bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Walking improves cardiac function: A randomized trial on the effects of walking on left ventricular function in type 2 diabetes patients
Authors: Leischik Roman , Bank Patrick , Brzek Ania , Dworrak Birgit , Litwitz Henning , Gerlach Christian Erik , Sanchis-Gomar Fabian , Strauss Markus
Published: June 2024

Background: Metabolic abnormalities in diabetic hearts are known issues, and the role of exercise in improving cardiac function has been the subject of various reports. Although it is widely believed that walking can improve cardiometabolic parameters, the specific effects of walking on cardiac function in diabetic patients remains a topic of interest. We examined the specific effects of walking on the cardiac function of diabetic patients in a randomized study.
Methods:Using a random allocation sequence, 32 patients with type 2 diabetes (metformin-, insulin-, and diet-controlled) were randomized to a 12-week intervention of either walking 10 km three times/week (n=16) or standard care (control group, n= 16). We prospectively examined metabolic, anthropometric, cardiac function and cardiorespiratory fitness parameters. The groups were compared using linear regression adjusted for age.
Results: Compared with that in the control group (n=16), the cardiac function (global strain) of the walking group (n=16) improved significantly after the intervention (-19.0 (+/- 3.0) vs. -20.9 (+/-2.6) (Diff -1.92 (CI-2.61-1.24) p<0.001). The global strain of the control group (n= 15) was 18.7 (+/- 3.2) vs. -18.9 (+/- 3.6) (Diff -0.19 (CI 1.00-0.63) p = 0.650). Global strain changed significantly only in the walking group: the pre/post estimated mean difference in global strain between the walking group and the control group was estimated to be -1.73 (CI-2.78, -0.69; p<0.001). Abdominal circumference (−3 cm (CI: −44.41, -1.59), p < 0.001)), heart rate at rest (−6.50 (CI: −9.69, −3.31, p < 0.001)) and body fat percentage (−2.74 (CI: −4.71, −0.76, p < 0.007)) changed significantly only in the walking group. Spiroergometric data revealed an improvement in oxygen uptake in the walking group vs the control group: abs. VO2max=0.19 (0.05, 033) (p<008) and rel. VO2max=2.43 (1.03, 3.83) (p<0.001).
Conclusions:This is the first randomized intervention study of supervised walking in patients with type 2 diabetes, and results demonstrated that even moderate-intensity physical activity, such as walking, improved cardiac function, led to positive changes in body composition, reduced waist circumference, and increased oxygen uptake. Walking can be a cost-effective treatment with significant preventive and restorative benefits for cardiac function and body fat parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Evaluating implementation intentions: Is there one best approach?
Authors: Nosáľová Ester , Durbisova Simona
Published: June 2024

Goal attainment can be largely influenced by implementation intentions which represent detailed planning of the process and its outcomes. Previous studies have pointed on the positive effects of these intentions in various settings and highlighted their importance. However, the methodology of assessing the quality of implementation intentions has not been under the investigation so far. This paper, therefore, focuses on the strengths and weaknesses of two different approaches to the evaluation of the specificity of these intentions. Analysing two different datasets of participants stating the thought-out aspects of achieving a similar goal, six independent evaluators assessed the specificity of each plan. Evaluation A allowed for each plan to score a maximum of 5 points based on the inclusion of five specificity categories. Evaluation B focused on the quality of each category that could yield 0–2 points. Results indicate that while Evaluation A seems to reflect the presence rather than the quality of plan components, offering a simpler and broader assessment, Evaluation B highlights the precision of the plan details, giving deeper insight into the quality of implementation intentions. Our findings suggest need of considering multiple factors when choosing the best evaluation approach for a specific study of implementation intentions, such as the space for different interpretations of categories by the evaluators, relevancy of some categories, wording of the questions related to details of planning, etc. An overview of advisable steps when conducting such a research study is also proposed, providing guidance for future research.
Ionomic and proteomic changes highlight the effect of silicon supply on the functioning of Trifolium incarnatum L. nodules subjected to nitrogen starvation
Authors: Coquerel Raphaël , Arkoun Mustapha , Trouverie Jacques , Bernay Benoit , Laîné Philippe , Etienne Philippe
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims:
Numerous studies have reported the beneficial effects of silicon (Si) in alleviating biotic or abiotic stresses in many plant species. However, the role of Si in Fabaceae facing environmental stress is poorly documented. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of Si on physiological traits and nodulation efficiency in Trifolium incarnatum L. subjected to N-deprivation.
Methods
Si was supplied (1.7 mM) to N-deprived plants inoculated with Rhizobium leguminosarum bv trifolii and plant physiological traits and nodule ionomic and molecular traits were monitored over 25 days.
Results
Si supply promoted shoot biomass, the quantity of both Si and N in roots and shoots, and the number, biomass and density of nodules and their nitrogenase abundance which contribute to better dinitrogen (N2) fixation. Ionomic analysis of nodules revealed that Si supply increased the amount of several macroelements (potassium, phosphorus and sulfur) and microelements (copper, zinc and molybdenum) known to improve nodulation efficiency and N2 fixation. Finally, comparative proteomic analysis (+ Si versus -Si) of nodules highlighted that Si modulated the proteome of both symbionts with 989 and 212 differentially accumulated proteins (DAPs) in the infected host root cells and their symbiont bacteria, respectively. Among the DAPs, the roles of those involved in nodulation and N2 fixation are discussed.
Conclusion
For the first time, this study provides new insights into the effects of Si on both nodular partners and paves the way for a better understanding of the impact of Si on improving nodule function, and more specifically, on the nodules’ N2-fixing capacity.
An investigation of the specificity and vividness of autobiographical memories and future events produced in response to disgust-related cues among individuals with eating disorders
Authors: Bektas Sevgi , Haslam Rowan , Hilton Shannon , Himmerich Hubertus , Cardi Valentina , Treasure Janet , Keeler Johanna Louise
Published: June 2024

Background:A deficiency in autobiographical memory functioning could be of relevance to the maintenance of an eating disorder (ED). Past research has found that people with EDs have difficulties in producing specific details of autobiographical memories (AM) and in imagining future events. Our aim was to investigate AM and episodic future thinking (EFT) in individuals with anorexia nervosa (AN), individuals with bulimia nervosa (BN) or binge eating disorder (BED), and healthy controls (HCs) using negative cue words relevant to the experience of being disgusted and morally violated.Methods:Remotely administered computerised versions of the autobiographical memory task (AMT) and the EFT task were used to measure the specificity and vividness of AMs and EFTs. Neutral or negative/moral disgust-relevant cues were used to elicit AMs and EFTs. The relationship between AM specificity and EFT specificity was explored. The predictor role of individual differences in childhood teasing and betrayal sensitivity on the specificity and vividness of AMT and EFTs induced by moral disgust-relevant cues was examined.Results:Individuals with AN and BN/BED did not have difficulties retrieving specific and vivid details of AMs and imagining future events in both cue conditions. AM specificity predicted EFT specificity in all groups. Future events primed by neutral cues were rated as more vivid by HCs compared to those induced by moral disgust-relevant cues, but there was no difference between the form of memories elicited by both cues in either ED group. Participants with EDs who had greater levels of childhood teasing and betrayal sensitivity generated more vivid AMT and EFTs in response to moral disgust-related cues, which was not observed in HCs.Conclusions:This study did not detect alterations in AMT and EFT characteristics in either ED group compared with HCs. The findings were discussed regarding the sample characteristics (e.g., illness severity). Individual differences in childhood teasing and betrayal sensitivity seem to be related to generating more vivid negative memories and future events, which might increase the risk of making past and future victimisation-related events more salient. Imagery-based techniques incorporated into the psychological interventions might reduce the emotional intensity/vividness of recalled memories and anticipated threats.
Quantitative analysis of predictors of acoustic materials for noise reduction as sustainable strategies for materials in the automotive industry
Authors: Gabor Rozalia-Manuela , Blaga Petruta , Caseriu Bianca-Mihaela
Published: June 2024

This study proposes a qualitative analysis to identify the best predictors for ensuring passive noise control, aiming to achieve superior acoustic comfort in transportation systems. The study is based on real experimental data on materials from six different classes and employs a multidisciplinary approach, including Mann‒Whitney U tests, Kruskal‒Wallis analysis with Dunn's post hoc multiple comparisons, and multilinear regression. This research presents an analysis and evaluation of how the physical properties of various materials influence acoustic comfort, acoustic absorption class, and absorption class performance and proposes quantitative models for material selection to address sustainable strategies in the automotive industry. The results highlight significant differences between material categories in terms of acoustic absorption properties and demonstrate the importance of rigorous material selection in vehicle design to enhance acoustic comfort. Additionally, the research contributes to the development of predictive models that estimate acoustic performance based on the physical properties of materials, providing a basis for optimizing material selection in the design phase.
Magnetohydrodynamic Simulations of the Heliospheric Current Sheet: Interpretation of Three Solar Energetic Particle Events
Authors: Liou Kan , Wu Chin-Chun , Wood Brian E. , Hutting Lynn
Published: June 2024

The role the heliospheric current sheet (HCS) plays in the propagation of solar energetic particles (SEPs) has been actively studied but is still poorly understood. One of the missing key measurements that hinders the progress of studies is the global context of HCS structure relative to the SEP source, e.g., shocks driven by coronal mass ejections (CMEs) during an episode of SEP event. In this study we employ a global magnetohydrodynamic simulation to provide the global context of the solar wind during three CME events. The three CME events occurred on July 12, 2012 (JUL12), April 3, 2010 (APR03), and March 15, 2013 (MAR15) and shared a number of similar properties: all CMEs (1) were of halo type and were originated near the Sun-Earth line, (2) were fast (>~1000 km/s initially), with similar Sun-to-Earth transit time, (4) were accompanied with shocks observed at 1 AU, and (4) induced large geomagnetic storms. However , the onset time and intensity of the SEP (~3–41 MeV/nuc. He) at 1 AU were quite different. With the help of our MHD simulation, it is determined that delays of SEP flux for the studied events are due to the presence of the HCS between the CME source and the observer. It is also shown that elevated SEP fluxes can occur after part of the CME expands into the same magnetic sector as the observer or the observer moved across the HCS. This study supports a recent study [Liou and Wu, 2024] that the HCS can limit the propagation of energetic particles, at least in the energy range studied here, in the heliosphere.
Psychological distress in adults after pediatric kidney replacement therapy
Authors: Laube Nora , Mader Luzius , Heinzelmann Marc-Andrea , Hunziker Sandra , Michel Gisela , Kuehni Claudia , Laube Guido
Published: June 2024

Background
There is limited information about psychological distress in adults who underwent kidney replacement therapy (KRT) during childhood. This study aimed to describe psychological distress in adults after KRT during childhood in comparison to the Swiss general population and to evaluate associations with sociodemographic and clinical characteristics.
Methods
We sent a questionnaire to 143 people from the Swiss Pediatric Renal Registry (SPRR), who were alive, over 18 years old, starting KRT before the age of 18 years, and being German speaking. We measured psychological distress using the Brief Symptom Inventory 18 (BSI-18) and evaluated the Global Severity Index 18 (GSI-18), reflecting the overall level of distress, and the three subscales depression, somatization, and anxiety. We compared levels of psychological distress to norm data from the Swiss general population and used regression models to identify associations with sociodemographic and clinical characteristics.
Results
Eighty persons with a mean age of 39 years (SD 10.1) responded to the questionnaire (response rate 56%). Overall, the GSI-18 and all subscales of the BSI-18 were similar among study participants and the Swiss general population. Unemployed participants reported higher levels of somatization and were more likely to experience psychological distress. Participants using psychotropic drugs (antidepressants or sleep medication) reported higher levels of overall psychological distress, depression, and somatization.
Conclusions
Adults after KRT during childhood showed good long-term psychological well-being. These results are encouraging and underline the favorable outcome of these patients. So besides the excellent somatic outcome, these patients can achieve a psychological healthy life after diagnosis of chronic kidney failure.
Dynamic optimization elucidates optimal higher-level pathogenicity strategies of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Dimitriew Wassili , Schuster Stefan
Published: June 2024

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a robust pathogen and possesses many virulence components, including the ability to survive inside macrophages. A minimal model is proposed to study the interaction of P. aeruginosa and the human host in terms of nested defence, in which the host and pathogen counter each other in a back-and-forth interaction. In particular, the pathogen attacks the host, macrophages of the host engulf the pathogen and reduce its access to glucose, the pathogen activates the glyoxylate shunt which is started by an enzyme isocitrate lyase (Icl), the host inhibits it by itaconic acid, and the pathogen metabolizes itaconic acid using the enzyme succinyl-CoA:itaconate CoA transferase (Ict). Therefore, the pathogen needs to allocate its limited protein resource between the enzymes Icl and Ict in order to maximize the time integral of a flux through the enzyme Icl. We use both random search and dynamic optimization and analyze three different scenarios of the interaction. We identify the enzyme Ict as a cost-effective means of counter-counter-counter defence and as a possible drug target.
A study on factors influencing dynamic response of thin-walled box-girder railway bridge subjected to high speed train load through regression modelling
Authors: Verma Virajan , Wani Khair Ul Faisal , Dhiman Sahil
Published: June 2024

The issue of evaluating the dynamic characteristics of a bridge due to the presence of rapidly moving vehicles has considerable importance. The objective of this study is to conduct a comprehensive study on the variables that influence the dynamic behavior of a thin-walled box-girder bridge exposed to high-speed train loads using regression analysis. The high-speed train is mathematically represented by a system with 38 degrees of freedom, while the sub-track system utilizes China's Railway Track System slab track. The numerical modeling of the bridge is accomplished using computationally efficient finite elements that represent thin-walled box-beams. The rail's imperfections are also accounted for, and they are represented using a power spectral density function. The dynamic response of the bridge is calculated using the Newmark Beta technique, considering several degrees of freedom and stress resultants. A thorough parametric analysis on the factors affecting dynamic response of the bridge is conducted and a regression model has been proposed. The regression equation yields an excellent fit for shear force, distortional moment, and distortional bi-moment, with an R2 value near to one. It has been alsp been observed that the range of the coefficient R2 in case of bending moment, torsion, torsional bi-moment, and vertical deflection typically falls between 0.82 and 0.9. R2 value near to 1 indicates that it is quite accurate in forecasting the dynamic influence of high speed trains on bridge’s response.
An Exploration of the Influence of ZnO NPs Treatment on Germination of Radish Seeds under Salt Stress based on the YOLOv8-R Lightweight Model
Authors: Ouyang Zhiqian , Fu Xiuqing , Zhong Zhibo , Bai Ruxiao , Cheng Qianzhe , Gao Ge , Li Meng , Zhang Haolun , Zhang Yaben
Published: June 2024

Background
Since traditional germination test methods have drawbacks such as slow efficiency, proneness to error, and damage to seeds, a non-destructive testing method is proposed for full-process germination of radish seeds, which improves the monitoring efficiency of seed quality.
Results
Based on YOLOv8n, a lightweight test model YOLOv8-R is proposed, where the number of parameters, the amount of calculation, and size of weights are significantly reduced by replacing the backbone network with PP-LCNet, the neck part with cross-scale feature fusion module CCFM, the original C2f of the neck part with OREPA, and the original SPPF with FocalModulation. The ablation test and comparative test prove the performance of the model. With adoption of germination rate, germination index, and germination potential as the three vitality indicators, the seed germination phenotype collection system and YOLOv8-R model are used to analyze the full time-series sequence effects of different ZnO NPs concentrations on germination of radish seeds under varying degrees of salt stress.
Conclusions
The results show that salt stress inhibits the germination of radish seeds and that the inhibition effect is more obvious with the increased concentration of NaCl solution; in cultivation with deionized water, the germination rate of radish seeds does not change significantly with increased concentration of ZnO NPs, but the germination index and germination potential increase initially and then decline; in cultivation with NaCl solution, the germination rate, germination potential and germination index of radish seeds first increase and then decline with increased concentration of ZnO NPs.
Increased sensitivity to the aromatic antibiotic novobiocin in Acinetobacter baumannii by vanillic acid
Authors: Sariyer Ayşegül Saral , Sariyer Emrah
Published: June 2024

This paper focuses on in vitro analysis of the ability of vanillic acid to potentiate representative antibiotics, which are substrates of pumps responsible for antibiotic resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii. To investigate whether vanillic acid can potentiate antibiotics in cells overexpressing the AdeABC, AdeFGH, and AdeIJK efflux pumps, a minimum potentiation concentration determination (MPC4) experiment was performed. Vanillic acid potentiates novobiocin (8-fold) in Acinetobacter baumannii overexpressing AdeIJK. RNA-seq analysis was used to examine the gene-level effects of vanillic acid in AdeIJK-overexpressing cells treated with a sub-MIC concentration of novobiocin. AdeIJK overexpressing cells were cultivated at a sub-MIC concentration of novobiocin alone (1.5625 µg/ml) and at a sub-MIC concentration of novobiocin (1.5625 µg/ml) and vanillic acid (50 µg/ml) together in order to ascertain the effect of vanillic acid at the transcriptional level. DEG results revealed the upregulation of genes involved in the degradation and transport of aromatic compounds, along with alcohol metabolism. From the results of the present study, the upregulation of genes related to the degradation of aromatic compounds is regulated by vanillic acid, which is not surprising, and this may also make it possible to increase novobiocin sensitivity, aligning with existing literature. However, it is crucial to validate these findings through experimental studies in the future. In conclusion, our study highlights the potential regulatory role of vanillic acid, warranting further investigation.
A machine learning approach to population pharmacokinetic modelling automation
Authors: Richardson Samuel , Arana Itziar Irurzun , Nowojewski Andrzej , Zhou Diansong , Leander Jacob , Tang Weifeng , Dearden Richard , Gibbs Megan
Published: June 2024

Population pharmacokinetic (PopPK) models are vital for decision making across the drug development lifecycle; however, conventional model development is labour-intensive and time-consuming. In this paper, we present an approach to automatically develop popPK model structures for extravascularly administered drugs using optimisation algorithms. We propose a generic parameter space for generating model structures and a penalty function for selecting the optimal configurations. Across four clinical datasets we observed the reproducible discovery of models comparable with those manually developed with an average search time under 48 hours. These results demonstrate that a single penalty function and model space can be used within an optimisation framework to automatically identify model structures for a diverse range of drugs. Adoption of automatic model search can accelerate popPK analysis, improve model quality, increase reproducibility, and reduce manual effort for modellers.
New insights into the management of hardwater using bentonite: Studying the mechanism via experiments and statistical physics treatment
Authors: Mostafa Hemmat , Zaher Amal , Seliem Moaaz K. , Shehata Nabila
Published: June 2024

Hard water is related to some health issues owned to numerous diseases and economic challenges associated with the calcification of industrial water. Hence, in the present research, the treatment of hard groundwater via adsorption of polyvalent Ca+ 2 and Mg+ 2 ions at different initial concentration using bentonite was investigated. Full characterization of the adsorbent was carried out using different techniques. At all solution temperatures, the formation of a monolayer of these ions was caused by the Ca2+ and Mg2+ hardness–bentonite interaction, and the adsorption process was ascribed to active sites with a homogenous characteristic of the bentonite since Langmuir model fit the Ca2+ and Mg2+ adsorption data (R2 = 0.99). The statistical physics treatment indicated that the advanced monolayer model fitted Ca+ 2 and Mg+ 2 adsorption data at all temperatures. Based on this statical model, mixed (parallel and non-parallel orientations) adsorption geometry was recognized. The density of bentonite active sites (the steric NM parameter) rose from 688 to 1019 mg g− 1 within 25° to 50 ºC and this factor was the main variable influencing the bentonite adsorption capacity. Overall, bentonite is recommended by the current study as a cost-effective and environmentally safe adsorbent to remove TH from groundwater.
Shared genetics between breast cancer and predisposing diseases identifies novel breast cancer treatment candidates
Authors: Lalagkas Panagiotis N. , Melamed Rachel D.
Published: June 2024

Background
Current effective breast cancer treatment options have severe side effects, highlighting a need for new therapies. Drug repurposing can accelerate improvements to care, as FDA-approved drugs have known safety and pharmacological profiles. Some drugs for other conditions, such as metformin, an antidiabetic, have been tested in clinical trials for repurposing for breast cancer. Here, we exploit the genetics of breast cancer and linked predisposing diseases to propose novel drug repurposing. We hypothesize that if a predisposing disease contributes to breast cancer pathology, identifying the pleiotropic genes related to the risk of cancer could prioritize drug targets, among all drugs treating a predisposing disease. We aim to develop a method to not only prioritize drug repurposing, but also to highlight shared etiology explaining repurposing.
Methods
We compile breast cancer's predisposing diseases from literature. For each predisposing disease, we use GWAS summary statistics to identify genes in loci showing genetic correlation with breast cancer. Then, we use a network approach to link these shared genes to canonical pathways, and similarly for all drugs treating the predisposing disease, we link their targets to pathways. In this manner, we are able to prioritize a list of drugs based on each predisposing disease, with each drug linked to a set of implicating pathways. Finally, we evaluate our recommendations against drugs currently under investigation for breast cancer.
Results
We identify 84 loci harboring mutations with positively correlated effects between breast cancer and its predisposing diseases; these contain 194 identified shared genes. Out of the 112 drugs indicated for the predisposing diseases, 76 drugs can be linked to shared genes via pathways (candidate drugs for repurposing). Fifteen out of these candidate drugs are already in advanced clinical trial phases or approved for breast cancer (OR = 9.28, p = 7.99e-03, one-sided Fisher’s exact test), highlighting the ability of our approach to identify likely successful candidate drugs for repurposing.
Conclusions
Our novel approach accelerates drug repurposing for breast cancer by leveraging shared genetics with its known risk factors. The result provides 59 novel candidate drugs alongside biological insights supporting each recommendation.
A quantitative experimental study on sand production from unconsolidated sandstone reservoir and gravel-pack plugging performance
Authors: Wei Na , Qiao Yi , Cai Meng , Li Junliang , Kvamme Bjørn
Published: June 2024

In order to understand the sand production law of unconsolidated sandstone reservoirs and the plugging performance of packed gravel comprehensively. In this study, the “Multi-Injection and One-Production” (MIOP) sand production simulation experimental system designed and developed independently was used to conduct experimental research on the sand production law of unconsolidated sandstone reservoirs and the plugging performance of packed gravel under different pressure differences and different fluid properties. And two standards of sand production intensity(Is) and sand production concentration(Cs) were put forward to evaluate the sand production severity of formation and the sand plugging performance of gravel-pack. The results show that: The sand production law of the reservoir shows that the sand production is loose sand and free sand under low pressure difference and low viscosity, which leads to pore throat blockage. With the continuous increase of pressure difference and viscosity, the reopening of pore throat and the peeling of skeleton sand lead to the increase of sand production. At the same time, the critical sand production pressure difference of the target reservoir is 1.9MPa and the critical sand production viscosity is 65-70mPa s. When the packed gravel is 0.425-0.8mm quartz sand, the minimum invaded depth of the gravel-pack is 3.3mm and the Is and Cs under different conditions are slight sand production, which indicates that the best packed gravel suitable for the target reservoir is 0.425-0.8mm quartz sand. In addition, the experimental results show that the plugging performance of quartz sand is better than that of ceramsite sand under the condition of the same particle diameter. This study has a certain engineering guiding significance for clarifying the sand production mechanism of sandstone reservoir and the design of gravel-pack control scheme.
Consanguinity in the Lebanese Population: Knowledge, Attitude and Practice
Authors: Chouery Eliane , Ibrahim José-Noel , Deeb Mary , Sobh Ali , Ghanem Mohamad , Sobh Jeanine , Choueiry Francesca El , Rashwan Ramy , Swaidan Dana , Abdelrazzak Aya , Massaad Christian , Fouani Adam El , Mehawej Cybel , Megarbane Andre
Published: June 2024

Background:
Consanguinity, defined as marriage between individuals sharing a common ancestor, has been associated with an increased risk of autosomal recessive diseases. The practice of consanguinity varies globally, with high prevalence in Middle Eastern countries. Understanding the prevalence and societal attitudes towards consanguineous marriages, particularly in regions where it is prevalent, is crucial for public health interventions.
This study evaluates the current prevalence of consanguinity in Lebanon and its contributing risk factors. It also assesses the knowledge of the Lebanese population towards this practice and premarital genetic screening. Moreover, the attitude of the participants regards consanguinity and genetic counseling is ascertained.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 984 Lebanese individuals aged 18 to 65 using an online self-administered questionnaire that included data on participants’ sociodemographic variables, knowledge level of consanguinity and premarital genetic screening, as well as questions assessing the attitudes towards consanguinity and genetic counseling.
Results:
The prevalence of consanguinity in Lebanon was found to be 24.5%, with first-cousin marriages comprising 46.5% of these unions; place of residence was the only independent factors affecting consanguinity prevalence among our sample. Most participants had a good understanding of consanguinity but misconceptions about specific genetic risks persisted. Attitudes varied, with participants from consanguineous backgrounds showing greater acceptance of the practice. Logistic regression identified gender, education, occupational status, and age as independent predictors of consanguinity while insufficient income, having consanguineous parents, and having a poor knowledge were associated with a positive attitude towards consanguinity.
Conclusion:
While the consanguinity rate remains high and consistent over time, societal beliefs and cultural practices continue to influence this phenomenon. Public health interventions should focus on raising awareness and disseminating accurate information about the implications of consanguinity and the importance of genetic counseling, particularly among communities with high rates of consanguinity.
Control of spiral waves in myocardial tissue by optogenetics and temperature
Authors: Hu Yipeng , Ding Qianming , Wu Yong , Jia Ya , Li Tianyu , Yu Dong , Zhan Xuan
Published: June 2024

Optogenetics as an emerging technology can eliminate spiral waves in myocardial tissue. The heat generated during illumination of myocardial tissue is an overlooked influence. Even small fluctuations in temperature may affect the action potentials of cardiomyocyte. In this paper, a minimal ventricular model and a simplified model of optogenetics are employed to study the effects of heat generation by illumination on elimination of spiral waves. The Luo-Rudy model and Channelrhodospin-2 light-sensitive ion channel model are used to validate our conclusions. Weinduce drift of spiral waves through inhomogeneities generated by discrete gradients of illumination. The inhomogeneity of temperature caused by gradient illumination can inhibit the elimination of spiral waves. Spiral waves in the myocardial medium can be induced to drift more efficiently by controlling temperature changes in the myocardial medium during illumination. We emphasized the importance of temperature factors in optogenetic experiments, hoping that our results could provide guidance for its clinical applications.
The association of Helicobacter pylori with adverse pregnancy outcomes in three European birth cohorts
Authors: GALAN Raquel , PEMBREY Lucy , BUSTAMANTE Mariona , AGUILAR Ruth , MANSON Dan , VIDAL Marta , BAÑULS Marc , ROUMELIOTAKI Theano , DELGADO-SABORIT Juana MARI , MARIN Natalia , VRIJHEID Martine , BEMPI Vicky , MONCUNILL Gemma , DOBAÑO Carlota , KOGEVINAS Manolis , KARACHALIOU Marianna
Published: June 2024

Background
Helicobacter pylori is a prevalent infection that may complicate pregnancy, but evidence remains limited, controversial and may not apply to all pregnant women.
Objective
This study aims to evaluate whether Helicobacter pylori is a risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes and to identify vulnerable subpopulations.
Study design
Multiplex serology was utilized to measure blood levels of immunoglobulin G against eight Helicobacter pylori antigens in 1372 pregnant women from three European birth cohorts: BiB (United Kingdom), Rhea (Greece) and INMA (Spain). Outcomes of interest included gestational diabetes mellitus, gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, preterm birth and small for gestational age neonates, as well as prenatal anxiety and depression. Adjusted logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between Helicobacter pylori seropositivity (overall and by antigen) and antigen specific antibody levels with the outcomes. We examined effect modification of the associations by ethnicity.
Results
Helicobacter pylori seropositivity was detected in 18.8% (258/1372) of pregnant women. Preeclampsia was the least common outcome (26/830). H.pylori seropositivity was associated with the development of two or more adverse pregnancy outcomes (gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes, preterm birth, small gestational age and preeclampsia) [OR:1.32 (95% CI: 1.06–1.65), p-value: 0.01], especially in women with high antibody levels to OMP antigen [OR: 2.12 (95% CI: 1.62–2.76), p-value: 0.001]. Women with high antibody levels to Helicobacter pylori antigens GroEL and NapA were more likely to develop preeclampsia [OR: 2.34 (95% CI: 1.10–8.82), p-value: 0.03; OR: 4.09 (95% CI: 1.4-11.93), p-value 0.01)]. Helicobacter pylori seropositivity increased the odds of developing any hypertensive disorder during pregnancy among women of western ethnicity (948/1372) [OR:3.35 (95% CI: 1.29–8.74), p-value 0.03].
Conclusion
Our study suggests that Helicobacter pylori seropositivity is a risk factor for multiple adverse pregnancy outcomes and particularly in women of western origin for hypertensive disorders during pregnancy. Moreover, pathogen specific characteristics reflected in the specific antibody responses against OMP, GroEL and NapA seem to determine disease associations.
Optimization of hydrofoils for a bidirectional tidal stream turbine
Authors: Giljarhus Knut Erik Teigen
Published: June 2024

Tidal stream turbines present an appealing approach for consistent renewable energy generation. Capitalizing on the periodic nature of tidal streams, these turbines can be designed to function bidirectionally, eliminating the need for a yaw control system. Although airfoils and hydrofoils in general have been extensively studied, there is less work available on bidirectional designs. Through the use of optimization methods, this work introduces bidirectional hydrofoils of varying thicknesses with improved performance compared to elliptic profiles. The optimization was performed using the hydrodynamic efficiency as the objective function, with simulations performed using 2D computational fluid dynamics. The optimized hydrofoil was then used in a turbine design, which is simulated using blade element momentum theory. The hydrofoils showed an improvement in hydrodynamic efficiency of up to 10 %. In the turbine design, this resulted in an improvement of 5.3 % in power coefficient and a reduction in thrust coefficient of 13.2 %. The new line of hydrofoils are promising for use in cost-effective and reliable tidal stream turbine designs.
Evaluation of Glucosyltransferase B and secretory immunoglobulin A in relation to dental caries in saliva of electronic cigarette smokers
Authors: alyaseen Haneen A. , Aldhaher Zainab A.
Published: June 2024

Electronic cigarettes (vape) are actively used, and their use is growing globally. With e-cigarettes, users may get their recommended nicotine intake without burning tobacco. Research indicates that, compared to traditional cigarettes, electronic cigarettes offer a more effective nicotine delivery system and have fewer adverse effects on oral and general health. However, e-cigarettes are considered a good strategy to reduce the harmful effects of conventional cigarettes. Saliva contains many types of proteins, such as glucosyltransferase B, a bacterial-derived enzyme, and secretory immunoglobulin A, which play roles in immune responses that might be affected by electronic cigarettes. The goal of this study was to evaluate glucosyltransferase B and secretory immunoglobulin A in relation to dental caries in the saliva of electronic cigarette users ,and to study the impact of E.C. on oral health. Ninety active males were divided into two groups: 45 electronic-cigarette smokers in addition to 45 non-electronic-cigarette smokers as a control group. An oral examination was performed on the studied groups, and decayed missing filling tooth surfaces (DMFS) were documented. Additionally, unstimulated saliva was collected to evaluate salivary glucosyltransferase B and secretory immunoglobulin A by using a sandwich enzyme-linked immune-sorbent assay (ELISA). The obtained outcomes showed that decayed, missing, and filled Surfaces values(DMFS), salivary glucosyltransferase B, and salivary secretory immunoglobulin A were greater in the study group than in control group, and additionally, a correlation between glucosyltransferase B, secretory immunoglobulin A, and DMFS was positive and significant. It was concluded that e-cigarettes may have an effect on saliva components and dental caries.
The Mental Health Decline in Children during the Covid-19 Pandemic.
Authors: Weissman Judith , Kramsky Jayne , Pinder Natalie , Jay Melanie , Taylor John
Published: June 2024

Objectives: To examine the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on children’s mental health.
Methods: The sample included a cross-section of children aged 2 to 17 years (2019; n =4, 194; 2020; n = 5, 172), from the National Health Interview Survey. In multivariable models, survey years 2020 and 2019 were the main independent variable used to predict anxiety, depression, and social behaviors in children after adjustment for sociodemographics. Bivariate analysis examined sociodemographics, health care utilization and sleep disturbances by anxiety, depression, and social behaviors.
Results: In multivariable models, there was an increased risk of anxiety (aOR = 1.3(1.1, 1.6), depression (aOR= 1.2 (1.0, 1.4) and difficult social behaviors (aOR= 1.2 (1.0, 1.4) in children from 2019 to 2020. Girls were at increased risk compared to boys for anxiety and depression (anxiety; aOR= 1.4 (1.2, 1.8), depression; aOR= 1.2 (1.0, 1.3), however, girls were at decreased risk compared to boys for uncontrolled social behavior; aOR = .51 (.43, .61). Children who lived in poverty compared to affluent children were at increased risk for anxiety and depression. In bivariate analysis using 2020 data, about 57.4% of children reported never feeling well rested and 13.7% of children reported difficulty getting out of bed.
Conclusions: Anxiety, depression and difficult social behaviors were exacerbated by the lockdown. Millions of children reported sleep disturbances in 2020, consistent with a population under distress. Effective public health interventions could prevent further declines in mental health and a trajectory into adulthood of poor mental health.
Development of Scaled Down Hardware Prototype Laboratory Model of Long Transmission Line
Authors: Thote Pankaj B , Ashar Mohammad , Rathore Chandrakant , Sarkar Devesh Umesh
Published: June 2024

Transmission lines are one of the vital elements of the Electrical Power System network. It is very unfortunate that, the theoretical concept studied in the classroom about power system does not give the physical insight with practical exposure as actual transmission lines are not readily accessible in the hardware environment. To overcome this problem, a prototype model of transmission lines can be developed and various experimentations of power system could be carried out through it. This would provide practical learning with hands on experience to the students and researchers in the area of Power system. Therefore, in this paper, a scaled down laboratory model of an existing 400 kV long transmission line of the western grid of India has been developed. The novelty of the prototype laboratory model is that being low cost, all the electrical parameters of the transmission line are such designed that they actually resemble the existing transmission line which can be further utilized for fault analysis, steady-state, transient performance of power system, power system protection along-with incorporation of FACTS devices for power system compensation , power management and control. The developed prototype model can be configured with different transmission line lengths and can be analyzed through both “π” and “T ” topologies. The system behaviour of developed prototype laboratory model is validated with the MATLAB simulation and hence this proposed model can be used as a scaled down version of transmission line by the students and researchers for experimentation and research in the field of power system studies.
Lysosomal signalling pathways influence heart rhythm, and
regulate atrial function
Authors: Burton REBECCA , Capel Rebecca , Akerman Emily , Rog-Zielinska Eva , Winbo Annika , Aston Daniel , Mu-u-min Razik , Read Matthew , Bose Samuel , Swietach Pawel , Wang Jingyu , Corbett Alexander , Koschinski Andreas , Montgomery Johanna , Falter Florian , Calamaio Serena , Melgari Dario , Prevostini Rachelle , Rivolta Ilaria , Ayagama Thamali , Jenkin Idan , Simon Jillian , Fakuade Funsho , Pronto Julius , Sharma Parveen , Song Qianqian , Booth Martin , Platt Frances , Lei Ming , Hester Svenja , Fischer Roman , Voigt Niels , Schotten Ulrich , Verheule Sander , Galione Antony , Keller Marco , Bracher Franz , Zaccolo Manuela , Terrar Derek
Published: June 2024

In the heart, endogenous nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP) triggers lysosomal
calcium release to augment sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) calcium sequestration, producing larger
calcium transients. However, the role of lysosomal calcium signals in pacemaker activity, a distinct
calcium-operated function of the sino-atrial node (SAN) or atria, a distinct calcium-operated function, has not been investigated. Pharmacological or genetic ablation of the NAADP pathway inhibits spontaneous beating rate response to β-adrenergic stimulation in intact SAN. We found intracellular signalling microdomains between lysosomes and neighbouring SR or mitochondria in mouse, rabbit, goat, and human atrial tissue. The spatial relationship between lysosomes and other calcium-handling organelles are altered in goat and human atrial fibrillation. Furthermore, we demonstrate atrial myocytes produce 3′–5′-cyclic adenosine monophosphate in response to lysosomal signalling, adding a novel trigger for cyclic nucleotide signalling. Our findings support the hypothesis that lysosomal calcium signaling directly increases cardiomyocyte cAMP and modulates pacemaker activity.
Piloting a Minimum Data Set (MDS) in English care homes: a qualitative study of professional perspectives on implementation and data use
Authors: Carroll Rachael E , Smith Nick , Palmer Sinead ER , Burton Jennifer Kirsty , Gordon Adam Lee , Towers Ann-Marie , Rand Stacey E , Tracey Freya , Killett Anne , Webster Lucy , Hanratty Barbara , Spilsbury Karen , Akdur Gizdem , De Corte Kaat , Meyer Julienne E , Goodman Claire
Published: June 2024

Background digitalisation within English care homes offers potential to make more effective use of substantial data collected by staff during care planning and recording. A pilot minimum data set (MDS) was co-designed with stakeholders based on two digital care records (DCRs) with additional structured measures.Objectives to explore care home staff opinions and experiences of collecting structured measures of quality of life (QoL), cognition and function for residents and how MDS data might be used by staff and other professionals interested in care homes.Design: focus groups (FGs) and interviewsSetting: three Integrated Care System (ICS) regions of EnglandSubjects: care home staff and ICS participantsMethods online FGs and interviews using a semi-structured topic guide. Data collection involved two waves of care home FGs, following MDS data capture, and one with ICS participants. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to develop themes.Results twenty-four staff from 22 homes and 16 staff from 15 homes participated in wave one and two FGs respectively. Ten ICS participants from two of three regions participated. Three themes were developed: the care home context and the importance of an MDS for care, appropriateness and relevance of QoL measures to resident care, and data quality and purpose.Conclusions it is feasible for staff to collect structured measures on resident QoL, function and cognition using DCRs to contribute to an MDS. The data generated can inform and enhance resident care. However, implementation is an evolving process requiring support, trust-building and confidence among those collecting and interpreting data.