bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linking Social Support, Social Anxiety and Maladaptive Daydreaming
Authors: Anwar Maheen , Aqeel Muhammad , Shuja Kanwar Hamza
Published: November 2024

The aim of the present study was to investigate the moderating role of social support between social anxiety and maladaptive daydreaming among university students. Furthermore,it was to examine the relationship among social anxiety, maladaptive daydreaming and social support among university students. The sample consisted of 200 university students (males=100, females=100), age range from 19 to 25, were recruitedfrom various universities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad cities. Purposive sampling technique was used in a cross sectional design research. Three scales, Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale, Social Anxiety Scale and Social Support Scale were employed to measure Daydreaming, social support and social anxiety in university students. The results revealed that social anxiety was negatively non-significantly associated with maladaptive daydreaming(r=-0.07,n.s) and negatively significantly associated with social support (r=0.40, p<0.01) along with its subscales. In addition, it was revealed that maladaptive daydreaming is positively non-significantly related with social support(r=0.08,n.s) along with its subscales. The study also demonstrated that social anxiety was negativelynon-significant predicting maladaptive daydreaming (?=-.06, n.s) among university students. This study result revealed that social support was not moderating on the relationship between social anxiety and maladaptive daydreaming among university students. These findings imply that social anxiety and social support could stimulate maladaptive daydreaming in University students. This study incorporatedstudents merely from two major Pakistan’s cities. Therefore, its findings could not be generalizable to the whole Pakistani population. In future, exploratory and experimental researches with more assorted sample will be beneficial to clarify the mechanism through which social anxiety and social support affectmaladaptive daydreaming across student genders.
Achievement Goals and Academic Achievement: The Mediating Role of Learning Strategies
Authors: Shehzad Muhammad Omer , Aziz Dr. Mudassar
Published: November 2024

The study investigated the relationship among Achievement Goals, Learning Strategies, and Academic Achievement. Achievement Goals are reasons for engaging in achievement activities and Learning strategies through which learners acquire and learn new information and skills. Literature suggested that students’ Achievement Goals predict Learning Strategies but relationship between Achievement Goals and Academic Achievement was unclear (Atkinson, 1957). This study was carried out to explore the role of Learning Strategies as an explanatory mechanism between the relationship of Achievement Goals and Academic Achievement. A survey was conducted using Achievement Goals Questionnaire (AGQ), Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ) and actual semester scores as an Academic Achievement. The sample consisted of 321 students of University. The results showed that Achievement Goals are positively related with Learning Strategies. There was a significant relationship found between Mastery Approach, and Performance Approach Goals, and Academic Achievement. The results also revealed that Resource Management Learning Strategies fully mediated the relationship of Achievement Goals and Academic Achievement but Cognitive/Metacognitive Learning Strategies did not mediate the relationship between Mastery Avoidanceand Performance Approach Goals, and Academic Achievement. The differences in demographic variables were also discussed and explained in the light of literature.
Role of Trust in Relating Rewards and Marital Satisfaction among Married Individuals in Pakistan
Authors: Fatima Makhdoom Irsa , Iqbal Malik Dr Najma
Published: November 2024

National Institute of Psychology, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad The study designed to investigate the mediating role of trust in the relationship between rewards (including intimacy, passion, love, and spousal support) and marital satisfaction in married individuals (N = 250) including husbands (n = 129) and wives (n = 121) from Sargodha, Faisalabad and Chiniot. Source Specific Social Provisions Scale (Cutrona, 1989) was used to assess spousal support and Perceived Relationship Quality Scale (Fletcher, Simpson, & Thomas, 2000) were used in order to measure marital satisfaction, love, intimacy, passion, and trust among the participants. Pearson correlation demonstrated significant positive coefficients among all study variables. Results computed through SPSS and MACRO Process by Hayes (2013) supported the hypothesis by suggesting a partial mediation between the rewards and marital satisfaction. This study suggested that future researches should study couples rather than married individuals and that other third variables should also be studied within this relationship.
PARENTAL REARING PRACTICES AS PREDICTORS OF RESILIENCE AND EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AMONG YOUNG ADULTS
Authors: Anwer Gharbila , Masood Sobia , Younas Sana , Ahmad Mustanir
Published: November 2024

Positive psychology has highlighted that emotional intelligence and resilience play an important role in individual?s success in society. However, the role of parental rearing practices with relation to emotional intelligence and resilience has not yet been explored. Therefore, the present study was an endeavor to explore the role of parental rearing practices particularly, emotional warmth in predicting emotional intelligence and resilience among young adults. Sample comprised of 465 students (227 women, 238 men) with age ranged from 18-26 years (M =21.4; SD =1.88) from public and private sector universities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Data was collected through Convenient Sampling Technique. Instruments used in present study were; Egna Minnen Betriifende Uppfostran (EMBU) Scale (Arrindell, 1999; translated by Zafar, 2014) for measuring emotional warmth; Resiliency Scale (ER89) (Aslam, 2007), and Emotional Intelligence Scale (Wong & Law, 2002). Results revealed that perceived emotional warmth positively correlated with resilience and emotional intelligence. Moreover, perceived emotional warmth was significant predictor for resilience and emotional intelligence. Further, significant gender differences were also observed on emotional warmth; women reported more perceived emotional warmth as compared to men. Findings of the study have been discussed with reference to pertinent literature and implications for both clinical and non-clinical sample have been given.
THE MODERATING ROLE OF PERFECTIONISM ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PARENTING STYLES AND PERSONALITY DISORDERS IN ADOLESCENTS
Authors: Gul Mavia , Aqeel Muhammad , Akhtar Tanvir , Rehna Tasnim
Published: November 2024

Previous studies have suggested that three parenting styles (authoritative, authoritarian, and permissive parenting) and perfectionism of adolescents may be anticipated to elevate the risk for adolescent‘s personality disorders (PD). This present study was planned to investigate the moderating role of perfectionism on the relationship between parenting styles and personality disorders in adolescent students that had not been examined broadly with perspective of cross-sectional design. Purposive sampling technique was employed based on a cross-sectional design. Participants were recruited from different schools of twin cities Rawalpindi and Islamabad, Pakistan. Sample comprised of 200students (Male, n= 100; Female, n= 100) with age ranged from 12 to 18 years. Three scales were applied to measure perfectionism, authoritative, authoritarian and permissive parenting style and personality disorders in adolescence students. This study results revealed that permissive parenting style and perfectionism were originated to elevate risk for personality disorders including schizoid, negativistic, narcissism, and schizotypal in adolescents. Our study analysis also revealed that perfectionism is playing a vital role in moderation between parenting styles and personality disorders. Results demonstrated that both father and mother permissive parenting style were more vulnerable instigating factor to elevate negativistic, and narcissism personality disorder because higher level of perfectionism in adolescents. This study would be very important in understanding the background of personality disorders and in exploring imminent modifiable aspects, pointing out new intervention and prevention strategies to address these issues.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN JOB INSECURITY, WORKPLACE INCIVILITY AND COUNTERPRODUCTIVE WORK BEHAVIORS AMONG EMPLOYEES: ROLE OF WORK FAMILY CONFLICT
Authors: Zahoor Iqra , Iqbal Malik Dr Najma , Atta Dr Mohsin
Published: November 2024

The present study examined the relationship of job insecurity, counterproductive work behaviors and workplace incivility and the role of work family conflict among purposefully selected 170 employees of private and public colleges from different cities of Pakistan. Job Insecurity Scale (Ashford, Lee & Bobko, 1989), Counterproductive Work Behaviors (Spector, Fox, Penny, Bruersema & Kesseler, 2006), Workplace Incivility (Martine & Hine, 2005), and Work Family Conflict (Haslam, Filus, Morawska, Sanders & Fletcher, 2014) were used to measure constructs of study. Zero order correlation revealed significant positive relationship between workplace incivility and counterproductive work behavior. Moreover, work family conflict was found to be the significant moderator in relationship of job insecurity and counterproductive work behaviors as well as in relationship of workplace incivility and counterproductive work behaviors. t-test analysis revealed that male employees scored significantly high on job insecurity and counterproductive work behaviors however with respect to work family conflict it was non-significant. Study found that private sector employees had high job insecurity as compared to public sector employees. Limitation of study along with suggestion, for researcher interested further in the topic, have also been thoroughly discussed.
Development and Validation of Romantic Relations Scale for Adolescents (RRS-A)
Authors: Cheema Sofia Tabassam , Malik Jamil Ahmad
Published: November 2024

Background. Romantic relations are usually taken as hallmark of adolescence and consideredimportant relational factors in the development and well-being of adolescents. As no instrument wasavailable to measure perception of romantic relations by adolescents living in eastern religiouscollectivist developing society, therefore, the main objective of this study was to develop anindigenous scale to measure perception of romantic relations by adolescents, both boys and girls.Methods. Three studies were conducted with adolescents’ samples, age ranging from 16 to 18years. Study 1 was conducted to generate item pool. Study 2 was conducted to determine factorstructure and psychometric properties of the scale on sample of 506 adolescents. And study 3 wascarried out to confirm factor structure through confirmatory factor analysis on another sample ofadolescents (N = 647).Results. In first study, a pool of 151 items was generated. In second study, Principal Axis Factoringwith Promax rotation was used for 1st order exploratory factor analysis that resulted in generationof 13 factors consisting of 74 items. Cronbach’s Alpha for factors ranged from .61 to .88. Secondorder factor analysis resulted in three dimensions named as Intimacy (? = .94), Passion (? = .83)and Distrust (? = .84). Finally, in third study, results of hierarchical confirmatory factor analysisshowed that scale had construct validity.Conclusion. The results indicate that Romantic Relations Scale for Adolescents (RRS-A) is acomprehensive, valid, and reliable measure to assess the perception of romantic relations inadolescents.
Predictive Role of Dark Triad of Personality in Social Skills and Lying Behavior of Adolescents
Authors: Anwar Mubeen , Zubair Aisha
Published: November 2024

Objectives. The present study attempted to explore the predictive role of dark triad ofpersonality in social skills and lying behavior of adolescents. It was also intended to determinethe mediating role of lying behavior in predicting social skills.Method. Sample (N=350) comprised of school students of grade 9 and 10 (girls = 230 andboys = 120) with age range 15 to 18 years from the government and private schools. Dark Triadof Personality Scale (Paulhus, 2013), Lying Scale (Finkenauer, Engels, & Kooten, 2006), andMatson Evaluation of Social Skills (Matson, Rotatori, & Helsel, 1983) were employed toappraise the major constructs of the study.Results. Results showed that dark triad traits negatively predicted social skills and positivelypredicted lying behavior; whereas lying behavior was positively related with social skills. Inaddition, social skills significantly mediated the relationship between dark triads of personalityand lying behavior of adolescents. Gender differences indicated that boys reflected higher darktriad traits and lying behavior as compared to girls; while non-significant gender differenceswere found in relation to social skills.
Implications. Findings of the study would bear implications in clinical and educational settings to regulate inclinations to lie and enhancingbetter interpersonal skills.
Mediating Role of Social Self-Efficacy in Linking Positive Thinking to Satisfaction with Life among First Year University Students
Authors: Amin Rizwana , Hussain Zainab Noor , Mahmood Sara , Sadaf Anila , Saleem Mohammad
Published: November 2024

Objectives. Present study was an attempt to examine how positive thinking amonguniversity freshers helps them to deal with challenges related to new setup and have an impacton their life satisfaction through social self-efficacy. Furthermore, it explores how changingone’s thoughts about different perspective into positive ones overcoming challenges of lifebecomes easier, consequently, people feel socially strong and satisfied with life.Method. In the present study, total 480 (Boys=218 Girls=262) newly admitted students inundergraduate programs from Faculty of Social Sciences, Bahauddin Zakariya UniversityMultan, Pakistan with age range of 17-22 years (M=18.57 & SD=.835) participated.Participants responded on Life Oriented Test- Revised [LOT-R (Scheier et al., 1994)], SocialSelf-Efficacy Scale [SSES (Muris, 2001)] and Satisfaction with Life Scale [SWLS (Diener etal., 1985)] respectively. Data analyses consisted of Pearson product moment correlationcoefficient and linear regression by utilizing SPSS (25.0) whereas Process Macro 3.5.0 wasused to verify mediation model.Results. Findings indicated that positive thinking does not predict satisfaction with lifedirectly whereas it significantly predicts social self-efficacy (B= 0.45, p < 0.001) and socialself-efficacy predicts satisfaction with life (B= 0.23, p < 0.001). Thus, results showed that socialself-efficacy fully mediates the relationship of positive thinking with satisfaction in life amongstudents.Conclusion. Social self-efficacy has been found as an imperative facet of students’ life so itshould be considered while designing curricula and other activities related to students.
Religious Identity Formation and Development in Adolescents of Pakistan
Authors: Batool Syeda Shahida , Ghayas Saba
Published: November 2024

Objective and Method. To explore the formation and development of religious identity inPakistani adolescents, a qualitative approach was used to analyze the data, collected from nineadolescent boys and nine adolescent girls of age ranged between 15-17 years (M = 15.8, SD =.81). These adolescents were students of grade 9-10, and were sampled from different cities ofPakistan. Data were collected via a semi-structured interview schedule, adapted from the egoidentity interview guideline by Marcia (1966).Analyses. Thematic analysis was applied to generate and cluster themes appeared in thetranscribed interviews of 18 participants.Results. The results revealed that religious identity was formed on three rudiments: belief,behavior, and belongingness. All the participants appeared to be at the foreclosure state ofreligious identity, and the religious identity appeared to be developed through seven channels:parental influence, the role of grandparents, peer influence, religious preachers, media,teachers’ power, and personal preferences.Conclusion. This paper provides theoretical and practical implications for the religiousidentity development of adolescents in Pakistan.
Development and Validation of Boarding School Climate Scale (BSCS)
Authors: Mehmood Sohail , Iqbal Nazia Iqbal , Khalily Muhammad Tahir
Published: November 2024

Background. Boarding schools not only provide boarders with education but also focussed to groomthe students intellectually, socially, and emotionally. The term boarding school climate is considered tohave unique features that appear to significantly differ from the climate of day school. As compared tothe day schools, boarding institutes provide residential settings, having a highly structured andorganized daily routine, and ample opportunities for learning and engaging in co-curricular activities.Numerous scales were developed to evaluate the day school climate; however, studies aiming to exploreand assess the boarding school climate are sparse.Method. The Boarding School Climate Scale (BSCS), comprises of 68 items, it was developed usingthe triangulation technique; we employed an open-ended questionnaire, followed by focus groupdiscussions with current boarding students, and literature review. The scale was administered on asample of participants drawn from 7 public and private-sector boarding schools and colleges ofPakistan. We used the purposive sampling technique (N=738, amongst these, there were 635 males, 103female students). Only those included in the study, who gave written informed consent to participate inthe study. The mean age of students was 15.4 years with the age range of 12 years to 19 years old (SD1.46); the participants were students of grade 6 to grade 12.Results. The findings of Exploratory Factor Analysis showed a total of eight factors, these named as;Pastoral Care, Behavioral Problems, Academic & Civic Learning, Discipline Safety & Rules, ResourceSupport, Physical Environment, Leadership, and Relationships. The Convergent Validity of theBoarding School Climate Scale (BSCS) showed a significant correlation with the 9-Item Georgia BriefSchool Climate Inventory (La Salle, McIntosh, & Eliason, 2016) (GaBSCI) (r=.73, p <.01) and itsfactors highlighting significant indices of convergent validity with an existing school climate measure.Conclusion. The development of indigenous BSCS is a significant contribution to measuring theboarding school climate in Pakistan. The instrument can assist the boarding school administration togain an insight into students' perception of the boarding school climate and its various dimensions.
Perceived Father Attachment and Externalizing-Internalizing Behavioral Problems among Left behind Adolescents: A Moderated Mediation Model of Family Functioning and Mother Nurturance
Authors: Shaheen Zubaida , Akhtar Dr.Tanvir
Published: November 2024

Background. A father and adolescent relationship is one of the most significant andinfluential relationships in an adolescent’s life. Father’s absence due to migration and itsresulting consequences have been little addressed In the academic arena of south Asiancontext specially in Pakistan . This study was designed to examine whether the adolescent’sperception of migrant father attachment is associated with externalizing-internalizing problemsand further investigated mediating and moderating process underlying this effect.Method. A cross sectional study was conducted in which 400 left-behind adolescents, aged 13to 18, girls (n= 174) boys, (n= 226) were recruited from different schools and colleges of twodistricts, Rawalpindi and Poonch Azad Kashmir. Data was completed through self-reportmeasures.Result. Results of the study revealed that migrant-father attachment, family functioning andmother nurturance are negatively linked to externalizing-internalizing problems. Moreover,family functioning significantly mediated the relationship between migrant-father attachmentand externalizing-internalizing problems. In addition, the results revealed that mothernurturance significantly moderated the conditional indirect effects of father attachment onexternalizing-internalizing problem through family functioning among left-behind adolescents.Moreover, significant mean differences were found between age and family system onexternalizing-internalizing problems.Conclusion. The study findings highlight the importance of attachment between migrantfathers and adolescents to enhance their family functioning and consequently to decrease theirexternalizing-internalizing problems in the absence of their father.
Big Five Personality Traits on Project Success in Marketing-Oriented Organizations: Moderation of Leader Member Exchange
Authors: Sulehri Numair , Awais Ahsan , Dar Imran Bashir , Uzair Ali
Published: November 2024

Objectives. The relational interconnectivity of leaders and organizational members in thecontext of personality traits is in limelight due to market pressing need of antecedents’investigation for project success. This study is about portrayal of big-five personality traits impacton project success in marketing-oriented organizations. In addition, this study is also aimed toexplore if leader member exchange plays a role in moderating the relationship between the big fivepersonality traits and project success. Two traits agreeableness and conscientiousness were thefocus as per theoretical paradigm.Method. For this purpose, the questionnaire was filled by different public and privateorganizations. The sample size was 153 respondents (both male and female), collected throughconvenience sampling due to scattered nature of sample.Results. The study uses a co-relation and regression analysis technique to test the measurementof model. It was found that agreeableness has a significant effect on project success, whereasconscientiousness lacks significant relationship along with absence of moderating relationship.Implications. The managerial implication is marked by the spearhead focus on agreeablenessand conscientiousness traits in terms of humanistic capacity building that could install the triggersfor project success in marketing-oriented organizations.
Exponential Functions Permit Estimation of Anaerobic Work Capacity and Critical Power from Less than 2 Min All-Out Test
Authors: Tsai Ming-Chang , Thomas Scott , Klimstra Marc
Published: November 2024

The Critical Power Model (CPM) is key for assessing athletes’ aerobic and anaerobic energy systems but typically involves lengthy, exhausting protocols. The 3 min all-out test (3MT) simplifies CPM assessment, yet its duration remains demanding. Exponential decay models, specifically mono- and bi-exponential functions, offer a more efficient alternative by accurately capturing the nonlinear energy dynamics in high-intensity efforts. This study explores shortening the 3MT using these functions to reduce athlete strain while preserving the accuracy of critical power (CP) and work capacity (W′) estimates. Seventy-six competitive cyclists and triathletes completed a 3MT on a cycle ergometer, with CP and W′ calculated at shorter intervals. Results showed that a 90 s test using the bi-exponential model yielded CP and W′ values similar to those of the full 3MT. Meanwhile, the mono-exponential model required at least 135 s. Bland–Altman and linear regression analyses confirmed that a 120 s test with the mono-exponential model reliably estimated CP and W′ with minimal physical strain. These findings support a shortened, less-demanding 3MT as a valid alternative for CPM assessment.
Characterization of Citrus Rootstock Under Conditions of Boron Toxicity
Authors: Navarro-Gochicoa María Teresa , Aparicio-Durán Lidia , Delfín Alba , Ceacero Carlos J. , Herrera-Rodríguez María Begoña , Arenas-Arenas Francisco J. , Camacho-Cristóbal Juan J. , González-Fontes Agustín , Rexach Jesús
Published: November 2024

Boron (B) is an essential element for an adequate development of citrus orchards. However, citrus trees are vulnerable to high B concentrations, generating morphological and physiological alterations incompatible with the proper production of citrus. In this sense, citrus rootstocks can provide valuable capabilities to citrus trees including tolerance to different stresses. The objective of this work is the characterization of 2247 × 6070–02–2 citrus rootstock using as a reference Carrizo citrange rootstock under B toxicity conditions (2.5 mM boric acid). Carrizo citrange is a diploid hybrid, and 2247 × 6070–02–2 is a novel low-HLB-sensitive tetraploid. B excess effects were analyzed after four weeks of treatment using 0.05 (control) and 2.5 mM (toxicity) H3BO3 concentrations, respectively, in hydroponic growth conditions. The characterization of 2247 × 6070–02–2 rootstock compared to Carrizo citrange was performed by measuring physiological parameters in leaves related to photosynthesis, stress oxidative responses, B content, and gene expression. The lower transpiration rate and, especially, the higher expression of the CsXIP1;1 gene and the better antioxidant defense mechanisms shown by 2247 × 6070–02–2 make this rootstock more tolerant to high B content than Carrizo citrange.
Exploring the Genome of the Endophytic Fungus Botrytis deweyae: Prediction of Novel Secondary Metabolites Gene Clusters: Terpenes and Polyketides
Authors: Coca-Ruiz Victor , Aleu Josefina , Garrido Carlos , Collado Isidro G.
Published: November 2024

Fungi have played a pivotal role in human history, from the dangers of fungal toxins to the revolutionary discovery of penicillin. Fungal secondary metabolites (SMs), such as polyketides (PKs) and terpenes, have attracted considerable interest due to their diverse biological activities. Botrytis deweyae, an endophytic fungus, exhibits behaviors that are notably distinct from those of its necrotrophic relatives within the genus Botrytis. This study explores the importance of terpenes and PK gene clusters and their conservation between species. In addition, new putative biosynthetic gene clusters corresponding to those families were identified. Consequently, the new PKS BdPKS22-26 were also identified in other Botrytis species and other fungi. In addition, those new gene clusters identified in this work show differences in the degree of conservation and are phylogenetically closely related to some of the 21 PKSs previously described in the reference strain Botrytis cinerea B05.10. Moreover, a new gene cluster related to terpenes in B. deweyae B1 and B. cinerea B05.10 was also identified that had never been detected before. This new gene cluster is well conserved among other Botrytis species in many phylogenetically distant fungal lineages. Understanding the genetic basis and conservation of these putative biosynthetic gene clusters sheds light on the metabolic potential and ecological roles of B. deweyae and related fungal species.
A Novel Multi-Objective Hybrid Evolutionary-Based Approach for Tuning Machine Learning Models in Short-Term Power Consumption Forecasting
Authors: Vakhnin Aleksei , Ryzhikov Ivan , Niska Harri , Kolehmainen Mikko
Published: November 2024

Accurately forecasting power consumption is crucial important for efficient energy management. Machine learning (ML) models are often employed for this purpose. However, tuning their hyperparameters is a complex and time-consuming task. The article presents a novel multi-objective (MO) hybrid evolutionary-based approach, GA-SHADE-MO, for tuning ML models aimed at solving the complex problem of forecasting power consumption. The proposed algorithm simultaneously optimizes both hyperparameters and feature sets across six different ML models, ensuring enhanced accuracy and efficiency. The study focuses on predicting household power consumption at hourly and daily levels. The hybrid MO evolutionary algorithm integrates elements of genetic algorithms and self-adapted differential evolution. By incorporating MO optimization, GA-SHADE-MO balances the trade-offs between model complexity (the number of used features) and prediction accuracy, ensuring robust performance across various forecasting scenarios. Experimental numerical results show the superiority of the proposed method compared to traditional tuning techniques, and random search, showcasing significant improvements in predictive accuracy and computational efficiency. The findings suggest that the proposed GA-SHADE-MO approach offers a powerful tool for optimizing ML models in the context of energy consumption forecasting, with potential applications in other domains requiring precise predictive modeling. The study contributes to the advancement of ML optimization techniques, providing a framework that can be adapted and extended for various predictive analytics tasks.
Allergy to Plant-Based Panallergens LTPs in Children: A Scoping Review
Authors: Priftis Nikos , Karaviti Dimitra , Douros Kostas
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Lipid Transfer Proteins (LTPs) are plant-derived panallergens that have emerged as significant allergens in Mediterranean populations. Though less common in children, LTP allergies represent a critical consideration for physicians diagnosing plant food allergies in this demographic. Methodology: PRISMA-ScR guidelines were followed. A search with specific terms was performed in searchable databases. Two of the authors extracted and evaluated the data. Results: A total of 21 original studies and 6 case reports focusing on LTP allergies in the paediatric population met the inclusion criteria. Diagnostic tools, predictive markers and management options for LTP allergies were examined. Allergens, clinical presentation and history were the diagnostic tools investigated. The clinical and laboratory phenotypes of the patient were considered possible predictive markers for the evaluation and progression of LTP allergies. Lastly, dietary modifications and sublingual immunotherapy were identified as the main focus of LTP allergy management. Discussion: A summary of the results is presented, and at the same time, questions concerning the nature of LTP allergies and their management are raised. Conclusions: LTP allergy in children is something physicians should be aware of. Further research is needed to establish the differences in LTP allergies in children and adults and the effectiveness of immunotherapy in paediatric populations.
Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Ameliorated Morphological Damage and Barrier Dysfunction and Reduced Apoptosis and Ferroptosis in the Jejunum of Oxidatively Stressed Piglets
Authors: Liu Yu , Yuan Junmeng , Xi Wenshuo , Wang Zhisheng , Liu Huawei , Zhang Kai , Zhao Jinshan , Wang Yang
Published: November 2024

Oxidative stress induces apoptosis and ferroptosis, leading to intestinal injury of piglets. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum P8 (P8) has antioxidant capacity, but its roles in intestinal apoptosis and ferroptosis remain unclear. Here, 24 weaned piglets were assigned to three treatments: control (Con), diquat injection (DQ), and P8 supplementation + DQ injection (DQ + P8). The results showed that the increased jejunal oxidative stress, jejunal morphology impairment, and barrier dysfunction in the DQ-treated piglets were decreased by P8 supplementation. TUNEL and apoptosis-related gene expressions showed increased jejunal apoptosis of DQ-treated piglets; however, reduced apoptosis was observed in the DQ + P8 group. In addition, the mitochondrial morphology and ferroptosis-related gene expressions indicated elevated jejunal ferroptosis in the DQ-treated piglets, and the DQ + P8 treatment attenuated the ferroptosis. Transcriptome identified various differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between different treatments. KEGG analysis indicated that the DEGs were enriched in the PI3K-AKT, NF-κB, and apoptosis pathways. The expressions of key DEGs and key proteins in the PI3K-AKT and NF-κB pathways were further verified. In summary, our results indicate that P8 supplementation ameliorated jejunal oxidative stress, morphological damage, barrier dysfunction, apoptosis, and ferroptosis in the DQ-treated piglets. Moreover, the beneficial effect of P8 may be related to the regulation of PI3K/AKT and NF-κB pathways.
Effect of the Lactation Phases on the Amplitude of Variation in Blood Serum Steroid Hormones and Some Hematochemical Analytes in Three Dairy Cow Breeds
Authors: Fazio Esterina , Bionda Arianna , Attard George , Medica Pietro , La Fauci Deborah , Amato Annalisa , Liotta Luigi , Lopreiato Vincenzo
Published: November 2024

Lactation in dairy cows implies comprehensive endocrine and metabolic changes including a systemic electrolytic reaction. Previous studies have rarely considered these specific demands due to the influence of lactation periods. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effects of early, middle, and late lactation phases on the dynamic changes in serum concentrations of progesterone (P4), 17β-oestradiol (E2), cortisol, and some electrolytes (Ca++, Mg++, Na+, K+, Cl−, Pi) and biochemical parameters (alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK), total bilirubin, urea, and iron (Fe++) in 10 Holstein, 10 Brown Swiss, and 10 Modicana multiparous healthy dairy cows (4.2 ± 1.7 years of age) sampled at 60-day intervals throughout lactation. Lactation induced significant changes in the concentrations of P4, which peaked at >120–180 days, decreased at >240–300 days, and increased again after 300 days. Cortisol showed an opposite trend to P4, with concentrations progressively decreasing, except for the phase between >240 and 300 days, and a steep drop at >300 days compared to previous phases. Na+ concentrations showed the lowest values at 0–60 d and the highest ones at >180–240 days, whereas Mg++ showed the highest values at >60–120 d and the lowest at >300 d. Significant correlations were found between P4 with cortisol, Cl− and K+, and cortisol with Ca++ and LDH. Significant differences in average concentrations of AST, ALT, LDH, Ca++, Mg++, and Fe++ were observed among different dairy cow breeds. Understanding the dynamic changes in hormone levels, electrolytes, and biochemical parameters during different lactation phases, while considering breed differences in dairy cows, is crucial for improving herd health management and milk production in commercial dairy farms.
The Vaginal Microbiome of Mares on the Post-Foaling Day Under Field Conditions
Authors: Płoneczka-Janeczko Katarzyna , Magdziarz Marcin , Siemieniuch-Tartanus Marta
Published: November 2024

The vaginal bacteria are critical for neonatal immunity, as well as for further infections and pathologies in foals and mares during the postpartum period. The vaginal microbiota was examined in six mares. Swabs were taken from the vaginal caudal wall within 12 h after natural delivery. Next-generation sequencing was used to analyze the composition of the vaginal microbiota and identify shared bacterial taxa. The post-delivery vaginal microbiome of mares included 18 identified families, 25 genera, and 33 species. The core families of the mares’ microbiome comprised Leptotrichiaceae (21.72%), Peptostreptococcaceae/Tisserellales (15.54%), Corynebacteriaceae (13.32%), Aerococcaceae (10.84%), and Campylobacteraceae (4.26%). Shared bacterial species included Corynebacterium kutsheri, Campylobacter spp., Facklamia spp., and Oceanivirga uncultured bacteria. We found the presence of various Corynebacterium and Streptococcus species that could be involved in uterine disorders. Further research should focus on the possible pathogenicity of these bacteria for mares in the postpartum period and newborn foals.
Spatial Ecology of a Resident Avian Predator During the Non-Breeding Period in Managed Habitats of Southeastern Europe
Authors: Rajković Draženko Z. , Stanković Daliborka , Šeat Jelena , Stevanović Dejan S. , Andrejević Stošović Miona V. , Skorić Stefan
Published: November 2024

Describing home range and resource selection is crucial for understanding ecological needs and creating conservation programs. Still, our knowledge of spatial and behavioural ecology for most species remains limited. Here, we used satellite transmitters to investigate core and home range sizes, habitat selection, and roost characteristics in seven tawny owl males in Western Serbia during the autumn–winter period 2023. Using minimum convex polygon (MCP) and autocorrelated kernel density estimation (AKDE), we found clear variability in core area and home range sizes. Also, adult and heavier males have smaller core area and home ranges than juvenile and lightweight individuals. The Bhattacharyya coefficient showed minor home range overlap in tagged males. The final model for evaluation of habitat selection suggests that the likelihood of owl occurrence was positively correlated with the share of anthropogenic infrastructure and negatively associated with the increase in the proportion of cultivated land within the home range. However, scores of model performance metrics showed moderate predictive accuracy, implying that other unmeasured variables may dictate species presence. Our study illustrates the ecological plasticity and ability of the tawny owl to adapt to a human-modified environment while providing new information about the spatial ecology of this widespread predator in Europe.
Evaluation of Apparent Metabolizable Energy and Apparent Ileal Amino Acid Digestibility of Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) in Broiler Chickens and Laying Hens
Authors: O’Lear Reid Taylor K. , Gardner Katherine E. , Paglia Kayla L. , Ulans Alexandra C. M. , Spierling Ruth E. , Edwards Mark S. , Lundquist Tryg J. , McFarlane Zach D. , Pokharel Siroj , Bennett Darin C.
Published: November 2024

Our study objective was to determine the apparent metabolizable energy (AME) and apparent ileal amino acid digestibility (AIAAD) of spirulina fed to broiler chickens and laying hens using the difference method. In both experiments, birds were either fed corn-soybean meal basal diets, containing no spirulina and formulated to provide the nutrient requirements of either broilers or layers, or fed test diets consisting of 25% spirulina and 75% of the appropriate basal diet. Titanium dioxide was added to all diets as an indigestible marker. The diets were fed to 10 replicate cages/treatment of broilers and 15 replicate cages/treatment of laying hens. The AME of spirulina for broilers was significantly lower (p < 0.05) (2368 ± 104 kcal/kg, as fed) than for laying hens (3144 ± 173 kcal/kg, as fed), suggesting bird type and age may influence energy utilization. The AIAAD of spirulina fed to broiler chickens did not differ from that of laying hens (p > 0.05), except for valine, alanine, and glycine, which were all significantly higher in laying hens (p < 0.05). Overall, the AIAAD for nonessential amino acids averaged 81.1%, with no significant difference between essential and nonessential amino acids. Differences in spirulina nutrient content cited in the literature support further research to determine the optimal inclusion of this alternative ingredient in broiler and layer diets.
Enhancing Tumor Immunity with IL-12 and PD-1 Blockade: A Strategy for Inducing Robust Central Memory T Cell Responses in Resistant Cancer Model
Authors: Chen Fentian , Wu Kexin , Lin Shiqi , Cui Jinlong , Chen Xiaoqing , Zeng Zhiren , Yuan Na , Fang Mujin , Liu Xue , Chen Yuanzhi , Luo Wenxin
Published: November 2024

Background: Although immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have demonstrated efficacy in treating advanced cancers, their therapeutic success remains limited for many patients, with initial responders often experiencing resistance and relapse. Interleukin-12 (IL-12) is a powerful cytokine for antitumor immunotherapy, enhancing both lymphocyte recruitment into tumors and immune cell activation. Methods: In this study, we successfully produced mouse interleukin-12 (mIL12) through eukaryotic recombinant expression. In vivo, mIL12 exhibited significant control of tumor immunity in ICI-resistant and aggressive tumor models. Further mechanistic analysis indicated that treatment with mIL12 led to a substantial increase in tumor-infiltrating CD4+ T, CD8+ T, cDC1, and CD103+ cDC1 cells. Results: Our data underscore the potential of a combined therapeutic strategy involving IL-12 with PD-1 and CTLA-4 blockade to elicit a potent antitumor immune response. Notably, the co-administration of mIL12 and PD-1 blockade significantly enhanced the presence of central memory T cells (TCM) within tumors. Conclusions: This study is the first to provide evidence that the combination of mIL12 and PD-1 blockers promotes the generation of TCM, potentially contributing to a robust and durable antitumor effect.
Antibiotic Prescribing Decisions for Upper Respiratory Tract Infections Among Primary Healthcare Physicians in China: A Mixed-Methods Approach Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior
Authors: Kadirhaz Muhtar , Zhang Yushan , Zhao Nan , Hussain Iltaf , Xu Sen , Xu Miaomiao , Tang Chengzhou , Zhao Wei , Dong Yi , Fang Yu , Chang Jie
Published: November 2024

Objectives: In China, primary healthcare (PHC) facilities have high antibiotic prescribing rates for upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), which are primarily viral and self-limited. This study aimed to identify the main factors influencing PHC physicians’ antibiotic decisions for URITs based on the theory of planned behavior. Methods: A convergent mixed-methods study was conducted at 30 PHC facilities across Shaanxi Province, China. A total of 108 PHC physicians completed a five-point Likert Scale questionnaire focused on behavioral components of antibiotic prescribing, including attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, belief in past experiences, and prescribing intentions. Twenty-two physicians participated in semi-structured interviews. Results: Respondents had a good awareness of AMR (Mean = 4.49) and a weak belief regarding the benefit of antibiotics (Mean = 2.34). The mean score for subjective norms was 3.36, and respondents had good control over their prescribing behavior (Mean = 4.00). A reliance on past prescribing experiences was observed (Mean = 3.34), and physicians’ antibiotic prescribing intention was 3.40 on average. Multiple linear regression revealed that physicians showing a more favorable attitude towards antibiotics (p = 0.042) and relying more on their past experiences (p = 0.039) had a higher antibiotic prescribing intention. Qualitative interviews indicated that most physicians would consider prescribing antibiotics when facing diagnostic uncertainty. Low utilization of diagnostic tests, limited effectiveness of training programs, inadequate knowledge of guidelines, and lack of feedback on antibiotic prescriptions all contributed to antibiotic overprescribing. Conclusions: PHC physicians in China demonstrated strong intentions to prescribe antibiotics for URTIs when facing diagnostic uncertainty. Beliefs about antibiotics and previous prescribing behavior were significantly linked to prescribing intentions. Multifaceted interventions that focus on facilitating diagnostic tests, improving the quality of training, effectively implementing clinical guidelines, and providing practical feedback on antibiotic prescriptions may help reduce antibiotic overprescribing in China’s PHC facilities.
PTSD Increases Risk for Hypertension Development Through PVN Activation and Vascular Dysfunction in Sprague Dawley Rats
Authors: Chen Xinqian , Yan Xin , Yu Chunxiu , Chen Qing-hui , Bi Lanrong , Shan Zhiying
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the impact of single prolonged stress (SPS), a model of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), on cardiovascular responses, hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) activity, and vascular function to elucidate the mechanisms linking traumatic stress to hypertension. Although SPS did not directly cause chronic hypertension in male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats, it induced acute but transient increases in blood pressure and heart rate and significantly altered the expression of hypertension-associated genes, such as vasopressin, angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R), and FOSL1 in the PVN. Notably, mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) were predominantly elevated in the pre-autonomic regions of the PVN, colocalizing with AT1R- and FOSL1-expressing cells, suggesting that oxidative stress may amplify sympathetic activation and stress responses. SPS also increased mRNA levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNFα and IL1β) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in the aorta, and impaired vascular reactivity to vasoconstrictor and vasodilator stimuli, reflecting compromised vascular function. These findings suggest that SPS-sensitize neuroendocrine, autonomic, and vascular pathways create a state of cardiovascular vulnerability that could predispose individuals to hypertension when exposed to additional stressors. Understanding these mechanisms provides critical insights into the pathophysiology of stress-related cardiovascular disorders and underscores the need for targeted therapeutic interventions that address oxidative stress and modulate altered PVN pathways to mitigate the cardiovascular impact of PTSD and related conditions.
25-Hydroxycholecalciferol Improves Cardiac Metabolic Adaption, Mitochondrial Biogenetics, and Redox Status to Ameliorate Pathological Remodeling and Functional Failure in Obese Chickens
Authors: Chiang Shih-Kai , Sin Mei-Ying , Lin Jun-Wen , Siregar Maraddin , Valdez Gilmour , Chen Yu-Hui , Chung Thau Kiong , Walzem Rosemary L. , Chang Lin-Chu , Chen Shuen-Ei
Published: November 2024

Broiler breeder hens allowed ad libitum (Ad) feed intake developed obesity and cardiac pathogenesis and thereby were susceptible to sudden death. A supplement of 69 µg 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25-OH-D3)/kg feed rescued the livability of feed-restricted (R) and Ad-hens (mortality; 6.7% vs. 8.9% and 31.1% vs. 48.9%). Necropsy with the surviving counterparts along the time course confirmed alleviation of myocardial remodeling and functional failure by 25-OH-D3, as shown by BNP and MHC-β expressions, pathological hypertrophy, and cardiorespiratory responses (p < 0.05). 25-OH-D3 mitigated cardiac deficient bioenergetics in Ad-hens by rescuing PGC-1α activation, mitochondrial biogenesis, dynamics, and electron transport chain complex activities, and metabolic adaptions in glucose oxidation, pyruvate/lactate interconversion, TCA cycle, and β-oxidation, as well as in TG and ceramide accumulation to limit lipotoxic development (p < 0.05). Supplemental 25-OH-D3 also sustained Nrf2 activation and relieved MDA accumulation, protein carbonylation, and GSH depletion to potentiate cell survival in the failing heart (p < 0.05). Parts of the redox amendments were mediated via lessened blood hematocrit and heme metabolism, and improved iron status and related gene regulations (p < 0.05). In conclusion, 25-OH-D3 ameliorates cardiac pathological remodeling and functional compromise to rescue the livability of obese hens through metabolic flexibility and mitochondrial bioenergetics, and by operating at antioxidant defense, and heme and iron metabolism, to maintain redox homeostasis and sustain cell viability.