bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnosis of 7q11.23 deletion in a patient from Manaus, Amazonas with Williams-Beuren syndrome: Case report
Authors: Carvalho Natalia Dayane Moura , Prazeres Vania Mesquita Gadelha , Rezende Cleiton Fantin
Published: June 2024

Williams-Beuren Syndrome is a rare disease caused by a chromosomal microdeletion in region 7q11.23.  It is characterized as multisystemic, including intellectual and learning disabilities, distinct facial features, short stature, hypersocial behavior, and many malformations. Its diagnosis is traditionally clinical, but cytogenomic analyses such as fluorescence in situ hybridization can also be used for better etiological characterization of the syndrome. Our objective is to report the case of a boy in Manaus/Amazonas with Williams-Beuren Syndrome that presents a microdeletion in region 7q11.23. The patient is male, 12 years, of non-consanguineal parents, and no family history of hereditary diseases. The patient was sent for genetic testing after assessment of possible genetic syndrome, as the physical exams presented a gnome-like face, short nasal bridge, full lips, frequent smile, short stature, difficulty learning and atrioventricular dysplasia of valves with mild insufficiency and a cist in the left kidney. The results of the karyotype exam were normal and the fluorescence in situ hybridization revealed the microdeletion of region 7q11.23. Upon the follow-up, the subject was diagnosed with Williams-Beuren Syndrome. This microdeletion results in the loss of various genes that affect genic dosage/genic haploinsufficiency, resulting in a cytogenetic imbalance, consequently contributing to the patient’s phenotype. Therefore, the cytogenomic analysis was instrumental for the etiological diagnosis, in which microdeletion 7q11.23 was identified, allowing for proper diagnosis and prognosis, genetic counseling, and medical decisions, granting a better quality of life for the patient.
Anomalies and anatomical variations in the coronary arteries and their possible implications
Authors: Morais Maria Laura Oliveira , Souza Ana Cristina Romano Marquez
Published: June 2024

With the increase in coronary procedures, understanding the anatomical patterns of the coronary arteries is becoming increasingly crucial, since they can result in implications for the patient. The aim of this study was to carry out a detailed analysis of the coronary arteries of hearts from the Human Anatomy and Pathology Laboratory at the University of Uberaba (UNIUBE). This topic was selected due to its relevance in understanding pathological changes resulting from alterations in blood flow. A cross-sectional analytical observational study was carried out over a period of 20 months: August 2022 to April 2024. The material for the study consisted of 40 preserved cadaveric hearts and data collection was based on a script with previously prepared questions, according to the cardiac anatomy described in the literature. In the study carried out, of the total number of hearts analyzed, four had an irregular coronary pathway, representing a total of 10%. Based on the universally accepted coronary branching pattern, 13 alterations were found, representing a total of 33%. Among them, the main and rarest was the double origin of the anterior descending artery, with one branch originating from the right coronary artery and one from the left coronary artery. Regarding the pattern of coronary dominance, right dominance was predominant in 87% of cases. In general, the research will contribute to a better understanding of the importance of cardiac anatomy for the understanding of clinical events, for the correct performance and interpretation of examinations and for the surgical approach to patients.
MOTIVAÇÃO E AMBIÇÃO: AS FORÇAS PROMOTORAS DO SUCESSO DO EMPREENDEDOR
Authors:   Centro Paula Souza, CARVALHO Celso Almeida de , MARSON Sérgio José ,   Centro Paula Souza
Published: June 2024

This text is about how entrepreneurs are essential to a nation's economic development process. The hypothesis is that a country cannot develop economically without entrepreneurs at its core. As a preliminary result, it is possible to state that entrepreneurs are endowed with qualities that make them unique and, among the numerous attributes required of entrepreneurs, we see that at least two deserve to be highlighted: motivation and ambition. This study is justified by the need to understand how motivation, on the one hand, can be defined as an entrepreneur's ability to adapt to change, keeping their eyes fixed on a target and not letting themselves be overwhelmed by adverse situations, and, on the other hand, how ambition can be defined as an anxious or strong desire to achieve what sometimes doesn't even exist yet: this is how some 'invent a market of needs and demands'. Part of the results from this can attest to the fact that this is a leadership skill typical of entrepreneurship, and one that, outside of this environment, many people may not even recognize. The aim of this article is to describe the role of motivation and ambition in promoting entrepreneurial success. It concludes that these virtues play a decisive role in the entrepreneur's ability to reach his targets and goals and achieve success. The main bibliographic contribution of this work is the publication of the same nature by Baggio & Baggio (2014).
EFEITO NOCIVO DO LÍDER PORTADOR DE PERSONALIDADE NARCISISTA EM CARGOS DE LIDERANÇA NAS EMPRESAS
Authors:   Centro Paula Souza, CARVALHO Celso Almeida de , MARSON Sérgio José ,   Centro Paula Souza
Published: June 2024

There are organizations and companies that, for whatever reason and even in spite of the very condition of the company's continued operations, are interested in hiring narcissistic managers and leaders, with a destructive or functionally deluded profile (from the SD - Self-deceptive concept), since they are often either immersed in a tangle of mistaken beliefs about management, or are involved in excessively grandiose projects. The aim of this study is to analyze the harmful effect of this type of leader, given that narcissism is closely linked to management staff, a condition that can compromise the company's economic and social results. The problem situation arises when narcissism ceases to be healthy and becomes pathological. The research is justified by the fact that, in this situation, a narcissistic and destructive leader, depending on their position in the organization's hierarchy (low, medium or high), can have serious consequences for the organization, especially if there is no effective monitoring of their actions. As partial results of this approach, we already know that, despite this, organizations have a clear predilection for this profile of leader, due to their ability to take big risks and carry out major undertakings and projects. This research will use a bibliographical review as its method, presenting the thoughts of various authors who are concerned with this issue. The main bibliographic contribution of this literature review, however, rests on the intersection of various authors, with the thinking of Freud (2010).
Reasons for the preference of Amasya in the national struggle and the process leading to the Amasya Declaration
Authors:   Amasya University, Karakush Girayalp
Published: June 2024

On October 30, 1918, after the signing of the Armistice of Mudros, many parts of Anatolia, especially Istanbul, were occupied by the Allied Powers. The Turkish people, who remained silent about the occupations for a while, threw off the dead soil with the occupation of Izmir by Greece and participated in rallies protesting these occupations in various parts of the country. In the meantime, there were ideas among the Ottoman bureaucrats and intellectuals who accepted the vassalage of various big countries. However, patriotic officers such as Mustafa Kemal Pasha, Kazım Karabekir, Fethi Okyar, Ali Fuat Cebesoy Pasha, and Kazım Karabekir sought ways to start the National Struggle by moving to Anatolia. They were not sure from which province in Anatolia the National Struggle should start. Mustafa Kemal Pasha, Kazım Karabekir Pasha and other patriotic Turkish officers saw Amasya as the place to start the National Struggle. The aim of the study is to reveal the process leading to the Amasya Declaration in the National Struggle, the importance of this declaration and the reasons why Amasya was preferred. In order to convey the information in the article, a literature review was conducted and books, articles and scientific theses on this subject were read and tried to be conveyed to the reader. The aim of the study is to present to the reader the patriotic and common sense approach of the people of Amasya towards the problems of the country in the process leading to the Amasya Declaration.
Perceptions of school administrators about teacher leadership in Azerbaijan
Authors:   Khazar University, Nurmammamdova Turan , Sultanova Ilhama ,   Baku State University
Published: June 2024

One of the concepts with unclear definitions is teacher leadership. Teachers must be inclined to take various risks to become leaders. In fact, in practice, most teachers are not taught leadership skills in career preparation programs. Teachers' success in decision-making processes and school leadership efforts is sometimes limited. Teachers who achieve control in their classrooms have much more power to make suggestions to other adults in the school and can bring valuable qualities to the school as teacher leaders. In addition to aiming to organize effective classroom activities, teacher leadership also requires taking part in school activities. This research was conducted to discuss the roles and strategies of principals and teachers in developing teacher leadership in Azerbaijan. To achieve the purpose of the research, the scanning method was followed and a theoretical analysis was made. Leadership is the ability to motivate a group, gather them around certain goals, and achieve these goals together. As an effective leader, the teacher has the responsibility of developing a vision, sharing his vision, and organizing learning experiences appropriate to the development and individual differences of all students.
SADRADDIN SHIRAZI’S CONCEPT OF SOUL
Authors:   Institute of Oriental Studies named after academician Ziya Bunyadov of ANAS, Baghirov Ibrahim
Published: June 2024

Considering the history of philosophy, one can see that the mental states of human beings are often explained based on the idea of the soul. The essence of the soul, though, has been a matter of dispute since the Greek philosophers, and various theories have been suggested. According to Plato, who considered the soul to be made up of an immaterial substance completely different from that of the body, it is capable of living without the body, has lived before it, and will continue to do so following its death. Aristotle, however, rejecting Plato‟s substantial dualist approach, defined the soul as the perfection of the body and, unlike Plato, denied its preexistence and immortality. Islamic philosophers, although accepting Aristotle‟s definition of the soul, regarded it as an immaterial substance and saw the human being as a composition of soul and body. Safavid period Islamic philosopher Sadraddin Shirazi put forward a new soul theory different from those of his predecessors. Like Ibn Sina and other Muslim philosophers, he accepted the Aristotelian definition of the soul as “the first actuality of a natural body equipped with organs”. However, to him, the organs in the definition are not material body parts but powers of the soul. Unlike Plato, he considered the soul originated. Nevertheless, as opposed to Ibn Sina who states that the soul comes into existence simultaneously with the body, Shirazi did not regard the soul as an immaterial being at the beginning of its existence. In his view, the soul comes into existence in the body. However, thanks to substantial motion, this material being evolves into an immaterial spiritual one. This article dealing with Sadraddin Shirazi‟s concept of the soul analyses his understanding of soul and spirit, the definition of the soul, its origination, and its relationship with the body.
Medieval Issues of the History of Azerbaijan in the Legacy of Heydar Aliyev
Authors:   Institute of History named after A.A. Bakikhanov of ANAS, Sharifov Shahlar
Published: June 2024

Heydar Aliyev, who did invaluable services in the protection of our historical, national and moral values, has always taken special care of our material and spiritual culture and tried to protect it. The monuments erected in honor of our historical figures, the protection of our historical and cultural monuments and the celebration of the anniversaries of well-known personalities at the international level, the issuance of decrees on deportations and genocides are connected with the name of the great leader Heydar Aliyev. The personality of Heydar Aliyev tried to declare to the whole world that the Azerbaijani people are a people with an ancient culture, both during the Soviet era and during the period of independence. He tried to prove this by preserving the historical and religious monuments that existed in Azerbaijan in the middle ages and passing them on to the next generations. It included medieval sources and our historical figures who lived in this period too.
Social stakeholder`s role in educational centers
Authors:   Khazar University, Babayeva Boyukkhanim , Suleymanova Afet ,   Ministry of Science and Education of Azerbaijan
Published: June 2024

The aim of educational organizations is to raise students as individuals who can analyze their conditions well, are sensitive to the environment, think, research and question. Teachers must be conscious and equipped in this process, and more importantly, they must definitely not make mistakes. The following sentences said by Socrates clearly reveal what a strategic position the teacher has in education. The school administrator is not only the manager of the teachers. Therefore, the leadership behavior of the school director affects non-educator staff and students as well as teachers. The leadership of the school director is of great importance in helping students acquire certain desired behaviors. Since students are in constant development, the school administrator must demonstrate leadership behavior appropriate to the developmental periods of the students. Teachers, who are education workers, are like the windows of schools opening to the outside. Therefore, they have a direct impact on the school's reputation. Their direct contact with students and society makes the size of this impact even more important. Because, in parallel with the positive or negative behaviors displayed by teachers, the stakeholders‟ perspective on the school is also shaped. The general purpose of the research is to determine the perceptions of internal and external stakeholders in educational organizations regarding corporate reputation in the form of school principals and to determine whether there is a difference between the perceptions of these stakeholders. For this purpose, a literature review was conducted.
Influence of maternal body mass index on pregnancy complications and outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Yi , Lu Mei , Yi Ying , Xia Luming , Zhang Renjun , Li Chao , Liu Ping
Published: June 2024

Background

The prevalence of obesity among women of reproductive age is increasing worldwide, with implications for serious pregnancy complications.

Methods

Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search was conducted in both Chinese and English databases up to December 30, 2020. Pregnancy complications and outcomes including gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), gestational hypertension (GHTN), pre-eclampsia, cesarean section (CS), induction of labor (IOL), and postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) were analyzed. Random-effects or fixed-effects models were utilized to calculate the odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Women with overweight and obesity issues exhibited significantly higher risks of GDM (OR, 2.92, 95%CI, 2.18-2.40 and 3.46, 95%CI, 3.05-3.94, respectively) and GHTN (OR, 2.08, 95%CI, 1.72-2.53 and 3.36, 95%CI, 2.81-4.00, respectively) compared to women of normal weight. Pre-eclampsia was also significantly higher in women with overweight or obesity, with ORs of 1.70 (95%CI, 1.44-2.01) and 2.82 (95%CI, 2.66-3.00), respectively. Additionally, mothers with overweight or obesity issues had significantly higher risks of CS (OR, 1.44, 95%CI, 1.41-1.47, and 2.23, 95%CI, 2.08-2.40), IOL (OR, 1.33, 95%CI, 1.30-1.35 and 1.96, 95%CI, 1.85-2.07), and PPH (OR, 1.67, 95%CI, 1.42-1.96 and 1.88, 95%CI, 1.55-2.29).

Conclusion

Women with overweight or obesity issues face increased risks of pregnancy complications and adverse outcomes, indicating dose-dependent effects.
Performance of pitcher-type POU filters for the removal of 75 PFAS from drinking water: comparing different water sources
Authors: Teymoorian Termeh , Dinh Quoc Tuc , Barbeau Benoit , Sauvé Sébastien
Published: June 2024

This study presents a comprehensive assessment of the performance of popular pitcher-type point-of-use (POU) water filters to remove PFAS contaminants from tap waters. The evaluated filters, Brita (Elite and Standard), ZeroWater, Aquagear, and ClearlyFiltered, were tested for their efficacy in removing 75 targeted PFAS, total organic carbon (TOC), total dissolved solids (TDS), chloride, and sulfate from two Canadian tap waters with background Σ75 PFAS concentrations of 13 and 56 ng/L. Overall, the performances of the filters varied depending on the structure of the filter media, the water source, and the specific contaminants present. ZeroWater was the top performer in the case of total PFAS removal. The volume-weighted average removal of total PFAS after 160 L of filtration using Saint-Donat tap water was 99% for ZeroWater, 99% for ClearlyFiltered, 77% for Aquagear, and 20% for Brita (Elite). In the case of Montreal tap water, which had different water characteristics and lower total PFAS levels, the volume-weighted average removal for PFAS was ≈100% for ZeroWater, 96% for ClearlyFiltered, 60% for Aquagear, 48% for Brita (Elite), and 38% for Brita (Standard). Both laboratory and home tests involving ZeroWater filters yielded similar high-performance results using Montreal tap water. Although ZeroWater exhibited high PFAS removal (99%) in Saint-Donat water, TDS and TOC desorption and a significant drop in pH were observed after 80 L, a phenomenon which was explained by the higher total concentration of anions in this water. In contrast, no desorption was observed in Montreal tap water for TDS and TOC due to the lower concentrations of anions. The Aquagear filter demonstrated an unusual increase in concentrations of sulfate after the initial 20 L, which needs further evaluation. This study discusses individual filter performance, the influence of tap water characteristics, and the potential to meet the new NSF guidelines, which provides valuable insights for consumers seeking to choose an appropriate easy-to-use water filtration system to ensure safe and clean drinking water in different regions.
A review of MASLD-related hepatocellular carcinoma: progress in pathogenesis, early detection, and therapeutic interventions
Authors: Ma Yang , Wang Jinguo , Xiao Wenping , Fan Xiaoming
Published: June 2024

The incidence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is continuously rising, evolving into a global health challenge. Concurrently, cases of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) associated with MASLD are also on the increase. Although traditional risk factors such as age, gender, and metabolic factors play significant roles in the development of HCC, it cannot be overlooked that MASLD, triggered by changes in modern lifestyle and dietary habits, may also exacerbate the risk of HCC, and this phenomenon is common even among non-obese individuals. Regrettably, MASLD often fails to receive timely diagnosis, resulting in a limited number of patients receiving HCC surveillance. Moreover, there is currently a lack of clear definition for the target population for surveillance beyond patients with cirrhosis. Consequently, MASLD-related HCC is often detected at a late stage, precluding the optimal timing for curative treatment. However, our understanding of the pathogenesis and progression of HCC remains limited. Therefore, this paper reviews relevant literature from recent years, delving into multiple dimensions such as pathogenesis, surveillance and diagnosis, prevention, and treatment, aiming to provide new ideas and directions for the prevention and treatment of MASLD-related HCC.
Association of the oxidative balance score with sarcopenia among young and middle-aged adults: findings from NHANES 2011–2018
Authors: Cai Zhi , Dong Dantong
Published: June 2024

Background

Sarcopenia is associated with oxidative stress. The Oxidative Balance Score (OBS) is commonly used to assess dietary and lifestyle exposure to oxidative stress. However, few studies in the literature have assessed the correlation between sarcopenia and OBS.

Aim

This study aimed to assess the association between OBS and sarcopenia among young and middle-aged adults in the United States using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).

Method

Weighted logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the association between OBS and sarcopenia based on data from NHANES 2011–2018. Subgroup analyses were performed to observe the consistency of the outcomes, and the stability of the results was tested using sensitivity analyses.

Result

The final sample included 5,525 young and middle-aged American adults. A higher OBS was associated with a lower risk of sarcopenia. In the fully adjusted model, the second (odds ratio [OR]: 0.62, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.41, 0.94; p = 0.023), third (OR: 0.50; 95% CI: 0.34, 0.74; p < 0.001), and highest quartiles (OR: 0.18; 95% CI: 0.11, 0.28; p < 0.001) of the OBS were associated with higher risks of sarcopenia when compared to the lowest quartile. This association was consistent across both dietary and lifestyle OBS scores. Our subgroup analysis revealed no significant differences between the subgroups of variables included in the interaction analysis. Sensitivity analyses revealed similar results.

Conclusion

Our study showed that higher antioxidant and lower antioxidant exposure may decrease the risk of developing sarcopenia. Higher OBS scores may indicate greater protection against sarcopenia; however, further clinical studies are warranted to confirm these findings.
Melatonin mediates phenolic acids accumulation in barley sprouts under MeJA stress
Authors: Tian Xin , Zhang Renjiao , Yang Zhengfei , Zhu Jiangyu , Fang Weiming , Yang Runqiang , Yin Yongqi
Published: June 2024

Phenolic acids are secondary metabolites in higher plants, with antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-aging effects on the human body. Therefore, foods rich in phenolic acids are popular. Methyl jasmonate (MeJA) promoted phenolic acids accumulation but also inhibited sprout growth. Melatonin (MT) was a new type of plant hormone that not only alleviated plants’ abiotic stress, but also promoted the synthesis of plant-stimulating metabolism. This study aimed to elucidate the mechanism of exogenous MT on the growth and development, and phenolic acids metabolism of barley sprouts under MeJA treatment. The results showed that MT increased the phenolic acids content in sprouts by increasing the activities of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase and cinnamic acid 4-hydroxylase, and up-regulating the gene expression of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase, cinnamic acid 4-hydroxylase, 4-coumarate: coenzyme a ligase, and ferulic acid-5-hydroxylase. MT attenuated the growth inhibition of barley sprouts under MeJA stress by increasing the activities of regulated antioxidant enzymes and the expression of their corresponding genes. Furthermore, MT increased the NO content and induced Ca2+ burst in barley sprouts under MeJA stress. These events were inhibited by DL-4-Chlorophenylalanine. These results suggested that MT ameliorated growth inhibition and promoted the biosynthesis of phenolic acids in barley sprouts under MeJA stress.
Intensity-based optoretinography reveals sub-clinical deficits in cone function in retinitis pigmentosa
Authors: Gaffney Mina , Connor Thomas B. , Cooper Robert F.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Clinical tools have been widely used in the diagnosis, description, and monitoring the progression of retinitis pigmentosa (RP); however, many of these methods have inherently low sensitivity and specificity, and significant photoreceptor disruption can occur before RP progression has clinically manifest. Adaptive optics scanning light ophthalmoscopy (AOSLO) has shown promise as a powerful tool for assessing photoreceptor disruption both structurally and functionally due to its increased resolution.

Methods

Here we assess photoreceptor structure and function at the cellular level through AOSLO by acquiring intensity based optoretinography (iORG) in 15 individuals with no reported retinal pathology and 7 individuals with a prior clinical diagnosis of RP. Photoreceptor structure was quantified by calculating cone nearest neighbor distance (NND) across different retinal eccentricities from the AOSLO images. Cone outer segment length was measured across different retinal eccentricities using optical coherence tomography (OCT) derived longitudinal reflectivity profiles (LRPs). Finally, iORG measures of photoreceptor function were compared to retinal sensitivity as measured using the macular integrity assessment (MAIA) microperimeter.

Results

Broadly, participants with RP exhibited increasing cone nearest neighbor distances and decreasing cone outer segment length as a function of retinal eccentricity, consistent with prior reports for both controls and individuals with RP. Nearly all individuals with RP had reduced iORG amplitudes for all retinal eccentricities when compared to the control cohort, and the reduction was greater in eccentricities further from the fovea. Comparing iORG amplitudes to MAIA retinal sensitivity, we found that the iORG was more sensitive to early changes in photoreceptor function whereas MAIA was more sensitive to later stages of disease.

Discussion

This highlights the utility of iORG as a method to detect sub-clinical deficits in cone function in all stages of disease progression and supports the future use of iORG for identifying cells that are candidates for cellular based therapies.
Anti-pulmonary fibrosis activity analysis of methyl rosmarinate obtained from Salvia castanea Diels f. tomentosa Stib. using a scalable process
Authors: Ma Li , Liu Chuntong , Zhao Yuxiang , Liu Mengke , Liu Yunyi , Zhang Huachang , Yang Shude , An Jing , Tian Yuheng , Cao Yinchuan , Qu Guiwu , Song Shuling , Cao Qizhi
Published: June 2024

Pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive, irreversible, chronic interstitial lung disease associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Current clinical drugs, while effective, do not reverse or cure pulmonary fibrosis and have major side effects, there are urgent needs to develop new anti-pulmonary fibrosis medicine, and corresponding industrially scalable process as well. Salvia castanea Diels f. tomentosa Stib., a unique herb in Nyingchi, Xizang, China, is a variant of S. castanea. and its main active ingredient is rosmarinic acid (RA), which can be used to prepare methyl rosmarinate (MR) with greater drug potential. This study presented an industrially scalable process for the preparation of MR, which includes steps such as polyamide resin chromatography, crystallization and esterification, using S. castanea Diels f. tomentosa Stib. as the starting material and the structure of the product was verified by NMR technology. The anti-pulmonary fibrosis effects of MR were further investigated in vivo and in vitro. Results showed that this process can easily obtain high-purity RA and MR, and MR attenuated bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice. In vitro, MR could effectively inhibit TGF-β1-induced proliferation and migration of mouse fibroblasts L929 cells, promote cell apoptosis, and decrease extracellular matrix accumulation thereby suppressing progressive pulmonary fibrosis. The anti-fibrosis effect of MR was stronger than that of the prodrug RA. Further study confirmed that MR could retard pulmonary fibrosis by down-regulating the phosphorylation of the TGF-β1/Smad and MAPK signaling pathways. These results suggest that MR has potential therapeutic implications for pulmonary fibrosis, and the establishment of this scalable preparation technology ensures the development of MR as a new anti-pulmonary fibrosis medicine.
Study protocol for “Psilocybin in patients with fibromyalgia: brain biomarkers of action”
Authors: Bornemann Julia , Close James B. , Ahmad Kirran , Barba Tommaso , Godfrey Kate , Macdonald Lauren , Erritzoe David , Nutt David , Carhart-Harris Robin
Published: June 2024

Background

Chronic pain is a leading cause of disability worldwide. Fibromyalgia is a particularly debilitating form of widespread chronic pain. Fibromyalgia remains poorly understood, and treatment options are limited or moderately effective at best. Here, we present a protocol for a mechanistic study investigating the effects of psychedelic-assisted-therapy in a fibromyalgia population. The principal focus of this trial is the central mechanism(s) of psilocybin-therapy i.e., in the brain and on associated mental schemata, primarily captured by electroencephalography (EEG) recordings of the acute psychedelic state, plus pre and post Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).

Methods

Twenty participants with fibromyalgia will complete 8 study visits over 8 weeks. This will include two dosing sessions where participants will receive psilocybin at least once, with doses varying up to 25mg. Our primary outcomes are 1) Lempel-Ziv complexity (LZc) recorded acutely using EEG, and the 2) the (Brief Experiential Avoidance Questionnaire (BEAQ) measured at baseline and primary endpoint. Secondary outcomes will aim to capture broad aspects of the pain experience and related features through neuroimaging, self-report measures, behavioural paradigms, and qualitative interviews. Pain Symptomatology will be measured using the Brief Pain Inventory Interference Subscale (BPI-IS), physical and mental health-related function will be measured using the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). Further neurobiological investigations will include functional MRI (fMRI) and diffusion tensor imaging (changes from baseline to primary endpoint), and acute changes in pre- vs post-acute spontaneous brain activity – plus event-related potential functional plasticity markers, captured via EEG.

Discussion

The results of this study will provide valuable insight into the brain mechanisms involved in the action of psilocybin-therapy for fibromyalgia with potential implications for the therapeutic action of psychedelic-therapy more broadly. It will also deliver essential data to inform the design of a potential subsequent RCT.
Portuguese cork industry: filling the knowledge gap regarding occupational exposure to fungi and related health effects
Authors: Viegas Carla , Dias Marta , Pacífico Cátia , Faria Tiago , Clérigo Anália , Brites Hermínia , Caetano Liliana Aranha , Carolino Elisabete , Gomes Anita Quintal , Viegas Susana
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The presence of the Penicillium section Aspergilloides (formerly known as Penicillium glabrum) in the cork industry involves the risk of respiratory diseases such as suberosis.

Methods

The aim of this study was to corroborate the predominant fungi present in this occupational environment by performing a mycological analysis of 360 workers’ nasal exudates collected by nasal swabs. Additionally, evaluation of respiratory disorders among the cork workers was also performed by spirometry.

Results

Penicillium section Aspergilloides was detected by qPCR in 37 out of the 360 nasal swabs collected from workers’ samples. From those, 25 remained negative for Penicillium sp. when using culture-based methods. A significant association was found between ventilatory defects and years of work in the cork industry, with those people working for 10 or more years in this industry having an approximately two-fold increased risk of having ventilatory defects compared to those working less time in this setting. Among the workers who detected the presence of Penicillium section Aspergilloides, those with symptoms presented slightly higher average values of CFU.

Discussion

Overall, the results obtained in this study show that working in the cork industry may have adverse effects on worker’s respiratory health. Nevertheless, more studies are needed (e.g., using serological assays) to clarify the impact of each risk factor (fungi and dust) on disease etiology.
Microplastic accumulation, morpho-polymer characterization, and dietary exposure in urban tap water of a developing nation
Authors: Hossain M. Belal , Yu Jimmy , Sarker Pallab Kumer , Banik Partho , Sultana Salma , Nur As-Ad Ujjaman , Haque Md. Rashedul , Rahman Md. Mostafizur , Paray Bilal Ahamad , Arai Takaomi
Published: June 2024

The recent detection of microplastics (MPs) in a large number of commercially important food items and beverages, including tap water, has drawn significant attention because of direct exposure and negative health effects on humans. Nevertheless, there is insufficient information on microplastic contamination in the tap water of developing countries. In the present study, we primarily analyzed supplied tap water samples from four major cities in Bangladesh to determine and characterize MPs using a stereomicroscope and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Several indices were employed to calculate human health exposures to microplastics. MPs were found in all of the water samples tested, with an overall mean of 35.33 ± 19.55 particles/L. The results of this study diverge from those of comparable research conducted globally, revealing that tap water in Bangladesh exhibited higher levels of contamination compared to other nations. MPs were found in three different shapes (fibers, fragments, and films), with fibers dominating the samples (96.2%), and 98.1% of the microplastics were less than 0.5 mm in size. Six different colors of MPs were observed, and transparent particles were dominant (63.9% of all observed MPs). FTIR infrared spectrum analysis revealed two major types of polymers: low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The projected daily consumption of microplastics was determined to be 2.65 particles per person per day, raising potential concerns for human health. The findings show that the treatment process of the water supply system is inadequate. Additionally, the sources of microplastics in tap water may come from where the water was collected for treatment and may be linked to a variety of anthropogenic activities, such as urbanization, sewage discharge, industrial waste disposal, and runoff from catchment areas.
A duplex fluorescent quantitative PCR assay to distinguish the genotype I, II and I/II recombinant strains of African swine fever virus in China
Authors: Hu Zhiqiang , Lai Ranran , Tian Xiaogang , Guan Ran , Li Xiaowen
Published: June 2024

African swine fever (ASF) is a severe, hemorrhagic, and highly contagious disease caused by the African swine fever virus (ASFV) in both domestic pigs and wild boars. In China, ASFV has been present for over six years, with three genotypes of strains prevalent in field conditions: genotype I, genotype II, and genotype I/II recombinant strains. In order to differentiate among these three ASFV genotypes, a duplex fluorescent quantitative PCR method was established using specific probes and primers designed based on viral genes MGF_110-1L and O61R from ASFV strains reported in the GenBank database. Following optimization of reaction conditions, a duplex fluorescent quantitative PCR method was successfully developed. This method demonstrated no cross-reactivity with porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV), porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), classic swine fever virus (CSFV), porcine pseudorabies virus (PRV), porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2), porcine circovirus 3 (PCV3), highlighting its specificity. Sensitivity analysis revealed that the limits of detection (LODs) of this method were 2.95 × 10−1 copies/μL for the MGF_110-1L gene and 2.95 × 100 copies/μL for the O61R gene. The inter- and intra-group coefficients of variation were both <1%, indicating high reproducibility. In summary, the establishment of this duplex fluorescent quantitative PCR method not only addresses the identification of the ASFV recombinant strains but also allows for simultaneous identification of the three epidemic genotype strains.
Case report: Ten cases of acquired idiopathic generalized anhidrosis treated with oral pilocarpine
Authors: Miyahara Hanako , Kubota Noriko , Okune Mari , Ishii Yoshiyuki , Okiyama Naoko , Nomura Toshifumi , Furuta Junichi
Published: June 2024

Acquired idiopathic generalized anhidrosis is a rare disease characterized by systemic anhidrosis or hypohidrosis without other systemic diseases. However, its etiology remains unclear. Autoimmune mechanisms seem to be involved in the development of acquired idiopathic generalized anhidrosis. Although steroid pulse therapy is the most commonly used therapy, it lacks a high level of evidence. On the other hand, pilocarpine, a muscarinic receptor agonist that stimulates exocrine glands, increases saliva and tear secretion as well as sweating. Here, we report treatment progresses of steroid pulse therapy and oral pilocarpine in our department. Between 2012 and 2021, we treated 10 patients of acquired idiopathic generalized anhidrosis. All patients were administered oral pilocarpine as the first therapy, three (30%) of whom had increased sweating. Minor side effects were observed, however, no serious side effects were observed. Five patients who did not respond to oral pilocarpine were subsequently treated with steroid pulse therapy to which four (80%) showed significant response. Two patients were subsequently administered oral pilocarpine as post-therapy, and remission was maintained for up to 81 months. Oral pilocarpine could be used to relieve symptoms in patients with acquired idiopathic generalized anhidrosis prior to steroid pulse therapy and as maintenance therapy after steroid pulse therapy.
Error Correction and Adaptation in Conversational AI: A Review of Techniques and Applications in Chatbots
Authors: Izadi Saadat , Forouzanfar Mohamad
Published: June 2024

This study explores the progress of chatbot technology, focusing on the aspect of error correction to enhance these smart conversational tools. Chatbots, powered by artificial intelligence (AI), are increasingly prevalent across industries such as customer service, healthcare, e-commerce, and education. Despite their use and increasing complexity, chatbots are prone to errors like misunderstandings, inappropriate responses, and factual inaccuracies. These issues can have an impact on user satisfaction and trust. This research provides an overview of chatbots, conducts an analysis of errors they encounter, and examines different approaches to rectifying these errors. These approaches include using data-driven feedback loops, involving humans in the learning process, and adjusting through learning methods like reinforcement learning, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, and meta-learning. Through real life examples and case studies in different fields, we explore how these strategies are implemented. Looking ahead, we explore the different challenges faced by AI-powered chatbots, including ethical considerations and biases during implementation. Furthermore, we explore the transformative potential of new technological advancements, such as explainable AI models, autonomous content generation algorithms (e.g., generative adversarial networks), and quantum computing to enhance chatbot training. Our research provides information for developers and researchers looking to improve chatbot capabilities, which can be applied in service and support industries to effectively address user requirements.
Detection of Gene Doping Using Dried Blood Spots from a Mouse Model with rAAV9 Vector-Mediated Human Erythropoietin Expression as a Pilot Study
Authors: Otani Norihiro , Kanki Yasuharu , Nguyen Kieu D. M. , Sugasawa Takehito
Published: June 2024

Rapid advancements in gene technology have raised concerns regarding the potential abuse of techniques, such as gene doping, for enhancing athletic performance. To identify this possibility, a reliable procedure for detecting doping genes is required. Although detection methods for doping genes have been created, there are still areas for further improvement. One significant challenge is the high storage and transport costs of the test samples. For this issue, the dried blood spot (DBS) method can be a cost-effective solution. This study aimed to assess the practicality of incorporating DBSs into the gene doping detection process as a pilot study. Whole-blood samples were initially collected from mice engineered to express human erythropoietin from the rAAV vector. Then, the blood was placed in filter papers and left to dry at room temperature for five hours to form DBSs. These DBSs were subsequently preserved in sealed plastic bags at room temperature. After the extraction of DNA, DBSs were formed, and TaqMan-qPCR was utilized to detect the presence of rAAV vector-derived DNA. The finding confirmed that doping gene-specific fragments were successfully detected in DBSs. This outcome suggests that the DBS method is an effective approach to be considered when developing a comprehensive protocol for gene doping detection.
Calmodulin Contributes to Lipolysis and Inflammatory Responses in Clinical Ketosis Cows through the TLR4/IKK/NF-κB Pathway
Authors: Chang Jinshui , Wang Zhijie , Hao Yu , Song Yuxi , Xia Cheng
Published: June 2024

Clinical ketosis is a detrimental metabolic disease in dairy cows, often accompanied by severe lipolysis and inflammation in adipose tissue. Our previous study suggested a 2.401-fold upregulation in the calmodulin (CaM) level in the adipose tissue of cows with clinical ketosis. Therefore, we hypothesized that CaM may regulate lipolysis and inflammatory responses in cows with clinical ketosis. To verify the hypothesis, we conducted a thorough veterinary assessment of clinical symptoms and serum β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) concentration. Subsequently, we collected subcutaneous adipose tissue samples from six healthy and six clinically ketotic Holstein cows at 17 ± 4 days postpartum. Commercial kits were used to test the abundance of BHB, non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA), the liver function index (LFI), interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). We found that cows with clinical ketosis exhibited higher levels of BHB, NEFA, LFI, IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, and lower glucose levels than healthy cows. Furthermore, the abundance of CaM, toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), inhibitor of nuclear factor κB kinase subunit β (IKK), phosphorylated nuclear factor κB p65/nuclear factor κB p65 (p-NF-κB p65/NF-κB p65), adipose triacylglycerol lipase (ATGL), and phosphorylated hormone-sensitive lipase/hormone-sensitive lipase (p-HSL/HSL) was increased, while that of perilipin-1 (PLIN1) was decreased in the adipose tissue of cows with clinical ketosis. To investigate the mechanism underlying the responses, we isolated the primary bovine adipocytes from the adipose tissue of healthy cows and induced the inflammatory response mediated by TLR4/IKK/NF-κB p65 with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Additionally, we treated the primary bovine adipocytes with CaM overexpression adenovirus and CaM small interfering RNA. In vitro, LPS upregulated the abundance of TLR4, IKK, p-NF-κB p65, ATGL, p-HSL/HSL, and CaM and downregulated PLIN1. Furthermore, CaM silencing downregulated the abundance of LPS-activated p-HSL/HSL, TLR4, IKK, and p-NF-κB p65 and upregulated PLIN1 in bovine adipocytes, except for ATGL. However, CaM overexpression upregulated the abundance of LPS-activated p-HSL/HSL, TLR4, IKK, and p-NF-κB p65 and downregulated PLIN1 expression in bovine adipocytes. These data suggest that CaM promotes lipolysis in adipocytes through HSL and PINL1 while activating the TLR4/IKK/NF-κB inflammatory pathway to stimulate an inflammatory response. There is a positive feedback loop between CaM, lipolysis, and inflammation. Inhibiting CaM may act as an adaptive mechanism to alleviate metabolic dysregulation in adipose tissue, thereby relieving lipolysis and inflammatory responses.
An Interactive Transient Model Correction Active Sonar Target Tracking Method
Authors: Liu Chao , Fang Shiliang
Published: June 2024

Active sonar can usually only directly measure the distance and bearing information of underwater targets, and cannot directly obtain target velocity, acceleration and other information. Therefore, the amount of information is relatively small, making it difficult to support the construction of complex motion models. At the same time, the motion state of underwater maneuvering targets is changeable. In response to the problem of detecting and tracking underwater moving targets by active sonar, this paper proposes a target transient model correction (TMC) filtering tracking method. Based on the conventional Kalman filter (KF) estimation, residual covariance is used as a signal quantity. When there is a large change in it, a transient filter with constant gain is adopted to filter the measurement value. The filtered output is used to correct the KF gain matrix and the target motion state model, to avoid the problem of increasing or even diverging KF estimation errors caused by changes in process noise. Using this method can solve the problem of maintaining stability and filtering estimation accuracy of active sonar tracking of underwater maneuvering targets with less computational and engineering costs.
Machine Learning in Assessing Canine Bone Fracture Risk: A Retrospective and Predictive Approach
Authors: Kostenko Ernest , Šengaut Jakov , Maknickas Algirdas
Published: June 2024

In the ever-evolving world of veterinary care, the occurrence of bone fractures in canines poses a common and complex problem, especially in extra-small breeds and dogs that are less than 1 year old. The objective of this research is to fill a gap in predicting the risk of canine bone fractures. A machine learning method using a random forest classifier was constructed. The algorithm was trained on a dataset consisting of 2261 cases that included several factors, such as canine age, gender, breed, and weight. The performance of the algorithm was assessed by examining its capacity to forecast the probability of fractures occurring. The findings of our study indicate that the tool has the capability to provide dependable predictions of fracture risk, consistent with our extensive dataset on fractures in canines. However, these results should be considered preliminary due to the limited sample size. This discovery is a crucial tool for veterinary practitioners, allowing them to take preventive measures to manage and prevent fractures. In conclusion, the implementation of this prediction tool has the potential to significantly transform the quality of care in the field of veterinary medicine by enabling the detection of patients at high risk, hence enabling the implementation of timely and customized preventive measures.