bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TEST SECTIONS OF NOISELESS CEMENT CONCRETE PAVEMENTS
Authors: Caestecker Chris
Published: January 2025

In the quest to enhance road infrastructure with noise reduction and sustainability in focus, the Flemish Brabant Roads Division in Belgium initiated an innovative project on the N255 "Edingen-Ninove" road. This initiative involved the renewal of a 3 km stretch near Herne and Galmaarden, leveraging the opportunity to compare noiseless cement concrete pavements with traditional noiseless bituminous pavements. Collaborating with notable research institutions and leveraging advancements in concrete mixture compositions and construction techniques, the project aimed to evaluate acoustic performance, constructional aspects, and financial implications of four distinct types of pavement surfaces: porous asphalt, stone mastic asphalt, fine concrete, and porous concrete, each layered over a continuously reinforced cement concrete base.
The study meticulously analyzed each pavement type's acoustic characteristics, road constructional aspects, and financial considerations. Initial findings revealed promising noise reduction capabilities, especially with fine concrete pavements, showcasing their potential as a viable alternative to bituminous options. The research underscored the complexity of optimizing pavement surfaces for noise reduction, highlighting significant variables like texture, levelness, and material porosity. While acknowledging the preliminary nature of these results, the initiative marks a significant step towards sustainable and community-friendly road construction practices, offering valuable insights into the balance between environmental considerations and infrastructure development. (Abstract generated by AI tool ChatGPT 4)
ULTRATHIN PAVEMENTS MAKING THE GRADE
Authors: Cable James K. , Grove James D. , Heyer Melinda
Published: January 2025

In 1994, the Iowa Department of Transportation (Iowa DOT), Federal Highway Administration and Iowa State University joined forces to construct an 11.6 km ultrathin portland cement concrete overlay research project. This marked the beginning of the use of thin whitetopping for rehabilitation of existing asphalt roadways on primary highways in Iowa. The research was designed to evaluate long term performance of ultrathin whitetopping. Four major variables were chosen for evaluation and 41 test sections, each 213 min length, were constructed. Some 24 additional sections were used to transition from one set of parameters to the next. Research efforts over the last two years have consisted of visual distress surveys conducted on a quarterly basis and measurement of overlay interface strains measured three times per year at some 35 sites on the project. This paper provides insight into the changes in condition of the test sections which have occurred since construction over two years ago. The overall performance to date has been very good. Isolated areas of distress have been noted and are beginning to provide some trends in the data.
HUBUNGAN INOVASI PEMERINTAHAN TERHADAP RESTRUKTURISASI PEMERINTAHAN DI INDONESIA
Authors: Setiawan Irfan , Arti Neova Derenov Budhi
Published: January 2025

Globalisasi telah menjadi pendorong utama inovasi di sektor pemerintahan Indonesia, terutama dalam digitalisasi pelayanan publik, restrukturisasi kelembagaan, dan implementasi kebijakan berbasis teknologi. Artikel ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji hubungan Inovasi pemerintahan terhadap restrukturisasi pemerintahan di Indonesia, dengan fokus pada penerapan teknologi digital, pengelolaan anggaran publik, dan peningkatan kapasitas sumber daya manusia (SDM). Penelitian ini menggunakan analisis kualitatif dengan metode penelitian deskriptif. terkait kondisi inovasi pemerintahan dan restrukturisasi kelembagaan di Indonesia dengn menggambarkan dengan tepat sifat gejala atau tanda perkembangan selanjutnya dalam hubungan antara obyek penelitian dengan fenomena sosial lainnya dengan menggunakan data-data online inovasi dan kelembagaan di Inonesia. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa Pemerintah Indonesia telah melakukan berbagai upaya seperti pengembangan e-government, e-budgeting, dan program Smart City untuk memperbaiki transparansi, efisiensi, dan efektivitas pelayanan publik. Reformasi birokrasi juga berperan penting dalam mendorong inovasi, terutama melalui restrukturisasi kelembagaan yang memungkinkan adaptasi terhadap kebutuhan lokal dan tuntutan global. Namun, tantangan utama dalam implementasi inovasi ini termasuk ketimpangan akses teknologi antara daerah maju dan tertinggal, khususnya di wilayah timur Indonesia, serta kesenjangan kompetensi SDM. Novelty artikel ini menekankan pentingnya kolaborasi lintas sektor, baik di tingkat pusat maupun daerah, untuk memastikan keberhasilan inovasi dalam pemerintahan. Dukungan kebijakan, investasi infrastruktur, serta pengembangan SDM di wilayah tertinggal sangat dibutuhkan agar inovasi dapat mendorong pertumbuhan ekonomi yang inklusif dan merata di seluruh Indonesia.
Studi Living Qur’an: Tradisi Semaan Al-Qur’an dan Dzikrul Ghafilin Jumat Kliwon pada Majelis Moloekatan Gus Miek di Desa Banjarsari, Bandarkedungmulyo, Jombang
Authors: Riza Nur laili  , M. Fajrul Munawir
Published: January 2025

This research was conducted based This research was conducted based on the author's interest in the phenomenon of semaan al-Qur'an and dzikrul ghafilin Friday kliwon at Gus Miek's moloekatan assembly, in Banjarsari Village, Bandarkedungmulyo, Jombang. The activities that have been carried out in recent years, appear to bring changes to the people of Banjarsari Village in particular, both in terms of economy, health, and religiously the community tends to increase. This research aims to find out how the implementation process and the meaning in accordance with the expression of the congregation in this tradition. This research uses emic ethnography method through Living Qur'an research with qualitative research type, the author also uses sociology of knowledge theory offered by Karl Mannheim. Data collection techniques, namely going directly to the field to make observations, interviews, and documentation. The results of this study are divided into two: First, it is held after the Fajr congregation until it is completed at night. The Qur'an is recited by the huffadz and listened to by the amaah. After khatam, continue mauidzoh hasanah by religious leaders, practice dzikrul ghafilin led by Gus thuba (Gus Miek's grandson), and closing prayer. Second, there are three meanings of tradition: objective meaning, improving friendship, the quality of worship, honoring the Prophet Muhammad saw, and the struggle of the leader of the village. Expressive meaning, seeking tranquility, filling leisure time, obtaining blessings. Documentary meaning, creating harmony, helping the seller's economy, also forming physical and spiritual health in each person.
Epidemiologi Demam Berdarah Dengue di Kota Palu Tahun 2019 – 2023
Authors: Christine Christine , Fitri Geyzka Syalwa Gema , Mustafa Mustafa
Published: January 2025

Latar Belakang: Demam Berdarah Dengue (DBD) adalah penyakit menular yang disebabkan oleh parasite virus dengue dan ditularkan oleh nyamuk Aedes aegypti. Kasus DBD di Kota Palu tahun 2019 – 2023 mengalami fluktuasi tiap tahunnya. Tujuan: Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan epidemiologi penyakit DBD berdasarkan karakteristik penderita (jenis kelamin dan umur), waktu dan tempat. Metode: Penelitian ini adalah penelitian deskriptif yang menggunakan Sistem Informasi Geografis (SIG) yang berbasis data sekunder. Populasi dan sampel yaitu seluruh penderita Demam Berdarah Dengue (DBD) Kota Palu dari tahun 2019 s,d 2023. Hasil: Jumlah kasus DBD tahun 2019 terdapat 604 kasus, tahun 2020 turun menjadi 309 kasus, tahun 2021 turun sejumlah 305 kasus, tahun 2022 meningkat 2 kali lipat menjadi 641 kasus, tahun 2023 cenderung menurun menjadi 541 kasus. Kasus tertinggi pada jenis kelamin laki-laki (1.328 orang) dan golongan umur orang dewasa 19 – 59 tahun (803 orang). Berdasarkan waktu tahun 2019 – 2023 puncak tertinggi kasus DBD pada Bulan Februari 2019 (114 orang), kemudian Maret 2019 – Agustus 2022 menurun dan meningkat lagi bulan September 2022 (94 orang). Tempat kejadian DBD tertinggi ada di Kecamatan Palu Selatan (657 orang). Kesimpulan: Upaya tindakan pencegahan dan masyarakat menerapkan membersihkan lingkungan dalam rumah maupun diluar rumah, serta menghindari tempat-tempat penampungan air dengan tindakan 3M Plus perlu ditingkatkan untuk mengurangi Tingkat perkembangbiakan nyamuk Aedes aegypti.
Comparative study regarding the stability of a proximal ulnar stump with or without distal oblique bundle reconstruction during the Sauvé‒Kapandji procedure: a finite-element analysis
Authors: Yin Shanqing , Zhang Chenxi , Huang Yaopeng , Pan Jiadong , Wang Xin , Liu Xiaodong
Published: January 2025

Background

The most common postoperative complication of the Sauvé‒Kapandji (S-K) procedure is proximal ulnar stump instability. The distal oblique bundle (DOB) is a stable tissue used to stabilize the distal radioulnar joint. This study created finite-element models of the distal oblique bundle (DOB) to determine its effect on the proximal ulnar stump instability encountered during the Sauvé‒Kapandji procedure.

Purpose

We hypothesized that a proximal ulnar stump with distal oblique bundle reconstruction would provide greater stability than a proximal ulnar stump without distal oblique bundle reconstruction.

Methods

Detailed CT imaging data acquired from a pathological specimen of the wrist joint were imported into a finite-element analysis software package, and the regions of interest, including bone, cartilage, ligaments and tendons, were extracted to create a 3-dimensional model. The volar/dorsal and medial/lateral displacements of the proximal ulnar stump and the stress changes exhibited by the bone and distal oblique bundle tendon were measured with and without DOB reconstruction under 60° pronation, neutrality, and 60° supination.

Results

When utilizing DOB reconstruction, the displacement of the radius relative to the proximal ulna stump was approximately 17.89 mm in the neutral position. The bone stress values corresponding to the neutral position, 60° pronation and 60° pronation were 1.01, 18.32 and 14.69 MPa, respectively. The stress peaks of the DOB tendon structure corresponding to the neutral position, 60° pronation and 60° pronation were 0.07 MPa, 2.21 and 1.55 MPa, respectively. Without DOB reconstruction, the displacement of the radius relative to the proximal ulna stump was approximately 18.05 mm in the neutral position. Under 60° pronation and 60° supination, the displacement values were approximately 14.62 mm and 16.89 mm, respectively. The peak bone stress values corresponding to the neutral position, 60° pronation and 60° supination were 1.02, 18.29 MPa and 14.41 MPa, respectively. The stress peaks of the tendon structure corresponding to the neutral position, 60° pronation and 60° pronation were 0.03, 0.87 and 0.85 MPa, respectively.

Conclusion

DOB reconstruction is capable of improving the stability of the proximal ulnar stump during the Sauvé–Kapandji procedure.
Navigating the wild west: a review of guidance on clinical communications using personal BYOD, IM and third-party apps in the UK and Ireland
Authors: John Bernadette , Heavin Ciara , Roberts Anthony
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The ubiquity of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) personal smartphones, Instant Messaging (IM), and third-party apps, has made these technologies compelling for efficient communications between clinicians regarding patient care. However, the sensitivity of patient-related information necessitates secure, GDPR compliant modalities that prevent unauthorised access and ensure confidentiality. This scoping review explores existing guidelines, policies, and regulations that advise clinicians in the UK and Ireland on the secure use of these digital communication tools.

Methods

Following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) updated Framework for Scoping Reviews and the PRISMA ScR guidelines, this review examines the literature to identify relevant guidelines, policies, and regulations informing current clinical practice on the use of this technology. Academic databases including OneSearch, Embase, EBSCO, PubMed, Medline, and CINAHL were searched, in addition to hand searches of professional entities' websites, including trade unions, regulators, two national health systems, and several employers. Direct inquiries were made to 69 professional entities via telephone, email, websites, and X (formerly known as Twitter).

Results

The review identified 18 papers that broadly recognise the importance of secure communication however, a lack of information on the appropriate selection or configuration of these popular technologies was evident. Most guidelines emphasise general security and data protection standards rather than providing clear actionable recommendations for technology use, thereby leaving a significant gap in technical guidance for clinicians.

Discussion

There is a distinct lack of detailed, specific, consistent technical guidance available to clinicians. This review evidences an urgent requirement for enhanced guidelines that specify the most secure platforms, appropriate features, and configuration to maximise the security and confidentiality of clinical communications. Further research is recommended to develop comprehensive, actionable advice for clinicians.
Wavefield-reconstruction-based full waveform inversion on noisy data in seismic exploration
Authors: Yu Yuwei , Wei Zhefeng , Jia Xiaofeng , Zhu Chenghong
Published: January 2025

Full waveform inversion (FWI) is commonly used in seismic exploration to calculate parameters of the medium, such as velocity, from the signal as it passes through the medium. To obtain an accurate result, FWI usually needs to have an initial model that is not too far from the true velocity model. However, using noisy low-frequency data to build the initial model can be a challenge for FWI in practice. To solve this problem, we propose a wavefield reconstruction method based on the first type of Rayleigh–Sommerfeld integral and apply the multiple reconstructed wavefield (MRW) to the gradient calculation. The MRW combines different reconstructed wavefields, and those wavefield components with similar properties are enhanced by superposition. The reflected waves, which are critical for updating the deep portions of the velocity model, are strengthened in the MRW to significantly reduce the negative effects of data noise when calculating FWI gradients. The MRW optimizes the gradient of the FWI, yielding high-quality results despite noise interference. Incorporating the MRW into the FWI effectively mitigates overfitting problems associated with noisy data and improves the robustness of the FWI.
An investigation of a hemophilia A female with heterozygous intron 22 inversion and skewed X chromosome inactivation
Authors: Tan Xiaoyan , Yang Yi , Wu Xia , Zhu Jing , Wang Teng , Jiang Huihui , Chen Shu , Lou Shifeng
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Hemophilia A (HA) is an X-linked recessive inherited bleeding disorder that typically affects men. Women are usually asymptomatic carriers, and rarely presenting with severe or moderately severe phenotype. This study aims to describe a case of a 17-year-old girl with moderate HA, investigating the mechanisms of her condition and the genetic basis within her family.

Methods

We conducted coagulation tests and bleeding assessments to evaluate her bleeding phenotype. Molecular genetic examinations, karyotype analysis, X-chromosome inactivation testing, and targeted bioinformatic analysis were used to identify potential genetic etiologies.

Results

The proband exhibited a severe bleeding phenotype and was found to be a heterozygous carrier of an intron 22 inversion (Inv22) with a normal chromosomal karyotype. No other hemostatic defects were identified through whole exome sequencing. The proband’s mother and monozygotic twin sister are also Inv22 carriers, yet remain asymptomatic with normal FVIII activity. X-chromosome inactivation experiments revealed unbalanced inactivation in the proband, leading to the silencing of the healthy X copy. Notably, several novel X-linked gene mutations (SHROOM2, RPGR, VCX3B, GAGE, GCNA, ZNF280C, CT45A, and XK) were identified in the proband compared to her monozygotic twin sister, though their impact on X-chromosome inactivation remains unclear.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the proband’s bleeding phenotype results from unbalanced X-chromosome inactivation. This research marks the first analysis of X chromosome-related gene mutations among monozygotic twins who are carriers of hemophilia A, laying the groundwork for further investigations into the disorder’s pathogenesis in women and highlighting the complexities in genetic counseling.
Efficacy and safety of acupuncture for postoperative gastroparesis syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Xv Yichuan , Feng Yiyi , Lin Jiang
Published: January 2025

Background

Postoperative gastroparesis syndrome (PGS) is a common postoperative complication characterized by epigastralgia, nausea, and vomiting. Acupuncture is widely used to aid recovery, but its efficacy and safety have not been systematically evaluated.

Method

We retrieved randomized controlled trials (RCTs) using acupuncture as the primary intervention from six databases. After study selection and data extraction, a meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4.1. Study quality was assessed with the Cochrane risk of bias tool, and publication bias was quantitatively evaluated using Egger’s test and was corrected using the trimming and filling method.

Results

A total of 12 RCTs involving 709 participants (363 in the acupuncture group and 346 in the control group) were included. The meta-analysis showed a significantly higher overall response rate in the acupuncture group than the control group [RD = 0.16, 95% CI (0.11, 0.21), p < 0.001]. Acupuncture also reduced gastric tube indwelling time [MD = −2.36, 95% CI (−3.14, −1.59), p < 0.001], decreased gastric juice drainage [MD = −166.88, 95% CI (−176.57, −156.18), p < 0.001], and improved serum motilin levels [MD = 41.65, 95% CI (30.14, 53.15), p < 0.001]. Four studies reported no adverse events in either group, but the majority of studies did not provide safety data.

Conclusion

Acupuncture may alleviate clinical symptoms and shorten hospitalization, potentially by enhancing gastrointestinal motility. However, the lack of safety data in the majority of studies raises concerns about the reliability of these findings and the transferability of the results. Future trials should focus on rigorous randomization, blinding, and comprehensive safety reporting to improve the quality of evidence in this field.

Systematic review registration

ID: INPLASY202320035 URL: https://inplasy.com/inplasy-2023-2-0035/
Gut microbiota: a novel target for exercise-mediated regulation of NLRP3 inflammasome activation
Authors: Chen Jun , Jia Shaohui , Xue Xinxuan , Guo Chenggeng , Dong Kunwei
Published: January 2025

The NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) is a key pattern recognition receptor in the innate immune system. Its overactivation leads to the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1β and IL-18, which contribute to the development and progression of various diseases. In recent years, evidence has shown that gut microbiota plays an important role in regulating the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome. Variations in the function and composition of gut microbiota can directly or indirectly influence NLRP3 inflammasome activation by influencing bacterial components and gut microbiota metabolites. Additionally, exercise has been shown to effectively reduce NLRP3 inflammasome overactivation while promoting beneficial changes in gut microbiota. This suggests that gut microbiota may play a key role in mediating the effects of exercise on NLRP3 inflammasome regulation. This review explores the impact of exercise on gut microbiota and NLRP3 inflammasome activation, and examines the mechanisms through which gut microbiota mediates the anti-inflammatory effects of exercise, providing new avenues for research.
A comprehensive review of probiotics and human health-current prospective and applications
Authors: Sarita Bhutada , Samadhan Dahikar , Hassan Md Zakir , Kovaleva Elena G.
Published: January 2025

The beneficial properties of probiotics have always been a point of interest. Probiotics play a major role in maintaining the health of Gastrointestinal Tract (GIT), a healthy digestive system is responsible for modulating all other functions of the body. The effectiveness of probiotics can be enhanced by formulating them with prebiotics the formulation thus formed is referred to as synbiotics. It not only improves the viability and stability of probiotic cells, but also inhibits the growth of pathogenic strains. Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium spp. are most commonly used as probiotics. The other microbial spp. that can be used as probiotics are Bacillus, Streptococcus, Enterococcus, and Saccharomyces. Probiotics can be used for the treatment of diabetes, obesity, inflammatory, cardiovascular, respiratory, Central nervous system disease (CNS) and digestive disorders. It is also essential to encapsulate live microorganisms that promote intestinal health. Encapsulation of probiotics safeguards them against risks during production, storage, and gastrointestinal transit. Heat, pressure, and oxidation eradicate probiotics and their protective qualities. Encapsulation of probiotics prolongs their viability, facilitates regulated release, reduces processing losses, and enables application in functional food products. Probiotics as microspheres produced through spray drying or coacervation. This technique regulates the release of gut probiotics and provides stress resistance. Natural encapsulating materials including sodium alginate, calcium chloride, gel beads and polysaccharide promoting safeguards in probiotics during the digestive process. However, several methods including, spray drying where liquid is atomized within a heated air chamber to evaporate moisture and produce dry particles that improves the efficacy and stability of probiotics. Additionally, encapsulating probiotics with prebiotics or vitamins enhance their efficacy. Probiotics enhance immune system efficacy by augmenting the generation of antibodies and immunological cells. It combats illnesses and enhances immunity. Recent studies indicate that probiotics may assist in the regulation of weight and blood glucose levels and influence metabolism and insulin sensitivity. Emerging research indicates that the “gut-brain axis” connects mental and gastrointestinal health. Probiotics may alleviate anxiety and depression via influencing neurotransmitter synthesis and inflammation. Investigations are underway about the dermatological advantages of probiotics that forecasting the onsite delivery of probiotics, encapsulation is an effective technique and requires more consideration from researchers. This review focuses on the applications of probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics in the prevention and treatment of human health.
Efficacy of onabotulinumtoxinA treatment in episodic migraine
Authors: Al-Hashel Jasem , Alroughani Raed , Almojel Malak , Ahmed Samar Farouk
Published: January 2025

Background

OnabotulinumtoxinA (BoNT-A) is approved as a prophylactic treatment of chronic migraine (CM) only. We aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of BoNT-A in the treatment of episodic migraine (EM).

Methods

This is a prospective study included migraine patients, aged 18–65 years, and completed 1 year treatment with BoNT-A. Patients received 4 courses of BoNT-A treatment. Patient’s headache was assessed by headache diary at baseline, and before every injection. Migraine Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (MSQ) and work productivity were collected at baseline and in their last visit. Adverse events (AEs) were reported.

Results

The study recruited 210 patients. Between baseline and the final visit, there were a significant reduction in migraine days, analgesic consumption days, and headache severity (9.54 ± 1.70 versus 4.58 ± 2.77, p < 0.001), (8.47 ± 1.49 versus 2.98 ± 0.21, p < 0.001), (8.37 ± 0.72 versus 2.54 ± 0.18, p < 0.001), respectively. BoNT-A treatment reduced the mean number of missed hours from work and daily activities over a 7-day period (4.63 ± 2.39 versus 6.26 ± 2.04, p < 0.001); (2.24 ± 3.30 versus 3.94 ± 3. 45; p < 0.001). Treatment with BoNT-A significantly improved the MSQ scores at last visit versus baseline visit, MSQ Role Function-Restrictive (51.55 ± 29.12 vs. 26.89 ± 17.42; p < 0.001), MSQ Role Function-Preventive (56.07 ± 24.73 vs. 30.64 ± 15.25; p < 0.001), and for MSQ Emotional Function (76.47 ± 115.29 vs. 35.12 ± 20.83; p < 0.001). Fifty-four patients (14.4%) experienced mild and short-lasting AEs.

Conclusion

BoNT-A is an effective and well tolerated therapy in the prophylaxis of EM. It improved MSQ and WPAI.
Efficacy and safety of interferon-alpha 1b injection into the intervertebral foramen with ultrasonic guidance in patients with postherpetic neuralgia: study protocol for a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter clinical trial
Authors: Hu Hui-Min , Liu Wen-Hui , Li Chen , Shi Qing , Liu Chun-Hua , Liu An-Xiang , Li Yi-Fan , Zhang Yi , Mao Peng , Fan Bi-Fa
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a type of refractory neuropathic pain that causes significant suffering, disability, economic loss, and medical burden. In this study, we aim to evaluate the efficacy and safety of interferon (IFN)-α1b injection into the intervertebral foramen of patients with PHN.

Patients and methods

This is a study protocol for a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled multicenter clinical trial. A total of 200 participants with PHN from 11 hospitals will be recruited and randomly assigned to the treatment group administered with IFN-α1b and control group treated with placebo in a 1:1 ratio. Both groups will also receive oral pregabalin 150 mg twice daily and lidocaine injection into the intervertebral foramen as conventional therapy. This trial will involve a screening period, a 2-week intervention, and a 3-month follow-up. The primary outcomes will include the visual analog scale score and duration of pain relief. The secondary outcomes will include the 36-item short-form, dosage and duration of painkillers taken, viral load of varicella-zoster virus DNA, humoral cytokine level, and dosage and frequency of rescue medication. All adverse events and severe adverse events will be assessed during the study.

Conclusion

This study is expected to provide evidence for the efficacy and safety of IFN-α1b injection into the intervertebral foramen in patients with PHN.

Clinical trial registration

https://www.chictr.org.cn/indexEN.html, identifier ChiCTR240008996.
Effects of dietary amylose/amylopectin ratio on antioxidant ability and amino metabolism in the liver of weaned piglets undergoing feed transition and challenged with lipopolysaccharide
Authors: Yang Can , Tang Xiaowu , Wang Min , Yang Han , Yang Huansheng , Wang Yancan , Yin Yulong
Published: January 2025

To find out whether dietary amylose/ amylopectin ratio (DAR) could attenuate injury in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-challenged piglets, sixty male weaned piglets (Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire, 21 days old, 6.51 ± 0.64 kg) were allotted to 5 dietary treatments with 12 cages per treatment, and fed ad libitum with diets different in DAR (0.00, 0.20, 0.40, 0.60 and 0.80). Feed transformation occurred from D15 to D21. On day 28, 12 h before slaughter, pigs were intraperitoneal injected with 100 μg/kg body weight LPS or sterile saline. Results showed that LPS stress caused an increase in serum urea nitrogen (UREA) and triglyceride (TG), but a decrease in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity and glucose (GLU) concentration (p < 0.05). Serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentration increased in DAR 0.80 but decreased in other groups after LPS stress (p < 0.05). Compared with the control group, concentrations of Ile, Leu, Phe, Val, Thr, Arg decreased in serum but increased in liver after LPS stress (p < 0.05). Serum Arg, Tyr, Sar, Ans, Orn increased linearly with increasing DAR (p < 0.05). Piglets in diet DAR 0.00 had highest superoxide dismutase (SOD1) and glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1) mRNA expression in liver than those in other groups (p < 0.05). There was significant effect of LPS stress * dietary DAR on total SOD activity and SOD1 mRNA gene expression (p < 0.05), LPS stress caused an increase in those two indices for pigs in groups 0.00 and 0.80. Piglets in diet 0.80 had the highest hepatic Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn concentrations than those in other groups (p < 0.05). Cecal indol(e) concentration was higher in diet 0.00 than that in diet 0.80 (p < 0.05). After LPS stress, colonic skatole concentration increased in DAR 0.40, 0.80 but decreased in other groups (p < 0.05). In conclusion, adverse effects of the LPS challenge could be reversed by feeding weaned piglets with low or high DAR diet through regulating amino metabolism and antioxidant function.
Exploring lifestyle and dietary pattern shifts among Saudi adults during COVID-19 pandemic: insights from a cross-sectional examination
Authors: Al-Mana Najlaa M. , Zareef Tahani A. , Albathi Fatmah A. , Awney Hala A. , Baeshen Farah , Abdullah Renad
Published: January 2025

Background

Since the emergence of COVID-19 and the subsequent imposition of lockdown and movement restrictions, the world has witnessed fundamental lifestyle changes including alterations in dietary patterns and food consumption habits. Here, we investigated how the COVID-19 lockdown impacted dietary patterns and eating behaviors in the Saudi population.

Methodology

This cross-sectional study enrolled 427 participants aged 18 years or more, with 258 of them completing the survey. The survey included questions about demographic and dietary patterns during the COVID-19 lockdown. Data were collected and dietary behaviors before and during the lockdown in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, were analyzed.

Results

The number of participants who considered lunch as their primary meal significantly decreased (p < 0.001) during the COVID-19 lockdown (74%), compared to before it (86%). By contrast, the number of participants who considered dinner as their primary meal remained almost unchanged (p = 0.079) during (79.1%) and before (84.1%) the lockdown. However, snack consumption significantly increased (p < 0.001) while fast-food consumption significantly decreased (p < 0.01) during the lockdown period. Our results also revealed a significant increase (p < 0.01) in water and coffee intake during the lockdown, with a significant rise in dessert consumption (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that the COVID-19 lockdown caused a marked shift in dietary patterns and eating behaviors among the Saudi population. Notable changes were observed in overall food preferences after the lockdowns were imposed, with reduced consumption of fast foods and increased fluid intake.
Salidroside enhances 5-fluorouracil sensitivity against hepatocellular carcinoma via YIPF5-induced mitophagy
Authors: Sun Sumin , Hu Haili , Li Feiyu , Huan Sheng , Chen Long , Chen Jiahui , Sun Peihua , Dong Xiaoqing
Published: January 2025

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major medical challenge due to its high incidence and poor prognosis. 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU), although extensively studied in the treatment of HCC and other solid tumors, has limited application as a first-line therapy for HCC due to its resistance and significant inter-patient variability. To address these issues, researchers have explored drug repurposing. One of our key findings in this endeavour was the potent anti-HCC effect of the natural product Salidroside (Sal) when co-administered with 5-FU. Sal was found to inhibit mitosis and promote cellular senescence in HCC cells via a mechanism distinct from 5-FU, specifically by inducing excessive mitophagy that led to cellular mitochondrial dysfunction. Importantly, YIPF5 was confirmed as a potential molecular target of Sal. This natural product modulated YIPF5-induced mitophagy and influenced both mitosis and senescence in HCC cells. The combination of Sal and 5-FU demonstrated significant therapeutic effects in a mouse HCC model. In conclusion, our study was not only in line with the innovative strategy of drug repurposing, but also important for drug design and natural product screening targeting the relevant pathways.
Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry for the quantification of ripretinib and its metabolites DP-5439 in human plasma
Authors: Lin Jiahui , Jiang Aiting , Zheng Juntao , Wu Jingjing , Li Hao , Cai Shirong , He Yulong , Chen Xiao , Zhong Guoping , Tang Ke-Jing , Zhang Xinhua , Xia Yanzhe
Published: January 2025

Background

Ripretinib, a broad-spectrum tyrosine kinase inhibitor, has been approved for the treatment of advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumors in adult patients. Clinical studies have shown that higher in vivo exposure of ripretinib correlates with improved efficacy, highlighting the potential clinical significance of therapeutic drug monitoring. In this study, a simple and stable liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method was attempted to be established and validated for pharmacokinetic studies of ripretinib and its metabolite DP-5439 and therapeutic drug monitoring in human plasma.

Method

Ripretinib and DP-5439 were separated by chromatography using a Thermofisher Hypersil GOLDTM C18 HPLC column. The mobile phase for gradient elution is composed of 0.1% formic acid in water and acetonitrile. Multiple reaction monitoring was implemented along with electrospray ionization positive mode for detection. The ion pairs of ripretinib, DP-5439 and internal standard D8-ripretinib were m/z 510.1→m/z 417, m/z 496.11→m/z 402.9 and m/z 518.15→m/z 420, respectively. Plasma samples from ripretinib-treated patients of our hospital were collected for pharmacokinetic analysis.

Results

Ripretinib and DP-5439 demonstrated a strong linear relationship over 10–5,000 μg/L (R2 > 0.99). Accuracy, precision, specificity, recoveries, matrix effect, stability, and dilution effect were all validated and found to meet the required criteria. Following validation, the method was utilized to determine plasma samples from patients treated with ripretinib. The median steady-state trough concentrations (Cmin, range) were 398.50 (66.98 ∼ 1,458.91) μg/L for ripretinib and 654.74 (30.71 ∼ 1,522.48) μg/L for DP-5439, with a total median concentration of 1,129.46 (140.95 ∼ 2,981.39) μg/L in patients receiving ripretinib at 150 mg once daily. Meanwhile, using the established methods, the study conducted pharmacokinetics studies on four patients with ripretinib and DP-5439.

Conclusion

This study developed and validated a robust LC-MS/MS method for determining ripretinib and its metabolite DP-5439 in human plasma. Furthermore, the practicality of this method in clinical sample analysis was demonstrated. This approach can serve as an effective tool for the pharmacokinetics analysis and therapeutic drug monitoring in patients treated with ripretinib.
Association between penicillin allergy labels and serious adverse events in hospitalized patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Shipeng , Dong Tianyi , Xian Jiawen , Xiao Xinyue , Yuan Jiaqing , Zeng Tong , Deng Kuan , Fu Rui , Wang Hanyu , Jiang Yanjie , Li Xueying
Published: January 2025

Background

To date, several studies have demonstrated that erroneous labeling of Penicillin allergy (PAL) can significantly impact treatment options and result in adverse clinical outcomes, while other studies have reported no negative effects. Therefore, to systematically evaluate these effects and investigate the association between adverse clinical outcomes and the Penicillin label, we conducted this meta-analysis.

Method

Searches were conducted in the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases from inception to 13 July 2024. The search strategy utilized terms (“antibiotic allergy label,” “penicillin allergy label,” and “allergy label”) and (“death,” “readmission,” “adverse outcome,” and “clinical adverse outcome”). In the study selection process, the PICOS framework and stringent inclusion/exclusion criteria were applied. The quality of the initially included studies was independently assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Data from the included studies, including relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI), were extracted and analyzed using Stata 16.0. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to validate the results. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 and Cochrane Q tests, and publication bias was evaluated using Egger’s test and funnel plot analysis.

Results

A total of 497 relevant studies were identified through four databases. Following a thorough screening process, 11 studies encompassing 1,200,785 participants were ultimately included. The combined evidence suggests that penicillin allergy labeling is associated with increased mortality RR = 1.06 (95% CI 1.06–1.07, I2 = 0.00%), acute heart failure (RR = 1.19, 95% CI 1.09–1.30, τ2 = 0.00, I2 = 92.39%), ICU events (RR = 1.10, 95% CI 1.01–1.19, τ2 = 0.00, I2 = 57.09%), and mechanical ventilation events (RR = 1.16, 95% CI 1.09–1.24, τ2 = 0.00, I2 = 23.11%). Additionally, there was no significant association with readmissions (RR = 1.05, 95% CI 0.95–1.16, I2 = 0.00%).

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that penicillin allergy labels are associated with an increased risk of mortality in patients, as well as being linked to acute heart failure, heightened ICU requirements, and mechanical ventilation.

Systematic Review Registration:

PROSPERO, identifier CRD42024571535. Available from: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD4202457153.
Mild drought conditions at the tillering stage promote dry matter accumulation and increase grain weight in drip-irrigated spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Ma Yilin , Cai Jingyi , Bie Shuting , Che Ziqiang , Jiang Guiying , Liu Jianguo
Published: January 2025

Introduction

In order to elucidate the physiological mechanism of post-flowering assimilate transport regulating the formation of yields in arid regions and to provide technological support for further water-saving and high yields in the wheat region in Xinjiang, we conducted a study on the effects of different fertility periods and different degrees of drought and re-watering on the post-flowering dry matter accumulation and transport of spring wheat and the characteristics of grain filling.

Methods

In two spring wheat growing seasons in 2023 and 2024, a split-zone design was used, with the drought-sensitive variety Xinchun 22 (XC22) and drought-tolerant variety Xinchun 6 (XC6) as the main zones and a fully irrigated control during the reproductive period [CK, 75%~80% field capacity (FC)], with mild drought at the tillering stage (T1, 60%~65% FC), moderate drought at the tillering stage (T2, 45%~50% FC), mild drought at the jointing stage (J1, 60%~65% FC), and mild drought at the jointing stage (J2, 45%~50% FC) as the sub-zones.

Results

The dry matter accumulation of the aboveground parts of wheat (stem sheaths, leaves, and spikes), the transfer rate and contribution rate of nutrient organs, the maximum filling rate (Vmax), and the mean filling rate (Vmean) increased significantly after re-watering in the T1 treatment, and decreased with the deepening of the degree of water stress. The 13C isotope tracer results also showed that the T1 treatment increased the distribution rate of 13C assimilates in the grain at maturity. Correlation and principal component analyses showed that grain weight was highly significantly and positively correlated with stem sheath, leaf, and spike dry matter accumulation, amount of nutrient organ post-flowering transports, transport rate, contribution rate, the onset and the termination time of the rapid growth period, Vmax, and Vmean, and stem sheath and spike dry matter accumulation had a direct effect on grain weight. While the two varieties performed differently among the treatments, both exhibited optimal performance in the T1 treatment.

Discussion

In conclusion, mild drought at the tillering stage (60%-65% FC) was the best model for water conservation and high yield of wheat under the conditions of this trial.
Psychometric comparison of two short versions of the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-4) in a representative sample of the German population
Authors: Schmalbach Bjarne , Ernst Mareike , Brähler Elmar , Petrowski Katja
Published: January 2025

Perceived stress is a construct of crucial importance to health and well-being, necessitating the provision of economic, psychometrically sound instruments to assess it in routine clinical practice and large-scale survey studies. Two competing short versions of the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), each consisting of four items, have been proposed. In the present study, we compare the two in a sample representative of the German general population (n = 2,527). Our analyses show that both versions are sufficiently reliable and valid, given the right measurement model. Specifically, the original PSS-4 by Cohen et al. suffers from response style effects, which we remedied using random intercept factor analysis. With the addition of the method factor, it is a highly reliable and valid scale. The PSS-2&2 by Schäfer et al. is more complex in its interpretation since it is split into two facets which cannot be summarized into a single score. Specifically, the Helplessness subscale correlates with related constructs very similar to the original unifactorial model but its reliability is lackluster. In contrast, the Self-Efficacy subscale is reliable but diverges in terms of its correlational pattern. In sum, both versions can be recommended for research designs in need of a brief measure of stress and offer unique contributions.
The development and validation of the Student Self-feedback Behavior Scale
Authors: Yang Yongle , Yan Zi , Zhu Jinyu , Guo Wuyuan , Wu Junsheng , Huang Bingjun
Published: January 2025

Though the importance and benefits of students’ active role in the feedback process have been widely discussed in the literature, an instrument for measuring students’ self-feedback behavior is still lacking. This paper reports the development and validation of the Self-feedback Behavior Scale (SfBS), which comprises three dimensions (seeking, processing, and using feedback). The SfBS items were constructed in line with the self-feedback behavioral model. One thousand two hundred fifty-two high school students (Grade 10 to Grade 12) in mainland China participated in this survey. The exploratory factor analysis revealed a three-factor model reaffirmed in the confirmatory factor analysis. The multi-group CFA supported the measurement invariance of the SfBS across gender. Using the SfBS can help researchers and teachers better understand students’ self-feedback behavior and optimize benefits derived from the self-feedback process.
Age-associated alterations in immune and inflammatory responses in captive olive baboons (Papio anubis)
Authors: Mulholland Michele M. , Nehete Bharti P. , DeLise Ashley , Achorn Angela M. , Pytka Lisa M. , Nehete Pramod N.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Advanced age is a primary risk factor for many chronic diseases and conditions; however, age-related immune dysregulation is not well understood. Animal models, particularly those that resemble human age-related physiological changes, are needed to better understand immunosenescence and to improve health outcomes. Here, we explore the utility of the olive baboon (Papio anubis) in studying age-related changes to the immune system and understanding mechanisms of immunosenescence.

Methods

We examined immune cell, inflammatory responses, cytokines, and cortisol levels using hematology and flow cytometry, mitogen stimulation, multiplex cytokine assay, and cortisol immunoassay.

Results and Discussion

Our results reveal significant age effects on numerous immune and inflammatory responses. For instance, adult and aged monkeys exhibited significantly fewer monocytes than young monkeys. After stimulation with Con A and PWM (separately), we found that old baboons had higher INFγ expression compared to young baboons. Similarly, after stimulation with LPS and PWM (separately), we found that old baboons had higher TNFα expression compared to young baboons. These findings suggest that the olive baboon is a suitable model for biogerontology research, immune senescence, and development of vaccines. Though there are phenotypic and functional similarities between baboons and humans, specific differences exist in immune cell expression and immune function of lymphocytes that should be considered for better experimental outcomes in the development of therapeutics and restoring innate and adaptive immune function in aged individuals.
Case Report: Targeted plasticity in spinal cord injury—the role of focal muscle vibration and neurocognitive rehabilitation in adaptative synaptic change along sensory and motor circuit
Authors: Camerota Filippo , Pocino Naomi Francesca , Zangrando Federico , Di Tommaso Roberta , Paoloni Marco , Mangone Massimiliano , Celletti Claudia
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this case was to investigate objectively and quantitatively the effects of the application of repeated focal muscle vibration (fMV) associated with neurocognitive exercise on a 46-year-old patient with spastic paraparesis secondary to the surgical removal of a C5–C6 ependymoma.

Methods

We have evaluated gait parameters, spasticity, and pain with clinical scales. We have applied focal muscle vibration on quadriceps femoris, hamstrings, gastrocnemius, and iliopsoas muscles bilaterally. A total of 30 sessions of fMV treatment of 80 min each was carried out over 30 consecutive days.

Results

After the whole treatment period, the patient showed an overall improvement in scores on the same assessment scales administered at admission. The gait analysis evaluation showed a reduction in stride time bilaterally, an increase in average walking speed, increased cadence, and a slight increase in step length.

Conclusion

The improvements obtained have highlighted the relevance of the fMV application associated to physiotherapy in the field of neurological rehabilitation, particularly emphasizing the interest in increasing the number of sessions correlated with more durable clinical improvements over time. Results obtained have shown to persist for several months after discharge, allowing the patient to improve walking and to have greater autonomy in daily activities.
Water vapor density field estimation using commercial microwave link attenuation combined with temperature measurements
Authors: Bragin Itay , Rubin Yoav , Alpert Pinhas , Ostrometzky Jonatan
Published: January 2025

Accurate water vapor density (WVD) measurement is critical for weather models, health risk management, and industrial management among many other applications. A number of machine-learning based algorithms (e.g. support vector machine) for estimating water vapor density at a reference weather station using the received signal level values measured at a commercial microwave link has been proposed in the past, and also was expanded to include a combination of three commercial microwave links with temperature measurements to achieve a higher estimation accuracy (with respect to the root mean square error at a given location). In this paper, we leverage on the preliminary potential presented, and propose enhanced machine learning models that utilize a larger number of CMLs combined with temperature data inside a given area to estimate a reference weather station humidity measurements. We then show how the presented approach can be expanded to estimate the water vapor density field - taking into consideration the elevation via the humidity-elevation profile. The models were evaluated using data from 32 weather stations and 505 CMLs in Germany, with performance assessed through root mean square error (RMSE) and correlation coefficients (CC). The enhanced models achieved a mean RMSE of 0.587 g/m³ for WVD field estimation, outperforming prior approaches as well as can be used as "virtual weather stations" - to estimate the water vapor density values in locations where no actual weather stations exist.