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The diagnostic accuracy of nanopore sequencing in Tuberculous Lymphadenitis: Systematic review and meta-analysis protocol

Background Tuberculous lymphadenitis (TL) is a common case of extrapulmonary tuberculosis caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB). The current use of nanopore sequencing in TL is limited. The aim of our study is to complete a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol to assess the performance of nanopore sequencing in TL. Methods English databases (including Medline via PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase) and Chinese databases (including Wanfang Database and China National Knowledge Infrastructure) will be searched for literature related to the research topic. We designed eligibility criteria based on PICT (Population, Index Test, Comparator Test and Target Condition). We will extract relevant data from the included articles when they have been identified. The quality of the studies will be assessed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS-2) tool. We will use midas package in STATA for the calculation of the pooled effect values and the corresponding forest plots when the final number of included studies is more than four, and Meta-DiSc for the calculation of the pooled effect values and the forest plots when the number of included studies is less than four. When the results of different reference gold standards are reported simultaneously in the same literature, we will extract the corresponding TP, FP, FN, and TN values according to the different reference gold standards and analyze them independently. I2 statistic will be used to quantify inter-study heterogeneity. If substantial heterogeneity (I² > 50%) is detected, potential sources will be investigated through subgroup, meta-regression, and sensitivity analysis. Conclusion We conducted this protocol according to the guidelines and submitted it to a peer-reviewed journal to improve our protocol through peer review and ultimately better guide the completion of the systematic review and meta-analysis. Systematic review registration PROSPERO Registration number: CRD42024595521

Reliability assessment model for multiple stress factors accelerated degradation test using a Wiener process with random effects

In practical applications, products are usually exposed to multiple stress factors (including environmental stresses and operating stresses) simultaneously. However, existing work on accelerated degradation test mainly focuses on the case of a single stress factor. This motivates the need to develop a reliability assessment model for accelerated degradation test involving multiple stress factors. Therefore, this paper proposes a Wiener process-based accelerated degradation test model that simultaneously considers multiple stress factors, random effects and measurement errors. Then the explicit expression for the lifetime distribution under normal operating conditions of the proposed Wiener accelerated degradation test model is obtained, along with its approximate mean lifetime. In addition, the maximum likelihood estimates of model parameters are derived using the profile likelihood approach, and maximum likelihood estimates for some reliability metrics under normal operating conditions are also obtained. Besides, we construct confidence intervals for model parameters and some reliability metrics using the bias-corrected and accelerated percentile bootstrap method. Finally, the performance of the proposed method is demonstrated by extensive simulation studies, and a numerical example.

Association between bicarbonate levels and mortality among acute respiratory distress syndrome patients: An analysis based on Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care database

Objective This study explored the association between serum bicarbonate levels and mortality risk among patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Methods This was a retrospective cohort study utilizing data extracted from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC)-IV database. Cox proportional hazards models and restricted cubic splines (RCS) were deployed for elucidating the association between the baseline bicarbonate levels and the risk of 28-day mortality while utilizing the Kaplan-Meier method to estimate survival curves, with hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Subgroup analyses were conducted based on age, gender, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) score, ARDS severity and bicarbonate administration. Results Totally, 6,377 patients (15.38% deaths) were included. Baseline bicarbonate was significantly associated with 28-day mortality (HR: 0.98, 95% CI: 0.97–1.00, P = 0.011) in patients with ARDS. This association was particularly evident in female patients (HR: 1.16, 95% CI: 1.14–1.87, P = 0.003), those with a CCI of 2 or higher (HR: 1.27, 95% CI: 1.05–1.53, P = 0.013), among those with a PaO2/FiO2 ratio ranging from 200 to 300 mmHg (HR: 1.39, 95% CI: 1.08–1.78, P = 0.011), and those without bicarbonate administration (HR = 1.26, 95%CI: 1.07–1.48, P = 0.004), where bicarbonate levels falling below 23 mEq/L were linked to a heightened risk of not surviving the first 28 days in ARDS patients. RCS analysis revealed that the bicarbonate levels were non-linear associated with the 28-day mortality in ARDS patients (P for non-linear <0.001). Conclusion Lower serum bicarbonate levels are significantly associated with an increased 28-day mortality risk in ARDS patients, with particular emphasis on female patients, those with higher CCI scores, and those with milder ARDS. Baseline bicarbonate levels of ARDS patients in ICU have certain clinical reference value for the development of clinical management and the assessment of prognostic risk during the ICU admission.

Bridging and bonding: The roles of brokerage and closure in mobilizing support provision in online support groups

Social capital theory suggests that network structure influences human behavior. Based on this premise, this study investigates how two distinct network structures—brokerage and closure—affect support provision in Online Support Groups (OSGs). Twelve years of data were collected from an online cancer community based in South Korea. Using computational methods, we measured support behaviors, network structures, and social capital. The findings reveal that brokers, through exposure to non-redundant information, provide social support in larger volumes, with higher quality, and in a more timely manner. While closure has limited explanatory power for overall support behaviors, it specifically facilitates provision of improved quality of emotional support through one’s enhanced trust. Additionally, the results highlight the importance of recognizing the dynamic developmental stages of OSGs to fully understand the social mechanisms driving support provision. These findings offer significant insights into the mobilization of social support through network structures in the OSG context.

Awareness about cervical cancer and its socio-economic determinants among adults in Bangladesh: Results from a nationwide cross-sectional study

Cervical cancer is a major global health issue now and is the second leading cancer among women in Bangladesh, caused primarily by Human papillomavirus (HPV). Despite effective vaccination and screening methods, awareness and access to preventive methods are limited in developing regions. This nationwide study aims to explore socio-economic and cultural factors affecting cervical cancer awareness in Bangladesh and generate evidence-based recommendations for tailoring suitable health promotion strategies for the country. This cross-sectional study was conducted in Bangladesh to evaluate cervical cancer awareness among adults aged 18 years and above. A semi-structured questionnaire was designed for this research, keeping in mind the local sociocultural contexts. Face-to-face interviews were conducted after getting the participants’ consent and making sure they understood all the questions. After checking for data quality and consistency, responses of 2,151 participants were finally retained. The collected data was analyzed using STATA (Version 17) statistical software. The majority (80.15%) of the participants were aware of cervical cancer, with healthcare workers being the primary source of information. Higher awareness rates were noted among married individuals (80.88%), urban dwellers (83.24%), those with more education (average 11.96 ± 4.36 years), individuals with higher income (88.17%), and those belonging to nuclear families (82.86%). Healthcare professionals had significantly greater awareness (98.91%) compared to other occupations. Participants undergoing regular health checkups were more informed and the association was statistically significant (87.03%, p < 0.001). Univariate and multiple logistic regression models revealed that each additional year of education increased the probability of being aware by 16−20%. Men had significantly lower odds of being aware compared to women (Adjusted Odds Ratio AOR = 0.41, β = −0.895, 95% CI: 0.23 to 0.70, p = 0.001 in the multiple logistic regression analysis). Similarly, respondents not cohabitating with their spouse were less aware than those who were living with partners (AOR = 0.47, β = −0.750, 95% CI: 0.28 to 0.81, p = 0.006). Income levels conversely influenced awareness level, participants from the highest income group (earning 35,001−50,000 BDT) had 47% lower odds (AOR = 0.53, β = −0.629, 95% CI: 0.36 to 0.80, p = 0.002) of awareness compared to the lowest income group (earning ≤20,000 BDT). Despite the widespread awareness of cervical cancer among most Bangladeshi adults, there remains a notable gap, particularly among certain demographics. Since the study identified healthcare workers, social media, and mass media as major sources of information, targeted educational campaigns through media channels and outreach activities by healthcare workers might effectively enhance nationwide awareness of cervical cancer.

Correction: Design and development of an irrigation monitoring and control system based on blynk internet of things and thingspeak

Association between mental illness and disciplinary confinement and its effect on mental health: A systematic review and meta-analysis

The use of disciplinary confinement (DC) as a form of punishment in detention raises international attention and many concerns that have led to the elaboration of several studies. However, as studies report mixed results regarding the risk of DC placement for mentally ill inmates and the possibility of psychological effects from exposure to DC, it was necessary to shed some light in order to better guide future decisions, policies and programs in detention. Thus, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the risk of inmates with mental disorders being placed into disciplinary confinement and its effect on mental health. A systematic search of studies was performed in PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The meta-analysis was conducted using random-effects models. Heterogeneity among study point estimates was assessed with Q statistics and quantified with the I2 index. Publication bias was assessed using Egger’s test. Quality assessment was based on the GRADE Checklist for observational studies. Guidelines from Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) were followed. First, a meta-analysis of five articles including 27,455 inmates showed that incarcerated individuals with a mental disorder were 1.23 times (OR=1.23, CI = 1.10; 1.38) more likely to be placed in DC than incarcerated individuals without a mental disorder. Notably, having a severe mental disorder (OR=1.31, p < 0.001), a personality disorder (OR=1.66, p < 0.001), and having previously received mental health services (OR=1.16, p = 0.024) increased the risk of being placed in DC. Secondly, a systematic review of six articles, including 171,300 inmates, showed more psychological distress, psychiatric symptoms (self-harm, thought disorders, obsessive-compulsive symptoms), need for mental health services, and hospitalizations in DC than in the general correctional population. Considering the increased risk of placement in DC for incarcerated persons with a mental disorder and its deleterious effect on mental state, it is essential that new safe interventions to manage these inmates are created to limit the use of DC and offer them proper mental health care. These results align with the ongoing concerns regarding the use of DC in correctional settings, which has raised widespread international attention on public health and human rights, and they provide critical insights for policy reforms and better practices in correctional facilities worldwide.

Comparative genomics of Lentilactobacillus buchneri reveals strain-level hyperdiversity and broad-spectrum CRISPR immunity against human and livestock gut phages

This study conducted a comparative genomic investigation of 40 strains of Lentilactobacillus buchneri isolated from various environments—including fermented foods, silage, cattle rumen, and the nasopharynx—to identify species-level diversity and assess their CRISPR immunity. An average genome size of 2.55 ± 0.07 Mb, a GC content of 44.18 ± 0.15%, and 2444 ± 83 coding sequences were identified. Prophages were found in all strains except for two, while 17 strains contained plasmids. No genes associated with bacteriocins were identified. CRISPR analysis revealed the presence of 42 Type II-A and 45 Type I-E systems, with each strain having at least one Type II-A system (~ 2 systems per strain). Among the 33 tested strains, 29 encoded complete LbCas9 proteins, consisting of 1371 amino acids. In-silico analysis of PAM in Type II-A systems revealed a 5’-DNAWDHV-3’ motif, with a noted preference for 5’-AAAA-3’ at positions 3–6. The spacers found in CRISPR arrays targeted proteins involved in plasmid mobilization as well as components of phage tails, indicating their roles in inhibiting horizontal gene transfer and providing defense against phages. Remarkably, 27 spacers from 24 strains were found to match phages associated with human gut microbiomes, with several showing the ability to cross-target phages from livestock, kefir, and wastewater. This research expands the genomic understanding of L. buchneri from 10 to 40 genomes, uncovering the dynamics of CRISPR-phage co-evolution. The defined PAM preferences of the identified CRISPR systems, together with the broad predicted target range of their spacers, highlight their potential for biotechnological applications—most notably targeted CRISPRization of L. buchneri strains and in-silico-guided phage control during fermentation. These findings deepen our understanding of the ecological adaptability of L. buchneri and provide a foundation for future industrial exploitation of its native CRISPR immunity.

Severe cutaneous adverse reactions associated with second-generation androgen receptor antagonists in prostate cancer patients

Prostate cancer ranks as the second most prevalent cancer among men, with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) being a cornerstone treatment strategy. Enzalutamide, apalutamide, and darolutamide are key examples of second-generation androgen receptor antagonists (SGARAs). Although severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs) are infrequent, they carry a significant risk of mortality. This study employed four disproportionality analysis algorithms: Reporting Odds Ratio (ROR), Proportional Reporting Ratio (PRR), Bayesian Confidence Propagation Neural Network (BCPNN), and Multi-item Gamma Poisson Shrinker (MGPS) to investigate the potential link between SGARAs and SCARs. As of the second quarter of 2024, reports of SCARs related to enzalutamide, apalutamide, and darolutamide totaled 25, 77, and 1, respectively. The majority of reports came from elderly patients, predominantly reported by health professionals, with Japan and the USA being the primary reporting countries. SCARs related to apalutamide detected positive signals in all four algorithms, while enzalutamide and darolutamide did not show positive signals. The study indicated that the majority of onset times occurred within 37 days, but SCARs could still occur up to 176 days with enzalutamide and 126 days after apalutamide treatment. No onset time was reported for darolutamide. In the treatment of prostate cancer with SGARAs, there is a potential risk of SCARs. When different SGARAs were compared, SCARs were more frequently reported with apalutamide than enzalutamide and darolutamide. This indicates that patients using SGARAs, particularly apalutamide, require closer and more prolonged monitoring to facilitate the early detection and management of SCARs and to reduce the occurrence of serious outcomes.

Correction: Breastfeeding transition in Oman: A generation shift or a product of social development? A qualitative study on three generations of Omani mothers

An update on health literacy dimensions: An umbrella review

Awareness of the value of health literacy has grown significantly in recent years, with the concept increasingly integrated within public health policy, research and practice, and notably, more commonly being explored in a systems approach to health promotion. The concept does however appear to be constantly evolving, with various iterations of definitions being used. As such, there is a need to review and update understanding of health literacy’s core components. This umbrella review aims to provide a contemporary understanding of health literacy and its dimensions. Searches were conducted between July and August 2023 across three databases, and 784 studies were identified and screened, with nine systematic reviews identified for extraction. All included systematic review articles aimed to conceptualise or define health literacy. Following a quality assessment, using the AMSTAR-2, inductive analysis was carried out to map specific health literacy dimensions identified in each included study to previously identified health literacy clusters. The findings of this umbrella review highlight the ever-evolving nature of the concept of health literacy; the responsibility placed on the individual to develop and maintain adequate health literacy. Despite the relatively poor reporting quality of many of the review articles included, the findings from this umbrella review point to the difficulty in developing tools to comprehensively measure health literacy, and critically, how to effectively improve health literacy at both an individual and populational level.

A green dichromophoric protein enabling foliage mimicry in arthropods

Molecular mechanisms underlying the green insect camouflage have puzzled researchers for over a century. Here, we isolated and identified a green water-soluble protein from the integument of bush-cricket Tettigonia cantans . De novo sequencing and cloning revealed a severely fragmented form of vitellogenins, ubiquitous and multifunctional, but still largely enigmatic glycolipoproteins essential for embryonic development and lacking structural characterization. The distinctive color of the identified chromoprotein results from binding of a remarkable combination of farnesylated bilins (recently identified, tentative heme A catabolites) and xanthophylls, which commensurably absorb light in the 600 to 700 nm and 400 to 550 nm spectral regions and thereby produce a hue that perfectly mimics foliage. The high-resolution crystal structure of this unique ~80 kDa dichromophoric protein, which we named “dibilinoxanthinin” (DBXN), revealed two DBXN protomers, each consisting of three polypeptides, with a novel fold enclosing a large hydrophobic cavity that accommodates two bilins, two luteins, and four phosphatidylcholines, all anchored by hydrogen bonds and giving DBXN unique biochemical and optical properties. Among the green insects tested, some contained yellow and blue chromophores in separate fractions, while others had green proteins similar to DBXN, although not necessarily of the same size. Surprisingly, we isolated and identified a larger vitellogenin proteoform with DBXN-like absorption, from the green huntsman spider Micrommata virescens . These data illustrate striking variations in the DBXN-related pigmentation mechanism among different green arthropods and suggest that vitellogenins may have undergone neofunctionalization, reflecting their potential for functional diversification.

Comparing UNet configurations for anthropogenic geomorphic feature extraction from land surface parameters

The application of deep learning for semantic segmentation has revolutionized image analysis, particularly in the geospatial and medical fields. UNet, an encoder-decoder architecture, has been suggested to be particularly effective. However, limitations such as small sample sizes and class imbalance in anthropogenic geomorphic feature extraction tasks have necessitated the exploration of advanced modifications to improve model performance. This study investigates a variety of architectural modifications to base UNet including replacing the rectified linear unit (ReLU) activation function with leaky ReLU or swish; incorporating residual connections within the encoder blocks, decoder blocks, and bottleneck; inserting squeeze and excitation modules into the encoder or attention gate modules along the skip connections; replacing the default bottleneck layer with one that incorporates dilated convolution; and using a MobileNetV2 architecture as an encoder backbone. Unique geomorphic datasets derived from high spatial resolution lidar data were used to evaluate the performance of these modified UNet architectures on the tasks of mapping agricultural terraces, mine benches, and valley fill faces. The results were further analyzed across varying training sample sizes (50, 100, 250, 500, and the full training set). Our results suggest that the incorporation of advanced modules can enhance segmentation performance, particularly in scenarios involving limited training data or complex geomorphic landscapes. However, differences were minimal when larger training set sizes were used (e.g., above 500 image chips) and the base UNet architecture was generally adequate. This research contributes valuable insights into the optimization of UNet-based models for anthropogenic geomorphic feature extraction and provides a foundation for future work aimed at improving the accuracy and efficiency of deep learning approaches in geospatial applications. We argue that one of the positive attributes of UNet is that it can be treated as a general framework that can easily be modified.

Association between optical coherence tomography and functionally severe stenosis assessed by quantitative flow ratio in coronary intermediate lesions

Background Stenosis severity for an intermediate coronary lesion (ICL) demands comprehensive assessment methods. The relationship between optical coherence tomography (OCT) and coronary stenosis evaluated by quantitative flow ratio (QFR) remains to be discussed. Objective To investigate the association between OCT parameters and coronary functionally significant stenosis identified by QFR in patients with ICL. Methods A total of 113 patients with 115 target vessels were assessed using both OCT and QFR measurements for ICL. ICL was defined as a coronary lesion according to visual estimation with a diameter stenosis between 50% and 90%. Functional relevance stenosis was considered severe when QFR ≤ 0.80. Results The mean age of the included patients was 62.2 years, and the overall median QFR was 0.82. The mean minimal lumen area (MLA) and area stenosis (AS) assessed by OCT were 3.11 mm2 and 68.4%, respectively. According to the cut-off value of QFR = 0.80, the vessels with hemodynamic ischemia (n = 55) or without ischemia (n = 60) were grouped. OCT-measured MLA and AS exhibited a moderate diagnostic value with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.83 (95% CI 0.75 to 0.90) for MLA and 0.87 (95% CI 0.81 to 0.94) for AS, respectively. The optimal cutoff value exhibited by OCT-measured anatomical parameters for identifying coronary stenosis, represented by QFR ≤ 0.80 was 2.52 mm2 (sensitivity 71%, specificity 85%) for MLA and 69% (sensitivity 84%, specificity 78%) for AS. Subsequently, AS measured by QFR and OCT were evaluated using linear regression analysis, revealing a good correlation (r = 0.79, p<0.001). Conclusions Intraluminal anatomical parameters obtained by OCT showed moderate diagnostic value for predicting the functional ischemia evaluated by QFR. Additionally, QFR may offer a rapid and simple method to assess area stenosis in coronary intermediate lesions.

Engaging me softly: Comparing social drivers for continuative citizens’ participation in a long-term citizen science initiative on protected species monitoring

The engagement of volunteers in Citizen Science (CS) projects is a relevant issue that needs to be addressed to ensure long-term sustainability, scientific relevance, and public participation. Given this, the present paper analyses the social drivers of volunteers’ involvement in a long-term CS initiative to monitor protected species and habitats all over Italian national territory. This initiative was initially born as the LIFE11 NAT/IT/000252 MIPP (Monitoring of Insects with Public Participation), then changed name to “InNat” benefitting from Italian national fundings, and it finally ended in 2024. Overall, it counts more than 1600 participants to whom a dedicated survey was submitted in 2022 to compare and analyse different factors potentially driving participation (potential enablers) and fostering engagement within the project. Based on the survey results (22.3% response rate of 1632 invitations sent), different drivers for participation are modelled (socio-demographic features, interest in scientific topics, environmental attitudes) considering the following main factors: (i) the level of commitment to the initiative, (ii) the seniority of the citizen scientist involved, (iii) the attitudes towards nature conservation and species monitoring, (iv) the value assigned to CS activities. In this context, socio-demographic variables have been compared to attitudes and practices connected to open-air monitoring activities (e.g., recording protected species and habitats by taking pictures in nature). The proposed analyses tackle a variety of cultural and social components as well as their relationship, highlighting some of the features (e.g., active interest in CS activities reverberating in both commitments to engage other volunteers and active search for CS initiatives) that characterize constant participation. We classified volunteers into two categories (i.e., Consistent Volunteers and Non-Consistent Volunteers), comparing these two categories along potential enablers of engagement. Results show homogeneity among volunteers for several parameters (e.g., similar education level, age, occupational status) but also differences in personal motivation and active interest in citizen science initiatives.

Using the medication adherence reasons scale (MAR-scale) to identify the reasons for non-adherence in Chinese hypertensive patients

Objectives This study aimed to determine the prevalence of medication non-adherence and to explore the factors influencing it among Chinese hypertensive patients. Patients and methods A total of 571 hypertensive patients hospitalized in a tertiary hospital in Xi’an, China were invited to participate in this cross-sectional study. The Chinese Version of Medication Adherence Reasons Scale (ChMAR-Scale) was used to identify the most common reasons for non-adherence to hypertension medications.Binary logistic regression analysis was employed to analyze independent risk factors for adherence in hypertensive patients.Descriptive statistics were used to calculate the adherence rates and trends in the reasons for non-adherence. Results Approximately 66.9% of the patients did not adhere to their medications.Age (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.976, 95%CI:0.955–0.998, P = 0.032),education level(AOR = 0.566, 95% CI:0.419–0.765,P < 0.001) and blood pressure (BP) categories (AOR = 0.580, 95% CI: 0.439–0.767,P < 0.001) were independently associated with hypertensive medication adherence. Belief issues and self-perception issues were identified as the main reasons for medication non-adherence.These included self-adjustment of medications according to BP or physical condition, checking whether the medicine was still needed, concerns about long-term effects, and the belief that there was no longer a need to take the medicine. Conclusion Poor medication adherence is widespread among Chinese hypertension patients. More attention should be paid,and effective strategies should be developed to address the factors affecting treatment adherence.These factors include certain sociodemographic factors,such as age,education level and BP categories as well as belief issues and self-perception issues of hypertensive patients. The findings of this study can potentially assist healthcare providers in formulating targeted interventions to improve medication adherence.

Self-care in haemodialysis treatment tasks in community and hospital-based units: A cross-sectional study

Background Patient self-care improves outcomes in chronic diseases, yet patients in haemodialysis units tend to be passive recipients of treatments. Purpose To explore patient self-care in haemodialysis tasks and identify factors influencing interest and participation. Methods Patient interest and participation were assessed using a Likert-type scale. Associations were tested with bi-variate analysis and logistic regression, accounting for hemodialysis unit type. Results Questionnaires from 339 patients in hospital and community-based units showed 89.1% expressed interest in care tasks. Lower education (OR 0.36, 95% CI 0.15–0.9) and being single (OR 0.27, 95% CI 0.12–0.6) decreased interest. Participation in treatment tasks was observed in 40.1% of patients. Lesser odds of participation were seen amongst those of Jewish religion (OR 0.3, 95% CI 0.02–0.54), and dialyzing in community units (OR 0.44, 95% CI 0.25–0.76), whereas higher odds were seen in people reporting higher economic status (OR 2.67, 95% CI 1.44–4.93), venous access via arteriovenous shunts (OR 3.31, 95% CI 1.98–5.54), more years on dialysis (OR 1.86, 95% CI 1.06–3.24), and participants expressing interest in participation (OR 6.01, 95% CI 2.18–16.53). A larger proportion of patients who were not interested in participation were from community-based units (75.7%), compared to those who expressed at least some interest (61%). Conclusions While most patients expressed interest in participating, only a minority actually participated. There is need for greater engagement of interested patients. Organizational factors play an important role in determining actual participation, above and beyond personal patient factors. Patients should be presented with the opportunity to participate according to their interest and capabilities.

Expression of Concern: Observations of linear aggregation behavior in rotifers (Brachionus calyciflorus)

Characterizing nitrogen cycling microorganisms and genes in sediments of the Three Gorges Reservoir

Microorganisms play a central role in driving the biogeochemical cycles in lakes (reservoirs). This study aims to refine the microbial-driven nitrogen cycle processes in the sediments of the Three Gorges Reservoir and assess the overall state of nitrogen cycling within these sediments. The study focuses on the Three Gorges Reservoir as the research area, using metagenomic sequencing as a research method and measuring various environmental factors in the sediment of the region, systematically investigates the nitrogen cycle microorganisms and corresponding functional gene abundance characteristics attached to sediments from upstream, midstream, and downstream areas within the region, and explores key factors that may influence the composition of nitrogen cycle microbial communities. The outcomes of the present study manifest that within the sediments of the Three Gorges Reservoir, seven principal nitrogen cycling pathways exist. These pathways are specifically nitrogen fixation, nitrification, denitrification, nitrogen transport, organic nitrogen metabolism, assimilatory nitrate reduction, and dissimilatory nitrate reduction. Furthermore, the results of this study also reveal that the anaerobic ammonium oxidation genes are barely present in the sediments of this region, which indicates that the probability of the occurrence of anaerobic ammonium oxidation reactions in this area is negligible. The abundance of nitrogen cycle related functional genes and the diversity, composition and community structure of nitrogen cycling microorganisms differ among the upstream, midstream, and downstream regions. This suggests that as sediment particle size decreases along the course from the upstream to the downstream, it may have an impact on the distribution and community structure of nitrogen cycling microorganisms.

The development and evaluation of a concussion education workshop for Gaelic games

Concussions are frequent in Gaelic games and risky behaviours following a concussion are common. With the imminent integration of the Gaelic Athletic Association, Ladies Gaelic Football Association and Camogie Association, the development of a standardised concussion education initiative for all Gaelic games members is warranted. Thus, we aimed to develop a standardised concussion education workshop and evaluate if it improves concussion knowledge and attitudes in the Gaelic games community. A once-off concussion education workshop was developed in collaboration with the Gaelic games governing bodies and was delivered to 95 participants. Participants completed a survey (demographics, ROCKaS and the Perceptions of Concussion Inventory for Athletes [PCI-A]) pre-workshop and 1-month post-workshop (n = 55). Wilcoxon signed rank tests examined the differences pre- and 1-month post-workshop. One-month post-workshop, most participants strongly agreed/agreed that they can recognise concussion signs and symptoms (98.2%), know what to do in the event of a potential concussion (98.2%) and understand return to play guidelines (96.3%). Concussion knowledge (r = 0.34, p < 0.001), clarity (r = 0.45, p < 0.001) and control (r = 0.25, p = 0.01) significantly improved following the workshop. While concussion attitudes improved, the difference was not significant. No significant differences in anxiety, effects, treatment and symptom variability were noted from the PCI-A. A once-off time-efficient standardised concussion education workshop can enhance participants’ concussion knowledge, clarity of concussion and beliefs of how much control they have over the outcomes of a concussion. A national rollout of the standardised concussion education workshop across the Gaelic games community, implemented as part of a wider concussion initiative, is recommended.