bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Concurrent adoption of multiple less intensive practices is essential for effectively preserving earthworm diversity in agroecosystems: a global meta-analysis
Authors: Betancur-Corredor Bibiana , Zaitsev Andrey , Russell David
Published: July 2024

The impact of intensifying land use on biodiversity has been extensively examined through efforts to synthesize available data. Nevertheless, there is still a lack of a thorough synthesis describing the earthworm response to land-use intensification on earthworms. We conducted a global meta-analysis synthesizing 113 publications across 44, yielding 1040 pairwise comparisons of earthworm density and biomass, and 536 pairwise comparisons of earthworm diversity. Arable cropland has significantly lower earthworm density (-18%), biomass (-15%), and species richness (-27%) compared to undisturbed sites. Conversely, higher earthworm density, biomass and species richness were observed in extensive pastures, sites under agroforestry, crop management with fallow periods and crop-livestock integration. In regions with continental climates characterized by cool summers exhibit more favorable earthworm responses to intensification. In compacted sites with low organic matter content the adverse effects of intensification are exacerbated. However, highly heterogeneous earthworm responses cannot be explained by the individual evaluation of climatic, soil-related, or management factors. Our results guide future efforts to address the data limitations that enable us enhance our understanding of the interactive effects of various factors on earthworm responses to land-use intensification, as well as evidence-based and management strategies targeted at promoting sustainable agricultural systems while preserving soil biodiversity.
Efficacy of Thoracoscopic Sympathectomy Including Asymmetric Resection for Treating Palmar Hyperhidrosis : A Retrospective Study
Authors: Lian Luoyu , Huang Jinlong , Hong Wenshan , Lin Dongliang , Zhang Weiqing , Xu Zhendong
Published: July 2024

Objective:This study aims to retrospectively evaluate the effectiveness of single-segment thoracic sympathotomy in treating palmar hyperhidrosis.
Methods:We conducted a retrospective study at our center from January 2018 to January 2022. A total of 226 patients with palmar hyperhidrosis, who underwent single-segment endoscopic sympathectomy, were divided into R3, R4, and asymmetric segment groups (R3 / R4 group). We analyzed the effectiveness, side effects, and patient satisfaction of the three treatments through telephone and online patient consultations.
Results: All groups experienced similar surgery duration, hospital stay, and blood loss. The R3 group (104 patients) had the lowest recurrence rate (1 case), followed by the R4 group (92 patients, 3 cases), and the R3/R4 group (30 patients, 1 case). Compensatory hyperhidrosis was observed in 21 cases in the R3 group and 19 in the R4 group. The R3/R4 group reported compensatory hyperhidrosis in 24 cases, mostly Grade I and II. Satisfaction was highest in the R3 group, closely followed by the R3/R4 group and then the R4 group. This indicates that both R3 and R4 single-segment resections are effective, with R3 showing higher patient satisfaction and lower recurrence, and the asymmetric R3/R4 approach also proving to be a viable option.
Conclusion: Single-segment resection of either R3 or R4 can effectively manage palmar hyperhidrosis. Patients who underwent R3 resection experienced fewer recurrences and reported higher satisfaction than those who underwent R4 resection. Furthermore, compensatory hyperhidrosis didn't notably rise. Asymmetric single-segment resection, with its thicker vascular coverage, is also a viable treatment option.
A Neanderthal Extinction Hypothesis: Agent Based Simulation of Birth Complications Theory
Authors: Bilge Ugur , Olgan Safak , Ciplak Battal , Ozbek Metin , Kayikci Deniz , Uysal Hilmi
Published: July 2024

The Neanderthal extinction is a pivotal yet unresolved event in human evolutionary history. Prevailing theories have attributed their disappearance to environmental pressures and competition with Homo sapiens, but these have not fully accounted for the longevity of Neanderthal presence across diverse and challenging landscapes. According to our hypothesis, birth complications caused by the Neanderthal skull and broad shoulders, which could no longer pass through the pelvic bone, which changed its shape with the onset of bipedalism, played a major role in the Neanderthal extinction. Because these complications lead to increase in maternal mortality rate. Here, we present a novel hypothesis suggesting that anatomical constraints on Neanderthal childbirth may have been a critical but previously overlooked factor contributing to their decline. Leveraging agent-based modeling, we simulate the population dynamics of Neanderthals, incorporating paleoanthropological data on their robust cranial dimensions, which likely led to increased birthing complications. Our simulation and mathematical model project a gradual demographic collapse, primarily driven by heightened neonatal and maternal mortality rates, thereby offering a plausible mechanism for Neanderthal extinction. This interdisciplinary approach provides a nuanced perspective, implicating the evolutionary trade-offs of even a minimum increase in maternal mortality in the Neanderthal’s fate and underscores the fragility of survival amidst evolutionary adaptations.
Construction and validation of a predictive model to improve the performance of non-wearable actigraphy in psychiatric setting: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Takeshita Yuko , Odachi Ryo , Nakashima Keisuke , Nishiyama Naoki , Nozawa Kyosuke , Matoba Kei , Nakano Natsuko , Mashita Midori , Mamiya Yoshimasa , Yamakawa Miyae , Buyo Momoko , Adachi Hiroyoshi , Ikeda Manabu , Takeya Yasushi
Published: July 2024

This cross-sectional study was conducted from August 2021 to January 2023 in the psychiatric unit of a major university hospital in western Japan. The aim was to evaluate the performance of Nemuri SCAN (NSCAN), a non-wearable mat sensor developed in Japan for sleep monitoring and compare it to that of polysomnography (PSG) among psychiatric patients—a population not previously studied using this technology. The performance of NSCAN compared to that of PSG was lower than that reported in a preliminary study. To improve the performance of NSCAN, we developed a logistic regression model (proposed model) by incorporating data on 10 patient characteristics into the NSCAN decision algorithm, the Cole–Kripke equation (Cole model). The agreement, sensitivity, and specificity were 77.8% vs. 78.8%, 97.3% vs. 94.5%, and 28.2% vs. 38.9% for the Cole model and the proposed model, respectively. Notably, the proposed model demonstrated higher specificity, indicating improved performance in accurately identifying wakefulness. These findings highlight the importance of including patient characteristics in sleep monitoring algorithms and support the potential application of NSCAN in psychiatric care settings.
The ensemble Kalman filter for dual estimation of hand-foot-mouth disease prediction and forecasting in Korea
Authors: Abbas Wasim , Lee Sieun , Kim Sangil
Published: July 2024

Background
In Korea, Hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD) is a recurring illness that presents significant public health challenges, primarily because of its unpredictable epidemic patterns. The accurate prediction of the spread of HFMD plays a vital role in the effective management of the disease.
Methods
We have devised a dynamic model that accurately represents the transmission dynamics of HFMD. The model includes compartments for susceptible, exposed, inpatients, outpatients, recovered, and deceased individuals. By utilizing monthly inpatient and outpatient data, the ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) method was employed to perform a dual estimation of model parameters and state variables. The calibration of model parameters involved using data from the months of January to May, while generating forecasts for the timeframe spanning from June to December.
Results
The findings reveal a significant alignment between the model and the observed data, as evidenced by root-mean-square error (RMSE) values below 1000 for inpatients and below 10000 for outpatients starting in June. The correlation coefficients surpassed 0.9, except for the year 2015. The implications of our findings suggest a notable shift in transmission and recovery rates, starting in 2015.
Discussion
The model successfully predicted the peak and magnitude of HFMD outbreaks occurring between June and December, closely matching the observed epidemic patterns. The model’s efficacy in predicting epidemic trends and informing preventive strategies is reinforced by the insights gained from monthly variations in parameter estimates of HFMD transmission dynamics.
Alveolar macrophages from persons with HIV mount impaired TNF signaling networks to M. tuberculosis infection.
Authors: Rengarajan Jyothi , Kgoadi Khanyisile , Bajpai Prashant , Ibegbu Chris , Dkhar Hedwin , Enriquez Ana , Dawa Stanzin , Cribbs Sushma
Published: July 2024

People living with HIV (PLWH) have an increased risk for developing tuberculosis (TB) after infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), despite anti-retroviral therapy (ART). To delineate the underlying mechanisms, we conducted single cell transcriptomics on bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cells from PLWH on ART and HIV uninfected healthy controls (HC) infected with Mtb ex vivo. We identified an M1-like proinflammatory alveolar macrophage (AM) subset that sequentially acquired TNF signaling capacity in HC but not in PLWH. Cell-cell communication analyses revealed robust interactions between M1-like AMs and effector memory T cells within TNF superfamily, chemokine, and costimulatory networks in the airways of HC. These interaction networks were lacking in PLWH infected with Mtb, where anti-inflammatory M2-like AMs and T regulatory cells dominated along with dysregulated T cell signatures. Our data support a model in which impaired TNF-TNFR signaling, and aberrant AM-T cell crosstalk, lead to ineffective immunity to Mtb in PLWH on ART.
Effect of Fruit and Mint Flavored Rogue Oral Nicotine Product Use on Smoking Reduction and Quitting in a 6-Month Prospective Cohort of Adults who Smoke Cigarettes
Authors: McDowell Elliott H. , Kennedy Jason N. , Feehan Michael , Bell Stacey A. , Marking Sarah E. , Zdinak Jessica P. , Joyce Andrew R. , Humphreys Michelle
Published: July 2024

Background
Quitting cigarette smoking can substantially reduce or eliminate the risk of developing numerous chronic diseases. Use of flavored tobacco or nicotine products (TNP) is commonly cited by adults who smoke cigarettes to be important in helping them reduce or quit smoking. The purpose of this analysis was to understand the association between the levels of use of flavored oral nicotine products (ONP) and smoking reduction and quitting and how reduction or quitting may differ between predominant users of fruit/other versus mint flavored ONP after six months of use.
Methods
Participants were provided with their choice of a variety of forms and flavors of Rogue® nicotine products (Study Products, SP) over a 6-month actual use period (AUP) and completed online surveys assessing TNP and SP use at enrollment (Baseline) and Months 1, 2, 4, and 6 thereafter.
Results
Among the 1393 participants at Month 6, 41.4% and 52.5% used predominantly fruit/other or mint SP flavors, respectively. Compared to predominant mint users, predominant fruit/other users had greater cigarette reduction (mean reduction in CPD: 50.0% vs. 48.4%) and a higher proportion had quit smoking (proportion quit: 15.4% vs. 11.6%) at Month 6. Additionally, 37.6% of all participants, 38.8% of predominant fruit/other users, and 39.3% of predominant mint users reduced their average CPD by > 50% from Baseline. Increased use of fruit/other flavors was independently associated with smoking reduction (8.6% greater reduction per 10 pieces/day; p<0.001) and odds of quitting smoking (OR=1.29 [95% CI: 1.04-1.59] per 10 pieces/day; p=0.017). Increased use of mint flavors was independently associated with smoking reduction (7.5% greater reduction per 10 mint pieces/day; p<0.001) but not with odds of quitting smoking.
Conclusions
Increased quantity of fruit/other or mint flavored SP use was associated with significantly greater smoking reduction, and increased quantity of fruit/other flavors was associated with increased odds of quitting smoking in bivariate and multivariable models. The levels of reduction and quitting smoking observed during the study, with an increased benefit for use of fruit/other flavors, suggests that the availability of a variety of ONP flavors may provide an increased harm reduction benefit for adults who smoke cigarettes.
Trial Registration
This study was observational. Participants were not prospectively assigned to one or more health-related interventions and could choose to use or not use the commercially available study products provided during the study. Thus, the study was not registered in a trial database by the Sponsor.
Sex-dependent effects of acute stress and alcohol exposure during adolescence on mRNA expression of several systems involved in stress and reward in the brain of young adult rats
Authors: Gobbi Carlotta , Sánchez-Marín Laura , Flores-López María , Medina-Vera Dina , Pavón-Morón Francisco J. , Fonseca Fernando Rodríguez , Serrano Antonia
Published: July 2024

Background
Exposure to negative experiences during adolescence increases susceptibility to mental disorders in adulthood. These risks vary significantly between sexes, with males and females potentially experiencing different impacts. Identifying the mechanisms underlying these early events and understanding their sex-specific effects are essential for both prevention and treatment strategies.
Methods
Adolescent Wistar rats of both sexes were used to explore the long-term effects of acute restraint stress and alcohol exposure on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity and the mRNA levels of the ACTH precursor proopiomelanocortin (POMC), the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR), and several signaling systems, including the corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH), the neuropeptide Y (NPY), the opioid receptors (OPRs), and the arginine vasopressin (AVP) systems in the amygdala and hypothalamus.
Results
In males, our findings revealed: 1) stress increased plasma corticosterone (CORT) levels; 2) stress and/or alcohol upregulated CRF signaling; 3) stress or alcohol decreased amygdalar NPY signalling, but increased it in the hypothalamus, increase mitigated by combined exposure; 4) alcohol elevated POMC and MR expression, attenuated by stress and alcohol combination; 5) stress and/or alcohol decreased mRNA levels of opioid receptors; 6) stress and/or alcohol upregulated Avp mRNA levels, but downregulated its receptor expression. In females, our findings revealed: 1) stressed rats showed elevated plasma ACTH levels, and both stress and alcohol increased CORT levels, but combined exposure dampened this rise; 2) alcohol increased amygdalar Crh mRNA, while stress reduced hypothalamic Crh mRNA and alcohol downregulated its receptors; 3) combined stress and alcohol significantly increased amygdalar NPY system mRNA, but downregulated it in the hypothalamus; 4) alcohol decreased POMC and GR expression; 5) alcohol increased Oprm1 and Oprs1 mRNA levels, while stress reduced Oprd1 expression; 6) stress and/or alcohol upregulated Avpr1a mRNA, with the combination increasing Avp mRNA.
Conclusions
This study demonstrated that both acute restraint stress and alcohol exposure during adolescence induced long-term, sex-dependent alterations in the mRNA expression of several system involved in the regulation of the stress response and reward. This highlights the importance of considering sex differences in developing strategies for the prevention and treatment of stress-related disorders.
Graphene nanosheets wrapped on SnO 2 -CuS nanoparticles as high- performance anode materials for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Cheng Jianpeng , Xiong Deping , Jiang Wenqin , Ye Wenbin , Song Peng , Feng Zuyong , He Miao
Published: July 2024

The synthesis of the ternary composite nanomaterial, SnO2-CuS-Graphene, involved a combination of hydrothermal and ball-milling techniques. Within the composite structure, the SnO2-CuS composite nanomaterials are evenly adhered to the Graphene, effectively shortening the diffusion pathways for electrons and Li+. This results in reduced volume fluctuations of the electrode during cycling, ultimately amplifying the conductivity of the hybrid material and offering plentiful active sites for lithium absorption. As a result, the SnO2-CuS-Graphene composite nanomaterial demonstrates exceptional electrochemical performance, achieving an impressive reversible capacity of 1106.7 mAh g− 1 after 200 cycles at 0.2 A g− 1 and maintaining a high reversible capacity of 991 mAh g–1 after 1000 cycles at 1.0 A g− 1. These results underscore its remarkable cycling stability and substantial reversible capacity.
Development of a fully automated workstation for conducting routine SABRE hyperpolarization
Authors: Yang Jing , Xin Ruodong , Lehmkuhl Sören , Korvink Jan G. , Brandner Jürgen J.
Published: July 2024

SABRE is emerging as a fast, simple and low-cost hyperpolarization method because of its ability to regenerate enhanced NMR signals. Generally, SABRE hyperpolarization has been performed predominantly manually, leading to variations in reproducibility and efficiency. Recent advances in SABRE include the development of automated shuttling systems to address previous inconsistencies. However, the operational complexity of such systems and the challenges of integration with existing workflows hinder their widespread adoption.
This work presents a fully automated lab workstation based on a benchtop NMR spectrometer, specifically designed to facilitate SABRE of different nuclei across different polarization fields. We demonstrated the capability of this system through a series of routine SABRE experimental protocols, including consecutive SABRE hyperpolarization with high reproducibility (average standard deviation of 1.03%), optimization polarization of 13C nuclei respect to the polarization transfer field, and measurement of polarization buildup rate or decay time across a wide range of magnetic fields. Furthermore, we have iteratively optimized the durations for pulsed SABRE-SHEATH 13C pyruvate.The constructed SABRE workstation offers full automation, high reproducibility, and functional diversification, making it a practical tool for conducting routine SABRE hyperpolarization experiments. It provides a robust platform for high-throughput and reliable SABRE and X-SABRE hyperpolarization studies.
Response of Alternaria and Fusarium species to low precipitation in a drought-tolerant plant in Morocco
Authors: Legeay Jean , Basiru Sulaimon , Ziami Abdelhadi , Errafii Khaoula , Hijri Mohamed
Published: July 2024

The plant mycobiome plays a crucial role in the host life cycle, influencing both healthy and diseased states, and is essential for plant tolerance to drought. In this study, we used ITS metabarcoding to investigate the fungal community of the drought-resistant plant Malva sylvestris L. in Morocco along a gradient of precipitation, encompassing subhumid and semi-arid environments. We sampled three compartments: rhizosphere, bulk soil, and root endosphere. Our findings revealed a significant difference in beta-diversity between bulk soil and rhizosphere in subhumid environments (p = 0.013), suggesting that the plant does not select its rhizosphere mycobiome in semi-arid environments (p = 0.538). Additionally, ASVs belonging to the genus Alternaria represented up to 30% of reads in the plant’s roots and correlated with drought (p = 0.006), indicating a potential role for this fungal genus in mitigating drought, possibly as part of the dark septate endophyte group. Root staining and microscopic observation revealed extensive colonization by fungal hyphae and microsclerotia-like structures. Furthermore, ASVs identified as Fusarium equiseti were also correlated with low precipitation (p = 0.028) and recognized as a hub taxon in the roots. However, it remains uncertain whether this species is pathogenic or beneficial to the plant. These insights contribute to our understanding of the plant mycobiome's role in drought tolerance and highlight the importance of specific fungal taxa in supporting plant health under varying environmental conditions. Future research should focus on characterizing these taxa's functional roles and their interactions with the host plant to further elucidate their contributions to drought resistance.
Serum Chemistry and Hematology of Eastern Mediterranean Sea Green Sea Turtles Undergoing Rehabilitation
Authors: Malonek Tal Starostinetsky , Scheinin Aviad , Wosnick Natascha , Davidovitch Nadav , Itay Peleg , Piha Shlomi , Aroch Itamar , Tchernov Dan , Levy Yaniv , Hauser-Davis Rachel Ann , Morick Danny
Published: July 2024

The Eastern Mediterranean Sea (EMS) is oligotrophic, presenting low biological production and high temperature and salinity, while comprising a biodiversity hotspot, with a unique emblematic threatened species array, including sea turtles. The establishment of healthy captive green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) baseline blood analyte reference intervals (RIs) will contribute to improving diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and conservation success rates for sea turtles, by offering information with therapeutic and prognostic implications. However, baseline serum chemistry and hematological analytes of EMS C. mydas are still unavailable. Hence, this study aimed to establish RIs for several blood analytes in general and under different life and rehabilitation stages and compare results with congeneric and conspecifics of other regions: wild Mediterranean loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) and two wild Atlantic green turtle populations. The study engolfed 118 blood samples obtained from 72 turtles admitted to the Israel Sea Turtle Rescue Centre between 2008–2020. Blood analyses included serum chemistry and packed cell volume (PCV), and their association with body size and health status, and enabled suggesting RIs for PCV, serum glucose and potassium concentrations, and aspartate transaminase and alkaline phosphatase activities. The PCV were significantly associated with rehabilitation. Noted differences arising via population comparison are likely associated with interspecific dietary and metabolic traits. These novel physiological results form the basis for future studies, and provide caregivers a tool potentially increasing the success of recovery, rehabilitation and conservation efforts. Further research is warranted to fill knowledge gaps concerning C. mydas physiology and potential ecological impacts on this species.
Design of Quantum-dot Semiconductor Optical Amplifiers With Near-zero Linewidth Enhancement Factor
Authors: Aşırım Özüm Emre , Jirauschek Christian
Published: July 2024

The linewidth enhancement factor (LWEF) of a semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA) quantifies refractive index fluctuations in the gain medium, which induce phase distortion in the amplified optical signal. Optoelectronic systems employing SOAs with high LWEFs often exhibit poor device stability and beam coherence. Thus, designing SOAs with low LWEF is imperative. Recently, Quantum-Dot (QD) SOAs have emerged as a solution for LWEF suppression due to quantum-confinement effects enabling tunability of the QD carrier density and emission frequency. In this study, we aim to design a composite active region comprised of a host medium and the embodied QDs, to explore the corresponding LWEF variation and propose the ultimate design strategy to achieve near-zero LWEF in QD SOAs for enhancing device stability and beam coherence. Our approach entails modeling the refractive index of the composite active region using effective medium approximation via Maxwell-Garnett mixing formulation. We then extensively tune key SOA parameters, including QD carrier density, QD emission frequency, and the collision-time constant of the carriers to uncover the optimal configuration for minimizing the LWEF. Based on empirical values, we have developed and validated a simple yet effective algorithm that precisely simulates LWEF behavior in response to changes in key QD SOA parameters. This approach offers a straightforward model for estimating LWEF variation, and its corresponding minimization in QD SOAs without requiring complex experimental measurement techniques.
Experiences of Undergoing Internet-Delivered Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Climate Change-Related Distress: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Lindhe Nike , Berg Matilda , Andersson Kali , Andersson Gerhard
Published: July 2024

Background
Internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy (ICBT) has previously shown promise in effectively treating climate change-related distress. The aim of the present study was to investigate participants’ experiences of undergoing a novel ICBT program targeting psychological symptoms associated with climate change.
Methods
Telephone interviews were conducted with nine participants who had received eight weeks of ICBT for climate change-related distress. A semi-structured interview guide was used to gather information about participants’ experiences of undergoing treatment. Data were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis.
Results
The thematic analysis resulted in three overarching themes: 1) Same old feelings, brand new strategies, 2) Bumps in the road, and 3) Personalized climate engagement. Participants experienced that they had developed new coping strategies for handling their emotions, encountered challenges during the treatment period, and adapted their pro-environmental behaviour to their individual needs and circumstances.
Conclusions
The results indicate that participants were able to utilize the treatment material in different ways, resulting in a variety of emotional, cognitive, and behavioural changes. While the treatment was generally described as helpful, participants also raised some concerns regarding the treatment format. These findings can inform further development of ICBT targeting psychological symptoms associated with climate change.
A minimal rupture model for earthquakeoccurrence with implications for the multiscaleanalysis of physical parameters from the lab tofault systems
Authors: Zaccagnino Davide , Bruno Oscar , Doglioni Carlo
Published: July 2024

An accurate assessment of seismic hazards requires a combination of earthquakephysics and statistical analysis. Because of the limits in the investigation of theseismogenic source and of the short temporal intervals covered by earthquakecatalogs, laboratory experiments have been playing a crucial role in improvingour understanding of earthquake phenomena. However, differences are observedbetween acoustic emissions in the lab and seismicity. One of the most pressingissues concerns the role of mechanical parameters (e.g., fault friction) and howthey affect seismic activity depending on boundary conditions and on the spatialand temporal scales. Here, we propose a model for earthquake occurrence basedon seismological evidence in agreement with fracture mechanics. We show that,although extremely simple, not only it reproduces the fundamental properties ofseismicity like other models, but it can also explain some peculiar phenomenaabout observational and statistical seismology (e.g., low stress drops and the originof characteristic earthquakes) being more coherent with earthquake physics.It also provides hints for multiscale modeling of physical parameters. Static anddynamic friction coefficients are investigated. While the latter is not affected by the spatial scale, static frictional resistance decreases with fault size convergingto the dynamic value.
Untargeted Lipidomics Analysis in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis Associated with Morbid Obesity
Authors: Bertran Laia , Capellades Jordi , Abelló Sonia , Richart Cristóbal
Published: July 2024

Background & Aims: Currently, there is a need to identify non-invasive biomarkers for an accurate diagnosis of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH). Therefore, our aim was to perform untargeted lipidomics to identify the circulating lipid metabolite profile of MASH.
Methods: We assessed a liquid chromatography coupled to a mass spectrometer-based untargeted lipidomic assay in serum samples of 216 women with morbid obesity that were stratified according to their hepatic histology into Normal Liver (n = 44), Simple Steatosis (SS, n = 66) and MASH (n = 106).
Results: First, we identified a profile of lipid metabolites that are increased in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease, composed of ceramides, triacylglycerols and some phospholipids. Then, we identified that patients with SS have a characteristic profile of increased levels of ceramides, diacylglycerols DG (36:2) and DG (36:4), some triacylglycerols and a few phospholipids such as PC (32:1), PE (38:3), PE (40:6), PI (32:0) and PI (32:1). Later, in MASH patients, we found increased levels of ceramides, deoxycholic acid, a set of triacylglycerols, and some phospholipids such as PC, PE, PI and LPI, while we found decreased levels of the DG (36:0). Finally, we have reported a panel of lipid metabolites that are discriminatory and specific to patients with MASH compared to SS patients, made up of increased levels of 9-HODE some PC and PE, LPI (16:0) and decreased levels of DG (36:0).
Conclusions: Our investigation has reported a lipid metabolite profile associated with MASH that could be used as a non-invasive diagnostic tool.
O Teste de Brunelli e a Doença de Dequervain: Relação entre a sua Positividade e os Achados Ultrassonográficos e Intraoperatórios
Authors: Braid Juliana Almeida , Baldoino Leonardo Gomes , Arone Diego Pinedo , Silva Lucas Dias Soares , Rezende Luis Guilherme Rosifini Alves
Published: July 2024

Introdução: Correlacionar o Teste de Brunelli, os achados ultrassonográficos e os achados intraoperatórios. Métodos. Estudo retrospectivo baseado na revisão de prontuários que avaliou 22 pacientes com Tenossinovite de DeQuervain tratados cirurgicamente avaliando a positividade do teste de Brunelli e os achados ultrassonográficos e intraoperatórios. Resultados. Todos os pacientes selecionados apresentavam teste de Finkelstein positivo no diagnóstico. Houve diferença estatística para o teste de Brunelli positivo e a presença de anomalias no primeiro compartimento extensor (p<0,001; Teste do Qui-Quadrado) pelos exames ultrassonográficos e para as alterações observadas no intraoperatório (p<0,001; Teste do Qui-Quadrado). Os achados cirúrgicos confirmaram a presença das alterações ultrassonográficas nestes pacientes (p<0,001; Teste do Qui-Quadrado). Conclusão. Concluímos que o teste de Brunelli positivo apresentou relação com a presença de anomalias no primeiro compartimento extensor.
Production of dry extracts from sea buckthorn raw materials: Research results
Authors: Kotova T. I. , Khanturgaev A. G. , Tsytsykov V. A. , Khanturgaeva N. A.
Published: July 2024

Production of soluble dry extracts from sea buckthorn raw materials is relevant and promising for enterprises of the Republic of Buryatia. The authors have selected technological equipment for obtaining dry extracts: extractor, concentrator, dryer. The possibility of using vacuum-pulse action and the influence of technological factors on the yield of water-soluble substances from sea buckthorn leaves and shoots has been studied. The operating parameters of the technological process have been determined experimentally under production conditions: temperature 45–50 °C, total duration of extraction, concentration and drying 79–111 minutes. The process of obtaining dry extracts is carried out in three stages: water extraction; filtration and concentration; drying in a vacuum pulse dryer. The resulting experimental sample of dry extract from sea buckthorn leaves and shoots is a free-flowing crystalline powder with a moisture content of 4–6 %, highly soluble in water, having high organoleptic characteristics – a natural, well-defined aroma characteristic of sea buckthorn, light brown color. The use of low temperatures and vacuum-pulse modes at the stages of the technological process predicts high safety of thermolabile biologically active substances in the product. The process of obtaining dry extracts from sea buckthorn leaves and shoots has been studied. The results of the studies prove the possibility of producing a dry extract with high organoleptic characteristics using the developed by the authors' technology by equipment whose vacuum-pulse operating modes have a positive effect on the yield of extractives and help reduce time costs along with the intensification of heat and mass exchange processes in sea buckthorn raw materials.
Functional product from combined raw materials of animal origin for gerodietetic nutrition
Authors: Leskova S. Yu. , Fedorova T. Ts. , Pavlova S. N. , Merzlyakov A. A. , Purbuev A. V. , Danilov M. B.
Published: July 2024

Food is an integral factor in ensuring the active life of older citizens. However, the range of meat products, including sausages for specialized nutrition, is extremely limited. In this regard, a technology of functionally oriented boiled sausage for gerodietetic nutrition "Gerodietetic functional" has been developed. The effectiveness of using a protein-fat emulsion containing a functional ingredient – iodine in the form of a complex compound β-cyclodextrin : iodine in the preparation of minced sausage has been proven. The functional and technological properties of combined minced meat, consisting of meat from productive animals and mechanically separated poultry meat with a protein-fat emulsion have been studied. The losses of microelements amounted to 12 % in key technological operations of meat product production have been studied. Based on the study of the iodine and protein content in the finished product, its functional orientation and characteristics as a product with high protein content have been established. Systematic consumption of "Gerodietetic functional" sausage will contribute to the health and longevity of older people.
Development of the formulation and technology of a new fish culinary product "Cream cheese fish from blue catfish" enriched with iodine of kelp of the White Sea
Authors: Novozhilova E. A. , Shokina Yu. V. , Reshetnik E. I. , Zakharova L. M. , Pakusina A. P. , Pashina L. L. , Shkolnikov P. N. , Tikhonova P. А.
Published: July 2024

Expanding the range of products based on the rational use of available fish resources is a current direction for the development of the food industry of the Russian Federation. Blue catfish, a little-used fishery item in the Northern Basin, was chosen as a raw material for the development of a fish culinary paste product. Blue catfish meat is significantly watered (up to 93 % of the total mass), as a result there are currently no technologies for deep processing of fish for food purposes. During the research, the technology of a new fish culinary product "Fish cream cheese from blue catfish, enriched with iodine from White Sea kelp" has been proposed in an assortment, and recipes have been developed, optimized in the MatLab program. The amino acid composition of blue catfish meat as well as indicators of the nutritional value of new products have been considered. The energy value of 100 g of product varies from 120 to 150 kcal, the mass fraction of protein is 8.5–11 %; fat – 9–13 %; carbohydrates – 2–2.5 %. The iodine content in a unit of consumer packaging of the product "Cream cheese fish from blue catfish with pickled seaweed" was experimentally established to be 340 mcg per 100 g; a 44 g serving of this product contains 100 % of the recommended daily intake of the micronutrient (150 mcg). The developed product "Cream cheese fish from blue catfish with pickled seaweed" can be classified as "enriched with iodine" when the amount of its daily consumption (25 g) is indicated on the consumer packaging.
Prospects for using powders from pumpkin pulp and rose hips in bakery products
Authors: Sapozhnikov A. N. , Kopylova A. V. , Obrikov D. A.
Published: July 2024

Research to study the influence of pumpkin and rosehip powders obtained by infrared drying on sensory characteristics, nutritional value and cost of raw materials for bakery products made from premium grade wheat flour has been carried out at the Department of Technology and Organization of Food Production of Novosibirsk State Technical University. The objects of the study are two types of powders made using infrared drying of pumpkin pulp and rose hips, and products using these herbal additives. A flowchart for producing these powders has been developed and demonstrated. The use of infrared radiation as a drying method allows you to preserve a larger amount of useful substances, including vitamin C. Three samples of products were made with different mass fractions of pumpkin and rosehip powders instead of wheat flour. The introduction of powders into products led to an improvement in the organoleptic parameters of the samples. The appearance has remained virtually unchanged, but the texture has improved, and the taste and smell have acquired a light fruity tint. The optimal mass fraction of powders was 4+4 % relative to the mass of wheat flour, which corresponds to experimental sample 3, which has a more pleasant taste and attractive appearance compared to control sample 1. A comparative analysis of the nutritional value of these samples has been carried out. Sample 3 contained beta-carotene and ascorbic acid absent in the control sample 1. The cost of a raw material set for a product sample with an optimal mass fraction of powders weighing 480 g increased by 6.4 rubles (43.8 %) compared to the control sample and is justified by the presence of pumpkin and rosehip powders increasing the organoleptic properties and nutritional value of the product. The resulting product can be sold to a wide range of consumers with different income levels.
Employing gamification strategies to prepare school students for journalism competitions
Authors: Logunova E. V. , Savelyeva A. A. , Osipovskaya E. A.
Published: July 2024

This paper aims to conduct a thorough analysis of the effectiveness of incorporating gamification elements in the preparation of school students for journalism competitions. The authors have examined eighteen competitions facilitated by prominent institutions including the National Research University Higher School of Economics (HSE), Moscow State University named after M.V. Lomonosov (MSU), and Saint Petersburg State University (SPbSU). Drawing from openly available sources, a classification of seven gamification formats for student preparation has been proposed: quizzes, interactive storytelling, games employing virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR), process tracking, role-playing games, textual expansions, and games that utilize artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms. Furthermore, the authors have delineated the primary stages of the journalism competitions, which are categorized into theoretical and practice-oriented segments. The theoretical segment encompasses tasks in a test format that assess basic factual knowledge, while the practice-oriented segment comprises written tasks. These tasks are designed to evaluate the students’ proficiency in creating and writing informational materials, encompassing mastery of text style, literacy, and structured logical narration. The results indicate that gamification not only enriches the educational landscape, rendering learning more engaging and interactive, but also significantly enhances students’ proficiency in refining complex journalistic skills.
Socio-communicative aspects of the representation of disease symptoms in Renaissance art
Authors: Yakushina O. I. , Sharkov F. I.
Published: July 2024

Modern historical research devoted to the development of medical science and the art of healing increasingly involves the analysis of sociocultural and sociocommunicative aspects, which become part of historical analysis. The article examines the relationship between fine art and human anatomy as an element of sociocultural translation (communication) of knowledge in the history of medicine, in particular anatomy. The art of the Renaissance, primarily portraiture from life, copying the image of a specific person, can reflect signs of his health, symptoms of illness, and medical knowledge in historical retrospect is actually part of the culture of society. The artists often turned out to be medically observant, accurate in small details. In this study, the authors show several examples of the reflection of specific medical pathologies in paintings and come to the conclusion that works of art can transmit information about the state of health of the depicted person, the presence of clinical manifestations of diseases captured by the brush of an artist but probably not yet known and understood by the doctors of that epoque.
Role of supply chain management in improving competitive advantage of Indonesian small and medium enterprises
Authors: Siagian Hotlan , Ronni Basana Sautma , Jiwa Husada Tarigan Zeplin , Novitasari Maya , Jie Ferry
Published: July 2024

Global competition has forced companies, including small and medium enterprises (SMEs), to improve their competitive advantage. Supply chain management practices are the ways to improve the competitive advantage, particularly in the global competition context. However, there is still doubt SMEs can compete globally, considering they face limited resources, skilled workforce, and business networks. Therefore, this study aims to examine the influence of supply chain management practices, covering cross-functional integration, partnership, responsiveness, and resilience. Moreover, this study has examined which practices dominate in improving competitive advantage. The quantitative study involved 445 SMEs located in East Java, Indonesia. The respondents are supervisors or higher levels and work in departments related to supply chain management, as they can provide the relevant information and possess complete knowledge of management practices. The data were collected via a questionnaire designed with a five-point Likert scale. The responses were analyzed using SmartPLS software 4.0. The results show that cross-function integration improves supply chain partnership, responsiveness, and resilience (β = 0.705, 0.382, 0.324; t-value = 25.177, 6.697, 5.783). Supply chain partnerships affect supply chain responsiveness, resilience, and competitive advantage (β = 0.327, 0.257, 0.249; t-value = 5.933, 4.536, 5.651). Moreover, supply chain responsiveness improves supply chain resilience and competitive advantage (β = 0.285, 0.106; t-value = 5.690, 2.099). Supply chain resilience improves competitive advantage (β = 0.435 and t-value = 8.987). SMEs can enhance their competitive advantage by integrating their internal cross-functional integration and adopting supply chain partnership, responsiveness, and resilience.
Acknowledgments The authors would like to thank DIKTI 2023 and Research and Community Outreach Petra Christian University for providing the grant to fund this research.
Effectiveness of reforms to eliminate obstacles in the development of sustainable energy in different countries of the world
Authors: Dobrovolska Olena , Schmidtke Knut , Krause Julia , Matukhno Olena , Cierjacks Arne
Published: July 2024

The development of strategy and tactics for reforms in the energy industry involves the identification of benchmark countries whose experience can form the basis of a quantitative assessment of the main targets of the reforms. The basis for such decisions can be the results of the integrated assessment of energy reforms in the EU countries for 2010–2021. This study aims to cluster these countries according to the integral indicator and determine specific directions in which the respective country needs to make progress in moving to another cluster. Thus, based on a linear model, the Fishburn formula, and variance analysis, 10 energy development indicators were combined into a single indicator that characterizes the effectiveness of energy reforms (for example, in 2021, it was the highest in Austria (0.612), Germany (0.644), and France (0.620); the lowest – in Latvia (0.383) and Croatia (0.369)). Based on this indicator, countries were clustered using the k-means method. Four clusters were formed: representatives of the highest first (Austria, Germany, France, Spain, Sweden, and Luxembourg) are strategic benchmarks for all EU countries, and representatives of other clusters are tactical benchmarks for countries from lower clusters. The average values of all 10 indicators of energy development were calculated. Their low values are a sign that this direction should be a priority when carrying out reforms, and their quantitative estimates can be used as specific targets when setting strategic and tactical tasks (transition to a higher cluster or achieving average values in one’s cluster).
AcknowledgmentThe research was funded by a Fellowship agreement for a research fellowship in the framework of the 11th funding round within the Philipp Schwartz Initiative of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation.
Nieto Ibáñez, Jesús M., & Torres Prieto, Juana M. (Eds.). Historia de la literatura cristiana en la Antigüedad. Madrid: Ciudad Nueva, 2024, 682 pp. ISBN: 978-84-9715-577-9
Authors: Junco Ethel
Published: July 2024

Dos reputados catedráticos, Jesús Nieto Ibáñez por la Universidad de Valladolid y Juana Torres Prieto por la Universidad de Cantabria son los editores responsables de un manual, que, por su temática, se echaba en falta en el ámbito académico hispanoamericano.
Se trata de un texto organizado en tres núcleos: a) De los orígenes al siglo III; b) De Constantino al siglo III y c) La época de la separación entre Oriente y Occidente (ss. V y VI).
Comparative Assessment of Insulation Materials for Improving Indoor Air Quality in Building Retrofit
Authors: Narayanan Vishnupriya , Hashemi Arman , Elsharkawy Heba , Newport Darryl , Basaly Lucienne
Published: July 2024

This paper evaluates the impacts of different insulation materials on Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and occupant health with a focus on the Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emissions. The main aim is to identify options that minimize exposure rates while improving IAQ and energy in retrofitted buildings. A comprehensive literature review was conducted synthesizing scholarly articles, guidelines from international organizations, and information on pollutants, IAQ standards, and retrofit strategies. The findings show high emission rates for some insulation materials that could negatively affect health. Hemp insulation in contrast was identified as a promising solution exhibiting low VOC emissions compared to other insulation materials. As sustainable construction practices advance, hemp insulation emerges as a viable retrofit strategy for social housing by synergistically addressing performance gaps related to energy conservation, air quality, and thermal comfort. The synthesis of evidence from this paper suggests that, from environmental and public health perspectives, certain insulation materials are preferable for improving IAQ and reducing the risk of exposure to indoor air pollutants in retrofitted buildings.