Effective Management Approach Research Articles

Assessing petroleum contamination in parts of the Niger Delta based on a sub-catchment delineated field assessment.

The Niger Delta in Nigeria is a complex and heavily contaminated area with over 150,000 interconnected contaminated sites. This intricate issue is compounded by the region's strong hydrological processes and high-energy environment, necessitating a science-based approach for effective contamination assessment and management. This study introduces the concept of sub-catchment contamination assessment and management, providing an overarching perspective rather than addressing each site individually. A description of the sub-catchment delineation process using the digital elevation model data from an impacted area within the Delta is provided. Additionally, the contamination status from the delineated sub-catchment is reported. Sediment, surface water and groundwater samples from the sub-catchment were analyzed for total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), respectively. Surface sediment TPH concentrations ranged from 129 to 20,600mg/kg, with subsurface (2-m depth) concentrations from 15.5 to 729mg/kg. PAHs in surface and subsurface sediment reached 9.55mg/kg and 0.46mg/kg, respectively. Surface water exhibited TPH concentrations from 10 to 620mg/L, while PAHs ranged from below detection limits to 1mg/L. Groundwater TPH concentrations spanned 3 to 473mg/L, with total PAHs varying from below detection limits to 0.28mg/L. These elevated TPH and PAH levels indicate extensive petroleum contamination in the investigated sediment and water environment. Along with severe impacts on large areas of mangroves and wetlands, comparison of TPH and PAH concentrations with sediment and water quality criteria found 54 to 100% of stations demonstrated exceedances, suggesting adverse biological effects on aquatic and sediment biota are likely occurring.

Serological and Molecular Survey of Babesia ovis in Healthy Sheep in Türkiye

Babesiosis, caused by Babesia ovis, is a major seasonal issue in sheep, particularly in countries like Türkiye with high Rhipicephalus bursa tick populations. Previous studies employing various methods such as microscopy, serology, or molecular techniques have reported different epidemiological data concerning ovine babesiosis. Addressing this knowledge gap, our study employed a combined nested PCR (nPCR)/indirect ELISA (iELISA) approach, analyzing blood samples collected from 414 sheep between April and July 2023 using both techniques. nPCR amplified the 18S ribosomal RNA gene of B. ovis and determined a molecular prevalence of 1.9%. Conversely, serological testing using iELISA targeted the BoSA1 antigen and revealed a significantly higher positivity rate of 59.9% for anti-B. ovis antibodies. The temporary presence of Babesia after recovery reduces nPCR sensitivity, resulting in lower molecular prevalence. However, even if Babesia is not present in the host, anti-B. ovis antibodies remain in the serum for a long time and can be detected serologically. Our study underscores the necessity of concurrently employing molecular and serological methods for an accurate assessment of B. ovis prevalence. It highlights the importance of comprehensive epidemiological approaches for effective disease management in sheep populations.

Healthcare Service Providers’ Perspectives on Sociocultural Aspects Affecting Weight Management Activities Amongst People with Obesity in Taiwan—A Qualitative Study

The prevalence of obesity and morbid obesity in Taiwan has risen sharply in recent decades, as in other parts of the world, necessitating urgent action to prevent and curb its detrimental effects. Asian populations are susceptible to the repercussions of obesity at a lower body weight. A higher BMI is associated with more frequent outpatient visits, in-hospital admissions, higher medical costs, and a lower quality of life. However, effective weight management approaches are unlikely to be maintained in the long term without assimilation into daily lifestyle practices. This qualitative study, based on semi-structured interviews with 14 doctors, dieticians, and nurses who work to control the weight of people with obesity, explored and identified multilevel barriers in the context of daily life to improve the efficacy and execution of weight management strategies. They considered diets, physical activity, and sleep as key weight management activities. The cultural and psychosocial aspects of daily life were observed to have an impact upon weight management, particularly family conflicts due to cultural dynamics and socially and culturally reinforced food practices. To improve population weight, less-recognised aspects need to be addressed alongside the inclusion of mental health specialists in weight management protocols and policy interventions to minimise obesogenic practices and create environments conducive to weight management.

Omniphobic/superhydrophobic surface effect on oil and gas flow: A critical review

AbstractFlow assurance in the petroleum business of the oil and gas industry ensures the efficient and continuous flow of hydrocarbons from production facilities to consumers. Impurities in oil and gas can cause corrosion and erosion, hydrate formation, scaling, and fouling, resulting in flow limits and reduced operating efficiency. The significant flow assurance issues must be managed through systematic exploration of effective mitigation and management approaches. The objective of this paper is to highlight the latest research in the field of flow assurance, including the application of superhydrophobic or omniphobic coatings to prevent scale growth, asphaltene precipitation, wax deposition, and hydrate formation. This review will provide new perspectives into the basic mechanistic mechanisms of deposition and blockage in oil and gas production systems, assisting in the development of novel methods compared to the employment of commercial chemical or mechanical techniques. Overall, the flow assurance engineers will gain new perspectives from this study regarding how to deal with the risk of pipeline blockage caused by the problems mentioned earlier.

The correlation of ABC goal attainment with insulin resistance/sensitivity in Syrian type 2 diabetes patients

BackgroundThe rising prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in Syria emphasizes the urgent requirement for effective management approaches. The ABC goals, which include maintaining glycated hemoglobin levels below 7 %, blood pressure below 140/90 mmHg, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels below 100 mg/dl, serve as crucial benchmarks for managing T2D and its associated comorbidities. MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, the achievement of ABC goals was retrospectively examined among 681 clinically diagnosed T2D patients (not on Insulin) who participated in a six-year online lifestyle intervention program for diabetes management at the Freedom from Diabetes Clinic in Syria between January 2016 and December 2022. ResultsOut of the participants, 152 (22.3 %) successfully achieved all three ABC goals, while 306 (45.0 %) and 183 (26.9 %) achieved two or one goal(s) respectively. The factors influencing the attainment of all three ABC goals revealed a significant association with older age (>50 years), lower body mass index (<25 kg/m2), and lower insulin resistance (Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance < 2.5). Furthermore, patients who successfully achieved all three ABC goals exhibited lower insulin resistance, improved lipid profiles, and higher insulin sensitivity and beta cell function. ConclusionThis study offers new insights into the relationship between insulin resistance/sensitivity and the achievement of ABC goals in the Syrian population with T2D, underscoring the necessity for tailored strategies to enhance comprehensive diabetes management.

Weed Ecology: Insights for Successful Management Strategies: A Review

In crop ecosystems, the primary challenge in establishing a long-term weed management strategy arise from a lack of understanding regarding the nature of weediness and the factors that contribute to species dominance. To address this, farmers and researchers often rely on quick and efficient, yet temporary weed control methods, which can lead to long-term issues. To develop a more effective and sustainable weed management approach, it is crucial to gain a comprehensive understanding of both the biological characteristics and ecological behaviours of weeds. This can be achieved by incorporating preventive techniques, scientific knowledge and management skills, with the goal of enhancing crop production and benefiting farmers. While further information is needed in all aspects of weed management, the primary objective of weed science is to increase our knowledge of weed biology and ecology, thus fostering a better understanding of weediness. This understanding will facilitate the adoption of appropriate management strategies instead of relying solely on short-term solutions that may create or exacerbate long-term problems. The successful growth and reproduction of any species depend on a variety of conditions. In a given ecosystem, the species that can thrive more efficiently under the specific set of environmental conditions will produce the most viable offspring and become the most abundant organisms. Weed ecology, which examines the adaptive mechanisms that enable weeds to thrive in highly disturbed soil conditions, provides essential insights into the distribution and abundance of weeds in both natural and managed systems. The occurrence of a weed in a particular area is influenced by multiple factors, with climatic, soil-related (edaphic) and biotic factors being the most significant among them.

Utilizing digital technologies for rapid damage assessment and reconnaissance: the February 6, 2023 Kahramanmaraş-Türkiye earthquakes (Mw 7.7 and Mw 7.6)

AbstractThis paper presents a comprehensive overview of the rapid damage assessment and reconnaissance efforts following the devastating earthquakes on February 6, 2023, in Türkiye. It specifically focuses on implementing the SiteEye Disaster Plugin, an additional component of SiteEye software developed by i4 Company engineers and Middle East Technical University researchers. This tool played a critical role in managing and analyzing a massive dataset comprising over 28,000 images and videos. The research highlights the plugin’s innovative features, such as offline data collection, georeferenced-based layering, and an integrated damage classification system, significantly improving earthquake impact assessments’ accuracy and efficiency. It also underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration involving national and international teams and the role of open data in disaster management. The findings demonstrate how digital technologies can transform the field of disaster response, offering new approaches for rapid assessment and effective management in the aftermath of seismic events. This research contributes valuable insights into enhancing disaster preparedness and response strategies, particularly in earthquake-prone areas.

DNA Nanostructures Treat Inflammatory Bowel Disease through ROS Scavenging and Gut Microbiota Modulation

AbstractInflammatory bowel disease (IBD) encompasses a collection of chronic inflammatory conditions impacting the gastrointestinal tract, with a discernible global rise in prevalence and severity. The overabundance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the intestinal environment leads disruption of local redox homeostasis, and perturbation of the gut microbiota, exacerbating IBD. Consequently, mitigating excess ROS and preserving gut microbiota homeostasis have emerged as effective approaches for IBD management. In this study, a triangular DNA origami nanostructure loaded with siRNA targeting tumor necrosis factor α (siTNF‐αtDON) is introduced for this purpose. This nanostructure demonstrates efficacy in eliminating ROS within cells closely associated with IBD, diminishing inflammation, and ameliorating disorders in gut microbiota, as evidenced in an IBD mouse model. Furthermore, this investigation demonstrates the effects of siTNF‐αtDON on related inflammatory signaling pathways, including NF‐κB, MAPK/ERK and Keap1/Nrf2. Collectively, this study offers insights into the potential utilization of DNA nanostructures as antioxidants and gut microbiota modulators, presenting promising avenues for the IBD treatment.

Rare yet Critical Manifestations: A Case of Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis in a Child Presenting with Belt-Like Dorsalgia: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approach

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare disease characterized by abnormal proliferation of Langerhans cells. We present the case of a 9-year-old girl complaining of recent belt-like dorsalgia, whose imaging revealed dorso-lumbar scoliosis and a tumor mass at the posterior arch of T11 with posterior epidural infiltration. Surgical decompression and tumor resection were performed, histopathologically confirming the diagnosis of LCH. This abstract highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges of LCH, emphasizing the importance of a multidisciplinary approach for effective management of this rare disease. Additionally, it underscores the relevance of early intervention and meticulous follow-up to ensure optimal outcomes for patients with LCH.

A Systematic Review of Herbal Interventions for the Management of Cardiovascular Diseases.

Cardiovascular diseases represent a significant global health burden, necessitating diverse approaches for effective management. Herbal interventions have gained attention as potential adjuncts or alternatives to conventional therapies due to their perceived safety and therapeutic potential. This structured abstract provides a comprehensive review of herbal interventions for the management of CVDs, summarising key findings, mechanisms of action, and clinical implications. This systematic review aims to evaluate the impact of various herbal interventions employed for managing cardiovascular diseases. We conducted an extensive literature search across electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, from inception to 2022. Studies were included if they investigated the use of herbal remedies for preventing or treating CVDs. Data extraction and synthesis focused on botanical sources, active compounds, mechanisms of action, and clinical outcomes. Numerous herbal interventions have demonstrated promising cardiovascular benefits. A number of medicinal herbs well identified to treat CVD are Moringaoleifera, Ginseng, Ginkgo biloba, Celosia argentea, Gongronematrifolium, Gynostemmapentaphyllum, Bombaxceiba, Gentianalutea, Allium sativum, Crataegusspp, Curcuma longa, Camellia sinensis, and Zingiberofficinale. Mechanistic insights reveal that herbal interventions often target multiple pathways involved in CVD pathogenesis. These mechanisms encompass anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-thrombotic, anti-hypertensive, and lipid-lowering effects. Additionally, some herbs enhance endothelial function, promote nitric oxide production, and exert vasodilatory effects, contributing to improved cardiovascular health. Clinical studies have provided evidence of the efficacy of certain herbal interventions in reducing CVD risk factors and improving patient outcomes. However, more rigorous, large-scale clinical trials are needed to establish their long-term safety and effectiveness. It is crucial to consider potential herb-drug interactions and standardise dosages for reliable therapeutic outcomes. This comprehensive review highlights the potential of herbal interventions as valuable adjuncts or alternatives for managing cardiovascular diseases. Herbal remedies offer diverse mechanisms of action, targeting key CVD risk factors and pathways. While promising, their clinical utility warrants further investigation through well-designed trials to establish their safety and efficacy, paving the way for integrated approaches to cardiovascular disease management. Healthcare providers and patients should engage in informed discussions about the use of herbal interventions alongside conventional therapies in the context of CVD prevention and treatment.

Effective pest management approaches can mitigate honey bee (Apis mellifera)colony winter loss across a range of weather conditions in small-scale, stationary apiaries.

Managed honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) colonies in North America and Europe have experienced high losses in recent years, which have been linked to weather conditions, lack of quality forage, and high parasite loads, particularly the obligate brood parasite, Varroa destructor. These factors may interact at various scales to have compounding effects on honey bee health, but few studies have been able to simultaneously investigate the effects of weather conditions, landscape factors, and management of parasites. We analyzed a dataset of 3,210 survey responses from beekeepers in Pennsylvania from 2017 to 2022 and combined these with remotely sensed weather variables and novel datasets about seasonal forage availability into a Random Forest model to investigate drivers of winter loss. We found that beekeepers who used treatment against Varroa had higher colony survival than those who did not treat. Moreover, beekeepers who used multiple types of Varroa treatment had higher colony survival rates than those who used 1 type of treatment. Our models found weather conditions are strongly associated with survival, but multiple-treatment type colonies had higher survival across a broader range of climate conditions. These findings suggest that the integrated pest management approach of combining treatment types can potentially buffer managed honey bee colonies from adverse weather conditions.

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder: An Integrated Study of the Pathophysiology, Neural Mechanisms, and Therapeutic Strategies

ObjectiveThe study aims to investigate Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD) through a interdisciplinary lens, integrating insights from neuroscience, dentistry, and psychology to dissect its complex pathophysiology and neural mechanisms. It focuses on exploring the neurobiological underpinnings of TMJD, emphasizing the role of pain perception, modulation, and the impact of neurophysiological changes on the disorder. DesignThis is a comprehensive narrative review of the literature. ResultsResearch findings pinpoint altered pain perception and modulation processes as central neural mechanisms contributing to TMJD, highlighting the importance of personalized treatment approaches due to the disorder's complexity and patient variability. The study recognizes advances in neuroscience offering new treatment avenues, such as neuromodulation and biofeedback, which provide non-invasive and personalized options. However, it also addresses the challenges in TMJD research, such as the multifaceted nature of the disorder and the need for more comprehensive, interdisciplinary strategies in research and clinical practice. ConclusionsTMJD is a multifaceted disorder requiring an interdisciplinary approach for effective management. The study stresses the crucial role of neuroscience in understanding and treating TMJD, facilitating the development of innovative treatment strategies. It emphasizes the need for further research, advocating an integrated approach that combines neuroscience, dentistry, and psychology to address TMJD's complexities comprehensively and improve patient care, thereby enhancing the quality of life for affected individuals.

Food safety in consumer relations: the influence of personal values

Purpose: The aim of this article is to analyze the relationship between food safety and personal values in light of consumer behavior theory. Method: In this theoretical essay, this relationship is examined through a discussion on how consumers' subjective perceptions are influenced by their personal values in various contexts involving food safety. Findings: The debate addresses social, cultural, economic and environmental factors, considering that values are shaped through the interaction of these variables. By outlining their positioning strategies based on segments of values that are relevant to consumers, organizations are more likely to evoke favorable attitudes towards product acquisition. This includes considering external factors because they shape the formation of personal values and thus influence individuals' choices related to food and their perception of food safety. Originality: This work enriches the theory of personal values in the field of consumer behavior related to food safety by exploring the complex interplay between personal, cultural and market values. Considering personal values as a central element, the analysis presented provides insights for the development of more targeted marketing actions, effective public policies and food supply chain management approaches that meet consumers' expectations in terms of food safety.

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy-Associated Neurobehavioral Difficulties: Insights from Clinical Practice

Background: Emerging evidence underscores the high prevalence of neurobehavioral difficulties like ADHD, ASD and OCD, in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). The substantial impact of these complex behavioral challenges in addition to motor function decline on the well-being of affected individuals and their families is increasingly evident. However, a uniform approach for effective screening, assessment and management of the neurobehavioral symptoms remains elusive. Objective: We explored strategies used by healthcare professionals with clinical expertise in DMD to address neurobehavioral symptoms, in order to uncover diverse practices and to identify potential directions for clinical approaches in managing DMD neurobehavioral symptoms. Methods and results: Twenty-eight respondents from 16 different countries completed an online survey. Only 35% of the centers systematically screened for neurobehavioral difficulties in their DMD population. Predominant screening methods included history taking and clinical observation. Common neurobehavioral difficulties encompassed learning challenges, dependency from adults, anxiety, concentration difficulties, and social deficits. The participating centers frequently employed parental counseling and liaison with psychosocial healthcare professionals for psychosocial intervention. Conclusion: This study underscores the complex behavioral landscape in DMD, highlighting the need for validated screening, assessment and management strategies and collaborative efforts in implementing these. We advocate for international consensus recommendations for screening, assessment and management of neurobehavioral difficulties in DMD to enhance patient care and communication across healthcare settings.

The relative risk of immune checkpoint inhibitor pneumonitis in advanced non-small- cell lung cancer: Meta-analyses of controlled clinical trials.

Immune checkpoint inhibitor pneumonitis (CIP) is a prevalent form of immunotherapy-induced pulmonary toxicity, ranking among the leading causes of mortality associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Despite its significance, the risk stratification of CIP in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains uncertain. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis, comparing various factors such as histological types, treatment regimens, PD-L1 expression levels, and EGFR/ALK negativity in advanced NSCLC. Our investigation extends to evaluating the relative risk of developing CIP based on previous treatment history. This analysis aims to provide valuable insights for the identification of specific patient subgroups at higher risk, facilitating more effective risk management and precision therapy approaches. PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases were systematically searched up to February 16, 2023. We conducted a screening of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared ICI monotherapy or its combination with chemotherapy in advanced NSCLC. The trials were categorized based on histological type, treatment regimen, PD-L1 expression level, EGFR/ALK-negative status, and prior treatment history. Subsequently, the data were stratified into five subgroups, and the occurrences of all-grades (1-5) and high-grades (3-5) pneumonia events were extracted. Odds ratios (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) were then calculated for further analysis. Twenty-two RCTs, encompassing 13,725 patients with advanced NSCLC, were included in this analysis. Regardless of histology (OR = 2.47, 95% CI 1.41-4.33, P = 0.002; OR = 1.84, 95% CI 1.10-3.09, P = 0.02), treatment regimen (OR = 3.27, 95% CI 2.00-5.35, P < 0.00001; OR = 2.91, 95% CI 1.98-4.27, P < 0.00001), PD-L1 expression level (OR = 5.11, 95% CI 2.58-10.12, P < 0.00001; OR = 5.15, 95% CI 2.48-10.70, P < 0.0001), negative EGFR/ALK expression (OR = 4.32, 95% CI 2.22-8.41, P < 0.0001; OR = 3.6, 95% CI 1.56-8.28, P = 0.003), whether there is a history of treatment (OR = 3.27, 95% CI 2.00-5.35, P < 0.00001; OR = 2.74, 95% CI 1.75-4.29, P < 0.0001), ICI use was associated with a higher risk of all-grade (1-5) and high-grade (3-5) pneumonia compared to chemotherapy. Subgroup analysis revealed that the squamous group, the ICI vs. combination chemotherapy (CT) group, the PD-L1 > 50% group, and the previously untreated group had a higher risk of developing all-grade and grade 3-5 CIP (P < 0.05). In advanced NSCLC, ICI treatment was linked to an elevated risk of pneumonitis across all grades (1-5) as well as high-grade occurrences (3-5) compared to chemotherapy. Notably, individuals with squamous histology and high PD-L1 expression, along with those lacking a history of prior treatment, demonstrated a heightened susceptibility to developing immune-related pneumonitis of all grades (1-5) and high grades (3-5). These observations provide valuable insights for clinicians seeking to enhance the management of pulmonary toxicity associated with immunotherapy.

Comparative resistance of wheat genotypes to aphid infestation under varied sowing dates

Aphid infestations pose a significant threat to wheat production worldwide, leading to substantial yield losses. Understanding the variation in wheat genotype response to aphids’ infestation across different sowing dates is crucial for effective insect pest management approaches. In this study, we investigated the relative resistance of various wheat genotypes to aphid infestations under varying sowing dates over multiple growing seasons 2019–20 and 2020–21 at Cereal Crops Research Institute, Pirsabak, Nowshera, Pakistan. The objectives were to assess the impact of sowing date on aphid infestations and to identify wheat genotypes that exhibit consistent resistance to aphids. The results revealed significant variations in aphid infestations across different sowing dates, with early-sown (October) wheat genotypes; Khaista-17 and PR-123 having 5.53 and 5.22 aphids/tiller, respectively, experiencing higher aphid pressure among all sowing dates, while lower aphid infestation 1.91 and 2.30 aphids/tiller observed on PR-125 and PR-127 respectively in late-sown (January). In contrast, Khaista-17 and PR-126 sown in October attained higher yield (4041 and 3639 kg ha−1), while the same genotypes attained 448 and 441 kg ha−1 respectively, that late-sown at January 2019–20. Similarly, these genotypes, Khaista-17 and PR-131 with 4.44 and 4.31 aphids/tiller not only sustained lower aphid populations but also demonstrated minimal yield loss due to aphid damage during 2020–21. This research highlights the importance of considering sowing date as a critical factor in wheat-aphid interactions. Furthermore, this study offers valuable insights for pest management strategies aimed at mitigating aphid-related yield losses and improve overall wheat production sustainability.

Photodynamic-Controllable microneedle composite with Antibacterial, Antioxidant, and angiogenic effects to expedite infected diabetic wound healing

Effective treatment of infected diabetic wound (IDW) requires delivering therapeutic agents to both wound surface and deep layers, as well as improving the wound microenvironment through antibacterial actions, clearing excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS), and promoting vascular regeneration. Here, we present a novel inorganic nanosheet called MnO2/PDA@Cu, consisting of manganese dioxide (MnO2) with copper (Cu) ions loaded on its surface through in-situ polymerization, using polydopamine (PDA) as an intermediate. We then encapsulated the MnO2/PDA@Cu nanosheet into a methacrylated hyaluronic acid (HA) soluble microneedle patch, creating a photodynamic-controllable multifunctional MnO2/PDA@Cu-HA microneedle. We used this microneedle to treat IDWs in a rat full-thickness skin defect model. Results demonstrated that the MnO2/PDA@Cu-HA microneedle effectively delivered therapeutic agents to both wound surface and deep layers, where PDA's photodynamic therapy swiftly combated bacteria under 808 nm near-infrared irradiation. Simultaneously, MnO2 acted as a nanoenzyme, mitigating ROS levels and providing oxygen for wound healing. In addition, the photothermal effect of PDA further facilitated the release of Cu, promoting vascularization. The MnO2/PDA@Cu-HA microneedle significantly accelerated wound closure, re-epithelialization, and collagen deposition, enhancing IDW healing. In conclusion, our synthesized MnO2/PDA@Cu-HA microneedle represents a photodynamic-controllable multifunctional platform for IDW treatment, offering a promising approach for effective wound management.

Diallyl Trisulfide Acts as a Soil Disinfestation Against the Ilyonectria destructans through Inducing the Burst of Reactive Oxygen Species.

Soil-borne diseases represent an impediment to the sustainable development of agriculture. A soil-borne disease caused by Ilyonectria destructans severely impacts Panax species, and soil disinfestation has proven to be an effective management approach. Here, diallyl trisulfide (DATS), derived from garlic, exhibited pronounced inhibitory effects on the growth of I. destructans in vitro tests and contributed to the alleviation of soil-borne diseases in the field. A comprehensive analysis demonstrated that DATS inhibits the growth of I. destructans by activating detoxifying enzymes, such as GSTs, disrupting the equilibrium of redox reactions. A series of antioxidant amino acids were suppressed by DATS. Particularly noteworthy is the substantial depletion of glutathione by DATS, resulting in the accumulation of ROS, ultimately culminating in the inhibition of I. destructans growth. Briefly, DATS could effectively suppress soil-borne diseases by inhibiting pathogen growth through the activation of ROS, and it holds promise as a potential environmentally friendly soil disinfestation.

Strategic Priorities for the Development of Food Security of the State Taking into Account Hybrid Threats and Challenges

Relevance. Food security is one of the most urgent and complex problems of the modern world. In the context of globalization, climate change, economic fluctuations and other factors, ensuring the stability and reliability of food security is becoming a complex task that requires effective strategies.The purpose is to analyze and evaluate strategic priorities in the field of food security, taking into account complex hybrid threats and challenges. Objectives: identification of strategic alternatives; development of a mathematical model with fuzzy variables and rules for evaluating strategic alternatives; analysis of evaluation results to identify the most effective strategic directions.Methodology. The research methodology included the use of fuzzy logic methods to build a mathematical model for evaluating strategic alternatives.Results. As a result of the study, it was revealed that the strategic alternative S1 received the highest rating, emphasizing its key importance for the sustainability of the food system. Alternatives S7, S9, S4 and S3 also have high ratings, which makes them potentially effective for ensuring food security. Alternatives S10, S8, S2, S6 and S5 are less of a priority, but are important for reducing various risks associated with food security, such as lack of food and vulnerability of supplies.Conclusions. The results of the study allowed us to conclude that the use of the fuzzy logic tool provides an opportunity to conduct a deeper and more comprehensive analysis of complex factors affecting food security. This approach allows us to take into account the uncertainty and multidimensionality of data related to the food system and introduce more accurate modeling of this dynamic area. Such a method enriches the decision-making process in the field of food security, contributing to the development of more effective strategic decisions and management approaches that take into account a variety of factors and their interaction. This contributes to improving the quality of research and helps to form more rational and informed strategies that contribute to ensuring the stability and reliability of food security.

Improving precision management of anxiety disorders: a Mendelian randomization study targeting specific gut microbiota and associated metabolites.

There is growing evidence of associations between the gut microbiota and anxiety disorders, where changes in gut microbiotas may affect brain function and behavior via the microbiota-gut-brain axis. However, population-level studies offering a higher level of evidence for causality are lacking. Our aim was to investigate the specific gut microbiota and associated metabolites that are closely related to anxiety disorders to provide mechanistic insights and novel management perspectives for anxiety disorders. This study used summary-level data from publicly available Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) for 119 bacterial genera and the phenotype "All anxiety disorders" to reveal the causal effects of gut microbiota on anxiety disorders and identify specific bacterial genera associated with anxiety disorders. A two-sample, bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) design was deployed, followed by comprehensive sensitivity analyses to validate the robustness of results. We further conducted multivariable MR (MVMR) analysis to investigate the potential impact of neurotransmitter-associated metabolites, bacteria-associated dietary patterns, drug use or alcohol consumption, and lifestyle factors such as smoking and physical activity on the observed associations. Bidirectional MR analysis identified three bacterial genera causally related to anxiety disorders: the genus Eubacterium nodatum group and genus Ruminococcaceae UCG011 were protective, while the genus Ruminococcaceae UCG011 was associated with an increased risk of anxiety disorders. Further MVMR suggested that a metabolite-dependent mechanism, primarily driven by tryptophan, tyrosine, phenylalanine, glycine and cortisol, which is consistent with previous research findings, probably played a significant role in mediating the effects of these bacterial genera to anxiety disorders. Furthermore, modifying dietary pattern such as salt, sugar and processed meat intake, and adjusting smoking state and physical activity levels, appears to be the effective approaches for targeting specific gut microbiota to manage anxiety disorders. Our findings offer potential avenues for developing precise and effective management approaches for anxiety disorders by targeting specific gut microbiota and associated metabolites.