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Ethical questions normally arise in sport because its participants are human moral agents and because its practice community entails the observance of rules and responsibilities that humans generally owe one another in a social practice of voluntary competition. Since nature sports are not defined by this kind of inter-agential activity, it would appear that there are no comparable ethical constraints on their pursuit. This paper considers conflicts of preference versus right between humans, how these are resolved, and whether these rights are relevant in assessment of nature sport activity vis-à-vis nonhuman creatures. Relying on a goods perspective instead of a rights framework, via Korsgaard, I argue against an assumption that human preference is sufficient to override consideration of nonhuman animals' functional goods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cannabinoid CB2 receptor agonists are in development as therapeutic agents, including for immune modulation and pain relief. Despite promising results in rodent preclinical studies, efficacy in human clinical trials has been marginal to date. Fundamental differences in ligand engagement and signalling responses between the human CB2 receptor and preclinical model species orthologues may contribute to mismatches in functional outcomes. This is a tangible possibility for the CB2 receptor in that there is a relatively large degree of primary amino acid sequence divergence between human and rodent. Here, we summarise CB2 receptor gene and protein structure, assess comparative molecular pharmacology between CB2 receptor orthologues, and review the current status of preclinical to clinical translation for drugs targeted at the CB2 receptor, focusing on comparisons between human, mouse and rat receptors. We hope that raising wider awareness of, and proposing strategies to address, this additional challenge in drug development will assist in ongoing efforts toward successful therapeutic translation of drugs targeted at the CB2 receptor. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue Therapeutic Targeting of G Protein‐Coupled Receptors: hot topics from the Australasian Society of Clinical and Experimental Pharmacologists and Toxicologists 2021 Virtual Annual Scientific Meeting. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v181.14/issuetoc [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the discussion on Jacques Derrida's final major project, focusing on his concept of the 'autobiographical animal.' Topics include extending the notion of autobiography beyond human subjects to include non-human animals, challenging traditional views of life-writing and relationality; and highlighting a shift towards understanding autobiography as a dynamic process across diverse boundaries of existence.

Sadeq Hedayat (1903–1951) is an Iranian author known for his short stories and his novel Būf-i Kūr (The Blind Owl). An intellectual from an influential family, Hedayat traveled abroad at a young age and became a vegetarian in his youth. He wrote the essay Insān-u ḥayvān (Human and animal) in 1924, when he was only 21 years old. His later essay Favāʾid-i giyāhkhārī (The benefits of vegetarianism, 1927) is understood to be the more mature version of the ideas on animal rights presented in the essay of 1924. This article explores the contents, socio-historical context and the background of Insān-u ḥayvān and Favāʾid-i giyāhkhārī, focusing in particular on the way in which Hedayat represents vegetarianism and the rhetoric he employs to advocate animal welfare in relation to his perception of the human world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Dietary supplements can affect animal growth, product quality, and various physiological factors. This study investigated the effects of supplementing hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) oil in the diet of goats. CBD, when included at higher levels (0.2–0.3 mL), led to improved meat quality but also altered volatile compound profiles. Additionally, CBD supplementation affected some blood variables related to immunity, metabolism, and homeostasis. Stress experienced by animals during pre-mortem management handling significantly affects both their welfare and the quality of the meat produced. Using hemp-derived CBD may offer several benefits in alleviating this issue. In this study, we investigated the effects of hemp-derived CBD supplementation on blood variables, growth performance, carcass characteristics, and meat quality in goats. Sixteen crossbred Boer goats were divided into four groups receiving a basal diet supplemented with 0 (control), 0.1, 0.2, or 0.3 mL CBD/30 kg body weight over 90 days. Although growth, carcass characteristics, and pH remained unaffected, CBD supplementation influenced several blood variables. Specifically, dietary CBD at 0.1–0.3 mL increased white blood cell (WBC) counts, while 0.3 mL CBD increased serum total protein, globulin, sodium, and carbon dioxide levels, potentially affecting protein metabolism and electrolyte balance. Over time, significant changes were noted in hematological profiles, kidney markers, protein profiles, and some electrolytes, indicating physiological adaptations. Regarding meat quality, supplementation with 0.2–0.3 mL of CBD linearly improved color redness and stability; moreover, CBD supplementation improved tenderness and textural properties, resulting in a softer meat texture. However, analysis using an E-nose indicated increased ammonia and organic solvent vapors in meat from the higher CBD groups. This study concluded that CBD supplementation up to 0.3 mL of CBD/30 kg body weight beneficially modulated blood biomarkers, meat color, and tenderness without adverse impacts on growth or carcass characteristics in goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Poor prognosis for advanced bladder cancer underlines the need for a better understanding of tumor resistance to treatment in relevant preclinical models. We developed new models of inducible and orthotopic muscle-invasive bladder cancer, with strong phenotypical and genetic resemblances to the human disease. These models enable real-time tracking of tumor progression and metastasis through bioluminescence imaging to facilitates the testing of new therapies. This valuable tool is important for advancing bladder cancer research and developing more effective treatments. Bladder cancer (BC) is the fourth most common cancer in men, with a poor patient prognosis for advanced disease. The poor survival of patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) and metastatic status emphasizes the urgent need to develop new therapies. Lacking in the field of BC is the availability of relevant advanced BC mouse models, especially metastatic ones, that accurately recapitulate the complexities of human pathology to test and study new therapeutic strategies. Addressing this need, we developed a traceable mouse model of BC that expresses tumor-associated antigens within the context of advanced muscle-invasive BC. This novel system was achieved through the deletion of the tp53 and pten genes, alongside the incorporation of the fusion construct of Firefly luciferase (Luc) and the SIYRYYGL (SIY) T-cell antigen. We validate that the presence of the transgene did not impact on the development of the tumors while allowing us to measure tumor progression by bioluminescence. We show that the transgene did not influence the composition of the immune tumor microenvironment. More importantly, we report that this model was unresponsive to anti-PD-1 treatment, as in the majority of patients with BC. We also develop a new model based on the orthotopic injection of BC clonal cell lines derived from our first model. We demonstrate that this new model invades the muscle layer and has a metastasis development rate of 83%. The advantage of this model is that we can visualize tumor growth and metastasis development in vivo. These mouse models' characteristics, displaying many similarities with the human pathology, provide a valuable tool for tracking tumor progression, metastasis spread in vivo, and treatment resistance, as well as exploring fundamental and translational aspects of BC biology. This work contributes to the improvement in the landscape of mouse models of advanced BC for testing new therapeutic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Shaoyao Decoction (SYD) is a widely recognized herbal formula utilized in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of diarrhea. Although it has demonstrated significant effectiveness in clinical practice for treating ulcerative colitis, the precise mechanisms by which it operates remain largely elusive. Methods: The active ingredients of SYD were obtained by ultra performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS), which were used to explore the potential pharmacological mechanism based on TCMSP (Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform) and PANTHER (Protein Analysis Through Evolutionary Relationships) classification system. In a mouse model of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis, mRNA sequencing, 16S rDNA sequencing and targeted metabolomics techniques were used to elucidate the mechanisms of SYD, and immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, enzyme linked immunosorbent assay, real time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot were used to test the key targets. In addition, QGP-1 and H9 cells were performed to validate the discoveries from the animal experiments. Results: In the mouse model of DSS-induced colitis, SYD effectively alleviated symptoms such as bloody stool, tissue damage, inflammation, intestinal flora dysbiosis and abnormal gene expression. Analyses of both differential expressed genes in colonic tissue and predicted 16S rDNA genes, as well as the analyses of targeted genes from TCMSP based on the active ingredients in UPLC-MS/MS of SYD, uncovered the enrichment of pathways involved in the biosynthesis and degredation of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT). Interestingly, SYD suppressed the relative abundance of key genes in 5-HT synthesis, Tph1(Tryptophan hydroxylase 1) and Ddc (Dopa decarboxylase), in faeces from DSS-induced mice, leading to a reduction in the concentration of fecal 5-HT. Moreover, SYD augmented the production of butyric acid. Subsequently, increasing butyric acid influenced the metabolism of 5-HT in the organism through G protein-coupled receptor 43 by impeding its synthesis, facilitating its transport and degredation. These findings were additionally corroborated in a model utilizing enterochromaffin cell (QGP-1 cells). Furthermore, reduced levels of 5-HT hindered the activation of T lymphocytes (H9 cells) via the PKC (Protein kinase C) and NF-κB (Nuclear factor kappa-B) signaling pathways, by means of HTR1A (5-HT receptor 1A) and HTR3 (5-HT receptor 3). Additionally, diminished secretion of 5-HT resulted in reduced secretion of associated cytokines, thereby alleviating inflammation in the colon. Conclusion: Through modulation of T lymphocyte activation mediated by 5-HT metabolism in the local colon via the intestinal flora and its metabolite, SYD effectively mitigated colonic inflammation in DSS-induced mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The book of Ruth is the only text of the Hebrew Bible which lacks a single mention of a nonhuman animal. As such, it has not been studied by scholars with an interest in animals within biblical texts. This article critically addresses this omission of nonhuman animals from Ruth by locating this neglect within the context of other troubling ideological binaries (such as gender, sexuality, ethnicity, class) which are operative in the narrative. Through an attentiveness to the lack of animals during the famine, harvest, and threshing of the grain in the book, this article suggests that the narrative obscures the crucial contribution of nonhuman animals to society as well as the care they deserve. This therefore indicates how the book of Ruth operates with an anthropocentric human/animal hierarchy whereby nonhumans can be disposed of to advance the interests of humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

North China has been one of the main regions in laying hens breeding. There is a high demand to standardize the carbon emission accounting of the laying hen breeding industry at present, in order to formulate carbon emission reduction technologies and policies in the carbon emission inventory of the animal husbandry industry. Particularly, carbon emissions are ever-increasing, as the laying hen industry is developing rapidly. However, it is still lacking in the carbon emissions of the whole industry chain in the layer breeding. This study aims to improve the carbon emission factors of the layer breeding industry in North China. A carbon emission accounting was also implemented for the layer breeding industry, according to the IPCC national greenhouse gas inventory guidelines. The mixed life cycle was then adopted to assess. The data was collected from the field research and meta-analysis data. 362-layer farms in Hebei Province were taken as an example. The benefits of carbon emission reduction were calculated from the whole chain (feed planting and processing, layer feeding, and manure management). Furthermore, the carbon emission sources were determined for the whole industry chain in the layer breeding. The results showed that the annual carbon emissions (in terms of carbon dioxide equivalent) per layer in the small, medium and large-scale farms were 25.6, 24.4 and 23.0 kg, respectively. The main emission sources were feed production (56.0%), enteric fermentation of laying hens (9.0%), egg packaging (9.0%), and manure storage and treatment (5.0%). The precise feeding was obtained to improve the manure cleaning. The optimal manure treatment also reduced the carbon emissions. There were also the traditional modes of laying hen breeding and extensive management. For example, the amount of feed varied by 5% to 10% among different farmers. A comparison was performed on the farms with the different size scales. Some measures were taken to avoid wasting resources. The large amount of carbon emission was needed to improve during the laying hen breeding. According to the survey, a series of measures were proposed to reduce carbon emissions, including specific ingredients in the feed, optimal feed structure, and better waste disposal. The laying hen breeding industry should be transformed in the direction of modernization, scale, standardization and automation. The precise feeding can be expected to improve feed utilization and energy saving. The level of waste treatment can also be promoted to reduce greenhouse gas emissions for the green and coordinated development of the laying hen industry. The carbon emission also accounted for the carbon emissions in the whole life cycle of layer breeding. The finding can provide a strong reference to analyze the carbon emission of layer breeding in different scale farms and emission sources. Carbon emission reduction measures are also suitable for different farms. Data support can also be offered to assess the carbon emissions intensity of the layer breeding industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Erving Goffman's concept of framing is one of his most enduring contributions to social science. Despite the canonical status of Frame Analysis (1974) in multiple fields, few acknowledge its intellectual engagement with animal studies. It was Gregory Bateson, in an analysis of animal play, who first posited the idea of frames as metacommunicative propositions that signal the meaning of behavior. In this paper, we show that Goffman did not just opportunistically borrow the idea of framing from Bateson, but also advanced Bateson's thesis that nonhuman animals are capable of (re)framing the meaning of behavior. He emphasized that animals and humans could meta‐communicate with each other as well. Goffman polemicized against human exceptionalist theories of cognition and communication—not only in Frame Analysis, but also in unpublished remarks he delivered at a controversial conference on animal communication, and he suggested that the ability to meta‐communicate is a more appropriate index of mind than language. Although new research indicates that many species use “significant symbols” and have a “theory of mind,” most interactionists have not reckoned with the sociological implications of animals as “minded” social actors capable of metacommunication with each other—and with people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Neoplatonic notion of "emanation" implies a required progression through hierarchical stages, originating from the highest principle (the One or God) and cascading down through a series of principles. While this process is deemed necessary, it is also inherently good, even "choiceworthy", aligning with the identification of the first principle with the Good. Plotinus, a prominent Neoplatonist, emphasizes the beauty and goodness of the sensible world, governed by divine providence. This perspective, transmitted through Arabic adaptations of Plotinus, influences Islamic philosophers too. This paper delves into the thought of the Ismāʿīlī philosopher Abū Yaʿqūb al-Sijistānī (d. after. 349/971), exploring the interplay of necessity and goodness in his cosmology, with a focus on non-human animals. Sijistānī's Persian Uncovering the Veiled provides a unique perspective on animals, presenting them as both necessary unfoldings of the universal intellect and inherently good beings with intrinsic value. The paper concludes with an appendix featuring an improved edition and English translation of relevant passages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This essay aims to defend the need to help animals in any disaster situation, be it anthropogenic, natural, or hybrid. To this end, I will first establish a brief foundation of the antispeciesist principles that have been advocated by different theorists over the last decades. Then, I will describe the conflict between environmental and animal approaches as a problem for the consideration of animals in unfavorable situations. This will be followed by the ways in which animals can be harmed in such contexts. After that, I will argue that many anthropogenic disasters affect animals, but they also deserve aid in the face of natural disasters: they are sentient beings and capable of suffering just like humans, to whom help is offered unconditionally in such cases. Finally, I will propose sentience, particularly suffering, and an ecofeminist and antispeciesist approach to address the situation of animals in disaster situations in a dialogic way between environmentalist and individual-centered positions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to provide an analysis of English animal-related terms used figuratively with reference to types of parenting. To be more precise, we make an attempt to investigate the scope of the conceptual metaphor PARENTS ARE ANIMALS. What ignited our interest was the ubiquity of linguistic metaphors featuring animal terms employed with reference to types of parenting present in everyday language, thus we have decided to delve into what types of animals are typical source domains in metaphors of this type. The methodology adopted is the Conceptual Metaphor Theory, originally proposed by Lakoff and Johnson (1980) and further developed in numerous subsequent publications, especially those by Kövecses (2003, 2005, 2010, 2015, 2017a, 2017b). Our results are supported by evidence from the online Corpus of Contemporary American English and News on the Web Corpus, which may be said to corroborate not only the conceptual nature of metaphors as such, but also their impact on social cognition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human infertility can arise from various factors including oxidative stress and endocrine disruptors. This study evaluated the protective effects of Allium cepa-fortified feed on testicular function alterations caused by oxidative damage by KBrO3. HPLC-characterized compounds of Allium cepa were docked against androgen receptor protein (2PIP). Thirty male Wistar rats with an average weight of 200 ± 0.5 g were randomly grouped into six: positive control which received KBrO3 and regular rat chow, negative control was fed only regular chow, and experimental groups received KBrO3 along with 10%, 20%, and 30% of Allium cepa-fortified chow, respectively. The animals were euthanized after 14 days, and the testes were extracted for biochemical assays. There was a significant decrease (P ≤ 0.05) in organ-body weight and protein concentration in the positive control compared to treatment groups and negative control. Additionally, there was a significant increase (P ≤ 0.05) in SOD and ALP activity in the positive control group compared with the negative control and treatment groups. The concentration of MDA significantly decreased (P ≤ 0.05) in the treatment groups and the negative control compared with that in the positive control. Testicular germ cells showed reduced proliferation and inadequate differentiation in the positive control group compared with the treatment and negative control groups. Dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene, testosterone, and quercetin showed the highest binding energies to the androgen receptor protein. The bioactive components of Allium cepa counteract the generation of free radicals caused by KBrO3 and obstruct the access of endocrine disruptors to endocrine receptors, thereby mitigating oxidative damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The livestock industry is undergoing significant transformation with the integration of intelligent technologies aimed at enhancing productivity, welfare, and sustainability. This review explores the latest advancements in intelligent systemization (IS), including real-time monitoring, machine learning (ML), and the Internet of Things (IoT), and their impacts on livestock farming. The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive overview of how these technologies can address industry challenges by improving animal health, optimizing resource use, and promoting sustainable practices. The methods involve an extensive review of the current literature and case studies on intelligent monitoring, data analytics, automation in feeding and climate control, and renewable energy integration. The results indicate that IS enhances livestock well-being through real-time health monitoring and early disease detection, optimizes feeding efficiency, and reduces operational costs through automation. Furthermore, these technologies contribute to environmental sustainability by minimizing waste and reducing the ecological footprint of livestock farming. This study highlights the transformative potential of intelligent technologies in creating a more efficient, humane, and sustainable livestock industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article is an adapted version of the 2023 David Buchan Memorial Lecture. Humans, animals, and plants talk to each other in songs, stories, legends, and other forms of creative expressions encompassed in the term folklore. This distinguishing feature of folklore is mostly perceived as merely fantastic, or even unrealistic. This article re-evaluates it from perspectives based in current human–animal studies and new scientific understanding of the non-human beings, and finds that folk narrative texts present an ecological consciousness in which humans and non-human animals communicate, fight, and cooperate with each other. This multi-species world, based on inter-species communication, has played a role in the making of human–animal relationships in different cultures and can also play a role in healing what the author calls our agonized ecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an urgent, global threat to public health. The development and implementation of effective measures to address AMR is vitally important but presents important ethical questions. This is a policy area requiring further sustained attention to ensure that policies proposed in National Action Plans on AMR are ethically acceptable and preferable to alternatives that might be fairer or more effective, for instance. By ethically analysing case studies of coercive actions to address AMR across countries, we can better inform policy in a context‐specific manner. In this article, I consider an example of coercive antimicrobial stewardship policy in Canada, namely restrictions on livestock farmers' access to certain antibiotics for animal use without a vet's prescription. I introduce and analyse two ethical arguments that might plausibly justify coercive action in this case: the harm principle and a duty of collective easy rescue. In addition, I consider the factors that might generally limit the application of those ethical concepts, such as challenges in establishing causation or evidencing the scale of the harm to be averted. I also consider specifics of the Canadian context in contrast to the UK and Botswana as example settings, to demonstrate how context‐specific factors might mean a coercive policy that is ethically justified in one country is not so in another. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Although detrimental effects of combustible cigarettes (CCs) on the progression of lung inflammatory diseases are well known, changes in electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS)-exposed lung-infiltrated immune cells are still unrevealed. Aims and Methods The analysis of blood gas parameters, descriptive and quantitative histology of lung tissues, determination of serum cytokines, intracellular staining, and flow cytometry analysis of lung-infiltrated immune cells were used to determine the differences in the extent of lung injury and inflammation between mice from experimental (CC and ENDS-exposed animals) and control groups (Air-exposed mice). Results Continuous exposition to either CCs or ENDS induced severe systemic inflammatory response, increased activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in neutrophils and macrophages and enhanced dendritic cell-dependent activation of Th1 and Th17 cells in the lungs. ENDS induced less severe immune response than CCs. Serum concentrations of inflammatory cytokines were significantly lower in the samples of ENDS-exposed mice. Compared to CCs, ENDS recruited lower number of circulating leukocytes in injured lungs and had less capacity to induce CD14/TLR2-dependent activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in lung-infiltrated neutrophils and macrophages. ENDS-primed dendritic cells had reduced capacity for the generation of Th1 and Th17 cell-driven lung inflammation. Accordingly, extensive immune cell-driven lung injury resulted in severe respiratory dysfunction in CCs-exposed mice, while ENDS caused moderate respiratory dysfunction in experimental animals. Conclusions Continuous exposition to either CCs or ENDS induced immune cell-driven lung damage in mice. ENDS triggered immune response, which was less potent than inflammatory response elicited by CCs and, therefore, caused less severe lung injury and inflammation. Implications This is the first study that compared the effects of CCs and ENDS on lung-infiltrated immune cells. Although both CCs and ENDS elicited systemic inflammatory response, immune cell-driven lung injury and inflammation were less severe in ENDS-exposed than in CC-exposed animals. Continuous exposition to ENDS-sourced aerosols was less harmful for respiratory function of experimental animals than CC-derived smoke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The marker approach is taken as best practice for answering the distribution question: Which animals are conscious? However, the methodology can be used to increase confidence in animals many presume to be unconscious, including C. elegans, leading to a trilemma: accept the worms as conscious; reject the specific markers; or reject the marker methodology for answering the distribution question. I defend the third option and argue that answering the distribution question requires a secure theory of consciousness. Accepting the hypothesis all animals are conscious will promote research leading to secure theory, which is needed to create reliable consciousness tests for animals and AIs. Rather than asking the distribution question, we should shift to the dimensions question: How are animals conscious? [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Farm workers are at high risk for injuries, and epidemiological data are needed to plan resource allocation. Objective: This study identified regions with high farm‐related injury rates in the Barwon South West region of Victoria, Australia, for residents aged ≥50 yr. Design: Retrospective synthesis using electronic medical records of emergency presentations occurring during 2017–2019 inclusive for Local Government Areas (LGA) in the study region. For each LGA, age‐standardised incidence rates (per 1000 population/year) were calculated. Findings: For men and women combined, there were 31 218 emergency presentations for any injury, and 1150 (3.68%) of these were farm‐related. The overall age‐standardised rate for farm‐related injury presentations was 2.6 (95% CI 2.4–2.7); men had a higher rate than women (4.1, 95% CI 3.9–4.4 versus 1.2, 95% CI 1.0–1.3, respectively). For individual LGAs, the highest rates of farm‐related emergency presentations occurred in Moyne and Southern Grampians, both rural LGAs. Approximately two‐thirds of farm‐related injuries occurred during work activities (65.0%), and most individuals arrived at the hospital by transport classified as "other" (including private car, 83.3%). There were also several common injury causes identified: "other animal related injury" (20.2%), "cutting, piercing object" (19.5%), "fall ⟨1 m" (13.1%), and "struck by or collision with object" (12.5%). Few injuries were caused by machinery (1.7%) and these occurred mainly in the LGA of Moyne (65%). Discussion and Conclusion: This study provides data to inform future research and resource allocation for the prevention of farm‐related injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We previously reported that binge ethanol induces atrophy of the spleen, a key immune organ, in adolescent male F344 rats. Because there are significant sex effects in immune function, we investigated whether binge ethanol exerts sex‐dependent effects on the spleen, including producing splenic atrophy. Methods: We gave F344 rats ethanol (4.8 g/kg/day; 52% w/v; i.g.) on postnatal days [PND] 36 ~ 38 and sacrificed them on PND 39 for spleen collection. We performed immunophenotyping analysis of splenic cells and examined the expression of 158 genes related to alcohol metabolism, epigenetic modification, and immune regulation in the spleens of adolescent (PND 39) male and female rats. Results: Following a 3‐day ethanol exposure, a loss of body weight, and absolute and relative spleen weight, was seen only in male adolescent rats. Ethanol altered the relative proportions of lymphocyte subtypes in both sexes with different patterns. We also found that 3‐day ethanol exposure induced sex‐dependent gene expression changes in spleen. Among the 158 genes studied, the expression of only three genes was significantly increased in female rats. However, the expression of 30 genes was significantly increased/decreased in male rats. Female rats had greater expression of alcohol metabolizing enzyme genes in the spleen under physiological conditions and when stimulated by binge ethanol. The genes are involved in epigenetic modification were differentially expressed in a sex‐dependent manner. Conclusion: We found that male adolescent rats were more sensitive to binge ethanol than female rats. Differential expression of the genes related to alcohol metabolism and epigenetic modification (of DNA methyltransferase and histone deacetylases) between the sexes could account for the observed sex‐dependent responses to binge ethanol in adolescent rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aimed to assess membrane use with a bone substitute graft for guided bone regeneration (GBR) in experimental dehiscence defects. Materials and methods: Maxillary second incisors (I2) in 9 dogs were extracted. Six weeks later, implants were inserted and experimental dehiscence defects (5 × 3 mm) created on the buccal aspect. The defects and surrounding bone were grafted with deproteinized bovine bone mineral. One side (test) was covered with a resorbable collagen membrane whereas the contralateral side (control) was not. After 6 weeks, histomorphometrical analysis was performed to evaluate: (a) first bone-to-implant contact (fBIC), (b) buccal bone thickness at 1 mm increments from implant shoulder, (c) regenerated area (RA), (d) area and percentages of new bone (B), bone substitute (BS) and mineralized tissue (MT). Results: The histological appearance was similar between test and control sites. At central and lateral sections, there were no differences between groups for fBIC, buccal bone thickness, RA, BS, B, %B, MT and %MT. At central sections, membrane use favoured more %BS and %MT (p = 0.052). There was significantly more B, %B and MT at lateral compared to central sections. Conclusions: Membrane use tended to retain more bone substitute, but had no effect on new bone ingrowth. Lateral sections showed significantly more bone ingrowth and mineralized tissue compared to central sections, confirming that new bone ingrowth takes place mainly from the lateral walls of the defect. Clinical relevance: Preclinical research to clarify the dynamics of bone regeneration in GBR procedures is relevant in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a zoonotic tick-borne disease, caused by an arbovirus of the genus Orthonairovirus and the family Nairoviridae. Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) is widespread in several regions of the world. While the virus is not pathogenic to all susceptible livestock and wild mammals, it can lead to severe hemorrhagic fever in humans. In this review, we compiled published data on CCHFV infections in humans, animals, and ticks in Tunisia. Based on that, we discussed the epidemiology and the distribution patterns of CCHFV infections highlighting the risk factors for this virus in the country. CCHF infection prevalence in humans was estimated to 2.76% (5/181) and 5% (2/38) in Tunisian febrile patients and Tunisian slaughterhouse workers, respectively. Concurrently, seroprevalence in domestic ungulates (sheep, goats, cattle, and dromedaries) ranged from zero to 89.7%, and only one Hyalomma impeltatum tick specimen collected from dromedaries in southern Tunisian was positive for CCHFV by reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (0.6%; 1/165). As Tunisian studies on CCHFV are geographically scattered and limited due to very small sample sizes, further studies are needed to improve the knowledge on the epidemiology of CCHF in Tunisia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

My aim in this paper is to show that the natural idea that humiliation is harmful calls explanation and to argue that the most straightforward ways of responding to this explanatory demand fall short in important ways. I end by considering a line of response which I take to be promising, which appeals to our need, as social animals, for interpersonal connection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper uses a selection of foxhunting stories to explore the way in which anthropomorphized foxes were used to communicate pro-hunting messages to their mostly young readers. These justifications also appeared in nonfictional foxhunting sporting literature. Indeed, this literature included some of the same incredible anecdotes that also appeared in the work of nature writers at the turn of the twentieth century such as Charles G.D. Roberts and Ernest Thompson Seton working in a new sympathetic genre called the “animal story.” These writers found themselves under attack because naturalists like John Burroughs, and hunters, including President Theodore Roosevelt, found their stories to be inaccurate and anthropocentric. Roosevelt dubbed them the “nature fakers.” Foxhunting “histories” employed imaginative material and much anthropomorphism but were not attacked for doing so. This tends to indicate that anthropomorphisms were more acceptable when they were facilitating animal exploitation than when they were used to promote the perspective of nonhuman animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Developing sustainable livestock management requires knowledge and monitoring of which habitats within an enclosure the livestock prefers to stay in and in what way they utilise the available habitats. The technology of virtual fencing provides the ability to both monitor and adapt enclosures, thus adding value to the expense related to fencing for farmers and livestock managers. To this end, the possibilities this new technology offers need to be explored and methods developed. In this paper, we explore the monitoring capabilities of virtual fencing technology on a herd of cattle in a coastal dune landscape. We explore to what extent a herd of cattle prefers some habitats over others, and in what way they utilise each of the available habitats. We find clear differences in the amount of time the herd spends in each habitat and in the ways they utilise each habitat. The herd spend a disproportionately large amount of time in salt meadow, and likely spend most of their time there resting and ruminating. We conclude that the method for monitoring of cattle applied in this study, using existing virtual fencing technology, is a relatively precise method useful in year-round monitoring, with room for improvement. There has been an increased focus on new technologies to monitor habitat use and behaviour of cattle to develop a more sustainable livestock grazing system without compromising animal welfare. One of the currently used methods for monitoring cattle behaviour is tri-axial accelerometer data from systems such as virtual fencing technology or bespoke monitoring technology. Collection and transmission of high-frequency accelerometer and GNSS data is a major energy cost, and quickly drains the battery in contemporary virtual fencing systems, making it unsuitable for long-term monitoring. In this paper, we explore the possibility of determining habitat preference and habitat utilisation patterns in cattle using low-frequency activity and location data. We achieve this by (1) calculating habitat selection ratios, (2) determining daily activity patterns, and (3) based on those, inferring grazing and resting sites in a group of cattle wearing virtual fencing collars in a coastal setting with grey, wooded, and decalcified dunes, humid dune slacks, and salt meadows. We found that GNSS data, and a measure of activity, combined with accurate mapping of habitats can be an effective tool in assessing habitat preference. The animals preferred salt meadows over the other habitats, with wooded dunes and humid dune slacks being the least preferred. We were able to identify daily patterns in activity. By comparing general trends in activity levels to the existing literature, and using a Gaussian mixture model, it was possible to infer resting and grazing behaviour in the different habitats. According to our inference of behaviour the herd predominantly used the salt meadows for resting and ruminating. The approach used in this study allowed us to use GNSS location data and activity data and combine it with accurate habitat mapping to assess habitat preference and habitat utilisation patterns, which can be an important tool for guiding management decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Virtual fencing is an alternative to the ubiquitously used physical fences. It uses GPS to determine the location of livestock relative to a virtual line. The system deters livestock from leaving the enclosure by using an auditory warning followed by an electric impulse during approach and crossing of the fence line. This paper assessed the social effects on learning between cattle with and without prior experience with virtual fencing through three case studies: one with a gradual and two with an instant introduction method. These were applied to assess if improvements in associative learning could be made. Due to the non-standardised experiments, it was not possible to analyse the effect across the case studies and therefore to conclude whether the number of experienced cattle or the different introduction methods influenced the inexperienced cattle. Agricultural industries rely on physical fences to manage livestock. However, these present practical, financial, and ecological challenges, which may be solved using virtual fencing. This study aimed to identify how experienced cattle through social facilitation and the introduction method influence inexperienced cattle. Based on three stocks held in Fanø, Denmark, containing 12, 17 and 13 Angus (Bos taurus), we examined the virtual fence learning in three case studies using one gradual introduction with zero experienced cattle (A) and two different instant introductions with one (B) and ten (C) experienced cattle. Gradual introduction had the virtual fence moved 20 m every other day for eleven days, and in the two instant introductions, the physical fence was removed in one day. Warnings and impulses were recorded during an 11-day learning period and a 26-day post-learning period, using the impulses per warning to quantify if the cattle adapted. Case studies A and B showed a significant reduction in the warnings and impulses, but only A showed a significant reduction in the impulses per warning when comparing the learning period to the post-learning period. Due to the non-standardised experiments, it was not possible to conclude if the number of experienced cattle or the introduction method had an effect on the results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Globally, rotavirus infections are the most common cause of diarrhea-related deaths, especially among children under 5 years of age. This virus can be transmitted through the fecal-oral route, although zoonotic and environmental contributions to transmission are poorly defined. The purpose of this study is to determine the epidemiology of rotavirus in humans, animals, and the environment in Africa, as well as the impact of vaccination. Methods We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Africa Index Medicus, and African Journal Online, identifying 240 prevalence data points from 224 articles between 2009 and 2022. Results Human rotavirus prevalence among patients with gastroenteritis was 29.8% (95% confidence interval [CI], 28.1%–31.5%; 238 710 participants), with similar estimates in children under 5 years of age, and an estimated case fatality rate of 1.2% (95% CI,.7%–2.0%; 10 440 participants). Prevalence was estimated to be 15.4% and 6.1% in patients with nongastroenteritis illnesses and apparently healthy individuals, respectively. Among animals, prevalence was 9.3% (95% CI, 5.7%–13.7%; 6115 animals), and in the environmental water sources, prevalence was 31.4% (95% CI, 17.7%–46.9%; 2530 samples). Discussion Our findings highlight the significant burden of rotavirus infection in Africa, and underscore the need for a One Health approach to limiting the spread of this disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A fracture is considered a medical emergency leading to considerable complications. Aim: This study aimed to describe the accelerating action of Ag-NPs-FG on fracture healing in rabbits. Methods: Silver NPs (AgNPs) were reduced with fenugreek (FG), loaded into a starch gel base, and investigated for their morphology, size, and charge. Four equal groups were randomly formed of 40 adult male rabbits. A 3.5 mm diameter bone defect was created at the proximal metaphysis of the right tibia in each rabbit. Groups 1-4 were injected with placebo saline, AgNPs-FG, plain gel, and FG-gel at the bone defect zone, respectively. The healing was assessed for 8 weeks postoperatively based on the radiographic, bone turnover markers, and histopathological examinations. Results: The AgNPs-FG was obtained as a faint reddish color, spherical in shape, with an absorbance of 423 nm, a size of 118.0 ± 1.7 nm, and a surface charge of -7.8 ± 0.518 mV. The prepared AgNPs-FG hydrogel was clear, translucent, and homogenous. The pH values were 6.55-6.5 ± 0.2, the viscosity of 4,000 and 1,875 cPs, and spreadability of 1.6 ± 0.14 and 2.0 ± 0.15 for both FG and AgNPs-FG hydrogel, respectively. The radiographic union scale was significantly (p < 0.05) improved in group 2 with a significant (p < 0.05) increase in bone turnover markers was found in comparison to other treated groups. Histopathological examination revealed the formation of mature bone on the 28th postoperative day in groups 2 and 4. Conclusion: Colloidal nano-formulation of AgNPs-FG loaded hydrogel could be a promising formulation to accelerate rabbits' tibial bone healing process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research work was conducted to investigate the anatomical and antioxidant studies of some ethnoveterinary grasses (Cenchrus pennisetiformis and Dichanthium annulatum). The anatomical characteristics (compact epidermal layer, large cortical cells, thickened sclerenchyma, central and scattered vascular bundles, large metaxylem, small protoxylem, and centrally located pith) were observed. For the antioxidant activity studies, the crude methanol extract was prepared by maceration techniques and different fractions were prepared (n-hexane, chloroform, and aqueous solution). The maximum antioxidant potential in DPPH was shown by C. pennisetiformis at a concentration of 250 μL in the chloroform fraction, while D. annulatum showed a maximum value of 68.47±0.30 at a concentration of 250 μL in the methanolic extract. In both species, chloroform extract in TAA showed maximum potency at a concentration of 500 μL, but C. pennisetiformis showed a higher value (i.e. 1.15±0.0018) and D. annulatum showed a lever value (i.e. 1.05±0.0017). The best reducing power in FRAP was shown by D. annulatum followed by C. pennisetiformis. C. pennisetiformis showed the highest value in the chloroform fraction while D. annulatum showed a higher significant value in the methanol fraction. These grasses have the potential to control several diseases caused by ROS in animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article aims to contribute to counteracting the negative perception of Descartes' philosophical legacy. The article addresses a specific aspect of the supposed human dominance over nature, that of the animal question. Against the accusation of "speciesism," a hierarchy that considers humans superior and justifies their domination and cruelty towards animals, it is argued that Descartes did not regard animals as completely insensible, that his position was not as categorical as often presented, and that he can be interpreted not as a speciesist but as an environmental advocate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We argue for a radical reconfiguration of existing theorizations of the "lively commodity"—beings captured, cultivated, and traded for their very lives—on more inclusive terms. Specifically, we advocate the inclusion of animals intended for dietary consumption, in recognition of the demonstrable centrality of encounters between human beings in their role as consumers and the animals and animal parts offered for sale in Hong Kong's many wet markets to the processes of commodification. Based on semistructured interviews with vendors and consumers (n = 86) and a variety of modes of ethnographic observation (including narrative, photography, and several forms of videography), we analyze three groups of practices and strategies for structuring and negotiating productive encounters (which we label provoking motion, stimulating appetite, and maintaining life) observed in twenty-seven different wet markets across Hong Kong between June and September 2022. Our analysis also suggests critical issues and directions for future research rooted in, at minimum, crucial differences in the scalar, temporal, ecological, and ethical dimensions of diverse processes of lively commodification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among various ecological problems, the theme of animals is one of the constantly recurring leitmotifs in Olga Tokarczuk's work. The issues of the right to kill them and the legitimacy of the custom of hunting are addressed in the novel Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead. Its protagonist, Janina Duszejko, who shares the writer's philosophy regarding our attitude toward these beings, defends them in a radical way, oscillating between tenderness and anger. The present analysis focuses on this dichotomy by examining the interactions between these two extreme emotions and the behaviors that these interactions lead to. Reading the novel in the light of the philosophy of deep ecology, close to Tokarczuk's thinking, but also using the tools of ecopoetics, I attempt to find what the status of creatures other than human beings is in this text, noting how they are represented and named, as well as trying to specify the role they play. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Do children think of genetic inheritance as deterministic or probabilistic? In two novel tasks, children viewed the eye colors of animal parents and judged and selected possible phenotypes of offspring. Across three studies (N = 353, 162 girls, 172 boys, 2 non‐binary; 17 did not report gender) with predominantly White U.S. participants collected in 2019–2021, 4‐ to 12‐year‐old children showed a probabilistic understanding of genetic inheritance, and they accepted and expected variability in the genetic inheritance of eye color. Children did not show a mother bias but they did show two novel biases: perceptual similarity and sex‐matching. These results held for unfamiliar animals and several physical traits (e.g., eye color, ear size, and fin type), and persisted after a lesson. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Israelite authors who mentioned land, aerial, and aquatic animals in texts mentally organized the world into three realms: the water and its animals, the land and its animals, and the air and its animals. Israelite authors who mentioned only land and aerial animals in texts mentally organized the world into two realms: the water and its animals, and the terrestrial realm (the land/air complex) and its animals. For some authors, this bipartite way of mentally organizing the world placed terrestrial animals (i.e., land and aerial animals) in the foreground of their minds and aquatic animals in the background, leading them to mention the former but not the latter. For other authors, this bipartite way of mentally organizing the world highlighted certain differences between terrestrial animals and aquatic animals, leading them to mention the former but not the latter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the expression patterns and clinical significance of specific lymphocyte subsets in the peripheral blood of patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection. Methods: Between December 2022 and February 2023, a cohort of 165 patients from the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine were analyzed. The participants represented various stages of coronavirus infection severity: mild, moderate, severe, and critical. Additionally, 40 healthy individuals constituted the control group. The FC 500MPL flow cytometer and associated reagents for flow cytometry. Results: Compared with the healthy control group, activated B lymphocytes witnessed a pronounced increase (p <.05). A significant decrease was observed in the levels of Breg, Cytotoxic T cells or Suppressor T‐cell (Tc/s), late‐activated T, late‐activated Th, and late‐activated Tc/s lymphocytes (p <.05). Th, initial Th, initial Tc/s, total Treg, natural Treg, induced Treg, early activated T, and early activated Th lymphocyte levels showed no significant difference (p >.05). As the disease progressed, there was an uptick in midterm activated T lymphocytes (p <.05), while Breg, T, Tc/s, senescent Tc/s, and total senescent T levels dwindled (p <.05). Noteworthy patterns emerged across different groups for B1, T‐lymphocytes, Tc/s, B2, CD8+ Treg cells, and other subsets, highlighting variance in immune responses relative to disease severity. When juxtaposed, no significant difference was found in the expression levels of lymphocyte subsets between patients who died and those deemed critically ill (p >.05). Conclusion: Subsets of Treg and B‐cells could act as yardsticks for the trajectory of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and might have potential in forecasting patient trajectories. A comprehensive evaluation of lymphocyte subsets, especially in real‐time, holds the key to discerning the clinical severity in those with COVID‐19. This becomes instrumental in monitoring treatment outcomes, tracking disease evolution, and formulating prognostications. Moreover, the results provide a deeper understanding of the cellular immune defense mechanisms against the novel coronavirus infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Abnormal lipid metabolism is involved in the development of osteoarthritis (OA). ATP‐binding cassette protein G1 (ABCG1) is crucial in mediating the outflow of cholesterol, phosphatidylcholine and sphingomyelin and reducing intracellular lipid accumulation. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate whether ABCG1 participates in the abnormal adipogenesis of chondrocytes in osteoarthritic cartilage of temporomandibular joint. Methods: Eight‐week‐old female rats were subjected to unilateral anterior crossbite (UAC) to induce OA in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Histochemical staining, immunohistochemical (IHC) staining, and qRT–PCR were performed. Primary condylar chondrocytes of rats were transfected with ABCG1 shRNA or overexpression lentivirus and then stimulated with fluid flow shear stress (FFSS). Cells were collected for oil red O staining, immunofluorescence staining, and qRT–PCR analysis. Results: Abnormal adipogenesis, characterized by increased expression of Adiponectin, CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein α (Cebpα), fatty acid binding protein 4 (Fabp4) and Perilipin1, was enhanced in the degenerative cartilage of TMJ OA in rats with UAC, accompanied by decreased expression of ABCG1. After FFSS stimulation, we observed lipid droplets in the cytoplasm of cultured cells with increased expression of Adiponectin, Cebpα, Fabp4 and Perilipin1 and decreased expression of ABCG1. Knockdown of Abcg1 induced abnormal adipogenesis and differentiation of condylar chondrocytes. Overexpression of ABCG1 alleviated the abnormal adipogenesis and differentiation of condylar chondrocytes induced by FFSS. Conclusions: Abnormal adipogenesis of chondrocytes and decreased ABCG1 expression were observed in degenerative cartilage of TMJ OA. ABCG1 overexpression effectively inhibits the adipogenesis of chondrocytes and thus alleviates TMJ condylar cartilage degeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tobacco-specific nitrosamines N ʹ-nitrosonornicotine (NNN) and 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK) are considered 'carcinogenic to humans' by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and are believed to be important in the carcinogenic effects of both smokeless tobacco and combusted tobacco products. This short review focuses on the results of recent studies on the formation of NNN and NNK in tobacco, and their carcinogenicity and toxicity in laboratory animals. New mechanistic insights are presented regarding the role of dissimilatory nitrate reductases in certain microorganisms involved in the conversion of nitrate to nitrite that leads to the formation of NNN and NNK during curing and processing of tobacco. Carcinogenicity studies of the enantiomers of the major NNK metabolite 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanol (NNAL) and the enantiomers of NNN are reviewed. Recent toxicity studies of inhaled NNK and co-administration studies of NNK with formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, acrolein and CO2, all of which occur in high concentrations in cigarette smoke, are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Patients with treatable cancers all too often return to the clinic with untreatable tumors, requiring highly toxic secondary treatments or palliative care. In this study, we aim to determine whether activation of the Anaphase Promoting Complex (APC) in multiple-drug-resistant (MDR) breast cancer cells will re-sensitize them to chemotherapeutic agents. The APC is required for the targeted degradation of proteins that inhibit passage through mitosis. We found that APC activity is indeed impaired in MDR cells and that chemical activation of the APC increased the sensitivity of these cells to doxorubicin. Mitotic progression was slowed in MDR cells, compared to matched parental drug sensitive cells, with an accumulation of APC substrate proteins. APC activation in nocodazole-arrested cells resulted in increased passage through mitosis with lower APC substrate levels. Mice growing a patient-derived xenografted (PDX) tumor were treated with increasing doses of a chemical APC activator, resulting in a dose-dependent reduction in tumor size. Taken together, our data show that APC activity is reduced in MDR cells, with APC activation resulting in a species- and cancer-type-independent reversal of the MDR phenotype. The development of multiple-drug-resistant (MDR) cancer all too often signals the need for toxic alternative therapy or palliative care. Our recent in vivo and in vitro studies using canine MDR lymphoma cancer cells demonstrate that the Anaphase Promoting Complex (APC) is impaired in MDR cells compared to normal canine control and drug-sensitive cancer cells. Here, we sought to establish whether this phenomena is a generalizable mechanism independent of species, malignancy type, or chemotherapy regime. To test the association of blunted APC activity with MDR cancer behavior, we used matched parental and MDR MCF7 human breast cancer cells, and a patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model of human triple-negative breast cancer. We show that APC activating mechanisms, such as APC subunit 1 (APC1) phosphorylation and CDC27/CDC20 protein associations, are reduced in MCF7 MDR cells when compared to chemo-sensitive matched cell lines. Consistent with impaired APC function in MDR cells, APC substrate proteins failed to be effectively degraded. Similar to our previous observations in canine MDR lymphoma cells, chemical activation of the APC using Mad2 Inhibitor-1 (M2I-1) in MCF7 MDR cells enhanced APC substrate degradation and resensitized MDR cells in vitro to the cytotoxic effects of the alkylating chemotherapeutic agent, doxorubicin (DOX). Using cell cycle arrest/release experiments, we show that mitosis is delayed in MDR cells with elevated substrate levels. When pretreated with M2I-1, MDR cells progress through mitosis at a faster rate that coincides with reduced levels of APC substrates. In our PDX model, mice growing a clinically MDR human triple-negative breast cancer tumor show significantly reduced tumor growth when treated with M2I-1, with evidence of increased DNA damage and apoptosis. Thus, our results strongly support the hypothesis that APC impairment is a driver of aggressive tumor development and that targeting the APC for activation has the potential for meaningful clinical benefits in treating recurrent cases of MDR malignancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat stress has been one of the most important factors in the dairy industry against global warming in recent years. The milk performance of dairy cows can be confined to long-term heat stress. The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the effects of spoiler fans cooling on milk performance and immune function in dairy cows. Two cowsheds were used with the same building structure and system. The spoiler fan were installed, while the control cowshed was uninstalled any fans. The lactation performance (including milk yield, 4% fat-corrected milk, milk protein rate, milk fat rate and lactose rate) and lymphocyte apoptosis rate were detected in different experimental periods; Meanwhile, blood biochemical parameters and their mRNA expression were also investigated, including four kinds of cytokines (Interleukin-1 (IL-1), Interleukin-2 (IL-2), Interleukin-6 (IL-12), and Interleukin-12 (IL-12)), six kinds of apoptotic factors (BAK, Mcl-1, Bax, Bcl-2, Bcl-xl, and P53), and three kinds of immunoglobulins (Immunoglobulin A (Ig A), Immunoglobulin G (IgG), Immunoglobulin M (IgM)). Besides, Spearman correlation analysis was carried out between milk performance or immune parameters and equivalent temperature index for cattle (ETIC). Approximately 200 Holstein lactating dairy cows were kept in each cowshed. The whole experiment period was 42 days from June to August, including four stages: initial (0 d), early (1-14 d), middle (15-28 d) and late stage (29-42 d). The results showed that: 1) The installed fans improved the cowshed environment, where the ETIC was reduced by 3.52 ℃ during the entire period, compared with the control cowshed. Cows in the control shed were in the moderate heat stress, while cows in the fan-installed shed were in the mild heat stress. Thus, the fans significantly alleviated the heat stress in cows. 2) Installation of fans improved the production performance of dairy cows exposure to heat stress. The milk yield, 4% fat-corrected milk, and milk fat increased in the fan-installed shed during the middle and late periods of experiments, compared with the control shed (P<0.05). Particularly, the 4% fat-corrected milk increased by 39.1% during the middle period and by 35.2% during the late period, respectively. The milk fat percentage in the fan-installed shed also showed an increase of 22.5% and 20.8%, respectively (P<0.05). 3) Installed fans improved the immune function of dairy cows under heat stress. Blood lymphocyte counts during the middle and late periods were greater in the fan-installed shed than those in the control group (P<0.05), and their early apoptosis rates of lymphocytes decreased (P<0.05). Moreover, there was a reduction in the mRNA expression of pro-apoptotic factor Bax in lymphocytes and its serum level (P<0.05) during the late period. An increase was found in the mRNA levels of anti-apoptotic factor Bcl-xl in lymphocytes and its serum level was demonstrated (P<0.05) during the middle and late periods. Besides, the installed fans increased the serum levels of IL-12 and IgG (P<0.05). 4) The correlation analysis showed that the milk protein rate and the lymphocyte count demonstrated a negative correlation with ETIC (P<0.05), and the BAK mRNA expression in lymphocyte and serum IL-6 level exhibited a positive correlation with ETIC (P<0.05). In conclusion, the spoiler fans in the shed can be expected to effectively relieve the heat stress in cows in summer, thus promoting the thermal environment and blood biochemical indicators in cows for better production performance and immune function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The objective of the study was to explore the molecular mechanism of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) LINC00472 in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and identify potential novel targets for AD therapy. Method: Ferroptosis-related lncRNAs were screened by GEO database. AD mouse model was constructed for in vivo experiments. The content of Aβ protein and tau protein hyperphosphorylation were examined in hippocampal tissue samples of mice. Subsequently, HT22 cells were induced with Aβ25–35 to establish a neuronal injury model of AD in vitro. The expression of FOXO1, a key gene for ferroptosis, was verified by overexpressing/knocking down the LINC00472. The effects of LINC00472 on ROS and lipid peroxidation content, GPX4, and tau protein in AD model cells were examined by ROS assay, MDA assay, Western blot, and qRT-PCR. Subsequently, the expression of iron ion, FTH, TfRC, and Fpn protein were detected in AD cells. Results: The level of FOXO1 was positively correlated with the degree of AD. In vivo experiments showed that the expression of Aβ and tau hyperphosphorylated were significantly reduced in the inhibitor group and iron was significantly reduced relative to the AD group. In the AD cell model, the content of lipid peroxide was upregulated, GPX4 protein and mRNA were decreased, and phosphorylation of tau protein was enhanced in the AD cell model relative to the control group. Whereas knocking down LINC00472 inhibited the upregulation of lipid peroxide, decreased the level of GPX4, and enhanced tau protein phosphorylation, and reduced iron accumulation in AD cells. Conclusions: LINC00472 affects ferroptosis in AD by regulating iron accumulation in neuronal cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to a widespread view, people often anthropomorphize machines such as certain robots and computer and AI systems by erroneously attributing mental states to them. On this view, people almost irresistibly believe, even if only subconsciously, that machines with certain human-like features really have phenomenal or subjective experiences like sadness, happiness, desire, pain, joy, and distress, even though they lack such feelings. This paper questions this view by critiquing common arguments used to support it and by suggesting an alternative explanation. Even if people’s behavior and language regarding human-like machines suggests they believe those machines really have mental states, it is possible that they do not believe that at all. The paper also briefly discusses potential implications of regarding such anthropomorphism as a popular myth. The exercise illuminates the difficult concept of anthropomorphism, helping to clarify possible human relations with or toward machines that increasingly resemble humans and animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe term “charismatic” refers to visually or empathetically appealing animals. They act as flagship species to garner interest and participation. This study explored the impact of charismatic animals featured in three virtual reality (VR) tours of an estuary system on youths’ learning, connectedness to water (CTW), and tour perceptions. Each tour included a different animal– a charismatic dolphin, a non-charismatic tunicate, and a comparison treatment with no animal. Utilizing convergent mixed methods, the VR tours were distributed to five schools in the Tampa Bay area. Students completed a post-survey (n = 366) and interview (n = 6). Results showed all tours, regardless of animal charisma presence, yielded positive student CTW and estuary knowledge. Students indicated more interest in animals that were weird, interesting, and new to them. Results indicate a larger diversity of animals can be used as interest approaches to engage audiences, yet not overshadow main message objective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThis study explores the inclusion of poetry in the realm of consumer research in tourism, consumption, and sustainability, with a study of the poem “The Dolphins” by Carol Ann Duffy. It reflects on the analysis of poetry in advancing our understanding of tourism consumption, and deliberates that poetry could provide insight into complex, emotional, painful, and cruel consumption facets. The study crafts a reference point for the use of poetry as a data source and a methodological tool in tourism and sustainability research and highlights how poetry could help in advancing our understanding of ethical consumption and its confluence with animal welfare in tourism and raising ethical awareness and sensitivity. The study also reflects on the themes of expanding our consciousness as part of being better humans and tourists, and raising the social consciousness of organizations to work towards animal welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Glioblastomas are the most aggressive brain tumors, and affected patients still only have an extremely poor prognosis with today's therapeutic options. Further developments are still necessary, particularly in therapeutic approaches. Orlistat can act as an antitumor agent as it inhibits fatty acid synthase, decreases tumor cell proliferation, and stimulates tumor cell apoptosis. Investigations conducted on breast, pancreatic, hepatic, and colorectal tumors showed that FASN—fatty acid synthase, a protein that catalyzes the de novo synthesis of long-chain fatty acids—is strongly upregulated. Using an animal model, we tested whether the drug's effects could be demonstrated visually, quantitatively, and by texture analysis based on MR studies. Histology and immunochemistry were used as references. The key results of the present study are as follows: Firstly, a significant difference was found between orlistat-treated and untreated tumors in MRI studies based on morphology and texture analyses. Secondly, the expression of FASN was reduced in the orlistat group, which, however, did not result in a higher apoptosis rate in the treatment group. Our findings suggest that some effects of orlistat on tumor cell proliferation must have taken place during therapy. Further studies should investigate the effects of FASN inhibition when combined with targeted therapies. Background: This study aimed to investigate the effects of tetrahydrolipstatin (orlistat) on heterotopic glioblastoma in mice by applying MRI and correlating the results with histopathology and immunochemistry. Methods: Human glioblastoma cells were injected subcutaneously into the groins of immunodeficient mice. After tumor growth of >150 mm3, the animals were assigned into a treatment group (n = 6), which received daily intraperitoneal injections of orlistat, and a control group (n = 7). MRI was performed at the time of randomization and before euthanizing the animals. Tumor volumes were calculated, and signal intensities were analyzed. The internal tumor structure was evaluated visually and with texture analysis. Western blotting and protein expression analysis were performed. Results: At histology, all tumors showed high mitotic and proliferative activity (Ki67 ≥ 10%). Reduced fatty acid synthetase expression was measured in the orlistat group (p < 0.05). Based on the results of morphologic MRI-based analysis, tumor growth remained concentric in the control group and changed to eccentric in the treatment group (p < 0.05). The largest area under the receiver operating curve of the predictors derived from the texture analysis of T2w images was for wavelet transform parameters WavEnHL_s3 and WavEnLH_s4 at 0.96 and 1.00, respectively. Conclusions: Orlistat showed effects on heterotopically implanted glioblastoma multiforme in MRI studies of mice based on morphologic and texture analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article is a conversation between Marie-Thérèse Talensby, a doctoral student with the Extinction Studies doctoral training programme at the University of Leeds, and Dr Juno Salazar Parreñas, Associate Professor of Science and Technology Studies and Feminist, Gender and Sexuality Studies at Cornell University. Talking over Skype in July 2023, Dr Parreñas reflects on her current research, exploring the death of a tropical polar bear in Singapore Zoo, her work on Orangutan conservation, and the violence inherent in many methods of animal conservation. In doing so, she highlights the entanglements of human and more-than-human lives in what is being described by scientists and conservation organisations as the sixth mass extinction event. Weaving throughout the conversation are more personal reflections on loss and grief, vicarious trauma, and the transformative potential in moments of decolonisation. This article offers a rich reflection on the experience and impact of researching death and loss, encompassing themes of positionality, boundaries, and the broader socio-cultural context of fieldwork encounters, topics highly relevant to Mortality readers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Celebrities can generate substantial attention and influence public interest in species. Using a large‐scale examination of publicly available data, we assessed whether species across 6 taxonomic groups received more page views on Wikipedia when the species was named after a celebrity than when it was not. We conducted our analysis for 4 increasingly strict thresholds of how many average daily Wikipedia page views a celebrity had (1, 10, 100, or 1000 views). Overall, we found a high probability (0.96–0.98) that species named after celebrities had more page views than their closest relatives that were not named after celebrities, irrespective of the celebrity threshold. The multiplicative effect on species' page views was larger but more uncertain as celebrity page‐view thresholds increased. The range for thresholds of 1 to 1000 was 1.08 (95% credible interval [CI] 1.00–1.18) to 1.76 (95% CI 0.96–2.80), respectively. The hierarchical estimates for the taxa tended to be positive. The strongest effects were for invertebrates, followed by amphibians, reptiles, fish, and mammals, whereas the weakest effect was for birds at lower page‐view thresholds. Our results suggest that naming species after celebrities could be particularly significant for those belonging to taxonomic groups that are generally less popular than others (e.g., invertebrates). Celebrities may further influence the effectiveness of this marketing strategy, depending on their likability and connection to the species named after them. Eponyms may serve as a reminder of the disproportionate power dynamics between populations and some namesakes' untenable actions. However, they also provide an opportunity to recognize remarkable individuals and promote equity, inclusivity, and diversity in taxonomic practice. We encourage taxonomists to examine whether naming threatened species after celebrities could affect conservation support, especially for species that are otherwise typically overlooked by the public. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]