bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis—outcome and time to transplant after biliary diversion according to genetic subtypes
Authors: Sahloul Abdulla , Lainka Elke , Kathemann Simone , Swoboda Sandra , Dröge Carola , Keitel Verena , Al-Matary Yahya Saleh , Berger Michael , Schulze Maren
Published: June 2023

Background

Progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC) is a heterogeneous disease characterized by progressive cholestasis in early childhood. Surgical therapy aims at preventing bile absorption either by external or internal biliary diversion (BD). Several different genetic subtypes encode for defects in bile transport proteins, and new subtypes are being discovered ongoingly. Overall, the literature is scarce, however, accumulating evidence points to PFIC 2 having a more aggressive course and to respond less favorable to BD. With this knowledge, we aimed to retrospectively analyze the long-term outcome of PFIC 2 compared to PFIC 1 following BD in children at our center.

Methods

Clinical data and laboratory findings of all children with PFIC, who were treated and managed in our hospital between 1993 and 2022, were analyzed retrospectively.

Results

Overall, we treated 40 children with PFIC 1 (n = 10), PFIC 2 (n = 20) and PFIC 3 (n = 10). Biliary diversion was performed in 13 children (PFIC 1, n = 6 and 2, n = 7). Following BD, bile acids (BA) (p = 0.0002), cholesterol (p < 0.0001) and triglyceride (p < 0.0001) levels significantly decreased only in children with PFIC 1 but not in PFIC 2. Three out of 6 children (50%) with PFIC 1 and 4 out of 7 children (57%) with PFIC 2 required liver transplantation despite undergoing BD. On an individual case basis, BA reduction following BD predicted this outcome. Of the 10 children who had PFIC 3, none had biliary diversion and 7 (70%) required liver transplantation.

Conclusion

In our cohort, biliary diversion was effective in decreasing bile acids, cholesterol levels as well as triglycerides in the serum only in children with PFIC 1 but not PFIC 2. On an individual case level, a decrease in BA following BD predicted the need for liver transplantation.
Conservation Tillage Technology: A Study on the Duration from Awareness to Adoption and Its Influencing Factors—Based on the Survey of the Yellow River Basin in China
Authors: Gao Tianzhi , Ren Yaqin , Lu Qian , Feng Hui
Published: June 2023

Studying the dynamic duration of technology adoption helps farmers weigh and select different attributes and stages of conservation tillage techniques. In this study, non-parametric K-M survival analysis and discrete duration models were employed to estimate the time taken by farmers in the Yellow River Basin region to transition from awareness to the adoption of conservation tillage techniques between 2002 and 2020. The results indicate (1) The duration from awareness to adoption of conservation tillage technology is relatively short. (2) The likelihood of farmers postponing adoption decisions is highest in the initial 10 years and gradually decreases over time, suggesting negative time dependency. (3) Controlling for proportional hazards assumptions, it was found that factors such as education level and social learning positively influence the duration from awareness to adoption of conservation tillage techniques. Extreme weather variations and household labor migration delay the adoption time for farmers. In the process of promoting and implementing conservation tillage techniques, it is essential to consider the issue of intertemporal technology choice, stimulate farmers’ intrinsic demand, shorten the time interval from awareness to adoption, and ultimately improve technology adoption rates.
Silkworm Bombyx mori—Sustainability and Economic Opportunity, Particularly for Romania
Authors: Hăbeanu Mihaela , Gheorghe Anca , Mihalcea Teodor
Published: June 2023

The main concerns and challenges of raising silkworms include economic value, mulberry management, biodiversity conservation of genetic resources, and developing highly productive breeds for genetic variety. This study investigated the relationship between the economic relevance of the products generated throughout the value chain, limitations, and opportunities to generate incomes for sericulture farmers, trends, and perspectives worldwide, particularly in Romania. Seventy-seven publications were considered from online databases. The diversification of products generated at each level of the value chain of silkworm rearing and their multipurpose applications impact social and economic life. Hence, silk is well known as a valuable biomaterial for industry, suitable for textile and medicine. There are several arguments to use silkworms in human food even though they are not yet authorized as edible insects at the European level. Thus, as a nutrient-rich by-product, silkworm pupae (extract, cakes, and oil) have medicinal properties and can be used for human and animal nutrition. Sericin, silk fibroin, and chitin are bioactive compounds in cocoons and pupae with pharmacological implications and drug composition, while biomass is suitable for biodiesel and excreta for compost. The farmers’ attitudes and mentality associated with political circumstances influence the perspectives for the sericulture field. Due to the high likelihood of using their products, small-medium-scale farmers might benefit sericulture by identifying new sales marketplaces and finding new beneficiaries for directing their multiple products. The funds allotted by government subventions for supporting this fascinating activity and opportunities for jobs may aid in encouraging to start of a new sericulture business or to contribute developing the existing one.
Estimation of Energy Value and Digestibility and Prediction Equations for Sheep Fed with Diets Containing Leymus chinensis Hay
Authors: Chen Hewei , Xiong Fengliang , Wu Qichao , Wang Weikang , Cui Zhaoyang , Zhang Fan , Wang Yanlu , Lv Liangkang , Liu Yingyi , Bo Yukun , Zhang Luotong , Yang Hongjian
Published: June 2023

The objective of this study was to investigate the feeding value of sheepgrass, including its chemical composition, dry matter intake, nutrient digestibility, and available energy, as well as the prediction equations of dry matter intake (DMI), neutral detergent fiber digestibility (NDFD), dry matter digestibility (DMD), digestible energy (DE), and metabolizable energy (ME). Two independent experiments based on a completely randomized experimental design were performed to evaluate the feeding value. The results showed that there were significant relationships between chemical composition and DMI, digestibility, and available energy. The best-fit equations were as follows: DMI (g/d·W0.75) = 121.75 + 0.06CP (%) − 0.24EE (%) − 0.10ADF (%) − 0.60NDF (%) − 0.15OM (%) (R2 = 0.85, p < 0.01), DMD (%) = −1.37 + 0.23CP (%) + 2.96EE (%) + 0.32ADF (%) − 0.82NDF (%) + 1.27OM (%) (R2 = 0.83, p < 0.01), NDFD (%) = 225.58 − 0.59CP (%) + 0.04EE (%) + 0.09ADF (%) − 2.46NDF (%) + 0.12OM (%) (R2 = 0.67, p < 0.01), DE (MJ/kg) = −5.19 + 0.38OM (%) − 0.26NDF (%) − 0.03ADF (%) + 0.16CP (%) (R2 = 0.91, p < 0.01), and ME (MJ/kg) = 5.55 + 0.67DE (MJ/kg) + 0.01CP (%) − 0.01ADF (%) − 0.08NDF (%) + 0.02OM (%) (R2 = 0.98, p < 0.01). This study found the energy value of sheepgrass to be 11 MJ/kg, which is similar to that of millet grass silage. The NDF was the main component that affected DMI and digestibility. Using a hay replacement ratio of 28.5% to determine the forage value of sheepgrass allowed accurate prediction equations to be established. The NDF demonstrated the strongest correlation with DMI, NDFD, OMD, DE, and ME. DE was estimated to be the best single predictor of ME.
Are Small Agricultural Markets Recipients of World Prices? The Case of Poland
Authors: Szczepańska-Przekota Anna
Published: June 2023

The increased inflation in 2021–2022, and in particular the increase in the prices of energy carriers, and thus chemical fertilizers, caused an imbalance in the market of agricultural raw materials in Poland. This problem, to a greater or lesser extent, can also be observed in other countries. Meanwhile, the issue of shaping domestic prices of agricultural commodities is one of the most important problems in a state’s food policy. This is evident in countries with strong agricultural traditions, such as Poland. Many tensions and misunderstandings between agricultural producers and the government concern the low purchase prices of agricultural commodities. Therefore, the degree of integration of the Polish price market with the world market was studied. Based on data from the wheat, beef and pork livestock markets, the impact of the world market on the Polish one was studied using VAR methodology. The analyzed data concern the years 2012–2022. It was found that the degree of price integration of various agricultural commodities is different, but always positive. The market of wheat turned out to be the most strongly price-integrated, and the markets of beef and pork livestock are slightly weaker. Such results call into question the effectiveness of aid programs for agricultural producers, as there will always be costs for the budget, which will have to be paid by the next generations, will not cause the increase in commodity prices expected by agricultural producers and will also be contrary to the principles of the free market.
Does Increasing the Diversity of Small Grain Cropping Systems Improve Aggregate Stability and Soil Hydraulic Properties?
Authors: Klopp Hans W. , Jabro Jay D. , Allen Brett L. , Sainju Upendra M. , Stevens William B. , Dangi Sadikshya R.
Published: June 2023

Wheat (Triticum aestivium L.) and barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) are two commonly grown cereal crops in the northern Great Plains. Adding other crops such as field pea (Pisum Sativum L.), canola (Brassica napus L.), or camelina (Camelina sativa L.) to wheat or barley cropping systems may improve soil quality. However, little is known about the effects of including oilseeds in small grain cropping systems on soil physical properties. We sampled an 8-year dryland study with 10 different cropping systems including continuous spring wheat, continuous winter wheat, continuous barley, pea–spring wheat, pea–barley, pea–winter wheat, pea–barley–camelina–spring wheat, pea–barley–canola–spring wheat, pea–winter wheat–camelina–spring wheat and pea–winter wheat–canola–spring wheat. We measured dry aggregate stability, wet aggregate stability, water retention, hydraulic conductivity, bulk density and total carbon. Continuous barley and winter wheat had a higher fraction of large dry soil aggregates, whereas the pea–barley–canola–spring wheat and pea–spring wheat cropping systems had a higher fraction of small aggregates in the 0–15 cm depth. However, wet aggregate stability, water retention, bulk density, hydraulic conductivity and soil carbon concentration were not affected by the cropping system in the 0–15 cm depth. Diversifying small grain cropping systems by adding canola or camelina oil seeds and peas generally did not affect soil physical properties at this location.
Correction: Miller et al. Behavioral Diversity as a Potential Indicator of Positive Animal Welfare. Animals 2020, 10, 1211
Authors: Miller Lance J. , Vicino Greg A. , Sheftel Jessica , Lauderdale Lisa K.
Published: June 2023

In the original publication [...]
Anatomic Variations of the Perineal Arteries and Nerves in the Male and Female Dog and Its Clinical Implications
Authors: Martín-Alguacil Nieves , Avedillo Luis
Published: June 2023

The anatomic variations of the perineal arteries and nerves are studied in the dog. The aim of the study is to provide a more detailed understanding of the blood supply and innervation of the perineal region, providing detailed information on the perineal arteries and nerve distribution and their variability in male and female dogs. The study used 232 pelvic halves from 116 adult dogs and analysed the differences using the chi-squared test. The results showed that the presumptive model for perineal artery distribution described in N.A.V. was observed in 46% of the specimens. Additionally, a dorsal perineal artery “long type” was found in 13% of the dogs, and a perineal trunk was present in 41% of the dogs. In the study, there was no variation in perineal nerve distribution, and it was found that the perineal nerve did not run together with the dorsal perineal artery when it was the “short type” as described in the presumptive model for perineal artery distribution. Instead, it always followed the route of the dorsal perineal artery “long type” and the perineal trunk when they were present. The findings of the study may be useful for veterinary surgeons when approaching the perineal region in dogs.
Assessment of Plasma Tylosin Concentrations: A Comparative Study of Immunoassay, Microbiological Assay, and Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Lee Eon-Bee , Sayem Syed Al Jawad , Lee Ga-Yeong , Kim Tae-Won , Hossain Md Akil , Park Seung-Chun
Published: June 2023

Employing affordable and uncomplicated sample preparation techniques to recommend the most efficient antibacterial therapy could help reduce antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This study evaluated the suitability of immunoassays and microbiological assays as alternatives for liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) in determining plasma tylosin concentrations after intramuscular administration at a dose of 20 mg/kg to both healthy and diseased pigs in clinical veterinary practice. The diseased pigs were confirmed using the target genes Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (apxIVA) and Pasteurella multocida (kmt1). The methods showed good linearity, precision, and accuracy. In both healthy and diseased pigs, a significant correlation was observed between LC/MS and the microbiological assay (Pearson correlation coefficient: 0.930, p < 0.001 vs. Pearson correlation coefficient: 0.950, p < 0.001) and between LC/MS and the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) (Pearson correlation coefficient: 0.933; p < 0.001 vs. Pearson correlation coefficient: 0.976, p < 0.001). A strong correlation was observed between the microbiological assay and the ELISA in both healthy and diseased pigs (Pearson correlation coefficient: 0.911; p < 0.001 vs. Pearson correlation coefficient: 0.908, p < 0.001). A Bland-Altman analysis revealed good agreement between the methods, i.e., 95% of the differences were within the limits of agreement. Therefore, the microbiological assay and the ELISA, which demonstrated sufficient precision and accuracy, can be viable alternatives to LC/MS when it is unavailable.
Effectiveness of Extended or Continuous vs. Bolus Infusion of Broad-Spectrum Beta-Lactam Antibiotics for Febrile Neutropenia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ishikawa Kazuhiro , Shibutani Koko , Kawai Fujimi , Ota Erika , Takahashi Osamu , Mori Nobuyoshi
Published: June 2023

This systematic review aimed to compare extended infusion or continuous infusion with bolus infusion for febrile neutropenia (FN). We included clinical trials comparing extended or continuous infusion with bolus infusion of beta-lactam antibiotics as empirical treatment for FN and evaluated the clinical failure, all-cause mortality, and adverse event rates. Five articles (three randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and two retrospective studies) from 2014 to 2022 were included. Clinical failure was assessed with a risk ratio (RR) (95% coincident interval (CI)) of 0.74 (0.53, 1.05) and odds ratio (OR) (95% CI) of 0.14 (0.02, 1.17) in the 2 RCTs and retrospective studies, respectively. All-cause mortality was assessed with an RR (95% CI) of 1.25 (0.44, 3.54) and OR (95% CI) of 1.00 (0.44, 2.23) in the RCTs and retrospective studies, respectively. Only 1 RCT evaluated adverse events (with an RR (95% CI) of 0.46 (0.13, 1.65)). The quality of evidence was “low” for clinical failure and all-cause mortality in the RCTs. In the retrospective studies, the clinical failure and all-cause mortality evidence qualities were considered “very low” due to the study design. Extended or continuous infusion of beta-lactam antibiotics did not reduce mortality better than bolus infusion but was associated with shorter fever durations and fewer adverse events.
The Genetic Diversity and Antimicrobial Resistance of Pyogenic Pathogens Isolated from Porcine Lymph Nodes
Authors: Kaczmarkowska Aleksandra , Kwiecień Ewelina , Didkowska Anna , Stefańska Ilona , Rzewuska Magdalena , Anusz Krzysztof
Published: June 2023

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, pork remains the most consumed meat in the world. Consequently, it is very important to ensure that it is of the highest microbiological quality. Many of the pathogens that cause lymph node lesions in pigs are zoonotic agents, and the most commonly isolated bacteria are Mycobacterium spp., Streptococcus spp., Staphylococcus aureus and Rhodococcus equi (synonymous with Prescottella equi). The prevention and treatment of zoonotic infections caused by these bacteria are mainly based on antimicrobials. However, an overuse of antimicrobials contributes to the emergence and high prevalence of antimicrobial-resistant strains, which are becoming a serious challenge in many countries. The aim of this study was to evaluate the genetic diversity and antimicrobial resistance of the Streptococcus spp. (n = 48), S. aureus (n = 5) and R. equi (n = 17) strains isolated from swine lymph nodes with and without lesions. All isolates of S. dysgalactiae, S. aureus and R. equi were subjected to PFGE analysis, which showed the genetic relatedness of the tested bacteria in the studied pig populations. Additionally, selected tetracycline and macrolide resistance genes in the streptococcal strains were also studied. The results obtained in the present study provide valuable data on the prevalence, diversity, and antimicrobial resistance of the studied bacteria. Numerous isolated bacterial Streptococcus spp. strains presented resistance to doxycycline, and almost half of them carried tetracycline resistance genes. In addition, R. equi and S. aureus bacteria presented a high level of resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics and to cefotaxime, respectively.
Effect of Filtration Process on Oxidative Stability and Minor Compounds of the Cold-Pressed Hempseed Oil during Storage
Authors: Lo Turco Vincenzo , Litrenta Federica , Nava Vincenzo , Albergamo Ambrogina , Rando Rossana , Bartolomeo Giovanni , Potortì Angela Giorgia , Di Bella Giuseppa
Published: June 2023

Cold-pressed hempseed oil (HO) has been increasingly exploited in the human diet for its excellent nutritional and healthy properties. However, it has a high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and chlorophylls, which inevitably accelerate its oxidative deterioration, especially in the presence of light. In this scenario, the filtration technology may ameliorate the oxidative stability of the oil, with positive effects on its nutritional quality and shelf life. Therefore, in this study, the oxidative stability and minor compounds of non-filtered and filtered HO (NF-HO and F-HO) were monitored over 12 weeks of storage in transparent glass bottles. F-HO showed a better hydrolytic and oxidative status than NF-HO during storage. As a result, F-HO also displayed better preservation of total MUFAs and PUFAs in the autoxidation process. Filtration consistently reduced chlorophylls, thus causing a variation in the natural color of HO. Accordingly, F-HO not only revealed an increased resistance to photooxidation but it was also suitable for storage in clear bottles within 12 weeks. F-HO predictably showed lower carotenoids, tocopherols, polyphenols, and squalene compared to NF-HO. However, filtration appeared to play a “protective role” toward these antioxidants, which had lower degradation rates in F-HO than NF-HO for 12 weeks. Interestingly, the element profile of HO was not affected by filtration and remained stable during the study period. Overall, this study may be of practical use to both producers and marketers of cold-pressed HO.
The Impact of Alcohol Consumption and Oral Microbiota on Upper Aerodigestive Tract Carcinomas: A Pilot Study
Authors: Fiore Marco , Minni Antonio , Cavalcanti Luca , Raponi Giammarco , Puggioni Gianluca , Mattia Alessandro , Gariglio Sara , Colizza Andrea , Meliante Piero Giuseppe , Zoccali Federica , Tarani Luigi , Barbato Christian , Lucarelli Marco , Ceci Flavio Maria , Francati Silvia , Ferraguti Giampiero , Ceccanti Mauro , Petrella Carla
Published: June 2023

Alcohol consumption is associated with oxidative stress and an increased risk of carcinoma of the upper aero-digestive tract (UADT). Recently, it has been found that some microorganisms in the human oral cavity may locally metabolize ethanol, forming acetaldehyde, a carcinogenic metabolite of alcohol. In a cohort of patients first visited for UADT cancers, we estimated their alcohol consumption by measuring Ethyl Glucuronide/EtG (a long-lasting metabolite of ethanol) in the hair and carbohydrate-deficient transferrin/CDT (short-term index of alcohol intake) in the serum. Moreover, we analyzed, by culture-based methods, the presence of Neisseria subflava, Streptococcus mitis, Candida albicans, and glabrata (microorganisms generating acetaldehyde) in the oral cavity. According to the EtG values, we correlated drinking alcohol with endogenous oxidative stress and the investigated microorganism’s presence. We found that 55% of heavy drinkers presented microorganisms generating acetaldehyde locally. Moreover, we found that the presence of oral acetaldehyde-producing bacteria correlates with increased oxidative stress compared to patients without such bacteria. As for the study of alcohol dehydrogenase gene polymorphisms (the enzyme that transforms alcohol to acetaldehyde), we found that only the “CGTCGTCCC” haplotype was more frequent in the general population than in carcinoma patients. This pilot study suggests the importance of estimating alcohol consumption (EtG), the presence of bacteria producing acetaldehyde, and oxidative stress as risk factors for the onset of oral carcinomas.
Sour Cherry Pomace Valorization as a Bakery Fruit Filling: Chemical Composition, Bioactivity, Quality and Sensory Properties
Authors: Teslić Nemanja , Kojić Jovana , Đermanović Branislava , Šarić Ljubiša , Maravić Nikola , Pestorić Mladenka , Šarić Bojana
Published: June 2023

Sour cherry pomace filling (SCPF) and commercial sour cherry filling (CSCF) produced on a semi-industrial scale were tested and compared in terms of food safety, chemical composition, bioactivity, quality, sensory properties and thermal stability. Both samples were safe for human consumption, thermally stable and there was a lack of syneresis. SCPF had a significantly higher fiber concentration (3.79 g/100 g) due to higher skin fraction and is considered a “source of fibers”. The higher skin fraction in SCPF also resulted in a higher mineral quantity (Fe—3.83 mg/kg fw) in comparison to CSCF (Fe—2.87 mg/kg fw). Anthocyanins concentration was lower in SCPF (7.58 mg CGE/100 g fw), suggesting that a significant amount of anthocyanins was removed from SC skin during juice extraction. However, there was a lack of statistical differences in antioxidant activity between the two fillings. CSCF was more spreadable, not as firm and less sticky, with lower storage and loss modulus values than SCPF. However, both fillings exhibited acceptable rheological and textural behaviour for fruit fillings. According to the consumer pastry test, 28 participants preferred each pastry; thus, there was a lack of preference toward any of the tested samples. SCP could be used as a raw material for the bakery fruit fillings industry, which leads to the valorization of food industry by-products.
An Ethyl Acetate Extract of Eryngium carlinae Inflorescences Attenuates Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in the Liver of Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Trejo-Hurtado Cristian M. , Landa-Moreno Cinthia I. , la Cruz Jenaro Lemus-de , Peña-Montes Donovan J. , Montoya-Pérez Rocío , Salgado-Garciglia Rafael , Manzo-Avalos Salvador , Cortés-Rojo Christian , Monribot-Villanueva Juan Luis , Guerrero-Analco José Antonio , Saavedra-Molina Alfredo
Published: June 2023

Secondary metabolites such as flavonoids are promising in the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is one of the complications of diabetes due to oxidative stress and inflammation. Some plants, such as Eryngium carlinae, have been investigated regarding their medicinal properties in in vitro and in vivo assays, showing favorable results for the treatment of various diseases such as diabetes and obesity. The present study examined the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the phenolic compounds present in an ethyl acetate extract of the inflorescences of Eryngium carlinae on liver homogenates and mitochondria from streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Phenolic compounds were identified and quantified by UHPLC-MS. In vitro assays were carried out to discover the antioxidant potential of the extract. Male Wistar rats were administered with a single intraperitoneal injection of STZ (45 mg/kg) and were given the ethyl acetate extract at a level of 30 mg/kg for 60 days. Phytochemical assays showed that the major constituents of the extract were flavonoids; in addition, the in vitro antioxidant activity was dose dependent with IC50 = 57.97 mg/mL and IC50 = 30.90 mg/mL in the DPPH and FRAP assays, respectively. Moreover, the oral administration of the ethyl acetate extract improved the effects of NAFLD, decreasing serum and liver triacylglycerides (TG) levels and oxidative stress markers and increasing the activity of the antioxidant enzymes. Likewise, it attenuated liver damage by decreasing the expression of NF-κB and iNOS, which lead to inflammation and liver damage. We hypothesize that solvent polarity and consequently chemical composition of the ethyl acetate extract of E. carlinae, exert the beneficial effects due to phenolic compounds. These results suggest that the phenolic compounds of the ethyl acetate extract of E. carlinae have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic, and hepatoprotective activity.
New Insights on Dietary Polyphenols for the Management of Oxidative Stress and Neuroinflammation in Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Fanaro Gustavo Bernardes , Marques Marcelo Rodrigues , Calaza Karin da Costa , Brito Rafael , Pessoni André Moreira , Mendonça Henrique Rocha , Lemos Deborah Emanuelle de Albuquerque , de Brito Alves José Luiz , de Souza Evandro Leite , Cavalcanti Neto Marinaldo Pacífico
Published: June 2023

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a neurodegenerative and vascular pathology that is considered one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide, resulting from complications of advanced diabetes mellitus (DM). Current therapies consist of protocols aiming to alleviate the existing clinical signs associated with microvascular alterations limited to the advanced disease stages. In response to the low resolution and limitations of the DR treatment, there is an urgent need to develop more effective alternative therapies to optimize glycemic, vascular, and neuronal parameters, including the reduction in the cellular damage promoted by inflammation and oxidative stress. Recent evidence has shown that dietary polyphenols reduce oxidative and inflammatory parameters of various diseases by modulating multiple cell signaling pathways and gene expression, contributing to the improvement of several chronic diseases, including metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases. However, despite the growing evidence for the bioactivities of phenolic compounds, there is still a lack of data, especially from human studies, on the therapeutic potential of these substances. This review aims to comprehensively describe and clarify the effects of dietary phenolic compounds on the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in DR, especially those of oxidative and inflammatory nature, through evidence from experimental studies. Finally, the review highlights the potential of dietary phenolic compounds as a prophylactic and therapeutic strategy and the need for further clinical studies approaching the efficacy of these substances in DR management.
Systematic Review: Emotion Recognition Based on Electrophysiological Patterns for Emotion Regulation Detection
Authors: Duville Mathilde Marie , Pérez Yeremi , Hugues-Gudiño Rodrigo , Naal-Ruiz Norberto E. , Alonso-Valerdi Luz María , Ibarra-Zarate David I.
Published: June 2023

The electrophysiological basis of emotion regulation (ER) has gained increased attention since efficient emotion recognition and ER allow humans to develop high emotional intelligence. However, no methodological standardization has been established yet. Therefore, this paper aims to provide a critical systematic review to identify experimental methodologies that evoke emotions and record, analyze and link electrophysiological signals with emotional experience by statistics and artificial intelligence, and lastly, define a clear application of assessing emotion processing. A total of 42 articles were selected after a search based on six scientific browsers: Web of Science, EBSCO, PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest and ScienceDirect during the first semester of 2020. Studies were included if (1) electrophysiological signals recorded on human subjects were correlated with emotional recognition and/or regulation; (2) statistical models, machine or deep learning methods based on electrophysiological signals were used to analyze data. Studies were excluded if they met one or more of the following criteria: (1) emotions were not described in terms of continuous dimensions (valence and arousal) or by discrete variables, (2) a control group or neutral state was not implemented, and (3) results were not obtained from a previous experimental paradigm that aimed to elicit emotions. There was no distinction in the selection whether the participants presented a pathological or non-pathological condition, but the condition of subjects must have been efficiently detailed for the study to be included. The risk of bias was limited by extracting and organizing information on spreadsheets and participating in discussions between the authors. However, the data size selection, such as the sample size, was not considered, leading to bias in the validity of the analysis. This systematic review is presented as a consulting source to accelerate the development of neuroengineering-based systems to regulate the trajectory of emotional experiences early on.
Optimization of Control Parameters of Magnetorheological Squeeze Film Dampers to Minimize the Vibration Amplitude of Rotors Passing the Critical Speed
Authors: Zapoměl Jaroslav , Ferfecki Petr , Molčan Michal
Published: June 2023

Rotors are often coupled with a stationary part by rolling element bearings. To suppress their excessive vibration, the bearings are inserted in squeeze film dampers. The control of damping in the support elements offers the possibility to minimize the oscillation amplitude of accelerating or decelerating rotors, passing the regions of critical speeds. The controllable damping effect can be achieved if the squeeze film dampers are lubricated with magnetorheological oil. The change in the applied current feeding the electric coil changes magnetic induction in the damper gap, which changes the oil damping properties. The minimum vibration amplitude of the rotor running up or down through the resonance area is accomplished if the current increase or decrease is not sudden, but if it is distributed in some time interval. This article concentrates on determination of the optimum parameters of this manipulation. The developed procedure leads to solving an unconstrained optimization problem with the implicit objective function. The evolution method was used for its solving. In the investigated case, the proposed procedure made it possible to reduce maximum vibration amplitude by about 40% compared with the uncontrolled current decrease. The main contribution of the conducted research work is presentation of a new and original procedure for controlling the damping effect in the rotor supports. It provides a new idea to the designers and engineers regarding how to minimize amplitude of the rotor vibration when passing the critical speed. In addition, the article points to a new area of utilization of controllable magnetorheological squeeze film dampers.
Study on Seismic Reduction Measures of a Diaphragm Wall—Underground Structure System
Authors: Zhang Qi , Zhao Mi , Huang Jingqi , Gao Zhidong
Published: June 2023

In this paper, the seismic reduction and isolation measures are first proposed by setting a segmented isolation layer between the diaphragm wall and the side wall of the station structure. Although the segmented isolation layer can effectively improve the stress state of the side wall and slabs, the seismic reduction effect of the middle column is not obvious. In order to improve the overall seismic performance of the station structure, the reduction measures by combining the segmented isolation layer and new type bearing of the middle column are then proposed. At the same time of inserting the isolation layer between the diaphragm wall and the structure, the sliding bearing at the top of the column is set up to reduce the vibration. The results show that the segmented isolation layer can significantly reduce the internal force and damage at the top, bottom and side wall joints. In addition, the combined measures of segmented isolation layer and sliding bearing at the top of the column can effectively reduce the seismic damage of the middle column. The damage of the connection between the top plate, the middle plate and the middle column can be significantly decreased.
Eco-Friendly Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles by Nitrosalsola vermiculata to Promote Skin Wound Healing
Authors: Abdellatif Ahmed A. H. , Rugaie Osamah Al , Alhumaydhi Fahad A. , Tolba Nahla Sameh , Mousa Ayman M.
Published: June 2023

Eco-friendly synthesis of silver nanoparticles (SN) by using a naturally occurring plant, such as Nitrosalsola (Salsola) vermiculata (SV), could be a novel way for appropriate wound healing. AgNO3 was reduced by SV to produce safe SN (SN-SV) extract and hasten the wound healing process. The obtained SN-SV were characterized by size, charge, wavelength, and surface morphology. The optimized formulation was dispersed in O/W cosmetic cream. Then, it was characterized in terms of pH, viscosity, homogeneity, and permeability. The ex vivo and in vivo studies have been conducted in a rat animal model to assess the potential of SN-SV cream on skin tissue regeneration. A skin punch biopsy was obtained to investigate the histopathological (HP) changes in the skin lesions of all rats by the H&E staining and PCNA immunostaining methods. The skin wounds in all subgroups were examined on days 5, 11, and 15 to analyze the effectiveness of SN-SV cream for treating surgical skin wounds. The prepared SN-SV had a particle size of 37.32 ± 1.686 nm, a charge of −1.4 ± 0.7 mV, non-aggregated SN-SV, and a λmax of 396.46 nm. The formed SN-SV cream showed a pH near the skin’s pH, with suitable viscosity and homogeneity and an apparent permeability of 0.009 ± 0.001. The HP changes in the SN-SV subgroups revealed a substantial reduction in wound size and improvement in wound granulation tissue formation and epidermal re-epithelialization (proliferation) compared to the healing in the SN subgroups. The current work revealed that SN-SV could be a novel skin-wound-healing agent with a practical application as a wound-healing platform.
Faster RCNN Target Detection Algorithm Integrating CBAM and FPN
Authors: Sheng Wenshun , Yu Xiongfeng , Lin Jiayan , Chen Xin
Published: June 2023

In the process of image shooting, due to the influence of angle, distance, complex scenes, illumination intensity, and other factors, small targets and occluded targets will inevitably appear in the image. These targets have few effective pixels, few features, and no obvious features, which makes it difficult to extract their effective features and easily leads to false detection, missed detection, and repeated detection, thus affecting the performance of target detection models. To solve this problem, an improved faster region convolutional neural network (RCNN) algorithm integrating the convolutional block attention module (CBAM) and feature pyramid network (FPN) (CF-RCNN) is proposed to improve the detection and recognition accuracy of small-sized, occluded, or truncated objects in complex scenes. Firstly, it incorporates the CBAM attention mechanism in the feature extraction network in combination with the information filtered by spatial and channel attention modules, focusing on local efficient information of the feature image, which improves the detection ability in the face of obscured or truncated objects. Secondly, it introduces the FPN feature pyramid structure, and links high-level and bottom-level feature data to obtain high-resolution and strong semantic data to enhance the detection effect for small-sized objects. Finally, it optimizes non-maximum suppression (NMS) to compensate for the shortcomings of conventional NMS that mistakenly eliminates overlapping detection frames. The experimental results show that the mean average precision (MAP) of target detection of the improved algorithm on PASCAL VOC2012 public datasets is improved to 76.2%, which is 13.9 percentage points higher than those of the commonly used Faster RCNN and other algorithms. It is better than the commonly used small-sample target detection algorithm.
Development and Evaluation of a Web-Based Self-Management Program for Korean Adult Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome Based on the Information–Motivation–Behavioral Skills Model
Authors: Hwang Seohyeon , Na Woori , Oh Dayoung , Sohn Cheongmin
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to develop and assess the effectiveness of a web-based nutrition education program for self-managing IBS symptoms using the IMB model. This study used single-arm, pre–post study design to test the effectiveness of the nutrition education program after its development. Participants were adults in their twenties and thirties in South Korea with IBS according to the ROME IV diagnostic criteria (n = 49). For statistical analysis, normality was verified using the Shapiro–Wilk test, and variables that met the assumption of normality were analyzed using the paired t-test, and variables that did not meet the assumption of normality were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. IBS patients (n = 49) experienced a statistically significant increase in nutrition knowledge after receiving nutrition education (p = 0.015). IBS patients (n = 35) with no prior experience in nutrition education or diet modification also demonstrated a statistically significant increase in self-efficacy (p = 0.044) and nutrition knowledge (p = 0.016). The web-based nutrition education program based on the IMB model developed in this study was found to be effective. These results will contribute to diversifying symptom prevention strategies for patients with IBS.
A Robust and Automated Vision-Based Human Fall Detection System Using 3D Multi-Stream CNNs with an Image Fusion Technique
Authors: Alanazi Thamer , Babutain Khalid , Muhammad Ghulam
Published: June 2023

Unintentional human falls, particularly in older adults, can result in severe injuries and death, and negatively impact quality of life. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that falls are a significant public health issue and the primary cause of injury-related fatalities worldwide. Injuries resulting from falls, such as broken bones, trauma, and internal injuries, can have severe consequences and can lead to a loss of mobility and independence. To address this problem, there have been suggestions to develop strategies to reduce the frequency of falls, in order to decrease healthcare costs and productivity loss. Vision-based fall detection approaches have proven their effectiveness in addressing falls on time, which can help to reduce fall injuries. This paper introduces an automated vision-based system for detecting falls and issuing instant alerts upon detection. The proposed system processes live footage from a monitoring surveillance camera by utilizing a fine-tuned human segmentation model and image fusion technique as pre-processing and classifying a set of live footage with a 3D multi-stream CNN model (4S-3DCNN). The system alerts when the sequence of the Falling of the monitored human, followed by having Fallen, takes place. The effectiveness of the system was assessed using the publicly available Le2i dataset. System validation revealed an impressive result, achieving an accuracy of 99.44%, sensitivity of 99.12%, specificity of 99.12%, and precision of 99.59%. Based on the reported results, the presented system can be a valuable tool for detecting human falls, preventing fall injury complications, and reducing healthcare and productivity loss costs.
The Utilization of Lean Six Sigma Methodologies in Enhancing Surgical Pathways and Surgical Rehabilitation
Authors: Teeling Seán Paul , McGuirk Michelle , McNamara Martin , McGroarty Marie , Igoe Aileen
Published: June 2023

The authors offer their perspective on the application of Lean Six Sigma methodology to surgical pathways, from referral to post-operative rehabilitation, and how it has resulted in sustainable improvements in patient outcomes, and patient and staff satisfaction. The origin of Lean Six Sigma is described before considering its application to improving scheduled surgical care. The concept of ‘flow’, and its relevance to pre-, intra-, and post-operative care, is discussed as well as the role of Lean Six Sigma in supporting innovation and in promoting an organizational culture that promotes openness to new ideas. The elements of the methodology that render it especially suitable for the redesign of surgical pathways include eliciting the customer voice, co-design, enabling system awareness and inculcating a continuous improvement mindset. The necessary conditions for the successful implementation of Lean Six Sigma initiatives include managerial support, high-quality education and training, and alignment with organizational strategy. Future directions for practice and research are discussed before presenting a key finding from the literature and from the authors’ collective experience: Lean Six Sigma initiatives will not lead to sustainable improvements where the key elements of the methodology are not recognized and enacted, and where the necessary conditions are absent.
Development and Validation of Machine-Learning Models to Support Clinical Diagnosis for Non-Epileptic Psychogenic Seizures
Authors: Zucco Chiara , Calabrese Barbara , Mancuso Rossana , Sturniolo Miriam , Pucci Franco , Gambardella Antonio , Cannataro Mario
Published: June 2023

Electroencephalographic (EEG) signal processing and machine learning can support neurologists’ work in discriminating Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizure (PNES) from epilepsy. PNES represents a neurological disease often misdiagnosed. Although the symptoms of PNES patients can be similar to those exhibited by epileptic patients, EEG signals during a psychogenic seizure do not show ictal patterns such as in epilepsy. Therefore, PNES diagnosis requires long-term EEG video. Applying signal processing and machine-learning methodologies could help clinicians find helpful information in the clinical diagnosis of PNES by analyzing EEG signals registered in resting conditions and in a short time. These methodologies should prevent long EEG recording sessions and avoid inducing seizures in the subjects. The aim of our study is to develop and validate several machine-learning models on a larger dataset, consisting of 225 EEGs (75 healthy, 75 PNES, and 75 subjects with epilepsy). A deep analysis of our results shows that changes in the evaluation strategy led to changes in accuracy from 45% to 83.98% for a standard Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LGBM) classifier. Our findings suggest that it is necessary to operate a very rigorous control in terms of experimental data collection (patient selection, signal acquisition) and terms of validation strategies to obtain and reproducible results.
Between Estrangement at Home and Marginalization by the Host: Tracing Senses of Belonging through Music
Authors: Kyratsou Chrysi
Published: June 2023

This article discusses the twofold role of music as a means to manifest border-induced (cultural) difference and simultaneously foster alternative modes of belonging. The author draws on her ethnographic research, consisting of participant observation, desktop research, and interviews, and reflects on her auto-ethnographic recordings of engaging with refugee musicians. The discussion unfolds around vignettes that exemplify moments of musical encounters among refugees and between refugees and people from the host society. The vignettes are narrated from the refugee interlocutors’ point of view, who are engaged in the musicking instances as listeners and musicians. The article discusses how they devise music to cope with their estrangement from home and to articulate narratives of belonging. It illuminates how refugees challenge stereotyped representations of themselves, reinforcing the terms under which they can become “visible” and “audible.” Finally, the article argues that refugees’ narratives suggest understandings of reality as a continuum in ways that challenge the linear reifications produced by nation-state bordering practices and displacement-induced ruptures These understandings are embedded in music’s mobilities and their intersections with human movement, informal networks, and the cultural industry.
Climate Potential for Apple Growing in Norway—Part 1: Zoning of Areas with Heat Conditions Favorable for Apple Growing under Observed Climate Change
Authors: Vuković Vimić Ana , Vujadinović Mandić Mirjam , Fotirić Akšić Milica , Vukićević Ksenija , Meland Mekjell
Published: June 2023

Agricultural production is already, and obviously, affected by climate change. Adapting to climate change includes reducing future risks to ensure yield quality and quantity and considers seizing any potential opportunities induced by climate change. In higher latitude areas, such as Norway, cold climate limits the cultivation of fruits. An increase in temperature offers more favorable conditions for fruit production. In this study, using available phenological observations (full blooming) and harvest dates, and meteorological data from the experimental orchard of NIBIO Ullensvang, the minimum heat requirements for growing different apple varieties are determined. Those criteria are used for zoning of the areas with heat favorable conditions for apple growing. Data on six varieties were used, with lower and higher requirements for heat for fruit development (Discovery, Gravenstein, Summerred, Aroma, Rubinstep, and Elstar). High resolution daily temperature data were generated and used for zoning of the areas with heat favorable conditions for apple growing within the selected domain, which includes Western Norway, Southern Norway, Eastern Norway, and the western part of Trøndelag, Mid-Norway. Dynamics of the change in such surfaces was assessed for the period of 1961–2020. The total surface with favorable heat conditions for growing the varieties with lesser requirement for heat increased three times during this period. The growing of more heat-demanding varieties increased from near zero to about 2.5% of the studied land surface. In the period of 2011–2020, surface area with favorable heat conditions for apple growing was almost 27,000 km2, and a surface area of about 4600 km2 can sustain growing of more heat-demanding varieties. The presented results show the increasing potential of the climate of Norway for apple cultivation and highlight the importance of implementation of fruit production planned according to climate change trends, including the assessment of potential risks from climate hazards. However, the methodology for determining heat requirements can be improved by using phenological ripening dates if available, rather than harvest dates which are impacted by human decision. Zoning of areas with the potential of sustainable apple growing requires the use of future climate change assessments and information on land-related features.