bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increasing vineyard sustainability: innovating a targeted chitosan-derived biocontrol solution to induce grapevine resistance against downy and powdery mildews
Authors: Brulé Daphnée , Héloir Marie-Claire , Roudaire Thibault , Villette Jérémy , Bonnet Silvère , Pascal Yoann , Darblade Benoît , Crozier Philippe , Hugueney Philippe , Coma Véronique , Poinssot Benoit
Published: February 2024

The European Green Deal aims to reduce the pesticide use, notably by developing biocontrol products to protect crops from diseases. Indeed, the use of significant amounts of chemicals negatively impact the environment such as soil microbial biodiversity or groundwater quality, and human health. Grapevine (Vitis vinifera) was selected as one of the first targeted crop due to its economic importance and its dependence on fungicides to control the main damaging diseases worldwide: grey mold, downy and powdery mildews. Chitosan, a biopolymer extracted from crustacean exoskeletons, has been used as a biocontrol agent in many plant species, including grapevine, against a variety of cryptogamic diseases such as downy mildew (Plasmopara viticola), powdery mildew (Erysiphe necator) and grey mold (Botrytis cinerea). However, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying its mode of action remain unclear: is it a direct biopesticide effect or an indirect elicitation activity, or both? In this study, we investigated six chitosans with diverse degrees of polymerization (DP) ranging from low to high DP (12, 25, 33, 44, 100, and 470). We scrutinized their biological activities by evaluating both their antifungal properties and their abilities to induce grapevine immune responses. To investigate their elicitor activity, we analyzed their ability to induce MAPKs phosphorylation, the activation of defense genes and metabolite changes in grapevine. Our results indicate that the chitosans with a low DP are more effective in inducing grapevine defenses and possess the strongest biopesticide effect against B. cinerea and P. viticola. We identified chitosan with DP12 as the most efficient resistance inducer. Then, chitosan DP12 has been tested against downy and powdery mildews in the vineyard trials performed during the last three years. Results obtained indicated that a chitosan-based biocontrol product could be sufficiently efficient when the amount of pathogen inoculum is quite low and could be combined with only two fungicide treatments during whole season programs to obtain a good protection efficiency. On the whole, a chitosan-based biocontrol product could become an interesting alternative to meet the chemicals reduction targeted in sustainable viticulture.
AI Chatbots in Chinese higher education: adoption, perception, and influence among graduate students—an integrated analysis utilizing UTAUT and ECM models
Authors: Tian Weiqi , Ge Jingshen , Zhao Yu , Zheng Xu
Published: February 2024

This study is centered on investigating the acceptance and utilization of AI Chatbot technology among graduate students in China and its implications for higher education. Employing a fusion of the UTAUT (Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology) model and the ECM (Expectation-Confirmation Model), the research seeks to pinpoint the pivotal factors influencing students’ attitudes, satisfaction, and behavioral intentions regarding AI Chatbots. The study constructs a model comprising seven substantial predictors aimed at precisely foreseeing users’ intentions and behavior with AI Chatbots. Collected from 373 students enrolled in various universities across China, the self-reported data is subject to analysis using the partial-least squares method of structural equation modeling to confirm the model’s reliability and validity. The findings validate seven out of the eleven proposed hypotheses, underscoring the influential role of ECM constructs, particularly “Confirmation” and “Satisfaction,” outweighing the impact of UTAUT constructs on users’ behavior. Specifically, users’ perceived confirmation significantly influences their satisfaction and subsequent intention to continue using AI Chatbots. Additionally, “Personal innovativeness” emerges as a critical determinant shaping users’ behavioral intention. This research emphasizes the need for further exploration of AI tool adoption in educational settings and encourages continued investigation of their potential in teaching and learning environments.
Combining mindfulness and cognitive training in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: study protocol of a pilot randomized controlled trial (the NeuroMind study)
Authors: Badia-Aguarón Tania , Royuela-Colomer Estíbaliz , Pera-Guardiola Vanessa , Vergés-Balasch Pere , Cebolla Ausiàs , Luciano Juan V. , Soler Joaquim , Feliu-Soler Albert , Huguet Miguel Anna
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has a global mean prevalence of 5%. Cognitive Training (CT) and Mindfulness-Based Interventions (MBIs) have shown promising results in managing ADHD symptoms, but they are not its Treatment-As-Usual (TAU). The NeuroMind Study aims to evaluate the preliminary effectiveness and feasibility of three interventions: Mindfulness for Health (M4H), CT using the NeuronUP® platform (CT), and a combination of both, Mindfulness Cognitive Training (MCT). There is empirical evidence supporting the effectiveness of the M4H and NeuronUP® platform; however, this study explores for the first time the effectiveness of MCT and CT, as well as the integration of M4H into TAU. The objectives of this 5-month Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) are: (1) To analyze the preliminary effectiveness and feasibility of M4H, CT or a combination of both (MCT) added to TAU for children with ADHD; (2) To evaluate the role of psychological process variables (mindfulness and emotional regulation) as mediators of 5-month follow-up clinical outcomes; (3) To preliminarily explore whether specific sociodemographic and clinical characteristics can predict the short-and medium-term clinical response to the specific treatments.

Methods and analysis

Participants will be 120 children (7 to 12 years) with ADHD recruited at Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) Sant Joan de Déu Terres de Lleida (Spain) randomly allocated to one of the four study arms: TAU vs. TAU + CT vs. TAU + M4H vs. TAU + MCT. An assessment to collect ADHD symptoms, Executive Functions (EF), comorbid symptoms and global functioning will be conducted pre-intervention, post-intervention (2 months after baseline) and at the 5-month follow-up. Linear mixed models and mediational models will be computed.

Discussion

If the preliminary effectiveness and feasibility of the MCT are demonstrated, this study could be a preliminary basis to do a full RCT with a larger sample to definitively validate the intervention. The MCT could be applied in clinical practice if it is definitively validated.

Clinical trial registration:ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier, NCT05937347. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05937347?locStr=Spain&country=Spain&cond=ADHD&intr=Mindfulness&rank=1.
Gender and geographic representation in editorial boards of education journals
Authors: Xue Yan , Xu Quan
Published: February 2024

Background

Previous studies have examined the gender and geographic diversity within editorial boards across various academic disciplines, excluding the field of education. Thus, the purpose of this study was to address this gap by investigating the extent of gender and geographic disparity within the editorial boards of education journals.

Methods

The selection of top five education journals from each quartile (Q1–Q4) was performed based on Clarivate Analytics’ Journal Citation Reports (JCR) 2021 within the category of “Education & Educational Research.” The information of editors was collected through online sources.

Results

Overall, female editors accounted for 17 out of the 29 editors-in-chief (58.62%), 36 out of the 64 deputy/associate editors (56.25%), 378 out of the 728 editorial/advisory board members (51.92%) and 15 out of the 28 other types of editors (53.57%). There was no significant association between the impact factor (IF) and the proportion of female editors (Pearson’s r = −0.095, p = 0.689). The United States had the highest number of editors (n = 459, 54.06%), followed by the United Kingdom (n = 98, 11.54%), Australia (n = 63, 7.42%), China (n = 29, 3.42%), Germany (n = 25, 2.94%), and Canada (n = 22, 2.59%). Notably, the majority of the included editors were from developed countries (n = 794, 93.52%), while editors from developing countries constituted a significantly smaller proportion (n = 55, 6.48%).

Conclusion

Editorial boards of education journals exhibit reasonable gender diversity than other disciplines, though still fall short when considering the proportion of women in the discipline. Besides, obvious geographical disparity was observed among editorial boards of education journals. There was a notable lack of representation of researchers associated with institutions from developing countries on the editorial boards of education journals. While maintaining sufficient gender diversity, it is imperative to enhance the geographical diversity in these journals, ensuring a more equitable number of positions to individuals from these underrepresented groups.
Utilizing the arts to improve health, resilience, and well-being (HeRe We Arts®): a randomized controlled trial in community-dwelling individuals with chronic medical conditions
Authors: Gallagher Lisa , Shella Tamara , Bates Debbie , Briskin Isaac , Jukic Maria , Bethoux Francois
Published: February 2024

Background

Healthcare workers are concerned with promoting behavior changes that enhance patients’ health, wellness, coping skills, and well-being and lead to improved public health. The purpose of this randomized controlled trial was to determine if participation in an 8-week arts-based program leads to improved mood, health, resilience, and well-being in individuals with chronic health conditions as compared to a wait list control group.

Methods

Self-report questionnaires for well-being, mental health, physical health, overall health, social health, mood, coping, and resilience were administered at baseline, Week 8 (end of program), and Week 16 (8-week follow-up).

Results

Statistically significant improvements were noted in all outcome measures for the treatment group, as well as in most areas compared to the control group. Many of the positive results at Week 8 were either maintained or further improved at Week 16.

Discussion

These results suggest that arts-based programming can have a positive effect on the mood, health, resilience, and well-being of individuals with chronic health conditions. Therefore, arts-based programming should be utilized more frequently in the management of chronic conditions in community-dwelling individuals. These benefits should be further assessed in larger clinical trials.
Perceived urban green spaces and youth mental health in the post-COVID-19 era
Authors: Mollaesmaeili Mahsa , Hakimian Pantea , Lak Azadeh
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The urban green space (UGS) is one of the most significant urban spaces with unique visual and social features, including pleasant air, low noise, and vitality, making it a recreational place for citizens, especially the youth. According to previous studies, perceived green space and the interaction with it is associated with mental health and lower symptoms of anxiety and depression. Although the presence of urban and blue-green spaces in Isfahan has a long history, the UGSs have been out of reach, causing a significant impact on youth mental health due to the spread of COVID-19 and the forcing of the Iranian government to severe and long-term lockdown. This study investigates the relationship between the long-term isolation of youth and being away from UGSs on their mental health in Isfahan city.

Methods

In September 2022, the youth (n = 273) in 12 neighborhoods with similar socio-economic status were asked to answer the online questionnaire. To investigate the correlation between perceived UGS and the mental health of the youth, Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) is done.

Results

The results show that the perceived UGSs negatively relate to the youth’s fear of the reoccurrence of COVID-19 infection, anxiety, and depression. Moreover, the model shows that perceived UGS has an inverse correlation with anxiety (β = −0.24, p = 0.00), and no meaningful correlation exists with depression.

Discussion

These results point to a practical solution for designing UDGs in residential areas for youth according to their benefits for mental health during the epidemic era.
Investigating the association between blood cobalt and gallstones: a cross-sectional study utilizing NHANES data
Authors: Li Yunfan , Han He , You Kuanxuan , Ma Chaojun , Fan Xin
Published: February 2024

Background

With the use of cobalt alloys in medical prosthetics, the risk of cobalt exposure has increased. The objective of this study was to investigate the correlation between blood cobalt levels and the occurrence of gallstones utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).

Methods

Data collected between 2017 and 2020 were analyzed, encompassing a total of 5,610 participants. Cobalt concentrations in whole blood specimens were directly measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The presence of gallstones was ascertained through a standardized questionnaire. To assess the association between blood cobalt levels and the presence of gallstones, logistic regression analysis, restricted cubic spline analysis, and subgroup analysis were utilized.

Results

The results of logistic regression analysis revealed a heightened risk of developing gallstones in the Quartiles 2 and Quartiles 4 groups based on blood cobalt levels when compared to the Quartiles 1 group (OR = 1.54, 95% CI: 1.15–2.07; OR = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.03–1.77). The restricted cubic spline analysis exhibited a positive linear correlation between blood cobalt levels and the occurrence of gallstones. Subgroup analyses further demonstrated a statistically significant correlation between the Quartiles 4 category of blood cobalt levels and an elevated risk of gallstones, particularly among individuals aged 60 years or older, females, those with a body mass index (BMI) equal to or exceeding 25, serum total cholesterol levels below 200 mg/dL, as well as individuals diagnosed with hypertension or diabetes.

Conclusion

Our study findings indicate a notable association between elevated blood cobalt levels and an increased risk of gallstones. To establish a causal relationship between blood cobalt levels and the elevated risk of developing gallstones, further prospective cohort studies are warranted.
Identification and development of implementation strategies: the important role of codesign
Authors: van der Laag Patricia J. , Dorhout Berber G. , Heeren Aaron A. , Veenhof Cindy , Barten Di-Janne J. A. , Schoonhoven Lisette
Published: February 2024

Background

To date, implementation strategies reported in the literature are commonly poorly described and take the implementation context insufficiently into account. To unravel the black box of implementation strategy development, insight is needed into effective theory-based and practical-informed strategies. The current study aims to describe the stepwise development of a practical-informed and theory-based implementation strategy bundle to implement ProMuscle, a nutrition and exercise intervention for community-dwelling older adults, in multiple settings in primary care.

Methods

The first four steps of Implementation Mapping were adopted to develop appropriate implementation strategies. First, previously identified barriers to implementation were categorized into the constructs of the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). Second, the CFIR-ERIC matching tool linked barriers to existing implementation strategies. Behavioral change strategies were added from the literature where necessary. Third, evidence for implementation strategies was sought. Fourth, in codesign with involved healthcare professionals and implementation experts, implementation strategies were operationalized to practical implementation activities following the guidance provided by Proctor et al. These practical implementation activities were processed into an implementation toolbox, which can be tailored to a specific context and presents prioritized implementation activities in a chronological order.

Results

A previous study identified and categorized a total of 654 barriers for the implementation of a combined lifestyle intervention within the CFIR framework. Subsequently, the barriers were linked to 40 strategies. Due to the fact that many strategies impacted multiple barriers, seven overarching themes emerged based on the strategies: assessing the context, network internally, network externally, costs, knowledge, champions, and patient needs and resources. Codesign sessions with professionals and implementation experts resulted in the development of supported and tangible implementation activities for the final 20 strategies. The implementation activities were processed into a web-based implementation toolbox, which allows healthcare professionals to tailor the implementation activities to their specific context and guides healthcare professionals to prioritize implementation activities chronologically during their implementation.

Conclusion

A theory-based approach in combination with codesign sessions with stakeholders is a usable Implementation Strategy Mapping Method for developing a practical implementation strategy bundle to implement ProMuscle across multiple settings in primary care. The next step involves evaluating the developed implementation strategies, including the implementation toolbox, to assess their impact on the implementation and adoption of ProMuscle.
Development of an earthworm-based soft robot for colon sampling
Authors: Li Gongxin , Qiu Wei , Wang Mindong , Zhu Yazhou , Liu Fei
Published: February 2024

Colorectal cancer as a major disease that poses a serious threat to human health continues to rise in incidence. And the timely colon examinations are crucial for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of this disease. Clinically, gastroscopy is used as a universal means of examination, prevention and diagnosis of this disease, but this detection method is not patient-friendly and can easily cause damage to the intestinal mucosa. Soft robots as an emerging technology offer a promising approach to examining, diagnosing, and treating intestinal diseases due to their high flexibility and patient-friendly interaction. However, existing research on intestinal soft robots mainly focuses on controlled movement and observation within the colon or colon-like environments, lacking additional functionalities such as sample collection from the intestine. Here, we designed and developed an earthworm-like soft robot specifically for colon sampling. It consists of a robot body with an earthworm-like structure for movement in the narrow and soft pipe-environments, and a sampling part with a flexible arm structure resembling an elephant trunk for bidirectional bending sampling. This soft robot is capable of flexible movement and sample collection within an colon-like environment. By successfully demonstrating the feasibility of utilizing soft robots for colon sampling, this work introduces a novel method for non-destructive inspection and sampling in the colon. It represents a significant advancement in the field of medical robotics, offering a potential solution for more efficient and accurate examination and diagnosis of intestinal diseases, specifically for colorectal cancer.
Why Controlling Ticks is Important
Authors: Waldman Jéssica , Rodríguez-Durán Arlex , Ullah Shafi , Numan Muhammad , Parizi Luís Fernando , Tirloni Lucas , Ali Abid , Logullo Carlos , Vaz Itabajara da Silva
Published: February 2024

Learning about ticks is important because of the diseases and problems they can cause in people and animals. Ticks are related to spiders and are not insects—they are parasites that live outside their host‘s body and infest a variety of animals. Ticks must feed on blood to survive, and when they feed, they can spread germs that cause diseases in people and animals. Ticks are found all around the world and various strategies have been tried to control these parasites. Chemical control (pesticides) is the most common method; however, some ticks have shown resistance to these chemicals. Alternative methods have been explored, including vaccinating animals to stop ticks from feeding on them. All tick-control methods have their own pros and cons, which will be discussed in this article. Some methods can even be combined for greater tick-killing effectiveness.
Hilsa fisheries in India: a socio-economic analysis of fishers in deltaic Ganga region of river Hooghly
Authors: Chakraborty Hena , DebRoy Piyashi , Kunui Arghya , Nandy Saurav Kumar , Jana Chayna , Sahoo Amiya Kumar , Das Basanta Kumar
Published: February 2024

Hilsa (Tenualosa ilisha) is a premium table fish in the eastern and some parts of the north-eastern region of India, especially for the Bengali community, contributing uniquely to the societal and economic significance of artisanal fisheries of the country. The major distribution of the fish species in India lies in the Bhagirathi–Hooghly component of the Ganga River system. The aim of the study was to examine if traditional Hilsa fisheries in India are sustainable as the livelihood of artisanal fishers in light of the socio-economic conditions of Hilsa fishers in West Bengal. Structured socio-economic surveys were conducted with 402 fishermen from the upper stretch of river Hooghly to its lower stretch (300 km) in West Bengal during 2020–2021. The average monthly income of the Hilsa fishers in the lower stretch of river Hooghly (Godakhali) (₹25,000–30,000/USD 301–361) was higher than that in the upper stretch at Farakka (₹10,000–15,000/USD 120–180). However, fish species other than Hilsa are generating significantly higher returns for 56% of fishers in the Hooghly district; 40% of Hilsa fishers in South 24 Parganas and Murshidabad (Farakka) districts are engaged in non-fishery activities for livelihood. There are significant differences between Hilsa fishers with other fisheries as secondary occupations and those with non-fishery activities as secondary occupations in terms of socio-economic characteristics. These imply that Hilsa fisheries are profitable as a continued traditional livelihood, but it alone is not sufficient enough to support the livelihood of the artisanal fishers. This indicates the threatened economic sustainability of the Hilsa fisheries sector at present. Considering the high market demand for Hilsa in the eastern and north-eastern regions of India and the market complexities, more significant investments need to be channeled into the Hilsa fisheries of the northern Bay of Bengal region. Such investments encompass a wholesome approach, including more governmental initiatives for conservation and management.
The benefits of integrated pest management for apple depend on pest type and production metrics
Authors: Ryalls James M. W. , Garratt Michael P. D. , Spadaro Davide , Mauchline Alice L.
Published: February 2024

The development of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, aimed at reducing pesticide use, has myriad ecological and agronomic benefits to terrestrial ecosystems and the environment, but can also lead to different biological and economic outcomes depending on the production system. The most common facet of IPM in apple is the reduction and/or alternative use of pesticides but also includes cultural, mechanical and biological controls. Using apple as a model system, we performed a meta-analysis of 55 studies from 20 countries to quantify the effects of IPM on beneficial invertebrates, pest and disease pressure, and crop productivity (i.e., fruit yield and quality). We also explored different feeding guilds (i.e., tissue-chewing, sap-sucking or boring/mining herbivores, and beneficial natural enemy predators or parasitoids) to determine whether invertebrate responses to IPM differ between feeding strategies. By scoring IPM adoption based on the relative number of facets of IPM used in each study, we also determined whether the level of IPM implemented in apple farming systems alters the responses of invertebrates and pathogens. Our results demonstrate how IPM adoption increases the performance of natural enemies, while simultaneously reducing pest and disease pressure overall. However, the effects of IPM on disease pressure may depend on the level of IPM adoption because disease pressure increased when multiple facets of IPM were adopted (i.e., as the level of IPM adoption increased). Apple quality was not limited by IPM adoption, yet fruit yield decreased overall. While both natural enemy feeding guilds (predators and parasitoids) responded positively to IPM adoption, only two of the three pest feeding guilds (tissue-chewing and sap-sucking herbivores) decreased under IPM, with boring/mining herbivores showing no response. These results demonstrate the complex benefits and limitations that can occur under IPM and call for economic risk assessments based on these differences. Effective IPM strategies rely on monitoring practices and pest/pathogen prevention but can provide real environmental value.
The impact of informatization on agri-income of China's rural farmers: ways for digital farming
Authors: Xiaoyan Du , Jiangnan Zhang , Xuelian Gao , Ali Majid
Published: February 2024

Informatization, a vital element in economic development, plays a pivotal role in shaping rural areas by promoting efficient resource allocation and fostering the prosperity of high-income rural farmers. This research delves into the intricate relationship between informatization and the enhancement of farmers' income, revealing a variety of perspectives on the matter. The research explores three distinct angles that highlight the complexities of the relationship between informatization and the growth of income in rural areas. Through rigorous analysis, the study aims to provide insights into the interplay between informatization and farmers' income growth. It identifies challenges and opportunities in the process of rural digitalization, such as the incomplete industrial chain of agricultural digitalization and the need for enhanced agricultural market information platforms. The study also underscores the importance of increasing farmers' digital literacy as a means to broaden income growth avenues. In doing so, the research strives to contribute to a more balanced and equitable rural society in China. This investigation employs various research methodologies, including panel analysis and threshold effect analysis, to explore the multifaceted relationships between informatization and farmers' income growth. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders involved in the ongoing development of rural areas and in ensuring the equitable distribution of wealth in China.
Cancer detection in dogs using rapid Raman molecular urinalysis
Authors: Robertson John L. , Dervisis Nikolas , Rossmeisl John , Nightengale Marlie , Fields Daniel , Dedrick Cameron , Ngo Lacey , Issa Amr Sayed , Guruli Georgi , Orlando Giuseppe , Senger Ryan S.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The presence of cancer in dogs was detected by Raman spectroscopy of urine samples and chemometric analysis of spectroscopic data. The procedure created a multimolecular spectral fingerprint with hundreds of features related directly to the chemical composition of the urine specimen. These were then used to detect the broad presence of cancer in dog urine as well as the specific presence of lymphoma, urothelial carcinoma, osteosarcoma, and mast cell tumor.

Methods

Urine samples were collected via voiding, cystocentesis, or catheterization from 89 dogs with no history or evidence of neoplastic disease, 100 dogs diagnosed with cancer, and 16 dogs diagnosed with non-neoplastic urinary tract or renal disease. Raman spectra were obtained of the unprocessed bulk liquid urine samples and were analyzed by ISREA, principal component analysis (PCA), and discriminant analysis of principal components (DAPC) were applied using the Rametrix®Toolbox software.

Results and discussion

The procedure identified a spectral fingerprint for cancer in canine urine, resulting in a urine screening test with 92.7% overall accuracy for a cancer vs. cancer-free designation. The urine screen performed with 94.0% sensitivity, 90.5% specificity, 94.5% positive predictive value (PPV), 89.6% negative predictive value (NPV), 9.9 positive likelihood ratio (LR+), and 0.067 negative likelihood ratio (LR-). Raman bands responsible for discerning cancer were extracted from the analysis and biomolecular associations were obtained. The urine screen was more effective in distinguishing urothelial carcinoma from the other cancers mentioned above. Detection and classification of cancer in dogs using a simple, non-invasive, rapid urine screen (as compared to liquid biopsies using peripheral blood samples) is a critical advancement in case management and treatment, especially in breeds predisposed to specific types of cancer.
Multi-omics analysis on the mechanism of the effect of Isatis leaf on the growth performance of fattening sheep
Authors: Cao Zhikun , Yi Mingliang , Zhou Jialu , Zhang Zhiyu , Liu Zibo , Yang Chao , Sun Shixin , Wang Lei , Ling Yinghui , Zhang Zijun , Cao Hongguo
Published: February 2024

Introduction

This study evaluated the effects of Isatis Leaf (ISL) on the growth performance, gastrointestinal tissue morphology, rumen and intestinal microbiota, rumen, serum and urine metabolites, and rumen epithelial tissue transcriptome of fattening sheep.

Methods

Twelve 3.5-month-old healthy fattening sheep were randomly divided into two groups, each with 6 replicates, and fed with basal diet (CON) and basal diet supplemented with 80 g/kg ISL for 2.5 months. Gastrointestinal tract was collected for histological analysis, rumen fluid and feces were subjected to metagenomic analysis, rumen fluid, serum, and urine for metabolomics analysis, and rumen epithelial tissue for transcriptomics analysis.

Results

The results showed that in the ISL group, the average daily gain and average daily feed intake of fattening sheep were significantly lower than those of the CON group (P < 0.05), and the rumen ammonia nitrogen level was significantly higher than that of the CON group (P < 0.01). The thickness of the reticulum and abomasum muscle layer was significantly increased (P < 0.05). At the genus level, the addition of ISL modified the composition of rumen and fecal microorganisms, and the relative abundance of Methanobrevibacter and Centipeda was significantly upregulated in rumen microorganisms, The relative abundance of Butyrivibrio, Saccharofermentans, Mogibacterium, and Pirellula was significantly downregulated (P < 0.05). In fecal microorganisms, the relative abundance of Papillibacter, Pseudoflavonifractor, Butyricicoccus, Anaerovorax, and Methanocorpusculum was significantly upregulated, while the relative abundance of Roseburia, Coprococcus, Clostridium XVIII, Butyrivibrio, Parasutterella, Macellibacteroides, and Porphyromonas was significantly downregulated (P < 0.05). There were 164, 107, and 77 different metabolites in the rumen, serum, and urine between the ISL and CON groups (P < 0.05). The differential metabolic pathways mainly included thiamine metabolism, niacin and nicotinamide metabolism, vitamin B6 metabolism, taurine and taurine metabolism, beta-Alanine metabolism and riboflavin metabolism. These metabolic pathways were mainly involved in the regulation of energy metabolism and immune function in fattening sheep. Transcriptome sequencing showed that differentially expressed genes were mainly enriched in cellular physiological processes, development, and immune regulation.

Conclusion

In summary, the addition of ISL to the diet had the effect of increasing rumen ammonia nitrogen levels, regulating gastrointestinal microbiota, promoting body fat metabolism, and enhancing immunity in fattening sheep.
Effect of pomegranate (Punica granatum) anthelmintic treatment on milk production in dairy sheep naturally infected with gastrointestinal nematodes
Authors: Castagna Fabio , Bava Roberto , Palma Ernesto , Morittu Valeria , Spina Antonella , Ceniti Carlotta , Lupia Carmine , Cringoli Giuseppe , Rinaldi Laura , Bosco Antonio , Ruga Stefano , Britti Domenico , Musella Vincenzo
Published: February 2024

Anthelmintic drug resistance has proliferated across Europe in sheep gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs). Sheep welfare and health are adversely impacted by these phenomena, which also have an impact on productivity. Finding alternatives for controlling GINs in sheep is thus of utmost importance. In this study, the anthelmintic effectiveness (AE) of a Calabrian ethnoveterinary aqueous macerate based on Punica granatum (whole fruits) was assessed in Comisana pregnant sheep. Furthermore, an examination, both qualitative and quantitative, was conducted on milk. Forty-five sheep were selected for the investigation. The sheep were divided by age, weight, physiological state (pluripara at 20 days before parturition), and eggs per gram of feces (EPG) into three homogeneous groups of 15 animals each: PG received a single oral dosage of P. granatum macerate at a rate of 50 mL per sheep; AG, treated with albendazole, was administered orally at 3.75 mg/kg/bw; and CG received no treatment. Timelines were as follows: D0, treatments, group assignment, fecal sampling, and AE assessment; D7, D14, D21, fecal sampling, and AE evaluation. The FLOTAC technique was used to evaluate the individual GIN fecal egg count (FEC) using a sodium chloride flotation solution (specific gravity = 1.20) and 100 × (1-[T2/C2]) as the formula for evaluating FEC reduction. Following the lambs’ weaning, milk was collected on the following days (DL) in order to quantify production: DL35, DL42, DL49, DL56, DL63, DL70, DL77, and DL84. The amount of milk produced by every animal was measured and reported in milliliters (ml) for quantitative evaluations. Using MilkoScan TM fT + foss electric, Denmark, the quality of the milk (casein, lactose, protein concentration, and fat, expressed as a percentage) was assessed. The macerate demonstrated a considerable AE (51.8%). Moreover, its use has resulted in higher milk production rates quantitatively (15.5%) and qualitatively (5.12% protein, 4.12% casein, 4.21% lactose, and 8.18% fat). The study showed that green veterinary pharmacology could be the easiest future approach to counteracting anthelmintic resistance in sheep husbandry.
Transforming Service into Civic Purpose: A Qualitative Study of Adolescent Civic Engagement and Purpose Development
Authors: Lincoln Brenna , Patel Kira N. , Binder Molly , Lund Terese J. , Liang Belle
Published: February 2024

As tomorrow’s leaders, adolescents are navigating coming-of-age tasks in the context of both the fast-growing promises of technology and the burdens of overwhelming global challenges. The Climate Leaders Fellowship (CLF) is an extracurricular program that supports adolescents interested in environmental sustainability. Program participants are connected with like-minded peers and mentors across the globe who help them develop and implement community-based volunteer projects (CLF, 2022). This study focuses on whether and how participation in CLF shaped adolescents’ development. A directed content analysis approach was utilized to conduct and analyze semi-structured interviews with adolescent CLF participants (n = 9, 89% female). Results indicate that engagement in the program is associated with civic purpose development. Specifically, participants reported experiencing civic reflection, motivation, and action through their CLF involvement. Findings offer supporting evidence that the development of civic purpose may be associated with burgeoning critical consciousness. Recommendations for future programming, study limitations, and implications are discussed.
The Oil:Water Ratio in the Vertical Centrifuge Separator and Its Influence in Phenolic Compounds in the Virgin Olive Oil and the Olive Mill Wastewater (Alpechín)
Authors: Montaño Alfonso , Redondo-Redondo Sofía , Moreno Laura , Zambrano Manuel
Published: February 2024

The use of the vertical centrifuge in the olive oil production process is generally assumed to be habitual and necessary for the elimination of both the vegetation water and the small olive pulp particles that are not eliminated during solid–liquid separation (horizontal centrifugation). Trials were carried out with different oil:water ratios to study the influence of this variable on both the quality parameters of the olive oils obtained and the loss of oil with the olive wastewater. The trials were carried out at the industrial mill level with oil:water ratios between 0.6 and 5.5. While no differences were observed in the quality parameters of the oils obtained, correct adjustment of the oil:water flow rates reduced the loss of phenols present in the oils by around 30%. In addition, the results show a direct relationship between the soluble effluent and the conductivity of the olive mill wastewater (alpechín) with the loss of oil in the effluent. This work proves that both oil quality and the competitiveness of the olive oil value chain can be increased with energy savings, water consumption reduction, and environmental sustainability.
Optimization of Pulsed Electric Field-Based Extraction of Bioactive Compounds from Cannabis sativa Leaves
Authors: Mpakos Dimitrios , Chatzimitakos Theodoros , Athanasiadis Vassilis , Mantiniotou Martha , Bozinou Eleni , Lalas Stavros I.
Published: February 2024

The current investigation examines the application of pulsed electric fields (PEFs) for isolating polyphenols from Cannabis sativa var. Futura 75 leaves. Firstly, the solvent composition, which included ethanol, water, and various mixtures of the two, was explored, along with the liquid-to-solid ratio. Subsequently, the primary parameters associated with PEFs (namely, pulse duration, pulse period, electric field intensity, and treatment duration) were optimized. The extracted samples were analyzed to determine their total polyphenol content (TPC), and individual polyphenols were also evaluated through high-performance liquid chromatography. In addition, the antioxidant activity of the extracts was assessed through ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and DPPH assays. The extracts prepared utilizing PEFs were compared to the extracts obtained without PEFs in terms of their TPC, FRAP values, and DPPH activity. The results indicate that the most effective extraction parameters were a pulse duration of 10 μs, a pulse period of 1000 μs, and an electric field strength of 0.9 kV/cm after 25 min of extraction. The most efficient solvent was determined to be a 50% (v/v) mixture of ethanol and water in a 20:1 liquid-to-solid ratio. The extract obtained under the optimal conditions exhibited a ~75% increase in TPC compared to the extract obtained without any application of PEFs, while some individual polyphenols exhibited an increase of up to ~300%. Furthermore, significant increases of ~74% and ~71% were observed in FRAP and DPPH assays. From the information provided, it was observed that the tested variables had an impact on the recovery of polyphenols from C. sativa leaves.
Updating Chimpanzee Nesting Data at Mount Assirik (Niokolo Koba National Park, Senegal): Implications for Conservation
Authors: Ndiaye Yaya Hamady , Ndiaye Papa Ibnou , Lindshield Stacy Marie , Pruetz Jill Daphne
Published: February 2024

The Niokolo Koba National Park (NKNP) is the largest protected area in Senegal and lies at the northern limit of the chimpanzee’s range in West Africa. Recent information on nesting behavior and factors influencing nesting behavior is available for several sites outside NKNP. However, the information available for NKNP is obsolete. Considering that the adequate management of chimpanzee populations cannot be achieved without strong scientific knowledge, it is essential to update data on chimpanzee, Pan troglodytes verus, nesting behavior in NKNP. For this reason, we surveyed their habitat in Mt. Assirik and recorded 626 chimpanzee nests. The results of the study showed that chimpanzees nest more often in closed-canopy habitats such as gallery forests. The average nest height observed in this study was 8.07 ± 0.36 m, varying between 2 and 20 m, which is well below the heights described in most sites where chimpanzees cohabit with large carnivores. Botanical surveys confirmed that chimpanzees select tree species bearing their nests. In Assirik, 12 of the 37 tree species bearing nests are the most used. The nest decay rate (or the time it takes for a nest to go from the fresh to the skeletal stage) at Assirik averaged 68.8 ± 5.8 days.
Comparison of Reproductive Strategies between Two Sympatric Copsychus Passerines
Authors: Zhang Ziqi , Bi Jianli , Zhao Xu , Cai Yan , Yang Canchao
Published: February 2024

Reproduction plays a crucial role in determining the development, fate, and dynamics of bird populations. However, reproductive strategies vary among species and populations. In this study, we investigated the reproductive strategies of the Oriental Magpie Robin (Copsychus saularis) and White-rumped Shama (C. malabarica), which are closely related passerines that reproduce in sympatric areas. We found that although these two species were both cavity nesting, their nest-site selection differed; the Shama preferred nesting close to trees and forests, whereas the Magpie Robin nested close to human residential areas. Furthermore, their egg incubation patterns differed; the Shama increased daily incubation frequency with incubation time, but the Magpie Robin maintained its daily incubation time regardless of changes in incubation frequency. However, the nestling heating patterns of these two species were similar, indicating a critical demand for regulating hatchling body temperature during this crucial stage. The feeding frequencies of male parents were strongly correlated with those of females in both species, suggesting equal contribution and good synchronization between the sexes. Nestling feeding frequency was also correlated with nest cleaning frequency, implying coordination between feeding and defecation by parents and offspring, respectively. This research explored the divergence and convergence of reproductive strategies between these two sympatric species, providing valuable insights into the niche differentiation theory.
Tumor and Tumor-like Lesions in Red Foxes (Vulpes vulpes) from Croatia
Authors: Naletilić Šimun , Šoštarić-Zuckermann Ivan-Conrado , Mihaljević Željko
Published: February 2024

The red fox, found on all continents except Antarctica, occupies diverse habitats. In Croatia, it is an indigenous wild species with a population density of 0.7 animals per square kilometer. While tumors in wild animals from the Canidae family are scarce, the true prevalence and diversity of tumors are likely underestimated due to limited research. So far, a limited number of tumors have been observed among the red fox population, either in their natural habitat or in captivity. As part of the National Rabies Control Program, we examined 1890 red fox carcasses over a four-year period. Our focus was on identifying abnormalities on the skin and internal organs that suggest potential neoplastic proliferation. Five red foxes, three males and two females, were found to have growths resembling potential tumors. Their age distribution spanned from 2 to 7 years. Microscopic investigation revealed two collagenous hamartomas, two Meibomian gland adenomas, and one intra-abdominal teratoma within a cryptorchid testis. This retrospective study aims to provide a comprehensive description of tumor and tumor-like lesions observed in free-range red foxes from Croatia, marking the first research of its kind in Croatia.
The Antioxidant and Antibacterial Potential of Thyme and Clove Essential Oils for Meat Preservation—An Overview
Authors: Ricardo-Rodrigues Sara , Rouxinol Maria Inês , Agulheiro-Santos Ana Cristina , Potes Maria Eduarda , Laranjo Marta , Elias Miguel
Published: February 2024

Consumers are looking for safer and more natural food options that are produced through natural methods without using synthetic preservatives. They also desire extended shelf life for their food products. Several medicinal and aromatic plants species combine food, spice, aromatic, and medicinal recognized attributes. The essential oils from these plants contain a unique mixture of compounds specific to each plant, showing notable antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Essential oils are used widely as they are environmentally friendly, non-toxic, and biodegradable substitutes for harsh chemical preservatives. Thyme and clove are aromatic plants commonly used in traditional gastronomy, particularly in meat-based recipes. The preservation effects of these essential oils on fresh meat have not been widely studied. Therefore, the aim of this study is to review the use of thyme and clove essential oils in meat preservation, with particular emphasis on their antioxidant properties to mitigate lipid and protein oxidation. Different strategies have been used to boost the effects of essential oils in foods, which include mixtures of essential oils, encapsulation and nanoemulsification techniques, with or without edible coatings. The final objective is to promote the wide use of essential oils for meat preservation, eventually in combination with other innovative approaches.
Volumetric Imitation Generative Adversarial Networks for Anatomical Human Body Modeling
Authors: Kim Jion , Li Yan , Shin Byeong-Seok
Published: February 2024

Volumetric representation is a technique used to express 3D objects in various fields, such as medical applications. On the other hand, tomography images for reconstructing volumetric data have limited utilization because they contain personal information. Existing GAN-based medical image generation techniques can produce virtual tomographic images for volume reconstruction while preserving the patient’s privacy. Nevertheless, these images often do not consider vertical correlations between the adjacent slices, leading to erroneous results in 3D reconstruction. Furthermore, while volume generation techniques have been introduced, they often focus on surface modeling, making it challenging to represent the internal anatomical features accurately. This paper proposes volumetric imitation GAN (VI-GAN), which imitates a human anatomical model to generate volumetric data. The primary goal of this model is to capture the attributes and 3D structure, including the external shape, internal slices, and the relationship between the vertical slices of the human anatomical model. The proposed network consists of a generator for feature extraction and up-sampling based on a 3D U-Net and ResNet structure and a 3D-convolution-based LFFB (local feature fusion block). In addition, a discriminator utilizes 3D convolution to evaluate the authenticity of the generated volume compared to the ground truth. VI-GAN also devises reconstruction loss, including feature and similarity losses, to converge the generated volumetric data into a human anatomical model. In this experiment, the CT data of 234 people were used to assess the reliability of the results. When using volume evaluation metrics to measure similarity, VI-GAN generated a volume that realistically represented the human anatomical model compared to existing volume generation methods.