bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between polyphenol subclasses and prostate cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies
Authors: Huang Yiping , Wang Wenyan , Jin Jianxiang
Published: July 2024

Background

The effect of polyphenol subclasses on prostate cancer (PCA) is controversial. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between polyphenol subclasses and PCA incidence.

Methods

From the establishment of the database to December 2023, a systematic search was conducted on PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library to identify relevant observational studies. The adjusted odds ratio (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence interval (95% CI) were used to assess the association.

Results

A total of 38 studies (11 were cohort studies and 27 were case–control studies), composing 824,933 participants, were included in this meta-analysis after excluding irrelevant records. The findings of the study revealed that men who consumed dietary polyphenols had a significantly higher risk of PCA compared to those who never or rarely consumed dietary polyphenols (OR = 1.01, p = 0.023), especially dietary flavonol (OR = 1.05, p = 0.042), flavanol (OR = 1.03, p = 0.026) and anthocyanin (OR = 1.06, p = 0.001). Neither total nor subclasses of dietary polyphenols have an effect on non-localized or high-grade PCA (OR = 1.01, p = 0.518). Dietary isoflavones tended to reduce the incidence of local or low-grade PCA, although there was no statistically significant difference (OR = 1.00, p = 0.081). Regarding serum/plasma polyphenol, total polyphenol (OR = 0.95, p = 0.002), genistein (OR = 0.92, p = 0.029) and enterolactone (OR = 0.92, p = 0.022) can reduce the incidence of PCA. No association was observed between total/subclasses of urinary polyphenols and PCA risk.

Conclusion

Polyphenols seem to generally increase the risk of PCA in the male population. The effect of polyphenols on PCA is affected by factors such as polyphenol subclasses, their forms (serum/plasma, urinary, dietary), and PCA-related factors (like PCA stage).

Systematic review registration

identifier: CRD42022322699.
N-demethylsinomenine metabolite and its prototype sinomenine activate mast cells via MRGPRX2 and aggravate anaphylaxis
Authors: Qin Youfa , Huang Yihan , Ji Xiaolan , Gong Ling , Luo Shiqiong , Gao Jiapan , Liu Rui , Zhang Tao
Published: July 2024

Sinomenine hydrochloride (SH) is commonly used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. It activates mast cells and induces anaphylaxis in the clinical setting. Adverse drug reactions can be caused by activation of MAS-associated G protein-coupled receptor X2 (MRGPRX2) on mast cells. Because the ligand binding site of MRGPRX2 is easily contacted in dilute solvents, it can be activated by many opioid drug structures. N-Demethylsinomenine (M-3) has a similar chemical structure to that of the opioid scaffold and is a major metabolite of SH. We sought to clarify whether M-3 induces anaphylaxis synergistically with its prototype in a mouse model. Molecular docking computer simulations suggested a similar binding effect between M-3 and SH. M-3 was chemically synthesized and analyzed by surface plasmon resonance to reveal its affinity for MRGPRX2. Temperature monitoring, in vivo hindlimb swelling and exudation test, and in vitro mast cell degranulation test were used to explore the mechanism of MRGPrx2 mediated allergic reaction triggered by M-3. Reduced M-3-induced inflammation was evident in MrgprB2 (the ortholog of MRGPRX2) conditional (Cpa3-Cre/MrgprB2flox) knockout (MrgprB2-CKO) mice. Additionally, LAD2 human mast cells with MRGPRX2 knockdown showed reduced degranulation. M-3 activated LAD2 cells synergistically with SH as regulated by GRK2 signaling and IP3R/PLC/PKC/P38 molecular signaling pathways. The results indicate that the M-3 metabolite can activate mast cells synergistically with its prototype SH via MRGPRX2 and aggravate anaphylaxis. These findings provide important insights into drug safety.
NLRP3 inflammasome in atherosclerosis: Mechanisms and targeted therapies
Authors: Chen Pengfei , Li Xia
Published: July 2024

Atherosclerosis (AS) is the primary pathology behind various cardiovascular diseases and the leading cause of death and disability globally. Recent evidence suggests that AS is a chronic vascular inflammatory disease caused by multiple factors. In this context, the NLRP3 inflammasome, acting as a signal transducer of the immune system, plays a critical role in the onset and progression of AS. The NLRP3 inflammasome is involved in endothelial injury, foam cell formation, and pyroptosis in AS. Therefore, targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome offers a new treatment strategy for AS. This review highlights the latest insights into AS pathogenesis and the pharmacological therapies targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome, focusing on optimal targets for small molecule inhibitors. These insights are valuable for rational drug design and the pharmacological assessment of new targeted NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitors in treating AS.
Variations in water use strategies of Tamarix ramosissima at coppice dunes along a precipitation gradient in desert regions of northwest China
Authors: Xu Yanqin , Zhao Hui , Zhou Binqian , Dong Zhengwu , Li Guangying , Li Shengyu
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The precipitation pattern has changed significantly in arid desert areas, yet it is not clear how the water use strategies of Tamarix ramosissima Ledeb. on coppice dunes along a natural precipitation gradient are affected.

Methods

In this study, the hydrogen and oxygen isotope compositions of xylem water, soil water, precipitation, and groundwater were measured by stable isotope techniques in Huocheng, Mosuowan, and Tazhong. Additionally, the water use strategies of natural precipitation gradient were investigated in conjunction with the MixSIAR model.

Results

The results indicated that the water sources of T. ramosissima exhibited significant variation from semi-arid to hyper-arid areas. In semi-arid areas, T. ramosissima mainly absorbed shallow, shallow-middle, and middle soil water; however, T. ramosissima shifted its primary water sources to middle and deep soil water in arid areas. In hyper-arid areas, it mainly utilized deep soil water and groundwater. In contrast, the water source contribution rate of T. ramosissima exhibited relative uniformity across each layer in an arid area. Notably, in hyper-arid areas, the proportion of groundwater by T. ramosissima was significantly high, reaching 60.2%. This is due to the relatively shallow groundwater supplementing the deep soil water content in the area. In conclusion, the proportion of shallow soil water decreased by 14.7% for T. ramosissima from semi-arid to hyper-arid areas, illustrating the occurrence of a gradual shift in potential water sources utilized by T. ramosissima from shallow to deep soil water and groundwater.

Discussion

Therefore, T. ramosissima on coppice dunes shows flexible water use strategies in relation to precipitation and groundwater, reflecting its strong environmental adaptability. The findings hold significant implications for the conservation of water resources and vegetation restoration in arid areas.
Roles of mycorrhizal fungi on seed germination of two Chinese medicinal orchids: need or do not need a fungus?
Authors: Yang Jing , Li Neng-Qi , Gao Jiang-Yun
Published: July 2024

Generally, orchids highly depend on specific fungi for seed germination and subsequent seedling development in nature. For medicinal orchids, obtaining compatible fungi is prerequisite for imitation of wild cultivation and conservation. In this study, the two important traditional Chinese medicinal orchids, Pleione bulbocodioides and Bletilla striata, were studied to screen out effective fungi for seed germination and seedling development. P. bulbocodioides seeds germinated and formed protocorms in all fungal and control treatments, but seedlings only developed in fungal Serendipita officinale (SO) and S. indica (SI) treatments and nutrient-rich medium MS treatment. At 90 days after incubation, the percentages of seedlings were 34.83 ± 3.4% and 27.59 ± 3.5% in SO and SI treatments, which were significantly higher than the MS treatment (18.39 ± 2.0%; all P < 0.05). At this stage, most seedlings in SO and SI treatments bore two leaves (Stage 5), and pelotons inside the basal cells of seedlings were clearly observed. For B. striata, seeds germinated up to seedlings with or without fungus, but seedlings developed rapidly in SI treatment. At 90 days after incubation, the percentage of seedlings in SI treatment reached 77.90 ± 4.1%, but was significantly lower than the nutrient-poor medium OMA treatment (85.18 ± 3.7%; P < 0.01), however, the seedlings in SI treatment were stronger than the seedlings in OMA treatment. The results suggested that P. bulbocodioides rely on compatible fungi for seeds germinated up to seedlings, and fungus SO could effectively promote seed germination and support seedling development; while B. striata can germinate up to seedling without any fungus, but compatible fungus S. indica can greatly speed up seed germination and promote seedling development. We suggest that S. officinale and S. indica fungi can be used in conservation practices or imitation of wild cultivation of these two important medicinal orchids, respectively.
Polyphosphate-kinase-1 dependent polyphosphate hyperaccumulation for acclimation to nutrient loss in the cyanobacterium, Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803
Authors: Sato Norihiro , Endo Mizuki , Nishi Hiroki , Fujiwara Shoko , Tsuzuki Mikio
Published: July 2024

Polyphosphate is prevalent in living organisms. To obtain insights into polyphosphate synthesis and its physiological significance in cyanobacteria, we characterize sll0290, a homolog of the polyphosphate-kinase-1 gene, in the freshwater cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803. The Sll0290 protein structure reveals characteristics of Ppk1. A Synechocystis sll0290 disruptant and sll0290-overexpressing Escherichia coli transformant demonstrated loss and gain of polyphosphate synthesis ability, respectively. Accordingly, sll0290 is identified as ppk1. The disruptant (Δppk1) grows normally with aeration of ordinary air (0.04% CO2), consistent with its photosynthesis comparable to the wild type level, which contrasts with a previously reported high-CO2 (5%) requirement for Δppk1 in an alkaline hot spring cyanobacterium, Synechococcus OS-B’. Synechocystis Δppk1 is defective in polyphosphate hyperaccumulation and survival competence at the stationary phase, and also under sulfur-starvation conditions, implying that sulfur limitation is one of the triggers to induce polyphosphate hyperaccumulation in stationary cells. Furthermore, Δppk1 is defective in the enhancement of total phosphorus contents under sulfur-starvation conditions, a phenomenon that is only partially explained by polyphosphate hyperaccumulation. This study therefore demonstrates that in Synechocystis, ppk1 is not essential for low-CO2 acclimation but plays a crucial role in dynamic P-metabolic regulation, including polyP hyperaccumulation, to maintain physiological fitness under sulfur-starvation conditions.
Does exercise adherence during the COVID-19 pandemic contribute to improved subjective well-being? A cross-sectional study
Authors: Chen Yonghuan , Fang Ning , Zhu Yulong , Li Zhenyu , Zhu Qiuhan
Published: July 2024

Introduction

This study aims to investigate whether exercise adherence and positive mental character significantly affect subjective well-being among Chinese college students during the COVID-19 pandemic and whether positive mental character plays a mediating role.

Methods

The study employed questionnaires, including the Exercise Adherence Scale, the Positive Mental Character Scale, and the Subjective Well-Being Scale, which were administered to students across seven universities in Henan Province, China. A total of 1,001 participants were analyzed in the final sample. Data were analyzed using SPSS 21.0 for descriptive statistics, independent samples T-test, correlation, and regression analyses. Furthermore, structural equation model with AMOS was conducted to examine the potential mediating effect of positive mental characteristics on the relationship between exercise adherence and subjective well-being.

Results

The results indicated significant differences in exercise adherence, positive mental character, and subjective well-being between male and female participants, with males scoring higher in all three domains. Among Chinese university students during the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a significant correlation among exercise adherence, positive mental character, and subjective well-being. Exercise adherence was found to have a significant and positive impact on both positive mental character and subjective well-being. Additionally, it was found that positive mental character had a significant positive association with subjective well-being. The mediating role of positive mental character in the relationship between exercise adherence and subjective well-being was partially supported.

Discussion

Exercise adherence among Chinese college students had a significant positive association on both positive mental character and subjective well-being throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The exercise adherence can directly or indirectly enhance subjective well-being through its association with positive mental character. Therefore, positive mental and subjective well-being can be enhanced by consistent physical activity even during a pandemic.
Pesticide knowledge and attitude among the potato growing farmers of Bangladesh and determinant factors
Authors: Hossain Mohammad Zabed , Ferdous Fahliza , Rayhan Md. Israt
Published: July 2024

The study aimed to assess the extent of pesticide use among potato-growing farmers in Bangladesh and its relationship with their knowledge, attitude, and socio-demographic characteristics. Data were collected from 553 farmers using a semi-structured questionnaire through multistage random sampling. Bivariate analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between the frequency of pesticide use and various socio-demographic factors. Results showed that out of 321 different pesticide brands reported, 50.5% were registered, while 47.7% were unregistered and 1.9% were banned. Among the registered pesticides, 5.6% were highly hazardous, 24.8% were moderately hazardous, and 6.2% were slightly hazardous as per World Health Organization category. A high percentage (96%) of farmers reported using pesticides in their fields, with 16.6% applying pesticides more than five times in a cropping season. Data revealed that majority of the farmers were aware of the negative effect of pesticides on health and environment. Most farmers used hand towels (77.9%) and ordinary shirts (70.0%) to cover their bodies to avoid pesticide exposure. Inappropriate disposal of empty pesticide containers was also observed. Negative binomial regression analysis revealed significant positive associations between the frequency of pesticide application and potato productivity, rate of fertilizer application, area of land owned by farmers, and their knowledge about the negative effects of pesticides on human health. The study suggests adopting integrated pest management practices, developing pest-resistant potato varieties, ensuring safe handling practices and disposal as well as stringent enforcement of laws to mitigate pesticide externalities and hence ensure sustainability in agriculture.
Study of genotoxic and cytotoxic effects induced in human fibroblasts by exposure to pulsed and continuous 1.6 GHz radiofrequency
Authors: Massaro Luca , De Sanctis Stefania , Franchini Valeria , Regalbuto Elisa , Alfano Gaetano , Focaccetti Chiara , Benvenuto Monica , Cifaldi Loredana , Sgura Antonella , Berardinelli Francesco , Marinaccio Jessica , Barbato Federica , Rossi Erica , Nardozi Daniela , Masuelli Laura , Bei Roberto , Lista Florigio
Published: July 2024

Background

The widespread use of radiofrequency (RF) sources, ranging from household appliances to telecommunications devices and military equipment, raises concerns among people and regulatory agencies about the potential health risks of RF exposure. Consequently, several in vitro and in vivo studies have been done to investigate the biological effects, in particular non-thermal, of this non-ionizing radiation. To date, this issue is still being debated due to the controversial results that have been reported. Furthermore, the impact of different RF signal modulations on biological systems remains poorly investigated. The present in vitro study aims to evaluate the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of continuous or pulsed 1.6 GHz RF in human dermal fibroblasts (HDF).

Methods

HDF cultures were exposed to continuous and pulsed 1.6 GHz RF, for 2 h, with Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) of 0.4 W/kg. The potential biological effects of 1.6 GHz RF on HDF were assessed with a multi-methodological approach, analyzing the effects on cell cycle, ultrastructure, protein expression, mitotic spindle, CREST stained micronuclei, chromosome segregation and γ-H2AX/53BP1 foci.

Results

1.6 GHz RF exposure modified proteins expression and morphology of HDF. Specifically, the expression of different heat-shock proteins (HSP) (i.e., HSP-90, HSP-60, and HSP-25) and phospho-AKT were affected. In addition, both continuous and pulsed RF modified the cytoskeletal organization in HDF and increased the number of lysosomes, while the formation of autophagosomes was observed only after pulsed RF exposure. Mitotic spindle anomalies were also found after exposure. However, no significant effect was observed on cell cycle, chromosome segregation, CREST-stained micronuclei and γ-H2AX/53BP1 foci.

Conclusion

The results of the present study show the absence of genotoxic damage in 1.6 GHz RF exposed HDF and, although mitotic spindle alterations were observed, they did not have an aneugenic effect. On the other hand, changes in some proteins expression and cell ultrastructure in exposed HDF suggest that RF can potentially induce cell alterations at the morphological and molecular levels.
Effect of energy consumption, foreign direct investment, and economic growth on greenhouse gas emissions in OPEC member states: evidence from panel data analysis
Authors: Gibba Alieu , Jammeh Lamin , Jallow Mamadou Alieu
Published: July 2024

Our paper explores the impact of energy consumption, foreign direct investment, and economic expansion on greenhouse gas emissions in OPEC member states. A panel data of 12 out of 13 OPEC nations over the period 1983 to 2022 obtained from the World Development Indicators is used. The autoregressive distributed lag simulation was adopted to determine the correlation among the series. Our estimations unveil that economic growth in the member states contributes 7.47 per cent to greenhouse gas emissions for every 1 percent increase, trade flow tends to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 0.37 per cent for every 1 percent rise. Though the impact of foreign direct investment on greenhouse gas emissions in the OPEC member states is negative, it is statistically insignificant. The positive association between energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions emphasizes the need for OPEC countries to move to cleaner energy sources in order to reduce environmental damage. A proactive approach to investing in clean technology is critical for governments and companies in OPEC countries. This includes supporting research and development of renewable energy sources, encouraging the adoption of environmentally-safe practices in industry and fostering innovation to promote sustainable development. Strict environmental standards for industries that contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions should be adopted and enforced. This includes: Setting caps on emissions, advocating for cleaner production processes, and imposing penalties for non-compliance with environmental regulations. Sustainable practices should be encouraged through tax incentives, subsidies, and other financial mechanisms designed to incentivized companies to adopt environmentally friendly processes. The implications of these findings for policymakers and future studies are discussed.
Statistical analysis of low latitude spread F at the American, Atlantic, and Pacific sectors using digisonde observations
Authors: Bhaneja Preeti , Klenzing Jeff , Pacheco Edgardo E. , Earle Gregory D. , Bullett Terrence W.
Published: July 2024

Statistical analysis of low latitude spread F is presented for three different longitudinal sectors from Jicamarca (12°S, 76.8°W, −2.5° declination angle) from 2001 to 2016, Ascension Island (7.9°S, 14.4°W, −15.09° declination angle) from 2000 to 2014, Kwajalein (8.71°N, 167.7°E, 7.5° declination angle) from 2004 to 2012. Digisonde data from these stations have been processed and analyzed to study statistical variations of equatorial spread F, a diagnostic of irregular plasma structure in the ionosphere. A new automated method of spread F detection using pattern recognition and edge detection for low latitude regions is used to determine solar and seasonal variation over these three sites. An algorithm has been developed to detect the foF2 and hpF2 parameters and this has been validated by comparisons with manually scaled data as well as with SAMI2 and International Reference Ionosphere models showing good correlation. While significant variation is not observed over the solar cycle, the different longitudes and declination angles contribute to the variations over the seasonal cycle.
Transient upstream mesoscale structures: drivers of solar-quiet space weather
Authors: Kajdič Primož , Blanco-Cano Xóchitl , Turc Lucile , Archer Martin , Raptis Savvas , Liu Terry Z. , Pfau-Kempf Yann , LaMoury Adrian T. , Hao Yufei , Escoubet Philippe C. , Omidi Nojan , Sibeck David G. , Wang Boyi , Zhang Hui , Lin Yu
Published: July 2024

In recent years, it has become increasingly clear that space weather disturbances can be triggered by transient upstream mesoscale structures (TUMS), independently of the occurrence of large-scale solar wind (SW) structures, such as interplanetary coronal mass ejections and stream interaction regions. Different types of magnetospheric pulsations, transient perturbations of the geomagnetic field and auroral structures are often observed during times when SW monitors indicate quiet conditions, and have been found to be associated to TUMS. In this mini-review we describe the space weather phenomena that have been associated with four of the largest-scale and the most energetic TUMS, namely, hot flow anomalies, foreshock bubbles, travelling foreshocks and foreshock compressional boundaries. The space weather phenomena associated with TUMS tend to be more localized and less intense compared to geomagnetic storms. However, the quiet time space weather may occur more often since, especially during solar minima, quiet SW periods prevail over the perturbed times.
Facilitating regular Physical Education for students with disability—PE teachers' views
Authors: Bertills Karin , Björk Maria
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The objective of this study is to describe how Physical Education (PE) teachers work to facilitate participation for students with disability in compulsory, mainstream inclusive, secondary school. Inclusive school-based Physical Education (PE) is an important context for students to share the benefits of physical activities with peers, especially for students with disability whose opportunities for participation in extracurricular physical activity are limited.

Methods

Two focus group interviews were performed with eight experienced PE teachers who teach students with disability in regular PE. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyze the interviews. Two themes emerged, the importance of having a structured and welcoming environment and the need to adapt the PE environment.

Results

Student mastery experiences is emphasized and achieved by teaching approaches encouraging peer collaboration before physical performance and competition. Key aspects to participation for students with disabilities are inclusive mindsets, proper preparation, and adaptations. Special arrangements when participation in-class is not possible require regular and close teacher-student communication and, when needed, additional support.

Discussion

Experiences of participation are important matters for further advancement of equality and social inclusion for students with disability. Schools need to develop support structures to provide students with disability with “real-life” experiences that optimize participation.
Coffee sustainability: leveraging collaborative breeding for variety improvement
Authors: Ngure Godfrey M. , Watanabe Kazuo N.
Published: July 2024

The sustainability of global coffee supply is threatened by production challenges worsening with every decade since the turn of the 21st century. Coffee is among the most popular beverages in the world, and its production supports livelihoods of millions of people, mostly smallholder farmers. With a global market value exceeding US$130 billion, the coffee industry is a source of export revenue for producing countries, the majority of which are developing nations in the Global South. Climate change, pests, and diseases continue to hamper productivity, profitability, and countries’ competitiveness in the global market. At the same time, the global demand for coffee continues to rise. A crucial pillar to safeguarding the future of coffee is continuously developing improved varieties suitable for the changing environment, and that address the needs of farmers and the industry. Yet, most national breeding programs are grossly out of touch with climate change reality and market dynamics. Working in isolation, these programs are constrained by unstable funding, limited sources of genetic variability, and inaccessibility of modern technologies necessary to accelerate the breeding process. We review here key production challenges, status of genetic diversity, and breeding approaches. Additionally, we explore opportunities in leveraging a pre-competitive collaborative breeding approach encompassing sharing of germplasm, and cross-border multi-environment trials in developing next-generation cultivars. We argue that breeding efforts should be informed by the needs of all the stakeholders in the supply chain including researchers, smallholder farmers, small and medium-sized enterprises investing in coffee processing and roasting, and consumers. Using emerging and reviving producers in Southeast Asia and Eastern Africa as a model, we explore how a paradigm shift in coffee breeding from the historically nation-centric approach to a more forward-looking collaborative model could improve the efficiency of variety improvement in face of climate change and growing market demand.
Analysis of maxillary teeth and soft tissue profiles among Tibetan and Han Chinese females with facial symmetry for orthodontic treatment planning
Authors: Deng Lijia , Lei Jinmei , Li Minjie , Song Hongjie , He Hong
Published: July 2024

The evaluation of maxillary teeth and soft tissue profiles is a critical component of orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning. This study aimed to evaluate the correlation between the sagittal position of maxillary anterior teeth and facial profile esthetics among Tibetan and Han Chinese adult females for optimizing orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning. A total of 100 Tibetan Chinese and 100 Han Chinese adult females with good facial symmetry were recruited. The smiling facial profile images with the maxillary central incisors and forehead in full view were taken based totally on the same standard. The photo measurement and head position were adjusted using the picture-enhancing software. The reference traces associated with forehead inclinations were utilized to assess the anteroposterior (AP) positions of the maxillary central incisors. The results showed that a round forehead was the dominant forehead shape for Tibetan (93%) and Han (55%) Chinese females. In Tibetan females, 85% of the maxillary central incisors were found to be located between the forehead's anterior limit line (the Gall line) and the goal anterior limit line (the Fall line), with 15% located posterior to the Fall line. This distribution manifested a strong association with incisor position and forehead inclination (R2 = 0.742). In Han females, 83% of the maxillary central incisors were located between the Fall line and the Gall line, with 12% posterior to the Fall line and 5% anterior to the Gall line. The positions of the maxillary central incisors exhibited a strong relationship with forehead inclination (R2 = 0.827). The maxillary central incisors were close to the aesthetic line in both ethnic groups, while forehead inclinations were correlated with AP maxillary incisor position. These findings demonstrated that there was a close relationship between the incisor position of Tibetan and Han females with facial symmetry and the forehead FFA factor, indicating a reference in oral hard and soft tissues for optimizing orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning in terms of facial contour.
Mule trains to mountain roads: the role of working mules in supporting resilient communities in the Himalayas
Authors: Kubasiewicz Laura M. , Watson Tamlin , Thapa Sajana , Nye Caroline , Chamberlain Natasha
Published: July 2024

Working equids play a central role in mountainous communities, but their work often goes unnoticed by the wider world, with sparse documentation of their role, value, or welfare – a state which often extends to their human counterparts. Communities living in the remote Manaslu Valley, Nepal, face a number of uncertainties, including extreme weather events due to the seasonal monsoon and, more recently, the construction of a new road network. Using semi-structured interviews, questionnaires, and Equine Assessment Research and Scoping (EARS) welfare assessments, we outline the specific role of pack mules in supporting the lives of local people, explain the nuanced links between human experience and mule welfare, and gain insight into how people living in this volatile environment manage uncertainty and risk. Mule work was felt to be the ‘only option’ for a sustainable livelihood for most mule owners although, in some cases, mules had enabled respondents to diversify their income. Mule owners with more husbandry experience did not own mules in more positive behavioural states, which may suggest a lack of generational knowledge and support networks. Short-term ongoing risks, such as the monsoon or unstable tracks, had a larger impact both financially and emotionally than the long-term but distant implications of the road construction. Mule owners must constantly balance the risk of working during the monsoon season, when conditions are treacherous but pay was higher, with losing valuable income but keeping themselves and their mules safe; they do, however, have a more mobile option for employment than non-owners. Mules enable a level of resilience and agility for communities living with constant uncertainty and change, which is only beginning to be recognised formally within the sustainable development sphere. Integration of animal welfare into the SDGs would allow humanitarian aid initiatives to strengthen support networks around working equids, which would greatly benefit the mules and humans alike.
The effect of dietary supplementation of Lycium barbarum leaves on the growth performance, organ indexes and intestinal microflora of rats
Authors: Guo Yindi , Liu Jie , Tuo Qiang , Zhang Dongtao , Wanapat Metha , Xin Guosheng
Published: July 2024

This study was conducted to investigate both fruit and different levels of leaf supplementation on the growth performance, organ indices and intestinal microflora of rats. Twenty-five healthy male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups. The rats in the control (NC) and positive control (PC) groups were fed by gavage a basal diet and a basal diet with 4 g/kg of L. barbarum fruit homogenate, respectively. The test (LD, MD, and HD) groups were fed basal diets with additional 2, 4, and 8 g/kg of L. barbarum leaf homogenate, respectively. The feeding period was 35 d. The result revealed that the rats in the LD group had the highest average weight gain (p < 0.05). The cardiac and renal indexes in the LD and MD groups were significantly higher than in NC group, respectively (p < 0.05). Diversity analysis revealed that adding low concentrations of L. barbarum leaf homogenates markedly reduced the Shannon index of the rats cecum (p < 0.05). The relative abundance of Verrucomicrobiota was higher in the LD group than those in other groups (p < 0.05). The relative abundance of Actinobacteriota was found significantly higher in PC group than others (p < 0.05). The relative abundance of Akkermansia in LD group was the highest (p < 0.05). The relative abundance of Romboutsia in the PC group was considerably higher than that in other groups. The relative abundance of Candidatus_Saccharimonas in the supplementation groups was appreciably lower than those found in other groups. The relative abundance of Alloprevotella was significantly lower in PC, LD, and MD groups than in NC and HD groups (p < 0.05). The relative abundance of Oscillibacter was significantly higher in HD group than in other groups (p < 0.05). Thus, L. barbarum leaf homogenate fed to rats could increase their growth performance, internal organ weights and additionally enhance the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria. Therefore, based on the obtained data in the current study, a dose of L. barbarum leaf homogenate supplemented with 2 g/kg in diet is recommended, however, further studies are required to confirm, especially in animals.
High-throughput rapid amplicon sequencing for multilocus sequence typing of Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae from archived clinical DNA samples
Authors: Framst Isaac , Wolking Rebecca M. , Schonfeld Justin , Ricker Nicole , Beeler-Marfisi Janet , Chalmers Gabhan , Kamath Pauline L. , Maboni Grazieli
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Spillover events of Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae have devastating effects on the wild sheep populations. Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) is used to monitor spillover events and the spread of M. ovipneumoniae between the sheep populations. Most studies involving the typing of M. ovipneumoniae have used Sanger sequencing. However, this technology is time-consuming, expensive, and is not well suited to efficient batch sample processing.

Methods

Our study aimed to develop and validate an MLST workflow for typing of M. ovipneumoniae using Nanopore Rapid Barcoding sequencing and multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR). We compare the workflow with Nanopore Native Barcoding library preparation and Illumina MiSeq amplicon protocols to determine the most accurate and cost-effective method for sequencing multiplex amplicons. A multiplex PCR was optimized for four housekeeping genes of M. ovipneumoniae using archived DNA samples (N = 68) from nasal swabs.

Results

Sequences recovered from Nanopore Rapid Barcoding correctly identified all MLST types with the shortest total workflow time and lowest cost per sample when compared with Nanopore Native Barcoding and Illumina MiSeq methods.

Discussion

Our proposed workflow is a convenient and effective method for strain typing of M. ovipneumoniae and can be applied to other bacterial MLST schemes. The workflow is suitable for diagnostic settings, where reduced hands-on time, cost, and multiplexing capabilities are important.
Urzeczowienie polityki: współczesny proces polityczny jako „porządek zorganizowanego pozoru”
Authors: Świrek Krzysztof
Published: July 2024

Article proposes to apply György Lukács’ classic conception of reification to contemporary political process. This process in the light of theory of reification can be described as an ‘order of organised semblance’: politicians, permanently dissociated from their political public and seing it as passive, are trying, via opinion polls, to recognize ‘facts’ about this very public and propose a message that can guarantee them support. In consequence, a technical and cynical approach to communication emerges: instead of providing an interpretation of collective interests, politicians are formulating message that is supposed to prompt electorate to express their passive support.
Proces rozumienia jako fundament myślenia politycznego: o pułapce reifikowania myśli
Authors: Łukomski Piotr
Published: July 2024

The basic thesis justified in the essay defines the relationship between the nature of cognitive processes attributable to humans and politics defined as the space of possible interactions between humans determined at the level of cultural artifacts in the form of ideas. It is based on fundamental distinctions about learning systems (cognitive systems) defining the ways (possibilities) in which they process information and the resulting cognitive limitations. In this approach, the human mind is one cognitive system. The thesis has the following formulation: if the process of understanding is the foundation of political thinking, then the reification of thought at the level of cultural artifacts is a cognitive trap that locks thinking, and political thinking in particular, into a tradition of copying and reproducing these artifacts. It is a process that leads to cognitive pathology at the social and political level, which is characterized by the hegemony of memory and imitation and, as a consequence, arbitrarily limits not only the scope of thinking but also the way we relate to the world. The above process renders meaningless the relationship between understanding and knowledge, transforming the latter into a mummified artifact of collective memory. Consequently, the artifacts of collective memory in the form of ideas become secondary objects or products that enter the political market, becoming elements of political circulation, alienated from their source and original function.
Fikcyjne towary, koszty społeczne i sprzeczności instytucjonalne. Karla Polanyiego krytyka utowarowienia
Authors: Kassner Maciej
Published: July 2024

The articles reconstruct Karl Polanyi’s idea of fictitious commodities with the help of Karl William Kapp’s theory of social costs. According to the proposed argument labour land, and money are social spheres, where major social and ecological costs of a functioning market economy tend to accumulate. Hence, commodity fiction concerning land, labour, and money is crucial for understanding ideological and redistributive conflicts characteristic of contemporary capitalism.
Utilizing Dry Electrode Electroencephalography and AI Robotics for Cognitive Stress Monitoring in Video Gaming
Authors: Alrasheedi Aseel A. , Alrabeah Alyah Z. , Almuhareb Fatemah J. , Alras Noureyah M. Y. , Alduaij Shaymaa N. , Karar Abdullah S. , Said Sherif , Youssef Karim , Kork Samer Al
Published: July 2024

This research explores the integration of the Dry Sensor Interface-24 (DSI-24) EEG headset with a ChatGPT-enabled Furhat robot to monitor cognitive stress in video gaming environments. The DSI-24, a cutting-edge, wireless EEG device, is adept at rapidly capturing brainwave activity, making it particularly suitable for dynamic settings such as gaming. Our study leverages this technology to detect cognitive stress indicators in players by analyzing EEG data. The collected data are then interfaced with a ChatGPT-powered Furhat robot, which performs dual roles: guiding players through the data collection process and prompting breaks when elevated stress levels are detected. The core of our methodology is the real-time processing of EEG signals to determine players’ focus levels, using a mental focusing feature extracted from the EEG data. The work presented here discusses how technology, data analysis methods and their combined effects can improve player satisfaction and enhance gaming experiences. It also explores the obstacles and future possibilities of using EEG for monitoring video gaming environments.
On the Fused Deposition Modelling of Personalised Bio-Scaffolds: Materials, Design, and Manufacturing Aspects
Authors: Sousa Helena Cardoso , Ruben Rui B. , Viana Júlio C.
Published: July 2024

Bone tissue engineering (BTE) is an important field of research, essential in order to heal bone defects or replace impaired tissues and organs. As one of the most used additive manufacturing processes, 3D printing can produce biostructures in the field of tissue engineering for bones, orthopaedic tissues, and organs. Scaffold manufacturing techniques and suitable materials with final structural, mechanical properties, and the biological response of the implanted biomaterials are an essential part of BTE. In fact, the scaffold is an essential component for tissue engineering where cells can attach, proliferate, and differentiate to develop functional tissue. Fused deposition modelling (FDM) is commonly employed in the 3D printing of tissue-engineering scaffolds. Scaffolds must have a good architecture, considering the porosity, permeability, degradation, and healing capabilities. In fact, the architecture of a scaffold is crucial, influencing not only the physical and mechanical properties but also the cellular behaviours of mesenchymal stem cells. Cells placed on/or within the scaffolds is a standard approach in tissue engineering. For bio-scaffolds, materials that are biocompatible and biodegradable, and can support cell growth are the ones chosen. These include polymers like polylactic acid (PLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), and certain bioglass or composite materials. This work comprehensively integrates aspects related to the optimisation of biocompatible and biodegradable composites with the low cost, simple, and stable FDM technology to successfully prepare the best designed composite porous bone-healing scaffolds. FDM can be used to produce low-cost bone scaffolds, with a suitable porosity and permeability.
Three-Dimensional Bioprinting: A Comprehensive Review for Applications in Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Mirsky Nicholas A. , Ehlen Quinn T. , Greenfield Jason A. , Antonietti Michael , Slavin Blaire V. , Nayak Vasudev Vivekanand , Pelaez Daniel , Tse David T. , Witek Lukasz , Daunert Sylvia , Coelho Paulo G.
Published: July 2024

Since three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting has emerged, it has continuously to evolved as a revolutionary technology in surgery, offering new paradigms for reconstructive and regenerative medical applications. This review highlights the integration of 3D printing, specifically bioprinting, across several surgical disciplines over the last five years. The methods employed encompass a review of recent literature focusing on innovations and applications of 3D-bioprinted tissues and/or organs. The findings reveal significant advances in the creation of complex, customized, multi-tissue constructs that mimic natural tissue characteristics, which are crucial for surgical interventions and patient-specific treatments. Despite the technological advances, the paper introduces and discusses several challenges that remain, such as the vascularization of bioprinted tissues, integration with the host tissue, and the long-term viability of bioprinted organs. The review concludes that while 3D bioprinting holds substantial promise for transforming surgical practices and enhancing patient outcomes, ongoing research, development, and a clear regulatory framework are essential to fully realize potential future clinical applications.
Integrated Dynamic Photovoltaic Facade for Enhanced Building Comfort and Energy Efficiency
Authors: Valinejadshoubi Masoud , Athienitis Andreas K. , Bagchi Ashutosh , Abtahi Matin
Published: July 2024

This simulation study explores the potential of a novel façade design with integrated control system comprising a dynamic photovoltaic (PV) facade integrated with dimming lighting control to enhance the work environment in office buildings and achieve energy-efficient solutions. Parametric modeling using the Grasshopper plug-in for Rhino software 7, coupled with energy simulation through the Honeybee environmental plug-in for the EnergyPlus program, are used in the methodology. The integrated control strategy was simulated to study in a single office space, utilizing the Daysim engine to assess indoor daylight quality and focusing on Daylight Factor (DF) and Daylight Glare Probability (DGP). Additionally, two artificial lighting control systems were examined for potential integration with the dynamic PV facade to minimize lighting load. The study employs the Galapagos evolutionary solver function embedded within Grasshopper to identify optimum solutions. The dynamic PV façade achieves substantial reductions in overall energy consumption, cutting it by 73% in June, 54% in July, 54.5% in August, and 52.55% in September. The results demonstrate substantial reductions in total energy consumption, with notable savings in heating and cooling due to the dynamic facade’s ability to balance and control solar radiation during working hours. Moreover, the dynamic PV facade contributes to electricity generation, demonstrating its potential to improve visual comfort, decrease energy consumption, and generate electric energy through rotational adjustments and varying transparency levels.
Assessing the Impact of Clearing and Grazing on Fuel Management in a Mediterranean Oak Forest through Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Multispectral Data
Authors: Pádua Luís , Castro João P. , Castro José , Sousa Joaquim J. , Castro Marina
Published: July 2024

Climate change has intensified the need for robust fire prevention strategies. Sustainable forest fuel management is crucial in mitigating the occurrence and rapid spread of forest fires. This study assessed the impact of vegetation clearing and/or grazing over a three-year period in the herbaceous and shrub parts of a Mediterranean oak forest. Using high-resolution multispectral data from an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), four flight surveys were conducted from 2019 (pre- and post-clearing) to 2021. These data were used to evaluate different scenarios: combined vegetation clearing and grazing, the individual application of each method, and a control scenario that was neither cleared nor purposely grazed. The UAV data allowed for the detailed monitoring of vegetation dynamics, enabling the classification into arboreal, shrubs, herbaceous, and soil categories. Grazing pressure was estimated through GPS collars on the sheep flock. Additionally, a good correlation (r = 0.91) was observed between UAV-derived vegetation volume estimates and field measurements. These practices proved to be efficient in fuel management, with cleared and grazed areas showing a lower vegetation regrowth, followed by areas only subjected to vegetation clearing. On the other hand, areas not subjected to any of these treatments presented rapid vegetation growth.
Declining Bank Erosion Rate Driven by Hydrological Alterations of a Small Sub-Alpine River
Authors: Pusztai-Eredics Alexandra , Kiss Tímea
Published: July 2024

In the 21st century, climate change and its consequences are getting more serious. The changes in temperature and precipitation alter the run-off conditions, subsequently influencing the channel processes of rivers. The study aims to analyse the hydrological changes in a small, sub-alpine river (Rába/Raab River, Central Europe) and the bank erosional processes (1951–2024). The bank erosion was determined based on topographical maps, aerial photographs, and field (RTK–GPS) surveys. Short (2–3 days) floods were common between 1950 and 1980, and low stages occurred in 65–81% of a year. However, extreme regimes developed in the 21st century, as record-high, flash floods altered with long low stages (91–96% of a year). The bank erosion shows a cyclic temporal pattern, gradually increasing until it reaches a high value (4.1–4.9 m/y), followed by a limited erosional rate (2.2–2.8 m/y). However, the magnitude of the bank erosion is decreasing. This could be explained by (1) the lower transport capacity of the more common low stages and (2) the seasonal shift of the flood waves, which appear in the growing season when the riparian vegetation can more effectively protect the banks from erosion.