Levels Of Aggression Research Articles

In vivo evaluation of an adaptive resuscitation controller using whole blood and crystalloid infusates for hemorrhagic shock

IntroductionHemorrhage remains the leading cause of preventable death on the battlefield. The most effective means to increase survivability is early hemorrhage control and fluid resuscitation. Unfortunately, fluid resuscitation requires constant adjustments to ensure casualty is properly managed, which is often not feasible in the pre-hospital setting. In this study, we showed how an adaptive closed-loop controller for hemorrhage resuscitation can be used to automate hemodynamic management using a swine hemorrhagic shock injury model.MethodsThe adaptive resuscitation controller (ARC) was previously developed to track pressure–volume responsiveness in real time and adjust its infusion rate to reach the target mean arterial pressure (MAP). Swine while maintained under a surgical plane of anesthesia and analgesia underwent a splenectomy, followed by two hemorrhage and resuscitation events. For the first resuscitation event, hemorrhage was induced to reduce the MAP to 35 mmHg until arterial lactate reached 4 mmol/L. The ARC system then infused whole blood (WB) to reach the target MAP and maintained the subject using crystalloids for 120 min. For the second resuscitation event, the subjects were hemorrhaged again but resuscitated using only crystalloid infusion to reach the target MAP and 120-min maintenance.ResultsThe ARC was effective at WB resuscitation, reaching the target MAP in 2.0 ± 1.0 min. The median performance error was 1.1% ± 4.6%, and target overshoot was 14.4% ± 7.0% of the target MAP. The ARC maintained all animals throughout the 120 min maintenance period. For the second crystalloid-based resuscitation, ARC required a longer time to reach the target MAP, at an average rise time of 4.3 ± 4.0 min. However, target overshoot was reduced to 8.4% ± 7.3% of the target MAP. Much higher flow rates were required to maintain the target MAP during the second resuscitation event than during the first resuscitation event.DiscussionThe ARC was able to rapidly reach and maintain the target MAP effectively. However, this sometimes required large volumes of fluid as the ARC’s only goal was to reach the target MAP. Further clinical insight is needed regarding the preferred aggression level to achieve the target MAP. In conclusion, the ARC was successful in its programmed objective of reaching and maintaining the target MAP for extended periods of time in vivo, a critical next step toward improving hemorrhage treatment in the pre-hospital environment.

The Impact of Media Violence, Narcissism and Sex on Reactive and Proactive Aggression in Adolescents: A One-Year Follow-Up Study.

While the impact of violent media on aggression is well established, less is known about how individual differences influence this relationship over time. This longitudinal study addresses that gap by examining whether narcissism and sex moderated the effect of violent media consumption and reactive and proactive aggression one year later. A sample of 2,284 adolescents from Cyprus (Mage = 16, SDage = 0.89, 49.5% female) participated in this study. Hierarchical regressions, controlling for baseline levels of aggression and age, revealed distinct patterns: violent media and sex predicted reactive aggression, but narcissism did not. In contrast, violent media, sex, and narcissism all predicted proactive aggression. Notably, sex moderated the link between violent media and reactive aggression, with females showing a steeper increase than males. Both sex and narcissism moderated the violent media-proactive aggression association, with males being affected regardless of narcissism, while only highly narcissistic females showed an increase in proactive aggression. These findings show the importance of considering individual differences, such as sex and narcissism, to better understand how violent media influences different functions of aggression.

Children’s literacy skills development through non-formal education: a scoping review

The rapid advancement of technology in recent years has brought about profound changes in every aspect of our lives. Such technological advancement has impacted children in a digital age where technology permeates every facet of their existence, from education to entertainment and communication to socialization. The younger generations today appear deficient in motor, emotional, and social abilities. They appear to exhibit higher levels of aggression, anxiety, dependency, and reduced creativity. Integrating non-formal education into children’s learning aims to maximize enjoyment and engagement by capturing children’s interest and inspiring them to continue learning. Thus, non-formal education encompasses a spectrum of curricular activities in the natural environment outside of the school area. This scoping review aims to identify the focus skills development among primary school learners and how non-formal educational activities could boost learners’ learning ability. Four databases, including Scopus, web of science (WoS), Education Resources Information Center (ERIC), and ScienceDirect, were used in this research, which found 36 articles for eligibility. Only 15 articles are eligible for analysis and reference after the exclusion and inclusion process for data collection. The findings show that non-formal education offers learners the opportunity to explore a multitude of interests beyond the structured confines of the classroom.

Examining the association between trenbolone, psychological distress, and aggression among males who use anabolic-androgenic steroids

Introduction: The link between anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) use and psychosocial effects such as aggression and violence is contentious. Few studies differentiate between types of AAS. This study focuses on trenbolone to assess its psychological risks and effects on aggression compared to other AAS. We hypothesised that there would be a positive relationship between trenbolone dosage and both psychological distress and aggression among people who use AAS. Methods: Using purposive and snowball sampling of people using AAS, we conducted an online survey to investigate the relationship between trenbolone use and other AAS use. Participants completed sections on demographics, trenbolone and other illicit drug use, the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, and the Buss and Perry Aggression Questionnaire. Data were analysed using multinominal and multivariable regression. Results: The study included 282 males using AAS. Over 33% (n=93) reported currently using trenbolone, with 55.3% (n=156) of participants reporting having used trenbolone in the past, and 11.7% (n=33) reporting having never used trenbolone. Those who had never used trenbolone were not significantly different on age, height, weight, and BMI compared to those who had. After controlling for age and BMI, dose of trenbolone was significantly (p=0.045) associated with higher levels of verbal aggression. Conclusion: The study highlights trenbolone's association with increased verbal aggression among males using AAS, particularly at higher doses. Further research should continue to differentiate between AAS types and the accompanying health harms.

Tax Aggressiveness and Earnings Management: Evidence from Listed Commercial Banks in Nigeria

This study examined the extents to which tax aggressiveness affects earnings management of listed commercial banks in Nigeria. Ex-post facto research design and panel data was obtained for twelve (12) listed commercial banks from 2014-2023. Tax aggressiveness was measured using cash effective rate while two earnings management models were employed namely, Chang and Jones models. Data collected were analyzed through descriptive, post-estimation and inferential statistical techniques. The fixed and random effects regression models showed that tax aggressiveness significantly affects earnings management models. In view of the findings, it recommends the needs for management of listed commercial banks to dampen earnings management practices since it is negatively influenced by the level of tax aggressiveness. Furthermore, management of publicly listed commercial banks needs to engage in aggressive tax planning to enhance their performance; however such level of tax aggressive planning should be kept minimal as possible to further discourage tax fraud and evasion.

PEOPLE'S AGGRESSIVE REACTIONS WHEN THEY BECOME FRUSTRATED BECAUSE OF VIDEO GAMES

Video games exist in a wide variety of formats and subcategories, and they can affect people differently. Although many researchers have focused on how players' aggression levels are affected by the video game experience, very few researchers have studied what kind of aggressive reactions are given by gamers. The People-Game- model explains how video game playing affects well-being, drawing attention to key factors such as affected player characteristics, game mechanics, and gaming experience. This study aims to identify the aggressiveness level and aggressive reaction categories, and what people do when they become frustrated because of games. To achieve this goal, qualitative methodology used to gather information. The electronic survey applied in the field research with open ended short questions. Narratives used in aggressive reaction categorization. While devices, weekly playing hours, game categories, competition, and violence levels were asked with closed-ended questions, the type of aggressive reactions was asked with one open-ended short question. 49% of the 136 people who participated in the research declared that they reacted aggressively while playing video games. It was determined that these reactions were most intense in the categories of verbal, followed by physical, third by anger and finally hostility.

Exploring evolutionary psychology perspectives on Sex differences in aggression

This research aims to extend the understanding of sex differences in aggression by applying the lens of Life History Theory to evaluate the effects of age, muscle, occupation, and other variables on aggression tactics. The study involves a resource competition game with 200 participants of both sexes, who can use direct or indirect aggression strategies. A post-game survey will assess the relationship between these variables and the differences in aggression levels. The authors predict that even when taking into account other factors affecting aggression, men will prefer direct aggression, and women will prefer indirect aggression. In conclusion, this work is intended to expand current knowledge of sex differences in aggression and contribute to the field of evolutionary psychology.

Football coach's strategy in preventing aggressive behavior in adolescents

This study aims to review the types of strategies that football coaches employ to prevent aggressive behavior in adolescents. Using the systematic literature review, data were obtained from articles searched through Google Scholar. The search focused on those published in Scopus-indexed journals published between 2019 and 2024. The keywords involved "Strategy And Soccer Coaches And Prevention And Aggressive Behavior And Teenagers". The search generated 15,400 articles as initial results. To be included in the review, inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied. The articles were screened again using these criteria, and 19 articles that fit the theme and met the inclusion requirements were yielded. The process of the article selection in this study followed the PRISMA guidelines. The main findings of this study emphasized several factors that play a key role in creating a supportive environment for young athletes. The first factor was emotional education. Teaching athletes to recognize and manage their emotions helped football coaches reduce athletes’ aggressive reactions, especially during the pressure of competition. In addition, open and consistent communication between soccer coaches and athletes was reported to reinforce positive interpersonal relationships, which in turn lowered levels of aggressiveness on the field. Finally, building a team culture that emphasizes the values of cooperation and mutual respect has also been proven effective in preventing aggressive behavior. Therefore, soccer coaches have a great responsibility not only to develop athletes' technical skills but also to shape their character through an integrative and sustainable approach.

The Effect of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy-Based Psychoeducation on Medication Adherence and Aggression in Individuals Diagnosed With Schizophrenia: An Experimental Study.

It is known that treatment compliance is low and aggression is higher in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia compared to the normal population. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is known to reduce relapse and hospitalisation and increase well-being in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia. However, there are almost no studies on increasing treatment compliance and decreasing aggression. This study was conducted to determine how CBT-based psychoeducation affects medication adherence and aggression in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia. The study was conducted as a quasi-experimental model with the pre-test-post-test control group with 73 schizophrenic patients (33 experimental, 40 control) between June 2022 and July 2023. Data were collected using the Descriptive Characteristics Form, Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS) and Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire (BPSQ). The schizophrenic patients in the experimental group were given eight sessions of CBT-based psychoeducation, while the schizophrenic patients in the control group were not given any training. The data were analysed using mean, standard deviation, chi-squared test, dependent samples t-test and independent samples t-test. It was determined that the aggression level of the experimental group before the training was 80.51 ± 19.38, and after the CBT-based psychoeducation, it was 73.12 ± 15.28. It was determined that the aggression level of the control group before the training was 84.22 ± 12.13, and after the post-test, it was 85.60 ± 11.72. It was determined that the medication adherence level of the experimental group before the training was 2.75 ± 1.25, and after the CBT-based psychoeducation, it was 3.57 ± 0.67. It was determined that the medication adherence level of the control group before the training was 2.05 ± 1.33, and after the post-test, it was 2.17 ± 1.36. The psychoeducation based on CBT caused a statistically significant difference (p = 0.001) in medication adherence and aggression levels in the experimental group. It was determined that CBT applied to individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia was effective on increasing their medication adherence and reducing their aggression. It is recommended for psychiatric nurses to include CBT-based psychoeducation in their nursing practices in order to increase medication adherence and reduce aggression in individuals with schizophrenia. The findings emphasise that CBT-based psychoeducation increases treatment adherence and significantly decreases the level of aggression in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia. Psychiatric nurses should include CBT-based psychoeducation in their treatments.

Bullying Prevention at Schools in Ukraine

The purpose of the article is to inform high school students and teachers about the problem of preventing bullying and implementing anti-bullying measures at schools in Ukraine. Methodology. Theoretical research methods were used in the article: systematization; comparison of issues related to bullying prevention; comparison of different author’ views regarding the implementation of anti-bullying measures; and analysis and generalization of scientific, educational, methodological, psychological, and pedagogical resources with the aim of systematizing approaches to bullying prevention. Results. In order to deepen high school students’ knowledge of anti-bullying skills, we developed and offered two lessons for students. They are “Normative and legal documents on the prevention of bullying and responsibility for it”, “Foreign experience in preventing bullying”, as well as two workshops for teachers, they are “Guidance to teachers on the implementation of anti-bullying measures in Ukraine”, “Tips for teachers on bullying prevention according to the national programs”‎. We believe they will contribute to bullying prevention in Ukraine. Conclusions. Conclusions regarding the effective bullying prevention in Ukrainian schools indicate the need for comprehensive, systematic work. The most effective are programs that cover all aspects of school life from creating a friendly and supportive environment to raising awareness among students, teachers, and parents about the bullying problem. It is important to involve students in the process of bullying prevention through their participation, communication, and creation of student councils that help in conflict resolution. Building interaction and empathy skills among students helps to reduce the level of aggression and bullying. Systematic training for teachers about bullying prevention, as well as the inclusion of bullying topics in school programs, contribute to the development of a safe educational environment in schools. In order to prevent bullying effectively, it is important that students collaborate actively with teachers, parents, and local communities, ensuring that bullying is prevented and countered both inside and outside schools.

Aggression shapes the gut microbiome; a study in rats.

The gut-brain axis is regarded as a bidirectional communication system that integrates signals from the gut microbiome into behavioral aspects and vice versa. The aim of the present study was to investigate the gut microbiome-behavior interaction in relation to aggression. For that, male rats from a group-housed colony were individually housed with a female to become territorial. Next, a coping strategy was assigned to them, by evaluating their aggression levels against an intruder, during the Resident-Intruder test (RI). To investigate if their microbiome would change as a consequence of the developed coping strategy, fecal samples were collected before and after the RI test. We found that the relative abundances of Ruminococcaceae UCG-5 and Gram-negative bacterium cTPY-13 in rats sampled before the RI test were negatively correlated with the aggression that was demonstrated during the RI test. After the RI test, several bacterial taxa could be assigned to each coping strategy, with Clostridium sensu stricto 1 being strongly associated with less aggressive rats and higher abundances of Bifidobacterium. Furthermore, the family of Lachnospiraceae was not only associated with more aggressive rats, but functional prediction analysis found it to be the main contributor of betaine reductase; an enzyme catalyzing betaine production that was indicative of aggressive rats. This amino acid derivative, which has been connected with higher energy and testosterone levels, could potentially explain the connection of Lachnospiraceae with demonstrated aggression. Overall, our data revealed that the gut bacterial communities are responsive to the imposed social challenge of building and defending territoriality in co-habitation with a female. At the same time, predisposing microbiome characteristics may have predictive value for the development of a coping strategy.

Effects of Immersive Virtual Therapy as a Method Supporting the Psychological and Physical Well-Being of Women with a Breast Cancer Diagnosis: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) in the mental state and quality of sleep improvement and physical activity (PA) increase of patients diagnosed with breast cancer (BC). A total of 33 subjects divided into experimental (EG, n = 17) and control (CG, n = 16) groups were assessed with the Mental Adjustment to Cancer Scale (Mini-MAC), International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and the Modified Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS-M) at four time points. The experimental intervention consisted of eight VR TierOne sessions. Significant differences favoring the EG were identified in the group x time interactions for the main outcomes: destructive style of coping with the disease (p < 0.001), walking (p = 0.04), moderate (p < 0.001) and overall activity (p = 0.004), quality of sleep (p < 0.001), depressive symptoms (p < 0.001), anxiety levels (p < 0.001), aggression levels (p = 0.002), and overall HADS (p < 0.001). Trends, favoring the EG, in the constructive style of coping, sedentary behavior and intensive PA, and sleep efficiency and sleeping time were also found. A VR intervention improves general well-being in terms of the measured parameters.

Genetic fingerprinting distinguishes pathogenic variability of asiatic citrus canker pathogen, Xanthomonas citri pv. citri type A

Citrus canker, caused by Xanthomonas citri pv. citri (Xcc), is one of the most widespread citrus disease. In this study, 54 isolates of Xcc were obtained from citrus canker-infected leaves, twigs and fruit samples collected from various citrus-growing regions in Bangladesh. These isolates were analysed through pathogenicity tests and PCR amplification. The results revealed varying levels of aggressiveness among the isolates, ranging from weak to moderate and aggressive. No correlation was found between the host plants and their geographical locations. The genetic analysis of Xanthomonas isolates from around the world revealed 100 % similarity. All the Xanthomonas isolates were grouped into 2 major clusters. DNA fingerprinting showed high genetic variability, with no correlation between hosts, geographic locations or aggressiveness levels. This information on the population diversity of the citrus canker pathogen, Xanthomonas citri pv. citri (Xcc), will be valuable for developing sustainable management strategies for citrus cankers in Bangladesh and the broader Indian sub-continent region.

Social and pedagogical assistance to adolescents with intellectual disabilities

Importance. One of the pressing problems of correctional psychological and pedagogical assistance to children with intellectual developmental disabilities is the possibility of early initiation of correction and the choice of effective correctional and developmental methods for the purpose of their maximum socialization. Purpose of the study: orrectional and developmental activities introduction into adaptive physical education classes to increase the social adaptation level of adolescents 14–15 years old with mild mental disability.Materials and Methods. 20 teenagers aged 14–15 years with mild mental disability, studying in a correctional school of type VIII, took part in the pedagogical experiment. Two groups are formed: a control group, studying according to a standard program for people with disabilities, and an experimental group, in which, as part of pedagogical control, 30 correctional and developmental classes, 30 minutes each, are conducted 1–2 times a week, as part of adaptive physical education classes. The tools for assessing the effectiveness of the correctional classes are: determination of the group cohesion index using K.E. Sishor’s psychometric test, determining the aggressiveness level using Bass–Darki’s questionnaire, assessing communication skills using B.A. Fedorishin’s assessment.Results and Discussion. Corrective and developmental activities carried out during adaptive physical education classes had a positive impact on the communication abilities development in adolescents aged 14–15 years with mild mental disability. After conducting a pedagogical experiment, adolescents in the experimental group significantly improved the average diagnostic test scores (p ˂ 0.05) on the following tests: K.E. Sishor’s psychometric test, B.A. Fedorishin’s communicative inclinations assessment, Bass–Darki’s questionnaire.Conclusion. The introduction of developed correctional and educational activities into the adaptive physical education classes program made it possible to increase the social adaptation level of adolescents 14–15 years old with mild mental disability.

Climate extreme triggers cold-water community rescue

Context Mountain-top associated instream fauna with restricted ranges and limited dispersal capability are especially vulnerable to extinction under global warming and climate extremes. Aims Rescue and housing of multiple cold-water taxa on short timelines in reaction to extreme drought. Methods We undertook multi-species rescue (fishes: Gadopsis marmorata, n = 50; Galaxias olidus, n = 150; and a crayfish Euastacus sulcatus, n = 50) from the headwaters of the Condamine–Balonne catchment, temporarily holding animals in small (200 L) and large (1000 L) aquaria in single- and mixed-species contexts, at below 23°C. Key results Galaxias olidus was successfully kept in one of the small aquaria, but did not survive in mixed-species aquaria, partly being due to predation by other species. Euastacus sulcatus showed decreased survivorship at moulting (predation). Large Gadopsis marmorata (&gt;100-mm total length, TL) was aggressive, whereas maintaining smaller individuals and using large aquaria served to dampen overall aggression levels. Conclusions Holding mixed taxa following field rescues requires attention to detail, including developmental-stage combinations within and across species, enclosure volume and availability of structure. Implications The simultaneous rescue of multiple co-occurring endemic taxa represents a promising aspect of research and adaptive management in the era of global climate change.

The interplay between popularity and aggression in adolescence: Focusing the lens on sense of power and prestige.

There is accumulating longitudinal evidence that popularity predicts relative increases in adolescents' aggression. Yet, we know very little about the conditions that motivate popular youth to engage in coercive behaviors. In this study, we evaluated whether popular adolescents would show elevated levels of aggression over time when they felt powerless and had low prestige (respect and admiration) among their peers. In addition, we examined whether popular youth would gain a greater sense of power and prestige over time via aggressive means. Participants were 419 fifth (MagetT1 = 10.91 years, SD = 0.42) and eighth graders (MagetT1 = 13.95 years, SD = 0.43) who participated twice over a 1-year interval. Popularity was measured at Time 1, while the other central constructs, such as direct forms of aggression, sense of power and prestige, were assessed at Times 1 and 2. Our findings demonstrate that aggression might be a threat-triggered response by popular youth to protect their ego and/or resolve the discrepancy between their position in the hierarchy and what that role should afford them. Moreover, popular youth feel the greatest sense of power over time when they abstain from resorting to aggressive means. Implications and directions for future research are discussed.

Serotonin suppresses intraspecific aggression in an agrobiont spider, Pardosa pseudoannulata, without affecting predation on insects.

Spiders are an abundant group of natural enemies preying on insect pests in agroecosystem. But their potential in biological control has not been fully realized due to difficult mass production. One hindrance is the intense intraspecific aggression in spiders. Neurotransmitters such as serotonin play important roles in modulating aggression. Here, we investigated the regulatory function of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine [5-HT]) signaling in the intraspecific aggression in a wandering spider Pardosa pseudoannulata (Araneae, Lycosidae). The aggression was quantified with 5 escalated aggression behaviors as approach, chasing, lunging, boxing, and biting. Virgin (VG) females exhibited higher aggression levels but less 5-HT content than post-reproductive (PR) females. Systemic increase of 5-HT via 5-HT injection decreased aggression, while decrease of 5-HT via RNA interference (RNAi) of the tryptophan hydroxylase gene, increased aggression. The involvement of the four 5-HT receptors were determined via individual or combined RNAi. Co-RNAi of the three 5-HT1 genes increased overall aggression with decreased incidents of approach, chasing, lunging, and increased biting. RNAi of 5-HT1B decreased approach and increased biting, whereas RNAi of 5-HT1A or 5-HT1C did not affect aggression. RNAi of 5-HT7 decreased approach only. Therefore, different 5-HT receptor types contribute to different aspects of the inhibitory effects of 5-HT on aggression and provide several pharmacological targets for manipulating spider aggression. 5-HT injection did not affect spiders' predation on their insect prey, the brown planthopper Nilaparvata lugens. The findings reveal 1 neuronal mechanism regulating intraspecific aggression in spiders and provide an insight in developing aggression suppression strategies for spider mass rearing.

Quantification of the fungal pathogen Didymella segeticola in Camellia sinensis using a DNA-based qRT-PCR assay.

The fungal pathogen Didymella segeticola causes leaf spot and leaf blight on tea plant (Camellia sinensis), leading to production losses and affecting tea quality and flavor. Accurate detection and quantification of D. segeticola growth in tea plant leaves are crucial for diagnosing disease severity or evaluating host resistance. In this study, we monitored disease progression and D. segeticola development in tea plant leaves inoculated with a GFP-expressing strain. By contrast, a DNA-based qRT-PCR analysis was employed for a more convenient and maneuverable detection of D. segeticola growth in tea leaves. This method was based on the comparison of D. segeticola-specific DNA encoding a Cys2His2-zinc-finger protein (NCBI accession number: OR987684) in relation to tea plant Cs18S rDNA1. Unlike ITS and TUB2 sequences, this specific DNA was only amplified in D. segeticola isolates, not in other tea plant pathogens. This assay is also applicable for detecting D. segeticola during interactions with various tea cultivars. Among the five cultivars tested, 'Zhongcha102' (ZC102) and 'Fuding-dabaicha' (FDDB) were more susceptible to D. segeticola compared with 'Longjing43' (LJ43), 'Zhongcha108' (ZC108), and 'Zhongcha302' (ZC302). Different D. segeticola isolates also exhibited varying levels of aggressiveness towards LJ43. In conclusion, the DNA-based qRT-PCR analysis is highly sensitive, convenient, and effective method for quantifying D. segeticola growth in tea plant. This technique can be used to diagnose the severity of tea leaf spot and blight or to evaluate tea plant resistance to this pathogen.

Group Social Dynamics in a Seminatural Setup Reflect the Adaptive Value of Aggression in Male Mice

BackgroundMaladaptive aggression in humans is associated with several psychiatric conditions and lacks effective treatment. Nevertheless, tightly regulated aggression is essential for survival throughout the animal kingdom. Studying how social dominance hierarchies regulate aggression and access to resources in an enriched environment (EE) can narrow the translational gap between aggression in animal models and normal and pathological human behavior. MethodsThe social box is a seminatural setup for automatic and prolonged monitoring of mouse group dynamics. We utilized the social box to decipher tradeoffs between aggression, social avoidance, resource allocation, and dominance in 2 mouse models of increased aggression: 1) a model of early exposure to an EE and 2) a model of oxytocin receptor deficiency (OxtR−/−). While an EE increases aggression as an adaptive response to external stimuli, hyperaggression in OxtR−/− mice is accompanied by marked abnormalities in social behavior. ResultsEE groups exhibited significant social avoidance, and an increased proportion of their encounters developed into aggressive interactions, resulting in lower levels of exploratory activity and overall aggression. The hierarchy in EE groups was more stable than in control groups, and dominance was correlated with access to resources. In OxtR−/− groups, mice engaged in excessive social encounters and aggressive chasing, accompanied by increased overall activity. In OxtR−/− groups, dominance hierarchies existed but were not correlated with access to resources. ConclusionsMeasuring aggression and social dominance hierarchies in a seminatural setup reveals the adaptive value of aggression in EE and OxtR−/− mice, respectively. This approach can enhance translational research on pathological aggression.

Enhancing online safety: The impact of social media violent content and violence among teens in Illinois

The ongoing prevalence and increasing rate of violence in the United States, particularly among teenagers, is a major concern for many families. Numerous incidents of gun-related violence involving teens have been reported. Concurrently, there has been a significant rise in social media usage among teenagers, particularly on platforms like TikTok, where violent content is often consumed. This paper aims to explore the relationship between the consumption of violent media content among teens and the prevalence of aggressive behaviours and violence which might include gun violence, drawing on the social learning theory. To conduct this research, an experiment will be carried out in a laboratory setting with 50 participants who are freshmen at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. These participants will be exposed to various forms of violent content to assess their levels of aggressiveness and attitudes using the Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire (BPAQ) following the exposure. It is anticipated that the participants' aggression levels on the BPAQ will be high, thereby supporting the proposed correlations. Consequently, it is imperative to consider utilizing AI technology to enhance algorithms and recommendation systems that can help mitigate the dissemination of gun-related and violent content to teenagers.