bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of daily life and health profile in subtle cognitive decline of women residing in Spanish religious communities: DeCo religious orders study
Authors: Lopez de Coca Teresa , Moreno Lucrecia , Pardo Juan , Pérez-Tur Jordi , Ramos Hernán , Villagrasa Victoria
Published: July 2024

Background

Prior to the onset of dementia, individuals commonly undergo a phase marked by subtle cognitive changes, known as subtle cognitive decline. Recognizing these early cognitive alterations is crucial, as they can serve as indicators of an impending decline in cognitive function, warranting timely intervention and support.

Objectives

To determine the incidence of subtle cognitive decline in a population of Spanish women and establish the relationship with possible protective and/or risk factors such as cognitive reserve, cardiovascular risk factors, medication consumption and psychosocial factors.

Design and participants

This is a cross-sectional observational study with women from the general population and a more homogeneous population composed of nuns from the Valencian region (Spain).

Measurements

A validated questionnaire was used including lifestyle variables, chronic illnesses, level of education and pharmacological treatments. Three validated subtle cognitive decline screening tests with varying levels of sensitivity and specificity were used: Memory Impairment Screening, Pfeiffer’s Short Portable Mental State Questionnaire, and Semantic Verbal Fluency.

Results

Our results suggest that nuns may have a significantly reduced risk of cognitive decline compared to the general population (20.67% in nuns vs. 36.63% in the general population). This lower risk for subtle cognitive decline in nuns may be partly attributed to their higher cognitive reserve and long-time engagement in intellectually stimulating activities. Additionally, nuns tend to adopt healthy lifestyles, they are not isolated because they live in community and obtained lower scores for risk factors such as depression, anticholinergic burden, and benzodiazepine consumption.

Conclusion

A healthy lifestyle combined with intellectually stimulating activities is related with preserved cognitive function.
The effect of a nurse-led low carbohydrate regimen on anthropometric and laboratory parameters of patients with metabolic syndrome: a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Abdulghani Mohammed Faris , Al-Fayyadh Sadeq
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Metabolic syndrome is a global health concern. It is a condition that includes a cluster of various risk factors for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This quasi-experimental study investigates the effect of a nurse-led low-carbohydrate regimen on anthropometric and laboratory parameters in metabolic syndrome patients.

Methods

The study used a quasi-experimental design conducted at the University of Mosul; 128 participants meeting the metabolic syndrome criteria were recruited and divided into the intervention and control groups. The intervention group received personalized counseling and support in implementing a low-carb regime, while the control group received standard advice. The study participants were assessed by anthropometry, and laboratory parameters were evaluated pre- and post-intervention. Statistical data analysis was conducted using IBM-SPSS 27, including chi-square, Fisher’s exact test, t-tests, and the Mcnemar test, which were performed to compare the changes within and between groups.

Results

The mean age of the participants in the intervention and control groups was 50.72 ± 6.43 years and 49.14 ± 6.89 years, respectively. Compared to the control group, the intervention group experienced a significant positive reduction in anthropometric measures and laboratory parameters, including weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, lipid profiles, and HbA1c.

Conclusion

A tangible effect of nurse-led interventions based on low-carbohydrate regimens in managing metabolic syndrome was empirically authenticated. Positive changes were observed in the intervention group regarding anthropometric measures and laboratory parameters. However, future research may require a larger sample size and a longer follow-up to confirm these effects and evaluate long-term metabolic impacts.
Identifying the factors affecting financial toxicity status in patients with middle and advanced colorectal cancer: a cross-sectional study
Authors: He Xiaofang , Chen Jie , Zhang Lin , Li Qiuping , Zhu Xiaoli , Zhao Jie , Chen Ying
Published: July 2024

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks as the second most prevalent type of cancer in China. The financial implications of treatment are a significant factor to be taken into account for patients diagnosed with middle and advanced stages of colorectal cancer (III-IV CRC). The research aims to explore current financial toxicity (FT) conditions and analyze factors that may influence it in patients with middle and advanced CRC.

Method

This is a cross-sectional survey. The participants of the study were individuals diagnosed with middle and advanced colorectal cancer who were admitted to the hospital between January and June 2023. The cross-sectional survey utilized a variety of instruments, including a general information questionnaire, a cancer patient report outcome economic toxicity scale, a medical coping style questionnaire, an Anderson symptom assessment scale, a disease shame scale, and a social support scale. Multiple linear regression analysis was employed to examine the factors influencing FT.

Result

A cohort of 264 patients diagnosed with stage III-IV CRC were included in the study. The majority of patients with intermediate and advanced CRC (87.1%, n = 230) reported experiencing substantial financial strain. Multivariate analysis revealed that factors influencing FT included low family monthly income, out-of-pocket expenses, unemployment, undergoing surgical treatment, the level of stigma, and the severity of symptoms (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Patients with stage III-IV cancer (CRC) demonstrate increased levels of financial toxicity (FT), a common occurrence in individuals with moderate to severe CRC. In patients with stage III-IV CRC, the presence of FT is correlated with various factors including family monthly income, medical payment methods, work status, surgical treatment, stigma levels, and symptom severity. These characteristics may serve as influencing factors for subsequent treatment decisions.
Gendered perspective on water security, rights and conflicts in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review
Authors: Mutanda Gideon Walter , Nhamo Godwell
Published: July 2024

The 2017 Global Risk Report ranked water crisis third among the top six global risks that greatly impact society. While the water crisis is disproportionately distributed worldwide, sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has more people (most of whom are women) who face water problems compared to other regions worldwide. Through the application of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol version 2020, a systematic review examining the connection between gender and water security, rights, and water conflicts in SSA was done. A total of 24 out of 229 articles made it into the final analysis. Previous research studies on gender politics in the water sector have done so in a fragmented way, focusing on specific water security parameters. The emerging findings show that 14 years after the adoption of an enforceable human right to water and about 6 years prior to the cut-off date for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, matters of gender and water in SSA are far from being addressed. Rural people, especially women, still face multiple water-related challenges and conflicts, including discriminatory practices upholding male hegemony in water governance. It is recommended that actors in the water sector precede the implementation of water projects by understanding contextual settings that influence gendered water security. Furthermore, the implementation of the water Sustainable Development Goal (SGD 6) should be done in the context of SDG 5 (Gender Equity) and the prioritization of procedural water justice and governance, access to technical skills, and water conveyance technologies.

Systematic review registration

https://www.prisma-statement.org/.
Case Report: Surgical challenges and insights in a child with a blunt left diaphragmatic and pericardial rupture and heart subluxation
Authors: Kassie Melaku Tessema , Ayana Motuma Gonfa , Abebe Ruth Betremariam , Abebe Befikadu Molalign
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Blunt diaphragmatic rupture (BTDR) is a rare condition that can occur in children following high-energy blunt thoracoabdominal trauma. In less than 1% of the cases, pericardial rupture can coexist with a BTDR. A coexistence of BTDR and pericardial rupture can result in displacement of the heart and is associated with high mortality. Clinical presentation is non-specific and requires a high index of suspicion for early management.

Case presentation

A 4-year-old child presented to the emergency unit of our hospital following high-energy trauma with severe respiratory distress. Initially, a left-side chest tube was inserted, but it resulted in no clinical improvement. A chest x-ray showed a collapse of the left lung with a herniation of bowel loops into the left hemithorax. An exploratory laparotomy was done, which revealed a 10 cm × 4 cm defect in the left hemidiaphragm with a medial extension involving the pericardium. The fundus of the stomach and left lobe of the liver were displaced into the pericardial space, pushing the cardiac apex posteriorly to the right side. Concomitantly, the transverse colon and small bowel were displaced into the left pleural space. After the reduction of the herniated abdominal viscera back into the peritoneal cavity, the pericardial sac was repaired by employing an interrupted resorbable suture, while the diaphragmatic defect was repaired by using a horizontal mattress. No other injuries were identified and the abdomen was closed in layers.

Conclusion

BTDR with pericardial rupture is an elusive condition with a high mortality rate that necessitates a high index of clinical suspicion. Early surgical repair of the defect with a reduction of herniated organs can reduce morbidity and mortality.
Leiomyosarcoma of the abdomen and retroperitoneum; a systematic review
Authors: Øines Mari Nanna , Smith Henry George , Preisler Louise , Penninga Luit
Published: July 2024

Background

Intraabdominal and retroperitoneal leiomyosarcomas are rare cancers, which cause significant morbidity and mortality. Symptoms, treatment and follow up differs from other cancers, and proper diagnosis and treatment of intraabdominal and retroperitoneal leiomyosarcomas is of utmost importance. We performed a systematic review to collect and summarize available evidence for diagnosis and treatment for these tumours.

Methods

We performed a systematic literature search of Pubmed from the earliest entry possible, until January 2021. Our search phrase was (((((colon) OR (rectum)) OR (intestine)) OR (abdomen)) OR (retroperitoneum)) AND (leiomyosarcoma). All hits were evaluated by two of the authors.

Results

Our predefined search identified 1983 hits, we selected 218 hits and retrieved full-text copies of these. 144 studies were included in the review.

Discussion

This review summarizes the current knowledge and evidence on non-uterine abdominal and retroperitoneal leiomyosarcomas. The review has revealed a lack of high-quality evidence, and randomized clinical trials. There is a great need for more substantial and high-quality research in the area of leiomyosarcomas of the abdomen and retroperitoneum.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO, identifier, CRD42023480527.
Effect of S. cerevisiae strain KA500 supplementation on feed performance, feed efficiency, and digestion ability in feedlot buffaloes
Authors: Ferreira Maiara dos Santos , da Silva Welligton Conceição , Cunha Ancelmo Rodrigues , Costa Ercvania Rodrigues , Cabral Ícaro dos Santos , Dias Salatiel Ribeiro , de Lima Ronaldo Francisco
Published: July 2024

Live yeasts have favorable characteristics for use in animal feed, and may become a beneficial tool to improve digestive efficiency in buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis). The productive performance, feed efficiency, and digestion ability of buffaloes fed diets supplemented with yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain KA500) were evaluated. Eighteen male Murrah buffaloes, with initial weight 250 ± 31 kg (mean ± standard deviation), and aged approximately 12 months, were randomly assigned to one of two treatments. The treatments included experimental feed containing 10 g of the live yeast capable of forming 2 × 1010 colony forming units (CFU) and control (feed with no added yeast). The daily weight gain tended to be lower (p = 0.07) in buffaloes supplemented with yeast. There was a reduction in daily dry matter intake (DMI) and in % yield of live weight in buffaloes supplemented with yeast. There was no effect of live yeast supplementation on weight gain/kg dry matter intake, height at withers or rump, body condition score, total weight gain, carcass yield, plasma urea nitrogen concentrations, purine derivatives, and plasma glucose concentrations. The digestibility of dry matter (DM) and organic matter (OM) were lower (p < 0.05) with the supplementation of live yeast, although live yeast supplementation did not affect the digestibility of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and non-NDF OM. The strain and dosage of live yeast used did not have a positive effect on buffalo performance and digestibility of dietary nutrients.
From facial expressions to algorithms: a narrative review of animal pain recognition technologies
Authors: Chiavaccini Ludovica , Gupta Anjali , Chiavaccini Guido
Published: July 2024

Facial expressions are essential for communication and emotional expression across species. Despite the improvements brought by tools like the Horse Grimace Scale (HGS) in pain recognition in horses, their reliance on human identification of characteristic traits presents drawbacks such as subjectivity, training requirements, costs, and potential bias. Despite these challenges, the development of facial expression pain scales for animals has been making strides. To address these limitations, Automated Pain Recognition (APR) powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers a promising advancement. Notably, computer vision and machine learning have revolutionized our approach to identifying and addressing pain in non-verbal patients, including animals, with profound implications for both veterinary medicine and animal welfare. By leveraging the capabilities of AI algorithms, we can construct sophisticated models capable of analyzing diverse data inputs, encompassing not only facial expressions but also body language, vocalizations, and physiological signals, to provide precise and objective evaluations of an animal's pain levels. While the advancement of APR holds great promise for improving animal welfare by enabling better pain management, it also brings forth the need to overcome data limitations, ensure ethical practices, and develop robust ground truth measures. This narrative review aimed to provide a comprehensive overview, tracing the journey from the initial application of facial expression recognition for the development of pain scales in animals to the recent application, evolution, and limitations of APR, thereby contributing to understanding this rapidly evolving field.
Gender Disparities in Adverse Events Resulting From Low-Value Practices in Family Practice in Spain: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Mira José Joaquín , Carratala-Munuera Concepción , Vicente María Asunción , Astier-Peña Maria Pilar , García-Torres Daniel , Soriano Cristina , Sánchez-García Alicia , Chilet-Rosell Elisa , Gil-Guillén Vicente F. , López-Pineda Adriana , Pérez-Jover Virtudes
Published: July 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate gender-based disparities in preventable adverse events due to low-value practices (LVPs) in primary care.

Methods: A retrospective cohort study in Alicante, Spain.

Results: A total of 1,516 patient records were examined, finding that older individuals and women experienced more LVP-related events. Female patients faced a higher volume of such events than males with the same health issue. Interaction analysis revealed patients treated by male physicians had more severe events, while those attended by females experienced milder ones. Adverse events were more frequent in LVPs associated with gender-based reasons.

Conclusion: These results highlight the need for tailored healthcare professional awareness programs on overuse’s impact on safety. Addressing outcome differences between male and female patients should inform awareness campaigns.
Weighing in on the role of brown adipose tissue for treatment of obesity
Authors: Prapaharan Brinda , Lea Micah , Beaudry Jacqueline L.
Published: July 2024

Brown adipose tissue (BAT) activation is an emerging target for obesity treatments due to its thermogenic properties stemming from its ability to shuttle energy through uncoupling protein 1 (Ucp1). Recent rodent studies show how BAT and white adipose tissue (WAT) activity can be modulated to increase the expression of thermogenic proteins. Consequently, these alterations enable organisms to endure cold-temperatures and elevate energy expenditure, thereby promoting weight loss. In humans, BAT is less abundant in obese subjects and impacts of thermogenesis are less pronounced, bringing into question whether energy expending properties of BAT seen in rodents can be translated to human models. Our review will discuss pharmacological, hormonal, bioactive, sex-specific and environmental activators and inhibitors of BAT to determine the potential for BAT to act as a therapeutic strategy. We aim to address the feasibility of utilizing BAT modulators for weight reduction in obese individuals, as recent studies suggest that BAT’s contributions to energy expenditure along with Ucp1-dependent and -independent pathways may or may not rectify energy imbalance characteristic of obesity.
Rapid and Near-Analytical Planning Method for Entry Trajectory under Time and Full-State Constraints
Authors: Xia Wenjie , Wang Peichen , Yan Xunliang , Hong Bei , Li Xinguo
Published: July 2024

A rapid trajectory-planning method based on an analytical predictor–corrector design of drag acceleration profile and a bank-reversal logic based on double-stage adaptive adjustment is proposed to solve the entry issue under time and full-state constraints. First, an analytical predictor–corrector algorithm is used to design the profile parameters to satisfy the terminal of altitude, velocity, range, time, and flight-path angle constraints. Subsequently, an adaptive lateral planning algorithm based on heading adjustment and maintenance is proposed to achieve the flight stage adaptive division and determination of the bank-reversal point, thereby satisfying the terminal position and heading angle constraints. Concurrently, a rapid quantification method is proposed for the adjustable capacity boundary of the terminal heading angle. On this basis, a range-and-time correction strategy is designed to achieve high precision and the rapid generation of a three-degree-of-freedom entry trajectory under large-scale lateral maneuvering. The simulation results demonstrated that compared with the existing methods, the proposed method can adaptively divide flight stages, ensuring better multitask applicability and higher computational efficiency.
Co-Occurrence of Equine Asthma and Pharyngeal Lymphoid Hyperplasia in Pleasure Horses
Authors: Kozłowska Natalia , Wierzbicka Małgorzata , Jasiński Tomasz , Domino Małgorzata
Published: July 2024

With the increasing awareness of the “united airway disease” theory, more horses, not only sport horses but also pleasure horses, undergo detailed examinations of the respiratory tract. Using endoscopy, equine asthma (EA) is most commonly diagnosed in the lower airway, while pharyngeal lymphoid hyperplasia (PLH) is common in the upper airway. Grading EA as mild–moderate (MEA) and severe (SEA), this study aims to compare the co-occurrence and investigate the possible relationship between the clinical symptoms and endoscopic signs of MEA/SEA and PLH in pleasure horses. In this retrospective study, 80 out of 93 pleasure horses suspected of EA were enrolled and underwent a standardized protocol for a complete airway examination, including resting endoscopy with mucus accumulation assessment and cytology. The obtained results were scored and analyzed. In the studied pleasure horses, PLH co-occurred more frequently in horses with EA than without (p < 0.0001) and more in horses with SEA than with MEA (p = 0.025). However, when EA and PLH co-occurred, the severity of the clinical symptoms of EA did not increase (p > 0.05). In both EA and PLH, the amount of tracheal and nasopharyngeal mucus increased with the severity of the disease; however, it was positively correlated (ρ = 0.33; p = 0.02) only in SEA horses. In conclusion, it is likely that EA is often accompanied by PLH; however, PLH did not play a role in increasing the severity of EA’s clinical symptoms. The role of the severity of accumulated mucus in the lower and upper airways when EA/PLH co-occur requires further research to confirm the morphological and functional unity of the respiratory tract, aligning with the concept of “united airways disease”.
Climate-Smart Agriculture as an Adaptation Measure to Climate Change in Togo: Determinants of Choices and Its Impact on Rural Households’ Food Security
Authors: Affoh Raïfatou , Zheng Haixia , Zhang Xuebiao , Wang Xiangyang , Dangui Kokou , Zhang Liwen
Published: July 2024

Climate-smart agriculture is one of the most important actions for agricultural climate change adaptation, especially in Togo, a sub-Saharan African country with a fragile ecology and where agriculture is profoundly impacted by climate change. Using a multinomial endogenous switching regression (MESR) and a multinomial endogenous treatment effect (METE) approach, we conducted empirical research to identify the factors influencing the adoption decisions of climate-smart agricultural practices (CSAPs) and their impact on household food security among smallholder farmers in Togo. The findings of this study revealed that the adoption of CSAPs by farmers is influenced by a range of factors, such as age, marital status, the household head’s gender, engagement in off-farm activities, level of education, farm size, agroecological zone, regional location, land ownership, distance between homestead and farm, access to credit, the presence of agricultural associations and cooperatives, and access to extension agents. On the one hand, the MESR analysis demonstrated a positive correlation between the number of adopted CSAPs and households’ food consumption score. Similarly, greater adoption of CSAPs resulted in a significant reduction in the food insecurity experience scale. On the other hand, the METE model portrayed an increase in acceptable food consumption when households adopted up to three CSAPs. Likewise, it significantly alleviated severe food insecurity. Further results based on the propensity score matching technique showed that the adoption of a crop rotation system, utilization of improved varieties of seeds, plant protection products, inorganic fertilizer, organic fertilizer, and irrigation improved adopters’ food consumption scores while reducing their level of food insecurity.
Effects of Muddy Water Infiltration on the Hydraulic Conductivity of Soils
Authors: Kang Shouxuan , Fei Liangjun , Yang Zhen , Zhao Penghui , Wang Qian , Fan Qianwen , Liu Lihua
Published: July 2024

Despite the high sand content of Yellow River water in arid Northwest China, locals in the region opt to use muddy water to meet the demand for agricultural irrigation. Muddy water irrigation is a complex process and is still poorly understood. In this study, six sets of saturated soil column infiltration tests were designed, considering soil texture (silt loam, sandy loam, and sand) and muddy water sand content (3%, 6%, 9%, and 12%) as the influencing factors, with two sets of validation tests. Change in hydraulic conductivity (Kh), the average change rate of hydraulic conductivity (ΔK), and cumulative infiltration volume (I) were experimentally studied in the context of muddy water infiltration to respectively establish the separate functional models and developed to fit their relationship with time. The study results indicated that the hydraulic conductivity (Kh) decreased with increasing muddy water infiltration time. For silt loam and sandy loam, Kh stabilized at 0.0030 and 0.0109 cm/min, respectively, after 70 min of infiltration. In contrast, Kh in the saturated sandy soil column significantly declined throughout the muddy water infiltration, showing a 90.84% reduction after 90 min compared to the saturated hydraulic conductivity of the sandy soil. As the sand content of the muddy water increased from 3% to 12%, Kh decreased by 83.99%, 90.90%, 91.92%, and 92.21% for 3%, 6%, 9%, and 12% sand content, respectively, in the saturated sandy soil columns at the end of the infiltration period. The I values were 21.20, 9.29, 7.90, and 6.25 cm for 3%, 6%, 9%, and 12% sand content, respectively. The ΔK values were 0.0037, 0.0041, 0.0043, and 0.0044 cm/min2 for the respective sand contents, at an infiltration time of 80 min. The validation test demonstrated that the segmented function model accurately emulated the changes in hydraulic conductivity of sandy soil textures throughout the infiltration period. Results from this study provide a significant basis for understanding the mechanisms to hinder muddy water infiltration and to efficiently utilize muddy water for irrigation.
Phyllanthus niruri Linn.: Antibacterial Activity, Phytochemistry, and Enhanced Antibiotic Combinatorial Strategies
Authors: Tiwana Gagan , Cock Ian E. , Cheesman Matthew J.
Published: July 2024

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global public health threat caused by the misuse and overuse of antibiotics. It leads to infections becoming difficult to treat, causing serious illness, disability, and death. Current antibiotic development is slow, with only 25% of current antibiotics exhibiting novel mechanisms against critical pathogens. Traditional medicinal plants’ secondary metabolites offer potential for developing novel antibacterial compounds. These compounds, often with strong antimicrobial activity, can be used to develop safe and effective antibacterial chemotherapies. This study investigated the antibacterial activity of Phyllanthus niruri Linn. extracts against a panel of bacterial pathogens using disc diffusion and microdilution assays and quantified by calculation of minimum inhibition concentration (MIC). Additionally, the effects of combinations of the extracts and selected conventional antibiotics were examined by sum of fractional inhibition concentration (ƩFIC) calculation and isobologram analysis. Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) phytochemistry analysis was used to identify noteworthy compounds in the active extracts and the Artemia nauplii bioassay was used to evaluate toxicity. The aqueous and methanolic extracts exhibited notable antibacterial activity in the broth microdilution assay against Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) (MIC = 669 µg/mL and 738 µg/mL, respectively). The methanolic extract also showed noteworthy antibacterial action in the broth assay against Klebsiella pneumoniae (MIC = 738 µg/mL). The aqueous extract had noteworthy growth inhibitory activity against Bacillus cereus (MIC = 669 µg/mL), whilst the methanolic extract demonstrated good antibacterial activity against that bacterium (MIC = 184 µg/mL). The aqueous and methanol extracts showed minimal antibacterial action against Shigella flexneri and Shigella sonnei. The extracts were subjected to LC-MS analysis, which revealed several interesting phytochemicals, including a variety of flavonoids and tannins. The antibacterial activity and lack of toxicity of the P. niruri extracts indicates that they may be worthwhile targets for antibiotic development and further mechanistic and phytochemistry studies are required.
Spotlight on Secondary Metabolites Produced by an Early-Flowering Apulian Artichoke Ecotype Sanitized from Virus Infection by Meristem-Tip-Culture and Thermotherapy
Authors: Spanò Roberta , Gena Patrizia , Linsalata Vito , Sini Valeria , D’Antuono Isabella , Cardinali Angela , Cotugno Pietro , Calamita Giuseppe , Mascia Tiziana
Published: July 2024

Globe artichoke (Cynara cardunculus L. subsp. scolymus) is an important crop of the Mediterranean basin characterized by many properties, like hepatoprotective, anticarcinogenic, antioxidant, antibacterial, and beneficial to human health. The high bioactive compounds (BACs) content, as polyphenols, has attracted the research interest in artichoke extracts. We analysed the changes in polyphenol transcriptome profile between sanitized (S) virus-free and non-sanitized (NS) artichoke plants, focusing on genes involved in phenylpropanoid metabolic pathway and flavonoid biosynthesis. A total of 2458 upregulated and 2154 downregulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were functionally characterized. Among them, 31 and 35 KEGG orthology entries characterized by upregulated and downregulated DEGs, respectively, were involved in the biosynthesis of other secondary metabolites. A downregulation of PAL, C4H, 4CL, HST/HQT, C3′H, CCoAMT, CCR1, and F5H, was observed in S artichoke compared to NS one, whereas the CSE, CHS, and CHI genes were upregulated in S samples. Transcriptome results were compared to the polyphenols accumulation in S and NS artichoke leaves. A higher content of total polyphenols was observed in older leaves of NS samples, compared to extracts obtained from young leaves or from S plants, and this result was associated with the presence of viral infections in NS plants. In all the conditions tested, the most represented compound was chlorogenic acid, followed by luteolin-7-O-glucoside. The different composition of each extract was evaluated by a polyphenol dose–response treatment on the rodent hepatoma FaO cell line to the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). A significant reduction in ROS content ranging between −40% and −48% was observed when 10–20 mg/L of polyphenols from NS or S plants were used, characterized by a specific profile of compounds. To reduce MetOH residues in polyphenol extracts, a supercritical fluid CO2 extraction was evaluated to propose a sustainable green extraction.
The Effect of Radiation Intensity on the Performance of Direct-Expansion Solar PVT Heat Pump Systems
Authors: Zhang Dianguang , Zhou Yiheng , Yu Zongjun , Ma Tianyan , Wang Xuyang
Published: July 2024

The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of solar radiation intensity on the performance of direct-expansion solar PVT heat pump systems. To this end, an experimental setup was constructed for direct-expansion photovoltaic (PVT) solar heat pump water heating systems and photovoltaic (PV) power generation systems. The system performance and main parameters were analyzed and discussed under different solar radiation intensities. The winter experiments in southern China revealed that the exhaust temperature of the heat pump unit varied considerably under clear conditions, while the back temperature remained stable, fluctuating between approximately −13.5 °C and 24 °C. In contrast, the power generation of PVT panels increased with the increase in radiation intensity, from 78.33 W to 122.68 W, for an increase of 56.6%. Furthermore, the total electricity generation of the PVT panels was higher than that of PV panels, with an increase of 8.7–8.3%. Nevertheless, discrepancies between experimental and theoretical data were observed, particularly under overcast conditions, where the back panel temperature error was pronounced. Additionally, the system exhibited enhanced stability at elevated temperatures in comparable environments, accompanied by an improvement in the system’s coefficient of performance (COP) by 5.67%.
Concept of Thermal Shrinkage-Resistant Railroad Rail for Use in Continuous Welded Rail Track
Authors: Kukulski Jacek , Ratkiewicz Andrzej
Published: July 2024

This paper presents the concept of a modified 60E1 rail dedicated to continuous welded rail (CWR) track. The presented solution is the subject of a patent application by the authors of the publication. The paper describes problems associated with the operation of CWR track and the phenomena of so-called “rail stressing”, i.e., stresses created in the rail due to thermal shrinkage that, in extreme cases, can lead to the buckling of the rail track. Simulation calculations of longitudinal track loads to represent the occurrence of thermal force as a result of the occurrence of high air temperatures were carried out for the constructed conventional model of the railroad track as well as the track with the proposed solutions. A discussion of the simulation results is presented, indicating the possibility for the wider application of both varieties of modified rail.
High-Accuracy Classification of Multiple Distinct Human Emotions Using EEG Differential Entropy Features and ResNet18
Authors: Yao Longxin , Lu Yun , Qian Yukun , He Changjun , Wang Mingjiang
Published: July 2024

The high-accuracy detection of multiple distinct human emotions is crucial for advancing affective computing, mental health diagnostics, and human–computer interaction. The integration of deep learning networks with entropy measures holds significant potential in neuroscience and medicine, especially for analyzing EEG-based emotion states. This study proposes a method combining ResNet18 with differential entropy to identify five types of human emotions (happiness, sadness, fear, disgust, and neutral) from EEG signals. Our approach first calculates the differential entropy of EEG signals to capture the complexity and variability of the emotional states. Then, the ResNet18 network is employed to learn feature representations from the differential entropy measures, which effectively captures the intricate spatiotemporal dynamics inherent in emotional EEG patterns using residual connections. To validate the efficacy of our method, we conducted experiments on the SEED-V dataset, achieving an average accuracy of 95.61%. Our findings demonstrate that the combination of ResNet18 with differential entropy is highly effective in classifying multiple distinct human emotions from EEG signals. This method shows robust generalization and broad applicability, indicating its potential for extension to various pattern recognition tasks across different domains.
The Sublime Divinity: Erotic Affectivity in Renaissance Religious Art
Authors: Corry Maya
Published: July 2024

In the context of the Catholic Reformation serious concerns were expressed about the affective potency of naturalistic depictions of beautiful, sensuous figures in religious art. In theological discourse similar anxieties had long been articulated about potential contiguities between elevating, licit desire for an extraordinarily beautiful divinity and base, illicit feeling. In the later fifteenth and early sixteenth centuries, in the decades preceding the Council of Trent, a handful of writers, thinkers and artists asserted a positive connection between spirituality and sexuality. Leonardo da Vinci, and a group of painters working under his aegis in Lombardy, were keenly aware of painting’s capacity to evoke feeling in a viewer. Pictures they produced for domestic devotion featured knowingly sensuous and unusually epicene beauties. This article suggests that this iconography daringly advocated the value of pleasurable sensation to religiosity. Its popularity allows us to envisage beholders who were neither mired in sin, nor seeking to divorce themselves from the physical realm, but engaging afresh with age-old dialectics of body and soul, sexuality and spirituality.
Numerical Modeling of a Low-Cobalt All-Solid-State Cell with Ceramic Electrolyte Using a Deformable Geometry
Authors: Nadeau David , Roué Lionel , Allard François
Published: July 2024

All-solid-state batteries with a lithium negative electrode and a ceramic electrolyte are key toward high energy density. To ensure a safe, fast, accurate, and cost-effective development of this technology, the experimental methodology must be supported by the numerical modeling approach. This work proposes and describes an electrochemical model of a Li7La3Zr2O12 (LLZO) and Ni-rich NMC-based lithium cell with a deformable lithium negative electrode. Simulations were computed using the finite element method at different operating conditions to demonstrate the scope of the modeling work. Discharge rate tests, deformation tracking, geometric defect investigation, and polarization decomposition are described. Theoretical validation of the mass balance, the stripping rate, the ohmic polarization, and the mesh deformation demonstrated the consistency of the volumetric deformation strategy. We demonstrated in this study a deformable modeling strategy, which was found to be useful for the electrostripping analysis of anodic geometry defects during discharge. Non-uniformity in the lithium stripping rate was found along the anodic interface with defects, and this non-uniformity was accentuated with a higher discharge rate. The cell’s discharge potential was decomposed by considering the equilibrium potential and the polarizations of the main components of the cell. This post-processing was found to be useful for the understanding of the cell’s behavior.
The Cytotoxic Effects of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells Induced by Uranium
Authors: Quan Yi , Yu Xiaofang
Published: July 2024

Bone is a major tissue for uranium deposition in human body. Considering mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) play a vital role in bone formation and injury recovery, studying the mechanism of MSCs responding to uranium poisoning can benefit the understanding of bone damage and repair after uranium exposure. Cellular structural alterations were analyzed via transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Changes in cellular behaviors were assessed through cellular viability, apoptosis, and the production of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs). In addition, the influence of gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) on uranium toxicity was assessed. The disruption of MSCs was elevated with the increase in uranyl nitrate concentration, as shown by TEM micrograph. This was verified by the results of cellular viability and DSB production. Interestingly, the results of apoptosis assay indicated significant apoptosis occurred, which was accompanied with an obvious disruption of cellular membranes. Furthermore, closely contacted cell confluence groups exhibited resistant to uranium poisoning in contrast to sparse growth groups, which can be eliminated with the pretreatment of a GJIC inhibitor in the close connection group. To verify the association between GJIC and cytotoxic effects of uranyl nitrate, GJIC function was evaluated by wound healing and cellular migration. The results showed an inhibition of the healing ratio and migration ability induced by the exposure of uranyl nitrate. The low transfer efficiency of the dye coupling experiment and depressed expression of gap functional protein connexins confirmed the impairment of GJIC function. These results suggest that uranium toxicity is involved with GJIC dysfunction.
Jaboticaba Peel Extract Attenuates Ovariectomy-Induced Bone Loss by Preserving Osteoblast Activity
Authors: Adolpho Letícia Faustino , Gomes Maria Paula Oliveira , Freitas Gileade Pereira , Bighetti-Trevisan Rayana Longo , Ramos Jaqueline Isadora Reis , Campeoti Gabriela Hernandes , Zatta Guilherme Crepi , Almeida Adriana Luisa Gonçalves , Tarone Adriana Gadioli , Marostica-Junior Mario Roberto , Rosa Adalberto Luiz , Beloti Marcio Mateus
Published: July 2024

Therapies to prevent osteoporosis are relevant since it is one of the most common non-communicable human diseases in the world and the most prevalent bone disorder in adults. Since jaboticaba peel extract (JPE) added to the culture medium enhanced the osteogenic potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from osteoporotic rats, we hypothesized that JPE prevents the development of ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis. Ovariectomized rats were treated with either JPE (30 mg/kg of body weight) or its vehicle for 90 days, starting 7 days after the ovariectomy. Then, the femurs were subjected to microcomputed tomography and histological analyses, and the osteoblast and adipocyte differentiation of MSCs was evaluated. JPE attenuated ovariectomy-induced bone loss, as evidenced by higher bone volume/total volume and trabecular number, along with lower trabecular separation and bone marrow adiposity. These protective effects of JPE on bone tissue are due to its ability to prevent the imbalance between osteoblast and adipocyte differentiation of MSCs, since, compared with MSCs derived from ovariectomized rats treated with vehicle, MSCs treated with JPE exhibited higher gene and protein expression of osteogenic markers and extracellular matrix mineralization, as well as lower gene expression of adipogenic markers. These data highlight the potential therapeutic use of JPE to prevent osteoporosis.
Visual Analysis of Social Media Data on Experiences at a World Heritage Tourist Destination: Historic Centre of Macau
Authors: Jia Mengyan , Feng Jingzhao , Chen Yile , Zhao Chunxi
Published: July 2024

The burgeoning field of sustainable tourism in historically significant urban districts has derived increasing attention in tandem with broader urban economic development. The perceived image of a tourist destination significantly affects tourist consumption behaviors and destination choices, while negative evaluations provide destination managers with insights for targeted improvements to tourist amenities, thereby contributing to the sustainable development of these historically significant districts. This study leveraged Python 3.12.3 software to collect online textual data from popular tourism websites, specifically Ctrip 8.71.4 and Mafengwo 11.1.7. Then, ROST CM6.0 software facilitated high-frequency word analysis, network semantic analysis, and sentiment analysis to outline the perceived image and characteristics of the Macau Historic District, a UNESCO World Heritage site, from the perspective of tourists. The findings are as follows: (1) The image of the Historic Centre of Macao as a tourist destination comprises four primary dimensions: cultural (16.02%), landscape (30.85%), emotional (16.97%), and local (36.16%). (2) Tourists perceive the Historic Centre of Macao as a blend of dynamism and tranquility, tradition, and modernity. (3) Emotional evaluations of the Historic Centre of Macao as a tourist destination are primarily positive (85.45%), whereas negative sentiments constitute 5.76%, with recurring themes pertaining to overcrowding, high prices, a lack of interactive experiences at attractions, excessive commercialization, and insufficient public rest facilities. These findings offer valuable directives for the future planning and development of tourism in Macau, a city recognized for its World Heritage status. (4) In summary, the thematic image of the Historic Centre of Macao can be considered authentic, romantic, and commercialized.
Correction: Ionna et al. Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB) for Early-Stage Head and Neck Squamous-Cell Carcinoma of the Tongue: Twenty Years of Experience at I.N.T. “G.Pascale”. Cancers 2024, 16, 1153
Authors: Ionna Franco , Pavone Ettore , Aversa Corrado , Maffia Francesco , Spinelli Raffaele , Carraturo Emanuele , Salzano Giovanni , Maglitto Fabio , Sarcinella Marco , Fusco Roberta , Granata Vincenza , Lastoria Secondo , Prato Francesco Del , Maglione Maria Grazia
Published: July 2024

In the published publication [...]
Extracellular Vesicles, Circadian Rhythms, and Cancer: A Comprehensive Review with Emphasis on Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Fekry Baharan , Ugartemendia Lierni , Esnaola Nestor F. , Goetzl Laura
Published: July 2024

This review comprehensively explores the complex interplay between extracellular vesicles (ECVs)/exosomes and circadian rhythms, with a focus on the role of this interaction in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Exosomes are nanovesicles derived from cells that facilitate intercellular communication by transporting bioactive molecules such as proteins, lipids, and RNA/DNA species. ECVs are implicated in a range of diseases, where they play crucial roles in signaling between cells and their surrounding environment. In the setting of cancer, ECVs are known to influence cancer initiation and progression. The scope of this review extends to all cancer types, synthesizing existing knowledge on the various roles of ECVs. A unique aspect of this review is the emphasis on the circadian-controlled release and composition of exosomes, highlighting their potential as biomarkers for early cancer detection and monitoring metastasis. We also discuss how circadian rhythms affect multiple cancer-related pathways, proposing that disruptions in the circadian clock can alter tumor development and treatment response. Additionally, this review delves into the influence of circadian clock components on ECV biogenesis and their impact on reshaping the tumor microenvironment, a key component driving HCC progression. Finally, we address the potential clinical applications of ECVs, particularly their use as diagnostic tools and drug delivery vehicles, while considering the challenges associated with clinical implementation.
Imaging and Metabolic Diagnostic Methods in the Stage Assessment of Rectal Cancer
Authors: Maksim Rafał , Buczyńska Angelika , Sidorkiewicz Iwona , Krętowski Adam Jacek , Sierko Ewa
Published: July 2024

Rectal cancer (RC) is a prevalent malignancy with significant morbidity and mortality rates. The accurate staging of RC is crucial for optimal treatment planning and patient outcomes. This review aims to summarize the current literature on imaging and metabolic diagnostic methods used in the stage assessment of RC. Various imaging modalities play a pivotal role in the initial evaluation and staging of RC. These include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and endorectal ultrasound (ERUS). MRI has emerged as the gold standard for local staging due to its superior soft tissue resolution and ability to assess tumor invasion depth, lymph node involvement, and the presence of extramural vascular invasion. CT imaging provides valuable information about distant metastases and helps determine the feasibility of surgical resection. ERUS aids in assessing tumor depth, perirectal lymph nodes, and sphincter involvement. Understanding the strengths and limitations of each diagnostic modality is essential for accurate staging and treatment decisions in RC. Furthermore, the integration of multiple imaging and metabolic methods, such as PET/CT or PET/MRI, can enhance diagnostic accuracy and provide valuable prognostic information. Thus, a literature review was conducted to investigate and assess the effectiveness and accuracy of diagnostic methods, both imaging and metabolic, in the stage assessment of RC.