bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patient characteristics of completion and dropout of mentalization-based treatment for adolescents with conduct disorder
Authors: Hauschild Sophie , Dragovic Drago , Kasper Lea , Sobanski Esther , Taubner Svenja
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Conduct disorder (CD) is a severe mental disorder in youth. Yet, providing psychological interventions for adolescents with CD is challenging. This patient group is often characterized by risk factors for therapy dropout such as, e.g., CD symptoms and being in middle adolescence. On the other hand, little is known about characteristics of adolescents with CD who complete treatment. To gain more insight into what might become a successful therapy with adolescents with CD, this study explores baseline characteristics and drop-out occurrence in patients with CD referred to mentalization-based treatment for adolescents with CD (MBT-CD). More specifically, this study aims at identifying clusters of adolescent patients based on age, CD symptom severity and personality pathology at the beginning of treatment which may have come along with a higher or lower dropout occurrence.

Methods

Following implications of an elbow plot, a 3-means cluster-analysis was conducted on self-report baseline data of N = 32 adolescents with CD (n = 11 dropouts, n = 21 completers) who participated in a feasibility study on MBT-CD. Additionally, in an exploratory stepwise logistic regression, variables were explored as potential predictors of dropout.

Results

Cluster 1 consisted of n = 14 adolescents, of whom n = 8 (57%) dropped out. Cluster 2 consisted of n = 5 adolescents of whom 1 (20%) dropped out. Cluster 3 consisted of N = 13 adolescents, of whom only n = 2 (15%) dropped out. Cluster 2 showed descriptively the highest CD symptom severity. While adolescents in Clusters 1 and 3 showed in part similarities in CD symptom severity, personality pathology was descriptively markedly higher in Cluster 1. In the stepwise logistic regression, only intimacy personality pathology was identified as potential predictor for dropout.

Discussion

This study’s exploratory findings point to different types of adolescents with CD coming along with different chances for therapists to conduct a (successful) psychotherapy. Herein, low personality functioning in the intimacy domain, rather than CD symptoms as aggressiveness, may play a crucial role. While findings are limited by the small sample size, they may be able to shed increasing light on conducting (successful) psychotherapy with a scarcely researched patient group.
A ten-year overview of cancer genetic family history screening in Georgia’s Latina population
Authors: Ramirez Leon D. , Barber L. E. , Gabram-Mendola S. , Snyder C. , Vadaparampil S. T. , Fuzzell L. , McCullough L. E. , Durham L. , Guan Y.
Published: October 2024

Background

Population-based cancer genetic family history (FH) screening to identify families at high risk for BRCA-associated cancers has been endorsed by national public health policies. This report aimed to describe the utilization of FH screening services from 2013 to 2022 according to rurality and socioeconomic deprivation among Latinas in Georgia.

Methods

Women who attended a medical appointment at participating Georgia Public Health Clinics were invited to complete FH screening. Screening results and participant zip code were reviewed. Area deprivation index (ADI) was measured at the census block group level and dichotomized (more deprived and less deprived). Rurality was measured through Rural–Urban Commuting Area (RUCA) codes and dichotomized (urban and rural). The ADI and RUCA codes were linked to participant data by zip code to characterize FH utilization among the Latina community.

Results

Of the 9,330 adult Latinas in Georgia that completed cancer genetic FH screening, 9,066 (97.17%) women screened negative, and 264 (2.83%) screened positive (i.e., FH suggestive of higher risk for carrying BRCA1/2 mutations compared to the general population). Screening completion was higher among Latinas in urban areas (n = 7,871) compared to rural areas (n = 1,459). Screening completion was also higher in more socially deprived areas (n = 5,207) compared to less socially deprived areas (n = 4,123).

Conclusion

Georgia’s FH screening program reached Latinas across Georgia, particularly those living in urban, socially deprived areas. To ensure equitable cancer genetic screening dissemination, future efforts should prioritize tailored outreach in rural regions and comprehensive evaluations to identify key determinants of screening trends among Georgia’s Latina population.
Exploring the determinants of online health service usage intentions under the threat of air pollution
Authors: Xu Xueru , Wang Tao , Liu Chuang , Luo Li , Liu Xiaofei
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The rapid evolution of online health services (OHS) has significantly improved healthcare accessibility. However, the impact of air pollution on individuals’ willingness to engage with OHS remains underexplored in the existing literature. This study addresses this gap by investigating how air pollution threats influence the intention to use OHS, grounded in Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) and Rational Choice Theory (RCT).

Methods

Using cross-sectional survey data, a theoretical model was developed and tested to examine the relationships between threat appraisal, coping appraisal, perceived benefits, perceived costs, and OHS usage intentions.

Results

The findings indicate that threat appraisal, coping appraisal, and perceived benefits positively affect the intention to use OHS, while perceived costs negatively impact usage intention. Additionally, age significantly moderates the relationship between coping appraisal and the intention to use OHS.

Discussion

This study extends the application of PMT and RCT in the context of OHS. It provides valuable insights into the factors influencing users’ intentions to utilize these services, with implications for improving OHS adoption in environments affected by air pollution.
Prevalence, subtypes, and risk factors of adverse childhood experiences among Chinese residents: a multicenter cross-sectional study
Authors: Chen Yinhai , Lu Yuanwei , Wen Xiuying , Zhou Tong , Ke Xiong
Published: October 2024

Background

Addressing the long-term physical and mental health impacts of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) remains a significant public health challenge. Additionally, ACEs can contribute to intergenerational transmission, affecting future generations. While previous studies have primarily focused on children and adolescents, there is limited data on ACE subtypes and influencing factors among the general adult population, particularly in China. This study aims to explore the prevalence, subtypes, and factors influencing ACEs among Chinese adults.

Method

A total of 1,932 Chinese residents from southwest China (Sichuan, Yunnan, Guizhou provinces, and Chongqing Municipality) participated in the study, consisting of 867 men (44.9%) and 1,065 women (55.1%). Latent class analysis (LCA) was used to identify ACE clusters, and regression analysis examined associations between ACE clusters and demographic factors, physical illness, and mental health outcomes.

Results

The findings revealed that 28.7% of participants had experienced at least one ACE, while 13.2% had experienced three or more ACEs. Three distinct ACE clusters were identified: a low ACE group, a high emotional and physical abuse/family dysfunction group, and a high ACE/sexual abuse group. Regression analysis showed significant associations between childhood adversity and demographic factors (age, education, birthplace), as well as physical and mental health outcomes (anxiety, depression). ANOVA further confirmed significant differences in depression and anxiety scores across the clusters.

Conclusion

These findings offer critical insights for developing targeted public health interventions. Policymakers should consider strategies to reduce childhood ACEs and mitigate their long-term consequences, with particular attention to high-risk groups.
Selected lifestyle factors as students transition from secondary school to university in Slovakia
Authors: Buková Alena , Tomková Petra , Uher Ivan , Kimáková Tatiana , Vojtaško Ľuboš , Salonna Ferdinand
Published: October 2024

Background

The study aimed to evaluate self-perceived changes in lifestyle factors, particularly physical activity (PA), following the transition from secondary school to university. A secondary objective was to examine the relationship between lifestyle variables and weekly PA frequency. Key factors assessed included sleep quality, dietary habits, alcohol and tobacco consumption, and PA frequency.

Methods

The study surveyed 1,665 first-year undergraduate students at Slovak public universities (mean age: 20.73 years, SD ±1.39) using adapted versions of Healthy Lifestyle Questionnaire (CEVS-II) and the Brief Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (B-PSQI). Data collection took place between December 2022 and February 2023.

Results

Significant declines were observed in most lifestyle variables after students transitioned to university. The proportion of students engaging in irregular, or no PA increased from 37% before university to 46% during their studies (p < 0.01). Reports of tiredness upon waking also rose, from 52 to 64% (p < 0.01). Meal frequency decreased, particularly among males, with the percentage of students eating only 1–2 meals per day rising from 9 to 15% (p < 0.05). Conversely, the regularity of breakfast consumption increased, increasing from 65 to 73% (p < 0.01). No significant changes were observed in tobacco smoking habits.

Conclusion

The findings highlight a notable reduction in PA and other lifestyle factors during the transition to university life. These results emphasize the need for targeted interventions to support healthy behaviors during this critical life phase.
Modeling disagreement in automatic data labeling for semi-supervised learning in Clinical Natural Language Processing
Authors: Liu Hongshu , Seedat Nabeel , Ive Julia
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Computational models providing accurate estimates of their uncertainty are crucial for risk management associated with decision-making in healthcare contexts. This is especially true since many state-of-the-art systems are trained using the data which have been labeled automatically (self-supervised mode) and tend to overfit.

Methods

In this study, we investigate the quality of uncertainty estimates from a range of current state-of-the-art predictive models applied to the problem of observation detection in radiology reports. This problem remains understudied for Natural Language Processing in the healthcare domain.

Results

We demonstrate that Gaussian Processes (GPs) provide superior performance in quantifying the risks of three uncertainty labels based on the negative log predictive probability (NLPP) evaluation metric and mean maximum predicted confidence levels (MMPCL), whilst retaining strong predictive performance.

Discussion

Our conclusions highlight the utility of probabilistic models applied to “noisy” labels and that similar methods could provide utility for Natural Language Processing (NLP) based automated labeling tasks.
Spaceborne lidar measurement of global cloud properties through machine learning
Authors: Hu Karen , Lu Xiaomei
Published: October 2024

With a large footprint size, multiple scattering measurements of clouds from spaceborne lidar provide useful information about cloud physical properties, such as cloud optical depths and cloud droplet size, both during daytime and nighttime. A neural network algorithm, with a subset of cloud backscatter profiles of dual-polarization and dual-wavelength Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observation (CALIPSO) lidar measurements during daytime as input variables and cloud physical properties derived from collocated Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) multi-spectral measurements as output, is developed and evaluated with an independent subset of the collocated CALIPSO and MODIS measurements. The study suggests that with a receiver footprint size of 110 m, CALIPSO lidar measurements are sensitive to liquid-phase cloud optical depth variations from 0 to 25. A larger footprint size, thus more multiple scattering, is required for lidar to have sensitivities to all liquid-phase clouds. The technique can be applied to all 17 years of CALIPSO daytime and nighttime measurements and, thus, provides useful information about global distributions of cloud physical properties both during day and night.
Buckwheat containing-bread: a scientific inquiry into insulin, polyphenols, antioxidants status, and oxidative stress markers in type-II diabetic individuals
Authors: Begum Khoula , Khan Imran , Wali Asif , Sami Rokayya , Aljumayi Huda , Abushal Suzan A. , Algheshairy Reham M. , Alharbi Hend F. , Tayeb Faris J. , Alharbi Zeyad M. , Al-Eisa Rasha A. , Almehmadi Awatif M. , Helal Mahmoud , Alshehri Faez F.
Published: October 2024

Buckwheat grains contain bioactive components with known effects on cardio-metabolic biomarkers. Previous research on oxidative stress markers made exclusively from wheat flour or two-hour postprandial levels of antioxidant status, plasma total polyphenols, and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) were considerably higher than fasting values after consuming buckwheat-incorporated bread (BWB), including clinical, animal, and epidemiological studies, suggesting the potential of buckwheat intake to influence parameters such as polyphenol intake, antioxidant status, insulin levels, and oxidative stress markers. However, the specific impact of buckwheat-containing bread on these biomarkers in individuals with type-II diabetes remains a significant gap in our understanding. Our current work aims to address this gap by exploring the effects of buckwheat-containing bread on insulin levels, polyphenol intake, antioxidant status, and markers of oxidative stress. In a randomized crossover study, 16 individuals with type-II diabetes were assigned to consume control bread made exclusively from wheat flour or bread incorporating 50% buckwheat flour. The research followed a crossover design, with a period of one to two washout interventions. Test breads were given at breakfast following a 12 h fast the previous night. After 2 h of bread intake, blood samples were collected at baseline (fasting). The two-hour postprandial levels of antioxidant status, plasma total polyphenols, and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) were significantly higher than fasting values after consuming buckwheat-incorporated bread (BWB). This suggests that the buckwheat-containing bread improved plasma total polyphenol levels and total antioxidant status. Our research concludes that the intake of bread containing buckwheat positively influences polyphenols in plasma and the status of antioxidants. This suggests that incorporating buckwheat into bread may have favorable effects on biomarkers associated with cardio-metabolic health in individuals with type-II diabetes. By addressing these knowledge gaps, our research aims to inform and engage the scientific community in further exploration of the potential health benefits of buckwheat-containing bread.
A comparative study of single-stage bilateral vs. unilateral medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty on complications, clinical outcomes, and costs
Authors: Tu Kao-Chang , Shih Han-Ting , Wang Shun-Ping , Chen Kun-Hui
Published: October 2024

Background

This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the short-term recovery and cost-effectiveness of bilateral unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) compared to staged unilateral UKA. The study analyzed postoperative pain scores, medical costs, and complications in patients with knee osteoarthritis who underwent these procedures.

Methods

A total of 226 patients who received either unilateral UKA (Group A, n = 170) or bilateral UKA (Group B, n = 56) using the mobile-bearing UKA were included in the study. Patient demographics, surgical details, postoperative pain scores, knee range of motion, length of hospital stay, self-controlled analgesic use, total medical costs, and complications were retrospectively collected from medical records.

Results

The demographic characteristics were comparable between the groups. Group B had a longer surgical time and higher medical costs than Group A. However, there were no significant differences in hospital stay, pain scores, or knee range of motion between the two groups. Complications were infrequent and not significantly different. Insert dislocation and loosening were the most common complications. Patient-controlled analgesia effectively reduced pain scores in Group A but not in Group B.

Conclusion

Bilateral UKA does not significantly affect hospital stay, postoperative pain, or complications compared to unilateral UKA. Although bilateral UKA requires longer surgical time and incurs higher costs, it offers the potential benefit of reducing anesthesia-related complications and overall health insurance expenditures. This study recommends bilateral UKA as a suitable option for patients with bilateral knee osteoarthritis, given its comparable short-term outcomes and potential cost-saving advantages.

Level of Evidence

III
The effect of Traumeel LT ad us. vet. on the perioperative inflammatory response after castration of stallions: a prospective, randomized, double-blinded study
Authors: Laves Julia , Wergin Melanie , Bauer Natali , Müller Simon Franz , Failing Klaus , Büttner Kathrin , Hagen Alina , Melzer Michaela , Röcken Michael
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Stallion castration is a standard procedure with a risk of post-surgical complications. Castration induces an acute phase response (APR). Serum Amyloid-A (SAA) is a well-studied major acute phase protein (APP), that has been shown to be a good marker for the development of post-surgical complications. The current gold standard for reducing the APR after castration is Flunixin-Meglumin, which is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) inhibiting COX1/2. In contrast, Traumeel LT ad us. vet. can modulate the APR by induction of the inflammation resolution. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of Flunixin-Meglumin and Traumeel LT ad us. vet. on the acute phase response.

Material and methods

A total of 60 stallions were recruited and 54 stallions entered the study with 27 stallions in each treatment group. The stallions were treated pre- and postoperatively with either Flunixin-Meglumin (FL) or with Traumeel LT ad us. vet. (TR). Blood was taken before and 24 h, 48 h and 72 h after castration. The following main parameters were assessed: SAA, fibrinogen, iron, white blood cells, neutrophils, Interleukin1ß, and cortisol. Wound healing and pain were assessed at 8 time points.

Results

The main variable SAA was increased after surgery reaching a mean value of 122 µg/ml in the FL group and a mean SAA of 226 µg/ml in the TR group 48 h after surgery, reaching a significant difference only at the 24 h timepoint (p = 0.03). All stallions had the highest pain summary score 8 hours after surgery, with decreasing values thereafter. The pain scores were not statistically different at any time point. In the FL group five stallions developed a suture dehiscence compared to only one stallion in the TR group (p = 0.001).

Discussion

Within the limitations of this study, Traumeel LT ad us. vet. seems to have proresolving effects on the inflammation induced by surgery making it a valuable treatment to reduce the APR induced by castration. Due to its different mode of action, Traumeel LT ad us. vet. might be an alternative treatment option if gastrointestinal side effects or renal side effects of NSAIDs should be avoided. Further studies are needed combining Traumeel LT ad us. vet. and Flunixin.
Safety and efficacy of canine gonadal tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells for early myxomatous mitral valve disease
Authors: Jeung Soyoung , An Ju-Hyun , Kim Sung-Soo , Youn Hwa-Young
Published: October 2024

Introduction

This study explored the potential efficacy and safety of therapy with mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) derived from gonadal tissue to address the early stage of myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD), the predominant cardiac condition in dogs.

Methods

Sixteen dogs diagnosed with MMVD B1 were enrolled in this trial and assigned to either a control group (control group, n = 10) or a group that received MSC derived from gonadal tissue (treatment group, n = 6). In the treatment group, allogeneic MSC derived from gonadal tissue (1 × 106 cells/kg) were intravenously administered at monthly intervals for five or more sessions. Data were compared at baseline and at the endpoint 1-year intervals. The efficacy was assessed using echocardiography, thoracic radiography, NT-proBNP, and the duration from B1 diagnosis to B2 transition to evaluate its effect on MMVD stage progression. Safety was evaluated through physical examinations, blood tests, imaging studies, and monitoring of adverse events.

Results

After 1 year of observation, the control group exhibited deteriorating echocardiographic parameters, whereas the treatment group displayed no substantial differences between baseline and endpoint measurements. Notably, a statistically significant disparity was noted in the left atrial diameter (p < 0.05) and E-wave velocity (p < 0.05) between the two groups, indicating a favorable impact of MSC derived from the gonadal tissue on left atrial pressure. Additionally, in contrast to the control group, the treatment group demonstrated delayed progression to MMVD stage B2, enabling them to prolong their disease duration without requiring cardiac medication (p = 0.038). In quality of life (QoL) metrics following MSC treatment, appetite showed a statistically significant improvement, increasing from 4 to 4.83 (p < 0.05).

Discussion

Treatment with gonadal tissue-derived MSCs significantly delayed MMVD stage progression, highlighting the broad potential of MSC derived from gonadal tissue for treating complex veterinary conditions.
Case report: Combination technique of balloon dilation, membrane excision, and topical mitomycin C for the treatment of nasopharyngeal stenosis in a cat
Authors: Kwak Ho Hyun , Kim Sung Min , Yu Lina , Kim Jun Hyung , Woo Heung Myong
Published: October 2024

A two-year-old neutered male Turkish Angora cat presented with respiratory signs, including chronic snoring sounds and dyspnea with open-mouth breathing. Nasopharyngeal stenosis (NPS) was diagnosed based on endoscopy and computed tomography (CT). An attempt was made to break down the membrane, causing stenosis in the nasopharynx through balloon dilation using a valvuloplasty balloon dilation catheter (12 mm × 3 cm) and retroflexed endoscope. The balloon size was selected according to the identified diameter of the stenotic site on nasopharyngeal CT images. The balloon was inflated with radiographic contrast medium and maintained for 2 min; the similar procedure was repeated four additional times. The stenotic membrane was excised after balloon dilation. Topical Mitomycin C (MMC) was then administered to the stenotic region. After 2 weeks, an additional MMC application was repeated to prevent recurrence. The cat remained free of clinical signs without recurrence for 12 months after the most recent procedure. In this study, effective treatment results were obtained using a combination of balloon dilation, membrane excision, and topical MMC for membranous nasopharyngeal stenosis in a cat.
Reasons for admission and rehabilitation rates of various wildlife species in Finland
Authors: White Kati , Hänninen Laura , Sainmaa Sanna , Valros Anna
Published: October 2024

Wildlife rehabilitation is a common part of animal-protection work. In Finland wildlife care is usually based on volunteer work and no licensing or training is required. Wildlife casualties are also treated professionally in some contexts such as zoos. The species of wildlife casualties may influence treatment decisions. Our anonymous online survey examined wildlife caregiving practices in Finland (n = 78), focusing on the care provided to various animal species and the outcomes of rehabilitation efforts. The survey was sent to both veterinarians and volunteers caring for wildlife, and it was part of a larger survey. Questions were mainly closed, and opinion-related questions were applied on a Likert scale (1–7; where 1 meant strongly disagree and 7 meant strongly agree). Most respondents primarily cared for mammals and birds. Reptiles, amphibians, and fish received less attention. Injuries and overwinter survival, especially in the case of hedgehogs, were the primary reasons for wildlife admissions. The training background of the rehabilitators varied and was related to the animal species being treated. Those caring mainly for hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) were the least likely to have animal-related training or long-term experience in wildlife care. We show a notably high rehabilitation rate of approximately 80% of commonly treated species, significantly surpassing figures from other countries, which raises concerns that animals are admitted or released on too light grounds, leading to animal welfare problems. It is also noteworthy that only one-fifth of respondents said they kept records of animal admissions. Less than 40% of respondents emphasized the need for further education on any specific issue, which may indicate overestimation of personal skills. In conclusion, our study raises concerns regarding the ethics and potential harm associated with wildlife rehabilitation.
Transcriptome analysis provides new insights into the response of canine intestinal epithelial cells treated by sulforaphane: a natural product of cruciferous origin
Authors: Li Kaiqi , Yan Jin , Wang Shiqi , Zhu Chuyang , Zhu Qi , Lu Sichen , Hu Ping , Dessie Tadelle , Kim In Ho , Ahmed Abdelkareem A. , Liu Hao-Yu , Ennab Wael , Cai Demin
Published: October 2024

This study presents a comprehensive transcriptome analysis of canine intestinal epithelial cells following treatment with sulforaphane (SFN), a naturally occurring compound found in cruciferous vegetables with established anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Through high-throughput sequencing, we identified 29,993 genes, among which 1,612 were differentially expressed, with 792 up-regulated and 820 down-regulated in response to SFN treatment. Our analysis revealed significant enrichment of genes in pathways associated with the inflammatory response, lipid metabolism, oxidative stress response, and T-cell mediated immunity, suggesting SFN’s potential in modulating these biological processes. Notably, the PPARγ gene, which plays a crucial role in the body’s oxidative stress and inflammatory response, was highly up-regulated, indicating its possible centrality in SFN’s effects. Gene–gene interaction analysis further supported SFN’s role in alleviating inflammation through PPARγ, with key genes in oxidative stress and inflammatory response pathways showing significant correlations with PPARγ. Overall, our findings provide molecular evidence for SFN’s protective effects on canine intestinal health, potentially through the modulation of inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways, with PPARγ emerging as a critical mediator.
Machine learning tools used for mapping some immunogenic epitopes within the major structural proteins of the bovine coronavirus (BCoV) and for the in silico design of the multiepitope-based vaccines
Authors: Duraisamy Nithyadevi , Khan Mohd Yasir , Shah Abid Ullah , Elalaoui Reda Nacif , Cherkaoui Mohammed , Hemida Maged Gomaa
Published: October 2024

Introduction

BCoV is one of the significant causes of enteritis in young calves; it may also be responsible for many respiratory outbreaks in young calves. BCoV participates in the development of bovine respiratory disease complex in association with other bacterial pathogens. Our study aimed (1) to map the immunogenic epitopes (B and T cells) within the major BCoV structural proteins. These epitopes are believed to induce a robust immune response through the interaction with major histocompatibility complex (MHC class II) molecules (2) to design some novel BCoV multiepitope-based vaccines.

Materials and Methods

The goal is achieved through several integrated in silico prediction computational tools to map these epitopes within the major BCoV structural proteins. The final vaccine was constructed in conjugation with the Choleratoxin B toxin as an adjuvant. The tertiary structure of each vaccine construct was modeled through the AlphaFold2 tools. The constructed vaccine was linked to some immunostimulants such as Toll-like receptors (TLR2 and TLR4). We also predicted the affinity binding of these vaccines with this targeted protein using molecular docking. The stability and purity of each vaccine construct were assessed using the Ramachandran plot and the Z-score values. We created the in silico cloning vaccine constructs using various expression vectors through vector builder and Snap gene.

Results and discussion

The average range of major BCoV structural proteins was detected within the range of 0.4 to 0.5, which confirmed their antigen and allergic properties. The binding energy values were detected between −7.9 and −9.4 eV and also confirmed their best interaction between our vaccine construct and Toll-like receptors. Our in silico cloning method expedited the creation of vaccine constructs and established a strong basis for upcoming clinical trials and experimental validations.

Conclusion

Our designed multiepitope vaccine candidates per each BCoV structural protein showed high antigenicity, immunogenicity, non-allergic, non-toxic, and high-water solubility. Further studies are highly encouraged to validate the efficacy of these novel BCoV vaccines in the natural host.
Harnessing the gut microbiome: a potential biomarker for wild animal welfare
Authors: Sonnega Sam , Sheriff Michael J.
Published: October 2024

The welfare of wild animal populations is critically important to conservation, with profound implications for ecosystem health, biodiversity, and zoonotic disease transmission. Animal welfare is typically defined as the accumulated affective mental state of an animal over a particular time period. However, the assessment of animal welfare in the wild poses unique challenges, primarily due to the lack of universally applicable biomarkers. This perspective explores the potential role of the gut microbiome, a dynamic and non-invasive biomarker, as a novel avenue for evaluating animal welfare in wild animals. The gut microbiome, through interactions with the host’s physiology, behavior, and cognition, offers a promising opportunity to gain insights into the well-being of animals. In this synthesis, we discuss the distinction between fitness and welfare, the complexities of assessing welfare in wild populations, and the linkages between the gut microbiome and aspects of animal welfare such as behavior and cognition. We lastly elucidate how the gut microbiome could serve as a valuable tool for wildlife managers, with the potential to serve as a non-invasive yet informative window into the welfare of wild animals. As this nascent field evolves, it presents unique opportunities to enhance our understanding of the well-being of wild animals and to contribute to the preservation of ecosystems, biodiversity, and human health.
Mapping, Distribution, Function, and High-Throughput Methodological Strategies for Soil Microbial Communities in the Agroecosystem in the Last Decades
Authors: Chandrakasan Gobinath , Gastauer Markus , Marcus Gabriel
Published: October 2024

The intricate interplay between SMCs and agroecosystems has garnered substantial attention in recent decades due to its profound implications for agricultural productivity, ecosystem sustainability, and environmental health. Understanding the distribution of SMCs is complemented by investigations into their functional roles within agroecosystems. Soil microbes play pivotal roles in nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, disease suppression, and plant‒microbe interactions, profoundly influencing soil fertility, crop productivity, and ecosystem resilience. Elucidating the functional diversity and metabolic potential of SMCs is crucial for designing sustainable agricultural practices that harness the beneficial functions of soil microbes while minimizing detrimental impacts on ecosystem services. Various molecular techniques, such as next-generation sequencing and high-throughput sequencing, have facilitated the elucidation of microbial community structures and dynamics at different spatial scales. These efforts have revealed the influence of factors such as soil type, land management practices, climate, and land use change on microbial community composition and diversity. Advances in high-throughput methodological strategies have revolutionized our ability to characterize SMCs comprehensively and efficiently. These include amplicon sequencing, metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, and metaproteomics, which provide insights into microbial taxonomic composition, functional potential, gene expression, and protein profiles. The integration of multiomics approaches allows for a more holistic understanding of the complex interactions within SMCs and their responses to environmental perturbations. In conclusion, this review highlights the significant progress made in mapping, understanding the distribution, elucidating the functions, and employing high-throughput methodological strategies to study SMCs in agroecosystems.
Non-Standard Risk Donors and Risk of Donor-Derived Infections: From Evaluation to Therapeutic Management
Authors: Grossi Paolo A. , Wolfe Cameron , Peghin Maddalena
Published: October 2024

Expected and unexpected donor-derived infections are a rare complication of solid organ transplantation, but can result in significant morbidity and mortality. Over the last years, the growing gap existing between patients on the waiting list and available organs has favored the use of organs from donors with suspected or confirmed infections, thanks to the improvement of risk mitigation strategies against transmission of well recognized and emerging infections. Given the recent developments, the particular interest of this review is to summarize data on how to maximize utilization of HIV+ donors in HIV+ recipients, the use of HCV-viremic donors and HBV positive donors. This article also covers the implications for recipient of organs from donors with bacteremia and the challenge of multidrug resistant (MDR) infections. Lastly this review describes emerging risks associated with recent Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemics.
Compliance as Business Development Potential in the Credit Institution Sector
Authors: Pelei Andrea , Bognár Ferenc , Juhász Márta
Published: October 2024

Regulatory compliance, often perceived as a burden by organisations, offers untapped opportunities for business development. By adopting, implementing and improving relevant standards and good practices, companies can increase stakeholder confidence, improve organisational reputation and reduce the legal, financial, business and reputational risks arising from various non-compliances. Drawing on literature research, the paper shows that compliance with regulations typically fosters an internal organisational environment and culture where innovation, excellence and sustainable growth can be created. Complex compliance management activities can help identify market opportunities, stimulate product development and improve customer experience. Compliance and innovation are compatible approaches that support long-term success.
Innovation-Driven Enterprises in Hungary: Empirical Results at First Sight
Authors: Kovács Stefan , Nemeslaki András
Published: October 2024

This study examines the issue of the middle-income trap in the Hungarian economy and the possibilities for escaping it, given the end of the period of extensive growth and the need for a new growth model. Innovative companies, especially SMEs, have a key role to play in this transformation, as they can differentiate themselves in the market and achieve international success. Our research analyses business capabilities that contribute to gazelle-like growth and export market competitiveness. Adapting the experience gained from the MIT REAP programme to the Hungarian context, we examine the importance and characteristics of Hungarian innovation-driven enterprises. The study highlights the importance of developing financial, technological and human resources, and the need to create a favourable market and regulatory environment. To increase the number of HIDE enterprises and promote sustainable economic growth in Hungary, it is crucial to understand their operation and impact in more depth, which necessitates further research.
Nonlinear Modeling of a Piezoelectric Actuator-Driven High-Speed Atomic Force Microscope Scanner Using a Variant DenseNet-Type Neural Network
Authors: Nguyen Thi Thu , Otieno Luke Oduor , Juma Oyoo Michael , Nguyen Thi Ngoc , Lee Yong Joong
Published: October 2024

Piezoelectric actuators (PEAs) are extensively used for scanning and positioning in scanning probe microscopy (SPM) due to their high precision, simple construction, and fast response. However, there are significant challenges for instrument designers due to their nonlinear properties. Nonlinear properties make precise and accurate control difficult in cases where position feedback sensors cannot be employed. However, the performance of PEA-driven scanners can be significantly improved without position feedback sensors if an accurate mathematical model with low computational costs is applied to reduce hysteresis and other nonlinear effects. Various methods have been proposed for modeling PEAs, but most of them have limitations in terms of their accuracy and computational efficiencies. In this research, we propose a variant DenseNet-type neural network (NN) model for modeling PEAs in an AFM scanner where position feedback sensors are not available. To improve the performance of this model, the mapping of the forward and backward directions is carried out separately. The experimental results successfully demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed model by reducing the relative root-mean-square (RMS) error to less than 0.1%.
The Influence of Planting Density on the Flowering Pattern and Seed Yield in Peanut (Arachis hypogea L.) Grown in the Northern Region of Japan
Authors: Akimoto Masahiro , Sato Sota , Tanaka Ichiro
Published: October 2024

In peanut cultivation in the Tokachi region of Hokkaido, Japan, it is essential to complete the harvest by early October to prevent frost damage. Therefore, cultivation methods that can accelerate the flowering period are necessary. It is understood that planting density can influence the timing of flowering, with crops often flowering earlier at higher densities. This study aimed to investigate whether growing peanuts at higher densities could advance the flowering period and, consequently, enhance yield. The Japanese peanut variety, Tachimasari, was cultivated in 2022 and 2023 at a conventional planting density of 5.8 plant m−2 (D5.8) and at density conditions of 8.7 plant m−2 (D8.7) and 11.6 plant m−2 (D11.6). The D8.7 and D11.6 plants reached the peak of flowering 2.8 and 5.1 days earlier, respectively, and the end of flowering 3.7 and 8.0 days earlier than the D5.8 plants. Although the total number of flowers was higher in D5.8, pod fertility was greater in D8.7 and D11.6, where plants were able to reduce the occurrence of ineffective flowers and immature pods. Consequently, higher seed yields were observed in D8.7 (2709 kg ha−1) and D11.6 (2754 kg ha−1), where lower individual productivity was offset by higher planting densities, compared to the conventional density condition of D5.8 (2169 kg ha−1).
Design and Experiment of Compound Transplanter for Sweet Potato Seedling Belt
Authors: Yan Wei , Zhang Wenyi , Hu Minjuan , Ji Yao , Li Kun , Ren Zhaoyang , Wu Chongyou
Published: October 2024

To address the issues of high labor intensity, excessive manpower requirements, low planting spacing qualification rates, low planting depth qualification rates, and low operational efficiency associated with sweet potato transplanting, a sweet potato seedling belt transplanter has been designed. This machine can perform multiple processes: precision tillage and ridge shaping, orderly seedling feeding from rolls, the efficient separation of seedlings from the belt, flexible gripping and shaping, precise soil covering and the mechanism of exposing seedling tips. A three-factor, three-level orthogonal test was carried out using the forward speed of the machine, the pitch of the screw belt and the rotational speed of the screw as the influencing factors of the performance test, and the qualified rate of planting spacing and the qualified rate of planting depth as the evaluation indexes. The test results indicated that the significance order of the factors affecting the qualification rate for planting spacing with the optimal combination of factors was as follows: a forward speed of 0.3 m·s−1, a ribbon spacing of 60 mm, and a screw speed of 160 rpm. Field trials confirmed that under optimal conditions, the average qualification rate for planting spacing was 90.37%, meeting relevant technical standards and agronomic requirements.
Effect of Long-Term Fertilization Practices on the Stability of Soil Organic Matter in the Northeast Black Soil Region in China
Authors: Ji Yuxuan , Zhao Ying , Han Xiaozeng , Chen Xu , Yan Jun , Lu Xinchun , Zhu Yuanchen , Zou Wenxiu
Published: October 2024

Soil organic matter (SOM) is an important carbon pool in terrestrial ecosystems and plays a key role in soil functions. Nevertheless, the effects of fertilization practices on the physical, chemical, biological, and comprehensive stability of SOM are still unclear. We carried out a long-term field experiment in the northeast black soil region in China with four different fertilization practices: no fertilizer (CK), single chemical fertilizer (NPK), chemical fertilizer + straw (NPKJ), and chemical fertilizer + organic manure (NPKM). The content of particulate organic matter (POM) and mineral-associated organic matter (MAOM), compound composition of SOM, carbon mineralization characteristics, active soil organic matter (ASOM), and inert soil organic matter (ISOM) were tested. The results showed that the application of fertilizers significantly increased the contents of POM and MAOM to 2.59–4.65 g kg−1 and 32.69–34.65 g kg−1 (p < 0.05), but decreased the MAOM/POM values by 37.8–42.4%, indicating reduced the physical stability of SOM. Fertilization practices increased the contents of aromatic, nitrogen-containing compounds and decreased the oxygen compounds of SOM, representing enhancement of the chemical stability. The contents of ASOM and ISOM increased in fertilization practices, while the biological stability index (BSI) under the NPKJ and NPKM treatments was lower than the CK treatment, suggesting that the biological stability decreased under the manure and straw application. In addition, the comprehensive stability of SOM increased by 26–116% through a reduction in the physical and biological stability, coupled with an increase in the chemical stability. Collectively, our study demonstrated that the application of manure and straw enhanced both the comprehensive stability and content of SOM and reduced the physical and biological stabilities while increasing the chemical stability, which made the largest contribution to the comprehensive stability.
Acclimation during Embryogenesis Remodulates Telomerase Activity and Gene Expression in Baikal Whitefish Larvae, Mitigating the Effects of Acute Temperature Stress
Authors: Koroleva Anastasiya G. , Vakhteeva Eugenia A. , Epifantsev Alexander A. , Sukhanova Lyubov V. , Yakhnenko Vera M. , Glyzina Olga Yu. , Tolstikova Lyubov I. , Cherezova Valeria M. , Sidorova Tuyana V. , Potapov Sergey A. , Kirilchik Sergey V. , Sapozhnikova Yulia P.
Published: October 2024

Acclimation through the hormesis effect increases the plasticity of organisms, which has been shown for many ectothermic animals, including fish. We investigated the effect of temperature acclimation in Baikal whitefish Coregonus baicalensis (Dybowski, 1874). Telomere length, telomerase activity, and the expression of genes, whose products are involved in the regulation of telomere length and defense against reactive oxygen species, were selected to assess the state of the larvae. Acclimation and acute temperature stress (+12 °C) had no effect on telomere length, but altered telomerase activity (acclimation decreased it; stress increased it) and the levels of genes expression. Under stress, the expression of superoxide dismutase genes was increased in acclimated larvae and that of glutathione peroxidases in non-acclimated larvae, which may indicate lower reactive oxygen species formation and slower antioxidant responses in acclimated fish. The expression of some telomere-related genes was reduced under temperature stress, but the expression of the tzap and smg genes, whose products improve the control of telomere length by preventing them from lengthening or shortening, was increased in acclimated individuals. The data obtained indicate a positive effect of acclimation on the state of the Baikal whitefish larvae by remodulation of their telomerase activity and the transcriptional profile.
Unveiling the Significance of Individual Level Predictions: A Comparative Analysis of GRU and LSTM Models for Enhanced Digital Behavior Prediction
Authors: Kiyakoglu Burhan Y. , Aydin Mehmet N.
Published: October 2024

The widespread use of technology has led to a transformation of human behaviors and habits into the digital space; and generating extensive data plays a crucial role when coupled with forecasting techniques in guiding marketing decision-makers and shaping strategic choices. Traditional methods like autoregressive moving average (ARMA) can-not be used at predicting individual behaviors because we can-not create models for each individual and buy till you die (BTYD) models have limitations in capturing the trends accurately. Recognizing the paramount importance of individual-level predictions, this study proposes a deep learning framework, specifically uses gated recurrent unit (GRU), for enhanced behavior analysis. This article discusses the performance of GRU and long short-term memory (LSTM) models in this framework for forecasting future individual behaviors and presenting a comparative analysis against benchmark BTYD models. GRU and LSTM yielded the best results in capturing the trends, with GRU demonstrating a slightly superior performance compared to LSTM. However, there is still significant room for improvement at the individual level. The findings not only demonstrate the performance of GRU and LSTM models but also provide valuable insights into the potential of new techniques or approaches for understanding and predicting individual behaviors.
Privately Generated Key Pairs for Post Quantum Cryptography in a Distributed Network
Authors: Alam Mahafujul , Hoffstein Jeffrey , Cambou Bertrand
Published: October 2024

In the proposed protocol, a trusted entity interacts with the terminal device of each user to verify the legitimacy of the public keys without having access to the private keys that are generated and kept totally secret by the user. The protocol introduces challenge–response–pair mechanisms enabling the generation, distribution, and verification of cryptographic public–private key pairs in a distributed network with multi-factor authentication, tokens, and template-less biometry. While protocols using generic digital signature algorithms are proposed, the focus of the experimental work was to implement a solution based on Crystals-Dilithium, a post-quantum cryptographic algorithm under standardization. Crystals-Dilithium generates public keys consisting of two interrelated parts, a matrix generating seed, and a vector computed from the matrix and two randomly picked vectors forming the secret key. We show how such a split of the public keys lends itself to a two-way authentication of both the trusted entity and the users.