Group Size Research Articles

Histological assessment of the effect of ginger on the healing of chemically-induced aphthous ulceration in rabbits

Background: An aphthous ulcer is a painful and recurrent oral mucosal inflammation that is retractable to treatments and resistant to healing. Conventional treatments include a variety of antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic therapies, yet their efficacy remains inconsistent. Aim: The present study was conducted in order to evaluate the effects of ginger powder on the healing of chemically-induced aphthous ulcers in rabbits. Methodology: Twelve healthy rabbits were divided into control and ginger-treatment groups. Aphthous ulcers were induced in both groups. The treatment group received ginger powder topically in the socket every 24 h, for 7 days. Subsequently, all animals were sacrificed, and specimens were collected for macroscopic and histological examination. Results: Histological analysis of the ulcer sites on days 3 and 7 post-induction revealed that ginger-treated ulcers exhibited enhanced healing, as evidenced by increased collagen deposition, fibroblast proliferation, and re-epithelialization. Macroscopic observations also confirmed a faster regression of necrotic tissue and a reduced ulcer size in the ginger-treated group (as compared to the control group). Histological analysis has indicated significant differences in inflammation and blood vessel congestion between the two groups, particularly on day 7. Conclusion: The findings of this study reveal that locally applied ginger can enhance the healing in chemically-induced aphthous ulcers in rabbits, which may support its use in clinical practice.

Community climate commons for collective climate action

AbstractMitigating and adapting to climate change is a vital challenge that cannot rely solely on technology or macro policies but need also be tailored to local social and ecological contexts. As theory suggests, institutional designs that increase collective climate action could potentially speed up climate action in society. In this article we explore the concept of ‘community climate commons’ (CCCs) to foster interconnected and holistic approaches involving citizens and civil society in addressing climate change. Based on a systematic literature review, the aim is to further develop the concept of CCCs and to identify key features for the successful establishment of CCCs for the promotion of collective climate action. The results identify four key features for CCCs: (1) democratic organization with transformative leadership, (2) small group sizes with clear boundaries and existing rules‐in‐use for participation, (3) access to organizational structures, meeting places, social capital, collective identity, and social cohesion, and (4) external financial, political, and social support. In conclusion, CCCs have a real potential to foster a wider societal mobilization of collective climate action while simultaneously addressing other issues of concern in local communities.

Sex and Gender Considerations in Orthopaedic Research

Abstract JBJS convened a symposium to discuss the reporting of sex and gender in research studies as an imperative to improve research methods and results to benefit all patients. Barriers to improved reporting include a lack of societal and cultural acceptance of its need; a lack of education regarding appropriate terminology and appropriate statistical methods and efficient study designs; a need for increased research funding to support larger group sizes; unknown concordance of cell and animal models with humans to reflect biologic variables such as sex; and a lack of understanding of key considerations of gender, race, and other social determinants of health and how these factors intersect. Attention to developing and disseminating best-practice statistical methods and to educating investigators (at all career levels), reviewers, funders, editors, and staff in their proper implementation will aid reporting. Concomitantly, well-designed studies with sufficient rigor and adequate resources are essential to enable meaningful and reproducible research. Existing recommendations, such as the Sex and Gender Equity in Research (SAGER) guidelines, provide valuable guidance that can be applied across the research ecosystem. Academic institutions and private foundations are likely groups to assist in scientific and institutional review board guidance and study recruitment and pilot funding to generate meaningful power estimates, and to serve as sources for additional funding and presentation of workshops, educational events, and seminars. All of this needs to be conducted on an ongoing basis to ensure that sex and gender are considered in scientific analyses, where relevant.

Combining Biomarkers to Improve Diagnostic Accuracy in Detecting Diseases With Group-Tested Data.

We consider the problem of combining multiple biomarkers to improve the diagnostic accuracy of detecting a disease when only group-tested data on the disease status are available. There are several challenges in addressing this problem, including unavailable individual disease statuses, differential misclassification depending on group size and number of diseased individuals in the group, and extensive computation due to a large number of possible combinations of multiple biomarkers. To tackle these issues, we propose a pairwise model fitting approach to estimating the distribution of the optimal linear combination of biomarkers and its diagnostic accuracy under the assumption of a multivariate normal distribution. The approach is evaluated in simulation studies and applied to data on chlamydia detection and COVID-19 diagnosis.

International medical students’ experiences of psychological safety in feedback episodes: a focused ethnographic study

BackgroundFeedback and psychological safety are well-established concepts within medical education, vital for student learning and progress. However, the concepts remain unexplored in the context of international students. This area deserves attention given the unique challenges faced by the overseas medical students due to cultural differences. The present study examines international students’ experiences of psychological safety in feedback interactions in a Scottish undergraduate medical programme.MethodsA focused ethnographic approach was adopted to explore international students’ experiences and perceptions of psychological safety in their feedback experiences. Data were collected in the form of field observations and semi-structured interviews, involving both student and faculty participants. Approximately 13hrs of fieldwork and a total of 11 interviews were conducted. These were analysed using a combination of inductive and deductive thematic analysis.ResultsData analysis identified four key themes: feedback delivery, educator attributes, cultural factors and longitudinal educational relationships. Both staff and student participants highlighted how environmental factors such as room design and group size functioned as enablers or barriers to psychological safety in feedback episodes. Additionally, students appreciated tutors who expressed vulnerability and demonstrated awareness of their cultural backgrounds. Students described significant differences between the feedback approaches in the host (UK) institute and that in their home country. Longitudinal associations fostered trust and familiarity with peers and tutors, enhancing students’ receptivity to learning and feedback.ConclusionThis present study highlights cultural differences in feedback practices across countries and their impact on psychological safety among international students. It stresses the importance of integrating overseas students by considering group dynamics, environment and diverse student needs. Staff awareness of cultural variability, openness to tutor vulnerability and fostering long-term educational relationships can greatly enhance psychological safety in learning and teaching activities. These insights are relevant amidst the growing globalisation of medical education and the mobility of students across borders, advocating for tailored integration to optimise their learning experience and achievement.

An Algorithm Based on An Efficient Cost Model to Form Learning Groups

The purpose of this research is to form learning groups that are intra-homogeneous (a high level of similarity across student GPAs inside a group), inter-homogeneous (similarity or balance in the degree of homogeneity between groups), and balanced in size. The algorithm proposed for this purpose treats the learning group formation as an assignment-type optimization problem where it seeks to find a feasible least-cost assignment of a given set of students to a given set of learning groups. It is referred to as GAGF (Generalized Assignment Strategy for Group Formation). It is based on an efficient cost model, which performs three tasks: measuring the cost of assigning students to a learning group, relating each improvement in assignment cost to increased intra-group homogeneity and group size balance, and bringing the intra-homogeneity of the groups to a reference value (a specific level of homogeneity), which improves inter-homogeneity. Experimental results have shown that the GAGF algorithm is effective at constructing intra- and inter-homogeneous learning groups with balanced sizes. It was found that using GAGF attained an improvement of more than 29% in intra-group homogeneity when compared to both related work and self-formation methods. It significantly improved inter-group homogeneity, outperforming related works by 79.75%.

Social and seasonal variation in dwarf mongoose home-range size, daily movements, and burrow use.

When making decisions about resource use, social species must integrate not only environmental factors but also the influence of opportunities and costs associated with group living. Bigger groups are expected to move further and to need access to larger areas for adequate food acquisition, but the relationships with group size can vary seasonally and with reproductive stage. Shelters are often more consistent in availability than food, but their use relates to factors such as predator defense and parasite transmission that are themselves influenced by group size and seasonality. Here, we used long-term data to investigate resource use and associated movement in a wild population of dwarf mongooses (Helogale parvula). We found that bigger groups occupied larger home ranges, moved larger daily distances and covered more daily area than smaller ones, while environmental greenness (measured by normalized difference vegetation index [NDVI]) influenced daily movements in the breeding season but not the non-breeding season. Both assessed axes of seasonality also had pronounced effects on shelter use: mongoose groups used more unique sleeping burrows, and switched between burrows more often, in the breeding season, but also switched more when environmental greenness was higher. By investigating specific periods within the breeding season, we revealed the constraints that vulnerable, poorly mobile offspring impose on both group movements and burrow use, highlighting a potentially overlooked cost of reproduction. Our results show how both social and environmental factors can affect key resource-use decisions, demonstrating potential costs and benefits to group living within distinctly seasonal geographic areas.

Petrochemical industry as a source for microplastics; abundance and characteristics of pollution in soil, sewage, and bay

Petrochemical industries can potentially be sources of microplastics. This is the first report that studies the abundance and characteristics of microplastics in different parts of a petrochemical site, and process of changes in microplastics from the place of production to reaching open waters. Samples were taken from 10 points. In order to identify the microplastics, NaCl and ZnCl2 solutions were used for extraction and then H2O2 was used for cleaning and with using different filters, two groups of size were divided. Then, using a stereomicroscope and ATR-FTIR their abundance, color and shape and the type of polymers were determined. The number of microplastics in the soil samples varied from 1483 ± 475 items/Kgdws to 4620 ± 983 items/kgdws, the industrial WWTP sludge, the number of microplastics detected varied from 1233 ± 225 items/L to 1433 ± 372 items/L and in WWTP effluent was determined to be 276 ± 76 items/10 L. on average, 66.38 % and 33.62 % of the detected microplastic particles were in the size range of 0.45μ-20μ and 20μ-2mm, respectively. Also on average, 75.89 % and 24.11 % of the particles were in the density range of 1.2–2 g/cm3 and less than 1.2 g/cm3, respectively. On average, 68.33 %, 14.35 %, 10.55 %, and 6.77 % of the microplastics were in the form of fiber, film, pellet and other, respectively. On average, 29.84 %, 56.27 %, 1.02 %, 2.88 %, 0.97 %, and 8.99 % of the microplastics were black, white, red, blue, green and other respectively. 61 %, 23 %, 8 %, 4 % and 4 % of the investigated particles were classified as PES, PET, PE, PE and unknown, respectively. The results indicate that by moving away from the place of production of PES fibers, microplastics have undergone physical and chemical changes and their nature is changing. Results showed that the petrochemical industries can be potentially a microplastic source. It is a warning that if not taken into consideration will be a serious threat to environmental health.

7769 Natural plant extract alleviates high-fat diet-induced obesity through enhancing PLIN5 expression

Abstract Disclosure: S. Shin: None. H. Jang: None. E. Kwon: None. Obesity is one of the metabolic diseases caused by excessive differentiation and excessive accumulation of adipose tissue due to an imbalance between energy intake and consumption. Various drugs have been developed to effectively treat obesity, but the side effects often outweigh the benefits. Therefore, alternative weight loss supplements that can minimize side effects are needed. In this study, the effects of natural plant extract (NPE) on the high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity mice were confirmed to discover new anti-obesity material.After acclimating C57BL/6J mice for 1 week, they were divided into two groups: a normal diet (ND) group and an HFD group. After inducing obesity over 4 weeks, the HFD group was divided into HFD and HFD+NPE and reared together with the ND group for an additional 10 weeks. After a 12-hour fasting period, observations were made on weight, adipose tissue mass, morphological changes in adipocytes, and the expression differences in genes and proteins related to fatty acid oxidation (FAO) in the epididymal white adipose tissue, particularly focusing on the PLIN5 protein.The increase in body weight and epididymal fat mass induced by the HFD was reduced by the administration of NPE. Morphological analysis of the epididymal fat revealed a significant increase in adipocyte size in the HFD group, whereas the NPE group showed a reduction in adipocyte size. The expression of FAO-related genes (PPARa, PGC1a, CPT1, and CPT2) and TCA cycle-related genes (PDHb, ACO, DIST, SUCLG, SDHC, and MDH2) decreased in the epididymal fat due to the HFD, but significantly increased with the administration of NPE. The NPE induced the breakdown of intracellular stored triglycerides by upregulating ATGL, LIPE, and MGL mRNA expression. The resulting liberated fatty acids were translocated to the mitochondria and oxidized through the TCA cycle, ultimately leading to a reduction in body fat. Furthermore, PLIN5 expression exhibited a significantly higher level in the NPE group compared to the other two groups. In other words, elevation in PLIN5 expression, induced by the NPE, appears to enhance lipid breakdown, activate FAO pathways, and stimulate the TCA cycle. Consequently, lipid combustion is increased, improving the weight gain and fat accumulation induced by the HFD.If additional experimental results on human application align with the above findings, NPE holds the potential as a low-side-effect ingredient for weight loss supplements. Presentation: 6/1/2024

6376 Wnt/beta-catenin Pathway is Associated with Cell Proliferation in Growth Hormone-producing Pituitary Tumors

Abstract Disclosure: S. Kuwabara: None. H. Kameda: None. H. Nomoto: None. K. Cho: None. A. Nakamura: None. Y. Ishi: None. H. Motegi: None. M. Fujimura: None. T. Atsumi: None. Objective: It has been well recognized that the Wnt/β-catenin pathway regulates cell proliferation, and that translocation of β-catenin from the cytoplasm to the nucleus promotes cell proliferation. There have been, however, limited reports on the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in growth hormone-producing pituitary tumors (GHomas), and we aimed to investigate the impact of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway on cell proliferation in GHomas. Methods: We performed three types of experiments with patient pathological specimens, disease model cell lines, and primary culture of GHoma cells. 1.The intracellular localization of β-catenin was evaluated using immunofluorescence staining of pathological specimens from GHoma patients and subsequently its association with clinical data was analyzed. 2.The Wnt/β-catenin inhibitor iCRT14 was administered to rat GHoma cells GH1, using the WST-1 assay to measure cell viability and real-time PCR to assess GH and cell cycle genes expression. 3. The Wnt/β-catenin inhibitor iCRT14 was added to cultured cells obtained from GHoma patients to evaluate cell viability and gene expression. Results: 1. Samples from 26 cases (42%) exhibited strong dot-like expression of β-catenin in the nucleus (dot pattern (DP) group), and samples from 36 cases (58%) showed β-catenin expression in the cytoplasm or cell membrane (non-DP group). Tumors in the DP group had a larger size than non-DP group (diameters 18.3±9.2 vs. 13.4±7.4 mm, p<0.05), and the postoperative remission rate was lower (23 vs. 50%, p<0.05). 2. Viability evaluation using WST-1 assay showed a maximum decrease of 25%. Gene expression showed concentration-dependent reduction in GH gene expression by up to 40% (p<0.05) and cyclin D1 gene up to 50% (p<0.05) following iCRT14 administration. 3. Among 6 cases, 3 showed a tendency toward cell growth inhibition, and 4 showed a tendency toward decreased cyclin D1 gene expression. Conclusion: It is suggested that the Wnt/β-catenin pathway is activated in the DP group because of the nucleus accumulation of β-catenin, and given the larger tumor size and lower postoperative remission rate in DP group, the Wnt/β-catenin pathway may stimulate cell proliferation in GHomas. In addition, cyclin D1-mediated effects were considered. Wnt/β-catenin pathway could play a role in GHomas growth, therefore this pathway would be a potential therapeutic target for treating affected patients. Presentation: 6/3/2024

Our experience with a modified prying-up technique for closed reduction of irreducible supracondylar humeral fractures

Satisfactory reduction of some displaced pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures is not achievable via closed reduction, thus necessitating open procedure, which increases the incidence of complications. Using percutaneous prying-up technique to assist closed reduction may reduce the requirement for transform to an open operation. We retrospectively reviewed displaced pediatric supracondylar humerus fractures treated by the same surgeon from September 2021 to January 2024,with 134 subjects meeting criteria for inclusion. These children were divided into two groups. In Group A(n = 61),the prying-up technique was used to assist with closed reduction of fractures. Group B(n = 73) included fractures treated with conventional manual traction. To balance group size,12 fractures from group A were randomly removed, leaving a final 61 patients in each group. Demographics, operative time, the rate of failed closed reduction, complications and radiographic results were analyzed. The operative time was significantly less in Group A as compared with Group B(mean difference, − 7.22; [95% confidence interval (CI), − 8.49 to − 5.94]; p < 0.001). The rate of failed closed reduction were significantly lower in Group A as compared to Group B(2 of 61 vs. 10 of 61, p = 0.015).However, we found no difference in terms of the radiographic results and complications between the two groups(p > 0.05). percutaneous prying-up technique significantly improves the efficiency of surgery and reduces rate of failed closed reduction of supracondylar humeral fractures in pediatric patients. Level III, retrospective comparative study.See Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Robin Dunbar: The neurobiology of human sociality

Robin Dunbar is an eminent evolutionary psychologist and anthropologist whose pioneering work has permanently redefined how we think about human social relationships. Dunbar, who is an emeritus Professor of Evolutionary Psychology at the University of Oxford, became world-renowned for, among other contributions, his formulation of “Dunbar's number,” a theoretical limit to the number of stable social relationships an individual can maintain, typically cited as about 150. That idea, which he developed as he studied the relationship between brain size and social group size in various primate species, has since had broad influences across areas from social media design to organizational management. Over time, Dunbar's number has become more widely known and discussed, particularly with the advent of social media and online social networks. This has led to renewed interest in its implications for digital social interactions. Dunbar's illustrious career spans multiple prestigious institutions, including, prior to joining Oxford in 2007, the University of Cambridge, the University of Stockholm (Sweden), University College London and the University of Liverpool. He is a fellow of the British Academy and the Royal Anthropological Institute, a Foreign Member of the Finnish Academy of Science and Letters, and an elected Honorary Member of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences. His interdisciplinary expertise is reflected in his professorships in psychology, evolutionary biology, and anthropology at institutions such as Liverpool and Oxford Universities. He has held a visiting chair in statistical physics and computer science at Aalto University, Finland, which has also awarded him an honorary doctorate. Dunbar studies the evolution of social processes in primates and humans, with work that blends neurobiology, cognitive science, and the social dynamics of how we communicate via friendship networks. His insights into friendships and community cohesion continue to shape our understanding of human social behaviour in the digital age. It is an absolute pleasure that Professor Dunbar answered the Genomic Press Interview as we celebrate the extraordinary story of his scientific odyssey with our readers.

Mobile People in Closed Networks? Complementary Methods of Studying Social Simultaneity in Transnational Settings

ABSTRACTSocial simultaneity describes individuals active in multiple social contexts. Migrant networks serve as a case study where social network analysis (SNA) has recently been applied to evaluate their assimilation and transnationality. Yet, networks are sometimes insubstantial, as all nominated nodes and bridges are part of the network graph except they are not part of the social grouping. This research attempts to look beyond the social networks metaphor as it reviews critical group size theory and complements SNA with network survey and ethnographic interpretation. The article questions the structural approach and argues that interaction among alters may not be accurately recorded by this method. A respondent‐driven sampling method was used to select and survey 55 egocentric networks out of some 248 Romanian migrant networks in Spain. Results endorse precautions of critical group size theory that do not fit prescriptions of SNA. Resilient social networks and strong reciprocity and exchanges support the moderate transnational space types within the surveyed case. The article concludes that smooth social embeddedness and neoteric cultural diversity eventually reveal characteristics of third‐generation migration in Europe. Despite this, the number of Romanians in Spain decreased at the end of COVID‐19 pandemic.

Evaluation of the performance of a machine learning based atrial fibrillation screening algorithm using an oscillometric blood pressure monitor

Blood pressure monitors (BPMs) with atrial fibrillation (AFib) detection function can be used to detect AFib early. However, conventional algorithms require multiple BP measurements. Here, the feasibility of a machine-learning-based approach for AFib detection through single BP measurement was evaluated. First, a custom AdaBoost-based software, which analyzes the pulse-to-pulse interval (PPI) pattern and classifies it based on AFib detection, was created. Then, its classification performance was validated. For the validation study, PPI and standard 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) datasets were collected from 79 and 92 Japanese participants with and without AFib, respectively. PPI data were obtained using two different BPMs. All ECG results were interpreted by cardiologists. The custom software output for the PPI dataset and ECG interpreted results was compared, and the sensitivity and specificity were calculated. A sensitivity and specificity for PPI from main device were 97.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] 91.2–99.3%) and 98.9 (95% CI 94.1–99.8), respectively. No significant differences in sensitivity and specificity were observed in the subgroup analysis between different devices, age groups, and arm size groups. These results reflect the high accuracy and robustness of this AFib algorithm using a single BP measurement and supports its use for widespread AFib screening.

Advantages, disadvantages and optimization of organ-sparing methods for uterine fibroids treatment

Introduction. Uterine fibroids (UF) are benign monoclonal hormone-depended tumors originating from smooth myocytes of cervix or body uterus affecting up to 29 % of women aged 15–45 years worldwide. Taking into account the current demographic situation and annually increasing tendency for pregnancy planning at older reproductive age, an organ-sparing strategy is becoming a first-priority approach for UF treatment.Aim: to investigate efficiency of selective progesterone receptors modulators (SPRM) for UF treatment in women of reproductive age.Materials and Methods. A prospective cohort study involved 40 patients with UF at average age of 39.3 ± 5.8 years. Using simple randomization, the patients were divided into 2 groups per 20 subjects in each. The average age of the patients was comparable and comprised 38.15 ± 5.65 and 40.5 ± 5.8 years in groups 1 and 2, respectively (p = 0.203). In both groups, after assessing liver function tests in accordance with the instructions, a treatment course with SPRM group drug (ulipristal acetate) was used at a daily dose of 5 mg for 84 days (1 course) with an interval until the onset of second menstruation after drug withdrawal. Group 1 and group 2 subjects received 2 and 3 therapy courses, respectively. After each course, patients underwent control ultrasound examinations (UE) by analyzing uterus volume and diameter of dominant myomatous node along with liver tests. A temporal quantitation of the difference between UF and dominant node two sizes as well as the maximum uterine volume size and effect size assessment was expressed as the difference of means (Δ) with a 95 % confidence interval (CI).Results. Based on UE data, the uterus size in group 1 was enlarged to an average of 129.49 ± 75.57 cm3, the maximum size of dominant node was 38.9 ± 17.38 mm; in group 2, the uterus was as large as 294.83 ± 161.37 cm3 with maximum size of the dominant node of 53.33 ± 25.48 mm. After therapy in group 1, dominant node size was significant regressed: after therapy course 1 an effect size of quantitated difference between UF two sizes and the dominant node (Δ) was 8.70 (4.11; 13.29) mm (p &lt; 0.001). After therapy course 2 vs. therapy course 1, a size stabilization (Δ) was noted comprising 1.00 (–1.39; 3.39) mm (p = 0.390); the total effect (Δ) was 9.67 (–14.59; –4.75) mm (p &lt;0.001). In group 2, after therapy course 1, the dominant node also regressed, with effect size (Δ) of 9.49 (7.08; 11.89) mm (p = 0.001). The effect (Δ) after therapy course 2 vs. therapy course 1 in group 2 was more prominent reaching 10.74 (5.86; 15.61) mm (p = 0.001). However, after therapy course 3, a larger node size was observed compared to therapy course 2 – (Δ) 8.25 (0.67; 15.83) mm (p = 0.329). Despite the lack of pronounced negative dynamics, based on medical indications 9 patients in group 2 underwent uterine artery embolization to prevent disease relapse.Conclusion. SPRM therapy can be used both as an independent means for MM therapy and in combination with surgical interventions. Such an approach allows for some women to become pregnant without preceding myomectomy, whereas for those approaching age-related menopause to avoid surgical treatment and gently enter natural postmenopause. Currently, conservative and surgical treatment methods for leiomyomas should complement each other to achieve the best clinical outcomes.

Robust dynamic contracts with multiple agents

We develop a continuous-time dynamic multi-agent contracting model in which the principal is unsure about the distributions of the project's terminal payoffs and worries about model misspecification. With model uncertainty, workers' wages depend on the outputs of other unrelated projects and the optimal contracts exhibit overdetermination. We demonstrate an inverse U-shaped relationship between the extent of overdetermination and group size. Moreover, model uncertainty induces wage compression, especially in small firms as the empirical evidence demonstrates. Finally, expanding the group size increases the average project value by mitigating the negative impacts of ambiguity.

Energetically costly weaponry in the large morph of male stag beetles

AbstractMales of many species develop disproportionately large weapons, and frequently the weapon size increases more quickly with body size in small than in large males—a trend often considered to result from the depletion of developmental resources limiting male weapon exaggeration. Based on the cost‐minimization hypothesis, a shallower weapon‐body size allometric slope in large than in small males could be selected for if the energetic maintenance costs of having oversized weapons increase faster in large than in small males. Whether males of different size groups that differ in the weapon‐body size allometric relationship also differ in the energetic costs of maintaining their weapons has not yet been investigated. Consequently, we studied this using the stag beetle (Cyclommatus mniszechi), in which males are larger in size and have larger mandibles than do females and are divided into two morphs: majors are larger and have longer mandibles than minors. In both male morphs, mandible size increases disproportionately with their body size, but it increases more quickly in minors than in majors. We measured the standard metabolic rate (SMR) of the three types of these beetles (the two male morphs and females) to investigate whether the energetic maintenance cost of carrying weapons differs among them. Body weight explained 80% of the variation in the SMR in the three types of beetles, and SMR increased more quickly with body weight in major males than in minor males or females. Weapon and body size also jointly explained approximately 80% of the variation in the SMR. Whereas SMR increased with body size in all three types of beetles (with a higher rate of increase in major males than in minor males or females), only the major males' SMR increased with weapon size. Overall, being heavier and larger and carrying oversized weapons are energetically costly in major males, something which could constrain the exaggeration of their weapons.

A scoping review of preclinical intensive care unit-acquired weakness models.

Animal models focusing on neuromuscular outcomes are crucial for understanding the mechanisms of intensive care unit-acquired weakness (ICU-AW) and exploring potential innovative prevention and treatment strategies. To analyse and evaluate preclinical ICU-AW models. We manually searched five English and four Chinese databases from 1 January 2002, to 1 February 2024, and reviewed related study references. Full-text publications describing animal models of muscle weakness and atrophy in critical illness were included. Detailed information about model types, animal species, sex, age, induction methods, outcome measures, drawbacks and strengths was extracted from each included study. A total of 3,451 citations were initially retrieved, with 84 studies included in the final analysis. The most frequently studied animal model included rodents (86.9%), 64.3% of which were male animals. ICU-AW animal models were mostly induced by comprehensive intensive care unit (ICU) interventions (38.1%) and sepsis (51.2%). Most studies focused on limb muscles (66.7%), diaphragm muscles (21.4%) or both (9.5%). Reported outcomes primarily included muscular pathological changes (83.3%), electrophysiological examinations of muscles (57.1%) and animal grip strength (16.6%). However, details such as animal age, mortality data, experimental design, randomisation, blinding, sample size and interventions for the experimental group and/or control group were inadequately reported. Many preclinical models are used to study ICU-AW, but the reporting of methodological details is often incomplete. Although current ICU animal models can mimic the characteristics of human ICU-AW, there is no standard model. Future preclinical studies should develop a standard ICU-AW animal model to enhance reproducibility and improve scientific rigor in exploring the mechanisms and potential treatment of ICU-AW.

Peripheral Population Status and Habitat Suitability Assessment of the Kiang (Equus kiang) on the Eastern Tibetan Plateau

Shiqu County, Sichuan Province, forms the eastern edge of the distribution area of the kiang (Equus kiang). It is important to assess the population and habitat status of peripheral populations, as these play a significant role in the development of conservation strategies for kiangs. Based on field transect data collected from July to August 2023, this study predicted the suitable habitat distribution of kiangs in Shiqu County using a MaxEnt model and estimated the population size and density using the ‘Distance’ package. Additionally, it analyzed the responses of the group size of kiangs to environmental factors in Shiqu County. The results showed that the area of suitable habitat for kiangs is 3402.45 km2, accounting for 13.51% of the total area of Shiqu County. The estimated population was 1395.00 ± 272.20, with a population density of 0.41 ± 0.08/km2. Additionally, the group size of kiangs was significantly positively correlated with the distance from the road and grazing site. The distance from the grazing site, elevation, and temperature annual range are the main environmental factors affecting the distribution of kiangs. This study initially revealed the peripheral population Status and suitable habitat of the kiang on the eastern Tibetan Plateau, and the potential threat of grazing interference and road obstruction. The research results can provide a scientific reference for the population and habitat protection of kiangs in this area.

INVESTIGATING THE INHERITANCE PATTERNS AND POTENTIAL ASSOCIATIONS OF SELECTED HUMAN MORPHOGENETIC TRAITS

This research analyses the distribution, inheritance patterns, and potential associations between various physical characteristics(Handedness, Hand-clasping, Tongue-rolling, tongue folding and Hitchhiker’s thumb, Mid-phalangeal hair, bent little finger, Cleft chin, Widow’s peak, earlobe attachment &amp; Dimpled cheeks) in students from the Faculty of Agriculture Sciences. The Chi-square was used of independence to assess inheritance patterns and potential links. The findings reveal interesting patterns: some recessive traits viz; Mid-phalangeal hair, bent little finger, Cleft chin, Widow’s peak, earlobe attachment &amp; Dimpled cheeks were more common than their dominant counterparts. In contrast, dominant features such as handedness, hand-clasping, tongue-rolling, tongue folding, and hitchhiker's thumb were found more frequently. There is also a significant relationship between morphogenetic features (tongue rolling, mid-phalangeal hair, and widow's peak) and gender. This investigation has implications for several disciplines, including human genetics, forensics, and anthropology. Establishing a baseline for this specific population size group allows for future investigation into human variety and the intriguing realm of inheritance.