bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Designing, Developing and Examining the Effectiveness of a Machine Learning–Based Mobile Recommendation System for Parents' Digital Parenting Skills
Authors: Özaydin Aydoğdu Yıldız , Yildiz Durak Hatice , Aydoğdu Şeyhmus , Somyürek Sibel , Güyer Tolga , Kurnaz Furkan
Published: August 2024

It is of paramount importance that children are equipped with the requisite digital parenting skills to protect them from the risks and threats that they may encounter in the digital environment while also enabling them to seize the opportunities that the digital realm presents. Mobile recommendation systems (MRS) represent a significant intervention for the development of digital parenting competencies among adults. Nevertheless, there is no evidence in the literature of any attempt to develop the system. The objective of this study is to examine the process of developing an MRS for parents' digital parenting skills and to evaluate the effectiveness of the developed system through a pilot study. The study employed the developmental research Type 1 model. The study was structured in three stages: the design of the MRS, the development of the recommendation system (RS) and the pilot study. In order to facilitate the development of the MRS, three distinct working groups were established. The research yielded several key findings. Primarily, it established the theoretical foundation of the MRS, delineated the design principles to be considered in system design and elucidated their application in the system. Additionally, it identified the essential components and functions that should be incorporated into the system. In light of the expert opinions on compliance with andragogical principles, it was observed that the consideration of environmental factors emerged as a prominent theme. It was observed that the experts assigned the highest suitability scores to fault tolerance, low physical effort and an instructional environment in the system design. The system was found to be effective in terms of redundancy, sound and picture quality for all content titles and multimedia principles. The findings of this study indicate that the MRS may be an effective tool for fostering digital parenting skills. However, further research is necessary to develop age‐appropriate measures and to assess the long‐term impact of the system.
Radiographic changes after alveolar ridge preservation using autogenous raw tooth particles versus xenograft: A prospective controlled clinical trial
Authors: Mahardawi Basel , Damrongsirirat Napat , Dhanesuan Kanit , Subbalekha Keskanya , Mattheos Nikos , Pimkhaokham Atiphan
Published: August 2024

Objective

The use of extracted teeth has been introduced as an option for bone grafting. However, the current method requires special machines and solutions, posing significant time and cost. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical performance of autogenous raw tooth particles (RTP), a grafting material made from a ground tooth using basic equipment, for alveolar ridge preservation.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐three patients (12 study/11 control), having 14 and 13 sites were included for the study and control groups (commercially available xenograft), respectively. Radiographic measurements were taken at the baseline and the 4‐month follow‐up appointment. Furthermore, a questionnaire survey concerning the general preference of the type of graft to receive (if needed), before and after knowing the price, was distributed at the completion of the procedure for patients to answer.

Results

Alveolar ridge width change was −1.03 ± 0.64 and −0.84 ± 0.35 for the study and the control groups, respectively. Regarding the height, the study group showed a buccal and lingual change of −0.66 ± 0.48 and −0.78 ± 0.81, respectively, while this was −0.78 ± 0.56 and −0.9 ± 0.41 for the xenograft group. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups. Patients preferred the raw tooth particles over other grafting materials (p = .01).

Conclusion

No core biopsies were taken to evaluate bone formation, which should be done in future studies. Within its limitations, the current study demonstrated that RTP graft could be an alternative graft for bone augmentation, offering a new cost‐effective option for clinicians when available.
Endoscopic ultrasonography for microvascular imaging without contrast enhancement in the differential diagnosis of pancreatic lesions
Authors: Yamashita Yasunobu , Yamazaki Hirofumi , Nakahata Akiya , Shimokawa Toshio , Tamura Takaaki , Kawaji Yuki , Tamura Takashi , Hatamaru Keiichi , Itonaga Masahiro , Ashida Reiko , Kitano Masayuki
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Detective flow imaging endoscopic ultrasonography (DFI‐EUS) is a recent imaging modality developed for detecting fine vessels without the need for ultrasound contrast agents. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the utility of DFI‐EUS for solid pancreatic lesions and to compare the diagnostic ability for pancreatic cancer (PC) between DFI‐EUS, directional power Doppler (eFLOW) EUS, and contrast‐enhanced harmonic (CH)‐EUS.

Methods

Patients with a pancreatic lesion who underwent DFI‐EUS, eFLOW‐EUS, and CH‐EUS between March 2019 and November 2023 were retrospectively enrolled. Final diagnoses were confirmed by pathologic examination of EUS‐guided tissue acquisition and/or resected specimens. Lesions were categorized into the three patterns of poor, mild, and rich vascularity on DFI‐EUS and eFLOW‐EUS, and hypo‐, iso‐, and hypervascular on CH‐EUS. PC was defined as a poor pattern on DFI‐EUS and eFLOW‐EUS, and a hypovascular pattern on CH‐EUS.

Results

The final diagnoses of 90 examined tumors were PC (n = 57), inflammatory mass (n = 6), autoimmune pancreatitis (n = 13), neuroendocrine tumor (n = 9), and others (n = 5). The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy for diagnosis of PC were 93%, 82%, and 88%, respectively, on DFI‐EUS, 97%, 42%, and 77% on eFLOW‐EUS, and 95%, 89%, and 92% on CH‐EUS. The accuracy of DFI‐EUS was significantly superior to eFLOW‐EUS (P = 0.005), but no significant difference was found between DFI‐EUS and CH‐EUS.

Conclusion

DFI‐EUS is more sensitive for depicting vasculature than eFLOW‐EUS, and has higher diagnostic sensitivity for PC. Evaluation of vascularity on DFI‐EUS is useful for the differential diagnosis of pancreatic lesions without the need for intravenous contrast agent.
Hydrolyzed conchiolin protein inhibits melanogenesis through PKA/CREB and MEK/ERK signalling pathways
Authors: Zhang Yaqi , Wang Sisi , Yang Anquan
Published: August 2024

Objective

Hydrolyzed conchiolin protein (HCP) derived from pearl and nacre extracts exerts skin‐lightening effects; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. Herein, we investigated the effect of HCP on melanogenesis and the signalling pathways involved.

Methods

B16F10 cells and PIG cells were treated with HCP to verify its ability to inhibit melanin. Western Blot, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry methods were performed to investigate the effect of HCP on melanogenesis signalling pathway proteins. The inhibitors were used to further validate the effect of HCP on PKA/CREB and MEK/ERK signalling pathways. To further evaluate the whitening ability of HCP, changes in melanin were detected using 3D melanin skin model and zebrafish model.

Results

HCP was found to significantly inhibit melanin synthesis and decrease the expression of melanogenesis‐related proteins, such as microphthalmia‐associated transcription factor (MITF), tyrosinase, and tyrosinase‐related protein‐2, in a dose‐dependent manner. Additionally, we revealed that HCP suppresses melanogenesis via the regulation of the PKA/cAMP response element‐binding (CREB) and MEK/extracellular signalling‐regulated kinase (ERK) signalling pathways. Using 3D melanin skin models, we demonstrated that HCP can achieve skin‐lightening effects by improving apparent chroma, increasing apparent brightness, and inhibiting melanin synthesis. Furthermore, HCP exhibits skin‐whitening effects in a zebrafish model.

Conclusion

These results suggest that HCP suppresses the melanogenesis signalling cascade by inhibiting the PKA/CREB, MEK/ERK signalling pathway and downregulating MITF and its downstream signalling pathways, resulting in decreased melanin synthesis. In summary, HCP is a potential anti‐pigmentation agent with promising applications in cosmetics and pharmaceutical products.
The role of β‐glucanase in modifying dough characteristics, texture and in vitro starch digestibility of highland barley‐enriched bread
Authors: Yang Mei , Zhang Shuo , Wang Qian , Tong Litao , Wang Lili , Fan Bei , Wang Fengzhong , Liu Liya
Published: August 2024

This study aims to evaluate how β‐glucanase impacts dough characteristics, and the in vitro starch digestibility and quality of breads from mixed wheat and highland barley flour at different wheat/highland barley flour weight ratios (70/30 and 50/50). The results showed that β‐glucanase reduced the dough's viscoelasticity and enhanced its extensibility, softness, α‐helix (2.52%–16.12%), β‐sheet (11.10%–31.66%) and free sulfhydryl content (22.70%–34.49%). This helped to mitigate the negative effects of a high β‐glucan content on the wheat/highland barley dough (P < 0.05). Moreover, β‐glucanase improved the specific volume (44.67%–56.56%) and springiness (5.56%–40.41%) as well as reduced the hardness of wheat/highland barley bread (7.50%–71.32%). Furthermore, as the higher content of slowly digestible starch (20.81%–30.84%) reduced the enzymatic rate (k value), β‐glucanase‐treated wheat/highland barley bread exhibited lower starch digestibility (66.17%–71.16%) than white bread (75.37%). Therefore, this study indicated that β‐glucanase played an offsetting role on highland barley bread while maintaining relatively low starch digestibility.
Cross‐cultural comparison of low back pain in the nursing workforce: A pilot study
Authors: Gilchrist Andrea , Macková Denisa , Pokorná Andrea
Published: August 2024

Aim

This study aimed to analyse cross‐cultural differences in the prevalence of low back pain (LBP) and other back pain of general nurses in direct inpatient care in the Czech Republic (CZ) and Great Britain (GB).

Methods

The survey was used using an extended standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and self‐created additional questions. The data were analysed with Stata 15 using a significance level of 0.05.

Results

The data analysis was based on 1043 questionnaires. We identified statistically significant differences in the LBP prevalence between the respondents (CZ 93% and GB 85%) over a period of 12 months. Nurses in both countries stated a higher prevalence of LBP compared to pain in the neck, shoulders or upper back. LBP increases in relation to age, length of work experience, body mass index (BMI) and university education (BSc). Age, length of work experience, BMI and education (nursing college and master's degree) were confirmed as significant risks contributing to the increased prevalence of other back pain as well. Respondents reported a reduction in work performance, leisure activities and the need to change profession in relation to LBP.

Conclusion

The results of the study confirm that LBP is a frequent occupational health issue in the general nurses working in direct inpatient care in both countries.
COVID‐19 and support for basic income in Korea
Authors: Kim Hansung , Huh Soo Yeon , Lee Sun Young
Published: August 2024

The research questions addressed in this study are: “Who supports basic income (BI) in Korea?” and “What type of BI do supporters endorse?” To understand the support for BI in detail two key factors were considered: job insecurity and the receipt of no‐strings cash benefits during the COVID‐19 pandemic. The types of BI were categorized based on regularity, individuality, and adequacy. A series of logistic regression analyses was conducted using nationally representative survey data from 2020. The results revealed that job insecurity and the receipt of no‐strings cash benefits during the pandemic were significantly associated with the support for BI. Additionally, the study explored significant correlates of the support for each feature of BI. Job insecurity and the receipt of no‐strings cash benefits were significantly associated with the regularity of BI but not with its individuality and adequacy. Interestingly, among the participants who supported universal BI, only 9% believed that BI should be regular, individual, and sufficient to cover the minimum cost of living.
Expanding the transgene expression toolbox of the malaria vector Anopheles stephensi
Authors: Southworth Joshua , Gonzalez Estela , Nevard Katherine , Larrosa‐Godall Mireia , Alphey Luke , Anderson Michelle A. E.
Published: August 2024

Anopheles stephensi Liston, 1901 (Diptera: culicidae) is a competent vector of Plasmodium falciparum (Haemosporida: plasmodiidae) malaria, and its expansion in the African continent is of concern due to its viability in urban settings and resistance to insecticides. To enhance its genetic tractability, we determined the utility of a ~2 kb An. stephensi lipophorin (lp) promoter fragment in driving transgene expression. Lipophorin genes are involved in lipid transport in insects, and an orthologous promoter in An. gambiae (AGAP001826) was previously demonstrated to successfully express a transgene. In the present study, we qualitatively characterised the expression of a ZsYellow fluorescent marker protein, expressed by An. stephensi lp promoter fragment. Our study indicated that the lp promoter fragment was effective, generating a distinct expression pattern in comparison to the commonly utilised 3xP3 promoter. The lp:ZsYellow fluorescence was largely visible in early instar larvae and appeared more intense in later instar larvae, pupae and adults, becoming especially conspicuous in adult females after a blood meal. Different isolines showed some variation in expression pattern and intensity. Aside from general transgene expression, as the lp promoter produces a suitable fluorescent protein marker expression pattern, it may facilitate genotypic screening and aid the development of more complex genetic biocontrol systems, such as multi‐component gene drives. This study represents an expansion of the An. stephensi genetic toolbox, an important endeavour to increase the speed of An. stephensi research and reach public health milestones in combating malaria.
Six‐principal‐component high‐entropy carbonitride aerogel thermal insulator: Theoretical and experimental studies
Authors: Han Lei , Chen Yu , Wang Huifang , Zhang Haijun , Zhang Shaowei
Published: August 2024

A combined theoretical and experimental approach was used to investigate high‐entropy carbonitride. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations suggest that the [N]/([C]+[N]) ratio in (Ti1/6Cr1/6V1/6Mo1/6Nb1/6Ta1/6)(C1−xNx) affects its lattice thermal conductivity which could be decreased by 89% by increasing the ratio from 0 to 1/2. Moreover, a robust, flame‐retardant and high‐temperature resistant (Ti1/6Cr1/6V1/6Mo1/6Nb1/6Ta1/6)(C0.64N0.36) high‐entropy carbonitride aerogel (6‐HECNA) was synthesized. It exhibited a porosity of 94.3%, a compressive strength of 0.9 MPa, and a good high‐temperature stability up to 1673 K. These properties, along with its outstanding fire‐retardancy, and low thermal conductivity (0.122 W·m−1·K−1 at 298 K), make it a promising candidate material for thermal insulation applications under harsh conditions.
In‐situ fabrication of high‐strength SiC joints utilizing a novel CoCrFeNiTiMo high‐entropy alloy filler
Authors: Huang Changcong , Chen Jian , Zhang Huihui , Liao Shengjun , Gao Chenxi , Peng Lan , Liu Xuejian , Huang Zhengren
Published: August 2024

This study utilized an innovative unalloyed CoCrFeNiTiMo hybrid powder as a joining filler to fabricate high‐strength SiC/HEA/SiC joints via in‐situ reaction. The investigation systematically examines the effects of joining parameters on microstructural evolution and mechanical properties. The filler exhibits high reactivity with SiC, addressing carbon enrichment and low‐strength issues. The resulting joining layer comprises HEA‐rich Si, Mo1.5Cr1.5Si, MoTiC2, and TiC phases. Increasing the temperature facilitates carbon diffusion, transforming TiC into MoTiC2 and forming a MoTiC2‐wrapped TiC structure. At 1400°C for 60 min, the joints attain peak flexural and shear strengths of 312 ± 16 and 137 ± 10 MPa, respectively. Additionally, the joints demonstrate excellent oxidation resistance, with a residual strength of 270 ± 7 MPa after 20 h at 900°C, and favorable high‐temperature mechanical strength, retaining 155 ± 14 MPa at 1000°C. A detailed analysis of the joint formation mechanism is conducted based on experimental results and first‐principles calculations.
Mechanisms of ice crystal growth in nanoconfined spaces of cementitious composites at low temperatures: Insights from molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Wang Zhiyu , Zhou Yuxin , Feng Yuan , Zhang Junjie , Yu Rui , Yu Zechuan
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the dynamics of ice crystal growth and stress distribution in nanoconfined spaces using molecular dynamics simulations. First, the interaction between the pore wall and coarse‐grained water is modified, leading to the development of pore models with varying wettability. Subsequently, the process of ice crystal growth within pores of 10 nm diameter is examined under different temperatures and hydrophobicity conditions. Results unveil that ice crystal growth induces substantial energy and enthalpy alterations within the system. Hydrophobic nanopores demonstrate a protective function by limiting ice crystal growth and water transport, thereby mitigating freezing damage. However, hydrophobic nanopores exhibit increased stress levels when saturated with water. The study employs the Zener pinning theory and mass transfer rates to qualitatively scrutinize the thermodynamic and kinetic interplay between the ice crystal interface and the degree of supercooling. These findings offer insights into the mechanisms of ice formation and stress evolution in nanoconfined environments.
The European Union as a Target: When Do Democratic Backsliders Rhetorically Challenge the EU?
Authors: Waters Kari , Call Samantha
Published: August 2024

Populist actors who conduct democratic backsliding incrementally eat away at institutional checks on power. Whilst they largely focus on domestic institutions, European Union (EU) member states have an international democratic institution to consider as well. In this article, we present and test a theory explaining changes in backslider rhetoric towards the EU. Whilst they often claim a position of Euroscepticism, their interactions with the EU are complicated. We argue that anti‐democratic actors consider the public perception of the EU and the likelihood of enforcement and sanctions from the EU when deciding what type of rhetoric to use. Using speeches from Orbán in Hungary and Duda in Poland, we find that the effect of public opinion on speech sentiment varies between leaders. We also find evidence of position blurring in response to increases in EU threat levels.
Advancing the treatment of anxiety disorders in transition‐age youth: a review of the therapeutic effects of unconscious exposure
Authors: Siegel Paul , Peterson Bradley S.
Published: August 2024

Background

The real‐world effectiveness of exposure‐based therapies for youth depends on the willingness and ability of young people to tolerate confronting their fears, which can be experienced as highly aversive and create problems with treatment engagement and acceptance. Recently, neuroscientific research on the nonconscious basis of fear has been translated into novel exposure interventions that bypass conscious processing of feared stimuli and that thus do not cause phobic youth to experience distress. We present a review of these unconscious exposure interventions.

Methods

A PRISMA‐based search yielded 20 controlled experiments based on three paradigms that tested if fear‐related responses could be reduced without conscious awareness in highly phobic, transition‐age youth: 14 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), 5 fMRI studies (1 was also an RCT), 4 psychophysiological studies (3 were also RCTs), and 1 ERP study. We conducted meta‐analyses of outcomes where feasible.

Results

Unconscious exposure interventions significantly (1) reduced avoidance behavior (range of Cohen's d = 0.51–0.95) and self‐reported fear (d = 0.45–1.25) during in vivo exposure to the feared situation; (2) reduced neurobiological indicators of fear (d = 0.54–0.62) and concomitant physiological arousal (d = 0.55–0.64); (3) activated neural systems supporting fear regulation more strongly than visible exposure to the same stimuli (d = 1.2–1.5); (4) activated regions supporting fear regulation that mediated the reduction of avoidance behavior (d = 0.70); (5) evoked ERPs suggesting encoding of extinction memories (d = 2.13); and (6) had these effects without inducing autonomic arousal or subjective fear.

Conclusions

Unconscious exposure interventions significantly reduce a variety of symptomatic behaviors with mostly moderate effect sizes in transition‐age youth with specific phobias. fMRI and physiological findings establish a neurophysiological basis for this efficacy, and suggest it occurs through extinction learning. Unconscious exposure was well tolerated, entirely unassociated with drop out, and is highly scalable for clinical practice. However, a number of limitations must be addressed to assess potential clinical impacts, including combining unconscious exposure with exposure therapy to boost treatment acceptance and efficacy.
Determinants of riverine migration success by Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) smolts from rivers across the UK and Ireland
Authors: Rodger Jessica R. , Guthrie Jemma , Honkanen Hannele M. , Lothian Angus J. , Lilly Jessie , Walters Marcus , Miller Richie , Hawkins Lorraine , Reeve Al , Ribbens Jamie , Henderson Jim , Parke Debbie , Green Amy , Shields Brian A. , Ramsden Philip , Fletcher Melanie , Kettle‐White Alan , Shaw Brian , Burns Stephen , Laughton Robert , Conroy Chris , Daphne Chris , Williams Keith , Robertson Sean , Bean Colin W. , del Villar Diego , Waters Catherine , Rosell Robert , Cotter Deirdre , Smith Melanie , Maoiléidigh Niall Ó. , Kennedy Richard , Adams Colin E.
Published: August 2024

There is some evidence that the river migration success of Atlantic salmon smolts, on their first migration to sea, varies both spatially and temporally. However, we have only a poor understanding of what may be driving this variation. In this study, we used acoustic telemetry to quantify the spatial and temporal variations in river migration success in Atlantic salmon smolts on their first migration to sea. In total 4120 Atlantic salmon smolts migrating through 22 rivers in Scotland, England, Ireland, and Northern Ireland over multiple years were included in the study. Individuals were defined as successful migrants if detected leaving the river to enter marine waters. The results show significant temporal (up to 4 years) and spatial (river) variations in migration success, with overall between‐river migration success varying from 3.4% to 97.0% and between years from 3.4% and 61.0%. Temporal variation in migration success was river specific, with some rivers being more temporally stable (exhibiting little variation between years) than others. Across all rivers and years, individual migration success was predicted positively by body condition and negatively by tag burden. The rate of migration success for a population (migration success standardized to a common river distance [proportion km−1]) was predicted by a number of environmental factors. The proportion of river catchment that comprised wetland and woodland positively predicted migration success, whereas the proportion of grassland and peatland in a catchment negatively predicted the rate of migration success. Although the mechanisms through which these effects may be operating were not directly examined in this study, we discuss some potential routes through which they may occur.
Analyzing network flows of used EEE and e‐waste with platform data: Adding reuse into the EPR system for WEEE recycling in China
Authors: Wang Tao , Tong Xin , Li Jinling , Wang Xuejun
Published: August 2024

China has established a nationwide formal e‐waste disassembly system based on the extended producer responsibility principle. However, the system mainly focuses on material recycling while excluding the reuse of used electrical and electronic equipment (used EEE) due to the complexity of flows and transactions during the reuse stage. Recently, emerging online platforms have played an increasingly crucial role in the value chain of reuse and recycling, significantly improving the visibility of flows in these activities. This paper aims to depict the spatial structure of the used EEE and e‐waste flow networks using a multi‐scale analysis framework. Using spatial analysis tools in complex network analysis, we characterize cross‐city reuse flows in China. A clear regional pattern of a hierarchical reuse network of notable regional hubs in certain regions in China is revealed in this analysis. The role of regulation is demonstrated in the comparison of the spatial flows in reuse and recycling. In conclusion, it is proposed that reuse should be included and emphasized in the management of waste electrical and electronic equipment in China to maximize the value of circularity.
Amyloid beta 1‐40 and 1‐42 fibril ratios and maturation level cause conformational differences with minimal impact on autophagy and cytotoxicity
Authors: Johansson Lovisa , Sandberg Alexander , Nyström Sofie , Hammarström Per , Hallbeck Martin
Published: August 2024

The amyloid β (Aβ) peptide has a central role in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology. The peptide length can vary between 37 and 49 amino acids, with Aβ1‐42 being considered the most disease‐related length. However, Aβ1‐40 is also found in Aβ plaques and has shown to form intertwined fibrils with Aβ1‐42. The peptides have previously also shown to form different fibril conformations, proposed to be related to disease phenotype. To conduct more representative in vitro experiments, it is vital to uncover the impact of different fibril conformations on neurons. Hence, we fibrillized different Aβ1‐40:42 ratios in concentrations of 100:0, 90:10, 75:25, 50:50, 25:75, 10:90 and 0:100 for either 24 h (early fibrils) or 7 days (aged fibrils). These were then characterized based on fibril width, LCO‐staining and antibody‐staining. We further challenged differentiated neuronal‐like SH‐SY5Y human cells with the different fibrils and measured Aβ content, cytotoxicity and autophagy function at three different time‐points: 3, 24, and 72 h. Our results revealed that both Aβ1‐40:42 ratio and fibril maturation affect conformation of fibrils. We further show the impact of these conformation changes on the affinity to commonly used Aβ antibodies, primarily affecting Aβ1‐40 rich aggregates. In addition, we demonstrate uptake of the aggregates by neuronally differentiated human cells, where aggregates with higher Aβ1‐42 ratios generally caused higher cellular levels of Aβ. These differences in Aβ abundance did not cause changes in cytotoxicity nor in autophagy activation. Our results show the importance to consider conformational differences of Aβ fibrils, as this can have fundamental impact on Aβ antibody detection. Overall, these insights underline the need for further exploration of the impact of conformationally different fibrils and the need to reliably produce disease relevant Aβ aggregates.

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Abiotic stressors in poultry production: A comprehensive review
Authors: Ncho Chris Major , Berdos Janine I. , Gupta Vaishali , Rahman Attaur , Mekonnen Kefala Taye , Bakhsh Allah
Published: August 2024

In modern animal husbandry, stress can be viewed as an automatic response triggered by exposure to adverse environmental conditions. This response can range from mild discomfort to severe consequences, including mortality. The poultry industry, which significantly contributes to human nutrition, is not exempt from this issue. Although genetic selection has been employed for several decades to enhance production output, it has also resulted in poor stress resilience. Stress is manifested through a series of physiological reactions, such as the identification of the stressful stimulus, activation of the sympathetic nervous system and the adrenal medulla, and subsequent hormonal cascades. While brief periods of stress can be tolerated, prolonged exposure can have more severe consequences. For instance, extreme fluctuations in environmental temperature can lead to the accumulation of reactive oxygen species, impairment of reproductive performance, and reduced immunity. In addition, excessive noise in poultry slaughterhouses has been linked to altered bird behaviour and decreased production efficiency. Mechanical vibrations have also been shown to negatively impact the meat quality of broilers during transport as well as the egg quality and hatchability in hatcheries. Lastly, egg production is heavily influenced by light intensity and regimens, and inadequate light management can result in deficiencies, including visual anomalies, skeletal deformities, and circulatory problems. Although there is a growing body of evidence demonstrating the impact of environmental stressors on poultry physiology, there is a disproportionate representation of stressors in research. Recent studies have been focused on chronic heat stress, reflecting the current interest of the scientific community in climate change. Therefore, this review aims to highlight the major abiotic stressors in poultry production and elucidate their underlying mechanisms, addressing the need for a more comprehensive understanding of stress in diverse environmental contexts.
An Approach to Assessing the Impact of Hurricane Matthew on Meiofaunal Communities in Sandy Beach Environments
Authors: Giraldo Daniel , Lagos Ana Milena , Quiroga Sigmer Y. , Leon M. Victoria , Colorado Angie
Published: August 2024

Hurricanes are natural periodic events that disrupt marine ecosystems along their path, altering the distribution and abundance of organisms. In October 2016, Hurricane Matthew struck the Santa Marta region (Colombia) and impacted its coastal zone, yet there have been insufficient studies to measure its effects. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of Hurricane Matthew on the meiofaunal community in the region. To achieve this, sediment samples were collected from the intertidal zone of three beaches 5 days after the hurricane had passed. The results were compared with previous data collected in October 2014, on the abundance and diversity of taxonomic groups of intertidal meiofauna, as well as physicochemical variables such as granulometry, organic matter in sediments, salinity, and water temperature. Following Hurricane Matthew, the physicochemical variables showed changes due to the effect of the cyclonic surge in the coastal zone. The average organism abundance not only experienced a decline in both abundance and richness but also underwent changes in composition. Nematoda, originally the fourth most abundant group in 2014, became the most dominant taxon post‐hurricane. Conversely, the relative abundance of Copepoda decreased. The total number of recorded taxa was 13, which is close to the 15 previously reported. The ANOSIM and PERMANOVA tests confirmed differences in the meiofaunal community before and after Hurricane Matthew, with Tardigrada, Cnidaria, Ostracoda and Mollusca, being the main groups that contributed the most to the dissimilarity between periods. The environmental variables of organic matter and temperature best explained the structure of the meiofaunal community after the natural phenomenon. This study highlights the importance of meiofauna as a monitoring tool for beaches and the effects of environmental disturbances such as hurricanes, which are expected to become more common in coastal areas due to climate change.
Evidence‐based review and frontiers of migraine therapy
Authors: Greene Kaitlin A. , Gelfand Amy A. , Larry Charleston
Published: August 2024

Background

Cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) is identified as one of the “episodic syndromes that may be associated with migraine,” along with benign paroxysmal torticollis, benign paroxysmal vertigo, and abdominal migraine. It has been proposed that CVS and migraine may share pathophysiologic mechanisms of hypothalamic activation and altered dopaminergic signaling, and impaired sensorimotor intrinsic connectivity. The past decade has brought groundbreaking advances in the treatment of migraine and other headache disorders. While many of these therapies have yet to be studied in episodic syndromes associated with migraine including CVS and abdominal migraine, the potential shared pathophysiology among these conditions suggests that use of migraine‐specific treatments may have a beneficial role even in those for whom headache is not the primary symptom.

Purpose

This manuscript highlights newer therapies in migraine. Calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) and its relation to migraine pathophysiology and the therapies that target the CGRP pathway, as well as a 5HT1F receptor agonist and neuromodulation devices used to treat migraine are briefly discussed as they may potentially prove to be useful in the future treatment of CVS.
Effect of ageing on attended visual stimuli in the presence of cognitive mental load
Authors: Mahjoob Monireh , Anderson Andrew J.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study was designed to compare the effects of mental load, caused by concurrent auditory tasks, on attended and non‐attended visual stimuli in older and younger adults.

Methods

Participants performed a visual orientation discrimination task involving two spatially separated Gabor patches of 4 cycles/degree and 55% contrast. Participants received either a valid‐cue, invalid‐cue or a neutral‐cue for the patch whose orientation they were required to determine. An auditory n‐back task was performed simultaneously to impose mental load. Repeated‐measures ANOVA was used for investigation of main effects and interactions of ageing, mental load and attention condition on orientation discrimination.

Results

A total of 27 younger (mean age ± SD, 22.6 ± 1.3 years) and 23 older adults (54.7 ± 4.3 years) participated in the study. There was a significant effect of age (p = 0.01) and mental load (p < 0.001) on the proportion of correct orientation discrimination responses. Attentional condition significantly affected the proportion of correct responses (p = 0.02), but there was no significant interaction between attention, mental load and age group (p = 0.85). There was no overall difference in the proportion of no responses (the proportion of trials in which the participants failed to respond) between the two age groups (p = 0.53) nor on the overall effect of attention on the proportion of no responses (p = 0.25). There was, however, a significant effect of mental load on the proportion of no responses (p = 0.002).

Conclusion

Although mental load reduced performance equally for both age groups and for all attentional conditions, older adults had poorer overall performance. Therefore, a given mental load is more likely to drive older observers to unacceptable levels of task performance.
How to give a spider a heart attack: Evaluating cardiac stress reactions of Trichonephila and Argiope spiders
Authors: Davis Andrew K. , Vu Christina
Published: August 2024

All animal species, from arthropods to vertebrates, must deal with occasional stressors in their lives, though most research on this has been focused on vertebrates. Meanwhile, our understanding of stress reactions in arthropod species like spiders is nascent. In the United States, a non‐native orb‐weaving spider, Trichonephila clavata (‘jorō’ spider), is spreading as is its already‐established cousin in the United States, T. clavipes (golden silk spider). Prior study has revealed how these two species have a unique behavioural reaction to physical stressors, whereby they remain in a thanatosis state for a prolonged period compared with other species. Here, we investigate the physiological stress reactions of these Trichonephila spiders by evaluating how each species' dorsal vessel contractions (heart rates) become elevated after being subjected to a non‐lethal stressor. For comparison, we also evaluate two similarly‐sized orb weavers, Argiope aurantia (garden spider) and A. trifasciata (banded garden spider). We record baseline heart rates of inactive, resting, spiders in our lab, then restrain them under an electronic, ‘optocardiographic’, sensor for 10 min, to record their ‘stressed’ heart rates. Argiope aurantia has a pronounced heart rate elevation, for reasons unknown. We observe that all spider heart rates increase during restraint, though each has a species‐specific pattern of elevation over time under restraint. Notably, heart rates of both Trichonephila spiders are less variable under stress, since they tend not to struggle during restraint. Meanwhile, both Argiope spiders frequently struggle, leading to marked fluctuations in cardiac output. The stress reactions of Trichonephila spiders could be characterized as ‘even‐tempered’, which may factor into their ability to live in habitats with frequent disturbances.
Moral equality and social hierarchy
Authors: van Wietmarschen Han
Published: August 2024

Social egalitarianism holds that justice requires that people relate to one another as equals. To explain the content of this requirement, social egalitarians often appeal to the moral equality of persons. This leads to two very different interpretations of social egalitarianism. The first involves the specification of a conception of the moral equality of persons that is distinctive of the social egalitarian view. Social (or relational) egalitarianism can then claim that for people to relate as equals is for the relations between them to conform to this conception of their moral equality. I will argue against this type of view. Instead, I will argue that social egalitarianism should propose a distinctive conception of social equality as a purely sociological phenomenon. I will show how this conception allows us to formulate the types of normative claims social egalitarianism should make. On this picture, social egalitarianism, instead of identifying social hierarchy as a distinctive kind of wrong, makes standard normative claims about a distinctive kind of social phenomenon.
Inferior spikelet filling is affected by T6P/SnRK1‐mediated NSC remobilization in large‐panicle rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Lin Yan , Xia Yongqing , Hu Yuxiang , Wang Ziteng , Ding Yanfeng , Chen Lin
Published: August 2024

Poor grain filling in inferior spikelets (IS), which is influenced by the remobilization of nonstructural carbohydrates (NSC) stored in the sheath and internode of rice plants, limits the expected high yield of large‐panicle rice. NSC remobilization from the sheath to the panicle is regulated by the T6P/SnRK1 pathway. However, in large‐panicle rice, it is unclear whether IS grain filling is related to the NSC remobilization mediated by T6P/SnRK1 signaling. In this study, two large‐panicle cultivars—W1844 and CJ03—with distinct differences in IS grain filling were used to explore the physiological mechanism mediating IS development. Compared to W1844, CJ03 IS showed lower expression of the genes related to sucrose uploading, later sucrose peaking, and delayed starch accumulation. In the CJ03, low OsSUTs expression and NSC output, transport rate, and contribution rate were detected in the sheaths and internodes. These results suggest that poor NSC remobilization results in insufficient assimilate supply for the IS, and consequently, poor IS grain filling. Furthermore, poor NSC remobilization coincided with the increased T6P content and decreased SnRK1 activity during grain filling in CJ03 IS. The expression levels of genes related to T6P metabolism and those encoding the catalytic subunit of SnRK1 were consistent with the observed T6P content and SnRK1 activity in the sheaths and internodes. Therefore, IS grain filling is potentially affected by T6P/SnRK1 signaling‐mediated NSC remobilization in large‐panicle rice.
OsUVR8b, rather than OsUVR8a, plays a predominant role in rice UVR8‐mediated UV‐B response
Authors: Chen Yu‐long , Zhong You‐bin , Leung David W. M. , Yan Xiao‐Yu , Ouyang Meng‐ni , Ye Yu‐zhen , Li Shi‐mei , Peng Xin‐xiang , Liu E‐e
Published: August 2024

UV RESISTANCE LOCUS 8 (UVR8) has been identified in Arabidopsis thaliana as the receptor mediating responses to UV‐B radiation. However, UVR8‐mediated UV‐B signaling pathways in rice, which possesses two proteins (UVR8a and UVR8b) with high identities to AtUVR8, remain largely unknown. Here, UVR8a/b were found to be predominantly expressed in rice leaves and leaf sheaths, while the levels of UVR8b transcript and UVR8b protein were both higher than those of UVR8a. Compared to wild‐type (WT) plants, uvr8b and uvr8a uvr8b rice mutants exposed to UV‐B showed reduced UV‐B‐induced growth inhibition and upregulation of CHS and HY5 transcripts alongside UV‐B acclimation. However, uvr8a mutant was similar to WT plants and exhibited changes comparable with WT. Overexpressing OsUVR8a/b enhanced UV‐B‐induced growth inhibition and acclimation to UV‐B. UV‐B was able to enhance the interaction between E3 ubiquitin ligase OsCOP1 and OsUVR8a/b, whereas the interaction of the homologous protein of Arabidopsis REPRESSOR OF UV‐B PHOTOMORPHOGENESIS2 (AtRUP2) in rice with OsUVR8a/b was independent of UV‐B. Additionally, OsUVR8a/b proteins were also found in the nucleus and cytoplasm even in the absence of UV‐B. The abundance of OsUVR8 monomer showed an invisible change in the leaves of rice seedlings transferred from white light to that supplemented with UV‐B, even though UV‐B was able to weaken the interactions between OsUVR8a and OsUVR8b homo and heterodimers. Therefore, both OsUVR8a and OsUVR8b, which have different localization and response patterns compared with AtUVR8, function in the response of rice to UV‐B radiation, whereas OsUVR8b plays a predominant role in this process.
Measuring climate change perception in China using mental images: A nationwide open‐ended survey
Authors: Yang Jianxun , He Wei , Xia Ziqian , Wu Kehan , Fang Wen , Ma Zongwei , Liu Miaomiao , Bi Jun
Published: August 2024

Current knowledge about public climate change perception mainly covers belief, concern, and attitudes. However, how this discourse is interpreted using individuals’ own frame of reference remains largely unknown, particularly in many large emitters from non‐Annex I countries such as China. This study, for the first time, performs a nationwide open‐ended survey covering 4,037 respondents and collected 12,100 textual answers. Using a semiautomated coding method, we find seven mental images that exclusively represent the Chinese interpretation of the climate change issue, including global warming, distant icons, natural disasters, environmental degradation, cause, solution, and weather. Analysis of influencing factors shows that females, those with lower education levels, lower income, and older individuals tend to connect climate change with natural weather phenomena. Younger and well‐educated residents in developed cities are more aware of various consequences and anthropogenic causes of climate change. People with stronger climate change beliefs, policy support, and personal experience of extreme weather are more likely to mention disastrous impacts, carbon emission as causes, and potential solutions. Employing the multilevel regression and post‐stratification technique, we map the prevalence of mental images in China at the prefecture‐city level. The results reveal significant geographical heterogeneity, with estimated national means ranging from a high of 55% (weather) to a low of 11% (solution). Our findings reveal diverse perspectives and a widespread misconception of climate change in China, suggesting the need for tailored clarification strategies to gain public consent.
Media representation of ethnic minorities in Pakistani newspapers
Authors: Habes Mohammed , Elareshi Mokhtar , Ali Sana
Published: August 2024

Pakistani is a diverse society, and media are vital in highlighting their identity, presence, and contributions. Newspapers play a pivotal role in shaping perceptions of ethnic minorities, highlighting the need for impartial and responsible journalism. This study examines the role of newspapers in this context, focusing on the portrayal of ethnic minorities through a content analysis of 84 news articles from leading Pakistani Urdu‐language newspapers (Daily Jang, Daily Express and Daily Khabrain) to scrutinise the portrayal of ethnic minorities. The study aims to uncover the patterns and themes in the portrayal of these communities. Findings reveal that patterns in coverage allocation, with Christians dominating news coverage compared to other religious groups. The portrayal of non‐Muslim groups is predominantly positive, yet the articles featured anti‐Ahmadi content, reflecting complexity. The findings emphasise the well‐being of minorities, showcasing a positive trend. The news articles accentuated the positive contributions of non‐Muslims, and a significant majority (85.7%) covered religious events of minority groups. Positive representation aligns with societal discourse acknowledging diverse contributions and cultural expressions. Critical inquiry is prompted by editorial decisions, journalistic priorities, and societal dynamics shaping media narratives.
NtMYB27 acts downstream of NtBES1 to modulate flavonoids accumulation in response to UV‐B radiation in tobacco
Authors: Wang Zhong , Luo Zhaopeng , Li Zefeng , Liu Pingping , He Shun , Yu Shizhou , Zhao Huina , Yang Jinchu , Zhang Zhan , Cao Peijian , Jin Shuangxia , Yang Yongfeng , Yang Jun
Published: August 2024

UV‐B radiation can induce the accumulation of many secondary metabolites, including flavonoids, in plants to protect them from oxidative damage. BRI1‐EMS‐SUPPRESSOR1 (BES1) has been shown to mediate the biosynthesis of flavonoids in response to UV‐B. However, the detailed mechanism by which it acts still needs to be further elucidated. Here, we revealed that UV‐B significantly inhibited the transcription of multiple transcription factor genes in tobacco, including NtMYB27, which was subsequently shown to be a repressor of flavonoids synthesis in tobacco. We further demonstrated that NtBES1 directly binds to the E‐box motifs present in the promoter of NtMYB27 to mediate its transcriptional repression upon UV‐B exposure. The UV‐B‐repressed NtMYB27 could bind to the ACCT‐containing element (ACE) in the promoters of Nt4CL and NtCHS and served as a modulator that promoted the biosynthesis of lignin and chlorogenic acid (CGA) but inhibited the accumulation of flavonoids in tobacco. The expression of NtMYB27 was also significantly repressed by heat stress, suggesting its putative roles in regulating heat‐induced flavonoids accumulation. Taken together, our results revealed the role of NtBES1 and NtMYB27 in regulating the synthesis of flavonoids during the plant response to UV‐B radiation in tobacco.