bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regular soccer training improves pulmonary diffusion capacity in 6 to 10 year old boys
Authors: Dridi Rim , Dridi Nadia , Gmada Nabil , Laher Ismail , Saeidi Ayoub , Granacher Urs , Zouhal Hassane
Published: November 2023

Background

Soccer is one of the most attractive sports around the globe for children and adolescents, and the benefits of soccer training are often shown. Due to the intermittent character of soccer with random changes between high-intensity activity and low-intensity play, athletes’ aerobic (respiratory) capacity is specifically stimulated. However, little is known about the effects of regular soccer practice on pulmonary diffusion capacity (TL) in young players, even though it is the most popular sport in the world.

Objectives

To analyze the effects of 28 weeks of regular soccer training versus a non-activity control period on the TL, the alveolar-capillary membrane diffusion capacity (DM) as well as the capillary blood volume (Vc) in healthy prepubertal boys aged 6 to 10 years.

Methods

For this purpose, boys were randomly assigned to a soccer training group (SG, n = 40) or a control group (CG, n = 40). Pre and post-intervention, all participants performed an all-out graded bicycle ergometer test to measure maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) and maximal aerobic power (MAP). A respiratory maneuver was performed at rest and just at the end of the test to measure the TL for carbon monoxide (TLCO) and nitric oxide (TLNO), DM, as well as Vc.

Results

There were no significant baseline between-group differences for any of the assessed parameters (p > 0.05). Significant group-by-time interactions were found for most pulmonary parameters measured at rest (p < 0.05), with effect size (ES) values ranging from small-to-large (0.2 < ES < 4.0), except for VA (p = 0.3, ES = 0.006). Post-hoc tests indicated significant DM (p < 0.05; 0.2 < ES < 4.0), TLNO (p < 0.01; 0.22 < ES < 4.0), TLCO (p < 0,01; 0.24 < ES < 4.0) and Vc (p = 0.01; 0.404 < ES < 0.6) improvements for SG but not CG. Significant group-by-time effects were identified for HRmax and VO2max (p < 0.001; ES = 0.5 and p = 0.005; ES = 0.23 respectively). The post-hoc analyses indicated a significant decrease in HRmax and a significant increase in VO2max in the SG (p < 0.001; ES = 0.5 and p = 0.005, ES = 0.23, respectively) but not in CG. Values for TLCO increased by almost 20%; Vc of 14% DM of 8% and VA of 10% at the end of maximal exercise in SG. Furthermore, the percentage improvement was less notable in the control group (7.5% for TLCO; 2% for Vc; 5% for DM and 4% for VA).

Conclusion

Regular soccer training significantly improves pulmonary vascular function and increases DM and Vc after exercise in prepubertal boys. The observed adaptations are most likely due to better recruitment of additional pulmonary capillary function. However, the stepwise linear regression analyses indicated that increases in pulmonary vascular function were not related to improvements in VO2max and MAP.
Simulation-based education in neurology: lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Toro Jaime , Rivera Juan Sebastián , Gaitán Jairo , Rodríguez Daniela , Serna-Corredor Laura Andrea , Cortés-Muñoz Fabián , Medina Thomas , Yepes Manuel
Published: November 2023

Objectives

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the disruption of all sectors of the economy including education. According to UNESCO over 1.37 million young people including medical students, were affected by the lockdowns in response to COVID-19 and the subsequent closure of the education system. The primary challenge for medical education was to provide clerkships in a biosafety environment. This study aimed to determine the impact of a simulated hospital in a neurology clerkship of 5-year medical students during the coronavirus pandemic and compare their results with a non-pandemic group in Bogotá, Colombia.

Results

The students in the pandemic group answered a Likert scale survey regarding their satisfaction with the simulated hospital. Both groups were required to perform an oral, mid-term and final examination. From the results, it is clear that students perceived that exposure to a simulated hospital facilitated their learning process (93.1%) and allowed greater interaction with the teacher compared to a face-to-face environment (77.3%). There were no clinically significant differences in test results. This experience indicates that a simulated hospital is a valuable method to acquire clinical skills in trainees, that could be integrated into the curricular milestones of medical education programs regardless of the pandemic.
Lethal pulmonary embolism in a pregnant woman with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 receiving prophylactic anticoagulation: a case report
Authors: Perfilyeva Yuliya V. , Maukayeva Saule B. , Smail Yerbol M. , Dmitrovskiy Andrey M. , Ostapchuk Yekaterina O. , Zhigailov Andrey V. , Nizkorodova Anna S. , Berdygulova Zhanna A. , Naizabayeva Dinara A. , Perfilyeva Anastassiya V. , Maltseva Elina R. , Kamytbekova Kulyan Zh. , Skiba Yuriy A.
Published: November 2023

Background

A limited number of studies have described thrombotic complications in pregnant women with COVID-19. Here we report on fatal pulmonary embolism in a pregnant woman with laboratory confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Case presentation

A 28-year-old Kazakh woman was hospitalized with muscle pain, dry cough and a temperature of 37.5 °C at the 29th week of gestation. Upon admission, a blood test demonstrated elevated neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, decreased levels of erythrocytes and hemoglobin, as well as prolonged prothrombin and activated partial thromboplastin time. Within 14 days of admission, she experienced respiratory distress and underwent transfer to the intensive care unit, intubation and a cesarean section. The patient received intravenous antibiotics, antiviral medications, systemic corticosteroids and dual anticoagulation with aspirin and enoxaparin. Death outcome was reported on day 18 of illness despite aggressive supportive care. Histological analysis demonstrated that obstruction of the main pulmonary arthery and disseminated intravascular coagulation were the causes of death.

Conclusions

This case demonstrates that in the management of pregnancy and childbirth in patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 infection, special attention should be paid to coagulation system parameters and timely appropriate prophylaxis of thromboembolic complications, which has yet to be determined.
Data management plans as linked open data: exploiting ARGOS FAIR and machine actionable outputs in the OpenAIRE research graph
Authors: Papadopoulou Elli , Bardi Alessia , Kakaletris George , Tziotzios Diamadis , Manghi Paolo , Manola Natalia
Published: November 2023

Background

Open Science Graphs (OSGs) are scientific knowledge graphs representing different entities of the research lifecycle (e.g. projects, people, research outcomes, institutions) and the relationships among them. They present a contextualized view of current research that supports discovery, re-use, reproducibility, monitoring, transparency and omni-comprehensive assessment. A Data Management Plan (DMP) contains information concerning both the research processes and the data collected, generated and/or re-used during a project’s lifetime. Automated solutions and workflows that connect DMPs with the actual data and other contextual information (e.g., publications, fundings) are missing from the landscape. DMPs being submitted as deliverables also limit their findability. In an open and FAIR-enabling research ecosystem information linking between research processes and research outputs is essential. ARGOS tool for FAIR data management contributes to the OpenAIRE Research Graph (RG) and utilises its underlying services and trusted sources to progressively automate validation and automations of Research Data Management (RDM) practices.

Results

A comparative analysis was conducted between the data models of ARGOS and OpenAIRE Research Graph against the DMP Common Standard. Following this, we extended ARGOS with export format converters and semantic tagging, and the OpenAIRE RG with a DMP entity and semantics between existing entities and relationships. This enabled the integration of ARGOS machine actionable DMPs (ma-DMPs) to the OpenAIRE OSG, enriching and exposing DMPs as FAIR outputs.

Conclusions

This paper, to our knowledge, is the first to introduce exposing ma-DMPs in OSGs and making the link between OSGs and DMPs, introducing the latter as entities in the research lifecycle. Further, it provides insight to ARGOS DMP service interoperability practices and integrations to populate the OpenAIRE Research Graph with DMP entities and relationships and strengthen both FAIRness of outputs as well as information exchange in a standard way.
Infection with Pythium flevoense in a harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) as a novel cause of dermatitis in marine mammals
Authors: Veldhuis Kroeze Edwin J. B. , van Elk Cornelis E. , van de Bildt Marco W. G. , van Run Peter R. W. A. , Foster Geoffrey , Abou-Chakra Nissrine , Hare Rasmus Krøger , Kuiken Thijs
Published: November 2023

The oomycete Pythium flevoense was diagnosed as the cause of dermatitis in a young adult female harbour porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) that had been trapped in a pound net in a temperate saltwater environment. Disease from Pythium sp. infection—pythiosis—is infrequently diagnosed in humans, horses, dogs, cattle, and few other mammalian species. Pythiosis is typically associated with exposure to tropical or subtropical freshwater conditions, and typically caused by Pythium insidiosum. However, until now, pythiosis has been reported in neither marine mammals nor temperate saltwater conditions, and P. flevoense is not known as a cause of pythiosis in mammals. This porpoise developed generalised dermatitis despite treatment and euthanasia was necessary. Histopathological evaluation revealed a chronic active erosive dermatitis, with intralesional hyphae morphologically consistent with a Pythium sp. PCR analysis and sequencing of affected skin matched Pythium flevoense with a 100% similarity to the reference strain. Additional diagnostics excluded other pathogens. Based on this case report, P. flevoense needs to be considered as a mammalian pathogen. Furthermore, harbour porpoises and possibly other marine mammals may be at risk of infection with P. flevoense, and pythiosis should be included in the differential diagnosis of dermatitis in marine mammals.
Ecosystem services and biodiversity appraisals by means of life cycle tools: state-of-art in agri-food and forestry field
Authors: Soldati Cristian , De Luca Anna Irene , Iofrida Nathalie , Spada Emanuele , Gulisano Giovanni , Falcone Giacomo
Published: November 2023

Background

In recent years, the importance of ecosystem services (ESs) has been significantly recognized in policy-making processes. The choice of life cycle (LC) methodologies to measure potential impacts, also relative to the changes in the levels of ecosystem services provided by nature, is increasing, but the implementation of ESs in LC approaches does not seem to be widespread, just as there is no comprehensive and exhaustive framework of the directions taken by scientific research in this regard. To explore the state of the art and try to overcome this gap a systematic and critical literature search was conducted for application case studies that evaluate ESs by means of LC tools (Life Cycle Assessment, Life Cycle Costing, and Social Life Cycle Assessment). Using Scopus and WoS databases and PRISMA model, a selection and skimming of the resulting records were carried out based on several criteria such as general criteria, specific criteria related to ESs, and LC methodological criteria.

Results

In general, the analysis of results showed as ESs uses typical methodological aspects such as the use of the functional unit related and the use of secondary data. Regarding impact categories, the LCIA methods are used also for the assessment of ESs due to the implementation through LCA software such as Simapro or GaBi, to analyse different pressure caused, for example, by land use and land-use change and the assessment of “regulating” ESs.

Conclusions

Future research advancements should focus on the assessment of cultural and supporting services because, at the actual state, they are very neglected in the literature. Similarly, the implementation of ESs in LC methodologies should provide the inclusion of cause-and-effect relationships that go beyond the environmental services or disservices to understand how and how much the alterations of ESs impact also from an economic and social point of view.
Single-base editing in IGF2 improves meat production and intramuscular fat deposition in Liang Guang Small Spotted pigs
Authors: Duo Tianqi , Liu Xiaohong , Mo Delin , Bian Yu , Cai Shufang , Wang Min , Li Ruiqiang , Zhu Qi , Tong Xian , Liang Ziyun , Jiang Weilun , Chen Shiyi , Chen Yaosheng , He Zuyong
Published: November 2023

Background

Chinese indigenous pigs are popular with consumers for their juiciness, flavour and meat quality, but they have lower meat production. Insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) is a maternally imprinted growth factor that promotes skeletal muscle growth by regulating cell proliferation and differentiation. A single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) within intron 3 of porcine IGF2 disrupts a binding site for the repressor, zinc finger BED-type containing 6 (ZBED6), leading to up-regulation of IGF2 and causing major effects on muscle growth, heart size, and backfat thickness. This favorable mutation is common in Western commercial pig populations, but absent in most Chinese indigenous pig breeds. To improve meat production of Chinese indigenous pigs, we used cytosine base editor 3 (CBE3) to introduce IGF2-intron3-C3071T mutation into porcine embryonic fibroblasts (PEFs) isolated from a male Liang Guang Small Spotted pig (LGSS), and single-cell clones harboring the desired mutation were selected for somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) to generate the founder line of IGF2T/T pigs.

Results

We found the heterozygous progeny IGF2C/T pigs exhibited enhanced expression of IGF2, increased lean meat by 18%–36%, enlarged loin muscle area by 3%–17%, improved intramuscular fat (IMF) content by 18%–39%, marbling score by 0.75–1, meat color score by 0.53–1.25, and reduced backfat thickness by 5%–16%. The enhanced accumulation of intramuscular fat in IGF2C/T pigs was identified to be regulated by the PI3K-AKT/AMPK pathway, which activated SREBP1 to promote adipogenesis.

Conclusions

We demonstrated the introduction of IGF2-intron3-C3071T in Chinese LGSS can improve both meat production and quality, and first identified the regulation of IMF deposition by IGF2 through SREBP1 via the PI3K-AKT/AMPK signaling pathways. Our study provides a further understanding of the biological functions of IGF2 and an example for improving porcine economic traits through precise base editing.
Preweaning period is a critical window for rumen microbial regulation of average daily gain in Holstein heifer calves
Authors: Xu Shengyang , Jiao Chong , Diao Qiyu , Tu Yan
Published: November 2023

Background

Rumen bacterial groups can affect growth performance, such as average daily gain (ADG), feed intake, and efficiency. The study aimed to investigate the inter-relationship of rumen bacterial composition, rumen fermentation indicators, serum indicators, and growth performance of Holstein heifer calves with different ADG. Twelve calves were chosen from a trail with 60 calves and divided into higher ADG (HADG, high pre- and post-weaning ADG, n = 6) and lower ADG (LADG, low pre- and post-weaning ADG, n = 6) groups to investigate differences in bacterial composition and functions and host phenotype.

Results

During the preweaning period, the relative abundances of propionate producers, including g_norank_f_Butyricicoccaceae, g_Pyramidobacter, and g_norank_f_norank_o_Clostridia_vadinBB60_group, were higher in HADG calves (LDA > 2, P < 0.05). Enrichment of these bacteria resulted in increased levels of propionate, a gluconeogenic precursor, in preweaning HADG calves (adjusted P < 0.05), which consequently raised serum glucose concentrations (adjusted P < 0.05). In contrast, the relative abundances of rumen bacteria in post-weaning HADG calves did not exert this effect. Moreover, no significant differences were observed in rumen fermentation parameters and serum indices between the two groups.

Conclusions

The findings of this study revealed that the preweaning period is the window of opportunity for rumen bacteria to regulate the ADG of calves.
GHB toxicokinetics and renal monocarboxylate transporter expression are influenced by the estrus cycle in rats
Authors: Wei Hao , Cao Jieyun , Fallert Tyler , Yeo Su , Felmlee Melanie A.
Published: November 2023

Background

The illicit use and abuse of gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) occurs due to its sedative/hypnotic and euphoric effects. Currently, there are no clinically available therapies to treat GHB overdose, and care focuses on symptom treatment until the drug is eliminated from the body. Proton- and sodium-dependent monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs (SLC16A) and SMCTs (SLC5A)) transport and mediate the renal clearance and distribution of GHB. Previously, it has been shown that MCT expression is regulated by sex hormones in the liver, skeletal muscle and Sertoli cells. The focus of the current study is to evaluate GHB toxicokinetics and renal monocarboxylate transporter expression over the estrus cycle in females, and in the absence of male and female sex hormones.

Methods

GHB toxicokinetics and renal transporter expression of MCT1, SMCT1 and CD147 were evaluated in females over the estrus cycle, and in ovariectomized (OVX) female, male and castrated (CST) male rats. GHB was administered iv bolus (600 and 1000 mg/kg) and plasma and urine samples were collected for six hours post-dose. GHB concentrations were quantified using a validated LC/MS/MS assay. Transporter mRNA and protein expression was quantified by qPCR and Western Blot.

Results

GHB renal clearance and AUC varied between sexes and over the estrus cycle in females with higher renal clearance and a lower AUC in proestrus females as compared to males (intact and CST), and OVX females. We demonstrated that renal MCT1 membrane expression varies over the estrus cycle, with the lowest expression observed in proestrus females, which is consistent with the observed changes in GHB renal clearance.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that females may be less susceptible to GHB-induced toxicity due to decreased exposure resulting from increased renal clearance, as a result of decreased renal MCT1 expression.
Micronutrients and nutritional status among children living with HIV with and without severe acute malnutrition: IMPAACT P1092
Authors: Bwakura-Dangarembizi Mutsa , Ziemba Lauren , Tierney Camlin , Reding Christina , Bone Frederic , Bradford Sarah , Costello Diane , Browning Renee , Moye John , Vhembo Tichaona , Ngocho James S. , Mallewa Macpherson , Chinula Lameck , Musoke Philippa , Owor Maxensia
Published: November 2023

Background

Micronutrient deficiencies from malabsorption, gut infections, and altered gut barrier function are common in children living with the human immunodeficiency virus (CLHIV) and may worsen with severe acute malnutrition (SAM). Exploratory data of baseline zinc and selenium levels and changes over 48 weeks in children living with HIV by nutritional status are presented.

Methods

Zinc, selenium, serum protein and albumin levels measured at study entry and over 48 weeks were compared between children aged 6 to < 36 months who were living with HIV and had SAM or mild malnutrition-normal nutrition. Children with SAM were enrolled after 10–18 days of nutritional rehabilitation. Two-sided t-tests were used to compare levels and changes in levels of micronutrients and proteins by nutritional status.

Results

Fifty-two participants, 25 with and 27 without SAM, of median (Q1,Q3) age 19 (13,25) and 18 (12,25) months respectively, were enrolled. Zinc deficiency was present at entry in 2/25 (8%) of those who had SAM. Mean (SD) baseline zinc levels were [52.2(15.3) and 54.7(12.0) µg/dL] for the SAM and non-SAM cohorts respectively while selenium levels were similar [92.9(25.0), 84.3(29.2) µg/L]. Mean changes of zinc and selenium from study entry to week 48 were similar between the children with and without SAM. There was no significant difference between baseline protein levels [75.2(13.2), 77.3(9.4) g/L] and the mean change from study entry to 48 weeks was also similar between the two groups; with a mean difference of 4.6 g/L [95% CI, (-2.4,11.6)].

Children with SAM compared to those without had significantly lower serum albumin levels at study entry with similar levels at 48 weeks.

Conclusions

Children with severe malnutrition who were initiated/switched to zidovudine/lamivudine/boosted lopinavir following 10 to 18 days of nutritional rehabilitation showed normal baseline levels of selenium and zinc, and had comparable selenium levels after 48 weeks. There was a strong positive correlation in entry and week 48 selenium levels within each cohort and for zinc in the non-SAM cohort. These data support the current WHO recommended approach to management of severe malnutrition in CLHIV who are initiated on combination antiretroviral treatment.

Trial registration

Registered with ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT01818258 26/03/2013.
Spatiotemporal description of African swine fever virus nucleic acid and antibodies detected in pigs sampled at abattoirs in the greater Kampala metropolitan area, Uganda from May 2021 through June 2022
Authors: Okwasiimire Rodney , Kayaga Edrine B. , Ekakoro John E. , Ndoboli Dickson , Schumann Kate , Faburay Bonto , Nassali Aisha , Hauser Cole , Ochoa Krista , Wampande Eddie M. , Havas Karyn A.
Published: November 2023

Background

African swine fever virus (ASFV) infections in Africa cause hemorrhagic disease in domestic pigs and is maintained by a sylvatic cycle in warthogs. It is endemic in Uganda, leading to significant economic losses. Previous studies performed in rural areas and in Kampala had differing diagnostic results. The purpose of this study was to provide a robust spatial, temporal, and diagnostic summary of pigs slaughtered in the greater Kampala metropolitan area over the course of one year. This study characterized 1208 to 1323 serum, blood, and tissue samples collected from pigs at six abattoirs in the greater Kampala metropolitan area of Uganda monthly from May 2021 through June 2022. Validated and standardized serologic and molecular diagnostics were used.

Results

Only 0.15% of pigs had detectable antibodies against ASFV, suggesting low survival rates or pre-clinical diagnosis. Yet, 59.5% of pigs were positive for ASFV DNA. Blood had the lowest detection rate (15.3%) while tonsil and lymph nodes had the highest (38% and 37.5%, respectively), spleen samples (31.5%) were in between. Agreement between sample types was fair to moderate overall. A significant seasonality of ASFV infections emerged with infections found predominately in the dry seasons. Spatial assessments revealed that the greater Kampala metropolitan area abattoirs have a catchment area that overlaps with Uganda’s most pig dense regions.

Conclusions

Pigs at greater Kampala metropolitan area abattoirs can be sentinels for acute disease throughout the pig dense region of Uganda, particularly in the dry seasons. The high prevalence detected suggests that pigs are sold in response to local reports of ASFV infections (panic sales). Serological surveillance is not useful, as very few pigs seroconverted in this study prior to slaughter. In contrast, tissue samples of pigs can be used to detect disease using qPCR methods.
Development of potential microbial agents with two new entomopathogenic fungal strains to control the red palm weevil Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
Authors: Pu Yu-Chen , Zheng Zong-Wei , Ding Can-Hui , Chen Xian-De
Published: November 2023

Background

Entomopathogenic fungi, representing a class of microbial agent, have been widely used in the field of pest management. The objective of this work was to isolate different species of fungi and to evaluate their virulence against the destructive and invasive red palm weevil (RPW), Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae).

Results

Two new entomopathogenic fungal strains isolated from dead diseased RPWs were identified as Metarhizium anisopliae ZZ-A1 and Fusarium oxysporum ZZ-L1 using growth characteristics, morphology, and rDNA-ITS sequence amplification. Bioassays showed that M. anisopliae ZZ-A1 strain exhibited significantly higher corrected mortality than F. oxysporum ZZ-L1 strain (90.92 vs. 77.28%) in fourth instar RPW larvae 12 days after treatment with a concentration of 1.0 × 1010 conidia/ml, as well as low median lethal concentration (LC50) and median lethal time (LT50) values.

Conclusions

The results suggest that both fungal isolates can potentially be developed as effective and persistent a microbial agent against this widespread pest, RPW. However, M. anisopliae ZZ-A1 showed relatively higher insecticidal activity than F. oxysporum ZZ-L1.
Association of ADAM33 gene with COPD pathophysiology: a case–control study
Authors: Soomro Tahmina , Mallah Manthar Ali , Nisa Zaka Un , Asim Naeem , Aslam Reema , Kafle Akriti , Khatoon Nafeesa
Published: November 2023

Background

Worldwide, Chronic Obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a main cause of morbidity and mortality. Considering the global increase in the prevalence of COPD, research on the genetic factors that predispose to COPD is reviving. Recently, ADAM 33 has been found to be related to severe lung function decline and COPD.

Aim and objective

The present study is carried out with the main aim of determining the association of SNP, i.e., S2 (rs528557), with COPD.

Method

A case–control methodology is used to recruit participants. 50 COPD patients over 40 years of age and with a history of more than 20 pack years of cigarette smoking were enlisted. The same number of age and gender-matched controls with no COPD history were involved. PCR sequencing was used to analyze the genetic polymorphism of the ADAM 33 gene (SNP, i.e., S2 (rs528557). Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS version 21. The Chi-square test was used to determine the difference in SNP rs528557 genotypes and alleles between controls and COPD.

Results

The findings of this study revealed that the G allele was present in all COPD cases (100%) and 72% of control (p = < 0.001). The minor C allele was 14% and 32% in COPD patients and control, respectively. The G/G genotype is overrepresented in cases (25.5%) than in the control (9.2%). The C/C genotype is overrepresented in controls (3.8%) than in COPD patients (0.9%).

Conclusion

The findings of this study demonstrate a significant association of the ADAM 33 gene (SNP, i.e., S2 (rs528557) with COPD pathophysiology in the studied group.
Evaluation of Telenomus remus (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae) as a biocontrol agent of Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) based on two-sex life table and functional response analyses
Authors: Shen Zhen , Liu Li-Hui , Zang Lian-Sheng , Deng Tie-Jun , Luo Zhen-Bao , Gao Jun-Yi , Tang Liang-De
Published: November 2023

Background

TelenomusremusNixon is an important egg parasitoid ofSpodopteraspp. pests and, as such, has potential as a biological control agent.Spodopteralitura(Fabricius) is a significant pest of many economically important crops worldwide. This study was conducted to evaluate the demographic parameters and functional response ofT.remuson theS.lituraeggs.

Results

T.remuscan lay 186.90 eggs/female in the lifetime, adult preoviposition period was 0 days, total preoviposition period was 10.03 days, and the ratio of female and male offspring was 0.495 and 0.421, respectively. In addition, most females emerged from 24 h-old eggs, whereas most males emerged from 48 h-old eggs. The intrinsic rate of increase, finite rate of increase, net reproductive rate, mean generation time, and population doubling time were 0.3506 d–11.4199 d–192.45 offspring/individua, 12.91 days and 1.98 days, respectively. The net killing rate ofT.remusonS.liturawas 101.49 eggs/female, indicating the high capacity ofT.remusto parasitizeS.lituraeggs. Moreover, the higher the egg density, the higher the parasitism rate by femaleT.remus, although there was a trend of parasitism stabilization at an egg density of 100, indicating a type II functional response curve for this parasitoid.

Conclusion

Overall, these findings suggest thatT.remuscan be efficiently reared onS.lituraeggs and shows potential as biocontrol agent for this economically important pest species.
Puerto Rican Students Rising in STEM: Findings from a Multicampus Collaborative CURE Program to Promote Student Success
Authors: Alvarez-Berrios Merlis P. , Haynes Gabriele
Published: November 2023

In this work the impact of the Research for Improved Student Experiences (RISE) in STEM program on low-income, Hispanic student performance and perceptions (sense of belonging, self-efficacy and science identity) was investigated. This program aimed to promote student success in STEM at two primarily undergraduate Hispanic Serving Institutions.
Validation of Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy in Robotic Endometrial Cancer Staging Surgery: Results From a High-Volume Center in India
Authors: Roy Arunava , Rout Subhashree , Bhaumik Jaydip
Published: November 2023

PURPOSE

Lymph node involvement is one of the most important factors influencing recurrence and survival in patients with endometrial cancer (EC). However, the therapeutic role of lymphadenectomy in early-stage disease has been called into question. Sentinel lymph node (SLN) mapping may be an acceptable alternative to omitting lymphadenectomy or performing a complete lymphadenectomy in patients with EC.

To validate SLN biopsy (SLNB) using indocyanine green (ICG) dye and near-infrared imaging in the background of comprehensive lymphadenectomy in patients with EC undergoing robotic staging surgery at Tata Medical Center.

METHODS

This was a single-center, prospective observational study involving patients with EC undergoing robotic staging. Patients received a standardized cervical injection of ICG at the 3- and 9-o'clock positions, with the dye reinjected if mapping failed. Depending on preoperative histology and radiological staging, patients had SLNB or comprehensive systematic lymphadenectomy in addition to SLNB.

RESULTS

The study included 105 female patients, of whom 71 underwent SLN and full lymphadenectomy and 34 underwent only SLN. There was bilateral mapping in 92 (87.61%) patients, with no mapping in one patient. In 18 patients, ICG dye was reinjected. With the exception of one, the rest had successful mapping after reinjection. The sensitivity of the SLN-ICG algorithm was 92.3%, and the negative predictive value was 98.3%. Ultrastaging necessitated upstaging in 8.57% of patients.

CONCLUSION

With a very high negative predictive value, SLN mapping with ICG dye has a high degree of diagnostic accuracy in detecting lymph node metastases in EC.
Multi-polarized Fabry-Pérot resonator cavity using multilayer partially reflective metasurface in X-Band
Authors: Yang Pei , Dang Bo , Li Lipin , Ren Zhiping , Dang Ruirong , Jia Huiqin
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we propose a multi-polarized Fabry-Pérot resonator cavity (MPFPRC) by integrating the multilayer partially reflective metasurface (MPRM), the feed of multi-polarized slot coupling patch antenna and the reflective ground in X-Band. The MPRM consists of first-layer square metal patches, second-layer metal ground with square slots, third-layer square metal patches and fourth-layer partially reflective patches. Based on the MPRM, the proposed MPFPRC is capable of transforming 0°, 45° and −45° linearly polarized (LP) waves emitted by the feed into LP beam, left-handed circularly polarized (LHCP) beam and right-handed circularly polarized (RHCP) beam, respectively. Finally, the designed MPFPRC is simulated, processed and measured. The experimental results verify that the −3 dB gain bandwidth of LP is 9.1–10.2 GHz, the −3 dB gain bandwidth and 3 dB axial ratio bandwidth of the LHCP are 9.0–10.0 GHz and 9.2–10.0 GHz, and the −3 dB gain bandwidth and 3 dB axial ratio bandwidth of the RHCP are 9.0–10.0 GHz and 9.3–10.0 GHz.
Counting the Dead in Nursing Homes during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Jany-Catrice Florence , Delouette Ilona , Lefebvre-Chombart Amélie , Nirello Laura
Published: November 2023

This article analyzes the genesis and consolidation of the “statistical argument” (Desrosières 2008) of mortality during the pandemic. Public health data are approached from the perspective of “biopower” which can be read as a statization of life, combining the power of both science and the state. The authors explore the social conditions of the production and dissemination of mortality data in French nursing homes in a period of strong uncertainty. The web of interactions between agencies of public health generates vagueness and uncertainty, but also weak and fragile data, in a period nevertheless marked by the centralization of power. The fragility of mortality data is mirrored by the fragility of the nursing home as institution — an expression of numerous fallibilities, in particular economic (lack of resources), symbolic (out-of-sight situations) and institutional (tension between health and social care).
Ο θεσμός της οικογένειας στην ύστερη βυζαντινή εποχή 11ος - 15ος αιώνας
Authors: Αυγερινού Ευφροσύνη
Published: November 2023

Στην παρούσα διατριβή μελετάται ο θεσμός της οικογένειας στην ύστερη βυζαντινή εποχή, 11ος -15ος αιώνας. Εξετάζονται κυρίως θέματα που αφορούν τα εσωτερικά και εξωτερικά χαρακτηριστικά του νοικοκυριού, όπως αυτά παρουσιάζονται στα πρακτικά κυρίως των μονών του Αγίου όρους, της μονής του Αγίου Ιωάννου του Θεολόγου στην Πάτμο και της μονής Αγίου Ιωάννη του Προδρόμου στις Σέρρες. Οι πληροφορίες που αντλούνται αφορούν τον αγροτικό πληθυσμό και κυρίως τους παροίκους. Η διατριβή διαρθρώνεται σε δύο κυρίως μέρη. Στο πρώτο αναλύεται το θεωρητικό πλαίσιο με έμφαση στην ορολογία που αναπτύχθηκε γύρω από την οικογένεια, την τυποποίηση που ακολουθείται στην παρούσα διατριβή, τη μεθοδολογία και τις πηγές που χρησιμοποιήθηκαν. Το δεύτερο μέρος έχει χωριστεί σε ενότητες, με βάση τον τόπο και επιπλέον τον χρόνο που έγιναν οι απογραφές. Για την -κατά το δυνατό- πληρέστερη παρουσίαση της κάθε περιοχής γίνεται αναφορά στις πηγές που αξιοποιούνται και στα χαρακτηριστικά του φυσικού περιβάλλοντος και τα ιστορικά γεγονότα που πλαισίωναν την περίοδο Με την ανάλυσή τους στόχος είναι να δοθεί το γεωγραφικό και ιστορικό πλαίσιο μέσα στο οποίο βρισκόταν η οικογένεια και να εξεταστεί ο βαθμός που αυτοί οι παράγοντες επηρέασαν τη μορφή του νοικοκυριού και της οικογένειας. Στη συνέχεια ακολουθεί η ταξινόμηση των νοικοκυριών, τα συγγενικά δίκτυα και η μεταγαμήλια εγκατάσταση. Η αναλυτική αναφορά και η ενδελεχής ταξινόμηση, που ακολουθείται, συμβάλλει στην προσπάθεια να απαντηθούν σημαντικά ερευνητικά ερωτήματα για τον επικρατέστερο τύπο νοικοκυριού στον αγροτικό πληθυσμό και να γίνει διάκριση όχι μόνο ανάμεσα στα διευρυμένα και τα σύνθετα νοικοκυριά αλλά και στους υποτύπους που παρουσιάζουν, όπως η οικογένεια-κορμός ή η οικογένεια αδελφών. Αναλύονται επιπλέον τα συγγενικά δίκτυα και τα χαρακτηριστικά που παρουσιάζουν σε κάθε περιοχή, με έμφαση κυρίως στη δομή τους και στα ποσοστά εμφάνισής τους επί των επιμέρους νοικοκυριών. Τέλος, εξετάζεται και η μεταγαμήλια εγκατάσταση. Ένα από τα βασικά ερωτήματα που επιχειρείται να απαντηθεί αφορά τον κύκλο του νοικοκυριού από τη δημιουργία του μέχρι και τη σχάση του, με επίκεντρο σημαντικά γεγονότα, όπως ο γάμος και ο θάνατος, τα οποία λειτουργούν ως καταλύτες για τη δημιουργία ενός νοικοκυριού στην ύστερη βυζαντινή εποχή.
Two new lichenicolous species of Arthonia (Ascomycota: Arthoniomycetes) from Tasmania
Authors: Kantvilas Gintaras , Motiejūnaitė Jurga
Published: November 2023

Eight lichenicolous species of Arthonia from Tasmania are treated. Two are described as new: A. aurantia Kantvilas & Motiej., which infects the thallus of a Leprocaulon-like lichen and is characterised by vivid orange, K+ magenta ascomata, 0.07−0.1(−0.15) mm wide, and 1-septate, macrocephalic ascospores, 10−12.5(−13.5) × 4−5.5 μm; and A. endocarpa Kantvilas & Motiej., which infects the apothecia of Amandinea neoconglomerata Elix, and has non-amyloid asci interspersed with those of the host, and is characterised by 1-septate, macrocephalic ascospores, 8.5−13 × 4.5−6 μm. Two other species, A. epiphys­cia Nyl. and A. stictaria Nyl., are here recorded for Tasmania for the first time. Salient features of all species are compared.
Additions to the biota of lichenicolous and lichenized fungi of Poland
Authors: Kukwa Martin , Ossowska Emilia Anna
Published: November 2023

Two lichenicolous fungi, Ceratobasidium bulbillifaciens and Sclerococcum phaeophysciae, and one lichen, Xanthoria aureola, are reported for the first time from Poland. For each species, the descriptions with notes on similar species, habitat preferences and general distribution are provided.
Peltigera (Ascomycota) living in open and shady environments depend on different Nostoc photobionts
Authors: Jüriado Inga , Kaasalainen Ulla , Liira Jaan , Rikkinen Jouko
Published: November 2023

Species of Peltigera (lichen-forming Ascomycota) establish obligate symbioses with several monophyletic groups (phylogroups) of Nostoc cyanobacteria. Some of these fungi are strict specialists and only associate with one Nostoc phylogroup throughout their range, while others are generalists and associate with many different Nostoc phylogroups. We sampled 20 Peltigera taxa, mostly representing the Peltigera section Peltigera, from grassland and forest habitats across Europe. Mycobionts’ identities were confirmed using fungal ITS sequences. The Nostoc cyanobionts were identified and grouped based on single nucleotide differences in the trnL region and on the phylogenetic analysis of the rbcLX region. Our data confirmed that some Peltigera species clearly prefer open habitats, while others are largely confined to shady forest habitats. The two habitat preferences are consistently paired with association with different Nostoc groups. As a specific example, two ecologically versatile species, Peltigera canina and P. didactyla, both growing in open and shady habitats, consistently associated with different groups of Nostoc when growing in different habitats. As associations between specific mycobionts and cyanobionts are influenced by habitat conditions, the diversity of both taxon groups should be considered in the context of habitat management and conservation planning.
Technical Note—Cloud Cost Optimization: Model, Bounds, and Asymptotics
Authors: Qu Zihao , Dawande Milind , Janakiraman Ganesh
Published: November 2023

A Near-Optimal Capacity and Scheduling Policy for Cloud Users

In “Cloud Cost Optimization: Model, Bounds, and Asymptotics,” Qu, Dawande, and Janakiraman study a long-term, dynamic resource-optimization problem for firms managing various cloud resources to process incoming computing tasks over time. Cloud resources vary in attributes, such as computing speed, memory, accelerators, and storage, tailored to different computing tasks, such as data warehousing, scientific computing, machine learning, and data processing. Firms can choose reserved resources for long-term commitments at lower costs or on-demand resources for flexibility at a higher price. Firms face three key trade-offs: the cost disparity between reserved and on-demand resources, the variation in resource attributes affecting performance and cost, and the challenge of balancing delay and resource costs. We propose an asymptotically optimal policy, demonstrating its effectiveness through a detailed numerical study based on Amazon Web Services data.
Never say never: successful extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) following a prolonged out-of-hospital cardiac arrest due to spontaneous coronary artery dissection
Authors: Canziani Laura , Orlando Francesca , Villa Michele , Cassina Tiziano
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) may be a life-saving rescue therapy for patients with severe cardiac disease of any origin and circulatory failure. Data in the literature have demonstrated that the use of advanced mechanical circulation has resulted in improvements in both survival and quality of life; despite this, cardiogenic shock and refractory cardiac arrest remain conditions with high mortality. Opportune identification of patients who can benefit from it may improve outcomes. However, the shortage of guidelines on indications often results in a high mortality rate and poor outcome. Due to ethical issues, randomised controlled studies with VA-ECMO have not been conducted so no recommended evidence-based guidelines exist for VA-ECMO patient-selection criteria. Therefore, the indications depend only on expert opinion after reviewing the literature. Case description: We report the case of a young female patient who presented with an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) due to spontaneous coronary dissection. She was treated with extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) with excellent results in terms of short and long-term survival, and neurological outcome. This was despite the presence of several clinical and laboratory negative prognostic factors on the basis of the current literature, and the lack of general consensus among the relevant medical personnel. Conclusion: We were able to explain the favourable outcome only on the basis of clinical data. We can conclude that the availability of advanced resources in the area (timeliness of the rescues, quality of the resuscitation, an advanced haemodynamic management centre nearby) has contributed to determining the complete clinical and neurological recovery of the patient.
Colonoscopy: body and psyche. Can psychiatry contribute to the quality of the examination?
Authors: Zaczek Adam , Pudlo Robert
Published: November 2023

Introduction: The relationship between a state of a body and mind is well known, although difficult to grasp. Its existence is reflected in subsequent editions of the classifications of mental disorders. One important and frequently performed medical procedure that significantly interferes with the patient's somatic state is colonoscopy. The aim of this study was to review the literature on the patient's psychological functioning in the context of colonoscopy.
Material and methods: A review of literature in PubMed and Scopus databases was conducted. Keywords used were: colonoscopy, psychiatry, mental disorders, psychogastroenterology, gut-brain axis, anxiety, depression, cognitive functions, pain perception, limiting the search scope to 2013-2023.
Discussion: The bidirectional relationship between psychological factors and a range of functional gastrointestinal disorders, contributed to the introduction of the term psychogastroenterology. One of its important areas is the research on the gut-brain axis. The interplay between the gut microbiome and mental functioning is apparent. Colonoscopy disrupts the composition of the intestinal microflora. However, despite its invasiveness, it is still often irreplaceable for the diagnosis and treatment of bowel diseases (including colorectal cancer). Higher adherence is needed, which could be achieved by improving patient comfort. An increased level of anxiety before the procedure and its negative impact on cognitive functioning is observed. Negative affect amplifies the experience of pain. Colonoscopy technique continues to be developed. A comprehensive description of the patient's psychological functioning in a colonoscopy situation is still lacking.
Conclusions: A comprehensive description of the patient's affective and cognitive determinants in the context of colonoscopy and the associated pain and discomfort would be advisable.

Keywords: psychiatry, gastroenterology, colonoscopy, gut-brain axis
Initial care during miscarriage in the emergency department: a discussion of international context
Authors: Saime Nur Syafiqah , Hashim Sarena , Mohamad Siti Mazidah , Sharbini Sharimawati , McKenna Lisa , Abdul-Mumin Khadizah H
Published: November 2023

Women who experience a miscarriage have unique needs for initial supportive care. This is particularly the case when first attending healthcare facilities, prior to referral to further care pathways, especially in the emergency department. This article explores initial care for women who experience a miscarriage, and argues that while this period might be viewed as transitional, initial supportive care is crucial as it is likely that women will experience heightened emotional turbulence. Although, at times, the transition period may be brief, it is still fundamental to provide women who may be vulnerable with optimal support. The review and discussion in this article particularly reference the context in Brunei Darussalam, but also explore the context of existing international literature.
Suspected hindlimb peripheral nerve damage in a feline patient
Authors: Corral Cheryl
Published: November 2023

Peripheral nerve disorders affecting the hindlimb in the feline are an uncommon reason for presentation for rehabilitation therapies. This article describes how suspected cases may be approached and presents a case report of a feline patient that was referred for physiotherapy following hindlimb monoparesis with a presumed diagnosis of peripheral nerve injury.
Development of prognostic model and multivariate analysis for breast cancer survival patients using SEER database
Authors:   Department of Mathematics, CV Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, India, Panda Nihar Ranjan , Mahanta Kamal Lochan ,   Department of Mathematics, CV Raman Global University, Bhubaneswar, India, Pati Jitendra kumar ,   KIIT International School, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, India, Satapathy Soumya Subhashree ,   Center for Biotechnology, School of Pharmaceutical Science, SOA deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, India, Bhuyan Ruchi ,   Department of Medical Research.IMS & SUM Hospital, SOA deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, India
Published: November 2023

Background: Many studies employed machine learning (ML) to forecast the prognosis of breast cancer (BC) patients and discovered that the ML model showed high individualized forecasting ability. Breast cancer is the most frequent kind of carcinoma in women globally and ranks as the leading cause of death in women. Objectives: This study intends to use the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results dataset to categorize breast carcinoma cases’ alive and dead conditions. Deep learning and machine learning have been extensively utilized in clinical studies to address various categorization problems due to their ability to manage massive data sets in an organized manner. Pre-processing the data allows it to be visualized and analyzed for making critical choices. This study describes a realistic machine learning-based strategy for categorizing the SEER breast cancer dataset. Materials and methods: We employed classification and machine learning algorithms to classify breast cancer mortality. Four well-known classification ML algorithms were employed in this study. To identify risk factors, we employed multivariate analysis using the data set. Results: The decision tree performed the best accuracy (0.914) among all the models. T4 stage (β=1.4, p<0.001, OR=4.22, 95% CI (2.06-8.64), N2 stage (β=0.39, p=0.008, OR= 1.49, 95% CI (1.111-1.997) found to be major risk factors for breast cancer mortality using multivariate analysis. Conclusion: The significant prognostic variables affecting the breast carcinoma survival rates reported in the current research are relevant and might be turned into decision support systems in the medical realm.