bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AEOL-Induced NRF2 Activation and DWORF Overexpression Mitigate Myocardial I/R Injury
Authors: Lax Antonio , Lopez Maria del Carmen Asensio , Ballester Miriam Ruiz , Oliver Silvia Pascual , Palacio Maria Josefa Fernandez del , Sassi Yassine , Fuster Jose Javier , Figal Domingo Pascual , Soler Fernando
Published: May 2024

The causal relationship between the activation of NRF2 and the preservation of SERCA2a function in mitigating myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (mI/R) injury, along with the associated regulatory mechanisms, remains incompletely understood. The aim of this study was to characterize this relationship by testing the pharmacological repositioning of AEOL-10150 (AEOL) as a novel NRF2 activator. C57BL6/J, Nrf2 knockout (Nrf2−/−), and wild-type (Nrf2+/+) mice, as well as human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSCMs) were subjected to I/R injury. Gain/loss of function techniques, RT-qPCR, western blotting, LC/MS/MS, and fluorescence spectroscopy were utilized. Cardiac dimensions and function were assessed by echocardiography. In the early stages of mI/R injury, AEOL administration reduced mitochondrial ROS production, decreased myocardial infarct size, and improved cardiac function. These effects were due to NRF2 activation, leading to the overexpression of the micro-peptide DWORF, consequently enhancing SERCA2a activity. The cardioprotective effect induced by AEOL was diminished in Nrf2−/− mice and in Nrf2/Dworf knockdown models in hiPSCMs subjected to simulated I/R injury. Our data show that AEOL-induced NRF2-mediated upregulation of DWORF disrupts the phospholamban-SERCA2a interaction, leading to enhanced SERCA2a activation and improved cardiac function. Taken together, our study reveals that AEOL-induced NRF2-mediated overexpression of DWORF enhances myocardial function through the activation of the SERCA2a offering promising therapeutic avenues for mI/R injury.
Assessing Glymphatic System Impairment in Alzheimer's Disease Using Enlarged Perivascular Spaces with Automatic Quantification and DTI-ALPS Method
Authors: Chen Fenyang , Zhang Zhiliang , Heng Tiantian , Feng Qi , Yu Bo , Wang Haibing , Hua Rui , Wu Jiaojiao , Shi Feng , Liao Zhengluan , Ding Zhongxiang , Xu Xiufang
Published: May 2024

Objectives
The glymphatic system has gained widespread attention in neurodegenerative diseases. The present study attempted to jointly assess the glymphatic system in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI), and normal controls (NC) using diffusion tensor imaging along the perivascular space (DTI-ALPS) and perivascular spaces (PVS) indexes as evaluation metrics.
Materials & Methods
A total of 89 AD, 24 aMCI, and 32 NC participants were recruited in this study. The bilateral ALPS index was calculated on the DTI image. A deep learning V-shape bottleneck network (VB-Net) model was employed to automatically segment the lesion of enlarged perivascular spaces (EPVS). The total volume and the number of EPVS lesions was estimated as EPVS burden, while the volume fractions of basal ganglia (BG) and centrum semiovale (CSO) EPVS were counted. All indexes above were compared among the three groups, followed by correlation analyses using cognitive scales including MMSE and MoCA scales.
Results
VB-Net model segmented the EPVS lesions automatically and precisely. In the stage of glymphatic assessment, AD and aMCI groups exhibited varying degrees of lower ALPS index values, higher EPVS burden and BG EPVS volume fraction in both hemispheres of the brain compared to NC. ALPS index values, EPVS burden, and BG EPVS volume fraction were significantly correlated with cognitive clinical scales. EPVS burden and BG EPVS volume fraction were also correlated with ALPS index.
Conclusion
Our study confirmed impairments in the glymphatic system parameters of patients with AD and aMCI with DTI-ALPS and EPVS, correlated with worse cognitive performance, which provided an in-depth understanding and facilitated early detection of the disease.
Heterogeneous and scale-dependent behaviour of an initially dense sand specimen in triaxial compression
Authors: Schmidt Selma , Herle Ivo
Published: May 2024

The heterogeneity of a dense sand specimen in triaxial compression has been revealed in many different studies using tools such as x-ray computed tomography. It has been shown that a significant variation of the soil variables already exists at the initial state and that, if shear banding occurs, all variables localise inside the specimen. To resolve the discrepancy between such observations and the assumption of a homogeneous specimen, which is commonly made in the interpretation of triaxial tests, one could either extract the local soil behaviour rather than the global one or use the initial distribution of the variables as the initial state of a boundary value problem. For both purposes, the size of a representative elementary volume (REV) is determined regarding the void ratio, two contact fabric descriptors, the volumetric and deviatoric strain. The size of the REV is either determined for individual loading states or by considering the evolution of deforming elements throughout the triaxial test. At the final loading state, a REV size of 3.6 d50 is identified, which is also the size where the statistical distribution of the variables becomes independent of the element size. The same size is determined for the deforming elements and is therefore used to extract the soil behaviour from the evolving shear band. The local soil behaviour is found to be much simpler than the global one, which suggests that the complexity of the global behaviour mainly results from homogenising the highly different zones inside the specimen.
Mind, Money, and Medicine: Socio-Economic Status, Stress, and Its Psychological Echoes in Aspiring Physicians
Authors: Gellisch Morris , Olk Bettina , Schäfer Thorsten , Brand-Saberi Beate
Published: May 2024

Background: The escalating prevalence of mental health issues among young adults, set against the backdrop of a global healthcare system under pressure, underscores the necessity for cultivating a resilient medical workforce. This study investigates the influence of socio-economic status (SES) on psychological well-being, with a particular focus on Anxiety Sensitivity (AS) and Intolerance of Uncertainty (IU) among first-year medical students. Understanding the psychological dimensions affecting medical students is crucial for fostering a future medical workforce that is both capable and mentally healthy.
Methods: This research involved 321 first-year medical students, evaluated using the Perceived Stress Questionnaire (PSQ), Anxiety Sensitivity Index (ASI), the Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale (UI-18), and the Student Self-Efficacy Scale (SSE), alongside socio-economic categorization. Employing descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and correlation analyses, the study aimed at elucidating the SES impact on AS and IU, among other psychological constructs.
Results: The analysis revealed significant SES-related differences, especially in the realms of Anxiety Sensitivity and Intolerance of Uncertainty. Notably, ASI_C (cognitive concerns) exhibited strong positive correlations with both UI_A (reduced ability to act due to IU) (Pearson's r = 0.562, p < .001) and UI_B (burden due to IU) (Pearson's r = 0.605, p < .001), highlighting the link between cognitive aspects of anxiety and uncertainty intolerance. Furthermore, UI_C (vigilance due to IU) was significantly associated with SES (F(4, 316) = 2.719, p = .030, η² = 0.033), pointing to the complex ways in which socio-economic factors modulate responses to uncertainty. Self-efficacy emerged as a significant counterbalance, showing protective associations against the adverse effects of heightened Anxiety Sensitivity and Intolerance of Uncertainty.
Conclusion: The study's findings accentuate the critical influence of socio-economic status on Anxiety Sensitivity and Intolerance of Uncertainty among medical students, at a juncture when their role in the healthcare system is increasingly vital. The strong association between lower SES and greater expressions of ASI and UI underscores the pressing need for targeted interventions. Addressing these psychological challenges is essential for preparing a resilient medical workforce, equipped to navigate the complexities of contemporary healthcare delivery with not only medical expertise but also mental fortitude.
The epidemiology of eosinophilic esophagitis in Sweden - a nationwide population-based study
Authors: Dlugosz Aldona , Berglund Anders , Uhde Milica
Published: May 2024

Introduction Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the esophagus. Previous studies have indicated a substantial increase of EoE over the last decades. The aim of the current study was to describe the incidence and prevalence of EoE over time and by geographical regions in Sweden, utilizing nationwide population-based registries.Material and Methods The number of hospital admissions (in-patient and out-patient) for patients were identified using ICD-10-SE code K20.9A from the National Patient Registry between 1st January 2011 and 31st December 2021. Crude incidence and prevalence numbers were presented per 100,000 person years and persons, respectively.Results In 2011, no hospital visits of EoE were recorded. A total of 3,243 incident patients (2,379 (73.4%) men and 864 (26.6%) women) had a record of EoE between 2012 and 2021. The incidence increased over calendar year in where the incidence was from 1.59 per 100,000 person years in 2012 to 5.34 per 100,000 person years in 2021. The prevalence was 1.29 per 100,000 person years and 31.02 per 100,000 person years in 2012 and 2021, respectively. Major differences in the prevalence between geographical regions in Sweden were observed, e.g. in 2021, the prevalence was 12.24 in Västernorrland compared to 43.26 in Västra Götaland per 100,000 person years, which is similar to the prevalence in the Stockholm region.Conclusion The incidence and prevalence of eosinophilic esophagitis has significantly increased over calendar year but differs between geographical regions in Sweden. These differences should be further investigated.
MicroRNA363-5p Targets Thrombospondin3 to Regulate Pathological Cardiac Remodeling
Authors: Ma Yu-Kun , Han Xin-yi , Zan Shu-huai , Liu Hui-ting , Zhou Xue-yan , Zhao Dan-xue , Xing Rui , Zhao Peng
Published: May 2024

Cardiac remodeling is an end-stage manifestation of multiple cardiovascular diseases, and microRNAs are involved in a variety of posttranscriptional regulatory processes. miR-363-5p targeting of Thrombospondin3 (THBS3) has been shown to play an important regulatory role in vascular endothelial cells, but the roles of these two in cardiac remodeling are unknown. We first established an in vivo model of cardiac remodeling induced by transverse aortic narrow (TAC). human cardiomyocyte cell line (AC16) and human cardiac fibroblast cell line (HCF) were treated with 1 µmol/L angiotensin II (AngⅡ) to construct an in vitro model of myocardial hypertrophy and myocardial fibrosis. In all three of the above models, we found a significant decreasing trend of miR-363-5p, suggesting that it plays a key regulatory role in the occurrence and development of cardiac remodeling. Subsequently, overexpression of miR-363-5p significantly attenuated myocardial hypertrophy and myocardial fibrosis in vitro as evidenced by reduced the area of AC16, the cell viability of HCFs, the relative expression of the protein of fetal genes (ANP, BNP, β-MHC) and fibrosis marker (collagen Ⅰ, collagen Ⅲ, α-MSA), whereas inhibition of miR-363 -5p expression showed the opposite trend. In addition, we also confirmed the targeted binding relationship between miR-363-5p and THBS3 by dual luciferase reporter gene assay, and the relative expression of THBS3 mRNA and protein were significantly decreased upon overexpression of miR-363-5p. Moreover, overexpression of miR-363-5p with THBS3 Simultaneously partially eliminated the delaying effect of miR-363-5p on myocardial hypertrophy and myocardial fibrosis in vitro. In conclusion, Overexpression of miR-363-5p attenuated the prohypertrophic and profibrotic effects of Ang II on AC16 and HCF by a mechanism related to the inhibition of THBS3 expression.
Analyzed the dynamic measurement of the growth and development to children born of vanishing twin syndrome : A propensity matching study
Authors: yu chunmei , Ge Yingjia , Chen Yang , wang xiaoyu , Zhou Jing , Wang Shuxian , Chen Yu , Lu Renjie , Hu Lingmin
Published: May 2024

Objective: The purpose of this study was to estimate the effect of vanishing twin syndrome (VTS) on the dynamic measurement of growth and development to the singletons (0-3years) born from frozen embryo transfer(FET).
Methods: This study was a retrospective cohort design and was carried out at a single center from January 2017 to December 2023. The follow-up data of the children were obtained from the Jiangsu Province Maternal and Child Database. A total of 719 singleton live births were included,according to whether or not VTS occurred,they were divided into two groups resulting to the 653 children and 66 children, respectively. To optimize statistical efficiency and reduce confounding variables, singletons conceived using VTS were matched at a 4:1 ratio based on the couple's ages, BMI, occupation, women's AMH, and embryo status, ultimately 66 children in the VTS group and 264 children in the non-VTS group were included in the final analysis.
Results: After the propensity matching , there was no significant difference in growth and development of children between the VTS group and non-VTS group. The number of the embryo transfer in VTS group were higher than the non-VTS group(p＜0.0001).The height and the head circumference (3 months) in VTS group were lower than the non-VTS group(p＜0.05).
Conclusions: The occurrence of VTS did not detrimental affect the growth and development of offspring(0-3years) from FET. More reasonable, comprehensive and long-term follow-up results are needed for further verification. More than one embryo transfer not only increases the rate of multiple births, but also increases the occurrence of VTS in assisted reproductive technology(ART).
Cumulative Deficits Frailty Index and Relationship Status Predict Survival in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Kumar Shaji , Abdallah Nadine , Dizona Paul , Kumar Amanika , Laplant Betsy , Terri Menser , Aug Sarah , Weivoda Megan , Dispenzieri Angela , Buadi Francis , Warsame Rahma , Cook Joselle , Lacy Martha , HAYMAN Suzanne , Gertz Morie , Rajkumar S
Published: May 2024

Several tools exist for assessing frailty in multiple myeloma (MM), but most are based on clinical trial datasets. In this study, we evaluate the prognostic impact of frailty based on the cumulative deficit frailty index (FI), and the prognostic impact of relationship and socioeconomic status (SES) in newly diagnosed MM patients. This is a retrospective study including 515 patients with MM seen at Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN) at diagnosis between 2005–2018. The FI was calculated using patient-reported data on activities of daily living and comorbidity data. Items were scored as 0/0.5/1, with 1 indicating deficit. The FI was calculated by adding individual scores and dividing that by the number of non-missing items. Frailty was defined as FI ≥ 0.15; 61% were non-frail and 39% were frail. Frailty and non-married/relationship status were associated with higher disease stage, decreased likelihood of early transplantation, and independently associated with decreased survival. SES was not independently associated with survival. Frail patients reported worse scores for fatigue, pain, and quality of life. In conclusion, a cumulative deficit FI was associated with higher symptom burden and decreased survival in a real-world cohort of newly diagnosed MM patients. Social support has prognostic value and should be assessed in clinical practice.
Anatomy of the third and fourth psoas major and quadratus lumborum muscles for lumbar compartment block surgery
Authors: Han Hoon Sub , Nam Yong Seok , Kim Won Kyu
Published: May 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this study has yielded basic data for use in medical practice by evaluating the relationships between the psoas major, quadratus lumborum, and surrounding vertebrae, and determining landmarks for use during compartmental block surgery of the psoas major and quadratus lumborum.
Methods
Radiographic data analyses and cadaver psoas major dissections were performed for anatomical observations and relationship comparisons with the quadratus lumborum and vertebrae. Radiological measurement data for the psoas major were obtained, yielding 106 sets of data.
Results
The length of the psoas major measured from the spinous process of the third lumbar vertebra was significantly larger in males (60.5 ± 8.2 mm) than in females (48.8 ± 5.7 mm) (p < 0.05). also the length of the right psoas major of the fourth lumbar vertebra was significantly larger in males (73.5 ± 8.6 mm) than in females (60.7 ± 7.8 mm) (p < 0.05). The length of the quadratus lumborum of the third lumbar vertebra measured from the spinous process of the third lumbar vertebra was significantly larger in males (89.2 ± 8.1 mm) than in female (74.2 ± 7.7 mm) (p < 0.05). also the length of the quadratus lumborum of the fourth lumbar vertebra measured from the spinous process of the fourth lumbar vertebra was significantly larger in males (103.6 ± 10.6 mm) than in females (91.2 ± 9.9 mm) (p < 0.05). The lengths of the psoas major and quadratus lumborum of the third and fourth lumbar vertebrae decreased with age.
Conclusion
The accumulating research data of clinical studies of the psoas major, quadratus lumborum, and lumbar approaches will help clinicians to choose the most appropriate methods for treatment and rehabilitation.
An Investigation on the Antioxidant Capabilities, Chemical Analysis and Potential Green Applications of the Yellow Bedstraw (Galium Verum) Ethanol Extract
Authors: Badea Gabriela Elena , Stănăsel Oana Delia , Bassyouni Mohamed , Toderaș Monica , Petrehel Anda Ioana Grațiela , (Țicărat) Camelia Daniela Ionaș
Published: May 2024

Plants are important sources of phytochemicals with multiple uses in medicine and other technical fields. Much research attention has been focused on the high natural antioxidant activity of extracts obtained from various plants. Antioxidant activity is a promise not only for biochemical behaviour but also for other reactions involving electron transfer, such as metal protection. Antioxidant activity using the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) method, total polyphenol (via the Folin-Ciocalteu method), and total flavonoids measured with the aluminium chloride (AlCl3) technique were determined for various ethanol extracts of Yellow Bedstraw or Galium verum (GV). Other methods, such as reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS), are also emerging, both to reveal the chemical composition of Galium verum extract and to support the presence of antioxidant compounds. The various chemical constituents are classified into categories based on their possible applications: metabolic activity, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory and active components in different drug, treatments or other green industrial usage.
Comparison of Glycated Haemoglobin with Coagulation and Biochemical Profile of Patients with Type II Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Antwi-Baffour Samuel , Mensah Benjamin Tetteh , Armah Dorinda Naa Okailey , Narh Isaac Lartey , Annison Lawrence
Published: May 2024

Objective
Persistent hyperglycaemia in diabetes can lead to abnormal blood clotting due to the glycation of haemoglobin and other clotting proteins. Shortened activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), prothrombin time (PT), altered levels of other clotting factors, and biochemical markers may indicate a higher risk of blood clot formation, which can contribute to vascular diseases and impact kidney function. This study examined 150 diabetic patients to analyse how their clotting and biochemical profiles were affected by glycemic control. Data on participants' demographics, socioeconomic status, and lifestyle were collected. Blood samples were analysed using automated coagulation and chemistry analysers.
Results
Participants were divided based on their glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels with HbA1c < 6.5 indicating good and HbA1c ≥ 6.5 indicating poor glycemic control. Coagulation tests showed that patients with poorly controlled T2DM had shorter APTT and PT and decreased INR compared to those with good control. However, fibrinogen and D-dimer levels were elevated in all participants. While renal function markers were increased, the differences between the groups were insignificant. Furthermore, systolic blood pressure was significantly higher in poorly controlled T2DM patients. These findings suggest that individuals with poorly controlled T2DM may be more susceptible to thrombus formation due to increased activation of prothrombotic coagulation factors.
Assessment of biosorption and transfer of heavy metals (chromium and copper) by Microalgae (Arthrospira platensis), Amphipoda (Pontogammarus maeoticus), and Beluga fish of Caspian Sea (Huso huso)
Authors: Sahebi Aboolghasem Amri , Doustshenas Babak , Safari Reza , Larki Arash
Published: May 2024

The Caspian Sea is an environment from the entry of river waters with various pollutants including heavy metals. The absorption or accumulation of metals by the organisms of an ecosystem will have a different effect on their food chain. This research aims is to compare the amount of heavy metal absorption of copper and chromium in algae, Gammarus and fish. The working method included preparation and digestion stage of the samples to read them by atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS).
In this research, Algae had a better efficiency in chromium absorption at the initial time. On the contrary, Gammarus had a better efficiency in copper absorption and the absorption process increased with time. In direct competition, metal absorption by algae was better than Gammarus. The accumulation of heavy metals in liver was more than in muscle. In body tissue, copper accumulated more than chromium. Among the adsorbent samples, the highest metal absorption by algae and metal accumulation by Gammarus observed in fish body tissues.
The result of this research, Algae is a strong absorber of metal from the environment and repels metal from the fish body. On the other hand, Gammarus absorbs metal from the environment and transports metal to the fish body.
Extraction of parameters of a stochastic integrate-and-fire model with adaptation from voltage recordings
Authors: Kiessling Lilli , Lindner Benjamin
Published: May 2024

Integrate-and-fire models are an important class of phenomenological neuronal models that are frequently used in computational studies of single neural activity, population activity, and recurrent neural networks. If these models are used to understand and interpret electrophysiological data, it is important to reliably estimate the values of the model’s parameters. However, there are no standard methods for this estimation process. Here, we identify the model parameters of an adaptive integrate- and-fire neuron with temporally correlated noise by analyzing membrane potential and spike trains in response to a current step. Explicit formulas for the parameters are analytically derived by stationary and time-dependent ensemble averaging of the model dynamics. Specifically, we give mathematical expressions for the adaptation time constant, the adaptation strength, the membrane time constant, and the mean constant input current. These theoretical predictions are validated by numerical simulations for a broad range of system parameters. Importantly, we demonstrate that parameters can be extracted by using only a modest number of trials. This is particularly encouraging, as the number of trials in experimental settings is often limited. Hence, our formulas may be useful for the extraction of effective parameters from neurophysiological data obtained from standard current-step experiments.
Enhanced analysis of soliton-like pulses in space-time fractional beta-derivatives coupled nerve fibers with application insights
Authors: Fendzi-Donfack Emmanuel , Fotoula Guy Romuald Tatsitsa , Jantschi Lorentz , Mbasso Wulfran Fendzi , Tala-Tebue Eric , Kenfack-Jiotsa Aurélien , Nguenang Jean Pierre
Published: May 2024

This work aims to delve exact physical wave solutions of nonlinear diﬀerential-diﬀerence equations with beta-derivative leading the conduction of nerve impulse dynamics in coupled nerve ﬁbers. The technique performed here names the polynomial expansion method. By employing a new variable through a fractional complex transformation, we turn the electrical model equation to a second-order elliptic nonlinear ordinary diﬀerential equation with two free parameters including the semi-discrete approximation. We extract short pulse, kink, anti-kink, singular kink/anti-kink and kink-rogue solitary waves as solutions of the derived elliptic nonlinear ordinary diﬀerential equations. By carrying out these various solutions, we peruse the dynamical behavior of the current nerve ﬁbers model by investigating their linear stability. We also study the dynamics of the model by applying the ﬁxed points theory and derive the related Jacobian matrix. Throughout the convenient physiological parameters values and signs, we display some 3D modulational instability zones. Furthermore, we also exhibit 3D and 2D graphs presenting the shapes of new pursued solitary waves. The numerous solutions families obtained and plotted help us to show the fractional-order parameter eﬀects in addition of the nerve ﬁber diameter on the amplitude and speed of the nerve impulse propagating inside the coupled nerve ﬁbers. The good or bad coordination of the movement inside the human parts can be explain through the amplitude varying, speed modiﬁcation of the nerve impulse ﬂowing into the coupled nerve ﬁbers. Aiming to this, we make the evolved mathematical framework accessible and highlight potential medical and biological applications. In addition, we enhance the understanding of nerve conduction mechanisms in myelinated ﬁbers.
The Barren Berry Phenotype: Untangling Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.) Genetic Contamination in Central Wisconsin and Beyond
Authors: Lazar F. , Lopez-Moreno H. , Wiesman E. , Torre F. La , Verhulst P. , Sojka J. , Maureira I. , Millar David , Kennedy C. , Mura J. , Zalapa J.
Published: May 2024

Wisconsin is the world's leading producer of cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.; 2n = 2x = 24). The state produces over twenty-thousand acres that contribute to more than 50% of the global total production, with more than one billion dollars in value. Cranberry growers in the “central sands” of Wisconsin have been experiencing yield decline due to vegetative unproductive genotypes, popularly known as “Barren Berry'', which consistently remain vegetative and produce no fruit. The purpose of this study was to compare visual inspection in the field to DNA fingerprinting for the early detection of unproductive/barren genotypes. Additionally, the study served as a survey of unproductive/barren genotypes in central Wisconsin, the largest growing region in the world. Growers submitted 839 cranberry leaf samples for DNA testing of two visually determined phenotypes: unproductive or barren (n = 646; those that produced little to no fruit), versus the normal productive or fruiting (n = 193). We conducted genetic fingerprinting on the leaf tissue using nine microsatellite markers previously shown to differentiate cranberry genotypes. This study identified a barren berry genotype unique to the samples submitted by growers across central Wisconsin, which we denoted “Barren Berry 1”. This genotype accounted for 44% of samples submitted as the barren berry phenotype. Genetic fingerprinting revealed sixty-five different genotypes in beds which were thought to be monocultures of just four cultivated genotypes. Early detection of genetic contamination through visual inspection, genetic testing, and responsible propagation can drastically aid in the management and longevity of cranberry beds, and in turn save time and money to the growers.
Immune Alterations in Vestibular Neuritis: A Pilot Study on T and B Lymphocyte Profiles and Cytokine Levels
Authors: Song Zhaohui , Ding Yuchuan , Kohls Wesley , Feng Jing , Fan Huimin , Pan Gu , Geng Xiaokun
Published: May 2024

Objectives Vestibular neuritis (VN) etiology remains elusive, with hypotheses suggesting viral infection, non-infectious inflammation, or immune responses. This study aims to assess the T and B lymphocyte subsets and cytokine expressions in the blood of vestibular neuritis patients. This study shed light on its pathogenesis and provided valuable hematological markers for clinical prognosis.Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on 25 subjects diagnosed with acute vestibular neuritis at the Department of Neurology, Beijing Luhe Hospital, affiliated with Capital Medical University, from January 2022 to June 2023. Within 1–3 days of onset, all patients underwent blood tests and initial Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) scale evaluations. A secondary DHI assessment was performed upon discharge, between days 7–10 post-onset. A group of 25 healthy individuals served as controls.Results Vestibular Neuritis (VN) patients exhibited elevated levels of total B lymphocytes (CD3-CD19+), helper/inducer (CD3 + CD4+) T cells, and the helper/suppressor (CD4+/CD8+) T cell ratio all of which were statistically significant compared to the control group. Conversely, there was a reduction in the levels of total T lymphocytes (CD3 + CD19-), suppressor/cytotoxic T cells (CD3 + CD8+), and natural killer (NK) cells. Elevated Interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels and decreased Interleukin-17A (IL-17A) levels were seen in the VN group compared to controls. There are differences in the levels of CD3 + CD4 + T cells and CD4+/CD8 + T cell ratio among patients in the three groups of mild, moderate, and severe, with the severe group significantly higher than the mild group. Admission levels of CD3 + CD4 + T cells showed a positive relationship with the DHI-Functional (DHI-F) score within 1–3 days. Admission levels of CD3 + CD4 + T cells and CD4+/CD8 + T cell ratio are positively correlated with all DHI scores (including the DHI Total Index and three DHI Subscales) at discharge 7–10 days post-onset.Conclusions Immunological perturbations are implicated in pathogenesis of vestibular neuritis. Evaluation of these immune markers could offer insights into prognostic outcomes for vestibular neuritis patients, leading to development of therapeutic strategies.
The effect of the RTS,S/AS01E vaccine booster dose on cell-mediated immune responses in African infants and children
Authors: Moncunill Gemma , Mitchell Robert , Macià Dídac , Jairoce Chenjerai , Mpina Maxmillian , Naidu Akshayata , Chopo-Pizarro Ana , Vázquez-Santiago Miquel , Campo Joseph , Aide Pedro , Daubenberger Claudia , Dobaño Carlota
Published: May 2024

RTS,S/AS01E, the first approved malaria vaccine, demonstrated moderate efficacy during the phase 3 pediatric trial. We previously investigated cell-mediated immune (CMI) responses following the primary 3-dose immunizations and now report responses to the booster dose given 18 months later. Thirty CMI markers were measured by Luminex in lymphocytes from 709 children and infants following RTS,S/AS01E antigen stimulation, which were assessed for associations with malaria risk and antibodies one month post-booster and one year later. IL-2, IFN-γ, IL-17, IL-5, and IL-13 were associated with RTS,S/AS01E vaccination after booster, and IL-2 responses to circumsporozoite protein (CSP) remained higher after one year. IL-2 was associated with reduced malaria risk in one cohort, and IL-10 was associated with increased risk in infants. Anti-CSP IgG and IL-2 were moderately correlated one year after booster. This study highlights the moderate cell-mediated immunogenicity of the RTS,S/AS01E booster dose that aligns with partial recovery of RTS,S/AS01E vaccine efficacy.
A note on the undercover relationship between the Chotikapanich Lorenz curve and the Pareto distribution.
Authors: Cortés-Orihuela Javier , Cubillos Pablo Gutiérrez
Published: May 2024

We study the relationship between the Chotikapanich (1993) Lorenz curve and the Pareto distribution. First, we show that the Chotikapanich Lorenz curve is generated by a log-uniform distribution. Second, we show that the log-uniform distribution is a limiting case of a truncated Pareto distribution. Given this, we propose a mixture Lorenz curve model to estimate the scale parameter of the Pareto distribution, thus allowing us to identify at which point of the distribution incomes become Pareto-distributed. This model assumes that the bottom part of the income distribution is drawn from a log-uniform distribution, and the upper part as a classical Pareto distribution. Using Montecarlo simulations, we show that our model can accurately recover the threshold. With this, we estimate this model for 181 countries using data from the World Income Inequality Database. We find a negative relationship between the aggregate level of inequality (measured through the Gini coefficient) and the point where the Pareto distribution starts.
JEL Classification: D3, H8.
Optimizing Dementia Risk Reduction: Balancing Sleep and Physical Activity Trade-offs
Authors: Pase Matthew , Yiallourou Stephanie , Cribb Lachlan , Campbell-Brown Beaudan , Brakenridge Christian , Baril Andree-Ann
Published: May 2024

Engaging in regular physical activity and obtaining recommended amounts of sleep are touted as strategies to promote healthy brain aging. However, as each day is only 24 hours long, changing time spent in one activity must come at the expense or gain of another, making it necessary to understand how the whole 24-hour activity composition impacts dementia risk. We applied compositional data analysis to investigate the effect of substituting sleep duration for different levels of physical activity (i.e., inactivity, light activity, and moderate to vigorous physical activity; MVPA) on dementia risk relative to two reference compositions; a “typical” short sleeper (< 6hrs) and normal sleeper (≥ 6hrs). The study sample comprised participants from the community-based UK Biobank with 24-hour behaviors estimated using 7 days of accelerometry. The mean age of the sample was 63 years (Q1, Q3: 56, 68); 56% were women. Of the 88,654 participants, there were 718 incident all-cause dementia cases over a median follow-up of 8.2 years. For short sleepers, increasing sleep duration at the expense of inactivity or light activity was associated with a lowering of dementia risk, but not when at the expense of MVPA. For persons with normal sleep duration, the effect of increasing or decreasing sleep duration on dementia risk differed for all three substituted behaviors (i.e., inactivity, light, or MVPA). Most notably, dementia risk was higher when increasing sleep at the expense of MVPA and lower when increasing MVPA at the expense of sleep. The interpretation of the results was broadly consistent when using MRI-based outcomes (e.g., hippocampal volume) in a subset with brain imaging (n = 15,263). Our findings underscore the complexity of optimizing dementia risk reduction strategies, emphasizing the need for personalized approaches that balance trade-offs between sleep duration and differing physical activity levels based on individual circumstances, such as habitual sleep duration.
Effect of Moringa Leave and Seed Enrichment on the Nutritional, Antioxidant and Anti-diabetic Properties of Cookies
Authors: G Lawrence I. , M Oyebanji O.
Published: May 2024

This study was undertaken to investigate the effect of moringa leaves and seed enrichment on the nutritional, antioxidant, anti-diabetic and sensory evaluation of cookies. Cookies were produced from combination of wheat flour, moringa seed flour and wet moringa leaves at different incorporation percentages (5, 10 and 15%). Proximate analysis, selected minerals, vitamins, antioxidants and anti-diabetic were determined on the cookies samples. The results of the proximate composition of the cookies samples ranged between 6.88–8.02% for moisture content, 10.78–16.96% for protein content, 14.19–21.19% for fat content, 0.02–2.69% for crude fibre content, 2.18–7.99% for crude ash content and 52.26–61.62% for carbohydrate content respectively. The vitamin composition of the cookies showed sample CML3 (85% Wheat flour + 15% Moringa leaves) as the highest value of 2.303 µg/g, 8.405 mg/100 g for vitamin A and vitamin C content respectively. Sample CMS1 (95% Wheat flour + 5% Moringa seed flour) was recorded as the highest value in term calcium content (79.07 mg/10 g) of the cookies samples. CML3 (85% Wheat flour + 15% Moringa leaves) had higher magnesium (214.09 mg/100 g) and iron (31.49 mg/100 g). The antioxidant composition of the cookies samples ranged between 19.39–49.99 mg/GAE/ g, 12.41–45.38 mg/AE/ g, 31.15–50.85% and 21.49–35.77% for total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, DPPH and FRAP respectively. Cookies supplemented with moringa seed had higher α-amylase inhibition (1123.55%) and α-glucosidase (777.77%). The sensory evaluation of the cookies showed the entire samples with over average mean value. However, sample C1 (100% wheat flour) was mostly accepted. The production of cookies from these crops would provide nutrient rich and nutritious foods for malnourished children, the elderly and people generally in Nigeria and Africa. Cookies fortified at level of 5% and 10% moringa leave and seed are recommended for people especially, diabetic and pre-diabetic patients.
SFNet: Visual Attention-Based Slender objects Focus Network for Self-Supervised Monocular Depth Estimation
Authors: YimingShao  , DakeZhou  , XinYang
Published: May 2024

Self-supervised learning has recently gained significant attention in monocular depth estimation (MDE) community, as it uses image sequences rather than ground-truth depth to provide training signal. In traffic environments, slender objects such as signboards and traffic signals carry important traffic indication information, but they occupy a small area in the image. Current MDE methods are difficult to accurately predict their complete shapes. To address this problem, we propose a Slender objects Focus Network (SFNet) for self-supervised MDE. The SFNet uses a multiscale encoder-decoder architecture. In the encoder branch, we devise a novel Global-Local Collaboration Module (GLCM), which consists of an Edge-Texture Perception Module (ETPM) and a Transformer Block. GLCM effectively captures local detailed and global scene structure information, enabling the encoder to better understand and predict the shape of slender objects. In the decoder branch, to improve the fine-grained prediction of image texture details, we propose the Multiscale Feature Aggregation Module (MFAM), which adaptively integrates the dense features at different scales and depths. Moreover, we design the Pyramid Feature Integration Unit (PFIU) to further leverage the rich semantic information embedded in the encoder’s high-level features. Extensive experiments demonstrate the excellent performance of our method. SFNet achieves state-of-the-art performance on the KITTI dataset, while qualitative results show its advantages in predicting slender objects. In addition, results on the Make3D dataset demonstrate the good generalization ability of SFNet. Our codes and models are available at https://github.com/YIMings139/SFNet.
Effect of Inspiratory Muscle Training on Exercise Capacity, Dyspnea and Cardiac Autonomic Function in Individuals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Study Protocol
Authors: Sharma Shikha , Mitra Shambhovi , Sethi Prabhpreet
Published: May 2024

Background: Literature is heterogeneous regarding the benefits of inspiratory muscle training as a part of pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) as a treatment strategy for individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Thus, the study aims to find the combined effect of inspiratory muscle training and PR on dyspnea, exercise capacity, and cardiac autonomic function. The proposed 8-week rehabilitation program shall contribute to the changes in the exercise capacity, dyspnea, and cardiac autonomic function shall also be studied.
Objectives: The primary objective of the study is to assess the changes in exercise capacity after eight weeks of pulmonary rehabilitation (PR). Secondary objectives include changes in dyspnea and cardiac autonomic function in individuals with COPD.
Methods: This study will recruit 36 participants based on the pre-defined inclusion criteria. The participants will be randomly allocated to one of the two groups: the experimental (group A), and the control (group B). The intervention protocol will be delivered for 30–45 minutes per session, three sessions a week for eight weeks.
Results: The outcomes will be measured after 8 weeks of intervention. The exercise capacity, dyspnea, and cardiac autonomic function will be measured using a six-minute walk distance (6MWD), the baseline and transition dyspnea index scale (BDI & TDI), and heart rate variability (HRV) respectively.
Conclusion: This study aims to investigate the efficacy of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) along with peripheral muscle training in improving exercise capacity, dyspnea, and cardiac autonomic function in individuals with COPD. It study will provide evidence of changes in physiological markers that should be addressed for an early prognosis and management of individuals with COPD. Additionally, it can serve as a basis for future studies and reviews to provide knowledge of the study findings.
Trial registration: Clinical Trial Registration- India (CTRI/2023/08/056978).
Improving large animal practice efficiency with credentialed veterinary technicians
Authors: Harrington MegAnn
Published: May 2024

Large animal veterinary practice faces many challenges, in­cluding competitive markets, labor shortages, increasing costs of goods, and more. One major concern that our profession currently recognizes is a decrease in the total number of large animal veterinarians available to service producers despite increased demand for large animal veterinary care in many re­gions.1,2,3 Recent data from the AVMA states that less than 4% of veterinarians are employed in food-animal practice.1 There has also been a 15% decline in the total number of veterinar­ians who practice food animal or mixed animal medicine.1,3 This makes it extremely difficult for livestock to get adequate veterinary care to keep herds and flocks healthy. The lack of veterinary care and oversight creates a significant concern for animal welfare and food safety. As this shortage continues, the scarcity of large animal veterinarians for foreign animal dis­ease surveillance becomes a significant concern in securing the business continuity of our food supply.
Managing Veterinary Feed Directive requests
Authors: Rooney Barnhardt Tera
Published: May 2024

Navigating the intricacies of veterinary feed directives can be an intimidating part of practicing veterinary medicine. It is important to guide clients in this important regulatory compli­ance process and antimicrobial stewardship tool. By using ef­fective communication when doing so, you will find success.
Vaccines for all stages
Authors: Woolums Amelia
Published: May 2024

There are many vaccines to select from when developing proto­cols for beef cattle operations, and no single vaccine protocol is appropriate for all operations. Thus, vaccine protocol develop­ment requires understanding of the management of each op­eration. Unfortunately, current field trials confirming efficacy of vaccines to prevent disease in “real life” settings are not com­mon, and not all protocols have been tested. Thus, development of protocols for farm or ranch use often relies on experimental challenge studies or expert opinion. When vaccination of calves in the first 3 to 4 months of life is possible, vaccines for clostrid­ial infections and respiratory viral infections are most likely to be used to limit preweaning disease. On some operations, pre­weaning vaccination may be delayed until close to weaning if the aim is to limit postweaning disease. Vaccines likely appro­priate to limit postweaning disease include those for clostridial agents, agents that cause bovine respiratory disease, and agents likely to impact fertility in replacement heifers. Other vaccines may be appropriate on a case-by-case basis. Health records in­cluding vaccine timing and occurrence of disease in vaccinated animals can be a major help to confirm efficacy of vaccine pro­tocols. Veterinarians should periodically check for new sys­tematic reviews, meta-analyses, or randomized controlled field trials testing vaccines they used, to have the best information to use when planning vaccination protocols.
The revolution and future frontiers of reproductive management of dairy cattle
Authors: Lauber Megan
Published: May 2024

The 21-d pregnancy rate is determined by an interaction be­tween the AI service rate and pregnancies per AI (P/AI) and is a key performance indicator for the reproductive efficiency of dairy farms. Over the past 2 decades, the reproductive per­formance of lactating dairy cows increased. A greater under­standing of endocrinology and the physiology of lactating dairy cows generated fertility programs (the Presynch-Ovsynch and Double Ovsynch protocols for TAI) that increase the service rate and P/AI compared with detection of estrus. Previously, synchronization of ovulation in heifers was associated with poor reproductive performance compared with detection of estrus. Several modifications determined through randomized-controlled studies gave rise to the 5-d CIDR-Synch protocol that has similar and more P/AI when heifers are inseminated with conventional and sexed semen, respectively, compared with detection of estrus. A hierarchy of reproductive needs exists for dairy farms that require fulfillment before a new need can emerge. Dairy farms must have a high 21-d pregnancy rate and good heifer management before adopting other advanced re­productive technologies such as genomic selection, sexed and beef semen, and in vitro-produced embryos. Adopting these ad­vanced reproductive technologies benefits dairy farms, howev­er, challenges still exist that need further investigation through randomized-controlled experiments to maximize the benefits
Dairy data Duolingo: The veterinarian’s critical role in translating farm data to real change
Authors: Melody Blaine
Published: May 2024

Most veterinarians don’t enter the field because they love all things data; however, they are uniquely positioned to serve the critical needs of dairy farmers by translating their herd data into meaningful stories. While it can be overwhelming to see the amount of data generated on dairy farms, it is essential to take the time to learn everything you can about your client’s business. Practice working through farm data the same way you would learn another language: speaking a little bit every day and mak­ing it relevant. Each client is unique in their data needs, but all clients want to feel comfortable with their business.
Calf autofeeders: Consulting opportunities can help prevent health disasters
Authors: Middleton Gabe
Published: May 2024

Recent graduate veterinarians are often seeking consulting op­portunities on farms. Regular reproductive herd work and other adult herd consulting opportunities may already be captured by other veterinarians within the practice. Calf health consulting is an excellent area for recent graduate veterinarians to begin gain­ing consulting confidence while providing tremendous value to the farm. Regardless of the calf housing system, veterinarians can rely on many of the same management principles and health recommendations to maximize calf growth and health. Oppor­tunities to improve respiratory health by colostrum manage­ment, monitoring sanitation, vaccination protocols, ventilation and lung ultrasound are some of the ways for veterinarians to be intricately involved in ensuring that the next generation of dairy cows reach their maximum potential. Autofeeders provide a unique opportunity for veterinary involvement in these areas.