bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effects of Alhagi maurorum Medik polysaccharide derived from different regions on the intestinal immune functions of lambs
Authors: Manafu Zulikeyan , Du Ronglijiao , Malajiang Xieraili , Abulikemu Gulimire , Xue Lijun , Bierdelieke Ayibike , Xie Yuan , Liu Dandan , Mai Zhanhai , Guo Qingyong , Wusiman Adelijiang , Li Bin , Abula Saifuding 
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Plant polysaccharide are widely studied as potential prebiotics because of their potential to protect and enhance the immunity of lambs.Methods: In this study, the polysaccharide content of Alhagi maurorum Medik from Aksu (AK) and Shanshan (SS) at different cutting periods was determined, and the functions of Alhagi maurorum Medik polysaccharide were investigated to useas an immunomodulator.Results: Our results indicated that the content of Alhagi maurorum Medik polysaccharide is the highest at the maturity stage, and the polysaccharide content of Alhagi maurorum Medik produced in Shanshan area is higher as compared to the Aksu area. The serum IgG, duodenum IgA, TNF-α, IL-4, IL-10 contents, jejunum IgA, TNF-α, IL-4, IL-17 contents, ileum IgA, IL-17 contents, duodenum villus height, crypt depth and jejunum crypt depth of lambs were significantly adjusted in the SS group as compared to CK control group and AK groups (p &lt; 0.05). Furthemore, the sequencing results showed that SS polysaccharide promoted the release of large amounts of IgA and enhanced the immunal function of intestine by regulating the IgA production pathway and B-cell receptor signaling to activate B cells in the T-dependent pathway.Discussion: Altogether, Alhagi maurorum Medik polysaccharide from SS group holds a promising potential to be used as a valuable immunopotentiator for optimizing the immune system of intestine in lambs.
A novel approach to brain tumor detection using K-Means++, SGLDM, ResNet50, and synthetic data augmentation
Authors: Sarah Ponuku , Krishnapriya Srigiri , Saladi Saritha , Karuna Yepuganti , Bavirisetti Durga Prasad 
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Brain tumors are abnormal cell growths in the brain, posing significant treatment challenges. Accurate early detection using non-invasive methods is crucial for effective treatment. This research focuses on improving the early detection of brain tumors in MRI images through advanced deep-learning techniques. The primary goal is to identify the most effective deep-learning model for classifying brain tumors from MRI data, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and reliability.Methods: The proposed method for brain tumor classification integrates segmentation using K-means++, feature extraction from the Spatial Gray Level Dependence Matrix (SGLDM), and classification with ResNet50, along with synthetic data augmentation to enhance model robustness. Segmentation isolates tumor regions, while SGLDM captures critical texture information. The ResNet50 model then classifies the tumors accurately. To further improve the interpretability of the classification results, Grad-CAM is employed, providing visual explanations by highlighting influential regions in the MRI images.Result: In terms of accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity, the evaluation on the Br35H::BrainTumorDetection2020 dataset showed superior performance of the suggested method compared to existing state-of-the-art approaches. This indicates its effectiveness in achieving higher precision in identifying and classifying brain tumors from MRI data, showcasing advancements in diagnostic reliability and efficacy.Discussion: The superior performance of the suggested method indicates its robustness in accurately classifying brain tumors from MRI images, achieving higher accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity compared to existing methods. The method's enhanced sensitivity ensures a greater detection rate of true positive cases, while its improved specificity reduces false positives, thereby optimizing clinical decision-making and patient care in neuro-oncology.
A simple and effective deep neural network based QRS complex detection method on ECG signal
Authors: Zhao Wei , Li Zhenqi , Hu Jing , Ma Yunju 
Published: July 2024

Introduction: The QRS complex is the most prominent waveform within the electrocardiograph (ECG) signal. The accurate detection of the QRS complex is an essential step in the ECG analysis algorithm, which can provide fundamental information for the monitoring and diagnosis of the cardiovascular diseases.Methods: Seven public ECG datasets were used in the experiments. A simple and effective QRS complex detection algorithm based on the deep neural network (DNN) was proposed. The DNN model was composed of two parts: a feature pyramid network (FPN) based backbone with dual input channels to generate the feature maps, and a location head to predict the probability of point belonging to the QRS complex. The depthwise convolution was applied to reduce the parameters of the DNN model. Furthermore, a novel training strategy was developed. The target of the DNN model was generated by using the points within 75 milliseconds and beyond 150 milliseconds from the closest annotated QRS complexes, and artificial simulated ECG segments with high heart rates were generated in the data augmentation. The number of parameters and floating point operations (FLOPs) of our model was 26976 and 9.90M, respectively.Results: The proposed method was evaluated through a cross-dataset test and compared with the sophisticated state-of-the-art methods. On the MITBIH NST, the proposed method demonstrated slightly better sensitivity (95.59% vs. 95.55%) and lower presicion (91.03% vs. 92.93%). On the CPSC 2019, the proposed method have similar sensitivity (95.15% vs.95.13%) and better precision (91.75% vs. 82.03%).Discussion: Experimental results show the proposed algorithm achieved a comparable performance with only a few parameters and FLOPs, which would be useful for the application of ECG analysis on the wearable device.
Oxidative stress and plasma ceramides in broiler chickens
Authors: Klandorf Hillar , Dartigue Vincent 
Published: July 2024

The selection for rapid growth in chickens has rendered meat-type (broiler) chickens susceptible to develop metabolic syndrome and thus inflammation. The sphingolipid ceramide has been linked as a marker of oxidative stress in mammals, however, the relationship between sphingolipid ceramide supply and oxidative stress in broiler chickens has not been investigated. Therefore, we employed a lipidomic approach to investigate the changes in circulating sphingolipid ceramides in context of allopurinol-induced oxidative stress in birds. Day zero hatched chicks (n = 60) were equally divided into six groups; an unsupplemented control, an allopurinol group (25 mg/kg body weight), a conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) group where half of the oil used in the control diet was substituted for a CLA oil mixture, a CLA and an allopurinol group utilizing the same dose of CLA and allopurinol, a berberine (BRB) group consisting of berberine supplementation (200 mg/kg feed), and a BRB and allopurinol group, utilizing the same dose of BRB and allopurinol. Conjugated linoleic acid and berberine were utilized to potentially enhance antioxidant activity and suppress the oxidative stress induced by allopurinol treatment. Body weight, plasma uric acid, nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA) and sphingolipid ceramides were quantified. Allopurinol induced an inflammatory state as measured by a significant reduction in plasma uric acid - an antioxidant in birds as well as a metabolic waste product. Results showed that both total and saturated sphingolipid ceramides declined (p &lt; 0.05) with age in unsupplemented chicks, although plasma ceramides C16:0 and 18:0 increased in concentration over the study period. Simple total and saturated sphingolipid ceremide’s were further decreased (p &lt; 0.05) with allopurinol supplementation, however, this may be an indirect consequence of inducing an inflammatory state. Neither CLA or BRB were able to significantly attenuate the decline. The administration of allopurinol specifically targets the liver which in birds, is the primary organ for fatty acids synthesis. For this reason, sphingolipid ceramide production might have been unwittingly affected by the addition of allopurinol.
Dual-task costs in speed tasks: a comparison between elite ice hockey, open-skill and closed-skill sports athletes
Authors: Brinkbäumer Mark , Kupper Christian , Reichert Lukas , Zentgraf Karen 
Published: July 2024

IntroductionIce hockey is a high pace sports game that requires players to integrate multiple skills. Players face perceptive, cognitive, and motor tasks concurrently; hence, players are regularly exposed to dual- or multi-task demands. Dual-tasking has been shown to lead to decreased performance in one or both performed tasks. The degree of performance reductions might be modulated by the exhaustion of cognitive resources. Literature on dual-task paradigms that combine sport-relevant elements is scarce. Therefore, a novel paradigm combining cyclical speed of the lower extremities and concurrent visuo-verbal speed reading was tested and validated. Additionally, to understand the nature of dual-task costs, the relationship between these costs and cognitive performance was assessed. We hypothesized occurrence of dual-task costs in all athletes without relationship to single task performance. Differences in dual-task cost were expected between open-skill and closed-skill sports, as well as differing expertise levels. Level of cognitive function was expected to explain some variance in dual-task cost.MethodsA total of 322 elite athletes (120 ice hockey, 165 other team sports, 37 closed-skill sports) participated in this study. Each athlete performed a tapping task, a visuo-verbal speed-reading task, and both tasks simultaneously. All ice hockey athletes performed additional cognitive tests assessing processing speed, spatial working memory, sustained attention, two choice reaction time, and motor inhibition.ResultsThe results of paired-sample t-tests confirmed significant dual-task costs for all sport groups (p &lt; 0.001). Single-task performance and dual-task costs correlated weakly in a positive direction. A one-way ANOVA revealed significantly greater costs in closed-skill sports athletes than in ice hockey and other sports athletes. No significant differences in dual-task costs were found between teams of differing expertise levels. Lastly, no significant regression model was found to predict dual-task costs from cognitive test performance.DiscussionOur study suggests that this novel dual-task paradigm was successful in inducing dual-task costs for all elite athletes. Since it distinguishes between closed-skill and open-skill sports athletes, it might be a valuable diagnostic tool for performance and for talent development of open-skill athletes. Dual-task costs could not be relevantly predicted via cognitive performance measures, questioning cognitive resource theories as an explanation for dual-task costs.
Declines in social–emotional skills in college students during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Cerutti Janine , Burt Keith B. , Moeller Robert W. , Seehuus Martin 
Published: July 2024

IntroductionThe present study investigated whether social–emotional skills in first year college students differed before and after the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) lockdowns.MethodsParticipants (N = 1,685) consisted of first year college students (mean age 18.53 years) selected from a broader cohort enrolled in a longitudinal study on college mental health at liberal arts colleges in the United States. In a cohort-sequential design, participants completed an online survey assessing social–emotional skills in January of 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2022. Using analysis of covariance, we examined mean differences in social–emotional skills between students who were first years before (January 2018–2020) and after the lockdowns (January 2022), controlling for sociodemographic variables.ResultsThe post-lockdown group scored significantly lower on emotional control and expressivity and marginally higher on social sensitivity compared to the pre-lockdown group. No group differences in social/emotional expressivity or social control were detected.DiscussionThese findings indicate that the COVID-19 lockdowns impaired some, but not all, social–emotional skills in first year college students. Addressing social–emotional skills in college may help to reduce the COVID-19 mental health burden.
Exploring the relationships between dominance behavioral system, mentalization, theory of mind and assertiveness: analysis in a non-clinical sample
Authors: Cerciello Francesco , Esposito Clara , La Penna Ilaria , Sica Luigia Simona , Frolli Alessandro 
Published: July 2024

IntroductionThe dominance behavioral system, a fundamental aspect of human behavior, orchestrates the drive for dominance, regulates dominant-subordinate dynamics, and shapes responses to perceived power dynamics. While the existing literature extensively delves into the components of this system, scant attention is paid to its interplay with mentalization, theory of mind, and assertiveness. Moreover, gender disparities in dominance behaviors are largely studied in terms of biological variables (levels of testosterone) and clinical populations. This study aims to understand the relationships between activation strategies of the dominance behavioral system, mentalization processes, theory of mind abilities, and levels of social discomfort in assertive communication. Moreover, to identify gender differences in the dominance behavioral system in a non-clinical sample.MethodsOur sample was composed of 67 students from a non-clinical population. They claimed the absence of any psychological, neurological, or developmental disorders.ResultsA regression analysis was performed, and we found that levels of mentalization predict levels of hyperactivation of dominance behavioral system, but no significant results for the deactivation levels of the system were found. Moreover, no gender differences were found in levels of activations of the dominance behavioral system.ConclusionThese findings underscore the pivotal role of mentalization abilities in interpersonal dynamics, emphasizing the need for individuals to navigate social interactions adeptly. Furthermore, our research unveils implications for individual well-being and psychopathology, urging further investigation into how these dimensions intersect with various psychological disorders. By discerning the intricate mechanisms at play, we can develop targeted therapeutic interventions tailored to specific behavioral patterns, ultimately enhancing psychological resilience and fostering healthier social relationships in a non-clinical population.
Exploring the interconnections of anxiety, depression, sleep problems and health-promoting lifestyles among Chinese university students: a comprehensive network approach
Authors: Sun Changqing , Zhu Zhengqi , Zhang Peijia , Wang Lianke , Zhang Qiang , Guo Yuanli , Guo Lina , Li Yang , Wang Panpan , Hu Bo , Liu Mengting , Duan Jingyi , Wang Yiwen , Wang Ziqi , Qin Ying 
Published: July 2024

BackgroundAnxiety, depression, and sleep problems are prevalent comorbid mental disorders among university students. The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasized a mental health promotion objective, recommending the consideration of protective health-promoting factors in strategies aimed at preventing mental disorders. Integrating theoretically significant constructs (such as protective factors) enhances our comprehension of the intricate mechanisms that underpin mental disorders. This study employed network analysis to first identify core and bridge symptoms within comorbid mental disorders and then explore how health-promoting lifestyles (HPLs) were associated with these disorders. The ultimate goal is to offer health promotion recommendations to enhance students’ quality of life.MethodsA total of 3,896 qualified university students participated in this study. Anxiety, depression, sleep problems, and HPLs were assessed using the GAD-7, PHQ-9, PSQI, and HPLP-II scales. A Gaussian Graphical Model was used to construct the networks. The Network Comparison Test was applied to determine whether the associations between HPLs and comorbid symptoms vary by gender, educational level, family sibling, and mental health status.ResultsLow energy (PHQ4) had the highest strength centrality, followed by Daytime dysfunction (PSQI7) and Trouble relaxing (GAD4). Five bridge symptoms were identified: Daytime dysfunction (PSQI7), Self-harm even suicide (PHQ9), Sad mood (PHQ2), Low energy (PHQ4), and Feeling afraid (GAD7). Regarding protective HPLs, Physical activity, Spiritual growth, and Stress management generally emerged as the top three central mental health-promoting behaviors.ConclusionTargeting core and bridge symptoms with timely and appropriate interventions can alleviate anxiety, depression, and sleep problems in this population. Moreover, promoting physical activity, fostering spiritual growth, and managing stress are likely to significantly enhance the overall mental health of university students.
Use of wastewater from passenger ships to assess the movement of COVID-19 and other pathogenic viruses across maritime international boundaries
Authors: Jones Davey L. , Bridgman Mathew , Pellett Cameron , Weightman Andrew J. , Kille Peter , García Delgado Álvaro , Cross Gareth , Cobley Steve , Howard-Jones Helen , Chadwick David R. , Farkas Kata 
Published: July 2024

Objective:The worldwide spread of SARS-CoV-2 and the resulting COVID-19 pandemic has been driven by international travel. This has led to the desire to develop surveillance approaches which can estimate the rate of import of pathogenic organisms across international borders. The aim of this study was to investigate the use of wastewater-based approaches for the surveillance of viral pathogens on commercial short-haul (3.5 h transit time) roll-on/roll-off passenger/freight ferries operating between the UK and the Republic of Ireland.MethodsSamples of toilet-derived wastewater (blackwater) were collected from two commercial ships over a 4-week period and analysed for SARS-CoV-2, influenza, enterovirus, norovirus, the faecal-marker virus crAssphage and a range of physical and chemical indicators of wastewater quality.ResultsA small proportion of the wastewater samples were positive for SARS-CoV-2 (8% of the total), consistent with theoretical predictions of detection frequency (4%–15% of the total) based on the national COVID-19 Infection Survey and defecation behaviour. In addition, norovirus was detected in wastewater at low frequency. No influenza A/B viruses, enterovirus or enterovirus D68 were detected throughout the study period.ConclusionWe conclude that testing of wastewater from ships that cross international maritime boundaries may provide a cost-effective and relatively unbiased method to estimate the flow of infected individuals between countries. The approach is also readily applicable for the surveillance of other disease-causing agents.
Double stigma: a cross-sectional study of Lassa patients with hearing loss in North Central Nigeria
Authors: Best Kachollom C. , Ameh Emmanuel , Weldon Caroline , Shwe David , Maigari Ibrahim Mahmood , Turaki Ishaku , Ma’an Nuhu D. , Yilgwan Christopher Sabo , Makishima Tomoko , Weaver Scott , Paessler Slobodan , Shehu Nathan Y. 
Published: July 2024

IntroductionLassa fever is a zoonotic infectious disease endemic in West Africa with a high case-fatality rate and reported stigmatization of surviving patients. This study examines discrimination among survivors of Lassa fever (LF) complicated by hearing loss (HL).MethodsThis cross-sectional qualitative study used an in-depth interview guide to collect information from patients with HL about their experience of stigma. Interviews were conducted by a trained team of interviewers at the Jos University Teaching Hospital between January and April 2022 in Hausa language after informed consent was obtained. Recordings of the interviews were transcribed and translated from Hausa to English. Data analysis was conducted using NVivo software using a thematic framework approach.ResultsMost (73%) respondents were male (n = 11); 27% were female (n = 4). The median age was 35 years (interquartile range, 16.5). Some Lassa fever patients experienced stigma and discrimination (53%) including isolation and withdrawal of family and community support during and after illness. HL increased stigma, as some patients were labeled “deaf” by other community members, increasing perceived stigma and devaluation. HL affected the socio-economic wellbeing of some who could not communicate well with their families and customers and constrained social interactions, evoking pain and apathy. Some survivors of LF and victims of its sequelae of HL experienced double stigmatization. While they were ill with LF, a third of respondents reported avoidance and isolation by family and community members who withdrew care and support both to them and their close family members. These forms of stigmatization strained their relationships.ConclusionThere is a need to address stigma in LF survivors who develop HL through concerted community-owned awareness to improve their quality of life along with a robust social support system to aid prevention.
Implementation of the Macao dementia policy: a scoping review for the way forward
Authors: Tang Pou Kuan , Cen Zhifeng , Zheng Yu , Shi Junnan , Hu Hao , Ung Carolina Oi Lam 
Published: July 2024

BackgroundThe implementation of dementia policy is a complex process of translating policy goals to actions to address the changing needs of people living with dementia. Leveraging on others’ experiences would help policy decision-makers and actors better prepare for the challenges.PurposeThis study explored the development, the implementation and the impact of the dementia policy in Macao, a “role model” recognized by the Alzheimer’s Disease International.MethodsA scoping review of policies, strategies, and news articles, as well as scholarly work from 6 scientific databases dated till March 2023 was conducted under the guidance of the Health Policy Triangle Framework.ResultsAccording to 284 documents, the dementia policy in Macao, driven by government leadership and supported with public-private partnership, aimed to integrate health and social services to achieve the goals of “Early prevention, Early detection, Early diagnosis, Early treatment and Early support.” Promoting the preparedness according to the dementia burden trajectory, empowering the public and the service providers with training and education, and encouraging services-related research were among the key actions. With major changes in dementia care configuration, a dementia service network, a dementia-friendly community and a one-stop service model for disease screening, diagnosis, treatment and support have been developed.DiscussionReconfiguring existing resources in the health and social services to form an integrated service network at the community level could be considered a priority of action. Continuous engagement, collaboration and empowerment at different levels across these sectors is crucial for the sustainability of a dementia policy.