bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of a shared gene signature and biological mechanism between diabetic foot ulcers and cutaneous lupus erythemnatosus by transcriptomic analysis
Authors: Wu Siqi , Wang Yuetong , Duan Jingyi , Teng Ying , Wang Dali , Qi Fang
Published: February 2024

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) and cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) are both diseases that can seriously affect a patient’s quality of life and generate economic pressure in society. Symptomatically, both DLU and CLE exhibit delayed healing and excessive inflammation; however, there is little evidence to support a molecular and cellular connection between these two diseases. In this study, we investigated potential common characteristics between DFU and CLE at the molecular level to provide new insights into skin diseases and regeneration, and identify potential targets for the development of new therapies. The gene expression profiles of DFU and CLE were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and used for analysis. A total of 41 common differentially expressed genes (DEGs), 16 upregulated genes and 25 downregulated genes, were identified between DFU and CLE. GO and KEGG analysis showed that abnormalities in epidermal cells and the activation of inflammatory factors were both involved in the occurrence and development of DFU and CLE. Protein-protein interaction network (PPI) and sub-module analysis identified enrichment in seven common key genes which is KRT16, S100A7, KRT77, OASL, S100A9, EPGN and SAMD9. Based on these seven key genes, we further identified five miRNAs(has-mir-532-5p, has-mir-324-3p,has-mir-106a-5p,has-mir-20a-5p,has-mir-93-5p) and7 transcription factors including CEBPA, CEBPB, GLI1, EP30D, JUN,SP1, NFE2L2 as potential upstream molecules. Functional immune infiltration assays showed that these genes were related to immune cells. The CIBERSORT algorithm and Pearson method were used to determine the correlations between key genes and immune cells, and reverse key gene-immune cell correlations were found between DFU and CLE. Finally, the DGIbd database demonstrated that Paquinimod and Tasquinimod could be used to target S100A9 and Ribavirin could be used to target OASL. Our findings highlight common gene expression characteristics and signaling pathways between DFU and CLE, indicating a close association between these two diseases. This provides guidance for the development of targeted therapies and mutual interactions.
Micrometeorological monitoring reveals that canopy temperature is a reliable trait for the screening of heat tolerance in rice
Authors: Tian Wentao , Mu Qilin , Gao Yuan , Zhang Yunbo , Wang Yi , Ding Shuangcheng , Aloryi Kelvin Dodzi , Okpala Nnaemeka Emmanuel , Tian Xiaohai
Published: February 2024

Micrometeorological monitoring is not just an effective method of determining the impact of heat stress on rice, but also a reliable way of understanding how to screen for heat tolerance in rice. The aim of this study was to use micrometeorological monitoring to determine varietal differences in rice plants grown under two weather scenarios−Long-term Heat Scenario (LHS) and Normal Weather Scenario (NWS)− so as to establish reliable methods for heat tolerance screening. Experiments were conducted with two heat susceptible varieties−Mianhui 101 and IR64−and two heat tolerant varieties, Quanliangyou 681 and SDWG005. We used staggered sowing method to ensure that all varieties flower at the same time. Our results showed that heat tolerant varieties maintained lower canopy temperature compared to heat susceptible varieties, not just during the crucial flowering period of 10 am to 12 pm, but throughout the entire day and night. The higher stomatal conductance rate observed in heat tolerant varieties possibly decreased their canopy temperatures through the process of evaporative cooling during transpiration. Conversely, we found that panicle temperature cannot be used to screen for heat tolerance at night, as we observed no significant difference in the panicle temperature of heat tolerant and heat susceptible varieties at night. However, we also reported that higher panicle temperature in heat susceptible varieties decreased spikelet fertility rate, while low panicle temperature in heat tolerant varieties increased spikelet fertility rate. In conclusion, the results of this study showed that canopy temperature is probably the most reliable trait to screen for heat tolerance in rice.
The importance of social relationships in depression in autistic adolescents: a narrative-review
Authors: Mamimoué Élise , Gauld Christophe
Published: February 2024

Objective

The impact of social relationships on autistic adolescents has been recently studied. However, the link between social relationships and depression in autistic adolescents seem underrepresented in the scientific literature. Especially no specific assessment tool has been developed to evaluate depression in autistic adolescents. The aim of this narrative review is to raise the impact of social relationships on depression in autistic adolescents. We aim to propose lines of thought on the creation of a sensitive tool for identifying depression in this population.

Methods

We conducted two types of searches for articles and reviews on PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane. First, regarding social relationships, we searched the following terms: [(“adolesc*” OR “youth”) AND (“ASD” OR “autis*”) AND (“social communication” OR “peer relationship”) AND (“depress*”)]. Secondly, regarding assessment tool, we searched the following terms: [(“tool” OR “assess*”) AND (“depress*”) AND (“ASD” OR “Autis*)”].

Results

Social impact, verbal skills, and good social motivation are risk factors of depression in autistic adolescents. Social impairment during childhood is related to peer victimization and is a risk factor for depression. There is no specific tool to measure depression in autistic adolescents.

Conclusion

No specific tool based on social relationships was developed to evaluate depression in autistic adolescents. Depression in autistic adolescents needs to be assessed considering the social and pragmatic specificities of autism. Social communication and difficulties in peer relationships may be evaluated in specific assessment tools based on social relationships for depression in autistic adolescents.
Migratory grief: a systematic review
Authors: Renner Anna , Schmidt Viktoria , Kersting Anette
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Migration is often accompanied by interpersonal, material and abstract losses and can be associated with migratory grief. The correlates of migratory grief have not yet been sufficiently addressed in research. This review aims to systematically investigate the relationship between migratory grief and psychopathology, to map the current state of research on this highly relevant topic and to derive relevant implications for the target group.

Method

A systematic literature search of electronic databases (PubMed/Medline, PsycINFO, Web of Science) was conducted up until January 2023. Primary empirical quantitative and qualitative studies with migrants were included that assessed the association between migratory grief and psychopathology, using a specific instrument for migratory grief (quantitative) or named migratory grief as relevant topic (qualitative). Studies that only captured aspects of migratory grief, were not written in English, or were descriptive/non-peer-reviewed publications, were excluded. A quality assessment of all studies included was performed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. The results were synthesized using a narrative synthesis approach.

Results

All studies (quan. = 4; qual. = 1) were cross-sectional and used convenience samples. The studies had a mean number of 83 participants with a total of N = 487 participants included in the current review. All included studies reported a significant relationship between migratory grief and psychological distress.

Discussion

Despite the quality of the included studies being limited, our results show that there is a link between migratory grief and depression among refugees and migrants. However, there are only few studies in this currently and certainly also in the future relevant field of research, which is why further studies on factors influencing migratory grief as well as associations with other disorders would be desirable.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42023403448.
Gender equality and smoking among 15 to 25 year olds—a time-based ecological analysis of developments in Germany from 1960 to 2005
Authors: Roczen Jana , Bolte Gabriele , Reineke Birgit , Kuhnert Ronny , Starker Anne , Mena Emily
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Smoking is a major risk factor for premature death and health problems in which there are significant gender differences in the prevalence of smoking. This ecological study examines the correlation between changes in gender equality and prevalence of smoking among young adults (15–25 years old) in Germany over a period of 45 years (1960–2005).

Methods

Gender inequality was measured using the United Nations Gender Inequality Index (GII), which is composed of three dimensions; health, empowerment and labour market. It was calculated for the entire registered German population in five-year intervals with values between 0 and 1 (1 = highest inequality). The smoking prevalence of young women and men in Germany was established using a reconstruction method. A gender smoking ratio (GSR) with values between 0 and 1 was determined (1 = identical smoking prevalence among men and women). The smoking behaviour was illustrated and stratified by education. The correlation between the GII and the GSR was analysed.

Results

The GII decreased from 0.98 to 0.56 between 1960 and 2005. The GSR increased from 0.34 to 0.93. There was a strong negative correlation between the GII and the GSR (r = −0.71). The strength of the correlation fell slightly as the level of education decreased. An increase in gender equality as measured by the GII came along with similarities of smoking prevalence between young women and young men.

Conclusion

Successful tobacco prevention among young women and men may benefit from involving experts in gender-specific public health research to develop counter-advertising and gender-specific information as needed.
Investigating hope in oral health promotion for adolescents: an exploratory study based on observations at the dental clinic
Authors: Jasbi Arefe , Sand Kari , Marshman Zoe , Høiseth Marikken
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Maintaining well-being is crucial, especially in challenging conditions, considering the common public health issue of dental caries. Within the context of adolescent oral health, this research explores the techniques employed by dental professionals to potentially foster hope -a positive manner that promotes well-being- in adolescents during consultations, opening a window into the realm of patient engagement and well-being.

Materials and methods

Data were collected through observations conducted at public dental clinics in Norway, with the participation of three dental professionals and four adolescents between the ages of 12 and 15 years. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Practices were observed from dental professionals in their interactions with adolescents, which align with features of hope.

Result

Three core themes were identified: (1) bonding strategies; (2) verbal and non-verbal strategies for creating positive relationships; and (3) adolescents' empowerment in dental consultations.

Conclusion

Although a new concept within oral health promotion, it seems that dental professionals in this study were observed to be facilitating hope in adolescents when they were providing their dental care. Consideration should be given to the potential for future approaches to be developed for use in dental consultations to facilitate hope strategically. While these approaches are likely to contribute to improving patient-centredness, consideration is needed of challenges and barriers to their implementation.
Determinants of financial inclusion in households in Peru
Authors: Quispe Mamani Julio Cesar , Aguilar Pinto Santotomas Licimaco , Calcina Álvarez Dominga Asunción , Quispe Layme Marleny , Gutierrez Toledo Guino Percy , Condori Condori Gina Tamara , Vargas Espinoza Luis , Quispe Layme Wilian , Marca Maquera Hugo Rubén , Rosado Chávez Charles Arturo
Published: February 2024

The issue of financial inclusion considers access to and use of quality financial services by household members and different types of companies around the world, allowing us to reach the opportunities that the globalized world offers us. The objective of this research was to identify the socioeconomic factors that determined the inclusion of households in the financial system in Peru in the period of 2021. A quantitative approach was considered, which was non-experimental with a descriptive and correlational design and in which 81,441 pieces of data were obtained from the National Household Survey (ENAHO) of the National Institute of Statistics and Informatics, applying a logit binomial regression. It was determined that 47.02% of households were included in the financial system; 61.93% of those surveyed had their residence in the urban area; on average, respondents had incomplete secondary education; the age of the respondents on average was from 25 to 44 years; the average economic income of the household was less than $251 per month; 72.18% were represented by men as heads of the household and the rest by women; most of the respondents had a cohabiting marital status; the social conditions showed that 23.82% were in the group of being poor; and the majority of households did not have a property title. The determinants of financial inclusion in Peruvian households for 2021 were the area of residence, educational level, age of the respondent, economic income, gender of the respondent, marital status, social status, and property title.
Antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of mango peel and radish peel-a comparative investigation
Authors: Koirala Pankaj , Chunhavacharatorn Phatchada , Suttisansanee Uthaiwan , Benjakul Soottawat , Katewongsa Kanlaya , Al-Asmari Fahad , Nirmal Nilesh
Published: February 2024

The present study investigated the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Bao mango and daikon radish peel (Thai variety) ethanolic extracts. The percentage extraction yield of radish peel was higher compared to the mango peel (p < 0.05). However, Mango peel extract (MPE) contained higher total phenolic content (TPC) than radish peel extract (RPE) (p < 0.05). Similar to the TPC value, antioxidant activities including DPPH radical scavenging activity, reducing power, and peroxidation inhibition were higher in the MPE, compared to the RPE, except for metal chelating activity. The antimicrobial analyses suggested that the MPE showed lower minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values compared to the RPE (p < 0.05) against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) revealed that mangiferin was the major phenolic compound present in MPE, followed by 3, 4 dihydroxybenzoic acid. Therefore, MP could be used as a promising natural antioxidant and antimicrobial agent for food applications.
Case report: Management of generalized infection and draining tracts of the frontomaxillary region in a dog
Authors: Wolfs Elias , Kot Ching Ching Shirley , Vapniarsky Natalia , Arzi Boaz
Published: February 2024

Objective

This study aims to report the surgical and medical management of generalized chronic maxillofacial infection with multiple intra- and extraoral draining tracts in a dog.

Case summary

A 6 years-old, male neutered pit bull terrier dog underwent a staged procedure. First, a diagnostic work-up including hematologic and biochemical analysis, conventional computed tomography (CT) with contrast of the skull, and a rhinoscopic evaluation of the draining tracts was performed. Samples were obtained for histopathological, microbial, and fungal testing. Second, a 4 week course of antimicrobials based on culture and sensitivity results was administered. Third, an extraoral approach to soft tissue reconstruction was accomplished as a first stage in the repair process. Finally, an intraoral approach to repair the oronasal fistulous draining tracts was performed. A 6 months follow-up skull CT revealed various stages of repair and remodeling and adequate soft tissue healing.

Clinical relevance

A staged procedure is a suitable option to treat chronic and generalized frontal and maxillary infection with multiple intra- and extraoral fistulous draining tracts in dogs.
The distribution characteristics of aerosol bacteria in different types of sheepfolds
Authors: Wang Jiandong , Yu Youli , Raheem Abdul , Guo Yanan , Ma Qing , Lu Doukun
Published: February 2024

With the development of modern sheep raising technology, the increasing density of animals in sheep house leads to the accumulation of microbial aerosols in sheep house. It is an important prerequisite to grasp the characteristics of bacteria in aerosols in sheep house to solve the problems of air pollution and disease prevention and control in sheep house. In this study, the microorganisms present in the air of sheep houses were investigated to gain insights into the structure of bacterial communities and the prevalence of pathogenic bacteria. Samples from six sheep pens in each of three sheep farms, totaling 18, were collected in August 2022 from Ningxia province, China. A high-volume air sampler was utilized for aerosol collection within the sheep housing followed by DNA extraction for 16S rRNA sequencing. Employing high-throughput 16S rRNA sequencing technology, we conducted an in-depth analysis of microbial populations in various sheep pen air samples, enabling us to assess the community composition and diversity. The results revealed a total of 11,207 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) within the bacterial population across the air samples, encompassing 152 phyla, 298 classes, 517 orders, 853 families, 910 genera, and 482 species. Alpha diversity and beta diversity analysis indicated that differences in species diversity, evenness and coverage between different samples. At the bacterial phylum level, the dominant bacterial groups are Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, and Actinobacteria, among which Firmicutes (97.90–98.43%) is the highest. At the bacterial genus level, bacillus, Bacteroides, Fusobacterium, etc. had higher abundance, with Bacillus (85.47–89.87%) being the highest. Through an in-depth analysis of microbial diversity and a meticulous examination of pathogenic bacteria with high abundance in diverse sheep house air samples, the study provided valuable insights into the microbial diversity, abundance, and distinctive features of prevalent pathogenic bacteria in sheep house air. These findings serve as a foundation for guiding effective disease prevention and control strategies within sheep farming environments.
Mechanistic insights into inositol-mediated rumen function promotion and metabolic alteration using in vitro and in vivo models
Authors: Yin Guopei , Sun Zhe , Wang Zhanqing , Xia Yuanhong , Cheng Long , Qin Guixin , Aschalew Natnael D. , Liu Hongyun , Zhang Xuefeng , Wu Qilu , Zhang Weigang , Zhao Wei , Wang Tao , Zhen Yuguo
Published: February 2024

Inositol is a bioactive factor that is widely found in nature; however, there are few studies on its use in ruminant nutrition. This study investigated the effects of different inositol doses and fermentation times on rumen fermentation and microbial diversity, as well as the levels of rumen and blood metabolites in sheep. Rumen fermentation parameters, microbial diversity, and metabolites after different inositol doses were determined in vitro. According to the in vitro results, six small-tailed Han sheep fitted with permanent rumen fistulas were used in a 3 × 3 Latin square feeding experiment where inositol was injected into the rumen twice a day and rumen fluid and blood samples were collected. The in vitro results showed that inositol could increase in vitro dry matter digestibility, in vitro crude protein digestibility, NH3-N, acetic acid, propionic acid, and rumen microbial diversity and affect rumen metabolic pathways (p < 0.05). The feeding experiment results showed that inositol increased the blood concentration of high-density lipoprotein and IgG, IgM, and IL-4 levels. The rumen microbial composition was significantly affected (p < 0.05). Differential metabolites in the rumen were mainly involved in ABC transporters, biotin metabolism, and phenylalanine metabolism, whereas those in the blood were mainly involved in arginine biosynthesis and glutathione and tyrosine metabolism. In conclusion, inositol improves rumen function, affects rumen microorganisms and rumen and blood metabolites and may reduce inflammation, improving animal health.
Revolutionizing pharmacokinetics: the dawn of AI-powered analysis
Authors: Ghayoor Ali , Kohan Hamed Gilzad
Published: February 2024

This editorial explores how artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the science of pharmacokinetics (PK). It discusses the challenges of conventional PK analysis and how AI has transformed this area. It highlights the promise of artificial intelligence (AI) in predicting pharmacokinetic profiles from chemical structures and its application in several aspects of pharmacology, including dosage customization and drug interactions. Additionally, it emphasizes how important ethical issues and openness are to AI applications, especially when it comes to pharmacokinetic prediction and dataset adaptation. Future directions for AI in PK are discussed, with the creation of all-inclusive AI pharmacokinetics/pharmacometrics software being envisioned. Drug discovery and patient care could be transformed toward more individualized and effective healthcare solutions with the help of this software, which could handle tasks such as data cleaning, model selection, and regulatory report preparation. The editorial highlights the importance of AI in improving pharmaceutical sciences while urging caution and teamwork in navigating its possible uses in pharmacokinetics.
A Novel Sea Target Tracking Algorithm for Multiple Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Considering Attitude Error in Low-Precision Geodetic Coordinate Environments
Authors: Dai Qiuyang , Lu Faxing , Xu Junfei
Published: February 2024

Geodetic coordinate information and attitude information of the observation platform are necessary for multi-UAV position alignment and target tracking. In a complex sea environment, the navigation equipment of a UAV is susceptible to interference. High-precision geodetic coordinate information and attitude information are difficult to obtain. Aiming to solve the above problems, a low-precision geodetic coordinate real-time systematic spatial registration algorithm based on multi-UAV observation and an improved robust fusion tracking algorithm of multi-UAV to sea targets considering attitude error are proposed. The spatial registration algorithm obtains the observation information of the same target based on the mutual observation information. Then, geodetic coordinate systematic error is accurately estimated by establishing the systematic error estimation measurement equation. The improved robust fusion tracking algorithm considers the influence of UAV attitude error in the observation. The simulation experiment and practical experiment show that the algorithm can not only estimate systematic error accurately but also improve tracking accuracy.
Mechanisms and Comparative Treatments of Allergic Rhinitis including Phototherapy
Authors: Kennedy Roy
Published: February 2024

The treatment of allergic conditions presents a challenge for both seasonal allergic rhinitis and perennial rhinitis sufferers. The increasing prevalence of both of these types of allergic responses requires the use of a range of treatments which can provide relief. The treatment of allergic rhinitis has been considered under the ARIA (Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma) guidelines. Current treatment options include medication and avoidance for those with reduced responses, but more expensive treatments include immunotherapy and the use of monoclonal antibodies (mAb). All treatments target specific parts of the inflammatory response which includes mast cells, eosinophils and basophils. Phototherapy can be a useful addition to these treatments, and combinations of UV-B (5%), UV-A (25%) and visible light (70%) in phototherapy treatments have been shown to reduce the severity of symptoms. Phototherapy consisting of visible wavelengths and infrared light (660 nm 940 nm) was shown to be particularly effective in treating perennial rhinitis. The use of a range of wavelengths in the control of allergic responses is described in this paper. Phototherapy can form part of an effective treatment regime for allergic rhinitis sufferers which can exploit synergies in the control of the condition elicited through several pathways.
Critical Review on High-Safety Lithium-Ion Batteries Modified by Self-Terminated Oligomers with Hyperbranched Architectures
Authors: Mohanty Debabrata , Hung I-Ming , Hsieh Chien-Te , Pan Jing-Pin , Liu Wei-Ren
Published: February 2024

In recent years, the evolution of lithium-ion batteries (LIB) has been propelled by the growing demand for energy storage systems that are lightweight, have high energy density, and are long-lasting. This review article examines the use of self-terminated oligomers with hyperbranched architecture (STOBA) as a key electrode additive for the superior performance of LIBs. STOBA has been found to have excellent electrochemical properties, including high specific capacity, low impedance, and good cycling stability when used as an additive in electrode materials. The article discusses the process of synthesis and characterization of STOBA materials, including their potential applications in LIBs as electrode material additives. The article also discusses current research on the optimization of STOBA materials for LIBs, including the use of different solvents, monomers, and initiators. Overall, the review concludes that STOBA materials possess huge potential as a next-generation additive for LIB safety.
Dynamic Modelling, Process Control, and Monitoring of Selected Biological and Advanced Oxidation Processes for Wastewater Treatment: A Review of Recent Developments
Authors: Parsa Zahra , Dhib Ramdhane , Mehrvar Mehrab
Published: February 2024

This review emphasizes the significance of formulating control strategies for biological and advanced oxidation process (AOP)-based wastewater treatment systems. The aim is to guarantee that the effluent quality continuously aligns with environmental regulations while operating costs are minimized. It highlights the significance of understanding the dynamic behaviour of the process in developing effective control schemes. The most common process control strategies in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are explained and listed. It is emphasized that the proper control scheme should be selected based on the process dynamic behaviour and control goal. This study further discusses the challenges associated with the control of wastewater treatment processes, including inadequacies in developed models, the limitations of most control strategies to the simulation stage, the imperative requirement for real-time data, and the financial and technical intricacies associated with implementing advanced controller hardware. It is discussed that the necessity of the availability of real-time data to achieve reliable control can be achieved by implementing proper, accurate hardware sensors in suitable locations of the process or by developing and implementing soft sensors. This study recommends further investigation on available actuators and the criteria for choosing the most appropriate one to achieve robust and reliable control in WWTPs, especially for biological and AOP-based treatment approaches.
Improved Differential Evolution Algorithm Guided by Best and Worst Positions Exploration Dynamics
Authors: Kumar Pravesh , Ali Musrrat
Published: February 2024

The exploration of premium and new locations is regarded as a fundamental function of every evolutionary algorithm. This is achieved using the crossover and mutation stages of the differential evolution (DE) method. A best-and-worst position-guided novel exploration approach for the DE algorithm is provided in this study. The proposed version, known as “Improved DE with Best and Worst positions (IDEBW)”, offers a more advantageous alternative for exploring new locations, either proceeding directly towards the best location or evacuating the worst location. The performance of the proposed IDEBW is investigated and compared with other DE variants and meta-heuristics algorithms based on 42 benchmark functions, including 13 classical and 29 non-traditional IEEE CEC-2017 test functions and 3 real-life applications of the IEEE CEC-2011 test suite. The results prove that the proposed approach successfully completes its task and makes the DE algorithm more efficient.
The Role of Rv1476 in Regulating Stress Response and Intracellular Survival of Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Reheman Aikebaier , Wang Yifan , Cai Huaiyuan , Wei Pingyang , Cao Gang , Chen Xi
Published: February 2024

The virulence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis) is related to many factors, including intracellular survival, cell wall permeability, and cell envelope proteins. However, the biological function of the M. tuberculosis membrane protein Rv1476 remains unclear. To investigate the potential role played by Rv1476, we constructed an Rv1476 overexpression strain and found that overexpression of Rv1476 enhanced the intracellular survival of M. tuberculosis, while having no impact on the growth rate in vitro. Stress experiments demonstrated that the Rv1476 overexpression strain displayed increased susceptibility to different stresses compared to the wild-type strain. Transcriptome analysis showed that Rv1476 overexpression causes changes in the transcriptome of THP-1 cells, and differential genes are mainly enriched in cell proliferation, fatty acid degradation, cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction, and immune response pathways. Rv1476 overexpression inhibited the expression of some anti-tuberculosis-related genes, such as CCL1, IL15, IL16, ISG15, GBP5, IL23, ATG2A, IFNβ, and CSF3. Altogether, we conclude that Rv1476 may play a critical role for M. tuberculosis in macrophage survival.
Injury Patterns and Impact on Performance in the NBA League Using Sports Analytics
Authors: Sarlis Vangelis , Papageorgiou George , Tjortjis Christos
Published: February 2024

This research paper examines Sports Analytics, focusing on injury patterns in the National Basketball Association (NBA) and their impact on players’ performance. It employs a unique dataset to identify common NBA injuries, determine the most affected anatomical areas, and analyze how these injuries influence players’ post-recovery performance. This study’s novelty lies in its integrative approach that combines injury data with performance metrics and salary data, providing new insights into the relationship between injuries and economic and on-court performance. It investigates the periodicity and seasonality of injuries, seeking patterns related to time and external factors. Additionally, it examines the effect of specific injuries on players’ per-match analytics and performance, offering perspectives on the implications of injury rehabilitation for player performance. This paper contributes significantly to sports analytics, assisting coaches, sports medicine professionals, and team management in developing injury prevention strategies, optimizing player rotations, and creating targeted rehabilitation plans. Its findings illuminate the interplay between injuries, salaries, and performance in the NBA, aiming to enhance player welfare and the league’s overall competitiveness. With a comprehensive and sophisticated analysis, this research offers unprecedented insights into the dynamics of injuries and their long-term effects on athletes.
Liver Transplantation for Unresectable Colorectal Liver Metastasis: Perspective and Review of Current Literature
Authors: Robinson Todd J. , Cummins Kaelyn , Tsung Allan
Published: February 2024

The treatment of unresectable colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) has previously been limited to palliative chemotherapy. Traditionally, the role of liver transplant has not been associated with sufficient survival to justify a patient undergoing a major operation with the associated requirement for postoperative immunosuppression. With improvements in chemotherapy options, a certain subset of patients can experience stable disease for years, which has prompted investigation into the role of liver transplant in these patients. Several recent studies have shown promising results in well-selected patients, with posttransplant survival approaching that of liver transplant recipients for other diseases. Here, we present a review of the data and current protocols for liver transplant for unresectable CRLM.
Learnings from Racialized Adolescents and Young Adults with Lived Experiences of Cancer: “It’s Okay to Critique the System That Claims to Save Us”
Authors: Hill Tiffany , Cooper Ian , Gill Param , Okonkwo-Dappa Ada , Heykoop Cheryl
Published: February 2024

Interest in AYA cancer care has increased globally over the recent past; however, most of this work disproportionately represents white, heterosexual, middle-income, educated, and able-bodied people. There is recognition in the literature that cancer care systems are not structured nor designed to adequately serve people of colour or other equity-denied groups, and the structural racism in the system prevents prevention, treatment, and delivery of care. This work seeks to examine structural racism and the ways that it permeates into the lived experiences of AYAs in their cancer care. This article represents the first phase of an 18-month, patient-oriented, Participatory Action Research project focused on cancer care for racialized AYAs that is situated within a broader program of research focused on transforming cancer care for AYAs. Semi-structured interviews were completed with 18 AYAs who self-identify as racialized, have lived experiences with cancer, and have received treatment in Canada. Following participant review of their transcripts, the transcripts were de-identified, and then coded by three separate authors. Five main themes were identified using thematic analysis, including the need to feel supported through experiences with (in)fertility, be heard and not dismissed, advocate for self and have others advocate for you, be in community, and resist compliance.
Memory Systems, the Epistemic Arrow of Time, and the Second Law
Authors: Wolpert David H. , Kipper Jens
Published: February 2024

The epistemic arrow of time is the fact that our knowledge of the past seems to be both of a different kind and more detailed than our knowledge of the future. Just like with the other arrows of time, it has often been speculated that the epistemic arrow arises due to the second law of thermodynamics. In this paper, we investigate the epistemic arrow of time using a fully formal framework. We begin by defining a memory system as any physical system whose present state can provide information about the state of the external world at some time other than the present. We then identify two types of memory systems in our universe, along with an important special case of the first type, which we distinguish as a third type of memory system. We show that two of these types of memory systems are time-symmetric, able to provide knowledge about both the past and the future. However, the third type of memory systems exploits the second law of thermodynamics, at least in all of its instances in our universe that we are aware of. The result is that in our universe, this type of memory system only ever provides information about the past. We also argue that human memory is of this third type, completing the argument. We end by scrutinizing the basis of the second law itself. This uncovers a previously unappreciated formal problem for common arguments that try to derive the second law from the “Past Hypothesis”, i.e., from the claim that the very early universe was in a state of extremely low entropy. Our analysis is indebted to prior work by one of us but expands and improves upon this work in several respects.
Insights into Household Electric Vehicle Charging Behavior: Analysis and Predictive Modeling
Authors: Almaghrebi Ahmad , James Kevin , Al Juheshi Fares , Alahmad Mahmoud
Published: February 2024

In the era of burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) popularity, understanding the patterns of EV users’ behavior is imperative. This paper examines the trends in household charging sessions’ timing, duration, and energy consumption by analyzing real-world residential charging data. By leveraging the information collected from each session, a novel framework is introduced for the efficient, real-time prediction of important charging characteristics. Utilizing historical data and user-specific features, machine learning models are trained to predict the connection duration, charging duration, charging demand, and time until the next session. These models enhance the understanding of EV users’ behavior and provide practical tools for optimizing the EV charging infrastructure and effectively managing the charging demand. As the transportation sector becomes increasingly electrified, this work aims to empower stakeholders with insights and reliable models, enabling them to anticipate the localized demand and contribute to the sustainable integration of electric vehicles into the grid.
Milk and Its Derivatives as Sources of Components and Microorganisms with Health-Promoting Properties: Probiotics and Bioactive Peptides
Authors: Quintieri Laura , Fanelli Francesca , Monaci Linda , Fusco Vincenzina
Published: February 2024

Milk is a source of many valuable nutrients, including minerals, vitamins and proteins, with an important role in adult health. Milk and dairy products naturally containing or with added probiotics have healthy functional food properties. Indeed, probiotic microorganisms, which beneficially affect the host by improving the intestinal microbial balance, are recognized to affect the immune response and other important biological functions. In addition to macronutrients and micronutrients, biologically active peptides (BPAs) have been identified within the amino acid sequences of native milk proteins; hydrolytic reactions, such as those catalyzed by digestive enzymes, result in their release. BPAs directly influence numerous biological pathways evoking behavioral, gastrointestinal, hormonal, immunological, neurological, and nutritional responses. The addition of BPAs to food products or application in drug development could improve consumer health and provide therapeutic strategies for the treatment or prevention of diseases. Herein, we review the scientific literature on probiotics, BPAs in milk and dairy products, with special attention to milk from minor species (buffalo, sheep, camel, yak, donkey, etc.); safety assessment will be also taken into consideration. Finally, recent advances in foodomics to unveil the probiotic role in human health and discover novel active peptide sequences will also be provided.
Unpacking the Global Rice Trade Network: Centrality, Structural Holes, and the Nexus of Food Insecurity
Authors: Li Junjie , Xiao Qin , Wu Haixia , Li Jianping
Published: February 2024

The challenging international landscape and exacerbated extreme weather conditions contribute to the instability of global grain trade, complicating its impact on food security. This complexity is particularly pronounced for varieties like rice, which are heavily affected by policy-driven trade restrictions. There is insufficient research on how a country’s rice trade characteristics affect food security. A network analysis approach is adopted to intricately dissect the structural characteristics of rice trade. To explore causality with food insecurity, this paper chooses structural holes and centrality as representatives of trade network characteristics and regresses them on the food insecurity indicator. With cross-national data spanning over 30 years, the network analysis provides a clear portrayal of the dynamic changes in international rice trade. The overall resilience of the trade network has increased, but specific countries’ vulnerability has also risen. Unlike the changing trends in features observed in grain and food trade networks, there is a notable intensification in the imbalance of power distribution in the rice trade network compared to over 30 years ago. The panel data regression results show that constraint, indicating the scarcity of structural holes or connections to stronger trading partners, significantly and positively influences a country’s level of food insecurity. Based on these findings, the policy proposal for importing countries emphasizes creating strategic trade connections. By choosing appropriate trade partners that reduce constraint, food security can be enhanced, even without improvements in other conditions.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Improving Patient Outcomes and Future of Healthcare Delivery in Cardiology: A Narrative Review of the Literature
Authors: Gala Dhir , Behl Haditya , Shah Mili , Makaryus Amgad N.
Published: February 2024

Cardiovascular diseases exert a significant burden on the healthcare system worldwide. This narrative literature review discusses the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the field of cardiology. AI has the potential to assist healthcare professionals in several ways, such as diagnosing pathologies, guiding treatments, and monitoring patients, which can lead to improved patient outcomes and a more efficient healthcare system. Moreover, clinical decision support systems in cardiology have improved significantly over the past decade. The addition of AI to these clinical decision support systems can improve patient outcomes by processing large amounts of data, identifying subtle associations, and providing a timely, evidence-based recommendation to healthcare professionals. Lastly, the application of AI allows for personalized care by utilizing predictive models and generating patient-specific treatment plans. However, there are several challenges associated with the use of AI in healthcare. The application of AI in healthcare comes with significant cost and ethical considerations. Despite these challenges, AI will be an integral part of healthcare delivery in the near future, leading to personalized patient care, improved physician efficiency, and anticipated better outcomes.
Gender Identity Orientation and Sexual Activity—A Survey among Transgender and Gender-Diverse (TGD) Individuals in Norway
Authors: Almås Elsa Mari , Benestad Esben Esther Pirelli , Bolstad Silje-Håvard , Karlsen Tor-Ivar , Giami Alain
Published: February 2024

Background: The understanding and conceptualizing of gender and sexuality are continuously negotiated between individuals and cultures. Recently, new gender identity orientations have emerged, fighting pathologization and establishing new spaces and options for being sexually active gendered beings. Objective: To investigate variations in sexual activities across different gender identity orientations. Method: A questionnaire used in France was adapted to the Norwegian context and implemented in this study. The participants were recruited through therapists, TGD organizations, and social media. Results: A total of 538 individuals responded to the questionnaire, of which 336 provided a written description of their gender identity. Based on an analysis of the degree of male gender identity orientation, the degree of female gender identity orientation, and the degree of nonbinary gender identity orientation, three clusters appeared and were used in the analyses of sexual activities and preferences. Conclusions: Some findings could be attributed to lingering aspects of traditional gender roles, while others may be indicative of sexual expression stemming from societal acceptance of gender diversity and new identity orientations.
Exploitation of Pigs during the Late Medieval and Early Modern Period in Croatia
Authors: Korpes Kim , Piplica Aneta , Đuras Martina , Trbojević Vukičević Tajana , Kolenc Magdalena
Published: February 2024

This study investigated the historical consumption of pork in Croatia through a comprehensive analysis of pig bones from six medieval archaeological sites, comprising three castles and three monasteries dating from the 13th to the 16th century A.D. Employing a detailed morphological analysis of pig bones and teeth, the study quantified the number of identified specimens (NISP) per site. On bones and teeth, identification of sex and age was performed, and butchery patterns were documented. The results revealed a significant presence of pork in the diet of castle and monastery inhabitants, with pig bones being the most abundant animal remains. Age analysis suggested a prevalence of juvenile pigs, predominantly males. The findings implied that from the 13th to the 16th century A.D., pork was a staple in the diet of castles and monasteries in continental Croatia, sourced from pig breeding outside these sites. Typically, male pigs aged under two years were delivered for consumption to these establishments.
Combining the Use of Reflective Groundcovers and Aminoethoxyvinylglycine to Assess Effects on Skin Color, Preharvest Drop, and Quality of ‘Honeycrisp’ Apples in the Mid-Atlantic US
Authors: Miah Md Shipon , Farcuh Macarena
Published: February 2024

Apples are one of the most valuable fruits worldwide. ‘Honeycrisp’ is the top sales-producing cultivar in the US. Lack of red skin coloration and increased preharvest fruit drop significantly reduce the market value for cultivars such as ‘Honeycrisp’. The use of reflective groundcovers has been shown to enhance apple skin coloration. While the use of plant growth regulator AVG reduces fruit drop, it negatively affects skin coloration. Studies on the impacts of these practices in mid-Atlantic US-grown apples are limited. In this work, for two years, we compared differences in the light environment, fruit drop, internal ethylene concentration (IEC), physicochemical parameters, and skin coloration of ‘Honeycrisp’ apples in the lower third of the canopy. Apples were submitted to four treatment combinations of reflective groundcover (Extenday) and AVG (130 mg L−1). Assessments occurred throughout three ripening stages. Our results demonstrated that Extenday significantly promoted skin coloration (>75% blush) via the increased reflectance of photosynthetic photon flux density and UV radiation, and increased IEC, while also advancing fruit maturity, i.e., overripening. Conversely, AVG significantly minimized fruit drop and decreased EIC, delaying fruit maturity but drastically reducing red coloration (30–48% blush). The combined use of Extenday and AVG had a synergistic effect by decreasing fruit drop while enhancing fruit with >50% blush, without promoting overripening. Combining Extenday and AVG can boost the market value for ‘Honeycrisp’ apples in the mid-Atlantic US.