bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does muscle strength predict working memory? A cross-sectional fNIRS study in older adults
Authors: Cai Zhidong , Wang Xing , Wang Qiang
Published: October 2023

Objective

Previous research has primarily focused on the association between muscle strength and global cognitive function in older adults, while the connection between muscle strength and advanced cognitive function such as inhibition and working memory (WM) remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the relationship among muscle strength, WM, and task-related cortex hemodynamics.

Methods

We recruited eighty-one older adults. Muscle strength was measured using a grip and lower limb strength protocol. We measured the WM performance by using reaction time (RT) and accuracy (ACC) in the N-back task and the cortical hemodynamics of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) by functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS).

Results

We found positive correlations between grip strength (p < 0.05), 30-s sit-up (p < 0.05) and ACC, negative correlation between grip strength (p < 0.05) and RT. Furthermore, we observed positive correlations between grip strength and the level of oxygenated hemoglobin (HbO2) in dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, frontopolar area, ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (p < 0.05), and negative correlations between grip strength and the level of deoxygenated hemoglobin (Hb) in left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, frontopolar area, left ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (p < 0.05). Additionally, we noticed positive correlations between RT and the level of Hb in left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, right frontopolar area (p < 0.05), and negative correlations between RT and the level of HbO2 in left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, frontopolar area (p < 0.05). However, the cortical hemodynamics did not mediate the relationship between muscle strength and WM performance (RT, ACC).

Conclusion

The grip strength of older adults predicted WM in the cross-section study. The level of hemodynamics in PFC can serve as a predictor of WM.
Exploiting Indian landraces to develop biofortified grain sorghum with high protein and minerals
Authors: Nagesh Kumar Mallela Venkata , Ramya Vittal , Maheshwaramma Setaboyine , Ganapathy Kuyyamudi Nanaiah , Govindaraj Mahalingam , Kavitha Kosnam , Vanisree Kalisetti
Published: October 2023

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) is the staple cereal and is the primary source of protein for millions of people in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. Sorghum grain value has been increasing in tropical countries including India owing to its gluten-free nature, anti-oxidant properties and low glycemic index. However, the nutrient composition of modern cultivars is declining thus necessitating genetic biofortification of sorghum to combat malnutrition and improve nutritional balance in the human diet. Keeping this in view, efforts were made to utilize valuable alleles, associated with nutrient composition, that might have been left behind in the varietal development in sorghum. The study aimed to determine the genetic improvement for nine nutritional and quality parameters (crude protein, in vitro protein digestibility (IVPD), total iron (Fe), total zinc (Zn), bioavailable Fe (%), bioavailable Zn (%), total phenolics, tannins and antioxidant activity) in the grains of 19 sorghum genotypes (high yield, drought and grain mold tolerant) developed from 11 superior India’s landraces. After selection and advancement made from 2017 to 2022 through single seed descent method, the improvement in the nine nutritional and quality parameters was assessed. Significant variation was observed for all the nine parameters among the landraces and the genotypes. Sorghum genotypes PYPS 2 and PYPS 13 recorded the highest crude protein (13.21 and 12.80% respectively) and IVPD (18.68 and 19.56% respectively). Majority of the sorghum genotypes recorded high Fe (14.21–28.41 mg/100 g) and Zn (4.81–8.16 mg/100 g). High phenolics and antioxidant activity were recorded in sorghum genotypes PYPS 18 (85.65 mg/g gallic acid equivalents) and PYPS 19 (89.78%) respectively. Selections through SSD method revealed highest improvement in genotype PYPS 10 for crude protein (32.25%), total phenolics (18.48%) and antioxidant activity (15.43%). High improvements in genotypes PYPS 12 (23.50%), PYPS 3 (26.79%), PYPS 15 (21.18%) were recorded for total Fe, available Fe and high tannins, respectively. The study demonstrated that landraces could be effectively utilized as a potential, low-cost and eco-friendly approach in sorghum genetic biofortification to improved sorghum productivity and nutritional supply in semi-arid tropics.
Validating the early phototherapy prediction tool across cohorts
Authors: Daunhawer Imant , Schumacher Kai , Badura Anna , Vogt Julia E. , Michel Holger , Wellmann Sven
Published: October 2023

Background

Hyperbilirubinemia of the newborn infant is a common disease worldwide. However, recognized early and treated appropriately, it typically remains innocuous. We recently developed an early phototherapy prediction tool (EPPT) by means of machine learning (ML) utilizing just one bilirubin measurement and few clinical variables. The aim of this study is to test applicability and performance of the EPPT on a new patient cohort from a different population.

Materials and methods

This work is a retrospective study of prospectively recorded neonatal data from infants born in 2018 in an academic hospital, Regensburg, Germany, meeting the following inclusion criteria: born with 34 completed weeks of gestation or more, at least two total serum bilirubin (TSB) measurement prior to phototherapy. First, the original EPPT—an ensemble of a logistic regression and a random forest—was used in its freely accessible version and evaluated in terms of the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC). Second, a new version of the EPPT model was re-trained on the data from the new cohort. Third, the predictive performance, variable importance, sensitivity and specificity were analyzed and compared across the original and re-trained models.

Results

In total, 1,109 neonates were included with a median (IQR) gestational age of 38.4 (36.6–39.9) and a total of 3,940 bilirubin measurements prior to any phototherapy treatment, which was required in 154 neonates (13.9%). For the phototherapy treatment prediction, the original EPPT achieved a predictive performance of 84.6% AUROC on the new cohort. After re-training the model on a subset of the new dataset, 88.8% AUROC was achieved as evaluated by cross validation. The same five variables as for the original model were found to be most important for the prediction on the new cohort, namely gestational age at birth, birth weight, bilirubin to weight ratio, hours since birth, bilirubin value.

Discussion

The individual risk for treatment requirement in neonatal hyperbilirubinemia is robustly predictable in different patient cohorts with a previously developed ML tool (EPPT) demanding just one TSB value and only four clinical parameters. Further prospective validation studies are needed to develop an effective and safe clinical decision support system.
The mechanism of traditional medicine in alleviating ulcerative colitis: regulating intestinal barrier function
Authors: Xu Qiuyun , Yao Yuan , Liu Yongchao , Zhang Jie , Mao Liming
Published: October 2023

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an idiopathic inflammatory disease mainly affects the large bowel and the rectum. The pathogenesis of this disease has not been fully elucidated, while the disruption of the intestinal barrier function triggered by various stimulating factors related to the host genetics, immunity, gut microbiota, and environment has been considered to be major mechanisms that affect the development of UC. Given the limited effective therapies, the treatment of this disease is not ideal and its incidence and prevalence are increasing. Therefore, developing new therapies with high efficiency and efficacy is important for treating UC. Many recent studies disclosed that numerous herbal decoctions and natural compounds derived from traditional herbal medicine showed promising therapeutic activities in animal models of colitis and have gained increasing attention from scientists in the study of UC. Some of these decoctions and compounds can effectively alleviate colonic inflammation and relieve clinical symptoms in animal models of colitis via regulating intestinal barrier function. While no study is available to review the underlying mechanisms of these potential therapies in regulating the integrity and function of the intestinal barrier. This review aims to summarize the effects of various herbal decoctions or bioactive compounds on the severity of colonic inflammation via various mechanisms, mainly including regulating the production of tight junction proteins, mucins, the composition of gut microbiota and microbial-associated metabolites, the infiltration of inflammatory cells and mediators, and the oxidative stress in the gut. On this basis, we discussed the related regulators and the affected signaling pathways of the mentioned traditional medicine in modulating the disruption or restoration of the intestinal barrier, such as NF-κB/MAPK, PI3K, and HIF-1α signaling pathways. In addition, the possible limitations of current studies and a prospect for future investigation and development of new UC therapies are provided based on our knowledge and current understanding. This review may improve our understanding of the current progression in studies of traditional medicine-derived therapies in protecting the intestinal barrier function and their roles in alleviating animal models of UC. It may be beneficial to the work of researchers in both basic and translational studies of UC.
Effectiveness of vedolizumab and ustekinumab as second biologic agent in achieving target outcomes in tumor necrosis factor antagonists experienced patients with inflammatory bowel disease (enroll-ex study)
Authors: Alrashed Fatema , Abdullah Israa , Alfadhli Ahmad , Shehab Mohammad
Published: October 2023

Background: About a third of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) do not respond to anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF) therapy. In our study, we evaluated the effectiveness of vedolizumab and ustekinumab in achieving clinical and endoscopic outcomes in anti-TNF-experienced patients with IBD.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study. Electronic medical records of patients with moderate to severe IBD, who were previously received anti-TNF therapies, were reviewed and evaluated retrospectively in a gastroenterology center. Outcomes of patients treated with ustekinumab or vedolizumab after failing one anti-TNF agent were evaluated. The primary outcomes were the percentage of hospitalization, surgery, mucosal healing and steroid-free remission. Mucosal healing was defined as a Mayo endoscopic score of 0 or 1 in ulcerative colitis (UC) and an SES-CD score of less than 3 in Crohn’s disease (CD). Outcomes were quantified using descriptive analysis.

Results: A total of 207 (130 CD: 77 UC) patients with IBD who had previously received one anti-TNF agent were included in the study. Of the total cohort, 62 (30.0%) patients were receiving vedolizumab, and 145 (70.0%) patients were on ustekinumab. 101 (77.6%) patients with CD who failed one anti-TNF therapy were on ustekinumab. Of these patients, 26 (19.7%) patients were hospitalized, and 12 (11.9%) patients had IBD-related surgery. 16 (16.1%) patients had at least one corticosteroid course. 60 (59.0%) patients with CD on ustekinumab achieved mucosal healing. 29 (22.3%) patients with CD who failed one anti-TNF therapy were receiving vedolizumab. Of those, 7 (25%) patients were hospitalized, and 11 (37.9%) patients had IBD-related surgery. 15 (51.0%) patients achieved mucosal healing. 44 (57.1%) patients with UC who failed one anti-TNF therapy were on ustekinumab. Of these 6 (14.1%) patients were hospitalized, 3 (7.0%) patients had IBD-related surgery and 13 (30%) patients had at least 1 corticosteroid course. 25 (57.0%) patients achieved mucosal healing. 33 (42.8%) patients with UC who failed one anti-TNF therapy were receiving vedolizumab. Of those, 6 (18.6%) patients were hospitalized, and 16 (49.6%) patients had at least 1 corticosteroid course. 17 (53.2%) patients achieved mucosal healing.

Conclusion: Ustekinumab and vedolizumab were both effective in achieving clinical outcomes in patients with IBD after failing an anti-TNF agent. However, patients receiving ustekinumab had numerically higher percentages of reaching target outcomes than patients receiving vedolizumab. A prospective head-to-head trial is warranted to confirm these findings.
Transcriptomics and metabolomics association analysis revealed the responses of Gynostemma pentaphyllum to cadmium
Authors: Zhou Yunyi , Yao Lixiang , Huang Xueyan , Li Ying , Wang Chunli , Huang Qinfen , Yu Liying , Pan Chunliu
Published: October 2023

Gynostemma pentaphyllum an important medicinal herb, can absorb high amounts of cadmium (Cd) which can lead to excessive Cd contamination during the production of medicines and tea. Hence, it is crucial to investigate the response mechanism of G. pentaphyllum under Cd stress to develop varieties with low Cd accumulation and high tolerance. Physiological response analysis, transcriptomics and metabolomics were performed on G. pentaphyllum seedlings exposed to Cd stress. Herein, G. pentaphyllum seedlings could significantly enhance antioxidant enzyme activities (POD, CAT and APX), proline and polysaccharide content subject to Cd stress. Transcriptomics analysis identified the secondary metabolites, carbohydrate metabolism, amino acid metabolism, lipid metabolism, and signal transduction pathways associated with Cd stress, which mainly involved the XTH, EXP and GST genes. Metabolomics analysis identified 126 differentially expressed metabolites, including citric acid, flavonoid and amino acids metabolites, which were accumulated under Cd stress. Multi-omics integrative analysis unraveled that the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, starch, and sucrose metabolism, alpha-linolenic acid metabolism, and ABC transporter were significantly enriched at the gene and metabolic levels in response to Cd stress in G. pentaphyllum. In conclusion, the genetic regulatory network sheds light on Cd response mechanisms in G. pentaphyllum.
Impact of consumer information capability on green consumption intention: the role of green trust and media publicity
Authors: Luo Gong-Li , Zheng Hao , Guo Yan-Lu
Published: October 2023

In the context of the digital information era, consumers’ information capability plays a crucial role in shaping their green consumption intention. To delve deeper into the dynamics of how information capability influences consumers’ green consumption intention, this study constructs a theoretical model grounded in information asymmetry theory and cognitive bias theory. Additionally, the mediating role of green trust and the moderating role of media publicity are incorporated to comprehensively investigate the influence mechanism of information capability on consumers’ green consumption intention. Empirical analysis is conducted based on data collected through a questionnaire survey. The findings of this study reveal that information capability exerts a partially mediating effect on consumers’ green consumption intention. Specifically, information capability directly influences consumers’ green consumption intention, and it also indirectly impacts their green consumption intention through its influence on green trust. Furthermore, media publicity positively moderates the relationship between information capability and consumers’ green consumption intention. This research contributes to the existing literature by enhancing our understanding of the influence pathway leading to green consumption intention. Its insights offer valuable implications for promoting green consumption and advancing sustainable development initiatives.
Multimodality in language education: implications of a multimodal affective perspective in foreign language teaching
Authors: Guo Xiaoshuang
Published: October 2023

Foreign language learners often encounter various emotional challenges within academic environments, which can hinder their progress in developing literacy skills. Effective language instruction should encompass teaching approaches that acknowledge the emotional requirements of students. To address this need, we propose a multimodal affective methodology designed to evaluate emotions in foreign language education scenarios. This methodology also holds the potential to elucidate the pedagogic contributions of various emotional variables to academic outcomes. Our study focuses on German as a foreign language (GFL) learning and utilizes it as an example to investigate ways to improve writing proficiency. The study explores the effects of integrating multimodal corrective feedback (MCF) into academic writing exercises. We delve into suitable modalities for analyzing emotions in academic writing practices. Furthermore, we investigate how the choice of corrective feedback mode intricately influences the nature of feedback itself and subsequently influences students’ emotional responses. Through a comprehensive exploration of the interplay between distinct modes of delivering feedback and their impacts on learners’ engagement, this investigation strives to decode the intricate dynamics of emotions that underlie language acquisition. With these insights, the study discusses how teachers can enhance their teaching strategies by combining changes in learners’ emotional states and providing emotional support.
Hippocampal subfield volumes in treatment resistant depression and serial ketamine treatment
Authors: Zavaliangos-Petropulu Artemis , McClintock Shawn M. , Joshi Shantanu H. , Taraku Brandon , Al-Sharif Noor B. , Espinoza Randall T. , Narr Katherine L.
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Subanesthetic ketamine is a rapidly acting antidepressant that has also been found to improve neurocognitive performance in adult patients with treatment resistant depression (TRD). Provisional evidence suggests that ketamine may induce change in hippocampal volume and that larger pre-treatment volumes might be related to positive clinical outcomes. Here, we examine the effects of serial ketamine treatment on hippocampal subfield volumes and relationships between pre-treatment subfield volumes and changes in depressive symptoms and neurocognitive performance.

Methods

Patients with TRD (N = 66; 31M/35F; age = 39.5 ± 11.1 years) received four ketamine infusions (0.5 mg/kg) over 2 weeks. Structural MRI scans, the National Institutes of Health Toolbox (NIHT) Cognition Battery, and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) were collected at baseline, 24 h after the first and fourth ketamine infusion, and 5 weeks post-treatment. The same data was collected for 32 age and sex matched healthy controls (HC; 17M/15F; age = 35.03 ± 12.2 years) at one timepoint. Subfield (CA1/CA3/CA4/subiculum/molecular layer/GC-ML-DG) volumes corrected for whole hippocampal volume were compared across time, between treatment remitters/non-remitters, and patients and HCs using linear regression models. Relationships between pre-treatment subfield volumes and clinical and cognitive outcomes were also tested. All analyses included Bonferroni correction.

Results

Patients had smaller pre-treatment left CA4 (p = 0.004) and GC.ML.DG (p = 0.004) volumes compared to HC, but subfield volumes remained stable following ketamine treatment (all p > 0.05). Pre-treatment or change in hippocampal subfield volumes over time showed no variation by remission status nor correlated with depressive symptoms (p > 0.05). Pre-treatment left CA4 was negatively correlated with improved processing speed after single (p = 0.0003) and serial ketamine infusion (p = 0.005). Left GC.ML.DG also negatively correlated with improved processing speed after single infusion (p = 0.001). Right pre-treatment CA3 positively correlated with changes in list sorting working memory at follow-up (p = 0.0007).

Discussion

These results provide new evidence to suggest that hippocampal subfield volumes at baseline may present a biomarker for neurocognitive improvement following ketamine treatment in TRD. In contrast, pre-treatment subfield volumes and changes in subfield volumes showed negligible relationships with ketamine-related improvements in depressive symptoms.
Unraveling the link between family of origin and parental responsiveness toward own child
Authors: Anikiej-Wiczenbach Paulina , Kaźmierczak Maria
Published: October 2023

This study investigates the influence of family of origin on parental responsiveness toward own child, taking into account gender differences. A total of 110 triads of mothers, fathers, and their first child aged 6–10 months participated in the standardized Free Play procedure. Parental responsiveness was assessed through observational measures (using Ainsworth procedure) and self-reported scales (Parental Responsiveness Scale). Results revealed correlations between objectively assessed responsiveness and self-reported parental styles in the family of origin, separately for mothers and fathers. Among mothers having daughters, parental sensitivity (an important aspect of observationally measured responsiveness) was positively correlated with having had a liberal loving mother and a negative correlation with an autocratic mother. Cooperation (another aspect of observationally measured responsiveness) was correlated positively with having had a liberal loving mother. Meanwhile, having a liberal unloving mother predicted lover sensitivity and cooperation. Similar correlations were not observed for mothers having sons. Among fathers having daughters, both aspects of observed responsiveness were positively correlated with having had a democratic father and negatively with autocratic or liberal unloving parents. Moreover, having a liberal unloving father and autocratic mother predicted their lower responsiveness toward daughters. These findings highlight the role of family dynamics in shaping parental responsiveness and emphasize the importance of understanding these dynamics in promoting responsive parenting.
Nursing students’ knowledge and attitudes toward older adults
Authors: Castro Cidália , Antunes Ricardo , Simoes Aida , Bernardes Catarina , Fernandes Júlio Belo
Published: October 2023

Nursing students, as the future healthcare workforce, hold immense potential in providing quality care to older adults and becoming advocates for promoting aging and public health, thus contributing significantly to addressing the multifaceted challenges of our aging society. Nurses’ knowledge and attitudes about aging affect health care quality. Negative and unattractive representations of the social problems associated with aging contaminate nursing students’ attitudes. Nursing schools are challenged to develop new curricula to prepare future nurses for the inherent complexity of an aging society. This study aims to assess the knowledge and attitudes of nursing students toward older adults and identify the variables that can influence these attitudes. Quantitative research was carried out through the application of an online survey using a cross-sectional descriptive research design. A total of 182 nursing students completed the online survey. Progression in the nursing course was statistically significant; the more students advanced, the more positive attitudes and knowledge they revealed about aging; 39% of students have daily contact with their grandparents; however, only 14.8% would like to work with older adults. Multiple linear regression revealed that the most important factor for positive attitudes and knowledge about aging was regular contact with grandparents, followed by progression in the nursing course. The students’ age was not a significant factor in improving attitudes or expanding knowledge regarding older adults. In a multidimensional logic, the deepening of knowledge about aging and the socialization of students with older adults are central factors that should reinforce curricula in nursing education.
“If you weren't connected to the Internet, you were not alive”: experience of using social technology during COVID-19 in adults 50+
Authors: Ling Katrina , Langlois Danielle , Preusse Harrison , Rheman Jennifer M. , Parson Danya , Kuballa Sarah , Simecek Martin , Tsui Katherine M. , Fraune Marlena R.
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Loneliness and social isolation reduce physical and mental wellbeing. Older adults are particularly prone to social isolation due to decreased connection with previous social networks such as at workplaces. Social technology can decrease loneliness and improve wellbeing. The COVID-19 pandemic prompted quarantine and social distancing for many people, creating a context of widespread social isolation.

Method

In the current study, we interviewed middle-aged and older adults' (n = 20) about their use of social technology when social isolation was common: during the early part of the pandemic while social isolation and masking were still required in the United States, between August 2020 and June 2021.We analyzed the data using three-phase coding. We compare our results against the model of the bidirectional and dynamic relationship between social internet use and loneliness.

Results

We found that during the COVID-19 pandemic, our participants experienced decreased social interaction and moved toward online interaction. Participant use of social technology supported the stimulation hypothesis - that is, they used it to maintain existing relationships and social connection. The findings also add novel evidence that the stimulation hypothesis endures for older adults during enforced isolation (in this case due to the COVID- 19 pandemic).

Discussion

Based on our data, we also propose adding the presence or realism of connection via social technology as a main factor to the model and engaging with construal level theory of social presence to fill in critical variables of this relationship. We further find that digital exclusion acts as a barrier to obtaining benefits from stimulation via social technology and recommend that further research examined digital exclusion in relation to the bidirectional and dynamic model. Finally, we discuss recommendations for improving social technology to benefit middle-aged and older adults.
Data integration dashboard for assessing and planning sustainable intensification agricultural interventions: a case study in Senegal
Authors: Santiago Gustavo N. , Carcedo Ana J. P. , Brown Molly E. , Nejadhashemi A. Pouyan , Prasad P. V. Vara , Ciampitti Ignacio A.
Published: October 2023

Introduction

The lack of a holistic view of agriculture’s social and economic aspects emerges as a limiting factor in policy implementations of sustainable intensification. The aim of this study was to (i) synthesize data from the five domains of sustainable agriculture intensification framework focusing on Senegal as a case study, (ii) harmonize and scale data used to minimize spatial–temporal differences, and (iii) build a digital tool aiming researchers and policymakers to facilitate the data visualization and connection.

Methods

We propose and prototype an interactive digital decision-support tool as a potential solution to integrate environmental, social, economic, human and production domains in agriculture projects. To demonstrate the use of the tool, a case study using data from Senegal was developed to show the benefits of open science and connectivity among domains.

Results and discussion

The digital tool presented here allows users to explore an open repository from Senegal serving as a foundational approach to integrate diverse agricultural domains when developing sustainable intensification projects.
Intra-articular bone marrow mononuclear cell therapy improves lameness from naturally occurring equine osteoarthritis
Authors: Everett J. Blake , Menarim Bruno C. , Barrett Sarah H. , Bogers Sophie H. , Byron Christopher R. , Pleasant R. Scott , Werre Stephen R. , Dahlgren Linda A.
Published: October 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA) can be debilitating and is related to impaired resolution of synovial inflammation. Current treatments offer temporary relief of clinical signs, but have potentially deleterious side effects. Bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMNC) are a rich source of macrophage progenitors that have the ability to reduce OA symptoms in people and inflammation in experimentally-induced synovitis in horses. The objective of this study was to evaluate the ability of intra-articular BMNC therapy to improve clinical signs of naturally occurring equine OA. Horses presenting with clinical and radiographic evidence of moderate OA in a single joint were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 treatment groups: saline (negative control), triamcinolone (positive control), or BMNC (treatment group). Lameness was evaluated subjectively and objectively, joint circumference measured, and synovial fluid collected for cytology and growth factor/cytokine quantification at 0, 7, and 21 days post-injection. Data were analyzed using General Estimating Equations with significance set at p < 0.05. There were no adverse effects noted in any treatment group. There was a significant increase in synovial fluid total nucleated cell count in the BMNC-treated group on day 7 (median 440; range 20–1920 cells/uL) compared to day 0. Mononuclear cells were the predominant cell type across treatments at all time points. Joint circumference decreased significantly in the BMNC-treated group from days 7 to 21 and was significantly lower at day 21 in the BMNC-treated group compared to the saline-treated group. Median objective lameness improved significantly in the BMNC group between days 7 and 21. GM-CSF, IL-1ra, IGF-1, and TNF-α were below detectable limits and IL-6, IL-1β, FGF-2 were detectable in a limited number of synovial fluid samples. Inconsistent and limited differences were detected over time and between treatment groups for synovial fluid PGE2, SDF-1, MCP-1 and IL-10. Decreased lameness and joint circumference, coupled with a lack of adverse effects following BMNC treatment, support a larger clinical trial using BMNC therapy to treat OA in horses.
Relationship Between Health Literacy and Unhealthy Lifestyle Behaviours in Older Adults Living in Switzerland: Does Social Connectedness Matter?
Authors: Wieczorek Maud , Meier Clément , Kliegel Matthias , Maurer Jürgen
Published: October 2023

Objectives: To investigate the association between health literacy (HL) and unhealthy lifestyle behaviours and to explore the moderating role of social connectedness in this relationship in older adults in Switzerland.

Methods: We used data from 1,455 respondents to Wave 8 of the Survey of Health, Ageing, and Retirement in Europe (SHARE). Associations between the number of unhealthy lifestyle behaviours (smoking, risky alcohol consumption, suboptimal daily consumption of fruits/vegetables, lack of vigorous physical activity) and HL were examined using multivariable Poisson regression models, which allowed for interactions between HL and social connectedness to test the moderation hypothesis.

Results: Respondents with inadequate HL were significantly more likely to have a higher number of unhealthy lifestyle behaviours than respondents with sufficient HL. We found a stronger positive association between inadequate HL and the number of unhealthy lifestyle behaviours among socially isolated individuals.

Conclusion: Greater social connectedness seems to buffer the negative impact of inadequate HL on unhealthy lifestyle behaviours in older adults, highlighting the importance of good HL for healthy lifestyles, especially in individuals with low social reserve.
Optimizing Light Use Efficiency and Quality of Indoor Organically Grown Leafy Greens by Using Different Lighting Strategies
Authors: Boucher Laurent , Nguyen Thi-Thuy-An , Brégard Annie , Pepin Steeve , Dorais Martine
Published: October 2023

Vertical farming is experiencing significant growth, and the optimization of artificial lighting is essential for enhancing the sustainability of this growing system. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine how light segmentation, the incorporation of a low-intensity lighting phase known as the light compensation point (LCP) instead of the traditional dark phase, and variations in the light spectrum impact the agricultural outcomes of organically cultivated leafy greens. In controlled growth chamber environments, a variety of leafy plant species (Spinacia oleracea L., Ocimum basilicum, Beta vulgaris L., Lactuca sativa L. cv. ‘Garrison’ and ‘Blade’, Brassica rapa cv. ‘Japonica’ and ‘Chinensis’, Brassica juncea cv. ‘Scarlet Frills’ and ‘Wasabina’, Eruca sativa and Perilla frutescens L.) were subjected to four light treatments with varying intensities and durations of lighting, while in a second experiment, five different spectral growing conditions were compared. Irrespective of the plant species, shortening the length of the diel cycle by extending the cumulative daily lighting to 20–24 h per day (5L/1N [5 h at 261 µmol m−2 s−1 + 1 h darkness for a total of 20 h of light per day] and 5L/1LCP [5 h at 256 µmol m−2 s−1 + 1 h LCP at 20 µmol m−2 s−1 for a total of 24 h of light per day]) led to an average increase of +12% in height, fresh weight (+16%), dry weight (+23%), and specific leaf weight (+11%), compared to the control plants (18L/6N; 18 h at 289 µmol m−2 s−1 + 6 h darkness) and 6L/6LCP plants (6 h at 418 µmol m−2 s−1 + 6 h LCP at 20 µmol m−2 s−1 for a total of 24 h of light per day) during the first harvest. This also resulted in better light utilization, expressed as increased fresh (+16%) and dry (+24%) biomass per mol of light received. Conversely, the studied light spectral treatments had no effect on the growth parameters of the four selected species. In conclusion, our study showed that reducing light intensity while extending the photoperiod could potentially represent a cost-effective LED strategy for the indoor cultivation of organically or conventionally grown leafy greens.
Genome-Wide Analysis Revealed NBS-LRR Gene Candidates Associated with Bacterial Wilt Resistance in Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.)
Authors: Jiang Yaolan , Li Zhiliang , Li Wenxiang , Cheng Hefen , Zhao Wei , Li Tao , Sun Baojuan , You Qian , Zhou Dinggang
Published: October 2023

NBS-LRR genes constitute one of the largest resistance gene families in plants, which play key roles in resistance to pathogens. Although the identification and characterization of the NBS-LRR gene family has been extensively reported in various species, a comprehensive analysis in eggplant has not been previously documented. In this study, a total of 269 SmNBS genes were identified in the eggplant genome. Based on domain classification and phylogenetic analysis, SmNBSs were divided into three subgroups 231 CNLs (CC-NBS-LRR), 36 TNLs (TIR-NBS-LRR), and 2 RNLs (RPW8-NBS-LRR). Chromosomal mapping analysis revealed an uneven distribution of SmNBSs in clusters across chromosomes, with a predominant presence on chromosomes 10, 11, and 12. Structural analysis identified eight conserved motifs previously reported in SmNBSs, exhibiting high conservation in both amino acid sequences and their order. Evolutionary analysis demonstrated that tandem duplication events mainly contributed to the expansion of SmNBS. Subsequently, qRT-PCR analysis demonstrated that nine SmNBSs exhibited differential expression patterns in response to R. solanacearum stress, with EGP05874.1 potentially involved in the resistance response. In conclusion, this study provides a comprehensive insight into SmNBSs, which will enhance the research on eggplant disease resistance and facilitate the breeding of new disease-resistant varieties.
Osteology of the Hamadryas Baboon (Papio hamadryas)
Authors: Casteleyn Christophe , Wydooghe Estée , Bakker Jaco
Published: October 2023

Besides living as a free-ranging primate in the horn of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, the hamadryas baboon has an important place in zoos and can be found in biomedical research centers worldwide. To be valuable as a non-human primate laboratory model for man, its anatomy should be portrayed in detail, allowing for the correct interpretation and translation of obtained research results. Reviewing the literature on the use of the baboon in biomedical research revealed that very limited anatomical works on this species are available. Anatomical atlases are incomplete, use archaic nomenclature and fail to provide high-definition color photographs. Therefore, the skeletons of two male hamadryas baboons were prepared by manually removing as much soft tissues as possible followed by maceration in warm water to which enzyme-containing washing powder was added. The bones were bleached with hydrogen peroxide and degreased by means of methylene chloride. Photographs of the various bones were taken, and the anatomical structures were identified using the latest version of the Nomina Anatomica Veterinaria. As such, the present article shows 31 annotated multipanel figures. The skeleton of the hamadryas baboon generally parallels the human skeleton, but some remarkable differences have been noticed. If these are taken into consideration when evaluating the results of experiments using the hamadryas baboon, justified conclusions can be drawn.
“Resistance Is Futile”: A Pilot Study into Pseudoresistance in Canine Epilepsy
Authors: Kajin Filip , Meyerhoff Nina , Charalambous Marios , Volk Holger Andreas
Published: October 2023

Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder in veterinary practice, complicated by frequent occurrence of medication-resistant epilepsy. In human medicine, it has been noted that some patients with medication-resistant epilepsy have in fact other reasons for their apparent medication-resistance. The aim of this retrospective study was to describe the issue of pseudoresistance using as an example a population of dogs presented with presumed medication-resistant epilepsy and provide an in-depth review of what is known in human medicine about pseudoresistant epilepsy. One-hundred fifty-two cases were identified with medication-resistant epilepsy, of which 73% had true medication-resistant epilepsy and 27% patients had pseudoresistance. Low serum anti-seizure medication levels were the most common cause of pseudoresistance, present in almost half of the cases (42%), followed by inadequate choice of drugs or dosages (22%), misclassification (22%) or misdiagnosis (9%) of epilepsy and poor compliance (9%). All cases of pseudoresistance, except for one, responded to a modification of the initial therapy protocol. Pseudoresistance can bias clinical trials, misinform the clinical decision-making process, delay diagnosis and treatment, and misinform owners about their pets’ prognosis. A substantial proportion of these cases can have improvement of their seizure frequency or achieve seizure freedom upon modification of their therapeutic protocol.
Interventional Heartworm Extraction in Two Dogs: The Clinical Application of Impedance Cardiography
Authors: Kim Daesik , Park Seol-Gi , Kim Minsu
Published: October 2023

Heartworm (HW) disease, caused by Dirofilaria immitis, is a life-threatening ailment in dogs. HW disrupts blood flow and decreases cardiac output (CO). The accurate monitoring of CO during HW extraction is pivotal for patient survival and overall health. Objective: This study aimed to assess the efficacy of using impedance cardiography (ICG) as a non-invasive approach for monitoring CO during interventional HW extraction. Methods: Two cases of HW infections were treated via surgical extraction. The CO and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were monitored using the ICG technique during the anesthesia stabilization, extraction process, and post-extraction phases. Results: In Case 1, the CO increased by 115% post-procedure, and in Case 2, the CO increased by 116%. In contrast, the MAP varied between the two cases. The ICG method provided real-time CO data without major disruptions during the extraction surgery. Conclusion: The ICG technique for CO monitoring during interventional HW extractions is effective.
Nighttime Lighting Influences on the Plankton Feeding and Growth of Juvenile Pacific Bluefin Tuna, Thunnus orientalis
Authors: Honryo Tomoki , Sawada Yoshifumi , Ishibashi Yasunori
Published: October 2023

During fingerling production of Pacific bluefin tuna (PBF) Thunnus orientalis, heavy mortality can occur immediately after juveniles are transferred from nursery tanks to sea cages; however, nighttime lighting can moderate this mortality. Additionally, various live prey aggregate due to nighttime lighting in practical sea cage culture of PBF. Here, we investigated whether the growth and viability of PBF juveniles could be improved through promoting feeding on live prey that aggregate under nighttime lighting. Two treatment groups were established using land-based tanks under constant environmental conditions, one in which the juveniles were fed live prey at night (night-feed in four replicate tanks) and the other in which juveniles were not fed during the night (control in four replicate tanks). Although the survival rate did not differ significantly between the two groups, growth was significantly improved in the night-feed group, in which 69–78% of the juveniles showed evidence of feeding during the night. Thus, nighttime lighting plays a vital role in the aggregation of various live prey. PBF juveniles consume these prey in sea cages, which promotes their growth. This may partially serve as a countermeasure against the heavy mortality observed in sea cages.
Utilizing Electrochemical Biosensors as an Innovative Platform for the Rapid and On-Site Detection of Animal Viruses
Authors: He Xun , Wang Shan , Ma Caoyuan , Xu Guang-Ri , Ma Jinyou , Xie Hongbing , Zhu Wei , Liu Hongyang , Wang Lei , Wang Yimin
Published: October 2023

Animal viruses are a significant threat to animal health and are easily spread across the globe with the rise of globalization. The limitations in diagnosing and treating animal virus infections have made the transmission of diseases and animal deaths unpredictable. Therefore, early diagnosis of animal virus infections is crucial to prevent the spread of diseases and reduce economic losses. To address the need for rapid diagnosis, electrochemical sensors have emerged as promising tools. Electrochemical methods present numerous benefits, including heightened sensitivity and selectivity, affordability, ease of use, portability, and rapid analysis, making them suitable for real-time virus detection. This paper focuses on the construction of electrochemical biosensors, as well as promising biosensor models, and expounds its advantages in virus detection, which is a promising research direction.
Evolutions in Commercial Meat Poultry Breeding
Authors: Neeteson Anne-Marie , Avendaño Santiago , Koerhuis Alfons , Duggan Brendan , Souza Eduardo , Mason James , Ralph John , Rohlf Paige , Burnside Tim , Kranis Andreas , Bailey Richard
Published: October 2023

This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the history of commercial poultry breeding, from domestication to the development of science and commercial breeding structures. The development of breeding goals over time, from mainly focusing on production to broad goals, including bird welfare and health, robustness, environmental impact, biological efficiency and reproduction, is detailed. The paper outlines current breeding goals, including traits (e.g., on foot and leg health, contact dermatitis, gait, cardiovascular health, robustness and livability), recording techniques, their genetic basis and how trait these antagonisms, for example, between welfare and production, are managed. Novel areas like genomic selection and gut health research and their current and potential impact on breeding are highlighted. The environmental impact differences of various genotypes are explained. A future outlook shows that balanced, holistic breeding will continue to enable affordable lean animal protein to feed the world, with a focus on the welfare of the birds and a diversity of choice for the various preferences and cultures across the world.
Molecular Characteristics and Polymorphisms of Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) ABCG2 Gene and Its Role in Milk Fat Synthesis
Authors: Zhou Fangting , Fan Xinyang , Xu Xiaoqi , Li Zhuoran , Qiu Lihua , Miao Yongwang
Published: October 2023

The ATP-binding cassette subfamily G member 2 (ABCG2) serves crucial roles in secreting riboflavin and biotin vitamins into the milk of cattle, mice, and humans, as well as in the transportation of xenotoxic and cytostatic drugs across the plasma membrane. However, the specific role of the ABCG2 gene in water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis), especially its effect on milk fat synthesis in buffalo mammary epithelial cells (BuMECs), remains inadequately understood. In this study, the full-length CDS of the buffalo ABCG2 gene was isolated and identified from the mammary gland in buffaloes. A bioinformatics analysis showed a high degree of similarity in the transcriptional region, motifs, and conservative domains of the buffalo ABCG2 with those observed in other Bovidae species. The functional role of buffalo ABCG2 was associated with the transportation of solutes across lipid bilayers within cell membranes. Among the 11 buffalo tissues detected, the expression levels of ABCG2 were the highest in the liver and brain, followed by the mammary gland, adipose tissue, heart, and kidney. Notably, its expression in the mammary gland was significantly higher during peak lactation than during non-lactation. The ABCG2 gene was identified with five SNPs in river buffaloes, while it was monomorphic in swamp buffaloes. Functional experiments revealed that ABCG2 increased the triglyceride (TAG) content by affecting the expression of liposynthesis-related genes in BuMECs. The results of this study underscore the pivotal role of the ABCG2 gene in influencing the milk fat synthesis in BuMECs.
Impact of Fiber Characteristics on the Interfacial Interaction of Mammalian Cells and Bacteria
Authors: Baby Helna M. , Joseph John , Suresh Maneesha K. , Biswas Raja , Menon Deepthy
Published: October 2023

An imperative requisite of tissue-engineered scaffolds is to promote host cell regeneration and concomitantly thwart microbial growth. Antibacterial agents are often added to prevent implant-related infections, which, however, aggravates the risk of bacterial resistance. For the first time, we report a fiber-based platform that selectively promotes the growth of mammalian cells and alleviates bacteria by varying fiber size, orientation, and material of polymeric yarns. The interactions of Gram-positive and -negative bacterial species with mammalian mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) were investigated on poly-€-caprolactone (PCL) yarns, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), and cotton. Various yarn configurations were studied by altering the fiber diameter (from nano- to microscale) and fiber orientations (aligned, twisted, and random) of PCL yarns. PCL nanofibrous yarn decreased the adhesion of S. aureus and E. coli, with a 2.7-fold and 1.5-fold reduction, respectively, compared to PCL microfibrous yarn. Among different fiber orientations, nanoaligned fibers resulted in an 8-fold and 30-fold reduction of S. aureus and E. coli adhesion compared to random fibers. Moreover, aligned orientation was superior in retarding the S. aureus adhesion by 14-fold compared to nanotwisted fibers. Our data demonstrate that polymeric yarns comprising fibers with nanoscale features and aligned orientation promote mammalian cell adhesion and spreading and concomitantly mitigate bacterial interaction. Moreover, we unveil the wicking of cells through polymeric yarns, facilitating early cell adhesion in fibrous scaffolds. Overall, this study provides insight to engineer scaffolds that couple superior interaction of mammalian cells with high-strength fibrous yarns for regenerative applications devoid of antibacterial agents or other surface modification strategies.