bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploration of key genes associated with oxidative stress in polycystic ovary syndrome and experimental validation
Authors: Li Qinhua , Liu Lei , Liu Yuhan , Zheng Tingting , Chen Ningjing , Du Peiyao , Ye Hong
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The current study demonstrated that oxidative stress (OS) is closely related to the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). However, there are numerous factors that lead to OS, therefore, identifying the key genes associated with PCOS that contribute to OS is crucial for elucidating the pathogenesis of PCOS and selecting appropriate treatment strategies.

Methods

Four datasets (GSE95728, GSE106724, GSE138572, and GSE145296) were downloaded from the gene expression omnibus (GEO) database. GSE95728 and GSE106724 were combined to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in PCOS. weighted gene correlation network analysis (WGCNA) was used to screen key module genes associated with PCOS. Differentially expressed OS related genes (DE-OSRGs) associated with PCOS were obtained by overlapping DEGs, key module genes, and OSRGs. Subsequently, the optimal machine model was obtained to identify key genes by comparing the performance of the random forest model (RF), support vector machine model (SVM), and generalized linear model (GLM). The molecular networks were constructed to reveal the non-coding regulatory mechanisms of key genes based on GSE138572 and GSE145296. The Drug-Gene Interaction Database (DGIdb) was used to predict the potential therapeutic agents of key genes for PCOS. Finally, the expression of key OSRGs was validated by RT-PCR.

Results

In this study, 8 DE-OSRGs were identified. Based on the residuals and root mean square error of the three models, the best performance of RF was derived and 7 key genes (TNFSF10, CBL, IFNG, CP, CASP8, APOA1, and DDIT3) were identified. The GSEA enrichment analysis revealed that TNFSF10, CP, DDIT3, and INFG are all enriched in the NOD-like receptor signaling pathway and natural killer cell-mediated cytotoxicity pathways. The molecular regulatory network uncovered that both TNFSF10 and CBL are regulated by non-coding RNAs. Additionally, 70 potential therapeutic drugs for PCOS were predicted, with ibuprofen associated with DDIT3 and IFNG. RT-qPCR validation confirmed the expression trends of key genes IFNG, DDIT3, and APOA1 were consistent with the dataset, and the observed differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The identification of seven key genes and molecular regulatory networks through bioinformatics analysis is of great significance for exploring the pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies of PCOS.
Investigating the causal impact of gut microbiota on trigeminal neuralgia: a bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zeng Chuan , Zhang Chaolong , Jia Yuxuan , Zhou Huaiyu , He Chunming , Song Haimin
Published: February 2025

Background

The etiology and pathogenesis of trigeminal neuralgia remain unclear. This study examines the connection between gut microbiota and trigeminal neuralgia using Mendelian randomization analysis to provide insights into the disorder’s origin and propose potential therapies based on our findings.

Methods

We used data from the MiBioGen consortium (13,266 participants) for gut microbiota and the IEU OpenGWAS project (800 cases, 195,047 controls) for trigeminal neuralgia. We checked for heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy and used the inverse variance weighting method as our main approach to study the causal link between gut bacteria and trigeminal neuralgia, MR-Egger, simple mode, weighted median, and weighted mode as supplementary methods, with a sensitivity test using leave-one-out analysis. If a bacteria-trigeminal neuralgia link was found, we conducted a reverse analysis for confirmation.

Results

According to the final results, these groups include Butyricimonas (Genus, id = 945, p-value = 0.007, OR = 1.742, 95% CI: 1.165–2.604), unknowngenus (Genus, id = 1000005479, p-value = 0.005, OR = 1.774, 95% CI: 1.187–2.651) and Bacteroidales (Family, p-value = 0.005, OR = 1.774, 95% CI: 1.187–2.651) were causally associated with trigeminal neuralgia. No significant results according to reverse Mendelian randomization analysis.

Conclusion

In our study, we identified specific gut bacteria linked to trigeminal neuralgia. To comprehensively understand their impact and mechanisms, additional randomized trials are necessary.
Adherence to rehabilitation exercise and influencing factors among people with acute stroke: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Xing Feng , Liu Juan , Mei Chang , Chen Jingnan , Wen Yi , Zhou Jianrong , Xie Shiqi
Published: February 2025

Background

Post-stroke rehabilitation exercise is recognized as the most effective and preferred intervention to reduce disability rates in patients. However, adherence to exercise is low among stroke patients. Previous research has mainly focused on the negative psychological factors influencing adherence, while the positive psychological aspects remain underexplored. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the factors influencing adherence to rehabilitation exercises in acute stroke patients, especially the positive psychological factors, in order to reduce the disability rate of stroke.

Methods

From October 2023 to March 2024, a total of 227 patients with acute stroke were selected from a Grade-A hospital in Chongqing, China, using total sampling method. The patients’ general demographic data, Stroke Functional Exercise Adherence Questionnaire Scale (EAQ), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD), and Index of Subjective Well-Being Scale (IWB) were assessed. ANOVA, t-test analysis, correlation analysis, and multiple linear regression models were used to explore the influencing factors in people with acute stroke.

Results

The total score for rehabilitation exercise adherence in acute stroke patients was 38.41 ± 11.13, corresponding to a mean adherence rate of 68.6%. Factors influencing adherence to rehabilitation exercise in acute stroke patients were identified, including age (p < 0.0001), presence of ICU stay (p = 0.03), National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score (p < 0.0001), and subjective well-being (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Adherence to rehabilitation exercises in acute stroke patients was found to be medium. Our findings highlight that age, presence of ICU stay, and NIHSS score were found to have negative correlations with adherence. While a positive correlation was observed with subjective well-being.
Immune checkpoint Inhibitor related myocarditis reported through the FDA adverse event reporting system: pharmacovigilance trends in reporting and outcomes
Authors: Reeves David J. , Leffers Kevin , Rao Vijay U.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

As the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) continues to expand, it is important to be mindful of rare but serious side effects such as myocarditis. Multiple analyses of adverse effect databases have demonstrated an association between ICIs and myocarditis; however, given the rapid implementation of therapeutic use, introduction of multiple new ICIs, and expanding indications, it is unclear if trends are evolving in reporting and outcomes.

Methods

We analyzed the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System to investigate the association between ICIs and myocarditis and trends in myocarditis outcomes among reports submitted between 2012 and the first quarter of 2023.

Results

After removal of duplicate cases, 1,326 myocarditis cases were reported to the database in patients receiving ICIs. Of these, the majority of reported cases were in males (62%) and the median age was 69 years. Consistent with the increase in utilization, the number of cases reported per year increased with each passing year. The reporting odds ratio (ROR) for all ICI drugs included in the analysis was 30.1 (95% confidence interval: 28.4-32.0). RORs for the individual drugs ranged from 12.3 for durvalumab to 168.5 for nivolumab/ relatlimab. The overall fatality rate of all cases was 37%. A significant difference in fatality rate among reported cases was present when comparing outcomes in 2018 and 2022 (45% vs 33%, respectively, p=0.017).

Discussion

Myocarditis continues to be associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors, with the number of reported cases increasing consistent with increasing utilization; however, the outcomes may be improving with less cases being reported as fatal.
Bibliometric analysis: a study of the microenvironment in cervical cancer (2000-2024)
Authors: Zhang Yun-Tao , Wei Yan-Ni , Liu Chen-Chen , Yang Mai-Qing
Published: February 2025

Objective

The incidence of cervical cancer has increased in recent years. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is the local biological environment involved in tumor occurrence and development. This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the global research on the TME in cervical cancer (CC), providing a knowledge framework in this field from a holistic and systematic perspective based on a bibliometric analysis.

Methods

Studies focusing on the TME in cervical cancer were searched using the Web of Science Core Collection database. The annual output, cooperation, hotspots, research status, and development trends in this field were analyzed using bibliometric softwares (VOSviewer and CiteSpace).

Results

A total of 1,057 articles published between 2000 and 2024 were selected. The number of publications and citations has recently increased. Cooperation network analysis indicated that China holds the foremost position in research on the TME in cervical cancer with the highest volume of publications, thus exerting the greatest influence. Fudan University had the highest output. Frontiers in Oncology showed the highest degree of productivity in this field. Rofstad, Einar K. made the most article contributions and was the most co-cited author. Four clusters were obtained after a cluster analysis of the keywords: TME, cervical cancer, immunotherapy, and prognosis. Immunotherapy, human papillomavirus, and biomarkers were relatively recent keywords that attracted increasing attention from researchers.

Discussion

This bibliometric analysis provides a data-based and objective introduction to the TME of cervical cancer, and offers readers a valuable reference for future research.

Conclusions

Comprehensive research in this field was mainly distributed in the TME of cervical cancer through the analysis of keywords and documents. Sufficient evidence supports mechanism research and application exploration. Further research should explore new topics related to the TME of cervical cancer.
Case Report: Ultralow-field portable MRI improves the diagnosis of congenital hydrocephalus
Authors: Groteklaes Anne , Dresbach Till , Born Markus , Mueller Andreas , Sabir Hemmen
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Congenital hydrocephalus is an increasing condition both in high as in low and middle income countries. Main causes include aqueductal stenosis, neonatal central nervous system infections, intracranial hemorrhage, malformations and tumors. Investigation of its etiology should include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to detect especially pathologies of the fossa cranii posterior. However, MRI is not available to every infant presenting with congenital hydrocephalus especially in those countries with the highest prevalence. New portable ultralow-field MRI (ULF) allows low resource and bedside imaging and thus widens the access to MRI for those infants. This study presents two cases of newborns with congenital hydrocephalus who underwent ULF scanning revealing a tumor of the fossa cranii posterior as cause of hydrocephalus. This study shows that ULF scanning allows to detect and characterize brain tumors as well as metastases.

Setting and patients

In this case report, we present two cases of newborns antenatally diagnosed with hydrocephalus with no further pathology detected in repeated cranial ultrasound and, in one case, fetal MRI. We performed ULF imaging using a portable 0.064T MRI during natural sleep and high-field 3T MRI to investigate the etiology of congenital hydrocephalus in these infants.

Main results

ULF imaging revealed a tumor of the fossa cranii posterior in both cases. MRI signalling detected in ULF imaging was specific for each tumor (ATRT, low grade glioma). In one case, ULF imaging also detected intracerebral metastasis.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that ULF imaging is able to detect tumors of the fossa cranii posterior that are not detected on ultrasound and shows their specific MR-signalling as well as detect metastasis. Additionally, compared to 3T MRI, ULF MRI was able to reveal significant findings while requiring fewer resources and being easier to perform. Therefore, we propose that children with congenital hydrocephalus not showing any abnormalities on cranial ultrasound should undergo ULF MRI. This imaging modality holds potential for monitoring neonatal tumors and detecting metastasis.
Refractory agitation in the NICU: challenges in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment
Authors: Beatty Kim , Cho Eunsung , Biggs Jessica , Daniel-McCalla Shawnee , Diaz Johana
Published: February 2025

In this paper we explore refractory agitation in the neonatal population, focusing on the limitations of existing evidence on appropriate prevention, diagnosis, and treatment options. We highlight seven patients identified in an urban single-center level IV NICU with agitation unresponsive to standard non-pharmacologic interventions and escalation of standard neurosedative medications. We analyzed baseline characteristics and clinical courses of these patients with the aim to identify the NICU subpopulation at greatest risk for development of refractory agitation and to gain insight into the potential benefits of alternative medical management of agitation on later neurodevelopment. Based on these experiences we propose a practical approach to infants at increased risk for refractory agitation including standardized screening guidelines and a clinical pathway for developmentally appropriate non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic management.
Wheelchair use confidence scale for Arab pediatric manual wheelchair users: preliminary evaluation of its measurement properties
Authors: Sarsak Hassan Izzeddin , Rushton Paula W.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

This study translated the pediatric Wheelchair Use Confidence Scale for Manual Wheelchair Users (WheelCon-M-P) into Arabic (WheelCon-M-A-P) and evaluated whether the translation produced scores similar to the original English version.

Methods

The English version was first translated into Arabic and then verified by back translation method by expert committee in the field of rehabilitation and wheelchair service provision. The final versions were administered to assess confidence with manual wheelchair use among children. Each participant was asked to complete both the WheelCon-M-P English version and the WheelCon-M-A-P Arabic version in a random sequence. Kappa statistics were used to quantify the level of agreement between scores obtained from both versions.

Results

Participants (n = 48) had an average age of 14.2 years, were all bilingual, and 54% were male. Kappa agreement obtained was 0.54 (95% confidence interval, 0.49–0.62) indicating significant moderate agreement between the two versions (p < 0.000).

Discussion

This study provides preliminary evidence of a valid WheelCon-M-A-P to assess confidence with manual wheelchair use among Arabic-speaking children. Future studies to further test its psychometric properties are crucial.
Eliglustat substrate reduction therapy in children with Gaucher disease type 1
Authors: Ain Noor Ul , Saith Armaan , Ruan Audrey , Yang Ruhua , Burton Aaron , Mistry Pramod K.
Published: February 2025

Importance

Gaucher disease (GD) is a rare lysosomal storage disorder with limited treatment options for pediatric patients. Oral substrate reduction therapy (SRT) with eliglustat offers a potential alternative, particularly for those with barriers to enzyme replacement therapy (ERT).

Objective

Evaluate the safety and efficacy of eliglustat SRT in pediatric patients with type 1 Gaucher disease (GD1), both as initial therapy and as a switch from intravenous ERT.

Design

A prospective case series was conducted from 2017 to 2024.

Setting

Yale's National Gaucher Disease Treatment Center, New Haven, CT, United States.

Participants

Fourteen pediatric GD1 patients with significant barriers to receiving ERT.

Intervention

Eliglustat SRT was dosed pharmacogenomically based on CYP2D6 metabolizer status.

Primary outcomes and measures

Primary outcomes included safety and efficacy in reversing indicators of disease activity. Secondary outcomes involved changes in patient and parent-reported quality of life, assessed using PROMIS questionnaires.

Results

Eliglustat was initiated at a mean age of 12.5 years (range: 6–17 years) and administered for a mean duration of 3.6 years (range: 1–7 years). All patients remained on treatment and exhibited sustained reductions in glucosylsphingosine (GlcSph) levels compared to baseline (p = 0.005). Other disease indicators demonstrated corresponding improvements. Adverse effects were limited to transient gastroesophageal reflux in 3/14 patients (21%). Serial electrocardiograms (EKGs) were normal. Growth and developmental milestones were appropriate for age in all patients. Patients and their parents reported a global improvement in quality of life.

Conclusions

Eliglustat demonstrated significant clinical benefits in pediatric GD1 patients, as evidenced by reductions in GlcSph levels and other disease indicators. The therapy showed a favorable safety profile comparable to that observed in adults. These findings suggest eliglustat is a promising therapeutic option for pediatric GD1 patients, providing an effective alternative to ERT.
Mulberry twig alkaloids for type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Guoming , Yang Ruifeng , Yang Xiaoya , Jiang Jiazhen , Guo Yudan , Xu Mengshan , Chen Yi , Hou Yining , Zhang Cheng , Wang Ning , Feng Yibin
Published: February 2025

Background

Diabetes has emerged as a significant global health concern, with over 95% of cases categorized as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The disease not only imparts detrimental effects on individual health but also imposes a substantial burden on societal economics and healthcare systems. Notably, there is a paucity of meta-analyses on the efficacy of mulberry twig alkaloids (MTAs) for the treatment of T2DM.

Methods

The systematic review registration number is CRD42024523218. Data were retrieved from Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials.gov, Embase, PubMed, Ovid, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Scopus, Chongqing VIP, CINAHL, SINOMED, ChiCTR, and Wanfang Data from their inception to 1 February 2024 for herbal product-related randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The risk of bias assessment and meta-analysis were performed using ReviewManager 5.4 and STATA 15.0. TSA software version 0.9.5.10 was used to assess whether the results achieved the required information size (RIS). GRADEprofiler 3.6 software was used to estimate the quality of evidence for the outcomes.

Results

Nine studies were included for a total of 10 trials with 1,178 patients. The results indicated that MTAs were more effective than placebo in reducing HbA1cglycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and MTAs combined with hypoglycemic drugs were more effective than hypoglycemic drugs alone in reducing HbA1c, fasting blood glucose (FBG), and 2-hour postprandial glucose (2hPG). In terms of lipid control, MTAs combined with hypoglycemic drugs showed better control of triglycerides (TGs) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) efficacy than hypoglycemic drugs alone. After MTA treatment, there was no damage to liver function compared to placebo. The safety of MTAs, whether alone or in combination with hypoglycemic drugs, was comparable to that of hypoglycemic drugs alone.

Conclusion

In T2DM patients, MTAs were more effective than placebo. MTAs combined with hypoglycemic drugs showed better results than hypoglycemic drugs alone. The safety of MTAs was equivalent to that of hypoglycemic drugs. However, due to heterogeneity and possible bias, the results should still be interpreted with caution.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=523218
Identification of the cassava NADP-ME gene family and its response and regulation in photosynthesis
Authors: Li Haozheng , Xiao Jin , Chen Jiahui , Shen Xu , Luo Jia , Guo Fengguang , Wang Shangfei , Xu Liangye , Guo Xin , Wang Shujuan , Wang Haiyan , Wang Wenquan
Published: February 2025

NADP-malic enzyme (NADP-ME) is a crucial enzyme in C4 photosynthesis, responsible for the decarboxylation of malate in bundle sheath cells, enhancing the photosynthetic efficiency of C4 plants. Cultivated cassava exhibits high photosynthetic efficiency and biomass, and previous studies classify it as a C3–C4 intermediate type. The biomass of cassava correlates positively with photosynthetic rate, and the promoter region of MeNADP-ME3 contains insertion selected in cultivars different from wild ancestors. Four MeNADP-ME genes were identified in the cultivated cassava variety AM560, with promoter regions enriched in light-responsive elements. Phylogenetic and conserved domain analyses revealed that all subtypes are plastidic dicotyledonous types, closely related to AtNADP-ME4, with unique N-terminal domains in MeNADP-ME2 and MeNADP-ME3 specific to cassava, suggesting new functional roles. Subcellular localization showed predominant chloroplast localization, with greater involvement in leaf physiological processes in the cultivated variety SC205. These findings suggest that the NADP-ME family in cultivated cassava has been evolutionarily selected for photosynthesis. Further investigation revealed that MeNADP-ME3 is highly expressed in leaves and regulated by light intensity. Co-expression network analysis of shade-treated transcriptomes and transcription factor-promoter predictions showed that Indel sites in the MeNADP-ME3 promoter are bound by MeYABBY1, forming a regulatory network with other photosynthesis-related genes. This suggests that MeNADP-ME3 plays a role in C3–C4 intermediate photosynthesis during the evolution from wild to cultivated cassava, with other family genes also evolving towards photosynthetic functions. Our study lays the foundation for future functional research on the MeNADP-ME family and provides insights into the mechanisms underlying the high photosynthetic efficiency of cultivated cassava.
Living together beyond liberal democracy: examples of local decision-making and managing resource extractivism in Indonesia
Authors: Schäfer Saskia , Syam Mutmainna , Gogali Lian
Published: February 2025

This article combines literature and insights from three different fields: comparative political thought, comparative politics, and area studies. It highlights critical gaps in empirical democracy studies and advocates for more encompassing notions of democracy and deeper integration with post-development, ecofeminist, and democratic economic planning perspectives. Indonesia's post-reform liberal democracy has facilitated elite-driven resource extraction, allowing a small circle of oligarchs to convert the country's rich natural resources into private wealth at the expense of rural communities. This elite capture has led to widespread dispossession and environmental degradation, particularly in regions heavily exploited for natural resources. This study uses interviews, observations, and discourse analysis to examine how the term “demokrasi” has been appropriated by elites as a tool for legitimizing resource extraction and to discuss collective decision-making in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. The article offers empirical insights into local critiques of top-down political and economic structures and shows how communities are cultivating alternative, collective decision-making practices. Key actors in this shift are rural women who have established platforms for political education, challenging the androcentric norms that have been marginalizing them. Against mapping the blind spots of the post-Suharto Indonesian variant of liberal democracy, we argue that more nuanced and inclusive democratic models that foreground economic decisions and include hitherto marginalized citizens can better explain autocratization while highlighting alternative paths toward democratization.
Risks to the clinician of risk management: recalled and anticipated consequences of decision-making
Authors: Challinor Alexander , Bhandari Sahil , Boyle Sean , Gabbay Mark , Wilson Pete , Saini Pooja , Nathan Rajan
Published: February 2025

Background

Despite extensive literature studying how we make decisions in the face of uncertainty, the empirical study of real-world clinical decision-making in mental health practice remains limited. Decisions in clinical settings are not just made on the basis of clinical factors. A key non-clinical influence on decision making is the clinician’s concerns about the ‘threat’ to themselves from a future adverse incident and the subsequent retrospective scrutiny of their decision-making. A better understanding of non-clinical processes is essential to inform better ways of guiding effective decision-making. More specifically, delineating the nature of this ‘threat’ process will also inform approaches to patient safety.

Aims

The objective of the current study was to delineate consequences recalled and anticipated by mental health clinicians making decisions under uncertainty.

Methods

This was an analysis of data arising from six focus group discussions with professionals involved in decisions to admit patients to psychiatric hospitals (consultant psychiatrists, approved mental health practitioners, crisis resolution home treatment teams, and liaison psychiatry practitioners) in one National Health Service Trust, UK. The data were thematically analyzed to identify the nature of ‘threat’ processes that arise in clinical decision-making.

Results

Themes identified included (i) the location of the effect of the anticipated/recalled consequence(s), (ii) the location of the origin of the consequence, and (iii) the nature of the consequence. The recalled and anticipated consequences of decision-making were overwhelmingly, but not exclusively, negative. The consequences were largely perceived to be directed towards the self (i.e., the clinician) and were considered to originate from external scrutiny by peers, organizational leadership, and the patient safety system/processes.

Conclusions

The process of making decisions to admit patients to hospital consistently involved the decision-maker’s concern with the future consequences for them, either from a prior or future adverse event. The findings of this study, alongside other evidence of the complexity of decision-making, have implications for improving and studying clinical decision-making (and, by extension, patient care and outcomes), patient safety responses, and professional well-being.
Effectiveness of virtual reality therapy in the treatment of anxiety disorders in adolescents and adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Zeng Weisi , Xu Jialan , Yu Jiayan , Chu Xin
Published: February 2025

Background

To evaluate the effect of virtual reality therapy on anxiety disorders in adolescents and adults by Meta-analysis

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted by PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, CINAHL, Scopus, Cochrane (from inception to November 2024). Two researchers independently performed literature screening, quality evaluation and data extraction, and Stata16.0 and Review Man 5.4 software were used for Meta-analysis.

Results

A total of 33 studies involving 3182 adolescents and adults with anxiety disorders were included. The results of Meta-analysis showed that compared with conventional interventions, virtual reality therapy significantly improved the symptoms and level of anxiety in patients with anxiety disorder [SMD = -0.95, 95%CI (-1.22,-0.69), Z = 7.05, P < 0.00001].

Conclusion

The current findings suggest that VR therapy interventions have a positive effect on improving the anxiety state of patients with anxiety disorders. The aforementioned research findings must be confirmed by more high-caliber studies due to the number and quality limitations of the contained literature.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display, identifier CRD42024574772.
A sustainability comparison of different traditional Chilean culinary preparations through an innovative method
Authors: Tiboni-Oschilewski Ornella , Corvalán Camila , Kanter Rebecca
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Dietary choices affect both human and planetary health; however, they are not always linked to public policies. For example, Food Based Dietary Guidelines (FBDGs) do not always consider sustainability in their recommendations. To date, no methods have been developed and agreed upon to assess the five sustainability dimensions proposed by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) (nutritional, environmental, cultural, physical, and economical access) as a whole. The objective of this study was to compare the levels of sustainability of traditional Chilean culinary preparations using a newly proposed method that integrates five unique dimensions of sustainable diets with reference databases to generate recommendations about sustainable culinary preparations; in which the Chilean population serves as a test case.

Methods

A database composed of 651 traditional Chilean culinary preparations was used. It was obtained through 10 focus groups from the Metropolitan Region. Culinary preparations were divided into eight different food groups based on their main ingredients. Sustainability estimations were conducted for physically accessible preparations. All the dimensions were estimated based on approaches and indicators previously used in scientific literature. Different weights were provided for all other dimensions: 30% for cultural and price, respectively, and 20% for nutritional and environmental dimensions. Culinary preparations we recommended as sustainable if they achieved a global sustainability score of 66% or above, provided each dimension individually scored 40% or above.

Results

After data management, 351 culinary preparations were analyzed. A total of 94 were selected as sustainable: 21/38 vegetables; 6/7 fruits; 28/105 proteins; 14/78 cereals; 6/41 soups; 0/32 dairy; 1/6 lipids; 18/443 beverages. The main reason a preparation was not classified as sustainable was failing to obtain 66% of global sustainability. No culinary preparations were excluded based on the economic dimension.

Discussion

This study shows that estimating sustainability of individual culinary preparations based on the five dimensions of sustainable diets of FAO is possible through the development of an innovative methodological approach that is useful for making dietary recommendations for a population, such as within FBDGs. Future research should continue developing this methodology as a tool for public health decision-making for healthier and sustainable diets. This would allow dietary patterns to develop into more sustainable ones, which is a useful strategy for public health and planetary health
Does production diversity support dietary diversity? Evidence from pastoral and agro-pastoral households in West Pokot County, Kenya
Authors: Ipara Billy Okemer , Otieno David Jakinda , Oluoch-Kosura Willis , Andago Angela Adhiambo , Jirström Magnus , Mackay Heather , Fernqvist Fredrik , Rajala Elisabeth
Published: February 2025

Consumption of part of own-produced food is regarded as a sustainable approach to attaining dietary diversity and a pathway to improved food and nutrition security. However, empirical evidence on the relationship between production diversity and dietary diversity is inconclusive, with some studies demonstrating a positive relationship while others reveal conflicting results. Furthermore, this relationship has not been examined in pastoral contexts. We used data from 502 pastoral and agro-pastoral households in West Pokot County, Kenya, to assess the relationship between production indicators and household dietary diversity. Our results show that households with more diverse production had more diverse diets. Additionally, we find that nutritional awareness, engagement in off-farm enterprises, income, market participation, and location based on agro-ecological characteristics influence dietary diversity. Our findings suggest that more diverse crop-livestock systems appropriate to the agro-ecological conditions of West Pokot may be a strategy toward addressing the nutritional inadequacies experienced in the region. Further investigation of the wider implications of such a transition is suggested.
Effect of circulating anti-Mullerian hormone on the reproductive potential of gilts
Authors: Xia Wei , Zhou Zhenmin , Cheng Linghua , Fang Xiaohuan , Tao Chenyu , Qi Yatian , Yu Yang , Zhang Di , Tian Xiaofeng , Gao Zihao , Bai Jiahua , Wen Junhui , Liu Yan , Li Junjie
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Determination of the ovarian follicular reserve is of great value for predicting fertility, while circulating anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) plays an important role in maintaining the ovarian reserve.

Methods

In this study, we examined the effect of circulating AMH levels of gilts between 110 and 160 days of age on reproductive performance and evaluated the differences in the ovaries and uteruses of gilts with different AMH levels.

Results

The results indicated a significant negative correlation between circulating AMH levels from days 110 to 160 and puberty (p < 0.05). Moreover, the total born, live born, and the herd retention rate across 3 successive parities were found to be higher in high-AMH gilts than in low-AMH ones. Uterine morphology was assessed, and it was found that high-AMH gilts had significantly increased uterine glandular density, and the median vascular area and the relative expression levels of FOXA2, VEGF, VEGFR, and CD31 were significantly increased (p < 0.05). Furthermore, high-AMH gilts had a greater number of antral follicles and higher expression levels in secondary and early antral follicles than low-AMH gilts (p < 0.05). To further explain this mechanism, RNA-seq analysis was performed, which indicated that differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of high-AMH gilt ovaries were enriched in pathways, including steroid hormone biosynthesis, arachidonic acid metabolism, and the gonadotropin-releasing hormone signaling pathway.

Discussion

Our findings indicate that circulating AMH levels can possibly predict the reproductive potential of gilts, with day 160 circulating AMH levels being a potential predictive indicator.
Investigation of serum thyroid hormones, iodine and cobalt concentrations across common aquarium-housed elasmobranchs
Authors: Wheaton Catharine J. , Sullivan Kathleen E. , Bassiouny Enass , Burns Charlene M. , Smukall Matthew J. , Hendon Jill M. , Mylniczenko Natalie D.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Thyroid disease is an important condition to understand in elasmobranchs, with goiters being predominant. To identify dysfunction, measuring serum thyroid hormone levels is a standard of practice for diagnosing disease in most species. Although these levels have been reported in elasmobranch literature, the testing methodology is varied and values are not clinically useful for most aquarium species. In a group of aquarium-housed elasmobranchs, thyroid hormone levels had been persistently low or not detectable in otherwise healthy animals as well as animals with thyroid disease. The concern for reliability of these results to diagnose thyroid disease, prompted a shift to serum iodine levels as a proxy to determine thyroid health.

Methods

This study assesses thyroid hormone and iodine levels as compared to thyroid disease stage in elasmobranchs with and without dietary supplementation, to determine the efficacy of using these serum values to guide clinical decisions.

Results

Serum thyroid hormone results were lower than the readable range of the standard curve in both sharks and rays; thus reported values are usually extrapolated. Including additional standards down to the limit of sensitivity improved detection, however increasing the sample volume tested was determined to be the most important factor for obtaining measurable results in low-value thyroid hormone samples. Serum iodine levels are reported in three groups of southern stingrays (Hypanus americanus). Other elasmobranch species maintained in aquaria with and without thyroid disease were used for biological comparisons. Non-goiter, diseased animals reliably had elevated levels (over baseline) of thyroid hormones and iodine; in goiter cases, hormones were not useful. Additionally, it was found that cobalt levels were also elevated in some disease states and correlated positively with serum iodine levels.

Conclusion

Current available thyroid testing may not provide clinically useful values unless methodology is adjusted, or disease is severe. Serum iodine may be a useful marker to investigate thyroid health. Further, while thyroid disease may be identifiable with thyroid hormones, it is not straightforward or substantial enough alone for diagnosis.
Case Report: The potential association with polyglandular autoimmune syndrome in a dog following long-term oclacitinib therapy
Authors: Lee Kwang-Sup , Yoon Jun-Won , Dan Tae-Jung , Lim Sang-Min , Jeon Hee-Jung , Kang Mi-Ae , Nam Chan-Sik , Park Hee-Myung
Published: February 2025

A 12-year-old spayed female Maltese dog had been receiving oclacitinib, a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor, for 7 years to manage chronic pruritus due to atopic dermatitis. During this treatment, the dog was diagnosed with primary hypoadrenocorticism and hypothyroidism based on history, physical examination, and hormonal analysis. This case was initially suspected to be polyglandular autoimmune syndrome (PAS) based on long-term treatment of oclacitinib. To confirm the diagnosis of PAS, the presence of autoantibodies was tested. 21-hydroxylase autoantibodies (21-OHAb) were detected, but negative for thyroglobulin autoantibodies (TgAA). Considering the potential of oclacitinib to induce autoimmune diseases, we examined to identify the association of interleukin-10 (IL-10) in PAS of the dog. This case suggests a potential association between prolonged oclacitinib administration and the development of PAS in a dog. Regular hormonal monitoring and careful dose adjustments of oclacitinib during long-term therapy of atopic dermatitis are recommended to minimize the risk of autoimmune disease development. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report suggesting that PAS could be induced by oclacitinib.
Research on the Impact of the Slider on the Aerodynamic Characteristics of a Terrestrial–Aerial Spherical Robot
Authors: Huo Dongshuai , Sun Hanxu , Lan Xiaojuan , Li Minggang
Published: February 2025

This research introduces the first design concept for a ducted coaxial-rotor amphibious spherical robot (BYQ-A1), utilizing the principle of variable mass control. It investigates whether the BYQ-A1’s variable-mass slider has a certain regularity in its impact on the aerodynamic properties of the BYQ-A1. Utilizing the Blade Element Momentum Theory (BEM) and Wall Jet Theory, an aerodynamic calculation model for the BYQ-A1 is established. An orthogonal experimental method is used to conduct tests on the impact of the variable-mass slider on the aerodynamic properties of the ducted coaxial-rotor system and validate the effectiveness of the aerodynamic calculation model. The results show that the slider generates an internal ground effect and ceiling effect within the BYQ-A1 that enhance the lift of the upper and lower rotors when the robot is equipped with it. The increased total lift compensates for the additional aerodynamic drag caused by the presence of the slider. This novel finding provides guidance for the subsequent optimization design and control method research of the BYQ-A1 and also offers valuable references for configuration schemes that incorporate necessary devices between coaxial dual rotors.
Application of a Soft-Switching Adaptive Kalman Filter for Over-Range Measurements in a Low-Frequency Extension of MHD Sensors
Authors: Tong Junze , Shi Shaocen , Wang Fuchao , Tian Dapeng
Published: February 2025

The increasing demand for image quality in aerospace remote sensing has led to higher performance requirements for inertial stabilization platforms equipped with image sensors, particularly in terms of bandwidth. To achieve wide-bandwidth control in optical stabilization platforms, engineers employ magneto-hydrodynamic (MHD) sensors as key components to enhance system performance because of their wide measurement bandwidth (5–1000 Hz). While MHD sensors offer a wide-frequency response, they are limited by a narrow measuring range and low sensitivity at low frequencies, making them unsuitable as standalone sensors. To address the challenges of over-range measurement and the loss of low-frequency signals, in this study, we developed a soft-switching adaptive Kalman filter method, which enables us to dynamically adjust the fusion weights in the Kalman filter so we can obtain wide-band measurement signals even when the MHD sensor experiences over-range conditions. The proposed method was validated with fusion experiments involving a fiber-optic gyroscope and an MHD sensor; the results demonstrate its ability to expand the sensing bandwidth, regardless of the operating conditions of the MHD sensor.
A Competitive Model for Rural Agricultural Development: Insights from Family Farming in Lebrija, Santander, Colombia
Authors: Pérez Gutiérrez Pablo Andrés , Garzon Baquero Jossie Esteban , Monsalve Daniela Bellon , Hernández Buitrago Andrea Katherine , Ortiz Orduz Freddy , Garavito Hernández Youseline
Published: February 2025

Family farming is essential for rural development and food security, yet it faces persistent structural barriers. This study aimed to develop a competitive model for Peasant, Family, and Community Agriculture (PFCA) in Lebrija, Colombia, by analyzing key factors affecting productivity, profitability, and competitiveness. A mixed-methods approach was used, integrating surveys, participatory workshops, and field visits across 79 family agricultural units (FAUs). Multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) and ordinal logistic regression (OLR) identified the impact of financial exclusion, low mechanization, and dependence on intermediaries, alongside strengths such as traditional knowledge transfer, family labor, and agroecological practices. The findings reveal a paradox: while PFCA resilience supports agricultural sustainability, it may also hinder modernization. To address this, a strategic action plan was developed with six axes: governance, commercialization, financing, technology, training, and climate mitigation. This framework provides policy recommendations for financial inclusion, direct market access, and technological innovation. The study offers a replicable model for policymakers, rural development agencies, and agricultural cooperatives, supporting sustainable and competitive family farming in Colombia and similar rural economies.
Response of Wheat Genotypes Stressed by High Temperature in Terms of Yield and Protein Composition Across Diverse Environments in Australia
Authors: Bai Yunlong , Khoddami Ali , Messina Valeria , Zhang Zhao , Tan Daniel K. Y.
Published: February 2025

Global climate change poses a significant threat to wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production due to rising temperatures. This study aimed to investigate the impact of high temperatures on wheat yield, thousand kernel weight (TKW), colour, and protein composition to inform breeding strategies for heat tolerance. Two field experiments were conducted: one at three locations in Australia (Horsham, (Vic) Narrabri, (NSW) and Merredin, (W.A.)) in 2019, involving two wheat varieties (Berkut (high-heat-tolerant) and Sokoll (medium-heat-tolerant)) sown at normal (TOS1) and late (TOS2) sowing times; and a second experiment at Narrabri in 2019 and 2020, involving three wheat varieties (Cobra (heat-sensitive), Flanker (high-heat-tolerant) and Suntop (medium-heat-tolerant)) sown at normal (TOS1) and late (TOS2) sowing times. There were reductions in yield and TKW under high temperatures (p < 0.05), particularly in late sowing conditions. The glutenin/gliadin ratio decreased, affecting dough strength and elasticity, especially at Merredin. Heat-tolerant varieties like Flanker and Suntop maintained protein quality, with an increase in the glutenin/gliadin ratio, under high temperature. These findings highlight the necessity for breeding heat-tolerant wheat varieties that can sustain both yield and quality. Future research should focus on genetic traits for heat tolerance, advanced molecular techniques, and interdisciplinary approaches to ensure sustainable wheat production in a changing climate.
Evaluation of Genotype × Environment Interactions in Quinoa Genotypes (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.)
Authors: Souri Laki Ebrahim , Rabiei Babak , Jokarfard Vahid , Shahbazi Miyangaskari Mahboubeh , Marashi Hassan , Börner Andreas
Published: February 2025

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.), as one of the quasi-cereal crop plants with high nutritional value and yield potential, especially in stressful environments, has recently been proposed as a suitable alternative plant for sustainable nutrition of the world’s growing population. In Iran, this plant has been considered as a valuable crop for several years, but since quinoa is native to the South American region, therefore, while assessing the compatibility of different imported cultivars, it is necessary to introduce stable high-yielding cultivars for different regions of the country. The objective of the current study was to investigate the GEI and the adaptability and stability of grain yield of 20 Bolivian and Peruvian quinoa genotypes. The experiment layout was a randomized complete block design with three replications in Kuhdasht and Poldokhtar counties, Lorestan province, Iran, during two cropping years, 2020 and 2021. To evaluate the stability of genotypes, the methods of Roemer’s environmental variance, Francis and Kannenberg’s coefficient of variation, Shukla’s stability variance, Wricke’s equivalence, the regression coefficient of Finlay and Wilkinson, the deviation from regression line of Eberhart and Russell, the intra-location variance of Lin and Binns and the GGE-Biplot were used. The results of combined analysis of variance showed a significant difference between genotypes and environments as well as the genotype × environment interaction at 1% probability level. The results of stability analysis of the genotypes using different methods were also very different, but in total, using all studied stability criteria along with grain yield, four genotypes 7, 10, 14, and 15 were identified as the most stable and productive genotypes. In addition to low-yield fluctuations and mean grain yield of more than 3000 kg.ha−1, these genotypes had other suitable characteristics such as dwarfism, early maturity and low saponin content, and are introduced as the superior genotypes of this experiment for cultivation in the studied areas.