bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of exercise-related FNDC5/irisin in depression
Authors: Liu Yaqi , Fu Xiying , Zhao Xing , Cui Ranji , Yang Wei
Published: October 2024

The complexity of depression presents a significant challenge to traditional treatment methods, such as medication and psychotherapy. Recent studies have shown that exercise can effectively reduce depressive symptoms, offering a new alternative for treating depression. However, some depressed patients are unable to engage in regular physical activity due to age, physical limitations, and other factors. Therefore, pharmacological agents that mimic the effects of exercise become a potential treatment option. A newly discovered myokine, irisin, which is produced during exercise via cleavage of its precursor protein fibronectin type III domain-containing protein 5 (FNDC5), plays a key role in regulating energy metabolism, promoting adipose tissue browning, and improving insulin resistance. Importantly, FNDC5 can promote neural stem cell differentiation, enhance neuroplasticity, and improve mood and cognitive function. This review systematically reviews the mechanisms of action of exercise in the treatment of depression, outlines the physiology of exercise-related irisin, explores possible mechanisms of irisin’s antidepressant effects. The aim of this review is to encourage future research and clinical applications of irisin in the prevention and treatment of depression.
Precuneal hyperperfusion in patients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder-comorbid nociplastic pain
Authors: Takahashi Miwako , Kasahara Satoshi , Soma Tsutomu , Morita Taito , Sato Naoko , Matsudaira Ko , Niwa Shin-Ichi , Momose Toshimitsu
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Nociplastic pain (NP), a third category of chronic pain, offers a framework for elucidating its pathophysiology and treatment strategies. One of the characteristics of NP is comorbidity of symptoms other than pain, such as psychological and cognitive problems; therefore, these can be clues to understanding NP. Recently, we reported several cases with comorbid symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Notably, ADHD medications, including methylphenidate (MP) and atomoxetine, improved chronic pain as well as the symptoms of ADHD. However, in clinical settings, identifying comorbid ADHD in patients with chronic pain is challenging, and underlying mechanisms have not been elucidated. To explore the common characteristics of brain function in patients with ADHD-comorbid NP, we identified brain regions where cerebral blood flow (CBF) distributions changed between pre- and post-treatment using single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). Additionally, we examined brain regions where CBF values correlated with clinical scores.

Methods

We retrospectively studied 65 patients (mean age 53 ± 14 years; 30 males and 35 females) with ADHD-comorbid NP who underwent CBF-SPECT before and after ADHD medication initiation. Clinical scores included the clinical global impression severity (CGI-S), pain numerical rating scale, hospital anxiety and depression scale, pain catastrophizing scale, and Conners’ adult ADHD rating scale-self report scores. Voxel-based statistical methods were used to compare pre- and post-treatment CBF-SPECT images to identify significant differences and investigate brain regions correlated with clinical scores.

Results

The CBF was higher in the precuneus, insular gyrus, and thalamus before treatment than after treatment (paired t-test, cluster-definition p < 0.001, cluster-extent threshold p < 0.05, with family-wise error [FWE] correction). The hyperperfusion in the precuneus was positively correlated with the CGI-S score and significantly reduced after treatment with MP (paired t-test, cluster-definition p < 0.005, cluster-extent threshold p < 0.05, with FWE correction).

Conclusion

The finding of precuneal hyperperfusion may provide insight into the mechanisms of NP and help identify patients who would benefit most from ADHD medications.
Influence of competitive attitude and self-efficacy on task motivation in vocational high school students: the moderating role of competitive environment in the context of ‘Lying Flat’ culture
Authors: Ma Cheng , Chen Bo-Ching
Published: October 2024

Introduction

In recent years, “lying flat” has emerged as a significant term in contemporary discourse, referring to the phenomenon where modern young people choose passive resistance due to a lack of motivation when facing various situations. These trends have the potential to diminish the future learning enthusiasm and holistic development of vocational high school students, thus impacting their competitiveness in the future job market.

Methods

This study employs a motivational model for vocational high school students based on self-efficacy theory and person-environment fit theory to explore whether the competitive atmosphere moderates the impact of self-efficacy and competitive attitudes on task motivation. Using a secondary data research approach, the study analyzed a sample of 944 Taiwanese vocational high school students from the 2018 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) dataset with Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM).

Results

The results indicate that self-efficacy and competitive attitudes positively influence task motivation. Additionally, self-efficacy not only enhances competitive attitudes but also indirectly influences task motivation through the mediation of competitive attitudes. The study also revealed that the moderating effect of the competitive environment was not statistically significant in the overall sample. Further multiple-group comparisons between male and female vocational high school students showed no significant differences in most paths, but gender differences emerged in the positive moderating effect of the competitive environment on the influence of competitive attitudes on task motivation.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that in cultivating task motivation among vocational high school students, interventions should be tailored to accommodate the differing responses of male and female students. For female students, providing more opportunities for teamwork and utilizing collaborative approaches to cope with the competitive environment may enhance task motivation. Conversely, for male students, enhancing self-efficacy and stimulating intrinsic competitive attitudes may be more effective. Addressing these differences could potentially reduce the occurrence of the “lying flat” phenomenon among vocational high school students in the future.
“Bend so you don’t break!” A longitudinal moderated mediation study on human resources management practices, humility, psychological well-being, and job performance
Authors: Parent-Lamarche Annick , Dextras-Gauthier Julie
Published: October 2024

Introduction

This study aims to examine the mediating role of psychological well-being in the relationships between human resources management practices and job performance. Also, this study aims to assess the moderating role of humility on these relationships.

Methods

Multiple regression, mediation, and moderation analyses were conducted with MPlus software on a sample of 569 workers who filled out a questionnaire at both Time 1 and Time 2. Both data collections took place between April 20, 2022, and May 2, 2022, for Time 1, and between June 20, 2022, and July 3, 2022, for Time 2. Data were collected through the Leger Opinion (LEO) online panel, with respondents required to be workers.

Results

We found that psychological well-being at T1 did not play a mediating role between human resources management practices at T1 and job performance at T2. Also, humility did not moderate the relationships between human resources management practices at T1 and psychological well-being at T1 but did significantly moderate the longitudinal relationships between human resources management practices at T1 (i.e., dotation, formation, career management, autonomy, occupational health and safety, diversity management, indirect compensation, flexibility, performance management), and job performance at T2.

Discussion

For all significant interactions, the results indicated that when humility was high, the longitudinal effect of good human resources management practices led to high in-role job performance.
Th.o.m.a.s.: new insights into theory of mind in adolescents with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Fadda Roberta , Congiu Sara , Doneddu Giuseppe , Carta Marinella , Piras Francesco , Gabbatore Ilaria , Bosco Francesca M.
Published: October 2024

Previous studies indicated atypical Theory of Mind (ToM) abilities in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) at different ages. However, research focused on adolescents with ASD is still rare. This study aims to fill the gaps in the literature, by investigating ToM abilities in adolescents with ASD and in a group of typically developing ones. We applied the Theory of Mind Assessment Scale (Th.o.m.a.s.), a semi-structured interview that allows a multi-dimensional measurement of ToM, including different perspectives (first/s-order, first/third-person, egocentric/allocentric), various mental states (emotions, desires, beliefs) and metacognitive abilities related with mental states (awareness, relation, and strategies). The results indicated that ToM develops atypically in ASD, with strengths and weaknesses. First, participants with ASD were comparable to controls in some specific ToM aspects, i.e., third-person ToM, both from an egocentric and an allocentric perspective. However, they were significantly weaker in attributing an understanding of the mental states of others, both in first- and second-order ToM scenarios. Second, they showed the same level of awareness about mental states as controls, but they were significantly weaker in conceptualizing the relationship between mental states and behavior. Also, they found it very difficult to think about possible strategies that they or others might employ to realize desires and needs. Finally, they performed similarly to controls in understanding emotions, while they poorly understood desires and beliefs. These results point out the distinctive characteristics of ToM development in individuals with ASD, with important implications for individualized interventions.
The prevalence and predictors of clinical breast cancer screening in Sub-Saharan African countries: a multilevel analysis of Demographic Health Survey
Authors: Hailegebireal Aklilu Habte , Bizuayehu Habtamu Mellie , Wolde Biruk Bogale , Tirore Lire Lemma , Woldegeorgis Beshada Zerfu , Kassie Gizachew Ambaw , Asgedom Yordanos Sisay
Published: October 2024

Background

Despite a higher rate of breast cancer in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), efforts to treat the disease through breast cancer screening are suboptimal, resulting in late diagnosis of breast cancer and poor outcomes. Several studies have been conducted in SSA countries about screening uptake, yet they addressed country or sub-country level data and did not consider both individual and beyond-individual factors related to screening. Hence, pooled prevalence as well as multilevel correlates of screening in the region is sparse, which have been addressed by this study using the most recent data among women with SSA.

Methods

This study was conducted using the Demographic Health Survey data (2013–2022) from six countries, and a total weighted sample of 95,248 women was examined. STATA version 16 was used for the data analysis. Multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression was performed and significant predictors were reported using adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).

Results

The overall weighted prevalence of clinical breast cancer screening was 14.23% (95% CI: 13.97–14.75), with Namibia and Tanzania having the highest (24.5%) and lowest (5.19%) screening rates, respectively. Higher breast cancer screening uptake was observed among women of advanced age (35–49) [aOR = 1.78; 95% CI: 1.60, 1.98], had higher educational levels [aOR = 1.84; 95% CI: 1.66, 2.03], cohabited [aOR = 1.37; 95% CI: 1.21, 1.55], in the richest wealth quintile [aOR = 2.27; 95% CI: 1.95, 2.64], urban residents [aOR = 1.21; 95%CI: 1.10, 1.33], multiparous [aOR = 1.47; 95% CI: 1.30, 1.68], visited health facilities [aOR = 1.64; 95% CI: 1.52, 1.76], and read newspapers [aOR = 1.78; 95%CI: 1.60, 2.15].

Conclusion

The prevalence of clinical breast cancer screening was low (14%). Strengthening awareness campaigns, improving healthcare infrastructure, health education, universal health coverage, and screening program access, with a focus on rural areas, women who lack formal education, and low socioeconomic status, are critical to increasing breast cancer screening rates and equity. Scale-up local and regional collaborations and the involvement of media agencies in the implementation of screening programs, advocacy, dissemination of information, and integration of screening programs with their routine care, such as perinatal care, can boost the screening. The existing health service delivery points also need to focus on integrating breast cancer screening services with routine care such as perinatal care.
Factors influencing physical activity behavior in older adults with subjective cognitive decline: an empirical study using SEM and fsQCA methods
Authors: Li Wei , Hong Sixue , Chen Yiping , Zhao Yang , Wang Limei
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Despite the evident potential benefits of engaging in physical activity (PA) for older adults with subjective cognitive decline (SCD), their PA levels remains low. Previous research has predominantly focused on PA behaviors in individuals with dementia/mild cognitive impairment, with limited attention given to those with SCD. Therefore, this study aims to identify key factors influencing PA behavior in older adults with SCD based on the Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and the capability-opportunity-motivation (COM-B) model.

Methods

Three hundred and three individuals aged 60 and above with SCD participated in this study. A face-to-face structured questionnaire survey was conducted. Data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) and Fuzzy Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA).

Results

SEM results indicate that PA social support primarily influences PA behavior through three indirect pathways: the separate mediating effect of basic psychological needs, the separate mediating effect of motivation, and the chained mediating effect of both. Physical literacy, on the other hand, influences PA behavior through the separate mediating effect of motivation. Necessary conditions analysis by fsQCA reveals that no single factor is necessary for promoting PA behavior in older adults with SCD, while sufficiency analysis identifies four different combinations of factors leading to PA behavior.

Conclusion

The model derived from the framework of SDT and the COM-B model effectively explains and predicts the interrelationships among variables. Physical activity behavior in older individuals with SCD is the result of multifactorial synergies.
Associations between antimony exposure and glycated hemoglobin levels in adolescents aged 12–19 years: results from the NHANES 2013–2016
Authors: Feng Baoying , Tang Peng , He Sheng , Peng Zhenren , Mo Yan , Zhu Liqiong , Wei Qiufen
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the association between antimony (Sb) exposure and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels in adolescents.

Methods

A cross-sectional study of 751 adolescents aged 12–19 years was conducted via the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, 2013–2016). Survey-weighted linear regression and restricted cubic spline (RCS) analyses were applied to evaluate the relationship of urinary Sb exposure with HbA1c.

Results

A significant relationship was observed between urinary Sb concentrations and HbA1c levels (percent change: 0.93; 95% CI: 0.42, 1.45) after full adjustment. After converting urinary Sb levels to a categorical variable by tertiles (T1–T3), the highest quantile was associated with a significant increase in HbA1c (percent change: 1.45; 95% CI: 0.38, 2.53) compared to T1. The RCS models showed a monotonically increasing relationship of urinary Sb with HbA1c. Subgroup analyses revealed a sex-specific relationship between urinary Sb exposure and HbA1c with a significant positive association in males and a non-significant positive association in females. Sensitivity analyses further confirmed the relationship between urinary Sb and HbA1c, even after excluding participants who were overweight or obese (percent change: 1.58%, 95% CI: 0.88, 2.28) and those with serum cotinine levels ≥ 1 ng/mL (percent change: 1.14%, 95% CI: 0.49, 1.80).

Conclusion

Our findings indicated that increased Sb exposure may correlate with higher HbA1c levels, especially in male adolescents. More studies are needed to further explore and validate the potential mechanisms.
Salutogenic Environmental Health Model—proposing an integrative and interdisciplinary lens on the genesis of health
Authors: Pleyer Jule Anna , Pesliak Laura Dominique , Malsch Annette Konstanze Fides , McCall Timothy
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The maintenance of health is a central objective of public health initiatives. Within the salutogenic paradigm, health promotion is focused on understanding the mechanisms of health development. Models serve as indispensable tools. One of the leading paradigms in the health sciences is the Salutogenic Model developed by Aaron Antonovsky. However, it lacks sufficient specification to reflect the complexity of the environmental dimensions that have emerged from research in environmental health science. The interactions and impact pathways between these dimensions on health status are not adequately distinguished. The objective of this study is to address this gap by extending Antonovsky’s model to encompass environmental dimensions, that is, the interactions between humans and their environment. Furthermore, the study will integrate examples of models and theories from various disciplines to illustrate how a more comprehensive and holistic explanation of health development can be provided from an interdisciplinary environmental public health perspective.

Methodology

As part of a three-step approach, a Basic Model was first developed that integrates the five environmental dimensions—Natural, Built-Material, Socio-Cultural, Psycho-Social, and Individual—into the Salutogenic Model. Subsequently, narrative non-exhaustive literature research was used to identify interdisciplinary example models. The models were used to identify gaps in the Basic Model through a critical lens and to synthesize them into a more holistic model.

Results

The synthesis of fifteen interdisciplinary models resulted in the development of an integrative Salutogenic Environmental Health Model (SEHM), which comprises twelve principal components of health development and their interactions and pathways. Links to the original models permit the user to refer back to them.

Discussion

This integrative approach offers a comprehensive understanding of the development of health by synthesizing disparate explanatory models and theories from various disciplines through theoretical analysis. The various environmental dimensions and the determinants of health contained therein, as well as their mental and physical processing and the associated components of health development and their interactions, are summarized in this new model. The SEHM thus enables a differentiated analysis of health determinants and serves as an operational framework for health promotion and pathways to well-being in contemporary research contexts.
Participatory logic model for a precision child and youth mental health start-up: scoping review, case study, and lessons learned
Authors: Pajer Kathleen , Honeywell Christina , Howley Heather , Sheridan Nicole , Affleck Will , Terekhov Ivan , Radhakrishnan Dhenuka
Published: October 2024

Background

The precision child and youth mental health (PCYMH) paradigm has great potential to transform CYMH care and research, but there are numerous concerns about feasibility, sustainablity, and equity. Implementation science and evaluation methodology, particularly participatory logic models created with stakeholders, may help catalyze PCYMH-driven system transformation. This paper aims to: (1) report results of a PCYMH logic model scoping review; (2) present a case study illustrating creation of a participatory logic model for a PCYMH start-up; and (3) share the final model plus lessons learned.

Methods

Phase 1: Preparation for the logic model comprised several steps to develop a preliminary draft: scoping review of PCYMH logic models; two literature reviews (PCYMH and implementation science research); an environmental scan of our organization's PCYMH research; a gap analysis of our technological capability to support PCYMH research; and 57 stakeholder interviews assessing PCYMH perspectives and readiness. Phase 2: Participatory creation of the logic model integrated Phase 1 information into a draft from which the final logic model was completed through iterative stakeholder co-creation.

Results

Phase 1: The scoping review identified 0 documents. The PCYMH literature review informed our Problem and Impact Statements. Reviewing implementation and evaluation literature resulted in selection of the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance (RE-AIM) and Behavior Change Wheel (BCW) frameworks to guide model development. Only 1.2% (5/414) of the organization's research projects involved PCYMH. Three technological infrastructure gaps were identified as barriers to developing PCYMH research. Stakeholder readiness interviews identified three themes that were incorporated into the draft. Phase 2: Eight co-creation cycles with 36 stakeholders representing 13 groups and a consensus decision-making process were used to produce the final participatory logic model.

Conclusions

This is the first study to report the development of a participatory logic model for a PCYMH program, detailing involvement of stakeholders from initial planning stages to the final consensus-based product. We learned that creating a participatory logic model is time- and labour-intensive and requires a multi-disciplinary team, but the process produced stakeholder-program relationships that enabled us to quickly build and implement the PCYMH start-up. Our processes and final model can inform similar efforts at other sites.
Colchicine can keep the viability of bacteria in mastitic milk by preventing leukocyte phagocytosis in dairy cow and goat
Authors: Hisaeda Keiichi , Hirano Masato , Suzuki Naoki , Isobe Naoki
Published: October 2024

Despite the occurrence of mastitis, no bacteria were detected in any of the milk samples after culture. This is partially because the neutrophils present in milk phagocytose bacteria during milk preservation. In this study, we investigated whether colchicine inhibited the decrease in viable bacteria in milk by suppressing phagocytosis during preservation. The number of viable bacteria decreased when cow milk was preserved for 5 h. However, the addition of 0.1 and 1% colchicine significantly increased the number of viable bacteria (p < 0.05). The percentage of culture-negative cow’s milk increased more than two-fold after 5 h compared to that at 0 h of preservation, however this percentage was significantly reduced by the addition of colchicine (p < 0.05). When goat milk with mastitis was incubated with bacteria (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Staphylococcus aureus), the percentage of phagocytosed neutrophils decreased significantly with the addition of colchicine (p < 0.05). These results indicate that colchicine suppressed the decrease in the number of viable bacteria by preventing neutrophil phagocytosis during milk preservation. These findings may help in the identification of mastitis-causing bacteria and the selection of antibiotics for the treatment of mastitis.
Green Consumption and Sustainable Lifestyle: Evidence from India
Authors: Kennedy Rosario Florence , Susainathan Sahayaselvi , George Hesil Jerda , Parayitam Satyanarayana
Published: October 2024

This study aims to comprehensively investigate the impact of green consumption on adopting a sustainable lifestyle. Based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB), a simple conceptual model is developed, and hypothesized relationships are tested in the context of a developing country—India. Using proportionate stratified random sampling, data were collected from 422 respondents from five districts in Tamil Nadu, southern India. First, the psychometric properties of the survey instrument were tested by PLS-SEM, and hypotheses were tested using path analysis. The findings show that (i) green product literacy (GPL) is not associated with green product purchase attitude (GPPA), (ii) green product orientation (GPO) is positively related to GPA, and (iii) social influence is positively associated with GPA. The results also indicate that GPA is a precursor to green purchase behavior (GPB), resulting in a sustainable lifestyle. This study found that social influence strengthens the positive effect of GPO on GPPA. From a practical standpoint, this study can provide valuable insights for policymakers, businesses, and organizations aiming to promote sustainable lifestyles by encouraging green consumption. As with any survey research, common method and social desirability biases can be significant limitations. However, every effort has been made to minimize these biases. To the best of our knowledge, the conceptual model is developed and tested for the first time, particularly in the context of a developing country—India. Thus, this study makes a unique contribution to the literature on sustainability.
Prediction of Potential Suitability Areas for Ephedra sinica in the Five Northwestern Provinces of China Under Climate Change
Authors: Xu Yibo , Liu Xiaohuang , Zhao Lianrong , Liu Jiufen , Zhao Xiaofeng , Li Hongyu , Wang Chao , Zhao Honghui , Wang Ran , Luo Xinping , Xing Liyuan
Published: October 2024

Ephedra sinica (E. sinica) holds significant economic and medicinal importance and is predominantly found in arid areas. Due to the limitations of environmental variables, growth habits, and human activities, the production and suitability areas of E. sinica have significantly decreased, especially in the five northwestern provinces of China. In this study, 212 distribution points of E. sinica and 40 environmental variables were obtained to project the habitat suitability of E. sinica under different emission scenarios in the future. It identified precipitation in the wettest month, monthly mean of the diurnal temperature difference, and solar radiation intensity in April and July as the primary environmental factors affecting the suitability of E. sinica in the region. The areas of high, medium, and low suitability in the region cover 103,000 km2, 376,500 km2, and 486,800 km2. Under future scenarios, the suitability areas from 2021 to 2100 will decrease by 20%, with high suitability areas decreasing by 65% to 85% particularly. With comprehensive environmental variables, the suitability areas of E. sinica from 2021 to 2100 are projected, filling the gap in the projection of E. sinica suitability areas in the five northwestern provinces of China over long time period. The suitability areas show a significant decreasing trend. This research provides valuable insights into the suitability areas and crucial environmental factors, offering theoretical support for future protection and management efforts for E. sinica.
Cashew Clones Water Productivity and Production Responses to Different Biochar Levels
Authors: Gondim Rubens Sonsol , Taniguchi Carlos Alberto Kenji , Serrano Luiz Augusto Lopes , Moura Carlos Farley Herbster
Published: October 2024

The cashew peduncle, the so-called cashew apple, is frequently considered as waste generated by the cashew nut industries. It needs production quality improvements to achieve a more noble use. The objective of this research was to evaluate the application of biochar over irrigation water productivity, yield, and cashew apple quality of two clones (‘BRS 226’ and ‘CCP 76’) of an irrigated cashew orchard. This field experiment tested four treatments of biochar from tree pruning mixed hardwood as source material, corresponding to 0, 10, 20, and 40 g per kg of soil, equivalent to the amounts of 0.0, 1.0, 2.0, and 4.0 kg per plant, respectively. The evaluated production variables were irrigation water productivity in terms of cashew nuts and peduncles per cubic meter of irrigation water applied, cashew nuts, and apples’ individual mean weight and yield. Cashew apple quality was also evaluated by soluble solids (SS), titratable acidity (TA), soluble solids/titratable acidity ratio (SS/TA), and firmness. The use of biochar had positive effects on the nut and cashew apple irrigation water productivity, on mean individual cashew apple weight only for ‘BRS 226′ Clone and soluble solids for both clones (‘BRS 226’ and ‘CCP 76’). The soluble solids/titratable acidity ratio also improved only for the BRS 226 cashew clone. There was no statistically significant positive effect of applied biochar in cashew nut and cashew apple yield and firmness. The optimal doses were 1.70 kg, 1.90 kg, 4.00 kg, 2.10 kg, and 2.25 kg per plant of biochar, respectively.
Soil Organic Carbon and Humus Characteristics: Response and Evolution to Long-Term Direct/Carbonized Straw Return to Field
Authors: Li Xiao , Li Jun , Zhao Zhihui , Zhou Keyao , Zhan Xiumei , Wang Ying , Liu Ning , Han Xiaori , Li Xue
Published: October 2024

While numerous studies have examined the effects of direct and carbonized straw return on soil fertility, most focus on short-term impacts. Long-term research is needed to understand how these practices affect soil fertility and organic carbon transformation, providing guidance for the use of straw and biochar in agriculture. This study examined the long-term effects of corn straw (CS), straw biochar (BIO), and biochar-based fertilizer (BF) applied over 5, 10, and 15 years on soil aggregates, organic carbon, and humus composition in a peanut field microplot experiment. Using pig manure compost (PMC) as a control, we assessed soil water-stable aggregate distribution, carbon content in soil and aggregates, and organic carbon’s infrared spectral characteristics. The goal was to understand how different straw utilization methods impact soil carbon retention and humus composition for sustainable agricultural practices. The results showed that the straw biochar (BIO) had a significantly better long-term effect on increasing the proportion and stability of large soil aggregates compared to direct straw return (CS) and biochar-based fertilizer (BF). After ten years of continuous fertilization, the organic carbon content in soils treated with BIO was higher than that in soils treated with CS. After fifteen years of continuous fertilization, the organic carbon content in soils treated with BF was similar to that of the CS treatment. Additionally, humus carbon primarily accumulated in the 2–0.25 mm aggregates (SMA), and the BIO treatment significantly improved the quality of soil humus. FTIR spectra indicated that the long-term application of BIO and BF increased the proportion of aromatic carbon in the soil, enhancing the stability of soil organic carbon. Long-term application of carbonized straw returns improved soil organic carbon, aggregate stability, and humus quality, contributing to carbon sequestration. Fertilization duration directly and indirectly regulated humus formation through its impact on organic carbon and aggregates, while organic materials influenced humus indirectly.
Active Modified Atmosphere Packaging Helps Preserve Quality of Edible Flowers
Authors: Falla Nicole Mélanie , Seif Zadeh Negin , Stelluti Stefania , Guarino Valentina , Giordano Manuela , Cardenia Vladimiro , Zeppa Giuseppe , Scariot Valentina
Published: October 2024

Edible flowers are becoming increasingly popular as food products, since they give aroma, color, and visual appeal and are also health-promoting compounds. However, they are a highly perishable product, thus post-harvest technologies are needed to extend their marketability. In this study, active (N2: 100%) and passive modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) technologies were applied to three edible flower species, namely Begonia grandiflora ‘Viking’, Tropaeolum majus, and Viola cornuta, stored at 4 °C. Even if the flowers’ quality decay occurred differently according to the species, active MAP better maintained petal colors and slowed down the edible flowers’ decay than passive MAP by decreasing flower respiration in all three species and sugars consumption in begonia; there was weight loss in nasturtium, and better preserved total phenolic content in begonia and viola. Coupling cold storage with active MAP can be an effective method to extend edible flowers’ post-harvest life.
Feasibility of GPT-3.5 versus Machine Learning for Automated Surgical Decision-Making Determination: A Multicenter Study on Suspected Appendicitis
Authors: Sanduleanu Sebastian , Ersahin Koray , Bremm Johannes , Talibova Narmin , Damer Tim , Erdogan Merve , Kottlors Jonathan , Goertz Lukas , Bruns Christiane , Maintz David , Abdullayev Nuran
Published: October 2024

Background: Nonsurgical treatment of uncomplicated appendicitis is a reasonable option in many cases despite the sparsity of robust, easy access, externally validated, and multimodally informed clinical decision support systems (CDSSs). Developed by OpenAI, the Generative Pre-trained Transformer 3.5 model (GPT-3) may provide enhanced decision support for surgeons in less certain appendicitis cases or those posing a higher risk for (relative) operative contra-indications. Our objective was to determine whether GPT-3.5, when provided high-throughput clinical, laboratory, and radiological text-based information, will come to clinical decisions similar to those of a machine learning model and a board-certified surgeon (reference standard) in decision-making for appendectomy versus conservative treatment. Methods: In this cohort study, we randomly collected patients presenting at the emergency department (ED) of two German hospitals (GFO, Troisdorf, and University Hospital Cologne) with right abdominal pain between October 2022 and October 2023. Statistical analysis was performed using R, version 3.6.2, on RStudio, version 2023.03.0 + 386. Overall agreement between the GPT-3.5 output and the reference standard was assessed by means of inter-observer kappa values as well as accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values with the “Caret” and “irr” packages. Statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05. Results: There was agreement between the surgeon’s decision and GPT-3.5 in 102 of 113 cases, and all cases where the surgeon decided upon conservative treatment were correctly classified by GPT-3.5. The estimated model training accuracy was 83.3% (95% CI: 74.0, 90.4), while the validation accuracy for the model was 87.0% (95% CI: 66.4, 97.2). This is in comparison to the GPT-3.5 accuracy of 90.3% (95% CI: 83.2, 95.0), which did not perform significantly better in comparison to the machine learning model (p = 0.21). Conclusions: This study, the first study of the “intended use” of GPT-3.5 for surgical treatment to our knowledge, comparing surgical decision-making versus an algorithm found a high degree of agreement between board-certified surgeons and GPT-3.5 for surgical decision-making in patients presenting to the emergency department with lower abdominal pain.
Insect Meal as a Dietary Protein Source for Pheasant Quails: Performance, Carcass Traits, Amino Acid Profile and Mineral Contents in Muscles
Authors: Flis Marian , Czyżowski Piotr , Rytlewski Grzegorz , Grela Eugeniusz R.
Published: October 2024

The aim of the study was to determine the effects of replacing soybean meal with insect meal on the body weight and the chemical composition of selected muscle groups of common pheasant females and males, including the mineral composition and the amino acid profile of the thigh and breast muscles. The study was conducted on three feeding groups, namely one control and two experimental groups. In the control group, plant feed components were used, which are commonly used to feed pheasants in confined breeding facilities. In the experimental groups, 100 g (group II) and 200 g (group III) portions of insect meal were introduced instead of the plant-protein components. The experiment used a preparation of insect larvae (Hermetia illucens) containing approximately 52% crude protein. The pheasant diet supplementation applied contributed to an increase in the proportion of muscles in the carcasses, with the highest effectiveness obtained for a 20% addition of insect meal. Lower and significant differences were noted in the feed conversion by birds from the experimental groups, as compared to the control group. The chemical composition of the birds’ muscles also changed. The experimental groups exhibited higher protein and fat contents and a lower water content. No significant changes in the amino acid profile or the mineral composition of the muscles were noted. The few exceptions concerned the methionine levels in both muscle groups and the isoleucine levels in the breast muscles. In most cases, the mineral composition did not vary significantly (p < 0.05). When supplementing the diet of breeding pheasants for improving meatiness, a 20% addition of insect meal is recommended, which affects the production effect of this trait while reducing feed consumption and maintaining the fatty acid profile.
Biological Mechanisms of Aflatoxin B1-Induced Bile Metabolism Abnormalities in Ducklings
Authors: Chu Yihong , Yu Aimei , Wang Huanbin , Rajput Shahid Ali , Yu Qianqian , Qi Desheng
Published: October 2024

This study investigated the effects and biological mechanisms of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) on the health and bile metabolism of ducklings. Forty-eight 1-day-old ducklings were randomly assigned to two groups, with six replicates per group. The control group was fed a basic diet, while the AFB1 group received a diet containing 90 µg/kg of AFB1. The experiment lasted for 2 weeks. The results showed that 90 µg/kg AFB1 caused abnormal bile metabolism; damaged liver cell nuclei and mitochondria; and significantly decreased body weight, average daily weight gain, and levels of albumin, total protein, cholesterol, total superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione. It also significantly increased feed conversion efficiency, along with alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total bile acids, and malondialdehyde levels. In the liver, the expression levels of CYP7A1, SCD, and other genes were significantly upregulated, while BSEP, FASN, HMGCR, CAT, and other genes were significantly downregulated. In conclusion, AFB1 causes abnormal bile metabolism and impairs the overall health and liver function of ducklings. Its mechanism of action may involve changes in gene expression related to bile acid metabolism, lipid metabolism, oxidative damage, and cancer pathways.
Correlations and Variations Between the Major Biochemical Parameters of the Blood of Hybrid Swine
Authors: Zaitsev Sergei Yu. , Voronina Oksana A. , Kolesnik Nikita S. , Savina Anastasia A. , Zelenchenkova Aloyna A.
Published: October 2024

In modern animal husbandry, increasing attention is given to mathematical modeling and statistical methods, especially for evaluating commercial hybrids. Our aim was to evaluate the phenotypic and genetic variability of biochemical parameters of blood serum of the 56 hybrid boars (Large White × Landrace × Duroc) raised in feeding stations (Russia) through mathematical modeling. The particular variances and covariances of traits were calculated using the limited maximum likelihood model and the REMLF90 programs. A narrow range of variability was found for major biochemical parameters in relationship with the “FFG-factor” (“fattening period × final live weight × gain”), including the majority of the metabolites (p ≤ 0.05). The highest values of the genetic correlations were observed for the “total protein” parameter with albumins (0.78), globulins (0.94), creatinine (0.99), and enzymes: AST (0.98), ALT (0.80), etc. Phenotypic and genetic relationships showed fairly high correlation coefficients (0.5–0.8). It is important to emphasize that most of the studied amino acids (alanine, arginine, aspartic acid and asparagine, glutamic acid and glutamine, glycine, isoleucine, leucine, serine, threonine, tyrosine, valine) were significantly associated with the “FFG-factor” (p ≤ 0.05). The proposed approach provides reliable data on metabolite variability and correlations.
Effects of Different Photoperiods on Growth Performance, Glucose Metabolism, Acetylcholine, and Its Relative Acetylcholine Receptor Modulation in Broiler Chickens
Authors: Yu Miao , Xu Mengjie , Wang Guangju , Feng Jinghai , Zhang Minhong
Published: October 2024

Photoperiods are crucial environmental factors in the growth and health of modern intensive broiler chicken production. To date, the effects of different photoperiods on glucose metabolism, acetylcholine (ACh), and its relative acetylcholine receptor modulation in broilers remain elusive. Herein, we aimed to identify the effects of different photoperiods on regulating glucose metabolism, ACh, nicotinic acetylcholine receptor alpha 4 (α4 nAChR) mRNA, and M3 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (M3 mAChR) modulation in broilers. A total of 216 healthy 5-day-old Arbor Acres (AA) male broilers was randomly assigned to 12L:12D, 18L:6D, and 24L:0D photoperiods for 4 weeks. The results show that, compared with the 12L:12D photoperiod, the 18L:6D and 24L:0D photoperiods significantly increase the average daily gain (ADG) and average daily feed intake (ADFI) of broilers (p < 0.05). However, the feed efficiency (FE) of broilers significantly decreased in the 18L:6D and 24L:0D photoperiods (p < 0.05). Moreover, compared with the 12L:12D photoperiod, the ACh concentrations and α4 nAChR mRNA expression levels in the hypothalamus and medulla oblongata of broilers significantly increased (p < 0.05); M3 mAChR mRNA expression levels in cecum significantly reduced in the 18L:6D photoperiod and the 24L:0D photoperiod (p < 0.05). Compared with the 12L:12D photoperiod, the serum glucose (GLU), serum insulin (INS), serum triglyceride (TG) levels, and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) of broilers significantly enhanced in the 18L:6D and 24L:0D photoperiods (p < 0.05). Our results indicate that extending the photoperiod can promote the growth rate, ACh expression, and α4 nAChR mRNA expression of broilers while reducing the feed efficiency, inhibiting M3 mAChR mRNA expression, and inducing glucose metabolism disorders in broilers.
Analysis of Differential Alternative Splicing in Largemouth Bass After High Temperature Exposure
Authors: Zhao Xianxian , Wang Yizhou , Wang Zhenlu , Luo Tianma , Huang Jun , Shao Jian
Published: October 2024

Temperature is one of the critical factors affecting the physiological functions of fish. With ongoing global warming, changes in water temperature have a profound impact on fish species. Alternative splicing, being a significant mechanism for gene expression regulation, facilitates fish to adapt and thrive in dynamic and varied aquatic environments. Our study used transcriptome sequencing to analyze alternative splicing in largemouth bass gills at 34 °C for 24 h. The findings indicated an increase in both alternative splicing events and alternative splicing genes after high temperature treatment. Specifically, the comparative analysis revealed a total of 674 differential alternative splicing events and 517 differential alternative splicing genes. Enrichment analysis of differential alternative splicing genes revealed significant associations with various gene ontology (GO) terms and KEGG pathways, particularly in immune-related pathways like necroptosis, apoptosis, and the C-type lectin receptor signaling pathway. These results emphasize that some RNA splicing-related genes are involved in the response of largemouth bass to high temperatures.
Characterization of Human Breast Milk-Derived Limosilactobacillus reuteri MBHC 10138 with Respect to Purine Degradation, Anti-Biofilm, and Anti-Lipid Accumulation Activities
Authors: Cheng Jinhua , Cho Joo-Hyung , Suh Joo-Won
Published: October 2024

Background: Human breast milk is a valuable source of potential probiotic candidates. The bacteria isolated from human breast milk play an important role in the development of the infant gut microbiota, exhibiting diverse biological functions. Methods: In this study, Limosilactobacillus reuteri MBHC 10138 isolated from breast milk was characterized in terms of its probiotic safety characteristics and potential efficacy in hyperuricemia, obesity, lipid liver, and dental caries, conditions which Korean consumers seek to manage using probiotics. Results: Strain MBHC 10138 demonstrated a lack of D-lactate and biogenic amine production as well as a lack of bile salt deconjugation and hemolytic activity. It also exhibited susceptibility to common antibiotics, tolerance to simulated oral–gastric–intestinal conditions, and superior biological activity compared to three L. reuteri reference strains, including KACC 11452 and MJ-1, isolated from feces, and a commercial strain isolated from human breast milk. Notably, L. reuteri MBHC 10138 showed high capabilities in assimilating guanosine (69.48%), inosine (81.92%), and adenosine (95.8%), strongly inhibited 92.74% of biofilm formation by Streptococcus mutans, and reduced lipid accumulation by 32% in HepG2 cells. Conclusions: These findings suggest that strain MBHC 10138, isolated from human breast milk, has potential to be developed as a probiotic for managing hyperuricemia, obesity, and dental caries after appropriate in vivo studies.