Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Insight into regulation of adventitious root formation by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus and exogenous auxin in tea plant (Camellia sinensis L.) cuttings

Introduction Adventitious root (AR) development, affected by various biotic and abiotic factors, is the most important procedure in tea plant (Camellia sinensis L.) cutting propagation. Establishing symbiotic relationships with most terrestrial plants, AMF (Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus) can mediate the AR formation of several herbaceous and woody plants in previous studies. Methods In this paper, effects of combined application of AMF and exogenous auxin on AR formation of cuttings from different tea plant varieties (‘Pingyangtezao’, ‘Longjing 43’ and ‘Longjingchangye’) were studied. Then we also performed RNA-Seq analysis with ‘Pingyangtezao’ cuttings aiming to find the possible auxin-related pathway of AM fungal regulation on AR formation. To accurately uncover the regulatory mechanism of AMF on AR formation of tea cuttings, rooting process were separated into four stages (S0, non-rooting; S1, AR protrusion; S2, AR formation and S3, AR elongation) at the same sampling time. Results and Discussion Results showed that IBA treatment increased the mycorrhizal colonization rate, especially in ‘Pingyangtezao’ variety (from 37.58% to 46.29%). Both inoculating AMF and addition of IBA promoted the AR formation, and rooting of different tea plant varieties showed different dependence on auxin. AMF could alleviate the effect of auxin-related inhibitors (2,3,5-triiodobenzoic acid, L-α-(Aminooxy)-β-phenylpropionic acid and α-(phenylethyl-2-oxo)-IAA) on rooting of tea cuttings, even though the colonization of AMF was hindered at various degrees. Transcriptomic analysis showed that different numbers of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) at various rooting stages of tea cuttings with the most at S2 stage (1360 DEGs), indicating the increasing regulation by AMF with the development of AR. Similar trend was found in auxin-related DEGs, and family genes of YUC, GH, PIN, LAX, SAUR, AUX, and ABP involved in the AM fungal regulation on AR formation of tea cuttings. Additionally, AMF strongly mediated auxin transport and signal transduction pathways in tea cuttings as showed by the results of correlation analysis. Overall, interaction of AMF and exogenous auxin in promoting rooting and the preliminary mechanism of AMF regulating AR formation of tea cuttings was deciphered in this paper, which may provide a basis for further deep mechanistic research and cutting propagation of tea production.
Dynamics of Zooplankton along the Romanian Black Sea Coastline: Temporal Variation, Community Structure, and Environmental Drivers

Between 2013 and 2020, a total of 27 distinct zooplankton taxa, encompassing both holoplanktonic and meroplanktonic organisms spanning different classes and orders, were successfully identified along the Romanian Black Sea coastline. The seasonal dispersion patterns of these zooplankton taxa revealed a notable augmentation in species identification during the warmer periods, contrasting with reduced zooplankton diversity during the colder seasons. This phenomenon was underscored by the outcomes of SIMPER analysis, which highlighted that copepods, meroplankton, and cladocerans predominantly contributed to the community structure during warmer seasons. In contrast, during colder seasons, cladocerans were scarcely represented, and the density levels of copepods and meroplankton were diminished. From a quantitative perspective, the dinoflagellate Noctiluca scintillans, exhibited its highest density and biomass during the warm season, with a relatively lower representation during colder periods. The variation in the abundance of zooplankton was closely linked to changes in salinity and temperature, culminating in noticeable fluctuations, which were particularly evident during the cold season. During this period, the values of zooplankton abundance were notably lower compared to those observed in the warmer season. The comprehension of zooplankton dynamics stands as a critical facet for assessing biodiversity, monitoring ecosystem well-being, and guiding conservation endeavours.
Long-term functional and radiological outcomes of cervical disc arthroplasty at a tertiary level spine center in India: A retrospective cohort analysis with minimum 2 years of follow-up

Context: Cervical disc arthroplasty (CDA) was developed for the treatment of cervical disc disease with the potential advantages of preservation of physiological motion at a discal level, thereby potentially reducing adjacent level stresses and degeneration, which were a known complication of anterior cervical arthrodesis. The objective of this study was the assessment of long-term functional and radiological outcomes overtime in all the patients who underwent CDA from 2011 to 2019 at our institute. Materials and Methods: Forty-eight patients who underwent CDA (2011–2019) with a minimum 2-year follow-up were retrospectively evaluated. The functional outcome included the Visual Analog Score (VAS) and Neck Disability Index (NDI). Radiographs were assessed for range of motion (ROM) at the index surgical level, presence of heterotopic ossification (HO), and adjacent segment degeneration. Results: The mean follow-up was 5.79 ± 2.96 (2.16–11.75) years. Significant improvement (P < 0.05) was observed in the VAS (8.91 ± 2.52 [preoperative] to 0.89 ± 1.27 [follow-up]) and NDI (65.5% ±23.06% [preoperative] to 4.79 ± 3.87 [follow-up]) score. Motion at index level increased significantly from 5.53° preoperatively to 7.47°, and 92% of the implanted segments were still mobile (referring to the threshold of ROM > 3°). HOs are responsible for the fusion of 4/50 (8%) levels at the last follow-up. Distal and proximal adjacent disc degeneration occurred in 36% and 28% of patients, respectively. No migration of the implant was observed on the radiograph. Conclusion: Our study showed favorable clinical outcome of CDA with preservation of ROM at the index surgical level. CDA can be a promising alternative to anterior cervical arthrodesis when properly indicated.
The Power of Digital Storytelling: Students’ Perceptions about Its Utilization in Developing Practical Understanding in an Instructional Technology Context

Dependence on technological concepts and applications to improve learning outcomes and learners’ performance has broad positive effects on deepening students’ understanding, especially in higher education and postgraduate studies. Digital storytelling (DST) is a high-value-added tool for achieving many learning goals. This study aims to explore students’ perceptions about the use of DST in strengthening the understanding of practical concepts among students on a master’s program in instructional technology at the Arab Open University in Oman. Both quantitative and qualitative methods were used to gather the required data. A total of 67 students participated in the study through a questionnaire, and a semi-structured personal interview format was used to gather qualitative data from ten of these participants. The results indicated that the students used DST for the purpose of learning and deep understanding of some practical concepts in an effective, fun, useful and constructive way in order to achieve targeted learning. The students’ most positive perception was of the technique when used in the following categories: information stability, application of concepts in a variety of contexts, and problem-solving skill development (M = 4.186, SD = 0.7371; M = 4.051, SD = 0.7558; and M = 4.023, SD = 0.7531 respectively). At the same time, the students’ perception was the least positive for DST in the analysis and discussion categories (M = 2.056, SD = 1.209). Most of the participants supported the idea that DST was a perfect and enjoyable tool for learning and deep understanding in their specialization. They also agreed that DST helped them to fix what they had learned and helped them to achieve broad interaction with the content and that it also contributed effectively to the application of the concepts in various learning contexts. DST developed students’ ability to solve any instructional problems but mainly contributed to raising the motivation toward learning.
Effects of Plant-Based Protein Interventions, with and without an Exercise Component, on Body Composition, Strength and Physical Function in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Maintaining muscle mass, strength, and function is crucial for our aging population. Exercise and dietary protein intake are recommended strategies; however, animal proteins have been the most studied. Plant-based protein sources have lower digestibility and incomplete amino acid profiles. However new innovative plant-based proteins and products may have overcome these issues. Therefore, this systematic review aimed to synthesize the current research and evaluate the effects of plant-based protein interventions compared to placebo on body composition, strength, and physical function in older adults (≥60 years old). The secondary aim was whether exercise improved the effectiveness of plant-based protein on these outcomes. Randomized controlled trials up to January 2023 were identified through Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library databases. Studies contained a plant-protein intervention, and assessed body composition, strength, and/or physical function. Thirteen articles were included, all using soy protein (0.6–60 g daily), from 12 weeks to 1 year. Narrative summary reported positive effects on muscle mass over time, with no significant differences compared to controls (no intervention, exercise only, animal protein, or exercise + animal protein interventions). There was limited impact on strength and function. Meta-analysis showed that plant-protein interventions were comparable to controls, in all outcomes. In conclusion, plant-protein interventions improved muscle mass over time, and were comparable to other interventions, warranting further investigation as an anabolic stimulus in this vulnerable population.
Cumulative Dose of Prostaglandin E1 Determines Gastrointestinal Adverse Effects in Term and Near-Term Neonates Awaiting Cardiac Surgery: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Objective: This study aimed to assess the association between treatment characteristics of prostaglandin E1 including initiation time and duration, maximal and cumulative doses, and adverse effects. Design: A retrospective cohort study in which medical records of neonates with duct-dependent lesions were studied for treatment parameters and adverse effects. Multivariable logistic regression model was applied for testing the effect PGE1 variables on outcomes. Main outcome measures: The primary outcomes of this study were association of adverse effects of PGE1 treatment with maximal dose, cumulative dose, and treatment duration. The secondary outcomes included safety of feeding in infants treated with PGE1. Results: Eighty-two infants with duct-dependent lesions receiving PGE1 were included. Several infants who received early PGE1 treatment required ventilation support. Feeds were ceased more often as the cumulative dose and duration of PGE1 treatment increased. Gastrointestinal adverse effects were significantly associated with the cumulative dose of PGE1 and treatment duration. Apneas, hyperthermia, and tachycardia were associated with maximal dose. Our data did not demonstrate a difference in the incidence of NEC associated with characteristics of PGE1 treatment. Conclusion: Cumulative PGE1 dose is associated with gastrointestinal adverse effects in neonates. Lower doses should be considered in neonates expecting prolonged PGE1 treatment.
THE PREVALENCE OF IDENTITY CRISIS AMONG YOUTHS AND SOCIAL WORKER INTERVENTION IN IKENNE LGA OF OGUN STATE

Identity crisis has become a global concern in recent years. Several authors have researched around the subject in the field of psychology, social works and public health. Currently, several studies are being conducted to discover new methods to handle the issue of identity crisis especially among youths in secondary schools. As a result, this paper appraises prevalence of identity crisis among youths in Ikenne Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria. The paper adopted correlational survey design to appraise the pattern of relationship between self-efficacy, parental supports, peer influence, internet usage and sense of identity among youths. The paper studied two hundred and sixty youths (121 Males and 139 Females) between 15-25 years (x = 13.05 and SD = 14.2) were drawn from youths in Ikenne LGA using simple random sampling technique in four stages. Results showed that youth sense of identity has negative relationship with self-efficacy (r = -.441 and p<.05) and positive relationship with peer influence (r = .253 and p<.05). The was no significant relationship with parental supports and internet usage on identity crisis. Multiple regression analysis showed that independent variables contributed 21% of the variance in youth’s identity crisis. Self-efficacy was most potent (? = -409; t (258) = . 6963; p<0.05) contributing in predicting identity crisis. The paper concluded that identity crisis is mostly prevalent among the youths in Ikenne due to parental neglect as a result of busy schedule at work. Also, social workers are suitable intermediaries between youths who have lost their identity and their self-discovery. The paper recommends that secondary school administration in Ikenne LGA should make efforts toward educating their students in aspect managing frustration and lack of concentration which are identified behaviours that affect the youths. Social workers should educate parents and caregivers on the causes and effects of identity crisis in other to help reduce the rate of occurrence among the youths.
HEXAVALENT CHROMIUM QUANTIFICATION AND REMEDIATION IN SOILS AND WASTE MATERIALS

Title of thesis: HEXAVALENT CHROMIUM QUANTIFICATION AND REMEDIATION IN SOILS AND WASTE MATERIALS Catherine R. DeSarle, Master of Science, 2014 Directed By: Professor Bruce R. James Department of Environmental Science and Technology Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) is a carcinogen and a pollutant of soils and natural waters. The standard method to extract and quantify total Cr(VI) in soils and waste materials was modified to prevent method-induced reduction of Cr(VI) by not heating (95°C) but shaking (100 cycles/min) at 23°C, followed by quantification using the 1,5diphenylcarbazide method or ion chromatography. Forms of carbon and Cr(VI) (mineralogical vs. soluble) significantly influenced method-induced reduction. The proposed method should be used with samples containing ≥ 10 g/kg organic C. The new method was used to study the reduction of Cr(VI) in soils with Fe(II), Fe(III), and organic carbon, and the Cr in remediated soils was fractionated. Fe(II) in combination with Fe(III) was the most effective at reducing Cr(VI) and immobilizing newly-reduced Cr(III). The extraction and quantification refinements are relevant to accurate and precise metrics for Cr(VI) and its remediation in soils. HEXAVALENT CHROMIUM QUANTIFICATION AND REMEDIATION IN SOILS AND WASTE MATERIALS
Emerging Discoveries in Rheumatoid Arthritis Research: Current Updates and Future Prospects

Rheumatoid arthritis, also known simply as RA, is a persistent inflammatory disease that mostly impacts the joints and is characterized by inflammation, pain, and swelling in those joints. The main objective of the present study was to conduct a review study regarding RA. It is a degenerative condition that, over time, can cause abnormalities in the joints and a loss of function in those joints. Although the precise reason for the development of RA is unknown, it is believed that both hereditary and environmental factors have a part in the condition. Medication, physical therapy, and behavioral adjustments are the three main components of a standard treatment plan for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Even while there is no known treatment that will reverse the effects of RA, early diagnosis and intensive treatment can help patients manage their symptoms and delay the disease’s progression. Current research is aimed at creating novel medicines for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) that are more successful. The ultimate goal of this study is to improve the quality of life for those who are coping with this hard condition.
Influence of fish on biochemical markers: A comparative study among male subjects of fish eaters and vegetarians

Introduction and Aim: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the major causes of morbidity and mortality in India. Intake of a high or moderate amount of fish has shown a decreased risk of CVD. This is due to the presence of long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in fish oils. According to past studies, regularly consuming these fatty acids lowers the risk of heart failure, myocardial infarction, endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, arrhythmias, and sudden death. The beneficial effects of a fish-rich diet appear to conflict with PUFA's susceptibility to oxidation. As a result, the study aimed to compare the lipid profile, cardiac markers, and lipid peroxidation status in male adults who consume moderate amounts of fish regularly. Materials and Methods: Total cholesterol (T.C.), HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C), triglycerides (T.G.), high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), Lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)], Malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidant activity (AOA) were measured in healthy male individual of 85 fish eaters and 77 vegetarians in the age group of 25-40 years. The atherogenic indices TC/ HDL-C, LDL-C/HDL-C, a Student's 't' test, and non-HDL-C/ HDL-C were determined. The two groups' parameters were compared using the Student's t-test. Results: In Fish eating male subjects, the lipid profile and cardiac markers were decreased except for HDL-C (which was increased). Fish eaters exhibited significant decreases in atherogenic indices, and significant variation was not observed in the oxidant status of the study groups (p>0.05). Conclusion: According to the present study's findings, regular intake of moderate amounts of fish is linked to a decrease in lipid profiles and cardiac markers without affecting the individual's oxidation status.
Polypropylene Color Masterbatches Containing Layered Double Hydroxide Modified with Quinacridone and Phthalocyanine Pigments—Rheological, Thermal and Application Properties

Polypropylene color masterbatches containing modified layered double hydroxides, LDHs, were created. The simple, industry-acceptable method of LDH surface modification with quinacridone and phthalocyanine pigments using the pulverization method in ball mills was applied. It was reported that the modification parameters such as time and rotational speed affected the tendency to create the aggregates for modified fillers. TGA analysis of the modified LDH showed that modification with phthalocyanine pigment shifted the temperature at which 5%, T5%, and 10% of mass loss, T10%, occurred compared with that for unmodified LDH. The viscoelastic properties of prepared masterbatches were investigated. The incorporation of the modified fillers instead of neat pigments led to an increase in the loss shear modulus, G″, indicating a stronger influence on the dissipation of energy by the melted masterbatch. The similar values of tan, δ, were determined for melted masterbatches containing phthalocyanine pigment and green modified LDH filler. The incorporation of both LDHs modified by phthalocyanine and quinacridone pigment fillers slightly increased the zero-shear viscosity, η0, compared with that of the masterbatches based on the neat pigments. The Cole–Cole plots and the analysis of the Maxwell and continuous relaxation models showed that modified colored LDH fillers facilitated the relaxation of the melted masterbatch, and shorter relaxation times were observed. The phthalocyanine-modified LDH filler improved the thermal stability of the masterbatches. Additionally, the impact of pigments and modified, colored LDH on the crystallization of polypropylene was investigated.
The merits of securities litigation and corporate reputation

We explore how securities litigation affects corporate reputation. Experts remain concerned that nonmeritorious securities class actions—those that will be dismissed or settled for nuisance amounts—cause reputational damage. Although several prior studies show reputational costs for nonmeritorious cases, they generally use indirect measures based on returns or total market losses, which are mechanically associated with securities litigation elements. In contrast, we use a relatively direct reputation measure from Fortune's “Most Admired Companies” list. We find significant reputational damage after meritorious litigation, with the strongest cases having the largest effects. However, we find no evidence of reputational damage after nonmeritorious litigation. We also find that Fortune's reputational damage measure is associated with more negative returns around the litigation filing date. We show possible mechanisms for our results, as initial legal filings contain information allowing market participants to assess case merits. Our results imply that reputational damage is primarily due to fraud, which securities litigation helps reveal to the market, rather than litigation itself. Thus, reputational damage is not an issue in over 70% of securities class actions due to the high frequency of nonmeritorious cases.This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Iodine-induced thyroid dysfunction: a scientometric study and visualization analysis

Objective Iodine is essential in thyroid hormone production. Iodine deficiency is associated with serious complications (i.e miscarriage and stillbirth), whereas excess can cause thyroid dysfunction (i.e hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, thyroid autoimmunity). We conducted this scientometric study to visualize hot spots and trends in iodine-induced thyroid dysfunction over past two decades. The aim of this paper was to help scholars quickly understand the development and potential trend in this field, and guide future research directions. Methods Articles on iodine-induced thyroid dysfunction from 2000 to 2022 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) using the following search terms: (((((TS=(hypothyroid*)) OR TS=(hyperthyroid*)) OR TS= (“TSH deficiency”)) OR TS= (“thyroid stimulating hormone deficiency”)) AND TS=(Iodine)) NOT TS=(radioiodine). Only publications in English were selected. CiteSpace, VOSviewer, Tableau, Carrot2, and R software were used to analyze the contribution and co-occurrence relationships of different countries, institutes, keywords, references, and journals. Results A total of 2986 publications from 115 countries and 3412 research institutions were included. From 2000 to 2022, research on iodine-induced thyroid dysfunction progressed over a three-stage development period: initial development (2000-2009), stable development (2010-2016), and rapid development (2016-2022) period. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism had the most co-citations followed and China Medical University (n=76) had the most publications. The top three clusters of co-citation references were isolated maternal hypothyroxinemia, subclinical hyperthyroidism, and brain development. Various scientific methods were applied to reveal acknowledge structure, development trend and research hotspots in iodine-induced thyroid dysfunction. Conclusion Our scientometric analysis shows that investigations related to pregnant women, epidemiology surveys, and iodine deficiency are promising topics for future iodine-induced thyroid dysfunction research and highlights the important role of iodine on thyroid function.