bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Overriding reproductive constraints: Hormonal profiles fail to predict intrasexual competition
Authors: Yang Yi-Jun , Guo Wei-Jia , Liu Yi , Guo Dong , Tian Wen-Yong , Zhu Dai-Bo , Li Bao-Guo , Qi Xiao-Guang 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Intrasexual competition among females has long been overshadowed by the focus on that in males. Apart from the studies on Callitrichidae, mechanisms beyond reproductive suppression are virtually uninvestigated. However, that females compete for breeding is likely ubiquitous across polygynous mating primates, where males are likely the limited resource for reproducing and/or offspring raring. As the northernmost distributed Asian colobine, golden snub-nosed monkey retained its ancestral one-male, multi-female unit, but evolved a multi-level society through social aggregation. As a result, the operational sex ratio (the ratio of sexually receptive males to sexually receptive females, hereafter OSR) is expected to be near one as numerous bachelor males shadow the breeding band for mating opportunities. Nevertheless, intrasexual competition was intense, at least in the two study units. The females copulated primarily with the residential males. Hormonal evidence indicates that they were receptive for only 70 days every two years, with only 1 to 3 ovulations. Finally, within units, 50% to 100% of their receptive periods overlapped with one another. Surprisingly, not a single case of aggression or reproductive suppression was observed. By the end of the breeding season, all receptive females showed signs of pregnancy, suggesting successful conceptions. Because staying in stable large units confers a competitive edge over resources through dominance, evolution might have provided strategies for avoiding costly mating competition within units. Further behavioral investigation tentatively reveals two such strategies: coordinating solicitation frequency through turn-taking and/or migrating to units where the intensity of intrasexual competition is low. Our future studies will address the nature and fitness consequences of them.
Growth performance, carcass, and meat quality traits in broiler chickens reared on plastic-grid flooring, wood shavings, and zeolite-supplemented wood shavings
Authors: KAYA Mehmet , KARAARSLAN Solmaz , TOPLU Değer ORAL , FİDAN Evrim DERELİ , TÜRKYILMAZ M. Kenan , NAZLIGÜL Ahmet 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
In the current study, it was investigated the growth performance, carcass, and meat quality traits in broiler chickens reared on plastic-grid flooring, wood shavings, and zeolite-supplemented wood shavings. The study design involved dividing the chicks into 3 experimental groups, with each group having 4 replications. The chicks were reared on wood shavings, plastic-grid floors, and zeolite litter materials. An experiment involving 504 chicks was conducted, with each replicate consisting of 42 male chicks of similar body weight. At the end of the experiment, a total of 120 chickens were slaughtered, with 10 chickens selected from each replicate for this purpose. The effects of different bedding materials on mortality, body weight, and body weight gain were not significant. The feed intake was significantly affected in the 2nd, and 3rd weeks (P=0.001; 0.023); in addition, the feed conversion ratio was significant in the 2nd, 4th, and overall period (P=0.003; P=0.026; P=0.038) by the bedding materials. The breast yield (P=0.001), thigh yield (P=0.028), and wing yield (P=0.023) were significant. The type of bedding material used in broiler production significantly influenced the pH24 (P=0.030), L* (P=0.037), a* (P=0.000), and CL (P=0.028). It was concluded that using a plastic-grid floor could be a good alternative to wood shavings litter in broiler breeding. However, further research is required to evaluate the suitability and potential advantages of these litter materials in broiler breeding, especially from an economic point of view.
Local Volume Concentration, Packing Domains and
Scaling Properties of Chromatin
Authors: Szleifer Igal 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
We propose the Self Returning Excluded Volume (SR-EV) model for the structure
of chromatin based on stochastic rules and physical interactions that is
able to capture the observed behavior across imaging and sequencing based
measures of chromatin organization. The SR-EV model takes the return rules
of the Self Returning Random Walk, incorporates excluded volume interactions,
chain connectivity and expands the length scales range from 10 nm to
over 1 micron. The model is computationally fast and we created thousands
of configurations that we grouped in twelve different ensembles according to
the two main parameters of the model. The analysis of the configurations was
done in a way completely analogous to the experimental treatments used to
determine chromatin volume concentration, contact probability, packing domain
identification and size characterization, and packing scaling behavior.
We find a robust agreement between the theoretical and experimental results.
The overall organization of the model chromatin is corrugated, with dense
packing domains alternating with a very dilute regions in a manner that resembles
the mixing of two disordered bi-continuous phases. The return rules
combined with excluded volume interactions lead to the formation of packing
domains. We observed a transition from a short scale regime to a long scale
regime occurring at genomic separations of ∼ 4 × 104 base pairs or ∼ 100 nm
in distance. The contact probability reflects this transition with a change in
the scaling exponent from larger than -1 to approximately -1. The analysis
of the pair correlation function reveals that chromatin organizes following a
power law scaling with exponent D ∈ {2, 3} in the transition region between
the short and long distance regimes.
The Impact of Iodinated Contrast Media Used in Epidural Steroid Injections on Thyroid Function Tests
Authors: Isik Ridvan , Kokar Serdar , Olgun Yucel , Sencan Savas , Gunduz Osman Hakan 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Objective
The use of iodinated contrast media (ICM) inevitably increases in conjunction with the growing number of epidural steroid injections (ESI) administrations. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between thyroid functions and ICM exposure through ESI procedures.
Design:
Prospective, observational study.
Setting:
A university hospital pain management center.
Methods
This study was conducted between June 2022 and February 2023. Participants between the ages of 18 and 65 who had received an epidural steroid injection at our outpatient pain clinic comprised the study's population. Thyroid function tests (fT3, fT4, and TSH) were measured before and 3 weeks after the procedure.
Results
A total of 124 participants (80 women and 44 men) were analysed. The average amount of contrast media administered was 1.34 ml. A significant increase was observed only in the fT4 value compared to pre-procedure (p = 0.017), and thyroid disorders developed in 19.5% of the participants (subclinical hyperthyroidism = 19, subclinical hypothyroidism = 3, overt hyperthyroidism = 1).
Conclusion
The current analysis provides an overview of the relationship between ICM volume and a higher risk of thyroid disorders and dysfunction.
Assessing the Efficacy of Simulation-Based Education for Paramedics in Extended Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma under Physician Guidance
Authors: Ohira Akiko , Maki Jota , Ageta Kohei , Nakato Hikari , Oba Hikaru , Mitoma Tomohiro , Mishima Sakurako , Tani Kazumasa , Kirino Satoe , Eto Eriko , Nakao Atsunori , Masuyama Hisashi 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
We investigated the effectiveness of simulation-based education in Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST) to increase the number of Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) capable of performing ultrasound examinations in vehicles under the guidance of a physician. Twenty-eight paramedics watched a 14-minute video on the features of the ultrasound system, its use, and the scanning method for each part of the body. Each participant performed four FAST examinations using a portable ultrasound device, and the task performance was rated using the Task Specific Checklist (TSC) and Global Rating Scale (GRS). The time required for visualizing each examination site and each FAST was assessed. The primary outcome, time required for each test, significantly decreased with repeated testing (p < 0.001). The secondary outcome, time to complete FAST for each site was significantly shortened for the pericardial cavity, right thoracic cavity, Morrison pouch, and left thoracic cavity. TSC and GRS scores were elevated, and all EMTs could obtain valid images. The combination of a brief video lecture and hands-on training significantly reduced the time required for FAST performance. Moreover, repeated practice enabled the EMTs to efficiently obtain accurate and clinically useful images.
Circulating metabolomic profile links the MIND diet to cognitive function in middle-aged and older adults
Authors: Chen Hui , Shen Jie , Tao Yang , Zhang Yaodan , Gao Mengyan , Ma Yuan , Zheng Yan , Zong Geng , Lin Qing , Tong Lusha , Yuan Changzheng 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

The Mediterranean-DASH Diet Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) diet has been related to lower risk of dementia. However, to which extent circulating metabolite profile of this diet mediates the association was unclear. We identified 70 circulating metabolites significantly associated with the MIND diet score in Whitehall II study, and replicated 44 of these associations in the UK Biobank. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), omega-3 fatty acids, unsaturation degree of fatty acids and high-density lipoprotein particle size showed the strongest positive associations and very-low-density lipoprotein particle size, glycoprotein acetyls and phenylalanine showed the strongest inverse associations. The metabolic signature constructed from the identified metabolites using elastic net regression was moderately correlated with MIND diet score (Pearson’s r = 0.34 in Whitehall II and 0.25 in UK Biobank). The associations of the MIND diet with global and domain-specific cognitive function were partially mediated by the metabolite signature (explainable proportion ranging from 24–36%).
The potential of type 2 cystatin in blood feeding and innate immunity of the tick Haemaphysalis doenitzi (Acari: Ixodidae)
Authors: Zhang Song-Bo , Gao Zhi-Hua , Wang Yi-Kui , Lv Wen-Xia , Dong Ke-Xin , Wang Run-Ying , Guo Fei-Di , Yang Xiaolong 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Ticks, which are obligate blood-sucking parasites, transmit a wide range of pathogens during their blood-feeding process. Enzymes and macromolecules that inhibit enzymes play a crucial role in tick physiology. In the present study, genes encoding type 2 cystatin were cloned and characterized from Haemaphysalis doenitzi, and their functions in innate immunity and tick blood feeding were further assessed. Four cystatin genes, namely HDcyst-1, HDcyst-2, HDcyst-3, and HDcyst-4, were successfully cloned from the tick. Their open reading frames vary in length, with sizes of 390, 426, 426, and 426 base pairs (bp), respectively. Proteinase inhibition assays indicated that 0.2 µM of cystatin displayed a minimum of 50% inhibitory activity against cathepsin B and S. The qPCR results imply that HDcyst-2 could play a pivotal role in tick hemophagia, whereas HDcyst-1, HDcyst-3, and HDcyst-4 may be integral to the regulation of blood digestion. Our investigation unveiled that adult ticks subjected to LPS injection or exposed to low-temperature stress exhibited elevated expression levels of type 2 cystatin compared to the control group. RNA interference experiments demonstrated that the expression of type 2 cystatins had a significant impact on engorged weight, the number of eggs laid, hatching rate, and mortality of H. doenitzi, along with an extension of blood-feeding duration by 2 days. These discoveries suggest the involvement of type 2 cystatin in tick innate immunity and blood-feeding processes. Consequently, type 2 cystatin emerges as a promising candidate for tick control and the development of novel immunosuppressive drugs in the future.
Configuration of Subsea Mooring System for Environmental Monitoring and Assessment
Authors: Krishnan Amudha , Aravind Gnanaraj Anbu 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Deep-sea mining trials are subject to strict adherence to the international regulations for monitoring of ocean environmental data. A comparative analysis of data collected before and subsequent to the mining trials enables the assessment of the potential impact of deep-sea mining activities on the marine environment. In the realm of data collection for oceanic environments, the mooring system has been conventionally employed. This system's specifications, including length and design, are intricately governed by predetermined design criteria, with its deployment typically taking a vertical orientation. Specifically, within the context of deep-sea mining, the mooring system is effectively utilized to oversee, record, and collect mass information concerning disturbances in the water column and to the seabed. This pertains to the periods encompassing pre-exploration, exploration, and exploitation activities. The integration of various sensors, such as sediment collectors and Conductivity, Temperature, and Depth (CTD) sensors facilitates the gathering of pertinent data concerning changes in the water column and bottom disturbances. The experimental implementation of the subsurface long and short mooring within the present study is operational at an approximate depth of 5500 meters. Furthermore, the analysis encompassed in this study pertains to the determination of the mooring's ascent and descent rates. The mooring system serves as an essential tool in this endeavour, with its design and deployment intricacies well-adhering to specified criteria. The study's focus on the subsurface long and short mooring system underscores its operational depth and the meticulous configuration achieved through spatial and temporal data alignment.
Using propensity score matching analysis to compare between cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors and physical activity type in Korean adults: Findings from a nationwide population-based survey
Authors: Kim Min-Hyo , Lee Ji-Won , Linton John A , Lee Yaeji , Song Youhyun 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Purpose
We aimed to assess the effects of different exercise modalities on cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors within a comprehensive, representative sample of the Korean population.
Methods
We categorized 13,971 adult participants into aerobic exercise (AE), resistance exercise (RE), combined aerobic and resistance exercise (TE), and no exercise (NE) groups. Multivariable regressions were conducted to compare the incidence of chronic diseases across the groups before and after propensity score matching (PSM).
Results
The TE and RE groups had significantly lower waist circumference (WC), blood pressure, glucose and insulin-related indices, and white blood cell count (WBC) measures, with TE showing the most significant differences. The TE group had significantly lower triglyceride levels and higher high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels. Post-PSM, the TE group had the lowest risk for hypertension and metabolic syndrome, followed by the RE group, while diabetes risk decreased exclusively in the TE group. RE consistently exhibited benefits, including lower body mass index, WC, blood pressure, glucose and insulin-related indices, and WBC count compared with AE. RE reduced the incidence of metabolic diseases compared with AE.
Conclusion
TE effectively reduces cardiovascular risk in Korean adults. RE provides a more favorable metabolic effect than AE.
Habitat selection by Stone Partridge elucidates the ecological benefits of fire management in an Afro-tropical Sudan Savanna
Authors: Atuo Fidelis , Agaigbe Nguvan M. , Thompson Emmanuel 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Fire is a key disturbance measure that drives community dynamics and ecosystem function. While natural resource managers have increasingly relied on fire as a management tool to conserve biodiversity in fire-prone systems, key gaps remain in our understanding of how fire frequencies and return intervals drive habitat selection and species persistence in tropical savannas. Here, we evaluated the mechanisms through which fire-created variability mediates habitat selection in a fire-prone Sudan savanna landscape. Using data from adult stone partridges fitted with radio-transmitters and monitored between November 2020 – July 2022, we assessed the role of fire frequency, fire intensity, and vegetation characteristics on space used by Stone Partridge (Ptilachapus petrosus) at two spatial extents.
Results
At a broad spatial extent, partridges appeared to select recently burnt areas up to 2 years post-fire treatment but decreased their selection as the severity of fires increased. Partridges tended to avoid taller woody vegetation that could serve as perches for aerial predators in favor of shrubs (< 1-m tall) with thicket understories that minimized predation risk. At a smaller spatial extent, partridges were inclined to select patches that experienced recent fires but maintained high tussock density coupled with litter cover. The relationship between Stone Partridge selection and grass height was inconclusive but suggested a possible reduction in usable space in patches where herbaceous vegetation exceeded 0.5-m.
Conclusion
Our results suggest that Afro-tropical savanna obligates like partridges are possibly adapted to frequently occurring low-intensity fires that promote diversity of herbaceous plants, remove non-native vegetation, and create pockets of refugia for native species to hide from predators. Consequently, reversing colonial fire suppression policies and adopting planned fire treatment as part of management efforts in the region could be key in improving habitat quality for ground-dwelling birds and other native species.
Long-term continuations rate of ring pessary use for symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse
Authors: Manchana Tarinee 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Purpose
To evaluate long-term continuation rates, adverse events of ring pessary use at a minimum of 5 years follow-up, and factors associated with discontinuation in symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse (POP)
Methods
Women with symptomatic POP who were treated with vaginal ring pessary and had successful fittings were included. Adverse events and reasons for discontinuation of pessary use were recorded. Patients who were lost to follow-up were defined as discontinued.
Results
During 12 year-period, 239 of 329 POP patients(72.6%) had successful fittings with ring pessary. The mean age was 67.8 ± 8.9 years(range 27–86) and 70% of patients had advanced stage. The cumulative probability of continued ring pessary use was 84.1%,64.4%,49.3%,and 33.5%, at 1,3,5,and 10 years, respectively. Most common reason for discontinuation was frequent expulsion(21.6%), followed by vaginal erosion(16.5%), no prolapse improvement(12.4%), and inability or inconvenience to do self-care(9.3%). However, 9 patients(9.3%) had improvement of prolapse and were able to discontinue pessary insertion. Age above 70 years, wide genital hiatus, and incapability of self-care are independent factors associated with long-term discontinuation. Adverse events occurred in 23.4% of patients,18.8% of them had vaginal erosion,11.7% vaginal discharge/infection, and 18.4% de novo SUI. However, no statistical significance existed between those who continued and discontinued pessary use due to these adverse events.
Conclusion
Ring pessary is an effective treatment in symptomatic POP, with acceptable long-term continuation rates and minor adverse events. Self-care of pessary is very important aiming to minimize adverse events. Advanced age, wide introitus and incapability of self-care were associated factors for long-term discontinuation.
3D printed anatomical bionic artificial cervical disc replacement for single-level cervical spondylosis: a cohort study
Authors: Xu Zheng-wei , Zhang Xiao-bo , Li Tao , Hao Ding-jun 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background: Cervical disc replacement (CDR) is considered to be an effective alternative treatment to anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). However, the use of most artificial disc prostheses can lead to complications due to the high morphological and dimensional mismatch with the human neck anatomy.
Objective: By comparing the clinical efficacy of the new 3D printed artificial cervical disc with ACDF in treating cervical spondylosis, to study the clinical value of the artificial disc with the appropriate morphological and dimensional.
Methods: This study was a retrospective analysis of 58 patients with single-segment cervical spondylosis who met the inclusion criteria between August 2019 and July 2022 at XXXX Hospital. The patients were divided into two groups based on the surgical method used: 38 cases in the ACDF group and 20 cases in the CDR group. The patients' general information, including operation time, intraoperative blood loss, and hospital stay, were recorded. The clinical effect was evaluated using the visual analog scale (VAS), Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score, and Neck Disability Index (NDI). The radiological effect was evaluated using the range of movement (ROM) by the shell angle. Complications, including dysphagia, heterotopic ossification, and adjacent segment degeneration (ASD), were also recorded.
Results: The average follow-up time for the ACDF and CDR groups was 18.18 ± 2.19 and 17.50 ± 7.18 months, respectively (P =0.682). The surgical time was 134.76 ± 39.35, 144.50 ± 35.69 (P =0.359), and the hospital stay was 6.74 ± 1.63 and 7.00 ± 2.00 days (P =0.593). In terms of clinical efficacy, the two groups showed significant clinical efficacy, and there was no difference in VAS (P =0.046), JOA (P =0.046), and NDI (P =0.046) scores at each time point. However, the blood loss of the two groups was 170.00 ± 110.50ml and 118.42 ± 80.15ml, and the CDR group was significantly higher than the ACDF group (P=0.046). In terms of imaging, the postoperative ROM in the ACDF group was lower than that in the CDR group (P=0.005). In terms of complications, a few patients in both groups experienced swallowing discomfort after surgery and recovered within 3 months. One case of ASD occurred in the ACDF group, and no ectopic ossification was observed in either group.
Conclusion: The new 3D-printed artificial disc for treating single-segment cervical spondylosis has shown proven clinical efficacy, and it maintains better ROM compared to ACDF, although it may have more intraoperative blood loss.