bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Semi-Supervised Method for Grain Boundary Segmentation: Teacher–Student Knowledge Distillation and Pseudo-Label Repair
Authors: Huang Yuanyou , Zhang Xiaoxun , Ma Fang , Li Jiaming , Wang Shuxian
Published: September 2024

Grain boundary segmentation is crucial for the quantitative analysis of grain structures and material optimization. However, challenges persist due to noise interference, high labeling costs, and low detection Accuracy. Therefore, we propose a semi-supervised method called Semi-SRUnet, which is based on teacher–student knowledge distillation and pseudo-label repair to achieve grain boundary detection for a small number of labels. Specifically, the method introduces SCConv (Spatial and Channel Reconstruction Convolution) and boundary regression to improve the U-Net (a convolutional neural network architecture) as a teacher network. These innovations aim to reduce spatial and channel redundancy, expand the receptive field, and effectively capture contextual information from images, thereby improving feature extraction robustness and boundary precision in noisy environments. Additionally, we designed a pseudo-label repair algorithm to enhance the Accuracy of pseudo-labels generated by the teacher network and used knowledge distillation to train a lightweight student network. The experimental results demonstrate that Semi-SRUnet achieves 88.86% mean Intersection over Union (mIoU), 96.64% mean Recall (mRecall), 91.5% mean Precision (mPrecision), and 98.77% Accuracy, surpassing state-of-the-art models and offering a novel approach for reliable grain boundary segmentation and analysis.
Decoding the Epigenetics of Infertility: Mechanisms, Environmental Influences, and Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Saftić Martinović Lara , Mladenić Tea , Lovrić Dora , Ostojić Saša , Dević Pavlić Sanja
Published: September 2024

Infertility is a complex condition caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Recent advances in epigenetics have highlighted the importance of epigenetic changes in fertility regulation. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the epigenetic mechanisms involved in infertility, with a focus on DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNAs. We investigate the specific epigenetic events that occur during gametogenesis, with a focus on spermatogenesis and oogenesis as distinct processes. Furthermore, we investigate how environmental factors such as diet, stress, and toxin exposure can influence these epigenetic changes, potentially leading to infertility. The second part of the review explores epigenetic changes as therapeutic targets for infertility. Emerging therapies that modulate epigenetic marks present promising opportunities for fertility restoration, particularly in spermatogenesis. By summarizing current research findings, this review emphasizes the importance of understanding epigenetic contributions to infertility. Our discussion aims to lay the groundwork for future research directions and clinical applications in reproductive health.
Effect of Skimmed Milk Powder and Fruit Jams Addition on the Physicochemical Characteristics of Yogurt
Authors: Janoušek Honesová Simona , Samková Eva , Dadáková Eva , Hasoňová Lucie , Jarošová Markéta , Reindl Karolína , Bárta Jan
Published: September 2024

In three consecutive experiments, natural yogurt (NY) and fruit yogurt (FY) fortified with 5 and 10% skimmed milk powder (SMP) and 10% jam from black currant (BC), elderberry (EB), and their mixture of 1:1 (BCEB) were analyzed, and consumer acceptance was assessed. In Experiment 1, the effect of SMP (0, 5, and 10%) on selected physicochemical parameters of the NY was evaluated. With the increasing addition of SMP, a decrease in fat content (up to −19%) and, conversely, an increase in protein content (up to +82%) and viscosity were noted. Analyses of fruits and jams intended for yogurt fortification revealed a significantly higher vitamin C content in BC than in EB and higher anthocyanins in EB than in BC. In Experiment 2, NY with 5 and 10% SMP was fortified with 10% jams (BC or EB). A joint effect of SMP and the type of fruit jam was evaluated. The same trends in fat and protein contents as in Experiment 1 were detected. The sensory evaluation showed better acceptance of FY with 10% SMP and no differences between BC and EB perception. Thus, for Experiment 3, FY was prepared with only 10% SMP and 10% jam (BC, EB, BCEB). Significant differences were detected in active acidity and color measured in the CIELab system. These results were also confirmed in sensory evaluation. The overall acceptability showed that FY with different types of jam did not significantly differ. The launching of innovative fortified yogurt onto the market represents a promising way to increase the diversity of fermented dairy products with nutritionally desirable properties.
Sensory Evaluation and Consumers’ Acceptance of a Low Glycemic and Gluten-Free Carob-Based Bakery Product
Authors: Esposito Luigi , Casolani Nicola , Ruggeri Marco , Spizzirri Umile Gianfranco , Aiello Francesca , Chiodo Emilio , Martuscelli Maria , Restuccia Donatella , Mastrocola Dino
Published: September 2024

Carob pulp flour has antidiabetic and antioxidant activities, is naturally sweet, and is rich in fibers. It is obtained from carob pod pulp from the evergreen tree Ceratonia siliqua L., which is grown in Mediterranean areas and is known for locust bean gum production. Despite its valuable effects on health, such as the modulation of the glycemic index, this ingredient has a tremendous impact on technological and hedonic features, mainly on color, flavor, and texture. In this paper, the qualitative features and consumers’ acceptance of a carob-based gluten-free bakery product where rice flour was substituted at 40% with carob pulp flour were studied. A panel group of experts described the bread as dark, quite dense, sweet, aromatic, and with a limited bubble dispersion. On the other hand, the sensory assessment and the willingness to pay of consumers were assessed in two groups (a fully informed one about heathy attributes of the food and a blind one). The results indicated a moderate appreciation of the overall quality of the product (average score between 4 and 5 points on a 9-point Likert scale). The information about the food’s healthy properties and the ability to maintain a low glycemic index did not enhance the consumers’ perception of the product, while previous knowledge and involvement in the product consumption were perceived to have primary importance regarding the final consumers’ choice. Finally, an accelerated shelf-life test was run on the packaged snack to evaluate the general quality and stability. The protective packaging helped in limiting bread decay and maintaining the textural characteristics.
Advances in Methods and Technologies for Carcass and Meat Quality Evaluation
Authors: Silva Severiano , Teixeira Alfredo
Published: September 2024

The importance of advanced methods and technologies in the meat industry has increased significantly in the last decade, reflecting broader trends in consumer demand and food safety [...]
The Effect of Ultrasound Treatment on the Structural and Functional Properties of Tenebrio molitor Myofibrillar Protein
Authors: Wang Xiu , Ni Xiangxiang , Duan Chaoyi , Li Ruixi , Jiang Xiao’e , Xu Mingfeng , Yu Rongrong
Published: September 2024

The objective of this study was to explore the impacts of various ultrasonic powers (0, 300, 500, 700, and 900 W) on the structure and functional attributes of the myofibrillar protein (MP) of Tenebrio molitor. As the ultrasonic intensity escalated, the extraction efficiency and yield of the MP rose, while the particle size and turbidity decreased correspondingly. The reduction in sulfhydryl group content and the increase in carbonyl group content both suggested that ultrasonic treatment promoted the oxidation of the MP to a certain extent, which was conducive to the formation of a denser and more stable gel network structure. This was also affirmed by SEM images. Additionally, the findings of intrinsic fluorescence and FTIR indicated that high-intensity ultrasound significantly altered the secondary structure of the protein. The unfolding of the MP exposed more amino acid residues, the α-helix decreased, and the β-helix improved, thereby resulting in a looser and more flexible conformation. Along with the structural alteration, the surface hydrophobicity and emulsification properties were also significantly enhanced. Besides that, SDS–PAGE demonstrated that the MP of T. molitor was primarily composed of myosin heavy chain (MHC), actin, myosin light chain (MLC), paramyosin, and tropomyosin. The aforementioned results confirmed that ultrasonic treatment could, to a certain extent, enhance the structure and function of mealworm MP, thereby providing a theoretical reference for the utilization of edible insect proteins in the future, deep-processing proteins produced by T. molitor, and the development of new technologies.
Valorization of Pig Brains for Prime Quality Oil: A Comparative Evaluation of Organic-Solvent-Based and Solvent-Free Extractions
Authors: Chanted Jaruwan , Anantawat Visaka , Wongnen Chantira , Aewsiri Tanong , Panpipat Worawan , Panya Atikorn , Phonsatta Natthaporn , Cheong Ling-Zhi , Chaijan Manat
Published: September 2024

Pig processing industries have produced large quantities of by-products, which have either been discarded or used to make low-value products. This study aimed to provide recommendations for manufacturing edible oil from pig brains, thereby increasing the value of pork by-products. The experiment compared non-solvent extraction methods, specifically wet rendering and aqueous saline, to a standard solvent extraction method, the Bligh and Dyer method, for extracting oil from pig brains. The yield, color, fatty acid profile, a number of lipid classes, and lipid stability against lipolysis and oxidation of the pig brain oil were comprehensively compared, and the results revealed that these parameters varied depending on the extraction method. The wet rendering process provided the highest extracted oil yield (~13%), followed by the Bligh and Dyer method (~7%) and the aqueous saline method (~2.5%). The Bligh and Dyer method and wet rendering techniques produced a translucent yellow oil; however, an opaque light-brown-red oil was found in the aqueous saline method. The Bligh and Dyer method yielded the oil with the highest phospholipid, cholesterol, carotenoid, tocopherol, and free fatty acid contents (p < 0.05). Although the Bligh and Dyer method recovered the most unsaturated fatty acids, it also recovered more trans-fatty acids. Aqueous saline and wet rendering procedures yielded oil with low FFA levels (<1 g/100 g). The PV of the oil extracted using all methods was <1 meq/kg; however, the Bligh and Dyer method had a significant TBARS content (7.85 mg MDA equivalent/kg) compared to aqueous saline (1.75 mg MDA equivalent/kg) and wet rendering (1.14 mg MDA equivalent/kg) (p < 0.05). FTIR spectra of the pig brain oil revealed the presence of multiple components in varying quantities, as determined by chemical analysis experiments. Given the higher yield and lipid stability and the lower cholesterol and trans-fatty acid content, wet rendering can be regarded as a simple and environmentally friendly method for safely extracting quality edible oil from pig brains, which may play an important role in obtaining financial benefits, nutrition, the zero-waste approach, and increasing the utilization of by-products in the meat industry.
Sustainable Production of Ulva Oligosaccharides via Enzymatic Hydrolysis: A Review on Ulvan Lyase
Authors: Huang Ailan , Wu Xinming , Lu Fuping , Liu Fufeng
Published: September 2024

Ulvan is a water-soluble sulfated polysaccharide extracted from the green algae cell wall. Compared with polysaccharides, oligosaccharides have drawn increasing attention in various industries due to their enhanced biocompatibility and solubility. Ulvan lyase degrades polysaccharides into low molecular weight oligosaccharides through the β-elimination mechanism. The elucidation of the structure, catalytic mechanism, and molecular modification of ulvan lyase will be helpful to obtain high value-added products from marine biomass resources, as well as reduce environmental pollution caused by the eutrophication of green algae. This review summarizes the structure and bioactivity of ulvan, the microbial origin of ulvan lyase, as well as its sequence, three-dimensional structure, and enzymatic mechanism. In addition, the molecular modification of ulvan lyase, prospects and challenges in the application of enzymatic methods to prepare oligosaccharides are also discussed. It provides information for the preparation of bioactive Ulva oligosaccharides through enzymatic hydrolysis, the technological bottlenecks, and possible solutions to address these issues within the enzymatic process.
Screening of Anisakis-Related Allergies and Associated Factors in a Mediterranean Community Characterized by High Seafood Consumption
Authors: Fruscione Santo , Barrale Maria , Zarcone Maurizio , Alba Davide , Ravazzolo Barbara , Belluzzo Miriam , Onida Rosa , Cammilleri Gaetano , Costa Antonella , Ferrantelli Vincenzo , Savatteri Alessandra , De Bella Daniele Domenico , Pipitone Salvatore , D’Atria Alida , Pieri Alessia , Tramuto Fabio , Costantino Claudio , Maida Carmelo Massimo , Graziano Giorgio , Palomba Marialetizia , Mattiucci Simonetta , Brusca Ignazio , Mazzucco Walter
Published: September 2024

Dietary changes expose consumers to risks from Anisakis larvae in seafood, leading to parasitic diseases and allergies. Anisakis is recognized by EFSA as a significant hazard, with potential oncogenic implications. Diagnostic advancements, like the Basophil Activation Test (BAT), enhance sensitivity and accuracy in identifying Anisakis sensitization, complementing traditional IgE tests. We conducted a cross-sectional study on patients with allergic symptoms from April 2021 to April 2023 at two outpatient clinics in western Sicily. Our goal was to assess the prevalence of Anisakis-related allergies and to identify risk profiles using specific Anisakis IgE and the BAT, especially in regions with high raw fish consumption. The study evaluated specific Anisakis IgE as a screening tool for Anisakis sensitization, using questionnaires, blood samples, and immuno-allergology analyses. Anisakis-specific IgE values were compared with the BAT results, with statistical analyses including Fisher’s exact test and logistic regression. The results showed an 18.5% seroprevalence of Anisakis IgE, while the BAT as a second-level test showed 4.63%, indicating the BAT’s superior specificity and accuracy. The study highlighted the importance of the BAT in diagnosing Anisakis sensitization, especially in cases of cross-reactivity with Ascaris and tropomyosin. The findings confirm the BAT’s exceptional specificity in identifying Anisakis sensitization and support using Anisakis-specific IgE for population-based risk profiling. The BAT can effectively serve as a confirmatory test.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals the Mechanism of Cold-Induced Sweetening in Chestnut during Cold Storage
Authors: Zhan Chun , Jia Ruqi , Yang Shuzhen , Zhang Meihong , Peng Litao
Published: September 2024

Chestnuts become sweetened with better tastes for fried products after cold storage, but the possible mechanism is not clear. The dynamics of sugar components and related physiological responses, as well as the possible molecular mechanism in chestnuts during cold storage, were investigated. Sucrose accumulation and starch degradation contributed to taste improvement. Sucrose content reached the peak after two months of cold storage, along with the accumulation of reducing sugars of maltose, fructose and glucose to a much lesser extent. Meanwhile, alpha-amylase and beta-amylase maintained high levels, and the activities of acid invertase and sucrose synthase increased. Transcriptome data demonstrated that differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were significantly enriched in the process of starch and sucrose metabolism pathway, revealing the conversion promotion of starch to sucrose. Furthermore, DEGs involved in multiple phytohormone biosynthesis and signal transduction, as well as the transcription regulators, indicated that sucrose accumulation might be interconnected with the dormancy release of chestnuts, with over 90% germinated after two months of cold storage. Altogether, the results indicated that cold storage improved the taste of chestnuts mainly due to sucrose accumulation induced by DEGs of starch and sucrose metabolism pathway in this period, and the sweetening process was interconnected with dormancy release.
Determination of Opium Alkaloid Content in Poppy Seeds Using Liquid Chromatography Coupled with a Mass Spectrometer with a Time-of-Flight Analyzer (UPLC-TOF-HRMS)
Authors: Zapaśnik Agnieszka , Pierzgalski Adam , Bryła Marcin
Published: September 2024

Opium poppy is a plant used in both the pharmaceutical and food industries. Substances found on the surface of dry poppy seeds belong to the group of opium alkaloids. However, the presence of these substances in food products poses a risk to consumer health, which is why new permissible levels for both substances in poppy seeds and derivative products have been introduced in Regulation (EU) 2023/915. This research aimed to analyze the content of all six opium alkaloids in poppy seeds provided directly by producers as well as those available on the local market in Poland. The research confirmed the presence of morphine in all examined poppy seed samples. The alkaloid content ranged from 12.46 to 102.86 mg/kg for seeds purchased in local markets and from 1.1 to 110.1 mg/kg for seeds obtained directly from producers. Both groups showed similar levels of morphine content as well as other OAs, which significantly exceeded the permissible limit of 20 mg/kg set by the European Commission (EU) 2023/915. These results indicate that the presence of morphine and other opium alkaloids in poppy seeds exceeds permissible levels, posing a serious health issue and necessitating further research and improvement in processing methods.
Preparation of Composite Hydrogels Based on Cysteine–Silver Sol and Methylene Blue as Promising Systems for Anticancer Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Vishnevetskii Dmitry V. , Metlin Fedor A. , Andrianova Yana V. , Polyakova Elizaveta E. , Ivanova Alexandra I. , Averkin Dmitry V. , Mekhtiev Arif R.
Published: September 2024

In this study, a novel supramolecular composite, “photogels”, was synthesized by mixing of cysteine–silver sol (CSS) and methylene blue (MB). A complex of modern physico-chemical methods of analysis such as viscosimetry, UV spectroscopy, dynamic and electrophoretic light scattering, scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy showed that MB molecules are uniformly localized mainly in the space between fibers of the gel-network formed by CSS particles. Molecules of the dye also bind with the surface of CSS particles by non-covalent interactions. This fact is reflected in the appearance of a synergistic anticancer effect of gels against human squamous cell carcinoma even in the absence of light irradiation. A mild toxic influence of hydrogels was observed in normal keratinocyte cells. Photodynamic exposure significantly increased gel activity, and there remained a synergistic effect. The study of free-radical oxidation in cells has shown that gels are not only capable of generating reactive oxygen species, but also have other targets of action. Flow cytometric analysis allowed us to find out that obtained hydrogels caused cell cycle arrest both without irradiation and with light exposure. The obtained gels are of considerable interest both from the point of view of academics and applied science, for example, in the photodynamic therapy of superficial neoplasms.
Freedom from Recurrence across Age in Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer Treated with Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy
Authors: Farberg Aaron S. , Heysek Randy V. , Haber Robert , Agha Rania , Crawford Kevin M. , Xinge Ji , Stricker Jeffrey Blake
Published: September 2024

Non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality; their incidence is increasing most in older patients. NMSCs have traditionally been treated with surgical excision, curettage, Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS), and superficial radiotherapy (SRT). Image-guided SRT (IGSRT) is a treatment option for poor surgical candidates or patients with low- or high-risk, early-stage NMSC who prefer to avoid surgery. This large retrospective cohort study compared 2-, 4-, and 6-year freedom from recurrence in biopsy-proven NMSC lesions treated with IGSRT (n = 20,069 lesions) between patients aged < 65 years (n = 3158 lesions) and ≥65 years (n = 16,911 lesions). Overall freedom from recurrence rates were 99.68% at 2 years, 99.57% at 4 years, and 99.57% at 6 years. Rates did not differ significantly by age (p = 0.8) nor by sex among the two age groups (p > 0.9). There was a significant difference in recurrence among older patients when analyzed by stage (p = 0.032), but no difference by stage in younger patients (p = 0.7). For early-stage NMSCs, IGSRT is a clinically equivalent alternative to MMS and statistically significant in superiority to non-image-guided SRT. This study demonstrates that there is no significant effect of age on 2-, 4-, or 6-year freedom from recurrence in patients with IGSRT-treated NMSC.
Effectiveness of Telephysiotherapy in Improving Older Adults’ Physical and Psychological Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Man Siu-Shing , Wen Huiying , Chiu Kung-Ting , Wang Fenghong , Chan Hoi-Shou
Published: September 2024

(1) Objective: to investigate the effectiveness of telephysiotherapy compared with traditional rehabilitation for elderly patients and determine the factors impacting its efficacy. (2) Method: Five online databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane) were reviewed up to 31 July 2023. The search included the literature in English from 2014 to 2023, to capture the latest practices in telephysiotherapy for elderly patients. Data from all qualified studies were independently extracted by two authors, quantifying effect size to reflect treatment performance. (3) Results: 222 records from 19 articles were analyzed. The effect size for telephysiotherapy was 0.350 (95% C.I. = 0.283–0.416; p < 0.01). The standardized mean differences for physical and psychological outcomes were 0.406 (95% C.I. = 0.325–0.488; p < 0.01) and 0.223 (95% C.I. = 0.110–0.336; p < 0.01), respectively. (4) Conclusions: Telephysiotherapy was more effective than traditional rehabilitation, significantly improving the physical and psychological status of elderly patients. The factors influencing the effectiveness of telephysiotherapy were intervention type, intervention duration, outcome, and gender.
Effects of Using a Special Weighted Vest on Muscle Activity around the Scapula during Knee Push-Up Plus in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Liu Lin , Liu Ying , Yuk Young-sam , Lim Hyoung-won
Published: September 2024

Muscle imbalances in the upper body can lead to ineffective movement patterns and potential injury. The purpose of this study was to investigate the muscle activity, impact, and muscle activation ratio of the serratus anterior (SA), upper trapezius (UT), lower trapezius (LT), and pectoralis major (PM) during the knee push-up plus (KPUP) exercise under various loads. Method: Electromyography assessed scapular muscle activity in 32 healthy adults (15 males, 17 females) during three KPUP variations. Results: PM and UT showed no significant activity differences across loads, whereas SA and LT did. SA activity was significantly higher in the weighted KPUP (WKPUP) 3 kg than that in KPUP and WKPUP 1 kg. LT activity was also significantly higher in WKPUP 3 kg compared to KPUP and WKPUP 1 kg, with KPUP showing higher activity than WKPUP 1 kg. PM/SA ratios remained consistent across loads, while UT/LT ratios varied significantly, being notably lower at 3 kg compared to 0 kg and 1 kg. Similarly, UT/SA ratios differed significantly among loads, being notably lower at 3 kg and 1 kg compared to 0 kg. Conclusion: WKPUP with 3 kg demonstrated significantly higher SA and LT activity compared to KPUP and WKPUP 1 kg. The lowest UT/LT ratio was observed during the WKPUP 3 kg, suggesting its effectiveness for optimizing muscle activation balance during KPUP exercises. These findings may inform the development of exercise protocols aimed at improving scapular stabilization.
The Mediating Effects of Symptom Experiences on the Relationship between Body Image and Quality of Life among Hemodialysis Patients in a Single Center
Authors: Yang Yaki
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to confirm the mediating effects of symptom experiences on the relationship between the body image and quality of life of hemodialysis patients. Data were collected from 153 patients who were diagnosed with ESRD at a tertiary general hospital and receiving regular hemodialysis in Korea. The data were collected between 20 July and 11 August 2023. The following statistical analyses were conducted: t-test, ANOVA, Scheffé test, Pearson’s correlation coefficient analysis, and Hayes’ Process Macro Model 4 (to test the mediating effect). The factors influencing quality of life were body image (β = 0.46, p < 0.001), monthly family income (over KRW 3 million) (β = 0.22, p = 0.002), and symptom experiences (β = −0.20, p = 0.001). The mediation analysis indicated that the symptom experiences mediated the relationship between body image and quality of life. Based on the results, education, counseling, and symptom management programs that can improve body image and reduce symptom experience should be developed, and customized programs that reflect the characteristics of a target population, such as economic level, should be developed and provided.
Acupuncture and Acupoints for Managing Pediatric Cerebral Palsy: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Cheng Ya-Yun , Huang Ying-Yu , Yang Tsung-Hsien , Chang Yi-Jung , Fu Ren-Huei , Chen Hsing-Yu
Published: September 2024

Background: Acupuncture is frequently used to manage pediatric cerebral palsy (CP), yet updated evidence is needed to guide future research and clinical practice. Methods: Seven databases were searched from 1994 to 26 June 2023. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving body, scalp, or ear acupuncture for managing CP, excluding acupoint injection, catgut embedding, electro-acupuncture, or laser acupuncture, were included. Results: Twenty RCTs with 1797 participants were analyzed. Acupuncture groups had better improvements in gross motor function measure (GMFM) scores by 5% (mean difference: 5.93, 95% CI: 3.67–8.19, p < 0.001, I2 = 57%); a 16% higher probability to yield prominent improvement in effectiveness rate (ER) (risk ratio: 1.16, 95% CI: 1.08–1.25, p < 0.001, I2 = 0%); and better outcomes in the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) (standardized mean difference [SMD]: 0.3, 95%, CI: 0.11–0.49, p < 0.001, I2 = 0%), the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) (SMD: 2.48; 95% CI: 2.00–2.97, p < 0.001, I2 = 72%) and ADL (SMD: 1.66; 95% CI: 1.23–2.08, p < 0.001, I2 = 91%). Studies with eight core acupoints identified from all ninety-five acupoints had better ER. Conclusions: Acupuncture, especially using core acupoints, may be effective for managing symptoms in children with CP.
Working for Health in the Anthropocene: The Environmental Imagination in the Establishment of Occupational Therapy, 1890–1920
Authors: Hudson Mark
Published: September 2024

By the end of the nineteenth century, the view of labour as control of the environment for human benefit was being re-evaluated. In the United States, the conservation movement of the Progressive era (1890–1920) brought new attention to the problem of the ‘wise use’ of resources. Progressive social movements also developed a concern with holistic health and social conditions in rapidly industrialising cities. This paper argues that the formation of the new allied health science of occupational therapy in the early 20th century can be understood as a response to the health and conservation implications of changing relations between labour and resources. An analysis of published sources on the aims of occupational therapy in the Progressive era concluded that the early stage of the profession was structured by dominant Western narratives about humans and nature. Those narratives included the trope of redemption or transformation through labour and the importance of conservation as a response to the squandering of resources, both natural and human. I argue that the early development of occupational therapy was significantly influenced by environmentalist discourse as a therapeutic response to industrialisation and emerging Anthropocene awareness.
Cultural Heritage in Times of Crisis: Damage Assessment in Urban Areas of Ukraine Using Sentinel-1 SAR Data
Authors: Bachmann-Gigl Ute , Dabiri Zahra
Published: September 2024

Cultural property includes immovable assets that are part of a nation’s cultural heritage and reflect the cultural identity of a people. Hence, information about armed conflict’s impact on historical buildings’ structures and heritage sites is extremely important. The study aims to demonstrate the application of Earth observation (EO) synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology, and in particular Sentinel-1 SAR coherence time-series analysis, to monitor spatial and temporal changes related to the recent Russian–Ukrainian war in the urban areas of Mariupol and Kharkiv, Ukraine. The study considers key events during the siege of Mariupol and the battle of Kharkiv from February to May 2022. Built-up areas and cultural property were identified using freely available OpenStreetMap (OSM) data. Semi-automated coherent change-detection technique (CCD) that utilize difference analysis of pre- and co-conflict coherences were capable of highlighting areas of major impact on the urban structures. The study applied a logistic regression model (LRM) for the discrimination of damaged and undamaged buildings based on an estimated likelihood of damage occurrence. A good agreement was observed with the reference data provided by the United Nations Satellite Centre (UNOSAT) in terms of the overall extent of damage. Damage maps enable the localization of buildings and cultural assets in areas with a high probability of damage and can serve as the basis for a high-resolution follow-up investigation. The study reveals the benefits of Sentinel-1 SAR CCD in the sense of unsupervised delineation of areas affected by armed conflict. However, limitations arise in the detection of local and single-building damage compared to regions with large-scale destruction. The proposed semi-automated multi-temporal Sentinel-1 data analysis using CCD methodology shows its applicability for the timely investigation of damage to buildings and cultural heritage, which can support the response to crises.
An Efficient and Expressive Fully Policy-Hidden Ciphertext-Policy Attribute-Based Encryption Scheme for Satellite Service Systems
Authors: Shi Jiaoli , Hu Chao , Zhang Shunli , Zhou Qing , Mei Zhuolin , Yao Shimao , Deng Anyuan
Published: September 2024

Satellite service systems transfer data from satellite providers to the big data industry, which includes data traders and data analytics companies. This system needs to provide access to numerous users whose specific identities are unknown. Ciphertext-Policy Attribute-Based Encryption (CP-ABE) allows unidentified users with the proper attributes to decrypt data, providing fine-grained access control of data. However, traditional CP-ABE does not protect access policies. Access policies are uploaded to the cloud, stored, and downloaded in plain text, making them vulnerable to privacy breaches. When the access policy is completely hidden, users need to use their own attributes to try matching one by one, which is an inefficient process. In order to efficiently hide the access policy fully, this paper introduces a new efficient and expressive Fully Policy-Hidden Ciphertext-Policy Attribute-Based Encryption scheme (CP-ABE-FPH), which integrates the 2-way handshake O-PSI method with the ROBDD method. The integration offers advantages: (1) High efficiency and high expressiveness. The access policy using ROBDD is highly expressive but computationally intensive due to its recursive nature. This shortcoming is overcome in CP-ABE-FPH using the proposed O-PSI method, and the access policy is matched quickly and secretly. (2) High flexibility. The decryption process does not require the owner or the Key Generation Center (KGC) to be online, and system attributes can be added at any time. Security analysis shows that the access policy is fully hidden. Efficiency analysis and simulation results show that the proposed scheme is highly efficient in decryption compared with existing schemes.
Medicinally Privileged Natural Chalcones: Abundance, Mechanisms of Action, and Clinical Trials
Authors: Villa Sophia M. , Heckman Justin , Bandyopadhyay Debasish
Published: September 2024

Chalcones have been utilized for centuries as foods and medicines across various cultures and traditions worldwide. This paper concisely overviews their biosynthesis as specialized metabolites in plants and their significance, potential, efficacy, and possibility as future medicines. This is followed by a more in-depth exploration of naturally occurring chalcones and their corresponding mechanisms of action in human bodies. Based on their mechanisms of action, chalcones exhibit many pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antimalarial, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. Novel naturally occurring chalcones are also recognized as potential antidiabetic drugs, and their effect on the GLUT-4 transporter is investigated. In addition, they are examined for their anti-inflammatory effects, focusing on chalcones used for future pharmaceutical utilization. Chalcones also bind to specific receptors and toxins that prevent bacterial and viral infections. Chalcones exhibit physiological protective effects on the biological degradation of different systems, including demyelinating neurodegenerative diseases and preventing hypertension or hyperlipidemia. Chalcones that are/were in clinical trials have been included as a separate section. By revealing the many biological roles of chalcones and their impact on medicine, this paper underlines the significance of naturally occurring chalcones and their extension to patient care, providing the audience with an index of topic-relevant information.
Slot Blot- and Electrospray Ionization–Mass Spectrometry/Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization–Mass Spectrometry-Based Novel Analysis Methods for the Identification and Quantification of Advanced Glycation End-Products in the Urine
Authors: Takata Takanobu , Inoue Shinya , Kunii Kenshiro , Masauji Togen , Miyazawa Katsuhito
Published: September 2024

Proteins, saccharides, and low molecular organic compounds in the blood, urine, and saliva could potentially serve as biomarkers for diseases related to diet, lifestyle, and the use of illegal drugs. Lifestyle-related diseases (LSRDs) such as diabetes mellitus (DM), non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, kidney disease, and osteoporosis could develop into life-threatening conditions. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop biomarkers for their early diagnosis. Advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) are associated with LSRDs and may induce/promote LSRDs. The presence of AGEs in body fluids could represent a biomarker of LSRDs. Urine samples could potentially be used for detecting AGEs, as urine collection is convenient and non-invasive. However, the detection and identification of AGE-modified proteins in the urine could be challenging, as their concentrations in the urine might be extremely low. To address this issue, we propose a new analytical approach. This strategy employs a method previously introduced by us, which combines slot blotting, our unique lysis buffer named Takata’s lysis buffer, and a polyvinylidene difluoride membrane, in conjunction with electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (ESI)/matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS). This novel strategy could be used to detect AGE-modified proteins, AGE-modified peptides, and free-type AGEs in urine samples.
Prevalence, Clinical Characteristics, and Treatment of Patients with Resistant Hypertension: A Single-Center Study
Authors: Naydenov Stefan , Manov Emil , Runev Nikolay
Published: September 2024

Background: Resistant hypertension (HTN) is associated with a high risk of cardiovascular complications. Our study aimed to assess the prevalence, characteristics, and treatment of patients with resistant HTN. Methods: We screened 4340 consecutive cardiovascular patients hospitalized in our clinic and identified 3762 with HTN. Of them, 128 fulfilled criteria for resistant HTN and were included in our study. We matched these patients to 128 hospitalized patients with controlled HTN. Results: Resistant HTN patients comprised 3.4% of all hypertensive individuals. Most of these patients (67.2%) were at high or very high cardiovascular risk compared to controlled HTN patients (40.6%); p < 0001. Resistant HTN patients more commonly had concomitant chronic kidney disease (CKD) (60.9%), overweight/obesity (52.3%), dyslipidemias (35.2%), smoking (27.3%), and diabetes (21.9%) compared to controlled HTN patients (37.5%, 29.7%, 28.1%, 14.1%, and 7.8%, respectively); p < 0.001. Regression analysis showed the strongest association of resistant HTN with CKD (OR 6.64), stage III HTN (OR 3.07), and obesity/overweight (OR 2.60). In contrast, single-pill combinations (SPCs) were associated with a lower likelihood of uncontrolled HTN (OR 0.58). Conclusions: Resistant HTN represented a small proportion of all hypertensives in our study, but it was characterized by high/very high cardiovascular risk. Optimized therapy including increased use of SPCs could improve blood pressure control and long-term prognosis for these patients.
Interrater Variability of ML-Based CT-FFR in Patients without Obstructive CAD before TAVR: Influence of Image Quality, Coronary Artery Calcifications, and Location of Measurement
Authors: Gohmann Robin F. , Schug Adrian , Krieghoff Christian , Seitz Patrick , Majunke Nicolas , Buske Maria , Kaiser Fyn , Schaudt Sebastian , Renatus Katharina , Desch Steffen , Leontyev Sergey , Noack Thilo , Kiefer Philipp , Pawelka Konrad , Lücke Christian , Abdelhafez Ahmed , Ebel Sebastian , Borger Michael A. , Thiele Holger , Panknin Christoph , Abdel-Wahab Mohamed , Horn Matthias , Gutberlet Matthias
Published: September 2024

Objectives: CT-derived fractional flow reserve (CT-FFR) can improve the specificity of coronary CT-angiography (cCTA) for ruling out relevant coronary artery disease (CAD) prior to transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). However, little is known about the reproducibility of CT-FFR and the influence of diffuse coronary artery calcifications or segment location. The objective was to assess the reliability of machine-learning (ML)-based CT-FFR prior to TAVR in patients without obstructive CAD and to assess the influence of image quality, coronary artery calcium score (CAC), and the location of measurement within the coronary tree. Methods: Patients assessed for TAVR, without obstructive CAD on cCTA were evaluated with ML-based CT-FFR by two observers with differing experience. Differences in absolute values and categorization into hemodynamically relevant CAD (CT-FFR ≤ 0.80) were compared. Results in regard to CAD were also compared against invasive coronary angiography. The influence of segment location, image quality, and CAC was evaluated. Results: Of the screened patients, 109/388 patients did not have obstructive CAD on cCTA and were included. The median (interquartile range) difference of CT-FFR values was −0.005 (−0.09 to 0.04) (p = 0.47). Differences were smaller with high values. Recategorizations were more frequent in distal segments. Diagnostic accuracy of CT-FFR between both observers was comparable (proximal: Δ0.2%; distal: Δ0.5%) but was lower in distal segments (proximal: 98.9%/99.1%; distal: 81.1%/81.6%). Image quality and CAC had no clinically relevant influence on CT-FFR. Conclusions: ML-based CT-FFR evaluation of proximal segments was more reliable. Distal segments with CT-FFR values close to the given threshold were prone to recategorization, even if absolute differences between observers were minimal and independent of image quality or CAC.
The Clinical Utility of Whole Body Vibration: A Review of the Different Types and Dosing for Application in Metabolic Diseases
Authors: Simon Abigayle B. , Bajaj Pratima , Samson Joe , Harris Ryan A.
Published: September 2024

Whole body vibration (WBV) is an innovative exercise mimetic that utilizes a vibrating platform to transmit mechanical vibrations throughout the body. WBV has been a popular area of research in recent years due to its potential physiological and therapeutic benefits in both health and disease. The utility of WBV is rooted in the various parameters (i.e., frequency, amplitude, duration) that affect the overall dose of vibration delivered to the body. Each type of WBV, coupled with these aforementioned parameters, should be considered when evaluating the use of WBV in the clinical setting. Thus, the purpose of this review is to provide an overview of recent literature detailing the different types of WBV, the various parameters that contribute to WBV efficacy, and the evidence of WBV in metabolic disease. A systematic search was conducted using Medline, Embase, Cochrane, CINAHL, and PubMed. All types of study designs were considered, with exclusions made for animal studies, duplicates, and study protocols without data. Thirty-four studies were included. In conclusion, as a modern exercise mimetic with therapeutic potential for metabolic diseases, understanding the interplay between the types and dosing of WBV is critical for determining its utility and efficacy. Further studies are certainly needed to elucidate the full therapeutic potential of WBV in metabolic diseases.
Clinical Outcomes of Modified Manual Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty for Eyes with Previous Radial Keratotomy
Authors: Aiello Francesco , Pocobelli Giulio , Iovieno Alfonso , Komaiha Chiara , Nucci Carlo , Pocobelli Augusto
Published: September 2024

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the intraoperative complications and visual outcomes of manual deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (mDALK) in patients who underwent previous radial keratotomy (RK) for myopia. Methods: The notes of patients who underwent mDALK after RK at three different hospitals—San Giovanni Addolorata Hospital (Rome, Italy), Mount Saint Joseph Hospital (Vancouver, Canada), and Tor Vergata University Hospital (Rome, Italy)—were retrospectively reviewed. We analyzed the manual dissection success rate and conversion to penetrating keratoplasty (PK), the residual recipient stromal thickness, the postoperative corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), postoperative refraction, and topographic astigmatism. Results: Thirteen eyes of eleven patients were included in the analysis (male 7/11, 63.6%). Preoperatively, mean topographic astigmatism was 5.4 ± 3.5 D (range 1.6–14.8 D), and mean CDVA was 0.47 ± 0.2 logMAR (range 0.3–1.0 logMAR) [Snellen equivalent 20/50]. Manual dissection was performed in all cases. None of the examined eyes were converted to PK. An improvement in both topographic astigmatism (2.8 ± 0.9 D, p = 0.0135) and CDVA (0.23 ± 0.2 LogMAR, p = 0.0122) was recorded at 12-month follow-up. Conclusions: mDALK is a safe and effective surgical technique when applied to eyes previously treated with RK, with an observed improvement in CDVA and topographic astigmatism.
Investigation of Glucose Metabolism by Continuous Glucose Monitoring and Validation of Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitor Use in Patients with Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1
Authors: Takada Hiroto , Matsumura Tsuyoshi , Shimamura Haruna , Matsui Misa , Kon Seiko , Fukumoto Aono , Kubota Tomoya , Yoshida Kosuke , Iwahashi Hiromi , Takahashi Masanori P.
Published: September 2024

Objectives: We characterized blood glucose fluctuations in patients with myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1). After confirming the incretin secretion capacity of patients with DM1, we intended to clarify whether dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitor administration was appropriate in cases of DM1 with diabetes mellitus. Methods: A 48 h continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) was performed in 29 Japanese patients with DM1. An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed in patients with DM1 and five disease controls, and levels of blood glucose, insulin, and incretin (glucagon-like peptide-1 and gastric inhibitory polypeptide) were measured. DPP-4 inhibitors were administered to patients with diabetes mellitus complicated by DM1, and the CGM results were compared. Results: The CGM showed distinct patterns of blood glucose variability among patients classified by an OGTT pattern with significant differences in glucose parameters such as time above 140 mg/dL and mean amplitude of glycemic excursions between the groups. High sensor glucose values were observed in a certain number of patients who were classified as having normal or impaired glucose tolerance by the OGTT. The CGM confirmed the presence of low glucose levels in several patients. Incretin secretion, the target of DPP-4 inhibitors, was preserved in patients with DM1. DPP-4 inhibitor treatment resulted in lower glucose levels and improved insulin secretion in some patients. Conclusions: This is the first CGM study for DM1 patients. The CGM identified potential early abnormalities in glucose metabolism in DM1. In the future, it will be crucial to explore effective methods for harnessing CGM and assessing it quantitatively in DM1.
A Comparative Analysis of the Impact of Two Different Cognitive Aid Bundle Designs on Adherence to Best Clinical Practice in Simulated Perioperative Emergencies
Authors: van Haperen Maartje , Kemper Tom C. P. M. , Koers Lena , van Wandelen Suzanne B. E. , Waller Elbert , de Klerk Eline S. , Eberl Susanne , Hollmann Markus W. , Preckel Benedikt
Published: September 2024

Background: Stress and human error during perioperative emergency situations can significantly impact patient morbidity and mortality. Previous research has shown that cognitive aid bundles (CABs) minimize critical misses by 75%. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of two different CAB designs with the same content in reducing missed critical management steps for simulated perioperative emergencies. Methods: A multicenter randomized controlled simulation-based study was conducted including 27 teams, each consisting of three participants; each team performed four simulation scenarios. In the first scenario for each team (Scenario 1), no CAB was used. Scenarios 2 and 3 were randomly allocated to the groups, with either a branched, clustered design (CAB-1) or a linear, step-by-step design (CAB-2) of the cognitive aid. In Scenario 4, the groups used one of the previously mentioned CABs according to their own preference. The primary outcome was the difference in the percentage of missed critical management steps between the two different CABs. Secondary outcomes included user preference for one CAB design and the reduction in percentage of missed critical management steps using any CAB versus no CAB. Results: Twenty-seven teams simulated 108 perioperative emergency situations. The percentage of missed critical management steps was similar between CAB-1 and CAB-2 (27% [interquartile range (IQR) 20–29] versus 29% [IQR 20–35], p = 0.23). However, most participants favored the branched, clustered design CAB-1 (77.8%). Additionally, employing any CAB reduced the percentage of missed critical management steps by 36% (33% missed steps vs. 21% missed steps, p = 0.003). Conclusions: While the two CAB designs did not differ significantly in reducing missed critical management steps, the branched, clustered design was perceived as more user-friendly. Importantly, using any CAB significantly reduced the percentage of missed critical management steps compared to not using a cognitive aid, emphasizing the need for CAB use in the operating room.