bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Closing the value-based circle in shared decision-making: a digital framework for informing the shared decision-making process through patient reported outcome and experience measures
Authors: del Olmo Rodríguez Marta , Martos Martinez Rafael , Pascual Martínez Adriana , Miranda Castillo Carolina , Short Apellaniz Jorge , Pfang Bernadette , Baca-García Enrique , Córdoba Mascuñano Raúl
Published: August 2024

Background

The spreading adoption of value-based models of healthcare delivery has incentivized the use of patient-reported outcomes and experience measures (PROMs and PREMs) in clinical practice, with the potential to enrich the decision-making process with patient-reported data.

Methods

This perspective article explores PROs and the shared decision-making (SDM) process as components of value-based healthcare. We describe the potential of PROMs and PREMs within the decision-making process and present a digital framework for informing the shared decision-making process using aggregated data from a healthcare system PROMs and PREMs program, including early results from implementation in hospital network in Madrid, Spain.

Results

The proposed digital framework incorporates aggregated data from a hospital network PROMs and PREMs program as part of a digital patient decision aid (PDA) for patients with lymphoma. After the first hematologist appointment, participating patients access the PDA to review relevant information about clinical and patient-reported outcomes for each of the possible options, assign a personal order of priority to different outcomes, and then select their preferred course of action. Patients’ answers are automatically uploaded to the EHR and discussed with hematologists at the next appointment. After beginning treatment, patients are invited to participate in the network PROMs program; participants’ PROMs data are fed back into the PDA, thus “closing the circle” between the decision-making process and patient-reported data collection.

During the first 14 months after launching the decision aid in October 2022, of 25 patients diagnosed with follicular lymphoma at the four participating hospitals, 13 patients decided to participate. No significant differences in age or sex were observed between groups. Average SDM Q-9 score for patients filling in the questionnaire (n = 6) was 36.15 of 45 points.

Conclusion

Various obstacles toward widespread implementation of SDM exist such as time constraints, lack of motivation, and resistance to change. Support and active engagement from policy makers and healthcare managers is key to overcome hurdles for capturing patient-reported data and carrying out shared decision-making at healthcare system level. Early results of a digital framework for PRO-enriched SDM seem to be beneficial to the decision-making process.
Assessing seniors’ satisfaction with local government activities in physical activity promotion: a comparative analysis
Authors: Sobczyk Karolina , Łaskawiec-Żuławińska Daria , Robakowska Marlena , Krupa-Kotara Karolina , Yanakieva Antoniya , Grajek Mateusz
Published: August 2024

Background

The aging population in Poland poses significant challenges to social and health systems. By 2050, the percentage of people over 65 in Poland is projected to reach 32.7%. Promoting physical activity among seniors is crucial for preventing chronic diseases, improving quality of life, and reducing healthcare burdens. Local governments play a pivotal role in implementing health-promoting measures.

Objective

The study aims to analyze seniors’ satisfaction with local government activities in promoting physical activity and to identify the best activities and future needs of seniors in the Silesia, Mazovia, and Pomerania regions of Poland.

Material and Methods

The survey, conducted between May 2023 and May 2024, utilized the Computer Assisted Web Interviewing (CAWI) method to gather data from 1,500 seniors aged 65 and above across the Silesia, Mazovia, and Pomerania regions. The study population was carefully selected to ensure representativeness in terms of gender, age, education, and place of residence. Data analysis included chi-square tests and logistic regression to assess satisfaction levels and identify influencing factors.

Results

The survey revealed regional differences in satisfaction levels. Seniors in the Mazovia region exhibited the highest satisfaction (74% positive ratings), followed by the Silesian (64%) and Pomeranian (56%) regions. Factors influencing satisfaction included gender, age, education, and place of residence. Women, older seniors, those with higher education, and urban residents reported higher satisfaction levels. The most appreciated local government activities were related to sports infrastructure and sports programs. Future needs emphasized the demand for more sports programs and better infrastructure, with regional variations in preferences.

Conclusion

Seniors’ satisfaction with local government activities in promoting physical activity varies significantly across regions. Tailoring activities to regional preferences and continuous evaluation of programs are essential for enhancing effectiveness and satisfaction. Increased funding and support for physical activity programs are necessary, especially in less developed regions.
Interventions to support the mental health of family carers of children with brain injury in low and middle income countries: a scoping review
Authors: Linden M. A. , Leonard R. , Ewing-Cobbs L. , Davis K. C. , Schrieff-Brown L.
Published: August 2024

Aim

To review the international evidence base on interventions to support the mental health of family carers of children with brain injuries in low and middle income countries (LMIC).

Methods

Searches were conducted with five electronic databases (Pubmed, Web of Science, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL) using search terms related to “family carers”, “brain injury”, “children” and “low and middle income countries”. Studies were independently screened using predetermined eligibility criteria by two authors. Data were extracted from included studies using standardised data extraction and quality appraisal tools. These data were then subjected to narrative synthesis. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used to govern the review process.

Findings

One study met our inclusion criteria and described an acquired brain injury called nodding syndrome which occurs in Sub-Saharan Africa. The study was conducted in Ghana and provided group-based psychotherapy to carers and their children. As such we found no study which sought to solely support the mental health of family carers.

Conclusions

There has been a lack of focus in the literature on the mental health of family carers of children with brain injuries in LMIC. Considering the vital importance of caregivers in supporting their children it is imperative that service providers and researchers devise programmes to better meet their needs. The mental health of family carers should be better supported to improve their overall wellbeing, which will in turn improve the wellbeing of their children.
Your Black and Blue Brain Regions and the Story They Tell About Brain Disease
Authors: Mabry Senegal Alfred , Riley Elizabeth
Published: August 2024

Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s are the two most common diseases that affect people’s brains and nerves worldwide. You might have a family member, friend, or neighbor who received one of these diagnoses and may have seen how the disease has made their life more challenging. The diseases are different from each other. Alzheimer’s primarily causes loss of memory and thinking skills, while Parkinson’s decreases control over body movements. However, they share two unexpected similarities. First, they begin with the death of brain cells in tiny, specialized brain regions that produce chemicals that help coordinate thoughts and behaviors. Second, in both brain regions, the damage to these cells begins many years before people show any disease symptoms—even 20 years earlier or more! For scientists working to detect and prevent brain diseases and communities trying to keep themselves healthy, it is critical to understand how these brain regions change in disease.
Designing multifunctional forest systems in Northern Patagonia, Argentina
Authors: Garibaldi Lucas A. , Zermoglio Paula F. , Agüero Juan I. , Nacif Marcos E. , Goldenberg Matías G. , Fioroni Facundo , Amoroso Mariano M. , Aparicio Alejandro G. , Dimarco Romina D. , Fernandez Margarita , Fernandez Natalia , Gambino Micaela , Naón Santiago , Nuñez Martín A. , Oddi Facundo J. , Pastorino Mario J. , Puntieri Javier G.
Published: August 2024

Multifunctional productive systems based on native species management, a new paradigm that counters colonial worldviews, offer sustainable sources of food and materials while preserving biodiversity. Despite extensive discussions in herbaceous and agricultural systems, applying this concept to native forests in Northern Patagonia remains unclear. Multifunctional system implementation can be approached from a fractal perspective, with evaluations at the stand level being essential for understanding ecological processes across scales. Here, we exemplify research and management for multiple native species, integrating results from 10 years of field experiments on the impacts of biomass harvesting intensity (HI) on nine Nature's Contributions to People (NCPs), including habitat creation, pollination, soil formation, hazard regulation, prevention of invasions, and provision of energy, food, materials, and options. Our findings reveal that some regulating NCPs peak with null HI, while certain material and regulating NCPs maximize at the highest HI. Low to intermediate HI (30–50%) show a more balanced provision of all NCPs. Our results suggest that some biomass extraction is necessary to enhance most NCPs, emphasizing the importance of balancing material provisioning and biodiversity conservation in management schemes. We propose future directions for designing multifunctional forest systems, advocating for low-density plantation of native tree species with high wood quality within the natural forest matrix. This approach may yield higher NCPs levels over time compared to the current cattle breeding and wood extraction system, with implications beyond Patagonia, considering historical associations of such practices with colonial worldviews globally.
Hemiarthroplasty vs. internal fixation for nondisplaced femoral neck fracture in mainland China: a cost-effectiveness analysis
Authors: Wang Shengchun , Tan Lingjie , Sheng Bin
Published: August 2024

Objective

Nondisplaced femoral neck fractures constitute a substantial portion of these injuries. The optimal treatment strategy between internal fixation (IF) and hemiarthroplasty (HA) remains debated, particularly concerning cost-effectiveness.

Methods

We conducted a cost-effectiveness analysis using a Markov decision model to compare HA and IF in treating nondisplaced femoral neck fractures in elderly patients in China. The analysis was performed from a payer perspective with a 5-year time horizon. Costs were measured in 2020 USD, and effectiveness was measured in quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs). Sensitivity analyses, including one-way and probabilistic analyses, were conducted to assess the robustness of the results. The willingness-to-pay threshold for incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was set at $11,083/QALY following the Chinese gross domestic product in 2020.

Results

HA demonstrated higher cumulative QALYs (2.94) compared to IF (2.75) but at a higher total cost ($13,324 vs. $12,167), resulting in an ICER of $6,128.52/QALY. The one-way sensitivity analysis identified the costs of HA and IF as the most influential factors. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis indicated that HA was more effective in 69.3% of simulations, with an ICER below the willingness-to-pay threshold of $11,083 in 58.8% of simulations.

Conclusions

HA is a cost-effective alternative to IF for treating nondisplaced femoral neck fractures in elderly patients in mainland China.
Clinical presentation, magnetic resonance imaging findings, and outcome of 80 Dachshunds with cervical intervertebral disc extrusion
Authors: Violini Francesca , Tirrito Federica , Cozzi Francesca , Contiero Barbara , Anesi Simone , Zini Eric , Toni Cristina
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Large clinical studies regarding cervical intervertebral disc extrusion (IVDE) in Dachshunds are lacking. This retrospective multicentric study therefore aims to describe the clinical features, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings and outcomes of Dachshunds diagnosed with cervical IVDE.

Methods

Medical records of Dachshunds with cervical IVDE were reviewed for signalment, onset of clinical signs, neurological examination, MRI features, treatment and outcome.

Results

Eighty Dachshunds were included in the study, mostly ambulatory (55% grade 1 and 33% grade 2) and without nerve root signature (85% of cases) on presentation. Information on coat type was available for 56% of dogs; specifically, 41% were smooth-haired, 9% were long-haired and 6% were wire-haired Dachshunds. There were 29 (36%) neutered female, 27 (34%) male entire, 15 (19%) male neutered and 9 (11%) entire female dogs. The onset of clinical signs was most often >48 h (84%). The most common intervertebral disc space affected was C2-C3 (38%) and foraminal IVDEs were reported in 14% of dogs. A foraminal IVDE was diagnosed in only 25% of dogs presented with nerve root signatures. Most dogs (77.5%) were treated surgically. In this group, a higher body condition score on presentation and a higher mean spinal cord compression ratio calculated on MRI were directly and moderately associated with a longer hospitalization time (r = 0.490 p = 0.005 and r = 0.310 p = 0.012, respectively). The recovery time was longer in dogs with an onset of clinical signs <24 h or 24–48 h compared to those with an onset of clinical signs >48 h (3.1 ± 6.5 days versus 1.6 ± 6.2, p < 0.001) in both medically and surgically treated groups. Data about the outcome was available for 83% of dogs. Eighty percent of the entire population of dogs was considered to have completely returned to normal. There was no association between the therapeutic choice (surgical versus medical management) and the outcome of the dogs included in this study.
A long-lasting gel-based diffuser of feline pheromone can help reduce undesirable behaviors in cats at home: comparison with an electric diffuser
Authors: Espuña Gemma , Nicolas Céline S. , Girardin Aurélie , Fatjó Jaume , Bowen Jonathan , Monginoux Patricia , Rème Christophe A.
Published: August 2024

Using pheromone diffusers is part of the strategy to control stress-related behaviors in cats (Felis catus). The goal of the study was to compare the efficacy of a novel long-acting, unpowered gel-based diffuser containing a facial pheromone analog (Zenifel® gel diffuser, Virbac) with a similar electrically powered feline pheromone diffuser that already has proven efficacy, on situational stress in cats, at home. The study involved 90 owners of cats presenting undesirable behaviors receiving one diffuser or the other: 46 received one gel diffuser and 44 received one plug-in device and a refill, for the 2-month study duration. The presence of the various undesirable behaviors was checked regularly and a general score was given to rate their presence. The most reported behaviors were related to hypervigilance, seeking the owner’s attention, hiding, excessive vocalization, inactivity, and excessive scratching. All six behaviors significantly improved over time with Zenifel® while only four improved with the reference product (no improvement for excessive meowing and inactivity). The general score significantly improved as of day 7 in both groups, with no difference between groups. More owners said they would use the product throughout the year with Zenifel® than with the reference product (80% vs. 42%, p < 0.05). Therefore, both diffusers can be used to help control undesirable behaviors of cats at home but Zenifel® is more convenient to use throughout the year.
Comparison of Kidney Graft Function and Survival in an Emulated Trial With Living Donors and Brain-Dead Donors
Authors: Savoye Emilie , Santin Gaëlle , Legeai Camille , Kerbaul François , Gaillard François , Pastural Myriam ,   the CRISTAL Registry Study Group
Published: August 2024

Living donation (LD) transplantation is the preferred treatment for kidney failure as compared to donation after brain death (DBD), but age may play a role. We compared the 1-year estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) after kidney transplantation for recipients of LD and DBD stratified by recipient and donor age between 2015 and 2018 in a matched cohort. The strength of the association between donation type and 1-year eGFR differed by recipient age (Pinteraction < 0.0001). For LD recipients aged 40–54 years versus same-aged DBD recipients, the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) for eGFR ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2 was 1.48 (95% CI: 1.16–1.90). For DBD recipients aged ≥ 60 years, the aOR was 0.18 (95% CI: 0.12–0.29) versus DBD recipients aged 40–54 years but was 0.91 (95% CI: 0.67–1.24) versus LD recipients aged ≥60 years. In the matched cohort, 4-year graft and patient survival differed by donor age and type. As compared with DBD grafts, LD grafts increased the proportion of recipients with 1-year eGFR ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2. Recipients aged ≥60 years benefited most from LD transplantation, even if the donor was aged ≥60 years. For younger recipients, large age differences between donor and recipient could also be addressed with a paired exchange program.
Plant–Soil Microbial Interaction: Differential Adaptations of Beneficial vs. Pathogenic Bacterial and Fungal Communities to Climate-Induced Drought
Authors: Loiko Nataliya , Islam M.
Published: August 2024

Climate change and the increasing frequency and severity of drought events pose significant challenges for sustainable agriculture worldwide. Soil microorganisms, both beneficial and pathogenic, play a crucial role in mediating plant–environment interactions and shaping the overall functioning of agroecosystems. This review summarizes current knowledge on the adaptive mechanisms used by different groups of plant-beneficial soil microorganisms—rhizobacteria and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF)—as well as phytopathogenic bacteria and fungi, in response to drought. The review focuses on identifying the commonalities and differences in the survival strategies of these groups of beneficial and pathogenic soil microorganisms under drought conditions. Additionally, it reviews and compares the plant defence mechanisms under drought conditions facilitated by rhizobacteria and AMF. Special attention is given to the genetic exchange between beneficial and pathogenic soil microorganisms through horizontal gene transfer (HGT), which allows them to exchange traits. It is observed that drought may favor enhanced genetic exchange and the spread of pathogenic traits in the soil microbiome. This review will be useful for a wide range of readers to better understand the dynamics of the soil microbiome under climate change and to apply this knowledge to sustainable agricultural practices.
Research on an Intelligent Seed-Sorting Method and Sorter Based on Machine Vision and Lightweight YOLOv5n
Authors: Feng Yubo , Zhao Xiaoshun , Tian Ruitao , Liang Chenyang , Liu Jingyan , Fan Xiaofei
Published: August 2024

To address the current issues of low intelligence and accuracy in seed-sorting devices, an intelligent seed sorter was developed in this study using machine-vision technology and the lightweight YOLOv5n. The machine consisted of a transmission system, feeding system, image acquisition system, and seed screening system. A lightweight YOLOv5n model, FS-YOLOv5n, was trained using 4756 images, incorporating FasterNet, Local Convolution (PConv), and a squeeze-and-excitation (SE) attention mechanism to improve feature extraction efficiency, detection accuracy, and reduce redundancy. Taking ‘Zhengdan 958’ corn seeds as the research object, a quality identification and seed sorting test was conducted on six test groups (each consisting of 1000 seeds) using the FS-YOLOv5n model. Following lightweight improvements, the machine showed an 81% reduction in parameters and floating-point operations compared to baseline models. The intelligent seed sorter achieved an average sorting rate of 90.76%, effectively satisfying the seed-sorting requirements.
Genome-Wide Identification of the Shaker Potassium Channel Family in Chinese Cabbage and Functional Studies of BrKAT1 in Yeast
Authors: Zhou Jin-Yan , Gu Ze-Chen , Hao Dong-Li
Published: August 2024

Shaker potassium channels play a crucial role in potassium (K+) nutrition and stress resistance in plants. However, systematic research on Shaker K+ channels in Chinese cabbage [Brassica rapa var. chinensis (L.) Kitamura] remains scarce. This study identified 13 Shaker K+ channel members within the cabbage genome, which are unevenly distributed across eight chromosomes. Notably, the number of Shaker K+ channel members in Chinese cabbage exceeds that found in the model plants Arabidopsis (9) and rice (10). This discrepancy is attributed to a higher number of homologous proteins in Groups II and V of Chinese cabbage, with gene segmental duplication in these two subgroups being a significant factor contributing to the expansion of the Shaker K+ channel gene family. Interspecies collinearity analysis revealed that the whole genome and the Shaker K+ channel family of Chinese cabbage show greater similarity to those of Arabidopsis than to those of rice, indicating that Shaker K+ channels from the Brassicaceae family have a closer relationship than that from the Poaceae family. Given that gene expansion occurs in Group II, we investigated whether a functional difference exists between BrKAT1.1 and BrKAT1.2 using yeast assays and promoter analysis. The expression of two BrKAT1 genes in the potassium uptake-deficient yeast mutant R5421 can restore growth under low potassium conditions, indicating their role in potassium absorption. Truncation of the N-terminal 63 amino acids of BrKAT1.2 resulted in the loss of potassium absorption capability, suggesting that the N-terminus is essential for maintaining the potassium absorption function of BrKAT1.2. Furthermore, the expression of the two BrKAT1 genes in the salt-sensitive yeast G19 enhances yeast tolerance to salt stress. These results demonstrate that BrKAT1.1 and BrKAT1.2 exhibit similar abilities in potassium uptake and salt tolerance. The difference between BrKAT1.1 and BrKAT1.2 lay in their promoter regulatory elements, suggesting that differences in transcriptional regulation contributed to the functional differentiation of BrKAT1.1 and BrKAT1.2. These findings provide a foundation for understanding the evolution and functional mechanisms of the Shaker K+ channel family in Chinese cabbage and for improving potassium nutrition and salt tolerance in this species through the manipulation of BrKAT1.
Elucidating Genetic Mechanisms of Summer Stress Tolerance in Chinese Cabbage through GWAS and Phenotypic Analysis
Authors: Kim Jinhee , Lee Junho , Jang Yoonah , Lee Sangdeok , Lee Woo-Moon , Wi Seunghwan , Lee Hyejin , Seo Tae Cheol , Kim Taebok , Yoon Hyo In
Published: August 2024

The development of Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa subsp. pekinensis) varieties that are resilient to climate change is becoming increasingly critical. Our study focused on developing stress-tolerant Chinese cabbage during the summer season to minimize the impacts of global climate change. We evaluated 52 Chinese cabbage accessions grown in the field during the late spring–summer season in Korea. Various phenotypic data of Chinese cabbage in adverse environments were collected from field data. In addition to field screening, we used a controlled-environment chamber to observe the direct impact of heat on young plants, particularly in the root area. A genome-wide association study was conducted using two sets of phenotypic data collected from both chamber and field studies and genotype data acquired from GBS analyses. A total of 57 SNPs distributed across all 10 B. rapa chromosomes were selected to be highly related to the target traits. Several candidate genes were annotated using the flanking sequences of these SNPs. The study revealed that most of the annotated genes seemed to be highly connected with the function of the heat stress response. Other genes were also found to be related to the environmental stress response and flowering. These candidate SNPs and genes can provide valuable tools for breeders to develop summer stress-tolerant Chinese cabbage varieties.
Pathologic Changes in and Immunophenotyping of Polymyositis in the Dutch Kooiker Dog
Authors: Alf Vanessa , Opmeer Yvet , Shelton G. Diane , Grinwis Guy C. M. , Matiasek Kaspar , Rosati Marco , Mandigers Paul J. J.
Published: August 2024

Earlier, we described a breed-specific inflammatory myopathy in Dutch Kooiker dogs (Het Nederlandse Kooikerhondje), one of the nine Dutch breeds. The disease commonly manifests itself with clinical signs of difficulty walking, muscle weakness, exercise intolerance, and/or dysphagia. In nearly all dogs’ creatine kinase (CK) activity was elevated. Histopathology reveals the infiltration of inflammatory cells within the skeletal muscles. The objective of this study was to further investigate and characterize the histopathological changes in muscle tissue and immunophenotype the inflammatory infiltrates. FFPE fixed-muscle biopsies from 39 purebred Kooiker dogs were included and evaluated histopathologically according to a tailored classification scheme for skeletal muscle inflammation. As in other breed-related inflammatory myopathies, multifocal, mixed, and predominantly mononuclear cell infiltration was present, with an initial invasion of viable muscle fibres and the surrounding stroma leading to inflammation, necrosis, and tissue damage. Immunophenotyping primarily revealed lymphohistiocytic infiltrates, with CD3+ T-cells being the predominant inflammatory cell type, accompanied by CD8+ cytotoxic T-cells. The concurrent expression of MHC-II class molecules on myofibres suggests their involvement in initiating and maintaining inflammation. Additionally, CD20+ B-cells were identified, though in lower numbers compared to T-cells, and IBA-1-positive macrophages were frequently seen. These findings suggest a breed-specific subtype of polymyositis in Kooiker dogs, akin to other breeds. This study sheds light on the immune response activation, combining adaptive and innate mechanisms, contributing to our understanding of polymyositis in this breed.
Decreased Systemic Monocyte Colony Protein-1 (MCP-1) Levels and Reduced sCD14 Levels in Curcumin-Treated Patients with Moderate Anxiety: A Pilot Study
Authors: Merino José Joaquín , Parmigiani-Cabaña José María , Parmigiani-Izquierdo José María , Fernández-García Rubén , Cabaña-Muñoz María Eugenia
Published: August 2024

Psychosocial stress may alter cortisol and/or affect the normal functioning of the immune system. Curcuminoids can promote beneficial effects in neuropsychiatric diseases. We evaluated whether curcumin supplementation for 15 consecutive days (1800 mg/day) would decrease systemic MCP-1, sCD14, and TNF alpha levels in patients with moderate anxiety (n = 81). A total number of 81 subjects were enrolled in this study, divided into the following groups according to their Hamilton scores: a control group including patients without anxiety who were not taking curcumin (Cont, n = 22) and an anxiety group including patients with moderate anxiety (Anx, n = 22). The curcumin-treated patients experienced moderate anxiety, and they take curcumin for 15 consecutive days (Anx-Cur (after), n = 15, 1800 mg/day). An evaluation of 128 patients was conducted, which allowed for their assignment to the study groups according to their scores on Hamilton scale II. The cortisol levels were quantified in salivary samples through ELISA (ng/mL), and malonaldehyde (MDA) levels were measured in plasma via the TBARS assay as an index of lipoperoxidation. Several systemic proinflammatory cytokines (pg/mL: MCP-1, TNF alpha, IL-1 beta) and mediators were quantified through ELISA (pg/mL), including systemic sCD14 levels as a marker of monocyte activation. A two-way bifactorial ANOVA was conducted to evaluate the contributions of the anxiety factor (Anx) and/or curcumin factor (Cur) in all the tested markers, including interactions between both factors. High systemic MCP-1 and elevated sCD14 levels were observed in patients with moderate anxiety, which were reduced with curcumin supplementation. In addition, curcumin prevented cortisol overexpression and decreased MDA levels as an antioxidant response in these patients. Collectively, curcumin presented anti-chemotactic effects by reducing systemic MCP-1 levels in anxiety. Curcumin decreased systemic MCP-1 as well as sCD14 levels in patients with moderate anxiety.
Prediction of Antioxidant Capacity of Thiolate–Disulfide Systems Using Species-Specific Basicity Values
Authors: Pálla Tamás , Noszál Béla , Mirzahosseini Arash
Published: August 2024

The principal reactions that maintain redox homeostasis in living systems are the deprotonation of thiols, followed by the oxidative conversion of the produced thiolates into disulfides, which thus reduce the harmful oxidizing agents. The various biological thiols have different molecule-specific propensities to carry on the co-dependent deprotonation and redox processes. This study utilizes the known correlation between thiolate basicities and oxidizabilities, to quantify antioxidant or reducing capacities and pH-dependences of thiol–disulfide antioxidant systems, as a tool to find adequate molecules against oxidative stress.
Durability of Manufactured-Sand-Reinforced Concrete and Its Wet Joint Prepared in Plateau Environment under Corrosion, Freeze–Thaw Cycle and Their Coupling Effect
Authors: Guo Xiaoyu , Chen Kai , Wang Hailiang , Fang Naren , Yu Kang , Zhuang Fengming
Published: August 2024

In order to explore the durability of manufactured-sand-reinforced concrete and its wet joint in a plateau environment, an integrally formed (IF) specimen and a wet joint specimen with punched interface (PI) made up of manufactured sand concrete were prepared in the simulated plateau environment. On the one hand, the accelerated corrosion test on IF and PI specimens was conducted to investigate their durability under corrosion. On the other hand, the freeze–thaw cycle test was carried out on IF and PI specimens to evaluate their frost resistance. Subsequently, the accelerated corrosion test was continuously performed on IF and PI specimens subjected to freeze–thaw cycles. The development of surface cracks, the corrosion morphology of internal steel bars, the actual corrosion rate, the section loss of corroded steel bars and the degradation of mechanical properties of steel bars after corrosion were analyzed. Moreover, the microstructural changes of specimens after different freeze–thaw cycles and corrosion degrees were observed. The results show that during single corrosion, the development of crack width of concrete, the increase in actual corrosion rates of steel bars and the degradation of mechanical properties of steel bars for IF and PI specimens before the theoretical corrosion rate of 6% were relatively slow, and once the theoretical corrosion rate exceeded 6%, these began to accelerate. The development of concrete cracks and the distribution of crack width are affected by wet joints. Compared with IF specimens, the average and maximum longitudinal crack widths of PI specimens increase by 0–22.54% and 12.16–21.95% for different freeze–thaw cycles, respectively. The frost resistance of the PI specimen decreases due to the existence of a wet joint. After freeze–thaw cycles numbering 50, the difference in frost resistance between IF and PI specimens obviously increased. Compared with IF specimens, the nominal yield strength, nominal ultimate strength and elongation of PI specimens after freeze–thaw cycles numbering 25~100 and corrosion with the theoretical corrosion rate of 6% decreased by 5.56–9.11%, 4.74–6.73% and 23.08–28.72%, respectively. The combined effect of freeze–thaw cycle and corrosion has a great influence on the ductility of steel bars.
Shear Behavior of Non-Stirrup Ultra-High-Performance Concrete Beams: Contribution of Steel Fibers and UHPC
Authors: Deng Bowen , Zhang Lifeng , Wu Shengze , Jiang Haibo , Tian Yueqiang , Fang Junfa , Zhou Chengan
Published: August 2024

The shear stirrups and bend-up reinforcement in ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) beams could potentially be excluded due to the superior mechanical properties of UHPC. This paper reports the new findings of an experimental research into the factors that influence the shear behavior of non-stirrup UHPC beams. Fourteen beams were tested in shear, comprising twelve non-stirrup UHPC beams and two normal concrete (NC) beams reinforced with stirrups. The test variables included the steel fiber volume content (2.0%, 1.5%, and 0%), the shear span-to-effective-depth ratio (1.2, 1.8, 2.0, and 3.1), beam width (150 mm and 200 mm), and beam height (300 mm, 350 mm, and 400 mm). The results demonstrated that the steel fiber volume content had a significant influence on the shear behavior of the non-stirrup UHPC beams. The failure modes of the beams without steel fibers were typically brittle, whereas those reinforced with steel fibers exhibited ductile failure. The shear resistance of the beams could be significantly enhanced by the addition of steel fibers in the concrete mix. Furthermore, the post-cracking load-bearing performance of the beams could also be markedly improved by the addition of steel fibers. In addition, the shear span-to-effective-depth ratio had a considerable impact on the failure mode and the ultimate shear strength of the tested beams. The contribution of steel fibers to the shear capacity of the UHPC beams was observed to increase as the shear span-to-effective-depth ratio increased. The French standard formulae tended to overestimate the contribution of steel fibers, and the calculation results were found to be more accurate for UHPC beams with a moderate shear span-to-effective-depth ratio (around 2.0). Moreover, the French standard formulae demonstrated greater accuracy at a larger beam height for calculating the contribution of UHPC matrix.
A Parametric Study of Flexible Support Deflection of Photovoltaic Cells Considering Wind-Induced Load Using Time History Technique
Authors: Chi Yuanpeng , Nan Bo , Qiao Youxin , Leng Junjie
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we mainly consider the parametric analysis of the disturbance of the flexible photovoltaic (PV) support structure under two kinds of wind loads, namely, mean wind load and fluctuating wind load, to reduce the wind-induced damage of the flexible PV support structure and improve its safety and durability. The wind speed time history was simulated by the response spectrum method, and the 15.6 m flexible PV support was analyzed comprehensively. The influence of critical parameters, such as panel inclination angle, wind direction angle, and template gap, on the wind-induced response of the flexible PV support was compared and analyzed under two wind loads. The results showed that the panel inclination angle positively correlated with the structural displacement, while the template gap was negatively correlated with the structural displacement. Furthermore, structural displacements were observed to be higher at 0° and 180° wind direction angles compared to those at 45° and 135° angles. Compared with other horizontal force-bearing structures, the horizontal force-bearing structure of inclined steel columns had more robust safety, construction convenience, and economy. It is worth noting that the fluctuating wind load was much smaller than the mean wind load, but its impact on the flexible PV support structure cannot be ignored.
Are Rh Catalysts a Suitable Choice for Bio-Oil Reforming? The Case of a Commercial Rh Catalyst in the Combined H2O and CO2 Reforming of Bio-Oil
Authors: Valecillos José , Landa Leire , Elordi Gorka , Remiro Aingeru , Bilbao Javier , Gayubo Ana Guadalupe
Published: August 2024

Bio-oil combined steam/dry reforming (CSDR) with H2O and CO2 as reactants is an attractive route for the joint valorization of CO2 and biomass towards the sustainable production of syngas (H2 + CO). The technological development of the process requires the use of an active and stable catalyst, but also special attention should be paid to its regeneration capacity due to the unavoidable and quite rapid catalyst deactivation in the reforming of bio-oil. In this work, a commercial Rh/ZDC (zirconium-doped ceria) catalyst was tested for reaction–regeneration cycles in the bio-oil CSDR in a fluidized bed reactor, which is beneficial for attaining an isothermal operation and, moreover, minimizes catalyst deactivation by coke deposition compared to a fixed-bed reactor. The fresh, spent, and regenerated catalysts were characterized using either N2 physisorption, H2-TPR, TPO, SEM, TEM, or XRD. The Rh/ZDC catalyst is initially highly active for the syngas production (yield of 77% and H2/CO ratio of 1.2) and for valorizing CO2 (conversion of 22%) at 700 °C, with space time of 0.125 gcatalyst h (goxygenates)−1 and CO2/H2O/C ratio of 0.6/0.5/1. The catalyst activity evolves in different periods that evidence a selective deactivation of the catalyst for the reforming reactions of the different compounds, with the CH4 reforming reactions (with both steam and CO2) being more rapidly affected by catalyst deactivation than the reforming of hydrocarbons or oxygenates. After regeneration, the catalyst’s textural properties are not completely restored and there is a change in the Rh–support interaction that irreversibly deactivates the catalyst for the CH4 reforming reactions (both SR and DR). As a result, the coke formed over the regenerated catalyst is different from that over the fresh catalyst, being an amorphous mass (of probably turbostractic nature) that encapsulates the catalyst and causes rapid deactivation.
Low Immunogenicity of Keratinocytes Derived from Human Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Shen Jiayi , Zeng Xuanhao , Lv Haozhen , Jin Yiting , Liu Yating , Lian Weiling , Huang Shiyi , Zang Qing , Zhang Qi , Xu Jinhua
Published: August 2024

Epidermal transplantation is a common and widely used surgical technique in clinical medicine. Derivatives of embryonic stem cells have the potential to serve as a source of transplantable cells. However, allograft rejection is one of the main challenges. To investigate the immunogenicity of keratinocytes derived from human embryonic stem cells (ESKCs), we conducted a series of in vivo and in vitro experiments. The results showed that ESKCs have low HLA molecule expression, limited antigen presentation capabilities, and a weak ability to stimulate the proliferation and secretion of inflammatory factors in allogeneic PBMCs in vitro. In humanized immune mouse models, ESKCs elicited weak transplant rejection responses in the host. Overall, we found that ESKCs have low immunogenicity and may have potential applications in the field of regenerative medicine.
Detection of Harmful H2S Concentration Range, Health Classification, and Lifespan Prediction of CH4 Sensor Arrays in Marine Environments
Authors: Zhang Kai , Zhang Yongwei , Wu Jian , Wang Tao , Jiang Wenkai , Zeng Min , Yang Zhi
Published: August 2024

Underwater methane (CH4) detection technology is of great significance to the leakage monitoring and location of marine natural gas transportation pipelines, the exploration of submarine hydrothermal activity, and the monitoring of submarine volcanic activity. In order to improve the safety of underwater CH4 detection mission, it is necessary to study the effect of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in leaking CH4 gas on sensor performance and harmful influence, so as to evaluate the health status and life prediction of underwater CH4 sensor arrays. In the process of detecting CH4, the accuracy decreases when H2S is found in the ocean water. In this study, we proposed an explainable sorted-sparse (ESS) transformer model for concentration interval detection under industrial conditions. The time complexity was decreased to O (n logn) using an explainable sorted-sparse block. Additionally, we proposed the Ocean X generative pre-trained transformer (GPT) model to achieve the online monitoring of the health of the sensors. The ESS transformer model was embedded in the Ocean X GPT model. When the program satisfied the special instructions, it would jump between models, and the online-monitoring question-answering session would be completed. The accuracy of the online monitoring of system health is equal to that of the ESS transformer model. This Ocean-X-generated model can provide a lot of expert information about sensor array failures and electronic noses by text and speech alone. This model had an accuracy of 0.99, which was superior to related models, including transformer encoder (0.98) and convolutional neural networks (CNN) + support vector machine (SVM) (0.97). The Ocean X GPT model for offline question-and-answer tasks had a high mean accuracy (0.99), which was superior to the related models, including long short-term memory–auto encoder (LSTM–AE) (0.96) and GPT decoder (0.98).
Postmortem Detection of “Clinically Undiagnosed” Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma: Gross and Microscopic Findings
Authors: Cianci Vincenzo , Sapienza Daniela , Bartoloni Giovanni , Cianci Alessio , Cracò Annalisa , Omero Fausto , Gualniera Patrizia , Asmundo Alessio , Mondello Cristina
Published: August 2024

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma is considered the most found non-Hodgkin lymphoma in adults. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, which also occurs in sporadic forms, is associated with some pathological conditions, including human immunodeficiency virus infection, especially if it progresses to AIDS. The authors report the case of a 45-year-old man with AIDS in whom a postmortem diagnosis of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma was performed. The proposed images document extensive pluri-visceral involvement, already visible macroscopically, and subsequently confirmed through histological examination.
Concordance between Coronary Artery Computed Tomography and Invasive Coronary Angiography in a Real-World Population with Suspected Chronic Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Barbieri Lucia , Tumminello Gabriele , Pasero Guido , Avallone Carlo , D’Errico Andrea , Mircoli Luca , Colombo Federico , Gobbi Cecilia , Bellissimo Nello Manuel , Ruscica Massimiliano , Carugo Stefano
Published: August 2024

Background: Coronary computed tomographic angiography (CCTA) is a non-invasive imaging technique that possesses the ability to provide detailed anatomical information about coronary arteries, avoiding unnecessary invasive procedures. Our aim was to assess the ability of CCTA to identify coronary artery disease compared to invasive coronary angiography (ICA) in a real-life setting. Methods: We examined 137 consecutive patients who underwent ICA after CCTA. The latter was conducted in various non-selected centers, and data regarding stenosis were taken from individual reports without further analysis. Results: A total of 60.5% of patients who underwent CCTA were found to have at least one critical stenosis, while the remaining 39.5% underwent ICA due to concurrent clinical or instrumental indications. Among these, 29.5% had angiographically critical pathology, 20.3% underwent a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), and 1.8% had coronary artery bypass grafting. Among the 83 patients with positive CCTA results, 34.9% had negative ICA findings. CCTA demonstrated low sensitivity (57.8%) and a positive predictive value of 42.6%. However, it retained high specificity (83.6%) and a negative predictive value of 90.4% for identifying critical stenosis. Among the 18.2% of patients who underwent CCTA without a specific indication, 60% had critical coronary lesions on their ICA and 86.6% of these subsequently underwent a PCI. Conclusions: CCTA performed in non-selective centers has a low concordance with ICA.
Genetics, Pathophysiology, and Current Challenges in Von Hippel–Lindau Disease Therapeutics
Authors: Gómez-Virgilio Laura , Velazquez-Paniagua Mireya , Cuazozon-Ferrer Lucero , Silva-Lucero Maria-del-Carmen , Gutierrez-Malacara Andres-Ivan , Padilla-Mendoza Juan-Ramón , Borbolla-Vázquez Jessica , Díaz-Hernández Job-Alí , Jiménez-Orozco Fausto-Alejandro , Cardenas-Aguayo Maria-del-Carmen
Published: August 2024

This review article focuses on von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) disease, a rare genetic disorder characterized by the development of tumors and cysts throughout the body. It discusses the following aspects of the disease. Genetics: VHL disease is caused by mutations in the VHL tumor suppressor gene located on chromosome 3. These mutations can be inherited or occur spontaneously. This article details the different types of mutations and their associated clinical features. Pathophysiology: The underlying cause of VHL disease is the loss of function of the VHL protein (pVHL). This protein normally regulates hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs), which are involved in cell growth and survival. When pVHL is dysfunctional, HIF levels become elevated, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and tumor formation. Clinical Manifestations: VHL disease can affect various organs, including the brain, spinal cord, retina, kidneys, pancreas, and adrenal glands. Symptoms depend on the location and size of the tumors. Diagnosis: Diagnosis of VHL disease involves a combination of clinical criteria, imaging studies, and genetic testing. Treatment: Treatment options for VHL disease depend on the type and location of the tumors. Surgery is the mainstay of treatment, but other options like radiation therapy may also be used. Challenges: This article highlights the challenges in VHL disease management, including the lack of effective therapies for some tumor types and the need for better methods to monitor disease progression. In conclusion, we emphasize the importance of ongoing research to develop new and improved treatments for VHL disease.
Concept of Enabling Over-Current Capability of Silicon-Carbide-Based Power Converters with Gate Voltage Augmentation
Authors: Bhadoria Shubhangi , Xu Qianwen , Wang Xiongfei , Nee Hans-Peter
Published: August 2024

Various methods have been discussed in the literature regarding enabling the over-current (OC) capability of silicon carbide (SiC) MOSFETs. SiC MOSFETs can operate at up to 250 °C without failure. One of their features is to permit transient operation at elevated temperatures. This is possible if the stress on the gate oxide and packaging can be kept to a level that can be handled. This paper, instead, investigates the potential of enabling the OC capability of SiC MOSFETs by modifying the gate-source voltage. Since the on-state resistance (RDS(on)) of SiC MOSFETs decreases with an increase in the gate voltage (VGS), the conduction losses can be decreased by increasing the VGS. Experiments and simulations have been performed to predict the RDS(on) with the increase in VGS. It is found that the simulation models provided by manufacturers can be used to predict RDS(on) accurately even outside the specifications, hence facilitating the precise estimation of conduction losses. It is also concluded that VGS can be increased during OCs in order to keep the conduction losses within the safety limits. A simple concept for implementing this function on a gate driver is also proposed with the additional functionality of increasing the VGS during OC by measuring the on-state voltage of the MOSFET.