bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing a novel immune infiltration-associated mitophagy prediction model for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis using bioinformatics strategies
Authors: Du Rongrong , Chen Peng , Li Mao , Zhu Yahui , He Zhengqing , Huang Xusheng
Published: March 2024

Background

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease, which leads to muscle weakness and eventual paralysis. Numerous studies have indicated that mitophagy and immune inflammation have a significant impact on the onset and advancement of ALS. Nevertheless, the possible diagnostic and prognostic significance of mitophagy-related genes associated with immune infiltration in ALS is uncertain. The purpose of this study is to create a predictive model for ALS using genes linked with mitophagy-associated immune infiltration.

Methods

ALS gene expression profiles were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Univariate Cox analysis and machine learning methods were applied to analyze mitophagy-associated genes and develop a prognostic risk score model. Subsequently, functional and immune infiltration analyses were conducted to study the biological attributes and immune cell enrichment in individuals with ALS. Additionally, validation of identified feature genes in the prediction model was performed using ALS mouse models and ALS patients.

Results

In this study, a comprehensive analysis revealed the identification of 22 mitophagy-related differential expression genes and 40 prognostic genes. Additionally, an 18-gene prognostic signature was identified with machine learning, which was utilized to construct a prognostic risk score model. Functional enrichment analysis demonstrated the enrichment of various pathways, including oxidative phosphorylation, unfolded proteins, KRAS, and mTOR signaling pathways, as well as other immune-related pathways. The analysis of immune infiltration revealed notable distinctions in certain congenital immune cells and adaptive immune cells between the low-risk and high-risk groups, particularly concerning the T lymphocyte subgroup. ALS mouse models and ALS clinical samples demonstrated consistent expression levels of four mitophagy-related immune infiltration genes (BCKDHA, JTB, KYNU, and GTF2H5) with the results of bioinformatics analysis.

Conclusion

This study has successfully devised and verified a pioneering prognostic predictive risk score for ALS, utilizing eighteen mitophagy-related genes. Furthermore, the findings indicate that four of these genes exhibit promising roles in the context of ALS prognostic.
Relationship between the carbonate system and phytoplankton community in the Gulf of Guinea-Africa
Authors: Koffi Kouakou Urbain , Konan Estelle Severine , Hassoun Abed EI Rahman , Kouadio Yves
Published: March 2024

We carried out measurements of the CO2 system parameters to evaluate the impact of carbonate and nutrients’ chemistry on phytoplankton populations in the Gulf of Guinea (GoG). The seasonal variations of the CO2 system parameters (fCO2, DIC, pH and TA) along with nitrates and phosphates were quantified weekly at surface (between 0 and 5 m depth) (5.57°N - 4.57°W) in the GoG from May to December 2020. Seawater pH varied widely during the study period, ranging between 8.10-8.35 pH units; DIC and TA varied between 1810 and 2094 μmol kg-1, and between 2051 and 2216 μmol-1 respectively. DIC peaks coincided with the high upwelling period (August and September). For phytoplankton, a total of 60 species were found belonging to four taxonomic phyla: Bacillariophyta, Dinophyta, Chlorophyta and Dictyochophyta. The highest number of phytoplanktonic species were recorded for Bacillariophyta phylum with 36 species (60%). The phylum Dinophyta comprised 22 taxa (36%) and Chlorophyta and Dictyochophyta recorded only one species (2%). The highest specific diversities were observed in August and September with 29 and 26 taxa respectively and the lowest was found in October-November (5 taxa) and December (one taxa). Bacillariophyta and Dinophyta appeared throughout the entire study period. The only species for Chlorophyta phylum appeared in June and July and the Dictyochophyta’s one in May, July and August. In general, the physical (SST, SSS) and chemical (TA, DIC, pH) parameters influenced less than 50% of the phytoplankton population in the coastal area of the GoG. Our study shows that Bacillariophyta population grows up when the physicochemical parameters’ variability increase.
Approaches for attaining clean bacterial fractions from complex environmental samples
Authors: Yu Jaeyoung , Kawahisa Marika , Kinoshita Aya , Zulmajdi Abdullah Adham , Mori Tetsushi
Published: March 2024

Marine bacteria have been targeted by industry and pharmaceutics as genetic resources for highly active enzymes or novel lead compounds. Although numerous techniques have been introduced to isolate useful bacteria from the environment, we are still highly dependent on the conventional direct cultivation method to attain pure cultures. However, efficient bacterial isolation is hindered by several factors, including the presence of impurities. In this work, to demonstrate the significance of removing impurities and their impact on bacterial isolation, we employed two approaches: dielectrophoresis (DEP) and fluorescent D-amino acids (FDAA). We successfully attained clean bacterial fractions applicable for downstream processing using these approaches, uniquely designed to identify bacteria based on their characteristics and features. The diversity of bacteria attained by both approaches was investigated using 16S rRNA sequencing and compared to that attained by the standard differential centrifugation method. In addition, the viability of the isolates was also determined via direct cultivation. As a result, the separation of bacteria from impurities allowed for the identification of novel and useful bacteria unique to each approach. Successful cultivation also suggested that both approaches were applicable for attaining viable bacteria. In conclusion, removing impurities to attain clean bacterial fractions promotes the isolation of novel bacteria and thus could aid in the successful isolation of useful bacteria within complex environmental samples.
Association between gut microbiota and diabetic nephropathy: a mendelian randomization study
Authors: Jin Yongxiu , Han Chenxi , Yang Dongliang , Gao Shanlin
Published: March 2024

Background

The correlation between diabetic nephropathy (DN) and gut microbiota (GM) has been suggested in numerous animal experiments and cross-sectional studies. However, a causal association between GM and DN has not been ascertained.

Methods

This research adopted MR analysis to evaluate the causal link between GM and DN derived from data acquired through publicly available genome-wide association studies (GWAS). The study utilized the inverse variance weighted (IVW) approach to assess causal association between GM and DN. Four additional methods including MR-Egger, weighted median, weighted mode, and simple mode were employed to ensure comprehensive analysis and robust results. The Cochran’s Q test and the MR-Egger method were conducted to identify heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy, respectively. The leave-one-out approach was utilized to evaluate the stability of MR results. Finally, a reverse MR was performed to identify the reverse causal association between GM and DN.

Results

According to IVW analysis, Class Verrucomicrobiae (p = 0.003), Order Verrucomicrobiales (p = 0.003), Family Verrucomicrobiaceae (p = 0.003), Genus Akkermansia (p = 0.003), Genus Catenibacterium (p = 0.031), Genus Coprococcus 1 (p = 0.022), Genus Eubacterium hallii group (p = 0.018), and Genus Marvinbryantia (p = 0.023) were associated with a higher risk of DN. On the contrary, Class Actinobacteria (p = 0.037), Group Eubacterium ventriosum group (p = 0.030), Group Ruminococcus gauvreauii group (p = 0.048), Order Lactobacillales (p = 0.045), Phylum Proteobacteria (p = 0.017) were associated with a lower risk of DN. The sensitivity analysis did not identify any substantial pleiotropy or heterogeneity in the outcomes. We found causal effects of DN on 11 GM species in the reverse MR analysis. Notably, Phylum Proteobacteria and DN are mutually causalities.

Conclusion

This study identified the causal association between GM and DN with MR analysis, which may enhance the understanding of the intestinal-renal axis and provide novel potential targets for early non-invasive diagnosis and treatment of DN.
Longitudinal analysis of 20 Years of external quality assurance schemes for PCR/NAAT-based bacterial genome detection in diagnostic testing
Authors: Kremser Marcel , Weiss Nathalie , Kaufmann-Stoeck Anne , Vierbaum Laura , Kappler Silke , Schellenberg Ingo , Hiergeist Andreas , Fingerle Volker , Baier Michael , Reischl Udo
Published: March 2024

Background:

Quality control (QC), quality assurance, and standardization are crucial for modern diagnostic testing in the field of medical microbiology. The need for efficient QC to ensure accurate laboratory results, treatment, and infection prevention has led to significant efforts in standardizing assay reagents and workflows. External quality assessment (EQA) schemes, like those offered by INSTAND, play a vital role in evaluating in-house and commercial routine diagnostic assays, regarded as mandatory by national and global guidelines. The recent impact of polymerase chain reaction/nucleic acid amplification technology (PCR/NAAT) assays in medical microbiology requires that high-performing assays be distinguished from inadequately performing ones, especially those made by inexperienced suppliers.

Objectives:

The study assesses the evolving diagnostic performance trends over 2 decades for the detection of EHEC/STEC, Borrelia (B.) burgdorferi, and MRSA/cMRSA. It explores the historical context of assay utilization, participant engagement, and rates of correct results in EQA schemes. The research seeks to identify patterns in assay preferences, participant proficiency, and the challenges encountered in detecting emerging variants or clinical strains.

Results:

The study highlights the decline in in-house PCR assay usage, the emergence of new diagnostic challenges, and educational aspects within EQA schemes. Specific examples, such as the inclusion, in certain EQA surveys, of EHEC strains carrying stx-2f or B. miyamotoi, highlight the role of EQAs in increasing awareness and diagnostic capabilities. Advancements in MRSA detection, especially through the adoption of commercial assays, demonstrate the impact that technology evolution has had on diagnostic performance.

Conclusion:

Achieving excellence in diagnostic molecular microbiology involves a multifaceted approach, including well-evaluated assays, careful instrumentation selection, and structured training programs. EQA schemes contribute significantly to this pursuit by providing insights into the evolving diagnostic landscape and identifying areas for improvement in the diagnostic workflow as well as in PCR/NAAT assay design.
Differences in vocal brain areas and astrocytes between the house wren and the rufous-tailed hummingbird
Authors: López-Murillo Carolina , Hinestroza-Morales Santiago , Henny Pablo , Toledo Jorge , Cardona-Gómez Gloria Patricia , Rivera-Gutiérrez Héctor , Posada-Duque Rafael
Published: March 2024

The house wren shows complex song, and the rufous-tailed hummingbird has a simple song. The location of vocal brain areas supports the song’s complexity; however, these still need to be studied. The astrocytic population in songbirds appears to be associated with change in vocal control nuclei; however, astrocytic distribution and morphology have not been described in these species. Consequently, we compared the distribution and volume of the vocal brain areas: HVC, RA, Area X, and LMAN, cell density, and the morphology of astrocytes in the house wren and the rufous-tailed hummingbird. Individuals of the two species were collected, and their brains were analyzed using serial Nissl- NeuN- and MAP2-stained tissue scanner imaging, followed by 3D reconstructions of the vocal areas; and GFAP and S100β astrocytes were analyzed in both species. We found that vocal areas were located close to the cerebral midline in the house wren and a more lateralized position in the rufous-tailed hummingbird. The LMAN occupied a larger volume in the rufous-tailed hummingbird, while the RA and HVC were larger in the house wren. While Area X showed higher cell density in the house wren than the rufous-tailed hummingbird, the LMAN showed a higher density in the rufous-tailed hummingbird. In the house wren, GFAP astrocytes in the same bregma where the vocal areas were located were observed at the laminar edge of the pallium (LEP) and in the vascular region, as well as in vocal motor relay regions in the pallidum and mesencephalon. In contrast, GFAP astrocytes were found in LEP, but not in the pallidum and mesencephalon in hummingbirds. Finally, when comparing GFAP astrocytes in the LEP region of both species, house wren astrocytes exhibited significantly more complex morphology than those of the rufous-tailed hummingbird. These findings suggest a difference in the location and cellular density of vocal circuits, as well as morphology of GFAP astrocytes between the house wren and the rufous-tailed hummingbird.
NrCAM-deficient mice exposed to chronic stress exhibit disrupted latent inhibition, a hallmark of schizophrenia
Authors: Buhusi Mona , Brown Colten K. , Buhusi Catalin V.
Published: March 2024

The neuronal cell adhesion molecule (NrCAM) is widely expressed and has important physiological functions in the nervous system across the lifespan, from axonal growth and guidance to spine and synaptic pruning, to organization of proteins at the nodes of Ranvier. NrCAM lies at the core of a functional protein network where multiple targets (including NrCAM itself) have been associated with schizophrenia. Here we investigated the effects of chronic unpredictable stress on latent inhibition, a measure of selective attention and learning which shows alterations in schizophrenia, in NrCAM knockout (KO) mice and their wild-type littermate controls (WT). Under baseline experimental conditions both NrCAM KO and WT mice expressed robust latent inhibition (p = 0.001). However, following chronic unpredictable stress, WT mice (p = 0.002), but not NrCAM KO mice (F < 1), expressed latent inhibition. Analyses of neuronal activation (c-Fos positive counts) in key brain regions relevant to latent inhibition indicated four types of effects: a single hit by genotype in IL cortex (p = 0.0001), a single hit by stress in Acb-shell (p = 0.031), a dual hit stress x genotype in mOFC (p = 0.008), vOFC (p = 0.020), and Acb-core (p = 0.032), and no effect in PrL cortex (p > 0.141). These results indicating a pattern of differential effects of genotype and stress support a complex stress × genotype interaction model and a role for NrCAM in stress-induced pathological behaviors relevant to schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders.
Striatal insights: a cellular and molecular perspective on repetitive behaviors in pathology
Authors: Burton Charlotte Lauren , Longaretti Alessandra , Zlatanovic Andjela , Gomes Guilherme Monteiro , Tonini Raffaella
Published: March 2024

Animals often behave repetitively and predictably. These repetitive behaviors can have a component that is learned and ingrained as habits, which can be evolutionarily advantageous as they reduce cognitive load and the expenditure of attentional resources. Repetitive behaviors can also be conscious and deliberate, and may occur in the absence of habit formation, typically when they are a feature of normal development in children, or neuropsychiatric disorders. They can be considered pathological when they interfere with social relationships and daily activities. For instance, people affected by obsessive-compulsive disorder, autism spectrum disorder, Huntington’s disease and Gilles de la Tourette syndrome can display a wide range of symptoms like compulsive, stereotyped and ritualistic behaviors. The striatum nucleus of the basal ganglia is proposed to act as a master regulator of these repetitive behaviors through its circuit connections with sensorimotor, associative, and limbic areas of the cortex. However, the precise mechanisms within the striatum, detailing its compartmental organization, cellular specificity, and the intricacies of its downstream connections, remain an area of active research. In this review, we summarize evidence across multiple scales, including circuit-level, cellular, and molecular dimensions, to elucidate the striatal mechanisms underpinning repetitive behaviors and offer perspectives on the implicated disorders. We consider the close relationship between behavioral output and transcriptional changes, and thereby structural and circuit alterations, including those occurring through epigenetic processes.
Agranular frontal cortical microcircuit underlying cognitive control in macaques
Authors: Herrera Beatriz , Schall Jeffrey D. , Riera Jorge J.
Published: March 2024

The error-related negativity and an N2-component recorded over medial frontal cortex index core functions of cognitive control. While they are known to originate from agranular frontal areas, the underlying microcircuit mechanisms remain elusive. Most insights about microcircuit function have been derived from variations of the so-called canonical microcircuit model. These microcircuit architectures are based extensively on studies from granular sensory cortical areas in monkeys, cats, and rodents. However, evidence has shown striking cytoarchitectonic differences across species and differences in the functional relationships across cortical layers in agranular compared to granular sensory areas. In this minireview, we outline a tentative microcircuit model underlying cognitive control in the agranular frontal cortex of primates. The model incorporates the main GABAergic interneuron subclasses with specific laminar arrangements and target regions on pyramidal cells. We emphasize the role of layer 5 pyramidal cells in error and conflict detection. We offer several specific questions necessary for creating a specific intrinsic microcircuit model of the agranular frontal cortex.
Abnormalities of white matter network properties in middle-aged and elderly patients with functional constipation
Authors: Xueyan Hou , Qi Ai , Chunming Song , Yu Zhi , Wencai Weng
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To explore white matter network topological properties changes in middle-aged and elderly patients with functional constipation (Functional Constipation, FC) by diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and to evaluate the correlation between the abnormal changes and clinical data.

Methods

29 FC patients and 31 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HC) were recruited. Magnetic resonance imaging and clinical data were collected. The white matter network changes in FC patients were analyzed using deterministic fiber tracking methods, graph theory algorithms, and partial correlation analysis with clinical data.

Results

The nodal clustering coefficient and nodal local efficiency of FC patients in the right orbital inferior frontal gyrus, right medial superior frontal gyrus, right rectus muscle, right hippocampus, left paracentral lobule and left temporal pole, and the nodal clustering coefficient in right orbital superior frontal gyrus, left cuneus lobe and right superior occipital gyrus, the nodal local efficiency in the right medial and paracingulate gyrus, right precuneus and right dorsolateral superior frontal gyrus of FC patients are lower than that of HC. The nodal local efficiency and clustering coefficient of FC patients in left hippocampus, left amygdala, right parietal inferior limbic angular gyrus and right angular gyrus, the nodal local efficiency in the right fusiform gyrus, left supplementary motor cortex and the nodal efficiency in the left lateral temporal gyrus and right orbital middle frontal gyrus (ORBmid.R) of FC patients are higher than that of HC. The nodal efficiency of ORBmid.R in FC was positively correlated with the Patient Assessment of Constipation quality of life questionnaire (PAC-QoL).

Conclusion

Middle-aged and elderly FC patients have differences in the nodal level properties in the limbic system, supplementary motor cortex, and default mode network brain regions, and the nodal efficiency of ORBmid.R was positively correlated with the PAC-QoL score, revealing that FC may be related to the abnormal processing of visceral sensorimotor in ORBmid.R and providing potential imaging diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets for middle-aged and elderly FC patients.
The impact of canonical Wnt transcriptional repressors TLE3 and TLE4 on postsynaptic transcription at the neuromuscular junction
Authors: Gessler Lea , Huraskin Danyil , Eiber Nane , Hashemolhosseini Said
Published: March 2024

Here, we investigated the role of the canonical Wnt signaling pathway transcriptional regulators at the neuromuscular junction. Upon applying a denervation paradigm, the transcription levels of Ctnnb1, Tcf7l1, Tle1, Tle2, Tle3, and Tle4 were significantly downregulated. A significant decrease in canonical Wnt signaling activity was observed using the denervation paradigm in Axin2-lacZ reporter mice. Alterations in the transcriptional profile of the myogenic lineage in response to agrin (AGRN) suggested that TLE3 and TLE4, family members of groucho transducin-like enhancer of split 3 (TLE3), transcriptional repressors known to antagonize T cell factor/lymphoid enhancer factor (TCF)-mediated target gene activation, could be important regulators of canonical Wnt signaling activity at the postsynapse. Knockouts of these genes using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing in primary skeletal muscle stem cells, called satellite cells, led to decreased AGRN-dependent acetylcholine receptor (CHRN) clustering and reduced synaptic gene transcription upon differentiation of these cells. Overall, our findings demonstrate that TLE3 and TLE4 participate in diminishing canonical Wnt signaling activity, supporting transcription of synaptic genes and CHRN clustering at the neuromuscular junction.
Aristolochic acid induces acute kidney injury through ferroptosis
Authors: Huang Xuan , Liu Ruihua , Zhan Cuixia , Wu Haishan , Fan Jinjin , Li Zhijian , Yang Xiao
Published: March 2024

Aristolochic acid (AA)-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) presents with progressive decline in renal function and rapid progression to end-stage renal disease. Among the multiple mechanisms identified in AKI, ferroptosis has been shown to be involved in various forms of AKI. But few studies have elucidated the role of ferroptosis in AA-induced AKI. In this study, we investigated the role of ferroptosis in AA-induced acute renal tubular injury in vivo and in vitro. Mice with acute aristolochic acid nephropathy showed increased malondialdehyde levels, aggravated lipid peroxidation, decreased superoxide dismutase activity, and glutathione depletion. The expression of glutathione peroxidase 4 was decreased and the expression of acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 4 was increased. Inhibition of ferroptosis by ferrostatin-1 significantly improved the renal function, reduced histopathological lesions, partially alleviated lipid peroxidation, and restored the antioxidant capacity. In vitro studies also revealed that AA significantly reduced cell viability, induced reactive oxygen species production, increased intracellular iron level and decreased ferroptosis-related protein expression. Inhibition of ferroptosis significantly increased cell viability and attenuated AA-induced renal tubular epithelial cell injury. It is suggested that ferroptosis plays an important role in AA-induced acute tubular injury. And inhibition of ferroptosis may exert renoprotective effects possibly by preventing lipid peroxidation, restoring the antioxidant activity or regulating iron metabolism.
Antifungal effects of echinocandins diminish when exposed to intestinal lumen contents: a finding with potentially significant clinical implications
Authors: Mehravar Sepideh , Leite Gabriela S. , Pimentel Mark , Rezaie Ali
Published: March 2024

Echinocandins, a prominent class of antifungals, are known for their broad-spectrum activity and favorable safety profiles. However, their bioavailability and efficacy via oral route are suboptimal. In this study, caspofungin and micafungin, the two most commonly used echinocandins, were evaluated in various in vitro environments simulating intestinal lumen. The results revealed that while both antifungals are effective in standard medium, their efficacy significantly diminishes in the presence of human small bowel aspirates and bovine bile. The study suggests that bowel contents and specifically bile acids may be a suppressive component, hindering the antifungal effects of echinocandins. This novel exploration sheds light on the poor oral bioavailability of echinocandins. The findings imply that echinocandins alone, regardless of administration route, may not be optimal for gastrointestinal (GI) fungal infections or invasive fungal infections originating from intestinal translocation. Further clinical investigations are warranted to validate and expand upon these observations.
Assessing green manure impact on wheat productivity through Bayesian analysis of yield monitor data
Authors: Gamulin Niko , Zorić Miroslav , Karagić Đura , Terzić Sreten
Published: March 2024

Agronomy research traditionally relies on small, controlled trial plots, which may not accurately represent the complexities and variabilities found in larger, real-world settings. To address this gap, we introduce a Bayesian methodology for the analysis of yield monitor data, systematically collected across extensive agricultural landscapes during the 2020/21 and 2021/22 growing seasons. Utilizing advanced yield monitoring equipment, our method provides a detailed examination of the effects of green manure on wheat yields in a real-world context. The results from this comprehensive analysis reveal significant insights into the impact of green manure application on wheat production, demonstrating enhanced yield outcomes across varied landscapes. This evidence suggests that the Bayesian approach to analyzing yield monitor data can offer more precise and contextually relevant information than traditional experimental designs. This research underscores the value of integrating large-scale data analysis techniques in agronomy, moving beyond small-scale trials to offer a broader, more accurate perspective on agricultural practices. The adoption of such methodologies promises to refine farming strategies and policies, ultimately leading to more effective and sustainable agricultural outcomes. The inclusion of a Python script in the appendix illustrates our analytical process, providing a tangible resource for replicating and extending this research within the agronomic community.
Improving the accuracy of cotton seedling emergence rate estimation by fusing UAV-based multispectral vegetation indices
Authors: Li Tiansheng , Wang Haijiang , Cui Jing , Wang Weiju , Li Wenruiyu , Jiang Menghao , Shi Xiaoyan , Song Jianghui , Wang Jingang , Lv Xin , Zhang Lifu
Published: March 2024

Timely and accurate estimation of cotton seedling emergence rate is of great significance to cotton production. This study explored the feasibility of drone-based remote sensing in monitoring cotton seedling emergence. The visible and multispectral images of cotton seedlings with 2 - 4 leaves in 30 plots were synchronously obtained by drones. The acquired images included cotton seedlings, bare soil, mulching films, and PE drip tapes. After constructing 17 visible VIs and 14 multispectral VIs, three strategies were used to separate cotton seedlings from the images: (1) Otsu’s thresholding was performed on each vegetation index (VI); (2) Key VIs were extracted based on results of (1), and the Otsu-intersection method and three machine learning methods were used to classify cotton seedlings, bare soil, mulching films, and PE drip tapes in the images; (3) Machine learning models were constructed using all VIs and validated. Finally, the models constructed based on two modeling strategies [Otsu-intersection (OI) and machine learning (Support Vector Machine (SVM), Random Forest (RF), and K-nearest neighbor (KNN)] showed a higher accuracy. Therefore, these models were selected to estimate cotton seedling emergence rate, and the estimates were compared with the manually measured emergence rate. The results showed that multispectral VIs, especially NDVI, RVI, SAVI, EVI2, OSAVI, and MCARI, had higher crop seedling extraction accuracy than visible VIs. After fusing all VIs or key VIs extracted based on Otsu’s thresholding, the binary image purity was greatly improved. Among the fusion methods, the Key VIs-OI and All VIs-KNN methods yielded less noises and small errors, with a RMSE (root mean squared error) as low as 2.69% and a MAE (mean absolute error) as low as 2.15%. Therefore, fusing multiple VIs can increase crop image segmentation accuracy. This study provides a new method for rapidly monitoring crop seedling emergence rate in the field, which is of great significance for the development of modern agriculture.
Leveraging the sugarcane CRISPR/Cas9 technique for genetic improvement of non-cultivated grasses
Authors: Li Chunjia , Iqbal Muhammad Aamir
Published: March 2024

Under changing climatic scenarios, grassland conservation and development have become imperative to impart functional sustainability to their ecosystem services. These goals could be effectively and efficiently achieved with targeted genetic improvement of native grass species. To the best of our literature search, very scant research findings are available pertaining to gene editing of non-cultivated grass species (switch grass, wild sugarcane, Prairie cordgrass, Bermuda grass, Chinese silver grass, etc.) prevalent in natural and semi-natural grasslands. Thus, to explore this novel research aspect, this study purposes that gene editing techniques employed for improvement of cultivated grasses especially sugarcane might be used for non-cultivated grasses as well. Our hypothesis behind suggesting sugarcane as a model crop for genetic improvement of non-cultivated grasses is the intricacy of gene editing owing to polyploidy and aneuploidy compared to other cultivated grasses (rice, wheat, barley, maize, etc.). Another reason is that genome editing protocols in sugarcane (x = 10–13) have been developed and optimized, taking into consideration the high level of genetic redundancy. Thus, as per our knowledge, this review is the first study that objectively evaluates the concept and functioning of the CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats)/Cas9 technique in sugarcane regarding high versatility, target specificity, efficiency, design simplicity, and multiplexing capacity in order to explore novel research perspectives for gene editing of non-cultivated grasses against biotic and abiotic stresses. Additionally, pronounced challenges confronting sugarcane gene editing have resulted in the development of different variants (Cas9, Cas12a, Cas12b, and SpRY) of the CRISPR tool, whose technicalities have also been critically assessed. Moreover, different limitations of this technique that could emerge during gene editing of non-cultivated grass species have also been highlighted.
The role of Indonesian government in middle east conflict resolution: consistent diplomacy or strategic shifts?
Authors: Setiawati Siti Mutiah
Published: March 2024

Indonesia and Middle Eastern countries are associated with a shared characteristic in the form of Islam, despite the geographical separation and cultural and ethnic distinctions. Since gaining independence in 1945, Indonesia has consistently advocated for the peaceful resolution of conflict in the Middle East, including the Palestinian/Arab–Israeli conflict. Therefore, the objective of this study was to explore the motivations behind Indonesia’s consistent support for Middle Eastern conflict resolution. Although the Indonesian government is eager to advance its involvement in the conflict resolution process, it is also compelled by the constitution to uphold the “Free and Active” foreign policy axiom, which essentially restricts Indonesia from taking on a side, maintaining cordial ties with the parties involved. These principles prevent Indonesia from favoring one side and maintaining positive relations with both conflicting parties. Indonesia has often played a passive role as a facilitator or participant in conflict resolution attempts rather than actively taking on the role of a mediator. Indonesia’s unwavering commitment to resolving the Middle East conflict largely originates from Islamic solidarity with a predominantly Muslim population in the region and a shared identity as a fellow developing country, rather than being solely based on its constitution. Alternatively, this sense of unity may also stem from the notion of solidarity within the Global South.
The effect of lexical triggers on Spanish-English code-switched judgment tasks
Authors: Koronkiewicz Bryan , Delgado Rodrigo
Published: March 2024

Introduction

It has been argued that certain words can “trigger” intrasentential code-switching. While some researchers suggest that cognates establish triggering at the lexical level, others have argued that words that lack direct translations are more natural stories switch. Yet to be tested experimentally is to what extent different types of lexical items influence the acceptability of mixed utterances.

Methods

The current study investigates this methodological consideration for code-switching research by having early US Spanish-English bilinguals (i.e., heritage speakers of Spanish) complete an acceptability judgment task with a 7-point Likert scale directly comparing cognates (e.g., sopa “soup”) and culturally specific items (e.g., pozole “traditional Mexican soup”) in otherwise identical grammatical switched sentences (N = 24).

Results

The results showed that there was no significant effect of condition (p = 0.623) suggesting that cognates and language-specific items are equally acceptable in code-switched sentences. Indeed all conditions were rated on average above 6.

Discussion

These findings show that in this context, judgment tasks are not affected differently by these types of lexical items.
Re-imagining crisis care: experiences of delivering and receiving the Assured brief psychological intervention for people presenting to Emergency Departments with self-harm
Authors: Shah Neha , O’Keeffe Sally , Hayward Sam , Suzuki Mimi , McCabe Rose
Published: March 2024

Background

Risk of suicide is increased immediately following emergency department (ED) attendance for self-harm. Evidence suggests that brief psychological interventions delivered in EDs are effective for self-harm. The Assured intervention comprises an enhanced biopsychosocial assessment in the ED, collaborative safety planning and three rapid solution focused follow-up sessions.

Aim

We addressed the following research questions: What were ED mental health liaison practitioners’ and patients’ experiences of the Assured intervention? What were the barriers and facilitators? What might the mechanisms be for improving experiences and outcomes?

Methods

We conducted a feasibility study of the Assured intervention in four EDs in Southeast England. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 practitioners and 27 patients. Interviews were transcribed, coded line-by-line in Nvivo and thematically analysed using an inductive approach. Inter-rater reliability was calculated with a kappa coefficient of 0.744.
Validity evaluation of the Health Information Preferences Questionnaire among college students
Authors: Tang Kaiqi , Yuan Junfeng , Luo Lin
Published: March 2024

Objective

This study aims to explore the association between health information preferences and specific health behaviors and outcomes, such as preventive measures and chronic disease management among college students. It assesses how different levels of health information preference influence individuals’ utilization, perception, and self-efficacy within healthcare and health information contexts. Given the rising prevalence of non-communicable chronic diseases among younger populations in China, this research seeks to understand how tailored health information preferences can support effective health education and behavioral interventions. The development of the Health Information Preference Questionnaire (HIPQ) aims to bridge the existing gap in tools for assessing health information preferences among Chinese college students, with a focus on collecting validity evidence to confirm the HIPQ’s applicability in this group.

Methods

The study employed a mixed-methods approach, beginning with an initial item pool derived from a comprehensive review of existing research tools, literature, and expert inputs. An expert review panel conducted item evaluations, leading to item reduction for clarity and relevance. The validation process utilized two independent samples of college students, detailing the sample size (n = 446 for preliminary testing, n = 1,593 for validation) and characteristics (age, major, urban vs. rural background) to enhance the understanding of the study’s generalizability.

Results

The HIPQ, comprising 25 items across five dimensions—prevention-oriented approaches, relationship with healthcare providers, self-efficacy in obtaining health information, perception of the importance of health information, and health information behavior—demonstrated excellent content validity (ICVI ranged from 0.72 to 0.86). Factor analysis confirmed significant loadings for each item across the anticipated factors, with fit indices (RMSEA = 0.065, CFI = 0.942) supporting good model fit. The HIPQ’s reliability was underscored by Cronbach’s alpha coefficients (>0.8) for each subscale, with significant correlations across all subscales, indicating strong internal consistency and construct validity.

Conclusion

The HIPQ proves to be a reliable and valid instrument for assessing health information preferences among Chinese college students, highlighting its potential for broader application in health education and intervention strategies. Recognizing the study’s focus on a specific demographic, future research should investigate the HIPQ’s adaptability and utility in broader populations and different cultural settings. The study’s limitations, including its concentrated demographic and context, invite further exploration into the HIPQ’s applicability across diverse groups. Additionally, potential future research directions could include longitudinal studies to assess the impact of tailored health information on actual health outcomes and behaviors.
A collaborative network trial to evaluate the effectiveness of implementation strategies to maximize adoption of a school-based healthy lunchbox program: a study protocol
Authors: Barnes Courtney , Jones Jannah , Wolfenden Luke , Robertson Katie , Seidler Anna Lene , Norman Jennifer , Budgen Pip , Mattingly Megan , Piliskic Carla , Moorhouse Lisa , Mozina Jennifer , Plaskett Jennifer , McDermott Sarah , Darney Sara , Vuong Cecilia , Douglass Nina , McDonnell Kara , Sutherland Rachel
Published: March 2024

Introduction

An important impediment to the large-scale adoption of evidence-based school nutrition interventions is the lack of evidence on effective strategies to implement them. This paper describes the protocol for a “Collaborative Network Trial” to support the simultaneous testing of different strategies undertaken by New South Wales Local Health Districts to facilitate the adoption of an effective school-based healthy lunchbox program (‘SWAP IT’). The primary objective of this study is to assess the effectiveness of different implementation strategies to increase school adoption of the SWAP across New South Wales Local Health Districts.

Methods

Within a Master Protocol framework, a collaborative network trial will be undertaken. Independent randomized controlled trials to test implementation strategies to increase school adoption of SWAP IT within primary schools in 10 different New South Wales Local Health Districts will occur. Schools will be randomly allocated to either the intervention or control condition. Schools allocated to the intervention group will receive a combination of implementation strategies. Across the 10 participating Local Health Districts, six broad strategies were developed and combinations of these strategies will be executed over a 6 month period. In six districts an active comparison group (containing one or more implementation strategies) was selected. The primary outcome of the trial will be adoption of SWAP IT, assessed via electronic registration records captured automatically following online school registration to the program. The primary outcome will be assessed using logistic regression analyses for each trial. Individual participant data component network meta-analysis, under a Bayesian framework, will be used to explore strategy-covariate interactions; to model additive main effects (separate effects for each component of an implementation strategy); two way interactions (synergistic/antagonistic effects of components), and full interactions.

Discussion

The study will provide rigorous evidence of the effects of a variety of implementation strategies, employed in different contexts, on the adoption of a school-based healthy lunchbox program at scale. Importantly, it will also provide evidence as to whether health service-centered, collaborative research models can rapidly generate new knowledge and yield health service improvements.

Clinical trial registration

This trial is registered prospectively with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12623000558628).
Carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacteria (CR-GNB) in ICUs: resistance genes, therapeutics, and prevention – a comprehensive review
Authors: Li Qi , Zhou Xiaoshi , Yang Rou , Shen Xiaoyan , Li Guolin , Zhang Changji , Li Pengfei , Li Shiran , Xie Jingxian , Yang Yong
Published: March 2024

Intensive care units (ICUs) are specialized environments dedicated to the management of critically ill patients, who are particularly susceptible to drug-resistant bacteria. Among these, carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacteria (CR-GNB) pose a significant threat endangering the lives of ICU patients. Carbapenemase production is a key resistance mechanism in CR-GNB, with the transfer of resistance genes contributing to the extensive emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). CR-GNB infections are widespread in ICUs, highlighting an urgent need for prevention and control measures to reduce mortality rates associated with CR-GNB transmission or infection. This review provides an overview of key aspects surrounding CR-GNB within ICUs. We examine the mechanisms of bacterial drug resistance, the resistance genes that frequently occur with CR-GNB infections in ICU, and the therapeutic options against carbapenemase genotypes. Additionally, we highlight crucial preventive measures to impede the transmission and spread of CR-GNB within ICUs, along with reviewing the advances made in the field of clinical predictive modeling research, which hold excellent potential for practical application.
A surprising lack of consequences when constraining language
Authors: Vaughan-Johnston Thomas Ian , Nguyen Andrew , Jacobson Jill A.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Labels considered normatively appropriate for specific social identity groups change. Researchers have examined the effects of censorship and slur usage, but minimal research examines the psychological consequences of imposing new language constraints on people.

Methods

Across four samples of university students (Ntotal = 997), we sought participants' compliance in avoiding usage of numerous commonplace group labels while they wrote essays about obese people (Sample 1) or specific ethnic groups (Samples 2-4).

Results

We observed consistently high compliance rates: participants either invented novel terminology to describe the group or avoided group labels entirely. We observed a substantial absence of task discomfort, attitudinal shifts regarding the group, or motivational shifts, according to Bayesian analyses. Nor did we detect negative effects of language constraint among people who saw themselves as opposed to censorship.

Discussion

Although free speech and respectful language remain a multifaceted social debate, our findings show that university students are willing to follow even completely contrived language directives when describing social identity groups and to do so without substantial discomfort or backlash against those groups.
The contributions of Indigenous People's earth observations to water quality monitoring
Authors: López-Maldonado Yolanda , Anstee Janet , Neely Merrie Beth , Marty Jérôme , Mastracci Diana , Ngonyani Happyness , Ogashawara Igor , Salyani Anham , Sharma Kabindra , Sims Neil C.
Published: March 2024

Indigenous Knowledge, observations and understandings of Earth processes are not sufficiently included in global Earth Observations. Drawing on the results obtained during a 3-day hackathon event, we present evidence, best practices and recommendations to water quality organizations seeking to engage and share information with Indigenous communities. The hackathon event revealed three key findings: First, Indigenous Peoples report precise and accurate observations of changes in various Earth systems, particularly the hydrological cycle. Second, this information can significantly enhance global Outreach and Engagement efforts, aiding in the understanding of hydrological cycle components, water quality, mapping water courses, and monitoring and mitigating the effects of climate change (i.e., floods, droughts, etc.). Third, enabling Indigenous Peoples to contribute their scientific knowledge and utilize Earth Observations is crucial for the protection of other vital components of the water cycle. We addressed two crucial questions: What opportunities exist to include Indigenous Knowledge into Earth Observations, and what are the main challenges in doing so?
Reliability of Xsens inertial measurement unit in measuring trunk accelerations: a sex-based differences study during incremental treadmill running
Authors: Miqueleiz Unai , Aguado-Jimenez Roberto , Lecumberri Pablo , Garcia-Tabar Ibai , Gorostiaga Esteban M.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Inertial measurement units (IMUs) are utilized to measure trunk acceleration variables related to both running performances and rehabilitation purposes. This study examined both the reliability and sex-based differences of these variables during an incremental treadmill running test.

Methods

Eighteen endurance runners performed a test–retest on different days, and 30 runners (15 females) were recruited to analyze sex-based differences. Mediolateral (ML) and vertical (VT) trunk displacement and root mean square (RMS) accelerations were analyzed at 9, 15, and 21 km·h−1.

Results

No significant differences were found between test-retests [effect size (ES)<0.50)]. Higher intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were found in the trunk displacement (0.85-0.96) compared to the RMS-based variables (0.71–0.94). Male runners showed greater VT displacement (ES = 0.90–1.0), while female runners displayed greater ML displacement, RMS ML and anteroposterior (AP), and resultant euclidean scalar (RES) (ES = 0.83–1.9).

Discussion

The IMU was found reliable for the analysis of the studied trunk acceleration-based variables. This is the first study that reports different results concerning acceleration (RMS) and trunk displacement variables for a same axis in the analysis of sex-based differences.