater following induction. When comparing the magnitude of change between groups, the change in RR interval was greater in the alfaxalone group. The change in both QT and JT intervals were significantly greater following alfaxalone, but when QTc and JTc intervals were compared, there were no significant differences between the two drugs. The similarly increased QTc produced by both drugs may suggest comparable proarrhythmic effects.
Alpha-lipoic acid improves the quality of ram spermatozoa stored at 4°C by reducing oxidative stress and increasing mitochondrial potential
Authors: Sun Xiaomei , Zhang Liuming , Kang Yan , Wang Xuyang , Jiang Caiyu , Wang Jian , Sohail Tariq , Li Yongjun
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Ram spermatozoa inevitably produce a large number of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during liquid storage, leading to oxidative stress and a decline of spermatozoa quality. Therefore, it is particularly important to add exogenous antioxidants during the process of semen liquid preservation. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether adding alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) to ram semen can reduce oxidative stress and enhance spermatozoa quality during the liquid storage at 4°C.

Methods

Different concentrations of ALA (0, 0.025, 0.05, 0.1, 0.5, 1 mM) were added to semen and stored at 4°C. During storage at 4°C, spermatozoa motility, kinetic parameters, membrane integrity, acrosome integrity, energy metabolism parameters (mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨM) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP)) and oxidative stress parameters [ROS, malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD)] were assessed.

Results and discussion

The results indicated that 0.1 mM ALA significantly (p<0.05) improved spermatozoa total motility (TM) and progressive motility (PM), plasma membrane integrity, acrosome integrity, ΔΨM, ATP, TAC, and SOD, while significantly (p<0.05) reducing spermatozoa ROS and MDA content compared to the control group. In conclusion, ALA can reduce damage caused by oxidative stress in spermatozoa and effectively improve the quality of semen preserved at 4°C. And the optimal concentration is 0.1 mM.
Entropy and the Kullback–Leibler Divergence for Bayesian Networks: Computational Complexity and Efficient Implementation
Authors: Scutari Marco
Published: January 2024

Bayesian networks (BNs) are a foundational model in machine learning and causal inference. Their graphical structure can handle high-dimensional problems, divide them into a sparse collection of smaller ones, underlies Judea Pearl’s causality, and determines their explainability and interpretability. Despite their popularity, there are almost no resources in the literature on how to compute Shannon’s entropy and the Kullback–Leibler (KL) divergence for BNs under their most common distributional assumptions. In this paper, we provide computationally efficient algorithms for both by leveraging BNs’ graphical structure, and we illustrate them with a complete set of numerical examples. In the process, we show it is possible to reduce the computational complexity of KL from cubic to quadratic for Gaussian BNs.