bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microbiome-based therapies for Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Alam Mudassir , Abbas Kashif , Mustafa Mohd , Usmani Nazura , Habib Safia
Published: November 2024

The human gut microbiome dysbiosis plays an important role in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD). The bidirectional relationship between the enteric nervous system (ENS) and central nervous system (CNS) under the mediation of the gut-brain axis control the gastrointestinal functioning. This review article discusses key mechanisms by which modifications in the composition and function of the gut microbiota (GM) influence PD progression and motor control loss. Increased intestinal permeability, chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, α-synuclein aggregation, and neurotransmitter imbalances are some key factors that govern gastrointestinal pathology and PD progression. The bacterial taxa of the gut associated with PD development are discussed with emphasis on the enteric nervous system (ENS), as well as the impact of gut bacteria on dopamine production and levodopa metabolism. The pathophysiology and course of the disease are associated with several inflammatory markers, including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Emerging therapeutic strategies targeting the gut microbiome include probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, postbiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT). The article explored how dietary changes may affect the gut microbiota (GM) and the ways that can affect Parkinson’s disease (PD), with a focus on nutrition-based, Mediterranean, and ketogenic diets. This comprehensive review synthesizes current evidence on the role of the gut microbiome in PD pathogenesis and explores its potential as a therapeutic target. Understanding these complex interactions may assist in the development of novel diagnostic tools and treatment options for this neurodegenerative disorder.
Integrin α2 in the microenvironment and the tumor compartment of digestive (gastrointestinal) cancers: emerging regulators and therapeutic opportunities
Authors: Liu Tiantian , Gu Yanmei , Zhang Yuyu , Li Yumin
Published: November 2024

Integrins are a family of cell surface membrane receptors and play a crucial role in facilitating bidirectional cell signaling. Integrin α2 (ITGA2) is expressed across a range of cell types, including epithelial cells, platelets, megakaryocytes, and fibroblasts, where it functions as a surface marker and it is implicated in the cell movements. The most recent findings have indicated that ITAG2 has the potential to function as a novel regulatory factor in cancer, responsible for driving tumorigenesis, inducing chemoresistance, regulating genomic instability and remodeling tumor microenvironment. Hence, we primarily focus on elucidating the biological function and mechanism of ITGA2 within the digestive tumor microenvironment, while highlighting its prospective utilization as a therapeutic target for cancer therapy.
Evaluation of Nurses’ attitudes, behaviors, and barriers toward pressure ulcer prevention in neonatal and pediatric intensive care units
Authors: Mostafa Osama Elshahat , Zakari Nazik M. A. , Al Salem Marwa
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Pressure ulcers are a significant concern in pediatric intensive care units, with prevalence rates ranging from 0.8% to 27%. They pose serious physical and psychological challenges, particularly in neonatal and pediatric intensive care units (NICU and PICU). This study explores nursing strategies, attitudes, and barriers toward pressure ulcer prevention in NICU and PICU settings.

Methods

Using a descriptive study design, data were collected from 80 nurses working in NICU and PICU through validated questionnaires, including a demographic profile and a pressure ulcer survey. Descriptive statistics were employed to calculate mean scores and percentages, while inferential statistics assessed associations between variables.

Results

The study revealed specific nursing strategies, along with significant barriers and attitudes toward pressure ulcer prevention in NICU and PICU. The total attitude mean score was 3.57, with the highest positive response (mean = 4.29) for “most pressure sores can be avoided”, and the highest negative response (mean = 3.86) for “pressure sore prevention is a low priority for me”. Among participants, 72.5% conducted risk assessments on all patients, 60% had written prevention care plans, and 76.3% implemented preventive strategies. Barriers such as staff shortages and time constraints were reported by 76.2% of nurses. Multivariate analysis indicated that nurses with more than 10 years of qualification (OR = 3.67) and permanent staff with over 10 years of employment (OR = 4.31) were significantly more likely to engage in preventive practices. The use of a pressure ulcer grading tool (OR = 2.49, P < 0.05) and participation in formal training (OR = 3.14, P < 0.05) were also positively associated with preventive practices.

Discussion

These findings underscore the importance of structured assessment tools, ongoing education, and the need to foster positive attitudes among nurses to effectively reduce pressure ulcer prevalence and enhance patient outcomes in NICU and PICU settings.
Ketogenic diets therapy in the management of epileptic spasms syndrome
Authors: Wang Meng , Zhao Fen , Sun Lina , Yu Yanyan , Zhang Hongwei
Published: November 2024

Infantile Epileptic Spasm Syndrome (IESS) is a group of infantile spasm syndromes of various etiologies that typically present in early infancy, predispose to refractory epilepsy, and leave intellectual disability. Ketogenic diet therapy (KDT) is a non-pharmacologic treatment modality for medically refractory IESS. Recent scientific evidence supported the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of KDT for the treatment of IESS. KDT not only reduces the frequency of seizures in infants with IESS, but also improve their cognition and long-term prognosis. Recently, it has also received increasing attention as a potential treatment for neurological disorders. This reviewed the recent research progress of KDTs for the treatment of IESS, and discussed the different types and the mechanisms of KDTs, the expansion of KDT applications, the influencing factors, and future research issues.
Concurrent chemoradiotherapy with S-1 versus platinum in the treatment of locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma: a multicenter, retrospective, propensity score-matched analysis
Authors: Bian Chenbin , Zheng Zhuangzhuang , Su Jing , Chang Sitong , Yu Huiyuan , Bao Jindian , Zhao Qin , Jiang Xin
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Literature data are scarce on concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) with S-1 for locally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (LANPC) treatment. This study compared the efficacy and safety of the S-1 versus platinum-based CCRT in LANPC treatment. Methods: This study enrolled 547 patients newly diagnosed with LANPC who underwent CCRT with S-1 or platinum at three institutions. Propensity score matching in a 1:1 ratio balancing baseline features was performed. Survival and adverse effects were compared between groups.

Results

Of 160 patients in the cohort, 100 eligible were propensity score matched. Matched dataset analyses showed a higher 5-year overall survival rate (87.1% vs. 84.7%, P = 0.833), progression-free survival (79.6% vs. 75.5%, P = 0.669), locoregional recurrence-free survival (87.0% vs. 84.7%, P = 0.518), and distant metastasis-free survival (84.8% vs. 83.0%, P = 0.780) in the S-1 group than in the platinum-based CCRT group, although not statistically significant. Objective response rate (98.0% vs. 88.0%, P = 0.117) was significantly higher in the S-1 than in the platinum-based regimen, although it was not statistically reflected. Compared with platinum-based, those undergoing S-1-based chemotherapy demonstrated a higher incidence of grade 3 mucositis (20.0% vs. 2.0%, P = 0.016) in the S-1 group and a lower incidence of leukopenia (44.0% vs. 68.0%, P = 0.033), neutropenia (28.0% vs. 52.0%, P = 0.032), anemia (22.0% vs. 44.0%, P = 0.040), nephrotoxicity (4.0% vs. 20.0%, P = 0.028), and nausea/vomiting (30.0% vs. 56.0%, P = 0.019).

Conclusion

The results suggest that S-1 can be used as a concurrent chemotherapy regimen during radiotherapy for patients with LANPC, since it presents a noninferior survival benefit compared with platinum and shows tolerable adverse effects.
COVID-19 vaccines: current and future challenges
Authors: Mohammadi Davood , Ghasemi Matin , Manouchehrian Nahid , Zafarmand Milad , Akbari Mitra , Boroumand Amir Bahador
Published: November 2024

As of December 2020, around 200 vaccine candidates for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) are being developed. COVID-19 vaccines have been created on a number of platforms and are still being developed. Nucleic acid (DNA, RNA) vaccines, viral vector vaccines, inactivated vaccines, protein subunit vaccines, and live attenuated vaccines are among the COVID-19 vaccine modalities. At this time, at least 52 candidate vaccines are being studied. Spike protein is the primary protein that COVID-19 vaccines are targeting. Therefore, it is critical to determine whether immunizations provide complete or fractional protection, whether this varies with age, whether vaccinated people are protected from reoccurring diseases, and whether they need booster shots if they’ve already been inoculated. Despite the enormous achievement of bringing several vaccine candidates to market in less than a year, acquiring herd immunity at the national level and much more so at the global level remains a major challenge. Therefore, we gathered information on the mechanism of action of presently available COVID-19 vaccines in this review and essential data on the vaccines’ advantages and downsides and their future possibilities.
Valorizing sardine scales: a circular approach to sustainable collagen for cosmetics and nutrition applications
Authors: Santos Filipe Marcia , André Rebeca , Ferreira Marco , Diaz-Lanza Ana María , André Vânia , Alves Marta M. , Pacheco Rita , Rijo Patrícia
Published: November 2024

Background and Objective

In recent years, the consumption of fish products has led to a worrying trend where approximately two-thirds of the total amount of fish is discarded as waste. At the same time, scientific interest in exploring natural collagen sources for cosmetics and dietary supplements has increased. This study explores the potential of valorizing sardine scales (Sardina pilchardus), a by-product of the canning industry, through the extraction of collagen for potential use in dermocosmetic formulations and food supplements.

Methods

Collagen from sardine scales was obtained though acid and enzymatic extraction. The collagen extracts were characterized by UV-Vis, FTIR spectroscopy, SDS-PAGE, powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The collagen was hydrolysed with papain to small peptides. Subsequently, the biological activities of acid-soluble collagen as well as the collagen peptides in terms of antioxidant and antimicrobial activity were evaluated. Furthermore, the capacity of collagen peptides to permeate the intestinal barrier, simulated with caco-2 cells, was evaluated.

Results

Purified collagen extracts were obtained from sardine scales, with enzymatic extraction method having a yield three times higher than the acid method. The SDS-PAGE analysis confirmed the extraction of type I collagen as well as its hydrolysis into small fragments (25–12 kDa). In terms of biological activities, collagen and collagen peptides have not demonstrated antimicrobial activity. However, regarding antioxidant activity, collagen peptides showed three times more capacity compared to non-hydrolyzed collagen. Meanwhile, in 6 h, about 6.37% of collagen peptides could permeate the intestinal barrier.

Conclusion

This work represents a continuous effort to advance our understanding and utilization of Portuguese marine waste resources, with focus on the valorization of sardine co-products for the development of food supplement or cosmetic formulations, contributing to the sustainable evolution of the circular blue economy.
Analysis of tirzepatide in the US FDA adverse event reporting system (FAERS): a focus on overall patient population and sex-specific subgroups
Authors: Ou Yingyong , Cui Zhiwei , Lou Siyu , Zhu Chengyu , Chen Junyou , Zhou Linmei , Zhao Ruizhen , Wang Li , Zou Fan
Published: November 2024

Objective

Tirzepatide, a novel GIP and GLP1 agonist, has been extensively examined in clinical trials. However, specific data on its adverse drug events (ADEs) remain limited. This study aims to comprehensively assess real-world ADEs associated with tirzepatide by mining data from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database.

Methods

ADE reports from the FAERS database were retrieved for the second quarter of 2022 through the first quarter of 2024. Significant associations between ADEs and tirzepatide were evaluated using proportional disproportionality analyses, including the Reporting Odds Ratio (ROR), Proportional Reporting Ratio (PRR), Bayesian Confidence Propagation Neural Network (BCPNN), and Multi-item Gamma Poisson Shrinkage (MGPS).

Results

A total of 37,827 ADE reports associated with tirzepatide were identified, with 100 significantly disproportionate preferred terms (PTs) recognized by all four algorithms. The top five PTs with the highest reporting rates were incorrect dose administered, injection site pain, off-label use, nausea, and injection site hemorrhage. Additionally, unexpected signals such as starvation ketoacidosis were identified. The median time to onset for all ADEs was 23 days. Furthermore, sex-specific high-intensity signals were found, with males primarily experiencing gastrointestinal disorders and females experiencing general disorders and administration site conditions.

Conclusion

This study provides valuable insights into the occurrence of ADEs following tirzepatide administration, potentially supporting clinical monitoring and risk identification efforts.
P4HA1: an important target for treating fibrosis related diseases and cancer
Authors: Yang Xuewen , Zhang Dong , Li Mengmeng , Shao Yingchun , Zhang Xiyang , Xue Yongzhi
Published: November 2024

Fibrosis is significantly associated with a wide variety of diseases and is involved in their progression. Fibrosis activated under the influence of different combinations of factors is considered a double-edged sword. Although there has been much research on organ fibrosis in recent years, a variety of organ fibrosis diseases and cancers are not well controlled in terms of prevention, treatment, and prognosis. Clinical studies still lack exploration and discovery of effective targets for the pathogenesis of organ fibrosis. Prolyl 4-hydroxylase subunit alpha 1 (P4HA1) is a protein kinase and the synthesis and secretion of collagen are related to the sustained activation of P4HA1. As further studies are being conducted, the potential role of P4HA1 in the development of fibrosis-associated diseases and cancer is becoming clear. Consequently, we conducted a systematic review and discussion on the role of P4HA1 in the pathogenesis of various fibrosis-related diseases and cancers. We reviewed the possible strategies of P4HA1 in the diagnosis and treatment of fibrosis-related diseases and cancers, and analyzed its potential relevance as a biomarker in the diagnosis and treatment of fibrosis-related diseases and cancer.
Characterization of the craniofacial abnormalities of the homozygous G608G progeria mouse model
Authors: Beeram Indeevar , Cubria Maria Belen , Kamalapathy Pramod , Yeritsyan Diana , Dubose Amanda J. , Razavi Ahmad Hedayatzadeh , Nafisi Nazanin , Erdos Michael R. , Snyder Brian D. , Cabral Wayne A. , Collins Francis S. , Nazarian Ara
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome (HGPS) is a rare genetic condition characterized by premature aging, impacting multiple organ systems, including cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, and integumentary. Significant abnormalities in a transgenic mouse model (homozygous G608G mutation), specifically targeting the development of skull and facial bone indices through high-resolution CT scanning and cephalometric analysis.

Methods

Key measurements include bone thickness, skull volume, and cranial suture integrity. Bone volume increased significantly in HGPS mice by 8 months of age compared to wildtype mice.

Results

Cortical thickness showed a trend toward increased values in HGPS mice. Cranial metrics revealed distinct differences.

Discussion

HGPS mice exhibited smaller internasal width, interzygomatic distance, and palatine length compared to WT mice over time.
Dynamic changes of endogenous phytohormones and carbohydrates during spontaneous morphogenesis of Centaurium erythraea Rafn
Authors: Trifunović-Momčilov Milana , Motyka Václav , Marković Marija , Milovančević Marija , Filipović Biljana , Dobrev Petre I. , Subotić Angelina
Published: November 2024

Common centaury (Centaurium eryhtraea Rafn) is a medicinal plant species with vigorous morphogenic potential in vitro. The process of spontaneous shoot regeneration in a solid root culture is characteristic for this plant species. In this context, the aim of this work was to investigate the dynamic changes of endogenous phytohormones and carbohydrates content in root explants at different time points (0, 2, 4, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 60 days) during spontaneous centaury morphogenesis in vitro. Detailed analysis of cytokinins (CKs) showed that trans-zeatin (tZ) was the major bioactive CK at all time points. The corresponding riboside, tZ9R, was also determined in the majority of the identified transport forms, at all time-points. Further analysis of endogenous auxin revealed a significant increase in endogenous indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) after 21 days, when a huge jump in the ratio of IAA/bioactive CKs was also observed. The maximum total soluble sugar content was measured after 14 days, while a significant decrease was determined after 21 days, when the first regenerated adventitious shoots appeared. This undoubtedly indicates an increased energy requirement prior to the actual regeneration of the shoots. The obtained results indicate that the period from day 14 to day 21 involves the most dramatic disturbances in endogenous bioactive CKs, IAA and carbohydrate balance, which are very important and valuable factors for the onset of shoot regeneration.
Groundcover improves nutrition and growth of citrus trees and reduces water runoff, soil erosion and nutrient loss on sloping farmland
Authors: Liu Rui , Zhang Yuting , Wang Zhichao , Zhang Xueliang , Xu Wenjing , Zhang Jianwei , Zhang Yueqiang , Hu Bin , Shi Xiaojun , Rennenberg Heinz
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Groundcover management plays a crucial role in improving water retention and soil nutrition in orchard systems, thereby preventing environmental constrains by non-point source pollution. However, effectiveness of groundcover management in citrus orchards developed on sloping farmland with eroded purple soil has not been studied in detail. In particular, information on the soil nutrient losses, e.g., nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P), through interflow and its effects on growth and nutrition of citrus plants has not been reported.

Methods

The present study evaluated the effects of different cover crops, i.e., Lolium perenne L. (Lolium), Vicia villosa Roth (Vicia) and Orychophragmus violaceus (Ory), on nutrition and growth of citrus trees as well as water, soil and nutrient retention in an orchard developed in sloping farmland during two consecutive years.

Results and discussion

The results show that the groundcover species Lolium and Vicia mediated nursing effects on nutrition and growth of citrus trees. These nursing effects included enhanced foliar levels of carbon(C), N and P as well as increased tree height, stem diameter, and crown width. Groundcover management generally reduced the annual surface runoff, interflow, soil loss, total N loss and total P loss. Among the cover crop species studied, Lolium and Vicia were overall more efficient than Ory in this context. Lolium reduced the average annual total loss of N and P by 42.53% and 49.23%, respectively, compared with clean tillage. The estimated annual reduction potentials of soil, N and P losses in Southwestern China were 16.3, 3.4 and 8.5 million tons yr-1, respectively. Obviously, Lolium and Vicia provide highly beneficial ground coverage on sloping farmland and, thus, can be used for future sustainable development of citrus orchards.
Mechanisms of rhizosphere plant-microbe interactions: molecular insights into microbial colonization
Authors: Yang Luna , Qian Xin , Zhao Zeyu , Wang Yaoyao , Ding Gang , Xing Xiaoke
Published: November 2024

The rhizosphere, as the “frontline” of plant life, connects plant roots, rhizosphere microorganisms, and surrounding soil, plays a crucial role in plant growth and health, particularly in sustainable agriculture. Despite the well-established contribution of plant-microbe interactions to plant health, the specific molecular mechanisms remain insufficiently understood. This review aims to summarize the physiological adjustments and signal modulation that both plants and microorganisms undergo within this unique ecological niche to ensure successful colonization. By analyzing key processes such as chemotaxis, root attachment, immune evasion, and biofilm formation, we uncover how plants precisely modulate root exudates to either recruit or repel specific microorganisms, thereby shaping their colonization patterns. These findings provide new insights into the complexity of plant-microbe interactions and suggest potential directions for future research in sustainable agriculture.
Energy in the workplace: job demands, job resources, and employees’ inner resources as pathways to organizational outcomes
Authors: DeHaan Cody R. , Bradshaw Emma L. , Diaz-Castillo Sandra , Trautman Todd C. , Rigby C. Scott , Ryan Richard M.
Published: November 2024

In this study, we expanded upon the job demands–resources model to assess the role of employees’ vitality as an inner resource for their work engagement and job commitment. To assess vitality and related job resources, we developed an index of vitality outside of work and adapted measures of manager autonomy support and organizational support. For job demands, we measured work stress and predicted that each of these four variables would contribute independently to work-related outcomes. Then, in a preregistered study, we collected these measures from a sample of 5,280 American workers (primarily ages 18–34, 54% female). Results from multivariate regression analyses largely confirmed our hypotheses, showing that positive work-related outcomes, such as enthusiasm, enjoyment, and job satisfaction, were positively predicted by manager autonomy supports, organizational support, and individuals’ vitality, and negatively predicted by work stress. The reverse pattern was largely observed for the negative outcome of turnover intention. Exploratory analyses also suggested that individual vitality may buffer the negative effects of stress and low manager and organizational support. The results highlight the potential role of employee vitality outside of work and managerial support in bolstering work engagement and reducing turnover intentions, offering a basis for organizational strategies aimed at improving work culture and retaining talent.
Forming national identity with televised cultural rituals: a critical discourse analysis of China’s Ancient Rhyme and New Voice—Qingming program
Authors: Li Duruo , Sallam Marwan H. , He Zhiwu
Published: November 2024

Studies on media and national identity emphasize the need for a comprehensive and culturally sensitive approach to understanding the complex relationship between media and identity. This study used critical discourse analysis to examine the depiction of cultural rituals in the Ancient Rhyme and New Voice—Qingming program and its role in forming and reinforcing national identity in China. The program, broadcast on China Central Television, showcases three traditional Chinese cultural rituals: ancestor worship, agricultural rites, and spring outings. The analysis showed that the program aroused shared emotions, beliefs, and values among Chinese audiences, enhancing cohesion and cultural identification, and advancing the construction of Chinese national identity. The study highlights the importance of such cultural programs in promoting cultural identification and underscores the significant role of televised cultural rituals in shaping and reinforcing national identity in an increasingly globalized world.
Expectations regarding school decreases emotional distress among college students in Western China: the buffering role of physical exercises
Authors: Su Di , Huang Lina , Zou Helin , Zhang Lulu , Feng Yi
Published: November 2024

Background

College students in Western China face unique economic, cultural, and educational environments, yet limited studies have specifically investigated the factors or interventions concerning emotional distress within this population.

Aim

This study aimed to explore whether school belongingness mediates the relationship between expectations regarding school and emotional distress among college students in Western China, and whether physical exercise moderates this mediation.

Methods

Employing a cross-sectional design, 1,063 college students in Xinjiang, China were recruited for this study. A self-administered electronic questionnaire assessed expectations regarding school, school belongingness, physical exercise, anxiety, and depression. Structural equation modeling was utilized to analyze mediating and moderating effects.

Results

Expectations regarding school was negatively associated with emotional distress. School exclusion and school acceptance fully mediated the effect of expectations regarding school on emotional distress. Physical exercise moderated the mediating effect of school exclusion, but not that of school acceptance.

Conclusion

Expectations regarding school and school belongingness, particularly the exclusion component, emerge as pivotal factors influencing emotional distress among college students in Western China. Furthermore, physical exercise presents itself as a promising targeted intervention for alleviating emotional distress within this demographic.
Disordered eating in anorexia nervosa: give me heat, not just food
Authors: Gutierrez Emilio , García Naomi , Carrera Olaia
Published: November 2024

The recommendation to apply external heat to patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) was first documented by William Gull in 1874. Gull encountered this practice during his tenure as a consultant physician, responsible for issuing medical certifications for wealthy clients seeking admission to Ticehurst Asylum, one of the most successful and reputable private asylums in England. Gull attributed the origins of this practice to the studies by Charles Chossat (1796–1875), a physiologist, physician, and politician from Geneva, who discovered the therapeutic effects of heat on starved animals by chance. In the 20th century, further evidence of the beneficial effects of heat on starved animals emerged serendipitously when anomalies were observed following a malfunction in laboratory thermostats controlling animal temperatures. Moving into the 21st century, experimental research has empirically substantiated the crucial role of ambient temperature (AT) in the animal model of activity-based anorexia (ABA). Recent translational studies have shown that a warmed environment significantly reduces anxiety around mealtime in AN patients, a method shown to be more effective than exposure-based procedures. Despite the overwhelming evidence from both animal and patient studies, it is difficult to comprehend how the impact of providing a warm environment to AN patients, particularly around mealtimes, continues to be a neglected area of research.
Individual- and system-level determinants of breastfeeding in a low-resource setting
Authors: Loutet Miranda G.
Published: November 2024

The benefits of breastfeeding are widely established and therefore the World Health Organization recommends that every child be exclusively breastfed for the first 6 months of life and continue breastfeeding up to 2 years of age or beyond. However, the rate of exclusive breastfeeding is low globally and has declined in Bangladesh in recent years. In this review, Bangladesh is used as an example to demonstrate the complex individual- and system-level determinants of breastfeeding in a low-resource setting. Mothers face barriers to breastfeeding within the context of marketing by commercial milk formula companies, limited safe alternatives to breastfeeding directly from the breast, and insufficient resources to support breastfeeding in the hospital, community, and workplace setting. Future research and implementation science is required to investigate the overlapping effects between breastfeeding and the high antibiotic use and Caesarean section rates in Bangladesh, along with public health efforts to promote breastfeeding based on robust evidence.
Advancing smart city factories: enhancing industrial mechanical operations via deep learning techniques
Authors: Villegas-Ch William , Govea Jaime , Gaibor-Naranjo Walter , Sanchez-Viteri Santiago
Published: November 2024

In the contemporary realm of industry, the imperative for influential and steadfast systems to detect anomalies is critically recognized. Our study introduces a cutting-edge approach utilizing a deep learning model of the Long-Short Term Memory variety, meticulously crafted for real-time surveillance and mitigation of irregularities within industrial settings. Through the careful amalgamation of data acquisition and analytic processing informed by our model, we have forged a system adept at pinpointing anomalies with high precision, capable of autonomously proposing or implementing remedial measures. The findings demonstrate a marked enhancement in the efficacy of operations, with the model’s accuracy surging to 95%, recall at 90%, and an F1 score reaching 92.5%. Moreover, the system has favorably impacted the environment, evidenced by a 25% decline in CO2 emissions and a 20% reduction in water usage. Our model surpasses preceding systems, showcasing significant gains in speed and precision. This research corroborates the capabilities of deep learning within the industrial sector. It underscores the role of automated systems in fostering more sustainable and efficient operations in the contemporary industrial landscape.
Psychology of nerve injury, repair, and recovery: a systematic review
Authors: Adu Yaw , Cox Cameron T. , Hernandez Evan J. , Zhu Christina , Trevino Zachary , MacKay Brendan J.
Published: November 2024

Background

Peripheral nerve injuries (PNIs) are associated with significant physical and psychological challenges, impacting both functional recovery and quality of life. Despite the physical focus of traditional treatments, psychological factors play a crucial role in the outcomes of PNI repair and recovery.

Objectives

This systematic review aims to evaluate the impact of psychological and social factors on the repair and recovery of peripheral nerve injuries.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases, covering studies from January 1985 to December 2022. A total of 36,190 records were identified, and after screening with Rayyan AI and applying inclusion criteria, 111 articles were selected for review.

Results

The review highlights that pre-existing psychological conditions, as well as psychological responses to the injury and treatment, significantly influence recovery outcomes in PNI patients. Psychological interventions, when integrated into standard care, may improve functional recovery and quality of life.

Conclusions

Psychosocial factors are critical in the management of PNIs and should be incorporated into treatment algorithms to enhance patient outcomes. Future research should focus on developing and integrating psychological support strategies in PNI treatment protocols.
Towards an emerging role for anticoagulants in cancer therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Al-Azzawi Huda Moutaz Asmael , Hamza Syed Ameer , Paolini Rita , Arshad Fizza , Patini Romeo , O’Reilly Lorraine , McCullough Michael , Celentano Antonio
Published: November 2024

Background

Anticoagulants, renowned for their role in preventing blood clot formation, have captivated researchers’ attention for the exploitation of their potential to inhibit cancer in pre-clinical models.

Objectives

To undertake a systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of anticoagulants in murine cancer research models. Further, to present a reference tool for anticoagulant therapeutic modalities relating to future animal pre-clinical models of cancer and their translation into the clinic.

Methods

Four databases were utilized including Medline (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), Web of science, and Scopus databases. We included studies relating to any cancer conducted in murine models that assessed the effect of traditional anticoagulants (heparin and its derivatives and warfarin) and newer oral anticoagulants on cancer.

Results

A total of 6,158 articles were identified in an initial multi-database search. A total of 157 records were finally included for data extraction. Studies on heparin species and warfarin demonstrated statistically significant results in favour of tumour growth and metastasis inhibition.

Conclusion

Our findings constitute a valuable reference guide for the application of anticoagulants in cancer research and explore the promising utilization of non-anticoagulants heparin in preclinical cancer research.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO [CRD42024555603].
Duration of insomnia and success expectancy predict treatment outcome of iCBT for insomnia
Authors: Pchelina Polina , Poluektov Mikhail
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Identifying prognostic factors of treatment outcome may assist in customizing an intervention to a patient's needs. Hence, we conducted a secondary analysis of data from a randomized controlled trial to investigate the effectiveness of an internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (iCBT-I) to find patient characteristics that may predict the change of insomnia severity after treatment.

Materials and methods

In this exploratory analysis involving 94 chronic insomnia patients, we examined the predictive value of several self-reported measures, medical history, and sociodemographic variables to psychological distress with separate linear regression models. The main outcome was the Insomnia Severity Index score improvement from pre- to post-treatment

Results

The study found that duration of insomnia, b (SE) = −0.02 (0.01), p = 0.01, and attitudes about the expected treatment success, b (SE) = 0.80 (0.27), p = 0.004, were predictors of a better outcome. Moreover, a better outcome was associated with a lower level of the following traits: attention seeking, b (SE) = −1.06 (0.51), p = 0.04; grandiosity, b (SE) = −1.50 (0.57), p = 0.01; distractibility, b (SE) = −1.57 (0.75), p = 0.04; and rigid perfectionism, b (SE) = −1.32 (0.65), p = 0.05.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that iCBT-I might be particularly beneficial for patients with higher expectations from the therapy and those who have a shorter duration of insomnia. Some pronounced personality traits, such as attention seeking, grandiosity, distractibility, and rigid perfectionism, may predict worse outcomes. However, because this was a post-hoc analysis, our results must be considered exploratory and verified in further studies.

Clinical trial registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04300218?cond=NCT04300218&rank=1, Identifier NCT04300218.
Antecedents and consequences of South African female athletes’ trust in the coach
Authors: Mashilo Bontle , Kubayi Alliance
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate female South African school athletes’ trust in their coaches in relation to their perceptions of the coaches’ justice, benevolence, integrity, competence, commitment to coach, willingness to cooperate, and performance. A quantitative cross-sectional research design was used in this study. The results showed that there was a large correlation between trust in the coach and the following factors: perceived justice (r = .504, p < .01), perceived integrity (r = .511, p < .01), and perceived competence (r = .534, p < .01). Furthermore, multiple regression analysis results revealed that perceived justice was the only signiﬁcant predictor of trust in the coach as it had a higher beta value (β = .17, p < .05) than the other variables. This study shows that coaches should demonstrate fairness in their decision-making by providing players with incentives, opportunities to play, friendly relationships, and places of preference.
Valorization of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) testa as a biocolourant
Authors: Ramesh S. V. , Pandiselvam R. , Shameena Beegum P. P. , Shil Sandip , Sugatha P. , Sharanya K. , Manikantan M. R. , Gopal Murali , Hebbar K. B. , Uchoi Anok , Das Alpana , Bhat Ravi , Gowda B. Hanumanthe , Kumar Prabhat
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Coconut testa, a by-product of the coconut processing industry, is currently underutilised. This study aimed to extract a coconut testa-based food colourant using various organic solvents and physical methods, and to utilise this colourant in food product preparation.

Methods

Different organic solvents, along with various time and temperature combinations, were employed for colourant extraction using both a laboratory-scale water bath and ultrasonication. The colour coordinate values (CIELab) of the testa-derived colourants were measured, and the colourants were screened for various phytochemicals. The in vitro antioxidant potential of the testa colourant was assessed by quantifying total phenolics, and the phytochemical composition, including monomeric anthocyanins, was evaluated.

Results

The study determined the optimal combinations of organic solvents, temperature and time to obtain extracts with maximum antioxidant activity and total phenolic content (TPC). Acidified ethanol-based extracts of testa colourants yielded highest polyphenol content (154.39 ± 2.63 mg GAE/g) and flavonoids content (53.65 ± 0.62 mg QE/g). Similarly, ethanol-based extractants of coconut testa produced high anthocyanin content [823.02 ± 1.81 mg Cy-3-glc equivalents (C3GE)/100 g]. Acidified (0.3 M HCl) solvents at relatively high temperature and time combinations exhibited high antioxidant potential of testa colourant, as measured by CUPRAC, FRAP, and DPPH assays. Following the foam mat drying process of the colourant, a mature coconut water-based jelly was prepared by incorporating the testa colourant extracted with acidified ethanol.

Discussion

This study highlights the biochemical and antioxidant potential of the food colorant derived from coconut testa and explores its suitability for functional food applications. Therefore, coconut testa extract serves a dual purpose: it enhances the aesthetic appeal of food as a colourant and provides significant health-promoting properties due to its high anthocyanin content. Insights from this study could help in promoting the valorization of one of the beneficial by products of coconut industry.
Optimizing residue return with soil moisture and nutrient stoichiometry reduced greenhouse gas fluxes in Alfisols
Authors: Singh Dharmendra , Lenka Sangeeta , Lenka Narendra Kumar , Yadav Dinesh Kumar , Yadav Shashi S. , Kanwar Rameshwar S. , Sarkar Abhijit , Saha Madhumonti
Published: November 2024

Optimum soil moisture and high crop residue return (RR) can increase the active pool of soil organic carbon and nitrogen, thus modulating the magnitude of greenhouse gas (GHG) fluxes. To determine the effect of soil moisture on the threshold level of RR for the wheat production system, we analyzed the relationship between GHG fluxes and RR at four levels, namely 0, 5, 10, and 15 Mg ha−1 (R0, R5, R10, and R15) under two soil moisture content (80% FC and 100% FC) and three levels of nutrient management (NS0: no nutrient; NS1, NS2= 3x NS1). Nutrient input (N and P) in NS1 balanced the residue C/nutrient stoichiometry to achieve 30% stabilization of the residue C input in RR (R5). All RR treatments (cf. R0) were found to significantly reduce N2O emission in moderate soil moisture content (80% FC) by 22–56% across nutrient management due to enhanced soil C mineralization, microbial biomass carbon, and N immobilization. However, averaged across nutrient management, a linear increase in N2O emission was observed with increasing RR under 100% FC soil moisture. A significant decrease in CH4 emission by ca. 46% in most RR treatments was observed in 100% FC compared with the R0. The N2O emission was negatively correlated (p = <0.001) with nutrient stoichiometry. Partial least square (PLS) regression indicated that GHG emissions were more responsive (values > 0.8) to management variables (RR rate, nitrogen (N) input rate, soil moisture, and nutrient stoichiometry of C: N) and post-incubation soil properties (SMBC and NO3-N) in Alfisols. This study demonstrated that the mechanisms responsible for RR effects on soil N2O, CH4 fluxes, and carbon mineralization depend on soil moisture and nutrient management, shifting the nutrient stoichiometry of residue C: N: P.
Veterinary medicine under COVID-19: a mixed-methods analysis of student and practitioner experiences in Austria
Authors: Humer Elke , Winter Stefanie , Probst Thomas , Pieh Christoph , Dale Rachel , Brühl Deianira , Neubauer Viktoria
Published: November 2024

Background

This study aimed to provide a detailed analysis of the pandemic’s impact on the veterinary profession and education in Austria.

Methods

Two online surveys were conducted from November 2022 to January 2023, inviting all veterinarians and veterinary students in Austria to share their experiences on the impact of the pandemic on their veterinarian work and education in a free text question.

Results

A total of n = 289 veterinarians and n = 272 veterinary students provided an answer. In summary, 39.8% of veterinarians reported no impact by the pandemic, while others experienced changes in workload (19.7%), changes in client behavior (14.9%), implementation of safety measures (13.1%), and organizational changes (13.1%). Additional impacts included effects on mental health, private life, finances, as well as physical health. Changes were more frequently mentioned in veterinarians working with pets compared to those working with livestock. In the student panel, only a minority reported no significant impact (8.1%) but 44.9% reporting changes due to online and hybrid learning. Key issues included impaired learning conditions (34.9%), and social distancing (34.6%) leading to social isolation. Some students appreciated increased flexibility and reduced commuting (10.7%), while others experienced mental health challenges (10.7%). Further impacts were related to the implementation of safety measures (5.5%), organizational changes (4.8%) and impaired physical health due to infection (1.1%). Negative changes related to distance learning were mainly reported by students in the final study phase, whereas those in the first study phase reported more positive aspects related to online/hybrid learning.

Conclusion

Overall, this study highlights the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on veterinary education and professional practice in Austria, revealing diverse challenges for students and relatively lower but still notable effects on practicing veterinarians. Future research should monitor these impacts longitudinally and explore the integration of beneficial practices into standard veterinary education and care, such as effective digital learning platforms and appointment-based systems.
Establishment of a mouse model of ovarian oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide
Authors: Liang Huili , Wu Shuaishuai , Zhang Zhenwei , Khan Muhammad Zahoor , Zhan Yandong , Zhu Mingxia , Wang Shoushan , Liu Wenqiang , Wang Changfa , Cao Guiling , Han Ying
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Oxidative stress, resulting from environmental changes, significantly affects female fertility. Developing a mouse model to study oxidative stress lays the groundwork for research into human reproductive health and livestock fertility.

Materials and methods

In this study, we established and evaluated an oxidative stress model by administering hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to mice. ICR mice of similar age (7–8 weeks old) and average body weight (31.58 ± 1.12 g) were randomly assigned to four groups (A, B, C, and D). Group A served as the control and was injected with a saline solution, while groups B, C, and D received saline solutions containing 0.75%, 1.50%, and 3.0% H2O2, respectively, over one week. We measured the body weights of all mice before and after the experimental period.

Results and discussion

Our findings showed that the average body weight of mice in groups A and B increased, while groups C and D experienced weight loss. Group C showed a significantly lower average weight gain compared to groups A and B, and group D exhibited an even more pronounced reduction in weight gain. Although group D had a high mortality rate, there was no significant difference in mortality rates among groups B, C, and D. Serum malondialdehyde (MDA) content increased with higher concentrations of H2O2, with a significant difference noted between groups C and A. Catalase (CAT) activity in group B was significantly higher than in group A, while superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in group C was notably elevated compared to groups A and B. Conversely, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity in group C was significantly lower than in both group A and group B. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining revealed changes in ovarian morphology and follicle dynamics. The percentage of atretic follicles in group C was significantly higher than in the control group, and group D had a significantly lower total number of healthy follicles compared to the untreated group. Increased H2O2 content resulted in a reduction of ovary size and an irregular appearance in group D.

Conclusion

Based on our findings, treatment with 1.50% H2O2 effectively established an oxidative stress model in mice within 1 week. This model serves as a valuable reference for future clinical studies on oxidative stress and reproductive disorders in female animals and humans.
Local Search Heuristic for the Two-Echelon Capacitated Vehicle Routing Problem in Educational Decision Support Systems
Authors: Cruz José Pedro Gomes da , Winkenbach Matthias , Yoshizaki Hugo Tsugunobu Yoshida
Published: November 2024

This study focuses on developing a heuristic for Decision Support Systems (DSS) in e-commerce logistics education, specifically addressing the Two-Echelon Capacitated Vehicle Routing Problem (2E-CVRP). The 2E-CVRP involves using Urban Transshipment Points (UTPs) to optimize deliveries. To tackle the complexity of the 2E-CVRP, DSS can employ fast and effective techniques for visual problem-solving. Therefore, the objective of this work is to develop a local search heuristic to solve the 2E-CVRP quickly and efficiently for implementation in DSS. The efficiency of the heuristic is assessed through benchmarks from the literature and applied to real-world problems from a Brazilian e-commerce retailer, contributing to advancements in the 2E-CVRP approach and promoting operational efficiency in e-commerce logistics education. The heuristic yielded promising results, solving problems almost instantly, for instances in the literature on average in 1.06 s, with average gaps of 6.3% in relation to the best-known solutions and, for real problems with hundreds of customers, in 1.4 s, with gaps of 8.3%, demonstrating its effectiveness in achieving the study’s objectives.