bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid detection of liver metastasis risk in colorectal cancer patients through blood test indicators
Authors: Yu Zhou , Li Gang , Xu Wanxiu
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignancies, with liver metastasis being its most common form of metastasis. The diagnosis of colorectal cancer liver metastasis (CRCLM) mainly relies on imaging techniques and puncture biopsy techniques, but there is no simple and quick early diagnosisof CRCLM.

Methods

This study aims to develop a method for rapidly detecting the risk of liver metastasis in CRC patients through blood test indicators based on machine learning (ML) techniques, thereby improving treatment outcomes. To achieve this, blood test indicators from 246 CRC patients and 256 CRCLM patients were collected and analyzed, including routine blood tests, liver function tests, electrolyte tests, renal function tests, glucose determination, cardiac enzyme profiles, blood lipids, and tumor markers. Six commonly used ML models were used for CRC and CRCLM classification and optimized by using a feature selection strategy.

Results

The results showed that AdaBoost algorithm can achieve the highest accuracy of 89.3% among the six models, which improved to 91.1% after feature selection strategy, resulting with 20 key markers.

Conclusions

The results demonstrate that the combination of machine learning techniques with blood markers is feasible and effective for the rapid diagnosis of CRCLM, significantly im-proving diagnostic ac-curacy and patient prognosis.
From sugar binders to diabetes fighters: the lectin saga of antihyperglycemic activity through systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Simha N. Akshaya , Patil Shashank M. , M. K. Jayanthi , N. Chaitra , Wong Ling Shing , Kijsomporn Jureerat , Raj Ranjith , Ramu Ramith
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Lectins are carbohydrate-binding proteins that are extremely selective for sugar groups in the other molecules. As a result, they perform a variety of roles in biological processes involving cell, carbohydrate, and protein recognition at the cellular and molecular levels. Because lectins can bind to carbohydrates, they may play a role in determining the rate of carbohydrate digestion. They also bind to some proteins involved in diabetes mellitus (DM) pathophysiology. The present review aims to summarize the efficiency of lectins from different sources as potential antihyperglycemic agents.

Methods

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were employed for the drafting. In this regard, published scientific articles on the effects of different lectins on blood glucose (BG), glucose tolerance, hormonal effects, carbohydrate-digesting enzymes, oxidative stress, and insulin production process were collected from reputed journals using electronic databases. Furthermore, the toxicity effects of lectins from different sources were collected. A specific keyword search was completed to collect numerous articles with unique experimental designs and significant results. This was followed by the selection of the requisite articles based on the criteria designed by the authors. Data extraction was based on the common research elements included in the articles.

Results and Discussion

Of 13 identified studies, 11 studies were considered after double screening based on the inclusion criteria. All 11 pharmacological investigations were considered for review. Subsequent studies reflected on the pharmacological properties of lectins on the levels of BG, oxidative stress, β-cell proliferation, insulin resistance, inhibition of carbohydrate digesting enzymes, body weight, food and water intake, lipid profile, and other parameters. This review highlights lectins as potential anti-diabetic agents.

Conclusion

However, due to limited research, systematic evaluation is recommended for their development and promotion as effective potential antihyperglycemic agents. The clinical efficacy and safety of lectins against diabetes mellitus must also be evaluated.
Cannabidiol, a plant-derived compound, is an emerging strategy for treating cognitive impairments: comprehensive review of randomized trials
Authors: Yndart Arias Adriana , Vadell Kamila , Vashist Arti , Kolishetti Nagesh , Lakshmana Madepalli K. , Nair Madhavan , Liuzzi Juan P.
Published: September 2024

Graphical Abstract

Created with Biorender.com.
Triiodothyronine acts on DAO to regulate pulmonary fibrosis progression by facilitating cell senescence through the p53/p21 signaling pathway
Authors: Guo Xiaoshu , Xu Kai , Wang Lan , Ding Linke , Li Wenwen , Zhang Xinsheng , Zhao Weiming , Wang Ningdan , Wang Gaiping , Zhao Wenyu , Rosas Ivan , Yu Guoying
Published: September 2024

Background

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is the result of multiple cycles of epithelial cell injury and fibroblast activation; currently, there is no clear etiology. Increasing evidence suggests that protein metabolism and amino acids play a crucial role in IPF, but the role of D-amino acids is not yet clear. The aim of this study was to identify novel mediators in order to test the hypothesis that D-amino acid oxidase (DAO) plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of IPF.

Methods

We analyzed DAO gene expression in patients with IPF and mice with bleomycin (BLM)-induced lung fibrosis. We performed in vitro and in vivo assays to determine the effect of DAO on primary type II alveolar epithelial cells from mice and A549 cells.

Results

DAO expression was downregulated in the lungs of IPF patients and BLM-induced fibrotic mice. Treatment with D-serine (D-Ser) or drug inhibition of DAO promoted cell senescence through the p53/p21 pathway. Dao−/− mice showed an intensified fibrotic response, and the anti-fibrotic role of T3 was abolished.

Conclusion

We concluded that the DAO-p53/p21 axis might be a key anti-fibrotic pathway regulating the progress of fibrosis and facilitating the therapeutic role of T3.
Oilseed flax cultivation: optimizing phosphorus use for enhanced growth and soil health
Authors: He Ning , Huang Fang , Luo Dingyu , Liu Zhiwei , Han Mingming , Zhao Zhigang , Sun Xian
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Oilseed flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) yields are phosphate (P) fertilizer-limited, especially in the temperate semiarid dryland regions of North China. However, there are limited studies on the effects of P-fertilizer inputs on plant growth and soil microorganisms in flax planting systems.

Methods

To address this gap, a field experiment was conducted with four treatments: no P addition and application of 40, 80, and 120 kg P ha-¹, respectively. The aim was to investigate the influence of various P fertilizer inputs on yield, plant dry matter, P use efficiency, as well as the population of soil arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and bacteria in dryland oilseed flax.

Results

Our results show that the P addition increased the dry matter, and the yield of oilseed increased by ~200% at 120 kg P ha-1 addition with inhibition on the growth of AMF hyphae. The moderate P supply (80 kg ha-1) was adequate for promoting P translocation, P use efficiency, and P recovery efficiency. Soil pH, available P, and available K significantly (p< 0.05) promoted the abundance of the dominant taxa (Acidobacteria_GP6, Sphingobacteria and Bacteroidetes). In addition, it is imperative to comprehend the mechanism of interaction between phosphorus-fertilizer inputs and microbiota in oilseed flax soil.

Discussion

This necessitates further research to quantify and optimize the moderate phosphorus supply, regulate soil microbes to ensure high phosphorus utilization, and ultimately establish a sustainable system for oilseed flax cultivation in the local area.
Post-heading dry-matter transport and nutrient uptake differentiate hybrid and inbred indica rice in the double-cropping system in South China
Authors: Fu You-qiang , Lu Chu-sheng , Zhong Xu-hua , Liang Kai-ming , Pan Jun-feng , Liu Yan-zhuo , Hu Xiang-yu , Hu Rui , Li Mei-Juan , Wang Xin-yu , Ye Qun-huan , Yin Yuan-hong , Huang Ji-chuang , Huang Nong-rong
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Hybrid rice demonstrated superior performance in enhancing yield and efficiency in rice production compared to inbred rice. Nevertheless, the underlying mechanism responsible for the increased yield and efficiency of hybrid rice in South China’s double-cropping rice region remains understudied.

Methods

Field experiments over two consecutive years were conducted. Firstly, yield variations among 20 inbred and 15 hybrid rice cultivars prevalent in South China’s double-cropping rice system were examined. Secondly, selecting representative hybrid and inbred rice cultivars with significant yield disparities were carried out on further analyzing dry-matter production, source-sink relationships, and nutrient absorption and utilization in both rice types.

Results

Hybrid rice displayed an average grain yield of 8.07 and 7.22 t hm-2 in the early and late seasons, respectively, which corresponds to a 12.29% and 13.75% increase over inbred rice with statistically significant differences. In comparison to inbred rice, hybrid rice exhibited enhanced nitrogen concentration in leaves at the heading stage (15.48–16.20%), post-heading dry matter accumulation (52.62–73.21%), post-heading dry matter conversion rate (29.23–34.12%), and harvest index (17.31–18.37%). Additionally, grain nitrogen and phosphorus uptake in hybrid rice increased by 11.88–22.50% and 16.38–19.90%. Hybrid rice mainly improved post-heading nitrogen and phosphorus uptake and transport, while not total nitrogen and phosphorus uptake. Internal nitrogen and phosphorus use efficiency enhanced by 9.83%-14.31% and 10.15%-13.66%, respectively. Post-heading dry matter accumulation, harvest index, grain nitrogen and phosphorus uptake, and internal nitrogen and phosphorus use efficiency exhibited significant positive linear correlations with grain yield.

Discussion

The period from heading to maturity is critical for enhancing hybrid rice yield and efficiency. Improving photosynthetic capacity during this period and promoting nutrient transport to grains serve as crucial pathways for increasing grain yield and efficiency. This study is of great significance for further improvement grain yield and breeding rice cultivars with high-yield and high nutrients use efficiency for South China's double-cropped rice system.
Over a century of pear breeding at the USDA
Authors: Gottschalk Christopher , Bell Richard L. , Volk Gayle M. , Dardick Chris
Published: September 2024

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has performed European pear (Pyrus communis L.) scion breeding for over a century. The breeding program started in the early 1900s by Merton B. Waite in the Washington D.C. area and the program’s main goal was to develop host resistance to the devastating disease fire blight, caused by Erwinia amylovora. Most of the historic European pear cultivars being produced in the U.S. were susceptible to fire blight, prompting a need to breed for resistance. More than six generations of USDA breeders have continued this effort to breed disease-resistant European pears. Along with fire blight resistance, the pear breeding programs sought improved fruit quality, cold hardiness, and resistance to psylla (Cacopsylla pyricola Foërster), a significant insect pest of pear. Herein, we discuss the history of the program through each generation of breeder(s). We also present breeding aims, parental selection, and releases. In total, the program has released ten named pear varieties between 1938 and 2022.
Workforce agility: a systematic literature review and research agenda
Authors: Alviani Devi , Hilmiana  , Widianto Sunu , Muizu Wa Ode Zusnita
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The definition and operationalization of workforce agility, initially associated with multitasking abilities, have evolved to encompass aspects of adaptability, proactivity, and resilience, which are now widely accepted. However, some authors have expanded this concept by adding elements such as intelligence, collaboration, and social support, leading to confusion and disagreement on how to consistently measure workforce agility. Furthermore, the literature emphasizes the importance of workforce agility in achieving business goals and adopting innovative management models, yet it provides limited structured guidance for future research.

Methods

This study uses Scopus and Web of Science as the primary databases. The search was not limited to a specific period but included articles up to 2024, with an initial sample of 176 articles. After a screening process based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, 74 articles were included in the thematic analysis and data synthesis.

Results

Workforce agility has been positioned as an independent, mediating, moderating, and dependent variable in various studies. Most studies examine workforce agility at the individual level, with only about 10 studies exploring this aspect at the organizational level. However, no research has specifically explored workforce agility at the team level to date. The primary objective of workforce agility research is to expand and connect theories with diverse methodological approaches, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods. As a result, theoretical foundations and inter-variable relationships are established to identify recommendations for future research.

Discussion

More than 25 fundamental theories have been identified and categorized into nine groups. These nine groups were then reformulated into four general theories: Organizational and Management Theory, Communication and Social Interaction Theory, Behavioral and Learning Theory, and Economic Theory. Based on previous research, several recommendations for future research have been outlined, including conducting longitudinal studies, integrating mixed methods, considering the global cultural context, expanding research samples, developing conceptual models, exploring mediating and moderating variables, developing workforce agility theories, creating efficient evaluation methods, and implementing multilevel models.
Parental involvement and student creativity: a three-level meta-analysis
Authors: Fan Huiyong , Feng Yuxiang , Zhang Yichi
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The Ecological Systems Model of Creativity Development (ESMCD) proposes that parental involvement positively impacts student creativity. However, prior empirical studies present mixed results, including positive, negative, and no correlations between these variables.

Methods

To synthesize these inconsistent primary studies, the current study conducted a systematic meta-analysis synthesizing 30 primary studies involving 37 independent samples with 70 effect sizes and a total N = 20,906 participants.

Results

The results demonstrated: (1) an overall significant small, positive correlation (r = 0.101) between parental involvement and student creativity; (2) significant small, positive correlations between specific involvement types (autonomy support r = 0.144; behavioral control r = 0.133; content support r = 0.131) and creativity, alongside a significant small, negative correlation between psychological control and creativity (r = −0.117); (3) no statistically significant moderating effects of student grade level, parental gender, region, or publication type.

Discussion

This systematic meta-analytic review consolidates empirical evidence indicating that parental involvement positively predicts students’ creativity, while highlighting the detrimental impact of psychological control on creative outcomes. Further research elucidating the mechanisms underlying these relations is critical for informing parenting approaches and education policies seeking to foster creativity development among students.
Navigating virtual selves: validation of the German version of the presentation of online self scale
Authors: Stöven Lynne Marie , Herzberg Philipp Yorck , Ibrahim Fabio
Published: September 2024

The Presentation of Online Self Scale for Adults (POSSA), originally developed by Strimbu et al. is a well-regarded instrument for assessing online self-presentation. This study evaluated the factorial structure, reliability, and validity of the German adaptation of POSSA. A CFA analysis confirmed a satisfactory fit for the proposed three-factor model, as evidenced by a CFI of 0.919, a TLI of 0.902 and a RSMEA of 0.075. The subscales of the German POSSA demonstrated high internal consistency. Additionally, convergent validity was established through significant correlations with the Impostor-Profile 30 (IPP), affirming the interpretive accuracy of the subscale scores. Specifically, the Adaptable Self and Freedom of Self Online subscales positively correlated with IPP measures of Alienation and Other-Self-Divergence, whereas the Authentic Self subscale inversely correlated with these measures. Moreover, the German POSSA scores accounted for variance in the number of Instagram followers, surpassing the predictive power of self-esteem alone. Notably, the Adaptable Self factor was positively associated with the follower count, while the Freedom of Self Online factor displayed a negative association. Collectively, these findings underscore the DE-POSSA as a robust tool for assessing self-presentation behaviors in German-speaking populations and highlight its potential for cross-cultural research in online interpersonal interactions.
Plasma alpha-trypsin inhibitor heavy chain 4 as an age-specific biomarker in the diagnosis and treatment of major depressive disorder
Authors: He Ping , Lu Xuefang , Zhong Mengmeng , Weng Hui , Wang Jialu , Zhang Xiaoxuan , Jiang Chen , Geng Feng , Shi Yachen , Zhang Gaojia
Published: September 2024

Background

The diagnosis of major depressive disorder (MDD) mainly depends on subjective clinical symptoms, without an acceptable objective biomarker for the clinical application of MDD. Inter-alpha-trypsin inhibitor heavy chain 4 (ITIH4) showed a high specificity as biomarker for the diagnosis and treatment of MDD. The present study aimed to investigate differences in plasma ITIH4 in two different aged MDD patients and underlying pathological mechanisms of plasma ITIH4 in the occurrence and development of MDD.

Methods

Sixty-five adult MDD patients, 51 adolescent MDD patients, and 64 healthy controls (HCs) were included in the present study. A 14-days’ antidepressive treatment was conducted in all MDD patients. Psychological assessments were performed and plasma ITIH4 and astrocyte-related markers were detected for all participants.

Results

(1) Plasma levels of ITIH4 in adult MDD patients were significantly higher than adolescent MDD patients and HCs, and significantly increased plasma ITIH4 levels was observed in adolescent MDD patients compared with HCs (2). There were positive correlations between plasma ITIH4 levels and 24-item Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD-24) scores and plasma glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) levels in MDD patients, however, plasma ITIH4 levels were significantly correlated with age just in adult MDD patients (3). Plasma ITIH4 showed area under the curve values of 0.824 and 0.729 to differentiate adult MDD patients and adolescent MDD patients from HCs, respectively (4). There was significant decrease in plasma levels of ITIH4 between before and after antidepressive treatment in adult MDD patients, but not in adolescent MDD patients (5). Changed value of ITIH4 levels were correlated with the changed value of GFAP levels and changed rate of HAMD-24 scores in adult MDD patients following antidepressive treatment.

Conclusion

Plasma ITIH4 may be potential plasma biomarkers of MDD with age-related specificity, which was associated with depressive symptoms astrocyte-related pathologic changes, and antidepressive treatment efficacy.
Sociodemographic determinants of health inequities in low back pain: a narrative review
Authors: Mathieu Janny , Roy Kamille , Robert Marie-Ève , Akeblersane Meriem , Descarreaux Martin , Marchand Andrée-Anne
Published: September 2024

Background

Health equity is defined as the absence of unjust and avoidable disparities in access to healthcare, quality of care, or health outcomes. The World Health Organization (WHO) has developed a conceptual framework that outlines the main causes of health inequalities and how these contribute to health inequities within a population. Despite the WHO implementing health equity policies to ensure accessibility and quality of healthcare services, disparities persist in the management of patients suffering from low back pain (LBP). The objective of this study was to review the existing evidence on the impact of health inequities on the care trajectories and treatments provided to individuals with LBP.

Methods

A narrative review was performed, which included a literature search without language and study design restrictions in MEDLINE Ovid database, from January 1, 2000, to May 15, 2023. Search terms included free-text words for the key concepts of “low back pain,” “health inequities,” “care pathways,” and “sociodemographic factors.”

Results

Studies have revealed a statistically significant association between the prevalence of consultations for LBP and increasing age. Additionally, a significant association between healthcare utilization and gender was found, revealing that women were more likely to seek medical attention for LBP compared to men. Furthermore, notable disparities related to race and ethnicity were identified, more specifically in opioid prescriptions, spinal surgery recommendations, and access to complementary and alternative medical approaches for LBP. A cross-sectional analysis found that non-Hispanic White individuals with chronic LBP were more likely to be prescribed one or more pharmacological treatments. Lower socioeconomic status and level of education, as well as living in lower-income areas were also found to be associated with greater risks of receiving non-guideline concordant care, including opioid and MRI prescriptions, before undergoing any conservative treatments.

Conclusion

Persistent inequalities related to sociodemographic determinants significantly influence access to care and care pathways of patients suffering from LBP, underscoring the need for additional measures to achieve equitable health outcomes. Efforts are needed to better understand the needs and expectations of patients suffering from LBP and how their individual characteristics may affect their utilization of healthcare services.
Dimensions of artificial intelligence on family communication
Authors: Alfeir Nada Mohammed
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Artificial intelligence (AI) has created a plethora of prospects for communication. The study aims to examine the impacts of AI dimensions on family communication. By investigating the multifaceted effects of AI on family communication, this research aims to provide valuable insights, uncover potential concerns, and offer recommendations for both families and society at large in this digital era.

Method

A convenience sampling technique was adopted to recruit 300 participants.

Results

A linear regression model was measured to examine the impact of AI dimensions which showed a statistically significant effect on accessibility (p = 0.001), personalization (p = 0.001), and language translation (p = 0.016).

Discussion

The findings showed that in terms of accessibility (p = 0.006), and language translation (p = 0.010), except personalization (p = 0.126), there were differences between males and females. However, using multiple AI tools was statistically associated with raising concerns about bias and privacy (p = 0.015), safety, and dependence (p = 0.049) of parents.

Conclusion

The results showed a lack of knowledge and transparency about the data storage and privacy policy of AI-enabled communication systems. Overall, there was a positive impact of AI dimensions on family communication.
A deep-learning pipeline for the diagnosis and grading of common blinding ophthalmic diseases based on lesion-focused classification model
Authors: Li Zhihuan , Huang Junxiong , Chen Jingfang , Zeng Jin , Jiang Hong , Ding Lin , Zhang TianZi , Sun Wen , Lu Rong , Zhang Qiuli , Liang Lizhong
Published: September 2024

Background

Glaucoma (GLAU), Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD), Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO), and Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) are common blinding ophthalmic diseases worldwide.

Purpose

This approach is expected to enhance the early detection and treatment of common blinding ophthalmic diseases, contributing to the reduction of individual and economic burdens associated with these conditions.

Methods

We propose an effective deep-learning pipeline that combine both segmentation model and classification model for diagnosis and grading of four common blinding ophthalmic diseases and normal retinal fundus.

Results

In total, 102,786 fundus images of 75,682 individuals were used for training validation and external validation purposes. We test our model on internal validation data set, the micro Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic curve (AUROC) of which reached 0.995. Then, we fine-tuned the diagnosis model to classify each of the four disease into early and late stage, respectively, which achieved AUROCs of 0.597 (GL), 0.877 (AMD), 0.972 (RVO), and 0.961 (DR) respectively. To test the generalization of our model, we conducted two external validation experiments on Neimeng and Guangxi cohort, all of which maintained high accuracy.

Conclusion

Our algorithm demonstrates accurate artificial intelligence diagnosis pipeline for common blinding ophthalmic diseases based on Lesion-Focused fundus that overcomes the low-accuracy of the traditional classification method that based on raw retinal images, which has good generalization ability on diverse cases in different regions.
Risk and ambiguity in a public good game
Authors: Van Driessche Sarah , Boun My Kene , Brunette Marielle
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Ambiguity is part of most of the daily life decisions. It can affect the way people deal with environmental threats, especially when they face a social dilemma.

Method

We run an experiment where every group of four subjects is exposed to a risk that may result in a loss for each member. Subjects must decide on the allocation of their resources between mitigation strategies that allow them to decrease the probability of a disaster occurring for the group, and adaptation strategies that allow them to reduce the magnitude of that disaster for themselves only. In a first treatment (called Risk), subjects perfectly know the probability of occurrence of the event. We introduce ambiguity with regard to that probability in a second treatment (called Ambiguity), and in a third treatment (called Information Acquisition), subjects have the possibility to pay to obtain information allowing them to eliminate ambiguity.

Results and discussion

The results show that the introduction of ambiguity has no impact on average contributions compared to the Risk treatment. However, individual decisions to mitigate or to adapt are affected by subjects' attitude toward risk and ambiguity. In more than half of the cases, subjects are willing to pay to obtain information, which argues in favor of greater dissemination of information.
The effect of dietary omega-6 fatty acid enrichment in rodent models of military-relevant acute traumatic psychological stress and traumatic brain injury
Authors: Rusling Matthew R. , DeMar James C. , Chakraborty Nabarun , Hoke Allison V. , Miller Stacy Ann , Rosenberger John G. , Batuure Andrew B. , Wilder Donna M. , Sajja Venkatasivasai Sujith , Long Joseph B. , Hammamieh Rasha , Gautam Aarti
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Sequelae from traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are major career-limiting factors for combat soldiers. Overlap between TBI and PTSD symptoms alongside other common comorbidities complicate the diagnosis and treatment. Systems-level and high-throughput approaches are key in understanding the underlying biomolecular mechanisms and differentiating these conditions.

Methods

The present study identifies dietary factors and proposes mechanisms behind psychological stress and TBI, using established preclinical animal models and a multi-omics approach. Here, we used microbiome characterizations of rats exposed to simulations of blast-induced TBI and underwater trauma (UWT)-induced psychological stress. We further studied the effect of dietary omega-6 versus omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-6, n-3 PUFA) enrichment on the insult responses. The use of excess n-6 PUFA was chosen due to its high prevalence in the Western diet and pro-inflammatory nature. Prior to TBI or UWT, animals were maintained for 6 weeks and continued thereafter on either a standard diet or two customized chows imbalanced and diminished in omega-3 content. Corresponding shams were carried out for all groups. Fecal bacterial microbiome populations were assessed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing.

Results

Physiologic outcome modeling identified that dietary status affected post-TBI lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and triglyceride levels, with n-3 PUFA having a large attenuating influence. The UWT model showed similar trends, with diet significantly altering LDH, terminal corticosterone (14 days post-exposure), and a fear behavior susceptibility. Fecal microbiome alpha diversity was significantly reduced by high levels of n-3 PUFA. Likewise, beta diversity of the microbiome was significantly affected by both diet and time but not exposure to TBI or UWT. Compositionally, temporal effects on the microbiome were more likely to be observed with the diets. The most affected features fell within the Proteobacteria phyla, in which n-3 PUFA enrichment significantly reduced Alphaproteobacteria in the TBI model and increased Gammaproteobacteria in the UWT group.

Discussion

All these observations can influence the vulnerability or resilience of the warfighter to blast-induced TBI and acute psychological stress. The microbiome mechanisms facilitate and provide a knowledge-driven unbiased panel of signatures to discriminate between the two insults and is an essential tool for designing precise care management.
Women’s collectives and social support: exploring pathways and impacts among forcibly displaced women
Authors: Seff Ilana , Meinhart Melissa , Sarraf Danielle , Abu Zuhair Amna , Sofia Jacqueline , Atuheire Racheal , Lee Jessica , Ahmed Nimo , Poulton Catherine , Stark Lindsay
Published: September 2024

Background

During humanitarian crises, women face both heightened vulnerabilities and a disruption to their social networks. Previous research points to the positive impact of women’s collectives in low-income settings, but less is known about the distinct forms, mechanisms, and consequences of the social support that emerges from these collectives, particularly for women affected by conflict. Recognizing the importance of social support in such contexts, this study utilizes the photovoice methodology to examine the dynamics of social support across women’s collectives in three distinct settings.

Methods

This study recruited forcibly displaced women participating in women’s collectives in Indonesia (n = 5), Jordan (n = 12), and Uganda (n = 11). Photovoice, a participatory research method that centers the voices of study participants, was implemented across 7–8 sessions in each setting. Participants took photographs in response to four prompts and then discussed their pictures and lived experiences related to social support in facilitated discussion groups. Transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis and a mixed inductive and deductive approach.

Results

Across all study sites, participants highlighted the importance of five types of informal social support: emotional, instrumental, informational, companionship, and esteem support. Emotional support, one of the most prominently mentioned forms, served to buffer against stressors and enhance mental well-being. Instrumental and informational support facilitated meeting basic needs, accessing resources, and, in Uganda, improving members’ physical safety. Companionship support fostered a sense of belonging and shared identity, while esteem support validated members’ perspectives and aspirations and bolstered self-worth. In the Jordan collective, esteem support proved especially beneficial in countering the marginalization members experienced in their community.

Discussion

Findings underscore the critical role of women’s collectives in providing diverse forms of social support to foster empowerment, agency, and resilience among forcibly displaced women. By centering the voices of participants and employing survivor-centered approaches like photovoice, this study amplifies the perspectives of women within these collectives, contributing to more inclusive and responsive humanitarian interventions. Future research should continue prioritizing women’s experiences and research questions, ensuring that interventions address their needs effectively.
Using the coaches voice to improve the representation and experience of females in coaching: a Gaelic games perspective
Authors: Haughey T. , Graffin A. , Donnelly P. , McGrane B. , McGourty P. , Stapleton N. , Moore A. , Williams N. , Harmon W. , Horgan P. , Lane A.
Published: September 2024

Background

Female coaches across all sports and levels are underrepresented on a global scale, existing as peripheral figures on the coaching landscape. This is evident in an Irish context, with a recent report suggesting that just 18.7% of coaches in Gaelic games are female. The reasons for lower levels of female involvement in coaching have been widely documented, and include females feeling undervalued or under-appreciated, lacking confidence, and experiencing a lack of respect, gender stigmatism, and unconscious bias, within unsupportive organisational cultures. The purpose of this research was to examine the impact of structural and cultural factors on female coaches’ lived experiences of coaching in Gaelic games.

Methods

Following ethical approval, 8 online semi-structured focus groups with 38 female coaches from 5 cohorts; generic, inactive, fulltime paid, coach developers, and cross code coaches were conducted. The data were analysed using thematic analysis. Following transcription, codes and quotes relevant to the main research questions in the study were collated and assessed with reference to the Ecological Intersectional Model.

Discussion

Through an iterative process of analysis and interpretation, four key themes, and 13 sub themes were constructed, shaped, and reshaped by the research team. These reflected personal factors, coaching contexts, organisational supports and societal influences that impacted on the lived experiences of female coaches in Gaelic games. These included many barriers and challenges experienced personally and within the organisational culture of Gaelic games that inhibit female involvement and full engagement across the coaching pathway. Leaders within Gaelic games should consider mentorship and networking; development of holistic coaching environments; and greater flexibility in coach education to increase and retain representation of females in coaching.
Reducing food waste and promoting sustainable consumption: the role of message framing and controllability attributions in ugly produce marketing
Authors: Xiao Meizhen , Razzaq Amar , Qing Ping , Phromphithakkul Wasin , Thinakaran Rajermani , Alnafissa Mohamad
Published: September 2024

Food waste due to consumer rejection of aesthetically imperfect produce poses significant challenges to food security and environmental sustainability. We construct a matching model between the marketing message framing of ugly produce and the controllability attributions of ugly appearance to drive consumers’ purchase intentions. Through theoretical deduction and randomized scenario experiments, we validate this model by demonstrating that consumers’ purchase intentions increase when the gain-framed (vs. loss-framed) messages for marketing ugly produce match with the high-level (vs. low-level) controllability attributions of ugly appearance. In addition, we introduce the concept of consumers’ perceived information processing fluency as a mediator in this relationship. The findings provide actionable insights for produce retailers, suggesting that effective and cost-efficient marketing strategies could reduce food waste and its associated environmental impacts by driving consumers’ purchasing intentions to ugly produce, contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 2 (SDG 2) and promoting sustainable food systems.
Transcriptomic response of minor millets to abiotic stresses
Authors: Sanku Gowthami , Rajasekaran Ravikesavan , Boopathi Narayanan Manikanda , Krishnamoorthy Iyanar , Santhanakrishnan Vichangal Pridiuldi , Mani Vetriventhan
Published: September 2024

Global food and nutritional security are being threatened by abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, cold, and heat, owing to the rapid and deleterious effects of climate change. Millets represent an incredibly promising agricultural crop in terms of their potential to ensure global food security by virtue of their resiliency against climate change and escalating demand for nutritious food and feed. Considering their durability against climate change and the increasing demand for nutritional food and feed, millets, which refers to the diverse class of small-seeded C4 panicoid grasses, endure remarkable potential for safeguarding the world’s food supply. With a rapid surge in the availability of genomic information through microarray and next-generation sequencing, transcriptomics facilitated the extensive examination and quantification of shifts brought about by abiotic stresses. This stipulates an imperative way of ascertaining the expression of vital genes. This technological advancement targeted toward deciphering the gene expression patterns underpinning the molecular mechanisms/pathways. Other techniques, for instance, genome-wide expression analysis which provides insights into the regulatory networks controlling the cellular processes, genome-wide location analysis which elucidates the control over genes by the transcriptional regulatory proteins, and genomic selection strengthens the reliability of stress tolerance predictions in millet breeding populations. This review emphasizes the impact of transcriptomics on millet improvement by collating the differentially expressed genes (DEGs), and transcription factors (TFs) specific to abiotic stress response in millets which could open advantageous avenues with intriguing opportunities in breeding cultivars for climate resilience.
Treatment of experimental hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis in horses with enteral electrolyte solution containing sodium acetate
Authors: Monteiro Lorena Chaves , Costa Caio Monteiro , Ermita Pedro Ancelmo Nunes , Júnior Silvio José Printes Gomes , Mattos Felipe Sperandio , Mansur Fernanda Campos , dos Santos Mayara Oliveira , Alves Samuel Rodrigues , Mafort Erica Garcia , Fidélis Cíntia Fernandes , Avanza Marcel Ferreira Bastos , Teixeira Raffaella Bertoni Cavalvanti , Viana Rinaldo Batista , Filho José Dantas Ribeiro
Published: September 2024

Introduction

In adult horses, the development and evaluation of enteral electrolyte solutions containing sodium acetate for correcting hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis are still lacking, although these electrolyte and acid–base imbalances are commonly observed. The objective of this study was to evaluate the alkalinizing effect of two enteral electrolyte solutions containing different concentrations of acetate, administered via nasogastric tube in continuous flow, in adult horses with experimental hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis.

Methods

Six mares aged between 3 and 10 years were used in a 6×2 crossover design, with each animal receiving both treatments. The horses were subjected to a protocol to induce hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis. They then received one of two treatments: HighAcetate (81.4 mmol/L) and LowAcetate (22.7 mmol/L) at an infusion rate of 15 mL/kg/h for 12 h. Plasma, serum, and urinary biochemical assessments; hematocrit; urinary volume, pH, and specific gravity; and blood gas analysis were measured at the following time points: T-12 h (beginning of the 12-h fast), T0h (end of fasting and beginning of the acidosis induction phase), every 2 h during the hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis induction phase (Ti2h and Ti4h), every 2 h during the 12-h enteral hydration phase (Tt2h, Tt4h, Tt6h, Tt8h, Tt10h, and Tt12h), with one sample taken at T24h (24 h after the start of acidosis induction) and another at T36h (36 h after the start of acidosis induction). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and analysis of variance based on a factorial design of repeated measures, with Tukey’s post-hoc test or the Kruskal-Wallis test with Dunn’s post-hoc test for non-parametric tests.

Results

At the end of the induction phase, the animals developed moderate to severe hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis. The HighAcetate solution effectively corrected electrolyte and acid–base imbalances before the end of the treatment phase (Tt12h), while the LowAcetate solution was not effective in correcting those changes.

Conclusion

The HighAcetate (81.4 mmol/L) solution is deemed an effective and safe alternative for the treatment of hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis in horses.
Influence of medium chain fatty acids on selected microbes and on in vitro ruminal fermentation of air-exposed corn silage
Authors: Salinas-Chavira Jaime , Arzola-Alvarez Claudio , Hume Michael E. , Fonseca Mozart , Ruiz-Barrera Oscar , Castillo-Castillo Yamicela , Ontiveros-Magadan Marina , Jones Barbara , Crippen Tawni L. , Poole Toni L. , Zuñiga-Serrano Aracely , Anderson Robin C.
Published: September 2024

Several medium chain fatty acids and different chemical forms of these acids were evaluated in vitro as treatments of aerobically-exposed corn silage against spoilage and pathogenic microbes and for effects on rumen fermentation. Treatments were control (no additive), myristate (MY), laurate (LA), monolaurin (MLA), methyl ester laurate (MELA), a blend of mono-, di- and triglycerides of laurate (BLA), and monocaprylate (MC). After 24 h of aerobic incubation (37°C), yeast and mold growth were not influenced (P > 0.05) by treatments, while the net growth of lactic acid bacteria was decreased, albeit slightly, compared to that by untreated controls (P < 0.01) by all treatments of the air-exposed corn silage. Compared with controls, wild-type enterococci were decreased (P < 0.01) in MLA, MELA, and BLA. Staphylococcus aureus was reduced (P < 0.01) with MLA, MELA, BLA, and MC. Total aerobes showed reductions (P < 0.01) with MLA, BLA, and MC. Listeria monocytogenes numbers were reduced (P < 0.01) with MELA. Anaerobic incubation (24 h; 39°C) of ruminal fluid (10 mL) with 0.2 g air-exposed and MCFA-treated corn silage revealed higher hydrogen accumulations (P < 0.01) with MLA and MC over the control treatment. Methane was decreased (P < 0.01) solely by MLA. There was an increase (P < 0.01) of acetate with MELA and MC; of propionate with MELA or by BLA; and of butyrate with MLA, MELA, BLA, and MC. Total VFA, hexose fermented, and ammonia were increased (P < 0.01) with MELA, BLA, and MC. The acetate:propionate ratio was increased (P < 0.01) with MC. The results showed that treatment of air-exposed corn silage with esterified MCFA had no effect on yeasts and molds but prevented propagation or reduced populations of some unwanted and potentially desirable bacteria. Modest methane reduction was seen during in vitro incubation of rumen fluid suspensions with MLA-treated silage and ammonia accumulations were increased in esterified MCFA-treated silage. Little, if any, other detrimental effects on beneficial ruminal fermentation characteristics were observed.
Comparison of hemodynamic effects of propofol or alfaxalone during induction in dogs
Authors: Sarotti Diego , Franci Paolo , Oricco Stefano , Rabozzi Roberto , Lardone Elena
Published: September 2024

This randomized prospective clinical study aimed to compare the hemodynamic effects of propofol and alfaxalone for the induction of anesthesia in dogs. Thirty-one healthy dogs undergoing various procedures in a private referral center were premedicated with intramuscular acepromazine (0.015 mg/kg) and methadone (0.15 mg/kg). They then received 5 mg/kg of propofol over 30 s for induction, followed by a maintenance dose of 25 mg/kg/h (Group P), or 2 mg/kg of alfaxalone over 30 s for induction, followed by a continuous rate infusion of 10 mg/kg/h (Group A). Heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and the velocity time integral (VTI) of the aortic blood flow using transthoracic echocardiography were measured before anesthetic induction and every 15 s for 180 s. Dogs not adequately anaesthetized for intubation were excluded from the hemodynamic evaluation. Events of hypotension (any MAP value lower than 60 mmHg) were also recorded. Statistical analyses utilized ANOVA for repeated measures, two-way repeated measures ANOVA, paired t-tests, or Wilcoxon signed rank-test as appropriate. Significance was set at p < 0.05. Two dogs in Group P (2/14) and 3 in Group A (3/17) were excluded from the study because the anesthesia plane was too light to allow intubation. Treatment P resulted in a significant decrease in MAP between 45 and 75 s during the induction period, with no significant variation in HR, VTI, and VTI*HR. In treatment A, HR increases between 60 and 105 s, VTI decreases at 150–180 s. Analysis between groups did not show any difference in MAP (p = 0.12), HR (p = 0.10), VTI (p = 0.22) and VTI*HR (p = 0.74). During induction, hypotension was detected in 3/12 (25%) dogs in Group P and 1/14 (8%) in Group A. In healthy premedicated dogs, propofol and alfaxalone induction produce similar hemodynamic variations. Propofol induction results in a short-term reduction in MAP, whereas alfaxalone induction preserves MAP and cardiac output by significantly increasing heart rate.
Molinostrongylus longmenensis n. sp. (Strongylida: Molineidae) in the bat Scotophilus kuhlii (Leach; Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae) from China
Authors: Ju Hui-Dong , Jian Rui , Wang Shi-Yue , Qin Li-Yun , Gao Wei-Li , Xu Zhen , Zhang Hong
Published: September 2024

A new species of nematode, Molinostrongylus longmenensis n.sp., parasite of the genus Molinostrongylus, is described based on specimens recovered from the small intestine of Scotophilus kuhlii Leach, 1822 (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae) in Longmen County, Guangdong Province, China. To date, 135 species of bat-parasitic nematodes have been reported worldwide. Overall, 13 species belonging to seven genera in three families have been described in China. The new species is characterized by the presence of three ventral and three dorsal longitudinal cuticular ridges perpendicular to the body surface, which appear posterior to the cephalic vesicle and extend to the caudal bursa in males and the posterior end in females. The female tail has two medium-sized subventral conical processes of equal length, as well as one large dorsal conical process, and one thin spine, lateral alae that extend to the position of the vulva, with a fin-like ending. In addition, the new species was also characterized using molecular approaches, such as sequencing and analyzing the internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS-1) of the ribosomal DNA.