bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advanced optimal control approaches for immune boosting and clinical treatment to enhance dengue viremia models using ABC fractional-order analysis
Authors: Vijayalakshmi G. M. , Ariyanatchi M. , Cepova Lenka , Karthik Krishnasamy
Published: October 2024

Introduction

This work focuses on the Dengue-viremia ABC (Atangana-Baleanu Caputo) fractional-order differential equations, accounting for both symptomatic and asymptomatic infected cases. Symptomatic cases are characterized by higher viremia levels, whereas asymptomatic cases exhibit lower viremia levels. The fractional-order model highlights memory effects and other advantages over traditional models, offering a more comprehensive representation of dengue dynamics.

Methods

The total population is divided into four compartments: susceptible, asymptomatic infected, symptomatic infected, and recovered. The model incorporates an immune-boosting factor for asymptomatic infected individuals and clinical treatment for symptomatic cases. Positivity and boundedness of the model are validated, and both local and global stability analyses are performed. The novel Adams-Bash numerical scheme is utilized for simulations to rigorously assess the impact of optimal control interventions.

Results

The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control strategies. The reproduction numbers must be reduced based on specific optimal control conditions to effectively mitigate disease outbreaks. Numerical simulations confirm that the optimal control measures can significantly reduce the spread of the disease.

Discussion

This research advances the understanding of Dengue-viremia dynamics and provides valuable insights into the application of ABC fractional-order analysis. By incorporating immune-boosting and clinical treatment into the model, the study offers practical guidelines for implementing successful disease control strategies. The findings highlight the potential of using optimal control techniques in public health interventions to manage disease outbreaks more effectively.
Impacts of zero-fare transit policy on health and social determinants: protocol for a natural experiment study
Authors: Grimes Amanda , Berkley-Patton Jannette , Allsworth Jenifer E. , Lightner Joseph S. , Feldman Keith , Never Brent , Drees Betty M. , Saelens Brian E. , Powell-Wiley Tiffany M. , Fitzpatrick Lauren , Bowe Thompson Carole , Pilla Madison , Ross Kacee , Steel Chelsea , Cramer Emily , Rogers Eric , Baker Cindy , Carlson Jordan A.
Published: October 2024

Population-level efforts are needed to increase levels of physical activity and healthy eating to reduce and manage chronic diseases such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, and type 2 diabetes. Interventions to increase public transit use may be one promising strategy, particularly for low-income communities or populations of color who are disproportionately burdened by health disparities and transportation barriers. This study employs a natural experiment design to evaluate the impacts of a citywide zero-fare transit policy in Kansas City, Missouri, on ridership and health indicators. In Aim 1, comparison to 9 similar cities without zero-fare transit is used to examine differential changes in ridership from 3 years before to 4 years after the adoption of zero-fare. In Aim 2, Kansas City residents are being recruited from a large safety net health system to compare health indicators between zero-fare riders and non- riders. Longitudinal data on BMI, cardiometabolic markers, and economic barriers to health are collected from the electronic health record from 2017 to 2024. Cross-sectional data on healthy eating and device-measured physical activity are collected from a subsample of participants as part of the study procedures (N = 360). Numerous baseline characteristics are collected to account for differences between Kansas City and comparison city bus routes (Aim 1) and between zero-fare riders and non-riders within Kansas City (Aim 2). Evidence on how zero-fare transit shapes population health through mechanisms related to improved economic factors, transportation, physical activity, and healthy eating among low-income groups is expected.
Distinct Cutibacterium acnes subspecies defendens strains classified by multi-omics dissection alleviate inflammatory skin lesions of a rosacea-like mouse model
Authors: Kim Hanseol , Lee Kihyun , Lee Ji Young , Kwon Bo Eun , Kim Hyun Jeong , Park Hyunkyung , Kim Taekyung , Kwak Jun-Gu , Choi Joung Eun , Hong Kwang Hee , Chun Jongsik , Shin Changsik
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) resides in various organs such as the skin, prostate, eye, nose, stomach, and intestine, indicating the possibility of extensive crosstalk between this bacterium and the human body. C. acnes strains are classified into three subspecies based on phylogenetics and distinguishable phenotypes. Among them, C. acnes subsp. defendens strains are characterized by anti-inflammatory features, raising expectations for their potential as future microbiome therapeutics. However, the heterogeneity of C. acnes subsp. defendens and its corresponding immunological functions have not been clearly addressed.

Methods

The genetic diversity of the strains was assessed using single- and multi-locus sequence typing. Their immune-modulatory functions were evaluated in vitro using 2D and 3D assays with immune and epithelial cells. The anti-inflammatory effects were further confirmed in vivo using a rosacea-like mouse model. Comparative genomic and transcriptomic analyses were conducted to uncover mechanisms underlying the immunosuppressive activity of the strains.

Results

We demonstrated that the newly isolated C. acnes subsp. defendens strains, exhibiting phenotypic heterogeneity, are distinctly clustered using single- and multi-locus sequence typing methods. These strains showed strong immune-regulatory functions in immune and epithelial cell-based 2D and 3D in vitro assays. Furthermore, their anti-inflammatory role was functionally confirmed in vivo using a rosacea-like mouse model, where they alleviated skin lesions characterized by hyperplasia and dermal inflammation. Comparative transcriptomics revealed that these strains may exert their immunosuppressive effects through the enhanced expression of acnecins and transcriptional variation in envelope stress regulators (specifically the two-component systems, CesSR homologs). Additionally, we propose that these C. acnes type II strains produce anti-inflammatory metabolites or peptides smaller than 3 kDa, which are associated with elevated pyrimidine and reduced L-arginine biosynthesis.

Discussion

The newly isolated C. acnes subsp. defendens strains demonstrate significant anti-inflammatory properties both in vitro and in vivo, suggesting their potential as microbiome-based therapeutics. Their unique genomic and transcriptomic profiles, including the production of small bioactive compounds and specific transcriptomic patterns, underpin their immunosuppressive capabilities. These findings provide a foundation for developing novel treatments for inflammatory skin conditions, such as rosacea.
Extrarenal renal cell carcinoma in the adrenal region: a case report
Authors: Yao Kai , Huang Long , Zhang Jing Li , Xu Yan , Liu Dong Liang
Published: October 2024

This case report describes a rare instance of extrarenal clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) in a 48-year-old woman who presented with a loss of consciousness. Abdominal CT revealed a 24 × 31 mm mass in the left adrenal region, with no kidney involvement. The mass was surgically excised, and histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of ccRCC. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed positive markers, including CA9, CD10, PAX-8, and vimentin. The patient did not undergo adjuvant therapy, and a 6-month follow-up showed no signs of recurrence or metastasis. This case emphasizes the importance of considering extrarenal ccRCC in differential diagnoses of adrenal masses.
Hybrid RFSVM: Hybridization of SVM and Random Forest Models for Detection of Fake News
Authors: Dev Deepali Goyal , Bhatnagar Vishal
Published: October 2024

The creation and spreading of fake information can be carried out very easily through the internet community. This pervasive escalation of fake news and rumors has an extremely adverse effect on the nation and society. Detecting fake news on the social web is an emerging topic in research today. In this research, the authors review various characteristics of fake news and identify research gaps. In this research, the fake news dataset is modeled and tokenized by applying term frequency and inverse document frequency (TFIDF). Several machine-learning classification approaches are used to compute evaluation metrics. The authors proposed hybridizing SVMs and RF classification algorithms for improved accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score. The authors also show the comparative analysis of different types of news categories using various machine-learning models and compare the performance of the hybrid RFSVM. Comparative studies of hybrid RFSVM with different algorithms such as Random Forest (RF), naïve Bayes (NB), SVMs, and XGBoost have shown better results of around 8% to 16% in terms of accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score.
Realistic Simulation of Dissolution Process on Rock Surface
Authors: Nie Xiaoying , Zhou Chunqing , Yu Zhaoxi , Yang Gang
Published: October 2024

Hydraulic dissolution, driven by carbon dioxide-rich precipitation and runoff, leads to the gradual breakdown and removal of soluble rock materials, creating unique surface and subsurface features. Dissolution is a complex process that is related to numerous factors, and the complete simulation of its process is a challenging problem. On the basis of deep investigation of the theories of geology and rock geomorphology, this paper puts forward a method for simulating the dissolution phenomenon on a rock surface. Around the movement of water, this method carries out dissolution calculations, including processes such as droplet dissolution, water flow, dissolution, deposition, and evaporation. It also considers the lateral dissolution effect of centrifugal force when water flows through bends, achieving a comprehensive simulation of the dissolution process. This method can realistically simulate various typical karst landforms such as karst pits, karst ditches, and stone forests, with interactive simulation efficiency.
Degree-Constrained Minimum Spanning Hierarchies in Graphs
Authors: Molnar Miklos
Published: October 2024

The minimum spanning tree problem in graphs under budget-type degree constraints (DCMST) is a well-known NP-hard problem. Spanning trees do not always exist, and the optimum can not be approximated within a constant factor. Recently, solutions have been proposed to solve degree-constrained spanning problems in the case of limited momentary capacities of the nodes. For a given node, the constraint represents a limited degree of the node for each visit. Finding the solution with minimum cost is NP-hard and the related algorithms are not trivial. This paper focuses on this new spanning problem with heterogeneous capacity-like degree bounds. The minimum cost solution corresponds to a graph-related structure, i.e., a hierarchy. We study the conditions of its existence, and we propose its exact computation, a heuristic algorithm, and its approximation.
Systematic Literature Review on Gig Economy: Power Dynamics, Worker Autonomy, and the Role of Social Networks
Authors: Pilatti Gustavo R. , Pinheiro Flavio L. , Montini Alessandra A.
Published: October 2024

This study explores the dynamics of the collective agency among gig workers in the digital platform economy, focusing on three key research questions. First, it examines power dynamics, worker autonomy, and the role of social networks in mitigating power imbalances imposed by digital platforms. Second, it investigates how algorithmic management affects gig workers’ agency and their capacity for collective action. Lastly, it proposes directions for future research to address power imbalances and enhance worker empowerment. Using a systematic literature review (SLR) and bibliometric analysis of 59 scholarly articles, this study reveals that gig workers, despite the control exerted by opaque algorithms, leverage social networks to enhance their autonomy and bargaining power. These networks enable information sharing, negotiation strategies, and collective actions that challenge platform-driven power asymmetries. The study proposes a comprehensive framework illustrating the interplay of economic, technological, social, and regulatory forces affecting gig workers. These insights offer practical implications for policymakers and platform developers aiming to foster a more equitable gig economy. Future research should explore the long-term impacts on worker well-being and assess the effectiveness of regulatory interventions in addressing power imbalances.
Ultrasound-Guided Deep Serratus Plane Block in Cat Cadavers (Felis catus): A Description of Dye and Contrast Media Distribution
Authors: Polo-Paredes Gonzalo , Soler Marta , Gil Francisco , Laredo Francisco G. , Agut Amalia , Carrillo-Flores Sara , Belda Eliseo
Published: October 2024

The serratus plane block is an ultrasound-guided anaesthetic technique that aims to provide analgesia to the lateral thoracic wall cranial to the 8th rib. This block can be performed in a superficial (between the latissimus dorsi and the serratus ventralis thoracis (SVT) muscles) or deep plane (between the intercostales externi and the SVT muscles). This study aimed to assess the distribution and nerve staining of a mixture of 0.4 mL kg−1 of methylene blue and iopromide 50:50 performing a deep serratus plane (DSP) block at the level of the 5th rib. We hypothesise that this technique would be feasible and could stain the rami cutanei laterales (RCL) of the intercostales nerves cranial to the 8th rib in cat cadavers. This study was divided into two phases. Phase 1 consisted of an anatomical study of the thoracic wall (2 cadavers). Phase 2 consisted of the ultrasound-guided injection of the aforementioned mixture and the assessment of its distribution by computed tomography and anatomical dissection (12 cadavers). Contrast media spread a median of 5.5 (2.5–7.5) intercostal spaces. The dye stained a median of 3 (0–5) RCL, affecting RCL 2 (17.39%), RCL 3 (57.17%), RCL 4 (78.26%), RCL 5 (91.30%), RCL 6 (78.26%), and RCL 7 (8.70%) within the DSP. Occasionally, the rami dorsales laterales and the thoracicus longus nerve were stained. Based on these findings, the DSP block performed with a volume of 0.4 mL kg−1 of an anaesthetic could provide analgesia in the area innervated from T4 to T6.
Nutritional Value of Oregano-Based Products and Its Effect on Rabbit Performance and Health
Authors: Abd El-Aziz Ayman , Elfadadny Ahmed , Abo Ghanima Mahmoud , Cavallini Damiano , Fusaro Isa , Giammarco Melania , Buonaiuto Giovanni , El-Sabrout Karim
Published: October 2024

Antimicrobials long been used to enhance the performance and immunity of rabbits, typically by adding them to feed or drinking water to prevent illness. However, increasing consumer concerns about antibiotic-resistant microorganisms have led to a shift toward natural, eco-friendly, non-antibiotic feed supplements that can improve rabbit health and productivity. Recently, aromatic herbs and their extracts have gained considerable attention as natural antioxidants with growth-promoting and health-boosting properties. Essential oils and secondary metabolites play a central role in these effects, with Origanum vulgare (oregano) emerging as a standout option. Compared to synthetic alternatives, oregano is a natural, residue-free feed supplement with fewer harmful side effects. Its key bioactive components, thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to deliver significant benefits when incorporated into rabbit diets, particularly in improving production performance, immunity, and antioxidant capacity. Supplementing rabbit diets and drinking water with oregano essential oil (OEO) has been found to enhance growth performance, feed efficiency, and meat quality, while also lowering cholesterol levels and boosting antioxidant activity. Despite these promising results, research on the use of oregano in rabbit farming remains limited. This review aims to provide an up-to-date overview of the potential effect of oregano supplements, on growth parameters, carcass and meat quality, hemato-biochemical parameters, antioxidant capacity, immunity response, gut health, and gene expression in rabbits.
Beta-Glucans Improve the Mammary Innate Immune Response to Endotoxin Challenge in Dairy Ewes
Authors: Guamán Santiago A. , Elhadi Abdelaali , Salama Ahmed A. K. , Manuelian Carmen L. , Caja Gerardo , Albanell Elena
Published: October 2024

This study evaluated short-term immune responses of dairy ewes supplemented with barley β-glucan (BG) following an intramammary Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge. In the adaptation period, 36 ewes were fed an alfalfa hay diet ad libitum and barley grain cv. Hispanic (3.8% BG). Then, ewes were assigned into three experimental groups: (1) Control (CON), the same previous diet (13.3 g BG/d); (2) high β-glucans barley (HBG), new barley (cv. Annapurna) containing 10% BG (35 g BG/d); (3) intraperitoneally injected (INP) with a 1.4% BG solution dose (2 g BG/ewe). At d 9, all ewes were infused with an E. coli LPS or saline solution in each udder half. After the challenge, rectal temperature (RT), milk yield and composition, somatic cell count (SCC), and plasma interleukins (IL-1α and IL-1β) were monitored daily. The INP treatment revealed a transitory increase in RT and decreased milk yield by 38%. Milk fat, protein, and SCC increased in LPS-treated udders but not by BG treatment. The IL-1α plasma concentration was similar among groups but INP ewes showed a lower IL-1β concentration suggesting a lower inflammatory response. The BG administration appears more effective intraperitoneally than orally, which needs additional study.
Temporal Range Dynamics of the Lataste’s Viper (Vipera latastei Boscá, 1878) in Doñana (Spain): Insights into Anthropogenically Driven Factors
Authors: Carmona-González Rafael , Carro Francisco , González de la Vega Juan Pablo , Martínez-Freiría Fernando
Published: October 2024

Doñana (southern Spain), a region of notable biodiversity richness, is highly threatened by ongoing landscape transformation and climate change. We investigated the local effect of these anthropogenic factors on the temporal range dynamics of Lataste’s viper (Vipera latastei), an Iberian endemic Mediterranean reptile that has apparently become rare over the years in Doñana. Using ecological niche-based models, based on climatic and remote sensing variables, we analyzed historical (1959–1999) and contemporary (2000–2022) records of the species to assess range shifts and identify environmental factors that may influence them. Our results show that V. latastei is mostly restricted to the coastal region of Doñana and that one temperature variable is the most important factor explaining this distribution pattern in both periods. Additional climatic and vegetation variables play a role in its historical distribution, but they become less important in contemporary times, suggesting a niche simplification over time. We found 30.5% of reduction in the species suitable area from historical to contemporary conditions, a reduction that would be even greater (83.37%) in the absence of niche shift. These findings underscore the species’ heightened vulnerability to ongoing environmental changes and highlight the urgent need for targeted conservation strategies.
Microwave Cooking of Some or All High Starch Ingredients of Cattle Feed Concentrate Improves Nutritional Value and In Vitro Bioavailability
Authors: Poolthajit Sukanya , Takaeh Suriyanee , Hahor Waraporn , Nuntapong Nutt , Ngampongsai Wanwisa , Thongprajukaew Karun
Published: October 2024

Microwaving has been used to qualitatively improve feed ingredients prior to including them in cattle feed. However, it is not known whether feed ingredients should be microwaved separately or in a mixture before being included in cattle feed concentrates. In the current study, the effects of the partial and full microwaving of high starch ingredients were investigated regarding their impact on the nutritional composition, physicochemical properties, and in vitro digestibility of feed concentrates. The cassava was microwave-irradiated before being mixed with other ingredients (MC, 35% of formulation). A microwave-cooked cassava–corn meal mixture (MCC, 45% of formulation) and a combination of all solid components (MSI, 96% of formulation) were also compared. A feed containing non-microwaved ingredients was formulated and served as the control (NM). Significantly altered proximate compositions and nutritive profiles were observed in all the microwaved components (p < 0.05). The observed modifications in pHs, water absorption capacities, thermal properties (differential scanning calorimetry), diffraction patterns (X-ray diffractometry), and microstructures (scanning electron microscopy) indicated enhanced enzymatic hydrolysis in vitro. A higher cellulase organic matter solubility and digestible organic matter were observed in the MCC and MSIs feeds relative to the control NM (p < 0.05). These findings indicate a combination of components could be added to feedstock before it is microwave processed to potentially include this pretreatment in the feed production process.
Integrative Taxonomy Revealed High Diversity of Hemiphyllodactylus Bleeker, 1860 (Squamata: Gekkonidae) and the Description of Three New Species from Yunnan Province, China
Authors: Zhou Hongxin , Li Xiuyan , Yuan Chaoying , Cui Liangwei , Liu Shuo , Rao Dingqi
Published: October 2024

The karst landform in Yunnan Province, China, represents one of the most biodiverse regions for Hemiphyllodactylus. Previous research has revealed that the karst forests in this province host a greater diversity of Hemiphyllodactylus than previously acknowledged. However, substantial fundamental data essential for taxonomic and biogeographical studies are lacking. We conducted extensive surveys for Hemiphyllodactylus in the Yunnan Province that led to the discovery of three new species from Menglian Dai, Lahu, and Wa Autonomous County and Jinghong City based on morphological and genetic data. A phylogenetic reconstruction based on the ND2 gene (1038 bp) placed the three new species into clade 3 and clade 4 of Agung et al. The uncorrected genetic pairwise distance of the Menglian specimens were greater than 5.7%, and those of the Jinghong City specimens were greater than 5.2% and 8.5%, respectively. They could be distinguished from their congeners by body size, chin scales, internasal scales, ventral scales, dorsal scales, and the total number of femoral and precloacal pores. Furthermore, we update the distributional knowledge of the known species.
A New Species of the Feather Mite Genus Grallolichus Gaud, 1960 (Acariformes: Pterolichidae): First Report of a Commensal Mite Specific to the Sungrebe (Heliornis fulica)
Authors: Dabert Jacek
Published: October 2024

Feather mites of finfoots (Heliornithidae), a small gruiform family, are poorly and partly erroneously recognized. Grallolichus heliornisi sp. n. (Astigmata: Pterolichidae) is here described from the sungrebe Heliornis fulica as the first representative of the genus commonly found on close relatives of finfoots, Rallidae and Sarothuridae. This species belongs to the species group having ornamented dorsal shields and is morphologically most close to G. proctogamus inhabiting Eurasian coot (Fulica atra). Males of the new species differ from G. proctogamus mainly by the shape of opisthosomal lobes (triangular vs. rounded) and the aedeagus form (parallel sided vs. tapering distally). Females differ mainly by the shape of supranal concavity (open anteriorly vs. closed) and location of setae h1 in relation to supranal concavity (lateral vs. anterior). A key to known species of the genus Grallolichus is provided. The morphological analysis and descriptive characterization of this species, like much of the approximately 2500 feather mite species described to date, were based on mummified mite material preserved in 19th-century old museum bird specimens. These often-forgotten collections are the only source for the analysis of the acarofauna of many rare, unavailable wild or even extinct bird taxa.
Effects of Substituting Fishmeal with Soy Protein Concentrate Supplemented with Essential Amino Acids in the Olive Flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) Diet on the Expression of Genes Related to Growth, Stress, Immunity, and Digestive Enzyme
Authors: Lee Sang Hyun , Park Jong-Won , Jeong Minhwan , Lee Dain , Kim Julan , Kim Hyun-Chul
Published: October 2024

This study identified the effects of substituting fishmeal (FM) with soy protein concentrate (SPC) supplemented with lysine and methionine in the olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) diet on the expression of genes related to growth, stress, immunity, and digestion. Three experimental diets were prepared; the control diet (Con) contained 60% FM, and the experimental diets contained 25% (SPC25) and 50% (SPC50) FM replaced by SPC. After the 140-day feeding period, weight gain, specific growth rate, feed availability, biological indices, and chemical composition of the muscle were not significantly affected by the dietary treatments. The gene expression levels of growth-related genes (IGF, GFB-3), immune-related genes (IL-8 and caspase), and stress-related genes (SOD, GPX, PRX, TRX) were higher in Con fish than in those fed the SPC25 and SPC50 diets. Chymo-TRY2, TRY2, and TRY3 in the stomach of fish fed the SPC25 diet were higher than fish fed the Con or SPC50 diets. TRY2 and lipase of fish fed the SPC25 diet were higher than those of fish fed the other diets but TRY3 was not significantly affected by the treatments in the intestine. In conclusion, substituting 25% FM with SPC was the most effective diet for the expression of growth, immune, stress, and digestive enzyme genes.
Dietary Tributyrin Improves Growth Performance, Meat Quality, Muscle Oxidative Status, and Gut Microbiota in Taihe Silky Fowls under Cyclic Heat Stress
Authors: Chen Chuanbin , Qu Mingren , Li Guanhong , Wan Gen , Liu Ping , Omar Salma Mbarouk , Mei Wenliang , Hu Ziyu , Zhou Qian , Xu Lanjiao
Published: October 2024

Heat stress adversely affects poultry production and meat quality, leading to economic losses. This study aimed to investigate the effects of adding tributyrin on growth performance, meat quality, muscle oxidative status, and gut microbiota of Taihe silky fowls under cyclic heat stress (CHS) conditions. In this study, 120-day-old Taihe silky fowls (male) were randomly divided into six dietary treatments. These treatments included a normal control treatment (NC, fed a basal diet), a heat stress control treatment (HS, fed a basal diet), and HS control treatments supplemented with 0.04%, 0.08%, 0.16%, and 0.32% tributyrin, respectively. The NC treatment group was kept at 24 ± 1 °C, while the HS treatment birds were exposed to 34 ± 1 °C for 8 h/d for 4 weeks. Results showed that CHS decreased growth performance and compromised the meat quality of broilers (p < 0.05). However, tributyrin supplementation improved ADG and FCR in broilers exposed to CHS (p < 0.05). Additionally, tributyrin supplementation resulted in increased shear force value and GSH-Px activity, as well as a decrease in drip loss, ether extract content, and MDA content of the breast muscle in broilers under CHS (p < 0.05). Furthermore, tributyrin supplementation up-regulated the mRNA expressions of Nrf2, NQO1, HO-1, SOD, and GSH-Px of the breast muscle in broilers exposed to CHS (p < 0.05). Based on these positive effects, the study delved deeper to investigate the impact of 0.16% tributyrin supplementation (HS + 0.16%T) on the cecum microbiota. The HS + 0.16%T treatment showed an increase in the relative abundance of Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group (p < 0.05) and a trend towards an increase in Lactobacillus (p = 0.096) compared to the HS treatment. The results indicate that supplementation successfully improved the growth performance and meat quality of Taihe silky fowls. Furthermore, tributyrin supplementation, particularly at levels of 0.16%, improved meat quality by enhancing muscle antioxidant capacity, which is believed to be associated with activation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway.
Rosmarinic Acid Attenuates Salmonella enteritidis-Induced Inflammation via Regulating TLR9/NF-κB Signaling Pathway and Intestinal Microbiota
Authors: Yi Dandan , Wang Menghui , Liu Xia , Qin Lanqian , Liu Yu , Zhao Linyi , Peng Ying , Liang Zhengmin , He Jiakang
Published: October 2024

Salmonella enteritidis (SE) infection disrupts the homeostasis of the intestinal microbiota, causing an intestinal inflammatory response and posing a great threat to human and animal health. The unreasonable use of antibiotics has led to an increase in the prevalence of drug-resistant SE, increasing the difficulty of controlling SE. Therefore, new drug strategies and research are urgently needed to control SE. Rosmarinic acid (RA) is a natural phenolic acid with various pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. However, the protective effects and mechanism of RA on intestinal inflammation and the gut microbial disorders caused by SE have not been fully elucidated. In this study, RAW264.7 cells, MCECs and BALB/c mice were challenged with SE to assess the protective effects and mechanisms of RA. The results showed that RA enhanced the phagocytic ability of RAW264.7 cells, reduced the invasion and adhesion ability of SE in MCECs, and inhibited SE-induced inflammation in cells. Moreover, RA inhibited the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway by upregulating TLR9 expression. Importantly, we found that RA provided protection against SE and increased the diversity and abundance of the intestinal microbiota in mice. Compared with infection control, RA significantly increased the abundance of Firmicutes and Acidibacteria and decreased the abundance of Proteobacteria, Epsilonbacteraeota and Bacteroidota. However, RA failed to alleviate SE-induced inflammation and lost its regulatory effects on the TLR9/NF-κB signaling pathway after destroying the gut microbiota with broad-spectrum antibiotics. These results indicated that RA attenuated SE-induced inflammation by regulating the TLR9/NF-κB signaling pathway and maintaining the homeostasis of the gut microbiota. Our study provides a new strategy for preventing SE-induced intestinal inflammation.
Radical Scavenging Capacity and In Vitro Cytoprotective Effects of Great Salt Lake-Derived Processed Mineral Water
Authors: Mokudai Takayuki , Nakagawa Seiko , Kanetaka Hiroyasu , Oda Kazuo , Abe Hiroya , Niwano Yoshimi
Published: October 2024

The Great Salt Lake, located in Utah, USA, is a saltwater lake with no outlet and is surrounded by vast mountains and salt deserts. We aimed to use Great Salt Lake-derived processed mineral water (hereafter termed as GSL-MW) for maintaining oral health. Therefore, we examined its radical scavenging activity as an antioxidant and its cytoprotective effect on human gingival fibroblasts (hGFs). The scavenging activity against O2•− radicals was determined by an electron spin resonance (ESR)-spin trapping technique using two kinds of O2•− generation systems; however, we could not reach any concrete conclusion because of the interference caused by GSL-MW in both systems. Detection of ·OH radicals using the ESR-spin trapping technique and kinetic analyses using double-reciprocal plots (corresponding to Lineweaver–Burk plots that are used to represent enzyme kinetics) revealed that GSL-MW has the ability to scavenge ·OH radicals. GSL-MW also showed a weak 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH; a stable radical)-scavenging activity. Regarding the cytoprotective effects, subconfluent hGFs pretreated with 10× and 100× dilutions of GSL-MW for 3 min and then exposed to harsh environmental conditions, such as pure water or 100 μM H2O2 for 3 min, showed enhanced cell viability rate. Moreover, 10× and 100× dilutions of GSL-MW reduced oxidative damage in confluent hGFs exposed to 12.5 and 25 mM H2O2. Our findings show that GSL-MW has antioxidant potential and cytoprotective effects on hGFs, suggesting that GSL-MW can be used to maintain oral health.
Investigation of the Effect of Indirect Ultrasonic Force and Different Cements on the Bond Strength of Glass Fiber Posts in Teeth with Different Post Space Preparation Methods
Authors: Caner Naz , Ayrancı Leyla Benan , Gülgü Bengi
Published: October 2024

(1) Background: The main aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different cements (Panavia V5, RelyX U200) and placement techniques (indirect ultrasonic vibration and manual method) on the bond strength of glass fiber posts in teeth with different post space preparation methods and to evaluate the failure types. (2) Methods: A total of 120 human upper central teeth were collected for the study. One week after root canal treatment, 10 mm long post space preparation was performed using post drills. Post spaces were irrigated in three different ways, namely NaOCl, NaOCl + EDTA solutions, and passive ultrasonic irrigation of NaOCl and EDTA solutions. Glass fiber posts were divided into two groups for resin cement systems, namely RelyX U200 (3M ESPE) or Panavia V5 (Kuraray Medical). Two different methods, namely the indirect ultrasonic vibration and the manual method, were applied for post placement. Then, 1.2 mm sections were taken from the middle and coronal regions of the inserted fiber posts for a push-out test. (3) Results: the Irrigation × Cement (p = 0.002), Cement × Section (p = 0.043) and Placement × Section (p = 0.049) pairwise interactions were statistically significant. (4) Conclusions: in our study, the effects of different post cavity preparations, different cement types, and different placement techniques on the bond strength of the fiber post were observed.
SISGAN: A Generative Adversarial Network Pedestrian Trajectory Prediction Model Combining Interaction Information and Scene Information
Authors: Dou Wanqing , Lu Lili
Published: October 2024

Accurate pedestrian trajectory prediction is crucial in many fields. This requires the full use and learning of pedestrians’ social interactions, movements, and environmental information. In view of the current research on pedestrian trajectory prediction, wherein most of the pedestrian interaction information is explored from the level of overall interaction, this paper proposes the SISGAN model, which designs a social interaction module from the perspective of the target pedestrian, and takes four kinds of interaction information as the influencing factors of pedestrian interaction, so as to describe the influence mechanism of pedestrian–pedestrian interaction. In addition, in terms of environmental information, the index density of pedestrian historical trajectory in space is taken into account in the extraction of environmental information, which increases the potential correlation between environmental information and pedestrians. Finally, we integrate social interaction information and environmental information and make the final trajectory prediction based on GAN. Experiments on ETH and UCY datasets demonstrate the effectiveness of the SISGAN model proposed in this paper.
Pollutant Dispersion of Aircraft Exhaust Gas during the Landing and Takeoff Cycle with Improved Gaussian Diffusion Model
Authors: Yang Junli , Li Likun , Zheng Xiaoyu , Liu Hang , Li Fengming , Xiao Yi
Published: October 2024

Evaluating aviation emissions and examining the dispersion properties of contaminants are crucial for understanding atmospheric pollution. To assess the pollutant emissions and dispersion of aircraft during the landing and takeoff (LTO) cycle, and address air pollution surrounding the airport resulting from flight operations, this study evaluated emissions throughout the LTO phase based on Quick Access Recorder (QAR) data in conjunction with the first-order approximation method. An improved Gaussian diffusion model for mobile point sources was employed to examine the diffusion characteristics of contaminants. Additionally, CFD calculation outcomes for various exhaust velocities and wind speeds were utilized to validate the trustworthiness of the improved Gaussian model. The discussion also encompasses the influence of diffusion time, wind direction, wind speed, temperature gradient, and particle deposition on the concentration distribution of contaminants. The findings indicated that the Gaussian diffusion model aligned with the results of the CFD calculations. The diffusion distribution of contaminants around airports varies over time and is significantly influenced by atmospheric environmental factors, including wind direction, wind speed, and atmospheric stability. Specifically, a change in wind direction from 0° to 45° caused a shift of approximately 1000 m in the contaminant’s center. An increase in wind speed from 3 m/s to 5 m/s led to a decrease in concentration by about 15%. Furthermore, a transition in atmospheric stability from category ‘a’ (very unstable) to ‘f’ (very stable) resulted in a two-order-of-magnitude increase in contaminant concentrations.
The Scale Model Room Approach to Test the Performance of Airtight Membranes to Control Indoor Radon Levels and Radiation Exposure
Authors: Portaro Manuela , Rocchetti Ilaria , Tuccimei Paola , Galli Gianfranco , Soligo Michele , Longoni Cristina , Vasquez Dino
Published: October 2024

Indoor radon is one of the most significant contributors to lung cancer after smoking. Mitigation strategies based on protecting buildings with radon barrier materials, combined with home ventilation or room pressurization, are regularly used. A scale model room made from a porous ignimbrite rich in radon precursors was used as an analogue to test the efficiency of fifteen airtight membranes to reduce radon levels, also in combination with room pressurization. The results of these experiments were considered together with previous ones to propose the scale model room approach as a tool for rapidly evaluating the performance of specially designed radon barrier materials, and for radiation exposure assessment. Relative reduction of indoor radon (RIR) ranges from −20 to −94%. The most effective materials were FPO membrane, single-component silane-terminated polymer membranes and synthetic resins. The presence of additives likely modified the composition and structure of some products, improving their radon barrier capacity. The introduction of room pressurization further reduced radon levels in the model room where the membranes were applied. The overpressure necessary to reach RIRs of the order of 85–90% is very low for materials that powerfully stop radon even without ventilation, but necessarily higher for poorer membranes.
The Utility of Indocyanine Green Angiography in Breast Reconstruction to Detect Mastectomy Skin Flap Necrosis and Free Flap Perfusion: An Umbrella Review
Authors: Fadell Nicholas , Laurent Flora , Sanka Sai Anusha , Ochoa Esther , Yaeger Lauren , Li Xiaowei , Wood Matthew D. , Sacks Justin M. , Badran Saif
Published: October 2024

Two of the greatest challenges in breast reconstruction are mastectomy skin flap necrosis (MSFN) and autologous flap failure. This review summarizes current evidence regarding the usage of indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) in breast reconstruction, identifies knowledge gaps, and provides directions for future studies. An umbrella review was conducted to identify related syntheses in Embase, Ovid Medline, Scopus, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and the Clinical Trials databases. Data were extracted from systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses (MAs) that discussed the use of ICGA in breast reconstruction. Sixteen syntheses were included (10 SRs and 6 MAs). Syntheses showed much evidence that ICGA usage typically reduces MSFN rates. However, it tends to overpredict necrosis and is best utilized in high-risk patients or those with an unclear clinical picture. ICGA is also useful in autologous breast reconstruction by reducing rates of breast fat necrosis (BFN), total flap loss, and reoperation. ICGA usage may also aid in perforator mapping and selection intraoperatively, with minimal complication risk. Most syntheses had moderate quality scores; however, they were small with significant heterogeneity in protocols and complication definitions. The use of ICGA in breast reconstruction is safe and useful in decreasing rates of MSFN, BFN, and reoperation after free flap reconstruction.
Correction: Jin et al. Interobserver Agreement in Automatic Segmentation Annotation of Prostate Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Bioengineering 2023, 10, 1340
Authors: Jin Liang , Ma Zhuangxuan , Li Haiqing , Gao Feng , Gao Pan , Yang Nan , Li Dechun , Li Ming , Geng Daoying
Published: October 2024

The authors regret to pinpoint two editorial errors in [...]
Multiscale Thermal Technologies: Exploring Hot and Cold Potentials in Biomedical Applications
Authors: Yu Bangrui , Huang Haishui
Published: October 2024

Harnessing thermal technology has opened up new possibilities in biomedicine in areas such as cancer treatment, biopreservation, and assisted reproduction [...]
Targeted Drug Delivery in Periorbital Non-Melanocytic Skin Malignancies
Authors: Tirone Benedetta , Scarabosio Anna , Surico Pier Luigi , Parodi Pier Camillo , D’Esposito Fabiana , Avitabile Alessandro , Foti Caterina , Gagliano Caterina , Zeppieri Marco
Published: October 2024

Targeted drug delivery has emerged as a transformative approach in the treatment of periorbital skin malignancies, offering the potential for enhanced efficacy and reduced side effects compared to traditional therapies. This review provides a comprehensive overview of targeted therapies in the context of periorbital malignancies, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, sebaceous gland carcinoma, and Merkel cell carcinoma. It explores the mechanisms of action for various targeted therapies, such as monoclonal antibodies, small molecule inhibitors, and immunotherapies, and their applications in treating these malignancies. Additionally, this review addresses the management of ocular and periocular side effects associated with these therapies, emphasizing the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to minimize impact and ensure patient adherence. By integrating current findings and discussing emerging trends, this review aims to highlight the advancements in targeted drug delivery and its potential to improve treatment outcomes and quality of life for patients with periorbital skin malignancies.
Probiotic Enterococcus Faecium Attenuated Atherosclerosis by Improving SCFAs Associated with Gut Microbiota in ApoE−/− Mice
Authors: Zhu Yuan , Yin Chao , Wang Yeqi
Published: October 2024

Atherosclerosis, as the main root cause, makes cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) a substantial worldwide health concern. Inflammation and disrupted cholesterol metabolism are the primary clinical risk elements contributing to the onset of atherosclerosis. Few works exist on the improvement effect of gut microbiota on atherosclerosis. One specific probiotic strain, Enterococcus faecium NCIMB11508, has shown promise in mitigating inflammation. Consequently, it is critical to investigate its potential in reducing the progression of atherosclerosis. In our study, we administered E. faecium NCIMB11508 orally to ApoE−/− mice, resulting in a decrease in the formation of atherosclerotic lesions. Additionally, it demonstrated the ability to lower the inflammatory factor levels both in the aorta and blood serum while maintaining the integrity of the small intestine against lipopolysaccharides. Moreover, E. faecium NCIMB11508 had a beneficial impact on the gut microbiota composition by increasing the levels of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which in turn helped to reduce inflammation and protect the intestine. The probiotic E. faecium NCIMB11508, according to our research, has a definitive capacity to prevent atherosclerosis progression by beneficially altering the SCFA composition in the gut microbiota of ApoE−/− mice.
Correction of Batch Effect in Gut Microbiota Profiling of ASD Cohorts from Different Geographical Origins
Authors: Scanu Matteo , Del Chierico Federica , Marsiglia Riccardo , Toto Francesca , Guerrera Silvia , Valeri Giovanni , Vicari Stefano , Putignani Lorenza
Published: October 2024

Background: To date, there have been numerous metataxonomic studies on gut microbiota (GM) profiling based on the analyses of data from public repositories. However, differences in study population and wet and dry pipelines have produced discordant results. Herein, we propose a biostatistical approach to remove these batch effects for the GM characterization in the case of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Methods: An original dataset of GM profiles from patients with ASD was ecologically characterized and compared with GM public digital profiles of age-matched neurotypical controls (NCs). Also, GM data from seven case–control studies on ASD were retrieved from the NCBI platform and exploited for analysis. Hence, on each dataset, conditional quantile regression (CQR) was performed to reduce the batch effects originating from both technical and geographical confounders affecting the GM-related data. This method was further applied to the whole dataset matrix, obtained by merging all datasets. The ASD GM markers were identified by the random forest (RF) model. Results: We observed a different GM profile in patients with ASD compared with NC subjects. Moreover, a significant reduction of technical- and geographical-dependent batch effects in all datasets was achieved. We identified Bacteroides_H, Faecalibacterium, Gemmiger_A_73129, Blautia_A_141781, Bifidobacterium_388775, and Phocaeicola_A_858004 as robust GM bacterial biomarkers of ASD. Finally, our validation approach provided evidence of the validity of the QCR method, showing high values of accuracy, specificity, sensitivity, and AUC-ROC. Conclusions: Herein, we proposed an updated biostatistical approach to reduce the technical and geographical batch effects that may negatively affect the description of bacterial composition in microbiota studies.