bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feasibility insights into the application of Paenibacillus pabuli E1 in animal feed to eliminate non-starch polysaccharides
Authors: Li Gen , Yuan Yue , Jin Bowen , Zhang Zhiqiang , Murtaza Bilal , Zhao Hong , Li Xiaoyu , Wang Lili , Xu Yongping
Published: August 2023

The goal of the research was to find alternative protein sources for animal farming that are efficient and cost-effective. The researchers focused on distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS), a co-product of bioethanol production that is rich in protein but limited in its use as a feed ingredient due to its high non-starch polysaccharides (NSPs) content, particularly for monogastric animals. The analysis of the Paenibacillus pabuli E1 genome revealed the presence of 372 genes related to Carbohydrate-Active enzymes (CAZymes), with 98 of them associated with NSPs degrading enzymes that target cellulose, hemicellulose, and pectin. Additionally, although lignin is not an NSP, two lignin-degrading enzymes were also examined because the presence of lignin alongside NSPs can hinder the catalytic effect of enzymes on NSPs. To confirm the catalytic ability of the degrading enzymes, an in vitro enzyme activity assay was conducted. The results demonstrated that the endoglucanase activity reached 5.37 U/mL, while beta-glucosidase activity was 4.60 U/mL. The filter paper experiments did not detect any reducing sugars. The xylanase and beta-xylosidase activities were measured at 11.05 and 4.16 U/mL, respectively. Furthermore, the pectate lyase and pectin lyase activities were found to be 8.19 and 2.43 U/mL, respectively. The activities of laccase and MnP were determined as 1.87 and 4.30 U/mL, respectively. The researchers also investigated the effect of P. pabuli E1 on the degradation of NSPs through the solid-state fermentation of DDGS. After 240 h of fermentation, the results showed degradation rates of 11.86% for hemicellulose, 11.53% for cellulose, and 8.78% for lignin. Moreover, the crude protein (CP) content of DDGS increased from 26.59% to 30.59%. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that P. pabuli E1 possesses various potential NSPs degrading enzymes that can effectively eliminate NSPs in feed. This process improves the quality and availability of the feed, which is important for animal farming as it seeks alternative protein sources to replace traditional nutrients.
Temporal variability in the growth-enhancing effects of different bacteria within the microbiome of the diatom Actinocyclus sp.
Authors: Le Reun Nine , Bramucci Anna , Ajani Penelope , Khalil Abeeha , Raina Jean-Baptiste , Seymour Justin R.
Published: August 2023

Reciprocal metabolite exchanges between diatoms and bacteria can enhance the growth of both partners and therefore fundamentally influence aquatic ecosystem productivity. Here, we examined the growth-promoting capabilities of 15 different bacterial isolates from the bacterial community associated with the marine diatom Actinocyclus sp. and investigated the magnitude and timing of their effect on the growth of this diatom. In the presence of its microbiome, Actinocyclus sp. growth was significantly enhanced relative to axenic cultures. Co-culture with each of the 15 bacterial isolates examined here (seven Rhodobacteraceae, four Vibrionaceae, two Pseudoalteromonadaceae, one Oceanospirillaceae and one Alteromonadaceae) increased the growth of the diatom host, with four isolates inducing rates of growth that were similar to those delivered by the diatom’s full microbiome. However, the timing and duration of this effect differed between the different bacteria tested. Indeed, one Rhodobacteraceae and one Alteromonadaceae enhanced Actinocyclus sp. cell numbers between days 0–6 after co-incubation, five other Rhodobacteraceae promoted diatom cell numbers the most between days 8–12, whilst four Vibrionaceae, one Oceanospirillaceae and one Rhodobacteraceae enhanced Actinocyclus sp. cell abundance between days 14–16. These results are indicative of a succession of the growth-enhancing effects delivered by diverse bacteria throughout the Actinocyclus sp. life cycle, which will likely deliver sustained growth benefits to the diatom when its full microbiome is present.
Wearable teleoperation controller with 2-DoF robotic arm and haptic feedback for enhanced interaction in virtual reality
Authors: Zhang Zheyuan , Qian Chen
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Teleoperation is an essential component in fields such as medicine and manufacturing, enabling human operators to interact with remote robotic systems. A wearable device has been designed and manufactured to enhance sensitivity, wearability, and synchronization, providing users with the ability to experience the sensation of grasping virtual objects.

Methods

The device incorporates a 2-DoF robotic arm, haptic sensors for finger gestures, and a Unity-powered virtual scene system. Its effectiveness was evaluated through user experiments, where participants were asked to rank the weights of three virtual balls and identify the direction of force applied to a virtual ball in separate tests. Additionally, the device's ability to render various shapes was also examined.

Results

The experiments showed that 73.3% of participants accurately ranked the balls by mass, and an overall correctness rate of 87.3% was achieved for force direction identification. For shape rendering, the device yielded more accurate results for simple objects like spheres, whereas rendering more complex objects such as cups and cones was challenging.

Discussion

The findings indicate that this wearable device has potential applications in haptic feedback and virtual reality contexts. Despite the challenges with complex shape rendering, the device shows promising capability in enhancing the user's immersive experience in virtual environments.
Effect of clinical features on antiseizure medication doses in patients with newly diagnosed epilepsy
Authors: Hersi Hire , Peltola Jukka , Raitanen Jani , Saarinen Jukka T.
Published: August 2023

Objective

We evaluate the effect of distinct clinical features on anti-seizure medication (ASM) doses in seizure-free and not seizure-free patients aged ≥16 years with new-onset epilepsy.

Materials and methods

This study included 459 patients with a validated diagnosis of epilepsy. The most prescribed ASMs were oxcarbazepine (OXC; n = 307), followed by valproic acid (VPA; n = 115), carbamazepine (CBZ; n = 81), and lamotrigine (LTG; n = 67). The seizure freedom rate with their first or subsequent ASM was 88.0%. A retrospective analysis of patient records was performed to determine any association between doses of ASMs and patient characteristics.

Results

The median OXC dose in seizure-free patients aged >60 years was 600 mg compared to 900 mg in younger patients. When controlling for age but not in an unadjusted model, the median dose of OXC was lower (300 mg, p = 0.018) for seizure-free patients compared to non-seizure-free patients, and the median dose of OXC was also 300 mg lower among older patients aged >60 years (p < 0.001). The median OXC doses for men aged ≤60 years were 300 mg higher than for women aged >60 years (900 mg vs. 600 mg, p = 0.021). The median dose of VPA was 400 mg higher in men than in women (p < 0.001) and 400 mg higher in not seizure-free patients compared to seizure-free patients only when adjusting for sex (p < 0.001). Higher median doses for CBZ were registered with FAS compared with FBTCS (difference in median doses of 200 mg; p = 0.017).

Conclusion

Significant OXC dose differences were detected between age groups, whereas VPA dosing was different in men and women. Moreover, CBZ doses were dependent on some seizure types. These data allow for the individualization of the initial target dosing based on key clinical characteristics.
Assessing ‘no evidence of disease activity’ status in patients with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis: a long-term follow-up
Authors: Zilli Chiara , Scribani Rossi Pietro , Di Stadio Arianna , Fratino Mariangela , Giuliani Giada , Annecca Rosanna , Russo Gaetano , Di Piero Vittorio , Altieri Marta
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory demyelinating disease of the CNS with an autoimmune pathogenesis. Over the years, numerous disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) have proven effective in disease control; to date, there is a need to identify a personalized treatment effective in ensuring disease-free status or no evidence of disease activity (NEDA).

Objective

identify clinical, demographic and treatment approach characteristics that affect the maintenance of NEDA-3 and the occurrence of clinical relapses during a 6-years follow-up.

Materials and method

a retrospective study was conducted on a cohort of MS patients followed up with six-year period. All participants were treated with first- or second-line MS drugs.

Clinical relapse, NEDA-3 at 6 years and sustained EDSS were assessed as disease activity outcomes. Patients with follow-up of less than 6 years and insufficient clinical and radiological data were excluded from the study.

Results

Two-hundred-eighty naive patients (mean age was 49.8 years, SD ± 11.35 years, 23–76, F/M 182/98), with MS were followed up for 6 years.

The mean age at diagnosis was 34.3 years (SD ±11.5, 14–62 years), the mean EDSS score at the onset was 1.9 (±1.3), 76.8% of patients had an EDSS below or equal to 2.5 at diagnosis.

In the cohort 37 (13.2%) directly received second-line treatment, 243 (86.8%) received first-line drugs.

The analysis showed that second-line treatment from beginning had a protective effect for the achievement of NEDA-3 (p = 0.029), on the prevention of clinical relapse (p = 0.018) and on number of relapses (p = 0.010); this finding was confirmed by logistic regression analysis (p = 0.04) and Kaplan–Meier analysis (p = 0.034).

Conclusion

The results of this study demonstrate the efficacy of targeted and early intervention so as to act in the right time window, ensuring a favorable outcome in both clinical and radiological terms; this could be decisive in reducing clinical relapse, disease progression and related disability. Therefore, prescribing highly effective drug in the early stages of the disease represents a leading strategy with the most favorable cost–benefit ratio.
The efficacy and safety of first-line anti-seizure medications as substitution therapy for children with drug-resistant epilepsy: a randomized controlled trial protocol
Authors: Perdani Roro Rukmi Windi , Arozal Wawaimuli , Mangunatmadja Irawan , Kaswandani Nastiti , Handryastuti Setyo , Medise Bernie Endyarni , Hardi Harri , Thandavarayan Rajarajan Amirthalingam , Oswari Hanifah
Published: August 2023

Although many anti-seizure medications (ASMs) are available, treatment failure, known as drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE), still occurs in around 30% of children with epilepsy. Second-line ASMs are usually used as substitution therapy in DRE to control seizures, although international consensus is not available yet. Previous studies focus on comparing the ASMs, whether as add-on or substitution therapy, mainly conducted in newly diagnosed epilepsy. However, the study that investigated first-line ASMs as substitution therapy compared to second-line ones, particularly among DRE children, is still lacking. A randomized controlled trial (RCT) enrolling 102 participants, aged 1–18, at three referral hospitals in Indonesia will be conducted, dividing them into intervention and control groups. The intervention group will be treated with first-line ASMs as the substitution therapy, while the other in the control group will get second-line ASMs. The primary outcome measure is the proportion difference of responders between groups who get first-line and second-line ASMs in 14 weeks of intervention.

Clinical trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT05697614.
Efficient SNN multi-cores MAC array acceleration on SpiNNaker 2
Authors: Huang Jiaxin , Kelber Florian , Vogginger Bernhard , Liu Chen , Kreutz Felix , Gerhards Pascal , Scholz Daniel , Knobloch Klaus , Mayr Christian G.
Published: August 2023

The potential low-energy feature of the spiking neural network (SNN) engages the attention of the AI community. Only CPU-involved SNN processing inevitably results in an inherently long temporal span in the cases of large models and massive datasets. This study introduces the MAC array, a parallel architecture on each processing element (PE) of SpiNNaker 2, into the computational process of SNN inference. Based on the work of single-core optimization algorithms, we investigate the parallel acceleration algorithms for collaborating with multi-core MAC arrays. The proposed Echelon Reorder model information densification algorithm, along with the adapted multi-core two-stage splitting and authorization deployment strategies, achieves efficient spatio-temporal load balancing and optimization performance. We evaluate the performance by benchmarking a wide range of constructed SNN models to research on the influence degree of different factors. We also benchmark with two actual SNN models (the gesture recognition model of the real-world application and balanced random cortex-like network from neuroscience) on the neuromorphic multi-core hardware SpiNNaker 2. The echelon optimization algorithm with mixed processors realizes 74.28% and 85.78% memory footprint of the original MAC calculation on these two models, respectively. The execution time of echelon algorithms using only MAC or mixed processors accounts for ≤ 24.56% of the serial ARM baseline. Accelerating SNN inference with algorithms in this study is essentially the general sparse matrix-matrix multiplication (SpGEMM) problem. This article explicitly expands the application field of the SpGEMM issue to SNN, developing novel SpGEMM optimization algorithms fitting the SNN feature and MAC array.
Huntingtin-associated protein 1 ameliorates neurological function rehabilitation by facilitating neurite elongation through TrKA-MAPK pathway in mice spinal cord injury
Authors: Miao Li , Qing Sun Wan , Tao Lu
Published: August 2023

Aims

Huntingtin-associated protein 1 (HAP1) is a neuronal protein closely associated with microtubules and might facilitate neurological function rehabilitation. This study aimed to investigate the effects of HAP1 on SCI and the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

the spinal cord injury (SCI) mouse model was induced by Allen’s method. Then recombinant-HAP1 (r-HAP1) was administrated by intrathecal injection, and the BMS, Thermal nociceptive thresholds, tactile nociceptive thresholds, and neurofibrillary regeneration were identified to inspect the therapy outcome. Then NSCs were isolated from mice on embryonic day 14.5 and induced to differentiate into neurons. The efficiency of axon growth was calculated. Signaling pathway array was conducted to examine the signaling pathways in NSCs treated with r-HAP1. Antagonists and activators of TrkA were used to confirm the role of TrkA of HAP1 intervention both in vitro and in vivo.

Results

r-HAP1 ameliorates the neurological function rehabilitation after SCI, and benefits the regain of Tuj in injury spinal cord. Also significantly enhances neurite growth during neuronal differentiation of NSCs; Signaling pathway array and Western blot revealed that r-HAP1 significantly activates the phosphorylation of TrkA-MAPK/ERK in NSCs. TrkA selective inhibitor GW441756 blocks r-HAP1 on TrkA-MAPK/ERK signaling pathway and detracts from axonal growth after neuronal differentiation. TrkA selective activator gambogic amide can mimic the function of r-HAP1 by activating the foregoing pathway. ERK activator U-46619 reverses the blocking effect of GW441756 on r-HAP1.

Conclusion

HAP1 activates the TrkA-MAPK signaling pathway and is conducive to neurite elongation during NSC neuronal differentiation; by which to improve the prognosis of spinal cord injury in mice.
Comprehensive analysis of ferroptosis-related genes in immune infiltration and prognosis in multiple myeloma
Authors: Wang Quanqiang , Zhao Misheng , Zhang Tianyu , Zhang Bingxin , Zheng Ziwei , Lin Zhili , Zhou Shujuan , Zheng Dong , Chen Zixing , Zheng Sisi , Zhang Yu , Lin Xuanru , Dong Rujiao , Chen Jingjing , Qian Honglan , Hu Xudong , Zhuang Yan , Zhang Qianying , Jiang Songfu , Ma Yongyong
Published: August 2023

Background: One particular type of cellular death that is known as ferroptosis is caused by the excessive lipid peroxidation. It is a regulated form of cell death that can affect the response of the tumor cells. Currently, it is not known if the presence of this condition can affect the prognosis of patients with multiple myeloma (MM).

Methods: In this study, we studied the expression differences and prognostic value of ferroptosis-related genes (FRGs) in MM, and established a ferroptosis risk scoring model. In order to improve the prediction accuracy and clinical applicability, a nomogram was also established. Through gene enrichment analysis, pathways closely related to high-risk groups were identified. We then explored the differences in risk stratification in drug sensitivity and immune patterns, and evaluated their value in prognostic prediction and treatment response. Lastly, we gathered MM cell lines and samples from patients to confirm the expression of marker FRGs using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR).

Results: The ability to predict the survival of MM patients is a challenging issue. Through the use of a risk model derived from ferroptosis, we were able to develop a more accurate prediction of the disease’s prognosis. They were then validated by a statistical analysis, which showed that the model is an independent factor in the prognosis of MM. Patients of high ferroptosis risk scores had a much worse chance of survival than those in the low-risk groups. The calibration and power of the nomogram were also strong. We noted that the link between the ferroptosis risk score and the clinical treatment was suggested by the FRG’s significant correlation with the immune checkpoint genes and the medication sensitivity. We validated the predictive model using qRT-PCR.

Conclusion: We demonstrated the association between FRGs and MM, and developed a new risk model for prognosis in MM patients. Our study sheds light on the potential clinical relevance of ferroptosis in MM and highlights its potential as a therapeutic target for patients with this disease.
Design, synthesis and antitumour activity evaluation of novel dolutegravir derivatives
Authors: Hou Xi-Xi , Mao Long-Fei , Guo Yajie , Lou Chaoxuan , Wang Lan , Li Rui-Fang , Wang Huili , Li San-Qiang , Yang Jian-Xue
Published: August 2023

Based on the modification of the structure of dolutegravir, we introduced 1,2,3-triazole moieties with different substituted groups and obtained a lot of novel dolutegravir derivatives. The activity of A549 cells treated with the derivatives was examined, and most compounds showed good inhibitory effects. Among them, compounds 4b and 4g were the most effective, and inhibited the growth of A549 cells with IC50 values of 8.72 ± 0.11 μM and 12.97 ± 0.32 μM, respectively. In addition, compound 4g induced apoptosis and clonal suppression in A549 tumor cells. Compound 4g also activated the LC3 signaling pathway to induce autophagy in tumor cells, and activated the γ-H2AX signaling pathway to induce DNA damage in tumor cells.
Elucidating the primary mechanisms of high-intensity interval training for improved cardiac fitness in obesity
Authors: Bo Bing , Guo Aijing , Kaila Severa Jafeth , Hao Zhe , Zhang Huiqing , Wei Jianshe , Yao Yuan
Published: August 2023

Obesity is a global and rising multifactorial pandemic associated with the emergence of several comorbidities that are risk factors for malignant cardiac remodeling and disease. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has gained considerable attention due to its favorable outcomes of cardiometabolic health in individuals with overweight or obese. The primary aim of this review is to discuss the fundamental processes through which HIIT improves cardiac impairment in individuals with obesity to develop viable treatments for obesity management. In this review, a multiple database search and collection were conducted from the earliest record to January 2013 for studies included the qualitative component of HIIT intervention in humans and animals with overweight/obesity related to cardiac remodeling and fitness. We attempt to integrate the main mechanisms of HIIT in cardiac remolding improvement in obesity into an overall sequential hypothesis. This work focus on the ameliorative effects of HIIT on obesity-induced cardiac remodeling with respect to potential and pleiotropic mechanisms, including adipose distribution, energy metabolism, inflammatory response, insulin resistance, and related risk profiles in obesity. In conclusion, HIIT has been shown to reduce obesity-induced risks of cardiac remodeling, but the long-term effects of HIIT on obesity-induced cardiac injury and disease are presently unknown. Collective understanding highlights numerous specific research that are needed before the safety and effectiveness of HIIT can be confirmed and widely adopted in patient with obesity.
Hemodynamic responses to handgrip and metaboreflex activation are exaggerated in individuals with metabolic syndrome independent of resting blood pressure, waist circumference, and fasting blood glucose
Authors: Stavres Jon , Aultman Ryan A. , Brandner Caleb F. , Newsome Ta’Quoris A. , Vallecillo-Bustos Anabelle , Wise Havens L. , Henderson Alex , Stanfield Diavion , Mannozzi Joseph , Graybeal Austin J.
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Prior studies report conflicting evidence regarding exercise pressor and metaboreflex responses in individuals with metabolic syndrome (MetS).

Purpose: To test the hypotheses that 1) exercise pressor and metaboreflex responses are exaggerated in MetS and 2) these differences may be explained by elevated resting blood pressure.

Methods: Blood pressure and heart rate (HR) were evaluated in 26 participants (13 MetS) during 2 min of handgrip exercise followed by 3 min of post-exercise circulatory occlusion (PECO). Systolic (SBP), diastolic (DBP), and mean arterial pressure (MAP), along with HR and a cumulative blood pressure index (BPI), were compared between groups using independent samples t-tests, and analyses of covariance were used to adjust for differences in resting blood pressure, fasting blood glucose (FBG), and waist circumference (WC).

Results: ΔSBP (∼78% and ∼54%), ΔMAP (∼67% and ∼55%), and BPI (∼16% and ∼20%) responses were significantly exaggerated in individuals with MetS during handgrip and PECO, respectively (all p ≤ 0.04). ΔDBP, ΔMAP, and BPI responses during handgrip remained significantly different between groups after independently covarying for resting blood pressure (p < 0.01), and after simultaneously covarying for resting blood pressure, FBG, and WC (p ≤ 0.03). Likewise, peak SBP, DBP, MAP, and BPI responses during PECO remained significantly different between groups after adjusting for resting blood pressure (p ≤ 0.03), with peak SBP, MAP, and BPI response remaining different between groups after adjusting for all three covariates simultaneously (p ≤ 0.04).

Conclusion: These data suggest that exercise pressor and metaboreflex responses are significantly exaggerated in MetS independent of differences in resting blood pressure, FBG, or WC.
Predicting the dyadic coping through self-esteem among infertile couples undergoing in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer: An actor-partner interdependence model
Authors: Zhang Lihong , Gu Wei , Jing Xiaoyu , Zhi Shihan , Zhou Nan , Zhang Lu , Wang Wenru , Jiang Ying
Published: August 2023

Background

The population of infertile couples receiving in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer in China is increasing gradually. The association of self-esteem and dyadic coping of infertile couples undergoing in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer has not been reported. This investigation aimed to examine the predictive effect of self-esteem of infertile couples undergoing in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer on coping strategies at the dyadic level.

Methods

A cross-sectional study involving 283 infertile couples was conducted at the Reproductive Center of Northwest Women and Children’s Hospital in China. Participants were asked to complete two self-administered questionnaires, to assess self-esteem (Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale) and dyadic coping (Dyadic Coping Inventory). Paired t-test and Pearson correlation were used to analyze the difference and correlation of variables between wife and husband. The actor-partner interdependence model was used to test the predictive effect of each individual’s self-esteem on their own and their partners’ dyadic coping.

Results

Infertile couples’ self-esteem and dyadic coping are in the medium range. The self-esteem of wives and husbands can fully predict their own dyadic coping. Meanwhile, the husband’s self-esteem can predict the wife’s stress communication (β = 0.135, p = 0.025), support dyadic coping (β = 0.142, p = 0.019), and negative dyadic coping (β = 0.133, p = 0.024), and the wife’s perceived partners’ supportive dyadic coping (β = 0.147, p = 0.014) and negative dyadic coping (β = 0.144, p = 0.016). Similarly, the wife’s self-esteem can predict the husband’s supportive dyadic coping (β = 0.195, p < 0.001), and the husband’s perceived partners’ stress communication (β = 0.184, p = 0.003) and supportive dyadic coping (β = 0.180, p = 0.002).

Conclusion

The actor-partner analyses revealed insight into how infertile couples undergoing in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer interact and highlighted the importance of self-esteem in dyadic coping styles. Future psychological interventions can enhance self-esteem as an effective way to improve dyadic coping of infertile couples.
Parenting stress and Chinese preschoolers’ approaches to learning: a moderated mediation model of authoritative parenting and household residency
Authors: Zhao Jinghui , Fan Yizhen , Liu Ziqin , Lin Chaopai , Zhang Limin
Published: August 2023

According to the family stress model, this study examined the relationship between parenting stress and preschoolers’ approaches to learning (ATL) in China, as well as the mediating effect of authoritative parenting and the moderating effect of household residency (migrant and native). A survey of 5,047 preschoolers’ parents (2,186 natives and 2,861 migrants) supports the proposed moderated mediation model. The results showed that after controlling for gender and age, parenting stress affected preschoolers’ development of ATL negatively. Authoritative parenting mediates the relationship between parenting stress and preschoolers’ ATL. Further, household residency moderated the relationship between authoritative parenting and preschoolers’ ATL. The findings of this study suggest that high levels of parenting stress are detrimental to the development of preschoolers’ ATL. And parents with low parenting stress are more likely to adopt authoritative parenting, which in turn fosters preschoolers’ ATL. In addition, native families’ authoritative parenting style are more conducive to fostering preschoolers’ ATL than migrant families. Finally, this study contributes to previous research by examining the mechanisms of parenting stress on preschoolers’ ATL and provides support for the extension of the family stress model. Importantly, it also informs efforts to improve ATL among preschoolers in Chinese migrant and native families.
Sexual dysfunction prevalence, risk factors, and help-seeking behavior in opioid agonist treatment and general psychiatry: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Meyer Maximilian , Westenberg Jean N. , Brunner Patrick , Gürtler Martin , Wiesbeck Gerhard A. , Lang Undine E. , Vogel Marc , Dürsteler Kenneth M.
Published: August 2023

Background

Mental disorders pose a high risk for the occurrence of sexual dysfunctions (SD). This study aimed to investigate prevalence of risk factors and help-seeking behavior for sexual dysfunctions in patients with opioid use disorder compared to patients seeking psychotherapeutic help.

Methods

Ninety-seven patients at two opioid agonist treatment (OAT) centers and 65 psychotherapeutic patients from a psychiatric practice (PP) in Switzerland were included in the study. Self-report assessments comprised sexual functioning (IIEF: International Index of Erectile Function; FSFI: Female Sexual Function Index), depressive state, psychological distress, alcohol consumption, nicotine use, and a self-designed questionnaire on help-seeking behavior. We used chi-squared and Mann–Whitney U tests for group comparisons and binary logistic regression models to identify variables predicting the occurrence of sexual dysfunctions.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference (p = 0.140) in the prevalence of SD between OAT (n = 64, 66.0%) and PP sample (n = 35, 53.8%). OAT patients scored significantly higher in scales assessing nicotine use (p < 0.001) and depressive state (p = 0.005). Male OAT patients scored significantly worse on the Erectile Function scale (p = 0.005) and female PP patients scored significantly worse on the FSFI Pain domain (p = 0.022). Opioid use disorder, higher age, and being female predicted the occurrence of SD in the total sample. In the OAT sample, only higher age remained predictive for the occurrence of SD. A lack of help-seeking behavior was observed in both groups, with only 31% of OAT patients and 35% of PP patients ever having talked about their sexual health with their treating physician.

Conclusion

SD are common among psychiatric patients receiving OAT and general psychiatric patients seeking psychotherapy. Professionals providing mental healthcare to patients must emphasize prevention and routine assessments of sexual functioning needs.
Perception, willingness, and practices of telemedicine in patients with chronic diseases: implication of digital health in patients' perspective at a tertiary care hospital in Ethiopia
Authors: Belachew Eyayaw Ashete , Getachew Demis , Netere Adeladlew Kassie , Gizachew Eshetie , Sendekie Ashenafi Kibret
Published: August 2023

Background

Technology-based healthcare services have important implications for the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, as well as providing access to high-quality care that both the patient and the healthcare practitioner can benefit from. To access medical information, patients have also searched for methods of technology-based healthcare services like telemedicine (TM). However, little is known regarding the perceptions, willingness, and practices of TM among Ethiopian patients, especially in the study setting.

Objective

This study assessed the perceptions, willingness, and practice of TM among patients with chronic disease at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (UoGCSH), Northwest Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from June 1 to July 30, 2022, among patients with chronic diseases who were on follow-up at the UoGCSH. Eligible participants were included in the study using a systematic random sampling technique. A structured questionnaire was used and recorded in the Kobo data collection tool. The collected data were managed and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 26.

Results

Out of 422 patients approached, 384 (91% response rate) were included in the final analysis. The mean (±SD) age of the participants was 48.07 ± 16.17 years. The overall perceptions mean (±SD) score of the respondents was 3.92 ± 1.06. Generally, near to three-fourths (71.1%) of the participants had a positive perception of TM services, and around two-thirds (63.3%) had a willingness to be involved in the TM service. However, only around one-fourth (24.5%) of the participants were perceived to have a high level of TM practice currently.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that although the level of perception and willingness of TM services among patients with chronic diseases was positive, their level of practice was low. Therefore, creating awareness and suitable conditions to improve their utilization of TM could be important.
Exposure to insulating materials and risk of coronary artery diseases: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Moitra Subhabrata , Tabrizi Ali Farshchi , Khadour Fadi , Henderson Linda , Melenka Lyle , Lacy Paige
Published: August 2023

Background

Although previous reports link exposure to insulating materials with an increased risk of mesothelioma and chronic respiratory diseases, studies evaluating their associations with the risk of coronary artery diseases (CAD) are lacking.

Aims

We aimed at evaluating the associations between exposure to insulating materials and the 10-year risk of CAD among insulators.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, we recruited 643 adults (≥18 years), full-time insulators from the Local 110 Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers Union in Edmonton, Alberta. We obtained demographic information, personal and family history, and job-exposure history, including experience (years) and types of exposure to insulating materials. Clinical profiling including Framingham risk scores (FRS) was assessed.

Results

Of all insulators, 89% were men (mean ± SD age: 47 ± 12 years), 27% had a parental history of cardiac diseases, and 22% had a comorbid chronic respiratory disease. In total, 53% reported exposure to asbestos, while 61, 82, and 94% reported exposure to ceramic fibers, fiberglass, and mineral fibers, respectively. In single-exposure multivariable regression models adjusted for experience, marital status, and body mass index (BMI), asbestos was found to be associated with higher FRS (β: 1.004; 95%CI: 0.003–2.00). The association remained consistent in multi-exposure models and a higher association was found between asbestos exposure and FRS among insulators with comorbid chronic respiratory disease.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that apart from cancer and chronic respiratory diseases, asbestos exposure may also have a cardiac effect, thus warranting the need for systematic surveillance to protect workers from the adverse effects of these materials.
Examining polarizing and non-polarizing filters for road sports
Authors: Mercatelli Luca
Published: August 2023

The use of sunglasses and polarized sunglasses is common in all aspects of life and is very popular in outdoor athletic activities. However, the choice of athletes regarding their sunglasses is often not dictated by the performance ensured by one model rather than another but by other factors such as look or wearability due also to the lack of technical data on cataloguess. A conscious choice of filters to use, also according to road and weather conditions, supported by quantitative data, would instead allow athletes to improve their visual comfort and sport experience. The transmission spectra of 10 pairs of sports sunglasses (five polarized and five not polarized) were measured and related to the road luminance for different sun positions in both horizontal and vertical polarizations. The luminous transmission factor was calculated, and the luminance quantities while wearing the glasses were defined and calculated for all cases. A survey was submitted to a group of athletes to collect their impressions and relate them to the measurement results. The pairs of polarized and non-polarized sports sunglasses showed similar transmission factors, so their ability to mitigate outdoor light is almost the same—the main difference lies in the polarized light transmitted. Outdoor measurements showed that the light reflected by the road has a substantial polarized horizontal component. Polarized sunglasses block much of the light reflected by the road, resulting in a darker appearance of the road and reducing the glare of the scene in bright sunlight. The decrease in road luminance increases the contrast discrimination of other objects in the scene, which reflect sunlight in a non-polarized way (e.g., non-flat surfaces). The survey demonstrates that interviewed athletes prefer polarized sunglasses for these aformentioned reasons. This study highlights the advantages of polarizing sunglasses for athletic activities on roads because the road surface often reflects polarized light depending on the position of the sun.
Supraspinous ligament arc tangent guided freehand thoracic pedicle screw insertion technique: high parallelism between screws and upper endplate
Authors: Peng Fushuai , Gao Meng , Li Qiang , Jiang Zhensong , Chen Fei , Sun Mingtong , Lai Yudong , Wang Haoyu , Wang Xingpeng , Li Tao , Zhang Wen
Published: August 2023

Research objective

To propose a technique for placing pedicle screws in the thoracic spine using the Supraspinous ligament Arc Tangent (SLAT) as a guide to increase the safety and stability of screw placement.

Content and methods

A retrospective analysis of postoperative anteroposterior and lateral x-ray images was performed for 118 patients with thoracic spine diseases who received conventional freehand technique from January 2016 to May 2020 and SLAT-guided technique since June 2020 to present. The diagnoses included thoracic spinal stenosis, deformity, fractures, infections, and tumors. The angle between the screw and the upper endplate was categorized as grade 1 (0°–5°), grade 2 (5°–10°), and grade 3 (>10°). Three surgeons with more than 10 years of experience in spinal surgery measured the angle between the screw and the upper endplate in the lateral view. Chi-square test was used for statistical analysis, and p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

A total of 1315 pedicle screws were placed from T1 to T12 in all patients. In the conventional freehand technique group, 549 screws were grade 1, 35 screws were grade 2, and 23 screws were grade 3. In the SLAT-guided freehand technique group, 685 screws were grade 1, 15 screws were grade 2, and 8 screws were grade 3. The data of each group was p < 0.05 by Chi-squared test, which was statistically significant, indicating that the SLAT-guided freehand technique resulted in a higher rate of parallelism between the screws and the upper endplate. All patients underwent intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring, immediate postoperative neurological examination, postoperative x-ray examination, and assess the eventual recovery. The screws were safe and stable, and no complications related to pedicle screw placement were found.

Conclusion

The SLAT-guided freehand technique for placing pedicle screws in the thoracic spine can achieve a higher rate of screw-upper endplate parallelism, making screw placement safer and more accurate. Our method provides a convenient and reliable technique for most spinal surgeons, allowing for increased accuracy and safety with less fluoroscopic guidance.
Short Physical Performance Battery and Study of Osteoporotic Fractures Index in the Exploration of Frailty Among Older People in Cameroon
Authors: Metanmo Salvatore , Simo-Tabue Nadine , Kuate-Tegueu Callixte , Bonnet Michel , Gbessemehlan Antoine , Metanmo Fabiola , Dramé Moustapha , Tabue-Teguo Maturin
Published: August 2023

Objectives: To investigate the relationship between the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and the Study of Osteoporotic Fractures (SOF) index.

Methods: We present data from a cross-sectional survey conducted in Cameroon. Frailty was defined as an SOF index > 0. The sensitivity and specificity of the SPPB were investigated. Principal component analysis (PCA) was performed to assess the contribution of each subtest of the SPPB to the relationship with the SOF.

Results: Among 403 people included (49.6% women), average age of 67.1 (±6.2) years, 35.7% were frail according to the SOF. After determining the best SPPB threshold for diagnosing frailty (threshold = 9, Se = 88.9%, Sp = 74.9%), 47.9% were frail according to the SPPB. The first dimension of PCA explained 55.8% of the variability in the data. Among the subtests of the SPPB, the chair stand test item was the component most associated with the SOF index.

Conclusion: Despite the overlap between the SOF and the SPPB, our results suggest that a negative result on the five chair-stands test alone would be sufficient to suspect physical frailty.
Technology Acceptance among Farmers: Examples of Agricultural Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Parmaksiz Osman , Cinar Gokhan
Published: August 2023

Agricultural drones (AUAVs) contribute greatly to sustainable agriculture by reducing input use. The literature on this topic is scarce, so there is little information on the adoption of agricultural drones by farmers. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the factors affecting farmers’ intention to adopt drones for agricultural tasks. Within the scope of this study, face-to-face surveys with 384 farmers were conducted. The obtained data were analyzed using different statistical, econometric, and decision techniques, including the conditional valuation method, lower payment bound estimation, probit model regression, fuzzy pairwise comparison, and the Vise Kriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje-multi-criteria optimization and compromise (VIKOR) technique. The results showed that government support had a positive impact on AUAV purchasing decisions. Farmers’ primary borrowing channel preference was interest-free loans. The willingness to rent AUAV technology was higher than the willingness to purchase it, with farmers agreeing to pay TRY 287.54 for one hectare. They preferred cooperatives for the provision of rental services. In general, young farmers who were interested in technology and who had a high agricultural income made up the profile of AUAV adoption. The information obtained from this research not only provides new insights for decision-makers regarding the adoption of AUAV technology but also contributes to the preparation of the promotion process for potential market actors.
Efficacy of Dietary Supplementation with Zinc-Chromium Mixture, Organic Selenium, or Their Combinations on Growth Performance, Carcass Traits, and Blood Profiles of Broilers under Heat Stress Conditions
Authors: Mohamed Abdelhameed S. A. , Abd El Latif Maha A. , Hussein Eman A. M. , Toson Enas M. A. , Saleh Mohamed , Kokoszynski Dariusz , Elnesr Shaaban S. , Mohany Mohamed , Al-Rejaie Salim S. , Elwan Hamada
Published: August 2023

To determine the effects of organic selenium (0.0–0.6 mg and 0.9 mg Se/Kg diet) and Zn-Cr mixture (100 mg Zn/Kg diet plus 1.5 mg Cr/Kg diet) on broiler chicken performance, carcass traits, blood hematology, and biochemistry under heat stress conditions, this study was conducted. Under temperatures between 30.21 to 31.82 °C, 240 broiler chickens (Ross-308), which were 7-day-old, were randomly assigned to one of six treatments: T1 (control), T2 (100 mg Zn per kg of diet and 1.5 mg Cr per kg of diet), T3 (0.6 mg Se per kg of diet), T4 (0.9 mg Se per kg of diet), T5 (100 mg Zn, 1.5 mg Cr and (LSe), and T6 (100 mg Zn, 1.5 mg Cr and (HSe)). At 35 days old, the chicks fed a diet containing Zn-Cr with low or high organic selenium (organic-Se) outweighed the control group in terms of live body weight, weight gain, and feed conversion ratio (p < 0.05). In comparison to the control treatment, birds fed diets supplemented with Zn-Cr or organic-Se (LSe, HSe) significantly increased their serum levels of total protein and total antioxidant capacity. However, these additives resulted in a decrease (p < 0.01) in their serum levels of triglycerides, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, creatinine, and uric acid. Together, it was found that trace elements (Zn-Cr and organic-Se) may greatly lessen the impacts of heat stress on broilers by promoting growth performance and boosting metabolic processes.
The Development of a Standardized Protocol for Quantifying Equestrian Eventing Cross-Country Ground
Authors: Graydon Robert , Northrop Alison J. , Martin Jaime H. , Lucey Mark , Schramel Johannes Peter , Peham Christian , Roepstorff Lars , Sinclair Jonathan , Hobbs Sarah Jane
Published: August 2023

The ground has long been cited as a key contributing factor for injury risk in the cross-country phase of eventing. The current study aimed to develop a practically useful standardized protocol for measuring eventing cross country ground. Data collection was split into three phases: Phase 1 (Validation), Phase 2 (Expansion of data set), and Phase 3 (Threshold establishment). During Phase 1, data from nine event courses were collected using an Orono Biomechanical Surface Tester (OBST), Vienna Surface Tester (VST), Lang Penetrometer, Going Stick, and moisture meter. Using linear regression, 80% of the variability in cushioning measured with the OBST was predicted from moisture and VST measurements (p < 0.001). In Phase 2, objective data from 81 event courses and subjective assessments from 180 event riders were collected. In Phase 3, k-means cluster analysis was used to classify the courses into ten clusters based on average course measurements of moisture, cushioning, firmness, stiffness, depth, and coefficient of restitution. Based on cluster membership, course average subjective data (16 courses) were compared using a General Linear Model. Significant differences (p < 0.05) in subjective impact firmness (p = 0.038) and subjective cushioning (p = 0.010) were found between clusters. These data and cluster thresholds provide an event course baseline for future comparisons.
Beyond Prostate Cancer: An Androgen Receptor Splice Variant Expression in Multiple Malignancies, Non-Cancer Pathologies, and Development
Authors: Katleba Kimberley D. , Ghosh Paramita M. , Mudryj Maria
Published: August 2023

Multiple studies have demonstrated the importance of androgen receptor (AR) splice variants (SVs) in the progression of prostate cancer to the castration-resistant phenotype and their utility as a diagnostic. However, studies on AR expression in non-prostatic malignancies uncovered that AR-SVs are expressed in glioblastoma, breast, salivary, bladder, kidney, and liver cancers, where they have diverse roles in tumorigenesis. AR-SVs also have roles in non-cancer pathologies. In granulosa cells from women with polycystic ovarian syndrome, unique AR-SVs lead to an increase in androgen production. In patients with nonobstructive azoospermia, testicular Sertoli cells exhibit differential expression of AR-SVs, which is associated with impaired spermatogenesis. Moreover, AR-SVs have been identified in normal cells, including blood mononuclear cells, neuronal lipid rafts, and the placenta. The detection and characterization of AR-SVs in mammalian and non-mammalian species argue that AR-SV expression is evolutionarily conserved and that AR-SV-dependent signaling is a fundamental regulatory feature in multiple cellular contexts. These discoveries argue that alternative splicing of the AR transcript is a commonly used mechanism that leads to an expansion in the repertoire of signaling molecules needed in certain tissues. Various malignancies appropriate this mechanism of alternative AR splicing to acquire a proliferative and survival advantage.