bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Young adult partner phubbing and relationship satisfaction: the mediating role of attachment anxiety and the moderating role of constructive conflict coping style
Authors: Han Yichu , Li Xin , Song WeiLing , He Yifan
Published: February 2025

Introduction

This study investigates the association between young adult partner phubbing and relationship satisfaction, with a focus on the mediating role of attachment anxiety and the moderating role of constructive conflict coping styles (voice or loyalty). Understanding these dynamics is crucial for enhancing relationship satisfaction among young adults.

Methods

A sample of 837 undergraduate students (376 male students; average age 21.02 ± 1.931 years) was recruited to complete questionnaires assessing young adult partner phubbing, relationship satisfaction, attachment anxiety, and constructive conflict coping styles. The data were analyzed to explore the mediating and moderating effects within the proposed model.

Results

The findings revealed that young adult partner phubbing was negatively associated with relationship satisfaction. This relationship was mediated by attachment anxiety, indicating that higher levels of phubbing increased attachment anxiety, which in turn decreased relationship satisfaction. Additionally, the relationship between attachment anxiety and relationship satisfaction was moderated by constructive conflict coping styles, suggesting that individuals who employed voice or loyalty coping strategies experienced a less pronounced negative impact on their relationship satisfaction.

Discussion

This study enhances our understanding of the mechanisms through which partner phubbing affects relationship satisfaction. The findings highlight the importance of addressing attachment anxiety and promoting constructive conflict coping strategies to mitigate the negative effects of phubbing. Practical implications for improving relationship satisfaction among young adult partners are discussed, emphasizing the need for interventions that foster healthy communication and conflict resolution skills.
Sex as a moderator in the associations between psychopathy facets and aggressiveness
Authors: Kjærvik Sophie L. , Thomson Nicholas D.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Psychopathy reliably predicts aggression, making it valuable for violence prevention. However, research on sex differences within the 4-facet model, which includes affective, interpersonal, lifestyle, and antisocial facets of psychopathy, is limited, especially among high-risk community samples.

Methods

This study examined sex differences in the psychopathy facets associated with anger, hostility, and aggression among 419 (Mage = 32.6, 72% male) violently injured adults. Studying high-risk, non-institutionalized individuals offers unique insights into the link between psychopathy and aggression, particularly in real-word context where institutional influences are absent. Participants completed the Self-Report Psychopathy and Aggression Questionnaire.

Results

Hierarchical multiple regressions revealed that all four facets predicted physical and proactive aggression; affective, lifestyle, and antisocial facets were related to reactive aggression; and affective and lifestyle facets were related to anger, hostility, and verbal aggression. Sex moderated relations between psychopathy facets and anger and hostility. Specifically, the affective facet was associated with anger and hostility for males but not for females. The lifestyle facet was associated with anger and hostility for males and females, but the effect was stronger for females.

Discussion

The findings indicate that the four-facet model relates to aggressive emotions and cognition differently for males and females, while demonstrating consistency in physical and verbal aggression. Recognizing that psychopathic anger and hostility are sex-specific can improve violence interventions tailored to males and females.
Randomized controlled trial to assess medication adherence and health-related quality of life through a collaborative pharmacist-psychiatrist approach to patient education in patients with depression in India
Authors: Mishra Ambed , Kishor Manohar Rao , Ramesh Madhan
Published: February 2025

Background

Depression is a common but severe mental health disorder affecting individuals globally. Medication non-adherence and low health-related quality of life (HRQoL) are the major challenges associated with the treatment of patients with depression.

Materials and methods

A prospective Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) was conducted in the psychiatry outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital for six months. Patients were assigned to either a control group receiving usual care or a test group receiving collaborative care using simple randomization technique. The eligible patients diagnosed with depression were enrolled and the data were collected from patient’s care records, prescriptions, patient interviews, patient representatives and healthcare professionals. The intervention in the test group consisted of comprehensive patient education, including a thorough counseling session with a research clinical pharmacist. Counseling sessions included information on the disease, medications prescribed, possible side effects, compliance with medications and overall treatment. The data collected from both patient groups was analyzed for medication adherence using the Medication Adherence Rating Scale (MARS) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) using the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire. Statistical analyses were performed using a student t-test with a significance level of P value < 0.05.

Results

The collaborative care group showed a statistically significant improvement in medication adherence, with a mean increase of 1.67 ± 0.25 (P < 0.001), compared with a mean increase of 0.69 ± 0.05 (P < 0.05) for the usual care group. Similarly, HRQoL scores also improved significantly more in the collaborative care group, with a mean increase of 28.01 ± 2.05 (P < 0.001), compared with a mean increase of 12.46 ± 0.26 (P < 0.05) for the usual care group.

Conclusion

This study concluded that pharmacist–psychiatrist collaborative patient education can significantly improve the medication adherence and HRQoL of the patients with depression. Statistically significant increases in medication adherence and HRQoL were observed in the collaborative group.
A stochastic model for affect dynamics: methodological insights from heart rate variability in an illustrative case of Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: Borghesi Francesca , Simoncini Gloria , Cremascoli Riccardo , Bianchi Laura , Mendolicchio Leonardo , Cappelli Simone , Brusa Federico , Cattaldo Stefania , Prina Elisa , Chirico Alice , Mauro Alessandro , Cipresso Pietro
Published: February 2025

Background

Affect dynamics, or variations in emotional experiences over time, are linked to psychological health and well-being, with moderate emotional variations indicating good psychophysical health. Given the impact of emotional state on cardiac variability, our objective was to develop a quantitative method to measure affect dynamics for better understanding emotion temporal management in Anorexia Nervosa (AN).

Methods

The study proposed an experimental and methodological approach to evaluate physiological affect dynamics in clinical settings. It tested affective transitions and temporal changes using emotional images from the International Affective Picture System (IAPS), examining physiological characteristics of a patient with AN. The methodology involved calculating a heart rate variability index, e.g., RMSSD, and using it in a Discrete Time and Discrete Space Markov chain to define, quantify, and predict emotional fluctuations over time.

Results

The patient with Anorexia Nervosa showed a high likelihood of transitioning from positive to negative emotional states, particularly at lower arousal levels. The steady state matrix indicated a tendency to remain in highly activated pleasant states, reflecting difficulties in maintaining emotional balance.

Conclusions

Employing Markov chains provided a quantitative and insightful approach for examining affect dynamics in a patient with AN. This methodology accurately measures emotional transitions and provides a clear and interpretable framework for clinicians and patients. By leveraging Markovian indexes, mental health professionals may gain a comprehensive understanding of emotional fluctuations’ patterns. Moreover, graphical representations of emotional transitions may enhance the clinician-patient dialogue, facilitating a clearer emotional and physiological profile for the implementation of personalized treatment procedures.
Evaluating the epidemiology of vaginitis in a contemporary cohort: a population-based study
Authors: Church Deirdre , Naugler Christopher , Guo Maggie , Somayaji Ranjani
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Bacterial vaginosis (BV), vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), and Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) commonly cause infectious vaginitis in women, especially those of reproductive age. Characterization of the epidemiology of infectious vaginitis in a contemporary population-based cohort was done to determine the longitudinal age-standardized and sex-based testing, positivity, and incidence rates and ratios of infectious vaginitis in a large Canadian healthcare region.

Methods

We conducted a population-based cohort study from March 2015 through March 2018 using the Alberta Precision Laboratories (APL) microbiology database. Calgary 2016 census data was used to calculate incidence rates (IR) and ratios (IRR) for cases and testing rates.

Results

For testing and positivity, female sex, and younger age groups were associated with increased risk of BV, VVC, and TV infections. The annual mean population in 2016 was 1,411,660 individuals (50.3% female). A total of 40,259 cases/293,853 tests (13.7%) of BV, 32,894 cases/293,853 tests (11.2%) of VVC, and 2018 cases/342,986 tests (0.7%) of TV were identified. The overall IR for BV ranged from 0 to 609 cases per 10,000 person-years. The overall IR for VVC ranged from 0 to 445 per 10,000 person-years. The overall IR for TV ranged from 0 to 27 per 10,000 person-years. The highest age-specific testing positivity rate and IR rate for BV and VVC occurred in women aged 20–34 years and 20–34 years. For TV, female IR for BV, VVC, and TV remained stable during the study.

Discussion

These unique regional data provide insight for the development of appropriate age-specific clinical testing criteria according to relative risk of acquisition of each vaginitis agent.
Nurse-community health mediator pairs: a promising model for promoting the health of populations in remote areas of the French Amazon
Authors: Gaillet Mélanie , Oberlis Margot , Bonot Bérengère , Cochet Charlène , Jacoud Estelle , Michaud Céline , Amato Lionel , Rousseau Cyril , Caspar Cécile , Boussat Bastien , Vignier Nicolas , Epelboin Loïc , Daverton Brice
Published: February 2025

Multicultural Amazonian populations in remote areas of French Guiana face challenges in accessing healthcare and preventive measures. They are geographically and administratively isolated. Health mediation serves as an interface between vulnerable people and the professionals involved in their care. This approach aims to improve the health of Amazonian populations by addressing their unique challenges, including social and health vulnerabilities, as well as language and cultural barriers. A Mobile Public Health Team (MPHT) relying on health mediation was created in 2019. Comprising six nurse–community-health mediator pairs who receive ongoing specialised training, along with a coordination team of one physician and two public health nurses, the MPHT is connected to the 17 Prevention and Care Remote Centres across the territory. This article presents a community case study of the MPHT of the remote areas in French Guiana and the description of the activities of this health promotion programme in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. The MPHT carried out health promotion initiatives, often in collaboration with partners, focusing on health priorities of the Amazonian territories. The interventions were co-designed with community leaders and local populations to ensure relevance and effectiveness. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the MPHT reached over 6,000 individuals in addition to more than 3,000 participants in a water, hygiene and sanitation education programme. The team performed 83 health promotion interventions on eight different topics, including 28 in the general population (922 people reached) and 55 in schools (n = 930). The MPHT produced 20 communication tools, which were adapted and translated into eight languages. The team also participated in managing six simultaneous epidemic events, including malaria, diphtheria, and tuberculosis. This study highlights how the combined expertise of healthcare professionals and the mediation skills of community health workers effectively addressed the specific health needs of the multicultural Amazonian populations. This model for addressing social and health inequities should encourage institutional recognition of the community health mediator model.
A mixed method study of menstrual health in Spain: pain, disorders, and the journey for health
Authors: Sánchez-López Sara , Barrington Dani Jennifer , Poveda-Bautista Rocio , Moll-López Santiago
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Menstrual-related symptoms and disorders, particularly dysmenorrhea, significantly impact women's well-being. Dysmenorrhea, marked by painful menstrual cramps, affects up to 95% of women, leading to debilitating symptoms that interfere with daily activities and potentially signal underlying gynecological issues. Despite its prevalence, many women experience inadequate medical support and dismissive healthcare responses.

Methods

This study employed a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative and qualitative survey data to explore Spanish women's experiences with menstrual discomforts and healthcare access. A total of 3,490 participants responded to the survey, which assessed the prevalence of menstrual discomforts, frequency of medical consultations, and perceived quality of gynecological care.

Results

Findings indicate that 70.9% of participants experience menstrual discomforts monthly or most months; despite this, a significant number of women infrequently seek gynecological care, often due to perceived dismissiveness and inadequate medical support. The qualitative analysis reflects shared experiences of pain normalization, misattribution to other conditions, and dissatisfaction with the standard treatment of contraceptive pills without thorough diagnostics. Additionally, the study reveals that in Spain, access to healthcare support for menstrual issues is highly influenced by whether the provider is public or private, demonstrating the impact of socio-economic factors and underscoring a core contributor to health inequity.

Discussion

This study highlights the persistent gender pain gap and the need for a more holistic and empathetic approach in medical practices. The authors' recommendations include incorporating gender training for healthcare professionals and promoting awareness campaigns to encourage medical consultations for menstrual pain. This research aims to improve support systems and healthcare practices, enhancing the quality of life for women in Spain.
On realizing autonomous transport services in multi story buildings with doors and elevators
Authors: Schulze Paul Robert , Müller Steffen , Müller Tristan , Gross Horst-Michael
Published: February 2025

Mobile service robots for transportation tasks are usually restricted to a barrier-free environment where they can navigate freely. To enable the use of such assistive robots in existing buildings, the robot should be able to overcome closed doors independently and operate elevators with the interface designed for humans while being polite to passers-by. The integration of these required capabilities in an autonomous mobile service robot is explained using the example of a SCITOS G5 robot equipped with differential drive and a Kinova Gen II arm with 7 DoF. This robot also defines the framework conditions with certain limitations in terms of maneuverability and perceptual abilities. Results of field tests with that robot in an elderly care facility as well as in a university office building are shown, where it performed transportation and messaging tasks. We also report on the success rates achieved and highlight the main problems we have encountered and dicsuss open issues.
Unsupervised semantic label generation in agricultural fields
Authors: Roggiolani Gianmarco , Rückin Julius , Popović Marija , Behley Jens , Stachniss Cyrill
Published: February 2025

Robust perception systems allow farm robots to recognize weeds and vegetation, enabling the selective application of fertilizers and herbicides to mitigate the environmental impact of traditional agricultural practices. Today’s perception systems typically rely on deep learning to interpret sensor data for tasks such as distinguishing soil, crops, and weeds. These approaches usually require substantial amounts of manually labeled training data, which is often time-consuming and requires domain expertise. This paper aims to reduce this limitation and propose an automated labeling pipeline for crop-weed semantic image segmentation in managed agricultural fields. It allows the training of deep learning models without or with only limited manual labeling of images. Our system uses RGB images recorded with unmanned aerial or ground robots operating in the field to produce semantic labels exploiting the field row structure for spatially consistent labeling. We use the rows previously detected to identify multiple crop rows, reducing labeling errors and improving consistency. We further reduce labeling errors by assigning an “unknown” class to challenging-to-segment vegetation. We use evidential deep learning because it provides predictions uncertainty estimates that we use to refine and improve our predictions. In this way, the evidential deep learning assigns high uncertainty to the weed class, as it is often less represented in the training data, allowing us to use the uncertainty to correct the semantic predictions. Experimental results suggest that our approach outperforms general-purpose labeling methods applied to crop fields by a large margin and domain-specific approaches on multiple fields and crop species. Using our generated labels to train deep learning models boosts our prediction performance on previously unseen fields with respect to unseen crop species, growth stages, or different lighting conditions. We obtain an IoU of 88.6% on crops, and 22.7% on weeds for a managed field of sugarbeets, where fully supervised methods have 83.4% on crops and 33.5% on weeds and other unsupervised domain-specific methods get 54.6% on crops and 11.2% on weeds. Finally, our method allows fine-tuning models trained in a fully supervised fashion to improve their performance in unseen field conditions up to +17.6% in mean IoU without additional manual labeling.
Consolidating poverty alleviation and rural revitalization from the perspective of industrial assistance: China
Authors: Sun Jie , Zhang Caijing , Wang Bo
Published: February 2025

With the successful completion of the battle against poverty, the Chinese government now faces the critical challenge of further consolidating the outcomes of poverty alleviation while simultaneously advancing comprehensive rural revitalization. Ensuring an effective connection between poverty alleviation efforts and the rural revitalization strategy has become a key priority. Poverty alleviation focused on eliminating absolute poverty by providing targeted assistance, whereas rural revitalization seeks to promote comprehensive development through inclusive and sustained support. In contrast to the former’s focus on specific households, rural revitalization not only considers welfare benefits but also emphasizes the importance of efficiency. In this context, industrial assistance emerges as a critical factor in bridging the gap between poverty alleviation and rural revitalization, as it significantly impacts both income growth and distribution. Thus, an important issue for policymakers is how to design effective industrial support policies that balance the need for raising income levels with the goal of reducing income disparities, addressing both efficiency and welfare concerns. Accordingly, this paper focuses on the scope of industrial assistance and examines the differential impacts of various industrial assistance targets on household income and income inequality among farmers, using panel survey data from Yunnan Province for empirical analysis. The research found that as the proportion of low human capital groups in industrial assistance targets decreases, farmers’ income increases and income inequality among farmers increases, as opposed to providing industrial assistance only to low human capital groups. This may be because reducing assistance to groups with low human capital, while improving overall income growth, has led to a widening income gap between different groups, as more resources tend to be directed toward those with higher levels of human capital. For this research area, the empirical results show that if only households listed in the poverty registration system are considered as low human capital groups, it is more reasonable for low human capital groups to account for 50% of industrial assistance targets, at which ratio both welfare and efficiency objectives can be achieved. If marginal households are also considered as low human capital groups, this ratio can be further increased.
Analyzing socioeconomic and regional inequalities in minimum dietary diversity consumption among children aged 6–23 months in Ethiopia: a decomposed concentration index approach
Authors: Endawkie Abel , Kebede Shimels Derso , Abeje Eyob Tilahun , Bekele Enyew Ermias , Daba Chala , Asmare Lakew , Bayou Fekade Demeke , Arefaynie Mastewal , Mekonen Asnakew Molla , Tareke Abiyu Abadi , Keleb Awoke , Abera Kaleab Mesfin , Kebede Natnael , Mesfin Gebeyehu Endalkachew , Ayres Aznamariam , Tsega Yawkal
Published: February 2025

Background

Ethiopia faces inadequate minimum dietary diversity (MDD), which significantly contributes to rising death rates and the spread of diseases among children aged 6–23 months. The evidence of socioeconomic and regional inequalities is central to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and it is especially crucial for guiding the development of local, regional, and national policies and initiatives that address these inequalities in MDD consumption. This will help achieve the SDG target of ending all forms of malnutrition. However, there is limited evidence on socioeconomic and regional inequalities in MDD consumption among children in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the socioeconomic and regional inequalities in MDD among children aged 6–23 months in Ethiopia.

Methods

This study utilized nationally representative weighted data comprising 3,145 samples from the 2019 Ethiopia Demographic and Health Survey (EDHS). The concentration index (CIX)was employed to estimate the socioeconomic and regional inequalities in MDD consumption.

Results

The prevalence of adequate MDD in Ethiopia was 7.11%. The concentration index (CIX) values for MDD by wealth status and region were 0.3 and 0.084, respectively, with a p-value of <0.05 for both. The concentration curve was below the equality line, and adequate MDD was concentrated among the wealthy, developed, and urban regions of Ethiopia. Maternal education (0.88%), the sex of the household head (0.3%), and region (3.1%) contributed to the observed inequalities in MDD across both the poor and wealthy regions. Wealth status (11.06%), maternal age (6.7%), maternal educational status (1.87%), and residence (0.02%) contributed to the observed inequalities in MDD consumption across both the less developed and developed regions of Ethiopia.

Conclusion

This study revealed that the wealth and regional inequalities observed in MDD consumption in Ethiopia were influenced by factors such as parental marital status, women’s educational status, place of residence, and short preceding birth intervals. Adequate MDD consumption among the children in Ethiopia was concentrated in the wealthy and developed regions. Therefore, efforts should focus on reducing poverty, improving maternal education, and implementing targeted interventions. In particular, nutrition and public health organizations should support less developed regions to achieve greater dietary diversity for infants and young children.
Clinical and physiological evaluation of free-ranging snow leopards immobilized with ketamine-xylazine in emergency situations
Authors: Talukdar Animesh , Bhasin Anchal , Patel Dimpi , Raina Pankaj , Tonde Prasad , Savita Prateek
Published: February 2025

The current study presents data on the immobilization and physiological responses of 26 distressed free-ranging snow leopards (Panthera uncia) in the trans-Himalayan regions of Ladakh, India, spanning three years from October 2020 to December 2023. Ketamine and xylazine were utilized in a drug mixture for rescue, rehabilitation, health assessment, and other capture purposes, with average doses of 6.535 ± 0.93 mgkg−1 and 1.937 ± 0.41 mgkg−1 of body weight, respectively. The average induction occurred at 3.85 ± 1.8 min. Respiratory rate, rectal temperature, and heart rate were monitored periodically post-induction, all remaining within clinically acceptable ranges. Following an average recumbency period of 70.69 ± 16.56 min, immobilizations were reversed using intramuscular injections of Yohimbine at 0.147 ± 0.03 mgkg−1 of body weight, leading to complete recovery within an average time of 24.92 ± 7.08 min. Our findings suggest that the ketamine and xylazine mixture represents a safe and effective method for immobilizing snow leopards, particularly in emergency scenarios.
The effects of fermented Astragalus polysaccharides on the growth performance, antioxidant capacity and intestinal health of broilers
Authors: Liu Zhenkun , Zhang Huaidan , Chen Xianxin , Yu Weiwei , Li Shiyi , Kang Lijuan , Li Songlin , Jiang Yilong , Zhou Xinhong
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to investigate the effects of fermented Astragalus polysaccharides(FAP) on the growth performance, antioxidant capacity and intestinal health of broilers. A total of 1,080 Cyan-shank Partridge chickens were divided into 4 groups, with 6 replicates per group and 45 chickens per replicate. Add 0% (T1), 0.2% (T5), 0.4% (T6) and 0.6% (T7) of FAP to the basal diet, respectively. The trial lasted for 42 days. The results indicated that, compared to the T1 group, FW and ADG of broilers in each treatment group were significantly increased (p < 0.05). The slaughter rates of the T6 and T7 groups were significantly higher compared to the T1 group, meanwhile, the carcass yields of the T5, T6, and T7 groups were notably enhanced (p < 0.05). Compared with T1 group, the activities of CAT, GSH-Px and the content of T-AOC in T6 and T7 groups were increased (p < 0.05), while the content of MDA was decreased (p < 0.05). All groups exhibited significantly VH and VH/CD in the duodenum compared to the T1 group (p < 0.05). Compared with the T1 group, the relative mRNA expression levels of ZO-1 and Claudin in the jejunal mucosa of broilers in all groups were significantly up-regulated, while the expressions of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and IFN-γ were down-regulated (p < 0.05). 16S rDNA sequencing analysis revealed that at the phylum level, the abundance of Verrucomicrobiota in the T6 group was significantly increased compared to the T1 group (p < 0.05). Cyanobacteria, Nitrospirota, Elusimicrobiota, and Acidobacteriota were unique to the T6 group, while Cyanobacteria and Elusimicrobiota were unique to the T5 group compared to the T1 group. At the genus level, the abundance of Desulfovibrio was significantly reduced in the T6 group compared to the T1 group (p < 0.05). Additionally, fermented Astragalus polysaccharides increased the abundance of Bacteroidota, Campilobacterota, Deferribacterota, Firmicutes, Fusobacteriota, Proteobacteria, and Spirochaetota (p < 0.05). The LEfSe analysis found that Clostridia_vadinBB60_group and Comamonas were identified as potential biomarkers. Overall, feeding fermented Astragalus polysaccharides can enhance the growth performance, slaughter characteristics, and antioxidant capacity of broiler chickens by modulating the gut microbiota and strengthening intestinal barrier function.
Comparative proteomic analysis of the telogen-to-anagen transition in cashmere goat secondary hair follicles
Authors: Han Xiaoyu , Gao Guizhen , Sun Nanxiang , Dai Bai , Ren Liqing , Bai Haobing , Liu Jianing , Liu Jie , Zhao Hongyan , Liu Dongjun
Published: February 2025

Secondary hair follicles (SHFs) in cashmere goats produce high-value cashmere fibers, which cyclic regulation is critical for optimizing cashmere yield and quality. This study explores the phenotypic changes and differential protein expression profiles involved in the telogen-to-anagen transition of SHFs. Through histological observations, proteomic analyses, and immunohistochemical validation, we identified key molecular features and regulatory pathways underlying SHF cyclic renewal. Histological analysis showed that telogen-phase SHFs exhibit a reduced volume, decreased dermal papilla cell (DPC) and hair matrix cell (HMC) activity, compact structure, and superficial localization in the dermis. Anagen-phase SHFs exhibit significantly increased volume, deeper dermal penetration, and active cell proliferation. Proteomic analysis identified 3,654 proteins in skin samples, with 458 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) significantly associated with biological processes such as cell adhesion, signal transduction, protein synthesis, and metabolism. These DEPs were enriched in key regulatory pathways, including Notch, Wnt, Jak–STAT, PI3K-Akt, and ECM-receptor interaction. Protein–protein interaction analysis identified A Disintegrin and Metalloproteinase Domain 17 (ADAM17), Secreted Frizzled-Related Protein 1 (SFRP1), and Protein Phosphatase 1 Catalytic Subunit Alpha (PPP1CA) as core regulators of SHF cyclic transitions. Validation by RT-qPCR, Western blot, and immunohistochemical analyses confirmed that ADAM17, SFRP1, and PPP1CA were predominantly localized in functional regions, including the outer root sheath (ORS), dermal papilla (DP), and hair matrix (HM). Their expression levels were significantly enhanced during anagen. ADAM17 is suggested to promote the growth of SHFs by regulating ORS cells proliferation and mediating signal transduction in DPCs, while SFRP1, as a modulator of the Wnt signaling pathway, likely supports SHFs growth and regeneration by modulating the activity of Secondary hair follicle stem cells (SHFSCs) and promoting the differentiation of HMCs. PPP1CA may enhance cell proliferation and metabolic activity by modulating phosphorylation states. In conclusion, this study identifies key molecular factors and pathways driving the telogen-to-anagen transition in cashmere goat SHFs. It emphasizes the roles of ADAM17, SFRP1, and PPP1CA in SHF renewal and offers insights into SHF development mechanisms and cashmere fiber improvement.
Synergistic effects of multi-enzyme supplementation on nutrient digestion and absorption in the foregut and hindgut
Authors: Chen Fangyuan , Zhao Lianpeng , Huang Lingjie , Zhuo Yong , Xu Shengyu , Lin Yan , Che Lianqiang , Feng Bin , Wu De , Fang Zhengfeng
Published: February 2025

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of dietary multi-enzyme (MCPC) supplementation on synergistically enhancing the functions of both the foregut and hindgut, ultimately improving the nutrient digestion and utilization throughout the gastrointestinal tract. In vitro results demonstrated that MCPC increased the phosphorus and reducing sugar levels in the supernatant during enzymatic hydrolysis. Furthermore, during the fermentation of the enzymatic hydrolysis products, MCPC significantly increased the FRD0 value of the enzymatic hydrolysis products from both the positive control (PC) and negative control 1 (NC1) diets (p < 0.05). MCPC reduced the T1/2 value of in vitro fermentation products from the PC diet (p < 0.01), and decreased the VF (p = 0.082) and K (p < 0.05) values for the NC1 diet. Additionally, 72 crossbred barrows [Duroc × (Landrace × Yorkshire)], weighing 25 kg, were fed one of six diets until their live weight approached 50 kg. The basal diets consisted of PC, NC1 and negative control 2 (NC2), while the remaining three diets were prepared by adding 100 mg/kg MCPC to the respective basal diets. The results showed that MCPC supplementation significantly upregulated the expression of solute carrier family 17 member 4 (SLC17A4) and vitamin D receptor (VDR) genes in the duodenum (p < 0.05), while downregulating the expression of Calbindin-D28k (CaBP-D28K) and solute carrier family 1 member 4 (SLC1A4) genes (p < 0.05) in growing pigs. Moreover, MCPC supplementation significantly upregulated the expression of VDR, glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2) and intestinal fatty acid binding protein (FABP2) genes in the jejunum of growing pigs. Furthermore, MCPC supplementation significantly increased the relative abundances of Bacteroidota, Prevotella and Phascolarctobacterium (p < 0.05), while reducing the relative abundances of Verrucomicrobiota and Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1 (p < 0.05) in the colon of growing pigs. In conclusion, MCPC enhances nutrient digestion and absorption in the foregut, provides fermentable substrates for hindgut microbial fermentation, and improves gut microbiota composition. This improves hindgut fermentation and supports the synergistic interaction between the foregut and hindgut, ultimately improving nutrient utilization and benefiting animal health.
Multi-Signal Induction Motor Broken Rotor Bar Detection Based on Merged Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Wang Tianyi , Wen Shiguang , Sheng Shaotong , Ma Huimin
Published: February 2025

Motor fault detection plays a vital role in industrial maintenance. Timely detection of faults in their early stages can prevent catastrophic consequences and reduce maintenance costs. Traditional methods face challenges in motor broken rotor bar (BRB) detection: model-driven methods are difficult to apply accurately in complex and changing environments, while data-driven methods usually require sophisticated feature extraction and classification processes. In this paper, we propose a novel non-invasive fault detection method. The method preprocesses motor currents by Hilbert-Huang Transform (HHT) and Park’s Vector Modulus (PVM) and then uses a merged convolutional neural network (CNN) for classification. This experiment investigates the detection of broken rotor bars of motors with different loads (25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% of rated load) and different fault levels (Normal, 1BRB, 2BRB, 3BRB, and 4BRB). The results show that the model’s classification accuracy exceeds 95% under various operating conditions and can maintain high accuracy under low load conditions, thus addressing the limitations faced by existing methods. In addition, it is computationally efficient and can guarantee high real-time performance. This method combines advanced signal processing techniques and deep learning algorithms to provide a practical solution for motor broken rotor bar detection.
Translation and Validation of a Team Viability Scale for Peruvian Workers
Authors: Pilco-Pezo Josue , Paredes-Saavedra Maribel , Morales-García Mardel , Sairitupa-Sanchez Liset Z. , Rivera-Lozada Oriana , Morales-García Wilter C.
Published: February 2025

Background: Team viability, understood as the ability to adapt and collaborate effectively over time, is a key concept in organizational literature. In Peru, where changes are constant, culturally adapted tools are needed for its measurement. Objective: To translate and validate a team viability scale for Peruvian workers. Methods: An instrumental design was used with 290 public sector employees (M = 34.61; SD = 9.2). The translation followed a cultural adaptation process, and validity was assessed through descriptive, correlational, and confirmatory factor analysis. Results: Confirmatory factor analysis supported a unidimensional structure with excellent fit indices (CFI and TLI > 0.99, RMSEA and SRMR < 0.01). The scale showed high invariance across gender and good internal consistency (α = 0.90). Conclusions: The validated scale is a reliable tool for measuring team viability in Peru. Its implementation can enhance human resource management and improve collaboration in the public sector.
Evaluation of Soil Aggregate Sieving: The Impact of Field Moisture Content on Size Distribution and Stability
Authors: Liu Jie , Yang Yuping , Zhou Jian , Feng Xintong , Li Yuan , Li Yuze , Zi Junlin , Wang Chunru , Wang Enli , Jia Yuehui
Published: February 2025

Soil aggregation, a critical component of soil structure, is significantly influenced by soil moisture content, which can vary substantially across different field conditions. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of soil relative water content (SRWC) on the performance and sensitivity of soil aggregate size distribution (DOSA) assessments. We conducted a comprehensive analysis across a range of SRWC levels and observed a consistently high recovery rate of sieving (exceeding 99.22%), indicating a robust methodology. The relative standard deviation (RSD) of DOSA was minimal, highlighting the high precision of sieving outcomes, particularly up to an SRWC of 40%. Cluster analysis, based on soil properties, identified six distinct soil groups, each demonstrating a significant correlation between the characteristic values of DOSA and SRWC, with determination coefficients (R2) above 0.717. This finding underscores the sensitivity of aggregate distribution to variations in moisture levels. However, the fitting curves varied among clusters at the same site, with the exception of clusters 5 and 6 at the Jinliuhuan Agricultural Sci-Tech Park (JLH), reflecting the intricate nature of soil–moisture interactions. Our results emphasize the necessity of sieving soil aggregates under controlled field moisture conditions to ensure reliable DOSA measurements. This research provides valuable insights into the dynamics of soil aggregation and its response to different moisture regimes, offering practical implications for enhancing sustainable agricultural practices. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the impact of soil relative water content (SRWC) on soil aggregate size distribution (DOSA), revealing the high recovery rate and precision of sieving under various moisture conditions. The significant correlation between DOSA and SRWC, along with the varied responses across soil clusters, highlights the complex interplay between soil moisture and aggregate stability. These findings are crucial for optimizing soil aggregate assessments and sustainable agricultural practices.
Transcriptomic Responses to Rapid Cold Hardening in Tomato Leafminer Adults: Implications for Tomato Leafminer Management
Authors: Zhao Yan , Ullah Farman , Shi Jiayi , Hu Yingjie , Jiang Yuyang , Hou Youming
Published: February 2025

The tomato leafminer, Tuta absoluta, is an invasive pest that poses a significant threat to Solanaceae crops, including tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplants. Its ability to adapt to various environmental conditions, especially cold stress, allows it to survive in regions with fluctuating temperatures. In this study, the molecular response of T. absoluta adults to rapid cold hardening (RCH) under gradually decreasing non-lethal temperatures was investigated. Using RNA-seq, 197 upregulated genes and 626 downregulated genes were identified in response to cold hardening. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses revealed that upregulated genes were primarily associated with the cell cycle and cell division, including key genes such as CDC25A, BUB1, ORC2, and PlK1, as well as metal ion transporters like unc-93. Downregulated genes were found to be involved in metabolism and oxidative phosphorylation, including COX4, ATPase_I, and ATP-synt_ab. Weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) indicated a positive correlation between cell cycle-related genes and RCH, while metabolic processes, including fatty acid metabolism, were negatively correlated with cold hardening. These findings provide new insights into the transcriptional mechanisms of insect responses to cold stress, and highlight potential targets for environmentally sustainable pest management strategies.
Towards Climate-Smart Agriculture: Strategies for Sustainable Agricultural Production, Food Security, and Greenhouse Gas Reduction
Authors: Kabato Wogene , Getnet Girma Tilahun , Sinore Tamrat , Nemeth Attila , Molnár Zoltán
Published: February 2025

Without transformative adaptation strategies, the impact of climate change is projected to reduce global crop yields and increase food insecurity, while rising greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions further exacerbate the crisis. While agriculture is a major contributor to climate change through unsustainable practices, it also offers significant opportunities to mitigate these emissions through the adoption of sustainable practices. This review examines climate-smart agriculture (CSA) as a key strategy for enhancing crop productivity, building climate resilience, and reducing GHG emissions, while emphasizing the need for strategic interventions to accelerate its large-scale implementation for improved food security. The analysis revealed that while nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) has improved in developed countries, the global NUE remains at 55.47%, emphasizing the need for precision nutrient management and integrated soil fertility strategies to enhance productivity and minimize environmental impacts. With 40% of the world’s agricultural land already degraded, sustainability alone is insufficient, necessitating a shift toward regenerative agricultural practices to restore degraded soil and water by improving soil health, enhancing biodiversity, and increasing carbon sequestration, thus ensuring long-term agricultural resilience. CSA practices, including precision agriculture, regenerative agriculture, biochar application, and agroforestry, improve soil health, enhance food security, and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. However, result variability highlights the need for site-specific strategies to optimize benefits. Integrating multiple CSA practices enhances soil health and productivity more effectively than implementing a single practice alone. Widespread adoption faces socio-economic and technological barriers, requiring supportive policies, financial incentives, and capacity-building initiatives. By adopting climate-smart technologies, agriculture can transition toward sustainability, securing global food systems while addressing climate challenges.
Construction of a Multi-Source, Heterogeneous Rice Disease and Pest Knowledge Graph Based on the MARBC Model
Authors: Li Chunchun , Yang Siyi , Liang Dong , Chen Peng , Dong Wei
Published: February 2025

Diseases and pests have a significant impact on rice production, affecting both yield and quality. Therefore, their effective management and control are crucial for successful rice cultivation. However, current research based on rice diseases and pests (RDPs) encounters challenges such as data scarcity, the integration of multi-source heterogeneous data and usability issues related to knowledge graphs. To tackle these issues, this paper proposes a novel entity and relationship extraction model called Multi-head Attention RoBERTa BiLSTM CRF (MARBC). Specifically, the MARBC model utilizes RoBERTa to obtain related word vector representations, and then employs BiLSTM to extract features from within the input sequences. By integrating a multi-head attention mechanism, the model retrieves contextual information and relevance from the text, enhancing the accuracy and depth of the knowledge graph. Additionally, Conditional Random Fields are used to model sequence labeling for entities and relationships. Experimental results demonstrate the model’s impressive performance, achieving precision, recall, and F1 scores of 95.31%, 93.58%, and 94.44%, respectively. Furthermore, this paper constructs a dedicated knowledge graph for RDPs from both ontology and data layers. By effectively integrating and organizing multi-source heterogeneous RDP data, this paper provides valuable resources and decision support for agricultural researchers and farmers.
Aberrant Expression Levels of Androgen Receptor and SRD5A2 in Epididymal Epithelial Cells of Crossbred Infertile Cattle–Yak
Authors: Wittayarat Manita , Kawanishi Kimika , Ohata Haruka , Nagahara Megumi , Sambuu Rentsenkhand , Sambuu Otgonjargal , Hirata Maki , Tanihara Fuminori , Taniguchi Masayasu , Otoi Takeshige , Sato Yoko
Published: February 2025

Although yaks and cattle belong to the same Bovinae subfamily and have the same number of chromosomes, hybrid males are sterile because of the inactivation or abnormality of gene expression related to the production of healthy normal sperm. Recently, the analysis of gene expression not only in the testis but also in the epididymis has offered hints about the mechanism of infertility, because the epididymis supports the maturation of sperm in acquiring the capacity of fertilisation. Sperm maturation processes have been thought to be androgen-dependent, and the androgen receptor (AR) can be activated by dihydrotestosterone converted from plasma testosterone by the 5α-reductase isoform 2 (SRD5A2) in epididymal cells. In the present study, we investigated the immuno-expression levels of the AR and SRD5A2 in the epithelial cells of the hybrid cattle–yak epididymal caput in comparison with yak samples using image analysis. Epididymal tissues from yaks (1–3 years of age) and hybrid cattle–yaks (2 years of age) were used in this study. In yaks, AR signal intensity did not show any changes in epididymal epithelial cells during maturation. However, in 2-year-old hybrid cattle–yaks, AR signal intensity was significantly higher in the principal cells of the epididymis compared to that of yaks of the same age, indicating that hybrid sterility is not likely related to AR deficiency in the epididymal epithelium. On the other hand, SRD5A2 signal intensity was stable during maturation in the epithelial cells of the yak epididymis. However, the epididymal SRD5A2 signal intensity in the epithelial cells of the hybrid cattle–yak was lower than that of the yak. This suggests that a deficiency in SRD5A2 production in the epididymis may result in hybrid infertility, as it can subsequently cause incomplete AR signal transduction and altered spermatozoa physiology.