bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Rab10 in cocaine-induced behavioral effects is associated with GABAB receptor membrane expression in the nucleus accumbens
Authors: Yu Zhuoxuan , Fu Qiang , Qiu Tianyun , Yang Caidi , Lu Mingfen , Peng Qinghua , Yang Jianhua , Hu Zhenzhen
Published: November 2024

Aim

Previous studies have demonstrated that Ras-related GTP-binding protein Rab10 (Rab10) plays a role in psychostimulant-induced behavioral effects. In this study, we showed that Rab10 in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) of male animals affects the development of cocaine-induced behavioral effects, which are associated with the plasma membrane expression of the GABAB heteroreceptor (GABABR).

Methods

We performed flow cytometry, immunoendocytosis, pHluorin activity analysis, electrophysiology analysis, and open-field testing to explore the role of Rab10 in modulating the membrane expression and function of GABABR and its regulatory effect on cocaine-induced behavioral effects.

Results

Transcriptomics analysis showed that Rab10 was elevated following acute cocaine treatment. Membrane levels of Rab10 increased within day 1 of the cocaine treatment, subsequently decreasing at later time points. Rab10 deficiency in NAc regions significantly increased cocaine-inhibited membrane GABABR levels and inhibited cocaine-induced hyperlocomotion and behavioral sensitization. In addition, GAD67+-expressing neurons from NAc regions treated with cocaine revealed a significant decrease in Rab10 membrane expression. Furthermore, NAc neuron-specific Rab10 knockout resulted in a significant increase in the cocaine-inhibited membrane expression of GABABR, along with increased miniature inhibitory postsynaptic current (mIPSC) amplitude and attenuation of baclofen-amplified Ca2+ influx.

Conclusion

These results uncover a new mechanism in which Rab10-GABABR signaling may serve as a potential pathway for regulating cocaine-induced behavioral effects.
Femtosecond laser ablation of nitrocellulose for spatio-temporal flow control in µPADs
Authors: Builes Münden Esteban , Dietzel Andreas
Published: November 2024

Microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs) are gaining popularity due to their low cost and ease of use, but controlling fluid flow for more complex biochemical assays within these devices remains challenging. This study investigates femtosecond laser ablation of nitrocellulose (NC), a preferred material for µPADs, to create mechanically switchable barriers and flow controllers. We investigated NC ablation using single laser pulses and spatially overlapping pulses that generate lines. Single pulse ablation thresholds were determined for wavelengths of 1,030 nm, 515 nm and 343 nm. Line ablation characteristics were investigated as a function of the temporal and spatial pulse separation and laser wavelength. High aspect ratio grooves (up to 4.26) were achieved under specific conditions. These grooves can be used to define the spatial separation of the flow in separated microchannels or to form a barrier line perpendicular to the microchannel that can modulate the temporal behavior of the fluid flow. This barrier introduced an additional high flow resistance slowing down the flow or, if it was designed to cut through nitrocellulose at the entire depth, completely stopped the liquid flow. It was further shown that a barrier formed in this way could be switched by mechanically bending the µPAD at the barrier position. The femtosecond laser patterning method presented here provides precise spatio-temporal control not only for flow branching and multiplexing, but also for controlling flow speed and switching flow on and off within the same manufacturing process. Our results open up new possibilities for complex, multi-step assays on µPADs.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi alleviate Mn phytotoxicity by altering Mn subcellular distribution and chemical forms in Lespedeza davidii
Authors: Pan Gao , Hu Jiayao , Zi Zhen , Wang Wenying , Li Xinhang , Xu Xiaoli , Liu Wensheng
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can relieve manganese (Mn) phytotoxicity and promote plant growth under Mn stress, but their roles remain unclear.

Methods

In this study, Lespedeza davidii inoculated with or without AMF (Glomus mosseae) under different Mn concentrations (0 mmol/L, 1 mmol/L, 5 mmol/L, 10 mmol/L, and 20 mmol/L) was cultivated via a pot experiment, and plant biomass, physiological and biochemical characteristics, manganese absorption, subcellular distribution, and chemical forms of Mn were examined.

Results

The results showed that root biomass, stem biomass, leaf biomass, and total individual biomass decreased under high Mn concentrations (above 10 mmol/L), and the inoculated plants had higher biomass than the uninoculated plants. With the increasing Mn concentration, the contents of soluble sugar, soluble protein, free proline, superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT) increased first and then decreased, while the malondialdehyde (MDA) content increased. The contents of soluble sugar, soluble protein, free proline, SOD, POD, and CAT in the inoculated group were higher than those in the uninoculated group at the Mn concentration of 20 mmol/L. The content of MDA in the inoculated plants was lower than that in the uninoculated plants. AMF inoculation enriched most of the manganese in the root system when compared with the non-mycorrhizal treatment. Subcellular distribution of Mn indicated that most of the Mn ions were stored in the cell wall and the vacuoles (the soluble fractions), and the proportion of Mn content in the cell wall components and the vacuole components in leaves in the inoculated group was higher than that in the uninoculated group. Furthermore, the proportions of Mn extracted using ethanol and deionized water in the uninoculated group in stems and roots were higher than those in the inoculated group, which suggested that AMF could convert Mn into inactive forms.

Discussion

The present study demonstrated that AMF could improve the resistance of L. davidii to Mn toxicity by increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes and altering the subcellular distribution and chemical forms of Mn.
Network and stoichiometry analysis revealed a fast magnesium and calcium deficiency of mulched Phyllostachys violascens
Authors: Zhou Hanchang , Huang Siyuan , Zhang Ziying , Li Ting , Li Yi , Zhuang Guoqiang , Liu Guohua , Fu Bojie , Kuang Xiaobao
Published: November 2024

The imbalanced fertilization and the consequential deterioration on the rhizosphere microbial community (RMC) were two potential reasons for the quick yielding degradation of Phyllostachys violascens (Lei-bamboo), a high-value shoot-oriented bamboo. However, most research only focused on nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium; the studies on the dynamics of other nutrients, such as calcium and magnesium; and their driving mechanisms, lags far behind. Thus, Lei-bamboo fields of different mulching and recovery ages were selected to investigate the dynamics of calcium and magnesium in both soil and bamboo tissue, and to explore their relationship to RMC composition and network patterns. The results showed that mulching increased the content of soil acidification, total organic carbon, alkali-hydrolysable nitrogen, available phosphorus, and available potassium but reduced soil exchangeable magnesium and calcium in soil as well as the magnesium and calcium content in rhizome, stem, and leaf of Lei-bamboo, which indicated an increased relative limitation on magnesium and calcium. Mulching also enhanced the α-diversity and reshaped the composition of RMC, which had a close link to Mg rather than nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. As the mulching years increased, the RMC network became bigger and more complex, and the magnesium and calcium gradually appeared in the network center, which further support the magnesium and calcium deficiency to RMC. Nearly all the variation mentioned above could be revered after the removing of mulching. Structural equation modeling showed two main pathways that mulching leads to magnesium and calcium deficiency in Lei-bamboo, one is directly by lowering soil magnesium and calcium content, the other one is indirectly by improving RMC network interactions, a sign of weakened mutualism between RMC and plant roots that hampering the uptake of nutrients. This research highlights the quick magnesium and calcium deficiency caused by mulching in Lei-bamboo forest and the contribution of RMC in amplify the effects of soil magnesium and calcium deficiency, which offers valuable information on balancing fertilization pattern for future sustainable Lei-bamboo cultivation.
Validation of the schema coping inventory for dysfunctional coping strategies
Authors: Gazzellini Simone , Pellegrini Valerio , Napoli Eleonora , Ventre Vanessa , Lettori Donatella , Castelli Enrico , Basile Barbara , Giacomantonio Mauro
Published: November 2024

Introduction

According to the theoretical model of Schema Therapy, each human being has basic needs that require natural satisfaction from childhood. When these emotional needs are frustrated, early maladaptive schemas (EMS) develop, leading to coping styles that are strategies to manage the pain caused by activated EMS. The study validates and standardizes the Schema Coping Inventory in the Italian population and evaluates correlations between psychological variables and the SCI.

Methods

We analysed data from a community sample of 602 Italian adults, aged between 18 and 69 years, who endorsed a structured questionnaire, involving demographic information, the Italian version of the SCI, and an array of theoretically related psychological constructs.

Results and discussion

Confirmative factor analysis corroborated the tridimensional structure of the SCI (Surrender, Avoidance, Overcompensation), both in terms of the overall goodness-of-fit of the model and the single items’ factor loading in the corresponding factors. The internal consistency turned out to be satisfactory. Construct validity was assessed through convergent and divergent (positive and negative) correlations with other coping style measures and psychopathological scales. Mean values and mean standard deviations are reported for the general population, for psychopathological clinical and non-pathological samples.
Number of translations and translation direction in masked translation priming: evidence from unbalanced English–Chinese bilinguals
Authors: Zhao Quanbei , Li Jia , Xiong Wenxin , Xing Hongbing
Published: November 2024

Within the research field of bilingual lexical representation and organization, much attention has been given to whether two languages share a conceptual system and what factors modulate the connection between this conceptual system and the lexical systems of a bilingual’s L1 and L2. One of the most valid ways in the psycholinguistics domain to explore these doubts is to examine the masked translation priming effect and the priming asymmetry through cross-language priming experiments. In this study, a masked priming lexical decision task was conducted with unbalanced English-Chinese bilinguals to investigate whether the masked translation priming effect exists in both translation directions, and to further reveal how the number of translations, which can be categorized into one-translation pair and more-than-one-translation pair conditions, affects the priming effects and modulates translation priming asymmetry. It was demonstrated that both translation direction and the number of translations influence the priming effect. Specifically, the priming effect was observable from L1 to L2 but not from L2 to L1, and the priming for one-translation pairs was significantly greater when compared to that for more-than-one-translation pairs. Moreover, the impacts of translation direction on the priming effect differed between the one-translation pair and more-than-one-translation pair conditions: under the former condition, substantial priming occurred in both directions, whereas for the latter condition, it was observed only in the L1–L2 direction. Several models of the bilingual mental lexicon, mainly the Revised Hierarchical Model and the Distributed Conceptual Feature Model, were used to elucidate the above results.
Prevalence of death anxiety and its related factors in the population of eastern Iran: a cross-sectional study in the era of COVID-19
Authors: Bakhtiari-Dovvombaygi Hossein , Askari Mohammadreza , Rahimkhani Mohammad , Abdollahi Mahboobeh , Baladastian Mohammadreza , Alipour Amir , Namazinia Mohammad
Published: November 2024

Background

The global COVID-19 pandemic has triggered widespread anxiety, including a significant rise in death anxiety. If unaddressed, death anxiety can lead to numerous mental and physical health issues. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of death anxiety and its associated factors in the population of eastern Iran.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 515 participants from Torbat Heydariyeh in 2019. Data were collected using a structured two-part questionnaire: demographic data and the Templer Death Anxiety Scale. Sampling was conducted through a stratified approach to represent the city's population distribution accurately.

Results

The mean age of participants was 32.88 ± 10.75 years (range: 18–80). The mean death anxiety score was 6.72 ± 3.11. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed significant associations between death anxiety and gender (B = 1.12, β = 0.23, P = 0.001), education level (B = 1.75 for high school or lower, β = 0.19, P < 0.05), smoking (B = 0.76, β = 0.15, P = 0.049), and economic status (B = −0.82, β = −0.12, P = 0.006). No significant relationship was found between death anxiety and age, marital status, occupation, medical history, medication use, health status, or income source (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that participants exhibited moderate levels of death anxiety. Given its potential to impact quality of life, strategies for managing death anxiety should be considered in similar public health crises.
Sarcopenia diagnosis using skeleton-based gait sequence and foot-pressure image datasets
Authors: Naseem Muhammad Tahir , Kim Na-Hyun , Seo Haneol , Lee JaeMok , Chung Chul-Min , Shin Sunghoon , Lee Chan-Su
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Sarcopenia is a common age-related disease, defined as a decrease in muscle strength and function owing to reduced skeletal muscle. One way to diagnose sarcopenia is through gait analysis and foot-pressure imaging.

Motivation and research gap

We collected our own multimodal dataset from 100 subjects, consisting of both foot-pressure and skeleton data with real patients, which provides a unique resource for future studies aimed at more comprehensive analyses. While artificial intelligence has been employed for sarcopenia detection, previous studies have predominantly focused on skeleton-based datasets without exploring the combined potential of skeleton and foot pressure dataset. This study conducts separate experiments for foot-pressure and skeleton datasets, it demonstrates the potential of each data type in sarcopenia classification.

Methods

This study had two components. First, we collected skeleton and foot-pressure datasets and classified them into sarcopenia and non-sarcopenia groups based on grip strength, gait performance, and appendicular skeletal muscle mass. Second, we performed experiments on the foot-pressure dataset using the ResNet-18 and spatiotemporal graph convolutional network (ST-GCN) models on the skeleton dataset to classify normal and abnormal gaits due to sarcopenia. For an accurate diagnosis, real-time walking of 100 participants was recorded at 30 fps as RGB + D images. The skeleton dataset was constructed by extracting 3D skeleton information comprising 25 feature points from the image, whereas the foot-pressure dataset was constructed by exerting pressure on the foot-pressure plates.

Results

As a baseline evaluation, the accuracies of sarcopenia classification performance from foot-pressure image using Resnet-18 and skeleton sequences using ST-GCN were identified as 77.16 and 78.63%, respectively.

Discussion

The experimental results demonstrated the potential applications of sarcopenia and non-sarcopenia classifications based on foot-pressure images and skeleton sequences.
Prevalence of intestinal parasites and associated factors among patients with HIV/AIDS at the anti-retroviral treatment clinic of Mizan-Tepi University Teaching Hospital, Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Abayneh Mengistu , Habtemariam Yosef , Duguma Tadesse , Abera Mitiku
Published: November 2024

Background

Intestinal parasitic infections remain very common, particularly in areas with a high prevalence of immune-compromised patients, such as HIV/AIDS patients. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites and associated factors in people living with HIV/AIDS at an ART clinic in Mizan-Tepi University Teaching Hospital, southwest Ethiopia.

Method

A cross-sectional survey was conducted from July to September 2021. A total of 191 adult people living with HIV/AIDS participated in this study. Data on socio-demographic, clinical, and other risk factors were collected using a structured questionnaire. Stool samples were collected and processed using a direct wet mount, formol-ether concentration, and modified Ziehl-Nelson staining techniques. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences Version 25 software.

Results

Among 67 adult individuals living with HIV/AIDS, the prevalence of intestinal parasites was 35.1%. Specifically, 31.5% (45/143) of patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART) and 45.8% (22/48) of ART-naïve patients were infected. The distribution of intestinal parasites was as follows: protozoa were found in 14.7% of ART-treated patients and 22.9% of ART-naïve patients; helminths in 15.4% of ART-treated patients and 16.7% of ART-naïve patients; and opportunistic parasites in 1.4% of ART-treated patients and 6.25% of ART-naïve patients. Significant associations with a higher prevalence of intestinal parasites were observed for a CD4 count <200 cells/mm3 (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] = 3.77; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.01–13.15; p = 0.04), consumption of unwashed raw vegetables (AOR = 3.29; 95% CI: 1.23–8.86; p = 0.02), and residing in rural areas (AOR = 2.34; 95% CI: 1.27–4.32; p = 0.01).

Conclusion

The findings indicate that a significant proportion of adults living with HIV/AIDS are affected by intestinal parasites, with a notably higher prevalence among ART-naïve patients compared to those on ART. Factors such as a low CD4 count, consumption of unwashed raw vegetables, and rural residence are associated with increased risk of intestinal parasite infections. These results underscore the importance of improving hygiene practices and access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas, to reduce the burden of parasitic infections among individuals living with HIV/AIDS.
Cross-cultural adaptation, content validity, and reliability of the Amharic version of the modified John-Hopkins fall risk assessment scale among older adults who attend home health care services
Authors: Chanie Samuel Teferi , Gashaw Moges , Shiferaw Kassaw Belay , Sefiwu Zinabu Fiseha , Fentahun Setegn , Cherkos Kassahun , Kassaw Kibret Alemu , Yalew Ermias Solomon , Mengesha Assefa Kebad , Semagne Ayele Habtamu , Abriham Zufan Yiheyis , Dejen Takele Mihret
Published: November 2024

Background

The modified John-Hopkins fall risk assessment tool (mJH-FRAT) is a comprehensive and multi-factor fall risk assessment tool used to screen and grade older adult’s fall risk levels in home health care services. This can help to identify risky individuals early, establish prevention protocols, and reduce the occurrence of injury. Nevertheless, there is a dearth of contextually valid and reliable fall risk assessment tools among this population in the study area. The aim of this study is therefore to cross-culturally adapt and assess the content validity and reliability of the modified John-Hopkins fall risk assessment tool among older adults following home health care in Ethiopia.

Method

The English version of the mJH-FRAT underwent cross-cultural adaptation into Amharic. The final Amharic version was subjected to face validity and then content validity was computed. This community-based study was conducted from November 2023 to May 2024 with a total of 150 participants selected through convenience sampling. Data collection occurred through face-to-face interviews. Epi-Info 7 and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software version 25 facilitated data entry and analysis, respectively. Reliability was assessed by employing intra-rater and inter-rater reliability using Cohen’s kappa.

Result

The CVI based on the item level of all the items was between 0.8 and 1. The S-CVI based on average for domains such as general condition and clinical condition was 0.925 and 1, respectively, and the S-CVI (average) of the scale was 0.96. The S-CVI based on the universal agreement value for the overall 8 items was 0.75. The kappa statistic coefficient value was between 0.79 and 1. The intra-rater reliability and inter-rater reliability were 0.94 and 0.93, respectively.

Conclusion

The rigorous adaptation process, face and content validity, and reliability analyses demonstrated that the Amharic mJH-FRAT is a content valid and reliable tool for assessing the fall risk level in this population. Clinicians and researchers can utilize this tool for the advancement of both clinical practice and research work on this group of people in Ethiopia.
Association between maternal exercise during pregnancy and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder among preschool children in Southwest China
Authors: Liu Yingying , Jiang Hui , Nie Zizheng , Yu Bin , Qiu Xinyi , Zuo Hui , Han Shufen
Published: November 2024

Objective

Maternal moderate-intensity exercise during pregnancy has important health benefits for the offspring, however, less is known about its association with offspring attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This study aimed to explore the association between maternal exercise during pregnancy and ADHD among preschool children in Southwest China.

Methods

A web-based cross-sectional study was performed in 2021, and the revised Conners Parental Symptom Questionnaire and maternal exercise during pregnancy were obtained through a self-reported structured questionnaire. A binary logistic regression model was used to assess the association between maternal exercise during pregnancy and the likelihood of childhood ADHD after adjustment for covariates.

Results

A total of 4,184 preschool children aged 3–6 years were included in our final analysis. Children whose mothers exercised for <20 min per day were more likely to be at risk of ADHD (6.3%), compared to those whose mothers exercised for more than 40 min (3.1%) or 20–40 min (2.8%) per day. Daily exercise of <20 min during pregnancy was associated with higher odds of childhood ADHD (adjusted OR = 2.11; 95% CI: 1.41, 3.16) after multivariable adjustment. The association of maternal exercise during pregnancy with childhood ADHD was similar in subgroups stratified by child's sex, and by maternal smoking, sleep duration and gestational anemia during pregnancy.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the importance of maternal moderate-intensity exercise during pregnancy for the prevention of childhood ADHD. Prospective studies are needed to confirm our findings in the future.
Language task-based fMRI analysis using machine learning and deep learning
Authors: Kuan Elaine , Vegh Viktor , Phamnguyen John , O’Brien Kieran , Hammond Amanda , Reutens David
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Task-based language fMRI is a non-invasive method of identifying brain regions subserving language that is used to plan neurosurgical resections which potentially encroach on eloquent regions. The use of unstructured fMRI paradigms, such as naturalistic fMRI, to map language is of increasing interest. Their analysis necessitates the use of alternative methods such as machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) because task regressors may be difficult to define in these paradigms.

Methods

Using task-based language fMRI as a starting point, this study investigates the use of different categories of ML and DL algorithms to identify brain regions subserving language. Data comprising of seven task-based language fMRI paradigms were collected from 26 individuals, and ML and DL models were trained to classify voxel-wise fMRI time series.

Results

The general machine learning and the interval-based methods were the most promising in identifying language areas using fMRI time series classification. The geneal machine learning method achieved a mean whole-brain Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (AUC) of 0.97±0.03, mean Dice coefficient of 0.6±0.34 and mean Euclidean distance of 2.7±2.4 mm between activation peaks across the evaluated regions of interest. The interval-based method achieved a mean whole-brain AUC of 0.96±0.03, mean Dice coefficient of 0.61±0.33 and mean Euclidean distance of 3.3±2.7 mm between activation peaks across the evaluated regions of interest.

Discussion

This study demonstrates the utility of different ML and DL methods in classifying task-based language fMRI time series. A potential application of these methods is the identification of language activation from unstructured paradigms.
HDAC3 regulates the diurnal rhythms of claudin expression and intestinal permeability
Authors: Christopher Hunter , Zhang Jianglin , Oladejo Sarah Olanrewaju , Sharma Samskrathi Aravinda , Kuang Zheng
Published: November 2024

Circadian rhythms play an essential role in the regulation of intestinal absorption and barrier function. Tight junctions, including claudins, are fundamental components of the intestinal epithelial barrier. However, the regulatory mechanisms governing their diurnal expression remain poorly understood. Furthermore, the impact of circadian rhythms on intestinal permeability through claudin modulation has yet to be fully explored. Here we investigated the expression and the diurnal rhythms of claudin transcripts in the intestinal epithelium. We identified histone deacetylase 3 (HDAC3) as an epigenetic regulator that represses claudin expression and drives the diurnal rhythms via histone deacetylation. Loss of HDAC3 leads to increased intestinal permeability and dampened its diurnal rhythm. We further revealed that HDAC3 affects the basolateral localization of claudin-3. Together, our findings give insights into epigenetic modification in regulating tight junction and its diurnal rhythms, providing targets for therapeutic mediations in gastrointestinal disorders.
Evaluating the adoption of handsearching, citation chasing, and screening tools in education research: a survey study
Authors: Zhang Qiyang , Pellegrini Marta , Marsili Francesco , Neitzel Amanda
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The rapid development of software tools to assist systematic reviewers has led to varying degrees of adoption and selection among researchers. However, the actual usage patterns of these tools, their preferred features, and the criteria for selecting the most suitable tools remain unclear.

Methods

To understand these aspects, we collected 175 responses from researchers across different continents.

Results

In terms of handsearching, despite new tools developed, our findings reveal that manual handsearching remains prevalent among more than half of the participants. Databases are the most popular tools for citation searching, followed by citation management tools and spreadsheets. This reliance on citation management tools and spreadsheets is concerning as they are not specifically designed for systematic reviews. The primary factors influencing tool selection are the research environment and ease of use. Barriers stopping researchers from adopting alternative tools include limited awareness, challenges in learning new tools, and the financial costs associated with acquiring licenses. Moreover, researchers located in Europe show greater familiarity with a wider range of tools compared to their North American counterparts.

Discussion

This preregistered study contributes valuable insights into the tool usage patterns of education researchers, emphasizing the importance of promoting awareness and facilitating the broader adoption of existing tools.
Epidemiology of quid usage and its possible association with the occurrence of oral mucosal lesions
Authors: Almalki Sultan A. , Gowdar Inderjit M. , Vengal Manoj , Arya Sugandha
Published: November 2024

Background

Chewing tobacco consumption has become a major public health issue in India. The incidence of oral cancer is increasing in India, especially among young adults.

Aim

The objective of this study was to ascertain the prevalence of chewing tobacco consumption and its association with the occurrence of oral mucosal lesions.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 1,209 patients who reported to the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology at Vyas Dental College, Jodhpur. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information on patients’ personal information such as demographic details, tobacco use, and other adverse habits. A single calibrated investigator performed a clinical examination of lesions on the oral mucosa, and the diagnosis was further validated.

Results

The majority of the participants were men (81.8%) in the age range of 26–35 years. A habit of chewing a combination of tobacco and areca nut (48.2%) was more prevalent. More than 36% of the participants consumed tobacco in a processed form (90%), at least four times a day. It was observed was 25% of the participants were suffering from tobacco pouch keratosis.

Conclusion

Chewing tobacco was significantly associated with the development of oral mucosal lesions, particularly among men and those belonging to lower socio-economic groups. Along with targeted public health interventions on tobacco cessation, it is essential to change the cultural norms associated with the habit of chewing tobacco and implement strict chewing tobacco control laws in the community and workplaces.
Participation but not success in youth and junior World Championships is important for overall ranking in the biathlon World Cup during adult age
Authors: Jonsson Kårström Malin
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate if competition rank in the youth (16–19 years) and junior (20–22 years) World Championships (WCH) and age of the athlete when reaching certain World Cup (WC) performance milestones (debut and top 40, 15, 6 and 3) were related to future World Cup total (WCT) performance.

Methods

All data was obtained from the International Biathlon Unions database. The biathletes ranked top 30 in the WCT (82 men, 98 women) during 10 consecutive competition seasons were selected for further analysis. Biathletes were divided into performance groups due to their best WCT ranking (WCT6, rank 1–6; WCT15, rank 7–15; WCT30, rank 16–30). The relation between youth and junior WCH ranking and age when reaching the WC performance milestones with WCT performance was investigated.

Results

63.3% and 86.1% of the biathletes in the WCT top 30 competed in the youth and/or junior WCH, respectively, but the correlation between junior and senior ranking was low. WCT6 reached most of the WC performance milestones at a younger age compared to WCT15 and WCT30 (p > 0.05) and reaching WC top15 at a younger age increased the chance of reaching WCT6 in the future.

Conclusion

It seems beneficial to compete internationally (i.e., participation in youth/junior WCH) and reach certain WC performance milestones at a young age to achieve a high ranking in the WCT during adult age. This highlights that biathletes need to have a certain performance level during junior years, although ranking in youth/junior WCH is not a prediction for senior WCT success.
Integration and coherence in food governance—a comprehensive analysis of food security public programs in Chile
Authors: del Valle M Martín , Shields Kirsteen , Boza Sofia
Published: November 2024

This study critically examines Chilean food governance. In particular it focuses on two aspects of inter-ministerial governance: policy “integration” and policy “coherence.” It does so by evaluating the alignment between two key policy objectives within the Chilean government; the Social Determinants of Health (SDH) and National Food and Nutrition Policy (NFNP) objectives. This is accomplished by using publicly available data at the Integrated Bank of Social Programs (BIPS – Banco Integrado de Programas Sociales) collected in 2021. Utilizing mixed methods including content analysis, program review, and financial analysis, 245 public programs were scrutinized. Only 0.042% of the 2021 national budget for public programs was allocated to n = 70 key programs directly addressing food and nutrition security (FNS), highlighting significant resource disparities among ministries. While some inter-ministerial integration was observed, overall coherence with NFNP objectives, particularly in “health integration and intersectorality,” was lacking. Since disparities in resource allocation and neglect of stability and agency within food security across ministries are identified, indicating a variegated approach to food security with differing emphases on availability, utilization, and access, this study calls for a collaborative, multi-sectoral strategy to bridge policy gaps and enhance coherence in addressing food security challenges. Its findings contribute to the discourse on food governance, offering insights into policy implementation gaps and suggesting avenues for enhancing inter-ministerial integration and coherence. This research underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to policy formulation and execution in achieving NFNP goals and addressing the complex challenges of food security in Chile.
Advisors as key partners for achieving adoption at scale: embedding “My Climate View” into agricultural advisory networks
Authors: Jakku Emma , Fleming Aysha , Fielke Simon , Snow Stephen , Malakar Yuwan , Cornish Gillian , Hay Rachel , Williams Liana
Published: November 2024

Introduction

This paper examines the role of agricultural advisors as key partners for scaling adoption of long-term climate information. Agri-food sectors across the world face significant challenges in responding to climate change, which intersect with broader pressures driving transitions to more climate resilient and sustainable agri-food systems. Making better climate information available to farmers is a key part of responding to these challenges, since relevant and usable climate information can help farmers to adapt to future climate conditions. The development of climate services, which seek to provide climate information to assist with decision making, has therefore increased significantly over the last decade. The Climate Services for Agriculture (CSA) program provides long-term climate projections to help the Australian agriculture sector prepare for and adapt to future climate conditions. ‘My Climate View’ is an online tool produced by CSA, which provides localised and contextualised, commodity-specific climate information, through historic weather data and multi-decadal projections of future climate, aimed at Australian famers and farm advisors. Agricultural advisors have a critical yet often underutilised role as climate information intermediaries, through assisting farmers translate climate information into action.

Methods

This paper uses CSA as a case study to examine farmer-advisor interactions as a key adoption pathway for My Climate View. We interviewed 52 farmers and 24 advisors across Australia to examine the role of advisors as key partners in helping farmers to understand climate information and explore on-farm climate adaptation options.

Results and discussion

Interactions between farmers and their trusted advisors are an essential part of the enabling environment required to ensure that this long-term climate information can be used at the farm scale to inform longer-term decisions about climate adaptation. We use the concept of an interaction space to investigate farmer-advisor interactions in the adoption and sustained use of My Climate View. We find that although My Climate View is not a transformational technology on its own, its ability to enable farmers and advisors to explore and discuss future climate conditions and consider climate adaptation options has the potential to support transformational changes on-farm that are needed to meet the sustainability transition pressures that climate change presents.
Sustainable Aloe vera/chitosan-based edible coatings reduce postharvest loss of stored fresh figs (Ficus carica L.)
Authors: Kaur Navjot , Somasundram Chandran , Razali Zuliana , Ahmed Zienab Fawzy Reiad
Published: November 2024

Fresh fig fruits are abundant sources of antioxidants and health-beneficial compounds. However, they are highly prone to spoilage and have short postharvest life. Thus, the current study aimed to investigate the potential synergistic effect of applying Aloe vera (AV) gel combined with chitosan (CH) as a natural edible coating on fresh fig fruits’ quality and shelf life. Different coating treatments; T1—Water; T2—CH (0.5%, w/v); T3—AV (100%); T4—AV (100%) + 1% CH (25:75, v/v); T5—AV (50%) + 1% CH (25:75, v/v); T6—AV (50%) + 1% CH (40:60, v/v), were applied to fresh fig fruits utilizing dip method. Fruits were analyzed weekly to examine fruit weight loss, decay, color, texture, enzyme activity [β Galactosidase and polyphenol oxidase enzyme (PPO)], phenolic content, antioxidants, and microbial load. The combined AV and CH coatings extended the shelf life of the fig fruits up to 21 days compared to the control during storage at 2°C and 90–95% R.H. The T5 treatment has significantly retarded the fruit decay, reduced total fungal and bacterial counts, preserved total phenolics and flavonoid contents, and antioxidant activity (enzymatic and non-enzymatic), as compared to the other treatments. Meanwhile, T6 fruits showed minimum fruit weight loss and microbial load. These treatments can be applied at a large scale to improve the shelf life of fresh fig fruits.
Promoting artificial meat to improve food security and reduce resource-environment pressure: is it practicable in China?
Authors: Yang Minda , Min Shi , Nguyen Trung Thanh , Qing Ping
Published: November 2024

Artificial meat is increasingly recognized as a crucial innovation for addressing global food security challenges and reducing environmental pressures. This study aims to understand the practicability of promoting artificial meat consumption to achieve the dual goals of improving food security and reducing resource-environment pressure by evaluating Chinese consumers’ willingness to pay (WTP) for artificial meat. A discrete choice experiment was conducted via an online survey involving 998 consumers from five representative Chinese cities. The experiment was designed to elicit preferences and WTP for artificial meat. A random information intervention providing positive information about artificial meat was included to examine its impact on consumer choices. The estimation results indicate significantly lower WTP for both cultured and plant-based meat compared to farm-raised meat, with plant-based meat receiving higher WTP than cultured meat. The information intervention notably reduced the WTP gap between artificial meat and farm-raised meat, suggesting that consumer education can positively influence acceptance. The findings suggest that the market introduction of artificial meat in China faces considerable challenges, particularly regarding consumer acceptance and perceived value. While positive information can reduce the disparity in WTP, the practicability of promoting artificial meat to achieve food security and environmental sustainability goals is currently limited. This study contributes to the literature on consumer attitudes towards artificial meat in China and provides critical insights for policymakers aiming to promote the consumption of artificial meat.
Impact of arabinoxylan-enriched diets on the intestinal chemical barrier and microbiota composition in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Zhang Xindang , Wang Hengzhi , Lin Beibei , Meng Xiaolin , Deng Junming
Published: November 2024

Introduction

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary AX inclusion on the chemical barrier, antioxidant function and intestinal microbiome of rainbow trout.

Methods

Five isoproteic and isolipidic experimental diets were formulated to contain 0.03% arabinoxylanase, as well as 0%, 2.5%, 5% and 10% AX (CAX, Con, AX2.5, AX5 and AX10), respectively.

Results

The trypsin and maltase activities in the foregut of AX10 group were significantly lower than those in Con group. Similarly, the amylase and sucrase activities of the middle intestinal mucosa, maltase of the distal intestinal mucosa, and MUC2 mRNA levels of the middle and distal intestinal mucosa in AX10 group were also lower than those in Con group. Additionally, the levels of GSH, GST, MDA in the plasma, SOD and CAT in the middle and distal intestinal mucosa, as well as MDA in the middle intestinal mucosa, were significantly higher in AX10 group compared to the CAX and Con groups. Conversely, the levels of CAT, GSH-Px, IGF-1, mTOR, AST in the plasma and AMPD, GDH in the liver were significantly lower in AX10 group compared to the CAX and Con groups. Furthermore, the Chao 1, Shannon index, and the abundance of Cyanobacteria, Aurantimicrobium, Bacteroides decreased with the decreasing dietary AX content. In contrast, the abundance of Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Stenotrophomonas were increased in AX10 group compared to Con group.

Discussion and conclusion

These results suggest that high AX (10%) diets may reduce the chemical barrier, antioxidant function, and protein metabolism in rainbow trout, while also reducing intestinal microbiome α-diversity and retarding the colonization of beneficial bacteria.
Lactiplantibacillus plantarum L47 and inulin affect colon and liver inflammation in piglets challenged by enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli through regulating gut microbiota
Authors: Miao Jingna , Cui Leihong , Zeng Hui , Hou Meixin , Wang Jingxuan , Hang Suqin
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Infection by pathogenic bacteria during weaning is a common cause of diarrhea and intestinal inflammation in piglets. Supplementing the diet with synbiotics is beneficial for animal health. The strain of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum L47 (L47) isolated in our lab exhibited good probiotic properties when combined with inulin. Here, the effectiveness of combining L47 and inulin (CLN) in protecting against enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) induced colon and liver inflammation in weaned piglets was evaluated.

Methods

Twenty-eight piglets aged 21 days were randomly assigned into 4 groups: CON (control), LI47 (oral CLN culture fluid, 1010 CFU/d of L47 and 1 g/d of inulin), ECON (oral ETEC culture fluid, 1010 CFU/d), and ELI47 (oral CLN and ETEC culture fluid). After 24 days, the colon and liver samples were collected for further analysis.

Results and discussion

CLN alleviated colon damage caused by ETEC challenge, as evidenced by an increase of colonic crypt depth, mRNA expression of tight junction Claudin-1 and Occludin, GPX activity, the concentration of IL-10 and sIgA (p < 0.05). Moreover, there was a decrease in MDA activity, the load of E. coli, the concentration of LPS, gene expression of TLR4, and the concentration of TNF-α and IL-6 (p < 0.05) in colonic mucosa. Additionally, CLN counteracted liver damage caused by ETEC challenge by modulating pathways associated with immunity and disease occurrence (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Supplementing with CLN alleviated colon inflammation induced by ETEC challenge by decreasing the E. coli/LPS/TLR4 pathway and regulating hepatic immune response and disease-related pathways, suggesting that CLN could protect intestinal and liver health in animals.
Prophylactic Mesh Augmentation of Midline Closure in Patients Undergoing Resection for Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer Reduces the Rate of Incisional Hernia: Results of a Case-Series Study
Authors: Varsos Panagiotis , Seretis Fotios , Theodorou Alexis , Pachos Nikolaos , Kitsou Eleni , Saliaris Konstantinos , Karikis Ioannis , Theodorou Dimitrios , Triantafyllou Tania
Published: November 2024

Incisional hernias represent a far more common complication after midline incisions than previously estimated. Patients with upper gastrointestinal tract malignancies represent a group of patients at increased risk for incisional hernia formation after undergoing major surgery. Our prospectively designed study included 50 patients who underwent onlay synthetic mesh augmentation of their midline closure along with closure using the small bites technique. At a 12-month follow-up, no incisional hernias were documented. A significant decrease compared to historical controls was achieved, with few minor complications. Mesh augmentation of midline closure in patients with upper gastrointestinal tract malignancies can significantly reduce subsequent incisional hernia formation.
Controlling the Deformation of the Antagonistic Shape Memory Alloy System by LSTM Deep Learning
Authors: Hmede Rodayna , Chapelle Frédéric , Lapusta Yuri , Ramón Juan Antonio Corrales
Published: November 2024

The antagonistic system of two shape memory alloy wires is a great inspiration for the robotics field where it is applied as a linear actuator due to its shape memory effect. However, its control is still a challenge due to its hysteresis behavior. For that reason, a new controller is proposed in this paper for the displacement of the system’s effector. It is based on a Long Short-Term Memory neural network model. The aim is achieved by combining temperature-deformation data from an analytical model with voltage-temperature-deformation data from real experiments. Hence, these datasets are studied to overcome the nonlinearity obstacle of this system in order to be able to integrate it into robotic applications.
Self-Sensing Approach for Semi-Active Control of Variable Damping Electromagnetic Suspension System
Authors: Fu Chao , Liu Pengfei , Yu Jianqiang , Qin An , Ning Donghong
Published: November 2024

This paper combines the Kalman filter observer with self-sensing technology and integrates it into the electromagnetic damper (EMD), estimating the displacement and velocity of the EMD based on the three-phase voltage generated by the permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM). The self-sensing performance of the EMD is verified through theoretical analysis and experimental results. A vehicle suspension vibration control system composed of one-quarter vehicle electromagnetic suspension (EMS), a acceleration damping driven control (ADDC) algorithm, and a vibration excitation platform is established to test the vibration control performance of the self-sensing EMS. The experimental results show that under random road excitation, compared to passive suspension, the self-sensing-based ADDC reduced the vehicle vertical acceleration of the vehicle suspension, with a 28.92% decrease in the root mean square (RMS) value of the vehicle vertical acceleration. This verifies the effectiveness of the self-sensing capability of the EMS system. Incorporating self-sensing technology into the EMS system improves the vibration reduction performance of the suspension.