bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Triglyceride-glucose index (TyG index) is associated with a higher risk of colorectal adenoma and multiple adenomas in asymptomatic subjects
Authors: Zhu Ziyue , Lam Thomas Yuen Tung , Tang Raymond Shing Yan , Wong Sunny Hei , Lui Rashid Nok Shun , Ng Simon Siu Man , Wong Samuel Yeung Shan , Sung Joseph Jao Yiu
Published: November 2024

Hypothesis

The objective of this study is to evaluate the predictive ability of the TyG index for the presence of adenoma and multiple adenomas in an asymptomatic population.

Design

A secondary analysis was conducted on a prospective cohort of asymptomatic subjects aged between 50 and 75 who underwent CRC screening. Fasting blood glucose (FBG) and lipid profiles were measured within three months prior colonoscopy. TyG index was estimated as ln [fasting triglycerides (mg/dL) × FBG (mg/dL)/2]. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to assess the association between the TyG index and the risk of adenoma. Its association with multiple adenomas (≥5) and the continuous number of adenomas were assessed by multinomial regression and log-normal linear regression, respectively.

Results

A total of 1,538 subjects were recruited among which 876 subjects (57%) had at least one adenoma detected. Elevated TyG index was positively associated with the incidence of adenoma (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.26, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.04–1.54). Compared with the lowest TyG index (≤ 8) group, the risk of adenoma was the highest among subjects in the highest TyG index (> 10) group (aOR: 3.36, 95% CI: 1.44–7.73). As compared to the non-adenoma group, the TyG index was also positively associated with multiple adenomas (aOR: 1.74, 95% CI: 1.17–2.57), and the estimate was also the highest in the highest TyG group (aOR: 14.49, 95% CI: 3.12–67.20). As for the number of adenomas, the positive association was maintained (Estimates: 1.06, 95% CI: 1.01–1.12) while the number of adenomas increase the most in the highest TyG index group (Estimates: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.10–1.65).

Conclusions

Elevated TyG index is associated with an increased risk of colorectal adenoma and an increased number of adenomas for asymptomatic subjects aged ≥50.

Trial registration

This study was registered on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03597204 and NCT04034953).
In search of prosociality in rodents: A scoping review
Authors: Charron Valérie , Talbot Joey , Labelle Patrick R. , Konkle Anne T. M. , Plamondon Hélène
Published: November 2024

Studying prosociality in rodents can provide insight into brain mechanisms potentially related to neurodevelopmental disorders known to impact social behaviors (e.g., autism spectrum disorder). While many studies have been published suggesting promising models, current knowledge remains scattered, including potential factors mediating prosocial behaviors in rodents. Prosocial behavior is characterized by an action done to benefit another or promote their well-being. The goal of this scoping review is to characterize current findings regarding prosocial paradigms in rodents, highlight current gaps in reporting, and identify factors shown to be important in mediating prosocial responses in rodents. Five databases were consulted in search of relevant studies published between 2000 and 2020 (APA PsycInfo, Embase, MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science). An update using a semi-supervised machine learning approach (ASReview) was then conducted to collect studies from 2021–2023. In total, 80 articles were included. Findings were the following: (1) Three categories of prosocial paradigm were extracted: cooperation, helping, and sharing tasks, (2) Rodents showed the ability to perform prosocial actions in all three categories, (3) Significant gaps in reported methodologies (e.g., failure to report animals’ characteristics, housing conditions, and/or experimental protocol) and mediating factors (e.g., sex, strain, housing, food restriction) were found, and (4) Behaviors are determinant when investigating prosociality in rodents, however many studies omitted to include such analyses. Together these results inform future studies on the impact of mediating factors and the importance of behavioral analyses on the expression of prosocial behaviors in rodents.
Perceived attitudes toward LGBTQ+ physicians among Thai patients with psychiatric disorder: A multiregional cross-sectional study
Authors: Pitanupong Jarurin , Sathaporn Katti , Ittasakul Pichai , Karawekpanyawong Nuntaporn , Sangkool Jaturaporn , Putthisri Suwannee
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine attitudes toward LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, and more) physicians among Thai psychiatric patients and to identify associated factors across three regions of Thailand.

Patients and methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted from June to August 2023 in Central, Northern, and Southern Thailand. The Attitudes Toward LGBTQ+ Physician Questionnaire and a patient-doctor relationship questionnaire were utilized. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and linear regression.

Results

The study included 543 participants with a median age of 37 years (IQR 26–52), predominantly female (68.9%) and Buddhist (78.1%). The median score for perceived attitudes toward LGBTQ+ physicians was 86 (IQR 73.0–95.5), with significant regional variations. Most participants perceived LGBTQ+ physicians as normal (85.5%) and integral to society (94.5%). A significant portion disagreed with the idea that being an LGBTQ+ physician was sinful (85.3%) or immoral (84.0%). However, 20.3% expressed discomfort with the possibility of LGBTQ+ physicians conducting private physical examinations. Lower perceived attitudes were associated with older age and being Muslim. Conversely, higher education, female gender, having LGBTQ+ connections, and a reported gender non-conformity showed a correlation with more positive attitudes.

Conclusion

Thai psychiatric patients generally hold positive attitudes toward LGBTQ+ physicians, though demographic factors influence these attitudes. There needs to be a particular focus on improving attitudes regarding conducting private physical examinations to maximize patient comfort and trust.
Paraherquamides – A new hope and great expectations of anthelmintic agents: Computational studies
Authors: Aljahdali Anfal S. , Omar Abdelsattar M. , Mohamed Gamal A. , Almalki Ali M. , Ibrahim Sabrin R. M.
Published: November 2024

Nematode infections impose a significant health and economic burden, particularly as parasites develop resistance to existing treatments and evade host defenses. This study explores the efficacy of 48 paraherquamide analogs, a class of polycyclic spiro-oxindole alkaloids with unique structural features, as potential anthelmintic agents. Employing advanced computational methods, including molecular docking, MM-GBSA, and molecular dynamics simulations, we assessed the interaction of these analogs with the Ls-AchBP receptor, a model for nematode neurotransmission. Among the analogs studied, Paraherquamide K, Mangrovamide A, and Chrysogenamide A showed comparable docking and MM-GBSA scores to the native antagonist. Notably, their binding interactions exhibited slight distinction attributed to structural differences, such as the absence of a di-oxygenated 7-membered ring. Additionally, these analogs demonstrated robust binding stability in the molecular dynamic simulation studies and favorable pharmacokinetic properties in our in-silico ADME assessment. The insights gained from the study highlight the potential of these analogs as a basis for developing new therapeutics for nematode infections. The promising results from this computational analysis set the stage for subsequent in-vivo validations and pre-clinical studies, contributing to the arsenal against parasitic resistance.
Engineering a probiotic Bacillus subtilis for acetaldehyde removal: A hag locus integration to robustly express acetaldehyde dehydrogenase
Authors: Hassan-Casarez Chandler , Ryan Valerie , Shuster Bentley M. , Oliver John W. K. , Abbott Zachary D.
Published: November 2024

We have addressed critical challenges in probiotic design to develop a commercially viable bacterial strain capable of removing the intestinal toxin, acetaldehyde. In this study, we report the engineering of the hag locus, a σD-dependent flagellin expression site, as a stable location for robust enzyme production. We demonstrate constitutive gene expression in relevant conditions driven by the endogenous hag promoter, following a deletion of the gene encoding a post-translational regulator of σD, FlgM, and a point mutation to abrogate the binding of the translational inhibitor CsrA. Reporter constructs demonstrate activity at the hag locus after germination, with a steady increase in heterologous expression throughout outgrowth and vegetative growth. To evaluate the chassis as a spore-based probiotic solution, we identified the physiologically relevant ethanol metabolic pathway and the subsequent accumulation of gut-derived acetaldehyde following alcohol consumption. We integrated a Cupriavidus necator aldehyde dehydrogenase gene (acoD) into the hag locus under the control of the flagellin promoter and observed a rapid reduction in acetaldehyde levels in gut-simulated conditions post-germination. This work demonstrates a promising approach for the development of genetically engineered spore-based probiotics.
Burden of mortality and its predictors among TB-HIV co-infected patients in Ethiopia: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kassaw Amare , Kefale Demewoz , Aytenew Tigabu Munye , Azmeraw Molla , Agimas Muluken Chanie , Zeleke Shegaw , Sinshaw Mastewal Ayehu , Dessalegn Nigatu , Asferie Worku Necho
Published: November 2024

Background

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and tuberculosis (TB) are still the two major deadly pandemics globally, causes 167,000 deaths in 2022. The two lethal combinations pose a substantial challenge to public health, especially in areas with high burden of both diseases such as Sub-Saharan Africa including Ethiopia. However, there is no study that showed national figure on mortality of TB/HIV co-infected patients. Hence, this review intended to provide pooled mortality rate and its predictors among patients co- infected with twin pandemics.

Methods

Using reputable electronic data bases, primary studies were searched from January 25 to February 5, 2024. The review included papers published in English language conducted between 2004 and 2024. Heterogeneity between included studies was evaluated using Cochrane Q-test and the I2 statistics. Sub-group analysis was done to mitigate significant heterogeneity. Sensitivity analysis was also done to evaluate the effect of single studies on pooled estimated result.

Results

In this systematic review and meta-analysis a total of 5,210 study participants were included from 15 primary studies. The review disclosed that the pooled proportion and incidence of mortality were 18.73% (95% CI: 15.92-20.83) and 4.94 (95% CI: 2.98-6.89) respectively. Being bedridden and ambulatory functional status, poor ART adherence, CD4 count below the threshold (<200 cells/mm3), advanced WHO clinical staging, not provision of cotrimoxazole and isoniazid preventing therapy, anemia and extra pulmonary TB were significant predictors of mortality.

Conclusion and recommendations

The analyzed data of this systematic review and meta-analysis depicted that the national pooled proportion and incidence of mortality among TB-HIV co-infected patients were considered to be still high. The authors strongly recommended scale up and continuous provision of cotrimoxazole and isoniazid preventive therapy. In addition, early identification and treatment of anemia will greatly halt the high burden of mortality. Generally, to reduce mortality and improve survival, a collaborative effort is mandatory to emphasize close follow up of patients with identified predictors.
Automated mapping of electronic data capture fields to SDTM
Authors: Yang Eric , Katz Laura , Shenoy Sushila
Published: November 2024

Objective

The goal of this work is to reduce the amount of manual work required to go from data capture to regulatory submission. It will be shown that the use of Siamese networks will allow for the generation of embeddings that can be used by traditional machine learning classifiers to perform the classification at much higher levels of accuracy than standard approaches.

Methods

Siamese networks are a method for training data embeddings such that data within the same class are closer with respect to a given distance metric than they are to data points in another class. Because they are designed to learn similarity within pairs of data points, they work well in situations where the number of classes is relatively large compared to the number of training samples. In this work, we will show that embeddings generated via a Siamese network from metadata associated with electronic data capture forms can be used to predict the associated SDTM field.

Results

With a relatively simple network coupled with a basic classification algorithm, the proposed method can achieve accuracies greater than 90%, which is significantly higher than what has been achieved with traditional methods, with many of the inaccurate mappings due to a lack of training data. In many cases, there is a 15% increase in accuracy vs. more traditional methods.

Conclusion

Leveraging Siamese networks, it is possible to generate embeddings that efficiently represent data fields in a lower dimensional space. This allows the creation of a system that can automatically map between data schemas at high levels of accuracy. Such systems represent the first step in automating one of the many labor-intensive data management tasks associated with clinical trials.
Sodium hypochlorite inactivation of human CJD prions
Authors: Groveman Bradley R. , Race Brent , Hughson Andrew G. , Haigh Cathryn L.
Published: November 2024

Prion diseases are transmissible, fatal neurologic diseases of mammals caused by the accumulation of mis-folded, disease associated prion protein (PrPd). Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) is the most common human prion disease and can occur by sporadic onset (sCJD) (~85% of CJD cases), genetic mutations in the prion protein gene (10–15%) or iatrogenic transmission (rare). PrPd is difficult to inactivate and many methods to reduce prion infectivity are dangerous, caustic, expensive, or impractical. Identifying viable and safe methods for decontamination of CJD exposed materials is critically important for medical facilities and research institutions. Previous research has shown that concentrated sodium hypochlorite (bleach) was effective at inactivation of CJD prions derived from brains of mice or guinea pigs. Unfortunately, human prions adapted to rodents may mis-fold differently than in humans, and the rodent adapted prions may not have the same resistance or susceptibility to inactivation present in bona fide CJD prions. To confirm that bleach was efficacious against human sourced CJD prions, we exposed different subtypes of sCJD-infected human brain homogenates to different concentrations of bleach for increasing exposure times. Initial and residual prion seeding activity following inactivation were measured using Real-Time Quaking Induced Conversion. In addition, we tested how passage of human sCJD into either transgenic mice that expressed human prion protein, or transmission of CJD to human cerebral organoids (CO), two common laboratory practices, may affect CJD prions’ susceptibility to bleach inactivation. Our results show that bleach is effective against human sourced sCJD prions, and both treatment time and concentration of bleach were important factors for CJD inactivation. CJD derived from human brains, transgenic mouse brains or CO were all susceptible to inactivation with as low as a 10 percent bleach solution with a 30-minute exposure time or a 50 percent bleach solution with as little as a 1-minute exposure time.
The ‘ideal’ dancer: An investigation into predictors of body image dissatisfaction among male dancers, female dancers and their non-dancing counterparts
Authors: Boyes Jessica E. , Cornelissen Katri K.
Published: November 2024

Body image dissatisfaction is consistently highlighted as a precursor for eating disorders, arising from several factors. One factor surrounds social expectations of being thin, which can be emphasised in certain physical activities, like dance. Whilst research is available for body image dissatisfaction among female dancers, literature has neglected the male demographic. The present study investigated seven predictors of body image dissatisfaction within male and female dancers, from a variety of genres. The study employed a non-experimental quantitative method, utilising an independent groups correlational design. The role of clothing practices, body ideal internalisation and sociocultural influences were investigated as predictors for body image dissatisfaction. Data from 180 participants (mean age = 23.7, SD = 7.51) was analysed from an online survey. Hierarchical multiple regression revealed that the model consisting of all predictors significantly accounted for over 60% of variance in body image dissatisfaction scores within all independent groups. The individual contribution of predictors differed between groups, with clothing practice being the only significant predictor in all four groups. Media pressure was a significant predictor within non-dancer groups only. This research highlights the importance of clothing practices, specifically tight-fitting garments within the dance environment and general population. Future research should investigate potential differences in the predictors between each level of dance.
Systemic analysis shows that cold exposure modulates triglyceride accumulation and phospholipid distribution in mice
Authors: James Isabella , Jain Raghav , Wade Gina , Stevenson Philip C. , Koulman Albert , Simcox Judith , Furse Samuel
Published: November 2024

Environmental exposure to cold is increasingly being associated with changes in metabolism. We developed and tested the hypothesis that exposure to cold drives systemic effects in lipid metabolism. Specifically, (i) that energy storage and provision adapts to the cold by altering triglyceride distribution and (ii) that membranes adapt to cold conditions by becoming more unsaturated. These hypotheses were designed to identify the underlying mechanisms that govern the response of mammalian systems to cold. To test these hypotheses, we used a metabolic network analysis. An established model of cold exposure was used, from which lipidomics data that represents the system was collected. The network analysis showed that triglyceride metabolism is altered on exposure to cold, with several smaller effects that are not straightforward, such as changes to the abundance and distribution of odd chain fatty acids. The range and profile of phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylinositol were modified, but there was little change in phosphatidylethanolamine or sphingomyelin. These results support the hypothesis, and show that exposure to cold is a system-wide phenomenon that requires or drives changes across a range of metabolic pathways.
Preschoolers’ home music environment relates to their home literacy environment and parental self-efficacy
Authors: Liu Talia , Gray-Bauer Helen , Davison Kelsey E. , Zuk Jennifer
Published: November 2024

Positive relationships between the home literacy environment and children’s language and literacy development are well-established. However, existing literature has overlooked the potential contributions of the home music environment. Initial evidence indicates positive relationships between the home music environment and children’s emerging language and literacy skills, yet it remains unclear whether and how children’s home music and literacy environments may be related. Furthermore, parents’ sense of self-efficacy is known to impact the home environment provided for their children. Despite being linked with the home literacy environment, parental self-efficacy has not been directly investigated in relation to the home music environment. In the present study, 124 caregivers of preschoolers completed a one-time online survey about their children’s home music environment, home literacy environment, and parental self-efficacy. Partial correlations and hierarchical regressions reveal that children’s amount of music exposure is associated with qualitative (not quantitative) aspects of the home literacy environment, specifically parents’ use of interactive techniques during shared reading. Moreover, parental self-efficacy is associated with children’s amount of exposure to music. Overall, these findings support the need to further examine how the home music environment may meaningfully contribute to an enriching learning environment, especially to support language and literacy development.
Comparative analysis of state-level policy responses in global health governance: A scoping review using COVID-19 as a case
Authors: Tang Fengyuan , Yang Wenqianzi , Wu Weijia , Yao Yewen , Yang Yi , Zheng Qiyi , Maireyi Baheti , Jin Shengxuan , Dong Hengjin
Published: November 2024

Background

States are key actors in global health governance, particularly in the prevention and control of infectious diseases. The emergence and re-emergence of infectious diseases in recent decades pose profound challenges to global health security. As the first coronavirus pandemic, the COVID-19 caused significant damage worldwide, but responses and outcomes varied greatly among states. Using COVID-19 as an example, this study aims to compare the policies and measures implemented by different states during the COVID-19 pandemic and to synthesize experiences to strengthen global health governance for future infectious disease crises.

Methods

We used Arksey and O’Malley’s five-stage scoping review framework and PRISMA methodology was used for literature search and decision on relevant studies. English databases were searched using combinations of keywords and articles examining COVID-19 prevention and control policies in representative countries were included. A comparative analysis across these four states (United States, Sweden, India, and Nigeria) was then conducted to analyse the differences, rationale, and challenges of the approaches taken by these states.

Results

A total of 36 studies were included in the analysis. The management of the COVID-19 by states is divided into two main categories: domestic governance and international governance. Domestically, the United States and India have taken more measures, yet notable disparities in infection source control, transmission interruption, vulnerable population protection, collaborative governance, and so on were observed among all four states. Globally, the United States and Sweden were more proactive in international governance, and all four states have variations in their adherence to global regulations, information sharing, resource distribution, and cooperative engagement.

Conclusions

Significant disparities occurred during the response to early COVID-19 in four states, which may be due to differences in politics, economy, and culture. To prevent and mitigate the impact of infectious diseases, states should, in future, prioritize solidarity and cooperation, and improve governance domestically and internationally based on national contexts and global health principles.
Metarhizium fight club: Within-host competitive exclusion and resource partitioning
Authors: Sheng Huiyu , St. Leger Raymond J.
Published: November 2024

Both Metarhizium robertsii ARSEF 2575 (Mr2575) and Metarhizium anisopliae ARSEF 549 (Ma549) infect a range of insects whilst also interacting with plants; however, little is known about the traits that affect the competitive ability of different strains. We examined the interactions between Mr2575 and Ma549 in culture and during co-infection of plants (Arabidopsis thaliana) and insects. Mr2575 outcompetes Ma549 under nutrient-limiting conditions, including root exudates, giving it a priority advantage on Arabidopsis roots. However, during co-infection of Manduca sexta or Drosophila melanogaster, Ma549’s higher blastospore production enhanced its competitive ability within the host. In large M. sexta (fifth instar), blastospores facilitate dispersal, suppress host melanization and prevent Mr2575 from spreading from infection sites, reducing conidia production. However, colonization of smaller hosts such as first instar M. sexta and D. melanogaster did not provide Ma549 with a competitive advantage, as conidial production was dependent on retaining control of the cuticle through which conidiating hyphae emerge. Unexpectedly, Ma549 and Mr2575 segregate within hosts, suggesting resource partitioning with Mr2575 predominating in the thoraxes of Drosophila, especially in females, and Ma549 in the abdomen. In fifth instar M. sexta, Mr2575 was most prevalent around spiracles and the front end of segments, despite Ma549 and Mr2575 having similar susceptibility to hypoxia. Dispersing conidia homogeneously into the hemocoel of fifth instar M. sexta eliminated the blastospore production advantage, making Ma549 and Mr2575 equally competitive, with strict partitioning of Mr2575 at the anterior and Ma549 at the posterior ends of segments. As Metarhizium species have multiple roles in natural ecosystems and agroecosystems these discoveries are relevant to understanding their impact on maintaining biodiversity and for exploiting them to enhance food security.
Exploring Factors Affecting Academic Achievement of Multicultural Youth in Korea
Authors: Kim Won Gyoung , Choi Pilsun
Published: November 2024

The successful acculturation of families from diverse cultural backgrounds holds significant importance in enhancing diversity, inclusivity, and social integration in Korea. Multicultural families encounter numerous challenges with a substantial focus placed on assisting their children in achieving success in school. In response to this challenge, the Korean government has shifted its policy emphasis from initial immigrant adaptation support to prioritizing the academic and social achievements of these children. This study draws upon ten years of collected data from the Multicultural Adolescents Panel Survey to examine the evolving academic achievement of multicultural youth over time. We employ a multilevel growth model to analyze the factors that influence the academic achievement of multicultural youth. Given the continuous increase in the number of school-aged multicultural children and the growing significance of policies supporting the education of multicultural children, it is crucial to comprehend the factors affecting the academic achievement of multicultural youth, assess their current situation, and derive appropriate support measures. Our estimated results indicate that several factors, including motivation, life satisfaction, parental education, family support, parental supervision, and the presence of adult support outside of school, positively influence academic performance. On the other hand, economic factors and experiences of bullying do not have a significant impact.
Marginalized Clients’ Perceptions of Their Counselors’ Multicultural Orientation and Counseling Outcome: Working Alliance and Real Relationship
Authors: Kang Soojung , Kim Seoha
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to explore the effects of counselors’ multicultural orientation on counseling outcome via working alliance and real relationship based on the perceptions of marginalized clients. Participants who identified themselves as social minorities and had individual counseling experiences completed an online survey packet including counselors’ cultural humility and cultural opportunities, working alliance, real relationship, counseling outcome and their cultural identities. Data were collected from 107 participants and the findings are as follows: First, cultural humility and cultural opportunities affected counseling outcome. Second, working alliance and real relationship mediated the relationship between cultural humility and counseling outcome, and the relationship between cultural opportunities and counseling outcome, respectively. In short, counselors’ multicultural orientation toward minoritized clients has positive influences on counseling outcome by establishing working alliance and real relationship. This study implies that the framework of multicultural orientation could be beneficial to the counseling practice, counseling education and training in Korea.
Intercultural Communication Competence: An Analysis of Korean Language Textbooks for Migrant Background Students
Authors: Hwang Yunah , Choi Hyunjeong , Lee Jeeyoung , Jang Hyeon Jeong
Published: November 2024

This study aims to analyze whether the "Standard Korean Communication" textbooks (Volumes 1-4) for secondary school students with migration backgrounds adequately reflect educational values that respect and facilitate communication across diverse cultural backgrounds, in line with the principles of intercultural competence. To achieve this, the study evaluated the textbooks based on Byram's (2021) concept of intercultural communicative competence, focusing on the diversity of illustrations (external composition) and the appropriateness of the cultural content presented (internal composition). The results showed that while the diversity in terms of nationality and gender among the characters was well reflected, the illustrations did not sufficiently convey this diversity. In terms of internal composition, the cultural sections primarily focused on the initial stage of intercultural competence, which is 'knowledge,' and lacked elements necessary for developing 'skills' and 'attitudes.' Consequently, the study suggests that future textbook development should more clearly incorporate cultural diversity in both illustrations and educational content, and enhance the elements that foster 'skills' and 'attitudes' for deepening intercultural understanding.
Multi-annual variations in the heat load of Poland
Authors: Okoniewska Monika
Published: November 2024

This study analyses multi-annual variations in biothermal conditions recorded at three weather stations in Kołobrzeg, Poznań and Kraków from 1951 to 2020 at 12:00 UTC based on the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI). The analyses covered the median, lower and upper quartiles and average minimum and maximum UTCIs for respective months. In addition, the study determined the frequency of occurrence of various types of thermal stress in respective months. A significant rise in the annual and monthly trends was observed, while the highest increase was noted in winter and early spring (from January to May).
„Wir machen’s einfach!“ – Oder doch nicht? Ein Erfahrungsbericht zur Einführung der landeseinheitlichen E-Akte in Rheinland-Pfalz und ihren Folgen für Anbietung und Aussonderung
Authors: Dorfey Beate
Published: November 2024

Ein neues System zur Erstellung elektronischer Unterlagen einzuführen auf der Basis rein digitaler Workflows mit übergreifenden Standards in Schriftgutmanagement ist immer eine Herausforderung, besonders, wenn wir von der öffentlichen Verwaltung sprechen, die bislang stark auf Papierakten fokussiert war. Die Bereitschaft zu Veränderungen in den Arbeitsprozessen und Kommunikationswegen ist in der öffentlichen Verwaltung ohnehin nicht allzu ausgeprägt, die Bedeutung eines umfassenden und attraktiven Changemanagements kann daher nicht überschätzt werden. Ein Landesarchiv steht dabei vor einer doppelten Herausforderung: Nicht nur müssen wir selbst mit den neuen digitalen Prozessen und Unterlagen zurechtkommen, sondern wir müssen gleichzeitig die Rahmenbedingungen für einen standardisierten Aussonderungsprozess entwickeln. Dank eines professionellen Projektmanagements stellte sich die Einführung der E-Akte als die deutlich einfachere Aufgabe heraus, als die Entwicklung einer funktionierenden Aussonderungsschnittstelle, auf die wir bis heute warten.
The impact of drying and extraction methods on total lipid, fatty acid profile, and cytotoxicity of Tenebrio molitor larvae
Authors: Abutaha Nael , AL-Mekhlafi Fahd A.
Published: November 2024

The rising cultivation of edible insects at an industrial level highlights the importance of employing appropriate post-harvest methods for processing safe and fine-quality insect-based products. The study investigated the impact of different drying and extraction methods on the quality of Tenebrio molitor larvae powder. Two drying treatments, microwave and oven drying, were evaluated followed by total lipid extraction using various methods. Soxhlet extraction with an n-hexane–EtOH (3:1) mixture was effective, yielding 37.85% (microwave) and 38.85% (oven). The highest fatty acid (FA) content was 9-octadecenoic acid, methyl ester (E)-(C18:1). The Schlechtriem and Bligh and Dyer (BD) methods resulted in higher total lipid yields, with BD yielding 56.66% in oven-dried samples. FA profiles were consistent, with monounsaturated FAs predominant. Oven-dried samples had higher saturated FAs. Phenolic content was greater in oven-dried samples, with the n-hexane–EtOH extraction showing the highest total phenolic content (0.09 ± 0.02 mg GAE/100 mg). BD extract from oven-dried samples was the most cytotoxic, significantly reducing cell survival against A549 cells (IC50 = 458.6 µg/mL) and inducing apoptosis at 250 µg/mL. This study underscores the importance of post-harvest methods in producing high-quality insect-based products, revealing that oven drying and specific solvent extractions can enhance total lipid yield, phenolic content, and cytotoxic effects on cancer cells.
Therapeutic role of respiratory exercise in patients with tuberculous pleurisy
Authors: Ma ZengXia , Liu GuiMei , Qiao GaoFeng , Shen ChangMing , Wang Cheng
Published: November 2024

Objective

To observe the efficacy of respiratory exercise in patients with tuberculous pleurisy (TBP).

Methods

A randomized controlled study was conducted including 146 patients diagnosed with TBP and undergoing pleural effusion drainage in Shandong Public Health Clinical Center from June 2020 to December 2022, and the patients were randomly divided into the control group and the respiratory exercise observation group. Pleural effusion drainage time, the difference of pulmonary function, and the degree of pleural hypertrophy between the two groups at 1 and 3 months after treatment were studied.

Results

Compared with the control group, the pleural effusion drainage time of the observation group was shortened, and there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of lung function and the degree of pleural hypertrophy at 1 month after treatment, while the lung function indexes and the degree of pleural hypertrophy of the observation group were significantly improved compared with that of the control group at 3 months after treatment.

Conclusion

Respiratory exercise can shorten the drainage time of effusion in patients with TBP, and help to improve lung function and alleviate pleural hypertrophy adhesion.
Framing of Civil Society Organizations’ Communication on Facebook: Examining the Impact on Audience Engagement in Norway
Authors: Enjolras Bernard
Published: November 2024

Public support is crucial for mitigating and adapting to the effects of climate change. Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) play a significant role in normative governance aimed at influencing attitudes and mobilizing citizens to take action. Civil society organizations (CSOs) use digital media to this purpose. The framing of information presented by CSOs has been shown to shape how people perceive and respond to it. This paper aims to examine how cognitive or topical framing and moral foundational framing interact in predicting public engagement with CSOs’ communication about climate change on Facebook. To this end, several computational methods – including topic modeling, semantic network analysis, and automatic text processing based on a Moral Foundations dictionary – are combined, using data gathered on Facebook. The results of the empirical analysis reveal that CSOs use different topical frames and moral foundations in order to influence policymakers and mobilize citizens. CSOs elicit most engagement on Facebook when they combine a “Climate mobilization” topical frame with the moral foundations of care and fairness pertaining to the ethics of autonomy.
A Pilot Study of a Sibling-Based Online Intervention to Increase PrEP Uptake and Willingness Among Latino MSM
Authors: Zapata Juan Pablo , Rojas Edwin , Durán Petra , Martínez Angel J. , Zea María-Cecilia , Schrode Katrina , Khawcharoenporn Thana , Ayala George , del Pino Homero E.
Published: November 2024

This study explored the feasibility and acceptability of Entre Herman@s, a novel sibling-based intervention designed to engage siblings to increase PrEP utilization among Latino men who have sex with men (LMSM). Siblings were trained in rudimentary motivational interviewing skills to uncover, evoke, and strengthen their brother's motivation to use PrEP, using the constructs of the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills (IMB) model for health behavior change. This pilot demonstrated high feasibility, meeting recruitment, retention, and intervention completion targets. Of the 23 LMSM enrolled, 16 (70%) commenced PrEP, with 12 (75%) continuing at the 3-month follow-up. Initially, 15 participants (65%) were open to PrEP, with 9 (39%) ready to start within the next month. Those who began PrEP use reported a significantly higher degree of closeness to their siblings (p = .019) than those who did not. All LMSMs affirmed that their decision to use PrEP was influenced to some degree by their sibling.
Epidemiologic Features and Evidence of New Subtypes of Cryptosporidium parvum in Diarrheic Calves in Egypt
Authors: Hosein Hosein I. , Rouby Sherin R. , Aziz Sahar Abdel Aleem Abdel , Abo-Elwafa Mostafa , Menshawy Ahmed M. S. , Abdel-Ra’ouf Aml M. , Madkour Bahaa S. , Ghonaim Ahmed H.
Published: November 2024

Objectives:

The objectives of the current study were to determine the prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. infections in diarrheic calves reared in different localities in Egypt under different management systems, to clarify the role of the associated epidemiologic risk factors, and to identify the circulating Cryptosporidium spp. on molecular basis.

Methods:

A total of 222 diarrheic calves (180 cattle and 42 buffaloes) were used in this study. The presence of the protozoan was proven by microscopic screening of the oocysts using a modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining technique followed by two-step nested PCR for the gp60 gene.

Results:

Cryptosporidium oocysts were detected microscopically in 75 of 222 (33.78%) fecal samples, of which 71 (39.44 %) fecal samples were obtained from cattle calves and 4 (9.52 %) fecal samples were obtained from buffalo calves. The gp60 gene-based PCR was positive in 63 (84%) fecal samples, of which 59 (83.1%) fecal samples were obtained from cattle calves and 4 (100 %) fecal samples were obtained from buffalo calves. The sequences belonged to C. parvum subtype family IIa; an important zoonotic C. parvum. C. parvum isolates in this study belonged to an uncommon C. parvum subtype family, especially ACATCA preceding the trinucleotide repeat. Different risk epidemiologic factors were verified to influence the prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. infections in the current study.

Conclusions:

The high prevalence recorded in this study and the enzootic nature of cryptosporidiosis in calves have been evidenced in this study in different localities in Egypt associated with lack of hygienic measures as well as different epidemiologic variables. Further studies are needed to illustrate the effect of heterogenicity of the obtained sequences on the biology of the parasite with public health significance.
Multitasking Practice Eliminates Modality-Based Interference by Separating Task Representations in Sensory Brain Regions
Authors: Mueckstein Marie , Görgen Kai , Heinzel Stephan , Granacher Urs , Rapp Michael A. , Stelzel Christine
Published: November 2024

The debate on the neural basis of multitasking costs evolves around neural overlap between concurrently performed tasks. Recent evidence suggests that training-related reductions in representational overlap in fronto-parietal brain regions predict multitasking improvements. Cognitive theories assume that overlap of task representations may lead to unintended information exchange between tasks (i.e., crosstalk). Modality-based crosstalk was suggested as a source for multitasking costs in multisensory settings. Robust findings of increased costs for certain modality mappings may be explained by crosstalk between the stimulus modality in one task and sensory action consequences in the concurrently performed task. Whether modality-based crosstalk emerges from representational overlap in general fronto-parietal multitasking regions or modality-specific regions is not known yet. In this functional neuroimaging study, we investigate neural overlap during multitasking performance in humans, focusing on modality compatibility by employing multivariate pattern analysis and modality-specific practice interventions in three groups (total
N
 = 54, 24 females). We observed significant differences between modality compatible and modality incompatible single-task representations, specifically in the auditory cortex but not in fronto-parietal regions. Notably, improved auditory decoding accuracy related to modality incompatible tasks was predictive of performance gains in the corresponding dual task along with complete elimination of modality-specific dual-task costs. This predictive relationship was evident only in the group practicing modality incompatible mappings, suggesting that specific practice on task sets with modality overlap influenced both neural representations and subsequent multitasking performance. This study contributes to the integration of cognitive theory and neuroscience and the role of task representations in dual-task interference.
Nonresolving Neuroinflammation Regulates Axon Regeneration in Chronic Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Stewart Andrew N. , Bosse-Joseph Christopher C. , Kumari Reena , Bailey William M. , Park Kennedy A. , Slone Victoria K. , Gensel John C.
Published: November 2024

Chronic spinal cord injury (SCI) lesions retain increased densities of microglia and macrophages. In acute SCI, macrophages induce growth cone collapse and facilitate axon retraction away from lesion boundaries. Little is known about the role of sustained inflammation in chronic SCI or whether chronic inflammation affects regeneration. We used the colony-stimulating factor-1 receptor inhibitor, PLX-5622, to deplete microglia and macrophages months after complete crush SCI in female mice. Transcriptional analyses revealed a significant inflammatory depletion within chronic SCI lesions after PLX-5622 treatment. Both transcriptional analyses and immunohistochemistry revealed that Iba1
+
cells repopulate to predepleted densities after treatment removal. Neuronal-enriched transcripts were significantly elevated in mice after inflammatory repopulation, but no significant effects were observed with inflammatory depletion alone. Axon densities also significantly increased within the lesion after PLX-5622 treatment and after repopulation. To better examine the effect of chronic inflammation on axon regeneration, we tested PLX-5622 treatment in neuronal-specific phosphatase and tensin homolog protein (PTEN) knock-out (PTEN-KO) mice. PTEN-KO was delivered using spinal injections of retrogradely transported adeno-associated viruses (AAVrg's). PTEN-KO did not further increase axon densities within the lesion beyond the effects induced by PLX-5622. Axons that grew within the lesion were histologically identified as 5-HT
+
and CGRP
+
, both of which are not robustly transduced by AAVrg's. Our work identified that increased macrophage/microglial densities in the chronic SCI environment may be actively retained by homeostatic mechanisms likely affiliated with a sustained elevated expression of CSF1 and other chemokines. Finally, we identify a novel role of sustained inflammation as a prospective barrier to axon regeneration in chronic SCI.
Direct Piriform-to-Auditory Cortical Projections Shape Auditory–Olfactory Integration
Authors: Vogler Nathan W. , Chen Ruoyi , Virkler Alister , Tu Violet Y. , Gottfried Jay A. , Geffen Maria N.
Published: November 2024

In a real-world environment, the brain must integrate information from multiple sensory modalities, including the auditory and olfactory systems. However, little is known about the neuronal circuits governing how odors influence and modulate sound processing. Here, we investigated the mechanisms underlying auditory–olfactory integration using anatomical, electrophysiological, and optogenetic approaches, focusing on the auditory cortex as a key locus for cross-modal integration. First, retrograde and anterograde viral tracing strategies revealed a direct projection from the piriform cortex to the auditory cortex. Next, using in vivo electrophysiological recordings of neuronal activity in the auditory cortex of awake male or female mice, we found that odors modulate auditory cortical responses to sound. Finally, we used in vivo optogenetic manipulations during electrophysiology to demonstrate that olfactory modulation in the auditory cortex, specifically, odor-driven enhancement of sound responses, depends on direct input from the piriform cortex. Together, our results identify a novel role of piriform-to-auditory cortical circuitry in shaping olfactory modulation in the auditory cortex, shedding new light on the neuronal mechanisms underlying auditory–olfactory integration.
Repetitive Sensory Stimulation Potentiates and Recruits Sensory-Evoked Cortical Population Activity
Authors: Williams Leena Eve , Küffer Laura , Bawa Tanika , Husi Elodie , Pagès Stéphane , Holtmaat Anthony
Published: November 2024

Sensory experience and learning are thought to be associated with plasticity of neocortical circuits. Repetitive sensory stimulation can induce long-term potentiation (LTP) of cortical excitatory synapses in anesthetized mice; however, it is unclear if these phenomena are associated with sustained changes in activity during wakefulness. Here we used time-lapse, calcium imaging of layer (L) 2/3 neurons in the primary somatosensory cortex (S1), in awake male mice, to assess the effects of a bout of rhythmic whisker stimulation (RWS) at a frequency by which rodents sample objects. We found that RWS induced a 1 h increase in whisker-evoked L2/3 neuronal activity in most cells. This was not observed for whiskers functionally connected to distant cortical columns. We also found that RWS could heterogeneously recruit or suppress whisker-evoked activity in different populations of neurons. Vasoactive intestinal-peptide–expressing (VIP) interneurons, which promote plasticity through disinhibition of pyramidal neurons, were found to exclusively elevate activity during RWS. These findings indicate that cortical neurons’ representation of sensory input can be modulated over hours through repetitive sensory stimulation, which may be gated by activation of disinhibitory circuits.