bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Characteristics Associated with Self-Identified Cat or Dog Preference in Pet Owners and Correlation of Preference with Pet Interactions and Care: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Tu Andrea Y. , Springer Cary Michele , Albright Julia D.
Published: September 2024

Dog and cat preference has been associated with a few factors, like owner personality traits, but data regarding other aspects of preference ontogeny and the impact of preferences on pet wellbeing have yet to be examined. In this exploratory study, several of these characteristics, such as exposure to pets when young and as adults and current pet interactions and diet were analyzed from internet survey data. We found that more people identified as dog people (63.3%) versus cat people (36.7%) and preference for dogs remained consistent from childhood to adulthood compared with cats. In individuals who changed species preference, a lack of childhood exposure to cats (47.2%) was significantly associated with the group that changed preferences from dogs to cats from childhood to adulthood, compared with dog ownership as a child in the group that changed preferences from cats to dogs (24.4%). The number of cats and dogs in the home directly correlated with species preference (p < 0.001). Dwelling location was also significantly associated with species preference, with cat people being more likely to live in an urban area and dog people in a rural area (p = 0.002). More time was spent in both active and passive interactions with pets of the preferred species. Cats owned by cat people were more likely to be fed prescription diets compared with cats owned by dog people (p < 0.001). Interestingly, dog people were more likely to feed both their cats (p = 0.012) and dogs (p < 0.001) a raw diet compared with cat people. Additional research is needed to understand the development and impact of owner species preferences on pets to identify risks of suboptimal wellbeing.
Diagnostic Value of Conventional Polymerase Chain Reaction for Detecting BRAF V595E Mutation in Liquid and Tissue Specimens of Canine Urothelial and Prostate Carcinomas
Authors: Kuo Chien-Chun , Yang Su-Ya , Liu Ru-Min , Lin Yung-Hsuan , Liu Chih-Chun , Huang Wei-Hsiang , Lee Jih-Jong , Liao Albert Taiching
Published: September 2024

Canine urothelial carcinoma (UC) and prostatic carcinoma (PC) often present diagnostic challenges due to their anatomical locations. The BRAF V595E mutation, analogous to the human BRAF V600E mutation, has been identified in UC and PC. Digital PCR of urine is a non-invasive diagnostic method of mutation detection, but the availability of the necessary equipment is limited. This study aimed to develop a conventional PCR to detect the BRAF V595E mutation in urine and prostatic wash specimens from dogs with UC or PC. Specific primers for detecting wild-type and mutant BRAF V595E genes were validated in 34 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues, 116 urine samples, and 9 prostatic wash specimens. The results showed that the BRAF V595E mutation detection rate for UC and PC in the tissues was 51.6%. The detection rate in liquid specimens from dogs with lower urinary tract or prostate masses was 53.2%. Of the 41 cases with follow-up, 16 were further diagnosed with UC or PC, with 75% of liquid specimens from these dogs showing the BRAF V595E mutation. This conventional PCR method provides a reliable and non-invasive screening tool for UC and PC in dogs, especially in settings without advanced equipment.
Association of Socioeconomic Status and Reasons for Companion Animal Relinquishment
Authors: McDowall Sonya , Hazel Susan J. , Hamilton-Bruce M. Anne , Stuckey Rwth , Howell Tiffani J.
Published: September 2024

It is important to understand the reasons for companion animal relinquishment to help reduce the financial and ethical problems arising from too many dogs and cats in shelters. This study investigates the socioeconomic factors and reasons behind companion animal relinquishment in Australia, utilizing data from five animal shelters, over a five-year period (Financial Year 2018/19 to 2022/23). Descriptive statistics reveal that the median Index of Relative Socio-Economic Advantage and Disadvantage (IRSAD) decile of companion animal guardians who relinquished their companion animal was decile 4 out of 10, indicating that they live in areas of lower-than-average socioeconomic status. Cats accounted for 59.4% and dogs for 40.6% of all relinquishments, with more relinquishments from lower socioeconomic deciles (1–5) (cats: 62.6%, dogs: 65.8%). The median age of relinquished cats was 5 months and dogs 16 months, with human factor-related issues (e.g., Housing, Financial Constraints, Human Healthcare) cited in 86% of cases. Descriptive analysis for the five financial years shows a declining trend in numbers of relinquishments, with housing issues (31.2%) identified as the primary reason, followed by ownership decisions (16.2%), financial constraints (11.2%), and human health issues (10.4%). Comparing the reasons for relinquishment between lower (decile 1–5) and higher (decile 6–10) socioeconomic status demonstrated that financial difficulties were a more common reason in lower vs. higher socioeconomic groups, while human health and family-related issues are more common in higher vs. lower socioeconomic groups. These findings highlight the critical role of socioeconomic factors in understanding why people relinquish their companion animals, which can inform targeted interventions to support companion animal welfare across different socioeconomic backgrounds.
The Influence of Alternative Diets and Whole Dry Black Soldier Fly Larvae (Hermetia illucens) on the Production Performance, Blood Status, and Egg Quality of Laying Hens
Authors: Montalbán Ana , Madrid Josefa , Hernández Fuensanta , Schiavone Achille , Ruiz Eduardo , Sánchez Cristian J. , Ayala Lucía , Fiorilla Edoardo , Martínez-Miró Silvia
Published: September 2024

Given the significant environmental consequences of current poultry feed practices and the heavy dependence of the European Union on imported soybeans, studying alternatives is crucial. This study evaluated the potential benefits of using locally sourced alternative plant-based ingredients and whole dry black soldier fly larvae in the diet of laying hens. The experiment involved 120 Isazul hens at 23 weeks old, which were divided into three groups with five replicates each (eight hens per replicate): a control diet (CON) based on soybean meal and cereals, an alternative diet (ALT) replacing the soybean meal with locally sourced plant-based resources (peas, distillers’ dried grains with solubles, and sunflower meal), and the ALT diet supplemented with 5% whole dry black soldier fly larvae (ALT+DBSFL). Over 15 weeks, the hens were fed ad libitum, and the production performance, egg quality, and plasma biochemical parameters were assessed across three experimental sub-periods. The results showed no significant differences in body weight, feed intake, egg production, egg weight, egg mass, or feed conversion ratio across the diets (p > 0.05). The egg quality remained consistent across all the groups; however, the hens fed the ALT+DBSFL diet exhibited higher Haugh units in the first experimental sub-period (p < 0.05) and lower plasma cholesterol and triglycerides at 32 weeks of age (p < 0.05). The findings of this study indicate that incorporating these alternative ingredients and whole DBSFL into layers’ diets does not compromise production performance, egg quality, or biochemical parameters related to health status, supporting their potential as sustainable feed alternatives.
The Effects of Replacing Soybean Meal with Chlorella vulgaris in Laying Hen Diets on Performance and Physical Characteristics of Eggs
Authors: Madacussengua Obete , Mendes Ana Rita , Martins Cátia Falcão , Carvalho Daniela , Almeida André Martinho de , Lordelo Madalena
Published: September 2024

Chlorella vulgaris (CV) is a microalga with considerable nutritional value, containing high levels of protein, carotenoids, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, which have the potential to positively influence the productive performance and egg quality of laying hens. CV emerges as a more sustainable ingredient than soybean meal (SBM) as it can be produced locally and with fewer inputs. In this regard, a study was conducted with 48 H&N Brown Nick strain laying hens, at 19 weeks of age, over a period of 16 weeks. The hens were divided into four treatments, with 12 replicates each. The treatments consisted of providing four different diets: a control diet based on corn and SBM without the inclusion of CV, and three other diets with partial substitution of SBM by 2.5, 5, and 10% of CV. The results showed that the inclusion of CV in the diets did not significantly affect feed intake, feed conversion ratio, or egg production (p > 0.05). In addition, moderate CV levels increased egg weight, while higher levels reduced it. Haugh units, yolk index, albumen index, egg surface area, specific density, and translucency were not affected (p > 0.05), while shell index and shell thickness were lower in the groups that received the CV (p < 0.0001). Yolk color improved significantly with increasing CV levels (p < 0.0001), with darker, more intensely colored yolks at higher CV concentrations. The results of this study suggest that the incorporation of CV in the diet of laying hens had a limited impact on performance parameters. In addition, CV supplementation can positively influence egg quality and yolk color, although careful consideration of optimal levels is necessary to avoid negative effects on other parameters.
Effects of Ammonia Mitigation on Secondary Organic Aerosol and Ammonium Nitrate Particle Formation in Photochemical Reacted Gasoline Vehicle Exhausts
Authors: Hagino Hiroyuki , Uchida Risa
Published: September 2024

Gaseous air pollutants emitted primarily by anthropogenic sources form secondary products through photochemical reactions, complicating the regulatory analysis of anthropogenic emissions in the atmosphere. We used an environmental chassis dynamometer and a photochemical smog chamber to conduct a parameter sensitivity experiment to investigate the formation of secondary products from a gasoline passenger car. To simulate the mitigation of ammonia emissions from gasoline vehicle exhausts assuming future emission controls and to allow photochemical oxidation and aging of the vehicle exhaust, ammonia was selectively removed by a series of five denuders installed between the vehicle and photochemical smog chamber. Overall, there were no differences in the formation of secondary organic aerosols and ozone with or without ammonia mitigation. However, the potential for ammonium nitrate particle formation was significantly reduced with ammonia mitigation. In addition, ammonia mitigation resulted in increased aerosol acidity due to nitric acid in the gas phase not being neutralized by ammonia and condensing onto the liquid particle phase, indicating a potentially important secondary effect associated with ammonia mitigation. Thus, we provide new insights into the effects of ammonia mitigation on secondary emissions from gasoline vehicle exhaust and into a potentially useful experimental approach for determining primary and secondary emissions.
Analyzing the Stability of a Connected Moving Cart on an Inclined Surface with a Damped Nonlinear Spring
Authors: AL Nuwairan Muneerah , Amer T. S. , Amer W. S.
Published: September 2024

This paper examines the stability behavior of the nonlinear dynamical motion of a vibrating cart with two degrees of freedom (DOFs). Lagrange’s equations are employed to establish the mechanical regulating system of the examined motion. The proposed approximate solutions (ASs) of this system are estimated through the use of the multiple-scales method (MSM). These solutions are considered novel as the MSM is being applied to a new dynamical model. Secular terms have been eliminated to meet the solvability criteria, and every instance of resonance that arises is categorized, where two of them are examined concurrently. Therefore, the modulation equations are developed based on the representations of the unknown complex function in polar form. The solutions for the steady state are calculated using the corresponding fixed points. The achieved solutions are displayed graphically to illustrate the impact of manipulating the system’s parameters and are compared to the numerical solutions (NSs) of the system’s original equations. This comparison shows a great deal of consistency with the numerical solution, which indicates the accuracy of the applied method. The nonlinear stability criteria of Routh–Hurwitz are employed to assess the stability and instability zones. The value of the proposed model is exhibited by its wide range of applications involving ship motion, swaying architecture, transportation infrastructure, and rotor dynamics.
Review of Flame Behavior and Its Suppression during Thermal Runaway in Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Mao Yikai , Chen Yin , Chen Mingyi
Published: September 2024

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are extensively utilized in electric vehicles (EVs), energy storage systems, and related fields due to their superior performance and high energy density. However, battery-related incidents, particularly fires, are increasingly common. This paper aims to first summarize the flame behavior of LIBs and then thoroughly examine the factors influencing this behavior. Based on these factors, methods for suppressing LIB flames are identified. The factors affecting flame behavior are categorized into two groups: internal and external. The paper then reviews the flame behavior within battery modules, particularly in confined spaces, from both experimental and simulation perspectives. Furthermore, methods for suppressing battery flames are classified into active and passive techniques, allowing for a more comprehensive analysis of their effectiveness. The paper concludes with a summary and outlook, offering new insights for future research and contributing to the development of safer and more efficient battery systems.
Synthesis of Plasma-Reduced Graphene Oxide/Lithium Titanate Oxide Composite and Its Application as Lithium-Ion Capacitor Anode Material
Authors: Kim Chan-Gyo , Jekal Suk , Otgonbayar Zambaga , Kim Jiwon , Ra Yoon-Ho , Noh Jungchul , Oh Won-Chun , Yoon Chang-Min
Published: September 2024

A plasma-reduced graphene oxide/lithium titanate oxide (PrGO/LTO) composite is prepared as an anode material to enhance the performance of lithium-ion capacitors (LICs). The PrGO/LTO composite is synthesized by mixing graphene oxide (GO) and LTO, followed by a series of freeze-drying and plasma-treatment processes. PrGO forms a porous three-dimensional (3D) structure with a large surface area, effectively preventing the restacking of PrGO while covering LTO. The GO/LTO mixing ratio is controlled to optimize the final structure for LIC applications. In lithium-ion half-cell assembly, the PrGO/LTO-based anode with an 80% mixing ratio exhibits the highest specific capacity of 73.0 mAh g−1 at 20 C. This is attributed to the optimized ratio for achieving high energy density from LTO and high power density from PrGO. In a LIC full-cell comprising PrGO/LTO as the anode and activated carbon as the cathode, the energy and power densities at 1 A g−1 are 40.3 Wh kg−1 and 2000 W kg−1, respectively, with a specific capacitance of 36.3 F g−1 and capacitance retention of 94.1% after 2000 cycles. Its outstanding performance, obtained from incorporating 3D-structured PrGO with LTO at an optimized ratio, lowers the cell resistance and provides efficient lithium-ion diffusion pathways.
MAT1-1 and MAT1-2 Ophiocordyceps xuefengensis and Comparison of Their Chemical Composition
Authors: Zou Juan , Zhang Yating , Luo Yan , Fu Miaohua , Sun Beilin , Liu Shenggui
Published: September 2024

Many Cordyceps sensu lato species are used as traditional Chinese medicines. However, Cordyceps are entomopathogenic fungi in the family Clavicipitaceae of Ascomycota, and excessive harvesting severely disrupts natural habitat ecosystems. Artificial cultivation of Cordyceps fruiting bodies offers a viable strategy to protect the ecological environment and mitigate the depletion of wild resource. In this study, mononucleate hyphae were selected using DAPI fluorescence staining, the MAT1-1 and MAT1-2 strains of O. xuefengensis were successfully distinguished using loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP). The chemical composition and bioactive components of fruiting bodies produced by these strains were compared. Results showed that the levels of adenosine, thymidine, adenine, guanosine, uridine, total amino acids, and total essential amino acids in the fruiting bodies of MAT1-1 strains were 1.31 mg/g, 0.15 mg/g, 0.26 mg/g, 2.40 mg/g, 2.34 mg/g, 270.3 mg/g, and 102.5 mg/g, respectively, which were significantly higher than those in the MAT1-2 sample. Contrastingly, the fruiting bodies of MAT1-2 strains contained higher levels of mannose and polysaccharides, at 11.7% and 12.2%, respectively. The levels of toxic elements such as Al, Pb, As, and Hg in the MAT1-1 fruiting bodies were 1.862 mg/kg, 0.0848 mg/kg, 0.534 mg/kg, and 0.0054 mg/kg, respectively, which were markedly lower than those in the MAT1-2 fruiting bodies.
Expression of Periostin Alternative Splicing Variants in Normal Tissue and Breast Cancer
Authors: Kanemoto Yuko , Sanada Fumihiro , Shibata Kana , Tsunetoshi Yasuo , Katsuragi Naruto , Koibuchi Nobutaka , Yoshinami Tetsuhiro , Yamamoto Koichi , Morishita Ryuichi , Taniyama Yoshiaki , Shimazu Kenzo
Published: September 2024

(1) Background: Periostin (Pn) is a secreted protein found in the extracellular matrix, and it plays a variety of roles in the human body. Physiologically, Pn has a variety of functions, including bone formation and wound healing. However, it has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various malignant tumors and chronic inflammatory diseases. Pn has alternative splicing variants (ASVs), and our previous research revealed that aberrant ASVs contribute to the pathogenesis of breast cancer and heart failure. However, the difference in expression pattern between physiologically expressed Pn-ASVs and those expressed during pathogenesis is not clear. (2) Methods and results: We examined normal and breast cancer tissues, focusing on the Pn-ASVs expression pattern to assess the significance of pathologically expressed Pn-ASVs as potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets. We found that most physiologically expressed Pn isoforms lacked exon 17 and 21. Next, we used human breast cancer and normal adjacent tissue (NAT) to investigate the expression pattern of Pn-ASVs under pathological conditions. Pn-ASVs with exon 21 were significantly increased in tumor tissues compared with NAT. In situ hybridization identified the synthesis of Pn-ASVs with exon 21 in peri-tumoral stromal cells. Additionally, the in vivo bio-distribution of 89Zr-labeled Pn antibody against exon 21 (Pn-21Ab) in mice bearing breast cancer demonstrated selective and specific accumulation in tumors, while Pn-21Ab significantly suppressed tumor growth in the mouse breast cancer model. (3) Conclusions: Together, these data indicate that Pn-ASVs might have potential for use as diagnostic and therapeutic targets for breast cancer.
IL-4, IL-7, IL-9, NT, NRP1 May Be Useful Markers in the Diagnosis of Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Kozłowski Mateusz , Borzyszkowska Dominika , Lerch Natalia , Turoń-Skrzypińska Agnieszka , Tkacz Marta , Lubikowski Jerzy , Tarnowski Maciej , Rotter Iwona , Cymbaluk-Płoska Aneta
Published: September 2024

The search for novel endometrial cancer diagnostic biomarkers is pertinent. The purpose of this study was to determine if IL-4, IL-7, IL-9, IL-10, NT, TSP-2, and NRP1 could be used as novel, helpful markers for the detection of endometrial cancer. Ninety-three women diagnosed with endometrial cancer (EC) and sixty-six patients with noncancerous endometrial lesions (NCEL) were included in this study. ELISA was used to measure the concentrations of the proteins tested. Median serum levels of IL-4, IL-7, IL-9, NT, and NRP1 were significantly higher in the EC group compared with NCEL. The cut-off level of IL-4 was set at 802.26 pg/mL with a sensitivity of 83.87% and a specificity of 50% (AUC = 0.7, p = 0.000023). The cut-off level of IL-7 was set at 133.63 ng/L with a sensitivity of 96.77% and a specificity of 75.76% (AUC = 0.91, p < 0.000001). The cut-off level of IL-9 was set at 228.79 pg/mL with a sensitivity of 69.89% and a specificity of 81.82% (AUC = 0.8, p < 0.000001). The cut-off level of NT was set at 275.43 pmol/L with a sensitivity of 94.62% and a specificity of 59.09% (AUC = 0.83, p < 0.000001). The cut-off level of NRP1 was set at 30.37 ng/mL with a sensitivity of 81.72% and a specificity of 57.58% (AUC = 0.71, p = 0.000004). This study suggests the clinical utility of IL-4, IL-7, IL-9, NT, and NRP1 in the diagnosis of endometrial cancer. Nevertheless, these biomarkers may also have prognostic or predictive value, which should be tested in future studies.
The Role of Adiponectin and Leptin in Fibro-Calcific Aortic Valve Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Myasoedova Veronika A. , Bertolini Francesca , Valerio Vincenza , Moschetta Donato , Massaiu Ilaria , Rusconi Valentina , De Giorgi Donato , Ciccarelli Michele , Parisi Valentina , Poggio Paolo
Published: September 2024

Background: Fibro-calcific aortic valve disease (FCAVD) is a progressive disorder characterized by the thickening and calcification of the aortic valve, eventually leading to aortic stenosis. Adiponectin and leptin, known for their anti-inflammatory and proinflammatory properties, respectively, have been implicated in cardiovascular diseases, but their associations with FCAVD are controversial. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the relationships between adiponectin and leptin levels and FCAVD, particularly in patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS). Methods: A systematic search was conducted across the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases to identify studies on adiponectin and leptin levels in FCAVD. The methodological quality of each study was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Standardized mean differences (SMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated, and publication bias was evaluated using Egger’s test and funnel plots. Results: Out of 191 articles identified, 10 studies involving 2360 patients (989 with FCAVD and 1371 controls) were included. The analysis suggested trends in the associations of lower adiponectin levels (SMD = −0.143, 95% CI: −0.344, 0.057, p = 0.161) and higher leptin levels (SMD = 0.175, 95% CI: −0.045, 0.395, p = 0.119) with FCAVD. The association remained a trend for low adiponectin but showed a significant correlation with high leptin in severe AS patients (SMD = 0.29, 95% CI: 0.036, 0.543, p = 0.025). Conclusion: This meta-analysis indicates a potential association between elevated leptin levels and severe aortic stenosis, while the relationship with adiponectin levels remains inconclusive. These findings highlight the need for further and dedicated research to clarify the roles of these adipokines in the pathogenesis of FCAVD and their potential roles as biomarkers for disease progression.
Inflammaging: Expansion of Molecular Phenotype and Role in Age-Associated Female Infertility
Authors: Ivanov Dmitry , Drobintseva Anna , Rodichkina Valeriia , Mironova Ekaterina , Zubareva Tatyana , Krylova Yuliya , Morozkina Svetlana , Marasco Maria Greta Pia , Mazzoccoli Gianluigi , Nasyrov Ruslan , Kvetnoy Igor
Published: September 2024

Cellular aging is considered as one of the main factors implicated in female infertility. We evaluated the expression of senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) markers and additional molecular factors in an in vitro model of cellular aging. We induced genotoxic stress (UVB/UVA ray irradiation) in primary human endometrial cells obtained from female subjects of young reproductive age (<35 years of age). We assessed the expression levels of IL-6, IL-8, IL-1α, MMP3, SIRT-1, SIRT-6, TERF-1, and CALR at the mRNA level by RT-qPCR and at the protein level by immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy in primary human endometrial cells upon induction of genotoxic stress and compared them to untreated cells. Statistically significant differences were found for the expression of SIRT-1, SIRT-6, and TERF, which were found to be decreased upon induction of cell senescence through genotoxic stress, while IL-6, IL-8, IL-1α, MMP3, and p16 were found to be increased in senescent cells. We propose that these molecules, in addition to SAS-linked factors, could represent novel markers, and eventually potential therapeutic targets, for the aging-associated dysfunction of the female reproductive system.
Inflammation and Vitamin D Receptor Polymorphism: Impact on All-Cause and Cardiovascular Mortality in Mexican Women on Dialysis
Authors: Avila Marcela , Mora Carmen , Prado-Uribe Ma del Carmen , Cueto-Manzano Alfonso , Qureshi Abdul Rashid , Lindholm Bengt , Bernal Amador Alma Sofía , Paniagua Ramón
Published: September 2024

Mineral bone disease (MBD) is common in dialysis patients. Genetics and the hormonal environment influence the clinical picture and outcomes of women. This study aimed to determine how these factors affect mortality. In 234 female dialysis patients on Continuous Ambulatory (48%) or Automated (29%) Peritoneal Dialysis or Hemodialysis (23%), MBD biochemical variables, as well as bone density and genetic Bsm1 polymorphism of vitamin D receptor (VDR) were performed at baseline. The cohort was followed-up by 17 (IQ range 15–31) months. According to VDR polymorphism, the distribution of patients was bb: 64% and BB+Bb: 36%. Fifty-five patients died from all-cause mortality; the hs-C-reactive protein level was the most significant risk in multivariate Cox analysis. Nineteen died from cardiovascular mortality. None of the variables were significant for cardiovascular mortality. Patients with bb plus inflammation had the highest risk in the analysis; the significance persisted after adjustment for age, diabetes, and parathyroid hormone levels HR 2.33 (95% CI, 1.01–8.33) and after further adjustment for time on dialysis, albumin, and Osteoprotegerin levels HR 3.49 (95% CI, 1.20–10.9). The presence of the bb genotype from VDR and inflammation had the highest risk of death from all-cause mortality in females on CAPD, APD, and HD patient.
Factors Associated with the Development of Depression and the Influence of Obesity on Depressive Disorders: A Narrative Review
Authors: Alberti Adriano , Araujo Coelho David Richer , Vieira Willians Fernando , Moehlecke Iser Betine , Lampert Rose Meiry Fernandez , Traebert Eliane , Silva Bruna Becker da , Oliveira Bruna Hoffmann de , Leão Graziela Marques , Souza Gabriela de , Dallacosta Fabiana Meneghetti , Kades Gabriela , Madeira Kristian , Chupel Matheus Uba , Grossl Fernando Schorr , Souza Renan , Hur Soares Ben , Endrigo Ruppel da Rocha Ricelli , da Silva Sipriano Erica , Fernandes Martins Daniel , Agostinetto Lenita
Published: September 2024

Depression affects several aspects of life, including socioeconomic status, relationships, behavior, emotions, and overall health. The etiology of depression is complex and influenced by various factors, with obesity emerging as a significant contributor. This narrative review aims to investigate the factors associated with the development of depression, with a particular focus on the role of obesity. The literature search was conducted on PubMed, Embase, and PsycINFO from May to July 2024. The review highlights the impact of environmental and socioeconomic conditions; lifestyle choices, including physical activity and dietary habits; stress; traumatic experiences; neurotransmitter imbalances; medical and psychological conditions; hormone fluctuations; and epigenetic factors on depression. A key emphasis is placed on the inflammatory processes linked to obesity, which may drive the bidirectional relationship between obesity and depression. The findings suggest that obesity is associated with an increased risk of depression, potentially due to chronic inflammation, neurochemical dysregulation, and the emotional and social challenges related to weight stigma and obesity management. Understanding these interconnected factors is important for developing targeted interventions to address both obesity and depression, leading to improved quality of life for those affected.
Mechanisms of Chimeric Cell Therapy in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Siemionow Maria , Ziemiecka Anna , Bożyk Katarzyna , Siemionow Krzysztof
Published: September 2024

Despite scientific efforts, there is no cure for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a lethal, progressive, X-linked genetic disorder caused by mutations in the dystrophin gene. DMD leads to cardiac and skeletal muscle weakness, resulting in premature death due to cardio-pulmonary complications. We have developed Dystrophin Expressing Chimeric (DEC) cell therapy, DT-DEC01, by fusing human myoblasts from healthy donors and from DMD patients. Preclinical studies on human DEC cells showed increased dystrophin expression and improved cardiac, pulmonary, and skeletal muscle function after intraosseous administration. Our clinical study confirmed the safety and efficacy of DT-DEC01 therapy up to 24 months post-administration. In this study, we conducted in vitro assays to test the composition and potency of DT-DEC01, assessing chimerism level and the presence of dystrophin, desmin, and myosin heavy chain. Myoblast fusion resulted in the transfer of healthy donor mitochondria and the creation of chimeric mitochondria within DT-DEC01. The Pappenheim assay confirmed myotube formation in the final product. This study highlights the unique properties of DT-DEC01 therapy and their relevance to DMD treatment mechanisms.
The Impact of Stimulation Parameters on Cardiovascular Outcomes in Chronic Stroke Patients Following Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation—A Pilot Controlled, Randomized, Double-Blind Crossover Trial
Authors: Corrêa Fernanda Ishida , Uehara Laura , de Andrade Michele Lacerda , da Silva Gustavo Oliveira , De Angelis Katia , Viana Ariane , Bertani Catarina Novaes Souza , Corrêa João Carlos Ferrari , Fregni Felipe
Published: September 2024

Background: Stroke survivors often experience autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysfunction. While Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) has been shown to modulate the ANS when applied to the left hemisphere, its effects on the right hemisphere remain unexplored. Objective: We aimed to compare the effects of tDCS applied to both the injured and the contralateral hemispheres on heart rate variability (HRV) and functional capacity in individuals post-stroke. Methods: Twenty individuals with cerebral hemisphere lesions (ten with right-hemisphere lesions and ten with left-hemisphere lesions) were randomized into four groups: anodal and sham tDCS on the left temporal cortex (T3) and anodal and sham tDCS on the right temporal cortex (T4). HRV was assessed before the intervention, after the six-minute walk test (6MWT), and following tDCS. HRV data were categorized into frequency ranges: low frequency (LF), high frequency (HF), and sympathovagal balance. The 6MWT (meters) was conducted both pre- and post-tDCS. Results: In individuals with right-hemisphere lesions, a higher global LF value was observed (right side: 71.4 ± 16.8 nu vs. left side: 65.7 ± 17.3 nu; p = 0.008), as well as lower values of the HF component (right side: 29.5 ± 18.9 nu vs. left side: 34.0 ± 17.4 nu; p = 0.047), consequently exhibiting higher global values of the low/high-frequency ratio (right side: 3.9 ± 2.8 vs. left side: 2.9 ± 2.4). Regarding the stimulation site, tDCS over T3 led to a lower overall value of the low/high-frequency ratio (left hemisphere: 3.0 ± 2.2 vs. right hemisphere: 3.7 ± 2.9; p = 0.040) regardless of the lesion location. A significant increase in the distance covered in the 6MWT was observed for individuals with lesions in both hemispheres after tDCS at T3. Conclusions: Participants with right-hemisphere lesions exhibited superior global sympathetic autonomic nervous system activity. When the tDCS was applied on the left hemisphere, it maintained lower sympathovagal balance values and improved functional capacity regardless of the hemisphere affected by the stroke.
Coupling Analysis of Safety Influencing Factors in Subway Station Operation under a High-Pressure Gas Pipeline
Authors: Yan Wenrong , Weng Yingkang , Cheng Jianhua , Li Hujun , Guo Jiaqi , Li Linyu
Published: September 2024

A subway station’s operation is susceptible to accidents when there is a high-pressure gas pipeline overlaying it, and analyzing the correlations between the safety influencing factors (SIFs) in this operating situation can provide paths to reduce safety accidents. Thus, this paper investigated the coupling correlations between the SIFs. We firstly identified the SIFs during subway station operation under a high-pressure pipeline (SSOUHP) based on a literature review and discussion with experts. Then, the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and coupling degree analysis (CDA) were combined to assess the coupling correlations between the SIFs, and Y subway station was selected to test the proposed hybrid coupling analysis approach. Research results show that (a) 23 second-level SIFs were identified and these SIFs can be summed up into five first-level SIFs, namely, human-related SIFs, pipeline-related SIFs, station-related SIFs, environment-related SIFs, and management-related SIFs; (b) the proposed hybrid approach can be used to evaluate the coupling correlations between SIFs; (c) of the coupling situations during Y subway station’s operation, the internal coupling correlations among environment-related SIFs, the coupling correlations between pipe-related SIFs and environment-related SIFs, and the coupling correlations among human-related SIFs, pipe-related SIFs, and environment-related SIFs are all greater than 1, and the coordination degree is 0.778, 0.781, and 0.783, respectively, which is a high security risk; (d) the overall coupling degree among all SIFs during Y subway station’s operation is 0.995 and the coordination degree is 0.809, which is a low safety risk. The research can enrich knowledge in the safety evaluation area, and provide a reference for onsite safety management. The results are basically consistent with the conclusion of the enterprise report, which verifies the scientificity and validity of the evaluation method.
Thermal Environments of Residential Areas: Sunlight and Building Shadow in a Chinese City with Hot and Humid Summers
Authors: Liu Junyou , Tang Haifang , Zheng Bohong
Published: September 2024

With a primary focus on sunlight and building shadows, we studied the impact of residential building orientation angles, building heights, and area combinations, as well as the underlying surface materials, on the outdoor thermal environment in Changsha, a city located north of the Tropic of Cancer. On the basis of Changsha’s regulations, the research results indicate that building orientation angles of 15–45° and 315–345° can generate more building-shadow areas and have a better effect on improving the outdoor thermal environment. Based on the study of many common residential block building layouts in Changsha, we believe that, for point-pattern residential blocks, an increase in building lengths can be very effective for increasing building-shadow areas and thermal comfort. For row-pattern residential blocks, an increase in building heights can be regarded as more effective for increasing building-shadow areas and reducing air temperatures. Shadow areas formed on impervious surface material areas, such as concrete pavements, reduce the air temperature more than shadow areas formed on natural surfaces, such as grasslands. For the planning and regeneration of residential areas, urban planners should focus on placing more green spaces in areas which are seldom or never covered by building shadows; they should also focus on installing more impervious surfaces in areas covered by building shadows. These strategies are beneficial for making full use of building shadows to reduce air temperatures in residential areas.
A Hybrid Decision Support System for Partition Walls
Authors: Momenifar Samaneh , Chen Yuxiang , Hamzeh Farook
Published: September 2024

Partition walls play a crucial role in buildings, influencing their aesthetics, functionality, and integration with other architectural elements. However, the selection process for partition wall types is often challenging due to the multitude of options available, varying decision criteria, and inadequate decision-making practices in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. To address these challenges and improve decision-making, a hybrid Decision Support System (DSS) named PartitionWall Pro is proposed. This tool combines both document-driven and model-driven approaches to assist in the selection and design of partition walls. The document-driven aspect utilizes a choosing-by-advantages (CBA) model to compare the advantages of different partition wall options, while the model-driven component employs computational design models to analyze the structural integrity of unreinforced masonry partition walls. Validation procedures ensure the reliability and accuracy of the DSS in practical applications. Through case studies involving a warehouse and a school, the study demonstrates how the DSS simplifies decision-making processes and encourages the adoption of cost-effective partition wall solutions. The results underline the potential of the DSS to enhance efficiency, foster stakeholder discussions, and improve communication in building design projects, thereby offering valuable insights for researchers and industry professionals alike, ultimately transforming partition wall design practice.
Test and Analysis of Concrete Beams Reinforced by Polyurethane Concrete–Prestressed Steel Wires (PUC–PSWs)
Authors: Li Wei , Qiu Jiaqi , Wang Yi , Zheng Xilong , Zhang Kexin
Published: September 2024

In order to solve the problems of low tensile strength of composite mortar prone to cracking when reinforced concrete beams are strengthened by traditional methods, this paper proposes a new polyurethane concrete–prestressing wire (PUC–PSW) reinforcement method using polyurethane concrete (PUC) as the wire embedding material. Twelve reinforced concrete T-beams were tested for PUC–PSW flexural reinforcement. These consisted of one unreinforced beam, four PSW-reinforced beams and seven PUC–PSW-reinforced beams. The wire embedding material, wire anchorage form, PUC material depth, amount of wire and loading type were used as variables. The test results show that PUC–PSW reinforcement can significantly increase the yield load and ultimate load of the reinforced beams by 24.1% and 44.6%, respectively, compared with PSW reinforcement. When the load reached 90 kN, the crack widths of PSW-reinforced beam A2 and PUC–PSW-reinforced beam A8 were 0.17 mm and 0.1 mm, respectively. The ability of PUC–PSW reinforcement to limit crack development is better than that of PSW reinforcement, especially after the main beam steel yield. The strength, stiffness and crack-limiting ability of the reinforced beam increase with the PUC thickness of the reinforced layer.
Artificial Intelligence in Net-Zero Carbon Emissions for Sustainable Building Projects: A Systematic Literature and Science Mapping Review
Authors: Li Yanxue , Antwi-Afari Maxwell Fordjour , Anwer Shahnawaz , Mehmood Imran , Umer Waleed , Mohandes Saeed Reza , Wuni Ibrahim Yahaya , Abdul-Rahman Mohammed , Li Heng
Published: September 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as an effective solution to alleviate excessive carbon emissions in sustainable building projects. Although there are numerous applications of AI, there is no state-of-the-art review of how AI applications can reduce net-zero carbon emissions (NZCEs) for sustainable building projects. Therefore, this review study aims to conduct a systematic literature and science mapping review of AI applications in NZCEs for sustainable building projects, thereby expediting the realization of NZCEs in building projects. A mixed-method approach (i.e., systematic literature review and science mapping) consisting of four comprehensive stages was used to retrieve relevant published articles from the Scopus database. A total of 154 published articles were retrieved and used to conduct science mapping analyses and qualitative discussions, including mainstream research topics, gaps, and future research directions. Six mainstream research topics were identified and discussed. These include (1) life cycle assessment and carbon footprint, (2) practical applications of AI technology, (3) multi-objective optimization, (4) energy management and energy efficiency, (5) carbon emissions from buildings, and (6) decision support systems and sustainability. In addition, this review suggests six research gaps and develops a framework depicting future research directions. The findings contribute to advancing AI applications in reducing carbon emissions in sustainable building projects and can help researchers and practitioners to realize its economic and environmental benefits.
Impact of Age, Period, Cohort, Region, Race, and Health Services on Bladder Cancer Mortality in Brazil: A 23-Year Ecological Study
Authors: de Melo Neto João Simão , Miguez Sâmia Feitosa , Rabelo Amanda Lia Rebelo , Silva Amanda Marinho da , Sacramento Daniel Souza , das Neves Dária Barroso Serrão , Rego Iana Nogueira , Garcia Riter Lucas Miranda , Galhardo Deizyane dos Reis , Neves André Luiz Machado das
Published: September 2024

Bladder cancer is one of the most economically costly types of cancer, but few studies have evaluated its mortality considering the factors that impact this outcome. This study aimed to investigate the impact of sociodemographic factors, period, cohort, and health services on bladder cancer mortality. This ecological study analyzed bladder cancer mortality data in Brazil from 2000 to 2022 and evaluated sociodemographic variables (race, region of residence), socioeconomic variables (gross domestic product per capita, Gini index of household income per capita, number of health professionals per inhabitant, expenditure on public health services, and consultations per inhabitant), and bladder cancer diagnosis and treatment procedures. These data were subjected to statistical analysis, which revealed that after the age of 50, there was a progressive increase in the risk of bladder cancer. Indigenous people had the lowest mortality rate, while white people had a significantly greater mortality rate than black and brown people. The North Region and Northeast Region presented the lowest mortality rates, whereas the South Region presented the highest mortality rates. In the South and Southeast Regions, a higher GDP was related to lower mortality. In the South, higher mortality was associated with a lower number of consultations per inhabitant per region. Fewer bladder punctures/aspirations and bladder biopsies were associated with higher mortality rates. In oncology, more procedures, such as total cystectomy, cystoenteroplasty, and total cystectomy with a single shunt, do not reduce the mortality rate. These results can serve as guidelines for adjusting public health policies.
The RAL Small G Proteins Are Clinically Relevant Targets in Triple Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Han David , Spehar Jonathan M. , Richardson Dillon S. , Leelananda Sumudu , Chakravarthy Prathik , Grecco Samantha , Reardon Jesse , Stover Daniel G. , Bennett Chad , Sizemore Gina M. , Li Zaibo , Lindert Steffen , Sizemore Steven T.
Published: September 2024

Breast cancer (BC) is the most frequent cancer and second-leading cause of cancer deaths in women in the United States. While RAS mutations are infrequent in BC, triple-negative (TN) and HER2-positive (HER2+) BC both exhibit increased RAS activity. Here, we tested the RAS effectors RALA and RALB, which are overexpressed in BC, as tractable molecular targets in these subtypes. While analysis of the breast cancer patient sample data suggests that the RALs are associated with poor outcome in both TNBC and HER2+ BC, our in vivo and in vitro experimental findings revealed the RALs to be essential in only the TNBC cell lines. While testing the response of the BC cell lines to the RAL inhibitors RBC8 and BQU57, we observed no correlation between drug efficacy and cell line dependency on RAL expression for survival, suggesting that these compounds kill via off-target effects. Finally, we report the discovery of a new small molecule inhibitor, OSURALi, which exhibits strong RAL binding, effectively inhibits RAL activation, and is significantly more toxic to RAL-dependent TNBC cells than RAL-independent HER2+ and normal cell lines. These results support the RALs as viable molecular targets in TNBC and the further investigation of OSURALi as a therapeutic agent.
Exploring TSGA10 Function: A Crosstalk or Controlling Mechanism in the Signaling Pathway of Carcinogenesis?
Authors: Taghizadeh-Hesary Farzad , Ghadyani Mobina , Kashanchi Fatah , Behnam Babak
Published: September 2024

Cancer-specific antigens have been a significant area of focus in cancer treatment since their discovery in the mid-twentieth century. Cancer germline antigens are a class of antigens specifically overexpressed in germline tissues and cancer cells. Among these, TSGA10 (testis-specific gene antigen 10) is of great interest because of its crucial impact on cancer progression. Early studies explored TSGA10 expression in a variety of cancer types. More recent studies revealed that TSGA10 can suppress tumor progression by blocking cancer cell metabolism, angiogenesis, and metastasis. An open question regarding the TSGA10 is why cancer cells must express a protein that prevents their progression. To answer this question, we conducted a comprehensive review to engage the TSGA10 in the context of the current understanding of “malignant transformation”. This review demonstrated that TSGA10 expression level in cancer cells depends on the cancer stage across malignant transformation. In addition, we evaluated how TSGA10 expression can prevent the “cancer hallmarks”. Given this information, TSGA10 can be of great interest in developing effective targeted anti-cancer therapies.
Rare Clinical Symptoms in Hairy Cell Leukemia: An Overview
Authors: Robak Tadeusz , Braun Marcin , Janus Agnieszka , Guminska Anna , Robak Ewa
Published: September 2024

Background: Hairy cell leukemia (HCL) is a rare indolent B-cell lymphoid malignancy. The majority of patients are asymptomatic and HCL is usually diagnosed incidentally during a routine blood cell count. In symptomatic patients, typical symptoms are related to pancytopenia and splenomegaly. In this review, we present rare clinical symptoms in patients with HCL. Methods: A literature search was conducted of PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar for articles concerning hairy cell leukemia, leukemia cutis, bone lesions, neurological manifestations, pulmonary symptoms, ocular manifestations, cardiac manifestation and rare symptoms. Publications from January 1980 to August 2024 were scrutinized. Additional relevant publications were obtained by reviewing the references from the chosen articles. Results: Extramedullary and extranodal manifestations of classic HCL are rare. However, leukemic involvement in the skin, bone, central nervous system, gastrointestinal tract, heart, kidney, liver, lung, ocular system and other organs have been reported.