bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tillage practices affect soil moisture conservation and productivity of arugula (Eruca sativa L.) in hill torrent affected areas of Punjab
Authors: Nawaz Faheem , Mubeen Khuram , Ikram Rao M. , Jamshaid Muhammad U. , Aziz Mudassir , Ehsan Fahid , Khaliq Abdul , Irshad Sohail
Published: December 2024

The use of the right tillage technique can help promote higher earnings, crop productivity, soil improvement, and the most effective use of available water resources. The field experiment was conducted in the Vidor Hill torrent command area of Dera Ghazi Khan Punjab, Pakistan during the winter of 2021-22. In this experiment, tillage treatments including cultivator and rotavator were assessed as follows i.e. T1= 2-times cultivator (farmer practice), T2=3-times cultivator, T3=2-times cultivator + rotavator, T4= cultivator + rotavator.  The trial was laid out under RCBD and treatments in the experiment were repeated thrice. Soil moisture % and yield parameters including number of siliquae plant-1, 1000 seed weight (g), biological yield (kg ha-1), seed yield (kg ha-1) and harvest index (%) were estimated as per standard procedures. The means were tested for significance using HSD Tuckey’s test at a 5 % probability level. Results showed that the highest soil moisture conservation, number of siliquae per plant (106.41), number of seeds per siliquae (21.39), seed yield (570 kg ha-1) and harvest index (32.92%) were noticed from the farmer practice i.e. 2 times cultivator. Whereas, statistically comparative results were also observed from the treatment such as 2 times cultivator combined with rotavator at Vidor hill torrent command area of Dera Ghazi Khan Punjab, Pakistan. Under 2 times cultivator (Farmer Practice), the benefit-cost ratio (1.41) was highest as compared to the benefit-cost ratio (1.28) observed from 2 times cultivator accompanied with a rotavator. Among newly tested tillage treatments 2 times cultivator followed by rotavator showed promising results in hill torrents-based arugula production. Hence under the prevailing agro normals, farmers of hill torrent-based production systems may use 2 times cultivator for land preparation for better arugula productivity in hill torrent-based crop production systems.
Revitalizing olive agriculture in Punjab, Pakistan: unleashing potential beyond marketing and production constraints
Authors: Akhtar Shoaib , Faisal Muhammad , Naseer Muhammad A. R. , Javed Iqbal , Nazir Adnan` , Raza Muhammad H.
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this research is to find the foremost constraints that were involved in olive production as well as marketing. The present study is carried out in four districts of Punjab province, Pakistan with a focus on olive growers using cross-sectional data of 112 farmers. Our research findings showed that high nursery prices, high labour wages, limited access to the latest production technology, lack of technical workers and lack of water availability to olive growers were found most important production constraints in Pothohar, Punjab Pakistan. In the process of marketing olives, Lack of proper olive market information, lack of storage facilities, and high percentage of fruit losses during collection were the utmost marketing constraints of olive growers. The research put forward that to overcome these production and marketing constraints, to train the farmers and researchers/ extension agents with the production and marketing techniques, provide irrigation facilities at a subsidy rate and open information centres for prices should be available to them at the district level.
A desk study to review the future of growing sustainable cotton with best yield in Pakistan
Authors: Mukhtar Mohammed
Published: December 2024

In recent years, Pakistan has faced challenges related to declining cotton production, which has led to increased imports to meet the demands of its textile industry. Addressing these challenges and implementing sustainable farming practices are essential for the continued growth and competitiveness of Pakistan's cotton sector. This desk review study is mainly concerned to know the current practices and current level of yield of cotton being obtained by the farmers. In addition, what are the challenges in way of sustainable cotton production and how institution is playing role support of sustainable cotton production. Pakistan has historically been one of the top cotton-producing countries globally, typically ranking among the top five cotton producers. Cotton production contributes significantly to the country's agricultural output. The most commonly grown cotton varieties in Pakistan are Gossypium hirsutum (upland cotton) and Gossypium arboreum (tree cotton). The cotton-growing regions in Pakistan are primarily located in the provinces of Sindh and Punjab. These regions have suitable climate and soil conditions for cotton cultivation. Pakistan's cotton industry faces various challenges, including pest infestations (such as the cotton leafhopper and pink bollworm), water scarcity, outdated farming practices, and issues related to the quality of cotton produced. The country also experiences fluctuations in cotton production due to factors like weather conditions and disease outbreaks. Based on the critical analysis presented in this review paper, priority recommendations for advancing sustainable cotton farming in Pakistan include investing in research and development tailored to the specific needs of cotton farming, particularly focusing on breeding, agronomy, pest management, and soil conservation. Additionally, there is a growing need to promote organic cotton cultivation through collaboration between international donors, the textile sector, and the agriculture department, especially in areas like Cholistan and Baluchistan.
Empowering farmers with disabilities in Ghana: tailored agricultural extension advisory services
Authors: Asante Isaac K. , Ocran John K. , Awini Adam , Ametepey Enoch T.K. , Owusu Gabriel
Published: December 2024

The factors influencing the targeting of farmers with disabilities for agricultural extension advisory services by extension agents were examined using survey data in Ghana. A questionnaire hosted on Google form was adopted to gather data from 528 extension agents in all 16 administrative regions using simple random technique. Frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviation, Kendal’s coefficient of concordance, and binary logistic regression were utilized to analyse the data using International Business Machine Statistical Package for Social Sciences (IBM-SPSS version 26). The study revealed that nine out of 10 extension agents target farmers with disabilities. Socio-demographic characteristics and institutional factors such as age, experience, level of education, specialisation in general agriculture, participation in needs assessment, and extension agents’ accessibility accounted for between 23.0 to 49.4% of the variation in the decision of the extension agents to target farmers with disabilities for extension advisory services. Our study points to the need for policies that seeks to support extension agents improve the targeting of farmers with disabilities in Ghana in order to improve their livelihoods and welfare.
What does the reflective learning of Ugandan coffee farmers mean for agricultural extension and advisory services?
Authors: Ochago Robert
Published: December 2024

Whereas reflection is essential for learners to make sense of their challenging experiences, little is known about how farmers reflect on their challenging experiences in agricultural practices. This study explores how farmers reflect on their challenges in coffee value chain practices. Using qualitative methods, including focus group discussions and individual interviews with 91 coffee IP farmers from diverse backgrounds, the study identified various challenges—pests and diseases, low and poor coffee quality, and untrustworthy and unreliable coffee buyers—that impact their livelihoods and production. Findings reveal that farmers' reflection varies in frequency and depth, with many engaging in informal discussions with fellow farmers in their communities and a smaller number using individual reflective methods. The research highlights that people who actively engage in reflective practices make more informed decisions, resulting in adaptive methods that improve resilience and sustainability in their farming operations. The study stresses the need to create an atmosphere that promotes structured reflection and peer-to-peer sharing, which will lead to better agricultural practices and outcomes in coffee sector.
Evaluation of different rice straw management practices for wheat sowing in rice-wheat zone of Sheikhupura, Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Hassan Usman , Qamar Wardah , Younas Muhammad , , Attaullah , Chaudhry Muhammad T. , Ali Ch Mushtaq , Hassan Ishtiaq
Published: December 2024

This study was conducted to evaluate different rice straw management practices for wheat sowing for the years 2021-22 and 2022-23. This study includes four treatments Treatment 1: Burning of rice straw and stubbles followed by seed bed preparation by rotavator and broadcasting seed, Treatment 2: Use of rice straw chopper + MB Plough (1) + Rotavator (2) + Planking followed by drilling, Treatment 3: Use of rice straw chopper + Disc Harrow (1) + Rotavator (2) + Planking followed by drilling and Treatment 4: Use of zero tillage happy seeder. Among all these methods Treatment 2 performed higher in term of yield data for both years associated with higher cost of operation. Zero Tillage Happy Seeder performed at par with Treatment 2 in terms of yield data with minimum cost involved and single step wheat sowing process and excellent rice straw management option for wheat sowing in rice wheat cropping system.
Influence of low temperature on juvenile development, adult emergence and parasitism of trichogramma chilonis in captivity
Authors: Khan Altamash , Abro Javid A. , Ahmed Sher , Khetran Zahoor A. , Shahwani Shahzad A. , Hussain Abid , Amin Muhammad , Latif Abdul , Mastoi Asif , Ahmed Zaheer
Published: December 2024

The study was conducted in mass-rearing laboratories of beneficial insects at the Nuclear Institute of Agriculture Tandojam, to determine the optimum storage temperature of parasitoid Trichogramma chilonis after parasitization on Sitotroga cerealella eggs. Two hundred host eggs were pasted on white paper card strips with Vachellia nilotica tree gum, and these card strips were offered to parasitoid T. chilonis adults confined in glass jars. Honey solution (10%) on paper strips was provided to parasitoids as an adult diet inside the glass vessels. For parasitization, the host eggs on the strip, referred to as parasitized eggs, were taken out from glass jars and kept at six different low temperatures of 10, 8, 6, 4, -6 and -4°C along with control 25±2oC temperature in complete darkness. The results showed that the weekly maximum parasitism percentage of Trichogramma chilonis under lab conditions was observed at 10oC followed by 8oC and 6oC. The minimum parasitism percentage of Trichogramma chilonis under lab conditions was observed at 4oC. Weekly maximum adult emergence of Trichogramma chilonis under lab conditions was observed at 10oC followed by 8oC and 6oC. Minimum adult emergence of Trichogramma chilonis under lab conditions was observed at 4oC. The weekly maximum juvenile development period of Trichogramma chilonis under lab conditions was observed at 4oC followed by 6oC and 8oC. The minimum juvenile development period of Trichogramma chilonis under lab conditions was observed at 10oC. While no emergence was found in -6oC and -4oC. The developmental period was positively correlated with the storage period and the duration of development significantly decreases as the temperature increases from lower to higher concentrations.
Troubled Democracy: The Messaging of Democracy on CGTN Facebook and Instagram
Authors: Glanz Keyu
Published: December 2024

The intensifying China-U.S. rivalry, now evolving into a broader ideological competition between autocracy and democracy, highlights the significance of studying “democracy” as an ideograph. This study examines how the rhetoric of “democracy” is employed in the public diplomacy efforts of China Global Television Network (CGTN), the main media platform for China’s global information campaign. By combining computer-assisted topic modeling with qualitative analysis, the study explores CGTN’s messaging on “democracy” across Facebook and Instagram over five years (2019-2023). The findings reveal that CGTN generally frames “democracy” in a negative light, associating it with institutional inefficiency in the Global North and with political violence and social disorder in the Global South. These results suggest that China seeks to expand its global influence and shape international governance by redefining “democracy” in its ideological competition with the U.S.-led West.
Efficacy of Alternate Nostril Breathing on Pulmonary Function and Physical Functional Capacity in Healthy Adults Across Different Age Groups: Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Saha Shilpasree , Vaish Hina , Verma Meenu
Published: December 2024

Objectives: Lung function and functional capacity gradually decline even in asymptomatic individual with age. Alternate nostril breathing (ANB) is a breathing exercise used to modulate the pace of breathing. The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of ANB on pulmonary function and physical functional capacity in normal adults across different age groups.
Methods: 48 participants aged 20-50 years were stratified based on age and were assigned into young (experimental and control group) and old age strata (experimental and control group) for this randomized controlled trial. Pulmonary function (FEV₁, FVC, FEV₁/FVC, PIFR, and PEFR) and physical functional capacity (6MWD) were assessed before and after the test. Experimental groups practiced ANB for 15 minutes for 4 weeks (6 days/week) in front of primary researcher. No intervention was given to control groups. Between groups analysis was done by Mann Whitney U test whereas, Wilcoxon signed rank test was used for within group analysis.
Results: Significant differences were found in median values of FEV₁ (2.21-2.47, p=.002), FVC (2.39-2.77, p=.003), PEFR (5.30-6.45, p=.002), and PIFR (3.85-4.22, p=.05) between total experimental and total control groups, but not in FEV₁/FVC ( p=.41 )and PIFR (p=20). Post treatment analysis of total experimental group showed significant improvement in FEV₁ (p= .0001), FVC (p=.0001), PEFR (p= .0001), PIFR (p= .002) and 6MWD (p= .0001), while total control group had no significant improvement in any component (p˃.05).
Conclusion: Alternate nostril breathing can be used as a maneuver to improve age related lung function decrement.
Suprahyoid Muscle Activation During Isometric Chin-Tuck Exercises In Different Body Positions
Authors: Serel Arslan Selen , Alıcı Rabia , Demır Numan , Cengiz Emre
Published: December 2024

Objective: The aim of the current study was to investigate the suprahyoid muscle activation during isometric chin-tuck exercises in different body positions.
Methods: Thirty-two healthy volunteers were enrolled. Suprahyoid muscle activation was recorded with surface EMG sensors placed under the chin. Isometric Shaker Exercise (SE) and isometric chin-tuck exercises were performed in five different body positions for 3 repetitions. Maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVC) of the suprahyoid muscles was recorded. The normalization procedure was applied by proportioning the maximum suprahyoid muscle activation recorded during each exercise to the MVC, and recorded as a percentage (MVC%).
Results: Significantly higher suprahyoid muscle activation was detected during isometric SE compared to isometric chin-tuck exercises in supine and prone press up on elbows positions (p< .008). Suprahyoid muscle activation was found to be similar during isometric SE and isometric chin-tuck exercises in sitting, quadruped and prone positions (p> .008).
Conclusions: In conclusion, similar suprahyoid muscle activation was obtained during isometric chin-tuck exercises in sitting, quadruped and prone positions as during isometric SE. Thus, isometric chin-tuck exercises in these positions could be used as an alternative option to increase suprahyoid muscle activation with the possible potential for less fatigue and better patient compliance during dysphagia management.
Predictive Role of The Trauma Level of Nursing Students Affected by The Earthquake Disaster in Türkiye on Their Psychological Distress
Authors: Çelik Buket , Serçe Yüksel Özgü , Kankaya Eda Ayten
Published: December 2024

Objective: The study investigated the predictive role of the post-earthquake trauma level of nursing students affected by the earthquake on their psychological distress.
Methods: This study has a descriptive and cross-sectional design. The research sample consisted of 217 nursing students enrolled in a university in the western part of Türkiye who were affected by the earthquake. Data were collected using the Nursing Students Information Form, The Scale Determining the Level of Trauma, and the General Health Questionnaire-12.
Results: The level of risk of psychological distress was high for 59% of the students. There was a statistically significant difference between their level of psychological distress in relation to their characteristics such as gender, income status and damage to the house/apartment and their level of trauma. According to the results of the regression analysis, the risk of experiencing psychological distress was 2.5 times higher for those whose houses/apartments were damaged than for those whose houses/apartments were not damaged. The risk of experiencing psychological distress was 6.6 times higher for those with high levels of trauma than for those with low levels of trauma.
Conclusion: The present study was to the predictive role of post-earthquake trauma level of nursing students affected by the earthquake on their psychological distress. It was emphasized that the results of the present study are important because they revealed the factors that affect the psychological distress of nursing students who were affected by the last two earthquakes in Türkiye.
University Students’ Transtheoretical Model-Based Sedentary Behaviors, Physical Activity Levels and Related Factors
Authors: Özdemir Gözde , Erol Saime
Published: December 2024

Objective: The aim of the study was to determine university students' sedentary behaviors based on the Transtheoretical Model (TTM), physical activity levels (PAL) and related factors.
Methods: The study was carried out using a descriptive design with 504 students at a university in Istanbul. Data were collected using the socio-demographic characteristics diagnostic form, the Transtheoretical Model Sedentary Behavior Scales (TTM-SBS) and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire short form (IPAQ-SF). Kruskal-Wallis analysis of variance, Mann-Whitney-U test and Chi-Square test were used for statistical analysis and significance level p < .05 was accepted.
Results: While 18.9% of the students midly obese or obese, 81% of them did not participate in regular physical exercise. The majority of females were in the sedentary behaviors change preparation stage (29.4%) and the majority of males (29.1%) were in the action stage (p < .05). Sedentary behavior change pros perception score was above average, while cons perception and self-efficacy scores were below average. According to IPAQ-SF, 31.3% of the students were low active, 45.7% were moderate active, 23.0% were high active, and 18.2% had a sitting time of eight hours or more per day. Women were found moderate active, whereas men, workers and smokers were very active (p < .05).
Conclusion: Males, underweight, first-grade students, those with no family history of physical activity, and those without a mentor were found to be more resistant to sedentary behavior change.
Non-Structural Protein-13 Mutations in European Isolates of SARS-CoV-2 Changed Protein Stability
Authors: Alhan Mehmet Emin , Akbulut Ekrem
Published: December 2024

Objective: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) became one of the most important health problems of the 21st century. Non-structural protein-13 (nsp13/helicase) plays an important role in the replication of the viral genome and the viral life cycle. The SARS-CoV-2 genome has undergone thousands of mutations since the disease first appeared. Mutations pose a threat to the validity of therapeutics due to changes in protein structure. Modeling alterations caused by mutations in the viral proteome contributes to the development of effective antivirals. The changes in protein structure and stability caused by mutations seen in European isolates of SARS-CoV-2 were analyzed in the study with the aim of contributing to studies on the development of new anti-virals and the validity of existing therapeutics.
Methods: The changes in protein structure after mutation were modeled with deep learning algorithms. The alterations in protein stability were analyzed by SDM2, mCSM, DUET and DynaMut2.
Results: The mutation analysis revealed four (Pro77Leu, Gly170Ser, Tyr324Cys, and Arg392Cys) missense mutations in the nsp13 protein in European isolates of SARS-CoV-2. Mutations caused changes in protein structure (rmsd 0.294 Å) and stability (-.58 ≤ ΔΔG ≤ .003 kcal.mol-1). The atomic interactions formed by the mutant residues in the three-dimensional conformation of the protein have changed.
Conclusion: The mutations seen in European isolates for nsp13 of SARS-CoV-2 may lead to the emergence of different phenotypes in terms of viral activity. For this reason, the study may contribute to the success of the fight against the virus with different treatment approaches in different regions.
The Nursing Needs Assessment Scale for Women with Infertility: Turkish Validity and Reliability Study
Authors: Bozdemir Tugba , Yıldız Hatice , Park Jummi
Published: December 2024

Objective: This study was designed and conducted to establish the Turkish validity and reliability of “The Nursing Needs Assessment Scale for Women with Infertility (NNASIW).”
Methods: Originally developed in Korean, the scale contains 18 items, and a sample of 262 infertile women was included, multiplying each item by 10. In the analysis of this methodological study, second-order multifactor Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), independent samples t-test, split-half reliability analysis, and Cronbach’s alpha were utilized.
Results: The CFA goodness-of-fit values of the scale were: χ² = 221.326, χ²/df = 1.72, AGFI = .89, CFI = .98, GFI = .91, RMSEA = .052, and NFI = .96. Factor loadings for all variables ranged from .39 to .99, and they were found to contribute significantly to the scale (p
Comparative Evaluation of Bisphosphonate Effects: Periapical Lesion Frequency, Size, and Radiomorphometric Indices in Osteoporotic Patients
Authors: Yarbaşı Özlem , Bozdemir (haştar) Esin , Avcı Mustafa , Şengül Sevim Süreyya , Orhan Hikmet
Published: December 2024

Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of bisphosphonate use on periapical lesion frequency, size, and through radiomorphometric indices on jaws.
Methods: This study includes 220 postmenopausal women (110 patients who use bisphosphonate and 110 patients who do not use bisphosphonate) with diagnosis of osteoporosis and 110 women who have a healthy bone structure control group. The complex periapical index (CPI), mental index (MI), panoramic mandibular index (PMI), and mandibular cortical index (MCI) values was evaluated.
Results: The both right and left MI/PMI means in the osteoporotic patients using bisphosphonate were significantly lower than the others (p < .001). It was found that while the duration of bisphosphonate use increased, the right MI and right-left PMI means decreased significantly (p < .05). The right MI and the right/left PMI means were significantly higher in the group using bisphosphonate via intravenous injection compare to those using it orally. The total number of periapical lesions was significantly less in the group using bisphosphonates than the other two groups (p = .002). The number of teeth with the periapical lesions up to 3 mms in diameter was also significantly lower in the group using bisphosphonate than it was in the other two groups (p = .04).
Conclusions:It was found that the use of bisphosphonates is associated with a lower mandibular index, which indicates greater severity of osteoporosis. The total number and size of periapical lesions in these patients were significantly less than the other two groups.
NIILISMO ATIVO E NIILISMO PASSIVO NA FILOSOFIA DE NIETZSCHE
Authors: Ferreira de Lima Michelle
Published: December 2024

Ao estudar as obras de Nietzsche detendo o olhar ao problema do niilismo, percebe-se que ele pode assumir algumas formas. Encontramos um niilismo com potencial destruidor que poderá servir a dois princípios: destruidor e criador ou destruidor e suicida, o primeiro pode ser encontrado tal como na arte, e o segundo, nos ideias ascéticos da religião, por exemplo. O filósofo descreve que o niilismo pode ser sinônimo de poder ou de decadência: niilismo ativo e niilismo passivo. O niilismo ativo exprime força, mudança, radicalidade, afirmação elevando o indivíduo a uma existência desalienante. Enquanto o niilismo passivo, denota um indício de fraqueza, aceitação e resignação. Desta forma, na concepção de Nietzsche o niilismo assume uma estrutura dialética no sentido de que expõe um contramovimento, já que a negação pode ser utilizada para criar novos resultados, denota-se assim, uma negatividade produtiva do niilismo. O filósofo propõe então superar o niilismo por ele mesmo, fato que implica em tomar como antídoto o próprio veneno, tal medida, embora temerária, ainda é preferível a abandonar a humanidade ao lento suicídio do niilismo passivo. Portanto, trata-se de acelerar o curso, de escolher entre elevação ou declínio. Visto assim, o niilismo é abordado como um mal necessário, um estado intermediário patológico, o qual constitui uma prova difícil, tal como, “passar pelo fogo” para então se tornar um indivíduo resoluto e afirmador.
Influence of ultrasonic tool oscillation during drilling of fused silica
Authors: Henkel Sebastian , Binder Marcel , Knauf Monique , Bliedtner Jens , Rädlein Edda
Published: December 2024

The creation of holes in hard-brittle materials is highly relevant for various applications. The often-necessary high aspect ratios of the drill holes pose a particular challenge, with drill diameters of a few millimeters and drill lengths of up to several hundred millimeters. This requires the application of suitable tools with a high aspect ratio and sufficient stability. In particular the drilling process itself must be thoroughly understood and optimized in order to produce deep holes without component and tool defects while maintaining the required dimensional and positional accuracy. This paper presents investigations on the influence of an ultrasonic tool oscillation for drilling high aspect ratio holes. Two kinematic approaches, deep drilling and helical drilling, are examined with focus on the achievable dimensional accuracy of the holes and the roughness of the inner walls of the bore. It is found, that adding a longitudinal high frequency tool oscillation enables a considerable reduction in dimensional deviations of 91% for helical drilling.
The role of intellectual humility in promoting epistemic fluency for interdisciplinary engineering education
Authors: Sivakumar Kishore , Boon Mieke
Published: December 2024

Interdisciplinary engineering education aims to equip engineers with the ability to tackle complex real-world problems that occur beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries, therefore demanding a set of interdisciplinary competencies. In our research on interdisciplinary competence, a study consisting of interviews with teachers and researchers focusing on Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) necessary for interdisciplinary research purposes, revealed that the interviewees emphasize specific attitudinal aspects as important for being competent in interdisciplinary research contexts. Notably, the attitudinal aspects as described by the interviewees can be understood through the notion of intellectual humility (IH). This observation motivated an exploratory literature review, which led to the conceptualization of IH as an attitude consisting of the ability to recognize one’s intellectual limitations and openness to alternative perspectives and clarified its potential role in the development of epistemic fluency, as an interdisciplinary competence that integrates knowledge, skills and attitude. The refined conceptual understanding of IH along with the empirical findings on the importance of IH resulting from the interviews with experts in interdisciplinary engineering education, supports the view of IH as a crucial attitude for epistemic fluency in interdisciplinary education contexts, together with the importance of awareness and knowledge of disciplinary perspectives. Epistemic fluency, in turn, is conceptualized as a key interdisciplinary competency that integrates knowledge (disciplinary perspectives), attitudes (IH), and skills (HOTS). Finally, suggestions are made for possible ways to promote IH as part of this competence.
Circulating irisin levels in patients with MAFLD: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Shen Chenglu , Wu Kaihan , Ke Yani , Zhang Qin , Chen Shuaihang , Li Qicong , Ruan Yuting , Yang Xudan , Liu Shan , Hu Jie
Published: December 2024

Objective

Current research suggests that irisin is closely linked to the pathogenesis and progression of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). This systematic review and meta-analysis updates our previous meta-analysis and further explores the relevance between circulating irisin levels and MAFLD.

Methods

Nine databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, CNKI, Wanfang, Weipu, CBM, Clinicaltrials.gov and gray literature) were retrieved as of 1st August, 2024. The standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) represent pooled effect size. We used the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale to evaluate the quality of articles and the certainty of evidence assessed by GRADE system. All statistical analyses were performed using RevMan 5.3 and Stata 12(Stata Corporation, yi TX).

Results

Fifteen case-control studies were included. Circulating irisin levels in the MAFLD group were markedly lower than those in the healthy group (SMD=-1.04 [-1.93, -0.14]). Subgroup analyses by race, age, severity and T2DM revealed that circulating irisin levels were lower in the MAFLD group compared to those in the healthy controls in the Asian population (SMD=-1.38 [-2.44, -0.31], P<0.05) and in those above 50 years old (SMD=-2.23 [-3.64, -0.81], P<0.05) and higher in the mild MAFLD groups than those in moderate to severe MAFLD groups (SMD = 11.68 [9.05, 14.31], P<0.05). And the circulating irisin levels in MAFLD patients with T2DM were significantly lower than those in healthy group (SMD = -2.90 [-4.49, -1.30]). ELISA kits from different companies also presented different relationships.

Conclusions

There were significantly lower circulating irisin levels in the MAFLD group than in the healthy control group. Although these results differed from our previous results, there is no denying that circulating irisin levels are closely associated with the advancement of MAFLD.
Challenges of open data in aquatic sciences: issues faced by data users and data providers
Authors: Mesman Jorrit P. , Barbosa Carolina C. , Lewis Abigail S. L. , Olsson Freya , Calhoun-Grosch Stacy , Grossart Hans-Peter , Ladwig Robert , La Fuente R. Sofia , Münzner Karla , Nkwalale Lipa G. T. , Pilla Rachel M. , Suresh Keerthana , Wain Danielle J.
Published: December 2024

Free use and redistribution of data (i.e., Open Data) increases the reproducibility, transparency, and pace of aquatic sciences research. However, barriers to both data users and data providers may limit the adoption of Open Data practices. Here, we describe common Open Data challenges faced by data users and data providers within the aquatic sciences community (i.e., oceanography, limnology, hydrology, and others). These challenges were synthesized from literature, authors’ experiences, and a broad survey of 174 data users and data providers across academia, government agencies, industry, and other sectors. Through this work, we identified seven main challenges: 1) metadata shortcomings, 2) variable data quality and reusability, 3) open data inaccessibility, 4) lack of standardization, 5) authorship and acknowledgement issues 6) lack of funding, and 7) unequal barriers around the globe. Our key recommendation is to improve resources to advance Open Data practices. This includes dedicated funds for capacity building, hiring and maintaining of skilled personnel, and robust digital infrastructures for preparation, storage, and long-term maintenance of Open Data. Further, to incentivize data sharing we reinforce the need for standardized best practices to handle data acknowledgement and citations for both data users and data providers. We also highlight and discuss regional disparities in resources and research practices within a global perspective.
Approximation of the infection-age-structured SIR model by the conventional SIR model of infectious disease epidemiology
Authors: Brinks Ralph , Hoyer Annika
Published: December 2024

During the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, the effective reproduction number (R-eff) has frequently been used to describe the course of the pandemic. Analytical properties of R-eff are rarely studied. We analytically examine how and under which conditions the conventional susceptible–infected–removed (SIR) model (without infection age) serves as an approximation to the infection-age-structured SIR model. Special emphasis is given to the role of R-eff, which is an implicit parameter in the infection-age-structured SIR model and an explicit parameter in the approximation. The analytical findings are illustrated by a simulation study about an hypothetical intervention during a SARS-CoV-2 outbreak and by historical data from an influenza outbreak in Prussian army camps in the region of Arnsberg (Germany), 1918–1919.
Case report on anti-GQ1b antibody syndrome: initial symptoms of pupil palsy and periorbital pain
Authors: Du Yang , Wang Weidong , Zhang Lili , Li Yuan , Chen Xiang , Yang Hui , Ding Xin
Published: December 2024

Anti-GQ1b antibody syndrome is a spectrum of autoimmune disorders affecting nervous systems. We report a case of a 53-year-old woman presenting mydriasis with acute onset of periorbital pain, photophobia, and subsequently, diplopia. Despite weakly positive anti-GQ1b IgG antibody, the patient exhibited atypical features with isolated ophthalmoplegia and absence of classic Miller-Fisher syndrome triad. Symptoms improved spontaneously without specific immunotherapy. This case highlights the variable clinical presentations of anti-GQ1b antibody syndrome, emphasizing the importance of considering this diagnosis in patients with unexplained iris abnormalities and ophthalmoplegia.
Development and validation of a nomogram for predicting the risk of obstructive coronary artery disease in rheumatoid arthritis patients based on LDL-C, Th17 cells, and IL-17
Authors: Wang Xiaoyang , Li Baochen , Wei Ruipeng , Hu Bin , Feng Yuming , Yang Bin , Rong Shuling , Li Bao
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study aims to develop and validate a nomogram model for predicting the risk of obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), incorporating low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), Th17 cells, and interleukin (IL)-17 levels. The proposed model seeks to enable personalized cardiovascular risk assessment for RA patients, thereby optimizing clinical management strategies.

Methods

A total of 120 patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who were treated at the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University between January 2019 and September 2023 were enrolled in this study. Based on coronary angiography results, patients were categorized into the RA-obstructive CAD group and the RA-non-obstructive CAD group. Additionally, 53 healthy controls (HC group) were included. Clinical characteristics, laboratory parameters, peripheral blood lymphocyte subsets, and cytokine levels were collected for analysis. Univariate logistic regression was used to identify risk factors associated with RA-obstructive CAD. These variables were further refined using a random forest model for optimal selection. Finally, multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed with the selected variables to develop a nomogram model, which was subsequently validated to assess its performance.

Results

Compared with the RA-non-obstructive CAD group, the RA-obstructive CAD group demonstrated significantly elevated levels of immune cell subsets, such as Th17 cells, and cytokines, including IL-17, IL-2, and IL-4, along with a reduction in Treg cells. (2) In the training cohort, univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses identified LDL-C (OR = 0.04, P < 0.001), Th17 cells (OR = 0.76, P = 0.005), and IL-17 (OR = 0.75, P = 0.001) as independent risk factors for obstructive CAD in RA patients. Subsequently, a predictive nomogram model for RA-obstructive CAD risk was developed based on these indicators, incorporating LDL-C, Th17 cells, and IL-17.

Conclusion

This study developed a predictive nomogram for RA-obstructive CAD by combining traditional risk factors, such as LDL-C, with immune biomarkers Th17 and IL-17. The model demonstrated robust predictive accuracy, enabling more precise risk assessment of CAD in RA patients. It offers clinicians a valuable tool for advancing cardiovascular risk management in RA, underscoring its significant potential for clinical application.
Ocular adverse events associated with antibody-drug conjugates: a comprehensive pharmacovigilance analysis
Authors: Chen Heng , He Gefei , Huang Juanjuan , Hu Lin , Ma Junlong
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are increasingly utilized in patients with solid tumors and hematologic malignancies. However, the adverse ocular toxicity induced by ADCs has not been comprehensively evaluated in real-world clinical settings.

Methods

Data from April 2019 to March 2024 based on the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) were extracted and analyzed. Disproportionality analysis was used to evaluate the association between ADCs and ocular adverse events (AEs). The median time to onset (TTO) of various ADCs was compared.

Results

A comprehensive analysis identified 2,686 ocular AEs associated with ADCs. Among these, Tisotumab vedotin had the most positive signals at the preferred terms (PTs) level, followed by trastuzumab emtansine and enfortumab vedotin. In contrast, gemtuzumab ozogamicin demonstrated minimal ocular toxicity signals. Cluster analysis revealed that ADC-related ocular toxicities predominantly manifested as corneal disorders or ocular neuromuscular disorders. The median onset of ocular toxicity varied considerably, with enfortumab vedotin showing the earliest median onset at 12.5 days.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates the association between ADCs and ocular AEs based on real-world data, providing valuable guidance for clinicians when prescribing ADCs. And we found some important safety signals that have not been mentioned in the label or previous studies.
Reduced durability of hybrid immunity to SARS-CoV-2 in immunocompromised children
Authors: Zhong Youjia , Kottaiswamy Amuthavalli , Ang Chen Xiang , Li Hui’ En , Yap Gaik Chin , Tay Carina J. X. , Osman Nurul Elyana , Roslan Siti Namirah Binte , Tan Chee Wah , Yap Wee Chee , Ang Elizabeth Y. , Chan Ng Pauline P. L. , Yap Hui Kim , Lu Liangjian , Aw Marion M. , Karthik Sivaraman V. , Quak Seng Hock , Quah Thuan Chong , Tham Elizabeth H. , Shek Lynette P. , Ooi Eng Eong
Published: December 2024

Background

In endemic COVID-19, immunocompromised children are vulnerable until vaccinated but the optimal primary vaccination regime and need for booster doses remains uncertain.

Methods

We recruited 19 immunocompromised children (post-solid organ transplantation, have autoimmune disease or were on current or recent chemotherapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia), and followed them from the start of primary vaccination with BNT162b2 mRNA SARS-CoV-2 until 1-year post-vaccination. We investigated the quality of vaccine immunogenicity, and longevity of hybrid immunity, in comparison to healthy children.

Results

Immunocompromised children failed to produce T cell and memory B cell (MBC) responses reaching thresholds of protection after 2 doses; a third dose however improved both responses. Initially robust hybrid immunity demonstrated significantly more decline in T cell and MBC responses in immunocompromised compared to healthy children, to levels below the protective threshold by month 12.

Discussion

Immunocompromised children may benefit from a 3-dose primary vaccination regime, with yearly or twice-yearly booster doses for sustained immunity.
Use of digital assessment tools to measure health facility readiness to provide the WHO recommended package of care for lymphatic filariasis morbidity
Authors: Bougma Windtaré Roland , Aiogalé Victorino Martinho , Attoumbre Bienvenu Yao , Bartlett Sarah , Brahima Kouma , Coulibaly Mamadou , Coulibaly Yaya Ibrahim , Dicko Boubacar Morou , D’Souza Susan , Doumbia Salif Seriba , Gargannah Gar Mondyu , Musa Balla , Ngom Babacar , Norbert Dje N’Goran , Nwosu Christian , Papique Alberto Luis , Rogers Emerson J. , Sarr Astou , Downs Philip
Published: December 2024

Background

A country claiming to have achieved elimination of Lymphatic filariasis (LF) as a public health problem must undergo and document a quality assessment of the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended essential package of care for patients with lymphedema and hydrocele. This must be done in at least 10% of facilities offering services. In Liberia, Côte d’Ivoire, Mali and Guinea-Bissau the LF programmes used the Hydrocele Facility Assessment Tool (HFAT) and the Lymphedema Facility Assessment Tool (LFAT) to provide an objective assessment of facilities providing LF morbidity management services. Information gathered through these tools is used to improve service delivery and document the number of implementation units with at least one facility providing the essential package of care in the WHO epidemiological reporting form (EPIRF). The development of the HFAT and LFAT digital tools were informed by WHO’s direct inspection protocol (DIP) for lymphedema, WHO’s service availability and readiness assessment (SARA), and WHO’s situational analysis to assess emergency and essential surgical care.

Methods

Between May 2022 and January 2023, 33 hydrocele facility assessments and 102 lymphedema facility assessments were implemented in these four countries. Facility and indicator score benchmarks were set at 75%.

Results

The LFAT and HFAT indicator results were variable both within and between countries. 26 (79%) facilities scored 75% or better on the assessment for hydrocele surgery and 15 (15%) facilities scored 75% or better on the assessment for lymphedema. Examples of indicators with significant need for quality improvement actions were 1) LFAT indicator ‘Trained staff - Community Health Care Providers trained in lymphoedema management’ which did not achieve the 75% benchmark in any of the countries; 2) HFAT indicator on use of surgical safety checklist which only achieved the 75% benchmark in Liberia.

Discussion

The discussion highlights the current challenges faced by endemic countries to ensure that an essential package of care (of sufficient quality) for lymphedema management and hydrocele surgery is available.
The gender and age perspectives of allostatic load
Authors: Volarić Nikola , Šojat Dunja , Volarić Mile , Včev Ivan , Keškić Tanja , Majnarić Ljiljana Trtica
Published: December 2024

The role of chronic stress in the development of chronic diseases, especially multimorbidity, through the pathways of increasing allostatic load, and finally, allostatic overload (the state when a compensatory mechanism is likely to fail) is being emphasized. However, allostatic load is a dynamic measure that changes depending on sex, gender, age, level and type of stress, experience of a stressful situation, and coping behaviors. Many other factors such as race, ethnicity, working environment, lifestyle, and circadian rhythm of sleep are also important. The aim of this paper was to synthesize the available information on allostatic load differences, especially those connected to sex/gender and age, and to provide a model for the future study of allostatic load, with a focus on these differences. By carefully studying allostatic load factors, we realized that many studies do not take this allostatic load difference into account in the analysis methods. In this paper, we also support the idea of further research to develop new allostatic load analysis strategies that will include all knowledge about sex/gender differences and that will, in more detail, explain numerous changeable social and educational factors that are currently accepted as biological ones. Furthermore, specific allostatic load biomarkers are expressed differently in different age groups, indicating that the discrepancies cannot be attributed solely to sex/gender disparities. This kind of approach can be valuable, not only for better explaining the differences in the frequency and age of onset of chronic diseases and multimorbidity, but also for the potential planning and development of preventive actions based on the aforementioned sex/gender and age disaparities, in order to prevent the most frequent diseases and to establish specific biomarker cut-off values for each sex/gender and age group.
Risk factors for post-stroke spasticity: a retrospective study
Authors: Zhu Chuanxi , Li Lingxu , Qiu Long , Ji Guangcheng
Published: December 2024

Background

Post-stroke spasticity (PSS) is a common complication after stroke and is an important cause of high rates of disability after stroke. At present, modern medicine has made great progress in the treatment of PSS, ‘early detection, early treatment’ has become a general consensus for the treatment of PSS in the clinic. Clarifying the risk factors of PSS can help to detect and treat the functional disorders caused by PSS at an earlier stage.

Methods

This is a retrospective study. 436 stroke patients who visited the Neurology Department of the Third Affiliated Clinical Hospital of Changchun University of Chinese Medicine from June 2020 to November 2020 were selected as study subjects, and finally 257 patients were included in the final analysis, and divided into 101 cases with spasticity and 156 cases without spasticity, depending on whether or not the stroke victim had a spasm at the time of admission.

Results

The multivariate regression analysis showed that basal ganglia as the cerebral hemorrhage or infarction site (OR = 4.930, 95%CI = 2.743–8.86, p = 0.000), cerebral hemorrhage or infarction volume (OR = 1.087, 95%CI = 1.016–1.164, p = 0.016) and NIHSS scores (OR = 1.232, 95%CI = 1.089–1.393, p = 0.001) are independent influencing factors and independent risk factors for spasticity (p < 0.05). A risk prediction model for spasticity in stroke patients is derived with the multivariate logistic regression analysis Logit (P) = 1.595 * Basal ganglia +0.084 * infarct volume + 0.208 * NIHSS scores – 2.092. An evaluation of the goodness of fit using the ROC curve showed AUC (95% CI) = 0.786 (0.730–0.843), an indication of a high degree of model fit.

Conclusion

Independent risk factors for Post-stroke spasticity include basal ganglia as the cerebral hemorrhage or infarction site, cerebral hemorrhage or infarction volume and NIHSS scores.