bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of the gibberellic oxidase gene SdGA20ox1 in Sophora davidii (Franch.) skeels and interaction protein screening
Authors: Zhao Lili , Xie Wenhui , Huang Lei , Long Sisi , Wang Puchang
Published: October 2024

Gibberellin 20-oxidases (GA20oxs) are multifunctional enzymes involved in regulating gibberellin (GA) biosynthesis and controlling plant growth. We identified and characterized the GA20ox1 gene in a plant height mutant of Sophora davidii, referred to as SdGA20ox1. This gene was expressed in root, stem, and leaf tissues of the adult S. davidii plant height mutant, with the highest expression observed in the stem. The expression of SdGA20ox1 was regulated by various exogenous hormones. Overexpression of SdGA20ox1 in Arabidopsis resulted in significant elongation of hypocotyl and root length in seedlings, earlier flowering, smaller leaves, reduced leaf chlorophyll content, lighter leaf color, a significant increase in adult plant height, and other phenotypes. Additionally, transgenic plants exhibited a substantial increase in biologically active endogenous GAs (GA1, GA3, and GA4) content, indicating that overexpression of SdGA20ox1 accelerates plant growth and development. Using a yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) screen, we identified two SdGA20ox1-interacting proteins: the ethylene receptor EIN4 (11430582) and the rbcS (11416005) protein. These interactions suggest a potential regulatory mechanism for S. davidii growth. Our findings provide new insights into the role of SdGA20ox1 and its interacting proteins in regulating the growth and development of S. davidii.
Characterization of morphological and chemical changes using atomic force microscopy and metabolism assays: the relationship between surface wax and skin greasiness in apple fruit
Authors: Yang Yanqing , Xie Xiucui , Huang Rong , Yan Kemeng , Wang Mengdi , Liu Wenjing , Zeng Xiangquan , Ren Xiaolin , Gong Hansheng
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Skin greasiness occurred on stored apples (Malus domestica Borkh.) is generally believed to result from changes in surface wax components. Previous reports have typically correlated wax changes with greasiness scores to reveal the contributing wax components. A notable limitation of this approach is that greasiness scores are highly subjective and influenced by individual perception.

Methods

This study aimed to assess skin quality by quantitatively analyzing wax morphology changes in greasy ‘Jonagold’ apples using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) roughness parameters Ra, Rq, Rmax, and Rz, and to correlate these changes with wax composition.

Results

AFM results revealed that wax crystals disappeared as skin greasiness increased, accompanied by significant declines in roughness parameters Ra, Rq, Rmax, and Rz, which decreased by 70% to 85%. Chemical analysis showed a significant increase in liquid esters, including linoleate and oleate esters, in the surface waxes, which negatively correlated with the decline in roughness parameters. Key genes related to ester production, such as MdFAD2, MdWSD1, and MdWBC11, exhibited increased expression and were also negatively correlated with decreases in Rq, Ra and Rz. Additionally, 1-Methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) treatment suppressed both the development of greasiness and the associated changes.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that the increased liquid esters contribute to alternations in wax morphology in greasy apples, and that MdFAD2, MdWSD1, and MdWBC11, play crucial roles in ester biosynthesis. These results highlight the effectiveness of AFM roughness parameters Ra, Rq, Rmax, and Rz in quantifying wax morphology changes in apples during skin greasiness development.
Meditation and interoception: a conceptual framework for the narrative and experiential self
Authors: Gibson Jonathan Earl
Published: October 2024

The concept of the self is complex and there is no consensus on what the self is. However, there are emerging patterns in the literature that point to two different selves, the narrative and experiential self. The narrative self refers to a conceptual or representational knowledge of the self that extends across time and manifests in self-reflection and personality assessments. The experiential self refers to first-person perception, moment-to-moment awareness, embodiment, and a sense of agency. These two selves are reliably linked to two distinct neural circuits, the default mode network (DMN) and the insula and salience network (SN). One of the consistent themes in the meditative and mindfulness literature is a change in the perspective of the self. In this paper, I will review how meditation alters those neural circuits providing a plausible mechanism that can explain the changes in the self. I also propose a rudimentary conceptual framework to account for some of the mixed results found throughout meditation literature.
Prospective memory in the developmental age: a systematic review to synthesize the evaluation tools and the main cognitive functions involved
Authors: Guzzardi Mariarosaria , Menghini Deny , Costanzo Floriana , Vicari Stefano , Foti Francesca
Published: October 2024

Prospective memory (PM) is the ability to remember and realize one’s intentions in the future; therefore, it is crucial for the daily functioning of children and adolescents and their ability to become independent from caregivers. PM errors can have repercussions during childhood, such as influencing school performance and social relationships. The aim of this systematic review was to synthesize studies analysing PM in children and adolescents (age range: 0–16 years) following PRISMA guidelines. The goal was to outline the most commonly used tasks, offering information on the development of PM, and—through a detailed analysis of the assessment of specific cognitive processes carried out in the primary studies included—providing information on the main cognitive processes involved in PM within this age group. Forty-nine studies were selected that examined PM in children and adolescents with typical development. The studies used many different tasks that can be traced back to eleven different main paradigms to evaluate PM, each structured into a PM and an ongoing task. Older children performed better on PM targets than younger children, suggesting a developmental trajectory of PM that follows a J-shaped function. Children as young as 2 years old exhibited the first signs of PM, while adolescents performed similarly to adults on PM tasks. Several factors are involved in PM development: retrospective memory, executive functions (planning, working memory, inhibitory control, monitoring), attention, metamemory, and motivation. This review May be considered a starting point to summarize the most used tools to evaluate PM in children and adolescents, and to shed light on the primary cognitive functions involved in PM, potentially offering indications to researchers in selecting optimal tasks for measuring PM across different age groups. Additionally, it underscores the importance of developing standardized measures for potential clinical applications.
How life circumstances during public health crises affect people to share and correct misinformation: a perspective of the third-person effect
Authors: Tian Xiang
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Misinformation spreading on social media often parallels public crises, such as the outbreak of COVID-19, because people’s behaviors regarding misinformation may be influenced by their typical life circumstances. With the increasing severity of living conditions, misinformation is believed to spread more widely, while corrective behaviors tend to decrease. Furthermore, social comparison also affects the perception of life circumstances and subsequent behaviors. Taking Shanghai’s COVID-19 lockdown as an example, this study examined whether two representative factors—the duration of the lockdown and the satisfaction with relief measures—affected people’s tendency to share and correct misinformation. By employing the third-person effect (TPE) theory, the underlying mechanisms of social comparison were also explored.

Methods

An online survey was conducted in April 2022, when the Zero-COVID policy was implemented in Shanghai. In addition to questions about life circumstances, a third-person perception scale, a behaviors of sharing misinformation scale, and a behaviors of correcting misinformation scale were included in the survey. Finally, 7,962 valid responses were collected.

Results

It was found that both behaviors—sharing and correcting misinformation—were affected by life circumstances but in different ways. The evidence also supported the existence of third-person perception (TPP). It was observed that the relationship between satisfaction with relief measures and sharing behavior was mediated by Third-Person Perception.

Conclusion

This study reveals that the proliferation of misinformation during crises is related to the deterioration of people’s perception of life circumstances. Social comparison often plays a significant role, as was reflected by the TPE.
Associations between Sjogren syndrome and psychiatric disorders in European populations: a 2-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Pan Lingai , Zhou Guangpeng , Wei Guocui , Zhao Qian , Wang Yanping , Chen Qianlan , Xiao Qing , Song Yujie , Liang Xiangui , Zou Zhili , Li Xiuxia , Xiong Xuan
Published: October 2024

Background

Psychiatric disorders, such as major depressive disorder (MDD), anxiety disorder (AD), bipolar disorder (BD), and schizophrenia (SCZ), are disturbances in brain activity that lead to disorders of cognition, behavior, and emotion regulation. Among Sjogren syndrome (SS) patients, psychiatric disorders are more prevalent than in the general population. Identifying associated risk factors can provide new evidence for clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Methods

We selected genetic instruments based on published genome-wide association studies (GWASs) to determine predisposition. Then, we conducted a 2-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to explore the potential causal associations between SS and four major psychiatric disorders. The primary analysis was performed using MR with the inverse-variance weighted method. Confirmation was achieved through Steiger filtering and testing to determine the causal direction. Sensitivity analyses were conducted using MR-Egger, MR-PRESSO, and “leave-one-out” method methods.

Results

Our study showed that SS was linked to BD and SCZ, indicating that individuals with SS may have a reduced risk of developing BD (IVW: OR = 0.940, P=0.014) and SCZ (IVW: OR = 0.854, P=1.47*10-4), while there was no causal relationship between SS and MDD or AD. MR−Egger regression shows no evidence of pleiotropy (BD: intercept = 0.007, p = 0.774; SCZ: intercept = 0.051, p = 0.209). The same as the MR-PRESSO analysis (BD: global test p = 1.000; SCZ: global test p = 0.160). However, the results from the leave-one-out analysis demonstrated instability. Specifically, after excluding SNP rs3117581, the effects on BD and SCZ were found to be non-significant, suggesting the potential influence of unrecognized confounding factors. The results of the reverse MR show that four major psychiatric disorders had no causal effects on SS.

Conclusions

Our research findings demonstrate a causal relationship between SS and SCZ, as well as between SS and BD. There are no causal effects between the four major psychiatric disorders and SS. These findings suggest that SS may have the potential to reduce the risk of both psychiatric disorders. This study provides new insight for their prevention and treatment.
Training an infectious disease unit in palliative care during and post COVID-19: a qualitative longitudinal study
Authors: Alquati Sara , Artioli Giovanna , Martucci Gianfranco , Tanzi Silvia
Published: October 2024

Background

To understand palliative care needs and their changes perceived by health professionals (HPs) of the Infectious Diseases Unit who participated in palliative care (PC) intensive training during the pandemic and behind/during the pandemic and one year after the outbreak.

Methods

A longitudinal qualitative study. Thematic analysis and meaning shift were two months after training to one year. This specific thematic approach enabled the researchers to fully understand the experiences of the HPs after they participated in the intensive PC training program during the pandemic. Participant validation meeting with the ward’s staff one year after the end of the course was performed. The two last validation meetings were used as a triangulation source to plan the new education projects.

Results

From March 9 to 28, 2020, the Palliative Care Services (PCS) developed intensive experiential training. Thirty-one HPs of the Infectious Diseases Unit (physicians and nurses) who were facing the COVID-19 emergency participated in the training. We conducted eight semi-structured interviews with HPs who participated in intensive training during the first wave of the pandemic (T0), two months (T1) after training and after one year (T2), during the second wave. Two validation meetings were performed as suggested by the best practices in medical education. Twenty-two infectious disease staff members participated, 8 physicians and 14 nurses. Our data show a meaning shift on five overarching themes (defined within the sub-themes): (1) Recognizing patients’ palliative care needs; (2) Responses to palliative care needs; (3) Increasing attention to intervention and care choices; (4) The suffering of health professionals; (5) Training evaluations and future expectations. At the end of Pandemic period, new training needs and acquisition have emerged. Palliative care needs changed over time: the COVID-19 themes are now far from their perception, and somehow the skills acquired during the intensive training are less present.

Conclusion

The pandemic led to a rapid acquisition of competencies and changes in the professionals’ behaviors, maintenance of professionals’ knowledge and competencies at two months and one year. COVID has improved relationships and increased interactions with the infectious world but that it has not been enough. The integration between PC and Infectious world needs models of integration to implement.
Spatial characteristics of health outcomes and geographical detection of its influencing factors in Beijing
Authors: Cheng Jiu , Cui Yueying , Wang Xi , Wang Yifei , Feng Ruihua
Published: October 2024

Background and objective

Social determinants of health (SDOH) broadly influence health levels. Research on health and its influencing factors can help improve health status. There is limited research on the spatial stratified heterogeneity of health status and the interactions between the factors influencing it. This study aimed to analyze the spatial characteristics of health outcomes in Beijing and identify its influencing factors.

Methods

Based on the Healthy Beijing Initiative (2020–2030), we constructed health outcomes and five dimensions of the SDOH evaluation system. Our study measured the health outcomes and SDOH based on the latest data from 16 districts in Beijing in 2020–2022. We explored the spatial characteristics of health outcomes through descriptive and spatial autocorrelation analyses. Moreover, the Geographical Detector (GeoDetector) technique has been used to reveal the effect of SDOH and its interactions on health outcomes.

Results

A significant spatial stratified heterogeneity of health outcomes was observed, with the health outcomes mainly exhibiting two clustering types (high–high and low–low) with positive autocorrelation. The results of the geodetector showed that social and economic factors (q = 0.85), healthy lifestyle (q = 0.68) and health service (q = 0.53) could mainly explain the heterogeneity of health outcomes. Social and economic factors, healthy lifestyle and healthy environment gradually became the main influential factor in health outcomes over time. Furthermore, the interaction of any two factors on health outcomes was found to be more pronounced than the impact of a single factor.

Conclusion

There existed obvious spatial stratified heterogeneity of health outcomes in Beijing, which could be primarily explained by social and economic factors, and healthy lifestyle and health service.
Developmental profile of Filipino children born during the SARS-COV-2 pandemic: pilot study
Authors: Dy Angel Belle C. , Edillon Michelle Alexandra , Malonzo Mikhaela Francesca Marietta A. , Garcia Glenda Darlene , Dy Alane Blythe C. , Espiritu Clarisse Joyce S. , Aquino Ma. Bianca Carmela , So Shannen Louise T. , Capulong Nina Linly D. , Dagal Rizza Victoria C. , Sumpaico Tanchanco Lourdes Bernadette
Published: October 2024

Objective

The Philippines experienced one of the longest restriction periods during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to provide a developmental profile of 18–25 month-old children and identify factors associated with their development during their early years being born and raised during the pandemic.

Methods

The study population was recruited through convenience sampling among families living in proximity to the daycare centers in Cainta, Rizal, Philippines. 116 children qualified to participate and underwent developmental screening using the Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Checklist and their parents were interviewed related to demographic and social factors.

Results

The mean score of the children’s Overall Development is 106.47 (SD = 13.43) indicating that children’s skills were within the expected range of 80–119. Girls had significantly higher mean scores compared to boys [MGirl = 111.23, SDGirl = 9.95 vs. MBoy = 101.18, SDBoy = 14.83 t(114) = −4.32 p < 0.001]. Mean scores were highest among children whose mothers completed a high school education (MHigh School = 107.76, SDHighSchool = 12.47) compared to those who have some or have completed an elementary education (MSomeElem = 72.50, SDSomeElem = 6.36 and MElem = 103.58, SDElem = 13.86 respectively) [F(2, 113) = 8.18, p < 0.001]. Unadjusted linear regression shows a modest increase in mean scores as the number of household members increased [ꞵ = 0.86, (CI: 0.02, 1.70), t-score (1, 113) = 2.03, p = 0.045].

Conclusion

The developmental skills of 18–25 month-old children born and raised during the COVID-19 pandemic in an urban municipality in the Philippines are within average scores. Both hindering and protective demographic factors were identified as associated with the children’s developmental evaluation scores. It is important to acknowledge these factors and continue monitoring the children’s development and address needs among children who may need further support.
Exploring past research to move forward: a scoping review of aims, outcomes, and recommendations in parental mental illness qualitative research
Authors: Piché Geneviève , Davidson Gavin , Dunkley-Smith Addy , Grant Anne , Yates Scott , Maybery Darryl
Published: October 2024

Introduction

As parental mental illness is a global public health concern, rigorous qualitative research is central to understanding families' experiences, needs and outcomes to inform optimal service provision in adult mental health and children's social services.

Methods

The current review identified, appraised and synthesized international qualitative research exploring Families and Parent Mental Illness (FaPMI) research to determine the focus, findings and outcomes and to summarize the recommendations made about the direction of future research. Findings are classified according to outcomes for children, parents, and families.

Results

While some children experienced positive outcomes from a parent's illness, most faced impacts on their social-emotional wellbeing, school performance, increased caregiving responsibilities, strained parent relationships, and lack of understanding about parental mental illness. Some family members endured abuse and struggled to adapt to an ill parent's unpredictable needs, with reluctance to discuss the situation. Parents found parenting challenging yet viewed having children as a protective factor. Future research should gather diverse perspectives, explore within-family factors and social environments, develop and test interventions, and address methodological issues like sampling.

Discussion

This review highlights the centrality of qualitative data in comprehensively understanding and evaluating outcomes of parental mental illness on families and provides clear recommendations regarding future research.
The unique and synergistic effects of social isolation and loneliness on 20-years mortality risks in older men and women
Authors: Aartsen Marja , Vangen Hanna , Pavlidis George , Hansen Thomas , Precupetu Iuliana
Published: October 2024

Introduction

This study investigates the individual and combined impacts of loneliness and social isolation on 20-year mortality risks among older men and women.

Methods

Utilizing data from the Norwegian Life Course, Ageing, and Generation study (NorLAG) carried out in 2002, 2007 and 2017, we assessed loneliness via direct and indirect questions, and social isolation through factors like partnership status and contact frequency with family and friends. Yearly information on mortality was derived from the national registries and was available until November 2022. Gender-stratified Cox regression models adjusted for age and other risk factors were employed.

Results

Of the 11,028 unique respondents, 9,952 participants were included in the study sample, 1,008 (19.8%) women and 1,295 (26.6%) men died. In the fully adjusted models including indirectly assessed loneliness, social isolation increased the 20-year mortality risk by 16% (HR = 1.16, 95% CI 1.09–1.24) for women and 15% (HR = 1.15, 95% CI 1.09–1.21) for men. This effect was primarily driven by the absence of a partner and little contact with children for both genders. Loneliness measured with indirect questions lost its significant association with mortality after adjusting for social isolation and other factors in both genders. However, for men, reporting loneliness via a direct question was associated with a higher mortality risk, even in the fully controlled models (HR = 1.20, 96% CI 1.06–1.36). Interactions between loneliness and social isolation were not, or only borderline significantly, associated with mortality risks in the fully controlled models.

Discussion

Social isolation, but not loneliness measured with indirect questions are associated with a 15–16% higher mortality risk in both men and women. However, loneliness assessed with a direct question is associated with increased mortality in men, even after controlling for social isolation and other relevant factors, which might suggest that men may deny loneliness, unless it is (very) severe. These findings emphasize the importance of methodological precision in the measurement of loneliness and social isolation.
Is implementation science a science? Not yet
Authors: Fixsen Dean L. , Van Dyke Melissa K. , Blase Karen A.
Published: October 2024

Getting the science right for implementation is critical for making the processes for improving outcomes more predictable and effective in global public health. Unfortunately, “implementation science” has become a catchphrase for ideas, assumptions, and findings concerning the science to service gap and how to close it. The purpose of this paper is to explore the dimensions of a “science of implementation” that meets the definitions of a science and is focused on implementation variables (i.e., purposeful processes to put innovations into effect so that intended benefits can be realized). A science of implementation is important for accomplishing the goals related to improving the health and well-being of populations around the world. Much of public health involves interaction-based interventions. In a typology of science, interaction-based interventions are created by specifying the nature of certain exchanges between and among individual people or groups. The complexity of developing interaction-based independent variables requires meeting benchmarks for fidelity to assure the presence and strength of implementation independent variables. The paper presents information related to the following tenets: (1) A science of implementation is based on if-then predictions. Science is cumulative. As predictions are made, tested, and elaborated, the facts accumulate to form the knowledge base for science and practice. (2) Implementation variables are interaction-based inventions and, therefore, must be created and established so the specific set of activities related to implementation can be studied. (3) A science of implementation is based on theory that organizes facts, leads to testable predictions, and is modified or discarded based on outcomes. (4) A science of interaction-based implementation depends on frequent measures of independent and dependent variables specific to implementation methods and outcomes. Two examples illustrate the implications for theory, research, and practice. The paper advocates a paradigm shift to a new mental model that values fidelity over tailoring, has one size fits all as a goal, and is concerned with the function of evidence rather than the form of evidence based on RCTs. Global health fundamentally requires scaling implementation capacity so that effective innovations can be used as intended and with good effect to achieve population benefits.
The impact of bullying cognition on school bullying among Chinese primary school students: a moderated mediation model of resilience and sex
Authors: Fei Liping , Li Tianwen , Li Yongli , Liao Maoxu , Li Xin , Chen Yiting , Zhang Rong
Published: October 2024

Background

Previous studies have shown the positive effects of bullying cognition on school bullying behavior among young people, but the mechanism underlying this association remains unclear.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study with 5,903 primary school students in grades 3–5 in Luzhou city. Hayes’ PROCESS macro was used to test the mediating effect of psychological resilience and the moderating effect of sex on the relationship between bullying cognition and school bullying after controlling for grade.

Results

Psychological resilience partially mediated the relationship between school bullying cognition and victimization (β = −0.0174, 95% CI: −0.0219 to −0.0132) and between perpetration (β = −0.0079, 95% CI: −0.0104 to −0.0055). This study revealed that sex moderated the relationship between school bullying cognition and perpetration (β = 0.0383, p < 0.001) and victimization behavior (β = 0.0400, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that it is crucial for education regulators, schools, and families to cultivate students’ school bullying cognitions and psychological resilience, which may help to decrease the prevalence of school bullying. Especially for boys, improving their bullying cognition may largely decrease its perpetration.
Orthodontic management of severe inversely impacted maxillary central incisors: a case series
Authors: Maruya Yuriko , Hino Ryoko , Tadano Manami , Hoshikawa Seira , Otake Shinji , Chiba Yuta , Saito Kan
Published: October 2024

Background

Abnormal positioning and dislocation of the central incisor can disturb tooth eruption. Generally, inversely impacted maxillary central incisors do not erupt naturally. Performing traction and applied extrusion of an inversely impacted maxillary central incisor with a high inclination angle of the crown is challenging. This study aimed to examine the possibility of orthodontic treatment for severely inversely impacted maxillary central incisors in a series of case studies.

Methods

The inclination angle of the tooth crown, curvature of the tooth root, and length of the formed tooth root were measured using radiography. The teeth were then fenestrated and traction was applied using a lingual arch appliance with elastics.

Results

The average crown axis inclination was 113°, the degree of root curvature was 97.3°, and the root formation was 36.1%. Although the crown axis inclination and root curvature were severe, all the incisors were aligned in the correct position as vital teeth through surgical and orthodontic treatments.

Conclusions

Traction should be performed in the early period of incisor development when root formation is not progressing, regardless of the tooth angle.
Quilombola women from Jequitinhonha (Minas Gerais, Brazil) and access to water and sanitation in the context of COVID-19: a matter of human rights
Authors: Neves-Silva Priscila , Schall Brunah , Gonçalvez Flora Rodrigues , Alves Estela Macedo , dos Santos Sebastiana Rodrigues , Valente Polyana Aparecida , Pimenta Denise Nacif , Heller Léo
Published: October 2024

Introduction

In Brazil there are currently 3,475 certified quilombo communities, reminiscent of Black communities founded by African enslaved people. In the Jequitinhonha Valley, a semi-arid region located in northeastern Minas Gerais State, Brazil, there are approximately 80 established communities, mostly in hard-to-reach areas with lack of access to water and sanitation services.

Methods

Using the analytical framework of Human Rights to Water and Sanitation (HRWS) and with a gender perspective, this research aimed to analyze how access to water and sanitation occurs in two remaining communities of quilombos (Córrego do Narciso and Córrego do Rocha) located in the Jequitinhonha Valley and how lack of access to these services impacts the health and lifestyle of the population, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study used qualitative methods. Data was collected using individual interviews and focus groups. The data was analyzed using content analyses technique.

Results

The results showed that access to water and sanitation in both communities did not respect the HRWS normative content and the lack of access impacted the lifestyle—the economic, cultural and social traditional activities-and the health of the population, especially for women. During COVID-9 pandemic access to water became even more difficult because the supply by water truck was discontinued producing more insecurity as people in the communities, especially women, needed to go to the city to buy water and food and could not keep isolation.

Discussion

Public policies on access to water for rural populations, especially quilombolas, if guided by the HRWS framework and interwoven with the gender perspective, could ensure guaranteed quality of life for women and can strength their entitlements within their territories.
The gender achievement gap in grades and standardised tests—what accounts for gender inequality?
Authors: Lehti Hannu , Laaninen Markus
Published: October 2024

We studied the gender achievement gap in grades and standardised test scores in Finland, where the gender differences are largest among OECD countries. We compared the gender achievement gap in standardised test scores from PISA surveys and grades from high-quality school registers in literacy. Furthermore, we analysed how grades differ from standardised test scores by family background and students’ SES composition of the schools. By using the Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition method, we explored how different characteristics between girls and boys explain gender differences in grading. Our findings indicate that boys’ grades were lower than can be expected based on standardised test scores. The gender gap in grades was explained by boys’ lower reading interests, effort put into schoolwork, and conscientiousness on homework. However, even adjusting for schooling characteristics and competence, boys have lower grades than test scores in schools that have low SES student composition.
Case Report: Custom made 3D implants for glenoid tumor reconstruction should be designed as reverse total shoulder arthroplasty
Authors: Evrard Robin , Ledoux Antoine , Docquier Pierre-Louis , Geenens Florine , Schubert Thomas
Published: October 2024

Background and objectives

Isolated bone tumors of the glenoid are exceedingly rare occurrence and pose a substantial surgical challenge. 3D printing technology has been proved to be a reliable tool to reconstruct complex anatomical part of the skeleton. We initially used this technology to reconstruct the glenoid component of the shoulder in a hemiarthroplasty configuration. We subsequently changed to a reverse shoulder arthroplasty.

Methods

Two patients were reconstructed with a hemiarthroplasty and 2 with a reverse configuration. Patients files were reviewed for radiographic analysis, pain and function scores.

Results

Mean follow-up was 36.44 ± 16.27 months. All patients are alive and disease free. The two patients who benefitted from a hemiarthroplasty demonstrated a rapid deterioration of the proximal humeral articular surface. Given their pain and function scores, they subsequently required revision towards a total shoulder arthroplasty. Following this conversion, one patient presented a shoulder dislocation requiring surgical reintervention. We did not observe any loosening or infection in this short series.

Conclusions

Custom made glenoid reconstruction should be designed as a reverse shoulder arthroplasty given the mechanical constrains on the proximal humerus and the extent of the surgery invariably damaging the suprascapular neurovascular bundle.
Progression of cyclosporine A-blood levels in experimental cats receiving a high-dose treatment protocol
Authors: Rösch Sarah , Frommeyer Anna , Schulte Bocholt Jenny , Grote-Koska Denis , Brand Korbinian , Mischke Reinhard
Published: October 2024

Background

Cyclosporine A (CsA) is used as a steroid-sparing or alternative immunosuppressing agent in cats with various immune-mediated diseases such as immune-mediated hemolytic anemia. Daily treatment dosages of 5–20 mg/kg have been described. Interindividual variations in CsA blood levels are known to occur. To determine when steady-state conditions are reached and thus the earliest advisable time for monitoring CsA blood levels during the course of treatment, a prospective experimental study was conducted in six healthy adult Domestic Shorthair cats.

Materials and methods

Cats were treated with an oral dosage of 7 mg/kg CsA q 12 h for 10 days. On days 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, and 10 after the start of CsA administration (i.e., after 1, 3, 5, 9, 13, and 19 CsA administrations), EDTA blood was collected to measure the CsA level 12 h after the CsA administration (trough values) using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS).

Results

Statistical analysis revealed a significant increase in mean CsA blood levels up to day 5 (2,050 ± 964.2 ng/mL [mean ± SD], 832–3,203 ng/mL [minimum–maximum]; repeated-measures ANOVA: p = 0.0021), while values on days 5 and 7 did not differ significantly from CsA concentrations on day 10. CsA concentrations showed markedly interindividual variability.

Conclusion

Cyclosporine A blood levels reached a steady state on day 5 of high dosages of CsA q 12 h (i.e., after nine CsA administrations), indicating that this time point is suitable for monitoring blood levels in clinical patients. Results confirmed the well-known remarkable interindividual variability of CsA, indicating the need for treatment monitoring. The assessed treatment regime resulted in significantly higher mean CsA trough levels than the target range for immunosuppressive therapy (200–600 ng/mL).
Methods of behavioral testing in dogs: a scoping review and analysis of test stimuli
Authors: Moser Ariella Y. , Welch Mitchell , Brown Wendy Y. , McGreevy Paul , Bennett Pauleen C.
Published: October 2024

Background

Behavioral testing is widely used to measure individual differences in behavior and cognition among dogs and predict underlying psychological traits. However, the diverse applications, methodological variability, and lack of standardization in canine behavioral testing has posed challenges for researchers and practitioners seeking to use these tests. To address these complexities, this review sought to synthesize and describe behavioral testing methods by creating a framework that uses a “dog-centric” perspective to categorize the test stimuli used to elicit responses from dogs.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted to identify scientific literature that has reported behavioral testing to assess psychological traits in dogs. Five online databases were systematically searched. Following this, an inductive content analysis was conducted to evaluate and summarize the behavioral testing methods in the literature.

Results

A total of 392 publications met the selection criteria and were included in the analysis, collectively reporting 2,362 behavioral tests. These tests were individually evaluated and categorized. Our content analysis distinguished 29 subcategories of behavioral testing stimuli that have been used, grouped into three major categories: human-oriented stimuli; environmental stimuli; and motivator-oriented stimuli.

Conclusion

Despite the methodological heterogeneity observed across behavioral testing methods, our study identified commonalities in many of the stimuli used in test protocols. The resulting framework provides a practical overview of published behavioral tests and their applications, which may assist researchers in selecting and designing appropriate tests for their purposes.
Phenotypic characterization and quality of life of Labradoodles with idiopathic epilepsy and epilepsy of unknown cause
Authors: Mandigers Paul J. J. , Meijs Simone E. , Plonek Marta , Santifort Koen M. , Diaz Espineira M. Montserrat
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Idiopathic epilepsy (IE) is a common chronic neurological disorder in dogs. Breed specific knowledge on semiology, age of onset (AoO), seizure frequency, response to treatment, and Quality of Life (QoL) scores for both dog and owner are important. The Labradoodle is originally a cross between the Labrador Retriever and Standard Poodle. The aim of this study was to describe in detail the epilepsy, that is recognized in this designer breed.

Method

An online survey was distributed through several platforms to owners of Labradoodles. Only Labradoodles, either registered as such or bred as a Labradoodle were included. To classify the Labradoodles in a TIER level of confidence the criteria of the International Veterinary Task Force were used.

Results

Forty labradoodles were included. Thirty-three Labradoodles were classified as IE or suspected IE cases and appeared to have an AoO of 2.3 ± 1.3 years, and a seizure frequency of 5.4 ± 6.5 seizures/year (range 0–25). Seven dogs were classified as EUC, two dogs started before 6 months of age, and five dogs had their first seizures at 8.4 ± 1.2 years of age. The seizure frequency for all EUC dogs was 5.0 ± 3.0 seizures/year (range 0–11). Stress, for both the (suspected) IE and EUC cases, was the most frequently reported seizure precipitating factor (95% of the dogs). AoO and seizure frequency did not seem to be influenced by type of housing, type of owner, or the dog’s character as interpreted by the owner. Cluster seizures (CS) were seen in 33% and status epilepticus (SE) in 10% of the included Labradoodles. Many dogs did not need treatment (38%) or only one anti-seizure medication (43%), in which case they tended to respond favorably to treatment. QoL scores were high for both dog (8.3 ± 1.8) and owner (7.3 ± 2.2).

Discussion

Compared to the progenitor breeds, epilepsy of Labradoodles is phenotypically like that of the Standard Poodle, except for the existence CS and SE in the Labradoodle. The epilepsy seen in this designer breed has a favorable outcome compared to several other breeds.
Inertial measurement unit technology for gait detection: a comprehensive evaluation of gait traits in two Italian horse breeds
Authors: Asti Vittoria , Ablondi Michela , Molle Arnaud , Zanotti Andrea , Vasini Matteo , Sabbioni Alberto
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The shift of the horse breeding sector from agricultural to leisure and sports purposes led to a decrease in local breeds’ population size due to the loss of their original breeding purposes. Most of the Italian breeds must adapt to modern market demands, and gait traits are suitable phenotypes to help this process. Inertial measurement unit (IMU) technology can be used to objectively assess them. This work aims to investigate on IMU recorded data (i) the influence of environmental factors and biometric measurements, (ii) their repeatability, (iii) the correlation with judge evaluations, and (iv) their predictive value.

Material and methods

The Equisense Motion S® was used to collect phenotypes on 135 horses, Bardigiano (101) and Murgese (34) and the data analysis was conducted using R (v.4.1.2). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was employed to assess the effects of biometric measurements and environmental and animal factors on the traits.

Results and discussion

Variations in several traits depending on the breed were identified, highlighting different abilities among Bardigiano and Murgese horses. Repeatability of horse performance was assessed on a subset of horses, with regularity and elevation at walk being the traits with the highest repeatability (0.63 and 0.72). The positive correlation between judge evaluations and sensor data indicates judges’ ability to evaluate overall gait quality. Three different algorithms were employed to predict the judges score from the IMU measurements: Support Vector Machine (SVM), Gradient Boosting Machine (GBM), and K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN). A high variability was observed in the accuracy of the SVM model, ranging from 55 to 100% while the other two models showed higher consistency, with accuracy ranging from 74 to 100% for the GBM and from 64 to 88% for the KNN. Overall, the GBM model exhibits the highest accuracy and the lowest error. In conclusion, integrating IMU technology into horse performance evaluation offers valuable insights, with implications for breeding and training.
A Tribute to Jaume Porta Casanellas and His Influence on Soil Science
Authors: Alcañiz Josep M. , Aran Miquel , Boixadera Jaume , García-Calderón Norma E. , García-Rodeja Eduardo , Martínez-Casasnovas José A. , Ortiz-Bernad Irene , Poch Rosa M. , Villar Josep M.
Published: October 2024

This article provides personal and professional assessments from disciples, colleagues and friends of Jaume Porta Casanellas (Barcelona, 1944; Lleida, 2023), a prominent soil scientist. He began his agricultural engineering studies at the Polytechnic University of Madrid (UPM) where he met Marta López-Acevedo, his wife and outstanding collaborator. At UPM, he started his early work in soil science under the guidance of Professor Carlos Roquero who became his mentor and friend. Jaume Porta was a dedicated, passionate soil scientist who engaged extensively in teaching and research in Soil Science, while also excelling as a manager. He emerged as a leader due to his initiatives in promoting Soil Science in Catalonia and Spain, and for his forward-thinking vision, evident in his decisions as Rector of the University of Lleida, which have significantly contributed to the city’s development. From the beginning, he advocated for detailed (1:25,000) soil mapping of Catalonia to enhance territorial planning and agricultural progress. His primary research focus was on salt-affected soils and soils with gypsum, alongside soil erosion and conservation. Porta devoted a lot of effort to improve soil field descriptions with his Agenda de campo. He played a key role in standardizing soil analytical methods, establishing large series laboratories in Spain, notably the LAF in Sidamon (Lleida), and aligning Spanish soil labs with the international GLOSOLAN network. As president of the SECS, he energized activities and encouraged member participation. His educational publications, mainly his comprehensive textbook Edafología, are considered fundamental in Soil Science across Spanish-speaking countries, as is the Multilingual Dictionary of Soil Science, representing the pinnacle of his efforts to rigorously disseminate soil science concepts and terms in Spanish, Catalan, Galician, and Portuguese. He contributed significantly to international Soil Science courses in Mexico and played a key role in establishing the JADE postgraduate training program. He facilitated the creation and international visibility of the Spanish Journal of Soil Science. Additionally, he advocated for the establishment of the Soil Sciences Documentation Centre (Ce.SECS) to preserve historical publications and the legacy of soil scientists. Jaume Porta’s enduring impact, both professionally and personally, will be felt for years to come.
Description of the package of excursion services for children and youth in the Tambov region
Authors:   RUDN University, Moscow, Balandina A. A. , Kolotova E. V. ,   RUDN University, Moscow
Published: October 2024

The article presents the actual characteristics of children’s excursion services offered on the territory of the Tambov region. The conclusion of the study was the proposal of several options for expanding excursion programs in the region for children and teenagers.
Analysis of the prospects for the development of organic pig farming in Russia
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «Russian State Agrarian University — Moscow State Agricultural Academy named after K. A. Timiryazev», Moscow, Russia, Kagirova M. V. , Ibragimov A. G. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «Russian State Agrarian University — Moscow State Agricultural Academy named after K. A. Timiryazev», Moscow, Russia
Published: October 2024

The paper is devoted to the study of factors that form the conditions for the development of organic pig production. The relevance of this topic is due to the growing interest of consumers both domestically and abroad in organic products as the basis for a healthy lifestyle and the resource potential available in Russia, which is sufficient to form a sector of producers — competitive participants in the world market. Based on the use of statistical methods for time series alignment, the authors have identified positive trends in traditional pig production, meat consumption and outpacing growth rates of demand for pig products. It has been determined that stable growth of real incomes of the population in all constituent entities of the Russian Federation can become the basis for the growth of effective demand for organic pig products. The paper summarizes the requirements for the organization of organic production in pig farming, taking into account internal regulatory documentation and foreign experience. Previous studies conducted by the authors showed that the existing soil and climatic conditions in the regions of the Russian Federation make it possible to produce organic feed for this industry, and the expansion of production is one of the target indicators of the Strategy for the Development of Organic Agriculture in the Russian Federation until 2030. The authors identified a number of risks in the work that must be taken into account when creating projects for the development of organic pig farming at the micro and macro levels.
Szálkisajtolással előállított, 1.4542 típusú korrózióálló acél próbatestek mikroszerkezeti vizsgálata
Authors: Bognár Adrián , Ledniczky György , Kun Krisztián , Zsidai László
Published: October 2024

Az additív gyártási eljárások térnyerése és fejlődése további lehetőségeket nyit meg a gyártási folyamatokban. Az additív gyártási eljárások merőben eltérnek a hagyományos gyártási módszerektől és teljesen új mérnöki megközelítést igényelnek. Ennek eredményeként új lehetőségek nyílnak meg, és olyan alakú testek hozhatók létre, amelyeket korábban, más eljárásokkal nehezen vagy egyáltalán nem lehetett előállítani. Az orvostudomány és az ipar számos területén kiemelkedő alkalmazási lehetőségek rejlenek ebben a fejlődésben. Az additív gyártáshoz felhasznált anyagok palettája folyamatosan bővül, ezért jelen kutatás a fém próbatestek előállítására és vizsgálatára koncentrál. Fontos megemlíteni, hogy a fém alkatrészek előállításához érdemes figyelembe venni a szelektív lézeres szinterelés és a szelektív lézeres olvasztás mellett a szálkisajtolásos gyártást is. Ennek oka a kisebb költségek és a nagyobb méretű alkatrészek gyártásának lehetősége. A kutatás célja vizsgálni a szálkisajtolással előállított próbatestek szövetszerkezeti és mikroszerkezeti sajátosságait.