bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adolescent alcohol and nicotine exposure alters the adult response to alcohol use
Authors: Hauser Sheketha R. , Waeiss Robert A. , Deehan Gerald A. , Engleman Eric A. , Bell Richard L. , Rodd Zachary A.
Published: November 2023

Adolescence through young adulthood is a unique period of neuronal development and maturation. Numerous agents can alter this process, resulting in long-term neurological and biological consequences. In the clinical literature, it is frequently reported that adolescent alcohol consumption increases the propensity to develop addictions, including alcohol use disorder (AUD), during adulthood. A general limitation of both clinical and human pre-clinical adolescent alcohol research is the high rate of co-using/abusing more than one drug during adolescence, such as co-using/abusing alcohol with nicotine. A primary goal of basic research is elucidating neuroadaptations produced by adolescent alcohol exposure/consumption that promote alcohol and other drug self-administration in adulthood. The long-term goal is to develop pharmacotherapeutics for the prevention or amelioration of these neuroadaptations. This review will focus on studies that have examined the effects of adolescent alcohol and nicotine exposure on adult alcohol consumption, the hypersensitivity of the mesolimbic dopaminergic system, and enhanced responses not only to alcohol but also to nicotine during adulthood. Again, the long-term goal is to identify potential cholinergic agents to prevent or ameliorate the consequences of, peri-adolescent alcohol abuse.
Relationships among breast, gut, and oral microbiota across diverse pathological types of breast cancer, a Chinese cohort study
Authors: Feng Kexin , Ren Fei , Wang Xiang
Published: November 2023

Background: Recent research has unveiled the association between microbiota and the onset and progression of breast cancer (BC). This study investigates the microbiota in breast tissue, the gut, and the oral cavity in relation to different pathological types of breast diseases, aiming to unveil the microbiota-BC relationship and provide new perspectives for BC diagnosis and treatment.

Methods: The study encompassed a total of 98 breast cancer patients, with 52 diagnosed with Luminal A BC, 17 with Luminal B BC, 18 with HER2 BC, and 11 with TNBC. In addition, there were 46 patients with non-malignant breast diseases. The V3-V5 region of the 16S rRNA gene of breast tissue, feces, and the oral cavity was sequenced. Based on Amplicon Sequence Variants (ASV) representative sequences and abundance information, a series of statistical analyses were conducted including community diversity analysis, community composition analysis, species difference analysis, correlation analysis, and functional prediction analysis.

Results: Notable divergences in α-diversity and β-diversity were discerned in breast tissue between BC patients and non-malignant breast disease patients. The linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) and random forest examinations pinpoint Pasteurellaceae as a significant predictor in BC cohorts. Further exploration revealed significant microbial distribution divergences across distinct pathological types of BC, with notable variations in the relative abundance of microbial species such as Streptococcus, Serratia, and Pseudomonas, underscoring the diverse microbial diversity across BC subtypes and sample origins.

Conclusion: This venture sheds light on the complex microbiota milieu across varying body sites and pathological types of BC, emphasizing microbiota-BC connectivity. This articulation of a multisite microbiota-BC interrelation significantly advances a holistic grasp of BC pathogenesis.
Early emotional caregiving environment and associations with memory performance and hippocampal volume in adolescents with prenatal drug exposure
Authors: Kohn Brooke H. , Cui Zehua , Candelaria Margo A. , Buckingham-Howes Stacy , Black Maureen M. , Riggins Tracy
Published: November 2023

Early adversities, including prenatal drug exposure (PDE) and a negative postnatal emotional caregiving environment, impact children’s long-term development. The protracted developmental course of memory and its underlying neural systems offer a valuable framework for understanding the longitudinal associations of pre- and postnatal factors on children with PDE. This study longitudinally examines memory and hippocampal development in 69 parent–child dyads to investigate how the early caregiving emotional environment affects children with PDE’s neural and cognitive systems. Measures of physical health, drug exposure, caregiver stress, depression, and distress were collected between 0 and 24 months At age 14 years, adolescents completed multiple measures of episodic memory, and at ages 14 and 18 years, adolescents underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. Latent constructs of episodic memory and the caregiving environment were created using Confirmatory Factor Analysis. Multiple regressions revealed a negative emotional caregiving environment during infancy was associated with poor memory performance and smaller left hippocampal volumes at 14 years. Better memory performance at 14 years predicted larger right hippocampal volume at 18 years. At 18 years, the association between the emotional caregiving environment and hippocampal volume was moderated by sex, such that a negative emotional caregiving environment was associated with larger left hippocampal volumes in males but not females. Findings suggest that the postnatal caregiving environment may modulate the effects of PDE across development, influencing neurocognitive development.
Branched chain amino acids metabolism in heart failure
Authors: Gao Chenshan , Hou Lei
Published: November 2023

As a terminal stage of various cardiovascular diseases, heart failure is of great concern due to its high mortality rate and limited treatment options. Researchers are currently focusing their efforts on investigating the metabolism of carbohydrates, fatty acids, and amino acids to enhance the prognosis of cardiovascular diseases. Simultaneously, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), including leucine, isoleucine, and valine, play significant roles in blood glucose regulation, protein synthesis, and insulin sensitivity. However, disrupted BCAAs metabolism has been associated with conditions such as hypertension, obesity, and atherosclerosis. This article explores intricate metabolic pathways, unveiling the connection between disrupted BCAAs metabolism and the progression of heart failure. Furthermore, the article discusses therapeutic strategies, assesses the impact of BCAAs on cardiac dysfunction, and examines the potential of modulating BCAAs metabolism as a treatment for heart failure. BCAAs and their metabolites are also considered as biomarkers for evaluating cardiac metabolic risk. In conclusion, this article elucidates the multifaceted roles of BCAAs in heart failure and cardiovascular health, providing guidance for future research and intervention measures.
Evaluation of molecular receptors status in breast cancer using an mpMRI-based feature fusion radiomics model: mimicking radiologists’ diagnosis
Authors: Lai Shengsheng , Liang Fangrong , Zhang Wanli , Zhao Yue , Li Jiamin , Zhao Yandong , Xu Yongzhou , Ding Wenshuang , Zhan Jie , Zhen Xin , Yang Ruimeng
Published: November 2023

Objective

To investigate the performance of a novel feature fusion radiomics (RFF) model that incorporates features from multiparametric MRIs (mpMRI) in distinguishing different statuses of molecular receptors in breast cancer (BC) preoperatively.

Methods

460 patients with 466 pathology-confirmed BCs who underwent breast mpMRI at 1.5T in our center were retrospectively included hormone receptor (HR) positive (HR+) (n=336) and HR negative (HR-) (n=130). The HR- patients were further categorized into human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2) enriched BC (HEBC) (n=76) and triple negative BC (TNBC) (n=54). All lesions were divided into a training/validation cohort (n=337) and a test cohort (n=129). Volumes of interest (VOIs) delineation, followed by radiomics feature extraction, was performed on T2WI, DWI600 (b=600 s/mm2), DWI800 (b=800 s/mm2), ADC map, and DCE1-6 (six continuous DCE-MRI) images of each lesion. Simulating a radiologist’s work pattern, 150 classification base models were constructed and analyzed to determine the top four optimum sequences for classifying HR+ vs. HR-, TNBC vs. HEBC, TNBC vs. non-TNBC in a random selected training cohort (n=337). Building upon these findings, the optimal single sequence models (Rss) and combined sequences models (RFF) were developed. The AUC, sensitivity, accuracy and specificity of each model for subtype differentiation were evaluated. The paired samples Wilcoxon signed rank test was used for performance comparison.

Results

During the three classification tasks, the optimal single sequence for classifying HR+ vs. HR- was DWI600, while the ADC map, derived from DWI800 performed the best in distinguishing TNBC vs. HEBC, as well as identifying TNBC vs. non-TNBC, with corresponding training AUC values of 0.787, 0.788, and 0.809, respectively. Furthermore, the integration of the top four sequences in RFF models yielded improved performance, achieving AUC values of 0.809, 0.805 and 0.847, respectively. Consistent results was observed in both the training/validation and testing cohorts, with AUC values of 0.778, 0.787, 0.818 and 0.726, 0.773, 0.773, respectively (all p < 0.05 except HR+ vs. HR-).

Conclusion

The RFF model, integrating mpMRI radiomics features, demonstrated promising ability to mimic radiologists’ diagnosis for preoperative identification of molecular receptors of BC.
Surgical management of giant pituitary adenomas: institutional experience and clinical outcomes of 94 patients
Authors: Ke Daibo , Xu Ling , Wu Danyang , Yang Shaocheng , Liu Shun , Xie Mingxiang , Xiao Shunwu
Published: November 2023

Background

Giant (with a diameter of at least 40 mm and a volume of at least 10 cm3) pituitary adenomas (GPAs) are intricate tumors that pose considerable difficulty for surgical removal. While endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery (ETS) is a commonly employed technique for these destructive tumors, its effectiveness may be restricted in cases where invasion into multiple compartments is present, leading to limited resection.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted on the clinical records of 94 patients diagnosed with GPAs who had undergone surgical resection from 2014 to 2022. An analysis was conducted on the outcomes of the surgical and clinical procedures.

Results

In this group, the average size of the tumor before surgery was 44.6 ± 5.6 mm (range, 40–73 mm), and the volume was 25. 5± 16.6 cm3 (range, 10–20.67 cm3). Of the total number of patients, 72 (76.6%) underwent a single ETS, 12 (12.8%) opted for transcranial surgery (TCS), and 10 (10.6%) chose a combined method. Gross total resection (GTR) was successfully performed in 49 (68.1%), 3 (25.0%), and 8 (80.0%) patients who underwent each surgical approach. Seventy-four (78.7%) patients had improved vision, 20 (21.3%) were unchanged, and none had deterioration. Twenty-two patients (23.4%) experienced a total of 43 complications, which comprised hormonal insufficiency (11/94, 11.7%), diabetic insipidus (6/88, 6.8%), electrolyte disorders (7/94, 7.4%), cerebrospinal fluid leakage (5/94, 5.3%), meningitis (8/94, 8.5%), and hydrocephalus (6/94, 6.4%). The GTR, subtotal resection (STR), and partial resection (PTR) rates were 63.8% (60/94), 21.3% (20/94), and 14.9% (14/94), respectively. Throughout the follow-up duration, 18.1% (17/94) of patients required reoperation and/or adjuvant radiation treatment as a result of tumor regrowth or inadequate biochemical remission of functioning GPAs.

Conclusion

ETS remains the optimal surgical option for most GPAs and generally offers safe and efficient tumor resection. However, a combined approach with TCS remains a requirement in cases that are not suitable for treatment with a single ETS. To achieve optimal tumor removal and minimize the occurrence of surgical complications, a flexible combination of ETS and TCS is recommended based on the characteristics of the tumor.
Case Report: Genetic profiling of small intestine metastasis from poorly differentiated non-small cell lung cancer: report of 2 cases and literature review of the past 5 years
Authors: Wang Mengqin , Chen Gang , Luo Jiang , Fan Zhipeng , Liu Yuying , Xie Conghua , Gong Yan
Published: November 2023

Background

Poorly differentiated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is characteristic of high rate of distant metastasis and late stages at diagnosis. Small intestine metastasis is a rare but severe complication of lung cancer with a high rate of mortality. However, there is currently a lack of genetic profile studies on the small intestine metastasis of lung cancer.

Case presentations

We present 2 cases of male patients in their 60s with primary NSCLC of low differentiation, initially with no distant metastasis detected. Biopsy samples were obtained from the primary pulmonary lesions, and both patients received systematic radiotherapy (RT) and chemotherapy. However, both cases presented with abdominal pain and distension, and immunohistochemistry of small intestine biopsy samples obtained by endoscopy confirmed lung cancer metastasis. Next generation sequencing was used to explore the genetic profiles from the biopsy samples of both the primary pulmonary lesions and small intestine metastases. The correlated genes responsible for the small intestine metastasis from poorly differentiated NSCLC in these 2 patients included TP53, LRP1B, and FGFR2. The reports of small intestine metastasis from poorly differentiated NSCLC with the past 5 years were systematically reviewed and summarized subsequently.

Conclusions

Poorly differentiated NSCLC with small intestine metastases, while rare, substantially impacts the prognosis and poses major challenges for diagnosis and treatment. Through comparisons of genetic profiles between patients and in the same patient before and after metastasis, we identified the mutations in genes such as TP53, LRP1B, and FGFR2, which were correlated with the occurrence and progression of poorly differentiated NSCLC, as well as its small intestinal metastasis. This discovery has the potential to guide clinicians in developing personalized treatment plans through the manipulation of targeted and radiation therapies.
Preoperative inflammation and nutrition-based comprehensive biomarker for predicting prognosis in resectable colorectal cancer
Authors: Cai Hao , Li Jiancheng , Chen Yu , Zhang Qiao , Liu Yang , Jia Houjun
Published: November 2023

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a major global health concern, with significant morbidity and mortality rates. In this study, we aimed to develop a comprehensive blood indicator based on systemic inflammation and nutritional condition to predict the prognosis of resectable CRC patients.

Methods

A retrospective cohort of 210 CRC patients who underwent radical resection at the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, China, between January 2015 and December 2017, was included in the analysis. Baseline characteristics, preoperative blood markers, including neutrophil count, monocyte count, lymphocyte count, platelets, albumin, and CEA were retrospectively reviewed. Various blood indicators, such as NLR, PLR, MLR, SIRI and OPNI were calculated. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) method was employed to select indicators to establish a novel comprehensive biomarker (named PSI). Kaplan-Meier survival curves and log-rank tests were used to evaluate the prognostic impact of preoperative OPNI, SIRI, and PSI. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression model were conducted to identify independent prognostic factors for CRC. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) method assessed the predictive ability of PSI, stage, OPNI, and SIRI.

Results

Patients with higher preoperative OPNI and lower SIRI values had significantly better overall survival (OS). PSI was identified as an independent prognostic factor for OS in both univariate and multivariate analysis. Patients with medium (28.3-43.4) and high (>43.4) PSI scores exhibited superior OS compared to those with low (≤ 28.3) PSI scores. PSI showed higher predictive ability (AUC: 0.734) than individual indicators alone (OPNI: 0.721, SIRI: 0.645, stage: 0.635).

Conclusion

The novel indicator, PSI, based on preoperative SIRI and OPNI, demonstrated significant prognostic value for resectable CRC patients. PSI outperformed individual indicators and could serve as a reliable tool for prognostic evaluation in CRC patients.
The repercussions of digital bullying on social media users
Authors: Al-Turif Ghada A. R. , Al-Sanad Hessa A. R.
Published: November 2023

Objective

This study aims to examine the repercussions of digital bullying on social media users, especially among university students in Saudi Arabia.

Methods

It adopts a descriptive approach based on a social survey method with a sample of 640 male and female students from selected universities. A questionnaire was used to collect the data and to measure the repercussions of digital bullying on the victims, their families, and the society.

Results

The findings reveal that most of the respondents agree that digital bullying has negative consequences for all the stakeholders involved. The results also indicate that female students are more aware of the repercussions of digital bullying than male students.

Conclusion

The study recommends enhancing public awareness through organizing conferences, seminars, and workshops on the issue of digital bullying, and implementing and enforcing strict laws and penalties to punish the perpetrators and to prevent and reduce the harms of digital bullying.
Case report: The Circle Game
Authors: Yue Yu Chen , Glancy Graham
Published: November 2023

The authors present a rare case of a family in which both the mother, and four decades later the son, committed second-degree murder while suffering from major mental illnesses. The mother had successfully used a mental disorder defence and it was likely that the son who had raised the defence would have qualified also. The mother has a history of adverse childhood experiences. The son had also experienced various severe childhood adversities, though there were no functional impairments, personality dysfunction, suicidality or violent crimes until the onset of treatment-resistant schizoaffective disorder around age 18. His earlier comorbidities included sport-related traumatic brain injuries, sickle cell trait, severe burns, and tardive dyskinesia. His comorbidities around the material time included occasional cannabis use and dementia pugilistica. While awaiting court ruling on criminal responsibility, additional stressors triggered significant deterioration of his schizoaffective disorder and the court found him unfit to stand trial. During rehabilitation, he was severely injured by another accused, which subsequently led to his demise. This case is the first report of intergenerational mental disorder defence and involved almost every facet of criminal forensic psychiatry, which highlights the need for further research on the association between intergenerational ACEs and intergenerational risk for criminal behaviour from a comprehensive and longitudinal perspective.
Research into the relationship between digital health literacy and healthy lifestyle behaviors: an intergenerational comparison
Authors: Çetin Murat , Gümüş Rojan
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Digital health literacy wields a pivotal role in individuals’ health status in terms of seeking and choosing appropriate and accurate information, and useful services from a vast array of choices. This study is aimed at assessing the validity and reliability of the Turkish version of Digital Health Literacy Instrument (DHLI) and examining the relationship between DHL and the healthy lifestyle behaviors of participants from X, Y, and Z generations.

Methods

In this study, to conduct a cross-sectional web-based survey, an online self-report questionnaire was built, and a convenience sample with a snowball approach was used. The study was conducted among 1,274 respondents aged between 18 and 64 years. Data collection tools consisted of the Personal Information Form, Lifestyle Behavior Scale II (HLBS II), and DHLI. Cultural validation and psychometric testing of DHLI, exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, Cronbach’s alpha test, and bivariate and multivariate regression analysis were used for statistical analysis.

Results

In the study, the Turkish version of the DHLI tool consisting of six dimensions proved to be valid and reliable, and deemed appropriate for use across all age groups. The average digital health literacy of the respondents was sufficient, but the mean of healthy lifestyle behavior scores was moderate. There was a positive significant relationship between the total mean scores of DHLI and HLBS. Among the subdimensions of DHLI, while the highest mean scores were in DHLI Reliability, DHLI Privacy, and DHLI Search, DHLI Navigation and DHLI Relevance showed the lowest mean scores. DHLI Reliability, DHLI Relevance, and DHLI Adding Content were statistically significant predictors of health-related behaviors of the respondents.

Conclusion

The most important feature and novelty of this study is that, although the DHLI scale has been widely translated for use in many countries, it has been translated and adapted to Turkish for the first time herein. The study offers crucial evidence about Generation X, Y, and Z’s DHL level and its positive relationships with health-related behaviors. Therefore, the community and its partners should lead the way in empowering individuals to understand and use online information in an effective, secure, and health-promoting manner, along with governments.
Combining experiential knowledge with scholarship in charting the decline of the National Health Service in England
Authors: Scambler Graham
Published: November 2023

The sustained governmental assault on the National Health Service (NHS) in England during post-1970s financialised or rentier capitalism has received considerable attention by the research community. There is some evidence, however, that many of those members of the public who have not had occasion to use the NHS remain largely ill-informed about the extent of, and reasons for, its present troubles. In this paper I offer an auto/biographic account of my own recent experiences as a patient with type 2 diabetes and subsequent polymyalgia in both primary and secondary care. I then deploy analytic induction to consider, and explain, my personal travails against the background of the shifting nature of doctor-patient interaction occasioned by governmental politics in relation to the NHS. The result is an illustrated story of the decline of health care at a political juncture when the ever-expanding capital assets of a tiny minority of the population trumps the health care needs of the population as a whole. The present impoverishment of management and care must be understood with reference to wider aspects of macro-social change. The paper concludes with some ideas about how to (re)fund a severely ailing NHS.
Impact of Preformed Donor-Specific Anti-HLA-Cw and Anti-HLA-DP Antibodies on Acute Antibody-Mediated Rejection in Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Laboux Timothée , Lenain Rémi , Visentin Jonathan , Flahaut Gauthier , Chamley Paul , Provôt François , Top Isabelle , Kerleau Clarisse , Labalette Myriam , Choukroun Gabriel , Couzi Lionel , Blancho Gilles , Hazzan Marc , Maanaoui Mehdi
Published: November 2023

Given the risk of rejection, the presence of preformed donor specific antibodies (DSA) contraindicates transplantation in most allocation systems. However, HLA-Cw and -DP DSA escape this censorship. We performed a multicentric observational study, in which the objective was to determinate risk factors of acute antibody-mediated rejection (aABMR) in recipients transplanted with preformed isolated Cw- or DP-DSA. Between 2010 and 2019, 183 patients were transplanted with a preformed isolated Cw- or DP-DSA (92 Cw-DSA; 91 DP-DSA). At 2 years, the incidence of aABMR was 12% in the Cw-DSA group, versus 28% in the DP-DSA group. Using multivariable Cox regression model, the presence of a preformed DP-DSA was associated with an increased risk of aABMR (HR = 2.32 [1.21–4.45 (p = 0.001)]) compared with Cw-DSA. We also observed a significant association between the DSA’s MFI on the day of transplant and the risk of aABMR (HR = 1.09 [1.08–1.18], p = 0.032), whatever the DSA was. Interaction term analysis found an increased risk of aABMR in the DP-DSA group compared with Cw-DSA, but only for MFI below 3,000. These results may plead for taking these antibodies into account in the allocation algorithms, in the same way as other DSA.
A Learnheuristic Algorithm for the Capacitated Dispersion Problem under Dynamic Conditions
Authors: Gomez Juan F. , Uguina Antonio R. , Panadero Javier , Juan Angel A.
Published: November 2023

The capacitated dispersion problem, which is a variant of the maximum diversity problem, aims to determine a set of elements within a network. These elements could symbolize, for instance, facilities in a supply chain or transmission nodes in a telecommunication network. While each element typically has a bounded service capacity, in this research, we introduce a twist. The capacity of each node might be influenced by a random Bernoulli component, thereby rendering the possibility of a node having zero capacity, which is contingent upon a black box mechanism that accounts for environmental variables. Recognizing the inherent complexity and the NP-hard nature of the capacitated dispersion problem, heuristic algorithms have become indispensable for handling larger instances. In this paper, we introduce a novel approach by hybridizing a heuristic algorithm with reinforcement learning to address this intricate problem variant.
A Study on the Optimal Design Method for Star-Shaped Solid Propellants through a Combination of Genetic Algorithm and Machine Learning
Authors: Oh Seok-Hwan , Roh Tae-Seong , Lee Hyoung Jin
Published: November 2023

This study was focused on the configuration design of a star grain by using machine learning in the optimal design process. The key to optimizing the grain design is aimed at obtaining a set of configuration variables that satisfy the requirements. The optimization problem consists of an objective area profile subject to certain constraints and an objective function that quantitatively calculates the design level. Designers must formulate suitable optimization problems to achieve an optimal design. However, because a method to alleviate the influence of the sliver section is not yet available, the optimization problem is typically solved based on experience, which is time- and effort-intensive. Consequently, a more practical and objective grain design method must be developed. In this study, an optimal design method using machine learning was developed to increase the convenience and success rate. A support vector machine was used to train a classification model that predicts a class. The classification model was used to alleviate the influence of the sliver zone and correct the search problem to ensure that an optimal solution existed in the region satisfying the requirements. The proposed method was validated through star grain optimal design using the genetic algorithm. The optimization was performed considering the area profiles, and the effectiveness of the proposed method was demonstrated by the enhanced accuracy.
Research on the Inversion Model of Cultivated Land Quality Using High-Resolution Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Tang Mengmeng , Wang Qiang , Mei Shuai , Ying Chunyang , Gao Zhengbao , Ma Youhua , Hu Hongxiang
Published: November 2023

Cultivated land quality is an essential measure of cultivated land production capability. Establishing a cultivated land quality inversion model based on high-resolution remote sensing data provides a scientific basis for regional cultivated land resource management and sustainable utilization. Utilizing field survey data, cultivated land quality evaluation data, and high-resolution remote sensing data, a spectral index-cultivated land quality model was constructed and optimized with the machine learning method, and cultivated land quality inversion and verification in Chuzhou City in 2021 were carried out. The results showed that the distribution of cultivated land quality in the study area depicted with the remote sensing inversion model based on random forest was consistent with the actual cultivated land quality. Although the accuracy of the SVT-CLQ inversion model established using four spectral indices is slightly lower than that of the MSVT-CLQ group established using 15 indices, it can still accurately reflect the distribution of cultivated land quality in the study area. Compared with the two models of the MSVT-CLQ and SVT-CLQ groups, the field survey data of sampling points is reduced, the time and energy of field sampling and analysis are correspondingly saved, the efficiency of cultivated land quality evaluation is improved, and the dynamic monitoring and rapid evaluation of cultivated land quality are realized.
Postoperative Analgesic Effect of Bilateral Quadratus Lumborum Block (QLB) for Canine Laparoscopic Ovariectomy: Comparison of Two Concentrations of Ropivacaine
Authors: Degani Massimiliano , Di Franco Chiara , Tayari Hamaseh , Fages Carcéles Aida , Figà Talamanca Giacomo , Sandersen Charlotte , Briganti Angela
Published: November 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the transverse quadratus lumborum block (QLBLQL-T) on time to the first postoperative rescue analgesia in dogs submitted to laparoscopic ovariectomy. A total of twenty-three female dogs were included. Dogs were randomly assigned to receive a bilateral QLBLQL-T, performed either with 0.3 mL kg−1 ropivacaine 0.5% [group QLB0.5% (n = 8)] or with ropivacaine 0.33% [group QLB0.33% (n = 8)] or a fentanyl-based protocol [group No-QLB (n = 7)]. Dogs were premedicated intravenously (IV) with fentanyl 5 mcg kg−1, general anesthesia was induced IV with propofol and maintained with sevoflurane. Invasive mean arterial pressure (MAP) values were recorded five minutes before and five minutes after performing the QLBLQL-T. The short-form of the Glasgow composite measure pain scale was used every hour after extubation, and methadone 0.2 mg kg−1 was administered IV when pain score was ≥5/24. Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, ANOVA test combined with Tukey post hoc test, Student’s T-test and Chi-square test were used to analyze data; p < 0.05. Time from QLBLQL-T to the first rescue analgesia was significantly longer in QLB0.5% than in group QLB0.33% and No-QLB. MAP pre- and post-block decreased significantly only in group QLB0.33%.
Prickly Connections: Sociodemographic Factors Shaping Attitudes, Perception and Biological Knowledge about the European Hedgehog
Authors: Ribeiro Ângela M. , Rodrigues Micaela , Brito Nuno V. , Mateus Teresa Letra
Published: November 2023

The modern lifestyle of humans is leading to a limited exposure to nature. While several wild species are adapting and thriving in anthropic environments, natural history knowledge is declining, and positive attitudes and behaviours towards nature are facing challenges. Because anticipating attitudes and engendering broad-based support for nature-related measures requires a good grasp of social contexts, we set out to evaluate the sociodemographic factors driving the perception, attitudes towards, and natural history knowledge of a keystone species—the European hedgehog. In 2022, we conducted a questionnaire answered by 324 Portuguese adults. We found generally positive feelings and attitudes towards this species. A higher degree of academic qualifications and previous personal experience with the species seem to play a role in (i) people’s perception about human impacts on hedgehogs and (ii) positive attitudes, especially during encounters where the animals were in difficulty. Despite this, the extent of natural history knowledge was low overall, and the study population was self-aware of this. Our insights underline the need to tailor educational programmes if we are to encourage people to re-establish meaningful connections with nature, to foster social support for biodiversity stewardship, and to implement the One Health approach in a way that resonates with distinct social groups.
Zoonotic Parasites in Artiodactyls with Emphasis on the Feral Boar in the Atlantic Forest, State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Pinheiro Jessica L. , Bruno Sávio F. , Dib Laís V. , Dos Santos Claudijane R. , Class Camila S. C. , Corrêa Laís L. , Studart Lima Marcelo , Motoyama Paulo Rogério A. , Guimarães Ricardo J. P. S. , Amendoeira Maria Regina R. , Barbosa Alynne S.
Published: November 2023

Background: The purpose of this study was to identify the species of artiodactyl host related to the fecal matter collected in a forest area in Rio de Janeiro state and carry out a parasitological investigation. Methods: Artiodactyl feces were collected between 2020 and 2021. The fecal samples were examined to identify the host through macroscopic and molecular analysis. The remaining samples were subjected to a fecal parasite analysis using microscopic techniques, and feces containing cysts of the phylum Ciliophora underwent a molecular analysis. Results: Of the 101 samples collected, 71.3% were found in Pavão Valley, the most anthropized area of the park. In the molecular analysis, 79 samples were identified as belonging to Sus scrofa and 2 as Mazama gouazoubira. The most frequently detected forms were cysts of the phylum Ciliophora (39.6%), followed by eggs of Ascaris spp. (11.8%) and Metastrongylus spp. (5.9%). Nucleotide sequences of Balantioides coli were characterized in 26 samples, and in 13 samples variants of type B0 and in 11 type A0 were identified. Conclusions: It should be noted that this is the first study in the Americas that has identified B. coli in free-living S. scrofa feces, citing this bioinvader as one of the reservoirs of this parasite.
Integrated Analysis of Machine Learning and Deep Learning in Silkworm Pupae (Bombyx mori) Species and Sex Identification
Authors: He Haibo , Zhu Shiping , Shen Lunfu , Chang Xuening , Wang Yichen , Zeng Di , Xiong Benhua , Dai Fangyin , Zhao Tianfu
Published: November 2023

Hybrid pairing of the corresponding silkworm species is a pivotal link in sericulture, ensuring egg quality and directly influencing silk quantity and quality. Considering the potential of image recognition and the impact of varying pupal postures, this study used machine learning and deep learning for global modeling to identify pupae species and sex separately or simultaneously. The performance of traditional feature-based approaches, deep learning feature-based approaches, and their fusion approaches were compared. First, 3600 images of the back, abdomen, and side postures of 5 species of male and female pupae were captured. Next, six traditional descriptors, including the histogram of oriented gradients (HOG), and six deep learning descriptors, including ConvNeXt-S, were utilized to extract significant species and sex features. Finally, classification models were constructed using the multilayer perceptron (MLP), support vector machine, and random forest. The results indicate that the {HOG + ConvNeXt-S + MLP} model excelled, achieving 99.09% accuracy for separate species and sex recognition and 98.40% for simultaneous recognition, with precision–recall and receiver operating characteristic curves ranging from 0.984 to 1.0 and 0.996 to 1.0, respectively. In conclusion, it can capture subtle distinctions between pupal species and sexes and shows promise for extensive application in sericulture.
Chlorogenic Acid Alleviated AFB1-Induced Hepatotoxicity by Regulating Mitochondrial Function, Activating Nrf2/HO-1, and Inhibiting Noncanonical NF-κB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Wang Qianqian , Liu Tianxu , Koci Matthew , Wang Yanan , Fu Yutong , Ma Mingxin , Ma Qiugang , Zhao Lihong
Published: November 2023

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), a kind of mycotoxin, imposes acute or chronic toxicity on humans and causes great public health concerns. Chlorogenic acid (CGA), a natural phenolic substance, shows a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect. This study was conducted to investigate the effect and mechanism of CGA on alleviating cytotoxicity induced by AFB1 in L-02 cells. The results showed that CGA (160 μM) significantly recovered cell viability and cell membrane integrity in AFB1-treated (8 μM) cells. Furthermore, it was found that CGA reduced AFB1-induced oxidative injury by neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and activating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) signaling pathway. In addition, CGA showed anti-inflammatory effects as it suppressed the expression of inflammation-related genes (IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α) and AFB1-induced noncanonical nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) activation. Moreover, CGA mitigated AFB1-induced apoptosis by maintaining the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and inhibiting mRNA expressions of Caspase-3, Caspase-8, Bax, and Bax/Bcl-2. These findings revealed a possible mechanism: CGA prevents AFB1-induced cytotoxicity by maintaining mitochondrial membrane potential, activating Nrf2/HO-1, and inhibiting the noncanonical NF-κB signaling pathway, which may provide a new direction for the application of CGA.
Variability of Air Pollutants in the Indoor Air of a General Store
Authors: Tepeneu Andreea , Lupitu Andreea , Surdea-Blaga Teodora , Moisa Cristian , Chambre Dorina , Copolovici Dana Maria , Copolovici Lucian
Published: November 2023

This research investigates different facets of indoor air quality and the corresponding health symptoms within a retail environment. Formaldehyde, classified as a Group B carcinogenic substance, was found within safe limits indoors, primarily originating from surface coatings, flooring products, textiles, and furniture. Monoterpenes, lactic acid, and particulate matter levels were also assessed, with varying indoor–outdoor ratios. Notably, we identified a relatively low concentration of PM2.5, possibly influenced by enhanced cleaning practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. Symptom assessment revealed that many young workers experienced work-related symptoms, notably fatigue, nose-, throat-, and skin-related issues, aligning with previous findings. Although we could not conclusively link these symptoms to sick building syndrome (SBS) or formaldehyde exposure, it underscores the importance of further investigation. Notably, we observed no gender-based differences in symptom prevalence, but this study’s limited size requires caution in generalization. This study contributes to understanding indoor air quality and associated symptoms in an economically significant sector, emphasizing the need for continued research, especially considering the potential impact on workforce health in the broader context.
A Comparative Analysis of Bionic and Neutral Shoes: Impact on Lower Limb Kinematics and Kinetics during Varied-Speed Running
Authors: Pan Jiayan , Chen Hairong , Zheng Zhiyi , Xu Yining , Sun Dong , Liang Minjun , Lv Yihao
Published: November 2023

The running biomechanics of running shoes have been extensively investigated. However, there is limited knowledge about the use of bionic shoes compared to neutral shoes, along with the velocities involved in their use. The aim of this study was to examine the biomechanical alterations associated with various running velocities of bionic shoes. By removing different thicknesses of the forefoot section, bionic shoes created a more natural shape—close to that of a human foot. The study included 16 heel strike runners running at 10 km/h, 12 km/h and 14 km/h in bionic shoes and neutral shoes, respectively. A two-way ANOVA and SPM1d were employed for examining kinematic and kinetic differences. Regarding the results for the shoes, increased ROM was observed for the bionic shoes for the hip (p < 0.001) and ankle joints (p < 0.001). Ankle positive work (p < 0.001) and negative work (p = 0.042) also showed significant differences. Regarding the velocity results, hip ROM (p < 0.001) increased and peak knee angular velocity (p = 0.018) increased, while knee ROM (p = 0.023) decreased. The interaction effects only existed in hip (p = 0.031) and ankle (p = 0.008) ROM. The results of this study suggested that the impact of running propulsion in the bionic shoes was minimal. However, with increased velocities, the bionic shoes demonstrated the ability to absorb more force, created a more stable training environment, and contributed to injury prevention for the hip and ankle joints.
Cross-Corpus Multilingual Speech Emotion Recognition: Amharic vs. Other Languages
Authors: Retta Ephrem Afele , Sutcliffe Richard , Mahmood Jabar , Berwo Michael Abebe , Almekhlafi Eiad , Khan Sajjad Ahmad , Chaudhry Shehzad Ashraf , Mhamed Mustafa , Feng Jun
Published: November 2023

In a conventional speech emotion recognition (SER) task, a classifier for a given language is trained on a pre-existing dataset for that same language. However, where training data for a language do not exist, data from other languages can be used instead. We experiment with cross-lingual and multilingual SER, working with Amharic, English, German, and Urdu. For Amharic, we use our own publicly available Amharic Speech Emotion Dataset (ASED). For English, German and Urdu, we use the existing RAVDESS, EMO-DB, and URDU datasets. We followed previous research in mapping labels for all of the datasets to just two classes: positive and negative. Thus, we can compare performance on different languages directly and combine languages for training and testing. In Experiment 1, monolingual SER trials were carried out using three classifiers, AlexNet, VGGE (a proposed variant of VGG), and ResNet50. The results, averaged for the three models, were very similar for ASED and RAVDESS, suggesting that Amharic and English SER are equally difficult. Similarly, German SER is more difficult, and Urdu SER is easier. In Experiment 2, we trained on one language and tested on another, in both directions for each of the following pairs: Amharic↔German, Amharic↔English, and Amharic↔Urdu. The results with Amharic as the target suggested that using English or German as the source gives the best result. In Experiment 3, we trained on several non-Amharic languages and then tested on Amharic. The best accuracy obtained was several percentage points greater than the best accuracy in Experiment 2, suggesting that a better result can be obtained when using two or three non-Amharic languages for training than when using just one non-Amharic language. Overall, the results suggest that cross-lingual and multilingual training can be an effective strategy for training an SER classifier when resources for a language are scarce.
A Hybrid Heuristic Algorithm for Maximizing the Resilience of Underground Logistics Network Planning
Authors: Xue Zhaojie , Fang Yunliang , Peng Wenxiang , Chen Xiangsheng
Published: November 2023

In recent times, there has been a sharp increase in the congestion of ground transportation, the scarcity of land resources, and various disasters. Hence, there is an urgent need to find an effective and sustainable approach to transportation. The construction of an underground logistics network, where transportation activities occur beneath the surface of the ground, is anticipated to emerge as a future trend. This study aims to formulate a resilient-maximizing plan for the underground logistics network, ensuring optimal meeting of transportation demands in the aftermath of ground disasters. Accordingly, a two-stage linear programming model is established to determine the layout plan for the most resilient underground logistics network. The first phase of the model is designed to generate viable layouts for the underground logistics network, while the second phase is dedicated to evaluating the resilience of the proposed layout plan. During the evaluation of network resilience, Monte Carlo simulations are used to simulate disaster scenarios. Given the inherent complexity of the model, the traditional solver cannot efficiently solve the problem. Thus, a new hybrid heuristic algorithm is designed to obtain solutions that maximize network resilience. The results show the effectiveness of the designed algorithm and the significant improvement in network resilience achieved by numerical experiments. Moreover, sensitivity analyses are conducted to reveal the relationships between resilience and budget, as well as resilience and the capacity of underground pipelines. It has a significant impact on sustainability when making decisions regarding network planning.
Comparative Study on Phytochemical Composition, Antioxidant, and Anti-HSV-2 Activities of Sambucus nigra L. and Sambucus ebulus L. Extracts
Authors: Seymenska Daniela , Shishkova Kalina , Hinkov Anton , Benbassat Niko , Teneva Desislava , Denev Petko
Published: November 2023

Sambucus nigra (SN) and Sambucus ebulus (SE) are widely used in folk medicine, primarily as antiviral agents for colds and influenza. In the current study, the antiviral activity of extracts of SN and SE fruits, flowers, and leaves were tested against herpes simplex virus type-2 (HSV-2). The HPLC analysis of the investigated extracts revealed the presence of phenolic acids, flavonoids, and anthocyanins. Rutin and chlorogenic acid were the main polyphenol constituents in flower and leaf extracts, whereas anthocyanins were predominant in fruit extracts. The flower extract of SN was characterized by the highest content of rutin and chlorogenic acid—14,232.1 mg/100 g dry weight (DW) and 7086.7 mg/100 g DW, respectively. SN fruit extract revealed the highest antioxidant activity measured using ORAC and HORAC methods—11,443.1 μmol TE/g and 8198.9 μmol GAE/g, respectively. To evaluate cytotoxicity, antiviral, and virucidal activities against HSV-2, the MTT assay and method of Reed and Muench were used. The least toxic extracts were PSNFrE and PSEFrE. The maximum tolerable concentration (MTC) of PSNFrE was 2000 μg/mL and the calculated CC50 value for that extract was 3570 μg/mL. The inhibitory activity against virus replication was established for three of the extracts—PSNFlE, PSNLE, and PSNFrE. PSEFrE showed neither activity against virus replication, nor virucidal activity. The data suggest a significant inactivation of more than 98% after 60 min of contact of HSV-2 virions with the PSNFrE applied in MTC. The current study provides evidence that Sambucus nigra reveals anti-HSV-2 activity; however, the most active parts of the species were fruits. Therefore, SN fruits and their extracts can be used as an attendant therapy for HSV-2 viral infections.