bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Applying multi-theory model to determine intentions to smoking cessation among male health worker smokers in Kabul, Afghanistan
Authors: Bashir Mousa , Shokravi Farkhondeh Amin , Kazemnejad Anoshirvan
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Smoking causes lung cancer and a wide range of acute and chronic diseases annually throughout the world. A fourth-generation behavioral framework, namely the Multi-Theory Model (MTM) of health behavior change was used to predict the initiation and maintenance of smoking cessation among health worker smokers.

Methods

A cross-sectional study of 170 smoking healthcare workers was conducted in Kabul. A non-probability convenience sampling method was used to recruit respondents. A valid and reliable 37-item MTM-based questionnaire was administered to male smokers. Stepwise multiple regression was used to explain smoking cessation. The overall Cronbach’s alpha coefficient (α) for the initial and retention scales of the MTM variables was 0.80 and 0.79, respectively.

Results

The average age of the participants was 29.33 ± 6.21 years. The reported average year of smoking was 5.6 ± 4.7 with the average number of 5.64 ± 5.21cigarette smoking per day. Behavioral confidence and changes in physical environment were significant predictors of smoking cessation initiation. The sustenance of smoking cessation behavior was significantly influenced by emotional transformation, practicing for change and changes in social environment.

Conclusion

MTM has the usefulness to assess both the initiation and sustenance behavior of smoking cessation. Potential arrangements utilizing MTM develops ought to be created in future interventions to alter behavior of smoking cessation.
Types and cost of wellness services provided by a neighborhood-based academic nursing center
Authors: Han Hae-Ra , Lee Yoon-Jae , Lee Jennifer J. , Sun Chun-An , Dapaah-Gyimah Ophelia , Wilson Patty , Ling Catherine , Slade Eric
Published: January 2025

Background

Despite increased insurance coverage since 2010, racial and ethnic minorities in the United States still receive less medical care than White counterparts. The Johns Hopkins School of Nursing’s Center for Community Programs, Innovation, and Scholarship (COMPASS Center) provides free wellness services, aiming to address healthcare disparities in the neighborhoods.

Objective

To delineate the types and cost of wellness services provided by the COMPASS Center.

Methods

The study employed a secondary analysis design, utilizing Qualtrics surveys to assess wellness service data from 2017 to 2022 at two main program sites—Wald center and House of Ruth, Maryland.

Results

The analysis covered 2,194 encounters (826 at Wald center and 1,368 at House of Ruth, Maryland). Most encounters at both sites served African American/African/Black and low-income individuals. Examples of wellness services included pre-employment exams and immunizations, health literacy and self-care management education, health insurance advice, parenting support, and referrals to community resources. Cost analysis revealed varying expenses per encounter, with medium costs ranging from $5.45 to $14.91 across sites, considering service type and duration, including staff salaries, encounter numbers, and service hours.

Conclusion

The COMPASS Center delivers essential wellness services supplementing traditional healthcare to disadvantaged community members through student engagement and academic support. The next generation of healthcare teams is learning with and from the community creating a holistic educational experience in building skills outside of institutional bedsides. Future plans involve structured training for students and center staff to provide wellness services, while expanding social service referrals. More work is needed to evaluate the impact of our wellness services on client satisfaction and wellness improvements.
Effects of PM2.5 exposure and air temperature on risk of cardiovascular disease: evidence from a prospective cohort study
Authors: Zhang Zhihang , An Ran , Guo Haoyan , Yang Xuanru
Published: January 2025

Background and aims

Evidence from extensive cohort studies about the individual and combined associations of air pollution and air temperature with cardiovascular disease (CVD) morbidity is limited. This study aimed to examine the long-term effects of PM2.5 exposure and air temperature on CVD based on a cohort study of middle-aged and older populations in China.

Methods

A total of 9,316 non-CVD adults (≥40 years old) who joined the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study between 2011 and 2018 were included in our analysis. The two-year average PM2.5 concentration and air temperature of the city where participants lived were calculated. The Cox proportional hazards model was conducted to analyze the associations of PM2.5 exposure and air temperature with CVD morbidity.

Results

In the multivariable-adjusted model, each 10 μg/m3 rise in 2-y PM2.5 concentration was associated with an increased risk of developing CVD (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.30; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.27–1.32). Compared with individuals in the bearable temperature group, those with low temperatures had a higher risk of CVD (HR: 1.77; 95% CI: 1.53–2.04). Stratified analyses found that cardiovascular metabolic risk factors could not change these associations. Compared with individuals in the low-level PM2.5 exposure and bearable temperature group, those in the high-level PM2.5 exposure and low-temperature group had a 7.08 times higher risk of CVD (95% CI: 5.55–9.03).

Conclusion

Long-term PM2.5 exposure and low air temperature are associated with a higher risk of CVD. Consequently, efforts to reduce air pollution and enhance protection against cold temperatures are vital for mitigating CVD risk.
Global burden of pneumoconiosis attributable to occupational particulate matter, gasses, and fumes from 1990~2021 and forecasting the future trends: a population-based study
Authors: Qingsong Mao , Xiao Ruijie , Yang Wenqi , Wang Xinyi , Kong Yu-zhe
Published: January 2025

Background

This study aimed to quantify the global impact of pneumoconiosis resulting from occupational exposure to particulate matter, gasses, and fumes from 1990 to 2021, utilizing data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021.

Method

The analysis evaluated the global, regional, and national burden of pneumoconiosis attributable to workplace exposure to particulate matter, gasses, and fumes. It explored variations in disease impact across different demographics, including age and gender, and analyzed the relationship between disease burden and the Socio-Demographic Index (SDI). Furthermore, an ARIMA model was employed to forecast future trends of pneumoconiosis up to 2050.

Result

The year 2021 saw pneumoconiosis from occupational particulate matter, gasses, and fumes account for roughly 4,775 deaths and 117.80 thousand disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). Over the past three decades, there was a notable decline in the disease’s burden. The condition predominantly affected males and those aged above 60. Future projections suggest a decrease in mortality rates in low to middle SDI regions, while high SDI regions may experience an increase in ASMR. Additionally, both ASMR and ASDR are anticipated to rise globally. Nationally, the Czech Republic, France, and the United States are expected to show relatively higher mortality rates in 2030 and 2050. Countries like Kazakhstan, Egypt, Mongolia, and Peru are projected to experience elevated levels of ASMR, DALY rates, and ASDR.

Conclusion

The findings underscore the urgent need for policymakers to create and improve targeted preventive strategies to reduce the incidence of pneumoconiosis among specific populations.
Assessment of the knowledge, attitudes, and risk perceptions of pharmacy students regarding HIV/AIDS
Authors: Mansy Wael , Syed Wajid , Babelghaith Salmeen , Al-Arifi Mohamed N.
Published: January 2025

Background

We recognize AIDS and HIV as serious public health concerns. One of the primary roles of pharmacists is to counsel patients, which is critical in improving patient care outcomes. Therefore, having an adequate understanding of HIV among undergraduates helps them at their practice sites. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and risk perceptions of pharmacy students regarding HIV/AIDS.

Methods and materials

We conducted a cross-sectional study among pharmacy students from December 2023 to April 2024 using structured questionnaires. We collected the data from randomly selected students currently enrolled in the College of Pharmacy at King Saud University in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire consisted of four parts focusing on students’ demographics, knowledge, attitude, and risk perception toward HIV/AIDS. The data was analyzed using SPSS software, with Chi-squared and Fisher’s tests utilized to determine associations between categorical variables at a significant level of p < 0.05.

Results

A total of 395 pharmacy students completed an online survey. The total mean knowledge score was 6.1 ± 2.8 (Range: 0–13; Median = 6). The majority of students had low knowledge of HIV/AIDS (79.0%) and, a neutral attitude toward HIV/AIDS (61.5%) and only 13.2% of students showed a positive attitude, and 25.3% had a negative attitude toward HIV/AIDS. In addition, 35% of students thought that patients with HIV should be quarantined, 45% of students were concerned about workplace transmission of HIV and their safety on the job, and 41% of them would prefer not to take care of patients with HIV. Furthermore, students aged between 23 and 26 years had a high knowledge level compared to other groups (p < 0.001). Moreover, intern students showed a high level of knowledge of HIV/AIDS compared to other students (p < 0.001). The majority of pharmacy students had a neutral perception of the risk of HIV/AIDS (63.0%). Only 6.1% of pharmacy students reported a positive perception of the risk of HIV/AIDS.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there was a dearth of knowledge of HIV/AIDS and neutral attitudes and perceptions of the disease (HIV) among pharmacy students. When compared to other age groups, students between the ages of 23 and 26 had a high degree of knowledge. These findings suggest that specific strategies, such as integrating education on this topic into the pharmacy curriculum and running awareness campaigns for undergraduate students, are necessary.
Association between smoking status and health-related quality of life: a study on differences among age groups
Authors: Zhong Guanping , Shu Yang , Li Hongwei , Zhou Yuelin , Wei Qiaoying , Yang Biao , Yang Lian
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study explored the effect of four different smoking statuses (non-smokers, moderate smokers, heavy smokers, and former smokers) on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among residents aged 15 years and older in Sichuan Province, China with consideration of potential differences among age groups (young, middle-aged, and older adults).

Methods

The EQ-5D-5L utility index and EQ-VAS score were used to measure HRQOL. Self-reporting and salivary cotinine test were used to determine the smoking status of respondents, and the Tobit regression model was used to explore the relationship between smoking status and HRQOL.

Results

The Tobit regression model found a significant correlation between smoking status and HRQOL. Heavy smokers reported a lower EQ-VAS score compared to non-smokers (p < 0.01); the EQ-5D-5L utility index and EQ-VAS score reported by former smokers were lower compared to non-smokers (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively). In the young population, the EQ-VAS score of heavy smokers was lower than that of non-smokers (p < 0.05); In the middle-aged population, the EQ-VAS score of heavy smokers was lower than that of non-smokers (p < 0.05). The EQ-5D-5L utility index and EQ-VAS score of former smokers were lower than that of non-smokers (p < 0.05 and p < 0.001, respectively). However, in the older adult population, the EQ-5D-5L utility index and EQ-VAS score of moderate smokers were higher compared to non-smokers (p < 0.05 and p < 0.05, respectively).

Conclusion

This study found a significant correlation between HRQOL and smoking status, with notable differences in the relationship between smoking, EQ-5D-5L utility index, and EQ-VAS scores across age groups. We recommend targeted measures to control tobacco use based on age, considering specific smoking risks for each group. In particular, attention should be paid to the harm of smoking among young and middle-aged groups, reduce the occurrence of smoking behavior through publicity and early intervention, and provide appropriate health interventions for the older adult group. In addition, effective smoking cessation support policies should be developed to encourage residents to quit or reduce smoking frequency, avoid the progression of moderate smoking to heavy smoking and thus lead to serious health threats.
Exploring segmented assimilation theory in health education utilization and its influencing factors among internal migrants in China: insights from the 2017 China migrants dynamic survey
Authors: Xu Ting , Wang Zeyu , Wang Tingting , Shi Jiahua , Zhu Aiyong , Dong Enhong
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This study investigated segmented assimilation patterns and factors influencing health education utilization (HEU) among internal migrant populations in China, driven by concerns over their declining health owing to urbanization-related changes.

Methods

Data from the 2017 China Migrants Dynamic Survey were analyzed, focusing on 13,998 rural migrants. Negative binomial regression was used to explore assimilation patterns and determine the factors affecting HEU among internal migrants in China.

Results

The results revealed diverse assimilation patterns among internal migrants in four clusters: first-generation classic assimilation, first-generation integration assimilation, second-generation segmented assimilation, and second-generation underclass assimilation. Adjusting for socioeconomic factors, first-generation integrated assimilation groups showed lower HEU (IRR = 0.922, p < 0.01), while second-generation underclass groups demonstrated higher HEU (IRR = 1.110, p < 0.001) than the second-generation segmented assimilation groups. Additionally, factors such as ethnicity, marital status, employment status, educational attainment, hukou type, health insurance type, time of access to healthcare, social integration, social participation, establishment of health records, and issues encountered in host and origin places significantly influenced HEU.

Discussion

This study highlights diverse assimilation patterns among Chinese internal migrants regarding HEU, consistent with the theory of segmented assimilation. Specifically, second-generation immigrants exhibit higher HEU levels than their first-generation counterparts, with the second-generation underclass demonstrating the highest HEU. These findings underscore the need for targeted policy interventions addressing diverse migrant assimilation patterns. Specifically, first-generation migrants require accessible and culturally adapted health education programs to overcome systemic barriers, while second-generation underclass migrants need sustained support to leverage their engagement in health initiatives.
Geographic proximity to local governments and corporate energy efficiency: evidence from Chinese industrial enterprises
Authors: Zhang Rui , Ni Kejin , Tan Lei
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This study investigates the role of geographic proximity to local environmental protection agencies (EPAs) in enhancing firms' energy efficiency. It explores how environmental pressure and green innovation are influenced by spatial dynamics, providing new insights into the Porter hypothesis.

Methods

The analysis utilizes energy consumption and geographic data from Chinese industrial firms. A combination of statistical and econometric methods is employed to evaluate the relationship between proximity to EPAs and energy efficiency, including heterogeneity analysis across firm ownership types.

Results

The findings reveal that firms located closer to EPAs exhibit higher energy efficiency, primarily due to increased regulatory pressure that fosters green innovation. This positive effect is most pronounced within a 60 km radius, diminishing beyond this range. Heterogeneity analysis indicates stronger effects for private and mixed-ownership firms compared to state-owned and multinational firms.

Discussion

The study underscores the nuanced interplay between geographic proximity, regulatory frameworks, and green innovation. It highlights how targeted environmental policies can drive corporate energy efficiency improvements, offering valuable implications for optimizing regulatory designs.
Influence of Lactobacillus plantarum and cellulase on fermentation quality and microbial community in mixed silage of Solanum rostratum and alfalfa
Authors: Li Yuyu , Wang Hua , Zhang Yandong , Ji Yu , Guo Lizhu , Hao Lifen , Lin Kejian
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Increasing the research on the development and utilization of unconventional feed resources is one of the effective ways for the sustainable development of herbivorous animal husbandry. China is one of the countries most severely impacted by the invasion of the alien plant Solanum rostratum Dunal (S. rostratum), but this resource has not been used effectively.

Methods

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Lactobacillus plantarum and cellulase on the fermentation quality and microbial community in mixed silage of S. rostratum and alfalfa. Treatments were a control treatment with no additive (CK), Lactobacillus plantarum (LP), cellulase (CE), and Lactobacillus plantarum in combination with cellulase (L+C), all of which were stored at ambient temperature for 7, 15, 30, and 60 days.

Results

The results showed that the mixture could retain dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), and water soluble carbohydrates (WSC) content, increase lactic acid (LA) content, decrease pH and alkaloid content, and improve fermentation quality during silage. The use of additives increased the abundance of Lactobacillus and Weissella, which was related to the improvement of the quality of mixed silage and the degradation of total alkaloids. Differential microbial functions were mainly carbohydrate metabolism, biosynthesis of secondary metabolites and carbon metabolism.

Conclusion

The application of additives and mixed silage provides a new idea for the feed utilization of S. rostratum.
Research on the tourism service quality evaluation of Gongbei Lingnan community under the perspective of SERVQUAL theory
Authors: Liu Jing , Kuai Xinru , Wang Pohsun
Published: January 2025

The Lingnan community, located between Macau and Zhuhai City in China, serves as a connecting port community that attracts a growing number of tourists for leisure and business. The Lingnan community faces the challenge of improving tourism services to meet the ever-increasing needs of tourists with the continuous growth of tourists. Currently, the community’s tourism service facilities are relatively scarce, and the service quality needs to be improved. Hence, improving tourists’ satisfaction with Lingnan tourism services is essential. The SERVQUAL Model is utilized in this research to assess the satisfaction of tourism services in the Lingnan community. The data were collected from 254 tourists who visited the Lingnan community. After passing reliability and validity tests, factor analysis was used to determine the weights of the primary indicators, followed by entropy weight calculations to measure the weights of secondary indicators further, and finally presented as an IPA matrix. The survey results show that the second-level dimension factors under the tangible, reliability, assurance, and security dimensions significantly impact tourist satisfaction. The study shows that tourist satisfaction predominantly affects the sustainable development of community tourism, so the community must focus on ensuring better service quality. Enhancing the attractiveness of Lingnan community tourism is conducive to the joint development of the tourism industry in Zhuhai and Macau but also has essential significance in strengthening the friendship between Zhuhai and Macau.
Characterising and reassessing people-centred data governance in cities
Authors: Bou Nassar Jessica , Calleja-López Antonio , Sharp Darren , Anwar Misita , Bartram Lyn , Goodwin Sarah
Published: January 2025

The increasing deployment of digital infrastructures in cities highlights challenges in how people shape the conditions of data production that shape their cities and lives. As such, the need to centre data governance (DG) models around people is amplified. This paper unpacks and reassesses how people-centredness materialises at the level of DG in cities by conducting a scoping review of the literature on people-centred data governance (PCDG) in cities. Utilising twelve extraction categories framed by the conceptualisation of DG as a socio-technical system, this review synthesises identified themes and outlines six archetypes. PCDG is characterised by people-centred values; the inclusion of people as agents, beneficiaries, or enablers; the employment of mechanisms for engaging people; or the pursuit of people-centred goals. These coalesce into diverse PCDG archetypes including compensation, rights-based, civic deliberation, civic representation, data donations, and community-driven models. The paper proposes a nuanced reassessment of what constitutes PCDG, focusing on whether DG models include people in the emergent benefits of data or merely legitimise their exclusion, the extent to which embedded power dynamics reflect people’s perspectives, the extent to which participation influences decision-making, and the model’s capacity to balance power asymmetries underpinning the landscape in which it is situated.
Cosmic rays escape from their sources
Authors: Marcowith A.
Published: January 2025

Cosmic rays (CRs) are accelerated in diverse astrophysical objects like supernova remnants, massive star clusters, or pulsars. Fermi acceleration mechanisms built a power-law distribution controlled by the ratio of the acceleration to escape timescales in the acceleration site. Hence, escape is an essential mechanism to establish the particle distribution at cosmic-ray sources and to control the flux of cosmic rays injected into the galaxy. Different models have tried to account for the escape process. However, all show some limitations due to the complexity of the particle release mechanism, usually involving 3D geometry, with specific magnetic turbulence properties linked to the process itself. The escape process is also time dependent and results from the interplay of particle acceleration and injection efficiency in the astrophysical source. Once injected into the interstellar medium, freshly released particles are channelled by the ambient magnetic field, which is itself turbulent. In a simplified view, we mainly focus on the propagation of CRs along 1D magnetic flux tubes before turbulent motions start to mix them over a turbulent coherence length, and then we further question this assumption. Close to their sources, one can also expect cosmic rays to harbour higher pressure with respect to their mean value in the interstellar medium. This intermittency in the CR distribution is prone to trigger several types of kinetic and macro instabilities, among which the resonant streaming instability has been the most investigated. In this article, we review recent observational and theoretical studies treating cosmic-ray escape and propagation in the vicinity of their source. We will consider three main astrophysical contexts: association with massive star clusters, gamma-ray halos around pulsars, and, more specifically, supernova remnants. In particular, we discuss in some detail the cosmic-ray cloud (CRC) model, which has been widely used to investigate CR propagation in the environment of supernova remnants. The review also discusses recent studies on CR-induced feedback over the interstellar medium surrounding the sources associated with the release process, as well as alternative types of driven instabilities.
Not just fish, but the future
Authors: Kang Donggu , Choi Ji-Hee , Park Yun-Gwi , Choi Hyung Kyu , Moon Sung-Hwan , Yang Gi Hoon
Published: January 2025

Fish are an important source of animal protein, providing 17% of the world's meat consumption. More than 3 billion people rely on fish for 20 % of their daily protein intake. In addition to a high protein content, fish contain essential fatty acids which are beneficial to human health. However, this key food source will be depleted by 2048 if current global trends of climate change, overfishing, and pollution continue. Considering the threat to sustainability and the need for marine ecosystem recovery, “clean fish”—grown in a laboratory—could be a potential solution. Since cell-based fish are produced in clean rooms where airborne particulates, contaminants, and pollutants are kept within strict limits, these engineered fish do not contain any health-risking factors. Therefore, clean fish can provide people with sustainable and nutritional diets while contributing to the recovery of the marine ecosystem. This review will discuss topics, including cell-based fish, the edible part of fish, technology, and commercialization.
Case Report: Metastatic involvement of the acromioclavicular joint in a patient with papillary carcinoma of the ureter
Authors: Türemiş Cihangir , Çeltik Mustafa , Erduran Mehmet
Published: January 2025

Ureteral papillary carcinoma is a rare subtype of urothelial carcinoma, ranking fourth among cancers following prostate (or breast) cancer, lung cancer, and colorectal cancer. Although previous studies have documented bone metastases mainly in the pelvis, spine, ribs, and femur, this case report presents the first recorded instance of metastasis occurring in the acromioclavicular joint. A 62-year-old woman with a history of left flank pain and macroscopic hematuria underwent a left nephroureterectomy, which revealed ureteral papillary carcinoma. Three years later, she reported left shoulder pain, leading to the discovery of a metastatic lesion in the distal clavicle. Approximately 9 cm of metastatic bone was resected while preserving nearby nerve and vascular structures. The resulting bone defect was grafted with a 9-cm bone graft removed from the middle third of the fibula. This case report underscores the importance of considering distant metastases, even in atypical locations, in patients with ureteral papillary carcinoma and aims to share the entire treatment journey and insights gained.
Validation framework for in vivo digital measures
Authors: Baran Szczepan W. , Bolin Susan E. , Gaburro Stefano , van Gaalen Marcel M. , LaFollette Megan R. , Liu Chang-Ning , Maguire Sean , Noldus Lucas P. J. J. , Bratcher-Petersen Natalie , Berridge Brian R.
Published: January 2025

The adoption of in vivo digital measures in pharmaceutical research and development (R&D) presents an opportunity to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of discovering and developing new therapeutics. For clinical measures, the Digital Medicine Society’s (DiMe) V3 Framework is a comprehensive validation framework that encompasses verification, analytical validation, and clinical validation. This manuscript describes collaborative efforts to adapt this framework to ensure the reliability and relevance of digital measures for a preclinical context. Verification ensures that digital technologies accurately capture and store raw data. Analytical validation assesses the precision and accuracy of algorithms that transform raw data into meaningful biological metrics. Clinical validation confirms that these digital measures accurately reflect the biological or functional states in animal models relevant to their context of use. By widely adopting this structured approach, stakeholders—including researchers, technology developers, and regulators—can enhance the reliability and applicability of digital measures in preclinical research, ultimately supporting more robust and translatable drug discovery and development processes.
Impact of eggshell membrane on metabolism and cell adhesion in oxidatively stressed canine chondrocytes
Authors: Vozar Juraj , Hudakova Nikola , Nosalova Natalia , Huniadi Mykhailo , Marcincakova Dana , Hornak Slavomir , Hornakova Lubica , Majerova Petra , Cizkova Dasa
Published: January 2025

Eggshell membrane (ESM) is a rich source of bioactive compounds, including proteins, peptides, and antioxidants, contributing to its potential therapeutic benefits. These natural antioxidants might help neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) and modulate inflammatory responses, which are often linked with chondrocyte damage in osteoarthritis. In this study, we investigated the functional effects of ESM proteins on H2O2-induced oxidative stress in a neonatal canine chondrocytes. The isolated neonatal chondrocytes demonstrated a high proliferation rate and increased glycosaminoglycan (GAG) production during cultivation. In addition, the expression of key cartilage markers, including collagen types II and IX, and aggrecan, confirmed the retention of the chondrocyte phenotype. Under in vitro conditions, post-treatment with ESM improved chondrocyte viability, indicating that ESM may have a reparative role in mitigating oxidative damage. This significant therapeutic potential was validated through XTT assays, which measured cell metabolic activity at 24 h, and Real-time Cell Analysis (RTCA), providing continuous monitoring over 98 h. In contrast, the preventive effects of ESM against stress were observed exclusively in the XTT analysis. By investigating these aspects, we provide insight into the potential of ESM proteins to protect chondrocytes from oxidative damage, particularly in cartilage repair and joint health. This study is one of the first to create a vital platform based on canine neonatal chondrocytes for monitoring dietary supplements designed to prevent or repair dog cartilage damage. Thus, the study offers a valuable contribution to understanding how ESM bioactive compounds can be used therapeutically, bridging the gap between in vitro findings and practical applications in veterinary medicine.
HA198 mutations in H9N2 avian influenza: molecular dynamics insights into receptor binding
Authors: Zhu Rui , Wu Jie , Chen Ruiying , Zhou Mo , Cao Shinuo , Wu Zhi , Wang Ligang , Zhang Lei , Zhu Shanyuan
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The H9N2 avian influenza virus is widely disseminated in poultry and poses a zoonotic threat, despite vaccination efforts. Mutations at residue 198 of hemagglutinin (HA) are critical for antigenic variation and receptor-binding specificity, but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. This study explores the molecular mechanisms by which mutations at the HA 198 site affect the antigenicity, receptor specificity, and binding affinity of the H9N2 virus.

Methods

Using the sequence of the A/Chicken/Jiangsu/WJ57/2012 strain, we constructed recombinant H9N2 viruses, including rWJ57, rWJ57/HA198A, and rWJ57/HA198T, using reverse genetics. These variants were analyzed through hemagglutination inhibition (HI) assays, receptor-destroying enzyme (RDE) assays, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) and solid-phase receptor binding assays. Additionally, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were performed to further dissect the atomic-level interactions between HA and sialic acids (SA).

Results

The results demonstrated that HA mutations significantly altered the receptor-binding properties of the virus. Specifically, rWJ57 (HA198V) exhibited 4-fold and 16-fold higher overall receptor-binding avidity compared to rWJ57/HA198A and rWJ57/HA198T, respectively. Furthermore, HA198V/T mutations significantly enhanced viral binding to human-type α2,6 SA receptors (p < 0.001), whereas the HA198A mutation exhibited a marked preference for avian-type α2,3 SA receptors (p < 0.001). Additionally, these mutations altered interactions with non-specific antibodies but not specific antibodies, with high-avidity receptor binding mutations exhibiting reduced non-specific antibody binding, suggesting a potential novel mechanism for immune evasion. MD simulations revealed HA198V/T formed stable complexes with the α2,6 SA, mediated by specific residues and water bridges, whereas HA198A formed stable complexes with the α2,3 SA. Interestingly, residue 198 interacted with the α2,6 SA via water bridges but had with showed minimal direct interaction with α2,3 SA.

Discussion

This study provides new insights into the molecular basis of receptor specificity, binding affinity, and antigenic drift in H9N2 viruses, highlighting the critical role of HA 198 mutations in regulating host adaptation. These findings are of great significance for H9N2 virus surveillance, vaccine development, and zoonotic transmission risk assessment.
Evaluating the correlation between pretreatment 18F-FDG PET/CT metabolic parameters and tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte levels in nonluminal breast cancer and impact on survival
Authors: Tamam Muge , Ozcevik Halim , Kulduk Gamze , Acar Tayyar Merve Nur , Babacan Gunduzalp Bugrahan
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives

This study aims to evaluate the correlation between Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocyte (TIL) levels and Fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) metabolic parameters, including spleen and bone marrow FDG uptake and tumor heterogeneity in non-luminal breast cancers (NLBC), and to elucidate their association with survival outcomes.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed data from 100 females with stage 2–4 NLBC who underwent pretreatment 18F-FDG Positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET/CT). TIL was scored based on Hematoxylin-Eosin-stained specimens and 18F-FDG PET metabolic parameters, including maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax), mean standardized uptake value (SUVmean), metabolic tumor volume (MTV), total lesion glycolysis (TLG), liver, spleen, and bone marrow FDG uptake were calculated. Heterogeneity Index (HI)1, HI2, and HI3 indices were analyzed with FDG metabolic parameters. The association between these factors and overall survival was analyzed using multivariate Cox regression models.

Results

TIL showed weak negative correlations with tumor size, tumor (T), and metastasis (M) stages. No significant correlation was found between TIL levels and overall SUV values. However, in stage 4, TIL correlated positively with liver, spleen, and bone marrow SUV values and negatively with heterogeneity indices (HI2, HI3). Higher tumor size, HI values, and Bone marrow-to-liver ratio (BLR) SUVmean were associated with increased mortality. A TIL cut-off value of <5 was linked to significantly worse survival.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates a strong connection between TIL, FDG metabolic parameters, and tumor heterogeneity, particularly in advanced NLBC. Although TIL is not generally associated with SUV values, its association with certain metabolic and heterogeneity indices suggests that it is important in influencing survival. Further research involving larger cohorts and diverse breast cancer subtypes is needed to validate these results.
Leveraging Deep Learning for Real-Time Coffee Leaf Disease Identification
Authors: Adelaja Opeyemi , Pranggono Bernardi
Published: January 2025

Agriculture is vital for providing food and economic benefits, but crop diseases pose significant challenges, including coffee cultivation. Traditional methods for disease identification are labor-intensive and lack real-time capabilities. This study aims to address existing methods’ limitations and provide a more efficient, reliable, and cost-effective solution for coffee leaf disease identification. It presents a novel approach to the real-time identification of coffee leaf diseases using deep learning. We implemented several transfer learning (TL) models, including ResNet101, Xception, CoffNet, and VGG16, to evaluate the feasibility and reliability of our solution. The experiment results show that the proposed models achieved high accuracy rates of 97.30%, 97.60%, 97.88%, and 99.89%, respectively. CoffNet, our proposed model, showed a notable processing speed of 125.93 frames per second (fps), making it suitable for real-time applications. Using a diverse dataset of mixed images from multiple devices, our approach reduces the workload of farmers and simplifies the disease detection process. The findings lay the groundwork for the development of practical and efficient systems that can assist coffee growers in disease management, promoting sustainable farming practices, and food security.
Estimation of Anthocyanins in Apple Leaves Based on Ground Hyperspectral Imaging and Machine Learning Models
Authors: Zhang Yu , Zou Mi , Li Yanjun , Chang Qingrui , Chen Xing , Dai Zhiyong , Yuan Weihao
Published: January 2025

The anthocyanins in apple leaves can indicate their growth status, and the health of apple leaves not only reveals the nutritional supply of the apple tree but also reflects the quality of the fruit. Therefore, real-time monitoring of anthocyanins in apple leaves can monitor apple growth, thereby promoting the development of the apple industry. This study utilizes ground hyperspectral imaging to estimate anthocyanins in Fuji apple leaves in the Loess Plateau through spectral transformation, feature extraction (including band selection and spectral indices construction), and regression algorithm selection, establishing models for three growth stages. The results indicate: (1) The average anthocyanins in apple leaves decrease from the Final Flowering stage to the Fruit Enlargement stage. The original hyperspectral imaging at wavelengths before 720 nm shows a decrease in reflectance as the growth stages progress, while the spectral curves after 720 nm remain largely consistent across stages; (2) Compared to single original spectral variables, multivariate estimation models using original spectra and second-order derivative transformed spectra show improved accuracy for anthocyanins estimation across different growth stages, with the most significant improvement during the Fruit Enlargement stage; (3) Although the computation of the three-band spectral indices is resource-intensive and time-consuming, it can enhance anthocyanins estimation accuracy; (4) Among all models, the CatBoost model based on original spectra and second-order derivative transformed spectra indices for the entire growth period achieved the highest accuracy, with a validation set R2 of 0.934 and a RPD of 3.888, and produced effective leaf anthocyanins inversion maps. In summary, this study achieves accurate estimation and visualization of anthocyanins in apple leaves across different growth stages, enabling rapid, accurate, and real-time monitoring of apple growth. It provides theoretical guidance and technical support for apple production and fertilization management.
A Comparative Study of the Effect of Including Full-Fat Tenebrio molitor for Replacing Conventional Ingredients in Practical Diets for Dicentrarchus labrax Juveniles
Authors: Flores-Moreno Sara , Alarcón-López Francisco Javier , Coronel-Domínguez Antonio J. , Zuasti Eugenia , Hachero-Cruzado Ismael
Published: January 2025

Tenebrio molitor (TM) meal is a potential alternative ingredient to plant and fishmeal in aquafeeds due to its high protein content, digestibility, and low environmental impact. However, its low n-3 PUFA (EPA and DHA) content represents one of its main limitations. This study evaluated the effects of replacing fishmeal and plant-derived ingredients (plant proteins and soybean oil) with full-fat TM meal on the growth performance and lipid composition of tissues in juvenile European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax). Four experimental diets, including 5–10% TM for replacing fishmeal and soybean oil (FM5 and FM10) and 10–20% TM for substituting plant protein ingredients and soybean oil (PI10 and PI20), were tested over 49 days against a control diet (CT). Fish fed on PI20 exhibited the highest growth performance (final weight: 49.73 g and SGR: 1.78% day−1) compared to fish fed on FM (final weight: 47.0 g and SGR: 1.62% day−1) and CT (final weight: 48.45 g and SGR: 1.71% day−1). In general, the diets containing TM modulated the lipid profile in fish tissues by reducing the liver lipid content and muscle triglycerides and increasing the n-3/n-6 ratio compared to the CT diet. However, the most effective approach for modulating those parameters seems to be using the TM meal for replacing the plant ingredients instead of substituting fishmeal. Moreover, this feeding strategy, demonstrated to be useful for promoting the growth of fish owing to the use of the TM meal for replacing fishmeal, resulted in a slight reduction in the final weight of the fish.
Analysis of the Reliability of Feather Sections for Corticosterone Measurement in Pekin Ducks
Authors: Lim Se-Jin , Kim Chan Ho , Yang Ka Young , Lee Woo Do , Kim Su Mi , Choi Yang-Ho , Jeon Jung Hwan
Published: January 2025

The aim of this study was to identify the feather section, among the whole feather, rachis, and vane, with the highest reliability for corticosterone measurement in 10 Pekin ducks aged 42 days. In total, 60 samples (i.e., 20 per section) were collected and each section was analyzed in duplicate. Corticosterone levels were measured using ELISA and statistical analyses were performed using ANOVA in SAS 9.2, and the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) was tested using IBM SPSS. The level in the whole feather (12.55 ± 4.41 pg/mg) was significantly lower (p < 0.001) than that in the rachis (18.12 ± 5.70 pg/mg). No significant differences were observed between the rachis and the vane (20.40 ± 3.04 pg/mg). ANOVA results confirmed substantial hormonal variability depending on the feather part analyzed. The ICCs for the whole feather, rachis, and vane were 0.923, 0.876, and 0.004, respectively. The vane section exhibited the highest concentration and lowest variance, whereas the whole feather exhibited the highest ICC. Although the whole feather had the lowest concentration, it exhibited greater consistency. Further research is necessary to improve the feather corticosterone analysis method for more accurate analysis. In conclusion, the whole feather provides the most reliable measure of corticosterone concentration among the three parts.
Effects of Different Levels of Lycium barbarum Flavonoids on Growth Performance, Immunity, Intestinal Barrier and Antioxidant Capacity of Meat Ducks
Authors: Tu Minhang , Cai Gentan , Ma Longfei , Yan Leyan , Wang Tian , Shi Zhendan , Wang Chao , Chen Zhe
Published: January 2025

Background: In vitro findings on the biological functions of Lycium barbarum flavonoids (LBFs) as feed additives are limited. This study aimed to explore the effects of different concentrations of LBFs on the growth performance, immune function, intestinal barrier, and antioxidant capacity of meat ducks. A total of 240 one-day-old male meat ducks were randomly allocated to four groups, each receiving a basal diet supplemented with 0 (control), 250, 500, or 1000 mg/kg of LBFs for 42 d. Results: The results showed that dietary supplementation with 500 mg/kg of LBFs resulted in a significant increase in average daily feed intake, body weight, average daily gain, and feed conversion ratio. Dietary supplementation with 500 or 1000 mg/kg of LBFs resulted in significant decreases in serum levels of D-lactic acid and lipopolysaccharide. Dietary supplementation with 500 mg/kg LBFs significantly decreased diamine oxidase activity and enhanced the activities of catalase, total antioxidant capacity, and glutathione peroxidase in the jejunal mucosa, as well as the activity of total superoxide dismutase and the content of glutathione in the ileal mucosa, while significantly lowering the content of malondialdehyde in the ileal mucosa. Dietary supplementation with 500 mg/kg LBFs significantly up-regulated the mRNA expression of genes associated with intestinal barrier function and antioxidant capacity in the jejunal and ileal mucosa, as well as the protein expression of these antioxidant genes, and led to a significant reduction in the mRNA expression of pro-apoptotic and inflammatory-related genes. Conclusions: The addition of LBFs to the diet improved the growth performance, intestinal barrier function, immune response, and antioxidant capacity of the ducks, which may be closely associated with the activation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway and the inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway. The optimal dietary inclusion level of LBFs in ducks was 500 mg/kg.
Research and Application of Foam Filling Material in Soft Rock Roadways
Authors: Li Changyu , Nan Hua , Zhang Wenzhou
Published: January 2025

Due to the soft mechanical properties of soft rock strata, roof fall accidents are frequent, causing great hazards to production. In order to eliminate hazards in the actual mining process, a new type of bag-filling scheme was designed by analyzing the mechanisms of roof falls in soft rock strata. By testing the filling material, the optimal ratio of foam filling material was determined, and the corresponding filling process was formulated. Through the field verification of this filling process, better support was achieved in the roof fall area, providing useful guidance and support for mines with similar conditions.
Line-Field Confocal Optical Coherence Tomography of Plaque Psoriasis Under IL-17 Inhibitor Therapy: Artificial Intelligence-Supported Analysis
Authors: Wirsching Hanna B. , Mayer Oliver J. , Schlingmann Sophia , Thamm Janis R. , Schiele Stefan , Rubeck Anna , Heinz Wera , Welzel Julia , Schuh Sandra
Published: January 2025

To date, therapeutic responses in plaque psoriasis are evaluated with clinical scores. No objective examination has been established. A recently developed non-invasive imaging tool, line-field confocal optical coherence tomography (LC-OCT), enables the in vivo live imaging of skin changes in psoriasis under therapy. The aim of this study was to measure therapeutic response clinically and with LC-OCT, comparing the subjectively scored epidermal changes with an AI-supported analysis. This prospective, observational study included 12 patients with psoriasis starting a systemic treatment with IL-17 inhibitors (secukinumab, ixekizumab, and bimekizumab). LC-OCT and clinical assessment with a local psoriasis and severity index of the study plaque and a control area were performed before the initiation of therapy as well as after 4 and 12 weeks of treatment. A manual and AI-supported measurement of the thickness of epidermis, stratum corneum, and undulation of the dermo-epidermal junction was carried out. Acanthosis and hyperkeratosis showed a significant reduction under treatment. AI-supported calculations were compared to subjective measurements showing good reliability with high correlation. AI-supported analysis of vascular changes may serve as a prognostic and therapeutic response marker in the future.