bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inter-year consistencies and discrepancies on intestinal microbiota for overwintering relict gulls: correlations with food composition and implications for environmental adaptation
Authors: Wu Hong , Yao Hongyu , Sun Menglin , Wang Ran , Zhang Zeming , Wu Nan , Zhao Dapeng
Published: December 2024

The gut microbiota of migratory birds is influenced by their food choices, and exploring the potential relationship between diet composition and gut microbiota can help better protect related species. By integrating non-invasive sampling techniques, high-throughput sequencing technology, and microscopic examination technology, this study presents the first evidence on diet composition during overwintering periods as well as the potential relationship between diet composition and gut microbiota in wild relict gulls (Larus relictus). Thirty-five fecal samples from two consecutive overwintering periods (2021 and 2022 overwintering periods) in Tianjin coastal wetland were used to investigate inter-year consistencies and discrepancies on diet composition and gut microbiota in wild Larus relictus. It was found that the common dominant phyla of both 2021 and 2022 group included Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Chloroflexi and Actinobacteriota. The common dominant genera were Catellicoccus and Ilumatobacter. The diversity of gut microbiome in 2022 group was higher, while the richness was not significantly different. Based on the high-throughput sequencing technology of 18S rDNA, the study found that the dominant classes within the diet components of Larus relictus included Polychaeta, Bivalvia, Malacostraca, Gastropoda, unclassified_p__Dinoflagellata, Dinophyceae, and Ostracoda. Among them, Bivalvia, Malacostraca, and Gastropoda were also found with microscopic examination technology from the same samples. The abundance of Fusobacteriota and Cetobacterium were positively correlated with the abundance of Bivalvia and Malacostraca; while the abundance of Psychrobacter and Breznakia were negatively correlated with the abundance of Malacostraca and Gastropoda. Findings from this study could provide scientific references for health monitoring and conservation of relict gulls.
The biogeography of gastrointestinal mucosal microbiota of beef cattle at harvest
Authors: Young J. Daniel , Pinnell Lee J. , Wolfe Cory A. , Doster Enrique , Valeris-Chacin Robert , Lawrence Ty E. , Richeson John T. , Morley Paul S.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The gastrointestinal microbiota profoundly influences the health and productivity of animals. This study aimed to characterize microbial community structures of the mouth, gastrointestinal tract (GIT), and feces of cattle.

Methods

Samples were collected from 18 Akaushi crossbred steers at harvest from multiple locations, including the oral cavity, rumen, abomasum, duodenum, jejunum, ileum, cecum, spiral colon, distal colon, and feces. These cattle were raised without exposure to antimicrobial drugs or hormone implants. Total microbial abundance was assessed using qPCR targeting the V3–V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene, and microbial community composition was evaluated through 16S rRNA gene sequencing.

Results

Total microbial abundance was lesser in the small intestine than in other GIT regions (p ≤ 0.05). Additionally, microbial communities in the small intestine had lower richness and diversity than other regions (p ≤ 0.05). Microbial community compositions were measurably different along the GIT, with greater relatedness in adjacent GIT sections when progressing from oral to aboral locations. Firmicutes, Bacteroidota, and Actinobacteria were the dominant phyla in all samples. However, variations in composition were evident at lower taxonomic levels within these dominant phyla among samples from different regions. Genera previously associated with healthy gut microbiome communities were observed in low abundance across GIT regions. Taxa historically associated with liver abscesses (e.g., Fusobacterium and Trueperella) were detected in low abundance (≤0.02% relative abundance) throughout the GIT. In contrast, Bacteroides, which recently has been identified as a dominant feature in many liver abscesses, was observed in greater relative abundance (5.2% on average) in the hindgut.

Discussion

This study provides an in-depth evaluation of the GIT of harvest-ready Akaushi crossbred cattle of varying growth rates. Clear differences exist in the abundance and composition of microbial populations at different points of the GIT. Unfortunately, no single GIT location can adequately represent the microbial communities of the entire GIT, which has important implications for future research. Additionally, examining microbiome data only at the phylum level likely oversimplifies important complexities of the microbial community structures, and investigations of lower taxonomic ranks should be included.
Irritability in stroke: a protocol for a prospective study
Authors: Tang Wai Kwong , Hui Edward , Leung Thomas Wai Hong
Published: December 2024

Background

Poststroke irritability (PSI) is common among stroke survivors and can lead to a poor quality of life, difficulties in social interactions, criticism from caregivers, and caregiver stress. The planned study will evaluate the clinical, neuropsychological, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) correlates of PSI in a cohort of stroke survivors. In addition, the study will examine the 15-month progression of PSI.

Methods

This will be a prospective cohort study that will recruit 285 participants. Participants and their caregivers will undergo detailed assessments at a research clinic at 3, 9, and 15 months after stroke onset (T1/T2/T3). The irritability/lability subscale of the Chinese version of the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (CNPI) will be completed by caregivers. Potential covariates will also be measured. Patients will undergo MRI, including diffusion-weighted imaging, within 1 week of stroke onset. A stepwise logistic regression will be performed to evaluate the importance of lesions in the regions of interest (ROIs) along with other significant variables identified in univariate analyses. These analyses will be repeated for patients with and without PSI at T2 and T3. Repeated measures analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) will be used to assess changes in CNPI scores for the entire sample. In ANCOVA analyses, the frequency of infarcts in the ROIs will be treated as the predictor.

Discussion

This will be the first MRI study on PSI in stroke survivors. The findings will provide insights into the association of the orbitofrontal cortex, anterior cingulate cortex, anterior temporal lobe, insula, amygdala, thalamus, and basal ganglia lesions with the risk of PSI.
MOGAD and NMOSD: insights on patients’ radiological and laboratory findings from a single UAE center
Authors: Alzarooni Hamdan , Inshasi Jihad , Alawadhi Ahmad , Giacomini Paul
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Although neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody disease (MOGAD) are rare diseases, they pose a significant burden on both society and the healthcare system. This study aims to discuss the demographics and patient characteristics of these diseases in a single center in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Methods

This is a retrospective, descriptive study that included patients with either NMOSD or MOGAD treated at Rashid Hospital, UAE during the period between January 2019 and January 2024. Patients were selected and categorized according to NMOSD criteria, aquaporin-4 antibodies, and MOG antibodies. Patient demographics, clinical characteristics, and medical history were retrieved from their medical records and descriptively analyzed in the light of patients’ serological data.

Results

We identified 34 patients with non-multiple sclerosis atypical CNS inflammatory/demyelinating syndromes. Twenty-seven patients (79.4%) fulfilled the criteria for NMOSD, while seven (20.6%) tested positive for MOG antibodies, fulfilling the criteria for MOGAD. In the NMOSD cohort, 19% (n = 5) were AQP4-antibody negative. Seventy-four percent of the NMOSD cohort and 43% of the MOGAD cohort were female. For MOGAD patients, disease onset was at a younger age (median onset age of 25 years) compared to the overall study population (mean onset age of 28.94 years). Long segment transverse myelitis was only detected in NMOSD patients (33.3%), and brainstem syndrome with area postrema syndrome was more common in the MOGAD cohort (29% vs. 4%). The rate of positive response to intravenous methylprednisolone as initial therapy was comparable across both cohorts (74% in case of NMOSD and 71% in case of MOGAD).

Conclusion

This study provides valuable insights into the status of NMOSD and MOGAD in the UAE, highlighting the need for larger, prospective studies to further characterize these diseases in the local population, as well as the need for improved understanding of the epidemiology and management of these rare but debilitating conditions.
Wrist posture unpredictably affects perception of targeted transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation with wrist-placed electrodes
Authors: Thomas Neha , Osborn Luke , Moran Courtney , Fifer Matthew , Christie Breanne
Published: December 2024

Objective

Targeted transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (tTENS) is a non-invasive neural stimulation technique that involves activating sensory nerve fibers to elicit tactile sensations in a distal, or referred, location. Though tTENS is a promising approach for delivering haptic feedback in virtual reality or for use by those with somatosensory deficits, it was not known how the perception of tTENS might be influenced by changing wrist position during sensorimotor tasks.

Approach

We worked with 12 able-bodied individuals and delivered tTENS by placing electrodes on the wrist, thus targeting the ulnar, median, and radial nerves, and eliciting tactile sensations in the hand. We recorded perceptual data across three wrist postures: neutral, 45° extension, and 45° flexion. For each posture, the participants drew where they perceived the elicited percepts on a map of the hand. They verbally reported the quality of the percepts in their own words. We also varied the pulse amplitude and width of the stimulation to generate a strength-duration curve, from which we extracted the rheobase current and chronaxie time. Linear mixed models were run on the slope and intercept of the linear fit between pulse width and pulse amplitude to investigate effects of gender, posture, and electrode placement.

Main results

As wrist posture changed, sensation quality was modulated for half of the participants, and percept location changed for 11/12 participants. The rheobase, chronaxie, and percept sizes were influenced by wrist posture, but the direction of these changes varied by participant and therefore the effect was not systematic. The statistical models indicated interactions between posture and electrode placement, as well as an effect of gender.

Significance

If using tTENS with electrodes placed on the wrist to convey haptic feedback during sensorimotor tasks, in which wrist posture will likely change, it may be important to characterize perception on an individual basis.
Beyond fur color: differences in socio-emotional behavior and the oxytocin system between male BL6 and CD1 mice in adolescence and adulthood
Authors: Gryksa Katharina , Schäfer Theresa , Gareis Franziska , Fuchs Elena , Royer Melanie , Schmidtner Anna K. , Bludau Anna , Neumann Inga D.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The development of stress-related psychopathologies, often associated with socio-emotional dysfunctions, is crucially determined by genetic and environmental factors, which shape the individual vulnerability or resilience to stress. Especially early adolescence is considered a vulnerable time for the development of psychopathologies. Various mouse strains are known to age-dependently differ in social, emotional, and endocrine stress responses based on genetic and epigenetic differences. This highlights the importance of the qualified selection of an adequate strain and age for any biomedical research. Neuropeptides like oxytocin (OXT) can contribute to individual and strain-dependent differences in emotional and social behaviors.

Methods

In this study, we compared anxiety- and fear-related, as well as social behavior and pain perception between male adolescent and adult mice of two commonly used strains, C57BL/6N (BL6) and CD1.

Results

We revealed BL6 mice as being more anxious, less social, and more susceptible toward non-social and social trauma, both in adolescence and adulthood. Furthermore, during development from adolescence toward adulthood, BL6 mice lack the reduction in fear- and anxiety-related behavior seen in adult CD1 mice and show even higher social fear-responses and perception of noxious stimuli during adulthood. Analysis of the OXT system, by means of receptor autoradiography and immunohistochemistry, showed strain- and age-specific differences in OXT receptor (OXTR) binding in relevant brain regions, but no differences in the number of hypothalamic OXT neurons. However, intracerebroventricular infusion of OXT did neither reduce the high level of anxiety-related nor of social fear-related behavior in adult BL6 mice.

Discussion

In summary, we show that male BL6 mice present an anxious and stress vulnerable phenotype in adolescence, which further exacerbates in adulthood, whereas CD1 mice show a more resilient socio-emotional state both in adolescence as well as during adulthood. These consistent behavioral differences between the two strains might only be partly mediated by differences in the OXT system but highlight the influence of early-life environment on socio-emotional behavior.
Undernutrition and its predictors among tuberculosis patients in Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Shifera Nigusie , Yosef Tewodros
Published: December 2024

Background

Adult tuberculosis (TB) patients experience significant undernutrition globally, especially in developing countries. While some studies have explored the prevalence and factors influencing undernutrition in this group, comprehensive large-scale investigations covering diverse health facilities and populations are lacking. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of undernutrition and its associated factors among adult TB patients in public hospitals in southwest Ethiopia.

Method

An institution-based cross-sectional study design was conducted from March 01 to April 15, 2023, in public hospitals in the southwest region, of Ethiopia. A total of 239 adult TB patients who were directly observed in TB treatment were selected via systematic sampling. A structured questionnaire was adapted from a review of different literature. Data were cleaned and entered into EPI info version 7, then analyzed with SPSS Version 22. A bivariable analysis was done to evaluate associations at (p < 0.25), and then multiple logistic regression models were computed to identify independent predictors of undernutrition among TB patients at (p < 0.05).

Results

A total of 239 respondents participated with a response rate of 100%. The prevalence of undernutrition among adult TB patients was 43.93%. Of the 239 TB patients, the majority (91.6%) were new TB cases. Family size >5 (AOR 3.23 [1.16–9.01]), household average income <2,000 birr (AOR 5.64 [2.12–14.99]), type of TB (AOR 2.8 [1.25–6.51]), and positive HIV status of the study participant (AOR 3.23 [1.16–9.01]) were the independent predictors of undernutrition among adult TB patients.

Conclusion and recommendations

Undernutrition among adult tuberculosis (TB) patients is notably high compared to other settings. Key predictors include a family size greater than five, a monthly income below 2,000 birr, HIV status, and pulmonary TB. Early screening and diagnosis of undernutrition, along with nutritional interventions, should be integrated into the routine care for all adult TB patients.
DL-ICE as a bridge to allogeneic transplantation in relapsed/refractory PTCL: survival outcomes and prognostic factors
Authors: Kim Tong-Yoon , Kim Tae-Jung , Han Eun Ji , Min Gi June , Cho Seok-Goo , Jeon Youngwoo
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Peripheral T-cell lymphomas (PTCLs) have poor outcomes in the relapsed/refractory (R/R) setting. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of dexamethasone, L-asparaginase, ifosfamide, carboplatin, and etoposide (DL-ICE) chemotherapy followed by allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) in patients with R/R PTCLs.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 80 adult patients with R/R PTCLs treated with DL-ICE chemotherapy between September 2009 and March 2023. Patients achieving complete or partial remission were eligible for consolidative allo-HSCT. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were evaluated.

Results

The overall response rate to DL-ICE was 37.5%, with 30% achieving complete remission (CR). With a median follow-up of 96.4 months, the median OS and PFS were 8.9 and 3.8 months, respectively. Seventeen patients (21%) underwent allo-HSCT, including 11 with non-CR status. The 5-year OS was significantly higher in the allo-HSCT group compared to that in the group with chemotherapy alone (64.7% vs 18.3%, p <0.001). Multivariate analysis identified advanced stage, EBV viremia, and non-CR status as poor prognostic factors.

Discussion

DL-ICE chemotherapy demonstrated modest activity in R/R PTCLs. Consolidation with allo-HSCT, even in patients who do not achieve CR, resulted in long-term survival in a subset of patients. Early consideration of allo-HSCT may improve outcomes for patients with R/R PTCLs.
Laparoscopic vs. open portoenterostomy for biliary atresia: a meta-analysis of pediatric surgical outcomes
Authors: Zhu Jie , Wu Bin , Cai Peng , Pan Jiang , Zhu Zhenwei
Published: December 2024

Background

The pivotal importance of surgical treatment for pediatric biliary atresia is well-established. This systematic review and meta-analysis was designed to assess the comparative efficacy and safety of open portoenterostomy (OPE) and laparoscopic portoenterostomy (LPE) in managing this condition, providing valuable guidance for clinical decision-making.

Methods

A comprehensive literature review was conducted by two researchers in databases such as PubMed, up to July 10, 2024, focusing on studies that evaluated the role of LPE vs. OPE. Data analysis was performed utilizing the RevMan 5.4 software suite.

Results

The meta-analysis incorporated findings from 15 studies involving a total of 964 pediatric patients with biliary atresia. LPE was associated with decreased intraoperative blood loss [Mean Difference (MD) = −10.80, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) (−13.54, −8.05)] and shortened hospital stay [MD = −2.18, 95% CI (−3.69, −0.67)]. Conversely, the operative time for LPE was considerably longer when compared to OPE [MD = 35.45, 95% CI (26.17, 44.72)]. No significant disparities were noted in the postoperative jaundice clearance rate [Odds Ratio (OR) = 0.98, 95% CI (0.71, 1.35)], incidence of postoperative cholangitis [OR = 0.96, 95% CI (0.66, 1.39)], the rate of liver transplantation between the two surgical approaches [OR = 0.69, 95% CI (0.32, 1.48)], or 2-year survival of the native liver [OR = 1.10, 95% CI (0.67, 1.80)].

Conclusion

LPE offers more advantages over OPE, including diminished invasiveness and expedited recovery. These benefits suggest that LPE is an emerging and viable alternative in the clinical management of biliary atresia, warranting further investigation and consideration in surgical practice.
Phytochemicals, promising strategies combating Cutibacterium acnes
Authors: Sun Cuilian , Na Yuhang , Wang Ziyu , Zhu Tingting , Liu Xiaojuan
Published: December 2024

The excessive proliferation of Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) is an important reason for the occurrence of acne vulgaris, and genetic detection ratio of C. acnes in acne is as high as 60.5%. Until now, the treatment of C. acnes is mainly limited to antibiotics, but some strains of C. acnes produce antimicrobial resistances, making it difficult for clinical treatment. Additionally, antibiotics can cause severe adverse effects. Therefore, more and more people are paying attention to phytochemicals. It is well known that plants can synthesize a range of secondary metabolites, named phytochemicals, part of which have antibacterial properties. Additionally, the main advantages of phytochemicals are that they have good efficacies and less side effects, so they are suitable choices for medical treatment. This review mainly discusses the effects and mechanisms of phytochemicals against C. acnes.
The expression of glycolysis-related proteins in urine significantly increases after running
Authors: Zhao Tian , Liu Tianci , Li Tao , Chen Shengcun , Wang Lupeng , Zhang Man
Published: December 2024

Objective

Glucose metabolism is the main way in which cells obtain energy during exercise and plays an important role in exercise. The purpose of this study was to explore the changes in the expression of glucose metabolism-related proteins in urine after running, and finally applied to the monitoring of running training.

Methods

Urine samples were collected before and after running, and urine proteomics information was collected to explore the expression of proteins in the urine using LC-MS/MS in DDA mode and DIA mode. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was drawn to evaluate the value of target proteins in monitoring running training.

Results

A total of 140 proteins were identified using LC-MS/MS in DDA mode, of which 49 urine proteins showed increased expression after running. KEGG analysis revealed that glucose metabolism-related proteins are mainly concentrated in glycolysis. There were six glycolysis-related proteins, among which urine proteins PKM, TPI1, ENO1 and LDHB were significantly increased after running (P < 0.05). This changes in urine proteins PKM, TPI1, ENO1 and LDHB were further verified by the results of LC-MS/MS in DIA mode. The concentrations of the urine proteins TPI1, ENO1 and LDHB showed a significant linear relationship with PKM. ROC curve analysis showed that PKM, TPI1, ENO1 and LDHB proteins in urine had good monitoring values for running training.

Conclusion

The expression of glycolysis-related proteins PKM, TPI1, ENO1 and LDHB in urine was significantly increased after running, which may be applied to the monitoring of running training.
Applicability of creatinine-based glomerular filtration rate assessment equations to patients with neurogenic bladder
Authors: He Panqi , Liao Limin
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) measured by dynamic renal scintigraphy (Gates method) is used in this study as the standard to investigate the applicability of two creatinine (Cr)-based GFR estimation equations in Chinese patients of different genders, age groups, and GFR stages diagnosed with neurogenic bladder (NB).

Methods

GFR values were measured using 99mTc-DTPA renal dynamic imaging, the new serum creatinine (Cr)-based chronic kidney disease epidemiology collaborative group (CKD-EPI) equation, and the equation for the estimated GFR of CKD patients in China, which were designated as sGFR, EPI-GFR, and cGFR, respectively. Pearson’s correlation and linear regression were used to compare the differences, absolute differences, precision, and accuracies of the results of the two equations with sGFR to determine the formula offering better performance for the assessment of patients with NB.

Results

Measurements from a total of 99 patients with NB were used in the final analysis. Both cGFR and EPI-GFR were moderately correlated with sGFR in both men and women. The overall staging accuracies of EPI-GFR and sGFR were significantly higher than that of cGFR. Among the patients staged, only those with GFRs in the range of 60–89 mL/min/1.73 m2 had moderate correlations between cGFR, EPI-GFR, and sGFR, while the remaining patients had low correlations.

Conclusion

Researchers found that the equation developed for Chinese CKD patients performed well for patients with NB aged 20–25 years, while the race-neutral CKD-EPI equation performed better in NB patients aged 26–35 years.
Unraveling water relations in growing fruit: insights from the epidermal growth regulation hypothesis
Authors: Gariglio Norberto , Reig Carmina , Agustí Manuel
Published: December 2024

This review focuses on the intricate water relationships between internal and external tissues in growing fruits within the framework of the epidermal growth control hypothesis. It considers the components of water potential, including turgor pressure and osmotic potential of both internal and external tissues, taking into account factors such as fruit growth rate, sugar accumulation, cell wall metabolism, and climacteric. It also examines the effects of environmental conditions, genetic factors, and physiological influences in modifying water relations. By emphasizing the significance of skin tissue water potential components as indicators of growth stress, the review underlines their importance for a comprehensive understanding of water relations and associated physiological disorders in growing fruit.
Breeding Alnus species for resistance to Phytophthora disease in the Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Cordeiro Daniela , Pizarro Alberto , Vélez M. Dolores , Guevara M. Ángeles , de María Nuria , Ramos Paula , Cobo-Simón Irene , Diez-Galán Alba , Benavente Alfredo , Ferreira Verónica , Martín M. Ángela , Rodríguez-González Patricia M. , Solla Alejandro , Cervera M. Teresa , Diez-Casero Julio Javier , Cabezas José Antonio , Díaz-Sala Carmen
Published: December 2024

Alders are widely distributed riparian trees in Europe, North Africa and Western Asia. Recently, a strong reduction of alder stands has been detected in Europe due to infection by Phytophthora species (Stramenopila kingdom). This infection causes a disease known as alder dieback, characterized by leaf yellowing, dieback of branches, increased fruit production, and bark necrosis in the collar and basal part of the stem. In the Iberian Peninsula, the drastic alder decline has been confirmed in the Spanish Ulla and Ebro basins, the Portuguese Mondego and Sado basins and the Northern and Western transboundary hydrographic basins of Miño and Sil, Limia, Douro and Tagus. The damaging effects of alder decline require management solutions that promote forest resilience while keeping genetic diversity. Breeding programs involve phenotypic selection of asymptomatic individuals in populations where severe damage is observed, confirmation of tree resistance via inoculation trials under controlled conditions, vegetative propagation of selected trees, further planting and assessment in areas with high disease pressure and different environmental conditions and conservation of germplasm of tolerant genotypes for reforestation. In this way, forest biotechnology provides essential tools for the conservation and sustainable management of forest genetic resources, including material characterization for tolerance, propagation for conservation purposes, and genetic resource traceability, as well as identification and characterization of Phytophthora species. The advancement of biotechnological techniques enables improved monitoring and management of natural resources by studying genetic variability and function through molecular biology methods. In addition, in vitro culture techniques make possible large-scale plant propagation and long-term conservation within breeding programs to preserve selected outstanding genotypes.
Becoming activists: how young athletes use visual tools for civic action and meaning-making within participatory research
Authors: Vieira Daniel , Dias Teresa Silva , Sampaio Marta , Pais Sofia Castanheira , Ribeiro Norberto , Nada Cosmin , Malafaia Carla
Published: December 2024

How can participatory research, combined with visual methods, enable young people to grow as engaged citizens in their communities? This article introduces an innovative methodological design that draws on a Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR) approach with 33 young athletes aged 11 to 16 from two different educational settings. Based on both observation notes from the community profiling process and visual materials produced by the young people throughout that process, we analyze how they become activists, taking sports as the ground for mobilization and intervention in their communities. Specifically, we examine the visual activist strategies and the visual meaning-making representations that resulted from young people’s engagement in participatory research. Novel findings include the realization that young people with no previous experience in activism strongly prefer visual and performative formats of participation, often in connection with digital and online arenas. Additionally, data analyses reveal that participants particularly value collective moments of learning, negotiation, and preparation of activist actions. This article highlights the increasing prevalence of visual-oriented modes of civic engagement and the potential of participatory methodologies in fostering critical awareness, meaningful decision-making, and a sense of agency among young people.
The protective role of employment in depression: insights from 2005 to 2018 NHANES information
Authors: Li Fang , Chu Zheng
Published: December 2024

Background

Depression is closely associated with employment status, which serves as a complex social determinant. This study explores the relationship between employment status and depression.

Methods

Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning 2005 to 2018 were analyzed. The study included 29,452 participants aged 20 and older with complete data on employment and depression. Logistic regression models were applied to examine the association between employment and depression, adjusting for covariates such as age, gender, ethnicity, marital status, education, poverty-to-income ratio (PIR), BMI, diabetes, hypertension, smoking, and alcohol status.

Results

The study revealed an overall depression prevalence of 8.61%, with significant variation across employment statuses—non-employed (11.77%), part-time (6.58%), and full-time (4.52%) workers. Employed individuals, particularly those in the 40-59 age group and with lower PIRs, showed reduced odds of depression (OR 0.42, 95% CI: 0.36–0.48, p=0.000). Stratified analyses confirmed lower depression odds for employed individuals regardless of gender or marital status.

Conclusion

Employment status has a significant impact on depression risk, with full-time work showing the strongest protective effect against depressive symptoms. The study underscores the role of sociodemographic factors in depression and highlights the need for policies promoting stable employment and mental health support, especially for economically vulnerable groups.
Cognitive and preference disparities of Chinese consumers regarding the disclosure of unsafe food recall information
Authors: Li Taiping , Jin Xiaohui , Zhu Daocai
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Information disclosure is important in promoting unsafe food recalls and reducing potential food safety risks. However, the governance of unsafe food recall information in China is distorted, leading to cognitive dissonance in Chinese consumers’ perceptions of unsafe food recall information. Focusing on consumers’ search and cognitive costs, this study suggests that market regulators should proactively and fully disclose unsafe food recall information to satisfy consumers’ needs and preferences for recall information, thereby optimizing consumer perceptions and facilitating the improvement of the information governance system for unsafe food recalls.

Methods

This study administered a survey via a discrete choice experiment to obtain data from 1,010 consumers in China and employed multiple linear regression (MLR) to analyze the overall cognition and preferences of consumers regarding food recall information and identify differences in cognition and preferences regarding unsafe food recall information.

Results

Chinese consumers experience cognitive dissonance regarding food recall information, and their utility can be improved through disclosure. They expressed preferences for recall information about food shops and distribution markets, more visualized hazard content, and new media presentations. Those who had purchased unsafe food, families with pregnant women or children, and those with more education were more concerned about recall information. Consumers’ information preferences also show a bystander mentality; however, consumers with higher educational levels are more altruistic.

Discussion

The results suggest that personalized, intuitive, and cognitively matched recall information can reduce consumers’ search and cognitive costs and increase their utility. This finding provides a reference and practical basis for establishing a food safety information governance system in China.
A large-scale screening of hepatitis C among men who have sex with men in the community using saliva point-of-care testing
Authors: Albertos Sonia , Majo Francesc X. , Esteban Rafael , Colom Joan , Buti María
Published: December 2024

Aim

To assess the feasibility and acceptability of massive hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing in point of care on the street using quick tests, determine the characteristics of the population included, and the prevalence of HCV infection in this population.

Methods

Cross-sectional community-based study including adult men who have sex with men (MSM) who attended the three most important LGTB+ events in Sitges (Catalonia, Spain) in 2022. Points of care were set up on tents on the street and attendees were offered voluntary anti-HCV antibody self-testing. Participants were informed of the study, provided consent, completed the test for identification of risk practices (TIRP), and took the test with the OraQuick® HCV test on a saliva sample (sensitivity: 97.8% [95% confidence interval (CI), 93.2–99.4%] and specificity: 100% [95% CI, 98.4–100%]; gold standard: IgG antibody test for HCV by immunoassay [serum]); participants with positive results were offered HCV virus testing with the Xpert HCV Fingerstick® on a blood drop.

Results

A total of 1249 adults participated in the large-scale screening, of which 1197 (95.8%) were identified as MSM. The screening time was 39 participants/h. Four (0.32%) participants had positive anti-HCV results, all with undetectable HCV RNA levels. Participants’ median (IQR) age was 44 (35, 54) years; most were Europeans, and 13% reported being unaware of their serological HCV status. The mean (SD) TIRP score was 1.40 (1.44) (n = 1062), with 67.41% reporting some risk, and the self-perceived sexually transmitted disease score was 3.0 (2.82) (n = 969).

Conclusion

The point-of-care strategy on the street using a quick oral self-test at massive MSM events is feasible, well-accepted, and quick, and may be a useful strategy to reach other populations at risk of HCV infection.
‘Water resource’ framing for the value and governance of glacier water availability in the semi-arid Chilean Andes
Authors: Fox Ellie , Schwartz-Marin Ernesto , Rangecroft Sally , Palmer Steven , Harrison Stephan
Published: December 2024

Water scarcity associated with glacier retreat in mountainous regions is of growing concern worldwide, especially in arid regions, where precipitation is scarce or seasonal. Scientists and decision makers aim to respond to glacier driven water scarcity by improving glacier protection and developing water resource management strategies. Despite the increasingly prominent ‘water resource’ lens for understanding the changing mountain cryosphere, little research has investigated what this framing means for how different actors value, study, manage, and protect cryospheric water stores. This paper therefore presents a critical analysis of how we conceptualise the importance of glaciers. Specifically, this paper examines how environmental campaigns, scientific research, and policy interact to make glaciers into a water resource, and how this impacts glacier protection. Focusing on a case study of glacier management and protection in the Chilean Andes, the motivations and processes that made glaciers into a water resource in Chile are examined, and the impacts of this for glacier protection in a country where glaciers are exposed to threats from climate change and the mining industry are explored. This paper presents qualitative analysis of interviews conducted with experts in glacier science, policy, and environmental campaigning, and documents associated with managing glaciers as a water resource in Chile. The research shows how, in response to mining threats, glaciers were strategically framed as water resources by environmental campaigners to improve Chilean state protection. This framing was institutionalised within Chile’s water resource management system through science and policy, resulting in some successful protection legislation. However, this resource framing has also integrated glaciers into a system which inherently limits their protection, because their protection is conditional on the shifting ways glaciers are valued for storing and releasing water to downstream communities and ecosystems. Here, we highlight processes that make glaciers into a resource, demonstrate that glaciological knowledge is not directly translated into policy, and importantly, show how managing glaciers as a resource may limit, or even undermine glacier protection efforts. As concern globally grows about water scarcity driven by glacial retreat, these findings are vital for the development of glacier protections and effective management of glacial water.
Geospatial analysis of sports tourism resources in China's urban clusters: a case study of the Sichuan-Chongqing region utilizing GIS and the geographic detector
Authors: Tan Xuefeng , Liu Zhiheng , Shi Lizhen , Huang Xiaoling
Published: December 2024

Introduction

This study aims to elucidate the temporal and spatial distribution patterns of sports tourism resources within the Sichuan-Chongqing Urban Agglomeration, examining how these distributions reflect the developmental pathways of urban regions. The theoretical framework posits that the availability and allocation of sports tourism resources are influenced by various geographical and socio-economic factors, with topography, economic conditions, and population density playing pivotal roles in determining their distribution and development.

Methods

Utilizing GeoDetector technology alongside indices such as the Geographic Concentration Index and the Disparities Index, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the spatiotemporal dynamics of sports tourism resources, revealing that the distribution of these resources serves as a key indicator of urban development speed.

Results

Our findings indicate that topographical features significantly influence sports tourism resource development differently in Chengdu compared to Chongqing. Furthermore, we identified a strong positive correlation between population density and the distribution of sports tourism resources, highlighting the motivational role of populated areas and emphasizing potential inequalities if attention is focused solely on densely populated regions.

Discussion

This research provides novel insights into the complex relationships governing sports tourism resource distribution by employing advanced geo-analytical tools. It offers a strategic roadmap for equitable and sustainable urban development by addressing disparities in resource allocation, ultimately contributing to informed policy-making and enhanced regional resilience. This research aids in the strategic planning and sustainable development of sports tourism, providing a blueprint for urban development in the region that balances the needs of diverse populations and landscapes.
Validation of the effectiveness of pig farm repopulation protocol following African swine fever outbreaks in the Philippines
Authors: Hsu Chia-Hui , Montenegro Maximino , Miclat-Sonaco Ruth , Torremorell Montserrat , Perez Andres M.
Published: December 2024

The African swine fever (ASF) epidemic has severely challenged the Philippines’ swine industry since 2019. The National African Swine Fever Prevention and Control Program (NASFPCP), launched in 2021, aims to provide guidance for managing ASF through surveillance, monitoring, and swine repopulation. This study evaluates the effectiveness of post-outbreak disinfection protocols and government-mandated measures for repopulation standard. Surveillance data from three repopulation phases—(I) depopulation, cleaning, and disinfection; (II) downtime (20 days); and (III) sentinel animals (40 days)—were collected from February 2020 to December 2021 in the province of Batangas. Time-to-detection of positive events were analyzed for different farm types, seasons, or location using survival analysis modeling. Probability of detecting infected farms at different sampling times was estimated in terms of sensitivity of the sampling time. Data from 145 swine farms, including 99 backyard and 46 commercial farms, revealed positive rates of 10.1 and 8.7%, respectively. The failure rate during repopulation surveillance was 9.66%, whereas 90.34% farms remained ASF negative. Sensitivity estimate increased from 18–21 to 89% by day 27, with sentinel animals on that day exhibiting the highest estimated sensitivity. This highlights the importance of sentinel pigs in the NASFPCP for effective ASF control in the Philippines. Survival analysis showed no statistically significant differences in the results between either farm type, season, or municipality level. Geographic mapping of surveyed farms and those with positive detections identified high-risk locations including San Juan and Lipa City as key areas of concern. Enhancing targeted surveillance is critical for improving an early ASF detection and national response in the Philippines.
“Visual thinking strategies” improves radiographic observational skills but not chart interpretation in third and fourth year veterinary students
Authors: Wolf Jacob , Tillander Michelle , Peper Katharine , Phillips Kastenholz Victoria , Lantow Vivian , Classe Charlie , Jiang Yihan , Colon Elayne
Published: December 2024

The ability to observe and interpret images and clinical information is essential for veterinarians in clinical practice. The purpose of this study is to determine the utility of a novel teaching method in veterinary medicine, the incorporation of art interpretation using the Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS), on students’ observational and clinical interpretation skills when evaluating radiographs and patient charts. Students were asked to observe and interpret a set of radiographs and a patient chart, subsequently involved in art interpretation using VTS, and then asked to observe and interpret a different set of radiographs and a different patient chart. Qualitative and quantitative analysis was performed, including scoring of observations and interpretations by a radiologist and emergency and critical care resident. For radiographs, observation and interpretation scores increased significantly after VTS. There was no change in patient chart observation or interpretation scores after VTS. Broadly, VTS provided creative thinking and visual literacy exercises that students felt pushed students them to think more openly, notice subtleties, use evidential reasoning, identify thinking processes, and integrate details into a narrative. However, its impact on clinical reasoning, as assessed by chart observation and interpretation scores, was uncertain. Further studies are needed to determine the optimal way to incorporate art interpretation in the veterinary medical curriculum.
Environmental enrichment affects immunity and reduces disease severity in pigs after co-infection, with stronger effects when applied from birth than from weaning
Authors: de Bruijn Brigitte G. C. , van Dixhoorn Ingrid Danielle Ellen , Bolhuis J. Elizabeth , Cornelissen Jan B. W. J. , Stockhofe-Zurwieden Norbert , Kluivers Marion , Rebel Johanna M. J.
Published: December 2024

We investigated whether environmental enrichment applied at different life stages of pigs affects the susceptibility to and severity of disease by studying immune cell functions around weaning and during nursery, the effects of infection in ex vivo models and in vivo using a co-infection model of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV) followed by an Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae infection. Pigs were either conventionally housed (CCH) or enriched housed throughout life, with enrichment consisting of extra space, rooting materials and co-mingling with another litter before weaning (EEH), or they were switched from conventional to enriched housing at weaning (CEH). Sixty days after birth, ten pigs per treatment were infected with PRRSV followed by an A. pleuropneumoniae infection eight days later. Six other pigs per treatment were euthanized before their pen mates were exposed to the co-infection. From these piglets, bronchial-alveolar fluid was collected, and precision cut lung slices were taken to test the effect of the treatments in an in vitro infection model. At six days after weaning EEH pigs had higher whole blood cell counts and higher concentrations of IL1ß and TNFα than CCH and CEH pigs. In the ex vivo precision cut lung slice model no differences in cytokine response in lung tissue after infection with swine influenza or A. pleuropneumoniae were observed between treatments. After experimental co-infection the proportion of EEH pigs with lung lesions (3/10) tended to be lower than in CCH (8/10), with CEH (6/10) being in between. In conclusion, enriched housing from birth reduced disease severity to co-infection with PRRSV and A. pleuropneumoniae. Enrichment applied after weaning also seemed to decrease the pathological lung deviations to the co-infection as compared to barren housed pigs, but to a much lower extent.
A Robust Path Tracking Controller for Autonomous Mobility with Control Delay Compensation Using Backstepping Control
Authors: Jang Munjung , Kim Sehwan , Yoo Byeonghun , Oh Kwangseok
Published: December 2024

Control delay phenomena, such as time delays and actuator lags, can compromise the control performance of autonomous mobility systems, leading to increased control errors. Therefore, it is essential to develop a control delay compensation algorithm. This paper proposes a Lyapunov-based backstepping steering control algorithm to compensate for control delays in autonomous mobility systems. To estimate the control delay in the steering system, the Recursive Least Squares (RLS) algorithm was employed to calculate the time constant in real time. The control delay was estimated using an RLS designed based on a first-order differential equation. A backstepping steering controller was developed to calculate the desired steering angle using simplified error dynamics for reference path tracking. The control errors, specifically the lateral preview and yaw angle errors, were derived by calculating the path error between the current position and the waypoint. The performance of the proposed control algorithm was evaluated using the DC motor and CarMaker software 8.1.1(IPG Automotive, Karlsruhe, Germany) under scenarios involving sinusoidal input and four-curved loop and S-curved paths respectively.