bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New hopes and promises in the treatment of ovarian cancer focusing on targeted treatment—a narrative review
Authors: Satora Małgorzata , Kułak Krzysztof , Zaremba Bartłomiej , Grunwald Arkadiusz , Świechowska-Starek Paulina , Tarkowski Rafał
Published: June 2024

Unfortunately, ovarian cancer is still diagnosed most often only in an advanced stage and is also the most lethal gynecological cancer. Another problem is the fact that treated patients have a high risk of disease recurrence. Moreover, ovarian cancer is very diverse in terms of molecular, histological features and mutations. Many patients may also develop platinum resistance, resulting in poor response to subsequent lines of treatment. To improve the prognosis of patients with ovarian cancer, it is expected to make better existing and implement new, promising treatment methods. Targeted therapies seem very promising. Currently, bevacizumab - a VEGF inhibitor and therapy with olaparib - a polyADP-ribose polymerase inhibitor are approved. Other methods worth considering in the future include: folate receptor α, immune checkpoints or other immunotherapy methods. To improve the treatment of ovarian cancer, it is also important to ameliorate the determination of molecular features to describe and understand which group of patients will benefit most from a given treatment method. This is important because a larger group of patients treated for ovarian cancer can have a greater chance of surviving longer without recurrence.
Comparing the acute responses between a manual and automated blood flow restriction system
Authors: Carter Daphney M. , Chatlaong Matthew A. , Miller William M. , Benton J. Barnes , Jessee Matthew B.
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this study was to compare acute responses between manual and automated blood flow restriction (BFR) systems.

Methods

A total of 33 individuals completed this study. On visit 1, arterial occlusion pressure (AOP, mm Hg), cardiovascular responses, and discomfort (RPE-D) were measured with each BFR system at rest. On visit 2, unilateral bicep curls were completed [30% one-repetition maximum; 50% AOP] with one system per arm. Muscle thickness (MT, cm) and maximal force (N) were assessed before (pre), immediately (post-0), 5 min (post-5), and 10 min (post-10) post-exercise. Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE-E) and ratings of perceived discomfort (RPE-D) were assessed throughout the exercise. AOP and repetitions were compared with Bayesian paired t-tests. Other outcomes were compared with Bayesian RMANOVAs. BF10 represents the likelihood of the best model vs. the null. The results are presented as mean ± SD.

Results

Supine cardiovascular responses and RPE-D were similar for manual and automated (all BF10 ≤ 0.2). Supine AOP for manual (157 ± 20) was higher than that of automated (142 ± 17; BF10 = 44496.0), but similar while standing (manual: 141 ± 17; automated: 141 ± 22; BF10 = 0.2). MT (time, BF10 = 6.047e + 40) increased from Pre (3.9 ± 0.7) to Post-0 (4.4 ± 0.8; BF10 = 2.969e + 28), with Post-0 higher than Post-5 (4.3 ± 0.8) and Post-10 (4.3 ± 0.8; both BF10 ≥ 275.2). Force (time, BF10 = 1.246e + 29) decreased from Pre (234.5 ± 79.2) to Post-0 (149.8 ± 52.3; BF10 = 2.720e + 22) and increased from Post-0 to Post-5 (193.3 ± 72.7; BF10 = 1.744e + 13), with Post-5 to Post-10 (194.0 ± 70.6; BF10 = 0.2) being similar. RPE-E increased over sets. RPE-D was lower for manual than automated. Repetitions per set were higher for manual (Set 1: 37 ± 18; Set 4: 9 ± 5) than automated (Set 1: 30 ± 7; Set 4: 7 ± 3; all BF10 ≥ 9.7).

Conclusion

Under the same relative pressure, responses are mostly similar between BFR systems, although a manual system led to lower exercise discomfort and more repetitions.
Cognitive styles and psi: psi researchers are more similar to skeptics than to lay believers
Authors: Pehlivanova Marieta , Weiler Marina , Greyson Bruce
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Belief in psi, which includes psychic phenomena such as extra-sensory perception and post-mortem survival, is widespread yet controversial. According to one of the leading and perhaps most tested hypotheses, high belief in psi can be explained by differences in various aspects of cognition, including cognitive styles. Most of this research has been conducted with lay individuals. Here, we tested the hypothesis that academic researchers who investigate psi may exhibit different cognitive styles than lay individuals interested in psi, and are more similar to skeptics.

Methods

We measured two cognitive styles—actively open-minded thinking (AOT) and the need for closure (NFC)—and assessed differences among four heterogeneous groups regarding belief in psi and involvement in related research. Specifically, our study included academic psi researchers (N = 44), lay individuals who believe in psi (N = 32), academics who are skeptics of psi (N = 35), and lay individuals who are skeptics (N = 33).

Results

We found group differences in AOT (p = 0.003) but not in NFC scores (p = 0.67). Post hoc tests showed no significant difference in AOT scores between academics who conduct psi research (4.5 ± 0.3) and academic skeptics (4.5 ± 0.3; p = 0.91) or lay skeptics (4.5 ± 0.4; p = 0.80). The lay psi group had significantly lower AOT scores (4.2 ± 0.4) than the other three groups (ps: 0.005–0.04), indicating a decreased willingness to consider a range of evidence when forming an opinion, including evidence that challenges their beliefs. AOT was negatively associated with psi belief in the two skeptic groups combined (r = −0.29, p = 0.01), but not in the psi groups (r = −0.03, p = 0.78).

Discussion

Our research shows that academics who work with psi differ from lay psi individuals, but not from skeptics, in actively open-minded thinking. In other words, despite their high belief in psi phenomena, psi researchers demonstrate a commitment to sound reasoning about evidence that is no different from that of skeptics.
Perceived support and AI literacy: the mediating role of psychological needs satisfaction
Authors: Shen Yanyan , Cui Wencheng
Published: June 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) exerts significant influence on both professional and personal spheres, underscoring the necessity for college students to have a fundamental understanding of AI. Guided by self-determination theory (SDT), this study explores the influence of psychological needs satisfaction on AI literacy among university students. A cross-sectional survey involving 445 university students from diverse academic backgrounds was conducted. The survey assessed the mediation effect of students’ psychological need satisfaction between two types of support—technical and teacher—and AI literacy. The results indicate that both support types positively influenced the fulfillment of autonomy and competence needs, which subsequently acted as mediators in enhancing AI literacy. However, the satisfaction of relatedness needs did not mediate the relationship between the types of support and AI literacy. Unexpectedly, no direct association was found between the two forms of support and AI literacy levels among students. The findings suggest that although technical and teacher support contribute to fulfilling specific psychological needs, only autonomy and competence needs are predictive of AI literacy. The lack of direct impact of support on AI literacy underscores the importance of addressing specific psychological needs through educational interventions. It is recommended that educators provide tailored support in AI education (AIEd) and that institutions develop specialized courses to enhance AI literacy.
Efficacy of polygenic risk scores and digital technologies for INNOvative personalized cardiovascular disease PREVention in high-risk adults: protocol of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Pastorino Roberta , Pezzullo Angelo Maria , Agodi Antonella , de Waure Chiara , Mazzucco Walter , Russo Luigi , Bianchi Martina , Maio Alessandra , Farina Sara , Porcelli Martina , Tona Diego Maria , Di Pumpo Matteo , Amore Rosarita , Wachocka Malgorzata , Pasciuto Tina , Barchitta Martina , Magnano San Lio Roberta , Favara Giuliana , Tuttolomondo Antonino , Tramuto Fabio , Morello Gaia , De Bella Daniele Domenico , Fruscione Santo , Severino Anna , Liuzzo Giovanna , Boccia Stefania
Published: June 2024

Background

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) pose a significant global health challenge, necessitating innovative approaches for primary prevention. Personalized prevention, based on genetic risk scores (PRS) and digital technologies, holds promise in revolutionizing CVD preventive strategies. However, the clinical efficacy of these interventions requires further investigation. This study presents the protocol of the INNOPREV randomized controlled trial, aiming to evaluate the clinical efficacy of PRS and digital technologies in personalized cardiovascular disease prevention.

Methods

The INNOPREV trial is a four-arm RCT conducted in Italy. A total of 1,020 participants, aged 40–69 with high 10-year CVD risk based on SCORE 2 charts, will be randomly assigned to traditional CVD risk assessment, genetic testing (CVD PRS), digital intervention (app and smart band), or a combination of genetic testing and digital intervention. The primary objective is to evaluate the efficacy of providing CVD PRS information, measured at baseline, either alone or in combination with the use of an app and a smart band, on two endpoints: changes in lifestyle patterns, and modification in CVD risk profiles. Participants will undergo a comprehensive assessment and cardiovascular evaluation at baseline, with follow-up visits at one, five, and 12 months. Lifestyle changes and CVD risk profiles will be assessed at different time points beyond the initial assessment, using the Life's Essential 8 and SCORE 2, respectively. Blood samples will be collected at baseline and at study completion to evaluate changes in lipid profiles. The analysis will employ adjusted mixed-effect models for repeated measures to assess significant differences in the data collected over time. Additionally, potential moderators and mediators will be examined to understand the underlying mechanisms of behavior change.

Discussion

As the largest trial in this context, the INNOPREV trial will contribute to the advancement of personalized cardiovascular disease prevention, with the potential to positively impact public health and reduce the burden of CVDs on healthcare systems. By systematically examining the clinical efficacy of PRS and digital interventions, this trial aims to provide valuable evidence to guide future preventive strategies and enhance population health outcomes.
Unraveling diarrheal disease knowledge, understanding, and management practices among climate change vulnerable coastal communities in Ghana
Authors: Boafo Yaw Agyeman , Ohemeng Fidelia N. A. , Ayivor Jesse , Ayitiah Joseph Armah , Yirenya-Tawiah Dzidzo , Mensah Adelina , Datsa Cecilia , Annang Ted Yemoh , Adom Lois
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Diarrheal disease is a global public health concern, particularly in low-income countries. In Ghana, widespread issues like inadequate sanitation, unsafe drinking water, malnutrition, and poor hygiene practices contribute to the high incidence of diarrhea. Climate change exacerbates these challenges by increasing the frequency and severity of conditions that spread diarrheal diseases. This study explores households’ knowledge, understanding, and management practices for diarrhea in climate change-vulnerable coastal communities.

Methods

The study is set in Ghana’s central (Mumford, Opetekwei) and eastern (Anyako, Anyanui-Atiteti) coastlines. Using a cross-sectional study design, a structured questionnaire was administered to randomly sampled households (n = 419) to collect quantitative data. The study collected qualitative data from focus group discussions (n = 8), with groups separated into men and women, key informant interviews, and observations of food, water, and sanitation conditions across the studied communities.

Results and discussion

The study found significant variations between the studied communities and socio-demographic variables except for the respondents’ gender. Multivariate regression analyses identified significant associations between socio-demographic variables (especially gender and educational status) and perceptions of diarrhea causes. The most used first management action against diarrhea is ‘over-the-counter drugs’, followed by home-made traditional remedies. Significant differences were observed in the usage of management practices across the studied communities. Trust, affordability, and availability were identified as the main factors influencing households’ use of approved pharmaceutical drugs and traditional herbal remedies for managing behavior, with significant differences being observed across communities. The study recommends a multi-sectoral approach, including improved access to regularly flowing, safe water and sanitation facilities, education on preventing diarrhea, and adequate healthcare services. Community-based interventions such as promoting good hygiene practices at homes and community settings such as schools, lorry parks, funeral grounds, and recreational areas can also effectively reduce the burden of diarrhea.
Association between machine learning-assisted heavy metal exposures and diabetic kidney disease: a cross-sectional survey and Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Zhao Ruiqi , Lin Sen , Han Mengyao , Lin Zhimei , Yu Mengjiao , Zhang Bei , Ma Lanyue , Li Danfei , Peng Lisheng
Published: June 2024

Background and objective

Heavy metals, ubiquitous in the environment, pose a global public health concern. The correlation between these and diabetic kidney disease (DKD) remains unclear. Our objective was to explore the correlation between heavy metal exposures and the incidence of DKD.

Methods

We analyzed data from the NHANES (2005–2020), using machine learning, and cross-sectional survey. Our study also involved a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.

Results

Machine learning reveals correlation coefficients of −0.5059 and − 0.6510 for urinary Ba and urinary Tl with DKD, respectively. Multifactorial logistic regression implicates urinary Ba, urinary Pb, blood Cd, and blood Pb as potential associates of DKD. When adjusted for all covariates, the odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals are 0.87 (0.78, 0.98) (p = 0.023), 0.70 (0.53, 0.92) (p = 0.012), 0.53 (0.34, 0.82) (p = 0.005), and 0.76 (0.64, 0.90) (p = 0.002) in order. Furthermore, multiplicative interactions between urinary Ba and urinary Sb, urinary Cd and urinary Co, urinary Cd and urinary Pb, and blood Cd and blood Hg might be present. Among the diabetic population, the OR of urinary Tl with DKD is a mere 0.10, with a 95%CI of (0.01, 0.74), urinary Co 0.73 (0.54, 0.98) in Model 3, and urinary Pb 0.72 (0.55, 0.95) in Model 2. Restricted Cubic Splines (RCS) indicate a linear linkage between blood Cd in the general population and urinary Co, urinary Pb, and urinary Tl with DKD among diabetics. An observable trend effect is present between urinary Pb and urinary Tl with DKD. MR analysis reveals odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals of 1.16 (1.03, 1.32) (p = 0.018) and 1.17 (1.00, 1.36) (p = 0.044) for blood Cd and blood Mn, respectively.

Conclusion

In the general population, urinary Ba demonstrates a nonlinear inverse association with DKD, whereas in the diabetic population, urinary Tl displays a linear inverse relationship with DKD.
Defining a screening tool for post-traumatic stress disorder in East Africa: a penalized regression approach
Authors: Meffert Susan M. , Mathai Muthoni A. , Ongeri Linnet , Neylan Thomas C. , Mwai Daniel , Onyango Dickens , Akena Dickens , Rota Grace , Otieno Ammon , Obura Raymond R. , Wangia Josline , Opiyo Elizabeth , Muchembre Peter , Oluoch Dennis , Wambura Raphael , Mbwayo Anne , Kahn James G. , Cohen Craig R. , Bukusi David E. , Aarons Gregory A. , Burger Rachel L. , Jin Chengshi , McCulloch Charles E. , Njuguna Kahonge Simon
Published: June 2024

Background

Scalable PTSD screening strategies must be brief, accurate and capable of administration by a non-specialized workforce.

Methods

We used PTSD as determined by the structured clinical interview as our gold standard and considered predictors sets of (a) Posttraumatic Stress Checklist-5 (PCL-5), (b) Primary Care PTSD Screen for the DSM-5 (PC-PTSD) and, (c) PCL-5 and PC-PTSD questions to identify the optimal items for PTSD screening for public sector settings in Kenya. A logistic regression model using LASSO was fit by minimizing the average squared error in the validation data. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) measured discrimination performance.

Results

Penalized regression analysis suggested a screening tool that sums the Likert scale values of two PCL-5 questions—intrusive thoughts of the stressful experience (#1) and insomnia (#21). This had an AUROC of 0.85 (using hold-out test data) for predicting PTSD as evaluated by the MINI, which outperformed the PC-PTSD. The AUROC was similar in subgroups defined by age, sex, and number of categories of trauma experienced (all AUROCs>0.83) except those with no trauma history- AUROC was 0.78.

Conclusion

In some East African settings, a 2-item PTSD screening tool may outperform longer screeners and is easily scaled by a non-specialist workforce.
Factors associated with postpartum fatigue: an exploration of the moderating role of resilience
Authors: Baattaiah Baian A. , Alharbi Mutasim D. , Aldhahi Monira I. , Khan Fayaz
Published: June 2024

Background

Postpartum fatigue (PPF) can impair the physical and mental well-being of women. The aims of this study were to assess the associations between fatigue and maternal health-related variables, specifically, sleep quality, depression symptoms, and resilience, and to explore the moderating role of resilience in the relationships between sleep quality, depression symptoms, and fatigue.

Methods

This cross-sectional study used data collected from mothers during the postpartum period via an online platform. PPF was assessed using the Fatigue Severity Scale, whereas sleep quality and depression symptoms were assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, respectively. The Brief Resilience Scale was used to assess resilience. Simple and multiple binary logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the association of each independent variable with PPF and to determine the most significant predictors of PFF. The data were analyzed using SPSS, and structural equation modeling was performed using AMOS 23. A moderation analysis was performed to explore the moderating role of resilience using the Hayes PROCESS macro.

Results

A total of 1,443 postpartum mothers were included in the analysis. The simple binary logistic regression analysis showed that having chronic disease (odds: 1.52; p = 0.02), mother’s age (odds: 0.97; p = 0.03), mother’s body mass index (BMI; odds: 1.03; p = 0.01), depression symptoms (odds: 1.09; p ≤ 0.0001), sleep quality (odds: 1.17; p ≤ 0.0001), and resilience (odds: 0.42; p ≤ 0.0001) all contributed to fatigue during postpartum. Multivariate logistic regression showed that the mother’s BMI, sleep quality, depression symptoms, and resilience were significant predictors of PPF. Moderation analyses showed that resilience was not a significant moderator between the main effects of sleep quality and fatigue (interaction effect: β = 0.01, p = 0.31, 95% CI: −0.01 to 0.04) or between the main effects of depression symptoms and fatigue during postpartum (interaction effect: β = 0.01, p = 0.82, 95% CI: −0.01 to 0.02).

Conclusion

Given the deleterious effects of PPF on maternal health outcomes, factors associated with PPF should be assessed regularly. In addition to mothers’ BMI, sleep quality, and depression symptoms, resilience could also be a crucial factor in predicting fatigue severity during this critical time for mothers even though it was not a significant moderator among this sample.
Building alternative payment models in health care
Authors: Howard Steven W. , Bradford Natalie , Belue Rhonda , Henning Margaret , Qian Zhengmin , Ahaus Kees , Reindersma Thomas
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Global interest is growing in new value-based models of financing, delivering, and paying for health care services that could produce higher-quality and lower cost outcomes for patients and for society. However, research indicates evidence gaps in knowledge related to alternative payment models (APMs) in early experimentation phases or those contracted between private insurers and their health care provider-partners. The aim of this research was to understand and update the literature related to learning how industry experts design and implement APMs, including specific elements of their models and their choice of stakeholders to be involved in the design and contractual details.

Methods

A literature review was conducted to guide the research focus and to select themes. The sample was selected using snowball sampling to identify subject matter experts (SMEs). Researchers conducted 16 semi-structured interviews with SMEs in the US, the Netherlands, and Germany in September and October 2021. Interviews were transcribed and using Braun and Clarke's six-phase approach to thematic analysis, researchers independently read, reviewed, and coded participants' responses related to APM design and implementation and subsequently reviewed each other's codes and themes for consistency.

Results

Participants represented diverse perspectives of the payer, provider, consulting, and government areas of the health care sector. We found design considerations had five overarching themes: (1) population and scope of care and services, (2) benchmarking, metrics, data, and technology; (3) finance, APM type, risk adjustment, incentives, and influencing provider behavior, (4) provider partnerships and the role of physicians, and (5) leadership and regulatory issues.

Discussion

This study confirmed several of the core components of APM model designs and implementations found in the literature and brought insights on additional aspects not previously emphasized, particularly the role of physicians (especially in leadership) and practice transformation/care processes necessary for providers to thrive under APM models. Importantly, researchers found significant concerns relevant for policymakers about regulations relating to health data sharing, rigid price-setting, and inter-organizational data communication that greatly inhibit the ability to experiment with APMs and those models’ abilities to succeed long-term.
Co-Opetition and the Industrial Internet of Things: A Strategic Framework for Operational Efficiency in the Portuguese Ornamental Stone Sector
Authors: da Silva Agostinho , Cardoso Antonio J. Marques
Published: June 2024

In our rapidly globalizing and digitizing world, small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises (SMEs) face significant challenges that compel them to adopt a co-opetition strategy—a blend of competition and collaboration. Despite their potential benefits, the high failure rates and unmet expectations of co-opetition networks highlight a significant gap in the empirical frameworks for establishing and maintaining these networks. This research seeks to address these gaps by developing a framework that enhances value cocreation in the Portuguese ornamental stone sector, integrating the latest developments in the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), Service-Dominant Logic (S-D Logic), and service science. Question: How can a framework integrating IIoT, S-D Logic, and service science enhance value cocreation and manage co-opetition among SMEs in the Portuguese ornamental stone sector? Methods: Theoretical insights and practical applications were synthesized to develop and validate a comprehensive co-opetition framework. This framework was tested through an experimental pilot project in the Portuguese ornamental stone sector, leveraging IIoT. Results: The implementation of the framework demonstrated significant operational efficiency, including enhanced performance, reduced production variance, and better resource utilization, indicating that integrating IIoT within co-opetition networks can effectively support SMEs. Conclusions: This study confirms the transformative impact of embedding IIoT in co-opetition networks, offering a replicable and scalable framework for other sectors. This framework addresses the empirical gap and aligns with broader socio-economic goals, setting the stage for further research into its applicability and potential across diverse industrial environments.
A Low-Tech Approach to Mobilize Nutrients from Organic Residues to Produce Bioponic Stock Solutions
Authors: Heintze Sebastian , Beckett Marc , Kriem Lukas Simon , Germer Jörn , Asch Folkard
Published: June 2024

Organic residues, as a nutrient source suitable of producing solutions for hydroponic crop production, have the potential to reduce the dependence on mineral fertilizers. Especially in remote and resource-constrained regions, organic residues might be the only option to produce hydroponic nutrient solutions. However, nutrient solutions made from organic residues, called bioponic solutions, are usually unbalanced in their nutrient composition, which leads to deficiencies and poor plant growth. This study aimed to experimentally develop a low-tech approach to produce bioponic stock solutions rich in NO3−, P, and K, to create a balanced bioponic solution. The mixed bioponic solution contained 58 mg L−1 NH4+-N, 43 mg L−1 NO3−-N, 50 mg L−1 PO43−-P, and 246 mg L−1 K+. This approach resulted in satisfactory levels of P, K and micronutrients. The solution was tested pure and spiked with Ca(NO3)2 on lettuce in comparison with a mineral Hoagland nutrient solution. Neither the bioponic nor the spiked bioponic solution achieved comparable lettuce yields to the Hoagland solution. The poor growth of the plants in the bioponic solution was attributed to an unfavorable NH4+:NO3− ratio, high microorganism load, and elevated pH levels. However, the approach of preparing bioponic stock solutions could be promising for future research into the production of balanced bioponic nutrient solutions from organic residues.
Effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy on Hemogram, Serum Biochemistry and Coagulation Parameters of Dogs Undergoing Elective Laparoscopic-Assisted Ovariohysterectomy
Authors: Antunes Bernardo Nascimento , Caye Pâmela , Schiefler Otávio Henrique de Melo , Jung Jenifer , Engelsdorff João Segura , Tostes Vitória Pina , Degregori Emanuelle Bortolotto , Reinstein Rainer da Silva , De Andrade Cinthia Melazzo , Brun Maurício Veloso
Published: June 2024

Background: This study explored the effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) on hemogram, serum biochemistry and hemostatic variables in female dogs undergoing laparoscopic-assisted ovariohysterectomy (OVH). Materials: Thirty adult, mixed-breed, healthy female dogs were randomly divided into the following three groups: HBOT + SURG (exposed to two absolute atmospheres (ATAs) for 45 min followed by laparoscopic-assisted OVH), HBOT (exposed to two ATAs for 45 min) and SURG (laparoscopic-assisted OVH). Blood samples were collected at T0 (at the admission), at T1, 24 h after T0 (immediately after HBOT in the HBOT + SURG and HBOT groups, and immediately before anesthetic premedication in the SURG group), and at T2, 48 h after T0 (24 h after HBOT and anesthetic premedication). Methods: Assessments included erythrogram, leukogram, thrombogram, renal and hepatic serum biochemistry, prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), buccal mucosal bleeding time (BMBT) and bloodstain area (BA) on hygroscopic paper collected at the BMBT. Results: Both the HBOT + SURG and SURG groups presented neutrophilia (p ≤ 0.0039) at T2 and an increase of ALP at T2 (p ≤ 0.0493), the SURG group presented an increase in leukocyte count at T2 (p = 0.0238) and the HBOT + SURG group presented a reduction in lymphocyte count at T2 (p = 0.0115). In the HBOT + SURG group, there was a reduction in PT and APTT in relation to the baseline value (p ≤ 0.0412). Conclusions: A session of HBOT at two ATAs for 45 min did not cause changes in the BMBT or BA in healthy female dogs. Some blood parameters investigated (neutrophil and lymphocyte count, ALP, PT and APTT) were affected by the use of HBOT.
Tracing the Flight: Investigating the Introduction of Avian Metapneumovirus (aMPV) A and B
Authors: Franzo Giovanni , Legnardi Matteo , Faustini Giulia , Baston Riccardo , Poletto Francesca , Cecchinato Mattia , Tucciarone Claudia Maria
Published: June 2024

Avian metapneumovirus (aMPV) has been identified as an important cause of respiratory and reproductive disease, leading to significant productive losses worldwide. Different subtypes have been found to circulate in different regions, with aMPV-A and B posing a significant burden especially in the Old World, and aMPV-C in North America, albeit with limited exceptions of marginal economic relevance. Recently, both aMPV-A and aMPV-B have been reported in the U.S.; however, the route of introduction has not been investigated. In the present study, the potential importation pathways have been studied through phylogenetic and phylodynamic analyses based on a broad collection of partial attachment (G) protein sequences collected worldwide. aMPV-B circulating in the U.S. seems the descendant of Eastern Asian strains, which, in turn, are related to European ones. A likely introduction pathway mediated by wild bird migration through the Beringian crucible, where the East Asian and Pacific American flight paths intersect, appears likely and was previously reported for avian influenza. aMPV-A, on the other hand, showed a Mexican origin, involving strains related to Asian ones. Given the low likelihood of trade or illegal importation, the role of wild birds appears probable also in this case, since the region is covered by different flight paths directed in a North–South direction through America. Since the information on the role of wild birds in aMPV epidemiology is still scarce and scattered, considering the significant practical implications for the poultry industry demonstrated by recent U.S. outbreaks, further surveys on wild birds are encouraged.
Emergence of a Novel G4P[6] Porcine Rotavirus with Unique Sequence Duplication in NSP5 Gene in China
Authors: Zhou Xia , Hou Xueyan , Xiao Guifa , Liu Bo , Jia Handuo , Wei Jie , Mi Xiaoyun , Guo Qingyong , Wei Yurong , Zhai Shao-Lun
Published: June 2024

Rotavirus is a major causative agent of diarrhoea in children, infants, and young animals around the world. The associated zoonotic risk necessitates the serious consideration of the complete genetic information of rotavirus. A segmented genome makes rotavirus prone to rearrangement and the formation of a new viral strain. Monitoring the molecular epidemiology of rotavirus is essential for its prevention and control. The quantitative RT-PCR targeting the NSP5 gene was used to detect rotavirus group A (RVA) in pig faecal samples, and two pairs of universal primers and protocols were used for amplifying the G and P genotype. The genotyping and phylogenetic analysis of 11 genes were performed by RT-PCR and a basic bioinformatics method. A unique G4P[6] rotavirus strain, designated S2CF (RVA/Pig-tc/CHN/S2CF/2023/G4P[6]), was identified in one faecal sample from a piglet with severe diarrhoea in Guangdong, China. Whole genome sequencing and analysis suggested that the 11 segments of the S2CF strain showed a unique Wa-like genotype constellation and a typical porcine RVA genomic configuration of G4-P[6]-I1-R1-C1-M1-A8-N1-T1-E1-H1. Notably, 4 of the 11 gene segments (VP4, VP6, VP2, and NSP5) clustered consistently with human-like RVAs, suggesting independent human-to-porcine interspecies transmission. Moreover, a unique 344-nt duplicated sequence was identified for the first time in the untranslated region of NSP5. This study further reveals the genetic diversity and potential inter-species transmission of porcine rotavirus.
Ewingella americana Infections in Humans—A Narrative Review
Authors: Ioannou Petros , Baliou Stella , Kofteridis Diamantis
Published: June 2024

Ewingella americana is a Gram-negative rod that belongs to the order Enterobacterales and the family Yersiniaceae and was first identified in 1983 from 10 clinical strains in the United States of America. The present study aimed to identify all the published cases of E. americana in the literature, describe the epidemiological, clinical, and microbiological characteristics, and provide data regarding its antimicrobial resistance, treatment, and outcomes. A narrative review was performed based on a PubMed and Scopus databases search. In total, 16 studies provided data on 19 patients with infections by E. americana. The median age of the patients was 55 years, and 47.4% were male. The most common infections were those of the bloodstream, the respiratory tract, and the peritoneal cavity. Antimicrobial resistance to cephalosporins, aminoglycosides, and the combination of trimethoprim with sulfamethoxazole was minimal, and these were the most commonly used antimicrobials for treating these infections. No included study provided information on the genetic or molecular mechanism of this pathogen’s antimicrobial resistance. The overall mortality was minimal, with only one patient with bacteremia succumbing to the infection. Further studies are needed to better understand this microorganism, its pathogenic potential in humans, and the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying its antimicrobial resistance, for which very little evidence exists to date.
Essential Oil Emulsion from Caper (Capparis spinosa L.) Leaves: Exploration of Its Antibacterial and Antioxidant Properties for Possible Application as a Natural Food Preservative
Authors: Merlino Maria , Condurso Concetta , Cincotta Fabrizio , Nalbone Luca , Ziino Graziella , Verzera Antonella
Published: June 2024

This study explored, for the first time, the chemical composition and in vitro antioxidant and antibacterial activities of a caper leaf essential oil (EO) emulsion for possible food applications as a natural preservative. The EO was extracted by hydrodistillation from the leaves of Capparis spinosa growing wild in the Aeolian Archipelago (Sicily, Italy) and exhibited a pungent, sulphurous odour. The volatile fraction of the emulsion, analysed by SPME-GC-MS, consisted of over 100 compounds and was dominated by compounds with recognised antibacterial and antioxidant properties, namely dimethyl tetrasulfide (18.41%), dimethyl trisulfide (12.58%), methyl isothiocyanate (7.97%), and terpinen-4-ol (6.76%). The emulsion was effective against all bacterial strains tested (Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Enteritidis, Pseudomonas fluorescens), with L. monocytogenes exhibiting the lowest minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC = 0.02 mg/mL) while E. coli had the highest (MIC = 0.06 mg/mL). The emulsion had a good DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazine) radical scavenging activity that was dose-dependent and equal to 42.98% at the 0.08 mg/mL level with an IC50 value of 0.099 mg/mL. Based on the results, the caper leaf EO emulsion has the potential to be proposed as a natural alternative to chemical preservatives in the food industry.
Importance Ranking of Usability Indicators for Second-Hand Trading Applications Based on Exploratory Factor Analysis—Analytic Hierarchy Process toward Sustainable Development
Authors: Liu Xiaoxue , Lee Boyoung , Park Kyungjin
Published: June 2024

In contemporary society, excessive energy consumption and rapid product development cycles are seen as significant barriers to sustainable development. Second-hand trading apps have emerged as a solution to this issue that allow the extension of the lifecycle of products to reduce resource consumption and waste generation. This study aims to support the design and development of second-hand trading apps by establishing and prioritizing usability indicators. To this end, we assembled a team of 20 experts and initially identified usability indicators using the Delphi method. Then, data from surveys of 412 users were analyzed using Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) to reduce dimensions, and the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) was used to finally rank the relative importance and priority of these indicators. The results show that of the Level 1 indicators, safety and privacy, learning and operation, and information architecture are relatively highly prioritized. For the Level 2 indicators, property protection, page information architecture, privacy protection, ease of use, and efficiency ranked highly in terms of composite weight priority. The findings of this study will aid in the usability evaluation and enhancement of future second-hand trading apps. By optimizing app usability, increasing user engagement, and thereby boosting the rate of second-hand product purchases, this research contributes positively to the sustainable development of the environment by reducing waste generation.
Bridge Assessment under Earthquake and Flood-Induced Scour
Authors: Karriqi Taulant , Matos José C. , Dang Ngoc-Son , Xia Ye
Published: June 2024

Earthquakes and floods in Albania are devastating, but combining these two different hazards in terms of action on bridge structures may lead the bridge to collapse. This article presents a seismic risk assessment of a code-conforming precast reinforced concrete bridge located in a region prone to earthquakes and where local scour induced by floods is a significant concern. The seismic action is considered using a group of ground motion accelerograms generated by matching the accelerogram of the 29 November 2019 earthquake in Durres (M = 6.4), Albania, to the target response spectrum. The scouring effects on the bents of the bridge are characterized by the scour depths. A set of non-linear time-history analyses of the bridge are performed to assess the bridge’s performance. The bridge fragility curves are generated and analyzed for multi-hazard scenarios at both element and system levels for different flow discharge values and PGA levels. The result shows a low seismic risk of the bridge with bearings when considering the local scour induced by flood events in the seismic analysis due to their flexibility to adapt to changes in structure geometry and significant foundation stiffness. This research also emphasizes the significance of choosing the right foundation type and depth for bridges located in areas prone to local scour induced by floods.
Aerostat-Based Observation of Space Objects in the Stratosphere
Authors: Wang Jiang , Shen Ming , Wen Qin , Zhao Rong , Wang Zhanchao , Gao Pengqi , Huang Min
Published: June 2024

For the requirements of the multi-means observation and emergency monitoring of space objects, including space debris and near-earth asteroids, this paper analyzes the astronomical observation conditions in the stratosphere, which is the region of the earth’s atmosphere between 18 km and 55 km of altitude. The results reveal that near space has a significantly superior sky background and observation environment than ground-based observation, with the values of transmittance in the visible band and near-infrared bands more than 0.91 and 0.988, respectively. The sky background radiance at 20 km is 2.5% of the ground in the visible band and near-infrared band, which is practical for daytime observation, and there is an advantage in the availability of observable hours without the influence of aerosols and turbulence, etc. Based on near-space aerostats, such as a high-altitude balloon, a new method of space object floating observation has been proposed, including the observation facilities and scheme. The simulation shows that it has an all-weather/all-day ability while adopting multi-band observation. Applying a telescope with 9.5 mag detective ability located on the aerostat, debris with the size of about 0.36 m can be observed at a 1000 km distance and phase angle of 100°, while the near-earth asteroid with the size of about 980 km can be observed at a 5 million km distance and phase angle of 40° during the daytime. With these advantages, the aerostat-based observation would be a beneficial supplement to the ground-based observation network.
Is Prolonged Ageing a Necessity for Improving the Quality of Sous-Vide Cooked Beef?
Authors: Modzelewska-Kapituła Monika , Tkacz Katarzyna , Zduńczyk Weronika , Ozturk-Kerimoglu Burcu , Nogalski Zenon
Published: June 2024

This study aimed to determine the effect of wet ageing time (4, 14 and 21 days) on the quality of sous-vide cooked beef products. The research material consisted of longissimus lumborum muscles obtained from the carcasses of Polish Holstein-Friesian bulls (n = 9, average age at slaughter 22 months). The meat was wet-aged at 4 ± 1 °C for 4, 14 and 21 days post-mortem. The analyses were conducted on uncooked samples (colour and pH) and after the sous-vide cooking (60 °C, 4 h) (colour, cooking loss, Warner–Bratzler shear force, texture profile analysis and sensory assessment). It was found that ageing decreased redness, yellowness and chroma (p < 0.05) in the cross-section area of sous-vide cooked beef. The values of shear force, hardness, springiness and chewiness decreased during ageing (p < 0.05). The samples were scored similarly in sensory assessment, except for tenderness which was scored higher (p < 0.01) in the products obtained from 14 and 21 d aged beef compared to 4 d aged samples. Overall, the findings highlighted that, also in the production of sous-vide cooked beef, longissimus lumborum muscles should be aged for at least 14 days.
Mechanism of Unfrozen Water Content Evolution during Melting of Cryogenic Frozen Coal Body Based on 2D NMR
Authors: Liu Tong , Zhang Xian , Qin Lei , Lin Baiquan , Mu Miao , Yang Wei , Lv Shiyin , Li Jiawei
Published: June 2024

The content of unfrozen water in the freezing process of coal body affects the microscopic pore structure and macroscopic mechanical properties of coal body and determines the permeability-enhancement effect of coal seam and the extraction efficiency of coal mine gas. To investigate the evolution mechanism of unfrozen water content in the melting process of lignite, this paper takes the melting process of lignite liquid nitrogen after freezing for 150 min as the research object and quantifies the spatial change process of unfrozen water distribution based on two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance technology. Through the accurate interpretation of the superimposed signals of different fluids, the 2D NMR technique can more easily obtain the spatial distribution of different fluids and even the specific content of fluids in different pores in coals. The results show that at −196 °C, the unfrozen water mainly existed in the small coal pore and the small ice pore in the large pore. As the temperature rose, the pores melted, and free water began to be produced. The mathematical model analysis shows that there was intermolecular potential energy between fluid molecules and the coal pore wall, and the pore wall exerted a part of pressure on its internal fluid, and the pressure affected the melting point of pore ice with pore diameter and melting temperature, resulting in the difference of unfrozen water content.
A Sentence-Matching Model Based on Multi-Granularity Contextual Key Semantic Interaction
Authors: Li Jinhang , Li Yingna
Published: June 2024

In the task of matching Chinese sentences, the key semantics within sentences and the deep interaction between them significantly affect the matching performance. However, previous studies mainly relied on shallow interactions based on a single semantic granularity, which left them vulnerable to interference from overlapping terms. It is particularly challenging to distinguish between positive and negative examples within datasets from the same thematic domain. This paper proposes a sentence-matching model that incorporates multi-granularity contextual key semantic interaction. The model combines multi-scale convolution and multi-level convolution to extract different levels of contextual semantic information at word, phrase, and sentence granularities. It employs multi-head self-attention and cross-attention mechanisms to align the key semantics between sentences. Furthermore, the model integrates the original, similarity, and dissimilarity information of sentences to establish deep semantic interaction. Experimental results on both open- and closed-domain datasets demonstrate that the proposed model outperforms existing baseline models in terms of matching performance. Additionally, the model achieves matching effectiveness comparable to large-scale pre-trained language models while utilizing a lightweight encoder.
InSAR-CTPIM-Based 3D Deformation Prediction in Coal Mining Areas of the Baisha Reservoir, China
Authors: Lei Minchao , Zhang Tengfei , Shi Jiancun , Yu Jing
Published: June 2024

Time series dynamic prediction of surface deformation in mining areas can provide reference data for coal mine safety and production, which has important impacts. The combination of interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) technology and the probability integral method (PIM) is commonly used for predicting deformation. However, most surface subsidence prediction in mining areas is based on the static PIM parameters, failing to achieve the three-dimensional (3D) dynamic deformation prediction. This paper proposed a 3D deformation dynamic prediction model (InSAR-3D-CTPIM) between InSAR deformation observations and dynamic coordinate-time PIM (CTPIM) parameters, which can realize the prediction of east–west, north–south, and vertical series deformation caused by mining. The method has been validated by simulation experiments and real experiments in the mining area of Jiansheng Coal Mine in Baisha Reservoir, Henan Province, China. The results showed that the modeling accuracy was improved by 34.3% compared to the traditional multi-rate model, and the accuracy was improved by 28.5% compared to the vertical deformation obtained by the traditional static PIM method. The InSAR-3D-CTPIM model can be used to predict the evolutionary history of basin-wide surface deformation dynamics in coal mining areas, and provide a reference for the early warning and prediction of geological hazards in coal mining areas.
Investigating the Role of Wave Process in the Evaporation Duct Simulation by Using an Ocean–Atmosphere–Wave Coupled Model
Authors: Shan Zhigang , Sun Miaojun , Wang Wei , Zou Jing , Liu Xiaolei , Zhang Hong , Qiu Zhijin , Wang Bo , Wang Jinyue , Yang Shuai
Published: June 2024

In this study, a diagnostic model for evaporation ducts was established based on the Coupled Ocean–Atmosphere–Wave–Sediment Transport (COAWST) and the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) models. Utilizing this model, four sensitivity tests were conducted over the South China Sea from 21 September to 5 October 2008, when four tropical cyclones affected the study domain. These tests were designed with different roughness schemes to investigate the impact mechanisms of wave processes on evaporation duct simulation under extreme weather conditions. The results indicated that wave processes primarily influenced the evaporation duct heights by altering sea surface roughness and dynamical factors. The indirect impacts of waves without dynamical factors were rather weak. Generally, a decrease in local roughness led to increased wind speed, decreased humidity, and a reduced air–sea temperature difference, resulting in the formation of evaporation ducts at higher altitudes. However, this affecting mechanism between roughness and evaporation ducts was also greatly influenced by changes in regional circulation. In the eastern open sea areas of the South China Sea, changes in evaporative ducts were more closely aligned with local impact mechanisms, whereas the changes in the central and western areas demonstrated greater complexity and fewer local impacts due to variations in regional circulation.