Search Results (100,560)

Background: People with post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) are at increased risk of recurrent stroke, dementia, and accelerated cognitive decline. Objective: To examine the feasibility, safety, acceptability, and suitability of a virtually-delivered vascular risk reduction intervention that integrates tailored cognitive strategy training for people with executive function (EF) impairments post-stroke. Methods: This case series included eight participants who completed up to ten virtual sessions focused on vascular risk reduction and metacognitive strategy training. Sessions averaged 40 min over a 4–5-week period. Results: The intervention was found to be feasible, safe, and acceptable. The recruitment rate was 66.7%, and the retention rate was 87.5% (7 of 8 completed the training). No serious adverse events were reported. Most participants demonstrated improvements on the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM), with mean performance and satisfaction change scores of 1.22 ± 0.87 and 1.18 ± 0.83, respectively. Conclusions: This technology-enabled intervention was feasible and acceptable for individuals with post-stroke EF impairments. Virtual delivery was a key factor in its accessibility and success. The results are promising for improving self-management of vascular risk factors, warranting further study in larger trials. Full article

Ransomware, a significant cybersecurity threat, encrypts files and causes substantial damage, making early detection crucial yet challenging. This paper introduces a novel multi-phase framework for early ransomware detection, designed to enhance accuracy and minimize false positives. The framework addresses the limitations of existing methods by integrating operational data with situational and threat intelligence, enabling it to dynamically adapt to the evolving ransomware landscape. Key innovations include (1) data augmentation using a Bi-Gradual Minimax Generative Adversarial Network (BGM-GAN) to generate synthetic ransomware attack patterns, addressing data insufficiency; (2) Incremental Mutual Information Selection (IMIS) for dynamically selecting relevant features, adapting to evolving ransomware behaviors and reducing computational overhead; and (3) a Deep Belief Network (DBN) detection architecture, trained on the augmented data and optimized with Uncertainty-Aware Dynamic Early Stopping (UA-DES) to prevent overfitting. The model demonstrates a 4% improvement in detection accuracy (from 90% to 94%) through synthetic data generation and reduces false positives from 15.4% to 14%. The IMIS technique further increases accuracy to 96% while reducing false positives. The UA-DES optimization boosts accuracy to 98.6% and lowers false positives to 10%. Overall, this framework effectively addresses the challenges posed by evolving ransomware, significantly enhancing detection accuracy and reliability. Full article

Autonomic imbalance is one of the major pathological disturbances in chronic heart failure (CHF). Additionally, enhanced oxidative stress and inflammation are considered to be the main contributors to the disease progression. A growing body of evidence suggests cholinergic stimulation as a potential therapeutic approach in CHF, since it corrects the autonomic imbalance and alters the inflammatory response via the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway. Although previous research has provided some insights into the potential mechanisms behind these effects, there is a gap in knowledge regarding different cholinergic stimulation methods and their specific mechanisms of action. In the present study, an isoprenaline model (5 mg/kg/day s.c. for 7 days, followed by 4 weeks of CHF development) was used. Afterwards, rats received pyridostigmine (22 mg/kg/day in tap water for 14 days) or no treatment. Pyridostigmine treatment prevented the progression of CHF, decreasing chamber wall thinning (↑ PWDd, ↑ PWDs) and left ventricle dilatation (↓ LVIDd, ↓ LVIDs), thus improving cardiac contractile function (↑ EF). Additionally, pyridostigmine improved antioxidative status (↓ TBARS, ↓ NO₂⁻; ↑ CAT, ↑ GSH) and significantly reduced cardiac fibrosis development, confirmed by pathohistological findings and biochemical marker reduction (↓ MMP2, ↓ MMP9). However, further investigations are needed to fully understand the exact cellular mechanisms involved in the CHF attenuation via pyridostigmine. Full article

Real-time train rescheduling is a widely used strategy to minimize knock-on delays in railway networks. While recent research has introduced intelligent solutions to railway traffic management, the tight interdependence of train timetables and the intrinsic complexity of railway networks have hindered the scalability of these approaches to large-scale systems. This paper proposes a multi-agent system (MAS) that addresses these challenges by decomposing the network into single-junction levels, significantly reducing the search space for real-time rescheduling. The MAS employs a Condorcet voting-based collaborative approach to ensure global feasibility and prevent overly localized optimization by individual junction agents. This decentralized approach enhances both the quality and scalability of train rescheduling solutions. We tested the MAS on a railway network in the UK and compared its performance with the First-Come-First-Served (FCFS) and Timetable Order Enforced (TTOE) routing methods. The computational results show that the MAS significantly outperforms FCFS and TTOE in the tested scenarios, yielding up to a 34.11% increase in network capacity as measured by the defined objective function, thus improving network line capacity. Full article

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) represents a public health problem globally, with the highest prevalence reported among older adults. While an interplay of various determinants including genetic, epigenetic, environmental factors and unhealthy lifestyle, particularly diet, has been established to contribute to T2D development, emerging evidence supports the role of interactions between nutrients or dietary patterns and genes in the pathogenesis of this metabolic disorder. The amount, and especially the type of carbohydrates, in particular, have been correlated with the risk of non-communicable chronic disease and mortality. This narrative review aims to discuss the updated data on the complex and not fully elucidated relationship between carbohydrate–gene interactions and incidence of T2D, identifying the most susceptible genes able to modulate the dual association between carbohydrate intake and risk of developing T2D. The identification of genetic polymorphisms in response to this macronutrient represents a potentially powerful target to estimate individual risk and prevent the development of T2D in the context of personalized medicine. The postulation around novel foods potentially tailored to minimize the risks of developing T2D will pave the way for a new era into food research in relation to the safeguarding of well-being status in patients affected by, or at risk for, T2D. Full article

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), bluetongue (BT), and Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) are major emerging and re-emerging viral infections affecting ruminants. These diseases can threaten livestock health, food security, and economic stability in low- and middle-income countries, including Algeria. However, their dynamics remain mostly unknown, limiting the implementation of effective preventive and control measures. We analyzed outbreak data reported by Algerian veterinary authorities and the WAHIS database from 2014 to 2022 for FMD; from 2006 to 2020 for BT; and from 2011 to 2022 for PPR to investigate their spatiotemporal patterns and environmental drivers. Over these periods, Algeria reported 1142 FMD outbreaks (10,409 cases; 0.16/1000 incidence), 167 BT outbreaks (602 cases; 0.018/1000), and 222 PPR outbreaks (3597 cases; 0.096/1000). Small ruminants were the most affected across all diseases, although cattle bore the highest burden of FMD. BT primarily impacted sheep, and PPR showed a higher incidence in goats. Disease peaks occurred in 2014 for FMD, 2008 for BT, and 2019 for PPR. Spatial analyses revealed distinct ecological hotspots: sub-humid and semi-arid zones for FMD and BT, and semi-arid/Saharan regions for PPR. These patterns may be influenced by species susceptibility, animal movement, trade, and climatic factors such as temperature and rainfall. The absence of consistent temporal trends and the persistence of outbreaks suggest multiple drivers, including insufficient vaccination coverage, under-reporting, viral evolution, and environmental persistence. Our findings underscore the importance of targeted species- and region-specific control strategies, including improved surveillance, cross-border coordination, and climate-informed risk mapping. Strengthening One Health frameworks will be essential to mitigate the re-emergence and spread of these diseases. Full article

With the rapid development of science and technology, attackers have invented more and more ways to hide malicious information. Hidden malicious information often contains a large number of malicious codes and malicious scripts, which can be hidden in legitimate software and reconstructed to be executed as the software is executed. In recent years, phishing software has become popular at home and abroad, causing fraud to occur frequently. Among various carriers with high redundancy, images are often used by attackers to hide malicious information because they are often used as information transmission carriers and highly redundant storage. This paper aims to explore how attackers hide malicious information in images and use a convolutional neural network (CNN) framework with acceleration based on the analysis of the Edge of Stability (EOS) phenomenon to detect mobile phishing software. To design a machine learning approach to solve the problem, we summarize the characteristics of nine presented mainstream malicious information hiding methods and present a CNN framework that maintains a high initial learning rate while preventing the gradient from exploding in EOS. R-tree is used to speed up the search for nearby pixels that contain malicious information. The CNN model generated by training under this framework can reach an accuracy of $98.53\%$ and has been well implemented in mobile terminals. Full article

This study investigates a lithium-ion battery failure in heating insoles that ignited during normal walking while powered off. Through comprehensive material characterization, electrical testing, thermal analysis, and mechanical gait simulation, we systematically excluded electrical or thermal abuse as failure causes. X-ray/CT imaging localized the ignition source to the lateral heel edge of the pouch cell, correlating precisely with peak mechanical stress identified through gait analysis. Remarkably, the cyclic load was less than 10% of the single crush load threshold specified in safety standards. Key findings reveal multiple contributing factors as follows: the uncoated polyethylene separator’s inability to prevent stress-induced internal short circuits, the circuit design’s lack of battery health monitoring functionality that permitted undetected degradation, and the hazardous placement inside clothing that exacerbated burn injuries. These findings necessitate a multi-level safety framework for lithium-ion battery products, encompassing enhanced cell design to prevent internal short circuit, improved circuit protection with health monitoring capabilities, optimized product integration to mitigate mechanical and environmental impact, and effective post-failure containment measures. This case study exposes a critical need for product-specific safety standards that address the unique demands of wearable lithium-ion batteries, where existing certification requirements fail to prevent real-use failure scenarios. Full article

Pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) are the most common intracranial tumors. Evidence suggests that these types of tumors may have high recurrence rates. In this context, the purinergic system, oxidative stress, and inflammation are important signaling pathways involved in the cancer's pathophysiology. This study aimed to evaluate the sociodemographic and diagnostic profiles, as well as assess the purinergic signaling, immunological, and redox profiles, of patients after PitNET resection. We collected sociodemographic data and the patients’ diagnostic profiles. We also collected blood samples to analyze glycemia, triglycerides, albumin, and ATP levels. The ectonucleotidase activity was determined in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). In addition, we evaluated their redox and immunological profiles. There was a prevalence of gonadotropic macroadenoma derived from PIT-1 cells. We found that patients included in the PitNET group had increased glycemia, serum ATP levels, and ATP hydrolysis in PBMCs. Analyzing their immunological profiles, we found that patients had increased levels of IL-6, IL-10, and TNF, while the IL-27 level was decreased. Regarding their redox profiles, PitNET patients had increased levels of ROS and protein carbonylation. Unexpectedly, patients also showed increased levels of non-protein thiols (NPSHs), total thiols (PSHs), and ascorbic acid. Thus, the dysregulation of purinergic signaling sustained chronic inflammation and oxidative imbalance in PitNET patients for a long time after surgical resection. These data suggest that patients with PitNETs require long-term accompanying to prevent cancer recurrence prognosis. The biomarkers highlighted in this study may be good tools to help the medical approaches. Full article

Corrosion can accelerate the deterioration of the mechanical properties of steel structures. However, few studies have systematically evaluated its impact on seismic performance, particularly with respect to seismic economic losses. In this paper, the seismic fragility and loss assessment of a multi-story steel frame with viscous dampers (SFVD) building are investigated through experimental and numerical analysis. Based on corrosion and tensile test results, OpenSees software 3.3.0 was used to model the SFVD, and the effect of corrosion on the seismic fragility was evaluated via incremental dynamic analysis (IDA). Then, the economic losses of the SFVD during different seismic intensities were assessed at various corrosion times based on fragility analysis. The results show that as the corrosion time increases, the mass and cross-section loss rate of steel increase, causing a decrease in mechanical property indices, and theprobability of exceedance of the SFVD in the limit state increases gradually with increasing corrosion time, with an especially significant impact on the collapse prevention (CP) state. Furthermore, the economic loss assessment based on fragility curves indicates that the economic loss increases with corrosion time. Thus, the aim of this paper is to provide guidance for the seismic design and risk management of steel frame buildings in coastal regions throughout their life cycle. Full article

Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) is one of the major preventable causes of intellectual disability. This study evaluates the incidence of CH through a newborn screening (NBS) program in eastern Morocco. A descriptive cross-sectional design was used and heel prick blood samples were collected on blotting paper to measure Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) using an immunofluorimetric assay. 4062 newborns were screened (51.3% male, 48.7% female). TSH levels significantly varied by age: newborns sampled before 24 h had a higher median TSH (3.7 µU/mL [0.10–28.90]) compared to those sampled at 24 h or more (2.1 µU/mL [0.10–32.30]; p < 0.001). Using age-specific cut-off values, 18 suspected CH cases were recalled (recall rate: 0.44%). Among the 16 cases who completed confirmatory testing, 4 had transient hyperthyrotropinemia (HTT), characterized by mildly abnormal serum TSH and T4 levels that normalized spontaneously after few months without treatment. Three cases were diagnosed with CH confirmed at birth with markedly elevated serum TSH concentrations and significantly reduced T4 levels. Consequently, the birth prevalence of CH confirmed at birth was 1:1354 live births. The median preanalytical delay was 6 days (IQR: 3–12) and the TSH result turnaround was 8 days (IQR: 5–15), potentially affecting timely intervention. This first report from eastern Morocco confirms the relevance of neonatal screening but highlights delays that must be addressed to enhance early diagnosis and management. Full article

The main goal of purebred cat breeding is to produce healthy offspring while maintaining breed purity. Pedigree cat breeders are affiliated with international federations that enforce similar breeding regulations, which helps prevent the overexploitation of cats in breeding. The minimum age for allowing a cat to breed is at least 10 months. This study aimed to analyze the breeding performance of three cat breeds: Maine Coon (MCO), British Shorthair (BSH), and Devon Rex (DRX). These breeds are classified as late-maturing (MCO), medium-late maturing (BSH), and early-maturing (DRX). The analysis was based on pedigree data obtained from the Polish Felinological Association, which operates under the auspices of the World Cat Federation. In total, data from 1016 litters (453 MCO, 453 BSH, and 110 DRX) were analyzed. Breeds differed significantly in age at first birth (p = 0.041), mean interval between litters (p < 0.01), and mean number of kittens per litter (p < 0.01). Breed effects were also noted for the mean interval between births (p < 0.01), mean number of kittens per litter (p < 0.01), and the total number of kittens sired by the mother (p = 0.007). Within each breed, differences were found in the sex ratio of litters, with a predominance of males in DRX (p = 0.049), MCO (p = 0.003), and overall breeds (p = 0.036). In contrast, the BSH breed showed no significant difference in the sex ratio of litters (p = 0.455). In both the MCO and DRX breeds, the lowest average interval between litters was observed in females that gave birth to their first litter early compared to those that gave birth later. The total number of kittens raised by the mother was highest in the MCO breed (p ≤ 0.05), while the shortest litter spacing was found in the DRX breed (p ≤ 0.05). Full article

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder in the world. PD is characterized by motor and non-motor symptoms, but the diagnosis primarily relies on the clinical assessment of postural and movement abnormalities, supported by imaging and genetic testing. It is widely accepted that the disease process begins decades before the onset of overt symptoms. Emerging evidence suggests that neuroinflammation plays a central role in the pathogenesis of PD, particularly during the pre-clinical phase. Activated microglia, increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and persistent oxidative stress have all been associated with the gradual loss of dopaminergic neurons. Although earlier detection and diagnosis remain elusive, achieving these goals is crucial for advancing prevention and disease-modifying strategies. Clinical studies are ongoing. To fill the gap, research models that recapitulate the chronic disease progression of PD are crucial to test preventive and disease-modifying strategies. This review briefly summarizes clinical knowledge on PD as a starting point for improving research models. Furthermore, we will critically evaluate how the existing models have been utilized and highlight opportunities to overcome their limitations and enhance the translational relevance to clinical application. Full article

Aims: To systematically review and synthesize qualitative research exploring the Breast Cancer Survivors (BCSs)’ perception of health promotion interventions and informing strategies to mitigate recurrence risk within five years post-treatment and improve clinical outcomes. Specifically, this study addresses the question: “How do women diagnosed with breast cancer perceive health promotion interventions for recurrence prevention?” Design: A systematic review and qualitative meta-synthesis were performed. Data Sources: A systematic search of scientific databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, and Scopus) was undertaken in November 2024. The reference list was cross-referenced and hand-searched to identify additional articles. Review Methods: Studies were included if they met the following criteria: they were primary qualitative studies focusing on BCSs within five years post-treatment, involving participants who had completed surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy in the same time frame, as this period is critical for monitoring recurrence and implementing health promotion interventions. Only studies published in peer-reviewed journals and written in Italian, English, French, or Spanish were considered, provided that an abstract and the full text were available. Moreover, eligible studies had to be conducted in high-income or middle-income countries. Studies were excluded if they focused exclusively on advanced or metastatic breast cancer, if they involved mixed cancer populations without reporting separate data for BCSs, or if they were non-qualitative studies or gray literature. The review study protocol was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42024626033). Results: The literature search identified 490 records, 13 articles from databases, and 3 articles identified via other methods (web and citation searching) that met inclusion criteria. A narrative synthesis approach allowed the emerging five themes: (I) Challenges, (II) Self-motivation and empowerment, (III) The relationships as a facilitator, (IV) Barriers to change, and (V) Proactive support strategies. Conclusions: Addressing internal and external factors that influence health behaviors is essential to improve adherence, reduce recurrence risk, and enhance quality of life. Tailored interventions, social support, and healthcare engagement are crucial in this effort. Impact: Our meta-synthesis highlighted significant challenges as well as valuable resources for health promotion among BCSs, suggesting practical and tailored approaches to improving the adoption of healthy behaviors, supported by relationships and targeted support strategies. Full article

Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by various fungal species that can contaminate food and feed, posing significant risks to human and animal health. In aquaculture, the replacement of fishmeal with alternative protein sources has increased the risk of mycotoxin contamination, becoming a major challenge in fish feed production. Current data highlights that fish are exposed not only to common mycotoxins but also to emerging ones, raising concerns about human exposure through fish consumption. In this review, we draw attention to the toxicity data of key emerging mycotoxins from Fusarium (enniatins, ENNs; beauvericin, BEA) and Alternaria (alternariol monomethyl ether, AME; alternariol, AOH), their occurrence in aquafeeds and in commercially relevant fish species in Europe, and potential biocontrol approaches to prevent/mitigate contaminations. From the present review, it emerged that these mycotoxins exhibit in vitro cytotoxic properties. Their prevalence and concentrations vary widely both among aquafeeds, depending on the sample’s origin, and among fish species. Biocontrol approaches using microorganisms or natural compounds show promise as sustainable solutions to limit contamination. However, further research is essential to address data gaps and to allow for a proper risk assessment and, if necessary, the implementation of effective management measures. Full article