bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nasal carriage of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in healthcare workers at Banadir Hospital, Mogadishu, Somalia
Authors: Aweis Abdullah Dahir H. , Ga’al Hassan , Ishaq Aweis Daud M. , Hassan Gallad Dahir
Published: February 2025

Background

Antibiotic resistance poses a significant threat to healthcare services and Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is common among hospital workers. Currently, there is no research on MRSA and its prevalence in Somalia. This study sought to determine the prevalence of nasal Staphylococcus aureus carriage and the susceptibility pattern of healthcare workers’ MRSA isolates.

Methods

This cross-sectional, descriptive study involved nasal swab collection from healthcare workers at Banadir Teaching Hospital. Cefoxitin discs were used to identify methicillin-resistant strains, and their antimicrobial susceptibility was evaluated using the Kirby–Bauer (disc diffusion) method. Based on specialty, e.g., pediatrics, obstetrics, gynecology, laboratory, and intensive care unit (ICU), participants were recruited from different wards. Nasal swabs from 215 participants were inoculated on mannitol salt agar, and yellow colonies were aseptically transferred into blood agar, inoculated on DNase agar, and subjected to catalase, coagulase, and gram staining tests. Next, bacterial suspensions were prepared and aseptically inoculated on Mueller–Hinton agar plates, followed by cefoxitin antibiotic (30 μg) disc testing. Staphylococcus aureus was categorized/interpreted based on the zone diameter (nearest whole millimeter) of the cefoxitin discs. Samples with diameters of ≤21 mm were considered to be MRSA) while those with diameters of ≥22 mm were regarded as methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus.

Results

Some locations had higher MRSA isolation rates. Ward 16 (postnatal care and neonatal ICU) had the highest MRSA prevalence (n=9, 26.5%), followed by pediatric isolation (n=6, 33.3%), emergency (n=5, 17.9%), and pediatric malnutrition (n=4, 44.4%) wards. A total of 27 (23.70%) MRSA cases were isolated and were susceptible to vancomycin and linezolid.

Conclusion

Some hospital locations had higher MRSA prevalence, with the postnatal care, neonatal ICU, and isolation wards having the highest isolation rates.
Soil bacterial community composition but not alpha diversity altered along a gradient of Spartina alterniflora invasion on the coast of Yellow Sea, China
Authors: Yang Li , Peng Yue , Wang Shuang , Rong Chenxuan , Dong Huice , Li Hongshan , Ge Baoming
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Spartina alterniflora invasion may alter the characteristics and functions of the coastal wetland ecosystems. Previous studies have shown that invasion changes the biogeochemical processes and microbial diversity in marsh ecosystems; however, knowledge of the changes in bacterial communities and their function at different soil depths during invasion remains limited.

Methods

In the present study, we investigated S. alterniflora invasion on the dynamic changes of soil bacterial communities using Illumina MiSeq sequencing analyses of 16S rRNA at different soil depths (i.e., 0–10, 10–20, and 20–40 cm) during the invasive process (i.e., 1, 4, 7, and 12 years), as well as the potential correlations between soil physicochemical characteristics and enzyme activities.

Results

The invasion of S. alterniflora did not significantly affect soil bacterial alpha diversity or the functional profiles at the first and second levels of the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). Furthermore, no significant changes were observed across different soil depths. However, the relative abundances of Chloroplast and Alphaproteobacteria increased from 3.03% and 5.05% in bare mudflat to 13.61% and 8.95% in the 12-year-old S. alterniflora invaded soil, respectively, whereas those of Deltaproteobacteria, Acidimicrobiia, and Bacilli decreased after S. alterniflora invasion for approximately 12 years. The relative abundances of soil bacteria varied with soil depth. Total phosphorus, carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, total carbon, and catalase activity were the key factors affecting soil bacterial community composition.

Discussion

The soil physicochemical characteristics changes caused by invasion may temporarily enhance soil fertility, they can lead to long-term wetland degradation through changed biological community and altered nutrient dynamics. This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the dynamic changes in bacterial communities, soil physicochemical characteristics, and enzyme activities during S. alterniflora invasion on coastal wetlands.
Functional diversification of oxalate decarboxylases in terms of enzymatic activity, morphosporogenesis, stress regulation and virulence in Colletotrichum siamense
Authors: Lv Yanyun , Liu Yu , Lin Yuqing , Zheng Huiying , Yan Jingting , Zhang Yu , Miao Weiguo , Wu Wei , Lin Chunhua
Published: February 2025

Oxalate decarboxylase (OxdC) is an enzyme that degrades oxalic acid and may affect the virulence of necrotrophic fungal pathogens that rely on oxalic acid as a pathogenicity factor. However, the biological function of OxdCs in hemibiotropic fungi is still unknown. Our previous studies revealed four OxdC-encoding genes in the whole genome, with CsOxdC3 playing important roles in morphosporogenesis, fungicide resistance and virulence in Colletotrichum siamense. Here, we systematically analyzed the biological functions of four oxalate decarboxylase genes in C. siamense via a loss-of-function method. The results revealed CsOxdC1, CsOxdC2, and CsOxdC4 played major roles in degrading oxalic acid in C. siamense, whereas CsOxdC3 did not. All four CsOxdCs positively modulated morphosporogenesis, including vegetative growth, conidial size, conidial germination rate and the appressorium formation rate, to different extents. In particular, the CsOxdC3 deletion mutant failed to form appressoria. The four OxdC gene deletion mutants had different responses to Mn2+, Cu2+, and multiple fungicides. Among them, CsOxdC2 and CsOxdC4 exhibited positive roles in resistance to Mn2+ and Cu2+ stresses; CsOxdC1 played a slightly positive role in C. siamense resistance to azole fungicides; and CsOxdC3 had a significantly positive role in regulating the sensitivity of C. siamense to multiple fungicides, including pyrrole and azole, but not CsOxdC2 and CsOxdC4. Furthermore, compared with the wild-type strain, ΔCsOxdC2 and ΔCsOxdC3, but not ΔCsOxdC1 and ΔCsOxdC4, displayed significantly reduced virulence. In conclusion, our data indicated that CsOxdCs exerted diverse functions in morphogenesis, stress homeostasis, fungicide resistance, and virulence in C. siamense. This study provides insights into the biological function of OxdCs in the hemibiotrophic fungus C. siamense.
Preoperative prediction of recurrence risk factors in operable cervical cancer based on clinical-radiomics features
Authors: Du Xue , Chen Chunbao , Yang Lu , Cui Yu , Li Min
Published: February 2025

Objective

To investigate the value of preoperative prediction of risk factors for recurrence of operable cervical cancer based on the radiomics features of biparametric magnetic resonance imaging (bp-MRI) combined with clinical features.

Method

A retrospective collection of cervical cancer cases undergoing radical hysterectomy + pelvic and/or para-aortic lymph node dissection at the Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College was conducted. Region of interest (ROI) was outlined using the 3D Slicer software, and radiomics after feature extraction and feature screening was performed using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm. Logistic regression algorithms were used to construct a fusion clinical-radiomics model to visualize nomograms. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC), DeLong test, calibration curve (CC), and decision curve (DC) were used to evaluate the predictive performance and clinical benefit of the model.

Result

A total of 99 patients with cervical cancer were included in this study, with 79 and 20 cases in the training and test groups, respectively. Seventeen key features were selected for radiomics model construction. Three clinical features were screened to construct a clinical model. A fusion model of the radiomics model combined with the clinical model was constructed. The area under the curve (AUC) values in the training group were 0.710 (95% CI 0.602–0.819), 0.892 (95% CI 0.826–0.958), and 0.906 (95% CI 0.842–0.970), for the comparative clinical model, radiomics model, and fusion model, respectively, and the AUC values in the testing group were 0.620 (95% CI 0.366–0.874), 0.860 (95% CI 0.677–1.000), and 0.880 (95% CI 0.690–1.000), respectively. The DeLong test showed a statistically significant difference between the AUC values of the fusion model and the clinical model (p < 0.05). Decision curve analysis (DCA) showed that the fusion model had the greatest net benefit when the threshold probability was approximately 0.5.

Conclusion

The fusion model constructed based on bp-MRI radiomics features combined with clinical features provides an important reference for predicting the risk status of recurrence in operable cervical cancer. The findings of this study are preliminary exploratory results, and further large-scale, multicenter studies are needed to validate these findings.
The aggrephagy-related gene TUBA1B influences clinical outcomes in glioma patients by regulating the cell cycle
Authors: Sun Zesheng , Huang Pengcheng , Lin Jialiang , Jiang Guiping , Chen Jian , Liu Qianqian
Published: February 2025

Background

Gliomas are common primary malignant brain tumors, with glioblastoma (GBM) being the most aggressive subtype. GBM is characterized by high recurrence rates and treatment resistance, leading to poor patient outcomes. Current prognostic models have limited predictive power, underscoring the need to elucidate underlying mechanisms and identify novel biomarkers to improve therapeutic strategies and prognostic models.

Methods

Gene expression and clinical data for GBM and LGG were obtained from the TCGA and CGGA database, while single-cell sequencing data from GSE167960 were selected from the GEO database. Molecular characteristics of gliomas were revealed through normalization, consensus clustering analysis, immune scoring, cell infiltration analysis, and pathway analysis. TUBA1B, identified as a key gene through machine learning, was incorporated into a nomogram model using multivariate Cox regression. Its functions were validated through qRT-PCR, in vitro functional assays, and mouse xenograft models. All data analyses and statistics were performed using R software.

Results

Consensus clustering of the TCGA glioma dataset identified two aggrephagy subtypes (C1 and C2), with C2 showing worse survival outcomes and higher immune infiltration. TUBA1B was identified as an independent prognostic marker, with high expression associated with upregulated cell cycle pathways and alterations in the immune microenvironment. TUBA1B was shown to influence glioma cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and autophagy, impacting tumor progression and treatment response through intercellular communication and metabolic pathways.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates that high TUBA1B expression is closely associated with glioma malignancy and poor prognosis, making it a potential therapeutic target.
Application of 3D printing technology in the surgical management of advanced ovarian serous carcinoma: a case report
Authors: Xi Hang , Liu Chunhui , Tian Nana , Geng Min , Hu Jinfang , Li Haohao , Pan Wenbo , Sun Xiaohong , Cai Zhihui , Bai Shasha
Published: February 2025

Advanced ovarian serous carcinoma presents significant surgical challenges due to tumor size, deep location, and complex anatomical relationships with surrounding structures. This case report highlights the use of 3D printing technology to improve surgical planning and outcomes in such complex scenarios. A 48-year-old female presented with bilateral ovarian tumors, confirmed as serous cystadenocarcinoma. Preoperative 3D modeling was employed to create a detailed anatomical model based on imaging data. This model provided precise visualization of tumor size, vascular supply, and relationships with adjacent organs, facilitating the development of an optimal surgical plan. During surgery, bilateral ovarian tumors were resected along with the uterus, omen tum, and lymph nodes, achieving complete R0 resection. Postoperatively, the patient recovered well, with no complications or recurrence observed during follow-up. This case underscores the value of 3D printing in enhancing surgical precision and safety in complex gynecological oncology cases. By providing individualized anatomical insights, 3D printing supports preoperative planning, improves patient outcomes, and contributes to advancing precision medicine in surgical practice.
Exogenous Galectin-9 prevents peri-implantitis in rats by regulating macrophage polarization
Authors: Cheng Lujin , Ji Xiaowei , Yilihamujiang Huerxidai , Dong Shuya , Mei Long , Lin Guo , Tang Qihan , Gong Zhongcheng
Published: February 2025

Background

Peri-implantitis (PI) is a common complication of oral implants with no definitive treatment strategy. Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are involved in PI by activating macrophages and influencing osteoclasts and osteoblasts. Galactin-9 (Gal-9) is known for its immunomodulatory properties and interactions with macrophage polarization receptors. This study investigated the mechanism of prophylactic exogenous Gal-9 in the prevention and treatment of PI in rats.

Methods

Male SD rats with titanium implants were divided into the Control, Saline, and Gal-9 groups. Rats in the Saline group and Gal-9 group were prophylactically administered Gal-9 and Saline, respectively, before inducing PI. Periodontal examinations, X-ray imaging, flow cytometry analyses, and micro-CT evaluations were conducted to assess clinical, imaging, and immunological parameters.

Results

After inducing PI, the implant loss rate in the Gal-9 group was lower than that in the Saline group. The gingival index was higher in the Saline group and Gal-9 group compared to the Control group. The bleeding on probing positivity rate was higher in the Saline group than in the other two groups. X-ray and micro-CT images both showed lower alveolar bone resorption in the Gal-9 group than in the Saline group. Flow cytometry showed that the proportions of M1-type macrophages and M2-type macrophages, and M1/M2 ratio were lower in the Gal-9 group than those in the Saline group. Multivariate linear regression indicated that Tb.Th had the greatest impact on the gingival index and Tb.Sp had the greatest impact on the M1/M2 ratio.

Conclusion

Exogenous Gal-9 administration demonstrated promising effects in mitigating inflammation associated with PI in rat models by promoting M2 macrophage polarization and enhancing alveolar bone stability.
Asperosaponin VI suppresses ferroptosis in chondrocytes and ameliorates osteoarthritis by modulating the Nrf2/GPX4/HO-1 signaling pathway
Authors: Zhang Zhimeng , Yuan Daotong , Jin Ximin , Chang Wenjie , Zhang Yongkui , Xie Wenpeng
Published: February 2025

Background

Asperosaponin VI (AVI) is a naturally occurring monosaccharide derived from Dipsacus asperoides renowned for its anti-inflammatory and bone-protective properties.

Objective

To elucidate the specific mechanism through which AVI affects chondrocytes in osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

For the in vitro experiments, primary chondrocytes were to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the action of AVI.For the in vivo experiments, rat OA models were established using a modified Hulth method. The severity of knee osteoarthritis was evaluated 8 weeks post-surgery. Micro-CT imaging, hematoxylin-eosin staining, and Safranin O-fast green staining were used to assess degeneration in rat knee joints. Immunohistochemistry techniques were conducted to measure the levels of collagen II, MMP13, Nrf2, GPX4, ACSL4, and HO-1 within cartilage tissues. ELISA assays were performed to measure those of TNF-α, IL -6, and PGE2 in serum samples.

Results

AVI alleviated chondrocyte apoptosis and extracellular matrix degradation in rat OA induced by IL-1β. It attenuated the levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and PGE2 while reducing those of Fe2+ and malondialdehyde (MDA). AVI upregulated the expression of Nrf2, HO-1, and GPX4 while downregulating that of ACSL4. Mechanistic studies revealed that ML385-induced inhibition of the Nrf2 signaling pathway reversed the increase in GPX4 and ACSL4 expression and increased Fe2+ and MDA levels; treatment with erastin, a ferroptosis inducer, produced comparable results. In vivo experiments demonstrated that AVI improved the bone volume/tissue volume and trabecular separation values in OA rats; reversed the Osteoarthritis Research Society International score; upregulated Nrf2, HO-1, and GPX4 expression; downregulated ACSL4 and MMP13 expression, and decreased the serum levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and PGE2.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that AVI is a promising therapeutic agent for OA. It exerted its protective effect by regulating the Nrf2/GPX4/HO-1 signaling axis to inhibit cartilage cell ferroptosis and improve osteoarthritis.
Long-term oyster shell powder applications increase crop yields and control soil acidity and cadmium in red soil drylands
Authors: Li Hao , Wu Yan , Li Jiwen , Han Tianfu , Liu Kailou , Huang Shangshu
Published: February 2025

The intensification of agricultural production has significantly reduced land availability, necessitating continuous cropping cycles that degrade soil quality and inhibit crop growth. While the short-term use of soil amendments has shown significant potential for mitigating these challenges, few studies have explored their long-term effects on acidified soils and heavy metal accumulation. Between 2013 and 2018, a field experiment was conducted in the peanut (Arachis hypogaea L)-growing region of Jinxian County, Jiangxi Province, to investigate the long-term effects of oyster shell powder applied to upland red soil. Before the experiment, the soil properties were as follows: pH, 4.54, total soil cadmium (Cd) content, 0.49 mg kg-¹; and available Cd content, 0.25 mg kg-¹. The experiment included three treatments combining chemical fertilizers with oyster shell powder at application rates of 750, 1500, and 2250 kg ha-¹ (L750, L1500, L2250) and a control with only chemical fertilizer (L0). From 2013 to 2018, peanut yield among all treatments was assessed at maturity. Soil pH was then measured using a pH meter with a 2.5:1 water-to-soil ratio. Exchangeable hydrogen and aluminum were determined using the potassium chloride exchange-neutralization titration method. Meanwhile, available Cd content was extracted using 0.1 M CaCl2 and measured with a flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer. While all treatments showed an annual decline in peanut yield from 2013 to 2018, but oyster shell applications significantly reduced the rate of crop yield decline. Compared to L0, the yields of L750, L1500, and L2250 treatments increased by 5.55%-19.42%, 8.64%-28.74%, and 15.43%-37.01%, respectively. Soil pH values in the L750, L1500, and L2250 treatments were higher than the L0 treatment by 0.03-0.31, 0.16-0.48, and 0.28-0.65 units, respectively. Their exchangeable hydrogen contents decreased by 10.17%-24.24%, 16.67%-27.94%, and 23.40%-29.44%. In addition, exchangeable aluminum contents decreased by 5.05%-26.09%, 23.23%-46.27%, and 39.73%-66.97%. In contrast, soil available Cd contents in the L750, L1500, and L2250 treatments were lower than the L0 treatment by 7.96%-19.29%, 9.56%-30.71%, and 13.94%-34.65%, respectively. Correlation analysis revealed that soil pH was positively associated with peanut yield and negatively correlated with exchangeable hydrogen, exchangeable aluminum, and available Cd. For every 0.1 unit increase in soil pH, peanut yields increased by 119.62-389.82 kg ha-¹, while available Cd decreased by 0.06-0.12 mg kg-¹. Therefore, these findings demonstrate the efficacy of continuous oyster shell powder application in controlling soil acidification and reducing Cd levels in upland red soil.
Antifungal efficacy and mechanisms of Bacillus licheniformis BL06 against Ceratocystis fimbriata
Authors: Gao Fangyuan , Yang Dongjing , Chen Jingwei , Zhou Xiaosi , Zhang Chengling , Ma Jukui , Tang Wei , Liang Zhao , Wu Yongwang , Liu Hongxia , Sun Houjun
Published: February 2025

Sweet potato black rot caused by the pathogenic fungus Ceratocystis fimbriata is a destructive disease that can result in severe agricultural losses. This study explores the antifungal efficacy and underlying mechanisms of Bacillus licheniformis BL06 against C. fimbriata. The plate antagonism assay revealed that BL06 significantly suppressed the radial growth of C. fimbriata mycelia, achieving inhibition rates of 39.53%, 53.57%, 64.38%, and 69.11% after 7, 10, 13, and 16 days, respectively. In vivo experiments demonstrated that BL06-treated sweet potato tissues exhibited markedly smaller lesions than the control, indicating effective suppression of black rot. Microscopic observations indicated that BL06 treatment altered the morphology and activity of C. fimbriata mycelia, causing swelling and deformation. Additionally, BL06 markedly reduced spore production and germination in a dose-dependent manner, with complete inhibition observed at the highest concentrations tested. The cell-free supernatant (CFS) of BL06 was identified as the primary antifungal agent, achieving an inhibition rate of 76.11% on mycelial growth. Transcriptome analysis of C. fimbriata treated with BL06 CFS revealed significant downregulation of genes involved in cell wall and membrane biosynthesis, spore development, protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum, and energy metabolism. These findings suggest that BL06 is a potent biocontrol agent against C. fimbriata, exerting its effects through multiple molecular pathways.
Tonic immobility and phenomenal consciousness in animals: a review
Authors: Woodruff Michael L.
Published: February 2025

Tonic immobility (TI) is an innate, last-resort response to the presence of a predator, commonly referred to as feigning death or thanatosis. However, it is critical to distinguish death feigning from TI; the former encompasses a complex series of behaviors, with TI representing its final aspect. Given this complexity, death feigning is hypothesized to manifest a higher-order intentionality in animals. Considering that third-order and higher intentional states are correlated with some form of phenomenal consciousness, their presence in animals has significant implications for their conscious experiences. This hypothesis surrounding third-order and higher intentional states is subject to dispute, in part due to the lack of sufficient evidence indicating that the behaviors associated with death feigning, aside from TI, serve a protective function against predation. Evidence suggests that TI alone constitutes an effective mechanism for predator defense. It is posited that the cessation of TI by the prey organism signifies the presence of a first-order intentional state. Furthermore, it is proposed that behavioral indicators suggest that the termination of TI by the prey is linked to anoetic and potentially noetic consciousness. The relationship between TI and fear is also examined. It is contended that, within the framework of formulating hypotheses concerning the mechanisms of TI and developing experimental designs to test these hypotheses, fear should be characterized as an intervening variable. The conclusions derived from this analysis indicate that TI can occasionally function as an effective predator defense associated with primal sensory and anoetic consciousness. Its termination may imply the presence of noetic consciousness; however, self-reflective autonoetic consciousness appears to be absent. Finally, the hypothesis suggesting that TI serves as an evolutionary precursor to the theory of mind in humans is discussed, serving as a cautionary note in the interpretation of findings from animal research concerning the evolution of cognitive functions in humans.
Improving women's team performance on corners through video training and ball trajectory anticipation
Authors: Libreau Clement , Benguigui Nicolas
Published: February 2025

The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a video-based perceptual training programme designed to enhance anticipation skills in professional female football players. The video reference task was used to test participants in pre- and post-tests, where they predicted the ball's arrival location during corners. Participants were evenly divided into an experimental group, which received training in the task between the pre- and post-tests using a progressive temporal occlusion method, and a control group, which received no training. The rate of correct responses, response time, and confidence scores were analyzed in the reference task, as well as performance on corners in real matches, to assess the expected transfer of learning to the field. The results revealed that the experimental group, which underwent training, significantly improved their precision in predicting the ball's landing zone after the intervention, with their accuracy score increasing from 54% to 68% (p < 0.05, η2 = 0.60). Additionally, their response time decreased from 3.2 to 2.4 s (p < 0.05, η2 = 0.48), and their confidence score improved from 3 to 3.8 (p < 0.05, η2 = 0.76). This effect slightly diminished after a 6-month retention interval but remained significantly higher than at the pre-test. Furthermore, we observed that the performance of professional football players during corners in actual matches improved, suggesting a positive effect of the video-based perceptual-cognitive training.
From erosion to fluency: reversing language shift in Chinese Australian households
Authors: Wang Yining , Zhang Jie
Published: February 2025

Since the late 20th century, China-born population has emerged as the third largest source of permanent immigrants to Australia. This study aims to explore the dynamics of heritage bilingualism of twenty-five 1.5-generation Chinese-Australian adolescents and young adults, a cohort that is often overlooked in migration studies. Through family questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, field observations, and linguistic samples, the study explores how the age at migration influences language attitudes, proficiency performance, cultural identity, and socialization patterns among three age-of-migration cohorts. While the study confirms a common trend of language erosion across all age cohorts, it distinctively delineates the varying degrees of language attrition specifically associated with the age at migration. Meanwhile, the research spotlights exceptional cases of maintained heritage language fluency, underscoring how family strategies, child agency, educational policies, and literary engagement are crucial in combating language erosion and fostering heritage language proficiency. The finding underscores the importance of understanding the unique linguistic journeys across age-of-migration groups to better support their language development and maintenance. It provides valuable insights for families, educators, and policymakers working to sustain minority languages within a dominant English-speaking environment.
Media addiction in children and adolescents—a study protocol for development, piloting and evaluation of a sustainable, integrative rehabilitation program (MeKi)
Authors: Fahrenkrog S. , Rittmann L. M. , Klüpfel L. , Delfs S. , Stumm J.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The proportion of children and young people in Germany who have problematic media use has increased, particularly as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. The presence of comorbidities such as anxiety disorders, depression, sleep disorders, impulsivity and lack of social skills are interdependent with media addiction. Medical rehabilitation is suitable for the long-term care of children and adolescents with media addiction. As part of the MeKi study, a rehabilitation program for children and adolescents with media addiction is being developed and piloted in a cooperating rehabilitation clinic. The trial is registered under DRKS-ID: DRKS00034461, Medienabhängigkeit bei Kindern und Jugendlichen—Entwicklung, Pilotierung und Evaluation eines nachhaltigen, integrativen Rehabilitationskonzepts.

Methodes and analysis

As part of a mixed methods design a multimodal rehabilitation concept for children and adolescents with media addiction will be developed in a preparation phase based on the results of a scoping review as well as interviews and focus groups with affected children and adolescents, their parents and experts. In a trial phase the concept will be implemented with a planned sample of 80 Children and adolescents over a period of 1.5 years and evaluated by means of a results evaluation using a questionnaire survey and a process evaluation using interviews and focus groups.

Discussion

The lack of a standardized definition for problematic media use in children and adolescents complicates both the scientific discourse and the practical care of those affected. Furthermore, there are currently only a few therapeutic offers and these are only available in the acute sector. The development and piloting of a rehabilitation program for children and adolescents with media addiction is intended to provide sustainable rehabilitative care, which is to be transferred to other clinics after the end of the project.

Trial registration

The trial is registered under DRKS-ID: DRKS00034461, Medienabhängigkeit bei Kindern und Jugendlichen—Entwicklung, Pilotierung und Evaluation eines nachhaltigen, integrativen Rehabilitationskonzepts.
Seed Potato Quality Assurance in Ethiopia: System Analysis and Considerations on Quality Declared Assurance Practices
Authors: Tessema Lemma , Kakuhenzire Rogers , McEwan Margaret A.
Published: February 2025

Smallholder potato farmers in Ethiopia do not realize the theoretical yield potential of the crop because they do not benefit from the advantages of using quality seed potato of improved varieties. The high disease incidence in seed potatoes has large implications on the potato farming system since the country lacks appropriate seed quality assurance mechanisms. Seed potato quality assurance relies more on the technical support provided by the national research and extension systems than the official seed certification agency. This paper elaborates systematic challenges and opportunities within the potato seed system and poses two research questions: (1) What type of seed quality assurance mechanisms (informal, quality declared, certified) are under implementation in Ethiopia? (2) How does the current seed quality assurance system operate in terms of reliability, accessibility, and quality standards to deliver quality seed potato? The data were collected through face-to-face in-depth key informant interviews with various seed regulatory laboratory managers and technicians in the Oromia, SNNP, and SWEP regions in the main seed- and ware-producing areas of Ethiopia. This was complemented by a comprehensive analysis of relevant documents. The findings show that currently there is no established procedure in place to officially certify early-generation seed potatoes. Two out of six seed quality control laboratories assessed for this study inspected seed potato fields in 2021 but as quality declared seed (QDS), and approved the fields inspected based on visual inspection alone. Our study revealed a weak linkage between early-generation seed (EGS) potato producers, commercial, and QDS seed potato producers, and seed quality control laboratories. Seed potato quality assurance operations were carried out by only a few seed regulatory laboratories with several concerns raised over the effectiveness of quality standards since seed-borne diseases, such as bacterial wilt, have been found at high frequency in the country’s seed potato system. Hence, the current procedures and challenges call for the necessity of upgrading current quality assurance in seed potato certification. Our study underlines the need for policymakers, development partners, and researchers to collaborate and pool efforts to consider transforming the quality declared system to appropriate seed certification. We recommended that institutionalizing novel plant disease diagnostics into seed regulatory frameworks is needed for sustainable potato production and food security in Ethiopia.
Influence of Sugarcane on Runoff and Sediment Yield in Sloping Laterite Soils During High-Intensity Rainfall
Authors: Yu Changhong , Yang Haiyan , Li Jiuhao , Li Cong
Published: February 2025

Laterite is the predominant zonal soil in China’s southernmost tropical rainforest and monsoon forest regions, where typhoons are the primary source of precipitation. These storms pose significant risks of land and soil degradation due to heavy rainfall. In recent years, a substantial area of sloping land has been converted to agricultural use in these regions, predominantly for the cultivation of crops grown in laterite soil. These activities contribute to soil erosion, exacerbate environmental challenges, and hinder the pursuit of sustainable development. There is a paucity of research reports on the processes and mechanisms of runoff and sediment on sugarcane-cropped slopes in regions with laterite soil under heavy rainfall conditions. In this study, four different heavy rainfall scenarios of 75, 100, 125, and 150 mm/h were designed to assess the impact on sugarcane growth at four key stages and to measure the resulting effects on initial runoff time, surface runoff, and sediment yield from laterite soil slopes under controlled laboratory conditions. The results showed that the Horton model explained much of the variation in infiltration rate on the sugarcane-cropped laterite slopes. The cumulative sediment yield on the sugarcane-cropped laterite slopes followed a second-degree polynomial function. The initial runoff time, infiltration intensity, runoff intensity, and sediment yield were all linearly related to the leaf area index (LAI) and rainfall intensity on the sugarcane-cropped slope surface. The leaf area index exerted a greater influence on the initial runoff time and infiltration intensity than rainfall intensity. However, rainfall intensity exerted a greater influence on the runoff intensity and sediment yield than the leaf area index. Compared with the bare sloping land, the average sediment yield was reduced by 12.2, 33.1, 58.2, and 64.9% with the sugarcane growth stages of seedling, tillering, elongation, and maturity, respectively.
Breeding Black Soybeans for High Yield and First Pod Height Is a Promising Approach to Improving Thai Commercial Soybean Varieties
Authors: Chinnarat Jariya , Monkham Tidarat , Sanitchon Jirawat , Chankaew Sompong
Published: February 2025

Black soybeans are rich in beneficial substances like anthocyanins, which help combat free radicals, and also have a high protein content. However, the soybean production system in Thailand struggles with issues relating to the use of machinery for harvesting. For efficient harvesting with machinery, the first pod of the soybean cultivar should be positioned at a height greater than 10 cm. Thailand has not yet reported black soybean cultivars with the height of the first pod measuring 10–15 cm above the ground. Therefore, the aim of this experiment was to improve the commercial soybean varieties KKU35, SJ5, NSW1, and CM60 in Thailand by increasing their first pod height and developing black grains through crossbreeding with the KKUSB–108 soybean germplasm. Subsequently, the pedigree selection method was used to evaluate and select plants with black grains, good growth performance, and a first pod height exceeding 10 cm from the F2 to F5 generations. The selected line of F5 was selected, while the grains of the F6 generation were designated as recombinant inbred lines (RILs). Eight soybean RILs, namely KKU35xKKUSB–108–12–4–3, KKU35xKKUSB–108–24–5–7, SJ5xKKUSB–108–25–2–1, SJ5xKKUSB–108–30–3–7, NSW1xKKUSB–108–49–3–3, NSW1xKKUSB–108–49–3–6, CM60xKKUSB–108–41–1–7, and CM60xKKUSB–108–64–4–8, together with the Sukhothai 3 black soybean commercial variety, were laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications at the Agronomy Field Crop Station, Khon Kaen University, over two seasons: the rainy season in 2021 and the dry season in 2022. The results revealed that the first pod height of all RILs in the rainy and dry seasons was higher than Sukhothai 3. The RILs showing a consistently high yield in both the rainy and dry seasons were SJ5xKKUSB-108-25-2-1 (1.85 and 1.86 T/ha), SJ5xKKUSB-108-30-3-7 (1.65 and 1.72 T/ha), NSW1xKKUSB-108-49-3-6 (1.52 and 1.83 T/ha), and CM60xKKUSB-108-64-4-8 (1.60 and 1.61 T/ha). Moreover, the RIL, NSW1xKKUSB-108-49-3-6, has a protein content of up to 44.21% in the dry season and shorter maturity than other RILs. This RIL can be used for cropping rotation systems in areas with limited time and water resources. This work provides a resource of black soybean RILs with high yield and first pod height for soybean breeding programs in the future. However, yield and protein content were affected by season (S), genotype (G), and the S × G interaction, indicating that RILs require a diverse environment for regional yield trials in the future.
Design and Test of the Outside-Filling Chinese Chive Adjustable-Capacity Precision Seed-Metering Device
Authors: Dun Guoqiang , Wei Yuhan , Ji Xinxin , Gao Shang , Pei Yingyi , He Yang , Ma Chao
Published: February 2025

In order to innovate the planting mode and improve the quality of Chinese chive, we designed an outside-filling Chinese chive adjustable-capacity precision seed-metering device with an adjustable number of sown seeds. The diameter, number of shaped holes, and seed slot parameters of the seeding plate were designed based on the physical characteristics and agronomic planting requirements of the Haoji Chinese chive. A simulation of the seed-metering device’s seeding process was carried out using EDEM software. To carry out the quadratic general rotary combination design experiment, use seed slot diameter and seed slot depth as test factors, longitudinal concentration and transverse concentration as evaluation indexes, and carry out the bench validation test and comparison test under the optimal parameter combination. In the simulation test, the factors affecting the longitudinal concentration in order of priority were seed slot depth and seed slot diameter, and the factors affecting the transverse concentration in order of priority were seed slot diameter and seed slot depth. The optimal parameters were seed slot diameter of 3.075 mm, seed slot depth of 3.323 mm, longitudinal concentration of 0.563, and transverse concentration of 0.634. In the bench test, the relative error of longitudinal concentration was 3.20%, the relative error of transverse concentration was 2.47%, and the number of seeds sown per hole was linearly correlated with the length of the seed slot. The results of the bench test and simulation test are close to each other, which proves that the outside-filling Chinese chive adjustable-capacity precision seed-metering device has a better sowing effect, and the number of sowing grains can be adjusted.
Combining Abiotic Stresses as a Low-Cost Strategy for Increasing the Phenolic Content in Apple Agro-Industrial By-Products
Authors: Villamil-Galindo Esteban , Jacobo-Velázquez Daniel A. , Piagentini Andrea Marcela
Published: February 2025

The circular economy approach offers innovative solutions for valorizing apple by-products through biofortification strategies transforming waste into high-value products and reducing environmental impact. This study evaluates innovative solutions for valorizing Granny Smith apple peel (RM) through biofortification in phenolic compounds using individual or combined abiotic stresses, like wounding stress and ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation. The effects of cutting type (Ct) [whole (C1), 5 mm (C2), 1.5 mm (C3)], storage temperature (ST) [20, 15, 10, 5 °C], and storage time (TM) [0, 12, 24, 48, 72 h] on phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity, total phenolic content (TPC), and phenolic profiles were studied first. The results show that higher stress intensity (C3, 15 °C, 48 h) significantly enhanced secondary metabolism, leading to notable increases in PAL activity (1201%), PPO activity (308%), TPC levels (108–118%), and Procyanidin B2 (PACB2, 22%), the predominant phenolic compound. These changes were critical for improving the bioactive properties and antioxidant potential of RM. The second assay combined wounding stress (same levels of Ct and ST of previous assay, TM: 56 h) with UVA radiation (UVA-D) [0, 86.4 KJ m−2, 172.8 KJ m−2], determining the optimal conditions (C3, UVA-D 66 KJ m−2, 17 °C) for maximizing PAL activity (0.12–0.20 ΔA h⁻1 mg⁻1), and TPC (3.3 g GAE kg⁻1). This study demonstrates the potential of combined abiotic stresses as cost-effective scalable tools to biofortify RM, promoting the sustainable and value-added utilization of agro-industrial by-products.
Botanical Origin, Phytochemical Profile, and Antioxidant Activity of Bee Pollen from the Mila Region, Algeria
Authors: Boulfous Nassiba , Belattar Hakima , Ambra Roberto , Pastore Gianni , Ghorab Asma
Published: February 2025

Bee pollen is a complex mixture of floral pollen, and nectar fused substances from bee saliva. It is well known for its high content of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, vitamins, and phenolic compounds, among various other physiologically active components. Its composition varies significantly depending on its botanical sources and environmental conditions. This study investigates the relationship between the botanical origins, chemical compositions, and antioxidant activities of 15 bee pollen samples collected from different areas in the Mila region of northeastern Algeria. The botanical origins were identified using a palynological method, categorizing 11 samples as monofloral and the rest as polyfloral. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents were measured, and their antioxidant capacities were evaluated through DPPH radical scavenging assay, reducing power assay (FRAP), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). HPLC analysis was conducted to measure 17 phenolic compounds. The data indicated that the total phenolic content (TPC) and flavonoid content (TFC) ranged from 7.72 ± 0.29 to 23.49 ± 1.48 mg GAE/g and from 1.48 ± 0.00 to 5.57 ± 0.27 mg QE/g of pollen, respectively. The variations in the concentration of bioactive compounds among samples led to significant differences in their antioxidant activities: DPPH (IC50: 1.12 ± 0.15 to 0.21 ± 0.00 mg/mL), FRAP (EC50: 0.06 ± 0.00 to 0.29 ± 0.00 mg/mL), and TAC (262.17 ± 3.41 to 677.14 ± 12.81 EAA mg/100 g of bee pollen), with the most active samples being monofloral types from Cistus type and Brassica type. A strong correlation was observed between TPC, TFC, and antioxidant activity. Among the 17 tested compounds, only coumaric acid, rutin, myricetin, naringenin, resveratrol, and kaempferol were detected. In conclusion, both monofloral and polyfloral bee pollen samples represent a rich source of polyphenols with significant antioxidant potential.
Metabolomic Profiling and Antioxidant Properties of Chilean Eucryphia cordifolia Cav.: Insights from Leaves, Flowers, and Monofloral Honey
Authors: Viteri Rafael , Giordano Ady , Montenegro Gloria , Simirgiotis Mario J. , Zacconi Flavia C.
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to characterize the metabolomic profile of monofloral honey from Eucryphia cordifolia (ulmo) and evaluate the potential transfer of bioactive compounds from the plant parts, including the leaves and flowers, to the honey. Using UHPLC/Q-TOF-MS analysis, various flavonoids and phenolic acids were identified and quantified in extracts from the leaves, flowers, and honey from E. cordifolia. Given their rich polyphenolic composition, E. cordifolia leaves were included in this study to assess their potential contribution to the antioxidant properties and chemical markers of ulmo honey. Additionally, the polyphenolic compounds in honey samples were quantified. Chromatographic analysis via UHPLC-MS/MS revealed that ulmo honey contains phenolic acids such as gallic, syringic, ferulic, chlorogenic, caffeic, and coumaric acid, as well as flavonoids including pinocembrin, quercetin, luteolin, kaempferol, epicatechin, apigenin, and isorhamnetin. The results indicate that pinocembrin and gallic acid are the main chemical markers of ulmo honey, while isorhamnetin could complement its characterization as a complementary marker. UHPLC/Q-TOF-MS analysis was also utilized to compare the compounds present in the honey with those found in the plant parts (leaves and flowers), respectively. A total of 10 shared compounds were identified, 9 of which were preliminarily identified, while 1 remains unknown. Notably, dihydroquercetin 3-O-rhamnoside, quercetin 3-O-rhamnoside, cyanidin 3-(p-coumaroyl)-glucoside, and eupatorin were detected in ulmo honey for the first time. Along with gallic acid, pinocembrin, and isorhamnetin, these compounds could contribute to a characteristic fingerprint for identifying the botanical origin of the honey. Overall, these findings provide valuable insights into the chemical composition of ulmo honey and its potential application as a functional product with antioxidant properties.
The Current State of Virtual Reality in the Management of Musculoskeletal Conditions and Associated Chronic Pain: Terminology, Technology, and Associations
Authors: Opara Zupančič Manca , Šarabon Nejc
Published: February 2025

Virtual reality (VR) demonstrates significant potential to improve rehabilitation outcomes for musculoskeletal conditions and associated chronic pain. However, the field faces notable challenges, including inconsistent terminology, a lack of specialized/comprehensive software solutions, and an overwhelming variety of hardware options, which can make it difficult for healthcare professionals without technical expertise to identify the most suitable tools for clinical use. This article explores the current state of VR in the rehabilitation of musculoskeletal conditions and chronic pain, focusing on terminology discrepancies, available hardware and software solutions, and key professional associations shaping the field. A review of the current state of terminology is essential to address inconsistencies that risk perpetuating misuse and to facilitate clearer communication. Building on this review, we propose a conceptual framework for understanding VR that aligns more closely with the capabilities of current VR technology. A comprehensive overview of VR hardware and software can assist healthcare professionals in selecting appropriate technologies for clinical practice, guide researchers in designing interventions, and inform developers on unmet needs in the field. Furthermore, understanding key professional associations provides valuable direction for those engaged in virtual rehabilitation, enabling them to access resources, foster collaboration, and stay informed about the latest advancements in the domain. This review addresses the significant confusion regarding the understanding of VR, particularly in relation to its classification based on levels of immersion. Accordingly, it proposes a framework that contributes to a standardized approach to understanding VR. Additionally, it highlights the lack of VR solutions tailored to the needs of patients with musculoskeletal conditions and associated chronic pain, emphasizing the necessity for further development in this area.