bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Melatonin’s effect on hair follicles in a goat (Capra hircus) animal model
Authors: Rong Youjun , Ma Rong , Zhang Yanjun , Guo Zhenhua
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Melatonin can treat androgenetic alopecia in males. Goats can be used as animal models to study melatonin treatment for human alopecia. In this study, a meta-analysis of melatonin’s effects on goat hair follicles was pursued.

Methods

Literature from the last 20 years was searched in Scopus, Science Direct, Web of Science and PubMed. Melatonin’s effect on goat hair follicles and litter size were performed through a traditional meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis. A network meta-analysis used data from oocyte development to blastocyst. The hair follicle genes regulated by melatonin performed KEGG and PPI. We hypothesized that there are differences in melatonin receptors between different goats, and therefore completed melatonin receptor 1A homology modelling and molecular docking.

Results

The results showed that melatonin did not affect goat primary follicle or litter size. However, there was a positive correlation with secondary follicle growth. The goat melatonin receptor 1A SNPs influence melatonin’s functioning. The wild type gene defect MR1 is a very valuable animal model.

Discussion

Future studies should focus on the relationship between goat SNPs and the effect of embedded melatonin. This study will provide theoretical guidance for the cashmere industry and will be informative for human alopecia research.
Characterization of a novel fast-growing zebrafish: a new approach to growth hormone transgenesis
Authors: Cohen-Rothschild Noam , Mizrahi Naama , Levavi-Sivan Berta
Published: April 2024

The manipulation of the somatotropic axis, governing growth, has been a focus of numerous transgenic approaches aimed at developing fast-growing fish for research, medicine and aquaculture purposes. However, the excessively high growth hormone (GH) levels in these transgenic fish often result in deformities that impact both fish health and consumer acceptance. In an effort to mitigate these issues and synchronize exogenous GH expression with reproductive processes, we employed a novel transgenic construct driven by a tilapia luteinizing hormone (LH) promoter. This approach was anticipated to induce more localized and lower exogenous GH secretion. In this study, we characterized the growth and reproduction of these transgenic LHp-GH zebrafish using hormonal and physiological parameters. Our findings reveal that LHp-GH fish exhibited accelerated growth in both length and weight, along with a lower feed conversion ratio, indicating more efficient feed utilization, all while maintaining unchanged body proportions. These fish demonstrated higher expression levels of LH and GH in the pituitary and elevated IGF-1 levels in the liver compared to wild-type fish. An examination of reproductive function in LHp-GH fish unveiled lower pituitary LH and FSH contents, smaller follicle diameter in female gonads, and reduced relative fecundity. However, in transgenic males, neither the distribution of spermatogenesis stages nor sperm concentrations differed significantly between the fish lines. These results suggest that coupling exogenous GH expression with endogenous LH expression in females directs resource investment toward somatic growth at the expense of reproductive processes. Consequently, we conclude that incorporating GH under the LH promoter represents a suitable construct for the genetic engineering of commercial fish species, providing accelerated growth while preserving body proportions.
Main influencing factors of terrestrial evapotranspiration for different land cover types over the Tibetan Plateau in 1982–2014
Authors: Li Xia , Pan Yongjie , Zhao Cailing
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Terrestrial evapotranspiration (ET) over the Tibetan Plateau (TP) has important implications for the global water cycle, climate change, and ecosystem, and its changes and driving factors have drawn increasing attention. Previous research studies have minimally quantified the effects and identified the pathways of the influencing factors on ET over different land surface types.

Methods: In this study, we analyze the spatiotemporal distribution and variation of ET over the TP in 1982–2014 based on multiple datasets. Furthermore, the effects of each influencing factor on ET are quantified over different land surface types, and the major influencing factors and their affecting pathways are identified using structure equation modeling (SEM), which is a statistical method used to analyze relationships among multiple variables.

Results: The results show that the climatology of ET decreases gradually from southeastern to northwestern TP, with the maximum spatial averaged value of 379.979 ± 0.417 mm a−1 for the fifth generation of European Reanalysis (ERA5) and the minimum of 249.899 ± 0.469 mm a−1 for the Global Land Data Assimilation System (GLDAS). The most significant differences among the ET datasets mainly occur in the summer. The annual ET averaged over the TP presents an increased trend from 1982 to 2014, as shown by all of the ET datasets. However, there are larger discrepancies in the spatial distribution of the increased trend for these datasets. The assessment result shows that the 0.05° land evapotranspiration dataset for the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (LEDQTP) has the highest temporal correlation coefficient (0.80) and the smallest root-mean-square error (23.50 mm) compared to the observations. Based on LEDQTP, we find that precipitation is the main influencing factor of ET, which primarily affects ET through direct pathways in bare soil and grassland regions, with standardized estimates of 0.521 and 0.606, respectively. However, in meadow and shrub and forest regions, the primary factor influencing ET is air temperature, which is primarily affected by an indirect pathway through a vapor pressure deficit. Air temperature is also the controlling factor in sparse vegetation regions, but it affects ET through a direct pathway.

Discussion: This study may provide some new useful information on the effects of climate change on ET in different land cover types over the TP.
The impact of a graphic novel on anxiety and stress in patients undergoing endoscopic ultrasound with fine needle biopsy for pancreatic lesions: a pilot study protocol
Authors: Rizzo Giacomo Emanuele Maria , Traina Mario , Tarantino Ilaria
Published: April 2024

The utilization of graphic novels in the realm of clinical medicine is an infrequent occurrence. However, there is a burgeoning interest in their application across a spectrum of pathological conditions with the ultimate aim of enhancing patient care. This study is a prospective pilot designed to assess the influence of graphic novels on the stress levels and behavioral responses of patients diagnosed with pancreatic lesions and who are to undergo endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle biopsy (EUS-FNB). Patients exhibiting radiological and clinical pancreatic lesions needing biopsy will be evaluated consecutively. The inclusion criteria encompass the presence of a solid pancreatic mass or a partially solid mass in the event of a cystic component. The exclusion criteria include patients with cognitive impairments, those currently on benzodiazepines or other psychotropic medications, and those with a prior diagnosis of cancer. The authors have developed a comic panel comprising a sequence of six vibrant vignettes, which delineate the standard procedure of EUS-FNB to the patient. Following hospital admission, patients who meet the enrolment criteria and consent to participate in the study will be randomly assigned to either the test or the control group. A graphic novel will be distributed to all patients in the test group, who will have the opportunity to peruse it while awaiting the procedure. Subsequent to the EUS-FNB, all enrolled patients will complete the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and a modified version of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21 (termed mDASS-21 or mASS-14). The BAI, a 21-item self-report inventory, is employed to gauge the severity of anxiety in adults. The other questionnaire is a modified rendition of the DASS-21, which originally comprised 21 items segregated into three subscales (anxiety, stress, and depression) with seven items each. The anxiety subscale measures physiological arousal, situational anxiety, and the subjective experience of the effects of anxiety, while the stress subscale assesses chronic non-specific arousal, difficulty relaxing, nervous tension, irritability, agitation, and impatience.
A novel flow cytometry panel to identify prognostic markers for steroid-sensitive forms of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome in childhood
Authors: Riganati Martina , Zotta Federica , Candino Annalisa , Conversano Ester , Gargiulo Antonio , Scarsella Marco , Lo Russo Anna , Bettini Chiara , Emma Francesco , Vivarelli Marina , Colucci Manuela
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The clinical evolution of steroid-sensitive forms of pediatric idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) is highly heterogeneous following the standard treatment with prednisone. To date, no prognostic marker has been identified to predict the severity of the disease course starting from the first episode.

Methods

In this monocentric prospective cohort study we set up a reproducible and standardized flow cytometry panel using two sample tubes (one for B-cell and one for T-cell subsets) to extensively characterized the lymphocyte repertoire of INS pediatric patients. A total of 44 children with INS at disease onset were enrolled, sampled before and 3 months after standard induction therapy with prednisone and followed for 12 months to correctly classify their disease based on relapses. Age-matched controls with non immune-mediated renal diseases or with urological disorders were also enrolled. Demographical, clinical, laboratory and immunosuppressive treatment data were registered.

Results

We found that children with INS at disease onset had significantly higher circulating levels of total CD19+ and specific B-cell subsets (transitional, mature-naïve, plasmablasts/plasmacells, CD19+CD27+, unswitched, switched and atypical memory B cells) and reduced circulating levels of Tregs, when compared to age-matched controls. Prednisone therapy restored most B- and T-cell alterations. When patients were subdivided based on disease relapse, relapsing patients had significantly more transitional, CD19+CD27+ memory and in particular unswitched memory B cells at disease onset, which were predictive of a higher risk of relapse in steroid-sensitive patients by logistic regression analysis, irrespective of age. In accordance, B-cell dysregulations resulted mainly associated with steroid-dependence when patients were stratified in different disease severity forms. Of note, Treg levels were reduced independently from the disease subgroup and were not completely normalized by prednisone treatment.

Conclusion

We have set up a novel, reproducible, disease-specific flow cytometry panel that allows a comprehensive characterization of circulating lymphocytes. We found that, at disease onset, relapsing patients had significantly more transitional, CD19+CD27+ memory and unswitched memory B cells and those who are at higher risk of relapse had increased circulating levels of unswitched memory B cells, independently of age. This approach can allow prediction of clinical evolution, monitoring of immunosuppression and tailored treatment in different forms of INS.
Resource diversity mitigates the effects of intraspecific competition in co-occurring cryptic nematode species
Authors: Guden Rodgee Mae , Derycke Sofie , Moens Tom
Published: April 2024

Intraspecific competition and resource diversity are considered major drivers of niche differentiation, which are expected to promote population niche expansion by driving individuals to feed on alternative resources and/or by enhancing individual diet specialization. Nevertheless, experimental studies on the interaction effects of both factors on animal behavior and population dynamics remain scant. Here, we investigate how resource diversity alters the impact of intraspecific competition on resource preference and fitness of three co-occurring cryptic species of the marine nematode complex Litoditis marina (Pm I, Pm III and Pm IV). For each cryptic species, two competition regimes (‘low nematode density’ and ‘high nematode density’) were established in microcosms with varying resource diversity (E. coli, low-, medium- and high-diversity food). Our results show differences in resource preference and population fitness depending on intraspecific competition and resource diversity, but the response also varied considerably between cryptic species. Pm III did not exhibit resource preference under low intraspecific competition, but preferred the two most diverse food sources under high intraspecific competition. Pm IV also showed preference for medium-diversity food under high competition, whereas no resource preference was observed in Pm I regardless of competition regimes and resource diversity. Nevertheless, all cryptic species exhibited enhanced adult population growth on a more diverse food source under stronger intraspecific competition. These results indicate that resource diversity can alleviate intraspecific competition and affect niche diversification, which may impact diversity maintenance in ecological communities.
The influence of gear load distribution based on coupled systems on gearbox meshing noise
Authors: Zhang Lundun , Wan Teng , Zhang Chunyou
Published: April 2024

Introduction: With the rapid development of the gearbox manufacturing industry, the internal gear response has received attention, and the control of meshing noise during gear operation has been studied. Conventional noise reduction methods are usually based on gear order, and with the improvement of gearbox manufacturing technology, this method gradually becomes difficult to cope with a wide range of data.

Methods: To expand the search domain of noise control systems, this study combines gear response and gear order, and adds the condition of gear uniform load. For common noise reduction problems in composite systems, this study improves the time-varying stiffness excitation mechanism and generates a coupled system.

Results: Finally, this study conducts experiments on the Gmnoi dataset and compares it with three systems including quantum genetics to verify the superiority of the proposed system. The suppression effects of the four systems on gear meshing noise were 98.4%, 95.8%, 93.5%, and 92.7%, respectively. Their highest performance for different gear groups was 623, 514, 406, and 423, respectively.

Discussion: The experimental results showed that the proposed coupling system has strong robustness and high accuracy in controlling gearbox meshing noise, and is of great significance in reducing noise pollution and improving the working environment of the gearbox.
Scenario-based assessment of fecal pathogen sources affecting bathing water quality: novel treatment options to reduce norovirus and Campylobacter infection risks
Authors: Rytkönen Annastiina , Meriläinen Päivi , Valkama Kristiina , Hokajärvi Anna-Maria , Ruponen Josefiina , Nummela Jarkko , Mattila Harri , Tulonen Tiina , Kivistö Rauni , Pitkänen Tarja
Published: April 2024

Wastewater discharge and runoff waters are significant sources of human and animal fecal microbes in surface waters. Human-derived fecal contamination of water is generally estimated to pose a greater risk to human health than animal fecal contamination, but animals may serve as reservoirs of zoonotic pathogens. In this study, quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) tools were used to evaluate the hygienic impact of sewage effluents and runoff water from municipalities and animal farms on surface and bathing waters. The human-specific microbial source tracking (MST) marker HF183 was used to evaluate the dilution of fecal pathogens originating from the sewage effluent discharge to the downstream watershed. As novel risk management options, the efficiency of UV-LED disinfection and wetland treatment as well as biochar filtration was tested on-site for the contamination sources. According to the dilution pattern of the MST marker HF183, microbes from wastewater were diluted (2.3–3.7 log10) in the receiving waters. The scenario-based QMRA revealed, that the health risks posed by exposure to human-specific norovirus GII and zoonotic Campylobacter jejuni during the bathing events were evaluated. The risk for gastroenteritis was found to be elevated during wastewater contamination events, where especially norovirus GII infection risk increased (1–15 cases per day among 50 bathers) compared with the business as usual (BAU) situation (1 case per day). The noted C. jejuni infection risk was associated with animal farm contamination (1 case per day, versus 0.2–0.6 cases during BAU). Tertiary treatment of wastewater with wetland treatment and UV-LED disinfection effectively reduced the waterborne gastroenteritis risks associated with bathing. Based on the experiences from this study, a QMRA-based approach for health risk evaluations at bathing sites can be useful and is recommended for bathing site risk assessments in the future. In case of low pathogen numbers at the exposure sites, the MST marker HF183 could be used as a pathogen dilution coefficient for the watershed under evaluation. The full-scale implementation of novel tertiary treatment options at wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) as well as on-site runoff water treatment options should be considered for infection risk management at locations where scenario-based QMRA implies elevated infection risks.
Optimization of the fermentation process and antioxidant activity of mixed lactic acid bacteria for honeysuckle beverage
Authors: Ran Junjian , Tang Yuhan , Mao Weize , Meng Xia , Jiao Lingxia , Li Yongchao , Zhao Ruixiang , Zhou Haoyu
Published: April 2024

The aim of the research was to obtain a high healthcare honeysuckle beverage with strong antioxidant activity. Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica Thunb) was used as the raw material in this experiment. The effects of fermentation temperature, fermentation time, lactic acid bacteria inoculation amount, and sugar addition amount on the sensory quality of honeysuckle beverage were investigated by single factor test and orthogonal test, and the best process was obtained. The physicochemical indexes and antioxidant activity of honeysuckle beverages fermented with lactic acid bacteria were studied. The results showed that the fermentation temperature of the beverage was 37 °C, the fermentation time was 24 h, the inoculation amount of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus acidophilus mixed starter (1:1) was 3%, and 8% white granulated sugar was added. The highest sensory score was 87.30 ± 0.17, which was the optimal process. The honeysuckle liquid mixed inoculation with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus acidophilus was fermented for 24 h. The number of viable bacteria reached 9.84 ± 0.02 lg cfu/mL, the pH value was 3.10 ± 0.01, and the total polyphenol content was 7.53 ± 0.03 mg GAE/g. The number of lactic acid bacteria, pH, total polyphenol content, and free radical scavenging rate were significantly increased (p < 0.05) compared with the non-inoculated and single-inoculated lactic acid bacteria. To sum up, it was concluded that a better quality beverage could be obtained by fermenting a solution of honeysuckle with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus acidophilus mixed fermentation agent, providing a new approach and new ideas for the development of deep processing and fermented beverages using honeysuckle.
Therapeutic singing-induced swallowing exercise for dysphagia in advanced-stage Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Yeo Myung Sun , Hwang Jihye , Lee Hye Kyoung , Kim Soo Ji , Cho Sung-Rae
Published: April 2024

Background

With longer life spans and medical advancements, the rising number of patients with advanced-stage Parkinson’s disease (PD) warrants attention. Current literature predominantly addresses dementia and fall management in these patients. However, exploring the impact of swallowing function on patients with advanced PD is crucial. Previous research has demonstrated notable enhancements in the quality of life related to voice for participants following a group singing-intervention program. To further elucidate the effect of individual singing-induced swallowing exercises, our study aimed to investigate the quantitative and qualitative effects of therapeutic singing on swallowing function in patients with advanced PD in comparison to a matched usual care control group. The hypothesis of this study is that therapeutic singing-induced swallowing exercises can assist to maintain swallowing function in patients with advanced PD.

Methods

This prospective matched control study compared the effects of a 6-week therapeutic singing-based swallowing intervention on swallowing function and quality of life in patients with advanced PD. The intervention group received individual sessions with a music therapist and conventional individual physical therapy. The control group received the same standard physical therapy for 6 weeks without music intervention. The primary outcome measure was Video Fluoroscopic Dysphagia Scale (VDS).

Results

The study revealed that the intervention group maintained swallowing function, whereas the control group experienced deterioration, indicating significant time-dependent changes in Penetration-Aspiration Scale (PAS), National Institutes of Health-Swallowing Safety Scale (NIH-SSS), and VDS. Analysis of PAS and NIH-SSS liquid food scores in both groups showed significant time effects. However, the intervention group exhibited no significant differences between the pre- and post-tests, indicating preservation of the swallowing function. VDS of liquid food indicated an interaction effect between time and group in the pharyngeal phase and total scores. The Swallowing-Quality of Life showed significant time-effect improvement in the intervention group.

Conclusion

Therapeutic singing exercises may help maintain swallowing function in advanced PD patients, potentially enhancing quality of life related to swallowing in those with advanced-stage diseases.

Clinical trial registration

https://cris.nih.go.kr/cris/search/listDetail.do, identifier KCT0008644.
The stratified effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in upper limb motor impairment recovery after stroke: a meta-analysis
Authors: Li Ran , Liu Sihan , Li Tianyuan , Yang Kun , Wang Xue , Wang Wenjiao
Published: April 2024

Background

The recovery of upper extremity motor impairment after stroke remains a challenging task. The clinical effectiveness of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), which is believed to aid in the recovery process, is still uncertain.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted in Medline (Ovid), Cochrane and Embase electronic databases from March 28, 2014, to March 28, 2023. The inclusion criteria consisted of randomized controlled trials that assessed the effects of rTMS on the recovery of upper limb motor impairment among stroke patients. Various measurements, including the Fugl Meyer Assessment Upper Extremity Scale (FMA-UE), Brunnstrom recovery stage, Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), and Barthel index, were evaluated both before and after the intervention.

Results

Nineteen articles with 865 patients were included. When considering only the rTMS parameters, both inhibitory and excitatory rTMS improved FMA-UE (MD = 1.87, 95% CI = [0.88]–[2.86], p < 0.001) and Barthel index (MD = 9.73, 95% CI = [4.57]–[14.89], p < 0.001). When considering only the severity of upper limb hemiplegia, both less severe (MD = 1.56, 95% CI = [0.64]–[2.49], p < 0.001) and severe (MD = 2.05, 95% CI = [1.09]–[3.00], p < 0.001) hemiplegia benefited from rTMS based on FMA-UE. However, when considering the rTMS parameters, severity of hemiplegia and stroke stages simultaneously, inhibitory rTMS was found to be significantly effective for less severe hemiplegia in the acute and subacute phases (MD = 4.55, 95% CI = [2.49]–[6.60], p < 0.001), but not in the chronic phase based on FMA-UE. For severe hemiplegia, inhibitory rTMS was not significantly effective in the acute and subacute phases, but significantly effective in the chronic phase (MD = 2.10, 95% CI = [0.75]–[3.45], p = 0.002) based on FMA-UE. Excitatory rTMS was found to be significantly effective for less severe hemiplegia in the acute and subacute phases (MD = 1.93, 95% CI = [0.58]–[3.28], p = 0.005) based on FMA-UE. The improvements in Brunnstrom recovery stage and ARAT need further research.

Conclusion

The effectiveness of rTMS depends on its parameters, severity of hemiplegia, and stroke stages. It is important to consider all these factors together, as any single grouping method is incomplete.
Clinical significance of miR-9-5p in NSCLC and its relationship with smoking
Authors: Zhang Tian-Xiang , Duan Xin-Chun , Cui Yong , Zhang Ye , Gu Meng , Wang Zi-Yu , Li Wei-Ying
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Dysregulated expression of microRNA (miRNAs) in lung cancer has been wildly reported. The clinicopathologic significance of miR-9-5p in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients and its effect on NSCLC progression were explored in this study.

Patients and methods

A total of 76 NSCLC patients were included. miR-9-5p expression was evaluated by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Then, in vitro experiments including cell growth curve assays, colony formation assays, and transwell migration assays were performed. Further clinicopathological and prognostic values were explored using bioinformatics analysis of the TCGA database.

Results

miR-9-5p expression was significantly increased in tumor tissues (both P < 0.0001). miR-9-5p expression was relatively higher in larger tumors (P = 0.0327) and in lung squamous carcinoma (LUSC) (P = 0. 0143). In addition, miR-9-5p was significantly upregulated in the normal lung tissues of cigarette smokers (P = 0.0099). In vitro, miR-9-5p was correlated with cell proliferation and migration. After that, bioinformatics analysis of the TCGA database indicated that miR-9-5p was correlated with tumor size (P = 0.0022), lymphatic metastasis (P = 0.0141), LUSC (P < 0.0001), and smoking history (P < 0.0001). Finally, a prognostic study indicated high miR-9-5p expression was correlated with poor prognosis in LUAD (P = 0.0121).

Conclusion

Upregulation of miR-9-5p may have an oncogenic effect in NSCLC and may be related to smoking. The conclusion of this study may help find new prognostic and therapeutic targets for NSCLC and the exploration of the relationship between smoking and lung cancer.
Anemia in patients receiving anticancer treatments: focus on novel therapeutic approaches
Authors: Bozzini Claudia , Busti Fabiana , Marchi Giacomo , Vianello Alice , Cerchione Claudio , Martinelli Giovanni , Girelli Domenico
Published: April 2024

Anemia is common in cancer patients and impacts on quality of life and prognosis. It is typically multifactorial, often involving different pathophysiological mechanisms, making treatment a difficult task. In patients undergoing active anticancer treatments like chemotherapy, decreased red blood cell (RBC) production due to myelosuppression generally predominates, but absolute or functional iron deficiency frequently coexists. Current treatments for chemotherapy-related anemia include blood transfusions, erythropoiesis-stimulating agents, and iron supplementation. Each option has limitations, and there is an urgent need for novel approaches. After decades of relative immobilism, several promising anti-anemic drugs are now entering the clinical scenario. Emerging novel classes of anti-anemic drugs recently introduced or in development for other types of anemia include activin receptor ligand traps, hypoxia-inducible factor-prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors, and hepcidin antagonists. Here, we discuss their possible role in the treatment of anemia observed in patients receiving anticancer therapies.
A novel termination site in a case of Stüve–Wiedemann syndrome: case report and review of literature
Authors: Bhalla Deepali , Sati Sunil , Basel Donald , Karody Vijender
Published: April 2024

Stüve–Wiedemann syndrome (SWS) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder that is characterized by bowing of long bones, dysautonomia, temperature dysregulation, swallowing and feeding difficulties, and frequent respiratory infections. Respiratory distress and hyperthermic events are the leading causes of early neonatal death, and most patients are not expected to survive past infancy. Here, we report on the survival of a 5-year-old male with SWS, discussing his case presentation, providing a brief clinical course, and discussing the outcome. This case adds to the literature surrounding rare instances of childhood survivors of SWS and raises awareness for this syndrome to facilitate an earlier recognition, intervention, and genetic counseling for the families, thereby improving understanding of this disease and the health outcomes for the children affected by this condition.
Pharmacokinetics of desflurane uptake and disposition in piglets
Authors: Lu Chih-Cherng , Ho Shung-Tai , Hu Oliver Yao-Pu , Hsiong Cheng-Huei , Cheng Yuan-Chen , Hsu Che-Hao , Lin Tso-Chou
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

Many respiratory but few arterial blood pharmacokinetics of desflurane uptake and disposition have been investigated. We explored the pharmacokinetic parameters in piglets by comparing inspiratory, end-tidal, arterial blood, and mixed venous blood concentrations of desflurane.

Methods:

Seven piglets were administered inspiratory 6% desflurane by inhalation over 2 h, followed by a 2-h disposition phase. Inspiratory and end-tidal concentrations were detected using an infrared analyzer. Femoral arterial blood and pulmonary artery mixed venous blood were sampled to determine desflurane concentrations by gas chromatography at 1, 3, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 80, 100, and 120 min during each uptake and disposition phase. Respiratory and hemodynamic parameters were measured simultaneously. Body uptake and disposition rates were calculated by multiplying the difference between the arterial and pulmonary artery blood concentrations by the cardiac output.

Results:

The rates of desflurane body uptake increased considerably in the initial 5 min (79.8 ml.min−1) and then declined slowly until 120 min (27.0 ml.min−1). Similar characteristics of washout were noted during the subsequent disposition phase. Concentration–time curves of end-tidal, arterial, and pulmonary artery blood concentrations fitted well to zero-order input and first-order disposition kinetics. Arterial and pulmonary artery blood concentrations were best fitted using a two-compartment model. After 2 h, only 21.9% of the desflurane administered had been eliminated from the body.

Conclusion:

Under a fixed inspiratory concentration, desflurane body uptake in piglets corresponded to constant zero-order infusion, and the 2-h disposition pattern followed first-order kinetics and best fitted to a two-compartment model.
Effect of Cymbopogon martini (Roxb.) Will.Watson essential oil on antioxidant activity, immune and intestinal barrier-related function, and gut microbiota in pigeons infected by Candida albicans
Authors: Huang Ting , Zhang Zheng-Yue , Qiu Zhi-Lin , Li Lin , Liu Xian-Xi , Wang Lei , Wang Zi-Ying , Li Zhi-Peng , Xiao Geng-Sheng , Wang Wei
Published: April 2024

Essential oils are potential alternatives to antibiotics for preventing Candida albicans (C. albicans) infection which is responsible for economic losses in the pigeon industry. Cymbopogon martini essential oil (EO) can inhibit pathogens, particularly fungal pathogens but its potential beneficial effects on C. albicans-infected pigeons remain unclear. Therefore, we investigated the impact of C. martini EO on antioxidant activity, immune response, intestinal barrier function, and intestinal microbiota in C. albicans-infected pigeons. The pigeons were divided into four groups as follows: (1) NC group: C. albicans uninfected/C. martini EO untreated group; (2) PC group: C. albicans infected/C. martini EO untreated group; (3) LPA group: C. albicans infected/1% C. martini EO treated group; and (4) HPA group: C. albicans infected/2% C. martini EO treated group. The pigeons were infected with C. albicans from day of age 35 to 41 and treated with C. martini EO from day of age 42 to 44, with samples collected on day of age 45 for analysis. The results demonstrated that C. martini EO prevented the reduction in the antioxidant enzymes SOD and GSH-Px causes by C. albicans challenge in pigeons. Furthermore, C. martini EO could decrease the relative expression of IL-1β, TGF-β, and IL-8 in the ileum, as well as IL-1β and IL-8 in the crop, while increasing the relative expression of Claudin-1 in the ileum and the crop and Occludin in the ileum in infected pigeons. Although the gut microbiota composition was not significantly affected by C. martini EO, 2% C. martini EO increased the abundance of Alistipes and Pedobacter. In conclusion, the application of 2% C. martini EO not only enhanced the level of antioxidant activity and the expression of genes related to intestinal barrier function but also inhibited inflammatory genes in C. albicans-infected pigeons and increased the abundance of gut bacteria that are resistant to C. albicans.
Activating values intervention: an integrative pathway to well-being
Authors: Russo-Netzer Pninit , Atad Ofer Israel
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The present study expands the existing knowledge base regarding positive psychology interventions (PPIs), by employing an integrative approach to explore the potential benefits of translating values into action.

Methods

Participants (n = 476) were randomly assigned to the Activating Values intervention, the affirmation-only, or the control (no treatment) group. The intervention involved participants choosing a life area they valued, affirming its importance, identifying a specific action related to that valued area, and then planning and carrying out that chosen action within the following week. Data was collected at baseline and three follow-up points: one, two, and three weeks after the intervention.

Results

Results suggest that the intervention contributes to the participants’ well-being, including increased self-insight, sense of coherence, and prioritizing meaning, and decreased symptoms of psychopathology. Exploratory content analyses provide a deeper understanding of the content and frequency of activities chosen and the enabling conditions.

Discussion

The discussion explores the findings within this intersection as well as ramifications for brief, scalable interventions to support and promote well-being.
Trait-anxiety, depressive symptoms, family support and life satisfaction as determinants conditioning the degree of adherence of people in pre-older adults and older adults
Authors: Głowacka Mariola , Polak-Szabela Anna , Sienkiewicz Zofia , Kornatowski Maciej
Published: April 2024

The objective of the study was to determine the degree of adherence to pharmacological treatment in people in pre-older adults and older adults age groups and to analyse the correlation between selected sociodemographic parameters, severity of anxiety as a trait, symptoms of depression, a sense of family support and satisfaction with life, and adherence in people over 55 years of age. The study was conducted in a group of 2,040 people (1,406 women, 634 men) aged 55 to 100 (the average age was 65.4). The following sociodemographic variables were analysed: age, gender, education. The following scales were used: State–Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS) and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS). The Adherence in Chronic Diseases Scale (ACDS) was used to test adherence, understood as the implementation of the therapeutic plan. The results obtained in the ACDS ranged from 6 to 28 points; the median was 24 points (21–28). The multiple coefficients of determination (multiple R2 = 0.11; p < 0.001) indicated an explanation of approximately 11% of the value of the ACDS dependent variable. The total correlation of all variables (multiple R) with the ACDS general variable in the mean correlation was 0.33. Independent factors affecting adherence assessed in the ACDS were: severity of anxiety as a trait (p = −0.21 ± 0.03; p < 0.001), family support (p = 0.10 ± 0.04; p = 0.029), severity of depression symptoms (p = −0.08 ± 0.03; p = 0.005), age of respondents (p = 0.07 ± 0.02; p = 0.003) and satisfaction with life (p = 0.06 ± 0 0.03; p = 0.027). Severity of anxiety as a trait, age, severity of depressive symptoms, a sense of satisfaction with life and family support are important factors affecting adherence.
Impact of acute and chronic exposure to sulfamethoxazole on the kinetics and microbial structure of an activated sludge community
Authors: Pala-Ozkok Ilke , Katipoglu-Yazan Tugce , Olmez-Hanci Tugba , Jonas Daniel , Ubay-Cokgor Emine , Orhon Derin
Published: April 2024

The aim of this study was to reveal the microbial and kinetic impacts of acute and chronic exposure to one of the frequently administered antibiotics, i.e., sulfamethoxazole, on an activated sludge biomass. Respirometric analysis and model evaluation of the oxygen utilization rate profiles were the backbone of this study. The results showed that continuous exposure to sulfamethoxazole resulted in the inhibition of substrate storage and an increase in the endogenous decay rates by twofold, which was supported by analysis of the resistance genes. A mild inhibition on the growth and hydrolysis kinetics was also observed. Moreover, sulfamethoxazole had a binding impact with available organic carbon, resulting in a slightly less oxygen consumption. DNA sequencing and antibiotic resistance gene analyses showed that continuous exposure to sulfamethoxazole caused a change in the community structure at the species level. Resistant bacteria including Arthrobacter sp. and members of the Chitinophagaceae and Intrasporangiaceae families were found to have dominated the bacterial community. The impact of intermittent exposure was also investigated, and the results indicated a drop in the severity of the impact after 20 days of intermittence.
A study on the metallicity gradients in the galactic disk using open clusters
Authors: Joshi Yogesh Chandra , Deepak  , Malhotra Sagar
Published: April 2024

We study the metallicity distribution and evolution in the galactic disk based on the largest sample of open star clusters in the galaxy. From the catalog of 1,879 open clusters in the range of galactocentric distance (RGC) from 4 to 20 kpc, we investigate the variation in metallicity in the galactic disk as functions of RGC, vertical distance (Z), and ages of the clusters. In the direction perpendicular to the galactic plane, the variation in metallicity is found to follow a stepped linear relation. We estimate a vertical metallicity gradient d[Fe/H]d|Z| of −0.545 ± 0.046 dex kpc−1 for |Z| < 0.487 kpc and −0.075 ± 0.093 dex kpc−1 for 0.487 < |Z| < 1.8 kpc. On average, metallicity variations above and below the galactic plane are found to change at similar rates. The change in metallicity in the radial direction is also found to follow a two-function linear relation. We obtain a radial metallicity gradient d[Fe/H]dRGC of −0.070 ± 0.002 dex kpc−1 for 4.0 ≲ RGC ≲ 12.8 kpc and −0.005 ± 0.018 dex kpc−1 for 12.8 ≲ RGC ≲ 20.5 kpc, which clearly shows a strong variation in the metallicity gradient when moving from the inner to the outer galactic disk. The age–metallicity relation (AMR) is found to follow a steeper negative slope of −0.031 ± 0.006 dex Gyr−1 for clusters older than 240 Myr; however, there is some hint of positive metallicity age gradient for younger clusters.
A New Algorithm for Detecting GPN Protein Expression and Overexpression of IDC and ILC Her2+ Subtypes on Polyacrylamide Gels Associated with Breast Cancer
Authors: Juarez-Lucero Jorge , Guevara-Villa Maria , Sanchez-Sanchez Anabel , Diaz-Hernandez Raquel , Altamirano-Robles Leopoldo
Published: April 2024

Sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) is used to identify protein presence, absence, or overexpression and usually, their interpretation is visual. Some published methods can localize the position of proteins using image analysis on images of SDS-PAGE gels. However, they cannot automatically determine a particular protein band’s concentration or molecular weight. In this article, a new methodology to identify the number of samples present in an SDS-PAGE gel and the molecular weight of the recombinant protein is developed. SDS-PAGE images of different concentrations of pure GPN protein were created to produce homogeneous gels. Then, these images were analyzed using the developed methodology called Image Profile Based on Binarized Image Segmentation (IPBBIS). It is based on detecting the maximum intensity values of the analyzed bands and produces the segmentation of images filtered by a binary mask. The IPBBIS was developed to identify the number of samples in an SDS-PAGE gel and the molecular weight of the recombinant protein of interest, with a margin of error of 3.35%. An accuracy of 0.9850521 was achieved for homogeneous gels and 0.91736 for heterogeneous gels of low quality.
Exploring the Impact of Copper Oxide Substitution on Structure, Morphology, Bioactivity, and Electrical Properties of 45S5 Bioglass®
Authors: Hammami Imen , Graça Manuel Pedro Fernandes , Gavinho Sílvia Rodrigues , Jakka Suresh Kumar , Borges João Paulo , Silva Jorge Carvalho , Costa Luís Cadillon
Published: April 2024

In recent decades, the requirements for implantable medical devices have increased, but the risks of implant rejection still exist. These issues are primarily associated with poor osseointegration, leading to biofilm formation on the implant surface. This study focuses on addressing these issues by developing a biomaterial for implant coatings. 45S5 bioglass® has been widely used in tissue engineering due to its ability to form a hydroxyapatite layer, ensuring a strong bond between the hard tissue and the bioglass. In this context, 45S5 bioglasses®, modified by the incorporation of different amounts of copper oxide, from 0 to 8 mol%, were synthesized by the melt–quenching technique. The incorporation of Cu ions did not show a significant change in the glass structure. Since the bioglass exhibited the capacity for being polarized, thereby promoting the osseointegration effectiveness, the electrical properties of the prepared samples were studied using the impedance spectroscopy method, in the frequency range of 102–106 Hz and temperature range of 200–400 K. The effects of CuO on charge transport mobility were investigated. Additionally, the bioactivity of the modified bioglasses was evaluated through immersion tests in simulated body fluid. The results revealed the initiation of a Ca–P-rich layer formation on the surface within 24 h, indicating the potential of the bioglasses to enhance the bone regeneration process.
Emotional Regulation Mechanisms of University Students in Group Work Situations
Authors: Vega-Ramírez Lilyan , Reyno-Freundt Alda , Hederich-Martínez Christian , Ávalos-Ramos Mª Alejandra
Published: April 2024

Universities are active agents of social change through knowledge, providing citizens with the necessary abilities to face professional challenges. This work aims to evaluate and analyse the adaptation of emotional regulation in learning situations of group work in virtual and hybrid (virtual and presential) environments, of a group of students of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences belonging to a Chilean university and a Spanish university. Method: A total of 107 students from a Chilean university and a Spanish university, all of them enrolled in the degree in Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, participated in the study. The instrument used was the Adaptative Instrument for Regulation of Emotions questionnaire. Results: The analysis of the data shows that there are some significant differences (p ≤ 0.05), between the groups of students who worked virtually and those who worked in hybrid situations, in the aspects related to personal motivations (learn from my classmates, not to disappoint my working group, and enjoying the experience of working in a group). The students who worked online resolved conflicts mainly through individual regulation mechanisms with significant differences in relation to the students who worked in hybrid mode. No significant differences were found in the socioemotional challenges or in the balance of the metacognitive experience. Conclusion: The group that worked in hybrid learning valued group purposes over personal purposes and used the social regulation mechanism over individual regulation in conflict resolution. On the other hand, the group that worked virtually valued group and personal purposes equally and used the mechanism of individual regulation and social regulation to solve difficulties. Differences between students who worked in virtual and hybrid environments may be due to greater social interaction and group dynamics in hybrid environments, as well as differences in culture and access to resources and technology.
Comparative Analysis and Design Optimization of Ferrite-Based Surface PM Vernier Machines
Authors: Jang Gwan-Hui , Rehman Abdur , Choi Gilsu
Published: April 2024

This paper presents the results of a comprehensive investigation into the comparative analysis and design optimization of ferrite-based surface permanent magnet vernier machines (SPMVMs). While SPMVMs boast a simple mechanical structure and enhanced torque density attributed to the flux modulation effect, they suffer from a persistent challenge of low power factor. Several factors hinder the adoption of low-cost ferrite magnets in SPMVMs. First, ferrite magnets are prone to irreversible demagnetization, constraining the allowable range of magnet thickness. Second, the reduced residual magnetic flux density of ferrite magnets exacerbates the decrease in power factor and machine efficiency. Thus, achieving optimal performance in ferrite-based SPMVMs necessitates the careful selection of various design parameters. To address these issues, this study employs a surrogate-based metaheuristic optimization algorithm with adaptive sampling to identify the optimal solution. Additionally, the integration of a Halbach array is explored to further enhance the performance of the three-slot/two-pole SPMVM topology. Subsequently, two ferrite-based SPMVM baseline models—one with a conventional SPM structure and another with a Halbach magnet array—are thoroughly designed, optimized, and subjected to detailed performance analysis using the 2D finite element method.