Variation In Duration Research Articles

Migration strategy and constraint in migration behavior vary among shorebird species with different life histories

AbstractMigration strategy is a key behavioral characteristic guiding how migratory species time their annual cycles and use habitat. Understanding variation in migration strategy within and among species and individuals can be useful for understanding how birds navigate energetic trade‐offs and designing or modifying conservation plans meant to benefit multiple species and life histories. We compared migration strategies among three migratory shorebird species with variable life history traits and short, medium, and long migration distances, respectively: American avocets (Recurvirostra americana), black‐bellied plovers (Pluvialis squatarola), and Hudsonian godwits (Limosa haemastica). Avocets (short distance) exhibited the most within‐species variation in migration duration, proportion of migration time spent at stopovers, and stopover duration. Plovers (medium distance) and godwits (long distance) showed less variation in these metrics, but godwits showed the most variation in the number of stopovers used. There were significant differences among species in migration distance, number of stopovers used, proportion of time stopped over, departure and arrival dates, and migration duration, but not mean stopover duration. We also found that avocets spent more time stopped over relative to migration distance than plovers or godwits, indicating that avocets showed the most energy‐minimizing strategy of the three species. Our findings set the stage for future work assessing the effects of climate change and land use on characteristics associated with different migration strategies for additional migratory species.

Legacy effects of precipitation change: Theories, dynamics, and applications.

The intensification of climate-induced precipitation change poses a dual challenge to terrestrial ecosystems: immediate effects on their structure and function, coupled with legacy effects that persist beyond the cessation of precipitation change. Quantifying these legacy effects accurately can greatly assist in assessing the long-term impact of precipitation change. However, their broader understanding is just beginning. Therefore, this review endeavors to synthesize the existing knowledge concerning the legacy effects of precipitation change, elucidating their nature, characteristics, driving factors, and implications, thereby fostering further advancements in this research domain. To begin, we define that precipitation legacies are carried by the information and/or material remnants arising from previous precipitation change, with the enduring impacts of these remnants (precipitation legacy carriers) on the current ecosystem being termed the precipitation legacy effects. To comprehensively investigate the performances of precipitation legacy effects, we introduce a multi-faceted characterization framework, encompassing magnitude, direction, duration, and spatial-temporal variability. This framework is complemented by a proposed sequential analysis approach, spanning the pre-, during, and post-precipitation change phases. Next, we emphasize that the nature of precipitation legacy carriers and the pattern of precipitation change jointly determine the characteristics of precipitation legacy effect. Subsequently, we elucidate the possible carriers of precipitation legacies across species, community, and ecosystem levels, as well as the linkages among these carriers and levels, thereby introducing the underlying formation mechanism of precipitation legacy effects. Lastly, from the perspective of ecosystem stability debt, we propose potential applications of precipitation legacy effects in future climate change research. The viewpoints and methodologies outlined in this review can deepen our comprehension of precipitation legacy effects, contributing to the comprehensive assessment of precipitation impact on soil-vegetation systems and providing guidance for formulating effective strategies to address future climate change.

Meta-Analysis of Breastfeeding's Impact on Pediatric Immune Modulation and Risk Reduction of Childhood Lymphomas

Background: Breastfeeding offers nutritional and immunological benefits, enhancing immune system development in newborns. It has gained research interest for its potential to reduce childhood cancer risk, particularly lymphomas, though evidence remains limited. This meta-analysis evaluates breastfeeding’s protective role against childhood lymphomas. Objective: To assess the impact of breastfeeding duration, exclusivity, and geographical variability on childhood lymphoma risk. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted per PRISMA guidelines. Relevant studies were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library. Inclusion criteria included breastfeeding exposure, lymphoma outcomes, and effect measures (ORs). Quality assessment and data extraction were performed using a standardized checklist. Meta-analysis employed a random-effects model. Results: The analysis included 24 studies comprising over 150,000 children. Breastfed children showed a 22% lower risk of childhood lymphomas (OR: 0.78; 95% CI: 0.72–0.85; p < 0.001). Longer breastfeeding (>6 months) and exclusivity provided stronger protection. Subgroup analysis indicated a more significant effect for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (OR: 0.74) than Hodgkin’s lymphoma (OR: 0.83). Geographic variability was observed, with Asia showing the strongest protective effects. Conclusion: Exclusive breastfeeding and prolonged breastfeeding substantially reduce childhood lymphoma risk, highlighting breastfeeding as a cost-effective public health strategy for cancer prevention. Further research is needed to explore underlying biological and psychological mechanisms and regional differences. Breastfeeding promotion should remain a global priority to improve pediatric health and reduce childhood cancer burden.

The Effect of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) on Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Levels (BNDF): A Systematic Review.

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) alternates short periods of intense exercise with recovery, effectively enhancing cardiorespiratory fitness, endurance, and strength in various populations. Concurrently, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) supports neuronal resilience and activity-dependent plasticity, which are vital for learning and memory. This study aims to systematically review changes in BDNF levels in response to HIIT, with three primary objectives: evaluating the benefits of HIIT for BDNF modulation, assessing methodological quality and the risk of bias in reviewed studies, and identifying patterns in BDNF response based on HIIT protocols and population characteristics. Comprehensive database searches were conducted in PubMed and SPORTDiscus to identify relevant studies published up to April 2024. Given the diversity in study designs and outcomes, a narrative synthesis was performed rather than a meta-analysis. Bias was evaluated using visualization tools such as RobVis, and the review was conducted by a single researcher, which may limit its comprehensiveness. Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria, with most indicating significant increases in BDNF levels post-HIIT, suggesting HIIT's potential to enhance neuroplasticity and cognitive functions. However, variations in BDNF responses were observed across different HIIT protocols and study populations. Some studies reported decreases or no change in BDNF levels, reflecting the complex regulation of BDNF influenced by factors such as exercise intensity, duration, and individual variability. HIIT shows promise as an intervention for increasing BDNF levels, with potential benefits for brain health and cognitive function. These findings underscore the need for further research to confirm the optimal conditions under which HIIT can effectively enhance neurological outcomes. Future studies should explore standardized HIIT protocols and the long-term impact of HIIT on BDNF and neuroplasticity.

Experimental Study on the Dynamic Impact Characteristics of Iron Ore Under Free-Fall Conditions

Ore processing equipment is constantly subjected to impacts from various types of ore. However, the impact force characteristics generated by ore particles of different masses have not been thoroughly studied, which has hindered the design and monitoring of such equipment. This paper presents an experimental study on the dynamic impact characteristics of iron ore particles under free–fall conditions. The research focuses on understanding the mechanical behavior of ore particles of varying sizes and weights when colliding with metallic components, particularly crushers, which are critical in the ore processing industry. A modified Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar apparatus was utilized to measure the impact forces, durations, and deformation patterns during collisions. Two types of fired iron ore pellets were collected from industrial plants and sorted into different mass ranges for testing. The pellets were dropped from a height of 1 m to impact a steel rod, and the resulting impact forces were recorded using strain gauges. Additionally, finite element simulations were conducted to validate the experimental methodology. The results revealed significant variations in impact force, duration, and deformation patterns, influenced by particle mass and impact position. The maximum recorded impact force was approximately 7500 N, indicating the high energy involved in these collisions. Impact durations ranged from 0.05 to 0.11 milliseconds, emphasizing the rapid nature of the interactions. The deformation patterns were consistent across all particles, supporting the applicability of Hertz’s contact theory.This study offers valuable insights into the dynamic impact characteristics of iron ore particles, which are essential for optimizing the design and performance of mining machinery.

Antifungal Treatment for Japanese Patients with Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis.

Despite the ongoing efforts to refine treatment durations and methods for patients with chronic pulmonary aspergillosis, the clinical use of antifungal agents remains unclear. This study aimed to describe the treatment practices, trajectories, and prognoses of newly diagnosed patients with chronic pulmonary aspergillosis. Data from a longitudinal database from hospitals in Japan was used. The target population included patients who started antifungal treatment following their initial diagnosis of pulmonary aspergillosis, pulmonary aspergilloma, or chronic necrotizing pulmonary aspergillosis between October 2015 and September 2017. We described patient characteristics and treatment practices. Of the 680 patients analyzed, 253 (37.2%), 231 (34.0%), 155 (22.8%), 31 (4.6%), and 10 (1.5%) patients received the initial treatment with voriconazole, itraconazole, micafungin, caspofungin, and liposomal amphotericinB, respectively. Over 50% of the patients initially treated with micafungin or caspofungin switched to azoles within a month. Of the patients treated with antifungal agents, only 46.8% continued treatment for 6months, indicating a lower retention rate. The overall mortality rate at 1year was 24.7%. The median treatment duration of initial treatment until switching was 83days (interquartile range [IQR], 159) for voriconazole and 162days (IQR, 310) for itraconazole, indicating a significant variation in treatment duration. Notably, 15.7% (76/484) of the patients underwent a treatment switch between voriconazole and itraconazole in the initial azole treatment group. Our findings highlight the challenges associated with sustaining long-term antifungal treatment.

Relationship Between Frequency Domain Indicators of Heart Rate Variability and Both Age and Duration of Illness in Patients with Headache: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background/Objectives: One of the most prevalent neurological conditions in the world, headaches impact a large number of people. Patients who experience headaches often have autonomic nervous system dysfunction, which can influence the onset and duration of headaches. Heart rate variability (HRV) serves as an indicator of the autonomic nervous system's activity and balance. In this study, we looked at the frequency domain of HRV in relation to age and headache duration in patients who had headaches. Methods: This cross-sectional research is a secondary analysis that makes use of data gathered from previously registered study projects. They were adult males and females aged 19 to 80. HRV was recorded in three channels over the course of 20 min using a 256 Hz sampling interval. HRV frequency domain was utilized to analyze the relationship between HRV and headache duration as well as between HRV and age. Results: In a smooth curve through the scatterplot using the locally estimated scatterplot smoothing line, low frequency/high frequency (LF/HF) declined beyond around 60 years of age, while the total power (TP) decreased until about 50 years of age, after which there was no discernible change. The duration of the headache did not significantly correlate with LF/HF or TP. However, TP decreased with age in the multivariate linear regression model (coefficient [95% confidence interval]: -0.003 [-0.003--0.002]). Conclusions: There may be associations between HRV indices and age, but these associations may not be linear.

ANALYSIS OF ASH CONTENT AND ACID NUMBER TEST IN WASTE COOKING OIL AFTER REFINING USING SUGAR CANE BAGASSE

Used cooking oil is a waste product containing high free fatty acids due to repeated heating, requiring purification to improve its quality. This study aimed to analyze the effectiveness of sugarcane bagasse-derived activated carbon as an adsorbent in reducing the acid value of used cooking oil. The research employed an experimental design using a completely randomized approach, with variations in adsorbent type (raw bagasse and activated bagasse charcoal) and soaking duration (1x24 hours to 4x24 hours). The results indicated that activated bagasse charcoal was more effective than raw bagasse, achieving the lowest acid value of 0.448 mg KOH/g after a 4x24-hour soaking period. The activated carbon met SNI 06-3730-1995 standards, with an average ash content of 0.7925%, and significantly reduced the acid value of used cooking oil. This study recommends the use of sugarcane bagasse-derived activated carbon as an eco-friendly solution for refining used cooking oil.

Pupillary response to blue light as a biomarker of seasonal pattern in Major Depressive Episode: A clinical study using pupillometry.

Depressive disorders are characterized by disturbances in light signal processing. More specifically, an alteration of the melanopsin response is suggested. The post-illumination pupillary response (PIPR) to blue light (post-blue PIPR) is increasingly used as a marker of the activity of intrinsically photosensitive melanopsin ganglion cells (ipRGCs). We hypothesized that individuals with Major Depressive Episode (MDE) who exhibited a higher vulnerability to season patterns showed a decreased ability to transmit light signals to the brain. We explored the correlation between the post-blue PIPR and the Global Seasonality Score (GSS) in 21 patients with MDE. The GSS was assessed using the Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire (SPAQ). The results revealed that decreased relative and absolute post-blue PIPR, suggesting a melanopsinergic hyposensitivity, were associated independently and significantly with higher seasonality in the psychological factor including a greater seasonal variation in sleep duration, mood, energy level and social activity, but were not associated with higher seasonality in the dietary factor (including weight and appetite seasonal variations) or with the severity of anxiety, depression, or sleep disturbances. Interestingly, mediation analyses highlight independent bidirectional effects of high vulnerability to season of psychological factors and decreased ipRGC sensitivity. Post-blue PIPR could be an objective marker of seasonal changes in daylight exposure in patients with MDE. Further research could explore post-blue PIPR as a state or trait biomarker for depressive disorders and the seasonal pattern, and its potential role in predicting therapeutic response to light therapy.

Systematic approach to dynamic balancing using coloured petri nets for production lines in advanced manufacturing systems

The assembly line is widely used in the manufacturing of products that involve tasks with defined and repetitive sequences. Its efficiency greatly impacts the overall manufacturing process, necessitating resource optimization. Balancing activities among workstations is a design challenge, especially in mixed-product assembly lines, due to significant variations in task durations and short-term changes in product sequencing. This paper introduces a balancing system that considers product sequencing effects on resource utilization. The system identifies specific sets of sequenced activities for each product type and operator, enhancing workstation flexibility. It employs balancing strategies utilizing a precedence diagram and a heuristic algorithm based on positional weights. Modeling and simulation are performed using Coloured Petri Nets. A case study of a truck assembly line in Brazil illustrates the main features of this approach. Simulation results demonstrate that it is possible to reduce dependent occupancy and sequencing, meet cycle time requirements, and achieve a 12.5% reduction in resource utilization while maintaining acceptable average occupancy, ultimately establishing a system beneficial for assembly line managers.

The association between glycaemic variability and sleep quality and quantity in adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes: A systematic review.

Individuals with diabetes frequently encounter sleep disturbances, which can detrimentally impact glycaemic management. We reviewed the relationship between sleep outcomes and glycaemic variability in adults with diabetes. We systematically searched Medline, EMBASE and Cochrane Library (2002-March 2023) for studies evaluating sleep and glycaemic variability in adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Among the 3049 records, 27 met the inclusion criteria (type 1 diabetes studies = 22). Due to methodological heterogeneity, a qualitative analysis was conducted. Most studies measuring sleep quality (5 out 7; 71%) reported a significant association with glycaemic variability in type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Sleep duration was not significantly associated with glycaemic variability in type 1 diabetes, whereas other sleep metrics yielded inconclusive results. Hybrid closed-loop pump interventions (n = 12) demonstrated varying sleep outcomes with improved glycaemic variability. Similarly, sleep interventions (n = 3) consistently enhanced sleep but not glycaemic variability. Limitations included moderate to high risk of study bias, confounders, methodological heterogeneity and limited type 2 diabetes data. A potential association between sleep quality and glycaemic variability exists. However, associations with other sleep metrics remain elusive, with no discernible association between sleep duration and glycaemic variability in type 1 diabetes. Despite advancements in continuous glucose monitoring and ambulatory sleep monitoring, standardised sleep assessment methodologies are lacking in real-world studies. Establishing standard protocols for sleep assessment and defining optimal sleep targets are crucial for meaningful comparisons between studies. Understanding the complex interplay between sleep and glycaemic variability holds promise in improving diabetes management and sleep health.

A hybrid approach based on critical chain for project buffer consumption prediction and monitoring

PurposeThe critical chain project buffer monitor process addresses uncertainty and variability in project duration. However, classical buffer monitor methods only consider buffer consumption, while the dynamic allocation of buffer zones and the buffer consumption trend of activities are ignored. This paper presents the innovative framework for dynamic monitoring of project buffer which covers the dynamic buffer allocation, predictive analytics of buffer utilization and a new monitoring technique based on control chart graph.Design/methodology/approachFirst, a dynamically buffer allocation model is framed, and buffer zones are given to the activities considering risks. Then, a predictive model amalgamating Bayesian Optimization, Convolutional Neural Networks, and Long Short-Term Memory networks (BO-CNN-LSTM) is framed. Finally, a new buffer monitor framework is constructed that takes into account historical information about buffer usage and utilizes two thresholds derived from control chart theory.FindingsThis approach is empirically tested on a representative agricultural website project in China. The results show that, first, the dynamic buffer allocation makes better use of the project buffer, reduces buffer waste and increases the possibility of timely completion of the project. Second, the BO-CNN-LSTM model predicts better than Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and Grey Neural Network Model (GNNM), providing project managers with new management insights and perspectives. Third, the novel monitoring procedure makes the leveraging of historical data possible in the control of the schedule deviations, allowing for more timely interventions in the course of the implementation of the project.Originality/valueA new project buffer monitoring method suitable for uncertain project environments is proposed.

Race, Ethnicity, and Sleep in US Children

Although racial and ethnic disparities are well documented in children's mean levels of sleep, particularly duration, evidence is mixed for sleep variability, an important sleep dimension of growing interest. Most research has also focused on comparisons of Black and White children, with limited attention to sleep variability disparities among other racially and ethnically minoritized groups such as Asian, Latinx, and multiracial children. To investigate racial and ethnic disparities in children's mean levels of sleep and variability of sleep across multiple dimensions and diverse racial and ethnic groups using actigraphy data. This cross-sectional study used data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study, a national cohort study, from 21 study sites across the US. ABCD participants were recruited at baseline (2016-2018) using a multistage, stratified, probability sampling method. The current study used a subsample with reliable actigraphy data collected at 2-year follow-up (2018-2020). Data analysis occurred from July 2023 to October 2024. Parent-reported race and ethnicity at baseline. Sociodemographic, health, and contextual covariates of sleep were also included. Actigraphy-assessed mean levels of sleep and sleep variability across multiple dimensions (duration, bedtime, risetime, efficiency, and latency) over 3 weeks. The analytic sample included 3868 children (mean [SD] age, 11.50 [0.67] years; 1913 female [49.5%]), of whom 104 (2.7%) were Asian, 347 (9.0%) were Black or African American, 801 (20.7%) were Latinx, 356 (9.2%) were multiracial, and 2260 (58.4%) were White. Asian, Black, Latinx, and multiracial children exhibited shorter sleep duration and later bedtime than White children. Importantly, compared with White children, bedtime variability was greater among Asian (β = 0.04; 95% CI, 0.01 to 0.07; P = .02), Black (β = 0.11 95% CI, 0.08 to 0.15; P < .001), Latinx (β = 0.08; 95% CI, 0.05 to 0.12; P < .001), and multiracial children (β = 0.08; 95% CI, 0.05 to 0.11; P < .001). Similarly, risetime variability was greater among Asian (β = 0.04; 95% CI, 0.01 to 0.07; P = .01), Black (β = 0.08; 95% CI, 0.04 to 0.12; P < .001), and Latinx (β = 0.06; 95% CI, 0.02 to 0.10; P < .01) children in comparison with White children. Black children exhibited the most profound disparities across mean levels (duration and bedtime) and variability of sleep (duration, bedtime, risetime, and efficiency) than other groups. Asian and multiracial children also exhibited some disparities sleep duration, efficiency, and efficiency variability, when compared with Latinx children. In this cross-sectional study of children's sleep disparities, racially and ethnically minoritized children exhibited disparities in mean levels and variability of sleep compared with their White peers. These findings suggest that policies and practices should target multiple sleep dimensions among diverse racial and ethnic groups to promote equitable pediatric sleep health.

Physical Mechanisms of Clear Air Turbulence

Clear air turbulence (CAT) is a significant type of atmospheric turbulence that poses risks to aviation. Unlike other forms of turbulence, it occurs without substantial cloudiness, often under clear skies or with minimal cloud cover at the observation site. CAT can arise under various meteorological conditions, such as high atmospheric pressure, sunny weather, or in the presence of mountain ranges. Forecasting CAT is crucial for aviation safety, although its prediction is challenging due to its variability, sharp localization in the air flow, and variability in size and duration. Indirect signs can help predict CAT zones; however, direct observation is difficult, making it essential to develop forecasting methods and conduct research to ensure flight safety.

Species-specific patterns of population genetic structure differ on a microgeographic scale

AbstractCoral exhibits substantial variation in pelagic larval duration, dispersal range, and population connectivity. In this study, we used reduced representation genotyping to compare the genetic structure of Caribbean reef-building species along the southeastern Dominican Republic coastline to assess connectivity within the likely dispersal kernel. Despite relatively small geographic distance between reefs, species-specific differences in genetic structure were observed. The broadcasting coral Orbicella faveolata had high levels of genetic connectivity. Between the two brooding species, Agaricia agaricites showed strong genetic subdivision, while Porites astreoides exhibited high levels of gene flow. These results suggest that multiple factors outside of life history characteristics influence genetic differentiation among populations, with species-level variability underscoring the importance of restoration and management strategies tailored to individual species, considering regional genetic and environmental variability.

A combined association of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate transaminase and bilirubin with sleep duration in aged 16-85 years (2005-2010).

Sleep is a vital restorative process that plays a pivotal role in maintaining the delicate equilibrium of mental and physical well-being. Both short and long sleep duration are associated with a range of adverse health outcomes. Numerous studies have consistently demonstrated a robust association between sleep duration and liver disease. In this study, we conducted statistical tests and performed subgroup analyses to explore potential variations in this association across different contexts, aiming to elucidate the correlation between ALT, AST, and TB with sleep duration. This cross-sectional investigation utilized datasets from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005 to 2010. Multivariate linear regression models were used to examine the linear association between ALT, AST, and TB with sleep duration. Test for interaction is commonly conducted using multivariabte models to assess statistically significant subgroup disparities. Fitted smoothied curves and threshold effect analyses were employed to depict nonlinear relationships. The study enrolled 17,491 participants aged 16 to 85 years who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria, with a mean age of the participants was 45.58 ± 19.94 years. Multivariate linear regression analysis showed a significant positive association between sleep duration and ALT [-0.23 (-0.45, -0.00) 0.0455] and AST[-0.20 (-0.38, -0.01) 0.0338] in Model 3. Using a two-segment linear regression model, we found an U-shaped relationship and significant inflection point between between ALT and AST with sleep duration. The present study unveiled a significant inverse correlation between sleep duration and levels of ALT and AST, while no significant association was observed with TB levels. Furthermore, variations in the optimal sleep duration for liver function recovery were identified across diverse populations, thereby offering valuable healthcare recommendations to public.

Comparing the Effectiveness of Clear Aligners with Other Orthodontic Methods-A Systematic Review

Abstract Orthodontic treatment has seen advancements with the introduction of clear aligner therapy, offering an alternative to traditional methods such as braces. However, the comparative effectiveness of clear aligners versus other orthodontic methods remains a topic of interest. This systematic review aims to assess and compare the effectiveness of clear aligners with conventional orthodontic treatments. A comprehensive search of electronic databases was conducted to identify relevant studies comparing the efficacy of clear aligners with other orthodontic methods. We systematically and comprehensively reviewed all studies of clear aligners from PubMed and Google Scholar. Studies were selected based on predetermined inclusion criteria, and data extraction was performed independently by two reviewers. Quality assessment of the included studies was conducted using appropriate tools. The search yielded a total of (10) studies meeting the inclusion criteria. These studies encompassed various orthodontic interventions, including clear aligners, traditional braces and other orthodontic appliances. Key outcome measures such as treatment duration, occlusal outcomes, patient satisfaction and adverse effects were analysed and compared between the different treatment modalities. Based on the synthesised evidence, clear aligners demonstrate comparable effectiveness to traditional orthodontic methods in terms of treatment outcomes, patient satisfaction and adverse effects. However, variations in treatment duration and specific clinical outcomes may exist between different orthodontic modalities. Further research with standardised protocols and long-term follow-up is warranted to provide more conclusive evidence on the comparative effectiveness of clear aligners versus traditional orthodontic treatments.

Exploring fatty acid effects in celiac disease: potential therapeutic avenues

ABSTRACT Background Fatty acids (FAs) play pivotal roles in modulating inflammatory pathways in celiac disease (CD). The present study explored the relationship between serum FAs levels and the expression of both pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in adult and pediatric patients with CD. Methods Serum FA levels in 20 treated CD patients (11 children, 9 adults) and 20 healthy controls (10 children, 10 adults) were analyzed using gas chromatography. Cytokine gene expression (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-10, IL-12, TGFβ, NF-κB) was assessed through quantitative real-time PCR. Results Myristoleic acid levels decreased in children with CD (p = 0.03) but increased in adults (p = 0.04). Elevated IL-6 mRNA expression was found in both pediatric (p = 0.01) and adult (p = 0.04) groups. TNF-α expression was significantly higher in adults (p = 0.01). In children, IL-10 mRNA levels positively correlated with palmitic acid (p = 0.01, r = 0.73), and TGF-β correlated with myristoleic acid (p = 0.03, r = 0.63). In adults, IL-10 positively correlated with dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (p = 0.04, r = 0.68) and negatively with linoleic acid (p = 0.02, r = -0.72). These age-related differences may reflect variations in disease duration, metabolic and developmental factors, dietary intake, and gut microbiota composition. Conclusion These findings suggest that FAs could be therapeutic targets for improving CD management across different age groups.

Attention demands modulate brain electrical microstates and mental fatigue induced by simulated flight tasks

Objective.Prolonged engagement in tasks with varying attention demands is thought to elicit distinct forms of mental fatigue, potentially indicating variations in neural activity. This study aimed to investigate the association between mental fatigue and changes in electroencephalogram microstate dynamics during tasks with varying attention demands.Approach.In the present study, we employed a 2 × 2 repeated measures ANOVA to analyze the temporal parameters of four distinct microstates (A, B, C, and D) across different levels of attention demands (high vs. low) and mental fatigue (high vs. low) within a controlled flight simulation task involving 17 college students.Main results.Significant variations in mean durations were observed, with microstates A and B exhibiting shorter durations under high fatigue during low attention demands, while their durations increased under high attention demands. Microstate C showed increased occurrences with high fatigue under low attention demands and decreased occurrences under high attention demands. The duration and occurrence of the microstates exhibited different trends throughout the course of mental fatigue, potentially reflecting distinct fatigue-related processes.Significance.These findings establish a link between different types of mental fatigue and microstate dynamics, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the neural processing mechanisms underlying mental fatigue.

Determinants of variations in sleep patterns across Brazil: Exploring geographic influences.

To examine the influence of latitude, longitude, sunrise, and daylight, in conjunction with individual and behavioral factors, on sleep duration, wake time, and bedtime in a country with the world's broadest latitude range, yet characterized by homogeneity in language, cultural traits, and consistent time zones. Participants (n=1440; 18-65y) were part of a virtual population-based survey (2021-22). Sleep patterns were spatially represented through maps using Multilevel B-spline Interpolation. Relationships between and within biological/personal/socio-economic, behavioral and environment characteristics, and sleep outcomes were examined by Lasso regression. Restricted cubic splines were employed to examine the shape of the association of latitude and sunrise with sleep variables and of screen time before bed with bedtime. Latitude emerged as the primary geographic factor influencing variations in sleep duration and wake time, shortening and advancing, respectively, as latitude increased (towards equatorial line). Younger individuals, those living without partners, with depression, engaging in more frequent evening alcohol consumption, and with poorer diet quality, tended to wake up later. All the variables influenced bedtime, with daylight emerging as the environmental factor exerting the strongest association. While the variability in bedtime showed a non-linear association with latitude and sunrise, it displayed a dose-response relationship with screen time before bed. Given that adults living in the same country, potentially with a similar timetable, could be having shorter sleep durations according to their latitude position, further studies are required to contemplate advocating for policies that implement schedules based on the sun position rather than the national time zone.