bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship between loneliness and internalizing disorders among young adults: the mediating and moderating role of ego-resilience
Authors: Padmanabhanunni Anita , Pretorius Tyrone B.
Published: January 2025

Background

The relationship between loneliness and internalizing disorders has been well established in psychological research. This study aims to build on existing research by exploring how different components of loneliness—isolation, relational connectedness, and collective connectedness—interact with ego-resilience to influence anxiety, depression, and hopelessness.

Methods

The study participants were young adults (n = 337) who completed the University of California-Los Angeles Loneliness Scale, Ego Resilience Scale, Centre for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale, State-Trait Anxiety Scale, and Beck Hopelessness Scale. A regression-based moderation and mediation analysis was used to investigate the relationships between the components of loneliness, ego-resilience, and internalizing disorders.

Results

The results of correlational analysis demonstrated that the zero-order correlations between the components of loneliness, isolation, relational connectedness, and collective connectedness, on the one hand, and internalizing disorders, on the other hand, were all significant. Mediation analyses found that ego-resilience partly mediated the relationships between relational connectedness and internalizing disorders, the relationships between collective connectedness and internalizing disorders, and the relationships between isolation and internalizing disorders. Further, moderation analyses found that ego-resilience moderated the relationships between collective connectedness and relational connectedness, respectively, and hopelessness.

Conclusion

This study highlights the central role of ego-resilience in mediating the effects of different facets of loneliness on internalizing disorders. Understanding the mediating and moderating role of ego-resilience can inform therapeutic approaches and interventions aimed at reducing the impact of loneliness on mental health.
The association between sleep duration and myopia among Chinese school-age students: mediation effect of physical activity
Authors: Feng Haiqing , Gao Yuexia , An Na , Lu Yitong , Huang Jianping , Yang Weiping , Lu Qingyun
Published: January 2025

Background

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between sleep duration and myopia in school-age students, as well as to observe the role of physical activity as a mediating variable in sleep duration and myopia.

Methods

Using multistage stratified sampling, 26,020 school-age students in Jiangsu Province, ages 7–18, were selected for this cross-sectional survey. Each participant completed a standardized interview in which their were asked about their vision, level of physical activity and average hours of sleep per day over the past month. Visual acuity examinations were conducted by the testing team’s ophthalmology professionals and they were categorized into two groups based on pre-set criteria: myopic and non-myopic. Sleep duration was classified into 3 categories: <8 h/d, 8–10 h/d, >10 h/d. The Pearson’s chi-square tests were used to examine differences in the incidence of myopia among participants. Binary multifactorial logistic regression adjusted for potential confounding variables was used to examine the relationship between myopia and a variety of factors. The mediating effects of physical activity on sleep duration and myopia were analyzed using the AMOS model.

Results

In this study, the incidence of myopia was higher in females than in males, it also increased with age. Those who slept for <8 h/d had the greatest myopia rate (85.69%) compared with those who slept for≥8 h/d (p < 0.001). Sleep duration was found to be adversely correlated with myopia (sleep duration = 8–10 h/d: OR = 0.68, p < 0.01; sleep duration > 10 h/d: OR = 0.48, p < 0.01) after controlling for potential confounders like gender, age, and BMI-z score (Body Mass Index Score). Physical activity at a high intensity not moderate intensity was found to be protective factor against myopia. High-intensity physical activity also acted as a mediator in the negative association between sleep duration and myopia (a, b, c’ all p < 0.05).

Conclusion

There is a negative correlation between sleep duration and myopia in school-age students, and that high-intensity physical activity mediates the relationship between sleep duration and myopia.
The job performance and job burnout relationship: a panel data comparison of four groups of academics’ job performance
Authors: Lei Miao , Alam Gazi Mahabubul , Bashir Karima
Published: January 2025

Objectives

This present study investigates whether performance can influence job burnout, and it further examines whether there is a meaningful difference in the association between job burnout and job performance in universities. Provided here are applicable strategies aimed at preventing and maximizing job burnout crises before the job is taken and during its execution.

Methodology

To answer the research questions quantitatively, group regression analysis utilizing panel data from 2020 to 2023 was employed. The instruments include the KPI and mental health records to evaluate the level of job performance and job burnout. Likewise, a total of nine universities were purposively and randomly selected, and 1,113 academics were sampled for the study. The KPI scores and frequency of burnout counseling was collected from the human resource department and the medical health centers.

Findings

The results showed that academics’ job burnout is influenced by their job performance (β = −0.014, p < 0.001). Academics’ superior performance was notably linked to lower job burnout and the need for psychological counseling. Furthermore, academics’ job burnout was significantly moderated by psychological counseling (β = −0.006, p < 0.05), and neither did it regulate their job performance.

Conclusion

Academics with high performance levels exhibit low levels of burnout. Meanwhile, academics who demonstrate low or poor performance indicate high burnout levels. Psychological counseling can moderate the level of job burnout but does not cure burnout. This study suggests that competency is the basic bedrock for strong performance and less burnout experienced by staff. Consequently, all universities should employ their staff based on assessing their competency and ability to handle stressful situations to prevent job burnout crises from occurring.

Implications

This paper makes a contribution to the existing literature on job performance and job burnout by utilizing a distinctive measurement path approach. In this context, universities need to use pre-measurement mechanisms to prevent burnout instead of post-measurement techniques through proactive recruitment strategies based on the popular adage that “prevention is better than cure.”
Analysis of the determinants of alcohol consumption and expenditure in Ecuador: an econometric analysis
Authors: Yajamín-Villamarín Ricardo
Published: January 2025

Background

This study delves into the determinants of alcohol consumption and expenditure in Ecuador, focusing on personal characteristics, education levels, and regional variations. This study aimed to provide nuanced insights into alcohol-related behaviors within the Ecuadorian population.

Methods

Employing probit and Tobit models, the study ensures a robust analytical framework to assess the factors influencing alcohol consumption and expenditure. Data were collected from the 2014 Survey of Living Conditions, spanning urban and rural areas of Ecuador, guaranteeing a diverse population representation. The study includes individuals from random households, totaling 66,418 individuals over 18 years. Employing various measurements, including the use of a probit model for alcohol consumption and a Tobit model for alcohol expenditure, the study considers key variables such as smoking, gender, age, employment status, and regional location, contributing to a detailed understanding of alcohol-related behaviors.

Results

For female individuals, there is a negative association, decreasing the probability of alcohol consumption by 6.6% (p-value: 0.000). Conversely, being a smoker exhibits a positive association, increasing the likelihood by 10.2% (p-value: 0.000). Regarding alcohol expenditure, being female is linked to a reduction in spending by $0.885 (p-value: 0.000). Being a smoker reveals an increase in spending by $0.914 (p-value: 0.000). Regional variations, education level, and employment status play crucial roles in shaping alcohol-related behaviors.

Conclusion

This research provides nuanced insights into the socioeconomic determinants of alcohol-related behaviors in Ecuador. The findings underscore the necessity for targeted public policies, including gender-specific interventions, anti-smoking strategies, and considerations for regional variations.
Examining psychological correlates of vaccine hesitancy: a comparative study between the US and Israel
Authors: Simonovic Nicolle , Gesser-Edelsburg Anat , Taber Jennifer M.
Published: January 2025

It is important to identify psychological correlates of vaccine hesitancy, including among people not from the United States (U.S.). College students were recruited between March–June 2023 in the US (n = 330, Mage = 20.21, 79.5% female) and in Israel (n = 204, Mage = 23.45, 92.6% female) to complete a cross-sectional survey on vaccine attitudes, emotions, and behavior. A 2 (Nation: US, Israel) × 2 (Vaccine Status: Vaccinated, Unvaccinated) factorial design was used. Individual ANCOVAS controlling for sociodemographic factors were conducted to test main effects of nation and vaccine status, and their interaction, across various psychological correlates of health behavior. Consistent with hypotheses, unvaccinated (vs. vaccinated) individuals reported higher perceived ambiguity, reactance, and anger as well as perceived lower susceptibility, severity, worry, positive emotion, and intentions to vaccinate. Contrary to hypotheses, unvaccinated individuals reported greater fear. Israeli (vs. American) participants reported higher perceived ambiguity, worry, fear, and anger, as well as lower perceived susceptibility. Vaccinated Americans reported higher intentions to vaccinate again in the future (M = 2.89, SE = 0.08) compared to vaccinated Israelis (M = 2.36, SE = 0.08). However, unvaccinated Americans reported lower intentions to vaccinate (M = 1.80, SE = 0.15) than unvaccinated Israelis (M = 1.95, SE = 0.21). Findings provide insight into correlates to target for vaccine promotion and emphasize the need for cultural tailoring.
An umbrella review of physical-activity therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy in reducing fear of falling among community-dwelling older adults: insights on intervention intensity and duration
Authors: Sheng Yuan , Wang Caili , Wang Yan , Pan LunPing , Zhang Mengmeng , Liu Deshan , Gao Wei
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Data about the impact of varying physical-activity therapy (PAT) intensities and the ideal duration of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) on older adults is inadequate. In this umbrella review, we seek to comprehensively synthesize and analyze findings from systematic reviews and meta-analyses regarding the optimal PAT intensity for lowering FOF and the duration of CBT interventions for effectively lowering FOF.

Methods

The PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Medline, Embase, and CINAHL databases were searched up to April 2024. AMSTAR 2 was applied to assess the methodological and reporting quality. The quality of evidence for each intervention’s effect was evaluated using GRADE guidelines. A further meta-analysis of the primary studies was conducted to evaluate the effects of PAT intensity and CBT duration.

Results

In the 18 included studies, 12 were PAT interventions, 3 were multifactorial, and 3 were CBT interventions. The umbrella review found that PAT and CBT interventions can effectively manage FOF. Comparable improvements were reported with low- and moderate-intensity PAT intervention (p < 0.0001); Significant improvements were observed with CBT immediately post-intervention, in the short-term (<6 months), and in the long-term (≥6 months) (p < 0.0001).

Discussion

Our study revealed that a comprehensive intervention strategy combining low or moderate PAT with CBT interventions is more effective than isolated approaches, as it addresses the multifaceted nature of fear and fall risk. Future research should continue to track the long-term effects of synergistic interventions to optimize fall prevention strategies for older populations.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero Identifier CRD42024557893.
Level measurement, regional variations, and the dynamic evolution of active aging in China—analysis based on CHARLS tracking data
Authors: Guo Jiru , Zhang Xiaoli , Chen Longyin , Yang Hong
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Given the world’s largest and increasingly serious aging population, China has elevated “positively responding to aging of population” to a national strategy. Exploring the current state and evolutionary trends of active aging over the past decade is a fundamental prerequisite and the primary task for implementing this strategy.

Methods

Based on data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (2011-2018), this study primarily employs methods such as the entropy method, Gini coefficient, Moran index, and Kernel density estimation to analyze the development level, regional differences, and dynamic evolution of active aging in China.

Results

(1) From a general point of view, the overall level of active aging in China has not been high in the past decade, but has shown a rising trend year by year. Older Chinese people exhibit high levels of physical and mental health, but social participation and economic status remain areas of weakness in active aging. (2) Inter-regional differences are the main source of the overall differences in the level of active aging in China. (3) There is a spatial clustering of the active aging level in China, along with a neighborhood effect. (4) The bifurcation phenomenon of active aging in China has intensified over time. While the eastern region exhibits uneven development, the central and western regions have generally had more balanced growth.

Discussion

To improve the level of active aging among older adult individuals in China, policymakers should continuously optimize policies and pay more attention to the economic status and social participation of the older adult. Local governments should not only fully leverage their regional advantages but also interact with other regions to achieve cross-regional joint development.
Physical exercise behavior characteristics and influencing factors for participation in police officers
Authors: Feng Yuliang , Chen Chao , Liu Yang , Li Sen
Published: January 2025

Objective

The purpose of this study was to analyze police officers’ exercise participation behavior and influencing factors in order to better promote physical exercise participation and improve the health status of the police force.

Methods

Police officers (n = 3,682) were recruited from 16 district public security substations in a city in eastern China to investigate their physical exercise participation and influencing factors, and logistic regression analysis was used to investigate three aspects: exercise behavior, health cognition, and influencing factors.

Findings

The physical exercise behavior of police officers showed long duration of time, but low frequency and intensity. The exercise programs were diverse but mainly involved running. The exercise motivation was mainly to keep fit and for stress relief. Logistic regression analysis indicated that source of police entry (OR = 1.467, 95% CI: 1.338–1.609), exercise conditions in the workplace (OR = 1.069, 95% CI: 1.051–1.088), exercise conditions near home (OR = 1.123, 95% CI: 1.047–1.205), high volume physical labor during work resulting in little time for exercise (OR = 1.372, 95% CI: 1.038–1.813), lack of organization (OR = 1.415, 95% CI: 1.164–1.720), economic condition constraints (OR = 1.439, 95% CI: 1.114–1.858), and weather restrictions (OR = 2.929, 95% CI: 2.418–3.548) were the main factors influencing police physical exercise behavior.

Conclusion

Various influencing factors and the nature of actual police work presented barriers to police officers’ participation in physical exercise. Interventions to increase physical exercise participation would promote the physical health of police officers.
Implementation of a value-based approach for older people who have suffered an acute myocardial infarction: study protocol
Authors: Juraga Denis , Rukavina Tomislav , Marinović Glavić Mihaela , Bilajac Lovorka , Racz Aleksandar , Bally Esmee L. S. , Zanutto Oscar , Alhambra-Borrás Tamara , Ferrando Maite , Subotić Alen , Raat Hein , Vasiljev Vanja
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Due to the rapid aging of the global population, new approaches are required to improve the quality of life of older people and to reduce healthcare system expenditures. One of the approaches that can be used is value-based healthcare. This article describes a value-based solution for older people who have suffered a myocardial infarction.

Methods

This solution combines the work of healthcare professionals and informal caregivers and the use of modern and user-friendly technologies to support the achievement of patients’ values. Patients older than 65 years who have suffered a myocardial infarction will be divided into control and intervention groups within a pre-post-controlled design research study. Members of the intervention group will be provided with a personalized plan developed by healthcare professionals and based on the results from the baseline questionnaire.

Discussion

Two ValueCare digital solution components will be developed: a mobile application for the participants and a web platform for the professionals, researchers, and informal caregivers. Together with smartwatches, which will track important health aspects, and applications, this approach would enable older people to improve their health through correct lifestyle choices and their professional and informal caregivers to track their progress. With the use of the described technology and the multidisciplinary approach, the unmet needs and values of participants could be achieved. Using this approach, it could be possible to reduce overall healthcare expenses through the active involvement of both older people and their informal caregivers through a shared decision-making process with healthcare professionals.

Clinical trial registration

The ISRCTN registry number is 25089186. The date of trial registration is 16/11/2021.
Burden trends and future predictions for hypertensive heart disease attributable to non-optimal temperatures in the older adults amidst climate change, 1990–2021
Authors: Xu Can , Nie Xinyu , Xu Rui , Han Ge , Wang Dongjin
Published: January 2025

Background

Hypertensive heart disease (HHD) is a significant form of end-organ damage caused by hypertension, with profound impacts on global health and quality of life. Temperature anomalies driven by climate change, particularly extremes of heat and cold, are increasingly recognized as major contributors to the cardiovascular disease burden, notably impacting HHD. However, the specific spatiotemporal trends and gender-based differences in the burden of non-optimal temperatures on older adults HHD patients remain insufficiently explored. This study aims to evaluate the regional, gender-specific trends in the burden of HHD attributed to non-optimal temperatures among the older adults from 1990 to 2021, and to project future trends in HHD burden under climate-induced temperature anomalies from 2022 to 2050.

Methods

Data were sourced from the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD 2021), which provides estimates of mortality and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) at global, regional, and national levels. Age-standardized rates (ASR) and estimated annual percentage changes (EAPC) were analyzed. Future burden projections were modeled using age-period-cohort (APC) and Bayesian APC models to assess temperature impact by gender and age differences. Data analysis was conducted using R and STATA, examining the variations in temperature effects by gender and age.

Results

Between 1990 and 2021, cold-related HHD burden among the older adults significantly exceeded that of heat-related burden. However, heat-related HHD burden demonstrated a marked upward trend, projected to continue rising over the next two decades, particularly in low-income and tropical regions. Gender-specific analysis revealed that cold-related HHD burden was more pronounced in women, while heat-related burden was notably higher in men. Additionally, male heat-related HHD mortality rates have shown a substantial increase over the past 30 years, whereas female rates have exhibited a comparatively modest decline.

Conclusion

Although cold remains the dominant non-optimal temperature factor, rising global temperatures suggest an increasing burden of heat-related HHD among the older adults. Efforts should prioritize strengthening resilience in vulnerable regions and populations, with targeted interventions to mitigate future health risks associated with temperature extremes.
Biodistribution of intravenously delivered PEGylated carbon nanotubes to the rat brain cortex
Authors: Bruch Gisele Eva , Dal Bosco Lidiane , Cordeiro Arthur P. , Cordeiro Marcos F. , Sahoo Sangram K. , Peixoto Carolina , Klosterhoff Marta C. , Romano Luis Alberto , Fantini Cristiano , Santos Adelina P. , Barros Daniela M.
Published: January 2025

Polyethylene glycol-functionalized single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT-PEG) have been studied for many biomedical applications because of their unique physicochemical properties. Due to their reduced size and high stability in physiological media, SWCNT-PEG are candidates for crossing the blood–brain barrier (BBB), with potential use in treating central nervous system diseases that are currently unresponsive to pharmacological interventions because of the tightly regulated permeability of the BBB. In this study, we investigated the biodistribution of intravenously delivered SWCNT-PEG using Raman spectroscopy, as well as possible toxicological outcomes using morphological, histological, biochemical, and behavioral analyses. SWCNT-PEG were identified in the brain cortex, blood, spleen, and liver of rats. Biochemical and histological analyses did not reveal toxic effects in rats 24 h after SWCNT-PEG injection. Additionally, no behavioral impairments were observed in treated animals subjected to the Morris water maze task. Our preliminary experimental results clearly indicate that SWCNT-PEG were able to cross biological membranes and reach the rat brain cortex parenchyma (but not other brain structures) after systemic administration without the presence of acute toxic effects. The biodistribution of SWCNT-PEG in a specific region of the brain tissue encourages further studies regarding the application of SWCNTs in neuroscience.
Effectiveness of a 5-day adapted swim instruction program for children with disabilities
Authors: Carson Tana B. , Irwin J. Megan , Santiago Perez Tania , Frampton Ivana , Ruby Lisa
Published: January 2025

Background

Drowning is a leading cause of death for children. Some populations of children with disabilities, such as children with autism, experience a health disparity in drowning when compared to peers without disabilities.

Objective

This study presents a secondary data analysis of the response to intervention for a 5-day adapted swim instruction program (iCan Swim) for children with disabilities (n = 164 participants) ages 3–18 years.

Methods

This secondary data analysis assessed the effectiveness of the swim intervention on changes in swim skill level from Day 1 to Day 5. Associations between response to intervention (i.e., change score) and participant characteristics were examined using Kendall's tau-b for age and Chi-square for sex and diagnosis. Models were fit using a Poisson regression to examine potential predictors of progress across participants.

Results

Swim skills significantly improved from Day 1 (Md = 1.00, n = 164) to Day 5 (Md = 2.00, n = 164), z = −10.06, p < .001, r = .58). Most participants (61.6%) improved by at least one swim skill level. Age was weakly, yet significantly positively correlated with swim skill level change scores (τb = .154, p = .020) and was a significant predictor of swim skill level change for participants with Down Syndrome [b = .091, S.E. = .0434, p = .036, 95%CI (.006,.176)].

Conclusions

While this 5-day adapted swim instruction program was effective for most participants in improving swim skills, certain factors may have contributed to slower progression including participant fearfulness or needing more time. Further study of these factors is warranted.
Informed circular fields: a global reactive obstacle avoidance framework for robotic manipulators
Authors: Becker Marvin , Caspers Philipp , Lilge Torsten , Haddadin Sami , Müller Matthias A.
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we present a global reactive motion planning framework designed for robotic manipulators navigating in complex dynamic environments. Utilizing local minima-free circular fields, our methodology generates reactive control commands while also leveraging global environmental information from arbitrary configuration space motion planners to identify promising trajectories around obstacles. Furthermore, we extend the virtual agents framework introduced in Becker et al. (2021) to incorporate this global information, simulating multiple robot trajectories with varying parameter sets to enhance avoidance strategies. Consequently, the proposed unified robotic motion planning framework seamlessly combines global trajectory planning with local reactive control and ensures comprehensive obstacle avoidance for the entire body of a robotic manipulator. The efficacy of the proposed approach is demonstrated through rigorous testing in over 4,000 simulation scenarios, where it consistently outperforms existing motion planners. Additionally, we validate our framework’s performance in real-world experiments using a collaborative Franka Emika robot with vision feedback. Our experiments illustrate the robot’s ability to promptly adapt its motion plan and effectively avoid unpredictable movements by humans within its workspace. Overall, our contributions offer a robust and versatile solution for global reactive motion planning in dynamic environments.
Public policy supporting innovation for sustainable development
Authors: Brás Gonçalo Rodrigues , Robaina Margarita
Published: January 2025

What are the market priorities driving public funding for innovation? Do they reflect the priorities/interests of wider society or the sustainable development agenda? The market’s failure to deliver desirable innovation outcomes aligned with sustainable development must be addressed by public policy in the scope of responsible (and research) innovation principles. Public funding for innovation must support sustainable development to the benefit of society as a whole. Given the urgent need for action, the article proposes some innovative instruments with a view to achieving sound sustainable development.
Exploring probiotics as a sustainable alternative to antimicrobial growth promoters: mechanisms and benefits in animal health
Authors: Sachdeva Angel , Tomar Tanu , Malik Tabarak , Bains Aarti , Karnwal Arun
Published: January 2025

The extensive use of antimicrobial growth promoters (AGPs) in livestock has raised global concerns due to increasing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among pathogenic microbes. This review examines probiotics as a sustainable alternative to AGPs, offering a safer approach for promoting animal growth and health. Probiotics enhance animal productivity and immunity by producing antimicrobial compounds and competing with pathogens for nutrients. In addition, probiotics strengthen the gut barrier and modulate the gut microbiome, facilitating beneficial bacterial growth while suppressing pathogenic species. Studies demonstrate the efficacy of probiotic strains of genera Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium in inhibiting pathogens such as Clostridium perfringens and Salmonella in livestock. This comprehensive evaluation highlights probiotics' potential to advance sustainable livestock practices, reduce reliance on antibiotics, and mitigate AMR risks, underscoring the need for further research and regulatory considerations for their use in animal husbandry.
Mid-urethral sling with proper sling tension is an effective treatment for stress urinary incontinence in women after pelvic radiotherapy: a pilot study of case series
Authors: Guan Xing , Wang Fei , Zhang Di , Qiao Peng , Qin Yan , Wang Biao
Published: January 2025

Background

At present, consensus on the management of female stress urinary incontinence (SUI) after pelvic radiotherapy is lacking. We aim to assess the clinical effects of mid-urethral sling (MUS) for the treatment of SUI after pelvic radiotherapy in women.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of the clinical database of female with SUI after pelvic radiotherapy from June 2015 to February 2022. The clinical efficacy was evaluated by International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICI-Q-SF) questionnaire, maximum flow rate (Qmax) and postvoid residual (PVR) urine. All patients were reviewed postoperatively in an outpatient clinic.

Results

We identified 26 patients with mean age of 59.35 ± 7.32 years. All the patients who suffered from SUI had a history of gynaecological malignancies and received pelvic radiotherapy. 21 patients (80.77%, 95% CI: 0.621–0.915) were considered to have successfully improved after surgery, the ICI-Q-SF scores were lower than the pre-operative at 2 weeks, 6 months and 1 year postoperatively (P < 0.01). After 1-year follow-up, none of the patients had mesh erosion.

Conclusion

SUI following radiotherapy for the treatment of pelvic malignancy can be challenging to manage. MUS is a highly effective and safe option for the treatment of SUI after radiotherapy, additionally, that proper sling tension is the key to the success of the procedure.
Identification of a novel papillomavirus in oral swabs from giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca)
Authors: Zhao Yi , Zhao Min , Zhang Wen
Published: January 2025

To fully characterize papillomavirus diversity in giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca), we identified a novel papillomavirus (named AmPV5, GenBank accession number MZ357114) in oral swabs from giant pandas with the help of viral metagenomics technology in this study. The complete circular genome of AmPV5 is 7,935 bp in length, with a GC content of 39.1%. It encodes five early genes (E1, E2, E4, E6, and E7), two late genes (L1 and L2), and features conserved zinc-binding domains (CXXC- (X)28/29-CXXC) in E6 and E7 genes. E7 protein has an LxCxE domain (pRB binding) in its N-terminal region. The nucleotide sequence of AmPV5 L1 gene shares < 70% identity with other related sequences available in the GenBank database. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that AmPV5 fell within the Lambdapapillomavirus genus but formed a monophyletic branch away from other papillomaviruses found in Ailuropoda melanoleuca, Canis, Felis catus, Panthera uncia, Enhydra lutris, and Procyon lotor. According to the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV) classification guidelines, AmPV5 is classified as a new species within the Lambdapapillomavirus genus. The discovery provides valuable insights into the viral diversity in giant pandas and highlights the need for continued surveillance of wildlife pathogens. Future studies should explore the potential role of AmPV5 in the health and disease ecology of this endangered species.
Digital Health Interventions to Promote Physical Activity in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Semiquantitative Analysis
Authors: Di Pumpo M. , Miatton A. , Riccardi M. T. , Graps E. A. , Baldo V. , Buja A. , Damiani G.
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Physical activity (PA) is crucial for older adults’ wellbeing. Digital health interventions (DHIs) are important, however a synthesis aimed at healthy community-dwelling OA is lacking. This study aims to synthesize DHIs effect on PA levels among community-dwelling 60-year-old adults or older.

Methods

A systematic review was performed. DHIs using eHealth/mHealth tools, apps and text messaging were included. Primary outcomes were daily steps, moderate-to-vigorous PA and sedentary time. Quality was assessed via Cochrane risk-of-bias tools. Study-reported effect, study quality, sample size, study duration and dropout rate were semi-quantitatively synthesized to determine the overall category effect.

Results

12 studies were included. 75% were low-quality, sample size was 16–18,080, study duration was 3–18 weeks, average dropout rate was 4.2%–46.7%. The synthesis of “motivational reminders” and “dynamic exercise programs” showed an overall positive effect, of “PA self-monitoring” showed mixed results and “exercise digital coaching” showed a non-positive effect.

Discussion

Motivational reminders and dynamic exercise programs proved more effective in increasing PA in older adults than other interventions and should be more embedded in structured public health programs.
RAGE and its ligands in breast cancer progression and metastasis
Authors: Coser Madalina , Neamtu Bogdan Mihai , Pop Bogdan , Cipaian Calin Remus , Crisan Maria
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer diagnosed worldwide and the leading cause of death in women globally, according to Globocan 2020. Hence, investigating novel pathways implicated in cancer progression and metastasis could lead to the development of targeted therapies and new treatment strategies in breast cancer. Recent studies reported an interplay between the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) and its ligands, S100 protein group, advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and high-mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) and breast cancer growth and metastasis.

Materials and methods

We used articles available in the NCBI website database PubMed to write this scoping review. The search words used were ‘RAGE receptor’ AND/OR ‘breast cancer, RAGE ligands, glycation end products’. A total of 90 articles were included. We conducted a meta-analysis to assess the relationship between the RAGE rs1800624 polymorphism and breast cancer risk using fixed-effect or random-effect models to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs).

Results

RAGE upon activation by its ligands enhances downstream signaling pathways, contributing to breast cancer cells migration, growth, angiogenesis, metastasis, and drug resistance. In addition, studies have shown that RAGE and its ligands influence the way breast cancer cells interact with immune cells present in the tumor microenvironment (macrophages, fibroblasts), thus regulating it to promote tumor growth and metastasis.

Conclusion

Breast cancers with a high expression of RAGE are associated with poor prognosis. Targeting RAGE and its ligands impairs cell invasion and metastasis, showing promising potential for further research as potential prognostic biomarkers or targeted onco-therapeutics.
Effect of Amaranth-Containing Dietary Intervention in Improving Hemoglobin Concentration: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yilma Mekdes Tigistu , Eifa Aberash , Belayneh Mehretu , Orsango Alemselam Zebdewos
Published: January 2025

Objective

Amaranth, a nutritious iron source, is known for treating anemia in young children and lactating mothers, but its effectiveness in reducing hemoglobin concentration needs further investigation. Therefore, this study aimed to summarize the effectiveness of amaranth-based food interventions in improving hemoglobin concentration.

Method

A randomized controlled trial and quasi-experimental study conducted since 2000 were searched in databases like PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane, AJOL, and Web of Science using prespecified keywords. Excel and Stata 17 were used for data extraction and analysis. Methodological quality was assessed using the JBI systematic review critical appraisal tool. Meta-analysis was done to estimate the overall intervention effect.

Result

Ten studies were included from 1,032 articles (n = 1,225). The standardized mean hemoglobin concentration difference between groups was positive, with an overall effect of 0.08 (95%CI: −0.11, 0.26; p = 0.433), where I2 is 57.1%.

Conclusion

The studies’ interventions showed positive effects on hemoglobin concentration, but their effectiveness was not statistically significant. This suggests the need for research on the impact of different cooking methods on iron bioavailability, phytic iron ratio, and intervention effects across different populations.

Systematic Review Registration

Identifier PROSPERO CRD42023476402.
The Clinical Significance of HLA Compatibility Scores in Lung Transplantation
Authors: Daniëls Liesbeth , Beeckmans Hanne , Zajacova Andrea , Kerckhof Pieterjan , Bos Saskia , Naesens Maarten , Vanaudenaerde Bart , Claas Frans , Vos Robin
Published: January 2025

Lung transplantation is a life-saving therapeutic option for many chronic end-stage pulmonary diseases, but long-term survival may be limited by rejection of the transplanted organ. Since HLA disparity between donor and recipient plays a major role in rejection, we performed a single center, retrospective observational cohort analysis in our lung transplant cohort (n = 128) in which we calculated HLA compatibility scores for B-cell epitopes (HLAMatchmaker, HLA-EMMA), T-cell epitopes (PIRCHE-II) and missing self-induced NK cell activation (KIR Ligand Calculator). Adjusted Cox proportional hazards model was used to investigate the association between mismatched scores and time to development of donor-specific antibodies (DSA) post-transplant, time to first biopsy-proven acute rejection episode, freedom from CLAD, graft survival and overall survival. For time to first DSA, HLA-EMMA DQB1 scores and PIRCHE-II DQB1 scores were significantly associated with more rapidly developing anti-HLA-DQ antibodies. HLA-EMMA DQB1 score was significantly associated with worse survival. KIR ligand Host-versus-Graft (HvG) mismatches was significantly associated with worse graft survival (CLAD or death) and shorter time to first biopsy-proven rejection when 2 mismatches were present. We demonstrated that HLA-DQB1 compatibility scores and KIR ligand HvG 2 mismatches may allow for identification of recipients at risk of poor long-term outcomes after lung transplantation.
Effects of Cellulase and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum on Chemical Composition, Fermentation Characteristics, and Bacterial Community of Pennisetum giganteum z.x.lin Silage
Authors: Wu Zhili , Zhang Xiongfei , Li Rongnuo , Hui Jingtao , Deng Lu , Kim Inho , Wei Jie , Yao Junhu , Lei Xinjian
Published: January 2025

In order to explore the effects of additives on the chemical composition, fermentation characteristics, and bacterial community of Pennisetum giganteum z.x.lin silage, Pennisetum giganteum z.x.lin was ensiled with no additives (CON), cellulase (CE), Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (LP), or the combination of cellulase and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (LPCE) at room temperature for 60 days, respectively. The results indicated that LPCE had the highest dry matter (DM) content. Compared with CON, LP exhibited higher (p < 0.05) levels of water-soluble carbohydrate (WSC), crude protein (CP), and lactic acid (LA), along with a higher (p < 0.05) ratio of LA/acetic acid (AA). Meanwhile, silage inoculated with cellulase (CE and LPCE) showed lower (p < 0.05) contents of acid detergent fiber (ADF) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) than CON. Furthermore, additive treatments improved the bacterial community composition of silage, and Lactobacillus was abundant in LPCE (LDA score > 4.0). Compared with CE and LP, LPCE more effectively promoted the transformation of microbial functions, resulting in an upregulated (p < 0.05) carbohydrate metabolism and a downregulated (p < 0.05) membrane transport. In conclusion, cellulase or Lactiplantibacillus plantarum improved the silage quality of Pennisetum giganteum z.x.lin by reducing the fiber content or enhancing LA fermentation, and their combination exhibited a powerful ability to establish a bacterial community dominated by Lactobacillus, which facilitated the production of high-quality silage.
Standardization of Micropropagation for Four Hybrids of Coffea arabica Through Direct Somatic Embryogenesis
Authors: Zuta-Puscan Marileydi , Meléndez-Mori Jegnes Benjamín , Huaman-Huaman Eyner , Lapiz-Culqui Yoiner Kalin , Mego-Pérez Reyna Stefani , Oliva-Cruz Manuel
Published: January 2025

Direct somatic embryogenesis represents a fundamental tool for obtaining genetically homogeneous clones; however, its commercial scaling faces critical challenges at various stages of the process. In this study, a protocol is standardized for the induction and germination of somatic embryos from leaf segments, rooting, and acclimatization of four Coffea arabica hybrids: Casiopea, Excelencia, H3, and Milenio. The results show that the Casiopea and Excelencia hybrids achieve the highest induction rates (71.64% and 74.43%) and embryo production (8.74 and 10) per explant in the M1 medium, while these values are significantly lower for H3 and Milenio. In addition, the germination and conversion of embryos into plantlets are more efficient in the woody plant medium (WPM), while rooting is optimized using indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) concentrations between 1 mg L−1 and 3 mg L−1, regardless of the hybrid. During the acclimatization phase, plantlets treated with mycorrhizae exhibit improved morphological, physiological, and nutritional indicators, achieving a superior quality according to the Dickson index. These findings significantly reduce production times by establishing precise standards for each genotype, thereby overcoming existing gaps in production protocols and providing a solid foundation for industrial growth.
The Performance of Irrigation Schemes in Sudan Affected by Climate Variability and the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam
Authors: Ahmed Shamseddin M. , Turk Khalid G. Biro , Dinar Hassan Ali
Published: January 2025

Irrigation schemes represent the backbone of Sudan’s food security and economy. The Gezira, Rahad, and El-Gunied irrigation schemes depend mainly on the Blue Nile as their primary water source. However, the construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) in the Blue Nile at the Sudan border has changed water flow regulations along the Blue Nile. Therefore, the Sudanese irrigation schemes that depend on the Blue Nile are affected by the operation and management of the GERD. This study used datasets derived from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS), specifically the enhanced vegetation index (EVI) and crop water use efficiency (CWUE), alongside climate time-series data obtained from the Climate Research Unit, to evaluate the performance of irrigation schemes in Sudan affected by climate variability and the construction and filling of the GERD. The analysis was carried out using R version 4.4.1 and spreadsheets. A dummy variable approach was employed to examine the effects of the GERD on the EVI, given the limited timeframe of the study, whilst Grey Relational Analysis was applied to investigate the influence of selected climate variables on the EVI. The results revealed that in the Gezira scheme, the impact of the GERD on the EVI was minimal, with rainfall and temperature identified as the predominant factors. In contrast, the construction of the GERD had significant negative repercussions on the EVI in the Rahad scheme, while it positively affected the El-Gunied scheme. The advantageous effects observed in the El-Gunied scheme were linked to the mitigation measures employed by the heightening of the Roseires Dam in Sudan since 2013. The Rahad and El-Gunied schemes exhibited heightened sensitivity to GERD-induced changes, primarily due to their reliance on irrigation water sourced from pumping stations dependent on Blue Nile water levels. Additionally, this study forecasts a decrease in cropping intensity attributed to the GERD, estimating reductions of 3.9% in Rahad, 1.5% in Gezira, and 0.8% in El-Gunied. Ultimately, this study highlights the detrimental impact of the GERD on Blue Nile water levels as a significant adverse factor associated with its construction and filling, which has led to a marked decline in CWUE across the irrigation schemes. The research underscores the intricate inter-relationship among environmental, political, institutional, and infrastructural elements that shapes irrigation efficiency and water management practices. This study concludes that enhancing irrigation efficiency and assessing the performance of irrigation schemes require significant consideration of institutional, economic, and political factors, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Identification and Analysis of Circular RNAs in Mammary Gland from Yaks Between Lactation and Dry Period
Authors: Shi Yilin , Wu Xiaoyun , Meng Guangyao , Ma Xiaoming , La Yongfu , Bao Pengjia , Chu Min , Yan Ping
Published: January 2025

Lactation is a complex physiological process regulated by numerous genes and factors. Circular RNA (circRNA), a non-coding RNA, acts as a molecular sponge that sequesters microRNAs (miRNAs) to regulate target gene expression. Although circRNA has been linked to mammary gland lactation, its specific role in yaks remains underexplored. This study employed circular RNA sequencing (circRNA-seq) to examine the differential expression of circRNAs in yak mammary tissues during lactation and the dry period. Additionally, an enrichment analysis of the differentially expressed circRNAs (DECs) was performed. A competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network was then constructed to explore the potential of their roles in lactation and mammary gland development. We detected 18,905 circRNAs in yak mammary tissue, among which 302 showed differential expression. The host genes of these DECs were enriched in functions and pathways associated with yak milk synthesis and composition. Through the construction of a ceRNA network and the enrichment analysis of associated mRNAs, this study identified ceRNAs potentially involved in regulating lactation and mammary gland development. In conclusion, circRNAs in yak mammary tissues were identified and analyzed across lactation and dry periods, establishing a ceRNA network related to lactation regulation. These findings provide novel insights into the regulatory mechanisms governing lactation in yaks (Bos grunniens).