bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Repeatability of Ad Libitum Fluid Intake During Repeated 1 h Walking/Jogging Exercise Sessions Conducted Under Hot Ambient Conditions
Authors: Goulet Eric D.B. , Claveau Pascale , Simoneau Ivan L. , Deshayes Thomas A. , Jolicoeur-Desroches Antoine , Aloui Fedi , Hoffman Martin D.
Published: September 2023

A drinking strategy aiming to replace a given percentage of the sweat losses incurred during exercise should result in reproducible fluid intake volume and, hence, fluid balance from one exercise session to the other performed under similar scenarios. Whether this may also be the case with ad libitum drinking during exercise is unclear. We characterized the repeatability of ad libitum fluid intake during repeated 1 h exercise sessions and examine its effect over time on fluid balance and selected physiological functions and perceptual sensations. Twelve (3 women) healthy individuals participated in this study. At weekly intervals, they completed 4, 2 x 30 min walking/jogging exercise bouts (55% VO2max, 40°C, 20-30% relative humidity) interspersed by a 3 min recovery period. During exercise, participants replaced water (20°C) ad libitum. There were no significant differences among the 4 exercise sessions for absolute fluid intake volume (~ 1000 mL · h-1), percent body mass loss (~ 0.4%), sweat rate (~ 1300 mL · h-1) and percent of sweat loss replaced by fluid intake (~ 80%). Heart rate, rectal temperature and perceived thirst and heat stress did not differ significantly between the first and fourth exercise session. Perceived exertion was significantly lower during the fourth vs. the first exercise session, but the difference was trivial, < 1 arbitrary unit. In conclusion, ad libitum fluid intake during 4 successive identical 1 h walking/jogging sessions conducted in the heat will result in similar fluid intake volumes and perturbations in fluid balance, heart rate, rectal temperature and perceived thirst, heat stress and exertion.
In-Vitro Assessment of The Antidiabetic and Anti-Inflammatory Potential of The Artemisia absinthium, Artemisia vulgaris and Trigonella foenum-graecum Extracts Processed by Membrane Technologies
Authors: Neagu Elena , Paun Gabriela , Albu Camelia , Radu Gabriel Lucian
Published: September 2023

In recent years there has been increasing interest in the discovery of new natural herbal remedies for the treatment of common conditions such as diabetes and inflammatory diseases. In this context, this paper analyzed the antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory potential of two plants of the genus Artemisia: Artemisia absinthium (wormwood) and Artemisia vulgaris (mugwort) and Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) plants less studied from this point of view. Thus, hydroal-coholic extracts (50% EtOH v/v, 10% mass) were made, which were processed by membrane technologies, micro- and ultrafiltration, in order to concentrate the biologically active principles. The extracts were then analyzed in terms of content in active principles of interest (polyphenols, flavones). The antidiabetic activity of the extracts was analyzed by testing their ability to inhibit α-amylase and α-glucosidase and the anti-inflammatory activity by testing the ability to inhibit hyaluronidase (HYA) and lipoxygenase (LOX). Thus, the T. foenum-graecum extracts showed a high inhibitory activity on α-amylase 3.22 ± 0.3 g / mL (compared to the standard used - IC50 acarbose = 3.5 g / mL) and a high inhibitory activity on LOX: 19.69 ± 0.52 g/mL (compared to all standards used). The concentrated extract of Artemisia vulgaris showed increased activity of inhibition of α-amylase - IC50 = 8.57 ± 2.31g/mL and moderate activity of inhibition of HYA - IC50 = 17.18 g/mL compared to ibuprofen, the standard used - IC50 = 5.73 g/mL. The concentrated extract of Artemisia absinthium showed a pronounced activity of inhibition of LOX - IC50 = 19.71 g / mL, compared to the standard - rutin - IC50 = 22.34 g/mL).
Holocene Evolution of the Pearl River Delta: Mapping Integral Isobaths and Delta Progradation
Authors: Tang Yongjie , Zheng Zhuo , Huang Kangyou , Chen Cong , Chen Zhen , Lu Hongyu , Wu Weisheng , Lin Xiaoming , Zhang Xianhe , Li Hongwei
Published: September 2023

The Pearl River Delta (PRD) has undergone complex geological development within a multi-island faulted basin, shaped by the interplay of regional tectonic movements, Quaternary sea-level fluctuations, and fluvial-marine interactions. Despite a great number of studies on the Holocene sedimentary sequences and spatial difference of lithofacies and environments, scant attention has been paid to the overarching human influence on deltaic evolution and coastline modifications since the Neolithic epoch. To further elucidate the spatial variation in Holocene sedimentation and its underlying basement topography shaped during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM), we compiled a comprehensive dataset incorporating borehole data from over 2,800 cores within the PRD. Subsequently, high-resolution isobath maps of Quaternary deltaic deposits were generated, offering unprecedented insights into sediment distribution. This dataset facilitated a nuanced reconstruction of pre-Holocene topography, revealing a zone characterized by elongated, deep-incised valleys governed by NW-SE fault orientations. Further, we delineated coastline shifts since the period of maximum marine transgression (~7000 years BP), contributing to an enhanced understanding of the formation and evolutionary patterns of the delta and the river network oscillations. Our findings illuminate increasing anthropogenic impact on the rate of fluvial sedimentation and land growth, particularly accentuated over the last two millennia, favoring deltaic accretion. The current study has considerable implications for understanding the dynamic interplay between land-sea interactions and anthropogenic activities in shaping the delta, and stands to significantly inform land and resource management strategies, as well as future urban planning within the delta's bay areas.
Advances in Fabrication Technologies for Development of Next-generation Cardiovascular Stents
Authors: Das Ankita , Mehrotra Shreya , Kumar Ashok
Published: September 2023

Coronary artery disease is the most prevalent cardiovascular disease, claiming millions of lives annually around the world. The current treatment includes surgically inserting a tubular construct called as a stent inside arteries to restore blood flow. However, due to lack of patient-specific design, the commercial products cannot be used with different vessel anatomies. In this review, we have summarized the drawbacks in existing commercial metal stents which face problems of restenosis and inflammatory responses, owing to the development of neointimal hyperplasia. Further, we have highlighted the fabrication of stents using biodegradable polymers, which can circumvent most of the existing limitations. In this regard, we elaborated on utilization of new fabrication methodologies based on additive manufacturing such as three-dimensional printing to design patient-specific stents. Finally, we have discussed on the functionalization of these stent surfaces with suitable bioactive molecules which can prove to enhance their properties in preventing thrombosis and better healing of injured blood vessel lining.
Treatment of Three Ferrets Diagnosed with Ferret Systemic Coronaviral Disease Using the Nucleoside Analogue GS-441524
Authors: Scaletti Federica , Puffal Julia , Neece, DVM Amanda J
Published: September 2023

Ferret Systemic Coronaviral Disease (FSCD) is a systemic disease, caused by ferret enteric coronavirus, that is considered lethal in most of the ferrets that are affected by it. To our knowledge, no treatment has been shown effective against FSCD, and most of the ferrets are euthanized or die after development of clinical disease. GS-441524 has been shown effective for successfully treating cats with Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP), a disease that shares similarities with FSCD. However, to our knowledge treatment with GS-441524 has not been reported for treatment of FSCD in ferrets. Here we describe three cases of ferrets diagnosed with FSCD successfully cured utilizing oral GS-441524. FSCD may be effectively treated following similar protocols utilized for feline infectious peritonitis in cats
Bioinspired Mechanical Materials—Development of High-Toughness Ceramics through Complexation of Calcium Phosphate and Organic Polymers
Authors: Mizutani Tadashi , Okuda Kohei
Published: September 2023

Inspired by the process of bone formation in living organisms, many studies have been conducted to develop organic-inorganic composite materials by generating calcium phosphate crystals within solutions or dispersions of polymers with appropriate functional groups. Bones are composite materials consisting of organic polymers (mainly Type I collagen), carbonated apatite, and water, with volume fractions 35-45%, 35-45%, 15-25%, respectively. Carbonated apatite in bone contributes to rigidity, while organic polymers and water contribute to toughness. The inorganic crystal, carbonated apatite, is a plate-shaped crystal with dimensions of 50 nm × 25 nm × 1-4 nm, generating a significant organic-inorganic interface due to its nanoscale size. This interface is believed to absorb externally applied forces to dissipate mechanical energy to thermal energy. Creating such nanometer-scale structures using top-down approaches is challenging, making bottom-up methods like co-precipitation of polymer and inorganic crystals more suitable. In this account, efforts to develop eco-friendly mechanical materials using biomass such as cellulose and starch based on the bottom-up approach to bone-like composites are described.
A Novel Approach for Integrating Community Knowledge into Fuzzy Logic-Adapted Spatial Modelling in the Analysis of Natural Resource Conflicts
Authors: Ibeh Lawrence , Kouveliotis Kyriakos , Mauser Wolfram , Unune Deepak Rajendra , Cuong Nguyen Manh , Mutai Noah , Fountis Anastasios , Dr. Rostomyan Anna , Samoylenko Svitlana , Popoola Olufunke Mercy
Published: September 2023

Resource conflicts represent a significant global challenge in regions abundant with natural re-sources. Modelling the myriad factors driving natural resource-based conflicts (NRBCs), spanning environmental, health, socio-economic, and political dimensions, is a complex endeavor exacer-bated by data scarcity. Furthermore, existing quantitative studies often focus solely on large-scale conflicts. This article introduces a novel algorithm, the Spatially Explicit Fuzzy Logic-Adapted Model for Conflict Management (SEFLAME-CM), which integrates the local knowledge of stakeholders into spatial decision-making technologies to support sustainable peace efforts. The results are validated with spatial multi-criteria evaluation (SMCE) using spatial statistics. The Moran’s I scatter plots for the overall conflicts reveal significant values of 0.99 and 0.98 for both the SEFLAME-CM and SMCE, respectively, with significant spatial autocorrelation. While there re-mains room for improvement in enhancing the model's quality, SEFLAME-CM demonstrates its capacity to transparently model complex real-world problems. The findings underscore the im-perative for a holistic approach to addressing environmental degradation, socio-economic, and political drivers of resource conflicts at the community level. Our paper demonstrates the signif-icance of spatial information technologies and knowledge exchange between experts and local stakeholders in effectively managing resource conflicts. These insights should inform national policies and international interventions, ensuring that the complex underlying issues are ad-dressed while prioritizing the knowledge and needs of affected communities.
Restoration of Over-Ground Walking via Non-invasive Neuromodulation Therapy
Authors: Alam Monzurul , Ling Yan To , Rahman Md Akhlasur , Wong Arnold Yu Lok , Zhong Hui , Edgerton V. Reggie , Zheng Yong-Ping
Published: September 2023

Spinal cord injuries (SCI) can result in sensory and motor dysfunctions, which were long-considered permanent. Recent advancement in electrical neuromodulation has been proven to restore sensorimotor function in people with SCI. These stimulation protocols, however, were mostly invasive, expensive, and difficult to implement. In this study, transcutaneous electrical stimulation (tES) was used to restore over-ground walking of an individual with 21 years of chronic paralysis from a cervical SCI. After a total of 66 weeks of rehabilitation training with tES, which included standing, functional reaching, reclined sit-up, treadmill walking and active biking, significant improvement in lower-limb volitional movements and overall light touch sensation were shown by International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury (ISNCSCI) score. By the end of the study, the participant could walk in a 4-meter walking test with the aid of a walking frame and ankle foot orthoses. The success in the sensorimotor recovery of our study participant sheds light on the future of non-invasive neuromodulation treatment for SCI paralysis.
Physiological Correlates of Hypnotizability: Neural Mechanisms of Hypnosis and Prognostic Role in Medicine
Authors: Malloggi Eleonora , SANTARCANGELO ENRICA
Published: September 2023

Studies in the field of experimental hypnosis highlighted the role of hypnotizability in the physiological variability of the general population. It is associated, in fact, with a few differences which are observable in the ordinary state of consciousness and in the absence of suggestions. The aim of the present scoping review is summarizing them, and indicate their relevance to the neural mechanisms of hypnosis and to the prognosis and treatment of a few medical conditions.
Individuals with high, medium and low hypnotizability scores display different cerebral functional differences – i.e., functional equivalence between imagery and perception/action , excitability of the motor cortex, interoceptive accuracy - possibly related to brain structural and functional characteristics - , and different control of blood supply at peripheral and cerebral level, likely due to different availability of endothelial nitric oxide. These differences are reviewed to support the idea of their participation in hypnotic behaviour and to indicate their prognostic and therapeutic usefulness in a few medical conditions.
Brain-based graph-theoretical predictive modeling to map the trajectory of transdiagnostic symptoms of anhedonia, impulsivity, and hypomania from the human functional connectome
Authors: Dan Rotem , Whitton Alexis , Treadway Michael , Rutherford Ashleigh , Kumar Poornima , Ironside Manon , Kaiser Roselinde , Ren Boyu , Pizzagalli Diego
Published: September 2023

Clinical assessments often fail to discriminate between unipolar and bipolar depression and identify individuals who will develop future (hypo)manic episodes. To address this challenge, we developed a brain-based graph-theoretical predictive model (GPM) to prospectively map symptoms of anhedonia, impulsivity, and (hypo)mania. Individuals seeking treatment for mood disorders (n = 80) underwent an fMRI scan, including (i) resting-state and (ii) a reinforcement-learning (RL) task. Symptoms were assessed at baseline as well as at 3- and 6-month follow-ups. A whole-brain functional connectome was computed for each fMRI task, and the GPM was applied for symptom prediction using cross-validation. Prediction performance was evaluated by comparing the GPM’s mean square error (MSE) to that of a corresponding null model. In addition, the GPM was compared to the connectome-based predictive modeling (CPM). Cross-sectionally, the GPM predicted anhedonia from the global efficiency (a graph theory metric that quantifies information transfer across the connectome) during the RL task, and impulsivity from the centrality (a metric that captures the importance of a region for information spread) of the left anterior cingulate cortex during resting-state. At 6-month follow-up, the GPM predicted (hypo)manic symptoms from the local efficiency of the left nucleus accumbens during the RL task and anhedonia from the centrality of the left caudate during resting-state. Notably, the GPM outperformed the CPM, and GPM derived from individuals with unipolar disorders predicted anhedonia and impulsivity symptoms for individuals with bipolar disorders, highlighting transdiagnostic generalization. Taken together, across DSM mood diagnoses, efficiency and centrality of the reward circuit predicted symptoms of anhedonia, impulsivity, and (hypo)mania, cross-sectionally and prospectively. The GPM is an innovative modeling approach that may ultimately inform clinical prediction at the individual level. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01976975
Ocean heat transport regulates Arctic sea ice loss
Authors: Aylmer Jake , Ferreira David , Feltham Daniel
Published: September 2023

Sea ice is a critical component of the polar and global climate that demands reliable future projections. Yet, such projections continue to suffer from uncertainties largely associated with inter-model spread. Global ocean heat transport (OHT) has been hypothesised as a source of this uncertainty, as simulations with greater OHT into the polar regions tend to exhibit greater historical and future sea ice loss. Previous studies have identified such intuitive correlations but stop short of a physical explanation needed to attribute model spread in sea ice to the ocean. Here, we explain the sign and size of the emergent sensitivity of sea ice to OHT using a simple equation that we derive from an idealised energy-balance model. This equation reveals underlying mechanisms involving the atmosphere and captures the OHT–sea ice relationship in climate models. Future Arctic sea ice loss is regulated by changes in OHT, the impact of which is set by compensation of atmospheric heat transport and radiative feedbacks. Our results suggest that addressing ocean biases in climate models will substantially reduce uncertainty in projections of sea ice and the global climate state.
BMC Geriatrics Evaluating the Efficacy of Assessments in Identifying Self-Reported Auditory and Visual Impairments among Elderly Individuals in the Faroe Islands – a ROC curve analysis
Authors: Haanes Gro Gade , Hofoss Dag
Published: September 2023

The objective of this investigation was to compare self-reported auditory and visual impairments with objective measurements among individuals aged 76 residing in the Faroe Islands. Data on 167 persons were collected through a cross-sectional study in which participants were screened for hearing and vision problems, first by a structured interview and then by ophthalmologic and audiologic measurements. The prevalence of seeing problems among Faroese 76-year-olds was much higher when identified by ophthalmologic and audiologic criteria than by self-report. For hearing problems, the prevalence rates produced by the two methods did not differ significantly. Agreement analysis by Cohen’s kappa and by ROC-curve construction showed that self-reports of problems with seeing and hearing were less accurate than problem identification by ophthalmologic and audiologic criteria. Nevertheless, for hearing problems – but not for eyesight problems – the kappa and AUC scores indicated that self-reports may be precise enough, considering the higher technical and administrative costs of screening by audiologists.
Microglial over-pruning of synapses during development in autism-associated SCN2A-deficient mice and human cerebral organoids
Authors: Yang Yang , Wu Jiaxiang , Zhang Jingliang , Chen Xiaoling , Que Zhefu , Wettschurack Kyle , Deming Brody , acosta Maria , Cui Ningren , Eaton Muriel , Zhao Yuanrui , Halurkar Manasi , Purba Mandal , Chen Ian , Xiao Tiange , Suzuki Matthew , Yuan Chongli , Xu Ranjie , Koss Wendy , Du Dongshu , Chen Fuxue , Wu Long-Jun
Published: September 2023

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a major neurodevelopmental disorder affecting 1 in 36 children in the United States. While neurons have been the focus to understand ASD, an altered neuro-immune response in the brain may be closely associated with ASD, and a neuro-immune interaction could play a role in the disease progression. As the resident immune cells of the brain, microglia regulate brain development and homeostasis via core functions including phagocytosis of synapses. While ASD has been traditionally considered a polygenic disorder, recent large-scale human genetic studies have identified SCN2A deficiency as a leading monogenic cause of ASD and intellectual disability. We generated a Scn2a-deficient mouse model, which displays major behavioral and neuronal phenotypes. However, the role of microglia in this disease model is unknown. Here, we reported that Scn2a-deficient mice have impaired learning and memory, accompanied by reduced synaptic transmission and lower spine density in neurons of the hippocampus. Microglia in Scn2a-deficient mice are partially activated, exerting excessive phagocytic pruning of post-synapses related to the complement C3 cascades during selective developmental stages. The ablation of microglia using PLX3397 partially restores synaptic transmission and spine density. To extend our findings from rodents to human cells, we established a microglial-incorporated human cerebral organoid model carrying an SCN2A protein-truncating mutation identified in children with ASD. We found that human microglia display increased elimination of post-synapse in cerebral organoids carrying the SCN2A mutation. Our study establishes a key role of microglia in multi-species autism-associated models of SCN2A deficiency from mouse to human cells.
Identification of Ion Channel-Related Genes as Diagnostic Markers and Potential Therapeutic Targets for Osteoarthritis
Authors: Liu Yongming , Yizhe Xiong , Zhikai Qian , Yupeng Wang , Xiang Wang , Mengyuan Yin , Guoqing Du , Hongsheng Zhan
Published: September 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a debilitating joint disorder characterized by the progressive degeneration of articular cartilage. Although the role of ion channels in OA pathogenesis is increasingly recognized, diagnostic markers and targeted therapies remain limited. In this study, we analyzed the GSE48556 dataset to identify differentially expressed ion channel-related genes (DEGs) in OA and normal controls. We identified a total of 47 DEGs, with the majority involved in transient receptor potential (TRP) pathways. To select potential diagnostic markers, we employed machine learning algorithms, LASSO and SVM-RFE, and identified seven genes (CHRNA4, GABRE, HTR3B, KCNG2, KCNJ2, LRRC8C, and TRPM5) as the best characteristic genes for distinguishing OA from healthy samples. The differential expression of these seven marker genes was validated, and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and gene set variation analysis (GSVA) were performed to explore their involvement in biological pathways. We performed clustering analysis and identified two distinct subtypes of OA, C1 and C2, with differential gene expression and immune cell infiltration profiles. Using weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), we identified three key genes (PPP1R3D, ZNF101, and LOC651309) associated with OA. We constructed a prediction model using these genes and validated it using the GSE46750 dataset, demonstrating reasonable accuracy and specificity. Our findings provide novel insights into the role of ion channel-related genes in OA pathogenesis and offer potential diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets for the treatment of OA.
Towards a comprehensive regulatory map of Mammalian Genomes
Authors: Gonçalves Tássia Mangetti , Stewart Casey L , Baxley Samantha D , Xu Jason , Li Daofeng , Gabel Harrison W , Wang Ting , Avraham Oshri , Zhao Guoyan
Published: September 2023

Genome mapping studies have generated a nearly complete collection of genes for the human genome, but we still lack an equivalently vetted inventory of human regulatory sequences. Cis-regulatory modules (CRMs) play important roles in controlling when, where, and how much a gene is expressed. We developed a training data-free CRM-prediction algorithm, the Mammalian Regulatory MOdule Detector (MrMOD) for accurate CRM prediction in mammalian genomes. MrMOD provides genome position-fixed CRM models similar to the fixed gene models for the mouse and human genomes using only genomic sequences as the inputs with one adjustable parameter – the significance p-value. Importantly, MrMOD predicts a comprehensive set of high-resolution CRMs in the mouse and human genomes including all types of regulatory modules not limited to any tissue, cell type, developmental stage, or condition. We computationally validated MrMOD predictions used a compendium of 21 orthogonal experimental data sets including thousands of experimentally defined CRMs and millions of putative regulatory elements derived from hundreds of different tissues, cell types, and stimulus conditions obtained from multiple databases. In ovo transgenic reporter assay demonstrates the power of our prediction in guiding experimental design. We analyzed CRMs located in the chromosome 17 using unsupervised machine learning and identified groups of CRMs with multiple lines of evidence supporting their functionality, linking CRMs with upstream binding transcription factors and downstream target genes. Our work provides a comprehensive base pair resolution annotation of the functional regulatory elements and non-functional regions in the mammalian genomes.
Evaluating the differential effects of treadmill training and Baduanjin on prefrontal cortical activity during dual-task walking in Parkinson's disease: Study protocol using a fNIRS device
Authors: Hui Juan , Li Zhenlan , Xu Shanshan , Yu Junwu , Tang Min , Zhou Lifeng
Published: September 2023

Background:
Patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) have shown impaired gait rhythmicity and increased prefrontal activation during complex tasks, presumably to compensate for decreased automaticity. Exercise can reduce cortical excitability and enhance automaticity, thereby improving walking function. However, the effectiveness of treadmill training and Baduanjin on prefrontal activity has received little attention when patients with PD walk under different dual-task conditions. This randomized control trial (RCT) will investigate the comparative effects of treadmill training and Baduanjin on prefrontal activation and gait function during both single and dual tasks in PD.
Methods:
This RCT will be designed as a single-center, three-arm, single-blind study. One hundred and forty-four participants will be allocated into treadmill training, Baduanjin, or waitlist control groups. Participants in both the treadmill training and Baduanjin groups will receive 45 min of specific exercise three times weekly for 12 weeks. Participants in the control groups will maintain routine care and lifestyle. The primary and secondary outcomes will be assessed at baseline, after a 12-week intervention, and at the end of a12-week follow-up. The primary outcomes will be prefrontal activation (oxygenated hemoglobin concentration, HbO2) measured by functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), and gait parameters (gait speed, stride length, double-phase time, stride variability, and step width) assessed by an electronic walkway with pressure sensors. The secondary outcomes will be motor function, balance, mobility, and quality of life.
Discussion:
This study will determine whether treadmill training or Baduanjin is more effective in reducing prefrontal activation and improving gait function. If the findings are consistent with our expectations, they may help clinicians and physical therapists to manage gait impairments in patients with PD and to select targeted interventions for them.
Trial registration: https://www.chictr.org.cn/. Trial number: ChiCTR2300075048. Registered on 23 Aug 2023.
Biosolid as an Alternative Source of Nutrients in Chrysanthemum Cultivation
Authors: Pereira Frederico Luiz , Oliveira Ursuléia Aparecida , Andrade Márcio Donizetti , Figueiredo Felipe Campos , Santos Breno Régis , Carvalho Marília , Barbosa Sandro
Published: September 2023

The objective was to evaluate the biosolids as an alternative source of nutrients in the production of chrysanthemums by adding increasing doses to the cultivation substrate. The experimental design was in blocks with 6 treatments and 5 replications. The treatments consisted of the mixture (commercial substrate + biosolid) at the concentrations: 20%, 40%, 60% and 80% of biosolid + two controls (100% of biosolid and 100% of substrate). The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse for 90 days. Physiological parameters, number of flower buds, dry biomass and nutrient accumulation were evaluated. Physiological parameters were evaluated using the Infrared Gas Analyzer. The number of flower buds was evaluated by counting. Biomass was determined after drying the structures and then calculated the accumulation of nutrients. A total of 90 plants were evaluated. Concentrations of up to 40% of biosolid promoted a greater number of flower buds, dry biomass and nutrient accumulation. Concentrations above 60% lower number of buds, biomass increment and nutrient accumulation. It is concluded that the biosolid has potential as an alternative source of nutrients in the cultivation of chrysanthemums, indicating concentrations of up to 40% and the nutrient content of each batch generated must be verified.
Expanding the Frontiers of Distributed Medical Education (DME) in Psychiatry: Perspectives on Facilitators, Obstacles, and Influential Factors Affecting Psychiatrists' Willingness to Engage in Scholarly Activities
Authors: Dias Raquel da Luz , Hazelton Lara , Esliger Mandy , Brown Peggy Alexiadis , Tibbo Phil G. , Sinha Nachiketa , Njoku Anthony , Satyendra Satyanarayana , Siddhartha Sanjay , Rahman Faisal , Maguire Hugh , Gray Gerald , Bosma Mark , Parker Deborah , Connolly Owen , Raji Adewale , Manning Alexandra , Bagnell Alexa , Shalaby Reham , Agyapong Vincent Israel Opoku
Published: September 2023

Background
Distributed Medical Education (DME), a decentralized model focused on smaller cities and communities, has been implemented worldwide to bridge the gap in psychiatric education. However, successful implementation and expansion of DME requires a thorough understanding of enablers, barriers, and the factors influencing psychiatrists' participation in scholarly activities, with faculty engagement playing a crucial role. This study aims to explore the expansion of DME in psychiatry, specifically focusing on these aspects.
Methodology
: This cross-sectional study was conducted as part of an environmental scan of Dalhousie Faculty of Medicine’s DME programs in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. Quantitative data was collected through online surveys administered to psychiatrists from eight administrative health zones in both provinces. The surveys gathered information on sociodemographic factors, practice-related characteristics, and medical education. Statistical analyses, including descriptive analysis, chi-square tests and logistic regression, were performed to identify associations and predictors.
Results
The study included 60 psychiatrists practicing in both provinces. The findings reveal a gender imbalance in the psychiatric workforce, with a majority of participants (40/58, 69%) being male. International medical graduates made significant contributions to the psychiatric workforce (39/60, 65%). A considerable number of psychiatrists (43/59, 72.9%) held academic appointments, reflecting a strong academic presence. General adult psychiatry emerged as the primary specialization (37/58, 63.8%), and just above a third reported practicing psychotherapy (22/58, 37.9%). Factors such as availability for formal training, holding academic appointments, and practicing psychotherapy influenced psychiatrists' willingness to engage in scholarly activities.
Conclusion
This study provides valuable insights into the profiles and perspectives of psychiatrists regarding e DME in the Maritimes Provinces. Implementing the recommendations stemming from this research has the potential to enhance medical education and optimize psychiatrists' engagement in scholarly activities, ultimately contributing to the development of a comprehensive and equitable mental health system.
The Effect of Soil Environmental Factors on the Yield and Quality of Pueraria lobata
Authors: Fahuo Li , Li Yuting , Huang Jianming , Li Jingying , Xiao Dong , Li Yong , He Longfei , Wang Ai-qin
Published: September 2023

Pueraria lobata is a typical medicinal and edible plant with great market value and demand, thus exploring the relationship between soil environmental factors and the yield and quality of Pueraria lobata is of great significance for its high-value cultivation. In this study, using the Guige 1 variety (Pueraria montana var. Thomsonii) selected by our research group as the material to compare the effects of five soil types, endophytes in three parts of Pueraria lobata and two fertilizers on its yield and quality. The results showed that the comprehensive evaluation effect of five soil types on the yield and quality of Guige 1 was as follow: red-yellow mixed soil (RYMS) > black loam soil (BLS) > sandy loam soil (SLS) > sandy loam soil waterlogging (SLSW) > yellow soil compaction soil (YSCS); the descending order of endophyte types and quantities is in BLS > RYMS > SLS > YSC > SLSW; applying General Compound Fertilizers (GCF) in RYMS is more suitable for the rapid expansion of Guige 1 than Organic-Slow-Release-Fertilizers (OSRF). The high potassium content in RYMS and high effective phosphorus content in BLS are positively correlated with the content of starch and isoflavone in Pueraria lobata. The research results have important guiding significance for the high-value cultivation of Pueraria lobata.
Transcriptome sequencing reveals candidate genes and signaling pathways for skeletal muscle development in Ningxiang pig
Authors: Yu Zonggang , Xu Xueli , Ai Nini , Zhang Peiwen , Jin Zhao , Li Xintong , Tang Shengguo , Ma Haiming
Published: September 2023

Background
Ningxiang pig is resistant to roughage, delicious in meat quality and rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids. However, its growth rate is slow and its meat yield is low, so it is urgent to analyze the molecular mechanism of its muscle growth and development. Genes are important molecules involved in muscle growth and development. In this study, transcripts of difference tables of Ningxiang pig at two developmental stages (30 days and 150 days after birth) were identified by transcriptome sequencing, and the molecular mechanism of their regulation of muscle development was further explored.
Result
A total of 22,411 transcripts were identified by transcriptome sequencing, and 9,021 transcripts were obtained after screening with TPM ≥ 1. Differential expression analysis obtained 1,322 differentially expressed transcripts, 978 of which were up-regulated and 344 down-regulated. There were 1,125 known and 197 novel identified differentially expressed transcripts, 823 up-regulated and 302 down-regulated in known transcripts, and 155 up-regulated and 42 down-regulated in novel identified transcripts. RT-qPCR verification is consistent with sequencing results. After GO enrichment analysis of differentially expressed genes, 15 known genes (15 transcripts) and 6 new genes (8 transcripts) related to muscle were screened. KEGG enrichment found that muscle-related genes were significantly enriched in FoxO, MAPK, cAMP, IL-17 and PI3K-Akt signal pathways. The prediction of PPI and transcription factors of 15 known genes showed that there were significant interactions among 9 proteins (ATF3-EGR1-EGR2-FOS-HOMER1-KLF5, KLHL40-LMOD2-MYOZ2), and there were 8 transcription factors (KLF5, COPS2, FOXN2, EGR2, ATF3, EGR1, FOS, PAX7) among the 15 proteins. To sum up, 15 known genes and 6 novel identified genes related to muscle development in Ningxiang pigs were identified by transcriptome sequencing. These genes regulate muscle development via FoxO, MAPK, cAMP, IL-17 and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways, and there is a significant interaction between them, and they participate in gene expression regulation as transcription factors.
Conclusion
To sum up, 15 known genes and 6 novel identified genes related to muscle development in Ningxiang pigs were identified by transcriptome sequencing. These genes mainly regulate muscle development through FoxO, MAPK, cAMP, IL-17 and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways, and there is a significant interaction between them, and they participate in gene expression regulation as transcription factors. These results provide theoretical basis for the study of the mechanism of muscle development in Ningxiang pig.
Towards active health: a study of the relationship between physical activity and the health of primary and secondary school teachers
Authors: Gao Xiaofeng , Cheng Meichao , Zhang Rong
Published: September 2023

Background Active health is a new concept, model, and system to maintain the state of whole-person health. In the context of the increasingly serious health problems of primary and secondary school teachers, it is of great significance to explore the relationship between physical activity and primary and secondary school teachers' health based on the active health perspective.
Methods The International Physical Activity Scale, the Body Imagery State Scale, and the General Self-Efficacy Scale were used to survey 741 primary and secondary school teachers in three representative provinces and cities in the eastern, central, and western regions of China, and the data were analyzed using SPSS 25.0 and Amos 24.0 software.
Results There were no significant differences in body image and self-efficacy by gender, but the body image and self-rated health of teachers of different age groups showed a bipartite and "V" shaped distribution; the physical activity of female teachers (2456.46) was higher than that of male teachers (2297.86); and female teachers had better body The physical activity of female teachers (2456.46) was higher than that of male teachers (2297.86); the physical fitness of female teachers was better than that of male teachers; there was a significant positive correlation between physical activity, body image, self-efficacy, and health status; body image and self-efficacy partially mediated the relationship between physical activity and health status, and the mediating effect accounted for 82.31% of the total effect.
Conclusions Primary and secondary school teachers have real problems such as teachers' physical activity is generally insufficient, teachers' body image status is generally poor, and teachers' self-efficacy is low; physical activity is an important factor in promoting primary and secondary school teachers' health status, and low, medium, and high levels of activity all have a promoting effect on the health of primary and secondary school teachers, and the more active primary and secondary school teachers are in terms of physical activity, the better their body image, self-efficacy, and health status are, and the more active primary and secondary school teachers are in terms of physical activity, the more positive the physical activity, self-efficacy, and health status are. The more physically active primary and secondary school teachers are, the better their physical intention, self-efficacy and health status are.
Suggestions improve the quality and effectiveness, promote the concept of active health among teachers; empower teachers, strengthen the institutional protection of teachers' health; reduce the burden and increase the quantity,and optimise the supply of health services for teachers.
Correlates of intention to screen for cervical cancer among adult cisgender women in Kyotera District, Central Uganda
Authors: Kiconco Arthur , Kabanda Richard , Ronald Anguzu , Beyer Kirsten M. M. , John Steven A.
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Cervical cancer continues to pose a major public health challenge in low-income countries. Cervical cancer screening programs enable early detection and effectively reduce the incidence of cervical cancer as well as late-stage diagnosis and mortality. However, screening uptake remains suboptimal in Uganda. This study assessed correlates of intention to screen for cervical cancer among women in the Kyotera district of central Uganda.
Methods: We used cross-sectional data collected at baseline for a before and after study to determine the effectiveness of community audio towers (CATs) as a modality of health communication to support cervical cancer prevention. Cisgender women (n = 430) aged 21-60 years without a prior history of cervical cancer screening were surveyed about demographics, sources of health information and cervical cancer screening intentions in 2020. We used generalized linear modelling with modified Poisson regression and backwards variable elimination to identify adjusted prevalence ratios and 95% confidence intervals to determine factors associated with intention to screen for cervical cancer.
Results: Half (50.0%) of the participants were aged 20-29 years of age,and only 26.5% had moderate knowledge about cervical cancer. Nearly half (46.0%) considered themselves at risk of cervical cancer, and half (50.2%) had intentions to screen for cervical cancer within the next year or sooner. Compared to residents who primarily received their health information from social media and radio, participants who received health information primarily from CATs and TV had a lower prevalence of intention to screen for cervical cancer. Participants who resided in rural areas and those who did not perceive themselves at risk of cervical cancer had a lower prevalence of intentions to be screened in the next year.
Conclusions: Given moderate rates of self-perceived risk and intentions to screen for cervical cancer, screening rates are likely to remain suboptimal without intervention. Targeting health information sharing via CATS and TV is likely to reach those with lower screening intentions.
Resistance exercise training for older adults living with multiple long-term conditions, frailty, and a recent deterioration in health: Qualitative insights from the Lifestyle in Later Life – Older People’s Medicine (LiLL-OPM) study
Authors: Hurst Christopher , Dismore Lorelle , Granic Antoneta , Tullo Ellen , Noble Jane M , Hillman Susan J. , Witham Miles D. , Sayer Avan A. , Dodds Richard M. , Robinson Sian M.
Published: September 2023

BackgroundMany older adults live with the combination of multiple long-term conditions (MLTC) and frailty and are at increased risk of a deterioration in health requiring interaction with healthcare services. Low skeletal muscle strength is observed in individuals living with MLTC and is central to physical frailty. Resistance exercise (RE) is the best available treatment for improving muscle strength, but little is known about the attitudes and barriers to RE in this group of older adults. This study therefore aimed to explore the knowledge of and attitudes towards RE, as well as the barriers and enabling factors, in older adults living with MLTC, frailty and a recent deterioration in health.MethodsFourteen participants aged 69-92 years (10 women) from the Lifestyle in Later Life – Older People’s Medicine (LiLL-OPM) study were recruited from an Older People’s Medicine Day Unit in Newcastle, UK. Participants were invited to take part in a semi-structured interview exploring their knowledge and attitudes as well as barriers and enabling factors to RE. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.ResultsThe analysis generated three themes 1) a lack of awareness and understanding of RE, 2) a self-perceived inability to perform RE; physical and psychological barriers and 3) willingness to perform RE under expert guidance. There was a general lack of awareness and understanding of RE, with most participants having never heard of the term and being unaware of its potential benefits. When RE was described, participants stated that they would be willing to try RE, but it was apparent that an individualised approach underpinned by expert guidance would be required to support engagement.ConclusionsOlder adults living with MLTC, frailty and a recent deterioration in health lack awareness and understanding of RE. Despite a range of barriers, this group appear willing to engage in RE if they are appropriately supported. There is a need to co-design and deliver effective strategies, including education, to raise awareness and understanding of RE, as well as promote engagement in RE, in this group of older adults.
Metabolic Syndrome Increases Osteoarthritis Risk : Findings from the UK Biobank Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Zhang Shiyong , Wang Danni , Zhao Jinyu , Zhao Haitong , Xie Peng , Zheng Linli , Sheng Puyi , Yuan Jinqiu , Xia Bin , Wei Fuxin , Zhang Ziji
Published: September 2023

Objective: The association between Metabolic Syndrome (MetS), its components, and the risk of osteoarthritis (OA) has been a topic of conflicting evidence in different studies. The aim of this present study is to investigate the association between MetS, its components, and the risk of OA using data from the UK Biobank.
Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted in the UK Biobank to assess the risk of osteoarthritis (OA) related to MetS. MetS was defined according to the criteria set by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF). Additionally, lifestyle factors, medications, and the inflammatory marker C-reactive protein (CRP) were included in the model. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to calculate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). The cumulative risk of OA was analyzed using Kaplan-Meier curves and log-rank tests. To explore potential nonlinear associations between MetS components and OA risk, a restricted cubic splines (RCS) model was employed.
Results: A total of 45,581 cases of OA were identified among 370,311 participants, with a median follow-up time of 12.48 years. The study found that individuals with MetS had a 15% higher risk of developing OA (HR=1.15, 95%CI:1.12-1.19). Additionally, central obesity was associated with a 58% increased risk of OA (HR=1.58, 95%CI:1.5-1.66), while hyperglycemia was linked to a 13% higher risk (HR=1.13, 95%CI:1.1-1.15). Dyslipidemia, specifically in triglycerides (HR=1.07, 95%CI:1.05-1.09) and high-density lipoprotein (HR=1.05, 95%CI:1.02-1.07), was also found to be slightly associated with OA risk. Furthermore, the presence of MetS significantly increased the risk of OA by up to 35% in individuals with elevated CRP levels (HR=1.35, 95% CI:1.3-1.4).
Conclusion: MetS and its components have been found to be associated with an increased risk of OA, particularly in individuals with elevated levels of CRP. These findings highlight the significance of managing MetS as a preventive and intervention measure for OA.