bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Seal of Biliteracy as a recruitment tool in postsecondary language study
Authors: Eckerson Janet , Jacobs Christopher
Published: June 2024

As state‐level Seals of Biliteracy for high school graduates become more common, postsecondary language programs face questions about how to recognize this credential. While scholarship has examined the implementation of state Seals in secondary education, less attention has been paid to the role of postsecondary language programs in this new policy milieu. This study examined how receiving a Seal of Biliteracy might motivate students to study language(s) in college and the impact of awarding advanced placement and retroactive credit for the Seal. A survey of Seal of Biliteracy recipients (n = 61) in Nebraska and interviews with undergraduate students who received the award (n = 8) suggest that postsecondary language departments could leverage the Seal of Biliteracy to recruit students to language programs and likewise lend support to state implementation efforts. Findings point to the critical role academic credit policies play in making language study more attractive to Seal of Biliteracy recipients.
Promoter characterization of relZ‐bifunctional (pp)pGpp synthetase in mycobacteria
Authors: RS Neethu , Sinha Shubham Kumar , Batra Sakshi , Regatti Pavan Reddy , Syal Kirtimaan
Published: June 2024

The second messenger guanosine 3',5'‐bis(diphosphate)/guanosine tetraphosphate (ppGpp) and guanosine 3'‐diphosphate 5'‐triphosphate/guanosine pentaphosphate (pppGpp) ((p)ppGpp) has been shown to be crucial for the survival of mycobacteria under hostile conditions. Unexpectedly, deletion of primary (p)ppGpp synthetase‐Rel did not completely diminish (p)ppGpp levels leading to the discovery of novel bifunctional enzyme‐RelZ, which displayed guanosine 5'‐monophosphate,3'‐diphosphate (pGpp), ppGpp, and pppGpp ((pp)pGpp) synthesis and RNAseHII activity. What conditions does it express itself under, and does it work in concert with Rel? The regulation of its transcription and whether the Rel enzyme plays a role in such regulation remain unclear. In this article, we have studied relZ promoter and compared its activity with rel promoter in different growth conditions. We observed that the promoter activity of relZ was constitutive; it is weaker than rel promoter, lies within 200 bp upstream of translation‐start site, and it increased under carbon starvation. Furthermore, the promoter activity of relZ was compromised in the rel‐knockout strain in the stationary phase. Our study unveils the dynamic regulation of relZ promoter activity by SigA and SigB sigma factors in different growth phases in mycobacteria. Importantly, elucidating the regulatory network of RelZ would enable the development of the targeted interventions for treating mycobacterial infections.
The impact of updates in headache quality measures on adherence to best practices in a neurology resident clinic: A quality improvement study
Authors: Cascella Robert H. , Anderson Christopher C. , Perez Enmanuel J.
Published: June 2024

Objective

To apply the 2019 joint American Academy of Neurology (AAN) and American Headache Society (AHS) quality measures for headache management to a cohort of neurology resident physicians and then assess outcomes related to guideline adherence.

Background

The optimization of headache management is essential to reduce both the individual and systemic impact of these disorders. In 2014, the AAN developed 10 quality measures for evidence‐based management of patients with headache. A workgroup updated and condensed its headache quality measures in 2019, narrowing the set to six measurements, four of which would primarily focus on the management of migraine and two of which would address the management of cluster headache.

Methods

This quality improvement study was conducted using a pretest‐posttest study design. A pre‐intervention survey based on retrospective analysis of five clinic notes for adherence to the measures was designed and distributed to all neurology residents (n = 32) at a large, academic tertiary referral center. The intervention included the creation of an electronic medical record template to aid residents in following the measures during clinical encounters, as well as the provision of direct feedback based on pre‐intervention results. Finally, a post‐intervention survey was distributed for completion based on notes written during the intervention period. Analysis was limited to migraine, given the low percentage of cluster headache seen in clinic.

Results

An increase in adherence was seen in three of the four migraine‐related quality measures, with the Use of Abortive Medications for Migraine and Documentation of Counseling on Modifiable Lifestyle and Chronification Factors demonstrating statistically significant improvements (75.8% to 88.0% [p = 0.013] and 83.9% to 94.0% [p = 0.029] adherence, respectively). For secondary outcomes, the increase in the utilization of appropriate diagnostic criteria (82.6% to 93.2%, p = 0.018) was significant, and the self‐assessed confidence rating for adherence to guidelines was significant (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

This study provides evidence that the quality improvement intervention led to increased adherence to the AAN and AHS migraine‐related measures. It is anticipated that increased adherence may lead to improved patient outcomes.
Pathogenesis and pathobiology of testicular germ cell tumours: a view from a developmental biological perspective with guidelines for pathological diagnostics
Authors: Fichtner Alexander , Nettersheim Daniel , Bremmer Felix
Published: June 2024

Testicular germ cell tumours (GCT) are divided into three different subtypes (types I–III) regarding to their developmental origin, histological differences and molecular features. Type I GCT develop from disturbed primordial germ cells and most commonly occur in children and young adolescents, which is why they are referred to as prepubertal GCT. Type II GCT develop from a non‐invasive germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS) and show an isochromosome 12p (i12p) or gain of 12p material as a common and characteristic molecular alteration. Type III GCT originate from distorted postpubertal germ cells (e.g. spermatogonia) in adult patients and have changes on chromosome 9 with amplification of the DMRT1 gene. Type I GCT encompass prepubertal‐type teratomas and yolk‐sac tumours (YST). Type II GCT include seminoma, embryonal carcinoma, choriocarcinoma, postpubertal‐type teratoma and postpubertal‐type YST. Types I and II GCT both show similar morphology, but are separated from each other by the detection of a GCNIS and an i12p in type II GCT. For type II GCT it is especially important to detect non‐seminomatous elements, as these tumours have a worse biological behaviour and need a different treatment to seminomas. In contrast to types I and II GCT, type III tumours are equivalent to spermatocytic tumours and usually occur in elderly men, with few exceptions in young adults. The development of types I and II GCT seems to depend not upon driver mutations, but rather on changes in the epigenetic landscape. Furthermore, different pluripotency associated factors (e.g. OCT3/4, SOX2, SOX17) play a crucial role in GCT development and can be used as immunohistochemical markers allowing to distinguish the different subtypes from each other in morphologically challenging tissue specimens. Especially in metastatic sites, a morphological and immunohistochemical diagnostic algorithm is important to detect small subpopulations of each non‐seminomatous GCT subtype, which are associated with a poorer prognosis and need a different treatment. Furthermore, primary extragonadal GCT of the retroperitoneum or mediastinum develop from misguided germ cells during embryonic development, and might be challenging to detect in small tissue biopsies due to their rarity at corresponding sites. This review article summarises the pathobiological and developmental aspects of the three different types of testicular GCT that can be helpful in the histopathological examination of tumour specimens by pathologists.
Expanding the spectrum of low‐grade sinonasal adenocarcinoma with biphasic seromucinous differentiation and activating HRAS/AKT1 mutations
Authors: Hadnagy Viktoria S , Körner Meike , Rössle Matthias , Dubach Patrick , Pabst Gunther , Kotulova Alexandra , Weder Stefan , Seifert Robert , Rushing Elisabeth J , Holzmann David , Hüllner Martin , Freiberger Sandra N , Rupp Niels J
Published: June 2024

Aims

Low‐grade non‐intestinal‐type sinonasal adenocarcinoma (LGSNAC) is a rare heterogeneous and poorly characterised group of tumours, distinct from intestinal‐ and salivary‐type neoplasms. Therefore, further characterisation is needed for clearer biological understanding and classification.

Methods and results

Clinical, histological and molecular characterisation of four cases of biphasic, low‐grade adenocarcinomas of the sinonasal tract was performed. All patients were male, aged between 48 and 78 years, who presented with polypoid masses in the nasal cavity. Microscopically, virtually all tumours were dominated by tubulo‐glandular biphasic patterns, microcystic, focal (micro)papillary, oncocytic or basaloid features. Immunohistochemical staining confirmed biphasic differentiation with an outer layer of myoepithelial cells. Molecular profiling revealed HRAS (p.G13R, p.Q61R) mutations, and concomitant AKT1 (p.E17K, p.Q79R) mutations in two cases. Two cases showed potential in‐situ/precursor lesions adjacent to the tumour. Follow‐up periods ranged from 1 to 30 months, with one case relapsing locally after 12 and > 20 years.

Conclusion

This study further corroborates a distinct biphasic low‐grade neoplasm of the sinonasal tract with seromucinous differentiation. Although morphological and molecular features overlap with salivary gland epithelial–myoepithelial carcinoma, several arguments favour categorising these tumours within the spectrum of LGSNAC.
Autophagy regulates bone loss via the RANKL/RANK/OPG axis in an experimental rat apical periodontitis model
Authors: Wu Zhiwu , Duan Shaoying , Li Mingming , Zhang Aopeng , Yang Hui , Luo Jingjing , Cheng Ran , Hu Tao
Published: June 2024

Aim

Autophagy is involved in human apical periodontitis (AP). However, it is not clear whether autophagy is protective or destructive in bone loss via the receptor activator of nuclear factor‐κB ligand (RANKL)/RANK/osteoprotegerin (OPG) axis. This study aimed to investigate the involvement of autophagy via the RANKL/RANK/OPG axis during the development of AP in an experimental rat model.

Methodology

Twenty‐four female Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into control, experimental AP (EAP) + saline, and EAP + 3‐methyladenine (An autophagy inhibitor, 3‐MA) groups. The control group did not receive any treatment. The EAP + saline group and the EAP + 3‐MA group received intraperitoneal injections of saline and 3‐MA, respectively, starting 1 week after the pulp was exposed. Specimens were collected for microcomputed tomography (micro‐CT) scanning, histological processing, and immunostaining to examine the expression of light chain 3 beta (LC3B), RANK, RANKL, and OPG. Data were analysed using one‐way analysis of variance (p < .05).

Results

Micro‐CT showed greater bone loss in the EAP + 3‐MA group than in the EAP + saline group, indicated by an elevated trabecular space (Tb.Sp) (p < .05). Inflammatory cell infiltration was observed in the EAP + saline and EAP + 3‐MA groups. Compared with EAP + saline group, the EAP + 3‐MA group showed weaker expression of LC3B (p < .01) and OPG (p < .05), more intense expression of RANK (p < .01) and RANKL (p < .01), and a higher RANKL/OPG ratio (p < .05).

Conclusion

Autophagy may exert a protective effect against AP by regulating the RANKL/RANK/OPG axis, thereby inhibiting excessive bone loss.
IL‐10 indirectly modulates functional activity of CD4+CD28null T‐lymphocytes through LFA‐3 and HLA class II inhibition
Authors: García‐Torre Alejandra , Bueno‐García Eva , Moro‐García Marco A. , López‐Martínez Rocío , Rioseras Beatriz , Díaz‐Molina Beatriz , Lambert José Luis , Alonso‐Arias Rebeca
Published: June 2024

Expansion of CD4+CD28null T‐lymphocytes is common in chronic heart failure (CHF) patients. Its ability to produce high levels of proinflammatory cytokines is probably the key role of these cells in CHF. IL‐10 is a candidate for limiting CD4+CD28null T‐lymphocyte responses, whereas tumour necrosis factor (TNF) is the cytokine most closely involved in the loss of CD28 expression. Serum levels of TNF and IL‐10 were measured in 65 CHF patients (mean age, 65.2 ± 13.84 years). Patients with an IL‐10/TNF ratio ≥1 had significantly lower levels of CD4+CD28null T‐lymphocytes than those with a ratio <1. In vitro, IL‐10 reduced the frequency of proliferative CD4+CD28null T‐lymphocytes stimulated with anti‐CD3. Pre‐treatment with IL‐10 before anti‐CD3 stimulation was required for the cytokine to inhibit TNF production by CD4+CD28null T‐lymphocytes. In addition to the previously described effect of IL‐10 on HLA‐DR and ICAM‐1 expression, LFA‐3 protein and mRNA levels were reduced in the presence of the cytokine in monocytes. IL‐10 inhibition on CD4+CD28null T‐lymphocytes may be mediated by a reduction in HLA class II and LFA‐3 expression because blocking interactions with these costimulators has similar effects to those of IL‐10 treatment. Moreover, costimulation through CD2/LFA‐3 interaction is enough to induce proliferation and cytokine production in CD4+CD28null T‐lymphocytes.
Continuous glucose monitoring for black older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus: Challenges, innovations and implications: A discursive review
Authors: Owusu Brenda , Bivins Balkys , Juste Judith , Francis Lucine , Itambo Jacqueline , Akomah Janelle , Yorukoglu Neslihan , Gbaba Serina , Hinneh Thomas , Ajibewa Tiwaloluwa , Commodore‐Mensah Yvonne , Baptiste Diana‐Lyn
Published: June 2024

Aim

To conduct a discursive review on continuous glucose monitoring use among Black older adults and to address the issue of racial disparities in diabetes management and outcomes. Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a global health concern with significant complications and mortality rates. Black older adults are disproportionately affected. Initially designed for type 1 diabetes, continuous glucose monitoring has emerged as an innovative tool for type 2 diabetes mellitus management. Despite its potential, there are challenges related to adherence and digital literacy among Black older adults for managing Diabetes.

Design

A discursive review.

Methods

Searching literature in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar for papers published from 2017 to 2023, we explored the use of continuous glucose monitoring in Black older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus, examining barriers, facilitators and challenges.

Discussion

We highlight recommendations from the literature which included barriers, facilitators, and cultural factors associated with continuous glucose monitoring use. Findings underscore the importance of addressing these challenges to reduce racial–ethnic disparities in type 2 diabetes mellitus management among Black older adults. Nurses and advanced practice registered nurses are at the forefront and can play a pivotal role in exploring and implementing interventions to promote access and proper use of continuous glucose monitoring among Black older adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Private security and public police
Authors: Grunwald Ben , Rappaport John , Berg Michael
Published: June 2024

Private security officers outnumber police by a wide margin, and the gap may be growing. As cities have claimed to defund the police, many have quietly expanded their use of private security, reallocating spending from the public to the private sector. It is difficult to know what to make of these trends, largely because we know so little about what private security looks like on the ground. On one prevalent view of the facts, a shift from public to private security would mean little more than a change of uniform, as the two labor markets are deeply intertwined. Indeed, academics, the media, popular culture, and the police themselves all tell us that private security is some amalgam of a police retirement community and a dumping ground for disgraced former cops. But if, instead, private officers differ systematically from the public police—and crossover between the sectors is limited—then substitution from policing to private security could drastically change who is providing security services.

We bring novel data to bear on these questions, presenting the largest empirical study of private security to date. We introduce an administrative dataset covering nearly 300,000 licensed private security officers in the State of Florida. By linking this dataset to similarly comprehensive information about public law enforcement, we have, for the first time, a nearly complete picture of the entire security labor market in one state. We report two principal findings. First, the public and private security markets are predominantly characterized by occupational segregation, not integration. The individuals who compose the private security sector differ markedly from the public police; they are, for example, significantly less likely to be white men. We also find that few private officers, roughly 2%, have previously worked in public policing, and even fewer will go on to policing in the future. Second, while former police make up a small share of all private security, roughly a quarter of cops who do cross over have been fired from a policing job. In fact, fired police officers are nearly as likely to land in private security as to find another policing job, and a full quarter end up in one or the other. We explore the implications of these findings, including intersections with police abolition and the future of policing, at the paper's close.
Validation of the Japanese Version of the Modest Behavior Scale for Adults and Age and Gender Differences
Authors: Yamazaki Mizuki
Published: June 2024

Social pressures, such as cultural norms of modesty, are thought to contribute to low self‐esteem in East Asians, and modesty is a key concept in understanding the feelings, thoughts, and social behaviors of this population. Modesty has been found to encompass three aspects: avoidance of attention‐seeking (AA), self‐effacement (SE), and other‐enhancement (OE). The current study validated the Modest Behavior Scale and examined age and gender differences in the three aspects of modesty in a sample of adults aged 20–69 years. A total of 400 Japanese individuals participated in the online survey. The results of hierarchical multiple regression analyses and simple slopes analyses revealed that older people tend not to seek attention but also not to devalue themselves, whereas younger people tend to devalue themselves but not to refrain from seeking attention. This implies that people in different age groups use different modesty strategies. In addition, gender differences were found in AA and OE. The age and gender differences in modesty were discussed in terms of hierarchical relationships and social role expectations.
Long‐term effects of meadow management on seed bank diversity and composition
Authors: Hábenczyus Alida A. , Weiterová Iva , Foremnik Kacper , Jakob Aljaž , Khopkar Siddharth , Kumar Agnishikhe , Lazăr Anamaria , Paganeli Bruno , Samraoui Kenz Raouf , Sidwell Jeni , Hrček Jan , Lepš Jan , Segrestin Jules
Published: June 2024

Aims

Oligotrophic grasslands are habitats that host among the most diverse plant communities in Europe. Altering management regimes by either intensifying or ceasing management is known to decrease plant diversity. Yet, despite its importance for the recovery of plant communities after disturbances, little is known about whether seed banks are also affected by changes in management. Here, we investigate the effect of management practices on a meadow seed bank using a long‐term manipulative experiment. We focus on the response of the seed bank to the treatments, and the relationship between the seed bank and the vegetation response.

Methods

The study was conducted in a species‐rich wet meadow. The experiment consists of a factorial combination of fertilization, mowing, and removal of the dominant species. After 20 years of management, the seed bank was sampled seasonally at two soil layer depths. Standing vegetation was recorded in June at the peak of vegetation.

Results

All seed bank characteristics varied between soil layers. Mowing decreased seed density and diversity, while fertilization significantly affected the species composition. Dominant removal had no effect on the seed bank. While seed bank diversity was not correlated to vegetation diversity, individual species' responses to mowing and fertilization were positively correlated in the seed bank and the vegetation.

Conclusions

Our results show that long‐term management influences the seed bank down to 10 cm of soil depth. Whereas mowing apparently reduced seed density and diversity, the effects of fertilization on these characteristics were harder to interpret. After 20 years, most species had concordant responses to both mowing and fertilization, indicating a low legacy of previous management regimes on the seed bank. Our study reveals that the intensification of grassland management has a profound effect on plant diversity by directly affecting plant communities and their seed‐bank‐driven recovery potential.
From diverticulosis to complicated diverticular disease: Progression of myogenic alterations and oxidative imbalance
Authors: Pallotta Lucia , Pisano Annalinda , Vona Rosa , Cappelletti Martina , Pignataro Maria Gemma , Tattoli Ivan , Maselli Maria Antonietta , Tarallo Mariarita , Casella Giovanni , Caronna Roberto , Tancredi Andrea , Scotti Giorgia Burrelli , Scalese Giulia , Matarrese Paola , Giordano Carla , Severi Carola
Published: June 2024

Background

The natural history and pathophysiology of diverticular disease (DD) are still uncertain. An ex‐vivo human complicated DD (cDD) model has recently shown a predominant transmural oxidative imbalance. The present study aims to evaluate whether the previously described alterations may precede the symptomatic form of the disease.

Methods

Colonic surgical samples obtained from patients with asymptomatic diverticulosis (DIV), complicated DD, and controls were systematically and detailed morphologically and molecularly analyzed. Therefore, histologic, histomorphometric, immunohistochemical evaluation, and gene and protein expression analysis were performed to characterize colonic muscle changes and evaluate chronic inflammation, oxidative imbalance, and hypoxia. Functional muscle activity was tested on strips and isolated cells in response to contractile and relaxant agents.

Key Results

Compared with controls, DD showed a marketed increase in muscle layer thickness, smooth muscle cell syncytium disarray, and increased interstitial fibrosis; moreover, the observed features were more evident in the cDD group. These changes mainly affected longitudinal muscle and were associated with altered contraction‐relaxation dynamics and fibrogenic switch of smooth muscle cells. Chronic lymphoplasmacytic inflammation was primarily evident in the mucosa and spared the muscle. A transmural increase in carbonylated and nitrated proteins, with loss of antioxidant molecules, characterized both stages of DD, suggesting early oxidative stress probably triggered by recurrent ischemic events, more pronounced in cDD, where HIF‐1 was detected in both muscle and mucosa.

Conclusion & Inferences

The different DD clinical scenarios are part of a progressive process, with oxidative imbalance representing a new target in the management of DD.
Efficacy and safety of once‐weekly subcutaneous semaglutide on weight loss in patients with overweight or obesity without diabetes mellitus—A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Kommu Sharath , Berg Richard L.
Published: June 2024

Semaglutide is found to be efficient for weight loss in patients with overweight or obesity with diabetes mellitus (DM). With a wide range of adverse events reported, the efficacy and safety of once‐weekly subcutaneous semaglutide in individuals without DM, with overweight or obesity, is unclear. We conducted a comprehensive meta‐analysis of randomized studies on once‐weekly semaglutide in this patient population. We identified nine studies with 11,641 patients in the semaglutide group and 10,479 in the placebo group. We observed that semaglutide resulted in significant benefits, including change in body weight (%): mean difference (MD) of −11.49% (p < 0.0001), change in absolute body weight: MD of −11.74 kg (p < 0.0001), and change in waist circumference: MD of −9.06 cm (p < 0.0001). Gastrointestinal side effects are predominant including nausea: odds ratio (OR) of 4.06 (p < 0.0001), vomiting: OR of 4.43 (p < 0.0001), diarrhea: OR of 2.10 (p < 0.0001), constipation: OR of 2.43 (p < 0.0001), gallbladder disorders: OR of 1.26 (p = 0.010), and cholelithiasis: OR of 2.06 (p = 0.04). Serious adverse events were not statistically significant: OR of 1.06 (p = 0.82). However, the percentage of participants discontinuing due to adverse events and gastrointestinal side effects was statistically significant: ORs of 2.22 (p < 0.0001) and 3.77 (p < 0.0001), respectively. This study shows that in patients with overweight or obesity without DM, once‐weekly subcutaneous semaglutide can significantly decrease body weight without risk of serious adverse events when compared with a placebo. However, gastrointestinal side effects are predominant with semaglutide, which can result in medication discontinuation.
Fitting emotions and virtuous judgment
Authors: D'Arms Justin
Published: June 2024

I discuss a tension between two broadly Aristotelian ideas about the role of emotions in virtue and consider its implications for the original and attractive theory of virtuous judgment that Gopal Sreenivasan develops in Emotion and Virtue. One is the idea that a virtuous person has fitting emotions. The other idea is that the virtuous person has emotions that point her toward performing a virtuous action. I explain the tension between these ideas, and how it arises with respect to both of Sreenivasan's central examples of virtue: compassion and courage.I suggest that this tension generates some interesting and systemic respects in which a virtuous agent's virtuous emotional responses hamper her attempts to judge what is the virtuous thing to do. This makes me less sanguine than I take Sreenivasan to be about the contributions of emotion to the virtuous agent's reliability in passing his “Central Test of Virtue.”
Variants of NLRP3 Protein in Haemonchus contortus Infected Sheep: Impact on Immune Cell Responsiveness to LPS In Vitro
Authors: Middleton Denzel , Hanlon Kelly , Greiner Scott P. , Bowdridge Scott A.
Published: June 2024

Pathogen recognition is an essential component to achieve the desired outcome of host protection. Nod‐like receptor pyrin containing domain 3 (NLRP3) is a cytoplasmic pattern recognition receptor (PRR) with a wide array of agonists, such as PAMPs, DAMPs, ATP, bacterial product and viral products. Stimulation of the NLRP3 inflammasome results in proteolytic activation of IL‐1β and IL‐18, cell pyroptosis and classically, the induction of proinflammatory responses. St. Croix (STC) sheep have resistance traits exhibiting the appropriate T‐helper type 2 immune response ensuing protection during helminth parasitic infection whereas parasite‐susceptible Suffolk (SUF) sheep have an impaired response resulting in parasite establishment and adverse symptoms. The objective of these experiments was to determine if NLRP3 protein in H. contortus‐infected SUF sheep was defective using the classical activation pathway of NLRP3 inflammasome. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) derived from H. contortus‐infected STC and SUF sheep were isolated from whole blood and treated (MCC950 treatment for 2 h followed by LPS treatment for 3 h, 1400 W treatment for 2 h followed by LPS treatment for 3 h, LPS treatment for 3 h or culture media for 3 h). qPCR analysis of LPS‐stimulated PBMC revealed an upregulation in inflammatory associated genes IL‐1β, TLR4, TNFα and NFκB (p < 0.0001) in STC PBMC and downregulation in IFNγ, IL‐6 and iNOS for SUF PBMC. Pharmacological inhibition of iNOS in SUF PBMC resulted in an upregulation in the expression of IFNγ. These preliminary data begin to discover a relationship between NLRP3 activation and TLR4 signalling in PBMC of STC and SUF sheep.
Disaggregated behavioral responses to willingness‐to‐pay for the electronic levy in Ghana
Authors: Kwablah Edmund , Amoah Anthony , Amoah Benjamin , Asiama Rexford , Akoto Eleanor
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the disaggregated behavioral responses of mobile money users' willingness to pay for electronic levy payments in Ghana. We use cross‐sectional survey primary data and a probit regression estimation technique with its associated average marginal effects and check robustness with a linear probability model. The evidence from the study indicates that the disaggregated behavioral factors that drive willingness to pay for the e‐levy include individuals maintaining their current levels of electronic fund transfers, the intention to increase their electronic fund transactions, and intention to stop using electronic fund transfers that attract the e‐levy. Beyond the disaggregated behavioral responses, psychological (e.g., trust in government) and socioeconomic factors (individual income and gender) are identified as important drivers of willingness to pay for the e‐levy. We suggest that policies around e‐levies must not only focus on individual behavioral responses alone, as the drivers include behavioral, psychological, and socioeconomic factors.

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Evaluation of hormones as candidate early biomarkers of Holstein bull performance around the first semen collection at artificial insemination centres
Authors: Leiter Ina , Mittmann Victoria , Schaper Marie‐Kristin , Schulze Martin , Schmicke Marion
Published: June 2024

Artificial insemination (AI) centres select bulls as calves according to their genetic breeding values and raise them until the first semen collection; yet, a high dropout rate of reared bulls is a problem for AI centres. Potential hormonal indicators of bull sexual maturation (cortisol, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), testosterone, oestradiol, insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1)) were observed and evaluated in relation to the performance parameters to perhaps identify candidate biomarkers allowing an early selection of bulls as suitable sires. Blood samples from 102 German Holstein calves at 4 ± 1, 8 ± 1 and 12 ± 2 months of age from six AI centres were analysed using validated immunoassays for cortisol, DHEA, testosterone, oestradiol and IGF‐1. Semen analyses included native and thawed diluted semen. Bulls were classified at the first semen collection into groups with good versus poor performance (GP vs. LP). After 2 years, the subsequent differentiation was done in high (HPP), medium (MPP) and low performance persistency (LPP). Age at first semen collection was an important factor for sperm quality. Cortisol concentrations decreased with age, but the cortisol/DHEA ratio decreased with age only in GP bulls (p < .05). Oestradiol and testosterone concentrations both correlated with libido behaviour (p < .05). Testosterone and IGF‐1 concentrations were higher at the time of first semen collection in GP bulls and increased with age (p < .05). In conclusion, testosterone and IGF‐1 concentrations at first semen collection are associated with performance at first semen collection and future performance persistency, and might be useful early biomarkers for consistent sperm producing bulls on AI centres.
The male effect associated with prostaglandins and reproductive outcomes in photo‐stimulated Saanen goats during the non‐breeding season
Authors: Cosentino Isabel Oliveira , Balaro Mario Felipe Alvarez , Leal Felipe Seabra Cardoso , de Figueiredo Cardoso Barbosa Lucas , Gonçalves Fernanda Martins , Brandão Felipe Zandonadi
Published: June 2024

The efficiency of combining oestrous induction via a light program (16 h of light and 8 h of darkness for 60 days, ending on Day 0 – D0) with cloprostenol administration, followed by the male effect or not, was tested in acyclic Saanen goats during the non‐breeding season (June/2019 to January/2020). Initially, all animals (males and females) were submitted to the described light program; 60 days after its ending (D60), the females were divided into two groups, with (G1; n = 67) or without (G2; n = 61) a male effect from D60 to D75 after the light program. At D75, both groups received two cloprostenol doses (120 μg; intramuscular) 7.5 days apart (D75 and D82.5). Artificial insemination was performed at a specific time according to the oestrous onset (approximately 68.4 ± 1.2 h between the second cloprostenol dose and IA). Ultrasound scans were performed at different intervals to evaluate follicular dynamics and confirm pregnancy. At the first cloprostenol dose (D75), the proportion of does with at least a corpus luteum (CL), which indicates resumed cyclicity, was greater in G1 than in G2 (85.2% vs. 48.8%; p < .05), although no difference was found at the second dose (p > .05). The adjusted pregnancy rates (number of pregnant goats/oestrous goats) differed between G1 and G2 (21.7% vs. 42.0%; p < .05). G1 also showed a higher frequency of functional CL (based on blood flow and morphology) compared to G2 (96.9% vs. 66.7%; p < .05) at D116. A male effect using photo‐stimulated bucks after the first cloprostenol dose increased the number of does presenting CL after buck removal, and no impairment in the pregnancy rates of multiparous does was found.
Population recovery of a migratory anadromous fish in a small forest stream following restoration of longitudinal connectivity
Authors: Kiffney Peter M. , Anderson Joseph H. , Liermann Martin C. , Jones Erin L. , Pess George R. , Kretschmer Frances
Published: June 2024

Restoration of movement corridors is a key management action used to address threats to migratory and other mobile species. Yet, we lack restoration effectiveness studies that allow for species to reestablish naturally (i.e. without supplementation) following habitat reconnection that capture all phases (dispersal, growth, and regulation) of recovery, and that takes an ecosystems approach. We investigated the natural recovery of migratory anadromous Coho salmon following habitat reconnection across a 5‐km section of Rock Creek, a forested tributary of the Cedar River, Washington, United States, 3 km upstream of Landsburg Dam. The dam blocked upstream fish movement for 102 years until the completion of a fish ladder in 2003. We also evaluated the response of non‐migratory trout, which are closely related to Coho salmon. Juvenile Coho salmon natal to the Cedar River dispersed into Rock Creek for rearing until spawning there in 2007. After restoration, juvenile Coho salmon density (fish/m2) increased 18‐fold, approaching an asymptote (i.e. regulation phase) a decade later. Coho salmon recovery in Rock Creek was spatially variable, however, slowing with distance from the site of restoration. Trout density was also higher after restoration relative to before, likely due to several mechanisms, including increased capacity resulting from the reestablishment of marine organic matter subsidies delivered by spawning anadromous fish. Our study demonstrates that migratory species can recover naturally after the restoration of habitat connectivity and associated movement corridors. Furthermore, our results suggest that such actions can also benefit nontarget species by reestablishing key ecosystem links driven by the target species.
Metabolic adaptations leading to an enhanced lignification in wheat roots under salinity stress
Authors: Dissanayake Bhagya M. , Staudinger Christiana , Ranathunge Kosala , Munns Rana , Rupasinghe Thusitha W. , Taylor Nicolas L. , Millar A. Harvey
Published: June 2024

Analysis of salinity tolerance processes in wheat has focused on salt exclusion from shoots while root phenotypes have received limited attention. Here, we consider the varying phenotypic response of four bread wheat varieties that differ in their type and degree of salt tolerance and assess their molecular responses to salinity and changes in root cell wall lignification. These varieties were Westonia introgressed with Nax1 and Nax2 root sodium transporters (HKT1;4‐A and HKT1;5‐A) that reduce Na+ accumulation in leaves, as well as the ‘tissue tolerant’ Portuguese landrace Mocho de Espiga Branca that has a mutation in the homologous gene HKT1;5‐D and has high Na+ concentration in leaves. These three varieties were compared with the relatively more salt‐sensitive cultivar Gladius. Through the use of root histochemical analysis, ion concentrations, as well as differential proteomics and targeted metabolomics, we provide an integrated view of the wheat root response to salinity. We show different metabolic re‐arrangements in energy conversion, primary metabolic machinery and phenylpropanoid pathway leading to monolignol production in a genotype and genotype by treatment‐dependent manner that alters the extent and localisation of root lignification which correlated with an improved capacity of wheat roots to cope better under salinity stress.
Traumatic pericardial rupture with secondary cardiac herniation in a dog
Authors: Lourenço Marisa I. C. , Anson Agustina , DeStefano Ian M. , Logwood Katherine S. , Stockman Tiffany , Berg John
Published: June 2024

Objective

To describe the unique finding and treatment of a dog with cardiac herniation due to traumatic pericardial rupture.

Case Summary

A 6.5‐year‐old entire male Yorkshire Terrier was presented for further management after being hit by a car. Despite suspected significant intrathoracic trauma at that time, the patient regained hemodynamic stability and had orthopedic surgery to correct a right iliac fracture. The patient was readmitted to the hospital 12 days following the initial visit due to considerable respiratory difficulty after accidentally being dropped several feet. Thoracic radiographs revealed an unusual severe mediastinal shift to the left with an atypical position of the cardiac silhouette against the left lateral thoracic wall. Due to the severe respiratory compromise of the patient and newly developed pneumothorax, an exploratory thoracotomy was recommended, where a complete rupture of the pericardium was identified, with secondary left‐sided prolapse of the heart. Other more common intrathoracic injuries (ie, lung perforation, rib fractures) were also identified and partially repaired. The patient recovered successfully and was discharged 4 days postoperatively.

New or Unique Information Provided

This is the first case report in the veterinary literature of traumatic pericardial rupture and cardiac herniation. According to human case descriptions, this is a rare and often fatal occurrence, which can be significantly challenging to diagnose preoperatively or antemortem. Emergency veterinary clinicians should be aware of this rare but important complication of blunt thoracic trauma. Surgical intervention may be necessary in cases with suspected or confirmed entrapment of great vessels or cardiac chambers, although these abnormalities were not present in this case.
Athletic prognosis following arthroscopic removal of osteochondral fragments of the proximal dorsal sagittal ridge of the fetlock in Thoroughbreds intended for flat racing
Authors: Luick Mackenzie L. , Khouzam Natalie A. , Pérez‐Nogués Marcos
Published: June 2024

Objective

To establish racing prognosis in Thoroughbred yearlings with proximal sagittal ridge osteochondral lesions and compare them to dorsoproximal and palmar/plantar first phalanx osteochondral lesions.

Animals

A total of 47 horses had proximal sagittal ridge lesions, 34 had palmar/plantar first phalanx lesions, and 115 had dorsoproximal first phalanx lesions.

Study design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

Medical records of Thoroughbred yearling racing prospects treated arthroscopically for fetlock osteochondral lesions were reviewed. Data were collected from a public database, including the ability to train and race, earnings, starts, wins, and placed races. Racing prognosis was analyzed and compared between three lesion locations.

Results

Of the proximal sagittal ridge group, 76.6% raced, 65.71% of the palmar/plantar first phalanx group, and 74.58% of the dorsoproximal first phalanx group. Career length was similar for all lesions. A lower number of “starts” in the group “five years old and older” was found for the dorsoproximal first phalanx group compared to the cohort with proximal sagittal ridge lesions. Mares had more “earnings” at two years old but fewer “starts” at “five years old” compared to colts and geldings. Forelimb lesions were predictive for fewer total career starts.

Conclusion

Proximal sagittal ridge lesions had similar prognoses to dorsoproximal and palmar/plantar first phalanx lesions. In older horses, there was an increase in the number of starts for the proximal sagittal ridge group compared to the dorsoproximal first phalanx group. Mares and forelimb lesions were associated with decreased racing starts.

Clinical significance

These findings aid in prognostication for Thoroughbreds with osteochondral lesions removed arthroscopically in the fetlock joint.
Investigating the Mechanical and Tribological Properties of Biowaste Derived Bioactive Borosilicate Glass Incorporating Strontium Oxide
Authors: Monirujjaman Md. , Jain Satish , Patel Sushil , Hasan Simon , Daloji L. , Gujjala Raghavendra , Abdul Azeem P. , Syam Prasad P.
Published: June 2024

The primary goal of the current research paper is to investigate the mechanical and tribological behavior of biologically active glass materials consisting of 31B2O3–(20 − x) SiO2–24.5Na2O–24.5CaO and xSrO (in mol. %). The specimens were fabricated partly using biowaste material, in which silica and calcium oxide were derived from rice husks and egg shells, respectively. The produced specimens underwent immersion in simulated bodily fluid for a week to observe their bioactive response. The findings from Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses validated the existence of a hydroxyapatite (HA) layer on the specimen surfaces. Further, XRD data showed an increase in peak intensity after SrO was incorporated, suggesting that it played a supporting role in boosting bioactivity. The mechanical investigations indicated that the addition of SrO adversely affects both hardness and compression strength. The highest levels of hardness and compression strength were observed in borosilicate glass (BSG)-0, namely, 6.49 GPa and 73.81 MPa, respectively. Following the inclusion of SrO, these values decreased to 4.72 GPa and 35.03 MPa for BSG-5, respectively. The abrasion wear test demonstrated that BSG-5 had the highest wear rate, while BSG-0 exhibited the lowest wear rate among all specimens at a 30 mm track radius, consistent with the outcomes of mechanical tests. The heightened concentration of strontium correlated with amplified abrasion and erosion, leading to more significant damage in surrounding regions. Despite the tradeoff between enhanced bioactivity and diminished mechanical strength and wear resistance, incorporating strontium oxide makes the glass suitable for applications prioritizing bioactivity, such as bone filling and dental contexts.
Artificial Intelligence-Based Estimation of Fetal Head Circumference With Biparietal and Occipitofrontal Diameters Using Two-Dimensional Ultrasound Images
Authors: Chougule Amit , Roy Priyanka , Wagh Mayuresh Girish , Goyal Diksha
Published: June 2024

One of the most essential biometrics for measuring fetal growth during prenatal ultrasound exams is the head circumference (HC). However, manual measurement of this biometric by doctors often needs substantial experience. Manual measurement of fetal head circumference during prenatal ultrasound exams requires significant expertise, posing limitations in accuracy and consistency, which can impact clinical decision-making and fetal health assessments. We developed a state-of-the-art image processing algorithm that utilizes biometry and segmented images and employed a fast ellipse fitting method to measure the HC, head orientation (angle) along with biparietal (BPD), and occipitofrontal (OFD) diameter automatically. Our approach offers automation and precision in measuring fetal biometrics, surpassing the limitations of manual measurement by ensuring consistent and accurate assessments, thus enhancing clinical efficiency and facilitating timely interventions for optimal fetal health management. Additionally, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first work that adopts a segmented image from any model or technique and provides significant fetal parameters during ultrasonography in a single shot. The suggested technique is lightweight, real-time, and easily integrate with any segmentation model or technique. We have used three well-known segmentation models for demonstration and compared their performance using dice scores as an evaluation parameter. Among the three, HRNet shows the best results with an average dice score of 0.96; due to the high dice score, we have chosen HRNet over the other two models and proceeded further and implemented our novel algorithm on that to predict the required fetal key measurements. The findings of this study benefit prenatal care by enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of fetal biometric measurements, thereby facilitating improved clinical decision-making and optimizing fetal health assessments.
Investigations on Tool Wear Behavior of TiAlVN and TiAlN/TiAlVN Coated Tools in the Milling Inconel 718
Authors: Sebbe N. P. V. , Albuquerque J. , Sousa Vitor F. C. , Fernandes F. , Silva F. J. G. , Sales-Contini R. C. M. , Pedroso A. F. V. , Martinho R.
Published: June 2024

The constant growth of the aerospace industry has been made possible due to the development and implementation of materials capable of withstanding the service demands of different components. Inconel 718 alloy presents high mechanical resistance, high hardness, tendency to undergo work hardening, and low thermal conductivity, which makes it difficult to machine material. Developing techniques that improve these alloys' machinability are fundamental and, therefore, have been a point of interest and study. Within these techniques is the use of coated tools, which allow the evaluation of optimization and improvement of the milling process's performance and produce parts with superior surface quality. This is the case of TiAlVN and TiAlN/TiAlVN coatings. Based on this, the main goal of this work was to evaluate the properties and wear behavior of TiAlVN and TiAlN/TiAlVN coated tools coated, deposited by the physical vapor deposition (PVD) process, during the milling of Inconel 718. Indeed, TiAlN coatings doped with vanadium have been little studied and explored, opening a gap in the literature. The coatings produced were analyzed in terms of their composition, morphology, mechanical properties, oxidation resistance, and wear resistance. The parameters that were compared were cutting length and feed per tooth. Both coatings had a stoichiometric chemical composition and a similar morphology. It was observed that the TiAlN/TiAlVN coating had better performance in oxidation tests, and TiAlVN coating had better performance in wear resistance. The wear mechanisms identified were similar in all tools, with the main wear mechanism being abrasive wear with some adhesive wear.