bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computerized working memory training for hypertensive individuals with executive function impairment: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Paradela Regina Silva , Cabella Brenno , Nucci Mariana Penteado , Ferreira Naomi Vidal , Torres Laura Aló , Martino Luiza Menoni , Consolim-Colombo Fernanda Marciano , Bortolotto Luiz Aparecido , da Costa Danielle Irigoyen , Irigoyen Maria Claudia
Published: July 2023

Background

Hypertension is associated with working memory (WM) impairment. However, the benefits of Cogmed WM training for the hypertensive population are unknown. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate Cogmed’s effects on the WM performance of hypertensive individuals with executive function (EF) impairment.

Methods

We included 40 hypertensive patients (aged 40–70 years, 68% female) with EF impairment. They were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive 10 weeks of adaptive Cogmed training or a non-adaptive control training based on online games. The primary outcome was the WM performance. The secondary outcomes were verbal memory, visuospatial ability, executive function, global cognition, and the neuronal activity measured using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) under two WM task conditions: low (memorization of 4 spatial locations) and high (memorization of 6 spatial locations). An intention-to-treat (ITT) and per-protocol (PP) analysis were performed.

Results

Cogmed did not show a significant effect on WM or any other cognitive outcome post-training. However, under the WM-low load and WM-high load conditions of the fMRI, respectively, the Cogmed group had an activation decrease in the right superior parietal lobe (ITT and PP analyses) and left inferior frontal lobe (PP analysis) in comparison to the control group.

Conclusion

The Cogmed showed no effects on the WM performance of hypertensive individuals with EF impairment. However, activation decreases were observed in frontoparietal areas related to the WM network, suggesting a more efficient neuronal activity after training.
Implication of tau propagation on neurodegeneration in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Lamontagne-Kam Daniel , Ulfat Anosha Kiran , Hervé Vincent , Vu Tra-My , Brouillette Jonathan
Published: July 2023

Propagation of tau fibrils correlate closely with neurodegeneration and memory deficits seen during the progression of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Although it is not well-established what drives or attenuates tau spreading, new studies on human brain using positron emission tomography (PET) have shed light on how tau phosphorylation, genetic factors, and the initial epicenter of tau accumulation influence tau accumulation and propagation throughout the brain. Here, we review the latest PET studies performed across the entire AD continuum looking at the impact of amyloid load on tau pathology. We also explore the effects of structural, functional, and proximity connectivity on tau spreading in a stereotypical manner in the brain of AD patients. Since tau propagation can be quite heterogenous between individuals, we then consider how the speed and pattern of propagation are influenced by the starting localization of tau accumulation in connected brain regions. We provide an overview of some genetic variants that were shown to accelerate or slow down tau spreading. Finally, we discuss how phosphorylation of certain tau epitopes affect the spreading of tau fibrils. Since tau pathology is an early event in AD pathogenesis and is one of the best predictors of neurodegeneration and memory impairments, understanding the process by which tau spread from one brain region to another could pave the way to novel therapeutic avenues that are efficient during the early stages of the disease, before neurodegeneration induces permanent brain damage and severe memory loss.
Case report: Metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma presenting seven years after loco-regional disease resection of primary tumor with interval in-transit and nodal metastases
Authors: Rusheen Joshua , Clune James , Ariyan Stephan , Baumann Raymond , Kluger Harriet , Olino Kelly , Weiss Sarah
Published: July 2023

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare tumor with a high risk of recurrence after definitive therapy; however, the optimal duration of surveillance is unclear. First recurrences typically occur within 3 years. National guidelines recommend that patients undergo physical examination and imaging for surveillance during this time period. However, the duration of surveillance beyond this is not defined. Here, we describe a case of a patient developing a recurrence of MCC 7 years after the primary diagnosis with interval in-transit and regional lymph node metastases 15 months following the treatment of the primary MCC. Such late recurrences are rare, largely not reported, and the risk factors contributing to late recurrences are not well described. This case highlights the possibility of late recurrences of MCC after an initial in-transit and nodal recurrence and underscores the importance of identifying predictors of recurrence that may better guide the duration of surveillance.
Pediatric cataracts of different etiologies contain insoluble, calcified particles
Authors: Minogue Peter J. , Rodriguez Sarah H. , Berthoud Viviana M. , Beyer Eric C.
Published: July 2023

Our recent studies in mice suggest that a crucial event for the development of cataracts is the formation of calcium-containing deposits. To examine the generality of pathologic mineralization as a novel mechanism of cataract formation, we analyzed lens material from different human cataract surgeries. Human lens material was obtained from routine cataract surgeries performed on three patients with dense, white cataracts: a 10-month-old with congenital cataracts, a 9-year-old with a uveitic cataract, and a 17-year-old with a traumatic cataract. The aspirated material from the cataract surgeries contained insoluble material that could be isolated by centrifugation. Many particles within the insoluble fraction stained with Alizarin red, a dye that stains insoluble calcified material. The appearance of these human insoluble, Alizarin red-stained particles was similar to some of those detected in homogenates from cataractous mouse lenses. These results support the hypothesis that pathologic mineralization may have a mechanistic role in the formation of cataracts of different etiologies.
Aesthetic outcomes of and anatomic reconstruction for Wassel type IV-D radial polydactyly using a modified Bilhaut-Cloquet procedure
Authors: Du Zijing , Cui Yan , Jiang Hao , Han Dong
Published: July 2023

Wassel type IV-D thumb duplication is the most complex form and anatomic reconstruction is difficult. The aim of this study was to create an aesthetically satisfactory anatomical reconstruction for Wassel type IV-D radial polydactyly thumbs using the modified Bilhaut-Cloquet procedure. Surgery was performed on 24 thumbs with Wassel type IV-D radial polydactyly. To align the joint surfaces, the proximal phalanxes were unequally joined, primarily on the ulnar, and the distal phalanx was either symmetrically joined or unequally joined via curvature osteotomy. The patients were followed up for 12–91 months. The interphalangeal joint remained stable in all cases. The average functional score was 13.5 points (maximum 14 points). The overall average cosmetic score was 3.3 (maximum 4 points). Our modification of the Bihaut-Cloquet procedure produced good functional results for patients with Wassel type IV-D radial polydactyly. This method is used to correct the alignment and to stabilize the interphalangeal joint in both hypoplastic thumbs.
Case report: Fourth branchial cleft cyst: a case of acute suppurative thyroiditis
Authors: Caseiro Alves M. Eduarda , Nunes Ana , Galhardo Júlia
Published: July 2023

This case report presents a 4 year-old-female patient with a neck mass who was diagnosed with an infected fourth branchial cleft cyst with left thyroid lobe involvement through fistulation. The case emphasizes the importance of considering uncommon etiologies, such as congenital anomalies, as a differential diagnosis when evaluating pediatric neck masses. The patient was prescribed broad-spectrum antibiotics, which led to the regression of the mass and inflammatory signs. Close follow-up in endocrinology and otorhinolaryngology appointments was maintained, and after 7 months, hypoplasia of the left lobe was observed. Thyroid function was reevaluated, and after two years, no recurrences were noted. The case highlights the significance of a comprehensive examination and assessment of corresponding clinical features, which can significantly reduce the rate of misdiagnoses and achieve an individualized diagnosis.
Beyond survival: the lasting effects of premature birth
Authors: Morniroli Daniela , Tiraferri Valentina , Maiocco Giulia , De Rose Domenico Umberto , Cresi Francesco , Coscia Alessandra , Mosca Fabio , Giannì Maria Lorella
Published: July 2023

Preterm birth, defined as birth before 37 weeks of gestation, is a major public health concern. It affects about 10% of all newborns globally and is the main cause of infant death and morbidity. Prematurity increases the likelihood of respiratory distress syndrome, cerebral palsy, and developmental abnormalities. Furthermore, premature newborns are at risk of acquiring chronic noncommunicable diseases later in life due to interference with organ system development during the in-utero and perinatal period. Because of the greater risk of long-term repercussions, preterm birth should be considered a chronic disorder, and gestational age and other birth histories should be included in all medical records for patients of all ages, especially when assessing the risk of multiple chronic diseases. Conventional methods for assessing preterm infant development, as well as reliable and precise growth monitoring, can lead to the early detection of growth decline and the adjustment of feeding regimens as needed. Because of its unique composition and useful components, human milk is a powerful tool for mitigating the negative outcomes associated with prematurity. It contains a variety of growth factors that promote the development of organs and systems, counteracting the negative effects of the abrupt interruption of intrauterine development and promoting better outcomes in all altered functions. Despite its multiple benefits, human milk cannot totally restore the lasting damage caused by premature birth. Premature infants cannot be completely overcome by nutrition alone, and yet adequate nutritional intake and human milk feeding are critical to their health and development.
Individual and social defenses in Apis mellifera: a playground to fight against synergistic stressor interactions
Authors: Gaubert Joy , Giovenazzo Pierre , Derome Nicolas
Published: July 2023

The honeybee is an important species for the agri-food and pharmaceutical industries through bee products and crop pollination services. However, honeybee health is a major concern, because beekeepers in many countries are experiencing significant colony losses. This phenomenon has been linked to the exposure of bees to multiple stresses in their environment. Indeed, several biotic and abiotic stressors interact with bees in a synergistic or antagonistic way. Synergistic stressors often act through a disruption of their defense systems (immune response or detoxification). Antagonistic interactions are most often caused by interactions between biotic stressors or disruptive activation of bee defenses. Honeybees have developed behavioral defense strategies and produce antimicrobial compounds to prevent exposure to various pathogens and chemicals. Expanding our knowledge about these processes could be used to develop strategies to shield bees from exposure. This review aims to describe current knowledge about the exposure of honeybees to multiple stresses and the defense mechanisms they have developed to protect themselves. The effect of multi-stress exposure is mainly due to a disruption of the immune response, detoxification, or an excessive defense response by the bee itself. In addition, bees have developed defenses against stressors, some behavioral, others involving the production of antimicrobials, or exploiting beneficial external factors.
Empirical study on the construction of a cognitive model of factorization in eighth-grade students
Authors: Zhangtao Xu , Jiabao Cai , Jiale Li , Na Li , Bo Li
Published: July 2023

The construction of cognitive models is the basis for cognitive diagnosis, and the cognitive models will change based on the purpose of the study. According to the purpose of mathematical education, the cognitive factorization model is constructed based on the competence and knowledge dimensions. The factorization cognitive model was preliminarily constructed using expert-defined and literature surveys, and a small-scale test was subsequently carried out. The rationality of the cognitive model was tested through verbal reports and the regression of the item's difficulty through the cognitive attributes. The study included a sample of 72 students from two eighth-grade classes in a junior high school located in Wuhan. A diagnosis was made based on the mastery of factorization knowledge and the level of mathematical operation ability of the eighth graders in the cognitive model. Research 1 demonstrates that the construction of the cognitive factorization model is reasonable. Research 2 shows that approximately 79% of students' mathematics operation ability can reach the level of knowledge understanding, 71% of students can reach the level of knowledge transfer, and only 28% of students can reach the level of knowledge innovation.
Parenting styles and obsessive-compulsive symptoms in college students: the mediating role of perfectionism
Authors: Hu Po , Liang Pengwei , Liu Xiaoyan , Ouyang Yuting , Wang Jianping
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Obsessive-compulsive symptoms is a common psychological phenomenon among early adulthood college students, which are closely related to their parents’ parenting styles. Theoretical and some empirical studies have suggested the mediating role of perfectionism in this process, but this has not been confirmed, and the binary perspective of positive-negative perfectionism has not been addressed in this issue.

Methods

This study aimed to investigate the mediating role of perfectionism in the relationship between parenting styles and obsessive-compulsive symptoms among college students. A total of 661 college students participated in this study.

Results

Negative perfectionism mediated the relationship between negative parenting style and obsessive-compulsive symptoms among college students. Negative parenting style predicted obsessive-compulsive symptoms through its positive predictive effect on negative perfectionism. However, the mediating effect of positive perfectionism was not significant in this process.

Discussion

This study provides further evidence of the mechanisms underlying the occurrence of obsessive-compulsive symptoms, and offers new ideas for interventions for OCD.
Common mental disorders and associated factors among Ethiopian prisoners: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Fentahun Setegn , Takelle Girmaw Medfu , Rtbey Gidey , Andualem Fantahun , Tinsae Techilo , Tadesse Gebresilassie , Melkam Mamaru
Published: July 2023

Background

Common mental disorders are a major public health concern in the world and negatively influence people’s psychological, physical, economic, and overall well-being. Since prisoners live with restricted freedom and lack regular social interaction like communication with family and friends, the prevalence of common mental disorders is frequently found to be higher among prisoners compared to the general population. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of common mental disorders and their associated factors among prisoners in Ethiopia.

Methods

The primary published studies were searched by using different databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, CINHAL, and African Journal Online. A total of eight primary articles that assessed the prevalence and associated factors of common mental disorders among Ethiopian prisoners were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The data were extracted using the data extraction format in a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and exported to Stata version 14 for further analysis. The statistical heterogeneity was assessed by the I2 test. Due to the presence of heterogeneity among included studies, a random effect meta-analysis model was employed. Egger’s weighted regression test and funnel plots were used to check the presence of publication bias.

Results

A total of 8 primary studies with 3,585 study participants were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of common mental disorders among Ethiopian prisoners was 62.29% with a 95% CI (50.94, 73.65). The subgroup analysis based on regional state revealed that the pooled prevalence of common mental disorders in Amhara, Oromia, and the other two regions (Addis Ababa and SNNPR) was 72.4, 50.23, and 54.25%, respectively. History of mental illness (AOR = 6.21, 95% CI: 3.27, 11.80), poor social support (AOR = 3.90, 95% CI: 1.45, 10.51), and traumatic life events (AOR = 3.63, 95% CI: 1.04, 12.73) were significantly associated with a common mental disorder in this review.

Conclusion

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, the pooled prevalence of common mental disorders among prisoners was high. Therefore, improving the delivery of mental health services in correctional institutions has a major contribution to the reduction of the disorder, and incarcerated people require more attention and early intervention for common mental disorders.
Perceptions of health among school-aged children living in socially vulnerable areas in Sweden
Authors: Isma Gabriella E. , Rämgård Margareta , Enskär Karin
Published: July 2023

Introduction

According to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, all children have the right to health. Since good health is a decisive factor for children’s future, investing in children’s health is important, especially children from vulnerable areas. The purpose of this study was to investigate the perceptions of health among school-aged children from socially vulnerable areas.

Methods

The study has an explorative mixed-method design with a participatory and inductive approach based on focus group interviews with children and youth leaders, respectively, at Multi-activity Centers in three of the vulnerable areas in Malmö Municipality, as well as results from the Multi-activity Centers’ own questionnaire. The data has been analyzed with inductive and deductive content analysis.

Results

The children and the youth leaders described health in terms of well-being, participation, and activity. Well-being included feeling good and safe, having a healthy body, and having fun by doing things together with friends and leaders. Participating in activities was described as having a feeling of involvement, being able to have an influence on the organization of the activities and participating on one’s own terms.

Discussion

The result of this study shows that participating in activities increases the child’s sense of well-being.
Volatility of the COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy: sentiment analysis conducted in Brazil
Authors: Machado Júnior Celso , Mantovani Daielly Melina Nassif , de Sandes-Guimarães Luísa Veras , Romeiro Maria do Carmo , Furlaneto Cristiane Jaciara , Bazanini Roberto
Published: July 2023

Background

Vaccine hesitancy is a phenomenon that can interfere with the expansion of vaccination coverage and is positioned as one of the top 10 global health threats. Previous studies have explored factors that affect vaccine hesitancy, how it behaves in different locations, and the profile of individuals in which it is most present. However, few studies have analyzed the volatility of vaccine hesitancy.

Objective

Identify the volatility of vaccine hesitancy manifested in social media.

Methods

Twitter’s academic application programming interface was used to retrieve all tweets in Brazilian Portuguese mentioning the COVID-19 vaccine in 3 months (October 2020, June 2021, and October 2021), retrieving 1,048,576 tweets. A sentiment analysis was performed using the Orange software with the lexicon Multilingual sentiment in Portuguese.

Results

The feelings associated with vaccine hesitancy were volatile within 1 month, as well as throughout the vaccination process, being positioned as a resilient phenomenon. The themes that nurture vaccine hesitancy change dynamically and swiftly and are often associated with other topics that are also affecting society.

Conclusion

People that manifest the vaccine hesitancy present arguments that vary in a short period of time, what demand that government strategies to mitigate vaccine hesitancy effects be agile and counteract the expressed fear, by presenting scientific arguments.
Adolescents in acute mental health crisis—Pilot-evaluation of a low-threshold program for emotional stabilization
Authors: Dixius Andrea , Michael Tanja , Altpeter Adriana , Ramos Garcia René , Möhler Eva
Published: July 2023

Background

Referrals for child and adolescent acute psychiatric treatment have spiked in the last two years. To provide these adolescents with a fast-acting intervention, a novel treatment approach for acute emotional dysregulation was evaluated in this study.

Methods

156 adolescents between the age of 13 and 18 years who were admitted to a psychiatric unit for acute emotional or behavioral dysregulation participated in a 5-week-group program (Stress-Arousal- Regulation-Treatment, START) which consisted of two sessions per week (60 min/session). Pre- and post intervention psychometric measures were derived for each participant applying the Self-Control Scale (SCS-13), the FEEL-KJ capturing adaptive and maladaptive emotion regulation strategies, the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), as well as the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ).

Results

The mean score of maladaptive emotion regulation strategies of the FEEL-KJ significantly decreased post treatment (d = −0.24, p = .001), while there was an increase in adaptive emotion regulation strategies (d = 0.25, p = .001). The post- intervention-assessment revealed significantly lower scores in the PSS-10 (d = −0.34, p < 0.001), as well as SDQ mental health problems (d = −0.17, p = .018) and disorders (d = −0.15, p = .015). The Self-Control Score increased significantly after the intervention (d = 0.21, p = .001).

Conclusions

In this large sample, the low-threshold intervention START significantly improved emotion regulation and self-control and reduced perceived stress as well as several scales of the strengths and difficulties questionnaire, pointing to a good feasibility and indicating efficiency to provide support to adolescents with acute mental health problems when applying this short-term treatment.
Executive function improvement in response to meta-cognitive training in chronic mTBI / PTSD
Authors: Waid-Ebbs J. Kay , Wen Pey-Shan , Grimes Tyler , Datta Somnath , Perlstein William M. , Hammond Carol Smith , Daly Janis J.
Published: July 2023

Objective

We tested Goal Management Training (GMT), which has been recommended as an executive training protocol that may improve the deficits in the complex tasks inherent in life role participation experienced by those with chronic mild traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disease (mTBI/PTSD). We assessed, not only cognitive function, but also life role participation (quality of life).

Methods

We enrolled and treated 14 individuals and administered 10 GMT sessions in-person and provided the use of the Veterans Task Manager (VTM), a Smartphone App, which was designed to serve as a “practice-buddy” device to ensure translation of in-person learning to independent home and community practice of complex tasks. Pre-/post-treatment primary measure was the NIH Examiner, Unstructured Task. Secondary measures were as follows: Tower of London time to complete (cTOL), Community Reintegration of Service Members (CRIS) three subdomains [Extent of Participation; Limitations; Satisfaction of Life Role Participation (Satisfaction)]. We analyzed pre-post-treatment, t-test models to explore change, and generated descriptive statistics to inspect given individual patterns of change across measures.

Results

There was statistically significant improvement for the NIH EXAMINER Unstructured Task (p < .02; effect size = .67) and cTOL (p < .01; effect size = .52. There was a statistically significant improvement for two CRIS subdomains: Extent of Participation (p < .01; effect size = .75; Limitations (p < .05; effect size = .59). Individuals varied in their treatment response, across measures.

Conclusions and Clinical Significance

In Veterans with mTBI/PTSD in response to GMT and the VTM learning support buddy, there was significant improvement in executive cognition processes, sufficiently robust to produce significant improvement in community life role participation. The individual variations support need for precision neurorehabilitation. The positive results occurred in response to treatment advantages afforded by the content of the combined GMT and the employment of the VTM learning support buddy, with advantages including the following: manualized content of the GMT; incremental complex task difficulty; GMT structure and flexibility to incorporate individualized functional goals; and the VTM capability of ensuring translation of in-person instruction to home and community practice, solidifying newly learned executive cognitive processes. Study results support future study, including a potential randomized controlled trial, the manualized GMT and availability of the VTM to ensure future clinical deployment of treatment, as warranted.
CIRCumcision learning experience using simulation: A pilot learning platform for safe neonatal circumcision training offered either virtually or in person
Authors: Dos Santos Joana , Alsabban Abdulrahman , Maizels Max , Chua Michael , Vuppal Sunayna , Louca Emily , Perlmutar Martin , Knabl Jennifer , Rickard Mandy , Varghese Abby , Lorenzo Armando J. , Koyle Martin Allan
Published: July 2023

Background

To our knowledge, no formal training combining didactic learning, simulation, and hands-on performance is available for practitioners performing neonatal circumcision. The absence of structured training may result in avoidable complications such as bleeding and penile injury. Herein, we present the results of a pilot neonatal circumcision training platform, offered either virtually or in person.

Material and methods

CIRCLES (CIRCumcision Learning Experience using Simulation) consist of 1. online didactic learning; 2. live simulation practice (in person or virtual coaching), and 3. clinical performance. Outcome measures included pre- and post-knowledge scores, self-efficacy questionnaires, and skill assessments of simulation and clinical performance (Likert rating). Face validity for training success was determined by an 80% passing score on the knowledge test and > 75% (mostly independent) performance.

Results

For this pilot, we restricted enrolment to seven pediatric residents and one nurse practitioner. Wilcoxon Sum Rank test for non-parametric paired samples for pre-and post-knowledge tests showed a median increase of 20 points in post-knowledge tests (p=0.011). Upon completion of the simulation training, all participants (8/8) have chosen to perform circumcision with the GOMCO clamp. Both in-person (4/4) and virtual participants (4/4) performed >75% of simulation and clinical circumcision independently. Post-training self-efficacy Z scores were higher than pre-training scores, except for the management of bleeding.

Conclusion

The pilot CIRCLES learning shows face validity for both in-person and virtual training for neonatal circumcision. We plan to extend this platform to include more trainees and to offer them to established practitioners. The availability of formal training may ultimately reduce adverse outcomes.
Impact of colloidal stabilization of MnZn-ferrite nanoparticles by oleic acid on their magnetothermal properties
Authors: Liu N. N. , Alekhina Yu. A. , Pyatakov A. P. , Zharkov M. N. , Yakobson D. E. , Pyataev N. A. , Sukhorukov G. B. , Perov N. S. , Tishin A. M.
Published: July 2023

Introduction: The development of magnetic agents for magnetic fluid hyperthermia application is a complex task requiring simultaneous optimization of chemical, biomedical, magnetic, and, in particular, thermal properties of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs). In the majority of papers, the magnetothermal measurements are carried out on bare MNPs suspended in deionized water with subsequent optimization of the required physiological and medical properties, including toxicity and biocompatibility. However, in real hyperthermia practice, the stable fluids or colloids of magnetic MNPs are used, and the colloidal stabilization can significantly modify their magnetic properties, including magnetothermal ones.

Methods: This paper is focused on the study of ZnxMn1-xFe2O4 MNPs stabilized by oleic acid/sodium oleate in this context.

Results and Discussion: Our research demonstrates the crucial changes in the magnetic properties and magnetothermal response of ZnMn ferrite MNPs after the colloidal stabilization: while bare MNPs demonstrate significant coercivity, nonzero remanent magnetization, and superquadratic dependence of heat generation on the magnetic field amplitude, the magnetic properties of colloidal ZnMn ferrite MNPs are typical for superparamagnetic ones and their magnetothermal response is described by a conventional quadratic dependence on magnetic field amplitude. Various factors such as size distribution, magnetic anisotropy, and interparticle dipole–dipole interaction are considered as the origins of such an impact on magnetic MNPs’ properties.
Jean Cruveilhier (1791–1874), a Predecessor of Evidence-Based Medicine
Authors: Arráez-Aybar Luis-Alfonso , Fuentes-Redondo Talía , Bueno-López José-Luis , Romero-Reverón Rafael
Published: July 2023

This article focuses on Jean Cruveilhier and particularly on his book Anatomie descriptive, which was a great success during the author’s lifetime. (Notwithstanding this, it is pertinent to point out that the five editions of Anatomie descriptive were surpassed in number by others of the Cruveilhier’s creations, such as Anatomie pathologique and Traité d’Anatomie pathologique.) Unlike other texts of the time and later, Anatomie descriptive presents the anatomy of the human body in a way that can be applied both by students and medical professionals. The objectives of Anatomie descriptive were to make understand how the functions of an organ can be inferred from its structure, and to encourage students and professionals to investigate the anatomical origin of health and disease phenomena. Depending on which sections of the book, the parts of the body were described with morphological, topographic or functional criteria. Many of Cruveilhier’s contributions influenced anatomical eponymy and keep today’s Terminologia Anatomica alive. All of this has made consider Jean Cruveilhier the most outstanding anatomist in France of the first half of the nineteenth century. Due to the scientific rigor Cruveilhier always applied and asked to be applied in the investigation of the anatomic changes linked to pathological processes, he could certainly be considered a predecessor of the objectivity sought by evidence-based medicine.
Broccoli: A Multi-Faceted Vegetable for Health: An In-Depth Review of Its Nutritional Attributes, Antimicrobial Abilities, and Anti-inflammatory Properties
Authors: Syed Rahamat Unissa , Moni Sivakumar Sivagurunathan , Break Mohammed Khaled Bin , Khojali Weam M. A. , Jafar Mohammed , Alshammari Maali D. , Abdelsalam Karim , Taymour Soha , Alreshidi Khetam Saad Mutni , Elhassan Taha Manal Mohamed , Mohan Syam
Published: July 2023

Broccoli, Brassica oleracea var. italica, has recently gained considerable attention due to its remarkable nutritional composition and numerous health benefits. In this review, the nutritional aspects of broccoli are examined, highlighting its rich nutrient content and essential bioactive compounds. The cruciferous vegetable broccoli is a rich source of several important nutrients, including fiber, vitamins (A, C, and K), minerals (calcium, potassium, and iron), and antioxidants. It has also been shown to contain bioactive compounds such as glucosinolates, sulforaphane, and indole-3-carbinol, all of which have been shown to have significant health-promoting effects. These chemicals are known to have potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. This review article aims to comprehensively examine the diverse spectrum of nutrients contained in broccoli and explore its medicinal potential to promote human health.
New Insights on the Uptake and Trafficking of Coenzyme Q
Authors: Guile Michael D. , Jain Akash , Anderson Kyle A. , Clarke Catherine F.
Published: July 2023

Coenzyme Q (CoQ) is an essential lipid with many cellular functions, such as electron transport for cellular respiration, antioxidant protection, redox homeostasis, and ferroptosis suppression. Deficiencies in CoQ due to aging, genetic disease, or medication can be ameliorated by high-dose supplementation. As such, an understanding of the uptake and transport of CoQ may inform methods of clinical use and identify how to better treat deficiency. Here, we review what is known about the cellular uptake and intracellular distribution of CoQ from yeast, mammalian cell culture, and rodent models, as well as its absorption at the organism level. We discuss the use of these model organisms to probe the mechanisms of uptake and distribution. The literature indicates that CoQ uptake and distribution are multifaceted processes likely to have redundancies in its transport, utilizing the endomembrane system and newly identified proteins that function as lipid transporters. Impairment of the trafficking of either endogenous or exogenous CoQ exerts profound effects on metabolism and stress response. This review also highlights significant gaps in our knowledge of how CoQ is distributed within the cell and suggests future directions of research to better understand this process.
When Cannabis sativa L. Turns Purple: Biosynthesis and Accumulation of Anthocyanins
Authors: Bassolino Laura , Fulvio Flavia , Pastore Chiara , Pasini Federica , Gallina Toschi Tullia , Filippetti Ilaria , Paris Roberta
Published: July 2023

Environmental cues elicit anthocyanin synthesis in plant vegetative and reproductive tissues. Their accumulation in different organs accounts for their diverse biological functions, mainly related to their antioxidant properties, and it depends on a temporally and spatially regulated mechanism controlled by the action of a well-known multi-transcription factor complex. Despite the highly recognizable value of Cannabis sativa L. as a natural biorefinery of phytochemicals, very little information is known on anthocyanin pigmentation in this species. In this work, a targeted quantification of anthocyanins via HPLC-MS/MS, combined with the transcriptional profile via RT-qPCR of genes encoding for structural and decorating enzymes and regulatory transcription factors in different C. sativa tissues, help gain insights into the anthocyanin pathway in this species. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the identification of cyanidin-3-rutinoside (keracyanin) as the major anthocyanin in C. sativa vegetative and floral tissues. Keracyanin amounts were higher than in small berries, suggesting that Cannabis biomass is a valuable source of colored antioxidants to be exploited in diverse applications. Furthermore, a gene putatively encoding for an anthocyanin DTX35 type transporter and CsTTG1 were identified in silico and their transcriptional levels were assessed via RT-qPCR. The results allow us to provide the first model of anthocyanin regulation in C. sativa, opening a new research scenario in this species for both breeding purposes and phytochemical exploitation.
Using TRIZ Theory to Create Prototypes to Reduce the Potential Impact of a Phone’s Magnetic Field on the Human Body
Authors: Lai Chao-Jung , Hsueh Ming-Hsien , Chang Cheng-Wen , Ip Tsz-Ming
Published: July 2023

Currently, people spend many more hours on smartphones, and the potential impact of phone radiation is receiving more attention. Reducing the impact of a phone’s magnetic field on human health is vital. Although many studies advise changing phone use habits, such as reducing call times to impede phone radiation, there are no specific products found in the literature to prevent or reduce phone radiation. Therefore, this study used TRIZ theory as a research method to design prototypes in order to reduce the potential impacts of magnetic fields generated by smartphones on the human body. The results show that the distance between the human body and the phone is negatively related to phone radiation; the longer the distance is, the less phone radiation there is. Three prototypes have been designed through this research in order to reduce a phone’s radiation. The first testing condition simulates a phone conversation in which the prototypes are installed on the phone while having a WhatsApp conversation. The second testing condition simulates phone standby mode in which the prototypes are installed on a phone while the phone’s Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, data, GPS, and hotpot are on. A magnetic field tester was used to measure the magnetic fields every 5 s, and each measurement set lasted for 3 min. Five sets of measurements were completed at the end, and the average result shows that the use of prototypes under these two conditions can reduce 100% and 90% of the magnetic field generated by a smartphone during a phone conversation and the phone’s standby mode, respectively.
Development and Application of a Microsurfacing Mix Design Method to Assess the Influence of the Emulsion Type
Authors: Moura Caroline F. N. , Oliveira Joel R. M. , Silva Hugo M. R. D. , Palha Carlos A. O. F. , Sangiorgi Cesare
Published: July 2023

Microsurfacing asphalt mixtures are a preventive maintenance technology comprising the application of a slurry (produced with a modified asphalt emulsion), aggregate, filler, and water on top of an existing pavement at ambient temperature. Although it is a widely used technology, further studies on the mix design procedures are necessary to ensure an adequate composition. Thus, this study contributes to developing an improved mix design procedure for microsurfacing asphalt mixtures. Different mixtures were prepared, and the influence of the type and amount of asphalt emulsion and the amount of added water and filler (cement) on the characteristics of the mixture were evaluated. Two preliminary tests, referred to as the “pizza test” and the “ball test”, were proposed to determine the initial proportions of added water and cement in the mixture, respectively. Then, consistency, cohesion, and shaking abrasion tests were performed to determine the optimum content of each component and evaluate their influence on the mixture characteristics. The results showed that these tests are essential to optimize the mix composition, even though it was found that the mix design of microsurfacings is a complex task because the mixture is a system with chemical interactions strongly influenced by its composition.
Accurate Tracking Algorithm for Cluster Targets in Multispectral Infrared Images
Authors: Yang Shuai , Zou Zhihui , Li Yingchao , Shi Haodong , Fu Qiang
Published: July 2023

To address the issue of poor tracking accuracy and the low recognition rate for multiple small targets in infrared images caused by uneven image intensity, this paper proposes an accurate tracking algorithm based on optical flow estimation. The algorithm consists of several steps. Firstly, an infrared image subspace model is established. Secondly, a full convolutional network (FCN) is utilized for local double-threshold segmentation of the target image. Furthermore, a target observation model is established using SIR filtering particles. Lastly, a shift vector sum algorithm is employed to enhance the intensity of the infrared image at a certain time scale in accordance with the relationship between the pixel intensity and the temporal parameters of the detected image. Experimental results demonstrate that the multi-target tracking accuracy (MOTA) reaches 79.7% and that the inference speed frame per second (FPS) reaches 42.3. Moreover, the number of ID switches during tracking is 9.9% lower than that of the MOT algorithm, indicating high recognition of cluster small targets, stable tracking performance, and suitability for tracking weak small targets on the ground or in the air.
scCGImpute: An Imputation Method for Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Data Based on Similarities between Cells and Relationships among Genes
Authors: Liu Tiantian , Li Yuanyuan
Published: July 2023

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) has become a powerful technique to investigate cellular heterogeneity and complexity in various fields by revealing the gene expression status of individual cells. Despite the undeniable benefits of scRNA-seq, it is not immune to its inherent limitations, such as sparsity and noise, which would hinder downstream analysis. In this paper, we introduce scCGImpute, a model-based approach for addressing the challenges of sparsity in scRNA-seq data through imputation. After identifying possible dropouts using mixed models, scCGImpute takes advantage of the cellular similarity in the same subpopulation to impute and then uses random forest regression to obtain the final imputation. scCGImpute only imputes the likely dropouts without changing the non-dropout data and can use information from the similarity of cells and genetic correlation simultaneously. Experiments on simulation data and real data were made, respectively, to evaluate the performance of scCGImpute in terms of gene expression recovery and clustering analysis. The results demonstrated that scCGImpute can effectively restore gene expression and improve the identification of cell types.
Hybrid Traffic Scheduling in 5G and Time-Sensitive Networking Integrated Networks for Communications of Virtual Power Plants
Authors: Wu Junmin , Liu Chuan , Tao Jing , Liu Shidong , Gao Wei
Published: July 2023

The virtual power plant is one of the key technologies for the integration of various distributed energy resources into the power grid. To enable its smooth and reliable operation, the network infrastructure that connects the components for critical communications becomes a research challenge. Current communication networks based on the traditional Ethernet and long-term evolution cannot provide the required deterministic low latency or reliable communication services. This paper presents a three-layer virtual power plant communication architecture with 5G and time-sensitive networking integrated networks for both determinism and mobility. The service types and traffic requirements of the virtual power plant are analyzed and mapped between 5G and time-sensitive networking to guarantee their quality of service. This paper proposes a semi-persistent scheduling with reserved bandwidth sharing and a pre-emption mechanism for time-critical traffic to guarantee its bounded latency and reliability while improving the bandwidth utilization. The performance evaluation results show that the proposed mechanism effectively reduces the end-to-end delay for both time-triggered traffic and event-triggered traffic compared with the dynamic scheduling method. For event-triggered traffic, the proposed mechanism has comparable end-to-end delay performance to the static scheduling method. It largely improves the resource utilization compared to the static scheduling method when the network load becomes heavy. It achieves an optimum performance tradeoff between delay and resource utilization when the percentage of the reserved resource blocks is 30% in the simulation.
Hybrid Services Collaborative Resource Scheduling Strategy towards Artificial Intelligence of Things
Authors: Li Songnong , Yan Yao , Ji Yongliang , Peng Wenxin , Wan Lingyun , Zhang Puning
Published: July 2023

The increasing number of Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT) devices at the edge layer brings serious challenges to the traditional access network architecture, which results in a decrease in data transmission due to different QoS requirements. To improve the QoS of the URLLC service and mMTC service in the AIoT, a Hybrid Services Collaborative Resource Scheduling Strategy (HSCRS) is proposed. First, a multi-layer collaborative resource scheduling framework for the AIoT hybrid services is designed based on the F-RAN. Then, a throughput weighting model for hybrid services is constructed to analyze the throughput characteristics of mMTC service and URLLC service. Furthermore, a sub-channel allocation and power control method is designed to solve the resource scheduling strategy of hybrid services. Experimental results show that the proposed method can largely improve the network throughput performance.
Age-Resilient Stickiness of Capture Threads
Authors: Meyer Marco , Joel Anna-Christin
Published: July 2023

Typical orb webs with glue droplets are renewed regularly, sometimes multiple times per night. Such behaviour, however, is rarely found with cribellate spiders. The adhesive portion of their capture threads consist of nanofibres instead of glue, and the fibres interact with the cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) of their insect prey for adhesion. Many of these spiders often only add new threads to their existing webs instead of completely reconstructing them. In testing the adhesion force of aged capture threads of three different cribellate species, we indeed did not observe an overall decline in adhesion force, even after a period of over a year. This is in line with the (formulated but so far never tested) hypothesis that when comparing gluey capture threads to nanofibrous ones, one of the benefits of cribellate capture threads could be their notable resistance to drying out or other ageing processes.
Combined State of Charge and State of Energy Estimation for Echelon-Use Lithium-Ion Battery Based on Adaptive Extended Kalman Filter
Authors: Hou Enguang , Wang Zhen , Zhang Xiaopeng , Wang Zhixue , Qiao Xin , Zhang Yun
Published: July 2023

To ensure the safety and reliability of an echelon-use lithium-ion battery (EULIB), the performance of a EULIB is accurately reflected. This paper presents a method of estimating the combined state of energy (SOE) and state of charge (SOC). First, aiming to improve the accuracy of the SOE and SOC estimation, a third-order resistor-capacitance equivalent model (TRCEM) of a EULIB is established. Second, long short-term memory (LSTM) is introduced to optimize the Ohmic internal resistance (OIR), actual energy (AE), and actual capacity (AC) parameters in real time to improve the accuracy of the model. Third, in the process of the SOE and SOC estimation, the observation noise equation and process noise equation are updated iteratively to make adaptive corrections and enhance the adaptive ability. Finally, an SOE and SOC estimation method based on LSTM optimization and an adaptive extended Kalman filter (AEKF) is established. In simulation experiments, when the capacity decays to 90%, 60% and 30% of the rated capacity, regardless of whether the initial value is consistent with the actual value, the values of the SOE and SOC estimation can track the actual value with strong adaptive ability, and the estimated error is less than 1.19%, indicating that the algorithm has a high level of accuracy. The method presented in this paper provides a new perspective for estimating the SOE and SOC of a EULIB.